2013 Dodge Dart. (Courtesy of Dodge)

Austin and the Hill Country that surrounds this thriving city situated in the heart of the Lone Star State was the proving ground for the newest Dodge product to be offered to the American public.

Communities like Dripping Springs, Oak Hill, Bee Cove, and Buda extended their hospitality by providing travel through rich grasslands and timberlines crowded with timid deer in the brush and lazy-eyed cows in pastures green.

Meadows filled with an eternity of blue bonnets and Indian paintbrush, watered by ample rainfall and creeks that often washed away the roadbed, gave rest to a wandering mind. Lunch under a grove of shaded pecan trees made the Texas BBQ, topped off with Mexican beans, potato salad, and peach cobbler, all the more palatable.

And then there was the car. And what a car the Dodge Dart truly is.

The Dart comes in 12 exterior colors, 14 interior colors, and five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited, and RIT with a starting suggested retail price of $15,995.

Three powerful-efficient engines and three transmission choices that offer unsurpassed safety features and world class aerodynamics are Dodge standards for this compact car class.

The 2013 Dodge dart will be available in five trim levels: SE, SXT, Rallye, Limited and RIT with a starting suggested retail price of $15,995.

“The all-new Dodge Dart is a ground breaking car that will surprise and delight customers who want a no compromise, fun-to-drive car that’s a great value,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO Dodge Brand, Chrysler Group LLC.

Dart is designed with dynamic lines and curves from every angle, along with a little attitude. The face of the Dart was styled with the unmistakable Dodge split cross hair grille, but with modern, sleek looking “floats” in the front fascia.

Add in the racetrack tail lamps with piano black accents and it brings into focus a kind of enlightened confidence for the driver.

The interior of the Dart. (Courtesy of Dodge)

The front of the 2013 Dart has been designed for smooth air flow around and below the car without compromising styling or engine cooling requirements.

A lower radiator close-out panel is positioned below the front fascia. This lower front end appearance helps to reduce drag while still allowing for an 8-inch curb clearance. I really like Dart’s smart styling and distinctive exterior design.

Loaded With Cool Amenities

The interior is a blend of modern precision craftsmanship, state-of-the-art-technology, exciting bursts of color, and hand sculpted shapes.

The 2013 Dodge Dart is loaded with cool amenities and unexpected features for both driver and passengers. Items like solar control glass, low wash fluid warning signal, front courtesy/map lamps, soft touch instrument panel, power locks and windows, rear stabilizer bar, front seat reactive headrests, and electronic power steering are all standard on all trims.

Blind-spot monitoring, Parkview rear back-up camera, and dual zone automatic temperature control with humidity sensor are available on several trims.

The Dart will be powered by three fuel-efficient, powerful, state of the art 4-cylinder engines. Drivers can select from a new 160 hp TigerShark 2.0 L engine, a 160 hp 1.4 L MultiAir turbo engine, and a new 184 hp TigerShark 2.4 L MultiAir engine.

These three engines are combined with three transmissions: 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic, or 6-speed dual dry clutch transmission.

The 2.0 liter TigerShark engine mated to the 6-speed transmission has an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 miles per gallon city/36 mpg highway/29 mpg combined. The 1.4 liter multi air turbo engine mated to the 6-speed manual transmission has an EPA fuel economy of 27 mpg city/39 mpg highway/32 mpg combined.

The Dodge Dart’s re-entry into the US compact sedan segment is based on the award-winning Alfa Romeo Giulietta. The Giulietta platform was lengthened and widened, creating a spacious sedan that meets the wants and needs of the North American consumer.

This proven modular design allows multiple models to be built using the same basic underpinning, resulting in improvements in quality and reliability, as well as reducing costs, development work, timing, and tooling.

The body structure of the Dart is composed of 68 percent hot stamped ultra-high strength steel resulting in an architecture that is lightweight, modern, and solid.

The lightweight MacPherson strut front suspension is specifically tuned to minimize camber loss, resulting in more responsive steering and great handling while improving ride quality and reduction in road noises.

The Dart starts with a strong foundation—10 standard airbags which include dual-stage adaptive venting, front driver and passenger air bags, front-seat-mounted pelvic and thorax air bags and rear-seat-mounted pelvic air bags, front driver and passenger knee air bags, and all-row side-curtain air bags.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He can be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.

The new Dodge Viper. (Courtesy of NetCarShow.com)

You had to know that once Chrysler got its financial mojo back, it would not let Chevrolet’s Corvette ZR-1 or Ford’s Shelby Mustang go unanswered.

Ready to hiss it out, an all-new Viper was introduced at the New York Auto Show. Slithering away from Dodge’s rock, Viper will be sold under the Street Racing and Technology (SRT) brand.

“After a gut-wrenching period of uncertainty, the Street and Racing technology brand team is extremely proud that our hand-built in Detroit, flagship supercar is back and ready to take on the performance car world,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO of SRT.

“Beyond being the flagship for the new SRT brand, the launch of the 2013 Viper proves that we simply would not let the performance icon of the Chrysler Group die. Willed to live on by a very special group of performance enthusiasts inside the company and across Viper Nation, this SRT team under our new leadership was challenged to not just continue the legendary Viper, but to create a world-class supercar that would showcase the very best we have to offer.”

You will never mistake the cross-bar air intake, arching fenders, and sloping backlight as from anything but a Viper. More attention was paid to aerodynamics for enhanced performance, but all of the iconic styling cues remain.

Fortunately, designers finally gave the car an interior worthy of its pedigree. All of the expected electronics, with touchscreens and voice controls, are present.

Under the aluminum and carbon-fibre skin is an 8.4-liter all-aluminum V10 engine that generates 640 hp and 600 lb-ft of torque. A Tremec 6-speed manual transmission and driver-selectable suspension system compliment the wicked engine.

For those of you who though Fiat’s control of Chrysler might doom such hyper-exotic machinery, remember the Italian company also keeps Ferrari, Maserati, and Alfa Romeo in its stable.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Sage flower (Scott Phillips/The Epoch Times)

It’s so funny. Some people, including myself, never in a thousand years would even think you could eat a flower. How odd is that? Yet, to others, it has been a part of their life, culture and eating lifestyles for their entire lives.

Do you eat artichokes? How about capers? Flower buds! How about broccoli, cauliflower, broccoflower? Flowers! And the spice saffron? The stamen of yet another flower! See, most of you have been eating flowers and you didn’t even know it.

If any of you watch foreign movies, you will note in the Indian movie “Monsoon Wedding” that two characters pick marigolds and pop them in their mouths. In the Middle East, India, or Eastern Europe, you may have heard about or even tried rosewater or orange flower water. What about honey? There are liqueurs, herbal mixes, butters, and syrups. The list goes on and on!

Now before you get too excited and start picking flowers and putting them in your soup, there are several things you must consider.

Chive flowers (Scott Phillips/The Epoch Times)

1. NEVER pick flowers that have been exposed to animal excrement. That is a sure way to get sick.

2. NEVER pick flowers that have had insecticides sprayed on them. If it can kill bugs, it can make you sick!

3. If you use fertilizers on your flowers, make sure that the fertilizers are for food consumption.

4. Flowers on the side of the road have been exposed to trash and carbon monoxide. Who wants to eat that?

5. If you are unsure if the flowers are edible, then do not eat them. Why take the risk.

6. Check with your doctor. If you are allergic to dandelions, then eating them will probably make your allergies worse.

7. If the flowers look bruised, or eaten by an insect, don’t eat them. Part of eating flowers is to enjoy the beauty of them.

Lilac blossoms (Scott Phillips/The Epoch Times)

8. There are some flowers that are edible and some are poisonous. Before you eat any flower, please make sure to research whether the flower is safe to eat. When in doubt, go without.

Recipes

Floral Liqueur

4 cups vodka or dry white wine
1cup sugar
1–2 cups edible flowers

Gently bruise the flower petals. Place in a jar with the alcohol and allow to steep for a minimum of two days. Add the sugar to the jar and shake. Allow this mixture to steep for a minimum of two weeks. Shake the jar each day twice to make the sugar dissolve. Strain into a clean decanter.

Instant Chartreuse or your own flavored Stoli!

Flower Butter

1/2 to 1 cup chopped fresh or dried petals
1 pound sweet unsalted butter, room temperature

Finely chop flower petals and mix into softened butter. Allow the mixture to stand at room temperature overnight to allow the flavors to fuse. It is good for a couple of weeks in the refrigerator, or freeze for several months.

Wonderful on breads or used in sugar cookie or pound cake recipes.[/etInfoTable]

Flower Honey

1/2 to 1 cup fresh or dried petals
1 pound honey

Chop petals and add to honey. Using aluminum foil, cover jar and place in a pan of hot water until boiling. Once it reaches boiling, turn the heat off and allow the jar to sit in the water until it cools. Keep the honey in a cool, dark place.

Try in tea and salad dressings, or on croissants, scones, muffins, and bread.[/etInfoTable]

Flower Jelly

Makes 4–5 half pints

2 1/2 cups white wine
1 cup edible flowers
4 cups sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
3 ounces of liquid pectin
Fresh flower petals

Bring wine to a boil and pour over petals. Cover and allow the flower petals to steep until the mixture is cool. Then, strain the petals out of the wine.

Add the flower infusion to a pot with the sugar and lemon juice. On high heat, bring to a boil until the sugar has dissolved. Then, stir in the pectin. Bring back to a boil, stirring constantly for exactly 1 minute. Take the jelly off the heat and skim off any foam. Allow the jelly to cool slightly; then add more flower petals. Pour into sterilized jars. If petals do not stay suspended, stir jelly as it cools until petals stay in place. Process in hot water bath or seal with paraffin.

Flower Oil

1/2 to 1 cup dried flowers
1 quart vegetable oil

Put flowers and oil into a bottle. Place the bottle in a pan filled with water and simmer water gently for at least 30 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Cover bottle tightly and allow the flavors to infuse for at least a week before using.

Use in salad dressings, marinades, hot pasta, stir-frying.

Flower Syrup

1 cup water
3 cups sugar
1/2 to 1 cup flower petals, whole or crushed

Boil the water, sugar, and flowers for 10 minutes, or until thickened into syrup. Using a cheesecloth, strain into a jar. Keeps up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Can be added to iced tea or poured over pancakes.

Another idea: Try freezing petals in ice cube trays filled with water for a unique addition to your favorite lemonade or iced tea!

Jennifer Wickes is a food writer, recipe developer, and award winning cook. For more of recipes visit: http://jenawix.wordpress.com

There are three colors that cauliflower may be: white, green, and purple. (Olga Nayashkova/Photos.com)

Cauliflower is part of the cabbage family. “Caulis” means stalk, and “floris” means flower. There are three colors that cauliflower may be: white, green, and purple. To select cauliflower, choose firm heads with compact flowers. The leaves should be crisp with no yellow on the leaves. The entire head is edible—both leaves and florets.

To prepare, simply wash and cut the cauliflower before eating or cooking. Cauliflower can be boiled, baked, or sautéed. Refrigerate raw for 3 to 5 days. After it is cooked, refrigerate up to 3 days. Adding 1 teaspoon of lemon juice to the cooking
water will help maintain the crisp color.

Cauliflower Salad
Makes 6 servings

    1 cauliflower, cored
    1/2 cup olive oil
    2 teaspoons garlic, minced
    3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
    1/2 cup black olives, cured, diced
    1/2 cup red onion, diced
    1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
    3 tablespoons capers (in brine), drained

Separate the cauliflower into small florets. Rinse well in cold water and drain. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the florets until al dente, about 5 minutes. Drain and place them on a towel to drain.

Pour the olive oil over the cauliflower and toss to coat well. Add all the remaining ingredients and toss to mix well. Let the salad marinate for several hours at room temperature, stirring occasionally, before serving.

Cream of Cauliflower Soup
Makes 6 servings

    2 1/2 cups cold water
    10 ounces canned low-sodium chicken broth
    6 cups cauliflower, florets
    1/3 cup instant nonfat dry milk
    1 tablespoon flour
    1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    1/4 teaspoon white pepper
    Fresh parsley, minced
    Lemon wedges

Combine water and broth in a large saucepan; bring to a boil. Add cauliflower; return to a boil. Reduce heat and cook 10 minutes or until tender. Remove cauliflower from broth, reserving broth.

With knife blade in processor, add cauliflower. Pulse 8 to 10 times or until cauliflower is finely chopped, but not puréed. Combine milk powder, flour, nutmeg, and pepper; add to reserved broth, stirring well with a wire whisk.

Add chopped cauliflower and bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer 15 minutes or until slightly thickened.

Ladle soup into 6 individual bowls; garnish with minced parsley if desired. Serve with lemon wedges.

Iberian Cauliflower
Makes 6 servings

    1 cauliflower, trimmed
    1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
    2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, strained
    3 tablespoons olive oil
    1/4 cup garlic, very finely minced
    1/8 teaspoon cayenne
    1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

In a large saucepot, combine cauliflower, salt, lemon juice, and water to cover cauliflower, over a moderate flame. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for 15 minutes, until tender-crisp. Remove from heat, drain well.

Jennifer A. Wickes is a freelance food writer and cookbook reviewer. She has been featured in several publications such as Cooking Pleasures magazine and Ernest and Julio Gallo’s Turning Leaf wine pamphlet.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Stuffed eggplant topped with Parmesan cheese. (Hemera Technologies/Photos.com)

I try to use seasonal ingredients in our recipes, but for some reason, eggplant flies under my “seasonal radar” and I find myself using it year round.

Eggplant—sautéed, roasted, or stuffed and baked—is ubiquitous in antipasto and main courses in restaurants throughout Italy. Although it is served warm or hot, it is served at room temperature just as often, and this recipe lends itself to either choice.

This is a light meatless lunch or dinner; sliced across into small servings, it is a great addition to an appetizer platter. I chose typical stuffing ingredients, but others, such as chopped mushrooms, caramelized onion, or sautéed pancetta, bacon, or crumbled sausage could be added.

This dish, I’m sure, is prepared in frugal Italian kitchens using stale bread and whatever is available, so feel free to improvise. To ensure freshness, select shiny, firm eggplants and look for the green stem ends to have hard, needle-like spikes.

Makes 4 servings

    2 large eggplants
    1 1/2 cup fresh breadcrumbs*
    1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, plus extra for drizzling
    1/3 cup fresh lemon juice
    1 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan, Pecorino Romano, or Asiago cheese, plus extra for the table
    1 1/2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
    1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil, chopped
    1/2 cup pitted, chopped oil-cured black olives
    1 red bell pepper, sliced and finely chopped (substitute jarred roasted red peppers)
    1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
    1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
    1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
    3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
    Kosher or sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

* 1- to 2-day-old crusty bread whirled in food processor until approximately 1/4 inch in size. Commercial Panko crumbs work, as well.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Remove stems and slice eggplants lengthwise. With a spoon (a grapefruit spoon works well), remove flesh and seeds, leaving behind the firmer flesh under the skin. If there are large brown seeds, separate them and discard.

Coarsely chop remaining flesh and set aside. Lightly salt eggplant shells and rub each with 1/2 teaspoon of the lemon juice.

Place breadcrumbs into a bowl and mix with the olive oil; add cheese and mix well. Add chopped eggplant, the remaining lemon juice, and the remaining ingredients; toss to mix. Taste, adding salt and pepper as needed.

Divide filling among eggplant halves and drizzle olive oil over filling. Lightly oil a shallow baking pan and add 1/4 inch warm water. Place eggplant into pan and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 30 to 40 minutes until thickest part of eggplant is softened.

Increase oven to 450 F, remove foil cover, and cook until tops are browned.

Charlie Burke is a writer, an organic farmer, and avid cook. For more articles and recipes visit: www.TheHeartofNewEngland.com

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

(Courtesy of Belinda Albo)

Lighting is a surefire way to add excitement to an interior. Proper lighting affects a room’s mood—and yours. Here are a few illuminating ideas to brighten up your room’s dark corners.

When choosing the appropriate lamp for a room, you must first determine the purpose of the lamp. Does it need to provide the main, general light for the room, or is it just used for task and ambient purposes? (For instance, reading or for adding soft light in dark corners).

Different lights offer various intensities of light power. Some lamps are tri-lights, which give you three different levels of light to choose from. The light can be very bright or adjusted to give off a soft glow.

Choosing a Lamp

The shade and style of the lamp should also reflect the decor. Modern interiors look best with silver/chrome finishes and white cotton unpleated shades. More traditional rooms set the stage for antique gold finishes or vase-shaped bases that have a pleated or bell-shaped shade.

(Courtesy of Belinda Albo)

If you are looking for a lamp to place on a low side table by a sofa or chair for reading, a longer neck variety works best. This way the light can shine down onto your reading surface. For table lamps, a good rule to follow is: the distance from the bottom of the shade to the floor should be anywhere from 36” to 42” off the ground. The total size of the light should also compliment the room in scale. If the side table is small, use a smaller scale lamp, or use wall surface lights.

Lamps that have a shorter neck or body work best if you are placing it on a higher surface that is 48” off the ground or more. If the lamp stem is too long, you will be looking directly underneath the shade, which is what you want to avoid.

Bella Design Tips (Lighting)

Chandeliers

The recommended height when installing a chandelier over a table in the dining room or breakfast area (assuming the ceiling is 8’ high) is to hang the fixture 30” higher for every additional foot.

The dimensions of the fixture are also important to examine. A quick way to select a suitable diameter of a chandelier is take the width of the room in feet, double this figure and call it inches. Bear in mind, the diameter of the chandelier should be no greater than the width of your table.

Table Lamps

Make sure that the lampshade width is no bigger than the table it sits on. Otherwise, it is easy to knock the lamp off the table. For a bedroom side table, the bottom of the lampshade should be even with your shoulder when you are sitting up in bed. The shade should be approximately 20” from the top of the mattress.

Floor Lamps

A floor lamp is known as the room’s exclamation point. The taller the lamp the more space it needs around it.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Casa Marina's Toes in the Sand. A private dinner served on the shore. (Courtesy of Casa Marina Resort)

From cliché to chic, a weekend getaway in Key West and Miami Beach mixes it up like a colorful cocktail.

The Keys, a small archipelago of islands off the southern tip of Florida, came to fame when American railroad tycoon Henry Flagler built his Overseas Railroad (a rich man’s folly) at the turn of the 20th century, followed by Ernest Hemingway—who brought his wife and a six-toed cat to Key West—in 1931, and again in 1948 when Hollywood director John Huston filmed Key Largo starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall.

Miami Beach, on the other hand, is a pulsating hub for an international class of tourists who come craving food (a melting pot of different cuisines), art (this particular section of the city is a must-see destination for original Art Deco architecture), and fun (in all price ranges).

You’ll find both places are not afraid to show off their local color.

Key West—the southernmost island and “end point” of the United States—is reachable by a three-hour car ride from Miami, or quicker yet, by plane. Laid back and casual, the island has a hippie, almost Coney Island, kind of vibe. Adjectives like slick and cosmopolitan won’t be of any use to describe Key West.

Ignore the Jimmy Buffett “Margaritaville” franchise on touristy Duval Street and instead take off on side streets where you can explore an island landscape dominated by well-kept cottages, and lush flowering bushes and trees.

The recently renovated Waldorf Astoria resort Casa Marina, originally opened on New Year’s Eve in 1920. Henry Flagler built it for the passengers of his Overseas Railroad, which spanned from Key West to mainland Florida. Most of the railway can still be seen running alongside most of Route 1 into Key West.

Dining by the shore at Casa Marina. (Courtesy of Casa Marina Resort)

An exquisite finale to a day of sightseeing and tooling around the island is Casa Marina’s signature Toes in the Sand dinner, which is literally having a private dinner served to you on the shore. Start with a Diver Scallop, followed by Island Conch Chowder, Rock Lobster, and dessert. Here’s the best part: You’re on the beach, sitting comfortably at a candlelit table, being served a gourmet dinner of wonderfully fresh seafood, with the moon and twinkling stars overhead, and there is no rush to go anywhere.

If you’re heading back to Miami during the day, then make a stop for an authentic diner breakfast at The Deli. A Key West landmark since 1950, it’s where mingling hippies, artists, pirates, locals, and tourists go for affordable, home-cooked meals. It’s also the home of the original Key Lime Pie.

Despite the Art Deco feel of Miami Beach, you’ll be jolted back to modern times once you reach the mainland. In the district, living walls engulf parking garages as a clever concealment. Up and down Ocean and Collins avenues is a parade of not only spruced-up Art Deco buildings, but also pedestrians. Nearly every hotel along these two avenues promotes its own sidewalk cafe.

Continued on next page: The spot for drinks and dinner in Miami Beach …

Olympic gold medal sailor Ben Ainslie is the first London 2012 torchbearer. He sets off from the famous Land's End sign post. (Matt Cardy/Stringer/Getty Images Sport)

The 2012 Olympic flame, flown into Cornwall from Athens on Friday, May 18, will travel 8,000 miles and be carried by a succession of 8,000 nominated torchbearers on its 70-day relay around the four nations of the UK.

Thousands of excited onlookers turned out to greet the iconic flame following its arrival by special British Airways flight into the Royal Naval Air Station at Culdrose, to mark the start of a journey that will end in London’s Olympic stadium on July 27th.

People came of their own accord to see the passage of the flame that had already travelled 2,000 miles around Greece after it was ignited in Athens on May 10, before being handed to Princess Anne on May 17.

The next day, Princess Anne, who flew from Greece with the flame, carried it in a lantern from the BA plane to David Beckham who, via a London torch, lit a cauldron on the tarmac to mark its historic arrival in Britain.

The 10-week journey that commenced at the globally recognised Land’s End sign post will pass through all kinds of terrain on myriad forms of transport before its climax at the games’ opening ceremony.

Spirit and Legend
But why does the Olympic flame always fascinate people everywhere each time it starts its journey? The answer may be found in the historic symbolism of the conveyance of fire going way back and penetrating deep into a central theme of Greek legend. According to myth, the Titan god Prometheus stole fire from Zeus who had hidden it from Man. He gave it back to them, thereby bringing light to their darkness. Interestingly, the original relay race batons were actual torches symbolising the passing of fire from gods to man.

The myth epitomises the hope for an earthly civilisation that benefits mankind through human achievement in harmony with the elemental forces within nature. Maybe it’s not surprising that contemporary people, careworn by a crumbling global economy, the inadequacies of party politics, and the plethora of worries that can dog modern life, are ready to be uplifted by an atmosphere focusing on something more spiritual and idealistic.

Neither does it seem like a coincidence that church forums have organised a “prayer relay” to shadow the torch’s route at 70 overnight stop locations along its path.

Indeed there are instances from other recent torch relays that show that people will even use the event itself to stand up against the tide for something higher. One notable instance was the disruption to the Beijing Olympic torch relay, which was stopped, suppressing publicity for the objections of protesters.

Objectors were highlighting the hypocrisy of a government in apparent economic ascendancy over the rest of the world hosting the games while continuing to commit shocking human rights atrocities. This shamed the Chinese regime, who were seen by many to be contradicting the ethos of good-natured competition and humanistic fair play.

This general identification with idealism is further illustrated by people universally frowning upon the practice of using performance enhancing drugs that cheat others who have worked so hard to reach their physical peak naturally and according to agreed rules.

Peace and Fair-play
The modern public engagement in the Olympics and the fascination for the associated rituals can be traced back to the original games, which began to be held in ancient Greece in 776 BC and took place four-yearly for a thousand years. Warring cities in the region during those times stopped fighting just so that people could travel safely to the games, which celebrated beliefs in gods and acknowledged their fundamental connection to mankind.

These beliefs were not ideas but facts to people and so important that citizens obeyed the declaration of a temporary peace. While the games took place they observed a cessation of hostilities no matter what their earthly conflicts. In this there was recognition of a non-partisan and spiritual allegiance with connectedness to each other on a higher-than-worldly plane.

These ancient roots are echoed in the widespread concurrence of modern people with the ideas of tolerance and fair play that are the ethos of the modern Olympics.

The flame, lit by intensifying the rays of the sun focused onto a parabolic mirror at an ancient altar in Greece earlier this month reflects an enduring and elemental desire in people to cut out the hair splitting to-ings and fro-ings of modern politics and factional religions.

Fire, for the Greeks, epitomised the dawn of earthly civilisation. As the London Olympic flame travels Britain from the offshore islands of northern Scotland and down through the heart of the English countryside, our citizens will be reminded of the endless possibilities of human achievement to be nobly demonstrated through sport at the forthcoming Olympiad.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

If you are not craving for anywhere luxurious and far, a comfortable weekend at a bed and breakfast might be the perfect option for you. (Helena Zhu/The Epoch Times)

As the weekend (in this case, long weekend) approaches with the nice weather and all, nothing is better than a relaxing getaway that would keep you pumped up for the coming week. Below are a few affordable weekend travel ideas that do not compromise on the quality.

Bed and Breakfast

If you are not craving for anywhere luxurious and far, a comfortable weekend at a bed and breakfast might be the perfect option for you. As long as you have a car, a Zipcar card, $100 a day for a rental car, or a friend to borrow one from, you could drive down to a secluded bed and breakfast in New England or the Midwest for a relaxing May weekend that is warm enough for the swimming pool but cool enough for hot tub in the woods.

Even though some of the most popular bed and breakfast destinations could fill up fast weeks before, especially for the weekends, with careful research, you could still find nice and quiet places that start as low as $100 for two on bedandbreakfast.com and bbonline.com or type in “bed and breakfast” and the state that you intend to visit on Google.

The beauty of such trips is that you have breathtaking views and an array of outdoor activities—some of which just opened for the summer—waiting for you. And since you have a car, it is time to explore.

Festival in the Next-Door City

Tired of living wherever you are? It’s time to move—for the weekend. Many early bird music and indoor and outdoor film festivals are kicking off, but even if you cannot find a major one, try to look for smaller ones, because they are just as fun.

Like bed and breakfast, a road trip to the adjacent city gives you much freedom to plan your own itinerary. If you are a sucker for good deals, it is always an option to stop by for an hour or two at a suburban shopping outlet.

Expedia Escapes

For something a little more exotic and grand, yet wallet-friendly, you could check up booking websites such as expedia.com for last-minute deals for the weekend for hotels, flights, and cruises.

Expedia has three-star Las Vegas hotels for as low as $44 per night, New York to Orlando round trips for $188, and three-night cruises from Miami to the Bahamas for $229.

Even though that might seem a little risky if you like to plan ahead, an impromptu trip just might be mood boosting, especially if it saves you quite some dollars. Nevertheless, if you want to be on the safe side, the websites also offer deals for the weekend after.

Groupon Vacations

Maybe you have never done this before, but for multi-day faraway trips, getaway deals from Groupon, LivingSocial, and Jaunt.ca by WagJag might just be perfect for you.

If you are quite new to coupon escapes, a good way to filter out the worthy deals is to look at the number of people who purchased the deal. For a deal that only has fewer than a dozen buyers, it just might not be that great, but a five-night stay for $575 in an ocean-view room in Dominican Republic probably deserves the 390 buyers that it sold to.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

2012 Kia Rio (Courtesy Kia)

The Rio 5-door is conveniently designed to carry passengers, cargo, or a combination of both, thanks to its easily adjustable seating configuration.

The 5-door has 15.0 cubic feet of cargo volume. The 4-door sedan has 13.7 cubic feet. The 60/40 split-folding with the rear seat down increases space to 49.8 cubic feet for the 5-door. The concealed cargo cover allows you to store your valuables safely out of sight.

The cabin in the Rio is both stylish and comfortable.

The Rio comes in three trims: LX, EX, and SX. For one week I drove the Rio EX 5-door here in Texas. Then the following week for 4 days I drove the luxurious SX sedan on a journey from Miami, Florida, down the Florida Keys to Key West and back.

Both vehicles performed admirably. All three trims and 2-door designs offered the same 1.6 liter 4-cylinder aluminum block and head with 16 valves, DOHC, and Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT).

Engine hp is 138 at 6,300 rpm and torque is 123 lb-ft at 4,850 rpm. EPA fuel efficiency is 30 mpg city and 40 mpg highway. In Dallas I averaged 36 mpg, but driving in Florida I netted an average 45 mpg.

The LX is offered in a 6-speed manual and all three trims are available in the electronically controlled automatic with overdrive.

The cabin in the Rio is both stylish and comfortable. The EX and SX models feature sleek metal paint interior trim, while the SX includes refinements such as leather seat trim, and the 6-way adjustable driver’s seat makes the ride all the more comfortable.

The inside is designed so gauges are easy to read. And the Rio EX and SX have steering-mounted controls that let you conveniently operate the audio system, Bluetooth wireless technology-enabled devices, and cruise control. Power windows with one-touch automatic up and down are as easy to use as your thumps are to take flight.

Also located at the bottom on the steering wheel are the trip and reset buttons. Because of how they are positioned, both my driving partner and I kept inadvertently resetting the trip mileage button. I talked to Kia engineers and they promised to remedy that.

The two cup holders near the seats comfortable held small bottles or cans of refreshments. But cups of 16 ounces or more were doomed to spill. A 20-ounce beverage was just too much for the holders to handle.

Inside the Rio (Courtesy Kia)

Air bag and seat-belt sensors, and front seat-belt pretensioners are standard features found on all three trims. A reinforced body, tire pressure monitoring system, and a standard latch system provides lower anchors and tethers for children. Hill assists, anti-lock brakes, vehicle stability management, and traction control are additional standard safety features.

Cruising the Keys

Driving around the Florida Keys was a wonderful experience. The Rio was comfortable and offered good visibility from inside. As we crossed the channel bridges there was little cabin noise, even though the elevation would cause increased noise in most other brands.

Even an occasional sunning alligator on the roadway caused us little deterrent from our normal route.

In 1912, a train track was built from Miami to the Florida Keys to bring tourists and fishermen to small villages and fishing camps along the way, and eventually to Key West. Most of the camps are gone now, and the villages have grown with Key West, one of the most exciting places to visit.

As we drove south in the Rio, dark clouds captured us with heavy rain only to release us shortly into bright sunlight. There were only skeletal remnants of the once busy train track. You could still see some of the track in the distance now loaded up with sea birds rather than passengers, and acting as an anchor for tied-up fishing boats.

Key West is a town of excitement and energy. The Kia Rio reflected that same energy and excitement. Great restaurants were everywhere, with a trolley providing easy access to the entire town.

That night I parked in front of a restaurant called Sloppy Joe’s. I ate a platter of wonderful seafood as spectators and sidewalk pedestrians admired my Rio.

The next morning, as roosters crowed to wake me and wild cats prowled the streets and alleys seemingly to hurry me along, we started our trip back for Miami.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He can be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Bracelet by Peggy Ackerly, from the book “Messengers of Modernism.” (Montreal Museum of Decorative Arts in association with Flammarion)

Avant garde artist, goldsmith, and painter, Peggy Ackerly (Marget Dorothea Ackerly) passed away September 4, 2011 at the age of 90. Throughout her long career, she was unapologetically focused on her art. Peggy first took up the brush, studying under Jacob Lawrence at the Atlanta School of Art, then Jack Levine in New York. She continued to paint throughout her life, and displayed her work in a number of shows in New York. However, another medium would provide her livelihood and primary artistic recognition. In 1943 she began an apprenticeship to surrealistic jeweler Sam Kramer in his Greenwich Village studio on West 8th Street. Kramer’s work could best be characterized as body sculpture. Much of his and Peggy’s work was large, and frequently incorporated an array of materials previously unseen in jewelry. Precious and semi-precious stones were set in juxtaposition to ivory, coral, shell, or a human glass eye. Gold and silver would be incorporated in the same piece. All aspects of a piece were painstakingly made by hand in the studio.

Peggy and her husband Bobby became close friends with Sam and his wife Carol, spreading their time between the studio in Greenwich Village, boating, maintaining a second shop in New Hope, Pennsylvania, and vacationing on Fire Island. Bobby, who had worked on developing radar at MIT during World War II, opened a boat yard in the East Rockaway harbor. Peggy and Bobby bought a 17th century Dutch mill house beside the marina in East Rockaway, where they would raise their daughter, Morgan. All of their lives revolved around the two very immersing communities: art and boating. Peggy worked with Kramer until his death in 1964, and continued to work with Carol Kramer in the studio until Peggy and Bobby separated and she left New York for Atlanta, where she had been raised and her mother still lived.

In 1968 she opened Goldbrick Jewelry on Roswell Road in the Buckhead section of Atlanta, where she would design and sell her creations up through her 81st year, in 2002. The work Peggy created in Atlanta was far more subdued than the wild, masculine, beatnik art that burst out of the Kramer studio. Her work became feminine and emphasized the beauty of the metal and stones. She gleaned the name of her studio shop from a facetious crack by her friend, Dick Monroe, a theater prop designer. To commemorate the naming of the her studio, Dick fabricated an enormous gold bullion from fiberglass for Peggy, which remained a permanent fixture in her shop. It may seem hard to imagine now, but very few women in 1960’s Atlanta had pierced ears. That was a bit of a problem, because Peggy designed her earrings to be attached with posts. To overcome this obstacle, Peggy pierced her customers ears for a modest fee. She frequently claimed that none of her customer’s ears had ever become infected from being pierced because she pierced them with a sharpened gold post which had been soldered properly (no lead solder) and she used hydrogen peroxide to prepare the ear. She ran her business with a confidence that made it appear effortless. Goldbrick was a small shop, with a pair of jeweler’s work benches and a few display cases. All of the jewelry on display was designed and made by Peggy. It was always a cheerful place with friends, artists, stone dealers, and customers dropping by to visit or talk about orders. Peggy loved visits to the point that breaking off a conversation with her was something of an acquired skill. While that may give you the impression that the name Goldbrick was more accurate than facetious, the constant stream of conversation was maintained while incessantly working, a lit Benson & Hedges cigarette dangling from her lips. By opening Goldbrick Jewelry, Peggy transplanted the concept Kramer had developed in Greenwich Village to Atlanta. It must be remembered that the Atlanta of 1965 was very dissimilar to the Atlanta of 2012. This concept was entirely new to the south, and she ran the business effectively. In 1972, Peggy bought a small brick duplex on 9th Street for $18,000, which would be her home until she could no longer live independently in the early 2000’s. She sold the duplex for $225,000.

Peggy Ackerly's jeweller's hallmark.

A story that Peggy would be disappointed if I didn’t mention, took place sometime in the 1980’s or 90’s. My memory was that it was probably in the late 80’s, but a curator at the Boston Museum of Fine Art thinks the incident occurred after the printing of Messengers of Modernism (Montreal, 1996). Regardless, one day, a couple of guys from Chicago visited Goldbrick. They explained to Peggy that they were very interested in the large body art pieces that she and the Kramers designed in the 1940’s and 50’s. They asked her to replicate a number of pieces she had designed at the Kramer Studio for them. Peggy was very excited that she was being asked to construct the large complicated pieces again, and readily complied. What the visitors didn’t mention, was that they had ordered a copy of Sam Kramer’s hallmark stamp from a toolmaker and intended to stamp the pieces with Kramer’s hallmark, and sell the art as originating from the Kramer Studio. By this time, jewelry designed in the Kramer Studio, which had always been considered art, was becoming quite valuable. This, of course, was a rather unusual art forgery scheme, in that, the orchestrators were paying the artist who had originally designed the work, to replicate the work, with the element of fraud being limited to the use of a forged hallmark. For Peggy’s obituary, I went to the FBI website to see how difficult it would be to search the archives for this case. The process seemed pretty daunting, so we are left in the dark for further details. However, when the FBI contacted Peggy after uncovering the fraud, she was more than flattered that her work had been forged and loved telling the story.

A jeweler’s hallmark consists of a symbol which identifies the artist who creates a piece. The symbol is cut into the end of a steel bar, which is struck with a hammer to leave the impression of the symbol in the jeweler’s work. It’s basically a signature. Traditionally, apprentices mark their work with the hallmark of the jeweler they work under. So, Peggy’s work between 1943 and when she left New York for Atlanta, around 1967, is marked with Kramer’s hallmark, which was a mushroom profile surrounded by a circle. When Peggy opened Goldbrick Jewelry in Atlanta in 1968, she adopted as her hallmark a capital “A” overlayed a capital “M”.

Most gold and silver work begins as a wax model that is subsequently cast in metal. Very few smiths work directly in gold or silver. Peggy worked directly in metal, sawing and beating gold and silver until it delivered her vision. Her knowledge of the properties of metal and gems was thorough. Her concepts of design, negative and positive space, were those of a true master. Whether setting stones in prongs or bezels, her work was beautifully executed. Although her designs were unquestionably abstract, she insisted that an artist must first master classical concepts before venturing into abstruse ideas.

Born on a family sheep ranch near Chugwater, Wyoming in 1921, Peggy was the epitome of the self reliant American. Her mother, Marget Dorothea Wallace of Philadelphia, an early proponent of women’s suffrage, ingrained in her the self confidence that enabled her to pursue her art and ignore the expectations of others.

Peggy is survived by her daughter, Morgan Ackerly; her sister-in-law, Mrs. G.R. Phillips Sr.; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Napkin rings fashioned from old jewellery. (CHT Media)

Dear Marc:
I clip and save your column from the newspaper each week. I have old earrings in various styles that I don’t wear anymore. Could I repurpose these in a design project?
Kim

Dear Kim:
Jewellery makes a great supply for repurposing projects. Whether it’s your old “hoop” earrings or a broach, these can be used in building fantastic napkin rings for those posh summer dinner parties you have been itching to plan.

I’m currently in the process of planning a beautiful garden party and I can assure you that such an event doesn’t have to break the bank.

For instance, does your patio furniture look like it’s in need of a little TLC or a swift kick to the curb? Not a problem. For the table, cover it up with a nice table cloth, and put solid-coloured pillowcases on the chairs. To make great pillowcase chair covers, simply slip the pillowcase over the back of the chair, scrunch the material mid-back, and clip a broach or large-scale earring in the middle of the chair’s back.

Now come the finishing touches. Let’s create some fabulous napkin rings for the table setting.

Supplies:
-- Metal hoop earrings
-- Large-scale round or square solid earrings
-- Hot glue gun
-- Pliers
-- Rubbing Alcohol

Step 2: Apply glue to the back of the large earring and adhere it to the hoop earring. (CHT Media)

Step 1: Wash the earrings in rubbing alcohol. Remove the “pin” from the back of the large earring.

Step 2: Apply glue to the back of the large earring and adhere it to the hoop earring.

Marc Atiyolil is a celebrity designer, the Editor-in-Chief of Home Trends Magazine, a design expert on CTV, and the host of the Marc Atiyolil Show on www.MarcAtiyolil.com. Catch Season 2 every Thursday at 2pm. To submit a question, visit www.MarcAtiyolil.com

COPYRIGHT 2012 -- Marc Atiyolil Media Inc.

Queen Elizabeth II during a visit to the Chelsea Flower Show at Royal Hospital Chelsea on May 21, in London. (Lefteris Pitarakis/WPA Pool /Getty Images)

Queen Elizabeth II wore her characteristic broad smile as she previewed the 99th annual Chelsea Flower Show in London on Monday, May 21.

Wearing a lilac coat, pearl jewellery, and a tulle headpiece with a black flower motif, she beamed at the lush colours of the varied gardens and display stands that were vying for the judges’ medals on the following day.

Also pursuing future medals were Olympic fencers James Honeybone and Alex O’Connell, who demonstrated their skills for the Queen in full Team GB fencing kit with masks striped with the red, white, and blue of the UK flag.

After smiling at their cut and thrust routine, the Queen talked to the athletes.

The Daily Mail reported O’Connell, 24, to have said: “She asked whether it got hot and whether it was hard work.

“She spoke about the flower show and said she had heard that fencing was up and coming.

“She also said for the girls it was quite a ladylike sport and made a little fencing gesture with her hand.”

It is the first time that fencing has been in Ranelagh Gardens for 70 years, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).

The fencers were sparring in an exhibit entitled “Duel and Crown” by Hillier Nurseries and Garden Centre from the South of England.

Hillier Nurseries won gold on Tuesday for the 67th year in a row.

The Nurseries have another connection with the Olympics as the company has supplied nearly 4,000 British-grown trees to the Olympic Park for London 2012.

Their Chelsea Flower Show display was one of a number of exhibits referring to the Queen’s patronage of the show run by the RHS -- and to the celebration of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, which will take place around the extended weekend of June 2nd-5th.

There was an exhibit from the Parish of St Helier Gardens in Jersey displaying the words THE QUEEN’S DIAMOND JUBILEE in capitals in shades of green. On top was a four-sided revolving facsimile of the £2 Jersey stamp showing the Queen’s profile.

There was also a shrub rose called “Royal Jubilee” (“Ausparade”), which the RHS website states has thornless stems and “produces rounded, globular, deep-pink blooms in large clusters which, when fully open, display golden stamens in the centre of the flower. Fragrance is fruity, resembling blackcurrant tea.”

As Patron of the RHS, the Queen has attended previews regularly for over 40 years.
The Press Day on the first Monday is followed by two private views for RHS members. It is open to the public until Saturday, May 26, when bargains can be had as many participants begin to dismantle their exhibits.

The aim of the exhibitions is “to encourage amateur gardeners of all standards to try to achieve similar displays in their own gardens”, according to the British Monarchy website.

Many exhibits cost thousands of pounds and are sponsored by various companies like insurers Beazley, which sponsors the British Fencing team and has operations in Europe, the United States, Asia, and Australia.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Try making your own salad dressings. (Photos.com)

It probably might not occur to you to try to make your own salad dressings. You would be surprised at how many different types of salad dressings you can make from ingredients that you already have on hand. They are easy to prepare, and you can’t beat the taste. Try one of these recipes and you won’t go back to store-bought salad dressings again!

Creamy Garlic and Dill Dressing

• 1 cup milk 
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped 
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 
• 1 cup mayonnaise 
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh dill weed 
• Salt and freshly ground pepper

Blend milk, parsley, and garlic in a blender until smooth. Pour milk mixture into a bowl and add mayonnaise, dill weed, salt, and pepper. Whisk until blended.

Fresh Basil Dressing

• 1 3/4 cups olive oil 
• 1 handful fresh basil leaves, chopped 
• Juice of 1 lemon 
• Salt and pepper

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Asian Dressing

• 1/4 cup vegetable oil 
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil 
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar

Combine oils. Add remaining ingredients and mix well.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

• 1/2 cup olive oil 
• 1 teaspoon sugar 
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar 
• 1 garlic clove, minced 
• Salt and freshly ground pepper

Blend ingredients, mixing well.

Ranch Dressing

• 2 teaspoons onion, minced 
• 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley 
• 1 cup mayonnaise 
• 1 cup buttermilk

In a medium-size bowl, mix together mayonnaise and buttermilk. Stir in remaining ingredients.

Cucumber Dressing

• 3 medium cucumbers 
• 2 small onions 
• 1/4 cup sugar 
• 1/4 cup lemon juice 
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 
• 1 quart mayonnaise

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Process cucumbers and onions in a food processor. Stir in sugar, lemon juice, garlic powder, and Worcestershire sauce. In a medium-size bowl, combine cucumber mixture and mayonnaise.

Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and author of “What’s for Dinner?”—an e-cookbook containing more than 250 quick easy dinner ideas. For more recipes, gardening, organizing tips, and home decorating, visit: Creativehomemaking.com

2012 Nissan Versa. (Courtesy of NetCarShow.com)

There are many parts of the Nissan Versa sedan that leave much to be desired, but for some lovers of the Japanese brand, it may be the perfect combination of large car space and small car price.

The question is, is that enough to overcome the frumpy styling and sub-class interior?

I’ll say this for sure: I like the new Versa much better than the previous one. I’ve driven many. The old car drove well enough, but the overlapping plastic planks that comprised the dashboard top clunked together and rattled at every bump. However, the interior was always roomy and the styling was pleasant enough—two attributes that carry over to the new car.

Inside, what you notice first is the cavernous rear seat space. This is a compact car, competing with subcompacts at the lowest end of the market, flaunting legroom that would challenge a Lincoln Town Car. Versa’s large dome roof accommodates four passengers easily while its trunk, tucked under a high deck, embarrasses many mid-size sedans.

Besides air room, it was easy to appreciate the 6-way manually-adjustable front driver’s seat, cruise control, power windows, CD player, USB iPod input, Bluetooth, large front and rear cup holders, and silver trim on the instrument panel.

What will not win the Versa rave reviews are the uncountable plastic panels that make you feel like you’re on an amusement park ride. Even the door armrests are hard plastic! Everything looks good, but everything you touch is tougher than Tupperware. Dodge tried the same strategy with the Caliber, offering a roomy cavern filled with plastic, and it fell flat on hard surfaces.

Outside, styling is modern and fluid, but not particularly elegant.

The stubby nose and long, aero C-pillars that flow into the trunk lid are great for maneuvering and slick aerodynamics (0.31 drag coefficient), but don’t make the most handsome car. It’s not as elegant as other streamliners, and while the drag coefficient is good, it is far from class-leading. Our test vehicle came in bright blue paint, which I actually liked. Hubcaps looked fine.

Good Fuel Economy

Under the flowing curves is a 109 hp 1.6-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine that had no problem launching onto freeways and maintaining 80mph. Connected to a continuously-variable transmission (CVT), the engine delivers 30/38-MPG city/hwy—most excellent given the generous passenger space.

There will be no racing a 370Z, but that’s not the point. This car is all about space and efficiency for the dollar. On that measure, it exceeds expectations.

Handling is on par with the engine—adequate, but not invigorating. A compliant suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars absorbs the rough stuff, settles nicely on the Interstate, and can manage its way through on-ramp curves.

I would not suggest heaving it through mountain switchbacks with much enthusiasm because you’ll come out with tires pleading for mercy. Driven sensibly, the 15” wheels do a great job of balancing comfort and handling.

“This new Versa Sedan, a ‘clean sheet’ ground-up design, takes small cars in a new direction, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice style for affordability, interior roominess for a smaller footprint, or drivability for high mpg.”

That’s mostly true. Compromises were made, but most buyers won’t care. With the new Versa, they’ll get a comfy car that doesn’t break the bank. While you can get a Versa for an unbelievably low $10,990, our test car came with a $15,840 sticker—still a great bargain.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

You need to consider a typical work day in the kitchen.

Map out the activities and tasks you do and plan accordingly. The key is to design your kitchen to work for you on a day-to-day basis.

Determine your needs and make a wish list of considerations. Organize and write it out so you don’t forget anything.

The Plan for Action

You need to be aware of the physical limitations and restraints of the existing space.

Look carefully at the room to see how it functions and what is behind the walls.

You might find that the adjacent room will provide you with better planning potential. Moving a wall a few feet out can make a big difference. By simply repositioning some items like an air register, plumbing, or a window, the needed space may now be made available.

If you have limited storage space, have your cabinets installed to the ceiling. As a rule of thumb, if you can’t build out, build up.

 Keep Your Cool

The fridge and pantry are your main storage areas and are typically located at the end of a counter run and near the eating area.

Tall units such as a pantry, a wall oven cabinet, or fridge should never be placed in the middle of a counter run because it interrupts a functional continuous work surface.

Allow a minimum of 15” of space on the hinge side of the fridge.

A well-planned storage area keeps countertops clutter-free and manageable.

The Cleaning Factor

This area consists of your sink, dishwasher, and trash locations. You need an area for stacking dishes and cups so cleaning will be a breeze.

Since the sink is the most used appliance in the kitchen, consider the view and try to allow at least 18” of counter space on both sides.

To make your kitchen function smoothly, try to minimize the distance between the sink and the cooking area. If you have the space, a second sink can be a big help.

To cut down on costs, avoid complicated or long plumbing lines.

Plan Your Appliances

Once you have laid out a plan with convenient locations for appliances, consider the position of the hinge side of the appliances.

Test door and cupboard swings as well as the opening of your fridge, stove, and dishwasher to see if you have allowed enough space. You don’t want your oven door to bang into your island.

The Basic Ingredients

Once you are closer to completing a plan that works for you, consider some accessory options like a wine fridge, slide-out shelves, spice inserts, deep pot drawers, adjustable interior shelves, plate racks, and appliance garage, just to name a few.

A wine rack above the fridge or in a small corner is a great way to maximize on hard-to-reach places, while a movable island is great if floor space is tight.

These sample 1/4-inch scale templates can help you explore endless layout possibilities so you can turn your kitchen plans into reality.

To try one, contact Design Studio today!

BELINDA ALBO of Design Studio Inc. is a professional interior designer with over 14 years experience in both residential and commercial design. She is the author of “Home Furniture Planner” and “Kitchen and Bathroom Planner” and the design editor of “The Home Advisor.” Design Studio is a full-service interior design agency that produces permit drawings and specifications for the entire home.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

The ultimate chocolate cake. (Photos.com)

Most of the time, I bake cakes for birthdays only. But on occasion, I’ll make one just because I am worth it! When our family members have birthdays, they almost always request a chocolate cake. Here are my favorite chocolate cake recipes.

Chocolate Chip Pudding Cake

This has to be my all-time favorite chocolate cake. It is a bit rich, but if you like chocolate, it’s for you.

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Makes 12 servings

1. 1 box chocolate cake mix, any brand
2. 3 ounces chocolate pudding mix, instant
3. 12 ounces chocolate chips
4. 1 3/4 cups milk
5. 2 eggs

Mix ingredients well and pour into prepared Bundt pan. Bake for 1 hour at 325 F. Dust with powdered sugar.

Blush Cake

I like this cake because it is unusual and it’s one additional way to use our beets from the garden!

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

Makes 12 servings

1. 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2. 1 cup sugar
3. 1/4 cup cocoa powder
4. 1 teaspoon baking powder
5. 2 large eggs
6. 1/2 cup red beets, cooked and grated
7. 1 1/2 tablespoon honey
8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
9. 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted
10. 1/4 cup milk

Cream Cheese Frosting

1. 3 ounces cream cheese
2. 1 tablespoon milk
3. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4. 2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

Combine flour, sugar, cocoa, and baking powder in a large bowl. Set aside.

With an electric mixer, beat eggs, beets, honey, vanilla, butter, and milk in another bowl. Add dry ingredients to egg mixture and beat on medium speed for 2 minutes.

Pour into greased 8-inch square cake pan. Bake at 350 F for about 40 minutes.

To make frosting: Blend cream cheese with milk and vanilla. Gradually add sugar. Beat until smooth. If too thick, add more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time. When cake has cooled completely, spread on frosting.

The Ultimate Chocolate Cake

This is a very moist and delicious cake.

Preheat oven 350 degree F.

Makes 12 servings

1. 2 cups unsifted flour
2. 2/3 cup cocoa
3. 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
4. 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
5. 1 2/3 cups sugar
6. 4 eggs
7. 1 teaspoon vanilla
8. 1 cup mayonnaise
9. 1 1/3 cups water

Grease and flour bottoms of two 9-inch layer cake pans. Mix first four ingredients; set aside.

In a large bowl with mixer at high speed, beat the next three ingredients 3 minutes or until light and fluffy. At low speed, beat in mayonnaise. Add flour mixture in four additions alternately with water, beginning and ending with flour. Pour into pans.

Bake in a 350 F oven for 30–35 minutes or until cake tester inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes. Remove; cool on racks. Frost.

Hot Fudge Cake

This cake is actually low in fat. You would never know by tasting it, though.

Preheat oven 350 to degrees F.

Makes 9 servings

1. 1 cup all-purpose flour
2. 3/4 cup sugar
3. 6 tablespoons cocoa, divided
4. 2 teaspoons baking powder
5. 1/4 teaspoon salt
6. 1/2 cup milk
7. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
8. 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
9. 1 cup packed brown sugar
10. 1 3/4 cup hot water
11. Whipped cream or ice cream, optional

In a medium bowl, combine flour, sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa, baking powder, and salt. Stir in the milk, oil, and vanilla until smooth.

Bake at 350 F for 35–40 minutes. Serve warm. Top with whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

GRIMM juice ( minus the beets) and the glove worn on set as a medical examiner extra. (Kurt Winner)

Most folks here in Portland, Ore., are fans of the first-year NBC television series “Grimm” filmed on location in and around Portland; many residents have been extras in the fantasy police drama. In April, I got this email: Casting you as extra (police or medical) for “Grimm” episode 21 filming in the morning. Come to set with your makeup done.

Of course, I was excited since I have never done anything like this. I had just returned from a week working in Las Vegas—not playing the tables, but reviewing the benefits at the Canyon Ranch Spa in the Venetian and Palazzo Hotels. I’m no “girly-girl,” but I enjoyed incredible facials, water therapy, massage, pampering, and spa cuisine at Canyon Ranch while staying in an Italianate suite at the Palazzo. But it was at the Spa Cafe that I discovered “the juice.”

Canyon Ranch SpaClub in Las Vegas has both a wonderful intimate grill and a quick-bite cafe serving breakfast, snacks, and lunch. I could live there surrounded by healthy fare like SpaClub Veggie Stir Fry, Tofudilla quesadilla topped with jalapeño cucumber relish, or cashew butter on freshly baked banana bread that Executive Chef James Boyer whips up.

But I was smitten by the freshly squeezed juices. When offered a choice of orange, apple, carrot, cranberry, grapefruit, ginger, and beet, I simply said, “Yes.” Every day, I drank my special juice concoction. And each day my skin looked better, slowly developing a fresh, dewy glow.

In Portland on the morning of the “Grimm” shoot, I carefully applied my makeup and thought that I looked the best that I had in years. On the set, the assistant director looked me over and made me medical examiner in my scene.

Subsequently, I had more film time with detectives Nick and Hank, the lead characters, than the rest of the “background” players. Of course, for most of the shot, my fresh face had a camera in front of it as I was directed to photograph the Bigfoot lying dead at the base of a tree. Well, that’s show biz.

“Grimm” has just two episodes left to air this season, and my episode titled “Big Feet” airs this Friday at 9 p.m. on NBC. Shooting begins next month for season 2, so I’ll simply wait for a call back. Somebody dies in each episode, so they’ll always need a medical examiner, right?

Until then, I’ll drink my Canyon Ranch-inspired combo of vegetables, herbs, and fruit. I’ve also added a shot of wheat grass and now call it my “Grimm” Juice!

I use a home juice extractor. You can use any machine that will take whole fruits and veggies and break them down into a juice. Not all of them can break down wheat grass or ginger, so read the labels. Don’t store juice; always make it fresh to get the nutrients. Use organic ingredients only.

“Grimm” Juice
Makes 1 serving

1. 1 apple
2. 1 orange, peeled
3. 2 carrots
4. Quarter-size slice of fresh ginger
5. 1 beet
6. 1/4 cup fresh cranberries
7. Handful of wheat grass (trim tops off plant, no roots)
8. Sprig of mint

Michelle Winner is a freelance writer, travel editor, and photographer. For more information, visit: www.culinarytraveler.com

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Seared scallops topped over a fresh green salad. (Photos.com)

Have you ever tried frying scallops, only to have them exude a milky liquid that prevents their browning? The resulting pale and unpalatable scallops have been soaked in a preservative that extends their shelf life and, incidentally, increases their weight by 10 to 20 percent.

To ensure that you are getting fresh scallops, which are probably harvested locally, ask for either “diver’s scallops” or “fresh-packed scallops.”

The former are hand-harvested by divers, are large, and usually end up in high-end restaurants; the latter previously were available only in select fish markets but are now frequently found in supermarkets. Both are unadulterated and worth the extra cost.

This dish celebrates fresh New England seafood and delicious greens. If you haven’t done so, try different greens such as arugula, radicchio, mustards, and mesclun mixes in addition to fresh lettuce. Mix and match—they all work in this recipe and in any salad with an assertive vinaigrette. This is a “fall-back” recipe in our house whenever we’re looking for a tasty, light lunch to serve visiting friends.

Makes 4 servings

1 pound scallops, muscular attachment removed
Cornmeal and flour for dredging (1/4 cup corn meal to 3/4 cup flour)
Salt, pepper, and cayenne to taste
6 cups mixed greens
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard

For Vinaigrette:

Whisk together lemon juice, oil, and mustard; add salt and pepper to taste. Toss with greens immediately before serving.

To Prepare Scallops:

Heat a heavy sauté or fry pan over high heat and film with canola oil. Add salt, pepper, and cayenne to flour mix and lightly coat both flat surfaces of scallops.

Cook scallops on one side until nearly opaque, resulting in one side’s being nicely browned. Turn briefly to complete cooking. Remove individual scallops as they become opaque and spring back when pressed.

Serve over the greens with crusty bread and a slightly acidic wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Sancerre from France.

Charlie Burke, an organic farmer and avid cook, is the vice president of the New Hampshire Farmer’s Market Association. For more recipes, visit: www.theheartofnewengland.com

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

It was like watching an exciting parade—more glamorous than the Oscars.

Gold and tangerine were popular colors of the evening, making for a very colorful event.

Spring’s breakout hue for lips—a soft and natural nude—was spotted on several A-list celebrities. It is the perfect choice for those who don’t want their lip color to compete with an elaborate or brightly colored gown. See it worn well by Kristen Bell and Nina Dobrev.

The event was titled “Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations” for the Costume Institute’s new exhibition honoring Miuccia Prada and Elsa Schiaparelli. Anna Wintour, who is the editor of Vogue magazine, designer Miuccia Prada, and actress Carey Mulligan chaired the fete.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

Honda Motor Co. Ltd.'s Acura announced on May 17 that it is voluntarily recalling 56,881 of its 2007 and 2008 TL sedans in North America. Pictured is a 2012 model of the Acura TL. (Honda Motor Co. Ltd.)

Honda Motor Co. Ltd. announced on Thursday that its luxury vehicle division Acura is voluntarily recalling 56,881 sedans in North America to replace a power steering hose.

The recall affects 52,615 TL sedans from the model years 2007 and 2008 in the United States and another 4,266 in Canada. The Japanese automaker said overtime the hose could leak fluid and evenb cause a fire.

Up to now, “no crashes, injuries, or fire have been reported related to this issue,” Honda said in a statement.

Honda recalled 273,000 TLs in 2008 for a similar problem. The previous recall affected the 2004 through 2008 models.

2012 Mazda 3 (Courtesy of NetCarShow.com)

Mazda’s tag line is, “Always The Soul of a Sports Car.” Or they could have said, “There’s a little bit of Miata in every one of our vehicles.”

It’s all true. Drive the Mazda CX-9 full-size crossover, CX-5 compact crossover, Mazda5 mini-van, or the entry-level Mazda2, and all feel sportier than most of their competitors. It’s what separates Mazda from the rest. It’s what makes the Mazda3 different than other compacts.

Our “i Touring” test model fits between the basic Mazda3 and full-on rally sport MAZDASPEED3 models. It’s a nice balance of sporty looks and handling without being beaten to death in city traffic. Especially in the 5-door bodystyle, it’s a car that actually likes touring.

From first glance, you can tell the Mazda3 is not like other compacts.

Much of the styling echoes sportier Mazdas like the Miata and RX-8. The brand’s trademark 5-point grille and cat’s eye headlamps are present, as are accentuated front fenders, sweeping roofline, and arching rib that rises from the front wheelwell through the tail lamps. Aerodynamic enhancements to the front facia and 16” alloy wheels hint at the car’s performance.

The car’s sporting intentions continue inside. The arched roof opens up a substantial amount of cabin space. Four people fit comfortably.

Designers raked back the control stack and simplified controls by setting the radio/temperature read-out high in the driver’s sightline. When equipped with a navigation system, the read-out is in the upper dash. Everything is easy to use after a few minutes’ orientation.

Our test car had a leather-wrapped three-spoke sport steering wheel with integral audio, Bluetooth, and cruise controls. Like the gearshift, the tilt/telescoping wheel falls right at hand.

There’s also a ton of versatility. Lots of cubbies, large glove compartment, deep cupholders, and a center console provide space for all of your toys and tools.

Rear seats fold flat (60/40 split) to allow long objects to fit through from the enormous trunk. Auto up/down drivers’ side power windows, satellite radio, and an iPod input jack keep you connected. Safety is enhanced by side curtain airbags.

A True Driver’s Car

Moving this sporty chariot is Mazda’s SKYACTIV 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, connected to the front wheels through a quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission, generating 155hp and 148 lb-ft of torque.

The powertrain feels plenty peppy as it tugs at the steering wheel and scoots the car down the road. It’s easy to shift the transmission like a pro, making this a true driver’s car. Perhaps best of all, fuel economy is rated 27/38-MPG city/hwy.

“SKYACTIV technology is not just an engine—it is a new generation of advanced vehicle performance and efficiency,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations.

“SKYACTIV technology embodies Mazda’s philosophy of engineering only vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying to own, and environmentally responsible, and there is no better vehicle to start than with the Mazda3, one of the most exciting sport compact cars on the road.”

Along with the powertrain, engineers focused efforts on achieving crisp steering responses, agile handling from the four-wheel independent suspension system, and a feeling of control whether driving on long smooth Interstates or switching through favorite back roads.

The body structure is especially rigid, which allows the suspension and steering to work their magic and absorb bumps like a lead brick. Electronic stability control and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes stand by just in case.

If you like touring, or just want to eat an on-ramp on the way to work, this Mazda is ready to go. Expressive styling, articulate handling, excellent fuel economy, and a roomy, useful interior add up to a great little ride. As always, this Mazda has the soul of a sports car.

With an as-tested price of $20,425, the Mazda3 competes against the Honda Civic, Chevy Cruze, Ford Focus, VW Golf, and Hyundai Elantra.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

With well-stocked aisles and a variety of European goods, the Garden of Eden store has a warm feeling of abundance. (Jose Rivera/The Epoch Times)

It’s not surprising to find a variety of gourmet grocery stores on Manhattan Island. Yet, taking up the search for your favorite can be a time-consuming endeavor—a luxury that many of us just don’t have—and through trial and error, can be a costly expense many of us don’t want to pay.

I’m learning as I go along, and recently I discovered a find that is worth sharing with readers.

Garden of Eden grocers have a total of six stores, three which are in Manhattan. They haven’t been in business that long, only since 1994, but I have to say, a remarkable thing that stands out—aside from the thousands of gourmet items—is their customer service.

I witnessed firsthand that the old sales motto of “give customers what they want” is still in use here when I recently saw a shopper at the deli counter asking for a very specific order (a bit too specific if you ask me), and not only getting it, but with a smile.

The Garden has a European open market feel to it, with a fresh-fruit stand outside, and all kinds of delicacies on display throughout the store. It’s a nice throwback. They have a deli, charcuterie, cheese, cakes and breads, meat/seafood/poultry departments, as well as organics, dairy, etc.

Free Smells

The cheese department at Garden of Eden in Chelsea. (Jose Rivera/The Epoch Times)

The Chelsea location has a coffee bar to the right of the entrance, and is surrounded by loaves of a variety of artisan breads, pita breads, French, Lebanese, etc., made fresh daily. So, as you walk in, you are hit with the smell of fresh bread, coffee, and the smells of delicious food simmering in the background.

I was pleased to see that along with great service, it’s a very clean store. And there is a large inventory of gourmet items from around the world to satisfy even the well-seasoned gourmand. Don’t let the term “gourmet” scare you though; word is, they have some of the best prices among their competitors.

I also found that their variety of cheeses is more than adequate and also fairly priced for Manhattan. Some are even bargains.

The Buffet

Garden of Eden's hot buffet. Dishes vary daily. (Jose Rivera/The Epoch Times)

The buffet has a pleasant assortment of dishes that vary from day to day. The food is good and hot, and the salads go beyond your typical fresh greens. I’ve sampled their fresh hummus, roasted chicken and potatoes, Swedish meatballs in sauce, and fresh homemade yogurts, among other things (everything $8.99 per pound). They know what they’re doing.

Working late, or on your way home, stop by after 8 p.m. when the salad and buffet are half-priced. Some might wonder if it’s a bargain because the food might be stale by this time, but it’s not. The dishes sell quite well and so they don’t sit long. It’s really just a smart and savvy practice of pricing things to sell by day’s end. I admire that practice over throwing away leftovers, or worse yet, selling them the next day, which Garden of Eden does not do.

Although it’s not shocking to know you can find some of the best loaves of bread in the United States in NYC, it’s handy to be able to find some really good ones for sale near my workplace. And finding a great-tasting self-serve buffet where I can get something good and hot to eat, to quickly take back to the office—that’s another convenience I enjoy.

Garden of Eden in Chelsea is located at 162 West 23rd Street. Their hours are Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

A new online system for making dinner reservations called gDine has just launched its NYC branch. It’s not your typical online booking website though; it has added features that it touts will make dining as a group easier.

They sell the idea that getting a group together to dine is hard, as there is a need to coordinate everyone’s calendars, choose a place that all agree upon, and then at the end of the night, calculate who ordered what and how much they owe. That’s where gDine says their innovative features make things easier.

Aside from being able to book a dinner reservation online at participating restaurants (dozens of premier NYC eateries are already participating), they offer members various multi-course dinners with pre-negotiated group rates.

After registering, you can browse their reservation system at any time, with menus they say showcase the best of what each restaurant has to offer. Members also get emails showing specials that vary in cuisine and place, and I think are set at tempting prices.

You are literally shopping online for your dining experience.

The site also offers a complimentary concierge service to help you coordinate and plan your group’s dining experience.

The best feature yet, the site lets a group split the check before visiting the restaurant by allowing everyone in the party to prepay online using separate credit cards.

Deal browsing, scheduling help, discreetly saving money without using coupons, and a large group not having to pull their smartphones out to calculate splitting the tab, are options that should have been available to NYC diners sooner.

Membership is free, and new restaurants are being added to the list daily. Check out their service at www.gdine.com. They also serve customers in Chicago.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

50 golden upright street pianos will be placed in the Square Mile of the city. (Courtesy of London City Festival)

This summer London is bursting with festivals. As a prelude to the Royal Diamond Jubilee Parade and Olympian sports, a cultural bonanza takes place in the one Square Mile of the ancient city of London. Anyone can tickle the ivories of 50 Golden Street Pianos or partake in a Golden Honey Feast from local hives as part of the more alternative programme. That, along with internationally acclaimed stars of music, dance, art, poetry, and much more, will add a sheen to the streets of bankers.

The Golden Jubilee City of London Festival theme, Trading Places with the World, will remind people from across the world of how, since Roman times, London was the a hub of trade, with different peoples bringing both the spices of the East and cloth and timber by courtesy of the medieval Hanseatic League.

It is a cornucopia of a programme with over 150 events, spread over 34 days, in more than 55 spectacular venues. One hundred of them are free, while the ticketed events are well within the reach of even a poor man’s pocket. The arts can be a creative antidote to economic recession: I remember the free open-air classical music concerts throughout Britain’s towns and cities during World War II, along with the emergence of jazz and swing, poetry in the streets, the art of painters like Paul Nash, and the beginnings of experimental cinema.

Choices, choices

A copy of the colourful pocket-sized programme booklet can be perused while commuting. Or, for the technophile tablet or smartphone user, visit www.colf.org for an online programme. Pick from events within a step or two of each other among the cluster of streets that stretch from the white Tower of London westwards to the grandeur of Sir Christopher Wren’s St Paul’s Cathedral. This magnificent building once stood high above the cluster of bank buildings, old markets, and stock exchange, but is now shouted down by a glass shard of a tower that rises like a spike for unpaid bills over all that surrounds it. 

For classical music or dance buffs, seek out the world premiere performances of works by composer Tansy Davies for the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment at Mansion House on June 28, and two new choreographic commissions performed by The English National Ballet in St Paul’s Cathedral on the evening of July 3. And there are many more to choose from. 

In the smaller, but equally beautiful churches that are found among the old twisting streets that urban planners have never tamed, there are the delightfully named Postcard events. With my love of the Balkans, my feet would find their way on June 27 to the church of St Vedast-alias-Foster in Foster Lane EC2 to a cello and piano performance by Nicholas Altstaedt and José Gallardo, featuring works from Brahms, Bartok, Dvorak, David Wilde’s ‘The Cellist of Sarajevo’, and a world premiere of a sonata by Fazil Say commissioned by the BBC. The name of the church alone is a reason to visit. 

Other Postcard events celebrate works from Spain, Paris, Vienna, America’s East Coast, Leipzig, and one entitled as being from Home (and the distant past); but perhaps most intriguing of all in St Bartholomew-the-Great, in Cloth Fair EC1, is named as Music from Purgatory, with works from Shubert, Gluck, and Milstein’s ‘Paganiniana’. Whatever one will make of the music, it will be interesting to see what kind of audience this attracts!

Colourful and lively festival street scene. (Courtesy of London City Festival)

The bonus of this festival is that many of the events are free. Listen to five lectures on Festival themes from people such as poet Sir Andrew Motion. Or step through swathes of wildflowers that support insect-life biodiversity at a five-day Euromix Garden, which brings together Scottish highland fiddle with Norwegian lyrics and polyphonic alpine songs from France and Italy – shades of Haruki Murakami’s ‘Norwegian Wood’ perhaps!

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With a nod to the God ‘Mammon’ an exhibition at Goldsmith’s Hall tells the rich and previously untold story of Britain and it 4,500 years of gold treasure. Or maybe pop into one of the open days at the Bank of England or take a tour of Mansion House. 

With 34 days to choose from, I am certain that wherever you are, time can be found to catch the flavour of an erudite and eclectic festival. 

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/a-london-city-festival-of-golden-expectations-238062.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tangerine-tango-the-juiciest-color-for-spring-and-summer-237975.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tangerine-tango-the-juiciest-color-for-spring-and-summer-237975.html#comments Wed, 16 May 2012 14:55:24 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=237975

Christian Dior ready-to-wear, Spring/Summer 2012. (Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images)

When the Pantone Institute revealed this year’s color of the year—Tangerine Tango—it awakened a color blast in fashion and beauty much like a ripening orange emerging after winter.

The fruit-inspired color is rapidly gaining popularity whether seen on runways, clothing, nails, belts, or shoes—adding new degrees of warmth and energy to spring and summer fashions.

Suddenly, the color seems to be everywhere!

“Sophisticated but at the same time dramatic and seductive, Tangerine Tango is an orange with a lot of depth to it,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute on the Pantone website.

“Reminiscent of the radiant shadings of a sunset, Tangerine Tango marries the vivaciousness and adrenaline rush of red with the friendliness and warmth of yellow, to form a high-visibility, magnetic hue that emanates heat and energy.”

Even Sephora jumped on this juicy color and, teaming with Pantone, created an entire line of cosmetics and makeup accessories.

Tangerine Tango scores big as a cosmetic hue thanks to its versatility in an exotic and inviting way. It adds a pop of color to lips, cheeks, and nails. As an unexpected eye shadow, it flatters blue or green eyes as a complementary opposite, while bringing out an amber cast in brown eyes.

The color itself symbolizes happiness and love in China and Japan, according to the website sensationalcolor.com.

It is known to stimulate the appetite and activity, while encouraging socialization.

You don’t want to be wearing this color if you want to retreat into quiet solitude, that’s for certain. But if you’re ready to meet new people or go for a jog in the park, this is a terrific color to awaken those endorphins.

According to trendnstylez.com, spring is the perfect time to bring out the brighter colors. Orange is a universally appealing shade and can look good on people of all ages.

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The color trend will continue as a go-to look for fall, mellowing into the more autumnal shades of rust and terracotta.

More than anything, Tangerine Tango is a fun color and can be played with in a variety of ways—so go on, take a bite and let it sweeten your wardrobe this season.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tangerine-tango-the-juiciest-color-for-spring-and-summer-237975.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2013-ford-escape-236808.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2013-ford-escape-236808.html#comments Mon, 14 May 2012 07:28:52 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=236808

2013 Ford Escape (Courtesy of Ford Motors)

The 2013 Ford Escape was launched this spring in San Francisco. The new Escape should be one of the best-selling SUVs in America as the 2013 model boasts 11 new features as well as best-in-class fuel economy for 2013.

“We call our all-new Escape the ‘smarter utility vehicle’ because it offers the strengths that customers today really value—fuel economy, versatility, and new technology that makes driving and living with the vehicle easier and more fun—all wrapped in a sleek, more modern design,” said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development.

The Escape offers two EcoBoost engines with direct fuel injection and turbocharging to deliver better mileage and fuel savings. The 2.0-liter engine has 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque, while the 1.6 liter provides 178 hp and 184-lb-ft of torque.

The EcoBoost engines have a 6-speed Select Shift automatic transmission that is calibrated to allow drivers who want a manual driver’s experience to control gear selection from a switch. The standard North American engine is an updated 2.5-liter naturally aspirated I-4, producing 168 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, mated with a 6-speed Select Shift automatic transmission.

Some of the new exclusive features are hands-free power liftgate that is operated by the kick of a foot, and curve control, which is a class-exclusive technology that slows the vehicle when it corners too fast, while helping to accelerate through turns.

Torque vectoring control is a new intelligent technology 4WD system that helps deliver outstanding handling no matter the road condition, plus off-road traction and Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert such as backing out of a parking space. This is a technology I feel is needed on every vehicle.

Active park assistance that makes parallel parking a snap and SYNC with MyFord Touch that lets drivers manage information through voice commands on easy touchscreens are two more features. However, the SYNC system is the only Ford technology that proved challenging for me and left me with a degree of uncertainty.

2013 Ford Escape interior. (Courtesy of Ford Motors)

The Escape is sleek in looks and fun to drive. Its active grille shutter system reduces wind resistance to help improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. The EPA certified Escape at 33 mpg average with the 1.6 L EcoBoost engine. In fact, all powertrain options promised a delivery of 30 mpg or better on the highway.

The Pacific Coast highway with side trips inland through majestic old forests afforded opportunities to drive through some of the most scenic landscape in America. Winding roads curving to near mountain tops and flat road pathways along lush valleys gave me an idea just how good Escape would handle and how the technology would work on anyone’s home turf.

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Extremely clear quality audio, a sleek exterior, great torque under the hood, and a sleepy-quiet inside makes the $22,470 to $32,120 price range seem well worth the investment.

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2013-ford-escape-236808.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/in-the-footsteps-of-the-founding-fathers-236556.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/in-the-footsteps-of-the-founding-fathers-236556.html#comments Sun, 13 May 2012 13:13:24 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=236556

Elfreth’s Alley in Philadelphia is one of America’s oldest streets and is a National Historic Landmark. (Courtesy of Ridegway for GPTMC)

We recently decided to spend some quality time with presidential material, both male and female. Rather than do so on the current campaign trail, we decided to go to Philadelphia to dine in the manner that the Founding Fathers might have, and to visit the salons and homes of some of the women who might be viewed among the Founding Mothers. For such a trip, we decided to walk the walk and hear some of the locals talk the talk, all during time spent in Philadelphia’s Historic District.

For our weekend exploring Philadelphia’s rich history, we stayed in Penn’s View Hotel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The 19th century building once housed a hardware store and is now a 52-room hotel with modern amenities. Our spacious room was 1 of 12 with a gas fireplace and 1 of 20 with a whirlpool bath.

The staff is very welcoming and gave us directions and a map to restaurants and historic sights within walking distance. We had lunch at Fork Restaurant, which uses local ingredients. Barry enjoyed his crab cake sandwich and Demetra (who usually avoids burgers without beef) declared that her turkey burger with marinated mushrooms and herbed goat cheese made her a convert.

On the way back to the hotel, we stopped into Betsy Ross’s house (built more than 250 years ago). Ross was a trained upholsterer, famous for sewing the first American flag while she lived in the house. We took the self-guided walking tour with headphones and saw the seven period rooms on display, which included a kitchen, bedrooms, parlor, and upholstery shop.

For dinner, we went to City Tavern where the staff is dressed in colonial garb. This is a replica of the original, which was the unofficial meeting place of the first Continental Congress in 1774 and where George Washington and other Founding Fathers entertained guests.

The menu, under Chef Walter Staib (host of the Emmy-winning “Taste of History” series), is a recreation of recipes from the 18th century and is evidence that our early statesmen enjoyed hearty fare. We began with appetizers of fried oysters and shrimp wrapped with bacon, then enjoyed main courses of venison stew and a rich lobster pie. For dessert, we enjoyed Martha Washington’s chocolate mousse cake. Dining at City Tavern elucidates John Adams’s comment after only a week in the city about experiencing “another sinful feast.”

Perhaps the most iconic symbol of the City of Philadelphia and American Independence—the Liberty Bell. It was originally cast in 1750 and hung in the Pennsylvania State House. (Courtesy of J. Fusco for GPTMC)

We started the next morning with the hotel’s complimentary continental buffet breakfast. After that, we embarked on a walking tour with the witty and erudite Ed Mauger, the founder of Philadelphia on Foot. The tour began at Powel House, built in 1765. Samuel Powel was the last mayor of Philadelphia under the British Crown and the first mayor of the city after the creation of the United States. Powel and his wife frequently entertained notables, including George Washington, who liked to dance. It was allegedly Mrs. Powel who convinced Washington to run for a second term as President.

We then stopped by Old St. Joseph’s Church, the first Catholic Church in Philadelphia, which has been in continuous use since 1733. Christ Church was the first Anglican Church in Pennsylvania, where many of the Founding Fathers worshipped. Outside in the Burial Ground, Benjamin Franklin and four other signers of the Declaration of Independence are buried.

Those who think that the Founding Fathers “worked tirelessly” to end slavery will learn the falsity of the claim after visiting The President’s House, where Presidents Washington and Adams lived when Philadelphia was the temporary capital of the United States. At that time, Pennsylvania had a “Gradual Abolition Act.” Washington moved his slaves out of state every six months, so they would not acquire Pennsylvania residency and receive the benefit of the Act. Mr. Mauger told us about Hercules, Washington’s slave and a renowned chef. He ran away after he was sent to work in the fields.

We passed by Library Hall with its statue of Ben Franklin in a toga. Certainly, no one personifies American exceptionalism more than this Renaissance man. He was an author, printer, scientist, diplomat, signer of the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution, responsible for the first public library, the first hospital, and the first fire department, among other achievements.

We ended our tour at Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously occupied residential street in the United States. The 32 buildings along the Alley were built between the 1720s and 1830s, and there is a museum about the street. It represents the diversity of the city, from the homes of Jewish merchants and former slaves to the later immigrants from Germany, Ireland, and other countries.

For dinner, we dined in a unique venue: Moshulu Restaurant. This is the largest four-masted sailing ship in the world, still afloat. Built in 1904, the ship has seen active service and had a colorful history (including being confiscated by the Americans in one war and by the Germans in another), but in its latest incarnation, the only place it will take guests is culinary heaven. Our main courses were a savory Herb Crusted Rainbow Trout with Zinfandel Short Ribs in a red wine sauce and a classic steak, prepared medium rare, as ordered. Desserts were as decadent as you might expect, with the Berry Berry Sundae as a standout.

Probably the best way to start your visit to the area is to stop into the Visitors Center (6th and Market Streets; 800-537-7676), open seven days each week. The concierge staff can help you plan where to go, what to eat, and where to stay. They provide maps, brochures, and tickets to tours and attractions.

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There is a free movie about the Revolutionary War and the founding of the Republic directed by John Huston with familiar actors (Eli Wallach, Anne Jackson, Patrick O’Neill, and others).

Across the street from the Center is the National Constitution Center, and a block away is the African American Museum. Unfortunately, the last two were closed when we arrived, so we will have to return another time to continue our exploration of historic Philadelphia.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/in-the-footsteps-of-the-founding-fathers-236556.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/modernizing-a-french-provincial-chair-236379.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/modernizing-a-french-provincial-chair-236379.html#comments Sat, 12 May 2012 23:54:51 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=236379

A vintage chair upgraded to a modern eclectic piece of furniture. (CHT Media)

Dear Marc:
Is it possible to modernize a French Provincial chair so that it fits into a more contemporary setting? We’re debating whether we should throw away this old chair and upgrade our furniture to something that better fits our room design.
Angela

Dear Angela:
I’m fascinated with the modernization of vintage furniture pieces. The first year I attended the design show I gazed at everything in sight, as if each piece held a secret waiting to be discovered. The damsel of the ball that caught my attention was a vintage armchair, with a twist. It had a traditional front, although the back of the chair was upholstered in a modern and funky pattern. It was a classic piece mixed with modern elements. Absolutely stunning!

I struck up a conversation with the manufacturer of these fabulous chairs. I was inspired by his sketching process. It seemed after many years of working in the industry, the spark that fuelled his passion was still alive. I remember leaving that day and telling myself, “We’ll work together someday.” Today, we collaborate on many projects and they have been faithful clients of ours for many years. Funny how long-term relationships can start from a single “hello.”

Last Saturday, I came across a vintage chair at a flea market. I work on a tight budget, therefore price was the mitigating factor in deciding whether this chair was coming home with me. I looked at the tag and saw it was priced at $25.00. I couldn’t believe it! I purchased the piece and did what can only be described as the “clown car effect” while trying to get the chair in my car. I drive a very small sports car, the type of car that one wonders where you would place the second bag of groceries when shopping. After much effort, I managed to get the chair into the car and we were off. A DIY project was about to be born!

Back of vintage chair with stenciling. (CHT Media)

Supplies:
-- Vintage chair
-- Stud upholstery nails
-- Black and chocolate brown scrapbook ink pads
-- Stencil of your preference
-- Hammer
-- Black paint (General Paint – Crow’s Head (CL 3167N))

Step 1: Sand and paint the chair legs in black (General Paint -- Crow’s Head (CL 3167N)).

Step 2: Hammer the nail studs—leaving an inch between each stud—into the lower front of the chair. Then hammer nail studs into the upper back of the chair following the upholstery seam.

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Step 3: Apply a stencil at the back of the chair and ink the entire chair back. Be sure to layer the black and brown ink.

Step 4: Remove the stencil and Voila! You now have a modernized vintage piece that fits into an eclectic design style.

Marc Atiyolil is a celebrity designer, the Editor-in-Chief of Canadian Home Trends Magazine, a design expert on CTV and the host of the Marc Atiyolil Show on www.MarcAtiyolil.com. Catch Season 2 every Thursday at 2pm. To submit a question, visit www.CanadianHomeTrends.com

COPYRIGHT 2012 -- Marc Atiyolil Media Inc.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/modernizing-a-french-provincial-chair-236379.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/creative-moments-gift-ideas-for-mom-233694.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/creative-moments-gift-ideas-for-mom-233694.html#comments Sat, 12 May 2012 16:54:20 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=233694

(Liquidlibrary/Photos.com)

Candy and flowers can always be your standby gifts on Mother’s Day, but if you really want to show Mom you care, these options will surely inspire her creative spirit.

The best part—these activities can be done alone, with friends, or as potential family bonding experiences, too.

Flower Arrangement Workshops

This Saturday, May 12, head over to The Peninsula Hotel for a flower arrangement workshop with flower experts Flowers of the World. For $165, you get to keep your special arrangement as well as enjoy The Peninsula’s legendary Afternoon Tea, complete with a glass of Champagne.

You are also entered to win a gift card from Flowers of the World or a 60-minute Holistic Massage with lunch on the Sun Terrace from The Peninsula Spa. For details call 212-903-3923, visit www.flowersoftheworld.com or email diningpny@peninsula.com to make reservations.

Need some R & R? Try out the Mother’s Day Spa Packages at The Peninsula Spa for some pampering at considerably discounted prices in honor of the day.

In addition, Flowers of the World offers year-round workshops in flower arranging, a lovely way to spend time with Mom or on your own while delighting the senses.

Gift cards are available upon request. Not from New York City? Check out local florists for classes.

Plant a Garden

The act of planting together and watching a garden grow can be extremely rewarding and exciting for moms and their children. Plant a Gourmet Herb Garden as seen on Proflowers.com and you will receive all you need to make your garden grow. Then when the fruits of your labor begin to sprout, you can use the herbs to make finely flavored dishes to savor—together.

Don’t have a green thumb? The website GourmetSpot (www.gourmetspot.com/herbfeature.htm) has easy-to-follow advice about what each herb needs to thrive.

Scrapbooking

Are you a collector of miscellaneous items, hoard loose photos, and delight in random buttons, materials, or paper scraps in all colors and shades? Then scrapbooking may suit your Mother’s Day plans. It can make for an entertaining, memory-filled activity that you can do with your mom, children, or alone. And scrapbooking is a wonderful way to reduce and reuse waste by upcycling items that would end up in the trash.

Ecojot (www.ecojot.com) makes eco-friendly scrapbooks using paper made from 100% post-consumer waste—no trees cut down. And the adorable website www.acherryontop.com gives useful suggestions and guidance to prompt creative juices.

Glassworks

(Courtesy of Glassworks)

For another fun and creative activity, head over to Morristown, N.J., and visit Glassworks.

Walk in during public hours or arrange a private Moms’ Night Out or Family Night and start designing your very own fused glass project. After receiving some basic working instructions, the time is quiet and therapeutic, according to the website.

On Tuesday, May 8, Glassworks will be running a workshop on how to create fused-glass pocket vases to hang on the wall and fill with flowers.

There is a $25 instructor fee and $15 materials fee. Registration is required.

In addition, Glassworks offers many projects that would make wonderful Mother’s Day gifts, including picture frames, jewelry, and candy dishes. Items take at least two or three days to be ready (with no timing guarantees), so if you want that special gift to be ready for the 13th, you need to come earlier in the week.

If you don’t quite make it in time, gift certificates allow Mom to join in the fun, or you could take a photo of the project that’s on its way.

You will walk away with your unique project in your choice of different finishes and shapes. Find Glassworks at www.umakeglass.com or call 973-656-0800.

For the Uber-Active Mom

Ready for an adventure in the park? Take an Elliptigo for a spin! This machine is the cross between an elliptical trainer and a bicycle and gives a full-body workout. You really have to see it and try it to believe it. Contact a local Elliptigo owner to take you for a trial run: www.elliptigo.com.

Who knows? Mom may love it so much that she will join the thousands of others who already own one.

(JupiterImages/Photos.com)

 

 

Are you inspired by “So You Think You Can Dance” or “Dancing with the Stars”? Take your mom dancing.
Check out www.broadwaydancecenter.com located in New York City or Fred Astairedance classes around the nation and take her for an exciting spin around the dance floor.

These suggestions are sure to awaken Mom’s creative and fun spirit on Mother’s Day.

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

 

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/creative-moments-gift-ideas-for-mom-233694.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/whats-for-lunch-nyc-mothers-day-236156.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/whats-for-lunch-nyc-mothers-day-236156.html#comments Sat, 12 May 2012 16:26:24 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=236156

Many people like to treat mother to a day out on Mother's Day. (Jan Lombard/Photos.com)

Mother’s Day is just a few days away, and by now many of you may have already bought a nice gift, made reservations at mom’s favorite restaurant, and ordered flowers, like the great, adult children that you are.

But just about as many of you might have forgotten the date, may not have had enough time to make plans, or might not have a clue yet where to take mom on the one day society demands you make a fuss over her—because well, she’s your mom, and think of all she’s done for you over the years. So remembering this one day won’t kill you, right?

Don’t worry. Mothers are great. Many of them will be thrilled that you remember (or were reminded) to honor them on Mother’s Day, and will be even more thrilled if someone else does the cooking that day too.

In fact, Mother’s Day is actually one of the busiest days for the restaurant industry, and yet, it’s still quite easy to find a great meal with great service, and great deals on this day because they are expecting you, they want your visit, and they want you to come back! After all, mom’s cooking is their greatest competition.

Think: Mom

When it comes to dining, moms’ preferences are like snowflakes: No two are exactly alike. So rather than just throw a few restaurant names at you by telling you what’s for lunch, I’d like to offer some—pardon the pun—food for thought.

Although Mom’s Day brunch is an established tradition, there is nothing wrong with having one of the other three meals on her special day. This is NYC; finding a table on a Sunday night is not an impossibility. Brunch? Why so early? You have plans with someone else the rest of the day?

Mom took you to museums when you were a kid not just because she wanted to broaden your knowledge base, she liked to visit them too. And some of them have restaurants worth visiting, like the Guggenheim, and the Met, which specifically has several dining options that vary from casual café to fine dining with full wait service.

How about theater and dinner after? (Though, planning for a quick bite before a play and a leisure dinner after works best). There are many fine-dining establishments not far from the Theater District such as Cafe Un Deux Trois, that offers prix fixe dinners for just $28.

Maybe mom wants singing with her salad, or crooning with her Cronkite burger ($20)—a Kobe-beef-styled burger named after Walter Cronkite, found at Ellen’s Stardust Diner. The place is a bit on the touristy side, but still a fun choice. Of course, there are a variety of venues that offer dinner with entertainment, and they’re worth investigating if you think your mom will enjoy them.

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Dinner cruises are also a possibility, and it just might not be too late to reserve some seats. With a fair amount of cruises to choose from in NYC, I suggest visiting allnewyorktours.com where you can view packages available and also purchase tickets.

Then again, maybe mom just wants to have dinner with her favorite kid and nothing more. Guarantee yourselves a table by reserving one. You can see what’s still available online by visiting opentable.com and reserve seats from the site—or even better, give your restaurant of choice a call, and ask for their best table.

 

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/whats-for-lunch-nyc-mothers-day-236156.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/a-weekend-in-yosemite-236270.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/a-weekend-in-yosemite-236270.html#comments Sat, 12 May 2012 15:38:44 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=236270

The Yosemite Valley as seen from Tunnel View, the spot that many visitors see first as they emerge from the Wawona Tunnel and enter the park. (Kenny Karst/DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, Inc.)

John Muir, one of Yosemite’s avid visitors and supporters, eloquently captured the essence of its grandeur and magic when he wrote: “Nature’s peace will flow through you as sunshine into trees. The winds will blow their freshness into you, and the storms their energy, while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.”

These words became my reality, after a well-needed weekend away in the scenic serenity and beauty of Yosemite’s snow-capped mountains. As my car edged through the curving mountainside, my thoughts and concerns were swayed toward the fresh greenery and granite greatness partly hidden into puffs of clouds and endless sky.

I hadn’t been to this area in more than 20 years and decided to take a three-day sojourn with my girlfriend Christina to escape the stresses of life and work—a perfect panacea.

Luckily, we took Highway 140, at lower elevation than route 120, to avoid a snowstorm and use of chains or cables, which one has to carry anyway when traveling during the months between October and April. The four-hour trip from San Francisco seemed to fly by because of the peaceful surroundings and light traffic on the morning that we left.

We decided to stop in the tidy town of Mariposa at the River Rock Inn and Deli Garden Café for lunch, where we tasted the best homemade chicken soup and a tasty sandwich. The staff was warm and hospitable, which gave us a great start before entering the park a little more than an hour’s drive away.

Our room’s window faced the breathtaking Yosemite Falls, which was a vision to wake up to in the morning.

The mercurial weather turned a bit rainy, but the sun came out as we arrived at the stately, historic Ahwahnee Hotel in the midst of Yosemite National Park. Our room’s window faced the breathtaking Yosemite Falls, which was a vision to wake up to in the morning. Ahwahnee, means “place of the big mouth,” an apropos description since its location is smack in the center of this enormous valley amid giant sequoias and cascading waterfalls. 

The luxurious and historic Ahwahnee hotel situated inside Yosemite National Park.(Kenny Karst/DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, Inc.)

Opened on July 14, 1927, the Ahwahnee Hotel was spearheaded by Stephen T. Mather, director of the National Park Service, with Gilbert Stanley Underwood chosen as the architect. This massive, six-story edifice made of native granite and dyed concrete to resemble redwood boards and beams contains 99 rooms and seven suites within its 150,000 square feet.

Most impressive is the Great Lounge replete with enormous fireplaces and ten ceiling-to-floor windows, partially adorned with stained glass in Native American design and wrought iron chandeliers—a blend of German Gothic and Indian décor. The nearby Solarium at the south end has picture windows revealing a glorious view of Glacier Point.

Scattered throughout are huge woven Native American Indian baskets and rugs, which add to the earth tone colors.

We were lured by the piano music into the 34-foot high ceiling dining room embraced with giant stripped and polished sugar pine trestles creating a rustic, elegant ambiance. What we experienced during our stay was that the menu didn’t quite match the décor. However, you can’t leave the hotel without experiencing at least an a la carte breakfast in the dining room as the sunlight streams through the towering trees and dramatic mountain scenery.

The 600 foot Bridalveil Fall and Leaning Tower rock formation.(Kenny Karst/DNC Parks & Resorts at Yosemite, Inc.)

The following morning, we arose to a snow-covered mountainside in view of Yosemite Falls. We caught the shuttle bus to Yosemite Lodge where we had an ample, cafeteria-style breakfast, most reasonable for the area. We then met our bus for the well-paced Valley Floor Tour, which was worth the two-hour ride. I learned about the history of some of the Valley’s most memorable sights from a well-versed bus driver/guide covering Yosemite Falls, El Capitan, Tunnel View, and Bridalveil Falls, all surrounded by 800 miles of hiking trails. I had many opportunities for taking photos.

We continued on to Yosemite Village where we visited the Ansel Adams Gallery and Yosemite Museum.

Afterward, my friend and I had the afternoon to hike around Lower Yosemite Falls and inhale the invigorating aroma of fresh pine. Just outside the museum and Visitor Center stands a re-creation of a Miwok Indian Village. We continued on to Yosemite Village where we visited the Ansel Adams Gallery and Yosemite Museum.

After two days in the Valley, we headed toward the Tenaya Lodge, which is approximately an hour from Yosemite Valley and just minutes from Yosemite National Park’s South Gate. We arrived earlier than expected and were able to set up a guided tour for some snowshoeing through the forested area. An hour trek was just enough before luxuriating in our spa treatments at the 10,000 square-foot Ascent Spa.

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First, I took a steam bath and relaxed in the cozy lounge area before my treatment with spa director Linda, who soothed every muscle of my body. After, I joined my friend Christina back in the lounge. She was looking so relaxed and peaceful. It was difficult to leave this realm of tranquility, but the best was yet to come—dinner at their upscale Embers Restaurant.

Executive Sous Chef Reginald (Reggie) Powell, who originally was at the Ahwahnee and worked in San Francisco’s Aqua Restaurant, has created a Mediterranean fusion menu. The Filet Oscar topped with artichoke stuffed with Dungeness crab and served with yummy Yukon mashed potatoes, with a hint of cheese, was quite memorable. The appetizers were also outstanding, from the crispy quail with spinach and shitake mushrooms, to the eggplant caviar and gigantic lemongrass skewered scallops and moist, tangy crab cakes. The flowerless chocolate cake added the final touch.

We lucked out by the weather. The sun shone along the forested terrain, as my car cruised along the curving country roads. My thoughts were led once again to a quote by John Muir as I exited from this lavish landscape.

“It’s by far the grandest of all the special temples of Nature I was ever permitted to enter.”

An annual pass for the holder and 3 other guests to access Yosemite National Park and all other federally operated recreation areas can be purchased for $80 at http://store.usgs.gov/pass/

Beverly Mann has been a feature, arts, and travel writer in the San Francisco Bay Area for the past 28 years. She has received numerous accolades in the fields of travel writing, education, and international public relations, including a Bay Area Travel Writers Award of Excellence in Newspaper Travel Writing. Contact Ms. Mann at: www.beverlymann.com

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/a-weekend-in-yosemite-236270.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/mothers-day-gift-ideas-235879.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/mothers-day-gift-ideas-235879.html#comments Fri, 11 May 2012 03:05:34 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=235879

As spring reaches its full bloom, Mother’s Day is fast approaching in celebration of the world’s mothers, motherhood, and maternal bonds. For Mother’s Day this Sunday, besides a nice pink card from the drug store around the corner, mothers would also appreciate the following gifts on their special day, ranging from flowers for traditional mothers to gadgets for tech-savvy mothers.

Carnation: Carnations have become an integral part of this special day for its representation of delicacy, durability, and delightfulness. Whether it is a bundle of pale pink or peach to match the color scheme of the holiday or a bundle of cheerful yellow, purple, and even green would sure bring any mother to a happy smile.

Fragrance: Every woman would appreciate a nice spring/summer fragrance as the season arrives. You could pick from new summer fragrances such as Marc Jacobs Daisy Eau So Fresh and Jennifer Aniston or all-time classics such as Christian Dior’s J’adore and Chanel No. 5. To put icing on the cake, unlike buying your mother beautiful dresses, you would never have to ask her for her current size.

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Tablet: Times have changed for the younger generations, but mothers are also catching up on the trend. Mothers not only want traditional motherly gifts this year, but according to a recent poll they are also craving for tablets such as Apple’s iPads and other gadgets like a camera or a smartphone.

Spa Gift Certificate: If you have a busy mother who is ambitious, energetic, and career-oriented, what she needs the most might be a quiet spa hour with a certificate from you.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/mothers-day-gift-ideas-235879.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/legendary-hairstylist-vidal-sassoon-dies-in-los-angeles-234971.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/legendary-hairstylist-vidal-sassoon-dies-in-los-angeles-234971.html#comments Wed, 09 May 2012 22:40:15 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=234971

Vidal Sassoon attends his autobiography signing with an Anna Wintour lookalike at Selfridges department store on Sept. 8, 2010 in London. (Ian Gavan/Getty Images)

Renowned British hairdresser Vidal Sassoon, owner of a Beverly Hills salon, died at 84 in his Bel Air, Los Angeles home on Wednesday morning.

“The deceased was Vidal Sassoon,” Los Angeles Police Department spokesman Officer Bruce Borihanh told People magazine. “he died of apparent natural causes. There were no signs of foul play, no crime involved. Family members were present.”

Born and orphaned in London in 1928, Sassoon dropped out of school at age 14 to work as a shampoo boy in a local salon and had remained in the industry ever since. He gained his fame in the 1960s for his “wash and wear” philosophy and styled the hair of celebrities including Twiggy, Mia Farrow, and British fashion icon Mary Quant.

Sassoon, who later moved to Los Angeles and launched a successful product line and an international chain of salons named Sassoon, had been credited for revolutionizing the hairstyling industry with his simple geometric bob hairstyle.

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Yet Sassoon was more than a fashion icon. Although not a religious Jew, Sassoon had been a lifelong advocate for human rights, especially for the Jews against fascists during Second World War, according to The Guardian. Sassoon in 1982 also helped establish the Vidal Sassoon International Center for the Study of Anti-Semitism at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.

Sassoon, subject of a 2010 documentary named Vidal Sassoon: The Movie, had been married four times and had four children with his second wife, actress Beverly Adams. It was reported last year that Sassoon was diagnosed with leukemia two years earlier and was receiving treatment in both London and Beverly Hills.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/legendary-hairstylist-vidal-sassoon-dies-in-los-angeles-234971.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/celery-salad-from-italys-emilia-romagna-region-234703.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/celery-salad-from-italys-emilia-romagna-region-234703.html#comments Wed, 09 May 2012 07:26:21 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=234703

Celery salad from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region. (Maureen Zebian/The Epoch Times)

This recipe is our “How did you make this?” salad, because I don’t believe I’ve served it without hearing that question. Guests are dubious of a salad made entirely of celery, a vegetable usually relegated to a minor supporting role and overlooked in most recipes. They then ask for the recipe.

This recipe takes little time to describe, but a story comes with it. My wife, Joanne, and I had landed in Milan at the start of a vacation and took the train to Bologna, where we planned to stay the night, only to find that a convention had booked all hotels.

We picked up our car rental and drove to Ravenna and arrived jet-lagged and approaching 36 hours without sleep. We checked into a hotel and found a small pizzeria nearby that served simple pastas.

Neither of us recalls what we had for dinner, but we were served this house salad with our pasta, and I’ve been making it ever since.

Emilia-Romagna, which includes Parma (where Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma are made) and Modena (home of Balsamic vinegar), takes its food very seriously. So it was not surprising that this humble pizzeria’s house salad was a perfect balance of the flavors of extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice, and sea salt and ground pepper, topped with a few curls of perfectly aged Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Salad:
Makes 4 servings

3-1/2 to 4 cups thinly sliced celery
Approximately 2 tablespoons best-quality extra virgin olive oil
1 to 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Cut the ends off several stalks of celery and soak them in lightly salted cold water for 30 minutes. Drain and dry them thoroughly. Slice them obliquely and as thin as possible.

Immediately before serving, toss the celery with the olive oil and then add the lemon juice. Mix thoroughly. Add sea salt and ground pepper and toss again. Add more lemon juice or olive oil to taste and then add additional salt or pepper, if needed.

Serve on individual plates and use a vegetable peeler to drop curls of the cheese atop each salad.

As in any recipe with few ingredients, this salad requires best-quality ingredients: fresh, crisp celery, excellent olive oil, and aged Parmesan cheese. I believe the brightness of sea salt makes a difference as well, and it should not be added until the celery is coated with olive oil and the salad is ready to be served to avoid its leaching water from the celery and diluting the dressing.

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We serve this salad often. It is perfect with a light fish dinner, yet is appreciated after rich pastas or main courses. Joanne and I cooked a lasagna dinner for 150 friends at our church last week and paired the pasta with this salad. As usual, we received no questions about how Jo’s desserts or the lasagna were made, but we are still receiving calls with requests for the recipe for our little salad!

Charlie Burke, an organic farmer and avid cook, is the vice president of the New Hampshire Farmer’s Market Association. For more recipes, visit: www.theheartofnewengland.com

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/celery-salad-from-italys-emilia-romagna-region-234703.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/authentic-southern-crab-cakes-234208.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/authentic-southern-crab-cakes-234208.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 19:40:00 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=234208

Crab Cakes: Crunchy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. (Maureen Zebian/The Epoch Times)

By Kathy Coffey

Crunchy on the outside, tender and flaky on the inside. This recipe for crab cakes is everything you could expect in a crab cake recipe and more!

Authentic Crab Cakes

1. 1 pound lump white crabmeat
2. 1/2 cup chopped onion, diced
3. 1/2 cup celery, diced
4. 2 tablespoons butter
5. 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, divided
6. 2 eggs, slightly beaten
7. 1 teaspoon Old Bay Seasoning
8. 1/2 teaspoon salt
9. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10. 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
11. 2 teaspoons fresh chives, chopped
12. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
13. 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
14. 4 dashes f hot sauce
15. 1/2 cup canola oil, divided

      Makes 8 servings

Dipping Sauce

1. 1/2 cup mayonnaise
2. 1/4 cup seafood cocktail sauce

Put the butter, celery, and onions in a medium sauté pan and sauté for 5 minutes.

Place the crabmeat in a medium bowl. Make sure that you have picked through it and there are no shells.

To the crabmeat, add the sautéed celery and onions, 1 cup of the breadcrumbs, the eggs, Old Bay Seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, chives, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, the Dijon mustard, and hot sauce.

Carefully mix the ingredients together without breaking up the crabmeat any more than necessary.

Place the other cup of panko breadcrumbs on a plate. Divide the crabmeat mixture into 8 equal parts. Form each part into a patty and press it together so that it is a fairly firm patty. Carefully place in the breadcrumbs. Press the crab cake into the breadcrumbs.

Carefully turn the crab cake over and press the breading into the other side. You’ll need to be really careful with the crab cake so that it doesn’t fall apart.

Heat a large pan over medium to medium-low heat. Add 1/4 cup of the oil. Place 4 of the crab cakes in the pan and fry until golden brown. Carefully flip and continue frying on the other side until golden brown. Drain on paper towels.

Add the other 1/4 cup of oil to the pan for the other 4 crab cakes. Repeat process of browning on both sides and drain on paper towels.

Sauce: To make the dipping sauce, all you need to do is mix together the mayonnaise and seafood cocktail sauce.

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Kathy Coffey is the owner of the website Mamas Southern Cooking. For more recipes visit: http://www.mamas-southern-cooking.com

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/authentic-southern-crab-cakes-234208.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/hyundai-veloster-raptor-tough-and-cute-234025.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/hyundai-veloster-raptor-tough-and-cute-234025.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 09:10:52 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=234025

2012 Hyundai Veloster (Courtesy of NetCarShow.com)

Hyundai is making a pretty good feast of devouring competitors to the stylish new Accent sub-compact, award-winning Elantra compact, Tucson crossover, and Sonata mid-size sedan.

While none of those cars are the most powerful or fastest in their classes, they are making rodents quake with their advanced style, handling, warranties, pricing, and load of features.

They look sexy, even while topping the fuel economy charts and offering value. This carnage continues with the Veloster.

You won’t exactly think Raptor when you step into the standard 138 hp 1.6-liter direct-injected 4-cylinder engine, whether connected to the 6-speed manual or optional 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

It may catch a Fiesta or Sonic sleeping, but it’d better take a big bite and run quickly to survive the skirmish when something barely faster catches it. Properly revved, there’s still plenty of pep to step into freeway traffic or slip through town. Fuel economy ratings of 28/40-MPG city/hwy are sweet trades for the power deficit.

Admittedly, most of the reptile hunters who tread into Hyundai showrooms are not terribly concerned about blowing Cobras into the weeds. They’ll be more seduced by the Veloster’s funky cool styling. Its most distinguishing feature may be the front-hinged rear passenger-side door, perfect for letting friends and offspring off at the curb, but the car cuts a swath right through the sub-compact scene.

You’ll know its family by the angry grille and swept-back headlamps. The 18-inch alloys with black trim are cool, but the Kammback rear and hunkered stance set it apart. It’s both tough and cute. The front is enhanced with LED lighting, foglamps, and chrome grille surround with piano black highlights.

Impressive Interior

Stylists spun silk inside. Let’s be clear that like the Accent, Veloster is built to a price point. That means there’s a lot of hard plastic. However, the dash has a rubber sheen that makes it feel soft to the touch and doors are padded in all the right places.

Silver-painted surfaces on the dash and doors, alloy pedals, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and piano black accents dress up the space nicely. I especially like the gray fabric on the seats that reminds me a little of the houndstooth used in ‘60s Camaros. Our car came with a panoramic sunroof and power headliner cover that make the most of spring days.

The sporty twin-cockpit lay-out echoes other Hyundais and makes a perfect place for the touchscreen, large gauges, and rocket-igniter push button keyless ignition below the radio/climate control stack. Huge cup-holders, 60/40-split/fold rear seats, wide hatchback, and lots of cubbies keep everything in good kit.

I would definitely spring for the Dimension Premium Audio with separate amp and subwoofer, navigation, rear camera, and XM Satellite radio. Bluetooth hands-free phone connection, auto up/down driver window, and heated mirrors add convenience.

Continued on next page: For the tech-savvy …

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/hyundai-veloster-raptor-tough-and-cute-234025.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-volkswagen-previews-its-full-lineup-234009.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-volkswagen-previews-its-full-lineup-234009.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 08:53:58 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=234009

2013 VW CC (Courtesy of Volkswagen)

It was at the Ritz-Carlton in Half Moon Bay on the beautiful Pacific, with the cultural Mecca of San Francisco as its backdrop, that Volkswagen chose to launch its new car lineup.

Over three days in March, journalists from around the world were able to drive the legendary Volkswagen Beetle, New Golf, and Golf R, as well as Eos, Jetta, the flagship SUV Touareg, and the new 2013 CC.

The CC Sport had its first debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

In an area that encompasses sand beaches and cliffs that shelter and dress the Pacific Coast, going east towards the rich vineyards and produce fields in dark mountain shadows and high plateaus further east, I got to drive some of the finest American-produced automobiles.

The 2013 CC Sport Plus is one of the most affordable 4-door coupes in the marketplace, and the car I have chosen to write about. By the way, CC stands for Comfort Coupe.

The CC has an outstanding outside wrapping of candy-white while inside is colored in a wonderful rich luxury white.

The 4-cylinder models offer the acclaimed turbo charged 200-hp I-4 engine with a choice of 6-speed manual or DSG transmission. The VR6 models have a heady 280 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. A new front drive V6 Lux model has been recently introduced.

The automatic transmission was my choice for the challenging route and it did splendidly. It shifted smoothly; not once did it hesitate or jerk.

One of the features I liked the most was the lighting. Bi-Xenon headlights, LED daylight running lights, LED taillights, and LED license plate illumination are standard in all 5 trims.

The EPA has CC getting 31 mpg highway and 22 mpg city. But my driving experience netted me a combined average of 28 mpg.

Electro-mechanical power steering, special variable assists, multilink independent sports rear suspension along with elective stability controls, anti-slip regulation, electronic differential lock, and anti-lock breaking are some of the safety and durability features that are standard on all models. The standard price for the CC is $32,850.

Side impact curtains, head restraints for all passengers, child safety rear door locks, and tire monitoring systems are valued safety devices that German engineers have made standard features.

Power adjustable exterior mirrors, rear seat arm posts, power heated seats, and cruise control are comfort and convenient features as Bluetooth and media device interface handle the technological aspects of the driving experience.

Continued on next page: US a Significant Market …

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-volkswagen-previews-its-full-lineup-234009.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/three-dining-apps-you-need-233941.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/three-dining-apps-you-need-233941.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 06:43:46 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=233941

List shown of "Any" restaurants selected on the OpenTable app. (Jose Rivera/The Epoch Times)

Finding something to eat in NYC is not a problem, as there are over 4,200 eateries to choose from. So the issue becomes not only where to eat, but what to eat too. It’s also great when you know which restaurants are in the area, price range, special deals, hours, and available seating.

Having a smartphone puts the kind of information that makes choosing where and when to eat literally in your hands, while on the streets no less. Yet not all apps are alike, and depending on what your need is, it varies on which is best to use.

The three apps being examined are available for both iPhone and Android platforms, with full Internet websites that give you the same functionality as the apps.

OpenTable

Beginning with the OpenTable (OT) app, I found it easy to use. It is not just for finding a place to eat, but is interactive with a reservation system that connects directly to participating restaurant reservation systems. This means that when you reserve a table somewhere using the app, you are making a reservation directly with that restaurant’s online booking service. The speed and ease of use takes the guesswork out of making reservations, and there are no confirmation emails to worry about either. Set a date and you’re all ready.

OT’s reservation services are free for the customer. Instead, the restaurants are charged reservation fees. This cost-saving detail accounts for over 1 million reservations per month.

OT’s user interface has a fast, simple-to-navigate menu. You can sort your search by neighborhood, cuisine, the amount you want to spend, and times available. Their dining rewards program is also included in the app, where you can earn points for keeping a reservation. Points get you Dining Reward Cheques, which you can use at any OT restaurant nationwide.

After inputting information, such as what neighborhood to dine in, cuisine, price, and time desired, the app will show a list of places with open tables. There is a details tab with useful information that includes the place’s mini-bio, parking info, links to their menu, and a map locator. There is also a tab with diner reviews from OT users. This is a gem, as it doesn’t give reviews from dining writers, but from diners who are enjoying, or in some cases not enjoying, their meal or experience. Reviews are based on several criteria, such as food, service, and ambiance and noise level, along with personal comments.

This is a very handy app, and works for most major metropolitan cities in America, so it’s an app that can be very handy when at home or on vacation.

Urbanspoon's main screen. (Jose Rivera/The Epoch Times)

 

Urbanspoon

The next is Urbanspoon. The prettiest of the three apps in this review, upon opening the app, you are treated with gorgeous pictures of food.

Urbanspoon’s user interface is initially divided into four horizontally scrolling bands, like Discover, Cuisine, Price, and What’s open? Each of these bands is further broken down into categories, with tempting photos that sometimes might help guide you in a direction you didn’t expect to take.

You also have the option to choose a restaurant either by “nearby” location using GPS, or “shake,” which is a slot machine-like randomizer for the adventurous, and “search” for those who want to quickly shorten their browse time.

Once you’ve made a selection, you can use even more filters to narrow things down a bit. There are customer photos, ratings, and reviews, and you have the option of saving a place on a wish list.

Continued on next page: Yelp* …

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/three-dining-apps-you-need-233941.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/dill-its-not-just-a-pickle-spice-233701.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/dill-its-not-just-a-pickle-spice-233701.html#comments Tue, 08 May 2012 00:37:19 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=233701

Fresh dill is often overlooked, but can be added to cottage cheese, potato salad, cream cheese, tomato soup, and salad. (Maureen Zebian/The Epoch Times)

Dill is not only a pretty foliage plant; its fragrance is a “comfort smell” for many people. I barely touch its feathery leaves and the smell of homemade dill pickles, crisp and savory, rubs off on my hands. At the same time, dill is an herb that is often passed over as just a pickle spice and is not truly appreciated.

Growing Dill

Dill can easily be grown from seed in full sun, and it can even tolerate a slightly sandy soil. However, when first planting, you should keep the soil moist until established.

Do not move your dill; instead, plant where you will be growing it. Thin the seedlings to 10 inches apart. They will grow about 3 feet high. Use the seedlings that you pull up—they are tender and delicious!

Be sure to let one of the plants remain with its seeds after the season is finished so it will reseed itself. These plants will be much sturdier and hardier. Throughout the summer you can plant dill at two-week intervals to maintain a supply of fresh leaves.

Using Dill

Dill leaf can be clipped and used in cottage cheese, potato salad, cream cheese, tomato soup, and salads. You may also sprinkle chopped young dill on broiling lamb, pork chops, or steak during the last 5 minutes of cooking. The seeds that form on dill can be sprinkled on small pieces of toast or crackers with salmon that has been mixed with mayonnaise. Both the seed and leaf can be used in fish sauces.

The fresh leaves can be frozen in small resealable bags and used in dishes. When the leaves are dried, they are referred to as dill weed in recipes. The seeds can be kept in a closed container and used as needed.

Cucumber and Sour Cream Dressing

Makes 1 1/2 cups

1/2 cucumber, peeled, seeded, and grated
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons Dijon-style mustard
1 tablespoon vinegar or fresh lemon juice
Pepper to taste
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 tablespoon snipped fresh dill

In a small sieve set over a bowl, toss the cucumber with the salt and let drain for 10 minutes. In a blender, blend the mustard, vinegar, pepper, and salt to taste. Add the sour cream, yogurt, and the dill. Blend the mixture, scraping down the sides until it is smooth. Add the cucumber and blend until combined.

Garlicky Green Beans With Dill (Maureen Zebian/The Epoch Times)

 

Garlicky Green Beans With Dill

1 pound fresh green beans
1 1/2 tablespoons butter
6 cloves garlic, peeled and halved
1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Trim, string, and rinse beans. Cut into 1-inch lengths, and steam until tender, 10 or 15 minutes. Drain.

Melt butter in a skillet, add garlic, and cook over a very low heat about 5 minutes until soft. Mash or remove garlic, whichever you prefer. Add the dill and stir. Add your beans and pepper flakes; cover and cook over low heat about 5 minutes. Salt to taste, and serve.

Light Herbed Cheese Dip

1 package (8 ounces) light cream cheese
1/4 cup plain yogurt
2 tablespoons each fresh dill and parsley, chopped
2 small green onions, chopped
1/2 teaspoon each minced garlic and salt

Put cream cheese and yogurt in food processor and or blender and process 1 to 2 minutes. Add other ingredients and process for just 30 seconds to blend. Serve with raw vegetables.

Tuna and Dill Tea Sandwiches

1 large can white tuna in water
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
3 tablespoons yogurt
2 teaspoons fresh dill, chopped
3–4 chive leaves, chopped
1/4 cup chopped cucumber
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon peel

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Mix together ingredients; spread on thin bread that has had the crust cut off. Cut into triangles. If you wish, a piece of lettuce can also be placed on the sandwich.

Brenda Hyde is the owner of Old Fashion Living. For more recipe ideas, visit OldFashionedLiving.com. Permission to reprint articles given by Momsmenu.com. 

 

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/dill-its-not-just-a-pickle-spice-233701.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tempura-fish-tacos-233566.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tempura-fish-tacos-233566.html#comments Mon, 07 May 2012 18:13:23 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=233566

Deep fried ling cod tacos with tomato and mango salsa. (Sandra Shields/The Epoch Times)

These delicious, easy-to-make fish tacos are composed of cod and veggies folded in a flour tortilla. The delicate batter on the fried fish adds flavour, along with a topping of shredded cabbage and tomato mango salsa. However, they are not very spicy, so if you like lots of heat, add more chilies or your favourite spices. Have all the ingredients ready to assemble before making the batter and frying the fish.

Fish Tacos

Serves 4 (3 tortillas each)

500 g (1 lb) fresh halibut or cod, cut into even-sized sticks to fit along the centre of the tortilla
1 package Tempura batter mix
Vegetable oil for frying
1 dozen medium soft flour tortillas,
375 mL (1 1/2 cup) green cabbage, finely shredded
1 lime
Salt and pepper to taste

Preheat oven to 150º C (300º F). To heat and soften tortillas, wrap in foil and place in the oven for approximately 10 minutes.

Pour vegetable oil in a heavy medium-sized pot until it is approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) deep. Heat over medium-high heat to 190º C (375º F). Have all ingredients ready before making the batter and frying the fish.

In a medium bowl mix the tempura batter by following the instructions on the package. Dip pieces of fish into the batter and cook until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the fish. Drain the fish on paper towelling.

To assemble, place a piece of fish on each warmed tortilla and add shredded cabbage and some tomato and mango salsa. Sprinkle fresh lime juice over taco and add a sliver of fresh lime on top. Salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

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Tomato and Mango Salsa

2 large tomatoes, diced small
125 mL (1/2 cup) mango, finely diced
5 mL (1 tsp) Jalapeno chili, seeds removed, finely minced
5 mL (1 tsp) fresh lime juice

Mix together all salsa ingredients and set aside.
 

  

 

 

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/tempura-fish-tacos-233566.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-supermoon-moon-photo-saturday-night-232917.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-supermoon-moon-photo-saturday-night-232917.html#comments Sun, 06 May 2012 16:18:03 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=232917

A perigee moon, or SuperMoon, on May 5, 2012 near Palm Springs, California. The moon appears especially big and bright during this once-a-year cosmic event as the full moon is at its closest to the Earth in its elliptical orbit. The perigee side of its orbit is about 31,000 miles closer than the opposite, or apogee, side. (David McNew/Getty Images)

The “supermoon” —also known as a perigree moon—of May 5 lived up to the hype, with people around the world reporting sightings. The much awaited annual event occurs during the time when the moon is closest to the earth. The May 5 super moon is predicted to be the biggest one this year, reportedly 14 percent bigger and 30 percent brighter than other full moons for 2012.

People in different parts of the world came out with their families to witness this celestial event. As with all celestial events, there are different folklore associated with this one. NASA had the following to say about the event on its website: “Folklore holds that all kinds of … things happen under the light of a full moon. Supposedly, hospital admissions increase, the crime rate ticks upward, and people behave strangely. The idea that the full Moon causes mental disorders was widespread in the Middle Ages. Well, across the world people have many fabulous explanations to the super moon.”

Irrespective of all the “fabulous explanations,” star gazers took advantage of the close proximity of earth’s only satellite to try peer at the moons’ many craters and take in its beauty.

Geoff Chester of the U.S. Naval Observatory told USA Today that the moon would look even bigger when its on or near the horizon due to an optical illusion. He also said that the moon would also bring in natural changes like unusually high tides due to its close proximity with the earth, but that the effect would modest.

 

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/2012-supermoon-moon-photo-saturday-night-232917.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/the-best-mother-s-day-gifts-are-free-232871.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/the-best-mother-s-day-gifts-are-free-232871.html#comments Sun, 06 May 2012 12:24:05 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=232871

(Andres Rodriguez/Fotolia)

If you ask my mom what is the best gift she could receive on Mother’s Day, she will say a heartfelt note, a warm conversation (even over the phone), or quality time together. My kids appreciate that kind of attention too.

Go for a Walk
Take a stroll in green surroundings—a park or along a trail. Shut off all distracting devices and spend that time being with each other. Those moments are most precious, and much can be gained from them at all ages.

Take Time to Cultivate Oneself
If you’re anything like me, time away from the kids can often nurture the spirit more than any fancy gifts. Sometimes a little down time is all moms need to recharge in order to give back to their families more fully.

Write a Personal Card
Chick Moorman, author of “Parent Talk” with over 40 years’ experience as an educator and parent, writes guidelines as to how to write the ultimate Mother’s Day card in April’s Uncommon Parenting Blog.

First, buy a blank card; don’t resort to a store inscribed one. The card makers do not know your mother.

Then he advises, “Stay away from evaluative comments such as super, fantastic, great, wonderful, inspirational, beautiful, awesome, kind, thoughtful, best, incredible, etc.”

Instead of these words that only judge, rate, rank, and evaluate, write at least three comments that describe behaviors she has done and tell her the effect of those behaviors on your life.

“This is where you recognize and affirm what she has done rather than evaluate what she has done,” Moorman writes.

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Last, sign it with love and mail it on time—something he admitted to not accomplishing for his mother in her lifetime.

He does, however, write her a personal note in his blog and says: “I am sending this message to my mother today. I know she will receive it, and it will arrive on time.”

The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/the-best-mother-s-day-gifts-are-free-232871.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/puerto-vallarta-a-tale-of-two-cities-231979.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/puerto-vallarta-a-tale-of-two-cities-231979.html#comments Fri, 04 May 2012 18:30:17 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=231979

The sunset over the beach near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The destination has extraordinary options for vacationers seeking traditional culture, pure resort get-away, or a mix of the two. (Courtesy of Sheila O’Connor)

For some travelers, resorts and tourist attractions are enough to flame their fires for adventure. For others, wanderlust is only satisfied if it carries them to the depths of cultural immersion. As for me, I want a bit of both and always find such a wondrous blend of local culture and resort amenities in what U.S. News & World Report called Mexico’s Top Vacation Destination in 2010, Puerto Vallarta (PV).

Situated along the Pacific Coast, just beneath the Tropic of Cancer, Puerto Vallarta sits along the sheltered waters of Bahía de Banderas and is well protected from extreme weather by the bay’s headlands. Banderas Bay is the largest natural bay in Mexico and provides shelter for more than 500 cruising boats—both power and sail—seeking shelter from Hurricane season (June through November). These waters are also fertile cruising grounds for many sailboats and race regattas, creating a visual feast.

Besides Americans, Canadians, and Europeans, PV is also a popular vacation destination for middle class Mexican families, which provides wonderful opportunities for cultural exchange. On a family trip some years back, we stayed at the Hotel Regina, where we were befriended by a married couple of dentists from Mexico City. Their kids played each day with ours by the pool and offered us the chance to discover how our lives were far more similar, despite the obvious difference in nationality.

In fact, on two trips to PV, I have been much impressed with the local people and how friendly they are. Not only the shop owners and hospitality staff, but also on the street. Many people speak English, at least partially, and can offer tips and directions as well as conversation.

Must-See Attractions

A main attraction in PV is the Malecon—the long boardwalk and stretch of beaches that make up the central part of town. PV is a great place to walk around and talk to people, and the Malecon is perfect for an after-dinner stroll. Artists and vendors display their wares, and across the street are numerous restaurants, bars, and shops that vary from the tourista to boutiques and fine art galleries.

The hotel row in the heart of downtown is perhaps the most tourista part of PV, with many restaurants, hotels, smaller resorts, beach shops, and the echoes of beach vendors and barkers for tourist attractions. The latter can be quite annoying as three to four times each block you’ll be offered the deal of a lifetime for para-gliding, sport fishing, party boats, timeshare presentations, and the like. Thankfully, this is isolated to this one part of town. Just turn a deaf ear and don’t let it distract you from the fun of exploring the many shops and eateries.

Enjoying ATV touring and thrill-seeking outside of Puerto Vallarta. (Courtesy of Sheila O’Connor)

Continued on next page: To truly expand your experience …

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]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/puerto-vallarta-a-tale-of-two-cities-231979.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/oreo-cookie-bundt-cake-231946.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/oreo-cookie-bundt-cake-231946.html#comments Fri, 04 May 2012 05:12:43 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=231946

Delicious Oreo cookie bundt cake. (Photos.com)

Crushed Oreos, cream cheese filling, and hungry guests make this iconic cake a perfect summertime treat.

Makes 16 servings

1 cup coarsely crushed Oreo cookies (about 12)
1/4 cup sugar
1 package (8 ounces) fat-free cream cheese, softened
5 eggs, divided
1 package (18.25 ounces) devil’s food cake mix
1 1/2 cups fat-free sour cream
1/2 cup water
1 package (12 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
Powdered sugar, optional garnish

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Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees F.

Spray a nonstick 12-cup bundt pan with nonstick spray. Sprinkle bottom and partially up sides of pan with 1/2 of the crushed cookies; set aside.

Combine softened cream cheese and sugar. Add 1 egg; beat until well mixed. Set aside.

Combine cake mix, sour cream, 4 eggs, and water; beat for 10 minutes. Stir in chips and remaining crushed cookies. Spoon approximately half the cake batter into bottom of prepared bundt pan. Using the back of a spoon, create a hollow in the center of batter to hold cream cheese. Spoon cream cheese mixture into hollow, being careful that cream cheese does not touch sides of pan. Spread remaining batter over cream cheese, carefully sealing cream cheese away from the sides of the pan.

Bake 55–65 minutes or until toothpick inserted comes out clean (do not stick toothpick into cream filling). Allow cake to cool 5–10 minutes and then invert on serving plate. Sprinkle lightly with powdered sugar and serve slightly warm.

Recipe submitted by Betty Low to Utahdairycouncil.com

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/oreo-cookie-bundt-cake-231946.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/career-corner-enabling-success-with-the-help-of-a-mentor-231344.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/career-corner-enabling-success-with-the-help-of-a-mentor-231344.html#comments Thu, 03 May 2012 10:34:52 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=231344 I was recently at my alma mater speaking at a workshop for college students who were about to graduate and begin their careers in their fields of study. I was very impressed by all the students I spoke with and enjoyed their enthusiasm and ambition. They reminded me of myself at that stage of my life. They all wanted an edge and the “secret formula” for success. Obviously, I reminded them that there is no “secret formula” and advised them of the usual success standards of hard work, dedication, and positive attitude—nothing earth-shattering of course. However, I did share with them one thing that was crucial to my success early in my career.

Whenever I advise people on their careers, I always stress the importance of seeking a mentor.

As a young professional, one of the managers at the firm I was working at took me under his wings. It wasn’t anything formal. I didn’t go up to him and formally request, “Will you be my mentor?” I was new and he had been there for a while. It just seemed natural for me to turn to him whenever I wasn’t sure what to do. That’s how the relationship started. As we got to know each other more, he started to include me on various projects he was working on even though I lacked experience. He literally taught me on the job, right on the spot. I didn’t realize it at the time, but I was being mentored by a rising star in the company. Whenever he was promoted he brought me along with him and I rose through the ranks in tandem with him. Being mentored by him put me on a path that brought me to where I am today.

Whenever I advise people on their careers, I always stress the importance of seeking a mentor. This doesn’t apply only to young professionals. You can be a 20-year veteran or a new college graduate. There’s always someone out there who can teach you something. You can’t be delusional and think that you know it all. Don’t let your ego get in the way of career development. Don’t be afraid either. Believe it or not, people really do want to help you. Keep in mind though that mentoring is a two-way relationship; both the mentor and mentee should experience benefits. Here are five key things to pay attention to when seeking a mentor:

1. Choose a mentor whose goals are similar to your own.
2. Find someone who is on the same career path you are.
3. Do something for them (figure out how you can help them).
4. Look for someone who is successful and has a great reputation.
5. Be loyal.

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Looking back, I was very fortunate to have been mentored by some great people. I think about them a lot and am forever grateful for all their help. Wherever you are in your career, it’s important that you have people on your side to support you. Your success will always be increased by the people you surround yourself with. If you don’t have a mentor now, go find one!

Song Woo, an employment and career management expert, is the President and CEO of Lighthouse Management Group.

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/career-corner-enabling-success-with-the-help-of-a-mentor-231344.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/nicholas-french-hair-artist-supreme-230954.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/nicholas-french-hair-artist-supreme-230954.html#comments Wed, 02 May 2012 15:24:55 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=230954

Hair by Nicholas French using Matrix products (Sarah Silver/SHE by SO.CAP USA HAIR EXTENSIONS)

Nicholas French became the first honoree to earn the Beauty Maker Award (BMA) in platform artistry, awarded by the BE! Entertainment Network on April 15 at the Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, N.J.

“Platform artists perform and work from a stage, usually in front of beauty [industry] makers, the public, and from a few up to thousands of people at a time,” explained Steven and Annie Casciola, founders and editors of BE! Magazine.

“They have the unique communication and creative skills to excite the public about the salon experience.”

From this description, it is no wonder that Nicholas French merited this honor, singled out as No. 1 from among “so many people traveling the world doing this,” French said.

Inspired by his late father, Freddie French, Nicholas has devised a course of innovative hair styling that triggers the imagination and ignites the fire of creativity.

He said that his father used to tell him, “You have to understand the inside of a person’s head before you understand the outside.” He applies this principle in his work with clients, as well as with hair-styling students and industry colleagues.

Largely, his role is communication—finding out his clients’ diverse personalities and whether they prefer a classic style or something edgier. The same goes for choosing the right hair colors to suit each person.

He also learned never to talk down to anyone, giving colleagues confidence so that they can move forward in the industry. He enjoys sharing the techniques he cultivated while under his father’s wing.

Nicholas currently serves as the artistic director for Matrix USA, a division of L’Oreal, and also as national creative director for SHE by SO.CAP.USA Hair Extensions.

His mission at Matrix is “Awaken, Imagine, Inspire, Connect.” His range as a stylist reflects that motto whether he is doing traditional cutting or styling at runway shows and trade shows—from red-carpet celebrity looks to avant-garde styles, his forte.

Nicholas French adding finishing touches at a photo shoot of one of his trademark avant-garde styles. (BABAK/Matrix)

His presentations on stage in addressing seminars and motivational speaking have excited audiences worldwide. Perhaps one reason for the enthusiastic responses is his philosophy that “hair plus art equals imagination.” He says in this industry that you have to have heart, and it all begins with the “P’s”: “Passion, perseverance, perfection, and persistence.”

No surprise then that French has been invited to appear a whopping 10 times at the Alternative Hair Show. Now in its 25th season, this show originated in London, appearing at many different venues as well as at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, and has become one of the most spectacular Las Vegas-like shows in the world.

His work as a guest artist has taken him to many glamorous destinations around the globe, including Japan, Australia, Italy, France, Spain, Hong Kong, Thailand, Canada, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Croatia.

The French Family Legacy

Nicholas French’s story dates back to his roots—no pun intended.

His father, Freddie French, also known as French of London, opened a small barbershop in London’s East End in 1924. He started his amazing journey in the industry as a lather boy and became one of the most innovative and groundbreaking hairdressers of the last century by creating the key looks that changed the uniform approach to hair at that time.

Freddie French created looks for hundreds of magazines. His press coverage was big in the United Kingdom with over 8,000 features published about him, including coverage in the 1950s Pathé News Films, the only news media of that time.

At his death in 1986, Freddie French left a legacy of 27 salons, many located in department stores, hotels, and cruise liners—a first of this period. He was one of the first to start his own hair product company.

This impressive history originated from a lather boy earning one shilling a week, or approximately 20 cents. And this was just the beginning of the French family story.

After apprenticing with Vidal Sassoon in the 1960s, Nicholas French went on to own and operate several salons in the United Kingdom before relocating to the United States 18 years ago.

“What is the difference between couture in dress design and hair couture?” he asks.
“Designers can buy their fabric. With hair—a person you don’t know shows up, hoping we can do something for them.”

“We help make a difference in people’s lives—that has not been recognized yet,” he emphasizes.

French wishes to give back to the industry in many different ways, using the teaching platform to enable the continuation of his tried-and-true techniques. He feels he has “a responsibility to lead the next generation” and to help them understand the importance of their roles.

His experience spans working in print, video, motion pictures, and session hair.

Hair by Nicholas French using Matrix products (Sarah Silver/SHE by SO.CAP USA HAIR EXTENSIONS)

He has designed runway hair for Emanuel Ungaro, Eres, Luca Luca, Alpana Bawa, Guess Jeans, Levi’s, Dollhouse, Mavi, and Betsey Johnson, and has made numerous television appearances, including an appearance on the “Oprah Winfrey Show.”

He led the Vavoom Hair Team for the InStyle runway show and created the hair for the 40th Anniversary runway show for the magazine giant “Cosmopolitan.”

In addition to winning many awards, he has been featured in two books on British hairdressing icons called “From Salon to Celebrity” and “50 Hairstylists.”

His work has been as diverse as producing and developing trends to doing film and print work. Some of the directors he has worked with are Ridley Scott, Tony Scott, Adrien Lyne, and Terry Bedford.

The list of photographers is no less impressive. Among them are David Bailey, Gilles Bensimon, Cecil Beaton, Lord Litchfield, and Roberto Ligresti.

Among his celebrity and royal clients, to name a few, are Elizabeth Hurley, Dame Judi Dench, Twiggy, Dawn French, Julie Walters, Elkie Brooks, Patsy Kensit, Elaine Paige, Kelly LeBrock, Jerry Hall, Claudia Cardinale, Paul Hogan, Tommy Tune, Bob Hoskins, Hugh Laurie, and Princess Margaret.

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Nicholas has been married for 28 years to Carole, his right-hand adviser and coordinator of his appointments and world trips. He currently lives in the Hamptons, New York.

As a creative hairdresser in the year 2012—one of the most exciting professions around—Nicholas French stands out as one of a kind.

Author, hairdresser, innovator, Harold Leighton has worked in the beauty industry for decades in Europe, the Far East, and the United States. He is currently creative director and adviser at GKhair. Find him at http://www.hleighton.com/ or contact him at: hleighton@bellsouth.net

 

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/nicholas-french-hair-artist-supreme-230954.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/matching-yourself-to-the-right-voluntourism-project-229434.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/matching-yourself-to-the-right-voluntourism-project-229434.html#comments Wed, 02 May 2012 02:25:26 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=229434

A first-grade class in the Galapagos may be different than expected, but smiles are universal. (Courtesy of Experiential Learning International)

What is the best voluntourism program out there? How do you know which project is right for you? Obviously you must contemplate the length of commitment, location, and costs, but what else? Among the most important items to consider are your own needs.

Your own needs! Does this sound like a selfish way to think about something as altruistic as volunteering?

Good! Part of being a successful, productive volunteer is to be passionate about the work and to be comfortable—mentally and physically—with your surroundings. Here are a few productively-selfish questions to ask before selecting your working vacation:

What is the day-to-day work like? Establish if the work is repetitive, diverse, physical, relaxed, indoors, outdoors, etc. Be sure the daily routine suits your limitations.

Understand the work. Wildlife care may be more hands on fruit salad than hands on furry friends. (Nola Lee Nelsey)

How many hours each week is a volunteer expected to work? Don’t settle for pithy responses, such as, “Our work is a labor of love so it should not matter.” Even love needs some space now and then, not to mention time to wash its underwear, explore, and generally recharge its lovely batteries.

What are the accommodations? Are you staying in a dorm, home-stay, hotel, or tent? Is there running water? Electricity?

What meals will be included? Don’t expect a menu, but a baseline for what to anticipate should be established. Can they accommodate vegans, diabetics, etc.?

What about transportation? Will airport/bus station transfers be available? If the program is rural, how do you get there?

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Use what you learn to have an honest internal dialogue with yourself. Charities are depending on your help. If you are miserable or leave early no one benefits. Hotels or hostels, full or part-time work, there are no right or wrong answers as to what the best volunteer program in the world is. What matters is making the best match between a volunteer project and yourself. Choose wisely!

Nola Lee Kelsey – The Voluntary Traveler

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/matching-yourself-to-the-right-voluntourism-project-229434.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/asparagus-frittata-230345.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/asparagus-frittata-230345.html#comments Tue, 01 May 2012 12:19:00 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=230345

Asparagus Frittata served with wedges of oranges. (Maureen Zebian/The Epoch Times)

We all know that in France, eggs are used to make great omelets. But in Spain and Italy, eggs are used in the same way to make tortillas and frittatas, their versions of the French omelet. These are true peasant foods. 

Tortillas in Spain, made with potatoes, onions, and eggs, are served in every tapas bar at room temperature, while frittatas in Italy are served as antipasti, and as lunch and dinner. They can also be used in small slices as appetizers or as main courses.

We expect food to be served hot, but in Southern Europe, dishes such as these and other vegetables are often served at room temperature, permitting their rich flavors to shine. 

This recipe celebrates fresh spring asparagus, cooked as Italian farmers’ wives would cook it, and is an easy way to serve this great spring gift. Use this recipe as a master recipe with whichever vegetable is at its peak flavor. 

In Italy, pancetta is used to provide flavor, but I prefer to buy Prosciutto di Parma, which has less fat and can be bought in slices to be chopped for inclusion in recipes. However you use this recipe, use fresh local eggs, and be certain that no animal protein is used in the chicken feed. 

Preheat oven to 475 degrees F.

Makes 4 servings

1. 6 large eggs
2. 1/2 pound fresh asparagus, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
3. 1/4 cup Prosciutto di Parma, finely chopped
4. 2 tablespoons chopped shallots
5. 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
6. 2 tablespoons flat-leaf parsley, chopped
7. 3 tablespoons olive oil
8. Kosher or sea salt
9. Freshly ground pepper

Place a sauté pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add asparagus, prosciutto, and shallots when oil is hot. Cook until asparagus is nearly tender; remove from heat. 

Mix eggs with a fork in a bowl until just mixed. Add asparagus mix, Parmesan cheese, and parsley to egg mix. Add salt and pepper.

In a nonstick skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat until oil is hot. Pour egg mixture into sauté pan. Cook, lifting edges to let liquid egg mixture leak under edges. Continue cooking until top is nearly done, then place into oven until top is done.

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Serve warm or at room temperature with a salad and dry white wine, and experience the great taste of European peasant food!

Charlie Burke is an organic farmer and avid cook, writer, and vice president of the New Hampshire Farmer’s Market Association. He grows certified organic herbs, greens, and berries at Weather Hill Farm in Sanbornton, N.H. For more recipes go to: www.theheartofnewengland.com

]]> http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/asparagus-frittata-230345.html/feed 0 http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/mothers-day-date-syrup-cake-pops-230333.html http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/life/mothers-day-date-syrup-cake-pops-230333.html#comments Tue, 01 May 2012 11:53:42 +0000 Epoch Times http://www.theepochtimes.com/n2/?p=230333

Date Pops are beautiful place setting for a Mother's Day dinner. (Kurt Winner)

Colleen Sundlie’s small organic company began as most companies do—she needed something she could not find. As an American mom living with her husband and very young son in Al Ain outside Dubai, United Arab Emirates, she frequented the markets and explored all day with her young son Henry. 

As she tells the story: “Everybody knew us in the town of about 150,000 because we stuck out like sore thumbs, and I was always doing things like walking with him in a backpack or in a jogging stroller, both perceived as very strange contraptions in that part of the world. Taxi drivers stopped the first couple of months, looking quizzically and asking if we needed a ride. Then they just got used to us. 

“When I started to wean him, I was concerned if he was getting enough iron and was trying to figure out how to avoid the typical iron supplements given to kids here. One day while shopping in the local grocery store, some Emirati ladies in their black abayas and gold masks seemed pleased to find me here. They gathered around us and started telling me of the wonders of the date syrup I had in my hand. One of them told me it was very high in iron, and I decided it would be perfect to add to our diet. So, that’s how it started.

“When our family spent summers in the States, I found date syrup was only available in obscure Arabic markets. Some brands just didn’t taste that great or had sugar added. Realizing that we could never stuff our suitcases full of enough of it, I started thinking about how we should import it to America ourselves and share our discovery. 

“While researching suppliers, we learned that there are some less-than-desirable growing methods, questionable business practices and ingredients. We visited many date farms to find a good fit, finally locating a company we trusted to produce for us organically single-ingredient (dates only) syrup, and now here we are with our company—Organics Are For Everyone—and loving what we do!”

I found Colleen’s USDA organic certified date syrup while looking for an alternative to the standard recipe for cake pops that give me a sugar headache. The original recipe usually mixes canned or homemade frosting with cake crumbs, rolls it into shapes, and covers it in chocolate. Sugar bombs as far as I am concerned. 

Colleen’s Cake Pops:

Makes 20 pieces
Bake time: 35 minutes
Freeze time: 2 hours
Prep time: 30 minutes

To make cake:

1. 1 1/2 cups flour
2. 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
3. 1 teaspoon baking soda
4. 1/2 teaspoon salt
5. 3/4 cup date syrup
6. 1/2 cup cold water
7. 6 tablespoons oil (use a better oil like canola)
8. 1 tablespoon vinegar

To make coating:

1. 1/4 cup date syrup
2. 16 ounces of chocolate chips or white chocolate chips
3. 20 sucker sticks and a Styrofoam block to hold completed pops (all from craft store)

Colleen’s recipe produces a satisfying, less-sweet version dipped in chocolate. Order her syrup at: www.organicsareforeveryone.com 

In celebration of one mother’s journey seeking better health for her children and ultimately creating a small family enterprise to share her discovery, make these for your mother for Mother’s Day.

Mix dry ingredients together. In middle of bowl, form a well and add in wet cake ingredients. Mix until all are smoothly incorporated. Pour into a greased and floured 9-inch baking pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 35 minutes. Let cool completely.

When cake has cooled, crumble by hand (does not have to be superfine) in a bowl. Add 1/4 cup date syrup to crumbs and mix well. Roll mixture immediately into 20 separate balls. Transfer the balls into an airtight container and freeze for at least 2 hours.

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Before you take the balls out of the freezer, melt the chocolate on stove over low heat. Use a small pan that will give you the greatest depth of melted chocolate for dipping into. When chocolate is ready, dip the tip of a stick into it and stick it into a ball. Work quickly, dipping entire ball into chocolate and then sticking into Styrofoam to dry. If doing sprinkles, apply directly after dipping so they will adhere while chocolate dries.

Michelle Winner is a freelance writer, travel editor, and photographer. For more information, visit: www.culinarytraveler.com

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