Considering our own perception of the image in the mirror

http://youtu.be/XpaOjMXyJGk Dove video demonstrates difference between how we see ourselves and how others do By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times This video stopped me in my tracks. I am ashamed to admit that I am guilty of having a very self-critical attitude about my looks. I would like to blame the society that we live in, but that’s a cop out.  I have no problem teaching my boys to...

Need for infant vaccines to get national spotlight

County to team up with Kennett Area YMCA to raise awareness National Infant Immunization Week will be observed from April 20-27. Nearly 12,000 babies born each day in the U.S. will need to be immunized against 14 vaccine-preventable diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. National Infant Immunization Week – April 20-27 – is an initiative designed to raise...

Thinning the fashion herd is harder than it should be

Spring cleaning offers the chance to cut back, but it can be tough By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times The sudden burst of springtime weather brings many lovely things: open windows, blooming flowers, iced coffee.  Perfection. However, the Debbie Downer in me would also like to point out that it brings yucky things like: stink bugs by the thousands, the “smell” of mushrooms and the...

PennDOT urging residents to save lives

National Donate Life Month an ideal time to become organ donor Since April marks National Donate Life Month, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) wants to remind motorists how easily they can help another person live a fuller, longer life by registering online as an organ donor. “Potential donors considering adding the organ donor designation to their driver’s license or...

Is 2013 the year of the one-piece?

After years as a dedicated bikini wearer, are those days ending? By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times I have traditionally worn a bikini in the summertime.  In fact, there are no less than a half dozen packed away in my closet as I type.  However, I’m thinking that 2013 may be the Year of the One-Piece. I recently celebrated my 30th birthday for the 12th time.  You do the math.  (Actually,...

Going to bat for dogs who need home

Chester County SPCA offering special on ‘Big League Ballplayers’ Cosmo sports a Phillies’ scarf to showcase his eagerness to become an all-star pet. Just in time for baseball season, the Chester County SPCA wants to remind area residents that the Phils and their fans aren’t the only ones eager to play ball. The nonprofit agency is offering a weekend special entitled “Big League...

Teeth: a new source of stem cells

New research shows dental pulp could be prime source for tissue building blocks By Dr. Stephanie McGann, DMD, FAGD, Columnist, The Times Stem cells have made news over the last 15 years. They have been the focus of much scientific excitement and much political controversy — and now it’s possible teeth could be a key source for these building block cells. What is a stem cell? Simply put...

Fun new looks to show off for Easter

With an early holiday, stylish new jackets could be a good option By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times I have always loved Easter.  It brings back fond memories of walking to church with my family wearing a pretty dress with white patent shoes, a hat (of course!) and gloves.  We would go to breakfast afterwards with my grandparents and cap off the evening with a honey-glazed ham and coconut...

Cultivating taste for optimal organic gardening

Library to present free horticultural how-to workshop Deborah Kates will present a program on organic gardening at the Chester County Library on April 6. Longtime organic gardener Deborah Kates promises to unearth her best horticultural tips in a program at the Chester County Library in Exton entitled “Let’s Get Dirty!  Learn To Love Organic Gardening.” It will be held Saturday, April...

Airing my fashion grievances, 2013 edition

My new list of alarming fashion trends By Kelly Hockenberry, Columnist, The Times Every so often, I like to air my fashion grievances.  They are not always met with support from you, the reader…but I can’t seem to stop myself. We’ve been over (and over) my dislike for capri pants, jean shorts on men, Birkenstocks, artificial nails and scrunchies.  I have waxed poetic regarding “just saying...