How to plan the perfect outing

A few tips to keep your plans from unraveling
By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times
When was the last time you were in charge of a fun outing? Whether for your sweetheart, your family, friends, or colleagues, we’ve all dreamed of being the perfect “cruise director”. Well, we might not all be Julie McCoy from the Love Boat (yes, I’m dating myself I know), but before you plan another fun...
On Your Table: Easy Dishes for Summer’s last hurrah

Make the most of the unofficial end of the summer
By Cathy Branciaroli, Food Correspondent, The Times
Grilled Chicken Skewers are easy and fast to prepare as well as cook (Photo courtesy of Jenn Segal of Once Upon a Chef)
Just because Labor Day marks the official end of summer doesn’t mean we can’t have one last hurrah of outdoor eating before resigning ourselves to casseroles and slow cooked...
Super Six: September is coming and it’s going to be fabulous

Tough to see summer end, but fall fashions ease the pain
By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times
Technically, I am not supposed to be doing my Sunday Super Six until NEXT weekend, but, I have something special planned. So, I decided to jump the gun and tell you what’s on my mind as we wrap up this glorious summer season.
I must say that I am very sorry to see it go; although, I soothe myself...
On Your Table: Top food trucks at Chaddsford Winery

Some of the region’s top food trucks to compete this weekend
By Cathy Branciaroli, Food Correspondent, The Times
Sophia Mamalis and son George offer outstanding crabcakes from their food truck Rigatoni’s Mobile Crab Cakes
Last weekend I had the opportunity to visit the Chaddsford Winery’s “Back to Back” competition among 14 different food trucks, which will be held again this coming...
The joy of unrealistic reality shows

My husband and I watch completely different, yet equally frightening shows
By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times
My husband and I share many common interests, which is the key to any successful relationship, in my opinion. However, when it comes to our preference in TV programs, we do not see eye to eye. As everyone who reads my column on a regular basis knows, I am addicted to reality television....
On Your Table: From the husk to the grill

If you grill it, it will come…
By Cathy Branciaroli, Food Correspondent, The Times
Add a little spice to your summer meals by grilling your corn instead of steaming it. Using different methods of preparation, you can unlock different flavors and textures in the late summer staple.
All the farm markets are offering fresh corn right now and there are so many ways to prepare it. Of course everyone...
Get the most from your dental insurance

By Dr. Stephanie McGann, DMD FAGD, Columnist, The Times
Like anything in life, if you want to get the most out of something you need to know how it works. People fortunate enough to have dental insurance should take the time to know what their policy covers and what it’s limitations are.
Never assume your dental office’s business staff knows everything. Every employer group negotiates their...
A clean up with a positive mission

Reduce clutter and benefit HIS Mission this month
By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times
How often do you open a closet or drawer at home and find it overflowing with things you never use? Just the other day, my husband had a (little) meltdown about the number of cups we have in the kitchen cabinet.
Can you picture it?
He attempts to grab a glass for some iced tea and six others come tumbling...
Your body language may say more than anything

You can say a lot even when you’re not speaking
By Nancy Plummer, Columnist, The Times
Have you ever wondered what your body language is telling the world?
Research tells us that 93% of all our communication is non-verbal, and that most of our non-verbal communication is through our posture, gestures and facial expressions. As I warn my clients, even as they are walking into a restaurant,...