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Vitality is produced 6 times a year by Pagio Inc., 88 Winter St., Worcester, MA 01604. (508)756-5006. Copyright 2013. All rights reserved. Pagio, Inc. does not hold itself responsible for statements made by any contributor. Statements or opinions expressed in Vitality reflect the views of the author(s) and not the official policy of the Pagio, Inc., unless so stated. Although all advertising material is expected to conform to ethical standards, acceptance does not imply endorsement by Pagio, Inc. unless so stated. Material printed in Vitality is covered by copyright. No copyright is claimed to any work of the U.S. government. No part of this publication may be reproduced or

transmitted in any form without written permission. For more on permissions, reprints and other services, contact Pagio, Inc. Also by Pagio Inc.: Pulse Magazine, Worcester Medicine, TasteWorcester.com, Thepulsemag.com, Thevitalitymag.com

Paul GiorgioPublisher

Donna RobersonSr. Editor

Vanessa HerboldArt Director, Webmaster

Chris ReddyKerry CyganiewiczKevin SwensonAccount Managers

Kim DunbarPaul CollinsBernard WhitmoreKerry CyganiewiczLiz FossSean HaleyGretchen BarryContributing Writers

Cover StoryShowcasing winter scenes from the photograph collection at Worcester Historical Museum

Cover Story

4 Worcester Wonderland

entertainment

MUSIC 8 GWO: Looking at opera in a new way

BOOKS10 These books will help you throw any party

LifeStyLe PROFILE 12 Worcester poet and humorist captures everyday life in his musings

HOME & gaRdEn 13 Before winter gets worse, get ready

TRaVEL 14 When (and how much) to tip

15 How to complain better

HEaLTH & FITnESS16 DIY Relaxation: 18 ways to destress

18 Outrun the winter blues

FInanCE 19 Freeze out identity theft

20 FOR THE gRandKIdS ParentCare

FEaTURE22 Big giving for small nonprofits: How to leave your legacy with impact

CaREgIVIng nOW24 Everyone can enjoy the holiday season

Dining & entertaining

REVIEW26 Oli’s offers creative Italian classics

27 Give the gift of beer

StyLe & Beauty

28 Beauty routines you shouldn’t skip

29 Do you really need eye cream?

An undated photograph by E.B. Luce.

Cover Story

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By Robyn ConroyLibrarian/Archivist, Worcester Historical Museum

This collage showcases winter scenes from the photograph collection at Worcester Historical Museum. The museum’s research library has many weather-related images, from picturesque scenes to natural disasters such as the Hurricane of 1938, the Tornado of 1953 and the Webster Square Flood of 1955. Specific to winter are also pictures of snow and ice storms, including the Blizzard of 1978 (we continue to collect these) and a major blizzard a century before in 1888, when photographic recording was far less ubiquitous.

But this is only the tip of the proverbial iceberg. The museum’s photograph collection contains more than 400,000 images. Calling them all photographs may be a bit misleading; the collection also includes examples of earlier forms of photography such as 1860s daguerreotypes and glass plate negatives from the 1890s, as well as modern digital files.

In accord with the museum’s mission, the collection is especially rich in Worcester-area subjects and people. There are many street scenes, landscapes, views of

buildings past and present and pictures of people and organizations. It contains pictures of most city schools, including class pictures and candid scenes, and many photos of Worcester’s firehouses and firemen. There are thousands of pictures of Worcester’s prominent people and families, as well as images of its unsung soldiers, workers and immigrants.

The collection includes work by some of Worcester’s most prominent photographers ~ catalogues of George Cocaine, Marvin Richmond, Sid Plotkin and E.B. Luce, among others.

Don’t be left out in the cold; come and explore it for yourself!

The Worcester Historical Museum research library is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday and from 10 a.m.-8:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of every month. Please call ahead for an appointment at(508) 753-8278. You can also visit worcesterhistory.org to gain access to our Facebook and Tumbler pages, which showcase many images from the collection.

All pictures from the collections of the Worcester Historical Museum, Worcester, Mass.

A snowy day on the Worcester Common in 1949. A cold day in downtown Worcester on March 22, 1951.

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Shoveling snow on the Worcester Common in 1939.

Building a snowman in 1952.

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Kelley Square in the winter of 1975.

Making snowballs on April 13, 1950.

A winter scene on Front Street Feb. 11, 1950.

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Men plow snow in Worcester in this undated photo.

Having fun in the snow in 1950.

A snowball fight in 1952.

Snowshoes were the order of the day in this undated photograph.Elm Park in 1887.

A child shovels snow on March 1, 1949.

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By Sean M. Haley

Think opera is boring? How about opera sung in English, in a bar or based on How I Met Your Mother? It seems like a lot more of a good time now, doesn’t it?

The Greater Worcester Opera group has spent the better part of 11 years doing just that: making opera more enjoyable for a broader audience.

“We want people to know that it’s not stuffy and stodgy,” said Christine Petkus, GWO’s fundraising chairperson. “We’re having fun. We present good, quality shows, and they’re affordable.” Petkus, along with Executive Director Elaine Crane, also performs with the group on a regular basis.

To Crane, opera is “a lot like musical theater, but bigger singing.” She and Petkus agree that while most people consider opera to be foreign, it’s really more akin to musical theater performances like The Phantom of the Opera. “Musical theater and opera aren’t that far apart,” Petkus said. In fact, many people don’t realize that the hit musical Rent actually began its life as La Bohème, a Puccini opera that debuted in Italy more than a century ago.

Petkus said that, above all else, singing in English is key to bringing opera music to more people. At larger venues like the Metropolitan Opera in New York City, the translation is usually displayed on

the back of the seats. Other times, the translation is projected somewhere on the stage. According to Petkus, this can make the experience a lot less fun. “The audience lags behind, and they can’t pay attention to the movements and actions of the performers.”

To rectify this, Crane translates entire operas from Italian, German or French into modern English. She starts with a public-domain opera from before 1928, saving the group money on production rights. She then sits down with the original script, a “to-English” dictionary and a thesaurus and sets to work. After completing the first draft, she cross-references her translations with English translations already in existence. This long, arduous process takes her about three months to complete, but, she said, it’s “absolutely worth it.”

The final script, however, isn’t without room for adjustment. “It’s not the Bible,” Crane said. “Singers get to give their input regarding solos and translations.”

One would think that for opera purists, translating a piece from its original language would be nothing short of musical heresy, but Petkus said that isn’t the case. In fact, many operas in Europe are performed in the native language of the audience. Petkus believes that “operas are more popular in Europe with the younger crowd because of this.”G

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Where opera used to be a “park-and-bark” stationary form of performance, GWO has worked to change this. Crane said, “Now, it’s a lot of singing actors.”

“You have to be a good singer, a good actor and a good colleague,” Petkus added. Set-building, rehearsal and everything leading to the actual performance takes a lot of work, and there’s no room for personality clashes or egos. Petkus said an actor can have the greatest voice in the world, but if he or she is difficult to work with, it makes it difficult for the rest of the cast and production staff. Instead, GWO thrives on “positive energy and great people.”

Crane and Petkus both consider themselves “late bloomers,” getting involved in opera when they were in college. Now, they try to introduce opera to a younger audience. Their efforts include updating a traditional piece to create Cosi Fan Tutti, or How I Met Your Mother. The original opera includes the music of Mozart and was set in the regency period (think Jane Austin). The GWO re-vamped the performance to include aspects of the popular television show, How I Met Your Mother, complete with vignettes, plot twists and modern cultural references to tell a tell a tale of “romance, deception and happy endings.” According to Crane and Petkus, the production was met with standing ovations.

GWO members also have collaborated with the Boston chapter of Opera on Tap, a national organization that puts opera singers together and arranges opera performances in bars across the state. Songs and vocal arrangements are developed, rehearsed and performed, complete with horned hats. “It’s very tangible and cabaret-like,” Crane said. “We got a great reception.”

The GWO has also performed at Worcester State University, Eagle Hill Cultural Center in Hardwick and the Warner Theater at Worcester Academy. Despite the number of operas the group performs and an audience volume that averages 600 people per series, the GWO still doesn’t have a steady place to perform on a regular basis. “We haven’t found just the right spot to settle in,” Crane said, “so we try a lot of different places. We have to rent venues.”

Along with arranging, translating and rehearsing these

operas, GWO members also build their own sets and make their own costumes. “I love costuming. Besides performing, that’s my passion” Crane said.

“She can turn scraps into a ball gown,” Petkus said. “I’ve seen her do it.”

With all of its dedication, however, the group is still beset with obstacles to its overall success. “The economy has been terrible for the arts over the past 10 years,” Crane said. “Support comes from sponsors that give $300 here, $500 there. It helps, but we could always use more. We sing for our supper. We could use grants, but we don’t have anyone to write them.”

Yet, the group still manages to generate funds and give back through educational programs. The GWO performs its rendition of Diamonds and Toads, an operatic adaptation of a fairytale by Charles Perrault, in local schools to introduce opera music to children. The group not only performs the opera for children but also provides a handbook for students, which teaches them opera etiquette and includes games. The GWO also offers scholarships to exceptional singers and instrumentalists.

For its upcoming series, GWO will collaborate with the Trinity Lutheran Church in Worcester and Fourth Wall Stage Company in Grafton to perform Amahl and the Night Visitors, a one-act holiday opera about the Three Kings who meet, Amahl, a disabled boy, on their way to the birth of Jesus. The series will run from Jan. 9-11. Crane said that for just $15, this one-hour opera is the perfect introductory opera.

“You love music? I challenge you to come and listen to another type of music,” Petkus said.

For more information, visit greaterworcesteropera.org.

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theSe bookS Will helpyou throW any party

By Kimberly Dunbar

entertainment & CuLture: BookS

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The end of the holiday season doesn’t mean that you won’t be

planning any more parties. If you’re wondering what

to do with those holiday Amazon gift

certificates, check out these books, which will

bring you through years’ worth of parties in style.

The cast of ABC’s hit show The Chew just made party

planning a lot easier with its new book, The Chew: A Year

of Celebrations. If you’re like me and have a Pinterest board

dedicated to every holiday, this book is for you. Each chapter

contains several different drink, meal and dessert recipes, as well

as a craft/decoration idea to ensure a successful event for every occasion (and not just the usual suspects like Thanksgiving and Christmas ~ others include Mother’s Day, Fourth of July, Valentine’s Day, football parties, baby/bridal showers, cookouts and more).

The five hosts ~ Mario Batali, Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly, Daphne Oz and Michael Symon ~ combine their expertise and individual styles to offer an eclectic mix of party fare. The best part is that the hosts understand the time and budget constraints of the

average American, so most of the recipes are

easy to make but look like they were made by a professional chef.

My copy of A Year of Celebrations is dog-eared and already much thumbed-through. I’ve already started trying recipes. Some of my favorites include: Bloody Mary Sliders, Apple

Cider Sangria, Stuffed Acorn Squash, Pumpkin Pecan Pie, Spicy Broccoli and Cauliflower Gratin, Rum Balls and Beet and Potato Pancakes (yes, there is a Hanukkah section). Drooling yet?

One of the best ways to add class to any dinner party is to pair a delicious meal with the perfect wine. Again, if you’re like me, I love to drink wine, but my knowledge doesn’t go much beyond the wine aisle at my local liquor store. However, that was before I read the newly released WineWise: Second Edition.

The updated edition of this James Beard Award-winning book is an essential addition to your library. Everything you have ever wanted to know about wine ~ and even some things you didn’t think you needed to know ~ can be found in this book. The authors, longtime wine educators at The Culinary Institute of America, use a practical approach to educating readers on the latest and greatest developments in the winemaking industry. They start simple by teaching readers the basics of grapes, different methods of winemaking and how to read a label (there really is a science to it). From there, they dissect each leading winemaking country and break down the regions where wine is made, offering recommendations of their favorite wines as they go along (and most of them won’t break the bank).

This book also includes lessons on how to pair wines with certain foods. It isn’t always as simple as white wine pairs well with fish and red wine pairs well with beef, so before hosting your next dinner, consult the WineWise experts for which wine will go best with your meal (broken down by cuisine and country).

Both of these books can be found at amazon.com.

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By Paul Collins

Comedy and poetry make strange bedfellows; comedy thrives on big nights out and the roar of the crowd while poetry prefers solitude and the soft rush of a waterfall. Yet Worcester resident, Joe Fusco Jr., is a bit of an “everyman” who has managed to merge a love of humorous commentaries with his talent for writing poetry to create a compelling collection of musings.

In large measure because of his local poetry readings, this homegrown humorist and author has been well known across the Worcester community for many years. Three-Score: Poems & Essays is his second and latest book that, according to Fusco, is “a collection of short essays and poems, mostly humorous, that capture my slant on the persons and events in my life as I approached 60.” The book’s title takes its lead from the Abraham Lincoln’s historic Gettysburg Address.

Graduating from Boston University in 1976 with a bachelor of science in journalism, Fusco worked as an advertising copywriter until, he said, “I reluctantly followed my father’s large footprints into the grocery business.” He worked as a buyer for Goretti’s Supermarkets in Millbury.

“I write because I enjoy the process and have been told that my stuff is amusing,” Fusco said. Across the years, the poet, who possesses a keen sense of humor, seems to have shifted gears from pure poetry to include storytelling.

So what is the grist for the storyteller’s mill? Fusco candidly said, “My family, friends, everyday events and vacations are all fodder for my musings. Anything and everyone is fair game.”

From underneath his wit, his love of his family comes through loud and clear as he speaks of his daughter, Samantha. “I’d like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of my editor/daughter Samantha Fusco, without whom Three-Score would still be on a yellow pad.”

Like any author in the Amazon age, Fusco keeps a close tally on how his book is selling. To this end, he offers a status update: “I’ve sold eight copies of Three-Score on Amazon.com and 44 at book signings in two months. I’d like to sell 100, then hit the talk shows!”

The funnyman’s local roots in the community run very deep. “I read my stuff at various venues in Central Massachusetts (and, in my mind, Belgium) and enjoy making an audience smile and/or grimace.”

In other words, Fusco said, “I offer a light-hearted distraction from the toils of everyday strife.”

Three-Score: Poems & Essays can be purchased on both amazon.com and createspace.com.

Paul Collins is a freelance writer from Southborough.

LifeStyLe: ProfiLe

WorCeSter poet and humoriStCaptureS everyday life in hiS muSinGS

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It’s official ~ winter is here. If youhaven’t prepared your home forwinter, there are a few things it’s nottoo late to do. Hometalk ~ the largest home and garden social network onthe web ~ has put together some practical and cost-effective tips toprotect your home (and your budget) from expensive and unnecessary damage control down the line.

Winterize Your Windows Windows are a huge heat-sucker in cooler months and can greatly increase your energy bills. Put up heavier curtains or line your current ones with blackout curtains to add layers and keep your house insulated.

The great Chimney Sweep Creosote builds up inside your chimney as a result of burning wood, and it’s incredibly flammable ~ all on top of any fallen leaves and creepy crawlers that might have accumulated over the summer. Stay safe and ensure energy efficiency by cleaning out your chimney.

get Rid of gutter Clutter Heavy rain/snow plus fallen leaves equals collapsing gutters. Cleaning them out could prevent a catastrophic crash. If you have the proper equipment, protection and know-how, get the job done yourself; otherwise, call a professional.

defeat the draft Feel around door frames and window sills to detect where warm air is escaping and the outdoor chill is coming in. Seal any leaks with caulk or weather stripping to maintain your home’s insulation.

Protect Your Pipes Burst pipes are a wintertime nightmare that you definitely don’t want. Save yourself from that messy misery by simply insulating your pipes with foam ~ or even cut pool noodles!

For more information, visitHometalk.com.

LifeStyLe: ProfiLe LifeStyLe: home & garDen

before WinterGetS WorSe, Get ready

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LifeStyLe: traveL

Should you leave a tip in your hotel room for housekeeping? What about cab drivers?

It’s not uncommon to wonder who to tip and how much to leave. Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore is the founder of the Protocol School of Palm Beach and author of Poised for Success: Mastering The Four Qualities That Distinguish Outstanding Professionals. She offers some basic tipping guidelines.

When (and hoW muCh) you Should tip

RestaurantsCoatroom attendant:$1-$2 per item.

Maitre d’:$10-$100 depending on the restaurant, occasion and level of service you expect. Present the tip before you sit down at your table.

Wine sommelier:Gratuity is optional but recommended for extremely attentive or helpful sommeliers. A tip of 5-10 percent of the wine charge is appropriate.

Restroom attendant:50 cents to $1 for handing you a towel or if you use any products displayed on the sink.

Hotelsdoorman:$1-$2 per bag for moving your bags from the car to the bell cart. Tip $1-$2 for hailing a taxi for you.

Bellman:$1-$2 per bag and $1-$2 for every delivery to your room.

Concierge:$10 or more for special services such as securing you a hard-to-get reservation to a popular restaurant.

Housekeeper:Tip $2-$3 per night; add an additional $1-$2 for special requests. If you have the same housekeeper throughout your stay, place the money in an envelope labeled “Housekeeping” at the end of your trip and leave it in a location where it can be easily seen such as on a pillow. If there are multiple housekeepers, tip each day.

Room service:15-18 percent of the bill before taxes. Tipping is optional if a service charge is included in the bill.

Valet:$2-$5 each time an attendant retrieves your car.

Spa service:15-20 percent of the bill.

For more information, visit etiquetteexpert.com or jacquelinewhitmore.com.

airports

Taxi drivers:10-15 percent of the bill.

Car service:20 percent of the bill. In somecases, the tip is included. Ifyou’re not sure, ask.

Shuttle drivers:$1 per bag.

Skycaps:$1-$2 per bag.

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At one time or another, we’ve all felt underserved by a server at a restaurant or brushed off by an airline gate agent when we tried to ask a question while traveling. How can you voice your opinion or criticize and make sure you’re really heard? Jacqueline Whitmore is an internationally recognized etiquette expert and founder of The Protocol School of Palm Beach. She is author of Poised for Success: Mastering the Four Qualities that Distinguish Outstanding Professionals. She offers five tips when complaining: 1. Ensure you’ve got a legitimate grievance. When you’ve had a bad day, you may feel as if the world is out to get you. To avoid unnecessary conflict, step back from the situation and evaluate if it’s worth your energy to complain. There’s a difference between a cheeseburger that was slightly overcooked and one that made you sick. Always give others the chance to rectify the situation before you ask for a refund or launch into a tirade. 2. Find the right person to contact. Before the Internet, people sent letters to companies when they had a complaint or compliment. Today, a letter sent to a company’s customer service department may or may not receive a response. You’re chances of getting a quicker response increase when you voice your opinion on social media. Try sharing your complaint on Facebook or Twitter and you will reach thousands of readers. The

threat of poor publicity or a lost customer will most likely motivate the company to respond ~ and correct the problem. 3. avoid foul language and threats. Be careful not to go overboard when you express your frustrations. Keep your complaint brief and stay on point. Personal attacks, inappropriate language and unfair threats will only put others on the defensive. You’ll get much better results when you speak firmly but kindly. 4. don’t feel forced to take down a bad review.Once a complaint has been addressed, the company may ask you to take down a negative online review. If a company responds to you promptly and appropriately, consider removing the complaint. However, you should not feel obligated to do so. A company should never stipulate that a review must be removed prior to issuing a refund. 5. give a great review when it’s been earned. Complaints shouldn’t be the only feedback you provide a company. When you receive extraordinary service or someone goes above and beyond to help you, say so. Leave positive reviews on the company’s Facebook page or Twitter feed, speak to a manager about your positive experience or directly thank the person who helped you. At the very least, you’ll brighten someone’s day.

For more tips, visit etiquetteexpert.com or jacquelinewhitmore.com.

LifeStyLe: traveL

hoW to Complain better

Stress is often seen as a negative effect on the body, but it is very essential to life. It is the “fight or flight” system that is naturally part of our survival system. Stress is bad when it overwhelmingly impacts our health equilibrium. Everyone deals with stress in one way or another. It is associated with higher levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Accumulated unmanaged stress can lead to major physical and psychological illness, including depression, overeating, excessive sleep and irritability. While it is impossible to avoid stress completely, it is possible to manage your stress. Here are a few ways:

1. get a massage. Massage has been shown to be

effective in reducing mental and physical stress. In one study in

the Journal of General Internal Medicine, massage helped lessen stress and pain in patients who have chronic pain. Another study in the Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing suggested that 15-minute massages help reduce the psychological stress of their test subjects. Massage lowers the level of cortisol and increases the levels of serotonin and dopamine.

2. go for a walk. Going for a walk can clear your mind and keep your body healthy. Walking helps increase your endorphins, which can give you a euphoric feeling, and it reduces your levels of cortisol. It will give you a boost of energy while reducing your fatigue. On top of that, simply being outside also helps reduce stress and helps increase memory and attention span.

3. Relieve stress with a pet. Studies have shown that pet therapy helps reduce anxiety and stress for many people. One study showed that it helped students during exam times. Another study showed that patients experienced a 37 percent reduction in anxiety if they spend time with animals before their medical operations. Pets lower blood pressure and cortisol. While dogs and cats are usually the choice of pet for stress relief, other animals can also help. Watching fish in an aquarium has also been shown to reduce your blood pressure.

4. drink tea. Green tea lowers your blood pressure and is full of antioxidants that are beneficial for your health. In one study, black tea helped lower cortisol and reduced stress after six weeks, more so than in subjects who were drinking placebo drinks.

5. get proper sleep. A study in children showed that disruptive sleep may lead to a higher level of cortisol. By having a restful and high-quality sleep and undisrupted naps, one’s cortisol levels will decrease. Another study of healthy young men has shown that taking proper naps throughout the day will lower one’s cortisol levels.

6. Work out. Hit the gym or go for a run.

This allows your body and mind to focus on something that is good for your well-being. While it distracts you from the cause of your stress, it also increases your endorphins and decreases your levels of cortisol. The more aerobic your workout is, the more endorphins your body

releases.

7. Breathe deep.By taking deep, slow

breaths, your blood pressure and heart rate also

slows down, which counteracts the effects of stress. This also allows you to relax and clear your mind. It has been shown to reduce anxiety and help with depression.

8. Use guided visualizations. This is a technique that many people use to relax, control their stress and help them achieve their goals. One study showed that subjects reported less perceived and dyadic stress after using this stress-managing tool. Guided visualization allows people to imagine and consciously think about certain issues and helps people get in touch with their intuition. This usually leads to feeling refreshed and has helped many attain higher self-esteem.

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LifeStyLe: heaLth & fitneSS

diy relaXation:18 WayS to deStreSS

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9. aromatherapy. The scents of certain plants, such as lavender, can ease our stress and relax us. These scents can create a mood for us, and some may even bring us memories or thoughts associated with the smell. Aromatherapy is often used with massages, meditations and hot baths. It is a wonderful, calming experience for those who have tried it.

10. Turn your phone off. Your smartphone allows you to access the rest of the world. This will allow stress to come to you. According to one study, work-related emails through smartphones cause higher stress levels in people. By turning off your phone, you shut the external stress out, and it allows you to focus on yourself and your immediate surroundings. Escaping technology can be a very relaxing experience, whether it’s during the weekend or during vacation.

11. Meditate. Meditation has been used for thousands of years. It is an inexpensive technique that can release your stress and clear your mind. Pair it with breathing exercises to further lower your heart rate and blood pressure. Meditation can help you find tranquility and clarity in your thoughts.

12. Enjoy a hot bath. A hot bath can help relieve the tension in your muscles, lessen the pain in your body, promote blood circulation and calm the nervous system. Water can be infused with minerals and other products such as Dead Sea salt or oil.

13. Try yoga. Yoga is an excellent weight and stress management tool. It helps your balance and flexibility and strengthens your core. Studies have shown that yoga is promising in reducing anxiety and stress. Yoga originated in India and has been around for more than 5,000 years. It also helps with bronchitis, chronic pain and some symptoms of menopause.

14. Listen to music. A study has shown that patients in post-surgery who listened to music had lower stress levels than those who did not listen to music. Another study showed that people from different cultural backgrounds preferred different types of music for pain and stress relief. While everyone’s preference is different, find music that is soothing for you.

15. Laugh. Going to a comedy show or watching a funny movie will help manage your stress. One study showed that there are lower levels of the salivary endocrinological stress marker chromogranin A (CgA) in those who watched a humorous movie. Along with less stress, these subjects also reported a feeling of being uplifted and fulfilled.

16. Try a craft. Finding a hobby and keeping your hands busy will distract your mind from stressors. Studies have shown that doing a craft enhances relaxation, especially for children and seniors. It is used quite often as a therapeutic healing method.

17. Write down your thoughts. Keeping a journal or diary of your thoughts and activities allows you to express yourself and your feelings. Your journal is also a place for you to let your emotions out. One of the best parts of journaling is that you can write down your negative emotions so that you move on with your positive emotions.

18. avoid caffeine. Try to avoid coffee, energy drinks and other drinks that are heavy in caffeine. Caffeine increases catecholamines and cortisol, which are both stress hormones, while increasing dopamine for a quick, feel-good response that will wear off quickly and make you feel low. Drink green tea instead.

LabDoor is a web and mobile app that provides product safety grading for dietary supplements. LabDoor lets customers browse rankings of best-selling supplements and energy drinks and helps people get the facts about the purity and efficacy of their multivitamins, fish oil, probiotics, vitamin D and protein supplements. For more information, visit labdoor.com.

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By Kimberly Dunbar

’Tis the season when darkness falls at 5 p.m. and motivation to work out drops to an all-time low. Luckily, you can battle the winter-weather blues ~ and stay in shape ~ by participating in one of the area’s weekly runs, hosted by Sneakerama or Marathon Sports.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Vanessa Genatossio, Sneakerama store manager. “It’s like a big party. We always have balloons and cookies.”

Sneakerama, which has been a Worcester staple for 36 years, started the weekly Fun Run event in March on Thursdays to accommodate the running community. “People would always ask us about local running clubs,” Genatossio said, adding that there are clubs like Central Mass Striders, but members have to pay to join and the club usually goes for longer runs.

The group now meets every Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Sneakerama’s Fun Run is free for all ages and paces (including walkers). Runners gather at the Lake Avenue store and loop around Lake Park for a 3-mile trip. According to Genatossio, the newly redone Lake Avenue is safe, as is the park, with no significant hills along the way.

Genatossio’s father and owner of Sneakerama, Steve Genatossio, is almost always at the weekly runs, as are professionals who can offer training tips and advice. One of Sneakerama’s employees is a 28-time marathon finisher, and the store works closely with therapists and podiatrists who often attend runs. “It’s a great place to go and get feedback and ideas,” she said, adding that the store also invites vendors to the runs.

However, the health and wellness ends after the run, thanks to Steve. “He always likes to have freeze pops or pizza or something like that afterwards,” Genatossio said. “If we don’t have a vendor there, he makes sure he does something.”

In addition to the free snacks and advice, first-time runners get a free T-shirt. There is also plenty of camaraderie ~ the group averages about 40 runners a week from different backgrounds. “You’ll never be running alone or by yourself,” Genatossio said.

Lake Avenue is also part of Marathon Sports’ Tuesday Fun Run route. Many know Marathon Sports as a Boston-area running store, but the family-owned chain moved into White City Plaza in May due to popular demand. “There is a big running community in the Worcester area,” said Store Manager Tricia Wiseman.

According to Wiseman and Susie Walton, a sales associate and Fun Run coordinator, Marathon Sports started its Tuesday night running club in September to get to know the community and to honor the company’s core value of keeping life in motion. “One of our biggest goals is to inspire people to want to run,” Walton said.

Marathon offers incentives to running club members, awarding discounts and gift cards to visitors for attendance and mileage. Like Sneakerama, it also offers snacks and drinks after runs and brings in vendors to help educate the community. “We want to spread the word about running in a positive way,” Walton said.

Marathon has hosted many events in the store, but the most successful one has been the Pub Run. After the 3-mile run, participants were treated to a free beer and apps at Jimmy’s. Although Pub Runs are for those who are 21-plus, the weekly Fun Runs are open to all ages and paces. “Whether you run a 6:50 or 16-minute-per-mile pace, it’s fun and social and a great way to meet people,” Wiseman said.

Both Sneakerama and Marathon Sports will host runs through the winter. Check their Facebook pages for updated information.

LifeStyLe: heaLth & fitneSS

outrun the Winter blueS

Approximately 7 percent of U.S. households fall victim to identity theft each year, and those numbers are on the rise. But the news isn’t all bad. Consumers in every state have access to a powerful tool ~ the security freeze ~ to lock down their credit reports, preventing identity thieves from establishing new lines of credit in their names. So, what are the pros and cons of freezing your credit?

First, a security freeze will not impact your credit score or impair your ability to use your existing credit cards. A freeze locks down your credit reports, which are used by lenders to determine your credit worthiness, not your actual credit. With your credit reports on ice, opening new credit will require some minimal advanced planning. Opening store credit cards on impulse may no longer be an option. You’ll need to request a temporary “thaw” with all three credit bureaus to allow lenders to access your reports. The entire online thaw request process for all three bureaus should take about 20 minutes, and your reports can be set to automatically re-freeze on a date you select. Security freezes and thaws are generally free for identity theft victims. Non-victims in all but a handful of states must pay a fee to each credit bureau to implement a freeze (13 additional states waive fees for seniors). Fees vary by state, but are generally $3-$10. For many consumers, a one-time fee to each bureau may provide a lifetime of protection. You’ll need to hold on to your login credentials with each bureau to thaw your reports. A lost PIN or user ID can be difficult and time consuming to retrieve. Secure your login information with each bureau as you would your birth certificate or other important documents. are there any alternatives to the security freeze?

A fraud alert is a less drastic but potentially a less effective protective measure. A fraud alert flags your credit reports, alerting potential lenders to verify the identity of anyone attempting to open an account in your name. Fraud alerts are free and don’t interfere with your ability to receive instant credit. However, fraud alerts rely entirely on the diligence of the person performing the credit check. Fraud alerts are also temporary and must be reinstated every 90 days in most cases. It’s important to remember that while a security freeze offers powerful protection and a fraud alert may also be useful, neither is a cure-all. They will not prevent all forms of identity theft and will not protect you from misuse of existing accounts. Vigilance is key. Continue to regularly check your credit reports for unauthorized charges or other signs of fraud. How can I implement a freeze?

To be effective, a freeze must be set up with all three credit bureaus.

• Experian: experian.com/freeze/center.html • Transunion: freeze.transunion.com • Equifax: freeze.equifax.com

The mission of Better Business Bureau of Central New England is to promote and foster the highest ethical relationship between businesses and consumers through voluntary self-regulation, business and consumer education and service excellence. BBB business reviews and charity reports are available free at bbb.org. BBB of Central New England, Inc. was founded in 1940 and serves 225 communities in Worcester, Hampshire, Hampden, Franklin and Berkshire counties, as well as parts of Middlesex County and seven towns in Connecticut. BBB of Central New England is one of 113 local, independent BBBs across North America.

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freeze out identity theft

LifeStyLe: finanCe

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FabFunky dictionary PrintsCreated and illustrated by established United Kingdom artist Kelly Stevens, FabFunky Dictionary Prints feature fabulously quirky, original animal art prints displayed atop one-of-a-kind antique book pages.

Full of luscious, vibrant colors and imaginative characters ranging from a sock monkey on a bicycle to a sheep in a party hat, these beautiful, fun and unique pieces add richness and elegance to children’s nurseries, playrooms and bedrooms.

Each FabFunky Dictionary Print is made to order using genuine antiquarian dictionary pages from the 1800s. For more information, visit fabfunky.com.

for the GrandkidSLifeStyLe: for the granDkiDS

Sleep’n Sync Now, your grandchild can learn and sleep at the same time! Sleep’n Sync aims to help children acquire the skills they need while they’re sleeping. With a variety of programs honing in on numerous themes kids face in life today, Sleep’n Sync covers bullying, dealing with anger, flexibility, test-taking, reading comprehension and communication skills.

The program includes audio that should be played on a daily basis for a relatively short period of time while a child is sleeping. In addition, Sleep’n Sync provides recommendations and advice for parents or caregivers in the form of a booklet created by Sleep’n Sync’s experts. For more information, visit sleepnsync.com.

Bellartisan booksGive your favorite student the “write” stuff for back-to-school with writing, printing and numbers activity books from Bellartisan.

Bellartisan activity books are a beautiful and creative way for young students to practice cursive, printing and numbers at home, at school or while riding in the car. Plus, 10 percent of all Bellartisan’s product sales go toward clean water and sanitation technology in developing countries. For more information, visit bellartisan.com.

Lotty dottyLotty Dotty is a collection of interactive T-shirts and handbags (that double as iPad covers) inspired by playing dress up with paper dolls. Founded in 2009, the company has designed and patented a line of high-fashion T-shirts featuring screen-printed doll figures that can be dressed interchangeably with velcro-backed designer mini-outfits, just like playing with paper dolls.

Lotty Dotty uses organic cotton and recyclable materials as much as possible and is dedicated to aiding women and children. For more information, visit lottydotty.com.

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Special day CookingDo you have a special needs grandchild who would like to learn to cook? Many special education students require certain teaching strategies, and Special Day Cooking: A Life Skills Cookbook uses those strategies to teach independence.

Geared not only toward those with autism, down syndrome, ADHD, ADD and other developmental and learning disabilities but all children with a desire to learn to cook, the recipes in Special Day Cooking are supported by a proven approach. All recipes are in large type and are formatted in consistent, easy-to-follow steps for all skill levels. They are safe ~ needing only a microwave, toaster or blender and a plastic knife to cook ~ and can all be completed in one hour or less. For more information, visit specialdaycooking.com.

dr. CocoaDo your grandkids say medicine tastes bad? Check out Dr. Cocoa, the first line of patented over-the-counter cough and cold medicines formulated with trusted, effective ingredients and 10 percent real cocoa for real chocolate taste.

Dye-, alcohol- and gluten-free, the new Dr. Cocoa line is available in three formulas that combine trusted, effective ingredients with real cocoa. Most products are intended for children 6-13. For more information, visit drcocoa.com.

While no one likes reminders of mortality, there are some decisions that you can make today that will leave a lasting good long after your time on Earth. One of the most important steps you can take now is to choose a smaller, community-based organization to gift a portion of your remaining assets.

Stories of giving

Recently, I was reading the print edition of my small town’s newspaper, and on the front page, I came across a story about a “modest” gentleman who passed away recently and bequeathed nearly $250,000 to a small music program in the mountains near my home. It was a lovely gesture since this organization does not typically receive these types of legacy gifts. This gentleman, though an avid attendee of the music program’s concerts, hadn’t donated money to this organization in years. As a result, this gift came as a complete, yet thrilling, surprise to the program ~ and that’s precisely what makes it so great.

Another of my favorite stories of giving is that of Oseola McCarty, the laundress who left $150,000, her entire life savings, to the University of Southern Mississippi. Given her modest earnings and the fact that McCarty quit school in the sixth grade, nobody on the planet ~ except maybe her banker ~ knew she had that kind of cash to leave behind.

Small charities, big impact

I have always been intrigued by where people choose to leave their legacy. It is one of the last things we do, and it can be one of the most impactful final acts for family or a favorite charity. These kinds of stories give me pause for thought. Although my husband and I are far from wealthy, we are financially comfortable, and it is likely that we will have assets with which to leave our legacy.

But when it comes to where we leave our legacy, my husband and I are bucking the trend; we have made a conscious decision to focus our legacy away from larger, more popular charitable organizations. I know they do great work, but there are thousands of smaller organizations that are doing good in the world and struggle to keep the lights on.

Smaller organizations deserve just as much attention as the larger nonprofits, but unlike these large entities that have the budgets to run national fundraising drives, smaller charities struggle with resource constraints. It is personally reassuring to consider that these smaller organizations will benefit more deeply from what my husband and I leave behind. Our somewhat modest gift can make a huge impact on their mission. Consider this: $100,000 won’t go very far in a big organization with hundreds of staff across the globe and multiple expenses. But imagine what $100,000 could do for a school in your community or your local food bank.

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biG GivinG for Small nonprofitS: hoW to leave your leGaCy With impaCt

By Gretchen Barry

Parent Care: a SeCtion for toDay’S Caregiver

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Understanding the smaller organizations

As marketing director for a tech company focused on the nonprofit sector, I feel fortunate that I have access to hundreds of small community-based nonprofits and the people who manage them. Every day, I get to see firsthand how these organizations are changing lives. I love my work because my company is part of the sphere of good happening in communities around the country. But what I also see is how these organizations struggle each day to support their missions. And when the vast majority of their time is spent fundraising, rather than delivering their services, something needs to change. That’s where leaving a personal legacy can have a tremendous impact.

hoW to Give biG to Small orGanizationS:your leGaCy field Guide1. If you don’t already have a list of organizations in mind, do a little research. Ask friends, family members or

coworkers for their favorite charities. Check your local paper, your city’s website or even contact local law enforcement or social service agencies.

2. Next, look for organizations with operating budgets less than $1 million. These are the hyper-focused missions that can benefit the most from your gift.

3. Identify the causes on your list that are important to you. This should be the easy part. Is it animal welfare, education, homelessness, health care, the environment or something else? The options are endless.

4. Narrow your list by determining what you believe will benefit your community the most. It doesn’t necessarily mean that the organization’s work only serves your community, but it does mean that the community as a whole benefits from its work or its presence.

5. Add the organization to your will or trust. Make sure to include any special instructions directing how the funds are to be used. Note: I caution against a request that prohibits the funds from being used for administrative purposes. It’s the administrative functions that make the mission happen, and too many organizations are hamstrung by those types of requests. Wouldn’t it be cool if someone directed an organization to use part of the bequest to fund an annual thank you party for staff and volunteers or to focus the funds on technology or building upgrades for the organization?

Just like Oseola McCarty, you have the power to support whatever mission is important to you. Consider directing a portion of your estate to a struggling mission and, ultimately, to those who benefit from that mission. You can still provide for your family and larger organizations with your legacy funds; just consider including at least one community-based mission. Leaving a legacy that helps others long after we are gone can change the lives of those in need.

For more information, visit nonprofiteasy.com. Gretchen Barry is director of marketing and communications for NonProfitEasy, a technology company challenging the status quo for the greater good.

It can be stressful to navigate the time from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. There is the expectation that we feel the holiday “spirit.” But sometimes, we just don’t feel it. In fact, we might feel the opposite of “joyous.” There are many factors that contribute to those feelings. Many seniors are widowed, have lost close friends as they age, are separated from family or suffer from ill health. They may feel guilty about not feeling glad, and guilt just makes things worse.

If an older person is living with adult children and young grandchildren, he or she may hide their true feelings so as not to disrupt the family rituals. That can contribute to feeling depressed once the holidays have passed.The adult child might be feeling overwhelmed by all the day-to-day responsibilities, as well as the additional demands of decorating, shopping, cooking and social obligations. All of the baking, entertaining and spending time with relatives we don’t often see (sometimes for good reason) can add up to a schedule packed with extra activity and responsibility. Pair that with the high expectations that most of us carry for the season, and you have a recipe for stress ~ a “stressipe” some have called it.

Here are some holiday survival tips:Make a plan. Determine how much you will spend on gifts, and stick to it. Handmade or baked gifts are a great alternative, but don’t set unreasonable expectations for yourself here, either.

Just say no. You don’t have to attend every holiday party. Go to the ones that you truly enjoy.

Do the holidays bring family conflict? Don’t let others manage your holiday experience. State simply but firmly how and when family get-togethers will happen, so that you get emotional benefit from them, not emotional pain. Too much togetherness brings its own stress, as opposed to not enough togetherness, which can highlight feelings of loneliness.

Be smart about holiday eating and drinking. There are many opportunities to eat and drink to excess; don’t let the fact that it’s a holiday party get you off track.

For busy caregivers living with a senior who may be experiencing sadness or loneliness, consider hiring a companion to spend time with your loved one. This could relieve you of some responsibility when you need it most and allow your family member to socialize in the manner of his/her choosing.

Many people are relieved when the holidays are over and life returns to “normal.” Meals can be the well-loved soup and sandwich or other simple favorite. Still, we often remember holiday traditions with fond nostalgia. We just need to be ready to create new traditions when the old ones have outlived their usefulness. It can take a brave soul to call for doing something different, and sometimes, the changing needs of an older person can get that started.

Finally, thinking in terms of New Year’s resolutions, a good one to review every year is hanging on to some of that holiday spirit all year round. A joyous, positive outlook on life can outdo many medical interventions in keeping you healthy.

Liz Foss runs the Worcester area Seniors Helping Seniors, a non-medical, in-home care agency. Having worked as an accountant for nonprofits for many years, Foss now has her own business, which hires active seniors to help people remain in their homes for as long as possible. Seniors Helping Seniors provides services in Worcester County. For more information, visit seniorshelpingseniors.com/worcesterarea, call(508) 885-6004 or email Foss at shs.foss@gmail.com.

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Parent Care: Caregiving now

everyone Can enjoy the holiday SeaSon

By Liz Foss

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By Bernard Whitmore

It wasn’t until I read up on Oli’s that I realized it was an Oliveri family enterprise.

And then I thought, “Yeah, that figures.”

The Oliveris have been in the hospitality business long enough to have developed a level of professionalism that virtually guarantees quality, and it shows in every way at Oli’s. The eatery is set in a new building, which is next to Gerardo’s Italian Bakery. The two businesses have some level of symbiosis; they’re connected by an open doorway. More on that later.

Oli’s dining room is bright and airy in a welcoming manner; the back wall is decorated with a mural depicting an olive sprig. Why some of the olives are stuffed with pimentos is an interesting question to ponder. But more important matters were at hand, such as cracking into the menu and making decisions. Kara, our server, was quite knowledgeable about Oli’s cuisine and, delightfully, very high energy.

Italian cuisine ranges from simple and rustic to refined and composed. Many of Oli’s entrees tend toward the more complicated end of the spectrum; here’s a chef unafraid of sauces and flavor layering.

I started with another Oliveri family enterprise, a glass of Wormtown’s Wintah Brown Ale. My immediate reaction was surprise. Most breweries offer seasonal specials that are variations on basic lagers. Wormtown Wintah is a

horse of another color entirely. This was dark as coffee and deep in flavor but not as

rich as a porter or stout. Each sip was a smooth pleasure, with flavors hinting of cocoa and roasted nuts.

Though I’ve already made note of Oli’s entrée complexity, we started out simple with an appetizer of

Arancini. Made with Arborio rice and served steaming hot, they were tender

on the inside with a gooey, four-cheese center. Four of these arancini balls were fried crispy golden brown and served on a platter schmeared with fresh marinara.

Seeing we were finished, Kara attempted to remove our dish. But we

wouldn’t let go till we’d sopped up the last dab of marinara with slices of homemade

Italian bread.

Chicken is usually my least-preferred entrée protein, especially in off-the-bone formats. I just can’t get that hyper-processed nugget concept out of my mind. But Oli’s seemed a safe haven from all that, so I decided to try the Chicken Fontina. Two chicken cutlets had been lightly crumb-breaded, sautéed and then layered with thin sheets of prosciutto ham and topped with a thick blanket of Fontina cheese. They were served atop a bed of linguini noodlesdressed with a subtle garlic-lemon sauce.

This combination of flavors: delicate Fontina and chicken, tasty prosciutto, lemon and garlic could have clashed. But in Oli’s capable hands, they found harmony. Kara had enthusiastically recommended this entrée. Lesson? Listen to your server!

My friend’s entrée was one of the evening’s specials, Chicken over Lobster Ravioli. It was quite a composition: Several of those chicken cutlets were smothered in a pink lobster cream sauce and nestled over black- and yellow-striped ravioli. Tangy sun-dried tomatoes, spears of asparagus and roasted red pepper strips were blended into the sauté, each contributing its distinctive color, flavor and texture.

The large raviolis were packed with pure lobster meat, making it a dish both huge in size and richness.

These entrees were compositions to be explored, not the kind of affairs to be hurried through. So take time to enjoy Oli’s; it shows inventiveness while keeping true to classic recipes. I’d trust Oli’s with any of the Italian favorites.

Throughout my meal, I kept looking over my shoulder through the doorway into Gerardo’s Bakery… it was bright and its display cases sparkled with promise. After my meal, I just had to take a look.

Whenever I visit a European city or town, I take particular pleasure in visiting the food markets and, especially, bakeries. The ritual of browsing, discovering local delights and being politely served is a wondrous thing that imprints long-term memories. Gerardo’s has all of this. All I can say is, “Go there; it’s a pastry wonderland.”

Oli’s Italian Eatery339 W. Boylston Street, West Boylston(508) 854-1500 | OlisEatery.com

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Dining & entertaining: review

oli’S offerS Creative italian ClaSSiCS

Everyone has gotten a bottle of wine as a gift at one time or another. A fine bottle of beer can be easily substituted for that person who absolutely will not enjoy a bottle of wine. In the wrong hands, wine will just be re-gifted or used for cooking. Below are some ideas to help you drift away from the common and into something that will be remembered and cherished. Cheers!

arrogant Bastard Box Set, Stone Brewing Company This is an excellent choice if the recipient is either

a craft beer fan or an arrogant bastard. I have written about Arrogant Bastard before and how

much I adore it. This is a box set containing that, as well as Bourbon Barrel Aged

Arrogant Bastard (just as the name implies, Arrogant Bastard aged in bourbon

barrels), Lucky Bastard (a blend of Arrogant Bastard, Oaked Arrogant

Bastard and Double Bastard) and Double Bastard (a stronger version

of Arrogant Bastard). I said bastard 10 times, now 11.

Single bottle option: A bottle of Arrogant Bastard fits nicely into a wine bottle gift box.

Chimay gift Pack, Bières de Chimay S.a.I have seen many varieties of this company’s gift boxes. Some have multiple bottles; some have multiple bottles and a branded glass. I recommend the one with the branded glass, as Belgians are quite picky about having proper glassware for their beers. This is a great choice for wine drinkers, as these authentic Belgian ales have subtle nuances of vanilla, dark fruit and oak-like tannins.

Single bottle option: The red bottle is called Chimay Premiere. It is a dubbel with active carbonation that tastes of dark fruit with a hint of clove-like spice. It’s great around the holidays, and like the Arrogant Bastard, the 750 ml. bottle gifts as easily as wine.

Ommegang gift Pack, Brewery OmmegangThis New York brewery puts out a must-have gift pack with its interpretations of Belgian ales. According to the company, “The ales are: Three Philosophers ~ A famed Belgian blend: a dark, malty quadruple ale with a splash of authentic Belgian Kriek (cherry-lambic). A fantastic sipping brew. Hennepin Saison ~ Rustic golden ale modeled on the brews farmers make in Belgium, with a touch of ginger. Chocolate Indulgence ~ A Belgian-style stout brewed with imported Belgian chocolate. Dark, rich, with subtle chocolate notes ~ dry, not sweet.” It also comes with a sweet branded glass.

Single Bottle Option: A bottle of Hennepin takes the place of a bottle of wine quite nicely. It is a saison with notes of pepper, grapefruit, ginger and clove. It goes well with a holiday feast

non-alcoholic giftsYou cannot go wrong with any of the above choices, unless you are in a dry workplace. For those times, I have a few recommendations. Julio’s Liquors in

Westborough has a fine selection of glassware, hot sauce, bottle openers,

cigars and other assorted things that beer lovers love. Crust Artisan

Bakeshop in Worcester has a lovely selection of farmstead cheeses, fresh-baked breads, coffee and assorted sundries that I, personally, would love to see under the tree.

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Dining & entertaining: Brew CoLumn

Give the Gift of beerBy Kerry Cyganiewicz

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StyLe & Be au ty

You know to lighten up on moisturizer in the summer and go heavier in the winter, but there are some other beauty routines you shouldn’t skip, not even when the temperatures drop.

• don’t skimp on sunscreen. Don’t be fooled by lower temperatures, overcast skies or rainy days. UV rays are just as strong when hitting the slopes as they are on the beach. “The easiest way to prevent sun damage and protect your skin is to apply an SPF of at least 30 every day ~ not to mention, look younger. Reapplying every two hours if in the sun is critical, as well” said Dr. Nussbaum, dermatologist and brand spokesperson for Sebamed.

• Use hair masks regularly. Do you color your hair, straighten it a few times a week or use a lot of hair spray? Adding chemicals, applying heat or using products are habits that we all find hard to kick and can come with some unwanted side effects. Anna Urban, CEO of Aviva, said, “You should be applying a hair mask like Aviva’s Hair Rescue Renewal Masque one to two times per week to repair damage and restore elasticity while protecting from the drying effects of UV rays.”

• Wax even through winter. Let’s face it, as the temperatures drop, we are inevitably becoming a little bit lazier with our normal waxing routine. Noemi Grupenmager, founder and CEO of Uni K Wax Centers, said that “maintaining regular waxes year round will benefit you in the long run because waxing weakens the hair follicle, causing hair to grow back slower, lighter and thinner over time. Dry, winter hair is more likely to break when waxing, causing it to grow back faster and thicker, so you want to keep skin hydrated and healthy (i.e., drink lots of water and exfoliate regularly.)”

• Whiten between visits. To keep teeth pearly white, Dr. Smigel, father of aesthetic dentistry, recommends his patients maintain their white smiles between visits using an at-home whitening system like the Supersmile Professional Whitening System.

beauty routineSyou Shouldn’t Skip

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StyLe & Be au ty

Taking a walk through any beauty department can leave you more than confused about what sort of eye care you might need. One question in particular always seems to arise when the topic eye creams comes up: “Do you really need a specialized moisturizer for your eyes?”

According to Dr. Craig Kraffert, board certified dermatologist and president of Amarte, the answer is a resounding yes. “Eye cream should always be the final step in your regular routine, and twice a day is ideal! It’s essential to keep the delicate skin around your eyes well moisturized.”

First of all, this skin around the eyes is indeed thinner and shows signs of aging more quickly than other areas of the face. This thinness makes it more delicate and vulnerable, and it’s more prone to allergic reactions than other facial skin. The skin around the eyes also gets a much greater workout; every time you move your eyes ~ whether you squint, smile or widen them in surprise ~ you’re using muscles around your eyes. Over time, this skin dries out and forms small wrinkles, sometimes called “crow’s feet.” Smoking and exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays can also encourage wrinkles to form.

Skin under the eyes can be prone to puffiness if fluid builds up there; allergies and sinus problems can also cause the eyes to puff. When the epidermis becomes thinner and the underlying veins become more prominent, dark circles can form. Unlike skin on the rest of your face, the eye area does not contain oil glands that can help keep this skin moist.

Consider adding one of these eye creams to your daily skin care routine.

do you really need eye Cream?

antioxidant Brightening

glamglow BrightMud Eye Treatment ($53.50, Fragrancenet.com)Non-dry tapwipe bioactive mud consists of powerful actives that help minimize puffiness, dark circles and fine lines while brightening and hydrating the eyes. Simply tap on to deliver these ingredients into the skin and then wipe off, leaving a micro-layer of actives for extended results.

Intense nourishment and Hydration

Suki Eye Lift Renewal Cream ~ day ($60.95, sukiskincare.com)A rich, activated and absorbable eye cream for life’s little irritations ~ puffiness, redness, fine lines, wrinkles and discolorations ~ or when things like not enough sleep or stress occur. Works to smooth and hydrate delicate tissues throughout your stressful day.

OROgOLd 24K Intensive Eye Formula Cream($198, orogoldcosmetics.com)This 24K Intensive Eye Formula Cream deflates puffiness and reduces the appearance of dark circles around the eyes, giving your eyes a more rested look. 24K Intensive Eye Formula Cream is formulated with four main ingredients: 24K gold, caffeine, vitamin A and green tea.

anti-aging: damage Repair, Cell Regeneration

amarte Eyeconic Eye Cream ($55, amarteSkinCare.com)The Amarte Eyeconic Eye Cream, which packs in 3.8 percent retinol, is so gentle and nourishing that Dr. Kraffert recommends it even for sensitive upper eyelids. Deeply hydrating, it nourishes skin and promotes elasticity without irritation.

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