Local Living

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Volume 5, Issue 4 $4.99 US www.locallivingmag.com WE BE JAMMIN’ AND CANNING... Tips on Preserving Summer’s Bounty and Fall Recipes Galore OCTOBER GETAWAYS Cape May, NJ HOW TO ACCOMPLISH FALL FASHION on a Thrifty Budget EVIL GENIUS BEER Making a Mark in the Craft Beer Industry Harvest Time! Y our Home. Your Community. Your Life. Volume 4, Issue 5 locallivingmag.com

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Happy harvest time. Our new fall issue is full of fall fashion, recipes and ideas for the home.

Transcript of Local Living

Page 1: Local Living

Volume 5, Issue 4 $4.99 US

www.locallivingmag.com

We Be Jammin’ and Canning...Tips on Preserving Summer’s Bounty and Fall Recipes Galore

OCtOBer getaWaysCape May, NJ

HOW tO aCCOmplisH Fall FasHiOnon a Thrifty Budget

evil genius BeerMaking a Mark in the Craft Beer Industry

Harvest Time!

Your Home. Your Community. Your Life. Volume 4, Issue 5 locallivingmag.com

Page 2: Local Living

475 South Henderson Road | King Of Prussia, PA 19406

Call: 866.307.6200 or 610.994.2222 | ColonialMarble.net

LIC# PA 040713 NJ 13VH06363500 DE 2011604522

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Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 5

s t y l e . l u x e . l i f e .

Oskar Huber Furniture & Design is a furniture store like no other – a placewhere you can take your home from Nice to Knock-Out and get a roomthat looks like it was clipped from the pages of a magazine. We have aunique, no-pressure design assessment process, product selections cus-tomized for you. And your purchase is backed by a Happiness Guaranteeassured by 4 generations of Hubers.

w w w . o s k a r h u b e r . c o m

Southampton, PA 618 Second Street Pike (just South of Street Rd) 18966 P: 215.355.4800 M, W, F 10 –8, Tue, Thu, Sat 10 – 6, Sun 12 – 5

Also in Ship Bottom, NJ (Long Beach Island) for all your Coastal furnishing needs 101 W. 8th Street, 08008 • P: 609.494.8127

11095 OH Local Living .qxp_full page 9/10/14 1:45 PM Page 1

1057 N. EastoN Road, doylEstowN, Pa 215.766.7800 | buckscouNtRygaRdENs.com G A R D E N S

Rake in the Fall Fun

This fall, experience the beauty of Bucks Country Gardens–

YOUR local Lifestyle Garden Center.

fall container gardens mums & asters pansies

sedum coral bells kale & cabbage

ornamental peppers ornamental grasses

gourds pumpkins strawbales corn stalks

Fall is for Planting...and Saving! now thru Oct 22 Fall is the best time to plant, so join us for weekly specials, plant features & more!

Pre-Season Christmas Tree Sale Event Oct 3–nov 9 Shop now for the biggest selection and the best prices of the season!

Pumpkin Festival Oct 18 & 19 Fall fun for the entire family! Pumpkin Slingshots, Hayrides, Pumpkin Painting, Kids’ Crafts & more!

Christmas Open House nov 6–9 Kick off the Christmas Season with great shopping, fantastic savings and holiday cheer!

hOme • Garden • patiO

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NOW - OCTOBER 19 FOR TICKETS VISIT: WalnutStreetTheatre.org

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“A triumph”Daily Star

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what’s cooking18 Recipes: Autumn Fig Jam and Basil Garlic Tomato Sauce

travel64 Local Goes Local: Oktoberfest in Cincinnati, Ohio

fashion & beauty39 Fashionista on How to Bring the Fall Runway Fashions Into Your Closet

41 Impact Thrift Store Offers More than You’d Expect

education30 A.C.H.I.E.V.E. Program- Helping Special Needs Students Connect with the Community Post-Graduation home & entertaining10 Indian Al Fresco Summer- Restyle your Backyard for the Fall

14 Autumn Decorating

62 How to Plan the Perfect Tailgate

health & family49 Your Pets and Lyme Disease

56 “Thinking Pink” this October for Breast Cancer Awareness

59 Senior Perspective: Brain Health

61 “Fall is” Describes All the Comforts of the Season

law & finance15 Asset Location and Reducing Taxes in Retirement

33 Who Ate Your Homework?

profiles26 The Perfect Spot for Your Wedding: Lambertville, NJ

19 Tips on Preserving and Canning

34 Evil Genius Beer...Making a Mark

36 Lots to Do in Cape May, NJ This October

42 Shopping Thrift and Finding Fall Fashion on a Budget

features

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Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 11 10 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

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Letters to the PublisherIt’s “Your Home. Your Community. Your Life.” We want to hear about it. Email the Publisher at [email protected] Living MagazineAttn: Karen Kovacs303 Alder LaneOcean City, NJ 08226

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PUBLISHERKaren A. Kovacs

EdItoR-In-CHIEfLisa Walters

ARt dIRECtoRSherilyn Kulesh

dIRECtoR of SALESBlair W. Johnson

fASHIon & BEAUtY EdItoRGabrielle Mwangi

dIRECtoR of PHotogRAPHY

Amy McDermott

ContRIBUtIng PHotogRAPHERSJason A. Bleecher, Mike Hirata Photography

ContRIBUtIng WRItERS

Diane Burns, Megan Cole, Donna Dvorak,

Jillian Dunn, Drew Giorgi, Carla Glatts,

Holli Harms, Mary Holmes, Pattie Krukowski,

Tsh Oxenreider, Jill Tarabar, Susan Taylor,

Michael Upton, Amy Wambold,

Michelle Welliver, Bruce Willer

MARKEtIng dIRECtoRSusanna Koppany

SEnIoR ACCoUnt MAnAgERLori Straff

ACCoUnt EXECUtIVESJim DeWees, Cynthia Price, Cynthia Zoccali

ACCoUntIng MAnAgERMelinda Kovacs

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The coming and going of the seasons give us more than the springtimes, summers, autumns, and winters of our lives. It reflects the coming and going of the circum-stances of our lives like the glassy surface of a pond that shows our faces radiant with joy or contorted with pain.

— Gary Zukav

You will not catch me complaining about the changing of the seasons! I have always lived in a four-season climate… traditional spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Yes, the seasons do

sometimes fade into one another, but we should feel blessed to have them.

The change from summer to autumn brings its own sur-prises. The landscape quickly changes from the greens of summer to the gold, reds, and oranges of autumn. We may gripe a bit at first, because we see the lazy days of summer ending, but we’ll all soon be trying to out do one another while decorating our homes with sunflowers, corn stalks and pumpkins.

There are so many seasonal changes we experience through life… from a sunrise to sunset, the moon phases and changing of the tides, and turning the calendar from one month to the next. In all cases there are significant

changes in the environment around us, which we must adapt and respond to. The key is not the changes themselves, but that we are in fact experiencing these changes constantly in many areas of our lives. As creatures of habit, the older we become the more we appreci-ate that which is predictable. We learn to work around familiar limitations and establish routines that make the most of the positive.

Some changes are welcomed. Some are anticipated. Others come as a complete surprise. We never know what’s around the corner, only that change is imminent and part of life on the planet. Nevertheless, new challenges and situations present opportunities for transformation once we dare to break free from our comfort zones. As long as we’re alive, there is potential for growth.

Embrace your changes this season,

Karen A. Kovacs, Publisher

publisher’s page

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editor’s letter

Anew season is upon us, and I couldn’t be more excited! For many reasons, Sep-

tember has always been my favorite month of the year. I love the start of school, the change in weather and foliage, and preparing comfort foods for a Sunday football game. This time of year is a fresh beginning. Even if you or your children aren’t heading back to a classroom, the environment around us seems to simultaneously return to the routines and schedules that aren’t present during the summer months. Somehow the cleaning, organizing, and preparations for the upcoming holidays begins to set in for everyone.

While summer may have been about heading to your fa-vorite vacation spot, the autumn season is all about enjoy-ing the comforts of home. Autumn allows the windows to be cracked, so a cool breeze can connect with the smells of apples and pumpkins being turned into something delicious in your kitchen. Whether you are making a pot of chili for the big game or canning the last of bit of summer produce from the farmers market, this issue of Local Living will pro-vide you with all the tips and tricks to satisfy your palate.

When those first few days of autumn hit, snuggling up inside with warm cider seems natural. But this it isn’t the time to neglect all that the outdoors has to offer. After read-ing Pattie Krukowski’s “Indian Summer Al Fresco,” I was immediately inspired to revamp my backyard space to con-tinue entertaining family and friends, before the air turns frigid. (I know you will be, too!) This is also the perfect time to spend an afternoon outside with a group of friends either wine tasting or heading to a beerfest. (This months “Local Goes Local,” tells us all about the largest Oktoberfest in the country.)

For many of us, the summer was all about entertaining our kids, but now I am ready to plan a long weekend away with my husband. Once you read about all that Cape May, NJ has to offer in October, you will see there is no reason to avoid the shore just because the summer sun has set! Whatever it is you decide to book on the calendar this fall, I hope it’s the perfect balance of enjoying the comforts of home and experi-encing all the outdoor activities our area has to offer.

May you embrace the fall foliage with open arms!

Lisa WaltersEditor-in-Chief

Limited Engagement

Get under nature’s skin.

PLan your visit today!215.448.1200 | www.fi.edu20th & the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

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Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 15 14 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Indian Summer Al FrescoBy Pattie Krukowski

HOME & GARDEN

My mother-in-law called the other day to let us know that she had finally sold her house and is scheduled to go to closing October 15th of this year. Her house had been on the

market for quite some time, so my first reaction was that of relief. Of course congratulations were conveyed. Although once the news had time to sink in, I realized that it was really quite bittersweet. You see, my mother-in-law lives in picturesque north central Vermont and she is moving to the south. It hit me that my husband, son, dog and I would no longer be taking our annual “leaf peeping” trip to see her and soak in all that autumn has to offer. Leaves of flaming red and royal gold wave from the mountainsides for as far

as you can see. No matter how majestic they appear to us visitors, my mother-in-law is sure to remind us, without fail, year in and year out, that they were “really on fire right before you got here”.

Another annual trip for us, minus the dog, is to visit my family in south Florida in October. Although I absolutely love taking advantage of the quiet beaches in off-season, the newly cooled ocean breezes at night and the start of stone crab season, I always feel a bit blue that I will miss a week of true fall here in Pennsylvania.

In order to take full advantage of Indian summer, re-defining your outdoor space is a must. It should be cozy and invite you to lounge. Your garden is the perfect place

to start. Replace fading summer blooms with leaf plants in shades of granny smith apples and eggplant to act as back-drop to plum colored mums and a jumble of pumpkins. Strategically placed landscape lights keep the space func-tioning well past sunset as natural light goes to bed ear-lier and earlier. Lanterns, string lights, and torches cast a warming glow while fire pits draw you close. Define the fall friendly space with an oversized outdoor rug, large enough to house both furniture and floor cushions.

Take advantage of post summer sales and buy a bevy of cushy outdoor toss pillows in jewel tones of amethyst, to-paz, and gold. Stack several neatly folded throws in match-ing fall tones on a bench for cuddling. Need extra couch like seating? Here’s what I do. I have 2 teak chaise chairs that can be used like a bench when the backrest is in flat po-sition. I put each up against an exterior wall of my house or garage, top with the lounge bottom cushion and line with toss pillows against the wall as a comfy backrest. Each can amply fit 3 to 4 adults. A picnic table bench with a row of tea lights down the center will serve as a convenient spot for guests to rest their plates and glasses.

Invite friends to relax with you and savor the tastes of summer’s farewell. Need an inspiring menu plan? Prepare chilled pitchers of cucumber jalapeno margaritas and serve in mason jars packed to the rim with crushed ice and lime wedges. Fill a birdbath with ice and a bevy of your favorite craft beers and ciders for friends to enjoy while nibbling fresh rosemary toasted almonds and popcorn dressed with

good grated, aged hard cheese from your local farmers mar-ket. Toss tomatoes and peppers in olive oil, lightly grill, chill and chop before adding to a favorite gazpacho recipe and serve in clear coffee mugs. Parboil potatoes and finish on the grill, then combine with feta vinaigrette for a hearty side. Invite guests to help themselves to a barbequed fish taco bar complete with grilled soft tortillas, cilantro and lime laced guacamole, cabbage slaw and smoky chipotle sour cream. Wash it all down with an aromatic Viogniers or a medium bodied Pinot Noirs served in varying sizes of vintage black amethyst goblets purchased at the flea mar-ket. Roll out a dessert cart offering fresh fall figs drizzled with honey, grilled till bubbly and topped with salted cara-mel ice cream. Stack super crispy, lacy oatmeal cookies high on pewter plates to accompany. Include a tray of warm and soothing rum spiked, chai tea.

As if on cue, a crisp nip in the air veils through garden torch flames, making them appear to dance as hours sneak by. Guests’ goodbyes will not be exchanged until it’s much later than you thought it was and even then, they will be gradual and unhurried.

Pattie Krukowski is an interior decorator for Matott Construc-tion and a freelance writer living in Doylestown, PA

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2014 Fall Event MenuEach year when the first acorns are spotted on my morning walks and the hint of fall leaves appear, I begin to feel the anticipation for the events that mark the seasonal changes at Black-eyed Susan. Fall and winter bring special feelings to our hearts and excitement reigns with ever- anticipated holiday offer-ings, inspirations and classes.

So join me in this celebration and experience what is on the Black-eyed Susan calendar! With lots of classes to spur your imagina-tion, you’re sure to find just the perfect event for yourself and a best friend to share. Make a plan and mark your calendar for a few favorites!

Registration is encouraged and space is lim-ited per class. A $20.00 registration fee is re-quired for each class. You will receive a $20.00 gift card to be used that night, and enjoy our gift of 20% off your entire purchase.* Call the store to register 215-794-1800.

I hope you will be as inspired as I am. At Black-eyed Susan, we sell style, and all the details! – Susan

*Amy Howard paint and vintage items excluded

Rescue, Restore, Redecorate: Amy Howard One Step Paint Class

Class dates (Choose one):• Thursday October 16, 5:30-9:00 pm• Thursday October 30, 5:30-9:00 pm

Susan is super excited about the introduction of her partnership with Amy Howard Paint. Exciting, easy to do and rewarding all at the same time, this line is a DIY dream come true! The beginning class covers One Step paint and Amy Howard finishes, including waxing and antiquing. You will learn the tricks of the trade and become an Amy Howard paint expert with us! (cont.)

Space is limited to 6 participants per class and the cost is $125.00 (which includes light appetizers, an Amy Howard at Home signature apron, and a quart of One Step Paint). Bring to class a small item such as a frame, a mirror or small piece of furniture you can carry in one hand. Brushes will be provided. Remember to wear your painting clothes! Spaces are limited and must be paid in advance. During the class retail items will be discounted 20% as well.

Susan’s First Peek Event November 6, 2014 6:30pmCome prepared to be de-lighted and inspired! Mantles dripped in pinecones, chan-deliers dressed in ornaments, vintage inspired glittered houses, and trees packed with beautiful ornaments will be unveiled! Susan will share her tips of the season, spe-cial tricks for recreating her designs, and personally share the details of her finds for Holiday, 2014.

Something good to eat and drink, good friends, and inspiration = pure style! This is an annual event to be treasured. Early signup required. Space is limited, so don’t delay. $20.00 registration fee with a $20.00 gift card to start you on your way! All Christmas will be 20% off to ring in the new season!

The Table is Set November 13, 2014 6:30pmSusan will dem-onstrate ways to set your table with style! Fall and holiday styles will be demonstrated with a recipe for sure success to im-press your guests! Photograph her displays during the evening to re-create your own with success. Tips, ideas, and visions of sugarplums! You’ll be prepared to be a hit for all the anticipated events of the season. Thanksgiving to Christmas… we make your entertaining stylishly easy!

Susan’s Organic Holiday November 20, 2014 6:30pmThe trend for organic influences in home décor and entertaining continues to be delightfully strong! Susan has added even more elements of organic style throughout the store. She will talk about using all things natural in everything from wrapping, to holiday centerpieces, to tree décor and hostess gifts. You’ll be amazed at the number of ways to incorporate this look into the bounty of the season. Be prepared to leave with amazingly fresh and engaging ideas to take home and own.

Front Porch Envy! December 2, 2014 11:30amThis annual mid-day demonstration is a must for those who want to learn and review the technique of designing and filling your outdoor urns. Susan’s favorite picks of assorted, lush greens, will be avail-able for purchase. The demonstration will assure that your urns will be the show-stoppers of the neighborhood. Favorite colors of the finest shatter-proof ornaments in assorted sizes will be available for purchase, as well as Susan’s “must-have” ponderosa pine cones!

Wear your mittens and fur hats, and be prepared to warm your heart with her favorite holiday hot punch. It’s a Black-eyed Susan tradition, not to be missed!

Oh-so-Susan Mantle Designs! December 4, 2014 6:30pmOnce again, by popular demand, this ever anticipated class is offered to make you the envy of friends and family! Susan will discuss her unique approach, using layering, balance and style. She will share her tricks of the trade, perfected in years of experience! Bring dimensions and snap a photo on your IPad to bring along for a personal consultation.

This class fills up quickly, so early registration is sug-gested. Come see the magic!

Spread A Little Cheer! December 11, 2014 6:30pmWhen your home looks like the holiday elf has waved a wand and created beauty and charm in every corner, ev-eryone sings! Susan will take you on a personal tour of the store, pointing out the simple and numerous small details that will personalize and dress your home for the holidays! Known for perfect placement and details to complete any look, Susan will share her bounty of ideas and share her creative moxie. Make it yours.

To Register: Call: 215-794-1800E-mail: [email protected]: besusan.com/events5222 York Road | Holicong, PA 18928

I hope you find something of interest and can join us for one, or as many as you desire! Bring a friend—or five! You will always leave with an inspired vision and the joy of the season. Best wishes for a design-filled, tender holiday season. – Susan

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Best Autumn DecoratingTips and IdeasBy Mary Holmes

HOME

Autumn is the best time of the year to incorporate earth tone colors into your home decorations. The return of cooler temperatures, schools back in session, and nature changing before our eyes

is all the evidence we need that fall is officially here. Adding autumn touches of decor in your home will help transition you into the new season with excitement. From the exterior to the interior of your home, fall decor colors can either be rich and robust or subtle and subdued. Choose your style and see how these ten decorating ideas will make you want to jump into a pile of leaves and celebrate!’’

1.) Display artwork that depicts fall themes/colors:In your front foyer or located on a predominate wall; fall

artwork can change the mood in your home instantly. Con-sider nature themes, with fall colors in: oranges, rusts, and golden yellows. If you prefer more abstract art, oil paintings with browns, reds, and burnt amber will make a statement without being obvious.

2.) Dining room table centerpieces and settings:Whether you want to go formal or casual for your table,

choose colors that reflect your home decor and the season.

Consider using red and yellow apples for an informal organ-ic and edible centerpiece. Remember, the centerpiece doesn’t have to be stagnant, add or detract from it throughout the season for added visual interest. For more formality consider place settings and table linen that has hints of fall colors and themes.

3.) Dress up your front porch with fall inspiration: Use tall corn stalks, raffia, or straw to wrap around en-

try porch columns and mailboxes. Use thick ribbon in deep oranges and browns to contrast with the straw. Carry these same materials into lanyards or garlands around your front door and entry

4.) Use your fireplace to showcase seasonal décor: Your fireplace mantel has been waiting for this season!

Whether you look in your yard, or you travel to an arts and crafts store, dried leaves and pinecones make great décor. Small pumpkins, gourds or dried leaf vines, and colorful candles will brighten your mantle and spirits.

5.) Cooler temperatures mean cozy sitting areas:As the temperatures begin to drop, bring out the fall col-

ored throw blankets to place on couches or in adjacent baskets. Complimenting fall colored throw pillows will complete any cozy corner for you cuddle up and enjoy a good book.

6.) Bring the aromas of fall into your home: Fall decor can be visual but it also involves your other

senses like smell. Pumpkin pies, cinnamon apple cider, and first burning of your fireplace are all welcome aromatic ways to make your home feel full of autumn inspiration. Consider using candles, incense, or boil a pot of spices – cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg to instantly transport your home into fall mode

7.) Fill jars with seasonal colored items:For simple and inexpensive display items, fill

mason jars or decorative glass jars with candy corn, or other colorful novelty items. Try fill-ing various sizes with colorful dried beans, or healthy after school snacks for the kids. Décor can be functional and beautiful!

9.) Welcome guests with a beautiful autumn wreath at your front door:

Simple grapevine wreaths are gorgeous on their own. If you prefer more adornment con-sider adding pinecones, leaves, berries, and corn-husks to your wreath. If you have a large home with many windows that face the entry of your

home, consider placing matching wreaths hung from these windows as well.

10.) Hang heavier drapery and curtains: Now that the cooler temperatures are settling in, prepare

your home by switching out the lighter fabrics for heavier ones. Deeper colors and heavier fabrics will feel warmer and hold more air out of the room. Changing to fall shades to match your decor will bring instant color from floor to ceil-ing. Bring in warmth and enjoy your home, before it is bus-tling with activity for the winter holiday!

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Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 21

L ocation, location, location... It matters when it comes to real estate, and it also matters when it comes to the way you hold and invest your retirement savings. You can’t control what hap-pens with the tax code, but you can control how

your savings are held. As various types of investments are taxed at varying rates, some investments are better held in taxable accounts and others in tax-deferred accounts.

Funds that trade frequently (such as bond funds and mon-ey market funds) may be better off in tax-deferred accounts, as much of their yields represent taxable income.

Timing isn’t everything, but... The timing of withdrawals from retirement accounts can have a major impact on your income taxes – and the longevity of your savings. You don’t want to outlive your money, and you want your income taxes to be as minimal as possible once you are retired. To that end, you want to withdraw from your retirement accounts in a tax-efficient way.

By drawing down taxable accounts first, you’ll face the capi-tal gains tax rate instead of the ordinary income tax rate. Most retirees will see long-term capital gains taxed at 15%; for oth-ers, the long-term capital gains tax rate will be 0%. In taking money out of the taxable accounts to start, you are not only giving yourself a de facto tax break but also giving the retire-ment funds in the tax-advantaged accounts more time to grow and compound (and even a year or two of compounding and growth can be significant if you have held a tax-advantaged account for decades.) Withdrawals from tax-deferred ac-counts – such as traditional IRAs and 401(k)s and 403(b)s – can follow, and then lastly withdrawals from Roth accounts.

Tax loss harvesting can also help. Selling losers during a given year (i.e., stocks or mutual funds you have held for a year or more that are worth less than what you originally paid for them) will give you capital losses. These can direct-ly lower your taxable income. As much as $3,000 of capital losses in excess of capital gains can be deducted from tax-able income, and any remaining capital losses above that can be carried forward to offset capital gains in upcoming years. Additionally, whenever you sell stocks or funds with

capital gains, strive to sell shares or units having the highest basis to reduce the gain.

If you receive a lump-sum payout, don’t put it in the bank. If you take direct control of that money, you are triggering a taxable event and your income taxes for that year could be staggering. An alternative outcome: make a direct rollover of the lump-sum payout (qualified distribution) into a tradition-al IRA. That move will exclude that money from your total taxable income for the year, and put you in position to take taxable annual Required Minimum Distributions (RMD), with the taxable RMDs being smaller than the taxable lump sum. (Alternately, you could directly roll the lump sum payout into a Roth IRA. If Roth IRA rules and regulations have been followed, this would leave you paying taxes on the conversion but set you up for tax-free withdrawals in retirement).

Incidentally, it is often more advantageous to take an in-kind distribution of company stock rather than rolling shares over to an IRA. The question is whether you want to pay or-dinary income tax or capital gains tax. If a lump-sum distri-bution is taken off the shares, the investor pays income tax on the original cost basis of the stock. If the distribution is in-kind (i.e., the payout is in securities, not cash), the net un-realized appreciation (NUA) remains tax-deferred until the securities are sold. At their sale, the NUA is taxed as a long-term capital gain.

Lastly, consider living in a state where taxes bite a little less. Not everyone can afford to move, but in the long run, living in Florida, Nevada, Washington, Texas or other states that are relatively tax-friendly for retirees can help. Even moving to another town within your current state might result in some tax savings.

Looking for financial and investment advice from a trusted advisor?

Loretta Hutchinson CFP®, CDFA™, NCC is a Certified Fi-nancial Advisor with Harvest Group Financial Services and President of Financial Divorce Plan, LLC in Langhorne, PA and Naples, FL. She can be reached at [email protected] , or 215-860-6056.

*Investing involves risk including the potential loss of prin-cipal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in period of declining values.

**Loretta Hutchinson, Harvest Group Financial Services, and Centaurus Financial, Inc., do not offer tax and/or legal advice. You should discuss your particular tax and/or legal situation with a tax and/or legal licensed professional of your choice.

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

FINANCE

Can Asset LocationMinimize IncomeTaxes?By Loretta Hutchinson, CFP®, CDFA™Tax Efficient Investing

What it means, why it countsLoretta D. Hutchinson CDFA, NCC

When you read about investing and other finan-cial topics, you occasionally see the phrase “tax efficiency” or a reference to a “tax-sensitive” way of investing. With the new Medicare surtax (officially termed the Unearned Income Medicare Contribution), increasing tax brackets and deduction limitations, tax efficient investing is even more relevant in 2014. As an investor, the proper asset al-location and investment selection decisions are important but keeping costs and taxes low should also be considered. Ignoring the effects of costs and taxes on your earnings can be a drag on your overall portfolio returns. Where we have the greatest degree of control is in the area of expenses and tax-efficient implementation. So why not exercise some control through tax-efficient investing?

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

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

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

to counterbalance capital gains. In this scenario, the capital losses you incur are applied against your capital gains to low-er your personal tax liability. Basically, you’re making lemon-ade out of the lemons in your portfolio.

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

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

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

Any information contained herein should not be construed as tax or legal advice. It is always recommended that you consult a qualified tax or legal professional regard-ing your personal situation.Registered representative offering securities and adviso-ry services through Centaurus Financial Inc., a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA and SIPC, Superviso-ry Branch: 3902 State Street, Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, 1-888-569-1982. Harvest Group Financial Services and Centaurus Financial are not affiliated.

Page 12: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 23 22 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Autumn Fig Jam with Lavender, Thyme, and Walnuts 2 pounds figs 4 thyme branches 1 tsp. dried lavender, plucked from stem pinch of sea salt ½ cup honey ¼ cup shelled walnuts, choppedDirections: 1. Remove hard stems from figs, rinse off dust (leave skins on), and chop into small pieces 2. Place figs in a heavy saucepan with the thyme, lavender blossoms, sea salt, and honey. Gradually heat; then simmer until the jam is thickened, well flavored, and the pieces are broken down (cook time will depend greatly on the water content of your figs). 3. Stir in walnuts and cook another 5 minutes 4. Pour jam into sterilized jar and keep refrigerated for up to 2 weeks, or process according to whatever canning method you’re using.

Basil-Garlic Tomato Sauce10 lb tomatoes (about 30 medium) 1/2 cup chopped onion (about 1/2 large) 4 cloves garlic, minced 1-1/2 tsp olive oil 2 Tbsp finely minced fresh basil ¼ tsp Ball® Citric Acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice per hot jar

3 (16 oz) pint glass preserving jars with lids and bands

Directions:PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars and lids in simmer-ing water until ready for use. Do not boil. Set bands aside.

WASH tomatoes; drain. Remove core and blossom ends. Cut into quarters. Set aside.

SAUTE onion and garlic in olive oil until transparent. Add tomatoes. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

PUREE tomato mixture in a food processor or blender, working in batches. Strain puree to remove seeds and peel.

COMBINE tomato puree and basil in large saucepot. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until volume is reduced by half, stirring to prevent sticking.

ADD ¼ tsp Ball® Citric Acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot jar. Ladle hot sauce into hot jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Remove air bubbles. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.

PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check for seal after 24 hours. Lids should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

S ummer has faded to fall, which means the fresh local tomatoes, corn, and other produce you’ve been enjoying all summer will disappear from the farmer’s market. But you don’t have to stop enjoy-ing the best of the summer harvest just because the

cold weather is coming.In recent years canning and other means of food preser-

vation have discovered a new popularity. But if you’re like my grandma, canned tomatoes, beets, jams, and homemade salsa never went out of style. There are two easy methods to preserve the flavors of sum-

mer from your garden and farm-fresh produce.

Freezing Freezing is an easy way to preserve

most vegetables and fruits, but there are a few things that will help you become more successful in this mode of preservation.First, there are a few vegetables

that simply won’t freeze well, like lettuce and salad greens. And a lit-tle prep time will save you a lot of hassle before you freeze. Make sure you wash, peel, and trim all your vegetables as you would if you were going to cook them fresh. The last thing you want to have to do is cut a frozen carrot.For corn, remove it from the cob

and freeze it flat on a baking sheet before freezing it in a freezer bag. Additionally, starting peas, beans, blueberries, strawberries, huckle-berries, and other small fruits and veggies on a baking sheet will keep you from having to thaw a solid fro-zen block when you take them out

of your freezer.Believe it or not, you can even freeze herbs like dill and

basil. One easy way to do this is to freeze them in an ice-cube tray in a small amount of olive oil. This allows you to add them to sauces and other dishes to add a pinch of flavor.

Canning Some people really find canning complicated and time

consuming. While that can be true, if you get some friends together to help out with the canning, it can really cut down on the labor involved and make it more fun.

There are two methods for can-ning: the water-bath canner and the pressure canner. The water-bath canner is the least expensive vessel for canning, and you can find kits complete with cans at most gro-cery and hardware stores. The wa-ter bath is recommended for fruits, fruit juices, and acidic vegetables such as tomatoes, sauerkraut, pick-les, or relishes.One important thing to remember

when canning is to sterilize your jars and lids. You can do this in boiling water. If you’re reusing old jars, make

sure the rims aren’t chipped or cracked. You need a smooth rim to insure you get a good seal. If it doesn’t seal properly, your veg-gies or jam will spoil. Listen for the pops of your lids while you’re canning. If you don’t hear the pop, they haven’t sealed. Any unsealed cans need to be discarded or used immediately.

Tips for Canning and Preserving Fall-Harvest Foods

By Megan Cole

Page 13: Local Living

24 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

HAVE YOU TRIED?

sriracha saucePanko Crusted Salmon featuring Kelchner’s® Spicy

Have YOU tried?

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Directions: Coat salmon generously with Kelchner’s® Spicy Sriracha Sauce. Press fillet into the panko bread crumbs to crust the top. In a pan, heat oil to medium, just before the smoke point. Place the fillet panko-side down and fry until golden brown. Turn over and sauté for another 4 to 5 minutes until done. Remove fillets from pan and place on a few paper towels to drain. Plate and garnish with a dollop of Kelchner’s® Spicy Sriracha Sauce and scallions, chives, or chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Suggested Sides:

Asparagus & Forbidden RiceBok Choy & Jasmine Rice

Broccoli & Wasabi Mashed Potatoes

Recipe courtesy of Chef Scott, Samuels Seafood Co.

Ingredients:

4 - 4 oz. salmon fillets

8 oz. Japanese panko bread crumbs

1/2 cup vegetable oil

1 bottle Kelchner’s® Spicy Sriracha Sauce

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Page 14: Local Living

26 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

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Page 15: Local Living

28 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

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Page 16: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 31 30 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

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The Riverview Suite is a luxurious two room, corner suite with spectacular river views including a large bar and

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We will create the perfect memory for your Lambertville wedding or special occasion. The Riverside Ballroom, within the Lambertville Station Inn, is the newest and most luxuri-ous room on the river.

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Shown Right from Top:Expanded Riverside Ballroom offers expansive views of the Delaware River.

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Page 17: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 33

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Page 18: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 35 34 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Seeing an increase in the population of students with special needs, Council Rock Special Education Supervisor Alyssa Marton saw an opportunity to deliver a program that could take place within the

Newtown community. A.C.H.I.E.V.E. was started a year ago as a transitional program to help special needs students from the ages of 18-21 prepare for college or acquire job skills in order to enter the workforce.

The team is led by John Engelhardt, A.C.H.I.E.V.E.’s transition teacher and a special education teacher. The initial biggest selling points to doing the program in-house were the issues of transportation and community integration. As Engelhardt explains, the problem was transportation: “Imagine being in love with a job in Doylestown and then--when the program ends--having no way to get there. Our students are getting their skills at places that are in some cases within walking distance from their homes. They are getting out into their community on a daily basis and learn-ing both the hard and soft skills that make it possible for them to function independently.”

Prior to this program, students went to the Intermediate Unit in Doylestown to receive services. Marton studied the

IU program extensively and modeled A.C.H.I.E.V.E. on it. “It is a phenomenal program that really delivers a great deal to students; however, we were seeing too many 21-year-olds unable to continue employment due to commutation issues.”

While the program started with just eight students and a few small workrooms, this year the program will grow to 17 students and its space will more than double. The new space will be utilized to help students develop pre-vocational skills and social skills as they prepare to enter the workplace. The program’s base of operations is designed to mimic an office setting as much as possible. Students have their own desk space where they have a place for their personal items such as family pictures in addition to their work-related materials. This promotes a sense of identity and sense of place for each individual working and learning within the A.C.H.I.E.V.E. program’s complex.

Englehardt stressed that building a sense of self is in-tegral to the goals of the program: “Our students need to sometimes be left alone to figure things out on their own. Too much hand-holding can sometimes occur at home or at school. Many of our students had one-to-one support aides throughout K-12 and now they need to develop indepen-

Supported Students, Supporting a Community:A.C.H.I.E.V.E. Looks for Win-Win Opportunities

by Drew Giorgi

education

dence quickly. So we teach them they can take a break for lunch, but not a two-hour break. Rather than announcing they have finished a task, we encourage them to take the initiative to ask about other tasks they can do. If they go into the lounge to get a soda and another person is there, we want them to know how to make small talk in order to make a real connection with someone.”

This year, with the increase in the number of students, Engelhardt looks forward to seeing the advanced, veteran students helping to mentor the new students. For many of his students it will be the first time they are in a leadership role.

A.C.H.I.E.V.E. students often go to multiple places, so they get used to operating in different environments and working with different people. Right now they work at a variety of places, including the Council Rock Maintenance Center where they do work on the fields and help with events. At St. Mary’s Medical Center, they work in the ster-ile processing unit putting together packages of office sup-plies for hospital staff and delivering them to appropriate lo-cations. They collect food at grocery stores and donate it to the Wrightstown Food Pantry. In addition to volunteering with the American Legion Post 440 in Newtown on special holidays like Veterans’ Day and Memorial Day, they regu-larly work at St. Mary’s Thrift Shop, Clark Nature Center, and Kampus Klothes, where they work under the supervi-sion of Jeanne Giorgi, the firm’s internet sales coordinator. (Full disclosure: she is the spouse of the writer.)

At Kampus Klothes, six students from the first-year class worked in the teamroom packing orders, making boxes, and unpacking materials for custom orders. “They are re-ally good at doing repetitive tasks and their attention to de-tail has often caught packaging errors made by our various distributors.” Giorgi said. “We directly benefit from having them work with us as they catch mistakes that would other-wise be missed.”

Being “on-the-job” has proven to be very important to these young people. They really enjoy the work and it has infused many of them with a sense of purpose that tradi-tional academic work sometimes could not provide. When these young people come to us, they know what they are go-ing to do when they walk through the door. The experience A.C.H.I.E.V.E. gives them makes them independent and instills in them a positive attitude. Engelhardt pointed out that their “positive energy alone and their enthusiasm to be part of the workplace can change the environment in which they are placed.”

Formerly in sports management in the NFL, Engelhardt looks for placements that are a win-win for his students and the business as opposed to just worrying about get-ting a placement. When they look at a business, they look

for a setting where they think the students can add value. The business also has to be receptive to working with the students, but so far the program has found most businesses very welcoming. “The community has been very good to us. Nobody has said: ‘No, I don’t want to work with you.’”

In fact, Marton was overwhelmed by the outpouring of community support. “The opportunities provided to our students have positively impacted their ability to be success-ful employees as adults and that will last a lifetime. Our big-gest challenge was also the outpouring of community sup-port. We had so many people who wanted to work with us that we had to turn some people away. We just did not have enough students to place in all of the worksites.”

Engelhardt, along with special education teacher Dan Bartleson, spends a lot of time working with parents and students to develop realistic goals. They want them to think about what the future will be like for the student once they exit the program. They do a lot of progress monitoring and talk to parents on a weekly and sometimes daily basis. While educating students to advocate for themselves, they also train parents to seek out assistance programs that are available, coordinating with Social Security and the Of-fice of Vocational Rehabilitation. Aside from supported employment opportunities, some colleges and universi-ties—including two in our area, Temple and Arcadia—are providing supported academic environments to make it possible for these students to attend some college courses with their peers. This year A.C.H.I.E.V.E will see the first group of students exit the program and will start tracking to see how they do after age 21.

With the widely-reported results of Dr. Amy Houtrow’s ten-year national study that documented a 28% increase of affluent children suffering from neural developmental dis-abilities (the same study showed a 14.7% for children who are defined as living in poverty), school districts everywhere should be applauded for their efforts to provide more services for their most challenged students. A.C.H.I.E.V.E., which stands for Achieving Confidence, Happiness, Independence, Education, and Vocational training through Experiences, is an important part of assisting great and able individuals look-ing to do a good job and help their community flourish. Drew Giorgi is a teacher of English at New Hope-Solebury High School. He is a graduate of LaSalle University and holds master’s degrees from The College of New Jersey and St. Joseph’s University in English and Educational Technology. He is a Fel-low of the Pennsylvania Writing and Literature Project (a Na-tional Writing Project site), a Keystone Technologist, and author of Blues for Beginners (an instructional music book), and many articles on Media Ecology.

Page 19: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 37 36 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Suzie comes to class sheepishly with a note from her mother. Suzie’s mother’s boyfriend’s son’s dog ate her homework. The teacher knows that Suzie’s par-ents separated a year ago. Her teacher sees Suzie is

often inattentive. Can the teacher envision the things that have been preoccupying Suzie outside school? Usually par-ents notify a school about a pending or recent divorce. Often the child will bring the trickle down effects of the disruption in her/his home life to the schoolhouse steps.

Even in the most amicable cases of separation and di-vorce, the teachers and school personnel must realize that for each student she/he needs to cope with special adjust-ments. Consider this typical Monday for Suzie:

• 7:00 a.m. Suzie gets ready for school collecting personal belongings she’ll bring to her dad’s home since Suzie just spent the weekend with mom.

• 7:45 a.m. Suzie gets a ride and drop off to before-school care because dad and mom are in different school districts.

• 9:00 a.m. Suzie’s mom is dating someone who visited over the weekend bringing his son. Did his dog eat the schoolwork? No, Suzie and the boyfriend’s son fought and when the boy torches her schoolwork, her mom decides to write the note – with a little white lie.

• 10:30 a.m. Suzie’s Spanish Class goes poorly. Her fa-ther always drills her in Spanish; however, she’s been with her mom since she left for school on Thursday morning.

• Noon Suzie didn’t bring lunch; her account with the school lunch program is negative. The lunch is put on her deficit tab; she’s humiliated in front of her friends when the problem was loudly reported to Suzie. (Dad says it’s her

mom’s problem; he pays too much support anyway. Why does her mom forget?)

• 1:30 p.m. Suzie is struggling to stay awake. There’s an-other custody conference in court next week. She’ll attend, and she has trouble sleeping thinking about it.

• 3:00 p.m. End of the school day! Time for soccer prac-tice, but where is her left shin pad? Did Suzie leave it at dads? Or was it left at the burger place after the game? If she lost one and needs to ask her parents to replace it, will she have to pay for it herself? They both complain about money all the time!

• 4:30 p.m. Suzie is at dad’s home, having a snack trying to relax. Relaxing seems impossible with so much on her mind.

The world of a child of separated parents is complicated. Those who learn to cope deserve praise. The children will benefit from those at school and the neighborhood, who offer extra help to get that project finished, get to and from practice, and simply get a chance to relax…

Mary Cushing Doherty is a family lawyer and partner at High Swartz LLP, in Norristown, Pennsylvania. In recent years, she has received recognition from her peers and the community, including the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Lynette Norton Award in 2012 and one of the 2012 Women of the Year by the Legal Intelligencer. She was one of the Women of Distinction chosen by the Philadelphia Business Journal and received the Margaret Richardson Award from the Montgomery Bar As-sociation. Mary can be reached at [email protected].

Who Ate Your Homework?by Mary Cushing Doherty, Esquire

legal

Page 20: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 39 38 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

The Greatness of the Evil GeniusBy Michael C. Upton

ART & LEISURE

In 2008, while sitting in an accounting class at Villano-va University, Luke Bowen met Trevor Hayward and things got evil—as in Evil Genius Beer Company. The two looked at their post-graduate futures with trepida-

tion and thought now was the time to start their own com-pany. In 2011, the duo launched Evil Genius and in three years the beer maker has grown to distribute in five states (PA, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, and Delaware).

“There are a lot of breweries entering the market and we wanted to establish ourselves. We’ve grown pretty quickly and part of that is because we make some pretty innovative products,” says Luke.

Evil Genius currently creates one flagship beer—Evil Eye PA—and eight seasonal offerings. Beyond being a play-on-words, the American IPA has a beautiful, floral/citrus aroma, which comes directly from the use of a hop blend called Falconer’s Flight. Developed by Washington-based, grower and supplier Hopunion, Falconer’s Flight contains a variety of hops from the Pacific Northwest as well as some experimental hops. Evil Eye is not the stan-dard IPA.

As creative as Evil Eye is things get more creative, almost downright strange, with Evil Genius’ seasonal offerings. Late summer brings the release of Turtle Power, a grapefruit

“I’ve been a craft beer lover forever, but the idea of starting a brewery came to me in grad school.”

- Luke Bowen, co-founder of Evil Genius Beer Company

pale ale. However, there aren’t any reptiles in this recipe. Obviously, Turtle Power is a tribute to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.

“We’re big fans of music, art, and pop culture. Some of our beer names are things we took from growing up and it’s nostalgic. We wanted to make that part of our com-pany,” explains Luke.

Things get a little less apparent during the early summer when Evil Genius releases I Love Lamp, a Pineapple He-feweizen. The pineapple is most noticeable in the aroma, while the traditional German Hefe-style exudes flavors of banana and clove. “I love lamp” is a line uttered by Brick Tamland (Steve Carell) in Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy. Actually, I Love Lamp is not the strangest name for an Evil Genius beer.

“It was an inside joke for us, thinking that if we ever got the chance we could name a beer Purple Monkey Dishwasher,” says Luke, about his chocolate peanut butter porter. “What was kind of a lark actually turned into some-thing hilarious.” Purple Monkey Dishwasher gets its name from a 1995 episode of The Simpsons titled “The PTA Disbands”. Through a whisper down the lane scenario Bart’s comments are misconstrued as “purple monkey dishwasher” creating further angst between the teachers and principal. This beer is a heavy, yet playful concoction.

You can get your hands on Purple Monkey Dishwasher in March, but Evil Genius has just released a beer with a less obscure name: Trick or Treat, for the fall. Trick or Treat is a chocolate pumpkin porter and is available on draft or in bottle. This beer is great for the Halloween sea-son, when all the chocolate lovers of the world unite for candy (and beers that taste like them).

With all this to do about names, where did the name Evil Genius come from? It pretty much just came out of the air. Luke and Trevor wanted a name that was region-ally ambiguous and something that was catchy, fun, and off the cuff. When they thought of Evil Genius, it stuck. With a solid business model and creative style, the PA-based beer company will surely stick around for some time.

Evil Genius brews can be found at many beer-centric bars and restaurants like Sullivan’s Steak House in King of Prussia, The Bard’s in center city Philly, and Island Pizza in Birdsboro. If Evil Genius isn’t served at your local watering hole, the company’s website has a “beer finder” application. www.evilgeniusbeer.com/ for more information.

Michael C. Upton works as a freelance writer specializing in arts and leisure covering subjects ranging from funk punk to fine wine. He currently resides in Southeastern Pennsylvania

Page 21: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 41 40 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Cape May: Changing with the SeasonBy Donna Dvorak

TRAVEL

With its wide range of activities, Cape May is a great getaway all year round. However, this scenic seaside resort boasts a unique charm as the fall’s splash-of-color add to

its allure. Soak up the Victorian atmosphere, visit a few “painted ladies”, or encounter a ghost or scarecrow while touring the town. If you are looking for something appeasing to the palate, sip a glass of wine from a famous vineyard, learn how to pair beer with food in a four-course dinner at Aleathea’s Restaurant at the Inn of Cape May, and find out why bourbon is so popular! You may also want to dine

at a five-star restaurant, or pretend you reside in Downton Abbey and attend a high tea. Climb the lighthouse during a full moon or enjoy the talented crafters and antique dealers who sell their wares on the lawn.

Not your scene? Don your sleuthing cape for the Sher-lock Holmes Weekend and stalk the shady streets for clues. If you’re a history buff, attend “The Summer of 1787: The Men Who Invented the Constitution” a lecture from master storyteller, constitutional lawyer and award-winning author, David O. Stewart. Meet new friends at the Chalfonte Hotel during a Champagne Brunch Walk, preceded by a Southern-

style breakfast buffet with mimosas. And if you’re a shopper like me, don’t miss the Washington Street Mall. Whether it’s classic, chic, or Bohemian clothes, fine art, undergarments, ice cream, hysterical gag gifts, candy, or Christmas orna-ments- this is the place to shop!

Need more coaxing? Celebrate Cape May’s 42nd Annual Victorian Weekend from October 10 – 13. Join house tours, living history programs, food and wine events, craft and antique shows, and lectures. The ‘crème de la crème’ is the preserved Victorian architecture. The Cape May Designer Show House opens on Friday, October 10 with a delightful twist. The Inn on Ocean, a Mansard style private home that was re-built soon after the great fire of 1878, is now crowned by ornamental wrought iron. After serving as a ‘B & B’ for twenty-five years, it’s now a retreat for family vacations. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Holidays,” is a must see. Local and regional designers will exhibit their creativity and talent portraying a favorite holiday.

“Each designer chose a different holiday to inspire the design of their room,” says Susan Krysiak, Communication Coordinator, Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humani-ties (MAC). “The kitchen and breakfast nook focuses on Christmas, the dining room will feature Thanksgiving, and the Chinese New Year is celebrated in the powder room.

Upstairs and other rooms present Easter, a Silver Anniver-sary, Arbor Day, the Solstice, and Earth Day. Visitors will marvel at the extraordinary vision of these designers and see something special to inspire their own home decorating.”

Jump into the spirit of Halloween with three weeks of themed tours including spooky tours of Cape May’s origi-nal haunted house- The 1879 Emlen Physick Estate. You may also enjoy psychic teas with Madame Parmentier and murder mystery dinners. For kids who love to be scared, the Phantoms of the Physick Estate offers a day tour. Evening tours tell tales that burst into live features, while charac-ters guide you through the first floor of the museum and the grounds of the estate. If you prefer, a Tales of Terror or Ghosts of Cape May trolley rides are available. Who knows? Perhaps you’ll discover and solve some unexplained occur-rences!

If you’re really brave, join Midnight at the Physick Estate where medium Craig McManus might even channel a spirit or two! This event is limited to twenty-five people, so get your tickets early. A Historic Haunts House Tour is avail-able separately.

For those not familiar with all of the wineries and vine-yards, have lunch at the Carriage House Café and Tearoom then board a trolley to Willow Creek Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery, and Natali Vineyards. You’ll even come home with a wine tasting glass!

Ah, chocolate!! Who is able to resist this delicacy that has recently been dubbed “good for you”? Join the Chocolate Lover’s Feast at the Blue Rose Inn and enjoy dozens of dif-ferent chocolate creations. This is one popular event so you will want to reserve early.

Have you ever wondered what Victorian women wore un-der those beautiful layers of lace and satin clothing? Want to find out? Show us your Undies Fashion Show & Brunch is presented with an under-view from day dresses to ball gowns on live models with commentary. Brunch included.

The above can be accomplished at your leisure or as a group. Cape May’s Victorian Weekend (and more) is spon-sored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Hu-manities (MAC) a multifaceted, not-for-profit organization committed to promoting the preservation, interpretation, and cultural enrichment of the Cape May region for its resi-dents and visitors. For information about any of the above events call 609-884-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org. For other information call the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May at 609-884-5508. For information about historic accommodations contact Cape May Historic Ac-commodations at www.capemaylodging.com.

Donna Dvorak is a Philadelphia-born freelance writer, reporter, award-winning poet, author, columnist, and creative writing teacher. She currently resides in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.

Page 22: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 43

Southern Ocean County Chamber of Com-merce calls all “Chowderheads” to assemble in Ship Bottom, NJ for an event in a league of its own!

The epic two day super inspired event begins Saturday October 4, 2014 with Merchant Mart. This free event runs 10-4pm featuring dozens of local businesses selling unique items at end of season discounts, live music, costumed char-acters, and locally made specialty foods and cold drafts.

This year’s theme is “Clamiccon”, with its halls of chowder honoring the sensational Comiccon events that have gone global. The Chowderfest Cook Off on Sunday, Oct 5 features live music by Hawkins Road, a local gourmet tent, and the “Souper Hero” of the day. (Over a dozen local restaurants will each make 250 gallons of chow-der for all to sample and vote for the Grand Champion!)

Chowderfest takes place at Taylor Avenue and 9th Street (Panzone Park in Beach Haven.) The Southern Ocean Chamber of Commerce volun-teers will be offering plenty of beers on tap, the kids tent will have Sand Crafted of Beach Ha-ven making super hero masks with seashells, and a Clamiccon Costume Contest will be held at the Press Tent sponsored by WJRZ and WRAT (To enter, register at press tent at the south gate on Sunday Oct 5 from 10am to 2pm. Contest rules will be posted on www.chowderfest.com and www.visitLBIregion.com)

General Admission for Chowderfest Cook Off begins at 11am- $20 per person ($10 for children under 12/ages 3 and under are free) VIP Admission- $50 and begins at 10am and includes a Taster T-Shirt. Event runs until 5pm.

Tickets are available at the event, online at www.chowderfest.com, or by stopping into the Southern Ocean County Chamber Visitor Cen-ter (265 West Ninth Street • Ship Bottom, NJ (609) 494 7211)

Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce 9th St. Ship Bottom 609-4947211 • VisitLBIRegion.com

Supported in part by a grant from

The NJ Dept. of State, Division of Travel &

Tourism

C 2014

Sunday, Oct. 5CHOWDER COOK-OFFCHOWDER COOK-OFF

CLASSIC

Your Favorite Restaurants Serving Chowder Under The Big Top

Saturday, Oct. 4MERCHANTS MART

Don’t miss this! End-of-Season Blowout Bargains from your favorite local shopkeepers

OUTDOOR FOOD COURTSponsored by U.S. Foodservice

LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE OF NJ

October 18-19

October 24 & 25

Visit LBI Region Lighthouses

Never Fear Chowder is here! Welcome Fall on LBI with a Fantastic “Clamiccon” Weekend October 4 & 5

fashionista

A s every fashionable woman knows, the fall sea-son signals the opportunity to re-invent and re-create the trends worn on the runways around the world.

The hard part is how to interpret what is seen in the fan-tasy world of fashion, where the sky is the limit and no ex-pense is spared, to create “the look”, to fit a modern woman’s wardrobe budget.

Smart fashionistas identify what the trends are first and list their must haves pieces from the runway. Then a little homework begins with a closet assessment. Look for items in your current wardrobe that can be restyled to look of the season. Slight alterations on quality clothing items, is a bet-ter investment than splurging on a new article of clothing.

After looking at what you already own, take a hard look at what you are able to spend for the season. Remember that fall, winter, and holiday clothing constitutes 9 months of your clothing allowance. It should be reflective of that investment. Layering will take a fall staple straight through the winter months.

A rough guide is that 10%-20% of what you earn for the year is a great starting point for what you spend on clothing for the year. Of course this is a sliding scale based on the healthiness of your overall budget to support your lifestyle in general.

For example, I would rather drink a smoothie every day for a few months and buy a designer bag for the season, than eat out every night. My motto is not “I am what I eat,” but rather “I am what bag I carry for the season.” Therefore, my budget is reflective of my priorities.

Now the fun part begins. Once you are empowered with knowing your “must haves” for the fall season, what you own in your closet, and your personal budget, you can start to build a wardrobe to suit your needs.

A few trends for fall from the runway shows that every fashionable woman can incorporate for the season are: mini skirts and knee high boots. There is a heavy 60’s vibe and influence that popped up on every designer’s show, a new twist is to do a mini skirt in leather with a knee high boot with a low heel. If you add a black tight to the look it will be a fresh, new and very modern look.

A tailored longer coat with a fur wrap or detail is another hot trend. If you pair with a knee-high boot, it is a very chic yet classic look. Oversized sweaters and chunky knits paired with a slim leather legging and bootie, reads very of the moment. Lastly, in keeping with the luxurious feeling for fall 2014… fur, or faux fur if you prefer, should be on every woman’s list this season.

Whether you like to shop online or at a local boutique, a great tip is to look online and price compare for name brand items so you know what you should be paying for an item.

Don’t rule out stores like H&M and Zara for trendy piec-es at an amazing price. Don’t spend a lot of money on items you know you will not wear next year or are so trendy that after a few wears, you are over the look.

The majority of your budget for the season should be allot-ted for items that you will love even if they are not on trend next fall. These are key pieces that transcend the look of the moment and allow you to interpret the season in your own way.

~ Anonymous Self-Proclaimed Shopaholic

Fall Fashion: How to Style Your Wardrobe for the Changing Season

Page 23: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 45

GET OUT & SHOP!Over 35 great shops, restaurants & services

Rte 611 at Street Road • Warrington, PA (adjacent to Wegman’s) shopvalleysquare.com

DSW SHOES • EASTERN MOUNTAIN SPORTS • JOS. A. BANK BANANA REPUBLIC • SUNGLASS HUT • VICTORIA’S SECRET CHICO’S • EUROPEAN WAX CENTER • LOFT • J. JILL WHITE HOUSE | BLACK MARKET • THE MELTING POT PF CHANG’S • TED’S MONTANA GRILL • PANERA BREAD CHIPOTLE • YOGURTLAND • CARMEL KITCHEN AND WINE BAR • SOMA OPENING FALL

Fall 2014Visit our newest restaurant

Carmel Kitchen and Wine Bar Plus Soma

opening this Fall

Managed by The Wilder Companies

SVS1447 FALLBrandLocLiving.indd 1 8/13/14 7:14 AM

Take a step inside Impact Thrift Store in Feaster-ville, PA and your first thought might be, “The sign says thrift but this can’t be a thrift store. Is this really a thrift store?” Large, well lit, spacious,

clean, filled with a variety of second-hand and even some new merchandise… Impact Thrift is a new breed of thrift store that some like to call hybrid thrift.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why Shop Thrift?by Jill Tarabar

smart shopping

Page 24: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 47 46 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

I f you don’t yet shop at thrift stores, why not? If you picture dingy floors, bad lighting, and torn clothing heaped together, you might be surprised. There are a few like that in every town, I’m sure, but for the most

part, they are a veritable gold mine of unclaimed wealth.With the sketchy economy, it’s a no-brainer way to save

money. But even when the economic situation is in full bloom, it is a practical, reasonable, and easy way to stretch your family’s dollars. If your family lives on one income, and you’re the home manager assigned the job of managing the spending, then consider shopping at thrift stores your in-come contribution – you’d be surprised at the money saved.

1. Go in with a planKnow ahead of time what you need. Sometimes they can

be a bit overwhelming, and each location has its own orga-nizing system, which makes it a bit challenging to find what you need. Therefore if you go in knowing that you’re look-ing for 12-24 month-old boy’s khakis, and size 8 black dress shoes, it can be a lot less stressful.

2. Be open-mindedKeep your eyes open for any surprising deals. It’s hit-or-

miss with thrift stores, so sometimes you really hit the jack-pot of gear your family truly needs. If you weren’t necessarily

shopping for swimsuits, but you see a darling one in your daughter’s size this summer, then snag it up. You need to make sure what you find is actually something you need – otherwise, you’re just buying clutter, and you’re not saving money. Even so, think outside just your immediate family, and consider your extended family, your friends, or unex-pected gift ideas. You could find birthday gifts for all your nieces and nephews, or you might find throw pillows in just the right shade your friend is looking for.

3. Look for quality brandsThe older I get, the less the inexpensive brands work for

me – I wish they did, but Old Navy clothes rarely fit me well. Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, or Calvin Klein, how-ever, usually fit me like a glove. Because over 90% of my wardrobe comes from thrift stores, I can afford these quality brands. You’d be surprised the amount of well-made, expen-sive clothing that’s hiding in thrift shops, just waiting to found. You have to dig for it, but it’s there. My kids can wear Baby Gap and Gymboree, thanks to thrift stores.

4. Try new brandsKeep in mind, however, that there might be some quality

pieces in brands you’ve never heard of, or with the tags com-pletely missing. Check for holes, stains, missing buttons,

Getting The Bang Out Of Your Buck:Helpful Hints for Thrift Store Shopping

By Tsh Oxenreider

and loose seams, and pass on something if it looks pretty worn or stretched out. But sometimes the brands you don’t know are actually really high-end European brands, well worth their money.

5. Try things onAlways try things on. Just because it’s a beautiful silk Ann

Taylor skirt doesn’t mean you should buy it. If it doesn’t fit well, then it’s a needless purchase and will only clutter your closet. Remember that brands size things differently, so you can’t assume anything by the number on the tag.

6. Don’t go with kidsSure, you may have to bring them sometimes. But if you’re

armed with a detailed list, it can be hard to get much accom-plished at a thrift store when you have little ones to watch. Shopping at thrift stores means having to sift through lots of aisles of crammed-full racks. If you have to bring your kids, plan on just shopping one of the store’s sections, and then come back another day to shop the rest.

7. Know your local store’s sale daysMany local Salvation Army stores have half-off Wednes-

days. Other stores have similar days, so call and ask for their regular sale schedule. A $4 pair of shoes is cheap, but when they’re $2 – even better!

8. If you really need something, askIf you’re in the market for a very specific item, and you’ve

been returning to the store for several weeks in search of it, it wouldn’t hurt to ask an employee to keep their eye out for it. You can’t expect them to bend over backwards, because thrift stores usually have piles of items that come in unex-pectedly. But if you let them know you’re looking for a light purple Ralph Lauren wool scarf, maybe they’ll remember you and set it aside.

9. Find ways to repurposeThink creatively when you thrift shop. I was looking for a

Christmas tree skirt a few weeks ago, but I happened upon a perfect vintage tablecloth with red and green flowers. It was thick, durable canvas with a beautiful red-fringed border – and it will work better as a tree skirt than I had originally planned. Sheets make great curtain liners, and mismatched silverware and dishes work well in a play kitchen.

10. Stockpile; think long-termWe don’t need to buy clothes for our kids for a long time,

because my mother-in-law has containers of boys and girls clothes of all sizes waiting to be grown into. She stops by thrift stores weekly, and is always on the lookout for her

grandkids’ clothes. We’re probably set for at least two years, because she thinks longer-term when she thrift shops. If you have the storage to stockpile, then consider your fam-ily’s long-term needs.

11. Go oftenIf you don’t find anything one week, try again in a few

weeks. A stores’ inventory changes constantly, so you might strike gold one week, and come up with nothing the next. Make thrift store shopping part of your regular home man-agement routine.

12. Go with cashFinally, leave your debit card at home. When you’re armed

with cash, you’ll be more selective with your purchases, and will therefore think more level-headedly about the value of items. When you stick to a budget, then thrift stores are a money-saver. When you go way over, then you’re buying more than you need – emptying your wallet and filling your closets. Aim for the opposite!

Page 25: Local Living

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Page 26: Local Living

50 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

tune in for QVC Presents “FFANY Shoes on Sale”

benefitting breast cancer research and

education. The broadcast is scheduled to

air on QVC Thursday, October 16 from

6 to 9 PM (ET) and will feature 180 styles

from more than 80 brands at HALF the

manufacturer’s suggested retail price*.

A minimum of 80 percent of the purchase

price** will benefit various breast cancer

research and education institutions.

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 51

Nine West Galaxy Suede Lace-up PumpsQVC Item #S7379SOS Special Price* $54.50

Dennis Basso Faux Fur 16” x 16” PillowQVC Item #H199440Approximately $34.50

Chic Tech Leather Wristletwith 4000 mAh ChargerQVC Item #E225841Approximately $88.00

Susan Graver Floral Statement NecklaceQVC Item #J291985Approximately $45.00

Laura Geller Balance N Brighten Baked Foundation

and BrushQVC Item #A81777

Approximately $40.00

SA by Seth Aaron Knit Top with Sleeve Zipper DetilQVC Item #A258785Approximately $55.00

Page 27: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 53

A ccording to the Center of Disease Control (CDC) there are roughly 30,000 Americans in-fected with Lyme disease each year. Lyme dis-ease is the most tick-transmitted infection in the

world. These blood-sucking arachnids, not only thrive on humans, but also on domestic and wild animals. Lyme dis-ease is caused by a spirochete, which is a type of bacteria. If untreated, the bacterium travels through the blood stream, and can attack many systems in the body.

Lyme disease is most prevalent in the Northeastern, Mid-Atlantic and Upper Midwest regions of the United States and is caused by the “black-legged” or deer tick. The deer tick, about the size of a sesame seed, has to be attached to the body for 24-48 hours before it is able to transmit the spirochete. Lyme disease is usually spread during spring and summer, but can stay active as long as the temperature is over 32 degrees Fahrenheit.

Dogs, horses, and wildlife can all contract Lyme disease. Cats can become infected with Lyme disease, however it is very rarely seen. Lyme Disease will not affect your pet in the same way it affects humans. Humans usually develop a rash where the tick was attached itself and often have flu like symptoms. In pets, the most common symptom is joint pain and a fever. This can take from 2-5 months to appear after the bite. Other symptoms of Lyme disease consist of recurrent lameness of the limbs, inflammation of the joints, a stiff walk with an arched back, difficulty breathing and lack of appetite. More severe complications can occur in the kidneys, heart and nervous system.

If you suspect your pet has Lyme disease, you should call your veterinarian. Your vet will talk with you about the symp-toms and will most likely order a blood panel and urinalysis.

The blood test can show if there is a presence of bacteria or parasites in the bloodstream. If determined by the veterinari-an that the pet has Lyme disease, antibiotics will be prescribed for about 4 weeks. Most dogs show improvement after day 2 of treatment. The antibiotics may not completely clear the bacteria. Some vets believe that the Lyme organism may lay dormant over time and has the potential to spark back up in the future. Not to mention that your dog can contract a sec-ond time from another bite.

Tick control is extremely important in preventing Lyme disease. If your pet spends time outdoors, you may want to consider a few over the counter methods such as: repellent sprays, anti-tick collars, dips, and powders. Another very effective treatment is a topical on-spot liquid, which is applied monthly. Lastly, there is a vaccine for Lyme disease that is worth asking your vet about. One common downfall is that the vaccine has been known to cause a positive blood screening, when in fact the animal does not have it.

Some habitat prevention is keeping the grass mowed, pulling the weeds and keeping your pet out of high vegeta-tion. Check your pet regularly for ticks and keep them well groomed. If you find a tick, gently remove it by using twee-zers at the mouth of the tick and pulling up firmly. Double check to make sure the tick is completely out of the skin. Lyme disease is scary for both humans and pets, but with the right prevention and care you can lessen your chances of contracting the disease.

Carla Papciak-Glatts is an animal activist, shelter volunteer and busy mom of two girls and a German Shepherd, residing in Upper Bucks County.

Lyme Diseaseby Carla Papciak-Glatts

pets

Page 28: Local Living

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Page 29: Local Living

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

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For more information, visit our website or call for a consultation.

Page 30: Local Living

PhoenixvilleHospital.com

3D mammography is a remarkable tool that may give you a better chance at early detection of breast cancer than traditional digital mammography.We now provide 3D mammography in Phoenixville and Limerick

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Page 31: Local Living

60 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Why should you “Think Pink” during October?By Amy Wambold

E ach October the ribbons return, the fundraisers reboot, and news-paper headlines become overwhelmingly breast-centric. So you couldn’t be blamed for thinking you know everything there is to know about breast cancer, end of story, turn the page. Except you don’t—and neither do most Americans. Still, only one in

eight women are diagnosed and 108 die every day. To change those stats, we have to move our awareness forward. Can we wage a better, smarter war on breast cancer? Absolutely. But first we have to face these startling truths.

Millions of dollars—from 30 government agencies, hundreds of uni-versities, drug companies, non-profits, and thousands of grass-roots walks and ribbon sales—are poured into inves-tigating breast cancer every year. But what most Americans don’t realize is this: The majority of the funding goes to science aimed at treating the disease once a woman has it rather than finding ways to keep her from getting it in the first place.

If you’ve been confused about the conflict-ing headlines on breast self-exams (BSEs), here’s the bottom line: Forget the step-by-step monthly ritual of feeling yourself up—just knowing your breasts well is generally enough. You don’t need to do formal exams, but you do need to know what your breasts normally look and feel like so you’ll notice if something changes.

These four things have been proved to cut your cancer risk.

• Exercise• Maintaining a healthy weight• Limiting how much you drink• Giving birth before your midthirtiesHaving the money to pay for good health care can make

all the difference in whether breast cancer will kill you. It’s an economic disparity that researchers are outraged by, and minorities are often the hardest hit. Breast cancer rates have remained the same among white and black women since we started keeping records in the 1950s. In the 1990s, when we had some breakthroughs in early detection and treatment options, the mortality rate for white women dropped by about half.

A virus could be the cause of breast cancer. It should be known within the year whether or not breast cancer, or at least certain types of breast cancer, is caused by one or more viruses. If that’s the case, they’ll be able to throw their ef-forts into developing a vaccine to prevent it, as researchers did with HPV and cervical cancer.

Facts:• One in eight women will develop cancer during her lifetime.• Almost 232,670 new breast cancer cases are expected in 2014.• Breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer found in American women.• Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family his-tory of cancer, alcohol use and obesity.• Women age 40 and older should get a mammogram

every one to two years.The more you learn, the more confi-

dent you’ll be in your decisions. The old adage ‘Knowledge is power’

is especially true for women and breast cancer.

Page 32: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 63

1-800-EINSTEIN einstein.edu/breasthealth

seeing deeper

This project was financed in part by a grant from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Community and Economic Development. © 2013 AEHN

Breast cancer can hide in dense tissue out of view from traditional

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Brain Health University

Today, senior citizens rank as one of the largest groups of people in the United States. By 2030, they will comprise over 19% of the population. These statis-

tics have caused researchers to work on establishing pro-grams to aid in healthy productive means of aging.

They have determined that having a healthy regard for our physical, emotional and mental well-being is intrinsic to a successful life. Physical health is only one part of aging well. We must also take care of our mental and emotional health, since both are important to bringing fullness to the quality of our lives.

Researchers have established an award-winning program called Brain Health University in senior lifestyle communi-ties, senior centers, and as part of many hospital enrichment programs. The 30 courses of Brain Health University are formulated to exercise your brain while informing, exciting, and teaching you how to improve your brain health.

BHU helps us to enhance our well-being by providing en-joyable activities that are beneficial to ensuring aging adults with a healthy brain. Seniors are encouraged to laugh, joke, and have fun with their fellow classmates as they improve brain functions. Some of the courses include:• The Right Word – helps improve our vocabulary• Private Eye – sharpens analytical skills• Split Words – hones language skills with puzzles• Entangled Figures – helps you identify elements in a jumbled object

A brain healthy lifestyle must include 6 concepts and actions. One should begin with some kind of physical activity; what is good for our bodies is also beneficial to our brain. Nutrition comes next in the program. Well-balanced meals keep our brain functioning at its optimal level. The next concept focuses on our cognitive abilities with activities that will help to keep our memory sharp. To learn properly we must experience a small amount of stress, since it is stimulating and improves our focus. However, we must not overdue stress because high levels will impair our learning potential. A good night’s sleep is the next impor-tant component for a healthy brain because it stimulates our attention and concentration. Finally, we come to social interaction. It reminds us that we are part of a group and are still wanted and needed. Group activities are stimulat-ing, fun and create an atmosphere of comradery, as well as building new memories.

I have recently participated in a Brain Health Univer-sity program and recommend it to all who wish to age in a healthier manner. Aging is something that will hap-pen, whether we want it to or not. Why not experience it graciously and in a healthy manner, while having fun and experiencing the pleasure of making new friends and new memories? All you need is an open mind and a willingness to learn.

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

Words and Wisdom

senior perspective

Page 33: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 65 HATBORO

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Home improvements can cost you less than you think this fall with a Home Equity Line of Credit. Rates are very low and you can write yourself a check whenever you want, for whatever you want.

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H ave you ever eaten a frozen grape? When you bite into it, the frozen sugars have a much sharper and stronger taste than a normal room temperature grape. Fall is like that.

When you bite into fall, the leaves flare into fire colors and depart their summer homes. The days grow increas-ingly shorter and the nights longer, while the air becomes exhilaratingly crisp, and the sun’s shine appears sharp and radiant. And yet with all that change marking the way to-wards the dormancy of winter, I’ve found that a feeling of hope for the future always emerges and lays out a new com-pass heading for me during this season.

There is a change in the winds that blow through and lift and open us to inspiration. With a new bounce to our step, we take down warmer clothes, sweaters, coats and boots and wrap ourselves in comfort and warmth.

The beginning of school in the fall has been more of a marker of a new year than January 1st ever was. Going back to school brings a mixture of both anxiety and excitement offering potential for a greater year, a greater us. Although even when our school years are well behind us, that feeling of fall and newness remains.

As students, school was always a beginning and fall brought with it the idea of change to self, a considered po-tential for growth, expansion and exploration. New sup-plies gave us those potential tools. Holding new notebooks in our hands and flipping through the lined blank pages of

what seems like empty white space, but yet brimmed full of hope. All this newness feels exhilarating.

Fall is football, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. It is pumpkins, soups, warm pies and hot chocolate. It’s hayrides and corn mazes. It’s time spent with family and friends and holidays that ask nothing of us but to dress up, eat and enjoy. It is the autumnal equinox, the time of the second harvest, the time to honor life and death. For centuries cultures all around the world have celebrated fall with dances, poetry readings, and gatherings of thanks. It is the phoenix of the seasons, celebrating the plunge into death as it begins the journey towards the return of life.

Fall holds the possibility of greater potential and the ex-citement of what’s ahead, whether first grade or first retire-ment, fall is a chance to reinvent ourselves, to start over and start better.

This year the autumnal equinox (the time when the sun is equidistant between the northern and southern hemi-spheres) is on Monday, September 22nd at 10:29 PM. Why not take the time to mark it and celebrate this day with family and friends. Write a poem, dance a little dance, gather and give thanks any way you like. Celebrate by sim-ply taking a walk in the woods and realigning your personal compass.

Holli lives in New York and Pennsylvania with her husband and daughter, Beatrice.

Fall Is...By Holli Harms

Page 34: Local Living

Volume 4 | Issue 5 Local Living 67 66 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Nothing is more American than bonding with friends, family and your fellow football-loving man at a tailgate party. The perfect combination of sports, food, and fun, these parties have been

going on in stadium parking lots for decades. In order to keep up the tradition, I heartily encourage you to take part. There is a science to the tailgate, however, and here are some tips on organizing one.

CREATE THE ATMOSPHEREOrganizing the perfect tailgating party involves planning.

Your first priority should be to reflect the energetic envi-ronment that will surround the football game. You won’t be inside the stadium watching every play, but you’ll want to emulate the same vibe.

WEAR THE TEAMS COLORShow support for your team in every way possible. Invite

buddies to contribute in their own way and make “going buckwild” a prerequisite. Some over-the-top fans paint their faces team colors or decorate their cars with magnets, bumper stickers and huge tarps all baring their team’s name. Although, you don’t have to embarrass yourself in order to support the team. As long as you “represent” in your own original way, the tailgating gods will be proud.

TRANSFORM THE PARKING LOT INTO YOUR HOMETrue tailgaters treat the party like a competition and try

to boast the most elaborate setting possible. This may mean

bringing half the living room to the parking lot or packing a truckload of camping furniture. Extra points are awarded to those who combine the comforts of home with support for the team in their outdoor den.

THE MAIN MENUFood is by far the most important part of the party. Your

team may be losing by 35 in the third quarter, but it won’t matter if you supplied enough food to satisfy John Madden.

Tailgate food staples are all grill-based; they include burg-ers, chicken and pork chops. A vegetarian tailgater is an oxymoron — all menus revolve around meat. To make your party unique, be original with your cooking, since burgers and hot dogs are the norm.

The night before the game, prepare a “sick” barbecue sauce with paprika, brown sugar and chili powder to add to your chicken or pork. Instead of buying chops, buy ribs and cook them at home beforehand. If you keep them on ice and grill them immediately on site, they’ll taste great.

One of the best foods to center your tailgate party around is sausage. They’re easy to cook and easy to eat. Whether you grill up some Bratwurst, or Italian, or Mexican sausages- you can’t go wrong!

And if you really want to blow people away, grill up some seafood kebabs.

Another great idea for a tailgate is a one-pot meal. The most popular all-inclusive dish is chili. Make it with turkey, pork or beef and add black beans for a nice touch. If you’re a real carnivore, mix in the sausages.

Touchdown To TailgatingHow To: Throw A Tailgate Party

By Bruce Willer

SNACKSOnce you’ve decided on a main meal for your tailgate par-

ty, focus on the snacks. Nachos are simple to prepare and, if you’ve got a warming

plate with you, can be ready in five minutes. Pack all the nec-essary ingredients (chips, salsa, guacamole, cheese, etc.) into containers and then lay them all out when the time is right.

Buffalo wings take about 30 minutes to make. Make them as spicy as you want and slather them with a great sauce, like honey-mustard.

A hearty tray of hoagies or meatball sandwiches prepared on thick Italian bread and topped off with spaghetti sauce and mozzarella cheese will satisfy everyone’s appetites. Cut them in quarters and serve your brethren.

BEERThe beverage of the day should be beer. How do you

think fans stay warm during those rowdy tailgate par-ties in the fall and winter months? It all comes down to alcohol.

Before you buy a keg or 2, check with the stadium for the rules on consuming beer in public. Some places may be more stringent than others, and you may need to do away with bottles and drink from plastic cups instead.

ACCESSORIES

Bring a cooler on wheels and you’ll be able to transport drinks and keep them cold throughout the game. Fill plastic bottles with water, stick them in the freezer overnight and use them as ice packs. By the time the game winds down and the alcohol has dehydrated you, the ice will have melted and you’ll have cold bottled water ready.

There are grill-and-cooler combos available that greatly simplify life. One unit can put the finishing touches on your baby-back ribs and the other will keep your brewskies cold. They’re priced at around $170 US.

You’ll need loads of sealable containers to store your nachos, potato salad and other prepared foods.

To ease the transportation, invest in a large picnic basket. Some of the newer baskets feature compartments galore and have places to put cutlery, plates and other hard-to-pack items.

Multipurpose items like large serving bowls, platters, and casseroles also come in handy. Choose items that can go in the oven, microwave and the freezer.

Of course, you also need standard items like barbecue utensils, cups and napkins. Whenever possible, opt for dis-posable items like plastic cups, bags and cutlery.

ENTERTAINMENTThough the sheer atmosphere and food is often entertain-

ment enough, don’t forget the real reason you’re standing in

a parking lot in sub-45 degree temperatures. The football game deserves your attention, so follow it.

Pay attention to the game. At the very least, tailgaters will bring a radio to listen to the local broadcast. Don’t forget to bring batteries.

If you want to see every down, purchase a portable television. Often, partiers will congregate around the one camp with the big TV (there’s always one) and this will certainly suffice. If you go this route, make sure to share the great food you prepared as thanks. That’s the tail-gater’s way.

MISCELLANEOUS ITEMSThere’s a lot of ground to cover with an outdoor party

of this scale. For comfort, you’ll need camping chairs, a blanket if the wind picks up, and possibly a tent to protect you from the rain. Consider bringing a collapsible table as well, to make consuming all your food easier.

If you have a lot of electronics, consider getting a small generator to help run the whole operation. This way, you can bring more advanced cooking equipment, heaters and mini fridges.

Night games require a little more effort to tailgate. Pick out simple lanterns that will help keep the party illuminated.

TEAM UPThe best way to keep on top of every single detail is to

delegate responsibilities. Tailgates are not one-man projects. With the friends you recruit, decide who will take care of each facet of the party. This way, everything will get done and the tailgate will be a success.

You’ll need a few days to prepare, but once game day comes, it’ll all be worth it.

Page 35: Local Living

68 Local Living Volume 4 | Issue 5

Local

goes local

Are you interested in a little fall getaway? If so, come along with LGL as we visit Cincinnati, Ohio for the

largest Oktoberfest in the United States. Over 500,000 people are expected to at-tend this year’s three-day festival, which is sponsored by Samuel Adams Brewery. It began in 1976 as a block party to cel-ebrate the deep German heritage of Cin-cinnati with music, dance, food, and of course a variety of beer.

The weekend kicks off on Friday night with the “Running of the Weiners”. This race features dachshunds, dressed in bun costumes provided by the sponsor, culmi-nating in the crowning of the “King of Dachshund Dogs” in Fountain Square. Another event on Friday features the Ge-muetlichkeit (goodwill games) including the Beer Stein Race and Beer Barrel Roll.

Opening ceremonies begin on Satur-day with a group of brightly costumed German-Americans parading down 5th Street to the various festival tents and the tapping of the large Samuel Adams keg. One of the most popular events on Satur-day is the World’s Largest Chicken Dance. Thousands flock to Fountain Square to

participate in this dance, which became part of Guinness Book of World Records in 1996. Accompanying the dancers is the Pete Wagner Schnapps Band playing the world’s largest Alpenhorns. When played with gusto, music from these 9-foot horns can be heard from 2 miles away.

The centerpiece of Oktoberfest is the return of the actual working, life-size Glockenspiel that houses a bar and stage. Every hour on the hour the clock will strike. Music will be heard and danc-ers in German garb will appear on stage. There are toasts and souvenirs given to the crowd. (And maybe even a celebrity or two will appear to entertain?)

One thing is for certain; there will be an abundance of wonderful German special-ties. At the top of the food chain is the hearty bratwurst and sausage served with sauerkraut and potato pancakes. Some other favorites are the sauerkraut balls, German potato salad, and the jumbo pick-les. For dessert you will want to try a cream puff or a piece of apple strudel. If you still have room, I doubt you will be able to pass up snacking on a big soft pretzel while en-joying the fine entertainment!

You will most likely want to wash down

your traditional German meal with one of your favorite beers. There is a large se-lection including: Samuel Adams, Beck, Bud, Warsteiner, Hoffrau, Miller, Coors, Yuengling and many more.

To commemorate your trip you will find a wide array of tents with merchan-dise to purchase. From wearing apparel, steins, gift packages and souvenirs… you will find something to remember the weekend by.

Traveling with kids? Oktoberfest has something for everyone. The youngsters will have fun enjoying the amusement rides and playing the games. There will be plenty to do for everyone. Whether you are looking for a quick getaway with the family or a weekend alone with your significant other, Oktoberfest in Cincin-nati is where it’s at this fall!

For more information contact: The Downtown Council, Todd Bucher at 514-579-3197 or [email protected]

Diane Burns is a freelance writer who cur-rently resides in Chester County, PA

Oktoberfest in Cincinnati, OhioBy Diane Burns