The WC Press - December 2012 - Section 1

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VOICE OF THE BOROUGH  DECEMBER 2012

Chr istmas Issue

BAR GameNight UNDERGROUND

WIN CASH PONG TOURNAMENT $2 DRINKS

UNTIL 2am

EVERY WEDNESDAY

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DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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Ugly Sweater Party Saturday, December 15 | Party Starts at 10pm Drink Specials & Prizes

1227 W est C hester Pike  W est C hester, PA  610-436-5222

New Years Eve Prime Rib Dinner Special 4-10pm | DJ 11-2am

35 Cent Wings and $10 Miller Lite Buckets 8-11pm

Free Champagne Toast at Midgnight 6 the w c pres s | voice of the borough

The Press

We just like to smile – smiling’s our favorite!

Publisher Dan Mathers Dan@thewcpress.com Advertising Manager Nick Vecchio Nick@thewcpress.com Staff Photographer Adam Jones Adam@thewcpress.com Copy Editor Kehan DeSousa kdesousa@thewcpress.com Published By The WC Press 13 South Church Street West Chester, PA 19382 610-344-3463

Our Fearless Leader...

Dan Mathers normally takes this space to give “the team” condensending jabs. To ring in the new year, we’ve decided it’s our turn. From his controlling nature to his soaring ego, Dan is a natural-born leader. He knows what he wants and is never wrong, so don’t try arguing with him. If you don’t believe us, feel free to ask the Republican office next door. Already working a minimum of 80 hours/week, Dan would run every aspect of the magazine if he had the time. He’s a writer, editor, ad creator, and his picture editing skills have led him to believe he’s a photographer as well. Aside from his professional talents, Dan is exceptionally stylish. His fashion sense often has us questioning his perferences until we rememeber he’s married to a beautiful blonde Belarussian female. Together, they adopted a homeless dog named Odin whom Dan (surprise, surprise) trained and controlled into the lovable canine he is today. Dan’s urbanmeets-intelligent attire goes perfectly with his luxurious head of hair.

His different hair style every single month has given him the office nickname “Nicki Minaj of West Chester.” On this dynamic head of hair, Dan is slowly learning how to wear his crown modestly. His confidence, talent, style, and charisma are what make the magazine you’re holding so personal and awesome. In the end, he rightly earned himself “Boss of the Year” recognition with his tireless work ethic.

Daniel has requested that if any of our readers have anything to add that they anonmyously handwrite it on a piece of paper and slip it underneath our office door.

Editor’s Disclaimer: All of the above text is un-edited, in the exact form it was submitted by The WC Press staff.

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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To the Editor...

Airing grievances against “20-Something Dating” I normally don’t respond to these things, but what you wrote was pretty heinous in regards to your relationship and your boyfriend’s feelings. Did you ever consider the fact that you publicly castrated the guy by what you wrote prior? How would you feel if you were in his position and he graded the relationship as average or, better yet, the sex? Relationships aren’t something you can simply apply a “grade” to. Relationships aren’t academic, they are dynamic and without standardized parameters.

So to grade a relationship is extremely petty and immature. It gives a true indication of a person’s character, the value they place on their partner’s contributions to the relationship and their ability to communicate problems with them. Do you grade your friendships as well? Maybe give gold stars to those that are improving this week, then grace them with your company when they reach 5 stars. I know athat was callous and insensitive, but this is exactly the attitude this article conveys. Throughout this entire article you come off as a bratty self entitled 20 something fem that believes men are constantly encroaching and demeaning your “success”. I can’t imagine how embarrassed your boyfriend must be as a result of your public castrations. You further pour salt into his wounds by stating you “stroked his bruised ego” while you wanted “secretly wanted to go live life like Billy Madison”. You write with a condescending tone as if your boyfriend is a child and doesn’t want nice things or to take you out to nice dinners.

100 to 1 says he does, and 1000 to 1 says if he could he would. Times are much different and too many things hang in the balance for many 20 somethings. Not everyone can be frivolous and careless with their finances. More importantly, people are foregoing the immediate pleasure now for brighter and more secure days tomorrow. To be perfectly honest, this isn’t even about the money. It is about the simple fact that you have no sense of respect, common courtesy, or tact in regards to your relationship. At the end of the article you attempt to rectify everything, but the damage is done. After everything you wrote, you end it with “he’s a great guy”. To be perfectly honest, if he’s a “great guy” you would air out your grievances with him instead of publicly. But hey who knows....maybe you’re preparing to be the author of WCPress’s newest section “20 Something and Alone”.. especially if you keep this shit up. –Jibouty Jones I’m sorry you’re so strongly against my article, but I appreciate you taking the time to read it. But there is something you should know–two things, actually. The first is that you shouldn’t believe everything you read. My articles are exaggerated to keep the attention of my readers. Though the financial issue was a struggle, the article itself was embellished–I’m not that much of a bitch.

Second, I love my boyfriend. We’ve been together for a year now. We live together. We do things together (a little less than the average couple, but still...), and we are able to enjoy one another’s company. But he has known since we started dating that I come with a disclaimer: I write about my dating experiences. I have been writing for the past two years on my personal blog, twentysomethingdating.net, and when we started dating I had just begun writing for The WC Press. He reads my articles. He laughs. He shakes his head. And then life goes on. My personal blog is a little more butterflies and rainbows, so you may enjoy that more.

Ultimately this article reflected how I feel, and I’m sorry you disagreed, but feel free to read this month’s article [November]. I think you’ll like it much better.

Unless of course you hate the Phillies. In which case I’m sure you will email me about my choice of sports teams. –Kaela Mast

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Two-Year Anniversary Party Photos Paul Imburgia 11/10 Billy Burger & Bakery celebrated a successful two years with free desserts and birch beer for all their customers. Congrats!

Terri Potrako, Jim Potrako

Sally, Adrienne, Billy, Will, Linda

Cy Callaghan, Gabe Miller

Lee Fisher

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Chris, Chip, Ella and Dillon Cronin

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Two-Year Anniversary Party Photos Paul Imburgia 11/10 Billy Burger & Bakery celebrated a successful two years with free desserts and birch beer for all their customers. Congrats!

Bob Legg

Ian, Missy, Chris

Gabe Miller

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Suzanne and John Bety

Mark Ciarns, Bill Fitz Patrick, Aileen Goldberg

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Seeking The Sources of our most cherished Holiday traditions

Story Lexi Digiovanni illustrations Kevin Fenton

A

s Christmas quickly approaches, it’s important to remember the traditions upon which this religious holiday and cultural phenomenon are based. Often the true origins of the holiday get lost in our modern commercialization. We’d like to take a second to return this most wonderful time of year to its roots.

CHRISTMAS TREEs

Let’s begin with the centerpiece of the holiday, the Christmas tree. Dating back to the 1860s, the idea of Christmas trees began in Germany during the winter solstice. They were cut down and brought into homes as a reminder of life. Christmas tree decorations began with apples, representing the garden of Eden, and other edible items such as nuts and sugar wafers. Popularity of the Christmas tree spread throughout Europe after Queen Victoria encouraged her German husband to decorate their tree as he did during his childhood. Their Christmas tree, decorated with sweets, ornaments, candles, and an angel, was featured in the London news, causing the

Caroling

Caroling originally had no association with Christmas. In fact, the songs were created and sung for other holidays, birthdays and weddings. It wasn’t until the 12th and 13th centuries that caroling became associated with religion, as did a whole lot of other things.

Caroling began as church and Christmas songs that were tampered with as a way to sing outside of church control without being blasphemous. “Jingle Bells,” which dates back to 1850, was composed by James Pierpont in New England.

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ingly. Saint Nicholas set out for the man’s house late that night with a bag of gold coins for each girl’s dowry. He searched for a place in which to hide the gold for the girls and found their stockings hung over the mantel for drying. He dropped the gold inside each and snuck out into the night. We’re told this led to the customs of children hanging stockings or putting out shoes, eagerly awaiting gifts

By 1900, one in five American families had Christmas trees in their homes. Today, more than one hundred million Christmas trees will be on display worldwide.

stockings It seems there’s no single, specific story explaining those stockings hung by the chimney with care, but there are many legends. One such legend has several variations, but the following is a good example: Very long ago, there lived a poor man and his three beautiful daughters. He had no money to marry off his daughters and worried what would become of them.

Saint Nicholas was passing through their town when he overheard the villagers talking about the young girls’ predicament.

He wanted to help but knew the old man wouldn’t accept charity...at least not know-

“

Know Your Roots

Christmas tree to spread like wildfire from the shores of Great Britain, throughout continental Europe, and beyond. By 1900, one in five American families had Christmas trees in their homes.

Today, more than one hundred million Christmas trees will be on display worldwide.

from Saint Nicholas. Sometimes the story is told with gold balls instead of bags of gold, which is why three gold balls, sometimes represented as oranges, are one of the symbols for Saint Nicholas.

Nutcrackers While the history of caroling and Christmas trees makes sense, what the heck is a nutcracker? The first wooden nutcrackers were simply two pieces of wood fastened together by a leather strap or metal hinge.

By the 15th and 16th century, wood carvers in France and England were creating beautiful wooden nutcrackers. Standing wooden nutcrackers in the form of sol-

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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MIstletoe

Many religions believe that this decoration protects homes from evil, lightning and fire. The traditional superstition says a girl standing under a mistletoe cannot refuse to be kissed, the kiss ensuring an undying love.

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This particular tradition traces its roots back to Norse mythology. As is often the case in Viking lore, the story is horrifically convoluted, so I won’t bore you with the details.

The gist of it is this: The goddess of love wept over the death of her son, the god of summer sun, who was killed by an arrow

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Old World: Saint Nicholas, a 4th–century bishop known for gift-giving and leaving presents in stockings, and Sinterklass, the Dutch version of Saint Nicholas. Moore combined the two to create a jolly elf with a bag of toys for children who rode a sleigh pulled by eight reindeer. Years later,

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diers and kings were shown in the Sonneberg and Erzgebirge regions of Germany by 1800. By 1830 the term “Nussknacker” appeared in the dictionary of the Brothers Grimm. The original carved nutcrackers first seen in Germany were thought to have guardian-like properties because of their strong appearance. But the real question is, why has a fanciful device for cracking shells become such a clichéd symbol of Christmas? You can thank Hans Christian Andersen’s fairytale “The Nutcracker”, as well as the the classic tale “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King” by E.T.A. Hoffman which, of course, is the inspiration for the ever-popular ballet.

The Santa we know today was almost solely created by minister and New York literature professor Clement Clark Moore...

poisoned with mistletoe (don’t ask). She was somehow able to utilize that same mistletoe to bring him back to life, but only after her tears had fallen on the plant, turning into blessed, pearly white berries. The ensuing belief is that anyone standing beneath mistletoe is bestowed with that same blessing. As such, they’re entitled to a kiss as a token of love.

Santa claus

Sinterklass, Kris Kringle, Saint Nick, Santa Claus, whatever you happen to call him, is a focal point in most Christmas traditions. But how did a jolly man in a red suit co-opt Christ’s birthday? The Santa we know today was almost solely created by New York literature professor Clement Clark Moore, who utilized Santa Claus in his poem “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” known today as “The Night Before Christmas.” Moore took two inspirational figures from the

New York Magazine illustrator Thomas Nast created a more visual and detailed Santa.

Year after year, he contributed to Santa’s story until today’s Mr. Claus was complete... at least as we NOW know him. Who knows what tomorrow brings.

T

he truth is, traditions are what we make of them.

They’re prone to change (as Santa clearly illustrates), but as long as we attribute meaning to them, there will always be a certain sentimentality to the season. Without that sentimentality, everything between the third Thursday in November and the 25th of December just becomes a juggernaut of overconsumption. In my opinion, what makes this season great is the way we hold onto our traditions–whether family-centered, faith-based or totally off-the-wall. WCP

Honeyjawn University

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DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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All Baking Done on Premises 15 North Church Street  610-344-9674

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

Some of our favorite recipes for holiday treats

Yor i’s Chur ch Str eet Baker y Yul e L og Cake Ingredients: 1/2 c cake flour, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 c dutch process cocoa powder, 1 tsp baking powder, 1/4 c milk, 1/2 c granulated sugar, 3 eggs seperated, 1/8 c 10x sugar, 1 1/2 c heavy cream Cake Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 15x10-inch jelly roll pan. Line with waxed paper.

Grease paper. 2. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt. 3. Beat sugar and egg yolks until light and fluffy. At low speed, alternately beat milk and flour mixture into egg mixture. 4. Using clean beaters, beat egg whites at high speed until stiff peaks form. Fold one third of beaten whites into batter. Fold in remaining whites. Spread batter in prepared pan; smooth top. 5. Bake cake at 350°F for 12 minutes.

6. Dust a cloth with confectioners sugar. Turn cake onto prepared cloth. Remove waxed paper. Trim cake edges. Starting with a long side, roll up cake, jelly-roll style. Transfer, seam-side down, to a wire rack to cool for 30 minutes. 7. Unroll cake; remove cloth. Spread whipped cream over cake to within 1 inch of edges. Reroll cake. Place, seam-side down, on serving plate.

Frosting Ingredients: 2 c heavy cream, 8 oz semisweet chocolate melted, 1/4 c room temperature butter Frosting Directions: In a small saucepan, bring heavy cream, melted chocolate, and butter to a boil over medium heat, stirring vigorously until blended. Remove from heat. Let stand until set. Spread frosting over top and sides of cake.

15 North Church Street, 610-344-9674, yorisbakery.com

Bil l y Bur ger and Baker y Cupcakes Cupcake Ingredients: 2 c sugar, 1 3/4 c flour, 3/4 c cocoa, 1 1/2 tsp baking soda, 1 1/2 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 c oil, 1 c hot water, 1 c milk Directions: 1. Mix all the dry ingredients 2. Mix all the wet ingredients 3. Mix all together 4. Fill lined cupcake tins 5. Bake on 350° for 20 minutes Frosting Ingredients: 2 sticks of butter, 4 c 10 x sugar, 2 tbsp–one at a time–of milk, 1 tsp vanilla or any other flavoring Directions: 1. Beat until fluffy 2. Pipe onto cupcakes 2 North Five Points R oad, 610-431-3100, billyburgerandbakery.com

Cakes & Candies By Mar yel l en Hol iday CakePops Ingredients: Your favorite cake recipe, 1/2 c ready-to-use white decorator icing, 1 bag (14 ounces) Candy Melts® Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spray one 13x9x2” sheet pan or two 8” or 9” round pans with vegetable pan spray. 2. Prepare your favorite cake recipe. 3. Bake 30-35 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. 4. Cool in pan 10 minutes; remove from pan to cooling grid and cool completely. Divide cake in half; freeze one half for future use. 5. In large bowl, use hands to crumble cake until no large chunks remain. 6. Add icing; mix with fingers until well combined. Form mixture into cake balls. Chill in refrigerator at least 2 hours. 7. Melt Candy Melts according to package directions. 8. Insert sticks into cake balls; let set. 9. Wait until pop is completely firm before dipping in melted Candy Melts.

1332 West Chester Pike, 484-266-0710, cakesandcandiesbymaryellen.com

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A vast array of one-of-a-kind products including...

Hip Clothing, Bags, Accessories & Jewelry Incense, Oils and Candles Tapestries, Blankets & Home/Dorm Decor Grateful Dead, Bob Marley & 60s Merchandise Tiedyes & T-shirts Handblow Glass & Local Artwork Tobacco Accessories 130 West Gay Street 610-431-6607 www.moonflowershop.com Portion of proceeds benefit pro-peace and environmental charities 10% Off With Student ID

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

Calista Grand prepares an employee for her return to the stage and screen

Y

ajaira is a Venezuelan actress who has been working at Calista Grand as an esthetician for the last twelve years. Yajaira has recently returned to acting and can be seen in the production Mujeres de Par en Par New York through December 2.

She is extremely excited to alternate between her career as an actress and her job at the spa.

Aliyah and Kate from Calista Grand gave Yajaira a fresh look in preparation for her debut on November 11th, with a cut and color, as well as the best makeup colors to complement her skin, eye and hair coloring.

Aliyah wanted to accentuate Yajaira’s thick, curly, voluminous hair with a cut that would give it shape and texture, but was also practical for everyday life.

She took the tired ends off the length and added some long layers to the back.

In the front she chose a long fringe combined with angles around the face to prevent the style from dragging Yajaira down. After blowdrying, Aliyah texturized to remove excess bulk from Yajaira’s hair. The Perfector was then used to enhance Yajaira’s new shape for a style that will last for days.

For Yajaira’s fresh new look Kate applied a brown smoky eye, the new BB Cream foundation and bronzed all over with a peach blush. She then highlighted Yajaira’s lips with a natural pink and a peach gloss and accentuated individual lashes to give Yajaira long, thick lashes. WCP

Check out Yajaira’s production at facebook.com/mujeresdeparenparny

Makeover Photos Adam Jones

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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“SHE LOVES ME” Photos by Paul Imburgia

10/26 Behind the scenes with the cast and crew of West Chester University’s production of “She Loves Me”

Justin Caiazzo, Josh Yoder

Nicole Watkins, Haley Akers, Paige Malizia, Jeremiah Bean, Heather Kate Carley, Lindsay Brahl, Devon Powers

Ben Shaw, Sarah Evans, Ashley Carlson, Katie Stahl

Chris Trombetta, Ben Shaw

Carlos Diaz as Ladislav Sipos

Stephen Keelder, Andrew French, Ben “British” Deane, Sean Vermeire, Ben Shaw, Jerimiah Bean

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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“SHE LOVES ME” Photos by Paul Imburgia

10/26 Behind the scenes with the cast and crew of West Chester University’s production of “She Loves Me”

Jess Merkins

Taylor, Felicia, Kerrie, Johnathan

Lisa, R ichard and Chelsea Sharp

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

20-Something Dating Kaela Mast has a few reservations about holiday shopping for her significant other

T

he holiday season is one of my favorites: sipping hot chocolate, cuddling while watching 24 straight hours of A Christmas Story on TBS, having a cookie-eating binge, and enjoying eggnog spiked with an extra little something to get through those continuous hours of family bonding and gifts of awkward, ugly sweaters. Typically I’ve spent the holidays making up excuses for why my boyfriend wasn’t able to attend family festivities and complaining that I’m out of Pinot grigio before 5pm. But this year I’ll be celebrating because I actually get to spend the holidays with my significant other–someone who has put up with a lot from me (as you’ve all been so lucky to read). I’m really excited, but there’s still one thing about the holiday season I just can’t seem to get into.

On top of the pressure of meeting family members and stuffing your face in front of them, you have to tack on the stress of gift-giving. As much as I love giving gifts, I seem to hit a wall when it matters most. As I wander aimlessly around a mall full of children waiting to see Santa, snot dripping down their faces as they scream, I can’t help but be overwhelmed by the amount of pressure there is to find the perfect gift–especially for my boyfriend.

Maybe it’s just me, but gift-giving for a significant other is a lot harder than it should be. Then again, I do have the boyfriend who tells me he “doesn’t want anything” or to “just surprise him.” I like to think I’m excellent at picking presents. I put my heart and soul into each item purchased, all the way down to the wrapping paper.

I wish I were exaggerating, but I’m not–my gifts are worthy of the cover spread in Good Housekeeping...or The WC Press. And yes, this is coming from the girl who can’t even cook pasta.

And let’s not discuss my ability to keep a secret. I get SO excited to give presents to people I love that I cannot contain myself. There are only two solutions I’ve found: one is give my boyfriend his gift early, like I had to do for his birthday; the other is waiting until the chaotic night before Christmas to risk my life venturing into the mall to find something. The latter tends to be the more stressful option.

And what about me? What is it I’m looking for this Christmas from my man? Well, besides a German Shepherd puppy? I just want to spend quality time with him. That’s what the holidays are supposed to be about: being with people you love. As you can see, it’s been a pretty stressful year in our relationship–just like every relationship, ever. Sure, we have had some really awesome times and some pretty bad times, but overall, the one thing I want more of is time with him. So, whether I’m cuddling on the couch preparing for a movie marathon, or scouring the internet for great deals on items I know he’d love to rip open Christmas morning, what I want more than anything is to have him there by my side. For like, a really, really, ridiculously long time. kmast@thewcpress.com

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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He’s Your Best Friend; Give Him Nothing But The Best Toby’s K-9 Kamp is West Chester ’s premier doggy daycare located just off of Westtown Road

Voted Best

4 Years Running 705-B Westtown Road, West Chester, PA 19382 D 610.430.1330 D www.tobysk9kamp.com

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

WC Shopping Guide Some of the best in the borough for the favorites in your family

ster l ing sil ver tr ee-hugger cuff This piece by Skarlatti Art Wear is a hand-forged, one-of-a-kind cuff weighing 4 ounces that’s created to resemble a lover’s heart carved into a tree.

Bella & Betty, 117 W Gay St 610-719-3259, bellaandbetty.com

Designer handbags Handbags by designers like Gucci and Burberry can cost a fortune, but it’s a different story when you find those exact same bags on consignment.

Christine’s Consignment, 105 Westtown R d 610-692-9375, christinesconsignment.com

XOvivo Jewel r y by Michael Choi She’ll love this XOcandy Renew Necklace with dangling beads on hand-formed aluminum, soft resin tubing and a silver-plated bar chain choker.

T he 5 Senses, 133 W Market St, 610-719-0170, the5senses.com

Mul ti-Str and Neckl ace This sterling silver, silk and gem stone multi-strand necklace is one of the many unique designs available at both Green Eyed Lady locations.

Green Eyed Lady, 132 W Gay St 610-431-2474, shopgreeneyedlady.com

Gift car ds for Vintage Jewel r y You’re not entirely sure of your loved one’s taste?

Perfect! Malena’s is offering 20% off gift cards of $40 or more to be used on their vintage wares.

Malena’s Vintage Boutique, 101 W Gay St 610-738-9952, malenasboutique.com

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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29 S. Church Street 610-696-5200 www.halladayflorist.com

Our Family, your town, your florist since 1957 30

the w c pres s | voice of the borough

WC Shopping Guide Some of the best in the borough for the favorites in your family

Honeyjawn Hoodie Regardless of age, enroll your friends in Honeyjawn University, the school that symbolically represents the fun of college life. honeyjawnuniversity.com facebook.com/honeyjawnuniversity

Br eakawayInk Hoodie Formed in West Chester and now available across the US, BreakawayINK’s urban-inspired designs are the best way to stay comfy AND look good. breakawayink.com, @breakawayink facebook.com/breakawayink

Casual L uxur y Give the gift of looking good with this shirt by Bugatchi and wool zip-out hybrid jacket by Joseph Abboud. Top it off with a Sciarpe Italiane scarf.

Mainline Mens Custom Clothiers, 129 W Market St 484-905-7098, mainlinemens.com

Hol iday Cr aft beer ‘Tis the season for breweries to roll out unique brews. Treat the beer drinker in your life to a case of craft beer he might not splurge to buy himself.

Spaz Beverage, 1015 West Chester Pk 610-696-6320, spazbeverage.com

Custom Bl izzar d cake FACT: Everyone loves DQ Blizzards. So, pick your favorite Blizzard (we recommend this month’s special, candy cane), then choose a cake size. Done.

Dairy Queen, 703 E Gay St 610-696-4678, dairyqueen.com

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Salon A top-notch salon with a very real feel.

610-585-0102 Or you can reach your stylist directly...

Anthony Giunta - 610-585-0102 Laura McCallin - 484-364-6276 David Mumford - 484-753-1536 You can find Salon Chemistry on Middle Alley between Walnut and Matlack Streets. Just head down Market Street and Salon Chemistry is in the lot to your left, behind the Salvation Army.

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

WC Shopping Guide Some of the best in the borough for the favorites in your family

Southwest-patter ned coat Ward off the cold in this Davida coat by BB Dakota with a cozy shawl collar and a tie belt that adds a feminine shape.

Nich Boutique, 29 S High St 610-436-8181, shopnich.com

tULLE Dr ess & cOAT This lined, double-breasted coat by Tulle comes in a must-have color for the season and is matched with a cinched-waist, pleated panel dress by Tulle.

OBVI, 30 S High St 610-696-2477, obvionline.com

Hol iday Cube Ar r angement Perfect for the entire season, this arrangement of cedar, gold-tipped salal and twenty red roses is available in a variety of colors.

Halladay Florist, 29 S Church St 610-696-5200, halladayflorist.com

Or namental Santa This handmade Santa, from Santa’s Workshop, has its own distinctive personality. It is just one of the many decorations to be found at Penwick Design.

Penwick Design, 132 High Street 610-431-2739, penwickdesign.com

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129 W Market St | 484-905-7098 | mainlinecustomclothiers.com

Shop small and get it all

 Show t his a and sav d an extr e a 10%

Holiday Sale – entire store up to 40% off 34

the w c pres s | voice of the borough

WC Shopping Guide Some of the best in the borough for the favorites in your family

El ectr ic Guitar STar ter Kit This Fender Squier Stratocaster comes packaged with an amp, an electric tuner, a guitar stand and an instructional DVD. Perfect for beginners.

Taylor’s Music, 116 W Gay St 610-696-1812, taylorsmusic.com

Adul t sl ip ’N’ Sl ide With a plastic sheet cover and a gallon of thick body glide, this kit contains everything you need for a fun night of slipping and sliding.

Feminique Boutique, 104 N Church St 610-551-3262, feminiqueboutiqueshop.com

Acoustic guitar And for those who already know what they’re doing, this Taylor 100 Series with laminated back and sides is a versatile and durable full-size guitar.

West Chester Music, 310 S High St 610-436-8641, westchestermusicstore.com

Dr eamcatcher This handcrafted dreamcatcher isn’t just good for keeping the nightmares at bay–it’s a year-round decoration sure to please.

Moonflower, 130 W Gay Street 610-431-6607, facebook.com/moonflower

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’Tis The Season!

Book Your Holiday Party!

15 South High Street  610-696-1400  barnabyswestchester.com

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

They don’t just make pizza at Benny’s. Joe and Sal are all about giving back to the community... and not only during the holiday season. Photo ADAM JONES

Owners of the Month

J

oe Inzone is soft-spoken but about as friendly as they come. He’s often behind the counter shaking hands, smiling and greeting customers by name. He and his brother Sal run the show at Benny’s Pizza and, although most customers who pass through the door may not know, they’re some of the most giving people in this community–almost like West Chester’s own Secret Santas. The two are always busy, so we sat down with Joe to learn more about their generosity while Sal prepped for the day and shouted interesting tidbits from the kitchen.

How long have you and Sal been here at Benny’s? Sal’s been here since the early ’80s, and I’ve been here since 2002.

Well, how did you end up here? I came in and bought out two other people who owned it, so now it’s just Sal and me.

What were you doing before? I was an account administrator for the Vanguard Group in their institutional branch. I handled big companies, not individuals.

Which is better? This one. I had a lot of personal interactions in the old job, but most of that was over the phone, and here I get to interact with people face-to-face. I’m a people person, so I like to interact with our clients. I’ve always been in customer service, but it’s better to be of service to a local client.

Well then I guess you fit right in here. I understand Benny’s has always been very connected to the West Chester community. We used to be the only place that could safely deliver in the Oak Place projects, and we’re told that, during a riot in West Chester in the 1960s, Benny’s was the only storefront that was untouched. We have customers that have been coming here for three generations.

With just the two of you running the place, what’re your hours like? Oh geez. I’m in here five to six days a week, often work-

ing as much as 14 hours a day. Sal and I try to split up the time, so I’m not here every Friday or Saturday; we switch it up.

But you also have another job, right? I volunteer.

But it does require a significant amount of your time, right? I am a very active member of the Ridge Fire Company.

I have worked as a fire police officer for 15 years. So, if there’s a fire in the middle of the night, I get up, hop in my car and rush to the site to help contain the situation and direct traffic. I also run the kitchen at the fire company for the 25 to 30 auctions that are held there each year. I do it so they can keep that money and put it towards the fire company.

Do you do anything for yourself ? I believe that by doing things for other people, the reward you get in return will exceed that reward you’d get if you just focused on yourself.

Well, do you have free time? [Laughing] A little. I like to ride motorcycles in my free time.

So, that’s where the Chester County Ride for Heroes comes from. Can you tell our readers about that? It’s a ride we started two years ago that benefits the Chester County Hero Fund. The Chester County Hero Fund helps police, EMS and all the volunteers who are injured in the line of duty. The ride goes throughout Chester County and ends up back here at Benny’s Pizza where we offer free pizza and soda to the riders.

But that’s not the only way Benny’s gives back to the community. We’re big on helping police and fire rescue. We donate food to various organizations, like the Firefighters Cadet Camp, whose annual training lunch we cater. We also offer dollar giveback coupons where a dollar of your purchase goes to organizations like the Hero Fund and the SPCA–I’m a big animal lover. WCP

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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RUNNING OF THE TURKEYS Photos by Nick Vecchio

11/18 Kildare’s teamed up with John Debella of 102.9 WMGK to host a charity run in which participants carried a turkey for a mile

Devin Brander, Brent Ziobro

Ivy Magrogan, Hope Magrogan, Melissa ZIrolli, Dave Magrogan, Grady David Magrogan, John Debella

Allison and Kathy Bates, Dana and Janna Keefer, Nancy Bohn

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the w c pres s | voice of the borough

Heather and Beth

20-Something Dating’s Chris DeMarco and Kaela Mast

AND

Piercing

Tattoos Piercings Dermals Phone: 610-738-7666

Hours: Sun: 12-5:30 Mon thru Sat: 1-9

Visit Us: x-tremeinktattoowc.com 136 EAST GAY STREET WEST CHESTER, PA

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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RUNNING OF THE TURKEYS Photos by Nick Vecchio

11/18 Kildare’s teamed up with John Debella of 102.9 WMGK to host a charity run in which participants carried a turkey for a mile

Britt Brenner’s finally in the magazine!

R ob and Molly Main

Sarah Christie, Jess Sanford, Patrick McBride, Dave Magrogan

Grady David Magrogan

Joe Lovell, Travis Barron, Kendra Davis, Devin Brander

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Danielle and Makenna Johnson

Dane, Darragh and Stephanie Gray

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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A Trainer’s Tips Christine Mooney is a certified fitness trainer and author of the health and wellness blog Beautiful-Strength.com I’ve heard that time seems to pass more quickly as we age, which is probably why I’m looking at the calendar and am shocked that we are yet again in the midst of another holiday season, a season synonymous not just with joy and love but with wanton gluttony and indulgence. While reports on holiday weight gain over the years have been exaggerated and lacking in scientific evidence, there are several truths about the holidays that we must confront: 1. The average gain is only one pound, but people who are already overweight tend to gain more. If over two-thirds of America is overweight, most people gain more than just one pound at the holidays.

2. Most people don’t ever lose the weight they put on during the holidays, meaning it all adds up as the years pass.

3. It isn’t all about weight gain. Inflammation occurs as an immune system response when you consume substances your body cannot handle, such as grains, refined sugars and processed fats. This can lead to a laundry list of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, etc.

To stay on track with your health and fitness goals this holiday season, here are three strategies that will help you make it through the next month without weight gain.

1. Set small, attainable goals you know you can achieve. That’s not to say we should never stretch our comfort zones. We need to challenge ourselves, but during a hectic, stressful, and indulgent time of year such as this, it is imperative to set yourself up for success.

Simply commit to changing one thing about your diet a week. Cut out soda one week. Next week nix sugars. The following week stop eating grains (yes, even the multigrain stuff), and so forth.

2. Understand that every meal counts. We’ve all done it: you walk by your coworker’s cubicle and see that she’s brought in leftover birthday cake from the weekend. You know you shouldn’t eat it, but you have a piece anyway. And then you think, “Well, the day’s ruined. I might as well have a venti eggnog latte from Starbucks. It’s the holidays after all.” Don’t rationalize your behavior! Get back on that wagon and finish out your day strong.

3. Don’t be afraid to be the “weirdo” with healthy food. It isn’t easy being surrounded by people who don’t want to be healthy. The cultural draw of food is very strong, and eating differently from everyone else sets you apart as “other.” Try either ignoring the jabs about your eating or bringing your own healthy and outrageously tasty food to share. There are plenty of amazing healthy cookbooks and blogs out there to help in your holiday feasting.

Make it through the holiday season with your healthy lifestyle, and come New Years you’ll be the only one of your friends who doesn’t have to make a weight loss-related resolution. Remember: what sets you apart at the Christmas table will set you apart on the beach in just a few short months, which, like the entirety of 2012, will fly right by. cmooney@thewcpress.com

DECEMber 2012 | thewcpress.com

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boutique Women’s Apparel & Accessories

Get your holiday shopping on!

Check out our NEW Collegeville location!!!

www.ShopNich.com 44

the w c pres s | voice of the borough

The Look Nich keeps you ahead of the fashion curve

Left: Parley Dress by BB Dakota $82 R ight: Jensine Dress by BB Dakota $92

Style Kristy Mak Makeup Kendra Davis Photo Adam Jones

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ith the Holidays right around the corner, you probably have a calendar full of holiday events for work, for your significant other’s work, with family, with friends...the list goes on. This year, instead of pulling out the same ol’ backup frock you always wear, get something a little unexpected but completely gorgeous!

On the left, we have a sexy, black bodycon dress. Yes, it’s black, but the lace sleeve detail and mesh panel at the collarbone give you coverage while remaining just a bit suggestive. On the right, we have a flirtier fit-and-flare dress in a gorgeous lavender and silver metallic fabric. Who does lavender for the holidays? You do! Betty Draper would be seething at how unbelievable you look.

And what holiday outfit would be complete without makeup? Beauty expert Kendra Davis added drama to our model with a bronzer-contoured cheek and precisely winged eyeliner with a splash of gold on the lids for a bit of holiday sparkle. And don’t forget the lips: baby pink complemented the lavender dress and, of course, she went bold red for the LBD. This season is about celebrating with colleagues, old friends, new friends and loved ones. But most importantly, it’s about celebrating your beauty and yourself, because you deserve it! WCP

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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LastA newChair Standing way to dine in West Chester

Tonight’s Best Specials, All In One Place Our users receive daily dinner deals from West Chester’s favorite restaurants.

It’s free to use & free to sign up.

LastChairStanding.com

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th e wc pr ess | voice of the borough

Children In Tow

Jennifer Ozgur is a mother, wife and teacher who still finds time to get out and about with the family ‘Tis the sEASON of giving.

Nobody understands that more this time of year than parents. We are bombarded with countless advertisements as we negotiate our day.

The media has made sure that we are aware of every last promotion using pop-up ads, “Current Resident” mass mailers, jingles on the radio more insidious than the latest Bieber tune, and let’s not forget the dreaded emails you signed up for in order to get your Rewards Points. I’m not saying you need to channel your inner Scrooge and banish all gifts, but a little out-of-the-gift-box thinking can result in presents with an impact much deeper than the discarded pile of wrapping paper left on the living room floor.

May I first suggest the gift of health and wellness? The Chester County Running Store has the newest (kid translation: coolest and most popular) styles of athletic footwear for every kind of sport. CCRS has elevated sneaker shopping to a science.

They will expertly size your child’s feet (yes, they DID just go up another shoe size!) and recommend the correct brand for their specific gait. Their knowledge and service is unparalleled. Having the latest technology for your budding MVP’s preferred activity is the most effective motivation to get them off the couch. What’s more, they have a special promotion if you mention this article.

Maybe your tween or teen is more of the social type. The YMCA has tons of newly added programs to pique the interest of a variety of young learners that you can find listed on their website, ymcabwv.org. Many of their offerings–such as my daughter’s gymnastics–are no longer blocked out in sessions.

You just sign them up for whichever classes they like, and the fee is conveniently withdrawn every month from your account.

What you get back every week is your children’s anticipation and gratitude with every class. Even better, if you are lucky enough to have a seventh grader, they are eligible for a free membership for one 12-month cycle! If you still aren’t convinced, download a free three-day trial membership for your family. Now you’ve got a response when your kids claim to be bored halfway through winter break.

Another way to make this season special is to give them the gift of music. No, I’m not talking about the iPhone 5. But for the same price [Editor’s Note: Or less, see page 35] you can take them to Taylor’s or West Chester Music and enroll them in music lessons for the better part of a year. Your future musician can learn keyboard, guitar, drums, wind, brass or voice.

Of course, we want to make our children happy by indulging their desires. But kids are impulsive and fickle. What is a must-have gadget today quickly becomes a lost-in-the-back-of-the-closet toy tomorrow. So before you greenlight the first item on your children’s lists this year, consider selling them on a talent or lifestyle change that’ll stay with them for seasons to come. jozgur@thewcpress.com

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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FALL MUSIC FEST Photos by Paul Imburgia

10/26 Organized by Justin Wilson, this music festival at the Charles A. Melton center helped raise funds for the center

AJ T homas, Josh Christopher, Justin Wilson

Absolute, IV, Psyco R a

Mike Beaston, Nick Brower, Justin Wilson, Valen Cianci, Kenneth Winston

Warren Shelter, Derek Pettie, Dereck Madden, Jenny Keefer, Dani MacCloskey

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for d a s i h tion t first tan! n e M your f $5 of

mobile sunless tanning 610-662-3343

arabellasunless.com

132 N High Street West Chester, PA penwickdesign.com

West Chester Holiday Shopping Crawl Friday Dec. 7th 10am–9pm December Hours: Mon–Wed 10am – 6pm Thurs–Friday 10am – 8pm Sat 10am – 6pm Sun 11am – 5pm

Shop Local for All Your Holiday Gifts & Décor

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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FALL MUSIC FEST Photos by Photo’s Name

10/21 Organized by Justin Wilson, this music festival at the Charles A. Melton center helped raise funds for the center

T he Keepers: Alex Held, Pat Cassidy, Korina Dabundo, Brian T homas

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Danielle Farley

Zowie Jones, Kaloni Baylor, Emily MacDonald, Linsi Ver Steeg, R icky Eller

Kaitlin Garlitz, Linsi Ver Steeg

Katharine Moffett, John R eed, Juan M. Melendez

th e wc pr ess | voice of the borough

1347 Wilmington Pike, West Chester, PA 19382

(610) 235-4200

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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Radiant. Luminous. Memorable.

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Open Tuesday thru Saturday

10% discount with College ID or mention of The WC Press

138 W Market St  610-344-7747  Kalonhair.com  fb.com/KalonHairStudio

th e wc pr ess | voice of the borough

Holiday How-To: Painting Your Windows This unfinished work by Hannah Clark shows her window-painting process

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t’s doubtful you know hannah clark, but it’s likely you know her work. If you’ve ever walked down Gay Street and peered through the windows of Bella & Betty, you were looking right through her handicraft. For the past year the store’s owner, Rain Speciale, has been commissioning Hannah to paint her front windows, with everything from tree-scapes to Italian vistas. When I was a child we always painted the front window of my family’s house, but never with something as intricate as the work Hannah manages. So I thought it’d be nice to ask Hannah to guide us through the steps to achieve our own masterpiece.

1. Set aside two to three hours. This will take some time.

2. Clean the window. Windex it first, then make sure it’s completely dry and clear of residue and debris before painting.

3. Find your inspiration. Often I’ll come up with an idea for something I’d like to paint, and then I’ll look online for the cartoon version to get a clearer idea what it will look like simplified.

4. Sketch on a piece of paper. Before going to the window, it’s best to have a solid idea of what you’ll be working with.

5. Trace the design onto the window using a crayon. (above) 6. Prep for painting. Tape up any areas you’re especially concerned about getting paint on, and cover the whole area with a tarp or a sheet. This shouldn’t be too messy, but better safe than sorry.

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7. Using a very thin layer of paint in the appropriate color, trace the outlines of the areas you’ll be painting.

8. Now you can fill in the lines like a coloring book. Again, use a very thin layer of paint. This will prevent any dripping and will allow the paint to dry much more quickly. (above) 9. Once the first layer has completely dried, apply another layer.

10. Repeat until you’ve achieve the desired color saturation. (above) PRO TIPS: 1. Wet paint wipes easily off of glass, so don’t freak out if you make a mistake. Just keep a wet rag nearby at all times.

2. If you’d like to leave some textured brush strokes, avoid applying too many layers.

3. Less is more. Avoid painting images that are highly detailed.

4. Step outside every so often to make sure what you’re seeing on the inside is what your neighbors will be looking at.

5. A flat-edged razor is best for removing the paint. Again, set aside a good hour or two.

6. Have fun. It can get a little Grab sample-size paint at the hardware stressful, so invite some friends, store. It’ll only cost a few bucks, and it’s pour some hot cocoa and enjoy. more than enough for the job.

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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VETERANS DAY FUNDRAISER Photos by Paul Imburgia

11/8 Living in Chester County, Culinary Deliveries and Doc Magrogan’s teamed up to raise awareness and funds for the Veteran’s Day Parade

Kaela Mast, Christina Galdieri

Christina Dubenko, R enauld “R eggie” Brown, Jon Prete, Bill Still

Jackie D’Amico, Ashley Denner, Paige Maloney

T iffany Demas, Zach Weidner

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Kelly Malloy, Kylene Walmsley

Lexi DiGiovanni, Brittany Laird, Paige Frey

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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VETERANS DAY PARADE Photos by Paul Imburgia

11/11 West Chester shut down Gay Street for a parade of marching bands, soldiers and military vehicles in honor of our veterans

T ina R obinson, Diane MacBrine

John and Julie Zwirzina

Davis and T immy King

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DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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VETERANS DAY PARADE Photos by Paul Imburgia

11/11 West Chester shut down Gay Street for a parade of marching bands, soldiers and military vehicles in honor of our veterans

Nova and Jeff Adams

Jenny Hwang, Yura Oh

Lori and Bob Court

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th e wc pr ess | voice of the borough

Check out our winter specials Try something new, like a birchbeer milkshake or December's blizzard of the month, Candy Cane Chill

Open Year Round Family owned and operated for 57 years!

703 East Gay Street | 610-696-4678

Turn your favorite blizzard treat into an ice cream cake!

Call us to find out how.

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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A Three-Letter Word

Jill McDevitt is the proprietor of Feminique and is the only person in the world with three degrees in sex I recently remodeled Feminique to expand the sex museum section of the store, which now includes ten exhibits. Doing the research, tracking the patent numbers, and collecting the artifacts have been endeavors only a sexologist could love. But, to my surprise, there’s someone else on a similar endeavor. I primarily used eBay to purchase obscure sex artifacts, and I find I keep getting outbid. Here are three items I’ve been outbid on.

Vintage Durex Paragon No. 120 Reusable Condom Exhibit: The history of the condom Year: c. 1920 Why I Wanted It: Before condoms were made out of latex, they were made out of vulcanized rubber. Unlike today’s condoms, they were able to be rinsed out and reused. The piece would demonstrate the role of technology in the evolution of the condom, as well as show that if you think “you can’t feel anything” with a condom on today, imagine what it must have been like to have an inner tube between you.

Reaction to Losing: Are you kidding me? There’s someone else in the world willing to pay more than $120 for a used, 100-yearold condom?

Vintage Victoria’s Secret Dark Red, Sheer Lace, Hi-cut Panties Exhibit: The history of lingerie Year: c. 1984 Why I Wanted It: Women’s underwear has evolved as attitudes about women’s sexuality and women’s role in society has evolved, starting out as knee-length pantaloons worn under an anklelength skirt in the 1870s to G-string thongs fashionable in the 1990s (examples of both are on display). In the 1980s, the trend was to wear panties that were cut high on the hip so that panty lines wouldn’t show when wearing spandex.

Reaction to Losing: Really? I forget to check my account for a few hours and six other people sneak in to outbid me on a 30-year-old pair of underwear? Who else would want...oooooohhhh. I forgot that buying and selling used panties is big business to accommodate men with dirty panty fetishes. For real. Google “used panties.”

Vintage Hamilton Beach Vibrating Massager Exhibit: The history of the vibrator Year: 1902 Why I Wanted It: This model was the first electric vibrator and the fifth household item to be electrified. It’s historically significant not only in the world of vibrators, but also when looking at the evolution of household appliance manufacturing and marketing.

Reaction to Losing: Ok, now I think someone is playing a prank on me. Two minutes after I posted on Facebook that I was bidding on a vibrator from eBay, I got outbid. jmcdevitt@thewcpress.com

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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Lexi DiGiovanni asks kindergartners and first graders at Glen Acres Elementary for their take on all the magic of the Christmas Season How does Santa get to every house in one night?

His reindeer go lightning fast and are specially trained to get to every house. He has magic dust and powers so he can drop the presents down the chimney. –Anna, 8 How does Santa choose who’s been naughty and who’s been nice?

He has a big book with everyone’s picture and his elves go out in the night to spy on the good and bad kids. –Elizabeth, 7 What does Santa do with all the milk and cookies? Can he eat ALL of them?

Yes, because he doesn’t eat all year to prepare. –Juliet, 7 Why is Santa’s suit red?

Red is his favorite color. –Lamar, 5 Why does Santa bring kids presents?

Because it’s after Thanksgiving. –Cole, 6

How does Santa get into houses without chimneys?

Windows...he opens them or breaks them if they’re locked.

–Elizabeth, 7

How does Santa choose the reindeer who pull his sleigh?

He has one dozen reindeer and he tests them on their speed, and the best reindeer win. –Camryn, 7 How do you get to the North Pole?

You search for reindeer in the South Pole, and they take you to the North Pole. –Corey, 7 Do all children get presents?

No, only if they’re good. –Juliet, 7 What do you have to do to get coal in your stocking?

Roll your eyes at your parents or curse at them. –Joey, 7

Why don’t grownups get presents from Santa?

Because they already have everything they need. –Brendan, 7

Other than presents, what is your favorite thing about Christmas?

Putting ornaments on the tree and playing in the snow. –Lizzie, 6

What is the first place Santa visits? What’s last?

Africa because they don’t really have anything, and he comes to the USA last because...because we’re awesome. –Jack, 7

How old is Santa Claus?

Probably 60 years old. –Bryn, 7

Why are elves so good at building toys?

Because their ears are so big! –Steven, 7

How long has he been married to Mrs. Claus?

17 years. –Kelly, 6

How big are elves?

Two or three feet. –Karime, 7

How does Santa stay warm on his sleigh?

He has a sleigh heater, and his beard helps, too. –Grant, 6

How much does Santa weigh?

25 lbs. –Jass, 7

How do reindeer fly?

Santa gives them magic from all the Christmas spirit. –Lamar, 5

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The Makeshift Chef

Chelsea Durning is a cook by trade, and she knows how to scrape together last-minute treats for the holidays The holidays are a time for gathering with friends and family.

It’s a time of giving and–of course– parties! This month I gathered a few recipes for those last-minute items to bring to your next holiday party.

Happy Holidays!

Chocolate Chip Cookies (makes 50-60) • • • • • • • • •

2 sticks Butter ¾ cups Sugar ¾ cups Light Brown Sugar 2 Eggs 1 tsp. Vanilla 2 ½ cups Flour 1 tsp. Salt 1 tsp. Baking Soda 1 bag Chocolate Chips

Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time. Add vanilla. Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl. In three small batches, add the dry ingredients, scraping the bowl after each addition.

Fold in the chocolate chips. Refrigerate the dough for 30 minutes. Form into 1 inch balls and bake at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes.

Christmas Chex Mix • ½ bag Pretzels • ¼ bag Green and Red M&M’s • ½ box Chocolate Chex Mix • 1 bag White Chocolate Chips • 1 cup 10x Sugar

121 East Gay Street, Prescott Alley Entrance Located behind Zukin Realty, Next to Doc Magrogan’s

610.696.6880 | Optimal Massage.com Benefits of Massage Therapy:

Decreased toxins, increased circulation, reduced stress, improved posture and joint flexibility, decreased blood pressure, strengthened immune system, faster workout recovery, decreased pain and tension, decreased anxiety and depression.

Massage is an act of self-care, not self-indulgence

In a large bowl, mix the pretzels, M&M’s and ¼ bag of white chocolate chips. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining chocolate chips for 30 seconds at a time. When completely melted, drizzle over the pretzel mixture.

Toss to coat everything, and while the chocolate is still warm, sprinkle everything with the 10x sugar and toss again to create a “snowy” appearance.

Eggnog Bread Pudding (makes 1 13”x9” pan) • 5 cups Sugar • 1 quart Eggnog • 3 cups Milk • 1 tbsp. Cinnamon • 3 cups Raisins • 1 dozen Croissants (cubed) In a mixing bowl, whisk eggs, sugar, eggnog, milk and cinnamon. Place the croissants and raisins in a greased 13”x9” pan. Pour the egg mixture over the croissants and let sit for five minutes. Cover with a greased piece of parchment paper and aluminum foil. Bake covered for 50 minutes. Remove aluminum foil and parchment paper and continue baking for 15-20 more minutes. cdurning@thewcpress.com

While your experience at Optimal Massage will be relaxing, it is designed to improve your muscular health.

We don’t just want you to feel better; we want you to be healthier.

Mention this Ad and receive a 60-minute massage for $60 DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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We ar e pr oud to offer u p a print version of everyone’s favorite bar game... and you won’t have to pay 50 cents. Actually, you can WIN money.

Compare the two photos at right.

They may look the same, but there are seven subtle differences between the two.

Find those seven differences and identify the items that have been changed. Then send an email to contests@thewcpress.com listing those items. You’ll be entered to win a $25 gift card to a local business.

Winners will be chosen at random, and their name will be posted to Facebook along with the solution at the end of the month. So make sure to like us and follow along if you want to play. Enjoy!

We changed this photo of our last eight covers from this year. Can you spot seven differences?

Facebook.com/thewcpress

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2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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Lend a Hand ‘T is the Season for Giving, and Jennifer Ozgur has curated a list of some charitable organizations located right here in our borough

W

ith the holiday season upon us, now is the time for good will toward all. And the new year brings with it the opportunity to improve ourselves. In the spirit of both these sentiments, here are four local organizations you may want to consider helping in whatever way you can.

Whether it is creating a course to teach senior citizens, joining a youth service organization, putting your handyman (or woman!) skills to use, or supporting those without a roof over their heads, there are plenty of options for you to spread some love in 2013 right in your community.

West Chester Area Senior Center 610-431-4242, wcseniors.org

You may not be familiar with the West Chester Area Senior Center, but if you’ve ever purchase a used book at one of their two Second Reading bookstores, you’ve helped their cause. Founded in 1975, this is their 37th year serving the West Chester borough and surrounding townships. Their mission is, “Enriching the lives of our senior neighbors through friendship, activities, education and nourishment.” They seek to do this by serving 28,000 meals to 3,500 seniors every year; offering important health and wellness programs like blood pressure screenings and yoga, tai chi and Zumba classes; and providing general life services such as teaching computer skills, help filing tax forms and assisting in financial planning. There are currently 472 volunteers on the team, but with such diversity in programming, there are plenty of opportunities for almost anyone who is interested and has a little time to share.

“You can help by cooking and/or serving breakfast or lunch

on weekdays or working as a front desk volunteer at the center or helping at one of our bookstores,” says executive director Kathy Sullivan. The stores are located at North Church Street between Gay and Market, and in the Parkway Shopping Center. Your assistance is also welcome at special events like their annual gala and spring run/walk. Sullivan explains that, “[Your involvement] depends upon which particular group or subcommittee you join, and can be scheduled to best fit the group’s general availability.”

To stay in the loop, you are always welcome to visit them in person at 530 East Union Street in the Good Will Business Park (near Pump It Up and the District Court). Their hours are Monday through Friday 8am to 3pm.

West Chester Rotaract

wcrotaract@gmail.com, wcrotaract.com Giving back to the community isn’t just an activity for your parents. The West Chester Rotaract community is a young adult organization for ages 18-30. It’s an offshoot of the Rotary Club, famous for their Four Way Test (It is the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendship? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?) and–at least in West Chester–their Chili Cook-off. The club’s main goals are to develop professional and leadership skills, emphasize respect for the rights of others and promote ethical standards and the dignity of all useful occupations.

When I asked Tamara Minnick, who has been West Chester Rotaract’s president for one and a half years, what inspired her to get involved with Rotaract, she responded, “I was drawn to Rotaract because of the opportunities it creates for young people, both locally and internationally, through various programs.” 

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Maybe you are interested in meeting some new friends. “That’s all part of what Rotaract is,” Minnick says. “We work hard on our service projects, but we also have fun, during–and after–our meetings.”

They convene bi-weekly at The Hickman, located at 400 North Walnut Street. Since it is a newer organization, you will have the opportunity to help define the club and the role it plays in the community. It is a vibrant group of members who are always looking for fresh ideas about how they can improve West Chester. It is an excellent way to take that first step to getting involved in serviceoriented activities.

Stockings for Soldiers is the most recently completed project. “[We] send personalized stockings to the brave men and women stationed in the Middle East,” explains Minnick. It was their third year collecting physical goods to be assembled into holiday care packages. Donations ranging from CDs, Beanie Babies and disposable cameras to the creature comforts of candy, lotion, coffee and Ramen noodles were accepted. They also hosted a fundraiser at Barnaby’s which included an open bar and buffet, with a raffle sponsored by local businesses.

If you are looking beyond the basics in life, seriously consider Rotaract. Not only will you begin making a difference locally, you will have something to add to both your personal and professional dossier. As they say on their website, “the commitment is minimal, the cost is reasonable and the value you receive is priceless!”

Men of Mission

610-793-1920, firstpreswc.com/men-of-mission Another group’s value lies not only in how you can help others, but in how others can help you. “Men of Mission” (affectionately called “MOM” by its members) is, as its logo suggests, dedicated to renovation and construction projects to help both people in need and other organizations, including World Impact and Good Works Inc. Jim Serum is the founder and head of the organization. He started the group in 2003 with a couple of other men from his church, First Presbyterian of West Chester. “[We] organized to provide opportunities for members of the church and local community to serve local mission organizations and individuals that are in need of assistance,” explains Serum. “The only requirements are a desire to serve others by using your talents.”

A variety of skills are needed. Painting, carpentry, electrical and plumbing skills are all useful, but so are general abilities like cleaning and basic repair. Serum wants to make it clear that Men of Mission welcomes both men and women. “We have a number of very capable women in the organization, and I always like to highlight this because I would like to increase the number of women volunteers.”

One of their larger projects was the construction of a tree house for The Barn At Spring Brook Farm in 2010. Spring Brook Farm focuses on allowing children with disabilities to interact with animals and nature. Men of Mission had 34 volunteers contribute almost 850 hours to build this much-loved addition to The Barn.

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The structure makes it possible for children in wheelchairs to enjoy what many kids take for granted–to have a glimpse of the world at great heights and to hear the singing of the birds.

Another gratifying element of joining the Men of Mission is the fellowship among the members. “I learned that nearly every person in our group was traveling a spiritual journey similar to my own,” says Serum. “It was a great comfort…. We became accountable to one another, to support one another and to grow together.”

I am a witness to their warmth. I attended their “Friendraiser” banquet and auction last month and was greeted with openness and kindness. I arrived alone as a writer covering an event, but I left feeling accepted and appreciated by people who were, essentially, strangers.

Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children 610-431-3598, friendsassoc.org

The Friends Association for Care and Protection of Children is an invaluable resource to any family who has run into unforeseen hardships. For 189 years, Friends Association has provided essential social services for children and families. Their main goal is to help families find or maintain permanent housing and to achieve stability and self-sufficiency. They run an emergency shelter in West Chester and also run a homeless prevention program. The shelter provides homeless families with a safe, clean place to stay and helps them cope with stress and upheaval. Children and parents live together in their own apartment as Friends Association helps them stabilize, connect to other community resources and find a permanent place to live. They also work with families who are struggling to maintain their housing through financial assistance or rental subsidies.

Providing immediate rental assistance can help keep a family in place, thereby avoiding the trauma of homelessness.

One component of their homelessness prevention program involves supporting families who are coming from a shelter or facing eviction and homelessness. These families are assigned a case worker who meets with them to complete an individualized family service plan including education, job training, day care services and financial planning. Families are also referred to the medical, dental and counseling services they need, in addition to being supplied with furniture and household goods made possible by outside donations.

Perhaps the most profound impact Friends Association has is on the children affected by circumstances beyond their control. Children in crisis often worry where they’ll sleep, and whether something bad will happen to their family. Many times they change schools, lose their friends and face the stigma of being homeless. In the worst cases, children may even be separated from their parents if a shelter or other living arrangement can’t accommodate the whole family. Friends Association can prevent these terrifying scenarios from becoming a reality. With all the services Friends Association provides, a typical family can anticipate living independently in 12 to 18 months.

Friends Association will hold its annual fundraiser, the West Chester Charity Ball, on December 1, 2012 at the West Chester Country Club. Over 250 guests will enjoy dinner, dancing, auctions and other entertainment while raising money for the Friends Association housing programs. Please join in the fun! Go to www.friendsassoc.org and click on Charity Ball for more information and tickets. WCP

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R ichard Bollinger displays a test print of his recent work “Winter Splendor” in the basement studio of his West Chester home

Local Talent Showcasing the World-Class Artisans of West Chester Artist: Richard Bollinger Medium: Watercolor You’ve painted a lot of snowscapes over the years. It used to be that nine out of ten paintings were snowscapes, but these days it’s more like one in five. I enjoy the colors of fall, and I’ve been working on a series of nautical paintings as well.

What is it about the snowscapes that you like? I love the way the snow isn’t just white–it reflects the light around it. I also love the sky during the winter; without the humidity it’s crisp and clear. Also, I enjoy painting these historic places, and often they’re surrounded by trees, so the only time to really show them is during the winter when the leaves have fallen from the trees.

Watching you work, it seems that a watercolor landscape is as much about what you put on paper as what you don’t. You have to pay very close attention to the highlights in a watercolor, because the brightest parts of the piece will be where there is no paint, where the paper shows through. It’s not like an oil piece where you can paint over it with a bright white. The colors are unforgiving, you have to know the colors you’ll be using before you paint.

How do you determine what the colors will be? I determine that by doing lots of small studies, all very loosely painted, but it lets me decide. You need to know where the paint is going, and where the paint is not going, or you can really get into trouble. I’ll find the white spaces, then paint outward from there.

Often you sketch your snowscapes without snow on the ground. How do you go about creating snowscapes when there’s no snow to be seen? I’ve been doing this for a long time, 40 years. You get the hang of it over time. I know how the snow lays, on

buildings, on different levels on trees, the way it looks when it drifts into the corner of a roof. I know how it rolls over structure. I don’t even think about it anymore.

In one of your newest pieces, “Winter Splendor,” you also made some changes to the building that weren’t actually there.

For this particular painting, the building is a historic building that has been restored, but it isn’t exactly historically accurate. I happen to know they didn’t use aluminum back when this building was built. So, my goal with this painting was to take it back to how it would look 100 years ago. I had to mess it up a bit.

Your work seems to have a strong focus on historic, rural places. Does living in West Chester have a strong impact on that? It does. Chester County is a beautiful, historic place. And, we’re lucky that it still has rural spaces, but they’ve been disappearing since we first came out here.

When did you move to West Chester? We moved from Delaware County 40 years ago. I was working as a freelance illustrator, doing work for Ranger Rick and J.B. Lippincot & Co. and illustrating stuff for children’s learning books like Dick and Jane. When Lippincott moved to New York, I moved out here to work for a small ad agency.

You recently hosted a show as a fundraiser, tell us about that. With the help of area galleries and organizations, I displayed 100 prints of my work at Christ Community Church. We sold 80 of those pieces, with the proceeds going to benefit Good Works Inc., an organization that helps transform substandard houses into warmer, safer, and drier homes for low-income residents of Chester County.

[Editor’s Note: You can find photos of the evernt on the following pages] WCP

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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BRUSH STROKES Photos by Paul Imburgia

11/16 Artist R ichard Bollinger exhibited 100 works at Christ Community Church to help raise money for Good Works Inc.

Glenn and Gretchen Huebner

Jen Evans, Marie Evans, Hartley Miller, Irene Miller

Dale Bryant, Melissa Hendrickson

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R ichard Bollinger

Gene T inus, Joanne Case

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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BRUSH STROKES Photos by Paul Imburgia

11/16 Artist R ichard Bollinger exhibited 100 works at Christ Community Church to help raise money for Good Works Inc.

Doug and Charlene R ogers

Ash, R ebecca, Luke and Drew Swaine

Debbie Brackett, Martin Brackett

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Leah, Pat, Debbie, Cindy, Lois, Gail

Katie Bowman, Dave Cutill

Fran Hoey, Juliette Goodman, Tony Stancato

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The WC.December.2012_Layout 1 11/13/12 5:56 PM Page 1

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Bartender of the Month W

e’ve spent plenty of time at Kildare’s but never really had the chance to spend much time speaking with our bartender of the month, 33-yearold Bradley Loftus. That’s because Bradley works the busy shifts.

Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights at Kildare’s have to be some of the most hectic bartending shifts anywhere, so it wasn’t until Bradley won this month’s honors, with 400% more votes than the next closest bartender, that we managed to set aside some time to chat with him.

So, you won a vote to become bartender of the month by a landslide. How’d that happen? I think everyone knew that if I didn’t win, I’d freak out on them. Not really, but I was campaigning for the win really hard. I had co-workers, friends, family, even old-time regulars I haven’t seen in years voting for me.

Why were you so passionate about it? Well, I’ve been in this town doing this job for a long time, and I love it. People can just tell I’m doing what I love. I wanted to share that story.

Why do you love it? I’ve been drinking beer since I was seven… not really, but back in high school I would save up like $40 for a case of beer. Half the time the beer would be terrible, because we had no idea what we were doing. So, it’s exciting to work in a place like Kildare’s that has a really awesome beer profile, with all kinds of different craft beers from all over the world on tap.

Of all those beers, what do you recommend? I always tell people, especially if they’ve never had it, to go for the Guinness. I know it’s classic, and it’s not a craft beer, but we do a really good Guinness here, and if you don’t like it, the beer is on me. I’m probably gonna end up giving away a lot of free beers because of that comment, aren’t I? We’re also getting in some really awesome winter beers soon, like Troeg’s Mad Elf.

How did you get into bartending? Shortly after Kildare’s opened up here, I was asked if I could help out a bit–just some latenight bussing. I remember telling my girlfriend at the time, who’s now my wife, that I was just gonna help out as they got started. Now here I am nine years later.

You’ve been here for all that time? For a while I was working down at Kildare’s in Manayunk–I actually ended up being bar manager there–but I was living in West Chester and commuting to Manayunk. So, when I had the opportunity to open up Doc Magrogan’s here in West Chester, I thought it was an exciting opportunity to open a bar, and it would allow me to live and work in West Chester.

Have any interest in getting back to managing? I just finished up my hospitality degree, so the opportunity’s been discussed, but, honestly, I’m just really comfortable working behind the bar.

Do you do anything else when you’re not bartending? I’ve been working as a sub-contractor for the Postal Service, for ten years.

So, when you do something, you’re in it for the long haul?

I’ve been with my wife Bridget since senior year of high school; we’ve got a daughter and another kid on the way. So, yeah, I tend to stick with things.

How’s being the father of a young child mesh with being a bartender? Most bartenders work late nights, then sleep in. There’s no sleeping for me anymore. Especially not this time of year.

Why’s that? We have a lot of parties because the holidays are a great time to take advantage of how comfortable this bar is, with the fireplaces and the different rooms. Plus, we’ve got the Holiday Triple Threat charity run coming up on December 15; on December 16 we have brunch with Santa; and on December 20 drinks with Santa. Oh, and December 6 from 11am-7pm we’re offering half-price gift cards to students and faculty. So, that’s why I won’t be sleeping much. WCP

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Who’s That?

Below are eight Miis (You know, the characters on Nintendo Wii?) of famous men. Think you can name all the individuals listed below? If so, email your answers to contests@thewcpress.com for your chance to win prizes.

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KILDARE’S WING OFF Photos by Andrew Hutchins

11/14 There was hot sauce chugging, hulu hoop dancing and guys pounding down wings and beers all to benefit Meals on Wheels

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DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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KILDARE’S WING OFF Photos by Andrew Hutchins

11/14 There was hot sauce chugging, hulu hoop dancing and guys pounding down wings and beers all to benefit Meals on Wheels

Andrew, Drew, James

R ebecca, Kristin, Victoria, Alexandra, Alyssa

Gabrielle, Jessica, Michelle, Marissa

Karen, Samantha, Victoria

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DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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We are Insurance. We are Farmers.

Brandt van Naerssen agency owner Business 610-386-7326 Fax 610-441-7583 Cell 610-745-3276 bvannaerssen@famersagent.com

1000 Continental Drive, Suite 500 King of Prussia, PA 19406-2820 www.farmersagent.com/bvannaerssen

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Vintage Holiday Mix

DJ R omeo curates a playlist of classic Christmas tunes that harkens back to the good ol’ days It’s that time of the year again: when you can’t turn on the radio, walk into a retail shop or flip on the television without being bombarded with corny Christmas tunes. There must be more than 1,000 different versions of “Silver Bells,” “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” and “Let it Snow” available for download.

In my opinion, modern versions don’t compare to the quality of legendary artists like Sinatra and Bing Crosby. There is a certain vibe to the music from the ’40s and ’50s that signifies the true meaning of the holidays. The vintage sound these records possess can take you back to a time when Christmas was a little less commercialized.

Frank Sinatra - “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” Andy Williams - “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” Nat King Cole - “O Holy Night” Johnny Mathis - “I’ll be Home for Christmas” Bing Crosby - “Silver Bells” Eartha Kitt - “Santa Baby” The Drifters - “White Christmas” Dean Martin - “I’ve Got My Love to Keep Me Warm” Dinah Washington - “Silent Night” Tommy Dorsey - “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” The Andrew Sisters - “Winter Wonderland” Rosemary Clooney - “Let It Snow” Dinah Shore & Buddy Clark - “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” Frank Sinatra - “Mistletoe & Holly” Bing Crosby - “Happy Holidays” Judy Garland - “The Christmas Song” Perry Como - “Home for the Holidays” Dean Martin - “Peace On Earth - Silent Night” Gene Autry - “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” Sammy Davis, Jr. - “Christmas Time All Over the World” Elvis Presley - “Blue Christmas” Bob Hope & Delores Hope - “Happy Holidays - Let’s Have a Party” Tony Bennett - “My Favorite Things”

DECEMber 2012 | thew cpres s.com

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29-31 East Gay Street, West Chester, PA 19382 | 610-738-3948