l lifestyle

1CONNECTICUT EDITION | NOVEMBER 2012

2 NOVEMBER 2012 | FOR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNTIES PLEASE CALL 888-454-0449


Editor in Chief Kenea Brittle

Design Director Sandra Miranda

Director of Photography Kathy Ryan

Deputy Editors Lauren Kern, Joel Lovell

Managing Editor John Haskins

Story Editors Sheila Glaser, Jonathan Kelly, Dean Robinson, Ilena Silverman, Adam Sternbergh, Vera Titunik, Greg Veis

Art Director Denise Lynn

Designers Sara Cwynar, Hilary Greenbaum

Design Assistant A.E. Velez

Deputy Photo Editor Joanna Milter

Photo Editors Stacey Baker, Clinton Cargill, Amy Kellner, Luise Stauss

Photo Assistant Gabrielle Plucknette

INSIDE THIS

ISSUEHealth & WellnessLosing with Yoga ........................... 5

After Workout Guide ...................6

Winter Fitness .................................9

Home & GardenBenefits of Granite ...................... 10

Fashion2012 Fashion Alert ........................15

Kids & FamilyLady Bug Parties ...........................17

Forget Discipline ......................... 20

Calendar of EventsA Guide to Connecticut ............26

Financial GuideProtect Your Assets ....................22

Travel GuideSan Francisco ................................28

Win $500!Answer Simple Questions In

This Month’s Scavenger

Hunt To Win! ..................................26

Advertisers Index .........26

November 2012volume 1 - issue 1

LEISURE LIFESTYLE

On behalf of Leisure Lifestyle Magazine, I am delighted to announce the publication of the inaugural issue.

Leisure Lifestyle magazine has been nearly 2 years in the making. It was felt by myself that this publication would be the ideal vehicle to build on the success of businesses throughout the community.

This inaugural issue consists of targeted articles and platforms of interest to Connecticut..

Thanks are due first to the dedicated staff of Leisure Lifestyle for their endless hours of hard work and tenacity as they have so generously given their time and expertise to make this project happen. No detail, large or small, has been beyond their notice. Their professionalism, attention to detail and good humor has made seeing this issue into “print” a real pleasure. I also thank the guest editors of this first issue who admirably suffered through our teething process as we put in place our workflow while at the same time going into production.

Kenea BrittleEditor-in-ChiefLeisure Lifestyle Magazine

A Letter From The Editor


:: HEALTH & WELLNESS | featured section

Everybody knows that you need to stay active in order to get the best results when trying to lose weight. Most people think that you need to do lots and lots of cardio exercise to achieve the greatest results. We join gyms, go to spin class, run many miles, cycle and swim to shed off the unwanted pounds. Cardio is definitely an excellent way to stay in shape and I include it regularly. However, if I didn’t also include yoga, I wouldn’t be in as good shape as I am now.

If you want to keep your body in muscular balance you need to do more than just cardio training. When doing cardio, no matter what you are doing, you are repeating the same movements over and over again. This leads to your muscles becoming tight and stiff. You will gain huge amounts of strength in the muscles you are using, but will lose strength in the smaller stabilizing muscles. This causes the bigger muscles to compensate for the smaller ones and in turn creates an imbalance in your body. Yoga helps to fight and prevent this imbalance from happening in the first place.

Yoga is a whole body workout that lets you get in touch with every muscle in your body. By doing many different balances that move fluidly between poses, you gain an awareness of your body’s strengths and weaknesses. These movements and static poses work out many of the smaller muscles in your body which increases their strength, flexibility and relaxes the body as a whole.

Losing Weight With YogaHow Does Yoga Help You Lose Weight?

1. Reduces Stress - Stress causes the body to retain fat and also reduces your metabolism. The more stress you have in your life, the harder it is to lose weight. Yoga is a great stress reliever and can help you get rid of any weight that is caused by being overly stressed.

2. Workout Intensity - It is not always a good idea to push your body to its limits when working out. It is good to also include relaxing, muscle and balance-building routines that work out the entire body. You’d be surprised how much sweat you will produce in a one hour full body yoga workout.

3. Lean Muscle - When doing yoga you will notice your fat being transformed into lean muscle. More muscle means that your body needs more energy to function and therefore burns more calories.

“bigger muscles to compensate for the smaller

ones”


The foods we choose to refuel our body with post-exercise are vital to meeting our body’s needs. Unfortunately, there is a lot of confusion surrounding women’s fitness diet plans, leaving most of us unsure of what to eat and not eat after a workout.

The important thing to remember is that nutrition needs clear, factual information, common sense, and diligence if you want to make your overall health better. If the other meals of the day are not executed properly, you won’t achieve your workout goals.

What Happens When We WorkoutLet’s make some sense of this confusing topic by discussing why we workout. For me, (and I think I speak on behalf of MOST of the population), there are 3 main reasons to exercise:1. Improve health 2. Improve body composition 3. Improve performance

If you want your fitness diet to contain the right nutrients your body needs after a workout, we need to focus on what our body experiences during exercise. During an intense workout, we break down muscle tissue, essentially damaging the tissues. This sounds bad, but this process is what actually makes us leaner, fitter, stronger and more muscular.Essentially, a women’s fitness diet needs to do 3 things:1. Replenish glycogen 2. Stop protein breakdown 3. Promote protein synthesis

Muscle building occurs when our body reaches a positive protein balance during recovery by consuming the right type of nutrients after exercise triggers protein synthesis. Our body also depletes its carbohydrate levels during exercise, which need to be refilled. This means our body NEEDS protein and carbohydrates post-workout.

Common Sense Health Guide

After Workout Nutrition


During and after exercise, our blood circulates more rapidly, especially through the muscles being trained. If we strategically put the nutrients it needs into our bloodstream at the right times, our bodies will be able to recover and replenish more efficiently.

After Workout Nutrition For A Women’s Fitness DietThis brings us to the “window” of opportunity, which occurs immediately after a workout. During this timeframe, our muscles are primed to accept the nutrients that can stimulate muscle repair and growth.

While protein synthesis lasts for up to 4 hours, our body will receive the most benefits from nutrients consumed within two hours of exercising. Wait too long to refuel your body, however, and you’ll experience a decrease in glycogen storage and protein synthesis.

So What Should I Eat?Let’s recall what it is that we are trying to achieve with post-workout nutrition:1. Replenish glycogen 2. Stop protein breakdown 3. Promote protein synthesis

This tells us we need carbohydrates to replenish our energy levels, and protein to prevent further breakdown and promote rebuilding.

Because our window is small, we need to consume quick digesting carbohydrates and quick digesting protein post-workout. Sources such as isolates, dextrose, or a recovery drink are best.

Whole foods digest slowly, which is why most fitness enthusiasts choose liquid post-workout over whole foods. If you do choose whole foods, opt for ones that are quick to absorb like fish and white rice. Just make sure to take advantage of the two-hour “window”.

continued on page 8


LIGHTER CHICKEN EGG FOO YOUNGIngredients 2 chicken tenders, chopped 4 egg whites 1 dash soy sauce 1/2 cup bean sprouts 1/2 cup finely chopped water chestnuts 1 green onion, chopped, or to taste

Directions1. Spray a skillet with cooking spray, and place over medium heat. Cook and stir the chicken until lightly browned and no longer pink, about 5 minutes. With a spatula, spread the chicken pieces out into the bottom of the skillet. Spray again with cooking spray if needed. 2. In a bowl, beat the egg whites with soy sauce, and stir in the bean sprouts, water chestnuts, and green onion. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet over the chicken, and let cook until the bottom is lightly golden and the top has nearly set, about 3 minutes. Flip the egg pancake over, and cook the other side until lightly golden and set, another minute or two.

:: B

ON

US

RE

CIP

E |

2 S

erv

ing

s


Continued From Page 6

After Workout Nutrition


Post-Workout Protein Shakes and Protein TypesPost-workout shakes are not NEEDED, but they’ll help with recovery and muscle building. Protein powder is convenient and cost-effective option. It’s great for before and after your workouts, and also as a meal replacement. Because proteins have different uses, however, you’ll need to select different types of protein supplementation for each one.

Soy protein comes directly from the only plant-based food to contain a complete protein: soybeans. However, it does have more fat and takes longer to absorb. On the bright side, it’s excellent for supplying your muscles with a steady supply of protein throughout the day. It also contains isoflavones, which promote health cholesterol levels.

Hemp protein is derived from hemp seeds. It contains approximately 50% less protein than whey, but it does contain omega-3 fatty acids to boost heart health. This type of protein powder is best used for morning drinks and between meal snacks, rather than for post workout recovery. It’s also a suitable alternative for those sensitive or intolerant to milk products.

Whey protein, from cow’s milk, is a by-product left over when making cheese. It’s 31% more effective at building muscle than soy, and is considerably more effective at stimulating protein synthesis compared to other proteins, but you need to be careful when buying.

Lower quality whey powder has high fat and dietary cholesterol levels. It’s also the fastest-absorbing protein powder types, making it the best of the three for recovery, growth, and maintenance after workouts.

Post-Workout Nutrition For A Women’s Fitness Diet

Whey ProteinIf you’ve looked around, you’ll have noticed three types of whey protein supplements:

Whey Protein Isolate -- With almost no carbs, lactose, or fat content, this is the highest quality powder available. In fact, 90% or more of its weight will be protein. It is also the most efficient of the proteins -- 30-60% more efficient than concentrate.

Whey Protein Concentrate -- The cheapest whey supplement, concentrate is high in fat and lactose. It has the highest biological value, and is about 75% protein by weight.

Whey Protein Blends -- A mixture of concentrate and isolate, this provides you with a lower fat and lactose content, while still being affordable. Blends also have a great amino acid profile.

If you’re looking for a post-workout protein shake, choose whey isolate for its protein synthesis (building) effect. It may be more expensive, but it rapidly releases amino acids into blood stream and gets into the blood quicker, which is exactly what you need immediately after a workout. It peaks after about 40 minutes, and lasts about an hour.

Micellar-Isolate Protein Powder is the highest quality form of protein powder. Called a ‘muscle-sparing’ protein, casein releases much more slowly in the body, causing a steady release of amino acids into the blood, over a longer period of time.

A fast-digesting protein, such as white fish is a better pre-workout protein. And for breakfast, supplement with whey protein to combat the muscle breakdown that may occur due to the fasting that occurs while sleeping. Again, a better option here is a fast-digesting protein such as eggs.

Remember that what you eat and when you eat is just as important as the details of your specially designed workouts for women. Create a women’s fitness diet that best suits you and meets the needs of your workout. You’ll not only look better, and get improved results, but you’ll feel better, too.


Working Out In The Deep Freeze

Winter Fitness


The cold is no excuseFor many of us, the winter season means limiting the time we spend outdoors and, unfortunately, time we spend exercising. Personal trainer, fitness consultant and founder of WorkoutsForYou.com Lynn Bode says there isn’t any specific reasoning for the decision, other than the fact that people use the cold weather as an excuse to abandon their workout routines. “Often people have a feeling that they can just hibernate the winter away,” says Bode. “For those that work out outside, the cold becomes an easy excuse for them to get derailed. And even for the inside exercisers, they may not want to even go to the trouble of having to get out’ in the cold just to get from their house to the gym.”

Tips to fight winter laziness and enjoy outdoor fitnessThe fact is, keeping up with your outdoor winter workouts only requires minimal preparation — as long as you know what to expect. With the help of Bode’s expertise, we can all fight winter laziness and actually enjoy working out outdoors.

Outdoor fitness tip #1: Get dressedWearing proper clothing is essential to your comfort and safety for outdoor exercise. It is crucial to keep both your core and your extremities warm. “Your core is much easier to keep warm because your body naturally will pull warmth from your extremities because your body

sees your core as crucial to survival but understands that a person can survive without their hands or feet,” explains Bode. In addition to wearing adequate layers on your torso, also pay close attention to your arms, hands, legs and feet — wear warm gloves and proper socks as well as cover your head when necessary.

Outdoor fitness tip #2: But don’t overdressBode also warns that it can be dangerous to overdress and cause perspiration. “Perspiration can make an individual much colder

because body parts get wet and then the wetness chills from the wind and/or temperature. Wearing a layer next to your skin that helps remove perspiration is always a good idea.” Bode suggests wearing silk or polyester for the first layer, and to avoid cotton because it traps moisture. The middle layer might be fleece or wool, and the top layer should block the wind and also allow moisture to escape, like Gore-Tex.

Outdoor fitness tip #3: Consider all weather factorsBefore you start piling on clothes, Bode advises to take into consideration all the factors that will affect your core body temperature. Factors such as the real temperature, wind chill, wind speed and direction, sun position and precipitation can make the “real feel” temperature lower than the reported temp. “For

Ditching your workouts because it’s cold outside and you’d rather curl up with a cup of cocoa? Instead of letting winter derail your fitness, brave the elements and exercise all season long. Follow these outdoor fitness tips and save the cocoa as an after-exercise treat. You’ll thank yourself when shorts and bathing suit season arrives and you’ve got the bod to sport them!

continued on page 19


See what our experts recommend

Whether you are building a new house, or just remodeling your kitchen, granite countertops can be a great enhancement to the beauty of your project. But, how well do they withstand the abuse of hot pots and pans? Will they scratch easily when someone chooses to cut bread directly on its surface? If someone spills sauce or a colorful beverage, will it leave a stain? When choosing a new countertop, you need to consider not only its appearance, but its durability and ease of maintenance.

Granite countertops are available in an abundance of colors and textures. The appearance depends on the ex-act mix of minerals in this naturally occurring stone. Colors vary from almost white or ivory, to almost pure black. And, between the extremes, you’ll find a rainbow of colors from which to choose. Granite colors may be

blue, red, burgundy. brown, grey, beige, yellow, gold, green, etc. Sometimes you will find several different colors in the same piece of stone.

The texture can vary from a relatively uniform salt and pepper look, to a turbulent swirling of different colored minerals. Some have a vein of a particular mineral run-ning through the stone. Some people find this to be an appealing rustic look, while others see it as a defect. You get to choose whatever you like.

Granite is one of the hardest naturally occurring stones. The only thing harder would be diamonds. In fact, a diamond saw is required to cut granite countertops to fit your kitchen and to cut the hole for installing the

Kitchen Renovation Experts The Benefits Of Granite

:: HOME & GARDEN | featured section


APOOLhcmark8.5x11.indd 1 4/27/12 12:14 PM


APOOLhcmark8.5x11.indd 1 4/27/12 12:14 PM


Continued from page 10



sink. This hardness makes granite very scratch resis-tant, more so than any other type of countertop ma-terial. Granite is also very unlikely to suffer damage from hot pans or burning.

Some other benefits of granite countertops are that they resist staining and bacteria build-up. Granite can stain, however, so it is standard practice to seal the surface to prevent this. The result is that granite will resist stain-ing as well, or better, than any other stone countertop material. Keep in mind though, stain-resistant is not the same as stain-proof. Spills should be wiped up prompt-ly from any countertop surface.

You have a number of material types from which to choose. It would be well worth your time to visit a local supplier that specializes in granite countertops. They should be able to discuss how granite compares with

various other products that are available, and which they probably carry, such as: ceramic, soap stone, mar-ble, etc. You’ll likely find that granite will be your first choice. While you are there, you’ll have a chance to see a wide variety of granite colors and textures. An advantage of using a local supplier is that you’ll be able to choose the actual piece that will be cut to make your own countertop.

The vast array of colors, textures and durability makes granite countertops an excellent choice for any home. When properly installed and maintained, they will probably outlast the home itself. Careful selection and proper installation of granite countertops add elegance and value to your home. You will get many years of pleasure from your choice, though selecting a stove that compliments your new surface (particularly if gas-powered) should take special consideration.




FunctionalitySince the main requirement of a kitchen is utilitarian it goes without saying that our first priority should be ensuring that we create an efficient workspace. The easiest way to run a quick assessment of how well your kitchen is laid out prior to redesigning things is to look for the classic kitchen triangle. Basically the classic kitchen triangle is formed by the sink, stove/oven and refrigerator each assuming a point in an invisible triangle. The kitchen operator should be able to move unimpeded between them all and the distance between each point should be similar and not more than a couple of steps. That should cover the initial stages of the though process of assembling some kitchen renovation ideas. In the next article we will discuss several different layouts that have proven themselves over time.

Kitchen renovation is a broad term! To some people it might mean a very rudimentary facelift, maybe a new appliance or two and a coat of fresh paint or it could be as dramatic as a complete tear-out and replace job. With that in mind we’ll take a look at some layout options, if these details don’t apply to your current situation they’ll at least put some ideas in your head for future projects. Single-wall layout.This layout is usually done in small spaces in which all the appliances and cabinetry are placed against a wall. Full height units like a refrigerator must be placed at one end while a cook-top should be placed near the sink and not the end of the run. Otherwise it will create an uncomfortable working environment, while adding unnecessary steps to the cooking process. Always bear in mind the rule of thumb that the refrigerator, sink and stove must always be within easy reach of each other and you won’t go far wrong. continued on page 14

Corridor Layout.A hall or galley layout is made of two opposing counters that should be at least 42 “apart. This is also a good design layout for small spaces, but has a few advantages over the single wall run considering that work-triangle principle can be applied here. L-shaped layout.This layout is usually more desirable for a kitchen with limited space compared to both the straight run and the corridor layout. The work triangle can be designed in such a way that there will be fewer steps to prepare food

which makes the cooking experience less demanding. It’s also far less susceptible to traffic snarls.

U-Shaped Layout.The U-shaped layout is the most versatile and efficient kitchen layout. If your space and budget can handle this design then go for it. This shape makes the most of the working triangle principle. All appliances, storage and work areas can meet each other and focus on one central point – the kitchen operator.

Whichever layout you decide on always consider the comfort of the cook. There should be a minimum distance between repetitive chores to save the cook from fatigue and foster the joy to the whole cooking experience. Lots of pantry storage and pull out drawers for everyday dishes would be an indispensable part of the kitchen cabinetry. For boxes, the use of full extension drawer slides gives easy access to items stored towards the back of the cabinet. The countertop contributes a lot to the look and overall atmosphere of the kitchen, especially if your kitchen design includes a large uninterrupted counter space. You can choose from a variety of materials like laminate, solid surface material which is sold under the name of Corian, Surrell, Gibraltar, etc. Ceramic tiles, granite and marble, stainless steel, soapstone,





lava stone and butcher’s block counter. If there’s room to include a seating area in your design it can provide a comfortable area for guests to sit out of the way for conversations while the cook is working. Adding an island is also great where possible! It not only creates a good focal point but it also provides an extra counter space, a good place for a quick meal or just a place where kids can hang out while mom prepares their favorite meal. The key to a successful kitchen design is a complete understanding of the real needs of the user. So get out your measuring tape and get to work, you’re bound to come up with plenty of your own kitchen renovation ideas.


What’s hot - What’s trending - What’s not

F ashion is something we deal with every day. Even people who say they don’t care what they wear choose clothes every morning that say a lot about who they are and how they feel that day.

In the ever so often morphing world of fashion, there is only one certain, consistent thing and that’s change. We are constantly being bombarded with new fashion ideas from music, videos, books, and television. Movies also have a big impact on what people wear. But for most, it’s a daily game of tug-of-war with style.

Most of all fashion is about being comfortable with yourself as you translate self esteem into a personal style. Fashion is a means of self expression that allows people to try on many roles in life. Whether you prefer

Fashion Alert 2012

:: FASHION | featured section

hip hop or Chanel chic, fashion accommodates the chameleon in all of us. It’s a way of celebrating the diversity and variety of the world in which we live. The best advice I can share with you is what I have learned along the way in regards to finding your OWN style: Trends don’t last very long so when in doubt, Keep it Simple!

Whether it’s a ready made outfit or in need of a personal touch, here are a few ways to create a closet full of fabulously chic, stylish and most important, simple ways to express your mood!

- Kenea Brittle


:: KIDS & FAMILY | featured section

Lady Bug Parties

I f your little girl loves one bug, chances are it’s a ladybug. With it’s spotty splender and bright red or orange shell, this beetle is all dressed up and somewhere to go! The cute black and red colors with the perfect amount of black polka dots are just something that every little girl gravitates to.

So if you are looking for the perfectly simple party theme for your little darling, a ladybug garden theme is fun, and the built-in design makes the décor quite easy to execute. If you want to carry this off it’s all about the color, the activities, and rolling up your sleeves and getting down into the dirt.

This party is best in late August, when your vegetable garden is ready to pick. Also, of course, having ladybugs in your backyard is a definite bonus, but not necessary.

Dressing the PartFirst and foremost, if you want to have little girls get excited about a party, have them dress up. Outfits can range from a red and black outfit to a polka dot skirt to a full ladybug costume.

If you have the budget or expertise to make, supply each of the guests with their own little pair of wings that they can wear for the party and take home with them.

However, with this ladybug garden party you are going to get dirty. Supply each guest with a garden apron to wear.

First Activity - Ladybug Scavenger HuntThe first activity is a fun scavenger hunt. Have them search high and low for ladybugs and see how many they can find. If you’d rather they leave the actual beetles alone, instead hide some toy ladybugs and pins


ADVERTISEYOUR

BUSINESSHERE

For More Information call:

888-454-0449

More ExposureCompetitve RatesBest Demographics



Lady Bug Parties

:: Kid’s & Family | featured section

throughout the garden so that they can find them and keep count.

Second Activity - Harvesting and EatingAfter this fun adventure, it’s time to get down and dirty in the garden. Ask them all to roll up their sleeves, put on their garden aprons and get out their gardening hats. You can supply them with some cute little girlie shovels, rakes, gardening gloves, and gardening pads to make this really fun - in the signature red and black ladybug colors of course.

Set them all up in their own designated spot and then have them dig for a veggie that you have planted and is ready to pick. Set them up with their own little station in a spot where you know they can dig something up.As they are digging and tending to their little garden spot, talk to them about what it is like to work in the garden each day. Let them have fun with this and really feel the dirt in between their fingers. When each of them gets to pull up a carrot, cucumber or whatever else they’ve found, they will be thrilled and this will develop a real appreciation for a garden.

If you are a little squeamish about a bunch of children in your garden, you can pre-dig some of your vegetables, place them in planters (complete with dirt), and place them around your yard. Then let the kids dig them up.

Once this is done, have them all wash their vegetables and their hands. While they clean up and remove their gardening clothes, you or another adult can cut up the fresh veggies, and serve with dip. Be sure with their little feast you throw in tiny sandwiches, drinks, and desserts for the perfect little

garden party. For more ideas, check out some fun and creative ladybug themed recipes.

Activity #3: Plant Your Own MasterpieceAfter the food and cake is served, it’s time to create a little masterpiece of their own to take home. Give each guest a small pot. They can decorate with glitter, paint

and other crafts to craete their own personalized pot. Have them draw their name on it, too.

Once this is complete, fill each pot with a bit of topsoil. Then, pool a variety of seeds in a central container - wildflowers, herbs and small vegetables - anything that grows well in a pot. Each person grabs a small handful and

sprinkles the seeds into their pot. Then, cover with a bit more topsoil, and add a little water. They can then take it home, wondering what types of plants will be growing in their party favor!

Your guests will be talking about this cute little ladybug garden party for some time to come, and will learn to really appreciate what having a garden is all about!

“hide some toy ladybugs

throughout the garden”


example, if the temperature is 40 degrees, one might consider that quite warm,” says Bode. However, strong winds can cause a wind chill temperature that is closer to 20 degrees,” she adds. And if you are hoping for the warmest part of the day to exercise outside, do it while the sun is high.

Outdoor fitness tip #4: Invest in proper footwearRunning shoes may be fine on packed powder but they can be dangerous if roadways or trails are iced over. Bode recommends products like Yaktrax that you can slip on over your sneakers. These as well as footwear made for weather can prevent falls by supplying more traction. If the terrain happens to be deep newly fallen snow or soft powder, your running shoes are worthless — your feet are going to freeze. Consider snowshoeing instead of walking or running or buy a pair of waterproof snowboots and tromp away. Skiiing is always an option, too. (Click for tips on snowshoeing for winter fitness.)

Outdoor fitness tip #5: Listen to your bodyEven if you are motivated to weather the winter, tune in to your body. Bode says that conditions that are

too cold varies from person to person and that winter workouts outdoors may not be right for all people. She warns that people with certain medical conditions like heart disease may need to avoid certain temperatures because cold can cause vascular constriction. If you have any medical conditions — particularly diabetes, Reynaud’s, lupus, fibromyalgia or arthritis — talk to your doctor before heading outdoors to exercise. Outdoor fitness tip #6: Drink upNot keeping your body hydrated is a frequent mistake, says Bode. “In the summer, people are perhaps more in-tune with

their hydration because they sweat and feel the thirst sensation. In winter you may not feel as thirsty and therefore forget to drink. It is equally as important to hydrate when exercising in the cold as it is when you workout in the summer heat.” Keep a bottle of water with you during winter workouts just as you do with hot weather exercise.

Outdoor fitness tip #7: Warm up and cool downRegardless of the time of year or type of workout, it is important to remember to do a proper warm up and cool down to prevent injuries and hasten recovery. However, spend a few extra minutes warming up for winter exercise. And more important, when you get back indoors after your workout, fight the urge to immediately remove your layers. “Give your body time to adjust,” says Bode. “Post exercise hypothermia is possible, which happens when your body rapidly loses its heating stores.” As long as you are prepared to weather the winter, you can avoid winter weight gain and stay in top shape. You might even come to love taking a run in the invigorating brisk winter air or trekking up your favorite trail with powdery snowflakes falling around you.

Winter Fitness




H orse trainer, Monty Roberts, revolutionized the violent world of equine training when he developed his Join-Up method of communicating with the animals. Based on years of close observation as to how horses ‘spoke’ to each other, Monty gained the trust of skittish or balky horses by mimicking behaviors to get a message across. No whips, no yelling, no violence.

For example, Monty uses a tactic parents of young children everywhere will recognize: the time-out. Horses themselves will temporary isolate a family member as a form of discipline. By using the animal’s own method of communication, Monty gains its trust and the horse (usually within a very short time) will join him, and do as he asks, voluntarily. Monty and his wife Pat successfully applied the tenets of ‘join-up’ in raising their own three kids and 47 foster children.

It’s this basic philosophy of ‘joining up’ that all parents can take into the home: the parent, as teacher, creates a peaceful, non-violent environment in which the child, as student, can willingly follow instructions and learn.

Peaceful parenting is not a new concept, but it is important that parents realize how crucial the environment is to cooperation. Like horses, children (and people of all ages for that matter) perform better when requested to do something rather than are forced to do it. The pay-off is having a willing child in your home, one who wants to be part of the family group with all the responsibilities and joys that go with it.

With this understanding, then, an age-appropriate behavior (or incentive) chart can be created. It simply outlines the effects of the child’s actions: positive behavior attracts positive consequences; negative behavior attracts negative consequences. Again, this is not a new teaching device, but it is a peaceful and respectful approach.

If you and your child have agreed on the consequences of a problem behavior (example: giving a hard time about doing homework equals missing the next soccer game), make sure there is a reward as well. Doing homework responsibly and without fuss for one week

equals a new soccer ball and doing homework like that for one term equals pizza and ice cream for the whole team.

Any other negative consequences (in this case, poor marks and angry teachers) should be discussed as well as the positive ones (better marks, satisfied teachers and pride of accomplishment). The reality – and life lesson – is of course that no matter how old we are, every action has a consequence.

Parents of older children should be prepared to have their own behaviors examined. A child might ask, for instance, that a ‘reward’ for positive behavior be that a parent stop yelling or spend more one-on-one time with the child.

The behavior chart will change frequently over time, and should focus on matters that – if not resolved – threaten the peaceful and respectful environment of voluntary learning for which you are ultimately striving.

Forget Disciplining Kids

Let Them Join Up Instead

“NoMatter how old we are, every action has aconsequence.

“

:: Kid’s & Family | featured section


:: FINANCIAL GUIDE | featured section

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) receives many questions about investment advisers—what they are and how to go about choosing one. This document answers some of the typical questions we receive from investors about investment advisers. This Q&A is for the benefit of investors. You should not rely on it to determine if you need to register as an investment adviser.

Q: What is an investment adviser?

A: An investment adviser is an individual or a firm that is in the business of giving advice about securities to clients. For instance, individuals or firms that receive compensation for giving advice on investing in stocks, bonds, mutual funds, or exchange traded funds are investment advisers. Some investment advisers manage portfolios of securities.

Q: What is the difference between an investment adviser and a financial planner?

A: Most financial planners are investment advisers, but not all investment advisers are financial planners. Some financial planners assess every aspect of your financial life—including saving, investments, insurance, taxes, retirement, and estate planning—and help you develop a detailed strategy or financial plan for meeting all your financial goals.

Others call themselves financial planners, but they may only be able to recommend that you invest in a narrow range of products, and sometimes products that aren’t securities.

Before you hire any financial professional, you should know exactly what services you need, what services the professional can deliver, any limitations on what they can recommend, what services you’re paying for, how much those services cost, and how the adviser or planner gets paid.

Protecting your assets while building a solid retirement fund

Q: What questions should I ask when choosing an investment adviser or financial planner?

A: Here are some of the questions you should always ask when hiring any financial professional:

* What experience do you have, especially with people in my circumstances? * Where did you go to school? What is your recent employment history? * What licenses do you hold? Are you registered with the SEC, a state, or the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA)? * What products and services do you offer? * Can you only recommend a limited number of products or services to me? If so, why? * How are you paid for your services? What is your usual hourly rate, flat fee, or commission? * Have you ever been disciplined by any government regulator for unethical or improper conduct or been sued by a client who was not happy with the work you did?

For registered investment advisers, will you send me a copy of both parts of your Form ADV? Be sure to meet potential advisers “face to face” to make sure you get along. And remember: there are many types of individuals who can help you develop a personal financial plan and manage your hard–earned money. The most important thing is that you know your financial goals, have a plan in place, and check out the professional you chose with your securities regulator.

Q: How do investment advisers get paid?

A: Before you hire any financial professional—whether it’s a stockbroker, a financial planner, or an investment adviser—you should always find out and make sure you understand how that person gets paid. Investment advisers generally are paid in any of the following ways:

A percentage of the value of the assets they manage for you;


An hourly fee for the time they spend working for you; A fixed fee; A commission on the securities they sell (if the adviser is also a broker-dealer); or Some combination of the above. Each compensation method has potential benefits and possible drawbacks, depending on your individual needs. Ask the investment advisers you interview to explain the differences to you before you do business with them, and get several opinions before making your decision. Also ask if the fee is negotiable.

Q: Do investment advisers have to register with the SEC?

A: Depending on their size, investment advisers have to register with either the SEC or the state securities agency where they have their principal place of

business. For the most part, investment advisers who manage $100 million or more in client assets must register with the SEC. If they manage less than $100 million, they must register with the state securities agency in the state where they have their principal place of business.

Q: How do I find out whether an investment adviser ever had problems with a government regulator or has a disciplinary history?

A: Most investment advisers must fill out a form called “Form ADV.” They must file their Form ADVs with either the SEC or the state securities agency in the state where they have their principal place of business, depending on the amount of assets they manage.



Form ADV consists of two parts. Part one contains information about the adviser’s business and whether they’ve had problems with regulators or clients. Part two outlines the adviser’s services, fees, and strategies. Before you hire someone to be your investment adviser, always ask for, and carefully read, both parts of Form ADV.

You can get copies of Form ADV from the investment adviser, your state securities regulator or the SEC, depending on the size of the adviser. You can find out how to get in touch with your state securities regulator through the North American Securities Administrators Association, Inc.’s (NASAA) website or by calling (202) 737-0900. Ask your state securities regulator whether they’ve had any complaints about the adviser, and ask them to check the CRD (Central Registration Depository).

If the SEC registers the investment adviser, you can get a copy of the Form ADV by accessing How to Request Public Documents. In addition, at the SEC’s headquarters, you can visit our Public Reference Room from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to obtain copies of SEC records and documents.

Q: What should I do if the financial professional claims that he or she is “certified”?

A: If the professional you’re considering claims to be a CFP® certificant, you should also visit the website of the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFB Board) to see if the professional is, in fact, certified as a CFP® professional and whether the professional’s certification has been suspended or revoked by the CFP Board. You can also call the CFP Board at (888) 237-6275 to obtain other disciplinary information about the professional.

Q: Are investment advisers required to have credentials?

A: While some investment advisers and financial planners have credentials -- such as CFP® certification or CFA (chartered financial analyst) -- no state or federal law requires these credentials. Many states require advisers to pass a proficiency exam or meet other requirements.

Investment advisers and financial planners may come from many different educational and professional backgrounds. Before you hire a financial professional, be sure to ask about their background. If they have a credential, ask them what it means and what they had to do to earn it. Also, find out what organization issued the credential, and then contact the organization to verify whether the professional you’re considering did, in fact, earn the credential and whether the professional remains in good standing with the organization. For information on various financial professional credentials and the entities that issue them, please visit FINRA’s website and read Understanding Financial Professional Designations.


Protecting Your Assets

:: Financial Guide | featured section


ConnecticutCalendar Of Events

1. Finish this line: Behind Every Great Home is an … 2. In which ad will you find a company goal that strives to

provide “..SAFETY, FUNCTIONALITY AND BEAUTY”?3. Which ad showcases a ‘hair rolling pooch’?4. Where might you find a ‘yellow sponge’?5. Where can you find how to make “Chicken Egg-Foo

Young’?6. Who wants to “Save you Time and Money”?7. Who wears the “Crown”?8. Who is located at Hotchkiss Road? 9. Who is a “Thumbtack Gold Member”?10. Where will you find “House Keys”?

:: SCAVENGER HUNT win $500!

Please submit answers to: [email protected] sure to include your name and valid phone number!

October - December The Great Pumpkin FestivalWHEN: 10/20/12 WHERE: Main St. - Putnam - Putnam Price: FREEWebsite: http://www.putnambusiness.orgDescription: The third annual Northeast Connecticut Great Pumpkin Festival is happening on Saturday, October 20, RAIN OR SHINE! Bring the entire family to downtown Putnam and enjoy events like the Train Excursion, Giant Flea Market, Craft Fair, Pumpkin Carving Contest, Clowns, Face Painting, Food Court, Artists Show, 5 Great Bands and more!

Time Out for PoetryWHEN: 10/25/12 12:30PM - 02:00PM WHERE: Scranton Library - Madison Price: FreeContact phone: 203-245-7365.Description: Release your inner poet. Time Out for Poetry meets third Thursdays and welcomes those who wish to share an original short poem, recite a stanza or simply to listen. Ogden Nash, Robert Frost, William Shakespeare, Dr. Seuss and even the Burma Shave signs live again. 12:30-2 p.m. June 17, July 15 at Scranton Library, 801 Boston Post Rd., Madison. Free. 203-245-7365.

Signed, Sealed & Delivered - Private Collectors Party FundraiserWHEN: 10/27/12 5:00PM - 7:00PM WHERE: Silvermine Arts Center - New Canaan Price: $35 per ticket; advanced reservations required.Website: http://www.silvermineart.orgDescription: The popular fundraising art sale and event for collectors and enthusiasts returns to the Silvermine Arts Center. Join us for wine and hors d’oeuvres at a special private collector’s party featuring over 500 4” x 6” original works of art in all media - paintings, prints, photographs, and collages.

Hustle Dancing - Week 1 Lesson/Dance (Free for Newcomers)WHEN: 11/ 1/12 7:30PM - 11:00PM WHERE: Dance Dimensions - Norwalk Price: Free for NewcomersWebsite: http://swingshoes.net/start-dancing/weekly-classesContact:Erik NovoaContact phone: 917-414-3105Description: Hustle is the partner dance that originated in the 1970s in NYC and the metropolitan cities of the United States. It is designed to be dynamic and flashy. Its core steps are not too complicated but its requirement for motion and agility make this a perfect dance for club music and parties.

The Kellogg’s Tour of Gymnastics Champions 2012WHEN: 11/17/12 7:00AM 11:00AM Price: $203, $128, $78, $51, $38, $28Description: The 2012 Kellogg’s® Tour of Gymnastics Champions, a national tour featuring Team USA’s top performing gymnasts following the 2012 Olympic Games in London, is coming to Hartford’s XL Center on November 17, 2012. The 2008 Olympic all-around champion Nastia Liukin will lead an impressive cast that will include members of the men’s and women’s 2011 World Championships and 2012 Olympic teams, along with past Olympians and U.S. medalists in men’s, women’s, rhythmic and acrobatic gymnastics.

Family Day: Daily Life in Ancient GreeceWHEN: 12/ 8/12 1-4pmWHERE: Bellarmine Museum of Art - Fairfield Price: Free and open to the publicWebsite:www.fairfield.edu/museumContact:Bellarmine Museum of ArtContact email:[email protected] phone:(203) 254-4046.Description : Drop-in Craft Activities ; Child-Friendly Gallery Talks; Story Times in the Museum

NutcrackerWHEN: 12/22/12 7:00PM - 9:00PM WHERE: Pomperaug High School - Southbury Category: Arts and Entertainment Price: $25; $20; $12Contact phone:203 263-5107.Description: Main Street Ballet presents the areas longest running productions of Nutcracker.

Debbie Gravitte & Friends Holiday ShowWHEN: 12/14/12 8:00PM WHERE: The Ridgefield Playhouse - Ridgefield Price: $45 Tickets Description: Join Tony Award winner Debbie Gravitte as she celebrates the holidays with her friends, including some broadways pals from the hit show Phantom of the Opera and more!


ConnecticutCalendar Of Events


An abundance of history, dining and entertainment.

There’s something for everyone at Fisherman’s Wharf: food, views, history, family fun and more.

A food lover’s haven, Fisherman’s Wharf boasts some of the best dining in the world. Salivate over fresh Dungeness crab served steaming hot at outdoor stands or in a variety of gourmet recipes at the Wharf’s many seafood restaurants. Smell the fresh sourdough bread baking. Savor some locally made chocolate. The Wharf’s eclectic mix of international cuisine is sure to make a hit with your taste buds. We guarantee it. Bon appetit!

During the day, street performers are here to tirelessly entertain you: magicians, mimes, musicians, jugglers, clowns and fire-eaters take pride in their efforts to make you feel welcome at Fisherman’s Wharf. At night the wharf offers live music, theater, dancing, comedy clubs and much more.

Over the course of its history Alcatraz – known as The Rock – has been a Civil War fortress, infamous federal prison, bird sanctuary, the first lighthouse on the West Coast, and the birthplace of the Native American Red Power movement. Today, more than a million people come to Alcatraz each year to learn about the island’s human history and to see its birds, tide pools and gardens. You can see easily see The Rock from anywhere along the Wharf’s shoreline. Numerous cruises take you around and to the island.

San Francisco is one of few places in the world where people can ride on a national historic landmark. Refurbished and equipped with new tracks, cables, turntables and cable propulsion machinery, San Francisco’s famed cable cards operate much as they did on August 2, 1873 when Andrew S. Hallidie guided the first car down the Clay Street grade. Two of the three

San FranciscoFrom Fisherman’s Wharf To Alcatraz

:: TRAVEL DESTINATIONS | featured section

cable car lines stop in Fisherman’s Wharf. Catch the Powell-Mason line at Taylor St. and Bay St., or the Powell-Hyde line at Hyde St. and Beach St.

Adv

ertise

rs I

ndex

Accupuncture Center ...............................................4Amity Cleaning Services .......................................14Aqua Pool Patio ..................................................... 11Big Bear Wildlife Control ......................................30Bodywork for the Soul .............................................4David’s Travel ........................................................29Doggie Depot .........................................................15Elite Construction Solution ....................................14Gabrielle Landscaping ...........................................14Executive Image Nutrition .......................................7Janice Beaucar .............................Inside Front CoverJohn Parker ...............................................................7Monarch Landscaping LLC ....................Back CoverRay’s Mirror Shine Auto ........................................12Rayzor’s Edge Tree Service ......... Inside Back CoverRobin Scinto Agency LLC .....................................16 Safe Money Millionaire .........................................23The Gold Exchange ................................................27 Travel Concepts .....................................................25Uniquely Yours Photo ..............................................5Vision Powered Coaching .............................10 & 21

l lifestyle

Documents

connecticut edition

inaugural issue

guest editors

cardio exercise

cardio training

good shape

advertising opportunties

kenea brittleeditor