In the mood for a quick bite or some fantastic pizza?  Montesini’s on Frankford Avenue in the Mayfair Shopping Center has delicious food at very affordable prices.  Whether you are in the mood for pizza shop fast food, or a sit-down, relaxed, casual dining experience, Montesini’s can accommodate.  Parking shouldn’t be too much trouble with the abundance of the shopping center spaces, but beware: with the holidays rapidly approaching, the malls are becoming more crowded.

Very small and common, Montesini’s may not impress you much by its look or décor, but taking the advice of an old adage “never judge a book by its cover,” you will be pleasantly surprised by the taste of the food.  The staff manages to keep the restaurant relatively tidy and the silverware and flatware is clean, which is always a good sign.  The service is very friendly and fast.  I ordered my food, and in less than 10 minutes it was at my table prepared steaming hot. continue reading »

The streets and parks of the NEast use to be cluttered with happy children playing games and socializing.  No matter the climate they would endure the elements of Mother Nature and beg to spend a little more time enjoying life as a kid.  Adults could be seen flooding the streets for shopping, small errands and to socialize with their neighbors.

The time I speak of is not 50 years ago but a mere 10 years ago — before cell phones, iPods, BlackBerries and computers consumed our lives.  However antiquated the concept may sound, the simple fact of a society becoming overly reliant on technology cannot be denied.  continue reading »

Turkey, stuffing, cranberries, squash and yams– it must be Thanksgiving.  What better day to stay in and have a wonderful home-cooked meal with family and friends.  Of course, no Thanksgiving meal would be complete without the traditional pumpkin pie, but here’s a great recipe for those looking to add a different flavor that still works with the color scheme of yellows, reds, oranges and browns.

Lemon meringue pie is a tasty treat that accompanies pumpkin pie, or can be served on its own.  This year, surprise your family and friends with a new end to Thanksgiving that they are sure to enjoy.  This wonderful pie could feed anywhere from eight to 12 people depending on your serving slice. continue reading »

In today’s capitalist society, the power and wealth seem to always go to the rich while, the middle-class work to line the very pockets of those who seem to already have it all.

This concept has overtaken almost every corporation in the U.S. and our own city.  While realizing that there will never be a utopian society, regardless of whether it’s democratic, autocratic, theocratic or otherwise, we have to acknowledge the unfair treatments of our current standing.

How many times have we all been there, where upper management makes a decision that drastically affects everybody else, causes more work overload and no difference in pay?  Meanwhile, the executives who devised the new system or issued job orders reap the rewards of the hard-working employees whose daily tasks and work hours do not improve.  continue reading »

Quick, easy and tasty! The three words a chef loves to hear. Try this week’s recipe to stay in for the next time you need a cake, a treat or a celebration. This has been a family favorite in my house for years and honoring veterans everywhere, you can garnish the top of this cake with strawberries and blueberries in the shape of a flag. The entire recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. continue reading »

Just as scary as it sounds – date rape. The sad true fact is that everyone always assumes “it will never happen to me.” Being the most common form of rape, date rape surprisingly is not often reported.

One of the large reasons why women remain silent after these atrocious acts is because of fear; the fear of being persecuted, fear of being blamed, fear of losing social standing or family respect. Another reason women today remain so quiet is because many are unsure that what actually happened to them was in fact rape. continue reading »

Trick or treat!  If you picked treat, good choice, because this week we have a scrumptious and easy recipe that is sure to be a crowd pleaser. This year, Halloween is taking over and a variety of treats are readily available for all who seek a ghoulish night of fun and sugar.  If you’re like many who a tasty treat for less money, try this recipe for Halloween Dirt, and watch your family and neighbors scream with delight.  Preparation time is about 20 minutes and this dessert can serve about 20 people. continue reading »

As many of you may already be aware, October is national Breast Cancer Awareness month. Almost everywhere you venture, the pink ribbon (and related items) can be seen being sold, proudly worn or displayed. Many businesses are taking time to contribute and recognize various breast cancer foundations during this month. Fundraisers, walks for the cure and banquets are being held throughout the nation and the NEast.

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With the increasing financial hardship and economic strain, more NEasters are choosing to dine in and save some money, rather then eat out.  Given the fact that more and more people are taking on this custom, I am including a recipe that I came upon a few weeks ago for all our money-saving friends, and those who want to try a little something different.  Try this fast, easy and delicious Shepherd’s Pie recipe from Ladies Home Journal with a low calorie count of just 246 per serving. continue reading »

We have heard all the theories behind the idea of why women cheat: lack of intimacy, strained emotional connection, stress and even an escape to reclaim their independence. But is this why women in NEast really cheat on their partners? Whether it is a boyfriend, fiancé or husband, cheating happens all the time.

Many people could understand why a person in duress would venture elsewhere to find gratification, but why would someone who is in a perfectly safe and stable relationship jeopardize everything for moments of passion? What is it that drives women to cheat and what do they hope the outcome will be? continue reading »