Most children tend to have far-fetched ideas on the fundamentals of money—such as believing that obtaining credit is like ordering a happy meal and savings only happen in malls the week after the holidays. To fill in the gaps in their financial education, parents should teach their children the fundamentals of handling money. The following basics of financial literacy are a good place to start:

Time Value of Money
One of the most basic of all financial concepts is the time value of money. Children should be shown the benefits of saving money, watching it grow, and patiently deferring purchases until a future time. When children get older, they can learn the reverse discipline: how debt today results in accumulated interest costs down the road. Show them a loan amortization schedule for a typical car or home loan to illustrate the point—that will surely get anyone’s attention.

Transactional Skills
Your children will someday need to know how to write a check, use a debit and/or credit card, and how to bank online in today’s cashless society. When they are ready, take them to your local bank, introduce them to an assistant bank manager that will open a checking account and bank card for them. Children will appreciate the sense of pride of responsibility, and they will learn how to navigate an ATM or bank Web site the right way, not just the way mom and dad does it.

Keeping Good Records
We all likely need help in this area, but children probably need your help more than you think.  Knowing how to reconcile a checkbook and track where they spend their money is a valuable life skill. I believe schools should start teaching this as early as middle school as part of a normal curriculum. Developing a system for safely storing receipts, warranties, and other valuable papers is also important. When they begin driving, point out the location and importance of the vehicle’s proof of insurance and registration.

Reflecting Your Values
Like any other area of life, you may want to pass down cliché’s that have guided you financially.  Succinct phrases often suit this purpose quite effectively, such as, “save for a rainy day.”  Or, “don’t place all your eggs in one basket” and of course “a penny saved is a penny earned.” Such sayings, despite however corny they may be, might just remind yourselves and your children of something important tomorrow.

Those who value philanthropy should consider including their children in the charity selection process.  Teach them why certain causes are important to you, and how you determine the amount to give. Perhaps you could give your children gifting discretion over a small sum of charitable dollars.

Investments 101
The day will eventually come when your children will be ready to talk investments, retirement, and taxes. Avoid intimidation by contacting our firm, which can assist you and your children with these advanced topics. Being financially educated is not child’s play. (But then again, neither is being a parent.)

John D’Angelo is the Shareholder of D’Angelo and Company (www.dangeloco.com).

From centerpieces to ice bars, even carved-ice place settings such as dessert and salad bowls, Gregory and other carvers at Ice Concepts produce unique works of art for events up across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond.

And while Gregory says he is overjoyed with where his passion for sculpture has taken him, it’s not exactly the career he originally sought. As a teen, Gregory says, he actually dreamed of a career in the culinary arts. In fact, it was as he worked toward his goal of working in some of the finest hotels in the world that he discovered his love and talent for ice sculpture. In 1990, Gregory worked in a resort that produced ice sculptures on a daily basis.

“I got very interested in it, got together with the carver, and he taught me a little bit,” Gregory says. “Not too long after, he left the resort, and I kind of took on the role. I studied different publications and other people’s work in ice sculpture and continued to train myself in carving. I really got thrown into the fire there because I was expected to produce a 8 to 10 pieces a week. That was really how I got better very quickly.”

In 1993, Gregory moved to the Philadelphia area, acquiring a full-time culinary position at the Four Seasons. On the side, he started working as a freelance ice carver, working at an icehouse in Bensalem and delivering his pieces to people’s freezers. Within six months, he decided to make carving his full-time career. A year later, his wife left her job to run Ice Concepts’ sales and business office, and the company has been growing ever since.

Along with the expansion of his business, Gregory has also developed a reputation as one of the world’s top ice carvers. In 2009, he earned the title of National Ice Carving Association (NICA) National Champion. This year, he and Ice Concept’s lead carver, Tony Young, made their third appearance at the Winter Olympic Games in the Cultural Olympiad (at press time, their competition scores were unavailable). In the Salt Lake City events in 2002, Gregory and Young placed 3rd among the 20 nations represented. In all, Gregory estimates he’s participated in 70 or 80 events since he launched his career.

Ice carving is his passion, and while it is a fun and creative pursuit, it is not without its challenges. There are, of course, the expenses of making and storing ice. But along with that, the medium itself can be difficult to work with.

“Ice is really as strong as steel but as fragile as glass – the minute you introduce a tiny bit of impact it will shatter,” Gregory notes. “That alone makes us live on the edge every day we’re doing what we do. We’ve got our science figured out, but I have to say, if ice wasn’t so fragile it would be a lot easier to work with.”

And while his company manufactures some of the clearest, top-quality ice available, he says there’s nothing comparable to carving natural ice. In fact, the biggest project he ever took on, a 23-foot-high sculpture called Aqua Queen utilized ten 5,000-pound blocks of Alaska lake ice.

“I’m so used to carving the ice we manufacture here; when we go to Alaska it’s an entirely new world,” he says. “It’s an ice carver’s heaven, a beautiful blue hue to it. It’s the most exciting type of transformation you can imagine.”

Here in Pennsylvania, Gregory says while he’s not in quite the same place he imagined when he was a teenager, he couldn’t be happier doing anything else. “I’m living the dream, I couldn’t ask for anything more,” he says. “We integrate art and technology and create these unique pieces. I think people 10 years ago would think of ice sculpture as being only for the rich, but it’s really not that way anymore. We are a wedding or event service, just like any other, and we cater to a really diverse market.”

For more information on Ice Concepts, visit www.iceconceptsinc.com or call (610) 239-1299.

Susan McDonnell is a freelance writer and lives in Conshohocken, PA.

After learning about a Bucks County family in need of help with medical bills, John & Jen D’Angelo and Maria Doyle, were inspired to lend a helping hand. Motivated by empathy, the D’Angelos immediately took action. In only five hours, the D’Angelo Foundation was created and its Web site was launched. The non-profit organization began by helping only one family. As it steadily grew, so did the number of donations and families who benefited from the foundation.

“The people who need the help bring the donors and generate awareness,” Jen D’Angelo, the foundation’s co-founder, explains. “We raise money through people’s friends and families. If someone is sick, they can direct all of their family and friends to the site, and with one click, the can donate.”

D’Angelo envisions a goal for the foundation, which has been a family affair. John’s mother, Antoinette D’Angelo, and sister, Maria Doyle, have been heavily involved in its success as well.
“Our mission is to create a forum where people can come together and people who need resources can get them quickly,” says D’Angelo. “One woman emailed us saying that her son is sixteen years old, very strong and able to do things around the house. This way, we can match the people in need with those who are able to help without anyone being bombarded by phone calls and emails.”
The D’Angelos recognize the difference they’ve been making in their Bucks County community, but remain humble. “Our biggest accomplishment is seeing how much families have benefited from the foundation,” D’Angelo said. “Money is raised not only through online donations but also ticket sales for special events. Tickets are much more accessible for donors through the website.” The D’Angelo Foundation has raised $200,000 since March 2008 and now supports nine families as they deal with the emotional and financial issues that come along with facing illness.

The example set by the D’Angelos is catching favor both inside and outside the Bucks County community. The trend of giving started by the D’Angelo Foundation traveled right down to the Ward family, who live in Tampa, Florida. The Ward’s found out about the foundation, specifically the Leinenbach family, from a mutual friend who is a Bucks County supporter of the foundation. Judy Leinenbach, a former nurse and community service volunteer, suffered a severe neck injury in February 2009. Because of this, Judy was left paralyzed from the neck down. The story about the Leinenbachs touched the Wards, including their two young children, Isaac and Abigail. In fact, Isaac and Abigail chose to have their friends and family donate to the D’Angelo Foundation in lieu of presents for both of their birthdays. The siblings raised an impressive $800 by dedicating their birthday parties to Judy.

“It is amazing that even little kids are willing to give up something that’s so important to them if it means helping someone else,” D’Angelo said.

The foundation is still making a difference in the lives of Bucks County families today. On January 16, the organization was involved with a benefit in Jamison for the Ricchini family. Jim Ricchini, a father of three, was diagnosed with Leukemia in September 2009. Fortunately, with help from the D’Angelo Foundation, the benefit raised thousands of dollars to help the Ricchini’s with their expensive medical bills.

The D’Angelo Foundation plans to continue to help families in need and looks to the Bucks County community to help them accomplish their goals as an organization. Donations are able to be made on the foundation’s website, at www.TheDAngeloFoundation.org.

Join Central Bucks Family YMCA for a Tuscan-flavored evening of dining and dancing held in Keenan Mercedes, Swamp Road, Doylestown, as food, décor and gift items echo the warmth and ambience of the Italian countryside. Proceeds benefit Central Bucks Family YMCA’s Financial Assistance program to provide kids and families with Y programs and membership that they may not be able to otherwise afford.

Guests arriving at 5:30p.m. will be included in the award presentation to Susan R. Berg, PhD, recipient of the Lois Burpee Volunteer Service Award to honor an outstanding Central Bucks Family YMCA volunteer. Then all will enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres beginning at 6p.m. while browsing through a wide array of silent auction gifts including vacation homes, original artwork, services and more. A gourmet dinner by Memorable Affairs will be served, followed by a live auction of premium items. Guests will enjoy dancing to live music by the Slippery Band until 11p.m. For more details, or to preview live and silent auction items, visit www.cbfymca.org. For tickets, information, contact Rachel Mauer at (215) 348-8131, x 167.

Meryl Streep Shares Her Local Roots in PBS Series, “Faces of America”
Tuesday, March 23 at 10 p.m.

Building on the success of his series “African American Lives,” Professor Henry Louis Gates, Jr. turns to the latest tools of genealogy and genetics to explore the family histories of 12 renowned Americans, including legendary actress Meryl Streep. Streep’s recent visit to Heritage Conservancy’s historic Aldie Mansion headquarters and tour of her ancestral home in the Forks of Neshaminy Lasting Landscape with Conservancy VP Jeffrey Marshall is documented in this acclaimed television special.

The producers and staff of the show researched Ms. Streep’s genealogy and discovered that she was a descendant of John Wilkinson from Bucks County. In addition to guiding Streep on an unforgettable tour of the homes and farms of her family, Marshall also educated her about the Conservancy’s mission of conservation, as well as the history of the Aldie Mansion, a stunning Tudor Revival home that was built by William and Martha Mercer in 1927. The series, “Faces of America” was unveiled nationally on Wednesday, February 10, and the local episode on Meryl Streep will premiere on Tuesday, March 23 at 10 p.m.

Pops Concert at Delaware Valley College
Saturday, March 27 at 8p.m.

The Bucks County Symphony is pleased to announce its annual Pops Concert at Delaware Valley College in Doylestown. The Orchestra, under the skillful direction of Maestro Gary Fagin, will accompany this year’s guest artists Triple Play, an acoustic blues/jazz/folk trio with vocals that includes Chris Brubeck, Joel Brown, and Peter Madcat Ruth. Mr. Brubeck, son of jazz great Dave Brubeck, says “We are hard to define; we patrol the borders of blues, jazz, funk and folk. We are a tricky group to categorize. It is not just instruments as everyone sings harmony and lead and everyone in the group writes as well.”

This promises to be one of the best concerts of an already outstanding season. The seating for this concert will be cabaret style and the audience is encouraged to bring refreshments to enjoy during the concert. Tickets are $60 and may be purchased online at www.buckscountysymphony.org or by calling (215) 348-7321.

New Hope Restaurant Week
Sunday, March 21 through Friday, March 26

The first ever New Hope Restaurant Week special promotion includes a $29.95 three-course, prix-fixe meal at seventeen New Hope participating restaurants. Participating restaurants include: Café Europa, Golden Pheasant Inn, Havana, Italian Cucina, Karla’s, The Landing Restaurant, Logan Inn, Marcella’s, Marsha Brown, Martine’s River House, Mother’s Wine Bar, Sandbar at 90 Main, The Mansion Inn, Harlan’s Restaurant & Cabaret, Triumph Brewing Company, Tuscany at the Towpath House and Villa Vito Restaurant. Please visit www.NewHopeChamber.com to view the prix-fixe menus and detailed information on all of the restaurants.

The concept of going green and saving money has taken root and is here to stay. While installing a solar photovoltaic power system may have seemed far-out years ago, that’s no longer the case. Solar electric systems are finally making sense as a financial investment. In fact, Churchville-based Moore Energy LLC sold and installed more than 1,000 solar modules locally last year.

There is no better time to install a solar system than now. Thanks to government incentives, homeowners are eligible to receive more than 60 percent in federal tax credits, state rebates and other incentives when installing a solar system. Additionally, PECO Energy is expected to increase its rates by approximately 30 percent starting January 1, 2011.

Barry Moore and Peter Vari, founding members of Moore Energy LLC, bring a wealth of experience to the business. Moore, who has more than 25 years in the finance industry building successful businesses, teamed up with Vari, his Northampton Township neighbor, who has worked in the mechanical engineering, computer science and electrical engineering fields for 30 years. Moore and Vari were prompted to become trained and certified to start the business after Moore, who lived in a 200-year-old farmhouse, was unsuccessful in finding a company to install solar panels on his barn roof. “I couldn’t find anyone I felt comfortable with who understood solar, could explain it in layman’s terms and provide a payback analysis,” Moore says.

The company has experienced steady growth since its start in 2008 and now has five full-time employees and eight part-time employees. What sets Moore Energy apart is its 100 percent focus on designing and installing solar systems. “We are seasoned local business professionals who provide one-stop shopping,” Moore says. “We offer an easy to read energy savings report that summarizes the costs as well as federal, state and other incentives. Peter designs the systems and oversees installations and I show homeowners their financial paybacks and complete their paperwork to obtain government incentives,” Moore says.

In order to qualify to have solar modules installed, a sunny spot—at least 200 square feet—is needed on a roof or yard facing south. Moore Energy conducts a free evaluation. “We want to make the system the right fit to the homeowner’s needs,” Vari says. “We meet with the customer to present the final cost and identify all available incentives.” The whole process takes about 60 days, from start to finish.

The initial payback is usually 60 percent back in the first year and all money back within four to five years—between the incentives and the savings.

“Existing customers become our ambassadors,” Moore says. “People are surprised at how quickly the systems are installed, are pleased with their appearance and are very happy with their performance. New customers are encouraged to call existing customers for a reference and see their installations.”

“We have a wonderful working relationship with PECO,” continues Vari. “We work side by side with them in installing the systems.” Dealing with zoning authorities, building inspectors and the Department of Environmental Protection in Harrisburg is another facet of the process. Moore Energy enjoys a strong working relationship with local building and zoning officials and takes care of all the paperwork.

Each solar panel measures about 3.5 by 5.5 feet; the company has done systems as small as nine and as large as several hundred panels. “We buy in volume so we can pass along cost savings,” Vari says.

“We are serious about what we do and we want to make sure our customers are very happy,” Moore concludes. “We make solar simple and never over promise.”

Moore’s commitment to the environment extends beyond his business—he’s president of the Churchill Nature Center and he and Vari will be teaching solar classes at Bucks County Community College this spring for homeowners and small businesses looking to install solar systems.

Moore Energy is located at 65 West Norton Drive in Churchville. For more information, contact Moore Energy at (215) 550-3659 or visit www.MooreEnergy.com.

Karen Appold is a Royersford-based freelance writer. Visit www.WriteNowServices.com.

Doma Kitchen & Bath Showroom at Wallcovering Ltd. is your one-stop shop for remodeling any room in your home. First you’ll work with a designer to create the perfect layout, and then you’ll choose all the materials you’ll need—flooring, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, etc., to complete your project.

“It makes life so much easier when you can shop at one place instead of running around from store to store with different samples,” says Stuart Nelson, who operates the business along with his parents, Gene and Marilyn and wife Christine.

“We don’t just sell the products, we design too,” Stuart emphasizes. “Many people do it backwards. They come in with an estimate from a contractor, but they don’t have a floor plan and they haven’t chosen their products yet. People are shocked part-way through the job when their budgets get blown out.”

Not having a solid plan in place before beginning can be costly. According to Consumer Reports, every time you make a change on the fly it can cost $650 to $1,500 on average. With a $30,000 kitchen remodel, for instance, 15 percent would be added to a budget by incorporating two or three impromptu changes.

“We start with the design and product,” Stuart says. “First we determine what you want to do with the space, then help you select products, and then a contractor can give you an accurate estimate.”

Stuart points out that given the state of the economy, companies have developed products that appeal to price conscious consumers and are aware that people want more value for their money. “Styles and finishes might be limited, but you’ll get the same quality and warranty,” Stuart says. “Products are designed to stimulate sales; the goal is to have customers invest in their homes again.”

Another one of Doma’s niches is selling products from smaller boutiques rather than big name brand items that are sold in warehouse stores.

“Smaller boutique brands can give you more bang for your buck, and a much higher level of quality, and they can do so at competitive prices because they are putting their money into product instead of marketing,” Stuart explains. “They count on retailers like us to promote and educate customers. When people are value oriented, this can save them money and get them better products.”

Doma carries many different brands of products from companies such as Kahle’s Kitchens, Santec and Aquabrass faucets, Toto toilets and Oceanside Glass Tile. Stuart notes that Kahle’s Kitchens, in northern Pennsylvania, makes every effort to be a green company. One of their green options for customers, for instance, are formaldehyde free cabinets that cost just 10 percent more. “Customers can feel good about getting something green for their household without breaking the bank,” Stuart says.

Gene Nelson started Wallcovering Ltd. in 1974, when a distant relative gave him some wallpaper on consignment. He set up shop on the second floor of the present-day building. Within five years, the business expanded to include flooring, cabinetry and other kitchen and bath materials. The small second-floor space expanded as well, in fact Gene was able to purchase the building and turn the entire first and second floors into a 10,000-square-foot showroom, office and warehouse space for the quickly growing business.

In a sense, the business has outgrown its original name. It needed a new one to reflect its diverse product line as well as let existing customers know it was still in town—hence, Doma Kitchen & Bath Showroom at Wallcovering Ltd. was born.

So go ahead, design and shop for your entire remodel all under one roof at Doma Kitchen & Bath Showroom at Wallcovering Ltd. And if you want wallpaper, they still sell that, too!

Doma Kitchen & Bath Showroom at Wallcovering Ltd. is located at 3 Dekalb Street, Bridgeport. Call 610-272-0100 or visit www.wallcoveringltd.com for more information.

Karen Appold is a freelance writer in Royersford (www.WriteNowServices.com).

There are few things certain in life. One certainty is that every day we get older.  Somewhere in our thirties we begin to see the tell-tale signs of aging and how it is making us look (and feel!) older. In our society, image is very important and a more youthful image has always been shown to be preferred to an image where we look our age or older.  After all, today’s 60 is supposed to be the new 50, and 50’s the new 40…

Facial rejuvenation has long been the most desired cosmetic improvement and today there are more options than ever to refresh that aged, tired, lifeless look that you may feel your mirror is portraying. “Patients would prefer no downtime, if possible, and still receive a refreshed, natural look. Cosmetic injectables can achieve a refreshed, quick fix,” says Dr. Glenn DeBias, founder and medical director of The Institute for Laser and Aesthetic Medicine in Doylestown, PA.

Dr. DeBias is internationally recognized for his skin tightening procedures and is one of the most experienced cosmetic injectable physicians in the country. He has performed over 80,000 aesthetic procedures and has three offices located in Doylestown, Bethlehem and King of Prussia. “There are few things more gratifying than walking into an aesthetic physician’s office, having a procedure performed, and leaving feeling refreshed and rejuvenated,” says Dr. DeBias.

Botox: The Most Popular Cosmetic Injectable

According to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Botox is the most popular minimally invasive cosmetic procedure for both men and women. The glabellar lines, also known as the frown lines or “angry  11” lines are the most popular area to be treated and only area presently approved by the FDA for cosmetic use. Botox is short for Botulinum Toxin Type A. The overwhelming patient acceptance of the frown lines usage has led to Botox being used in other areas, such as forehead creases and crow’s feet around the eyes.

“The primary effect of the Botox is to offer controlled muscle relaxation up to several months,” says DeBias. “Most patients want to maintain use of their expressive muscle tone so that they still have movement, resulting in a very natural, appealing look.   Most patients don’t want to give away any tell-tale signs of treatment.”

The procedure is usually performed within minutes, and will offer significant results within days, which leads to a level of improvement which lasts for 3-4 months.  “What’s most important is to find a physician who is very experienced in doing Botox injections and devotes a significant part of his practice to cosmetic injectable treatment.  The more prominent cosmetic companies (Allergan and Medicis) have status indicators which inform the prospective patient of the physicians that are doing the most injectables.

Dermal Fillers Offer a “Quick fix”

At one time, a facelift was considered to be the only treatment available to treat wrinkles and sagging—but with that comes anesthesia, downtime, and irreversible results—for better or for worse.  Today, there are a variety of fillers available to “plump up” folds, deep lines, or just soften more superficial lines. The most popular fillers in the country today are hylauronic acid products—Restylane, Perlane, and Juvederm and the calcium hydroxylapitite product Radiesse. While Sculptra (polylactic acid) is technically not a filler, it does offer some collagen building complex and anchoring for volume loss and sallow areas of the face. Restylane, Perlane and Juvederm are by far the most popular fillers and target lower face folds and wrinkles primarily. These fillers can last from six months to a year. “Dermal fillers are very popular in our practice—patients receive an instantaneous result from the injection,” says Dr. DeBias.

How to Choose a Cosmetic Injectable Provider

Since there is no “board certification” yet pertaining to cosmetic injectables, you need to ask the right questions.  To find a physician who is skillful and proficient, you should ask the following questions. How long have they been doing this procedure?  How many does the physician do a week? A month? A year? What is their status with the major injectable companies Allergan and Medicis? Does the physician train other physicians in performing cosmetic injectables?

Dr. DeBias is one of only a few physicians in the state of Pennsylvania to achieve top injector status with both Allergan and Medicis as it relates to Botox cosmetic, Juvederm, and Restylane and Perlane injectors. He is in the top 1% in the country by both status and experience. Over the years he has trained many physicians in performing cosmetic injectables.

Cost Factor

Both Botox cosmetic and dermal fillers are affordable today by most patient standards.  It is important to know what you are getting for your hard earned money.  Botox is delivered in units and the injector should tell you how many units you are receiving. The price for Botox varies from office to office, as does the price for a syringe of Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm Ultra or UltraPlus. At present, Dr. DeBias states his price per unit of Botox is $9 per unit and dermal fillers are priced between $350 and $395 per syringe depending on the filler. To obtain the best value, find a provider who can deliver optimal results at a fair price in a comfortable office setting. “Our cosmetic practice has continued to grow despite the current economic condition, due mostly to high retention of our satisfied existing patients, as well as an influx of new patients that have had prior treatments in other practices who have not been happy with their results, the price they paid, or both,” says Dr. DeBias.

The Institute for Laser and Aesthetic Medicine is located at110 Hyde Park in Doylestown; 1030 Continental Drive in King of Prussia, and 1655 Valley Center Parkway in Bethlehem. For office hours, to schedule an appointment or for more information, visit www.ilamed.com or call 1 (866) 48-LASER.

Jeanne Criblear is a freelance writer from Buckingham, Bucks County.

Meet Andrew Totaro. Father, owner, Father, wrestling coach, Father, community supporter and the leader of the Conshohocken revolution! Andrew believes in the town of Conshohocken, believes in the people and believes that if every restaurant in Conshy joined together, they would all flourish.

“I remember when my father owned this place,” said Andrew. “Everyone who entered always left with more friends and that is how we do it today, 49 years later.”

It all started in 1961 when Vince and Yolanda Totaro operated the popular & hidden watering hole on Hector Street where local patrons met after work to unwind. In the 70’s, Totaro’s expanded their imported beer selection. In the 80’s, Totaro’s changed again, adding a small chalkboard menu that included daily homemade pasta specials and a wine cellar.

In the 90’s, Andrew Totaro welcomed Dan Kreglo as his partner. This little sleepy spot, tucked in behind the tumbleweed, graduated to a Zagat Rated, top performing destination,(Ranked  in the World Edition) where strangers would find friends and endless reasons to continue to come back. Together, Andrew and Dan grew to become the best in the business, providing delicious cuisine to the residents and visitors of Conshohocken.

Jefferson University Hospital + The Philadelphia Eagles + Totaro’s Restaurant equals Heart Healthy Tailgating and the now famous Heart Healthy Chili, created and produced by Dan. It’s not why this restaurant is famous, nor does it validate why they have received the distinguished ZAGAT RATED TOP RESTAURANT AWARD every year for the last 20-years. (World Edition) Simply, it’s part of what they do!

If you want confirmation of just how delicious the food at Totaro’s is, ask Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie or chairman Bill Giles of the Phillies, who both are fans of Totaro’s. Or just stand outside of this hidden gem on a Saturday night and sample the opinion of the patrons. The stories that are wrapped within the walls of Totaro’s include the late publisher Walter Annenberg, who boldly gave Andrew Totaro his own marinara recipe following a meal, only as a gesture of respect.

Some of the scrumptious standout courses at Totaro’s include Jumbo Crab Cakes, which are lightly breaded and prepared with a shrimp and chive reduction sauce. Another highlight is the Linguini Monsignor, with jumbo shrimp and scallops sautéed in olive oil with garlic, plum tomato, shitake mushrooms and basil tossed with tomato basil linguini and crabmeat. Wild Boar is also a favorite among their highly-regarded game dishes—herb crusted, pan seared and served with roasted finger potatoes with a mushroom demi glace.

Desserts are created from the wonderful mind of Totaro’s personal pastry chef of 15 years, Leslie McLaughlin, who has been satisfying the sweet palate of their guests’ hidden obsessions for memorable after dinner experiences. Tiramisu & Coconut Cranberry Aborio Rice Pudding are two popular choices, followed by a presentation of homemade desserts created fresh daily from Leslie’s hidden file of sweet surprises.

For those who like a jolt of energy to get them going in the morning, Totaro’s welcomes their guests with open arms by offering a free cup of coffee every morning at 7am, despite doors not officially opening until 11am.

Totaro’s also specializes in business meetings and special occasions, such as weddings, graduations, birthdays and showers. They also offer private wine dinners and happy hours, along with off-site catering.

On the Sunday before Thanksgiving, the Restaurant gave out free turkeys! They hosted a Fund-raising Event for the Giongo Boys and they have hosted Pre-Game Shows on 97.5 The Fanatic, Monday Night Shows with Rocker, Ray Koob and proudly provide the quietest best Live Music in Conshohocken. In June, 2010, Totaro’s will go International when they host the International Dragon Boat Festival, feeding thousands of athletes and as many as eight-thousand spectators! (They don’t know it yet, but they are in for a great surprise).

Totaro’s is a real place, a restaurant that will always follow what they have always preached; The answers Yes, now what’s the question and somewhere, hidden behind the tumbleweed, are the stories that will only be told by Andrew and Dan when you get there while you enjoy the memories of an incredible experience.

Find out why good things come in small packages by visiting Totaro’s Restaurant, the unexpected treasure hidden in Conshohocken that serves outstanding portions with a delectable taste from an ever-evolving menu.

Totaro’s Restaurant is located at 729 E. Hector Street in Conshohocken. For more information on Totaro’s Restaurant, visit www.totaros.com or call (610) 828-9341.

Joe “Krausey” Krause is a freelance writer and can often be found treating himself to the mouth-watering cuisine at Totaro’s Restaurant.

It’s comforting to know that there are still restaurants in the community where the customer is made to feel like family and dining was not only about a meal but rather a full experience. There could be no better example of this sentiment than Bensalem’s La Cena Italian Ristorante.

When you first enter the doors of La Cena you are greeted by one of their kindly staff, and more than likely Massimo himself, the restaurant’s charismatic and charming Maître d’. Even if it’s your first time there, you’ll be greeted like an old friend and be shown to a table uniquely selected for your evening’s experience. Massimo explains, “There is not a bad seat in the house, but there’s a better seat for every diner.” In corners along mosaic walls in romantically lit corners, there are tables for two. Throughout the restaurant you’ll find tables for 4 to 6 for a family or small groups of friends.  And in the back there is a semi-divided space perfect for a large group. Or, if you’re looking for a more casual night out for a few drinks, there is the beautiful bar which flows around a stage with a baby-grand piano that feels like a set out of an old 50’s film. And on the particular night, we were serenaded by a talented duo—a highlight that La Cena offers on Wednesday through Saturday nights.

Starting out the evening with a champagne toast or a glass of wine is highly recommended as La Cena maintains a superb wine list featuring styles and varieties from around the world. And if you aren’t sure exactly what to order, Massimo is a Sommelier capable of choosing the perfect glass or bottle of wine to match your palette or your meal.

My date and I started out our dining experience by sharing a very spring-inspired salad featuring fresh greens, salty and creamy goat cheese, dried fruits, walnuts, blood oranges, and light vinaigrette. Although seemingly simplistic, this refreshing and flavorful salad was the perfect introduction to whet my appetite.

Shortly following, we selected two of the appetizer specials, the Faugattino, a delicate and perfectly flaky pastry stuffed with exotic mushrooms in a cream sauce and their Clams Casino, which I could only describe as the best I’ve ever had. Having the opportunity to ask Chef Mauricio what made them so special, his reply was that he only uses the freshest of clams and never frozen. The other difference is that he uses very fine pancetta rather than bacon which provides an incredible smokey richness without the grease.

Moving onto our main course, I had a hard time selecting as their seemed to be too many options to choose from.  So in order to make sure we had enough of a sampling, my date order the Veal Picatta, a traditional Italian dish. I ordered the Branzino, a Mediterranean fish, by the recommendation of Massimo. He touted the dish as being the restaurant’s signature preparation, so I knew that I couldn’t go the night without trying it. And we ordered finally a trio of pastas to share.

The Veal Picatta was spot on what I would come to expect from an Italian Chef.  Very traditional and perfectly prepared the veal had just the right flavors and tenderness. The pastas were quite delicious and comprised of the a ravioli in marinara, pasta in a pesto sauce, and the homemade Gorgonzola cheese gnocchi were exceptionally rich from the cheese, but maintained the perfect texture of delicate fluffy pillows.

The real highlight though was the Branzino which was nothing short of impressive and I could see immediately why it was the restaurant’s signature. Brought to the table as a whole fish, it is delicately filleted at the table and presented on the plate by the server in the notable shape of the French Fleur-de-lis. The fish melts in your mouth like butter and is deeply infused with the flavors of the white wine and lemon in which it was prepared. And truth be told, according to Chef Mauricio, “you’ll never find the fish being served if it’s more than 24 hours old. I use an exclusive purveyor who imports the fish fresh daily from the Mediterranean.”

Already quite full, we couldn’t deny ourselves one of La Cena’s many dessert offerings. And how could we deny it when a complete tray was being brought to our table side? We completed our meal with a slice of their white chocolate mousse cake and their fresh, daily made Panna Cotta, vanilla custard with fresh blood orange and a raspberry sauce which had the perfect balance of sweetness from the vanilla cream and tartness from the fruit.

By the time we were leaving, the restaurant was getting ready to pack down for the evening but the staff was just as enthusiastic and attentive as when we first arrived. You could tell that the restaurant’s Maitre d’ and Chef care deeply about what they have created together and the rest of their staff shares in their vision of a unique and elegant Italian restaurant that delivers the quality experience that perceptually is only reserved for Center City. La Cena not only lives up to those standards but significantly exceeds them. And perhaps just as impressive, they deliver this quality at extremely reasonable costs. As a last note, if you can’t make it out, La Cena also offers take out including pizzas, sandwiches, and many of the restaurants normal offerings—delivering the quality of their cuisine right to your home.

La Cena Italian Ristorante is located at 2233 Galloway Road, Bensalem, PA 19020. To see their complete dine-in and takeout menu, visit www.lacenarestaurant.com. For reservations call (215) 639-9969 and for takeout call (215) 639-2259.

Neil Harner is a self proclaimed flavor-geek and one of the founders of Philly Beer Scene, a magazine dedicated to craft beer culture throughout the Philadelphia area.

You can never truly know Italy if you haven’t been among its people, that is, until you visit Casa Casale. This unique shop, located in Lahaska, welcomes visitors with open arms and personifies the passionate spirit of Italy.

Shop owner Esterina Casale and her staff will take you to the true heart of Italy, by sharing the intimacies of their kitchens, marketplaces, cellars and best of all, their families. “It’s very much your Italian family home,” says Esterina Casale. “Folks come into the store and reminisce about their childhood, parents and grandparents. Customers have become family for me.”

For Esterina, it is more than just a shop. “It’s a whole experience,” she continues. At Casa Casale, guests are greeted with wine and invited to sample pasta, which is cooked fresh throughout the day. The store is redolent with the perfumes of herbs and oils that are imported from Italy, including pastas and olive oils from seven different regions and balsamics that hail from Modena. Various stations enable guests to sample products throughout the store, including almost 50 olive oils and balsamics.

Esterina’s enthusiasm for her Italian ancestry shines brightly through her work. With her father who hails from Avellino, near Naples, and her mother who is a native of the Abruzzo region near Rome, Esterina’s heritage has no doubt played a very important role in the life she now leads. Encouraged by her family, Esterina spent many years in Italy, soaking up the sights and scents that would eventually lead to the inspiration of her extraordinary product line.

In addition to offering authentic Italian goods, Casa Casale features a sweet-smelling espresso bar that boasts true Italian coffees. “It’s just like what you would find in Italy,” Esterina says.

From an assortment of ceramic vases and Italian culinary items—such as gnocchi boards, pasta machines and macchinetta—to gourmet cookbooks and signature CDs, Casa Casale offers a wide variety of rare gifts. Alongside the talented staff, guests can create their own custom theme and assemble personalized gift baskets. “Even if it’s just one bottle of olive oil, it will look beautiful by the time it’s done,” Esterina promises.

Prior to the store’s launch, Esterina worked in corporate retail for 25 years, during which she considered opening a store of her own for quite some time. When she heard about a vacancy in Peddler’s Village, she seized the opportunity and is currently celebrating her 10th year of business at Casa Casale. “The area is up and coming. There is an ethnic feeling in this community—a lot of folks are passionate about Italian food and heritage.”

Joining Esterina at Casa Casale are talented chefs who are well-equipped to listen to what you are looking for and point you in the right direction by sharing their in-depth knowledge of Italy. Executive Chef Fiorenza Dolceamore, an American with Sicilian roots, and Chef Isabella Paone, who hails from Rome, warm guests with their heartfelt opinions on how to prepare authentic Italian dishes that are as much of an experience as they are a family meal.

For an unforgettable, authentic experience, visit Casa Casale to live, feel, taste, smell and touch Italian family charm in your own backyard.

Visit Casa Casale at Peddler’s Village, Routes 202 and 263 in Lahaska. For more information call (215) 794-1474, e-mail esthercasale@comcast.net or visit www.casacasale.com.

Karen Appold is a freelance writer in Royersford (www.WriteNowServices.com).

Learn to Cook Italian!

For those who are looking for an interesting way to spend an evening, embrace real Italian life and culture by taking cooking classes at Casa Casale. This month our Editor-in-Chief, Shannon McLaughlin attended the Zuppe e Risotto cooking class. She learned how to cook mouth-watering Italian cuisine, including Italian Wedding Soup, Palle Di Rice, Butternut Bisque and a delicious banana-inspired dessert, which she was given the opportunity to assist Esterina with. The nearly twenty attendees were treated like old friends and enjoyed a brief shopping break, during which they were given a 20 percent discount for purchases made in the store that evening.

Taking place on March 24 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., the next class will highlight Roman cuisine, including two glasses of wine, two pasta dishes—carbonara and amatriciana, a bean dish and dessert. “We try to make it as authentic as possible,” Esterina says. “Come with a big appetite, we will serve you a lot.”

Additional upcoming classes include Trattoria Cibi on April 21, Mangare Napolitano on May 19 and Summertime Sicilian on June 23. Classes are held Wednesday evenings from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.