September/ OctOber 2014
Breakfast
omelets, waffles, pancakes, biscuits & gravy and more
15 top Picks
Pet care
Fall Fashion
Breast cancer awareness
12A Mallard
Club Colony Townhouses $939,000 Wrightsville Beach Oceanfront! This 3 bedroom, 3 bath townhome features a granite kitchen, tile and hardwood floors throughout with stunning views from both levels.
722 Forest Hills Drive
2028 Graywalsh Drive
Forest Hills $595,000 Classic, cozy cottage, this all brick residence has a brand new roof and sun room. Lots of glass fill this home with natural light and provide views of the deep backyard and terraced garden features.
Landfall $459,000 Beautifully appointed all brick patio home features nearly 3,300 square feet with first floor master, large living and dining areas, sunroom and bonus room over a two car garage.
Landfall $1,199,900 Overlooking scenic Nicklaus Ocean #2, this quality built all brick French Country inspired design features an open floor plan with loads of builtins. Enjoy the pool and covered porches for entertaining
Wrightsville Beach $1,350,000 Enjoy the spacious feeling of the top two floors of this four bedroom condo complete with a huge covered porch and rooftop deck with a pier and boat slip.
White Hall $614,900 Escape to the privacy of your new home on a one acre lot in the highly desirable Greenville Loop neighborhood. Attention to detail abounds in this house with heart pine flooring and moldings.
426 Waynick Boulevard
726 Forest Hills Drive
Wrightsville Beach $2,100,000 The Emerson Cottage is located on a large corner lot with a 60’ deeded parcel across Waynick with a private deep water pier and sandy beach.
Forest Hills $679,000 One of Wilmingtonís prettiest residential streets is the setting for this fine painted brick home with a slate roof and terrace.
2135 Harborway Drive
4A Channel Avenue
6005 Wellesley Drive
403 Summer Rest Road
$2,695,000 Perhaps Wilmingtonís most scenic waterfront address offers the quiet tranquility of yesteryear with easy access to Wrightsville Beach and the areaís best shops and restaurants.
6329 Head Road
$2,600,000 Preview this rare opportunity to live on 6.87 acre waterfront estate along Hewlett’s Creek. Set on a high bluff with magnificent oak trees and views of the ICW. Small guest cottage and separate 3 car garage.
913 Twisted Oak
Landfall $1,050,000 This fine brick residence is located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac overlooking Nicklaus Ocean Course #5 and Howe Creek. A huge blue stone terrace & screen porch provides the perfect spot for entertaining.
4 Beach Road South
Figure 8 Island $2,095,000 Oceanfront residence in the center of private Figure 8 Island. This charming older cottage has been well maintained and lovingly updated over the years. A short walk from Figure 8 Yacht Club and warrant for membership.
Life’s Most Memorable Journeys Begin Off the Beaten Path.
Less than an hour from Wilmington, Bald Head Island offers a true departure from the everyday. You’ll arrive by passenger ferry, then travel the island by golf cart, bicycle or on foot. The island’s 14 miles of beach, extraordinary seaside golf, and welcoming spa make it an exceptional getaway for the entire family. Call Bald Head Island Limited Property Management today or go online to plan your vacation.
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September / October 2014
46
Best Breakfasts Port City chefs serve up the best meal of the day—We pick 15 of our favorites. By Liz Biro
52
A Forever Home on Futch Creek
Inspired by French style, Scott Sullivan designs a classic waterfront home with views for miles. By David Howell
78
From Salt Marsh to Table
By Kim Byer
40
Autumn Style
Local boutiques showcase their fashion essentials for the Fall season. By Kristin Wood
4 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
PHOTO MIRA ADWELL
Slow food the Sea Island way calls for pairing low key, easy recipes with the catch of the day.
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Departments »
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September / October 2014
35
Buzz
Well Styled
Health
13 Jet Service ILM prepares for change as Jon Rosborough prepares to step down
35 Hydroponics Grown A more holistic approach to gardening is shaping the landscape to preserve soil for future growth
67 Three Generations The youngest family member who has breast cancer should have the BRCA gene test first
36 Beauty Tips and advice on transitioning your hair and eye makeup into the Fall season
68 The Breast Cancer Journey Support makes a huge difference when you’re in the fight of your life
14 Calendar Our five musts from this issue's calendar of events 16 Events Your guide to planning your social calendar 22 Entertainment Reviews of new movies and music 24 Art Seen When creativity combines with nature, you get an autumn event that beckons us all to one of the prettiest spots in town
38 Garden The new wave of gardening focuses on local sustainable farms 40 Fashion Local boutiques showcase their fashion essentials for the Fall season
73 Vitamins The world of multivitamins is complicated
57
29 Staff Picks New book titles for some good reading
75 Dining Review Epic Food Co. 78 In The Kitchen Slow food the Sea Island way calls for pairing low key, easy recipes with the catch of the day 84 Restaurant Guide The best spots for eating and drinking in Wilmington
10 Reader Services 12 Editor's Letter 112 The Last Reflection
Pets
90 Travel 90 Fall Getaways With normal routines in full force during the Fall, planning a getaway can be a challenge. But with so many good reasons to take a post-summer trip, it’s worth finding the time
6 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Food+Drink
Fundamentals
26 Local Chatter Wilmington Blind, Shutter & Closet Co. can help dress your home and add value
32 Southern Drawl The airport has experienced exceptional growth and success under the leadership of Jon Rosborough
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67
57 Do-Good Dogs Golden retrievers train to assist special needs persons 58 Dog Assistants paws4people is changing lives, one dog at a time
September/ OctOber 2014
Breakfast
omelets, waffles, pancakes, biscuits & gravy and more
15 top Picks
62 P rofile: Atlantic Animal Hospital & Pet Care Resort 64 Vet Referrals A multifaceted veterinary surgery center with rehabilitation facilities is the only one of its kind in Wilmington
Pet care
Fall Fashion
Breast cancer awareness
ON THE COVER » Chicken waffles at Olive Cafe & Wine Bar. Photo JAMES STEFIUK
©2014 Porsche Cars North America, Inc. Porsche recommends seat belt usage and observance of all traffic laws at all times.
CEO & Publisher Robert Sweeney ■■■ Managing Editor Jennifer Glatt ■■■
Unless it's the road calling, it's going straight to voicemail. Experience the 2014 Boxster. Pick-up and delivery available for the Wilmington area.
Senior Account Executive Marilyn McConnell Account Executive Jamie Penn Art Director Shanna Thomson Graphic Designers Shanna Thomson Carl Turner Contributing Writers Lisa Arnold, Liz Biro, Catherine Kimrey Breeden, Kim Byer, Bridget Callahan, Jennifer Glatt, Kim Henry, David Howell, Linda H. Lamb, Katie McElveen, Teresa A. McLamb, Jamie Penn, Edna Cox Rice, Wendy Swat Snyder, Courtney Webb, Kristin Wood
Porsche of Fayetteville 3211 Bragg Blvd. Fayetteville, NC 28303 (910) 487-0000 | 800-264-3203 www.porscheoffayetteville.com
Photographers Mira Adwell, Gary Breece, G. Frank Hart, Jennifer Simpson, Kelly Starbuck, James Stefiuk ■■■ Distribution Coordinator Joy Brown ■■■ Customer Service Wilmington Office: (910) 352-8102 Corporate Office: (843) 856-2532
Kingoff’s Jewelers SELLING FINE JEWELRY SINCE 1919
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Wilmington Magazine (Vol. 2, No. 3) is published 6 times per year by DueSouth Publishing, LLC, 3853 Colonel Vanderhorst Circle, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466. The entire contents of this publication are fully protected and may not be reproduced, in whole or part, without written permission. We are not responsible for loss of unsolicited materials. Copyright © 2014. All rights reserved. SUBSCRIPTION price is $19.95 per year. POSTMASTER send address changes to Wilmington Magazine, 3853 Colonel Vanderhorst Circle, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466.
This is a moment. No. 22
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Reader Services Subscriptions Subscribing to Wilmington Magazine is easy, and you save 30 percent off the newsstand price. Your subscription includes 6 issues, delivered right to your door. Subscriptions and billing are handled in-house, providing you with the best in customer service. Please call or email us if you experience any problems with your subscription, and we will assist to resolve them right away. You can subscribe by calling Customer Service at (843) 856-2532 or reach us via email at service@wilmingtonncmagazine.com or on the web at www.wilmingtonncmagazine.com. Gift Subscriptions Wilmington Magazine makes an excellent gift! Use the subscription card found in each issue or order by phone, email, or our website. We will send out a complimentary gift card to each recipient indicating who the gift is from. Change of Address If you move or change your address, please call or email us and provide both the old and new addresses. The postal service does not automatically forward magazines, so please send us your change of address as soon as you know it. Letters to the Editor We welcome your comments and letters. Send letters to Wilmington Magazine, 3853 Colonel Vanderhorst Circle, Mount Pleasant, SC 29466 or contact us via the web at www. wilmingtonncmagazine.com. Please include your phone number in case we need to contact you.
UPTOWN MARKET Splurge on Style 910-686-0930 8086 Market Street Hours: Mon–Wed, Fri & Sat 10am–6pm, Thurs 10am-7pm & Sun 12–6pm
Back Issues When available, back issues of Wilmington Magazine can be purchased for $7.00, postage included. Writing Opportunities We are always interested in receiving article ideas from our readers as well as considering freelance writers. Please mail or email your ideas or writing queries to editor@ wilmingtonncmagazine.com. How to Advertise If you would like advertising information for promoting your products or services, call either Marilyn McConnell (910) 3528102, Alex Hoggard (910) 616-6717, Jamie Walker (270) 779-1551, or on the web at www.wilmingtonncmagazine.com.
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from the editor Assistance dogs CAMPBELL (left) and MAGNOLIA keep me company following a busy paws4people training session.
September/ OctOber 2014
Breakfast
omelets, waffles, pancakes, biscuits & gravy and more
Pet care
Fall Fashion
Photo Jennifer Simpson
15 top Picks
Breast cancer awareness
Give the gift that lasts all year long... a subscription to
Just fill out the postcard in this issue, call 843.856.2532 or go to WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
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“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.” —Albert Camus Wilmington shines in any season, but I’m partial to Fall. While the Indian Summer lingers, the anticipation of crisp, sunny days followed by brisk evenings gets me every time. In fact, it’s a season of anticipation, if you ask me. A new school year sparkles with possibility, and as we all return to more predictable routines, we usher in new commitments, new opportunities, and the chance to enjoy this beautiful place we call home in new and different ways. In this September/October issue of Wilmington, we did a little research to find the best places in town for breakfast and brunch. From tried-and-true bacon and eggs to breakfast tacos, crepes, and even French toast cupcakes, trust us when we tell you that Port City chefs are making Wilmington a true dining destination. (See Best Breakfasts, page 46.) Take a tour of a gorgeous home overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, where French style converges with coastal elegance in the most dramatic of ways (see A Forever Home on Futch Creek, page 52). The views are magnificent! A portion of this issue has gone to the dogs, and we couldn’t be more pleased. We introduce you to an amazing local organization called paws4people, whose mission is to enhance the lives of special-needs children, seniors, and the seriously ill or disabled by utilizing the “special powers” of canine companionship offered by highly-trained assistance dogs. (See Dog Assistants, page 58.) We also take you on a trip to a one-of-a-kind pet rehabilitation hospital in Wilmington (See Vet Referrals, page 64). Thunder will steal your heart.
Now that the kids are back in school and the tourists have retreated, take advantage of these early Fall days (and the accompanying quiet) to thoroughly enjoy this issue. Whether you’re soaking up the last rays of sun at the beach, cozy at home, or somewhere in between, we’re so glad you’ve joined us to read about our fine city.
Jennifer Glatt Managing Editor editor@wilmingtonncmagazine.com We welcome your comments. Please send us your feedback to “Letters to the Editor,” Wilmington magazine, 3853 Colonel Vanderhorst Circle, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466 or you can email us at editor@wilmingtonncmagazine.com
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Your Local Rundown on News and Culture
PHOTO JENNIFER SIMPSON
Jet Service Wilmington International Airport prepares for a leadership change when airport Director Jon Rosborough steps down at year's end.
See page 32.
September/October 2014 | 13
calendar
The Reveal: SEPTEMBER – OCTOBER
Our five musts from this issue’s calendar of events.
California Roots: The Carolina Sessions II September 13 & 14
Some reggae greats come to the Cape Fear coast with California Roots: The Carolina Sessions II, held at Battleship Park. This reggae music festival features two live stages and an impressive roster of national and regional live acts spanning both the west and east coasts. Headlined by Matisyahu and Rebelution, the lineup also includes Iration, The Expendables, Collie Buddz, Stick Figure, Katchafire, Rootz Underground, Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad, B Side Players, Hirie, Thrive, Three Legged Fox, and Sun Dried Vibes. Admission: $100-$220. 910-297-3999; calirootscarolina.com
The Flavor of NC September 20
“It takes a village” applies to more than raising a child—it takes a village to feed and shelter the hungry and homeless in our community. Join the Good Shepherd Center at beautiful Saint James Parish for
14 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
an event featuring foods, drinks, music and more, showcasing the three regions of NC. Enjoy the tastes and sounds of the Coast, the Piedmont, and the Mountains through food (fresh from the farm to your plate), wines and beers from around the state, eclectic entertainment (from bluegrass to shag to “get up and dance” tunes), and NC-specific auction and experience items. Event runs from 6:30-10pm. Tickets are $75 per person. 910-763-4424 x113; goodshepherdwilmington.org
275th City of Wilmington Birthday Bash September 27
It’s a party, and everyone’s invited! StarNews Media, the city of Wilmington, New Hanover County and the Arts Council are throwing the Port City a bash to celebrate its 275th birthday. Celebrate with us along the Cape Fear Riverfront in downtown Wilmington from 10am-2pm, where you’ll enjoy a plein air art show and sale, live music, free guided historical tours led by the Historic Wilmington Foundation, and a limited number of food vendors. A virtual time capsule will capture snapshots of Wilmington's history, past and present, through photos, videos and writings contributed by the community. A portion of the proceeds of the artists’ sales will be donated as a gift to the city. 910-343-2209
SE 360 Music Festival October 4
This all-day event will provide live music, unique artwork, creative vendors, and dynamic sponsors celebrating the music culture in southeastern North Carolina. Held at the Hampton Inn Event Center, patrons will enjoy a multitude of genres of music, including hip hop, R&B, rock, pop and inspirational. Part of the proceeds will support the ongoing process of cultivating great music and educating local artists on the music business. The festival is a public event and all are welcome to be a part of the festivities. Opens at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased online in advance for $10. www.se360fest.com
WARM Harvest Luncheon October 21
Wilmington Area Rebuilding Ministry (WARM) will host its annual Harvest Luncheon at the First Baptist Church Activities Center from 11 am-12:30 pm. WARM’s mission is to make people safer in their own homes, and does so by raising funds and mobilizing volunteers to complete urgent repairs and accessibility upgrades. WARM serves low-income homeowners in Brunswick, New Hanover, and Pender Counties, many of whom are elderly and/or disabled. Each year, the luncheon acquaints people with WARM, who often turn into volunteers and donors. Come see how easy it is to make a real difference to the neighbors in your community! FREE admission, donations are gratefully accepted. 910-399-7563; luncheon@warmnc.org
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table for awards and bragging rights! 5:30-9:30pm. 910-471-6088. mhfc.org Into the Woods Sept. 5-7 This funny and delightful Tony-award winning musical is divided into two very different acts. Act One is traditional, but as intermission approaches, all wishes have been granted and happily ever after is at hand. Act Two, however, deals with what happens after happily ever after, the consequences that traditional fairy tales ignore and the responsibilities that come with getting what you want. Together both acts create an unforgettable show that brings new meaning to the stories we tell our children. 910-632-2241. thalianhall.org
School Pride: The Eastern NC Story—An Installation by Willie Cole Exhibit runs through Nov. 2
In observation of the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act (July 2, 1964), Cameron Art Museum presents the exhibition School Pride: The Eastern NC Story—An Installation by Willie Cole. Nationally renowned artist Willie Cole will showcase his installations investigating the closing of 16 Cape Fear-area schools and other aspects of desegregation in southeastern NC and its impact statewide. 910-395-5999. cameronartmuseum.org
Event Calendar Looking to fill your social calendar? We've got the rundown on what to do this Fall. Riverfront Farmers’ Market Sept. 1 – Nov. 22 A weekly market held on Saturdays along the riverfront in the historic downtown river district. Market features local farmers, producers, artists and crafters. Products include fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, flowers, cheeses, meats, seafood, baked goods, jams and jellies, wine, art, crafts and more. 8am-1pm. 910-538-6223. facebook.com/ riverfrontfarmersmarket Black River Nature Cruises Sept. 3 & 17, Oct. 8 & 22 Enjoy a 4-hour relaxing getaway on Wilmington’s original Black River Nature Cruise. Just minutes after leaving the dock, guests will experience a river that appears almost as it did to the early explorers. Narrated by Coastal Ecologist and
16 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
author Andy Woods. Miles of scenic wilderness is a photographers’ and bird watchers’ paradise. Refreshments provided. Purchase tickets in advance. Boarding at the USS NC Battleship Memorial. 910-343-1611. cfrboats.com Wilmington’s Epicurean Evening Sept. 4 Relish this amazing event with a gourmet competition theme. Wilmington’s Epicurean Evening brings together 32 of the area’s most talented and innovative chefs for an evening of edible pleasure, a culinary extravaganza to benefit the children and families served by Methodist Home for Children. As a guest, you will taste dishes as our epicureans bring their best to the
Historic Wilmington Walking Tour Sept. 6 – Nov.1 Discover Wilmington and its rich architectural history during the second year of neighborhood walking tours. The Forest Hills and Streetcar Suburbs tours are every Saturday at 10 am through November 1. The tours showcase the architectural, social, and cultural history of the two neighborhoods. The Streetcar Suburbs tour tells the story of Wilmington’s first two suburbs, Carolina Place and Carolina Heights, and their restoration and renewal. Forest Hills developed outside the city limits and was the first automobile-oriented suburb. The tours cost $10 (students $5) and last approximately 1.5 hours. Wear comfortable walking shoes. 910-762-2511. historicwilmington.org Historic Downtown Marketplace Sept. 7 – Oct. 26 Spend your Sunday strolling through the Historic Downtown Marketplace and enjoying the breeze from the Cape Fear River as the Riverfront Park vendors lend character to the downtown experience. This weekly Marketplace boasts music, original art, and more, so don't miss out! 10am3pm. 910-254-0907. wilmingtondowntown.com/ event/historic-downtown-marketplace1 Cape Fear Arts in Motion: Quartets, Pirouettes, and Silhouettes September 12-13 A collaborative arts event, Forward Motion Dance Company’s annual show will shine with three performances showcasing the talents of choreographer Tracey Varga, and local music,
dance, and visual artists. Expect an inspired and exciting evening of music, film, visual arts, and modern, contemporary and jazz dance. Tickets are $20 general admission. 910-341-7860. forwardmotiondance.com Fourth Friday Gallery Walk Sept. 26 & Oct. 24 Fourth Friday Gallery Nights are a free monthly event where downtown galleries and studios open their doors to the public in an after-hours celebration of art and culture. Taking place from 6-9 pm on the fourth Friday of each month, the art walk is a self-guided tour featuring exhibitions of various artistic genres including oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, metals, ceramics, mixed media and more. Maps are available at all participating locations. 910-343-8997. Artscouncilofwilmington.org World War II: A Local Artist’s Perspective Exhibit runs through early 2015 In 1942, Wilmington-born artist Henry Jay
MacMillan was inducted into the United States Army. As a soldier, MacMillan painted scenes of war-torn Europe while serving with the 62nd Engineer Topographic Company attached to the XIX Corps. His images of the people and places he saw while overseas are a fascinating window into one man’s war experiences. On exhibit for one year, visitors will be able to view his Normandy, France, watercolors as well as artifacts associated with his wartime service. 910-798-4350. capefearmuseum.com Jazz at the Mansion Concert Series Presents Liz Pina with The Frog Project Sept. 11 These Wilmington area jazz favorites will present a very special conclusion to the highly successful season of the Jazz at the Mansion concert series. Liz will perform the standards of her work inspired by great jazz singers such as Ella Fitzgerald, Lena Horne, Billie Holiday, Cleo Laine and others. She will be backed with vibrant spontaneity by Cape Fear's highly regarded FROG Project, comprised of Kevin
Kolb on keys, Ryan Woodall on bass, Troy Pierce on drums, and Teddy Burgh on reeds. Feel free to bring snacks, chairs and blankets to sit on the lawn, beer and wine will be for sale at the performance. Kids are welcome to join in the fun so bring the whole family! 910-251-3700. bellamymansion.org Airlie Gardens Concert Series Presents: The 360 Degrees Sept. 19 Come dance on the Oak Lawn for the last time this concert season and enjoy the great soul, R&B and British invasion rock n' roll from "back in the day." Bring your chairs or blankets to sit on (picnic baskets are welcome too!) and enjoy an evening outdoors as the music fills the gardens. 6-8pm. 910-798-7700. airliegardens.org/events Oakdale September Walking Tour Sept. 20 Enjoy this historical walking tour of North Carolina’s oldest rural cemetery given by
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local historian, Chris Nelson. Mr. Nelson will lead you to the gravesites of firefighters who served in Wilmington’s fire brigades and tell of their heroic service. *Tour cancelled in event of inclement weather. 10am-12pm. 910-762-5682. oakdalecemetery.org Opening Night for the Wilmington Symphony Masterwork Series Sept. 20 Come experience opening night for the Wilmington Symphony with Mary Jo White and Christina Brier, featuring Mozart’s delightfully lyrical Concerto for Flute and Harp, then experience the music of a great Dane: Carl Nielson’s dynamic Symphony No. 4, “The Inextinguishable.” 910-791-9262. wilmingtonsymphony.org Wilmington Fall Wine & Beer Walk Sept. 27 This fun-filled, self-guided tour of downtown Wilmington bars, nightclubs and eateries will take you on an adventure like no other! Sample 2 wines or 2 beers at ten participating locations while you experience local waterholes that
you may already know and some you may have never experienced before. Tickets are available at Etix.com. coolwilmington.com Dreams Annual Gala Sept. 27 Celebrate with dining, an art gallery, student performances and visual art exhibits, and a live auction to support no-charge classes in the literary, performing and visual arts for area children. $80 per person. 910-772-1501. dreamswilmington.org Port City Soiree: Event Expo Sept. 28 This exciting expo will feature exhibits on health, business, education, home, design, fashion, beauty, travel, leisure, and much more. From personal trainers, yoga instructors, photographers, wedding planners, landscapers, and local stylists, we are bringing in everyone you need to get your life the way you want it. Experience a high-quality walk-around grand tasting that features wines, craft beer, and creative cocktail creations. 11:30am-4pm. 910-251-5101. portcitysoiree.com
Invasion of the Pirates 2014 Oct.3-4 Part of Riverfest 2014, Invasion of the Pirates is a festival within a festival. Friday evening don yer finest pirate attire for some grub and grog, an’ shake yer peg leg to live music on the Riverwalk during the Pirate’s Ball. On Saturday, lads and lassies will enjoy the Pirate Treasure Hunt, complete with a treasure map and lots of booty for pillaging. The whole family will enjoy the Invasion of the Pirates Evening Flotilla on the Cape Fear River. It’s a swashbuckling good time! 910-778-2888. wilmington-docks.com Riverfest Oct. 3-5 Celebrate Wilmington's 36th Annual Riverfest! This festival will include over 200 craft and food vendors plus fireworks, entertainment on two stages, the Great Waiters Wine Race, Run the River 8K Race, Riverfest StandUp Paddle Race, various exhibits and a children’s area. Times vary. 910-452-6862. wilmingtonriverfest.com
SPONSORED EVENT
Wilmington Signature Chefs Auction Head Chef Review Wilmington native Chef Brent Poteat discovered his passion for all things culinary while still in high school, yet went on to North Carolina State University where he double majored in composition and rhetoric and political philosophy. After being accepted into the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s School of Law, Poteat made a decision that would forever change his life. He decided to pursue his first love, cooking. “I just really enjoyed cooking and knew I did it well, so I went with my passion,” he stated. Currently, Poteat is the Executive Chef at 22 North. Named after its physical address, 22 North specializes in traditional Cape Fear, Creole and low country cuisine. With an ever changing menu, guests are always in for a treat when patronizing the restaurant. “We have a very casual vibe at 22 North,” said Poteat. “Our menu is truly a mélange of various 18 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
dishes that will leave our guests pleased with their experience.” Signature Chefs Auction guests will sample delectable dishes from premier area chefs while bidding on unique and tempting auction packages; some of which will even feature the talents of the incredible signature chefs. The evening of giving benefits the March of Dimes, dedicated to bringing healthy babies to families everywhere. “There’s a great group of chefs that participate in the event each year,” said Poteat. “The food is always fantastic, the atmosphere is great and people really seem to enjoy themselves while fundraising for an incredible cause.” Join Poteat Thursday, November 20 at the Coastline Convention Center during the 2014 Wilmington March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction. For event information, contact Gretchen Jones at the local March of Dimes office at GPJones@ marchofdimes.org.
An evening to benefit babies and families.
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Residents of Wilmington Back Door Kitchen Tour Oct. 11 See nine beautifully featured kitchens in Wilmington’s famed Historic District. The selfguided southern-hospitality walking tour offers the opportunity to visit each exciting home in any order and at your own pace. 11am-5pm. 910-632-0008. rowilmington.org Downtown Wilmington Artwalk Oct. 15-19 As a part of ARTBlast 2014, come walk the streets of Wilmington to view different types of artwork and mediums for FREE at Wilmington's largest outdoor art show. Artists’ wares will be available for sale all day long, so don't miss your chance to pick up these one-of-a-kind local pieces! 10am-5pm. coolwilmington.com Poplar Grove Halloween Festival Oct. 17-19, Oct. 24-26 Bring the entire family for food, fun, bouncy houses, fortune-teller readings, a petting zoo, camel rides
and other much-loved favorites. Make sure to enter the costume contest on October 25 at 7pm to show off your best outfit! Beware: the later you come, the more courage you'll need to survive the night! Times vary. 910-686-9518, ext. 106. poplargrove.org.halloween-festival Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival Oct. 18 Explore the world of hops, grapes and grain at the Lighthouse Beer & Wine Festival featuring over 100 craft breweries and wineries. Admission includes entrance to the Lighthouse Beer Festival grounds, a glass to sample with, and more beer and wine than you can taste in one day. Don't miss this fun-filled festival of beverages, live music, food vendors, and more! For the true beer fans, be sure to check out the Varacious Craft Beer Tasting to kick-off the weekend! There will be a free shuttle service to the greater Wilmington area after the festival. VIP 12pm, general 1-5pm. 910-256-8622. lighthousebeerfestival.com
PPD Beach2Battleship Iron Distance Triathlon Oct. 25 This internationally-recognized iron distance and half iron distance triathlon hosts competitors from around the country and world who travel to Wilmington to enjoy everything this unique waterfront destination has to offer and to experience a competition Triathlete Magazine named as one of the Top 5 Iron Distance Triathlons in the World. beach2battleship.com Batty Battleship’s Halloween Bash Oct. 28 Bring your little ghouls and goblins to the Battleship to go trick-or-treating! Fun games, activities, henna tattoos & storytelling is all part of the Halloween fun. Enjoy a petting zoo, sweets & treats and don't forget to wear your costume! Batty Battleship is perfect for the little ones and families so bring your camera! 5:30-8pm. 910-251-5797. battleshipnc.com
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Reviews: Movies & Music Wendy Swat Snyder ON NEW FILMS AND MUSIC
The Dirty Dogs Radio Show
Bosley Revivalist bands evoking 60s R&B icons like James Brown are a dime a dozen, but this group gives a fresh spin to classic soul. Dirty Dogs Radio Show has the essential hard-hitting horns, lively harmonies, and percussive guitar sounds, but with some hip-hop swagger in the mix. Songs like “American Gurlz” radiate an elated vibe that extends Bosley past any perception of genre restraint.
The Hundred Foot Journey
3.5 Stars
Starring Helen Mirren, Charlotte Le Bon, Manish Dayal, and Om Puri; Directed by Lasse Hallström; PG.
Given the dearth of great food-centric movies in the archives, I hoped against hope that this one would be, well, the one. The Hundred Foot Journey has all the right ingredients: solid actors, good story, beautiful landscape, and fabulous food. Sweeping vistas of French countryside and the haute cuisine for which France is known make this warmhearted summer flick worth watching. My interest in the movie was first piqued listening to an interview of acclaimed British actress Helen Mirren, who confesses she once yearned to be a French actress. "They fascinated me more," she tells NPR's Melissa Block. The Hundred Foot Journey gives Mirren her chance. The production, a Steven Spielberg / Oprah Winfrey collaboration directed by Lasse Hallström, casts regal Mirren as the imperious perfectionist, Madame Mallory, a restaurateur in pursuit of Michelin star number two. Her classic French restaurant presides over the rustic Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, a tiny village in the south of France where she reigns supreme. That is, until a family of entrepreneurial cooks from India roll into town led by Papa Kadam (Om Puri). Travel weary and dispirited, they decide it's an omen when their dilapidated auto breaks down in the isolated town. They set up shop across the road from Mallory's untouchable Le Saule Pleureur, and the feathers start to fly. In defiance of her open disdain for their culture, Papa turns up the Indian tunes and the heat: pitting the homegrown cooking skills of his son Hassan (Manish Dayal) against her entire kitchen of formally trained chefs. Head to head they go, the ethnic and earthy Maison Mumbai, against the white tablecloths and refined plates that compose Mallory's menu. I'd hoped the screenplay would have spent more time exploring age old family traditions and the clash of cultures both in and out of the kitchen. The connection between Hassan and his mother (Juhi Chawla) for instance, who taught him how to know and love and respect the staples planet Earth provides for the table. Too soon and easily, the warring sides capitulate, cross lines of divide and join ranks. The scene that is the catalyst for the truce is one of my favorites—beautifully and sensuously depicting the birth of a connection between young, ambitious Hassan, who cooks an omelet more with spirituality than technique, and the learned high-mistress of European purism and convention, whose approach to cooking is “by the book.” The culinary close ups and kitchen action are enjoyable, but I've seen more compelling “food porn” in episodes of Food Network's Chopped. The show closes with a positive if predictable resolution of all issues, leaving the viewer basking in a tepid glow. 22 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
China West
Manuel Barrueco & Beijing Guitar Duo A release that is nothing but great classical. Started by Manuel Barrueco, the recordings are by the prodigy guitarist and his associates. Barrueco and his protégés, the Bejing Guitar Duo, play an array of sets that includes Bach and a medley of Charlie Chaplin tunes. The latter piece is as inspiring as it is surprising.
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When creativity combines with nature, you get a beloved autumn event that beckons us all to one of the prettiest spots in town By KIM HENRY
I
n the heart of Wilmington, amid seven acres of vibrant colors, lotus flowers, magical archways, aromatic herbs and flourishing rose gardens, you’ll find the New Hanover County Arboretum. Tucked away behind the Cooperative Extension offices off Oleander Drive, you might not even know it’s there. But come October, for a few days, these stunning gardens become a spot for a yearly celebration known as Art In The Arboretum. Featuring painting and metal smith creations, nature-inspired jewelry, glass, textiles, ceramics and sculpture, wood and photography, the event—co-sponsored by Friends of the Arboretum and the nonprofit Wilmington Art Association—is an art-lover’s dream. Popular local musicians will enhance the festive atmosphere with continuous performances. In honor of the Arboretum’s 25th anniversary, an additional day is being added to the schedule to accommodate more performances, a raffle, a silent auction, and children’s activities. Wilmington Art Association will sponsor a series of art demonstrations, including “plein air” artists and a juried art show. The days will be packed with interactive workshops, creative art and live music for everyone to enjoy. “We’re very excited about this year’s gathering,” says Al Hight, director of the Arboretum. “In addition to extending the festival and decorating the gardens with unique artwork, we are going to bury a time capsule in order to honor the Arboretum’s twenty-fifth birthday.” A group of children 24 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
PHOTOS COURTESY ARBORETUM
The Art of the Matter
from a local school have the privilege of deciding exactly what the contents of the capsule will be. All children will be able to enjoy activities hosted by the Children’s Museum, including nature-themed art activities and an ongoing scavenger hunt throughout the Arboretum grounds. Elaine Cooper, Art hangs in the trees at last year’s show. previous president of the Wilmington Art Association, will programming, and the Ability Garden, be displaying her vibrant and dreamy which has operated on the Arboretum watercolor and acrylic paintings this year. grounds since 2000. Its mission is to provide She will be joined by up to a hundred other gardening opportunities and therapeutic artists who collectively cover a deeply horticulture to special needs individuals. diverse range of mediums. Local jeweler With classrooms indoors, outdoors, and in Mitzy Jonkheer will have her nature- a greenhouse, the gardeners are able to inspired metal and semi-precious stone offer programming year-round. For this creations on offer, and Kevin Duval’s 3-D year’s Art in the Arboretum event, the sculptures will decorate this enchanting Ability Garden will host an area solely for outdoor space. Duval was last year’s winner artists with mixed abilities, as well as a special show and sale. This will be just one of the event’s People’s Choice Award. This event is the largest outdoor of the many highlights of the event, where gathering of art and music in the area and art stands along side butterfly gardens, the biggest fundraising event of the year and live music serenades the rainbow Koi for the Arboretum. Every penny of the $5 fish and turtles that live in the pond. Hight is passionate about the art festival. entry fee goes toward supporting the many valuable programs and services that the “The gardens are the perfect setting for so Arboretum provides (admission is free for much talent and beauty, and it’s great to Friends of the Arboretum.) These include see so many people come through our gates. Master Gardner classes, a plant clinic, 4-H That’s why we’re here, to serve the local
(clockwise from left) September Krueger, silk artist, paints banners for Art in the Arboretum 2014; An entry in last year’s show: “Floral Ingenues” by Elaine Cooper; Riley Reed shows off her artwork
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community.” His staff and a vast crew of volunteers work alongside him to make this event possible each year. For Art in the Arboretum Chairwoman Sue Watkins, it’s clearly a joy to be a part of such a positive event, in spite of the many hours of hard work required. “The gardens look so magical with all the art on display,
as educational. Since opening in 1989, it has proven to be a phenomenal public resource, providing the community with horticulture education, displays of effective landscaping techniques, soil testing, examples of diverse residential gardens, and insightful plant advice. Reaching out to the wider community is an important aspect of the Arboretum’s
This event is the largest outdoor gathering of art and music in the area and the biggest fundraising event of the year for the Arboretum. and I especially enjoy seeing so many children here,” she says. “It makes all the preparation work worthwhile!” The Arboretum serves as the Cooperative Extension’s “horticulture laboratory,” and boasts a knowledgeable staff and many volunteers, all working to make the gardens beautiful as well
mission, and Art in the Arboretum is a lively, fun outreach effort to support it. Art in the Arboretum 2014 will be held October 3, 4, and 5 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Arboretum, 6206 Oleander Dr. Visit arboretum.nhcgov. com/events/art-in-the-arboretum for more information. W
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(from left) Amanda Young, Tom Dergay, Jeanie Dergay, Alex Heinze, Sally Middaugh
Timeless Investments Wilmington Blind, Shutter & Closet Co. can help dress your home and add value, too By JENNIFER GLATT
»
Photos by KELLY STARBUCK
After 19 years in the business, Jeanie and Tom Dergay know a thing or two about the art of window dressing. As owners of Wilmington’s only Hunter Douglas gallery and showroom, they are well-versed in the aesthetics of how custom window treatments can greatly enhance a home. With their small but mighty staff, they thrill to transform homes in and around Wilmington. 26 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Their Market Street gallery is a veritable playground of blinds and shutters, shades and fabrics, and options—the options are endless. Window treatments include blinds, shutters and shades, but within that category are hundreds of variables, determined by the unique needs of the window in question. How much privacy and light does the client want? Is a liftsystem required for the window treatment? Does that lift system need to be motorized? Operated by remote control or simply a button? Does the covering need to provide UV protection or energy efficiency, to detect the amount of solar energy entering the home (and open or close the window covering in response)? Between the fabrics and the constantly upgraded features and technology, Hunter Douglas ensures their products will meet every customer’s desires. And helping a client make sense of
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the options is where Wilmington Blind, Shutter and Closet Co.’s staff comes in. “We make it an easy process,” says Sally Middaugh confidently, who has been with the company since 2003. “Our customers are the best part of the job.” Whether a customer is purchasing window treatments for a brand-new home or choosing to outfit one that is already established, Middaugh recommends homeowners simply visit the gallery to get questions answered or get a project started. As she learns about the client’s needs, she can recommend products and configurations that will provide needed solutions. When clients determine their selections, Middaugh or Amanda Young will make a visit to the home to make sure the measurements are perfect. They’ll also bring multiple fabric books, to ensure the customer’s choice complements their home decor. Alex Heinze performs all installation and shows clients how to use their window treatments. He also makes repairs. Window treatments and shutters “are timeless, and add value to your home,” Young says. Throughout the selection process, “we 28 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
build relationships with our customers.” And, Middaugh adds, “those relationships often lead to friendships.” Jeanie Dergay says she got into the business almost two decades ago “because of the people,” so she couldn’t be more pleased with the frequent outcome of making new friends in the process. “We love our customers,” she says simply. Helping clients find solutions seems to be something of a gift for this company, so it was a natural fit for them to expand their showroom to welcome the MoreSpacePlace Murphy bed collection into their fold. Offering multiple styles of retractable beds including wall beds, panel beds, and side beds alongside custom-built cabinets, bi-fold doors, and shelving, it’s easy to see the possibilities—and not just in small spaces. Many people purchase a Murphy bed for a room “not because they can’t fit a bed in the space, but because they want to have a bed as an option,” explains Young. Transforming a home office or den into a comfortable guest bedroom, or transforming a seldom-used guest bedroom into a home office or hobby room saves clients both money and square footage. Young also suggests that those with rental houses consider Murphy beds, as they increase the bed count for the home without needing to increase the square footage. Walk-in closets, storage closets, pantries and more meet their match with this company as well, which also offers custom closet design to fit most any nook or cranny. Their closet systems utilize a unique cleat system that anchors directly to the studs for longlasting, solid performance. With 24 drawer and door styles to choose from, plus a wide variety of color and wood tone options to match any setting and a complete range of closet hardware, it may be as difficult to choose closet shelving as it is to decide on window treatments. Wilmington Blind, Shutter and Closet Co. offers free consultations and professional, friendly service. “It doesn’t make us more expensive,” Middaugh says, “just more pleasant.” 910-799-8101, wilmingtonblinds.com W
Iconic Southern Favorites For the first time or the tenth, these time-tested novels are ripe for Fall reading By Courtney Webb
W
ith back-to-school season in full swing, books can be more plentiful than pumpkins this time of year but a truly good read can still be a rare treat. Why not opt out of the guesswork and instead indulge in a true literary southern gem? Whether it’s your very first time reading these
celebrated favorites or your most recent perusal these titles are some of the most cherished novels ever to be associated with the South. They are the perfect accessories to take on a getaway as the temperatures drop, leaves change colors and the next season begins to make its colorful mark across our towns.
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee Harper Lee’s masterpiece is undoubtedly one of the most significant contributions ever made to literary history. It is the powerful story of race relations and childhood innocence in a small Alabama town. Within the pages of the Pulitzer Prize winning novel To Kill a Mockingbird reside some of the most well known characters ever created. The iconic names of Scout, Jem, Dill and Boo Radley are forever remembered despite the book being the reclusive author’s only published novel. To this day, it remains an essential part of nearly every high school student’s reading experience even though 50+ years have passed since its publication in 1960. Unbeknownst to her the bestseller would make Lee a household name alongside her later work in aiding with the research involved in the creation of childhood friend Truman Capote’s famous true crime work In Cold Blood. Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston One thing that can always be said about a southerner reading southern dialect is that they by far will have the advantage over others in understanding their native tongue. Hurston’s poetic words are the perfect example of a novel that many can find difficult because of its use of both southern vernacular and the African American dialect of the time period in which it is set. However many would argue that the cultural use of language also creates a stunningly beautiful work where lines often flow like water to the tongue. The Florida-based novel taking place during the early part of the 20th century explores a multitude of themes in African American culture and beyond. Considered extremely daring for many reasons during the time of its creation and even opposed by many, it remains an undisputed modern classic. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café by Fannie Flagg The endearing relationship between unhappy housewife Evelyn Couch and the spirited Ninny “Idgie” Threadgoode is one which creates legends. While nearly every southerner can lay claim to having seen the beloved movie inspired by Flagg’s best known novel, there is no denying that, sadly, many less have actually read the book. The Alabama born author also wrote the Academy Award nominated screenplay for the 1991 film known by the shorter title Fried Green Tomatoes. The love readers bear the book will no doubt continue to live on for years to come, much like the much loved residents of Whistle Stop that Idgie so loves to discuss. The book is a testament to the truth that when individuals are remembered, they never truly die. W September/October 2014 | 29
Gateway to Coastal Carolina Wilmington International Airport is a vibrant community partner with big plans for the future. By Catherine Kimrey Breeden
»
Photos by Jennifer Simpson
“Welcome to SouthEastern North Carolina,” emblazoned above the main terminal doors, is the friendly greeting conveyed to arriving passengers at the Wilmington International Airport. More commonly known to travelers by its call letters ILM, the fourth largest airport in the Tar Heel State in terms of passengers served is a gateway to coastal North Carolina and all that it offers in the way of lifestyle, business opportunity, and recreation. One need only spot the many rocking chairs gracing the terminal to know that a healthy dose of Southern hospitality awaits. Two homey lounge areas, boasting leather sofas, comfortable wing chairs, and ambient lighting provide a place for quiet conversation or restful waiting 30 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
should those be in order. And while these thoughtfully placed accommodations are much appreciated when the occasion demands, the primary purpose of any airport is to keep people and goods moving. ILM excels in that regard as well. With daily non-stop flights to four major
cities (Charlotte, Atlanta, New York, and Philadelphia) by the commercial carriers US Airways/American Airlines and Delta—and occasional non-stop flights to the nation’s capital—travelers can jet from Wilmington to anywhere in the U.S. mainland in a matter of hours. ILM served
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800,000 passengers in 2013, and a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Terminal Capacity Study anticipates that number will double in 20 years. ILM is designated as an international airport because it serves as a point of entry for persons arriving from abroad on private or corporate aircraft. Those passengers—about 10,000 per year— clear customs at a U.S. Customs and Border Patrol inspection station that is rated # 2 in the country by the pilots who fly in and out of Wilmington. A state-ofthe-art facility, it was first in the country to meet new Transportation Security Administration standards post 9-11; and it is a tangible manifestation of ILM Director Jon W. Rosborough’s emphasis on customer service. Rosborough, who is stepping down in December, shepherded ILM into the vibrant community partner that it is today. He is enthusiastic about the airport’s future, and rightfully so. Under his leadership— which focuses on teamwork and on providing the very best of everything for airport patrons, whether convenience of parking, ease of security clearance, or cleanliness—he has positioned the airport to become a key economic driver of the local economy. A recent Aviation Economic Impact Study, prepared by North Carolina State University’s researchers at the Institute for Transportation Research and Education, estimates that ILM brings $641 million per year of economic impact to the area, including direct, indirect, and induced economic activity. When Rosborough arrived at the airport in 1998, he brought skills that had served him well as a U.S. Army Officer and as a hospital administrator. Reflecting back on his tenure as Director, Rosborough noted three areas that he had targeted earlyon for improvement: (1) to lower prices-which he described as “outrageous” at the time—and provide more competitive prices on commercial flights; (2) to provide all jet service—instead of that available using the older and substandard aircraft that was then common—to improve the experience for customers; and (3) to expand non-stop service to top destinations. Rosborough has achieved these goals, and many more. He deflects credit away from himself and attributes much of the success to a very efficient and competent staff of 46 people who keep the airport
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running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. He notes that everyone works together for the common good, and that the attrition rate is low. When Rosborough retires at the end of December, management of the airport will transition to Julie A. Wilsey, who will step up from the position of Deputy Director. She was selected to lead ILM into the future after an extensive nationwide search by the New Hanover County Airport Authority, the airport’s governing body. Members are appointed by the New Hanover County Commissioners and serve four-year terms. Tom Barber, the Authority’s immediatepast Chairman who oversaw the search, is emphatic that Wilsey was selected on merit, and not because she was already in place. “Julie Wilsey was the best candidate of the 40 some who applied,” Barber said. “And the vote to select her was unanimous.” Wilsey will have her work cut out for her as she takes over as Director of ILM, and she is eager and ready to tackle the job. A civil engineer who graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Wilsey served as a Captain in the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers and has 15 years’ experience in aviation management. She was named Wilma magazine’s 2013 “Woman to Watch” in the category of Public Service. Wilmington will be watching as Wilsey undertakes management of ILM’s 1,800acre campus with an annual operating budget of $7.4 million. While members of the general public most often think of the commercial aviation component when the airport comes to mind, ILM is considerably more complex. The general aviation and fixed base operations as well as the expanding business park play vital roles in the airport’s success. On Wilsey’s agenda: implementation of a master plan that will upgrade the general aviation area and bring more tenants into the business park, thereby diversifying the revenue stream that sustains the airport’s operations. She will also be busy positioning ILM to accommodate the anticipated annual passenger count of 1.4 million travelers by 2033. Her major goals in this regard include expanding the terminal to double its current size, which will entail additional retail space, food services, and airline space; and building
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Jon W. Rosborough Age: 69 Hometown: Newburgh, New York Education: Wake Forest University Family: Married, 2 grown children, 6 grandchildren Hobbies: Boating, working out Favorite thing about living in Wilmington: Quality of life Community Service: Chair, Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame; Foreign Trade Promotion Council Board Favorite Music: Eclectic Fun Fact: Played saxophone in a rock & roll band, including back-up for Chubby Checker
two small parking decks flanking the terminal. Wilsey also hopes to extend one of the runways to bring in larger aircraft, but that is dependent upon FAA approval. Come January, that matter and all others involving FAA will begin to recede from Jon Rosborough’s priority list as he launches into a well-earned retirement. His immediate plans include exploring the United States and Canada with his wife Carol, spending time with 34 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Julie A. Wilsey Age: 44 Hometown: Evansville, Illinois Education: U.S. Military Academy at West Point Family: Married, college-age step-daughter Hobbies: Scuba diving, underwater photography Favorite thing about living in Wilmington: The beach and water Community Service: Includes State Environmental Management Commission, United Way Board of Directors Favorite Music: Country & Western Fun Fact: Played softball at West Point, was named to the Division I Patriot League All-Decade All-Star Team
his grandchildren, and cruising the local waters in his motor yacht “R Oasis.” He will be able to relax, knowing that he left ILM in capable hands. “I see ILM’s future as very bright and challenging,” Rosborough says. “Julie Wilsey is a very competent leader, and she is very approachable, which you have to be as Director. People will perceive her as ‘The Airport.’ She will do a fantastic job and carry the airport to
the next level of quality service.” As for which of Rosborough’s leadership qualities she most hopes to emulate as Director, Wilsey is emphatic. “Jon has been an outstanding leader,” she says. “He has developed an outstanding team of aviation professionals. He demands a high bar of customer service and excellence, and has always emphasized team work as a way to accomplish our goals.” W
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Hydroponics Grown A more holistic approach to gardening is shaping the landscape to preserve soil for future growth.
See page 38.
September/October 2014 | 35
beauty
A Graceful Transition to Fall Hair Tips and advice on transitioning your hair and eye makeup into the Fall season By LISA ARNOLD 36 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Our hair and skin prompt us that it's been a
richer lowlights to create the perfect “honey blonde.” Chestnut and caramel shades can add beautiful dimension.
long, cruel summer and a break from the sun, the pool and humidity is needed in Brunettes: the keeper preparation for the busy of all things luxurious and rich social season ahead. Hair color
combined
with
a
long summer in the South create the perfect storm for hair, so after a season of stress it's time to start nurturing those tresses. Barri Thompson, salon owner and master stylist, recommends DIY deep conditioning treatments once a week for at least a month. "My personal favorite is Oribe’s Gold Lust repair mask. Shampoo first then apply the treatment and leave in for 30 minutes, rinse with warm water and follow with a shot of cold to close the cuticle. Your hair will feel like silk and it smells amazing!"
Blonde is still in, but we knew that the whole time Every Southern girl (and her guy) loves a blonde, but we have to remember to change it up a little with the seasons. Transitioning to Fall by adding subtle lowlights will keep you blonde but soften your overall look. If you have fair skin and pink undertones you should stick with cool or neutral blonde tones. Those of you with yellow or olive undertones can reach for the warmer,
Fall is the perfect time for brunettes to steal the spotlight and get "glossed" for the season ahead. Gloss treatments provide the ultimate high shine and actually give your ends a little smoothing and conditioning at the same time. Ladies with bangs should lean towards drama and darken their hue a shade or two, but not anything that is so dramatic that everyone notices. If you have long, soft face framing layers you should take advantage of your hair's texture by deepening your base color, and then add a few warm, soft highlights. The moral of the story is—no woman should have the exact same color formula all year long. Natural, virgin hair does not stay the same so why should your gorgeous locks that you pay good money for be any different?
makeup base has a flawless finish. Full brows are de rigueur this season and frame the face beautifully, especially when paired with silver eye shadow, dark liner and dramatic lashes. Another trend seen on the runways was colorful liner on the bottom lash line—think emerald, plum, topaz—which is so very glamorous. Pair that eye with a soft lip color in a dare to be bare shade. Not into bold eyes? Do a gorgeous neutral, pale eye starting with a colorwash one shadow over the entire lid with a daring lip color in any shade of merlot or other perfectly paired shade of wine. Now you can just sit back and drink up all of the attention. W
Ride the wave of Fall eye color Whether you choose a dramatic eye or a bold lip or perhaps both, this is the season to push limits because it's all about color when it comes to cosmetics. Every artist starts with a perfect canvas, so make sure your September/October 2014 | 37
gardening and fungicides used each year to produce picture-perfect lawns and gardens have killed most living things, including beneficial microbes that feed plants and inject vegetables with nutrients. His solution can be found in his shop, Progressive Gardens (PG).
The Anchor
Making Progress The new wave of gardening By Jamie Penn
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Photos by Gary Breece
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ardening in the south is something akin to fishing in Alaska. Though challenging at times due to various conditions, there’s endless possibility for natural beauty and plentiful harvests most of the year. So, growing almost anything—especially food—just makes sense. And Wilmington has caught the wave, as evidenced by the fabulous gardens, complete with prolific blooms, foliage in various shades and textures, and raised bed veggie gardens that animate landscapes all across the city. The more recent focus on local, sustainable farms and local food represents an ideology that allows southeastern gardening to flourish.
Riding the Wave Like the rest of the country, a focus on the environment and food production has 38 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
spawned unlikely gardeners and farmers who are taking a more holistic approach to gardening and food growing in order to help preserve our bountiful southern soil and to feed themselves, loved ones, and the community. Evan Folds, owner of Progressive Gardens (PG), says employing a holistic approach is really the only way to garden effectively here. Folds, widely considered our soil’s resident spokesperson, is dedicated to teaching local gardeners and farmers how to feed and preserve soil so that southeastern harvests can continue to grow. “Healthy soil and healthy people go hand in hand,” Folds said. And Folds’ mission is to create both through education. The state of Wilmington’s soil is not so pretty, says Folds. Already a sandy oasis under all that St. Augustine and zoysia, the tons of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides,
Walking into (PG), you’re instantly aware that it’s something more than a garden shop. It feels more like a working lab with its Vortex Brewer (a compost tea distiller) set up on the back wall, shocking vibrant green wheat grass under fluorescent grow lights lining shelves, and a hydroponics showcase hemmed in by silver insulation filled with perfectly formed plants and vegetables. Stacks of fertilizer bags, growing mediums, and seed packets ensure that indeed, there is a garden shop component here. But beyond the supplies, the shop opens a Pandora’s box of opportunities when it comes to growing your own organic food, regardless of space and situation. The large Vortex Brewer can be daunting to onlookers, but while compost tea has an unconventional, almost bizarre ring to it, it’s slowly becoming a popular product among landscapers, home gardeners, and farmers across town. “We not only brew living compost tea in our Vortex Brewer®, but we distribute these brewers to locations across the country. Compost tea is made by growing microbes using high-quality compost, aerated water and organic microbe foods like fish, kelp or molasses,” Folds explained. Residents are thrilled to have alternative options to synthetic fertilizers. “It really works,” says Julie Hurley, a Wrightsville Beach resident. “It all does.” Hurley’s other favorite PG product is Dr. Earth fertilizer. “It’s real food,” she said. “Things really grow with their (PG) products. The way they’re supposed to. You don’t get the burn effect that chemical fertilizers can cause.” Hurley’s flowers are robust and very obviously “well-fed” -- as is her nine-year old boy who can trample barefoot with his friends through the yard without concern when it has been has been fertilized
or “treated”. The family is committed to eating whole foods grown locally and raised sustainably. “When something safe and whole is available, and it works, why not?” Oyster harvester and home gardener Henry Temple agrees. “I couldn’t get a good tomato until I met Evan,” Temple said, a long-time tomato grower before he moved here from the NC mountains. His home garden located off Military Cutoff is now filled with them. “The soil here is no good. Building it up has been key, and Evan has really helped with that. Just about everything I use in the garden comes from Progressive Gardens.”
The Swell on the Horizon While Folds is happy to continue on the consultation path, he has a vision that leads him far from the shop parking lot. He’s becoming a farmer. As a matter of fact, he
thinks we could all be farmers. Early in 2014, Folds launched Progressive Farms under the PG umbrella, selling produce from the eight acres of farmed land scattered on farms and throughout town (including their prototype farm on Oleander across from the shop) to restaurants such as Manna, in downtown Wilmington, Tidal Creek Co-op, and at farmers markets. In spring 2015, Folds plans to launch a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) supplied by these farms as well as resident farms called Food Lawns. Farm manager Mike Staton, formerly a manager at Black River Organics (Wilmington’s first official organic farm), said, “We just want to farm, and in the meantime help build a paradigm that people can do it. That they can learn how to feed and preserve the soil while feeding themselves and the community.”
What are Food Lawns? “We’re going to farm in residents’ yards, in 15-gallon raised, portable, mini-beds called ‘morsels’, in exchange for a CSA membership. And, they don’t have to lift a finger,” Folds said. “All they have to do is provide water.” Branch managers will oversee neighborhood Food Lawns, harvesting, weeding, watering, and fertilizing plants contained in these fabric morsels each week. Each member of this program will have joined the CSA, which provides a box of locally grown organic vegetables each week. By becoming a member of the Food Lawns program, they will be given four morsels, three of which will be full of thriving vegetable and herb plants to be placed in the sunny location of their choice. One of the morsels will be the homeowner’s to cultivate their own vegetables and herbs. A percentage of the profits from food grown and sold or distributed through the CSA from these Food Lawns will reimburse participants for the cost of the CSA. Through these programs, Progressive Gardens plans to build a residential farming community that can help demystify sustainable food production. “Our goal, all the way around,” Folds said, “is to decentralize food production and to help people grow the best garden of their life.” The Food Lawns pilot program is scheduled to begin in the fall. For more information, contact Evan Folds: evanf@progressivegardens.com. W
A sample hydroponics room on display at Progressive Gardens.
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Autumn Style
Hot off the fashion press and onto the streets of Wilmington, local boutiques are showcasing the fashion essentials for the season. fashion Stylist/editor: Kristin Wood Stylist assistant: Bonny Allison Photography: Mira Adwell Model: Rachael Hart Hair and Makeup: Amy Kennison Location: Cameron Art Museum
Cooler nights ultimately call for some serious warmth, and this ultra chic wool selection with its bright brass zipper and mock neck design will do just that. To add some fashion-forward contrast to its formal appeal, complement it with a pair of wornin boyfriend jeans and a simple clutch and‌ voila! This gorgeous investment piece is worth its weight in gold. Mother 'The Loosey' denim, $196; Mackage Dale wool coat, $730; Kopious Jewelry Klutch, $220, all at Oliver.
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The vibrant and bold colors seen everywhere this season are adding a bit more sun to the shorter days ahead. Kerisma ‘Asa’ top, $64; IT Collective black-legging pant, $78; yellow bangle, $24; black cocktail ring, $15; Chinese Laundry ‘Sinclair Leopard’ flat, $48; black/teal gemstone earrings, $24, all at Lula Balou. The Wonder Shop Glentey scarf, $15.
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The Shearling coat, in all colors, shapes and sizes, is a true fashion must-have this Fall. Paired with the textures, patterns, and styles of 60s vintage, it offers a vogue statement that elegantly ushers in autumn. Green suede faux-fur coat, $95; Vertical Paris body suit, $32; vintage wool skirt, $36; Moroccan woven belt, $45; earrings, $19; glasses, $20, all at The Wonder Shop. Joie 'Olivia' boots, $575, at Monkees.
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Looking for a smart way to bring some creative style into your everyday autumn look? Then these cropped tweed suspenders, when worn with a loose-fit, simple tee (or a form-fitting one to highlight your feminine figure) will do just the trick. Vans 'Sea Spray' top, $48; Knot Sisters 'Big Sur' pants, $94; EOU Missing Pieces Collection/ Jeffrey Campbell 'Lita' boots, $40, all at Edge of Urge. Kopious Jewelry Crystal Duster ring, $90; Kopious Jewelry Solar Crystal necklace, $78; Kopious Jewelry Solar Arrowhead cuff, $55, all at edgeofurge.com.
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Straight off the runways and onto the street! Designers like Tom Ford and Dior make splashes of brilliant pink combined with a mod look HOT for the cooler days of fall. ‘Milly’ dress, $525; Ted Baker 'Marion’ tote, $595; Stuart Weitzman 'Stitches' boots, $645; Jimmy Choo 'Beatrix' sunglasses, $364; Chanel bracelet, $2,250; Chanel earrings, $895, all at Monkees.
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Who says you can't keep your summer hues stylish for Fall? A cool color combination of teal, light blues, and greens, when paired with a great fauxfur collared coat, will keep your coastal closet current. Vintage faux fur coat, $95; ‘Scenery’ maxi dress, $165; booties, $45, all at The Wonder Shop. 'Not-so-classic’ hoop earrings, $5, at Edge of Urge.
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best
Breakfasts By Liz Biro Wake up hungry? You’re in luck. Port City chefs serve the best meal of the day in many delicious ways. From basic bacon and eggs to triple chili cheeseburgers, there’s a breakfast or brunch to serve every taste in town. Here are some of our favorites.
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Huevos Rancheros from The Olive Café and Wine Bar
White Front Breakfast House 1518 Market St., Wilmington 910-762-5672
Welcome to the past. This little white rectangle of a diner with its signature green awning is as no-frills as old-school gets. Booths stripe the long, horizontal window on one side of the dining room, and a counter lines the other side. Frankyet-friendly waitresses serve just what the slogan on the menu says: “Delicious comfort food at its best for less.” Warm, fluffy biscuits are perfect with sausage gravy, but they’re pretty darn good as sausage sandwiches, too. Smoked sausage, corned beef hash and a N.Y. strip are among choices with eggs cooked-to-order. Insider tip: Waitresses don’t mind special orde1qrs; they’ll put peanut butter on your French toast and lemonade in your iced tea. Did you know? Anthony Hopkins ate here. Sometimes celebrities filming in and around Wilmington pop in for bite.
Don’t miss: A bag of biscuits to go. Call ahead, or sip a coffee while you wait.
While you wait: Check out Jacob’s Run, an underground tunnel that crosses beneath Dixie. Legend says Patriot soldiers and the Underground Railroad may have used this hidden pathway.
Dixie Grill 116 Market St., Wilmington 910-762-7280 thedixiegrillwilmington.wordpress.com
The open kitchen sings at breakfast. Sizzle! Ping! Pop! Ding! Order up! Cooks dance from griddle to grill. Customers wait at the door and on the sidewalk for turns with eggs, bacon, pancakes, shrimp and grits, a sausage burger all the way. Booths tend to stay full. Counter stools spin on one diner after another. Yet, cooks still take time to mix and bake fresh biscuits: big, golden rounds begging for butter and jam. What to drink: Beer, mimosas, Blood Marys. All are available at the full bar. Don’t miss: A booth seat by the kitchen. Watching short-order cooks in action is fun!
Sweet & Savory Café 1611 Pavilion Pl., Wilmington 910-256-0115 sweetnsavorycafe.com
This lively restaurant is close to Wrightsville Beach. Maybe that’s why the menu lists so many easy grab-andgo breakfast sandwiches—16 of them in all. Flanagan’s Surprise stacks sausage, sautéed onions, mushrooms, scrambled eggs and Swiss cheese on toasted, threecheese semolina bread. Skinny Morning brings turkey sausage, scrambled egg whites, avocado, tomato and spinach together on multi-grain toast. Benedicts, omelets, and classic egg breakfasts round September/October 2014 | 47
out the menu. The bakery, in full view of the dining room, sends out croissants, cobblers, apple tarts, cookies, fresh bread and more. What to drink: Consider some bubbly. The restaurant also has an impressive wine list. Did you know? Sweet & Savory changes its menu regularly. Keep a lookout for new dishes each quarter. Don’t miss: The Pub at Sweet & Savory is right next door and features a weekend breakfast buffet.
Jimbo’s 1529 S. College Road, Wilmington 910-799-2211
Since opening this diner in 1977, the Patsalos family has served from-scratch, home-style meals made by devoted cooks like Vicki and Barbara. The women have been in the kitchen almost since the beginning. Décor may change as time wears the floor, but the menu remains delightfully the same. Eggs any way you like, biscuits and gravy, and the Greek omelet are just a few favorites. Quick, happy waitresses maneuver trays full of steaming plates between chatty patrons filling nearly every seat. What to drink: Coffee in heavy ceramic vintage cups on saucers. Save room for: Homemade pie and cake. Who says you can’t have dessert at breakfast? While you wait: Say hello to the Patsalos family. They’re usually working the counter and cash register.
Bon Appetit 3704 Carolina Beach Rd., Wilmington 910-796-0520 bonappetitwilmington.com
Poorman's Benedict from White Front Breakfast House
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Chef/owner Gene Costa’s kitchen skills are well known. In fact, Bon Appetit supplied the food for actor Robert DeNiro’s 50th birthday party. Despite having friends in high places, you can still find a $1.99
breakfast sandwich special here, where breakfast platters provide all-day fuel. Grilled garlic-infused chicken sausage, crispy turkey bacon, half an avocado, sautéed fresh spinach, caramelized onions, mozzarella and parmesan fatten the three-egg Frisco Bay Chicken Omelet. Or try a giant, Belgian waffle with pecans, bananas, chocolate chips, peanut butter and whipped cream. After that, two eggs with bacon, hash browns and toast might seem like a snack. Did you know? Bon Appetit is a fullservice catering company that will bring its breakfast and other menu items to you. Insider tip: Double-check your GPS. Bon Appetit is in the northwestern section of Carolina Beach Rd., between College Road and Shipyard Boulevard. While you wait: Costa was a thirdgeneration owner of a landmark Big Apple restaurant that New York City leaders recognized with a special proclamation. The document hangs in the Bon Appetit dining room.
Causeway Café 114 Causeway Dr., Wrightsville Beach 910-256-3730 causewaycafewb.com
Yes, there’s a line on the weekends, but breakfast is worth the wait. Giant malted Belgian waffles, thick Texas toast French toast, and a blue crab omelet with hollandaise and mozzarella cheese keep hungry crowds returning. They also come for the friendly atmosphere. Causeway has been a local institution for more than two decades; tourists and locals alike love the
place. As the Causeway website says of the restaurant, “Long-term customers consider it ‘home.’” While you wait: Ask for coffee. Servers are happy to fill your cup while you wait for a table. Did you know? During World War II, Wilmington’s waterfront was dominated with “Liberty” ship construction. The cargo vessels carried wartime gear to Europe. A ship’s telegraph and binnacle are on display here. Don’t miss: Fried, grilled, or barbecued pork chops, available alongside eggs, grits or hash browns and fresh tomatoes.
Our Crepes and More 3810 Oleander Dr., Wilmington 910-395-0077 ourcrepesandmore.com
Jacqueline Rey and her family turn out authentic French crepes at this fussfree shop far from Paris. No matter the distance, the thin pancakes are très bon. Sweet crepe fillings range from nothing but honey to Nutella and fresh strawberries. The signature New Orleans crepe enrobes cinnamon apple pie filling, glazed walnuts and caramel sauce, all topped with vanilla ice cream. The Morning Crepe holds eggs, bacon, sausage, cheese, tomatoes and remoulade. Save room for: What else? Croissants. The flaky, buttery delights come filled with chocolate; raspberry; ham, bacon or sausage with cheese; or ham, Brie, strawberries and walnuts. While you wait: Watch the crepe maker at work. Cooks work in a semi-open kitchen. You’ll marvel at how quick their hands work the paper-thin batter. Did you know? Vegan and dairy- and gluten-free crepes are available.
The kitchen is famous for quiche, but diners may also choose lox and bagels; French toast casserole with berries and maple syrup; and a breakfast strata layered with eggs, sausage, cheese, and hash browns. Seven different breakfast sandwiches include the basic egg and cheese on a choice of bread, and tomato, avocado and provolone on a bagel. Try to score a porch seat, a delightful place to sip coffee and read the paper. Did you know? Jester’s serves brunch all day on Saturday and Sunday. Insider tip: The vegetarian Black Bean Benedict features baked eggs atop housemade black bean patties instead of Canadian bacon. Avocado, diced tomatoes, and chipotle hollandaise finish the dish. When to go: Early on weekends. Jester’s fills up quickly.
Nick’s Diner 127 N. Front St. 910-341-7655
Vegans and vegetarians, rejoice! The classic, diner-style bacon-and-eggs breakfast goes meatless here – and it tastes really good. Order the scrambled tofu, hash browns, and meatless bacon or sausage on a platter, or in a wrap or skillet with sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms and tomatoes. Omelets suit vegetarians who eat eggs and cheese. And don’t worry, meat lovers. This hip, artsy diner has plenty of options for you, too. The morning list includes many omelets, skillets, pancakes, French toast, and biscuits. Breakfast is served all day, and a full bar means you can sip a Screwdriver with your sunny-side-ups. Insider tip: Nick’s Diner has a front and back patio. People watching is fun out front, while coffee can be enjoyed quietly out back.
Jester’s Café 607 Castle St., Wilmington 910-763-6555 jesterscafe.com
Breakfast and brunch are the dominant meals of the day at this cozy little cottage. Jester's Café
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What to drink: The michelada, a Mexican chili- and lime-spiked beer cocktail served on the rocks. Save room for: A French Toast Cupcake when it’s on the menu. Twicebaked, buttery, vanilla cake is topped with silky, maple Swiss meringue frosting and two slices of crisp bacon. Did you know? Hot Pink crafts custom cakes, including the cake that appeared in the wedding reception scene on the premiere episode of the ABC television show “Revenge.”
House-smoked Pork Belly Omelet from The Basics
While you wait: Check out art covering exposed brick walls and tabletops. Much of it depicts comic heroes and cartoon characters that were painted by the diner’s owner, Harry Pallas. Don’t miss: The Ohio City Burger at brunch. The hand-pattied burger is topped with ham, bacon, sausage, and a fried egg.
The Basics 319 N. Front St., Wilmington 910-343-1050 thebasicswilmington.com
A little Southern, a little gourmet, and a little rock and roll season this off-thebeaten-path restaurant on downtown’s north end. Lettuce, tomato, and homemade mayonnaise come on the fried chicken biscuit. Blueberry oatmeal pancakes get maple syrup and walnut butter. Sunday brunch specialties feature crab cakes Eggs Benedict and shrimp and grits with green tomato bacon gravy. Rock and roll show posters decorate exposed brick walls in two dining rooms, one with a full bar and the other with a view of the open kitchen. Insider tip: Listen closely to the soundtrack. The Basics owners spend a lot of time selecting cool tunes. If you hear something unfamiliar that you like, ask 50 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
about the artist. Did you know? The Basics is in the Cotton Exchange, which in the early 1900s hosted one of the largest and busiest cotton export companies in the world. What to drink: A Blueberry Fizz, which blends vodka, champagne and blueberry/lavender simple syrup and is served over ice.
Hot Pink Cake Stand at Monkey Junction 5543 Carolina Beach Rd. Suite 140, Wilmington 910-799-9119 hotpinkcakestand.com
Cupcakes are the signature treats at this bakery’s downtown location. Brunch takes center stage on Sunday at the shop’s midtown address at the Monkey Junction crossroads of College and Carolina Beach Roads. A creative menu debuts each week and features local foods. Hometown sausage might join eggs in a taco with cucumber pico. Apple, bacon and Brussels sprout hash comes with a sunny-side up egg. Toast is as stylish as the polished, urbanesque atmosphere. Butter is available, but there’s also crushed avocado and real boudin.
Boca Bay 2025 Eastwood Rd., Wilmington 910-256-1887 bocabayrestaurant.com
Sunday brunch is a local institution. Doors open at 9 a.m., but savvy diners know to arrive early or nearer to the 2 p.m. end-time, otherwise the wait may be long (especially when summer visitors are in town). Hordes can’t resist housemade pastries, made-to-order omelets, lox and bagels, biscuits and gravy, and Belgian waffles. All the classics are served buffetstyle in a beachy-chic atmosphere. Big windows, slow-turning ceiling fans and a palm-lined patio take you away. Don’t miss: Cheese blintzes, thin pancakes wrapped around a rich, cream cheese filling. Save room for: So many sweet things. If you like dessert for breakfast, Boca Bay brunch is the place to go for pastries. While you wait: Ask to see the SundayThursday prixe fixe dinner menu. The salad/entrée/dessert special is just $24.95. Selections include crab cakes and hanger steak in shallot port wine sauce.
The Original Salt Works 6301 Oleander Dr., Wilmington 910-350-0018
The dining room is nothing fancy, and breakfast is the usual: bacon and eggs to order, grits, hash browns, pancakes,
French toast. Still, this little spot has been in business for more than 40 years. Everyone stops here: cops, construction workers, grandmothers, candidates, kids. Perhaps the wood paneling reminds them of home. Combine reliable food (always cooked just right) and the everyone-is-family atmosphere, and Salt Works truly is home. Did you know? Producing salt from ocean water was a multi-million dollar business in the mid-1800s in New Hanover County. The process inspired the restaurant’s name. Don’t miss: The fried bologna sandwich. Salt Works is famous for this simple stack. Best bargain: Everything on the menu. Expect to get out for $10 or less.
Rx Restaurant 421 Castle St., Wilmington 910-399-3080 rxwilmington.com
Since arriving on the scene just two years ago, Rx has become a Wilmington hot-spot, and Sunday brunch is a big reason why. Chefs apply the restaurant’s local foods, Southern-favorites philosophy to the likes of crispy pork belly and a poached egg atop stone-ground cheddar grits; corn, chevre, fresh herbs and caramelized onion inside a plump omelet; and apple cinnamon pancakes with fig butter. The menu changes each Sunday, but you can get an idea of what might be on the list at Rx’s website, which catalogs each day’s offerings. Did you know? Rx’s sister restaurant, Pembroke’s (The Forum shopping center, 1125 Military Cutoff Rd.) also serves Sunday brunch. What to drink: The Crab Apple with Bulleit bourbon, Rx honey syrup, ginger beer and a splash of bitters. Don’t miss: The Southern staple: biscuits. Rx makes them from scratch and serves them in a small cast-iron kettle.
Home-cured Pig Belly, Creamy Grits and an Egg from Rx Restaurant
The Olive Café & Wine Bar 1125 Military Cutoff Rd., Wilmington 910-679-4772 olivecafenc.com
A slice of the pastry chef’s four-layer pistachio cardamom cake with ohso-creamy frosting is a decadent brunch, for sure. The pastry case is full of delicious things, some homey, some elegant. The trend carries to the Sunday brunch menu served with live jazz. You might find spinach, tomato and pancetta quiche; cheddar chive biscuits with bacon gravy; or a Croque Madame sandwich with ham, an egg
and gruyere cheese on an English muffin, all under warm Mornay sauce. The café with Paris flair is famous for its huge selection of cheese and cured meats, which are lovely on a platter with fresh fruit or tucked inside a very grown-up grilled cheese. What to drink: The wine bar has huge list of prime labels. Bubbly is especially popular at brunch. While you wait: Step over to Taste the Olive, the attached gourmet emporium where you may sample numerous olive oils and balsamic vinegars. Insider tip: Ask about special events. The café and store host classes and special tastings, including a free wine tasting from 6 to 8 p.m. every Friday. W September/October 2014 | 51
A Forever Home on Futch Creek Inspired by French style and the Cape Fear coast, Scott Sullivan designed a classic waterfront home with views for miles By David Howell
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f you ask folks who grew up here in Wilmington, they will tell you that in the 1950s, no one wanted to live on the water full time. They all wanted to have their primary residence closer to downtown and go to their beach cottages to swim, play, fish, and relax on the weekends. There weren’t nearly as many houses on Wrightsville and other area beaches as there are today, and they certainly weren’t as immaculate. What this means is that Wilmington's home design is kind of compartmentalized and unique. If you drive around town and explore different neighborhoods, you start to find these little pockets of time. The older historic homes in this area date back to 19th Century, but there are clearly identifiable neighborhoods 52 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Photos by G. Frank Hart
where houses align with a specific decade in both architecture and design. Ranch-style homes, cottages, split-levels, large brick homes… they’re spread far and wide and grouped mostly together. These neighborhoods are also fairly time-sensitive, so to speak, but there are a few waterfront areas where you can catch a glance of Wilmington's home design from the 1950s until today. These streets are few and they are in the midst of a beautiful transition… a sort of fossil record for desirable dwellings on the water. One such street is Bald Eagle Lane, where local residential designer Scott Sullivan, of Sullivan Design Co., adds one of his many contributions to Wilmington and Wrightsville Beach’s coastal history with a French-style home that lies just north of the city, bordering the shores of Futch Creek and the Intracoastal Waterway.
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I had the opportunity to visit one of Sullivan’s designs on Bald Eagle Lane, where water, sky, and the expanse that is the coastal Cape Fear region offer up their most unique views. Neither the property nor the house overreach the original intentions of the homeowners or Sullivan's vision. That is, the natural landscape and the water are the focal points, and it’s clear from the design and orientation of the house at the end of the street that beauty was at the pinnacle of the homeowner’s wish list. The house is meant to complement the land and sea and does so—spectacularly. “I draw inspiration from classic residential architecture,” says Sullivan. “There is beauty in a well-proportioned home and my goal is to invoke that feeling in my designs.” Like several of the houses still standing along Bald Eagle, Sullivan’s design was once a small 1960s ranch-style home that the homeowners removed so Sullivan could build what would be their dream home, their retirement home, their forever home. For these types of projects, everything has to be perfect. “Originally,” Sullivan continues, “the homeowners wanted an upscale coastal vernacular with the cedar shakes, the white trim with classic shutters and so on.” That is, the new style of beach home that harkens back to old movies or watercolors—a potentially simple home design with high angles standing lazily on wooden posts, its windows open year round so that perfect blend of salty ocean breeze and cool evening air sifts through—but not as 54 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
recent on the timeline as Sullivan was thinking. Like other great designers, he knew his clients beyond their wish list, understood their personalities, and made another suggestion. “During our first meeting,” Sullivan said, “I told them about a French-inspired home I designed off Airlie road that they should see as an example of my work. They visited the home and changed their direction.” The home was to have a formal street facade, and as he had suggested, it was to be French-inspired. “The water elevation needed to be perceived as an extension of the interior living
space,” he explains. And this meant the entire living space. The downstairs living room, the dining room and kitchen, the master bedroom and upstairs office have large windows that each offer an uninterrupted view. From each of the massive windows, you can look out to where Futch Creek connects to the Intracoastal Waterway and passes north of Figure Eight Island into the Atlantic. These same views also offer a long and inspiring view of undeveloped spoil islands and Lee Island with its white dunes and tall grasses. All of these natural wonders come together to form Rich Inlet, making the September/October 2014 | 55
environment behind the property a true ecotone—two communities meeting and integrating to form a unique environment. Regarding the views, Sullivan adds, “I simply played off of that in the design by creating clean and simple site lines and framing them with those large windows and doors. The rear porch has a lower terrace with the added bonus of a fire pit. Also, by dropping the terrace, no handrails were required on the upper porch, which allowed for even more unobstructed views.” The outside porches allow one to fully embrace and appreciate this space. Sullivan designed a large covered porch facing the water, along with a grilling porch that was very important to the homeowners. “The interior and the exterior was to be functional and beautiful. There was a requirement for a guest suite, which was located over the garage, and a second guest suite on the first floor. They wanted a home they could spend the rest of their lives in, a place to rest between their travels, entertain friends and family, and to truly be comfortable.” In the 4,300-square-foot home, Sullivan utilized a coffered ceiling in the living room in order to give the living area a structured yet classical look. He also used trey ceilings in the dining and master suite to inspire a sense of elegance and space. A large paneled, arched opening frames the kitchen from the living room, which gives the entirety of the first floor living space a breadth of air that is both inviting and spacious, but not entirely open. 56 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
An admitted multi-tasker, one of the homeowners wanted her office and studio to be off the beaten path from the rest of the home for privacy and quiet, but within reach of all her daily needs. “The studio is a workspace with built-in cabinets and laundry equipment hidden behind a pair of doors, for simplicity and ease of access, but they are not a distraction,” Sullivan says. The homeowners had several large antique pieces they wanted set into alcoves, so Sullivan employed the use of arched dormers that created interesting ceilings on the upper floor, and the perfect space for the antique furnishings. “They truly have a space that was built specifically to their needs.” When asked how his architectural design played to and incorporated the property location and the rarity of streets that are gradually coming of age, Sullivan says the uniqueness of the street and the area drove the design from start to finish. The house is unlike others on Bald Eagle. It incorporates the history of a French-style home while possessing the elegance of modernity you see in brand new neighborhoods today. It stands out as something new and different among its neighboring homes, some of which were built in the 80s or 90s, but it also complements the entire area as a home of classical design origins with an acute sense of today’s architectural innovations. Designer: Sullivan Design Company, 910-686-1223, sullivandesigncompany.com W
Pets dog assistants
emergency vet care
PHOTO JENNIFER SIMPSON
Do-Good Dogs Meet LIV, a golden retriever trained to be an assistant to special needs persons by paws4people organization.
See page 58.
So Many Paws-ibilities paws4people is changing lives, one dog at a time By Jamie Penn
K
yria Henry, at 27, has the voice of a sage, laced with a calm and presence that one can only assume is born of the fulfillment, selfassurance, and selflessness that got her where she is today. Henry started an organization called paws4people in 1999 at the age of 12, recognizing that dogs not only enhance people’s lives, but that they have the power to turn lives around, to prolong life, and in dire situations, to save a life. The idea spawned from visits with her 58 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
»
Photos by Jennifer Simpson
grandparents in a nursing home in Virginia, where Henry grew up. Her sidekick at the time, a Golden Retriever named RILEY, accompanied her a few times and inevitably made her grandparents’ day, illuminating them in a way she hadn’t seen before. With the support of her parents, Henry ran with the idea of partnering with canines to change people’s lives, and began visiting nursing homes throughout the county with RILEY in tow. The journey that would take her, her family, and thousands of people in need to heights they couldn’t fathom, began there.
“I never made a business plan or a fiveyear plan,” Henry said. “It was never really a conscious decision, opportunities were just sort of placed in my path. It’s way bigger than me at this point.” Big, indeed. paws4people and its subsidiaries, paws4vets, paws4prisons, and paws4seniors, have been featured on Fox News, the Washington Post (among many other publications), and, in 2010, Henry won the Ikea Life Improvement Project’s Life Improvements Sabbatical contest, allowing Henry to focus her efforts entirely on paws4pets by awarding her
organization $100,000. Henry’s goal was to establish paid positions for at least a few of the then 170 volunteers. Four years later, her organization has five full-time employees on its 11-member staff, more than 230 volunteers, and 200 trained service dogs. Henry has become an expert in the field of assistance dog training and an educational innovator, and was involved in starting the first Assistance Dog Academic Certification program at the university level through UNCW’s School of Health and Applied Human Sciences. She’s now an instructor for the Assistance Dog Training program at UNCW and serves as adjunct faculty at UNC Chapel Hill. Henry became a certified dog trainer at Bergin University of Canine Studies after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in business, speech pathology, and religious studies. She later received a Master’s in Human Services from Liberty University. Once all of this gets into your blood, Henry says, it’s hard to stop. Although she’s satisfied with her education thus far, it’s hard to satiate her desire to charge ahead. “My friends keep asking me when I’m going for my PhD,” she says, with a laugh. “But, I think it’s time to take a long break.” A commitment to service and a dedicated approach seems to run in the family. Henry’s father, Terry Henry, now paws4pets COO, quit his job at a telecommunications company in 2002 to fully dedicate himself
(right) CAMPBELL demonstrates how service dogs can assist with everyday tasks for someone with a mobility limitation. (below) SHAW, a mobility service dog, walks alongside owner Nicholas Cain.
(above) Clients and trainers attend a transfer training session at a local grocery store. From left: Jack Wishart with LIV, Ciera Ames with MAGNOLIA, Clay Fambro with MYER, Nicholas Cain with SHAW, April Cook with CLAIRE.(right) SHAW waits for direction from Nicholas.
to Henry’s organization. “Although we have part-time employees, no one is part-time here. Our employees continue to go above and beyond what we expect,” Mr. Henry said. Employees and volunteers are scattered across the southeastern U.S., servicing the multi-faceted dog training and placement system in place. Golden Retriever and Labrador puppies are born in a breeding facility here in Wilmington. After a few weeks, their worldly little lives begin. They are sent first to a puppy development center in Atlanta, then to a prison assistance dog training program in West Virginia. Their education ends—and in some ways, begins—at UNCW, where they undergo public access training. Once 60 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
(left) Trainer Ciera Ames and Jason Gregory watch MYER practice putting grocery items in the buggy. (right) FLEET performs the “anchor” command for owner Jason Gregory, a grounding technique used to prevent or interrupt panic attacks and flashbacks for owners with PTSD.
FLEET makes shopping look easy.
a client (or recipient) is chosen, the dog and the recipient go through a transfer training program together, which could take a few sessions to over a year, depending on the situation. The bottom line, Henry says, is that these dogs increase the quality of life for everyone involved in the process. Whether the obstacle is PTSD, or severe mental and physical challenges of special-needs children, these dogs are trained to help surmount any obstacle. “The dogs are truly providing people with a new lease on life,” she says. It’s evident that paws4people has a profound effect on trainers and clients alike. “So many of our recipients jump right back into the program as volunteers.” And that, she says, is when the program’s success really shines. For more information, visit paws4people.org. W September/October 2014 | 61
Photo courtesy of Atlantic Animal Hospital & Pet Care Resort
(left to right) Dr. Laurie Parish, Dr. Kara Duffy, Dr. Karessa Schaffer, Dr. Michele Rohrer
Atlantic Animal Hospital & Pet Care Resort
W
hen a loved one falls ill, it can be a terrifying, stressful event for the family. When that loved one can only bark to try and tell you what’s wrong, it can tear your heart out. Pet owners all understand that sinking feeling that comes when you know something is wrong with your cat or dog— the helplessness and fear is unbearable. Is it something horrible, or did they just swallow something they shouldn’t have? How long have they really been sick? Finding a veterinarian you trust is a necessity. The first thing you’ll notice when you come into the lobby of Atlantic Animal Hospital and Pet Care Resort is how calm and quiet it is. The big windows let in lots of natural light, and the walls are hung with colorful local art. A chalkboard welcomes new doggie boarders by name, and scattered around the tables and couches are information signs about animals available for adoption through their rescue nonprofit, C.A.R.E. The overall effect is that you’re immediately in the hands of professionals, and there’s no need to worry. Could there be any more important quality in a waiting room? “My favorite part about working here is that everyone truly loves the animals and has the animals’ best interests at heart. It doesn’t matter if they are in the kennel, puppy play, or on the medical team. It’s nice to come to work with people you know have the same compassion and motivation, and take such pride in what they do,” says Heather Blount, the practice manager. Heather’s own pride is obvious as she talks about the extensive 62 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
care the hospital offers. From Doggie Daycare to therapeutic laser pain management, Atlantic aspires to be a one-stop home for its furry clientele. In addition to offering regular wellness services, they also have a full-time groomer, dog and cat boarding, dental services, ultrasound, and a state-of-the-art surgical suite. As she gives a tour, she is keen to point out the little things that make a difference—extra soundproofing to keep pets’ stress levels down, beautiful landscaping outside the kitty room to keep things interesting for their guests, and doggie turf in the multiple play yards that surround the hospital. The staff knows most every animal’s name, as if they are family. To them, they are. Veterinarians Laurie Parish and Michele Rohrer purchased the clinic in August of 2010, though it has been part of the Wilmington community for 20 years. Karessa Schaffer was practicing with Drs. Parish and Rohrer when they purchased the clinic, and they were later joined by Kara Duffy. Blount is particularly impressed by how the four women support each other, and the kind of camaraderie they foster, though each has their own unique areas of expertise. “We’ve tried to get ourselves to the point where you don’t necessarily have to go to Raleigh for specialty services, you have that accessibility right here,” Blount says. But the best service Atlantic offers is a genuine love and compassion for their patients and pet owners. W — Bridget Callahan
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September/October 2014 | 63
Phineas is a friendly, big-personality tuxedo cat. At a PetSmart adoption fair two years ago, he captured Erica Reynolds’ heart quickly. So when he ate enough rubber bands
to
endanger
his
life, Reynolds factored the surgery into her single-mom budget. Things went well for a few months until Reynolds noticed that Phineas was walking
strangely.
“He
stopped jumping,” she said.
Dr. Ned Williams examines a canine patient.
Vet Referrals A multifaceted veterinary surgery center with rehabilitation facilities is the only one of its kind in Wilmington By TERESA A. MCLAMB
64 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
»
Photos by KELLY STARBUCK for SALT Studio
After three trips to her regular vet with no answers, her veterinarian suggested she take him to the NC State Veterinary Hospital. There, a radiologist determined that the cat had a fractured leg due to a failure of the growth plates to close properly. “That’s not what I went for,” Reynolds recalled. They had no space open to do the surgery, and recommended she find a local veterinarian who could be involved in his follow-up care and physical therapy. Reynolds returned to Wilmington looking for a board-certified surgeon, and Sound Cat referred her to Eastern Carolina Veterinary Referral Animal Hospital. “I wasn’t aware of the surgery available at EVCR,” she said. “They were phenomenal.” Thunder met his human family when he was two days old, and went home with Kim Harrell and the rest of the family eight weeks later. “He is so gentle natured,” said Harrell. “He loves everybody.” Even repairmen who visit the Harrell home have been spotted walking around with sixpound Thunder in their arms. So when he began having difficulty walking four years ago, the Harrells took him to their regular vet who eventually referred them to ECVR, where he had surgery on his knee followed by two months of therapy.
What these animals and thousands of others have in common are the benefits they derive from a multi-discipline clinic located right here in Wilmington. It was started by board-certified surgeon Dr. Ned Williams and his wife Stacie, a boardcertified therapist. Dr. Williams’ interest in veterinary medicine began in childhood. “As a kid, I knew I wanted to be a vet,” he said. He worked in a vet’s office during high school cleaning kennels and mopping floors for the chance to be exposed to the practice. As a college freshman, he accompanied upper classmen to observe surgeries. After graduating from Colorado State University and the University of Missouri, he did a residency rotating through all the specialties, then focused on surgery. The couple ran a referral practice in Greensboro for a while before moving to the coast and teaming with an existing emergency clinic to open their referral practice here. They added therapy components beginning in 2004. Two years later, they purchased the emergency clinic and moved to their current location on Greenville Avenue, operating Animal Emergency & Trauma Hospital of Wilmington (AETH) and Eastern Carolina Veterinary Referral Animal Hospital, P.A. (ECVR) at the site. When a canine rehab and sports medicine college began in 2012, Dr. Williams sat for the exam. He is one of fifty boarded sports medicine diplomates in the world. Stacie is certified as a canine rehabilitation practitioner. The third component of the business is Carolina Canine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Group. The three businesses have approximately 50 employees, including registered veterinary technicians. The additional veterinarians on staff are Dr. Melissa Stoll, DVM and Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Surgeons; Dr. Barrett Gift, DVM and Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists; Dr. Sloan Turner, DVM and Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Radiology; and Dr. Barbara Atlee, DVM and Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Dermatology. While the referral and rehabilitation businesses are open during regular business hours, the emergency clinic is open 6 pm-8 am weekdays. They open at noon on Saturday and stay open until 8 am on Monday. Animals brought to the emergency
Thunder swims to help ease his arthritis.
Opthalmologist Dr. Barrett Gift performs an eye examination.
clinic, like those referred from other veterinarians, often see doctors associated with ECVR. “Like in human medicine, [the doctor] might send you to a specialist,” Williams said. Specialists are available in dermatology, ophthalmology, radiology,
internal medicine, and surgery. “If they came in through emergency then need further surgical care, the emergency vet will refer to the other services.” The specialists maintain their own practices as well as cooperating with ECVR. The September/October 2014 | 65
(left) Erica Reynolds at home with Phineas. (right) Stacie Williams shows Kim Harrell how to perform physical therapy on Thunder.
Wilmington group is the only one of its kind between Cary and Charleston, Williams pointed out. It’s the rehabilitation component of the business that operates under the direction of Stacie Williams, and is the side of the clinic that Thunder continues to visit. While performing Thunder’s first surgery, 66 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Dr. Williams discovered the tiny dog had polyarthritis, so surgical therapy has graduated to quality-of-life therapy. Each Tuesday and Thursday, Thunder and Harrell visit the rehab center. “They do all sorts of therapies,” Harrell said. “They have a big tank that has a treadmill at varying depths of water for resistance.
Sometimes they fill the tank and he swims. He has the cutest life vest.” At home, they do range of motion exercises and Thunder takes a low dosage of chemo specially compounded for his weight. Harrell says Thunder will likely always have arthritis, but the medication and the regimen have worked well for him. Thunder might be one of the smallest patients in rehab. Many are athletes – agility dogs, hunting dogs, dock diving dogs. She sees numerous sporting injuries, which may or may not require surgery. “A lot of dogs come in who have had knee or back surgery. Most of them will need strengthening, range of motion. We’re doing anything with them that we can do with humans. We get them standing.” The underwater treadmill allows them to exercise without putting their full weight on the injury. Dancing exercises force the dog to put full weight on his back legs, strengthening them. “Proprioceptive is your ability to know where your joints are without seeing them. It’s the feedback your joints send back to your brain. That’s often impaired in many injuries,” said Williams. To regain that ability, weight-bearing and weightshifting activities are employed, as are exercises to step over things so that the animal has to plan limb placement. Many of the animals stay at the clinic through their recovery, especially if they live far away. “Our biggest factor for going home is the owners’ ability to take care of them at home.” A typical back patient stays inpatient for two weeks. Phineas stayed at the clinic almost two weeks following his surgeries. “Dr. Williams said his case was bad, and he didn’t want to do both legs at the same time,” Reynolds said. “Two days later they did the other side. It’s probably going to take a year for him to be back to what he was, but he’s back to his personality. He’s back to being my cat again,” Reynolds said. W
Animal Emergency & Trauma Hospital of Wilmington, 910-791-7387 Eastern Carolina Veterinary Referral Animal Hospital, P.A., 910-790-1070 Carolina Canine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Group, 910-790-1070 www.ecvrwilmingtonnc.com
Health breast cancer awareness
vitamins
Three Generations In a family that may carry a BRCA mutation, the youngest family member who has breast cancer should have the BRCA gene test first.
September/October 2014 | 67
HEALTH cancer
The Breast Cancer Journey Support makes a huge difference when you’re in the fight of your life—It helps to know others have gone before By LINDA H. LAMB 68 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
As an elementary school gym teacher, Ann Suttles knows plenty of people – teachers, parents, friends, family members and of course, lots of kids. Yet she often felt like she was facing breast cancer alone.
‘It Takes Away Everything’ Fit and active, a former paramedic, Suttles found herself devastated by her two mastectomies and especially by chemotherapy. “It breaks you down,” she said. “It takes away everything. You lose your confidence. You almost lose yourself.”
She was supposed to have six rounds of chemotherapy, but her body could withstand only five. Suttles, who teaches elementary health and physical education, also worried about the effect of her struggles on the children who were observing her week by week. “My kids had to go through it with me,” she said.
They all meant well, but no one in her circle of friends had faced breast cancer or a mastectomy. And as a single woman, Suttles didn't even have a supportive spouse to turn to. “It was just me,” said Suttles, 49, who lives in Wilmington. Then a chance encounter with an acquaintance with the Pretty in Pink Foundation not only drew her into a sisterhood of survivors, but landed Suttles in the group's annual fashion show. A few months after her last round of chemo, she stepped out of her shorts and tennis shoes, into a stylish outfit and onto a fashion runway. “There’s nothing fashionable about me. I don't even own a pair of heels,” Suttles said with a laugh. But the enthusiastic, encouraging crowd gave her an amazing experience. “That was the first time I ever felt beautiful,” she said. “People cheer and shout – they make you feel good. You feel like you’re Miss America.” During Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, people don special T-shirts, participate in walks and runs, raise money for research and remember loved ones who are gone. It’s also a good time to learn about important information and new developments in prevention, diagnosis and treatment. But in essence, these events are about support. “The clothes are definitely not the focus of the event,” said Joy Wade, region program manager for the Pretty in Pink Foundation. “It is just a huge celebration of our beautiful, strong and amazing breast cancer champions.” September/October 2014 | 69
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While her experience as a Pretty in Pink fashion show “model” was encouraging – at a time when her hair had not even grown back in yet – her contact with supportive new friends was even more important. The Pretty in Pink Foundation was started by a Raleigh breast cancer surgeon. It provides financial help and other resources to help breast cancer patients who are uninsured or underinsured. So not only did the group help Suttles find the empathy she needed, but as she recovered, it also brought her into contact with other women who needed her support. Recently, for example, she accompanied a breast cancer patient on an excursion that both had once had on their “bucket lists.” They went paddleboarding – the day before Suttles’ new friend had her surgery.
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According to the American Cancer Society, about one in eight women, or 12 percent, will develop invasive breast cancer at some point in their lives. About 40,000 women will die from the disease in the United States this year.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risks, as outlined on breastcancer.org: • Eat a balanced diet that is low in processed foods and sugar. • Avoid alcoholic drinks. • Keep weight at a healthy level. • Get daily exercise. • Don’t smoke. Greater awareness, earlier detection and improved treatment have contributed to a decline in breast cancer death rates since 1989, the ACS says, and there now are more than 2.8 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S. The ACS recommends annual mammograms for most women starting at age 40. As breast cancer incidence peaks for women in their late 50s and early 60s, this period is critical to successful screening and early detection. For those concerned about exposure to radiation from the mammogram X-rays, the technology has advanced considerably from methods used in the 1970s. Now the exposure is about what a woman would experience from the atmospheric radiation while taking an airplane trip from New York to Los Angeles.
Pink Fashion Walk Photo Chris Brehmer; Ann Suttles Photo JE Stockman
(clockwise from above) Pink Fashion Walk 2013; Staff don their pink garb to raise awareness about the importance of detecting breast cancer early through regular mammograms for women 40 years of age and over. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month; Ann Suttles modeling clothes at the Pretty in Pink event.
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can make the best possible decisions about treatment. As a health and physical education teacher, Suttles is in a uniquely knowledgeable position to encourage women to exercise. According to a study published in June by researchers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, two thirds of those who’ve been diagnosed with breast cancer get less than the recommended amount of physical activity. That’s a concern because physical activity can improve their quality of life and survival rates. “Strengthening the body is good for a breast cancer patient’s emotional health as well,” Suttles said. “You regain confidence,” she said. “You also build strength on the inside.”
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Also, improved technology such as CT tomography has lowered the numbers of anxiety-inducing “false positives.” Another important advancement in treatment is broader availability of improved genetic testing. This helps to identify patients’ specific risks for breast cancer so they and their doctors
There’s been a bit of a backlash over the whole pink ribbon approach to positive thinking when it comes to breast cancer. A highly regarded writer even based a book on her annoyance with it (Barbara Ehrenreich, Bright-sided: How the relentless promotion of positive thinking has undermined America). And yet, this autumn, many of those 2.8 million survivors will take part in the pink ribbon campouts, walks, runs, luncheons, dinners and fashion shows, and will draw strength from one another. Suttles doesn’t know what’s in store
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for her at this year’s Pretty in Pink gala, for which a local store, Camille’s of Wilmington, furnishes the clothing. But at this point in her life, she has conquered cancer and also high heels, so she’s just looking forward to
reconnecting with other women who truly understand. “We have formed a sisterhood,” she said. “We know where the other person has been.” W
Autumn Awareness Events Pretty in Pink Foundation 5th Annual Fashion Walk Gala
on Sept. 12 at the Coastline Convention Center. Semi-formal celebration of breast cancer survivors. Visit prettyinpinkfoundation.org for more information. 910-509-7259.
Pink Ribbon Project Events benefiting the New Hanover Regional Medical Center Foundation help local women without insurance or other resources receive mammography screenings, diagnostic services and spiritual support. Luncheon with Dorothea Benton Frank, best-selling author whose most recent novel is The Hurricane Sisters, will be at 11 a.m. on Oct. 2 at the Wilmington Convention Center. And a Celebration Cocktail Party will be held at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 1 at the Country Club of Landfall. 910-815-5002 or register online at nhrmcfoundation.org. Wilmington Plastic Surgery Run for the Tatas Chaser 5K
(910) 763-6053 www.LisleArchitecture.com
Starting at 8 a.m. on Oct. 4 at Mayfaire Town Center. This Wilmington Roadrunners race benefits local breast cancer charities. “Chaser” indicates a unique format in which women runners get a head start over the men. Visit wilmingtonroadrunners.org for more information.
HEALTH vitamins
Multivitamins – The Right Choice The world of vitamins is complicated and almost endless. Take your time and do your homework.
Photo Istock.com /100pk
By Edna Cox Rice, RD, CSG, LD
Whether to supplement with vitamins is a contentious issue today. In the past, medical experts told consumers that supplements were a waste of money. Now there are concerns that due to an unregulated industry, supplements may be dangerous, even life threatening. On the other side are health authorities, including many physicians, who recommend vitamin supplementation enthusiastically. While there are many good reasons to take a multivitamin, supplemental nutrients are not substitutes for whole foods that contain them. Taking supplements does not excuse you from
eating a diet rich in a variety of fruits and vegetables. A diet of unprocessed, unrefined, real foods is truly the best way to get the vitamins and minerals you need. In our fast-paced, convenience-
based lives, it’s often difficult to eat the recommended five or more servings of fruits and veggies daily. Multivitamins are a convenient way to fill in the nutrient gaps if your meal plan is less than perfect. Changing nutritional needs, strict dieting, poor appetite, and poor food choices are good reasons to consider supplementation.
Why take a multivitamin? The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans identified calcium, vitamin D, dietary fiber, and potassium as concerns for inadequate intake in adults and children. In general children and adults might benefit from taking a multivitamin daily. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends a once a day multivitamin with extra D for most people as nutritional back-up. The biggest challenge consumers face is deciding which multivitamin to take. The aisles in a pharmacy or health food store are packed with every vitamin and combination under the sun. The sheer number of options available can make choosing stressful. There are thousands of supplements to choose from. Some are good, but many are total rip-offs.
September/October 2014 | 73
HEALTH vitamins Most multivitamins include the following vitamins and minerals: vitamin C, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6, folic acid (B9), B12, B5 (pantothenic acid), biotin, A, E, D2 or D3 (cholecalciferol), K, potassium, iodine, selenium, borate, zinc, calcium, magnesium, manganese, molyb-denum, betacarotene, and iron. Look for a supplement that provides 100% of the Daily Value (DV) for most of the vitamins and minerals in that supplement. Nutrients like calcium and magnesium are rarely included at 100% of the DV because the amount needed is too large to fit into a multivitamin and the pill would be too large to swallow. Vitamins containing these basics are usually the least expensive and a good way to fill nutrient gaps found in your diet. Today’s multivitamins are available in a wide variety of formulas that are aimed at helping people with specific nutritional needs or conditions. Multivitamins containing iron are one of the more popular ones. Other multivitamins contain additional select nutrients like antioxidants. Stick to the basics. Your multi doesn’t need a lot of bells and whistles. With each additional extra comes an increase in the cost of the supplement. Avoid multivitamins that contain more than 100% of daily recommended values, because supplements are in addition to food, and some, in large doses, can be too much of a good thing. Certain nutrients may build up and become toxic. Some may even contain herbal formulations. Herbs are not nutrients: they are taken for very specific effects on the body. Choose a multi designed for your age and sex so that the nutrients included will be right for you. Most multivitamins are formulated for various stages of life because nutrient needs change as we age. For women only vitamins are designed 74 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
for women in the child-bearing years, these include nutrients in the amounts close to the requirements for women from 18 – 50. Iron and folic acid are two nutrients included to help prevent birth defects when women become pregnant. Just for men includes nutrients tailored for adult men to age 50. These multis don’t often include iron because men need less. Senior formulations take into account that after age 50 absorption slows down for several nutrients such as calcium, vitamins B6 and B12. Extra vitamin D is needed. The body no longer produces enough of the acid needed to break down the naturally occurring vitamin B12 from food. Synthetic vitamin B12 from dietary supplementation is easier to absorb and does not require the acid from the body. Should you choose all-natural, sugarfree, or slow-release products? Most vitamins are available in capsules, tablets, powders, gummies, liquids and injectable formulations. The difference in them is the rate your body absorbs the supplement. Liquids tend to be absorbed quicker. Coated pills are slower because the coating prevents absorption in the stomach. Gel-coated capsules may be easier to swallow. People may prefer all-natural or sugarfree products. But none of those terms mean the product is better absorbed. There is not enough evidence that slow release vitamins offer any advantage to counter the extra cost. The time multivitamins are taken really doesn’t matter. Taking them with food can help lessen any stomach discomfort.
How safe are multivitamins? Vitamin supplements are regulated by the FDA as “dietary supplements,” which are products taken by mouth intended to supplement the diet. A measure of safety is to look for the designation “USP” on the label. A multivitamin that meets the requirements of the U. S. Pharmacopeia (USP) meets the standards and ensures the product is pure and actually contains listed ingredients. Most importantly, listen to your body! What’s right for others may not be right for you. You definitely should feel a measureable difference in your health and energy within a few days with the right supplement. Remember that nutritional supplements are not food and do not take the place of real food. They only provide an additional boost to your current food choices. W
The following groups of people have distinct nutritional needs and benefit from taking vitamin and mineral supplements: • Women of childbearing age – need extra calcium and iron • Pregnant or lactating women • Children and teenagers with irregular eating habits • Seniors • Vegetarians or vegans – may be deficient in key nutrients • D ieters or people avoiding certain food groups – may be deficient in key nutrients • People with eating disorders or medical conditions – deficiency diseases, absorption problems, lactose intolerance • People who eat processed and fast food
Photo Istock.com/lostinbids
Get the Basics.
dining review
in the kitchen
restaurant guide
PHOTO JAMES STEFIUK
Fresh Salmon Special With a Brussels sprout, beet, and goat cheese salad and a roasted sweet potato with oat crumble and maple syrup at Epic Food Co.
September/October 2014 | 75
Epic Food Co. By BRIDGET CALLAHAN
» Photos by JAMES STEFIUK
1113-F Military Cutoff Rd. 910-679-4216 Mon-Sat 10:30am-8pm epicfoodco.com
N
estled in a corner of The Forum shopping center, Epic Food Co. is positioned almost metaphorically between Wrightsville Beach and the chain restaurant glut of Mayfaire. From their clean and simple patio, you can smell the ocean wind from the left, while to the right you might get a whiff of fried bar foods and melted cheese wafting over from the mall. In a town that is struggling to decide its identity in the face of booming tourist growth, Epic represents native Wilmington — a locally owned business that has adapted to fit its market while staying true to the healthy, beach-colored vision of its surfer-creator. James Bain grew up with the beach. He spent his childhood in Wilmington cooking at restaurants and saving up for surf trips. His love of cooking, however, was founded in Charleston, where he attended culinary school and was inspired by the restaurant scene. Coming back home in 1995, his first venture here was the fondly remembered Harvest Moon restaurant. Harvest Moon was upscale and Southern — definitely fine dining — but with an emphasis on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. After ten good years, Bain found himself wanting a little less stress and a little more time to spend with the family he was starting with his wife Christie, so he closed Harvest Moon, but never left the food business. Instead, he moved into other avenues like consulting and retailing his own line of seasonal finishing salts. “What I was seeing in those consulting jobs was that every other order would come back with requests — sauce on the side, gluten-free, no onions, allergic to this, allergic to that. I thought, “Why can’t you
76 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
(above) Epic Pico Egg Bowl with whole eggs, pico, spinach, jack cheese, and cilantro yogurt; (right) Chef and owner James Bain.
have a place where you can have it just the way you want it?” Bain says. While his sentiment might echo the tagline of a certain fast food chain, it’s there that the similarities end. Epic Food Co. is what you might call the ideal fast food — quick, sure, and easy. But there are no mysterious vats of bubbling oil or microwave heat lamps here. Instead, Bain’s kitchen relies on the freshness of its ingredients. Bain believes
(left) Epic Eden Brown Rice Bowl with organic spinach, cucumber, carrot strings, fresh basil, green apple pickle, and peanut sauce; (right) Epic Food Co.’s colorful, fun interior settings.
that a kitchen should be an open book and that detailed, skillful prep-work can transform the simplest vegetables. The atmosphere of Epic certainly reflects this; the tables are simple, brushed steel, each with their own big bottle of sriracha. Big windows and happy colors make the space feel casual and clean. “People say ‘healthy,’ and they think of something really weird, something that tastes funny, or something with no taste at all. My philosophy has always been about bright flavors and honest ingredients. That’s the key to what we are. As a chef, bright flavors mean to me citrus, lemons and limes, good quality vinegars, fresh herbs... good fats, like olive oil, coconut oil, sesame oil. Our ingredients are not really manipulated much, just like at our fine dining place. It’s the same prep techniques, just streamlined for a quicker service restaurant,” Bain says, with a true chef’s sincerity in his voice. The menu reflects Bain’s sincerity and his commitment to simple ingredients prepared well. Customers can choose one of numerous pre-designed noodle bowls, rice bowls, wraps, or flatbreads. These include such tempting choices as the Zing-E Flatbread with roasted peppers, cilantro, grilled scallions, spinach, ginger, and your choice of protein, or the Gluten-free Noodle Bowl with bean sprouts, tomatoes, rice noodles, and pickled radishes and cucumbers. You can also build your own creation. With
a whole menu of options such as beets, edamame, smoky black beans, and green apple pickles, you could conceivably make up something new every time you visit. Dinner options include a daily salmon special and a half chicken offered several ways, with sides like quinoa salad, roasted sweet potatoes with oat crumble, and Brussels sprouts served with beets and goat cheese. To some, half the words in the above paragraph might sound like a foreign language. But bringing new people into the healthy eating fold is half the fun for Bain. “I love anything, as long as it’s good, from a cheeseburger to seafood. I love it
of the younger, active crowd, they have recently seen a surge in the older, retiree crowd. Old and young alike, the trend of better eating is taking over. Epic recently expanded its dining room to keep pace with the burgeoning lunch crowd, adding an extra register and opening earlier, offering more breakfast items as well as smoothies and espresso. If this kind of success continues, Bain has dreams of possibly opening other locations. But for now, he’s happy that he’s found a way to fit his love of food with a schedule that gives him more flexibility and more time to spend with his three boys. He spends his free time surfing with the kids, taking them to soccer games,
The menu reflects Bain’s commitment to simple ingredients prepared well. Customers can choose one of numerous pre-designed noodle bowls, rice bowls, wraps, or flatbreads. all. But day-in and day-out, I love to eat the food here. What’s really cool is we have college kids who come here to work in the kitchen, and they’re on the fast food diet. We feed the staff for free, and after a couple of weeks, they tell me “I can’t eat fast food anymore.”’ Bain says. The public has been responding. While their clientele started off being more
and organizing the Carolina Cup, the East Coast’s largest stand-up paddleboard race, which takes place at Wrightsville Beach each year. No wonder he’s into eating well. There’s no slowing down in Bain’s world. “It’s real food. A lot of work goes into it. You’ve got to put the time into it,” he says, his eyes sparkling. As with food, so with life. For Bain, the two are inseparable. W September/October 2014 | 77
From
Salt Marsh to
Table
Slow food the Sea Island way calls for pairing low key, easy recipes with the catch of the day. Kick back and enjoy the cooler weather with these Lowcountry inspired recipes. Recipes and Photos By Kim Byer
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hen I time it right, my finest Sunday mornings are spent sitting on our dock, sipping coffee and staring across a bay of bright green spartina grass as the orange sun spills over the oaks and into the marsh. The pop, pop, pop of bivalves beneath their pluff mud blankets is a tender wake-up call. Dock rails lined with white, feathery egrets shine like pews of splendid ladies. And if the tide is up, millions of silver-blue minnows shimmer and swirl, then pause to congregate – thrilled to be, if only for this moment. But best of all, the deep, hallowed smells of the salt marsh rise and hover around my shoulders like the warm, mysterious breath of life itself. If this is not church, then I do not understand what is. And like any church-going Sunday, there’s no better way to follow up a great sermon than with a great meal. The pace of life on this North Carolina Sea Island seems slower than the rest of the state, and that’s saying something. So it’s no surprise that the slow food trend has been trendy here for centuries. Not that there aren’t take-out pizza nights and trips to the drive-thru and the grocery store. But for the most part, when we’re on the island, we’re checking the tide charts; we’re checking the forecast; we’re readying the Whaler. When the timing is right, long days and nights are dedicated to casting for shrimp or fish, sometimes coming home with nothing but an empty cooler or sunburn. We’ve enjoyed endless sunsets while waiting for that perfect five-inch blue crab to discover the chicken 78 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
necks tied to the end of our lonely, sunken strings. In the Lowcountry, folks still gig for flounder and harvest oysters; they will sit for hours, heading buckets of shrimp. As a cook, I find this fantastic: Real food is not taken for granted. I appreciate wild-caught, Atlantic seafood more since I’ve started spending time in the Lowcountry. When you’re standing around a fire, sweating in the humidity, swatting no-see-ums and cooking something caught that very day, pluff mud and sizzling seafood smell uniquely like paradise. This recipe collection is inspired by ingredients pulled from the sea and the salt marsh, with fresh vegetables plucked from roadside markets and our favored Harris Teeter. The mango pico de gallo is my new favorite addition to shrimp tacos, but it also stands on its own as a sweet and hot salsa. And although these shrimp burgers may not rival the experience of trekking to the Shuckin Shack on Highway 421… well, let’s say homemade, grilled shrimp burgers on the back porch are a welcome trek for your taste buds. Enjoy with a cold beverage and a can of mosquito spray. If you find yourself missing breakfast in downtown Wilmington at the White Front Breakfast House or The Basics, a slice of the Corn and Crab Quiche and Jalapeno Cheddar Loaf will surely make up for your loss. And if you’re longing for the smell of pluff mud, a slice of gooey, chocolate Pluff Mud Pie will in no way substitute. But then again, that’s probably a good thing.
go Pico de Gallo
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4. Remove cooked shrimp fro m hea the remaining shrimp the sam t and continue frying to add more oil. Prepare tor e way. You may have tillas according to package directions. 5. Spread a small amount of the each tortilla, then add a few melted cheese onto shrimp and a few slices of avocado. 6. Next, top with a large dol lop of Mango Pico de Gallo, a spoonful of queso fresco cru mbles, and a quick squeeze of lime.
September/October 2014 | 79
Corn and Crab Quiche Butter (or oil) for pie plate 4 to 8 ounces lump crabmeat 1 1/4 cup grated Gruyere cheese 1/2 medium sweet onion, chopped 1 ripe tomato, sliced thin 2 ears corn, sliced from cob 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped 5 eggs 1 small can (5 ounces) evaporated milk 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
80 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
1. Preheat oven to 35 0 degrees. 2. Grease a 9-inch pie plate with spray or oil bu . peppers, to Layer the Gruyere ch tter, cooking eese, o m a to slices, crab medium-siz and corn. Innion, e b o w l, inc a the can of evaporated orporate the eggs wit h milk. 3. Add salt , pe pour over thpper, and basil. Whis k again an e layers. d 4. Bake fo r 35 minute s or until c the smell o ente f quiche ho vers in the r is set and 5. Serve im kitchen air. mediately.
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1. T o make the remoulade, simply a bowl and stir until incorpora combine all ingredients in ted. 2. F or the burgers, place shr imp, seasonings, onion, red bell pepper and eggs into a foo d processor. Pulse until a loo se, but chopped consistency is achieved (about 20 pulses). 3. R emove from processor and place into a medium sized bowl. Slowly incorporate a handful of breadcrumbs.
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September/October 2014 | 81
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82 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
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1. P lace all in gred into a standin ients (using 3/4 of the ch ee g knead until in mixer with a dough hoo se) k and gredients are fully incorpora 2. A llow dough ted. to rest benea th a warm, d cloth for 30 m am in for both knea utes. Or, use a bread mac p d manufacturer’s ing and proofing, followin hine g directions. 3. P reheat ove n to 350 deg rees. Divide d into two loav oug es amounts of re , topping each with equal h maining ched dar cheese. 4. Place loav es inside butt er ed rounds and b pans or shap ak for 30-35 min e on a pre-heated stone. e into utes. Bake
Pluff Mud Pie For the pie: 1/2 cup butter, melted colate, melted
2 squares unsweetened cho 1 cup sugar
2 eggs, beaten Pinch of salt 1 teaspoon good quality
vanilla
For pie shell: 1/3 cup pecans, chopped 1 sheet of pie pastry
o a 8-inch pie pan unfolded and crimped int g
Whipped cream for toppin
1. Preheat oven to 350 deg rees. gently toss and toast the cho In a small pan, pped pecans until they are firm and fragra nt. Do not burn. 2. Press the toasted nuts into the Combine the pie ingredients pie shell. and pour over the nuts. Bake for 30-35 min utes. 3. Serve warm, at room tem peratu Before serving, top with a dol re or chilled. lop of whipped cream.
September/October 2014 | 83
251-1935. Wilmington’s only restaurant and brewery, offering great food and micro brews. Menu offers more than 25 gourmet sandwiches and burgers, and 35+ entrees. Try the famous Scottish Ale Brew-B-Q Ribs. Lunch and dinner daily. Henry’s 2508 Independence Blvd., 793-2929. Considered a local favorite, with locally sourced classic American fare in an inviting and casual environment. Live music nightly and outdoor dining available. Lunch and dinner daily. Hot Pink Cake Stand at Monkey Junction 5543 Carolina Beach Rd., Suite 140; 799-9119. Breakfast, lunch, and dessert. Light fare available Mon-Sat 11 am-9 pm.
Jester’s Café 607 Castle St., 763-6555. Breakfast, lunch and Sat./Sun. brunch in a casual, fun downtown location. Quiches, salads, soups, sandwiches, and more. Closed Mondays. Shrimp and grits from Rx Restaurant
Ready to Eat?
Use our restaurant listings to find the best eating and drinking in Wilmington. American Bluewater Waterfront Grill 4 Marina St., 256-8500. Offers spectacular panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway. Dinner mainstays include fresh seafood, baby back ribs, char-grilled steaks, and delicious homemade desserts. Lunch and dinner daily. Boca Bay 2025 Eastwood Rd., 256-1887. Fine dining near the beach, with sushi, a raw bar, seafood, lamb and steak. Light and colorful, one of the best restaurant bars in town. Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. Bon Appetit 3704 Carolina Beach Rd., 796-0520. Hot/cold sandwiches and wraps, salads, quesadillas, shrimp and grits, or create your own burgers. Breakfast and lunch. Open daily.
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Nick’s Diner 127 N. Front St., 341-7655. Their specialty is the Iron Skillet casserole, as well as great burgers and salads. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. Oceanic 703 S. Lumina Ave., 256-5551. Situated on the beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy fresh seafood, exciting land lover’s dishes and breathtaking views. Outdoor seating is available on the adjacent Crystal Pier. Lunch and dinner daily.
Cameo 1900 1900 Eastwood Rd., 509-2026. A fun, stylish place with memorable dishes and drinks, the perfect spot for a night out. Menu includes flavorful, high-quality dishes served tapas-style. Dinner Tue-Sat., Sunday brunch.
Oceans 1706 N. Lumina Ave., 256-2231. Located inside the Holiday Inn Resort, Oceans is the perfect locale for fresh seafood and steaks alongside magnificent views of the ocean. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily.
Courts and Sports Bar & Grill 3525 Lancelot Ln., 228-5791. First-class sports bar and grill serving up burgers and some vegetarian options. The best outdoor volleyball, bocce, and cornhole facility on the East Coast. Lunch and dinner daily
Riverboat Landing 2 Market St., 763-7227. Historic building on the corner of Water and Market Streets houses a cozy restaurant. Arrive early to dine outside on one of the second-floor balconies. Southern fare with French, Mediterranean, and Asian influences. Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch.
Dixie Grill 116 Market St., 762-7280. The casual dinette known for great breakfasts and brunch now also serves lunch. Located in the heart of downtown Wilmington. Southern hospitality on a plate. Open daily. Front Street Brewery 9 N. Front St.,
RuckerJohns 5564 Carolina Beach Rd., 452-1212. High-quality food served up in a fun and relaxing atmosphere. Burgers, steak, chicken, and salads. Lunch and dinner daily.
Photo by James Burden
Jerry’s Food, Wine and Spirits 7220 Wrightsville Ave., 256-8847. Fine dining in a casual bistro atmosphere with an everchanging, creative menu.
C e l e b ra
t ing
10 YE Our AR A n n i ve r
s a r y!
128 South Water Street
•
Wilmington, NC
•
910-763-2052
•
thegeorgerestaurant.com
Perkeo Wine Bistro
Excellent Wine, Delicious Food & Relaxing Atmosphere
Extensive Wine List Eclectic Menu • Daily Specials & Events
Open Wednesday – Sunday 114 Market Street • Wilmington 910-769-3338 • perkeowine.com
Salt Works (The Original) 6301 Oleander Dr., 350-0018. Comfort food cooked to order. Breakfast and lunch. Open daily. Sweet & Savory Café 1611 Pavilion Pl., 256-0115. A full menu breakfast, lunch, and dinner restaurant with dishes made from scratch. Open daily 7 am-9 pm.
Hamburger Menu Dixie Burger ground sirloin, lettuce, tomato, onion, & mayo Stafford Burger apple-sage pork sausage and ground sirloin topped with provolone, lettuce, tomato, onion, & mayo Fitzroy Street bacon, fried egg, caramelized onions Tar Heel Carolina Style chili, slaw, onions Blue Devil Black N Blue cajun seasoning & blue cheese Jimmy V chicken burger, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni The Redd char-grilled chicken breast, swiss, avocado, lettuce, tomato, onion & cajun ranch Meatloaf Cajun turkey with fried pickles Southwest black beans, cheddar jack, avocado, salsa Detroiter bacon, ham, swiss, american Olympia the Greek lamb burger with feta, spinach, tomato, onions, spinach, pepperoncini Salmon Burger dill, smoky dijon Uber Hippie marinated tempeh, sprouts, grill roma, BBQ sauce Tree Hugger vegan black bean. swiss, cucumber, lettuce, tomato, pickle, onion, roasted red pepper, mayo Jamaican Jerk charred pineapple, cherry peppers, ghost pepper jack
Voted Best Breakfast and Best Diner 2014 (Encore Best of)
FULL BAR SERVING CRAFT BEER, WINE AND ALCOHOL 116 Market St., Wilmington 910-762-7280 Sun thru Tues 8am - 3pm & Wed thru Sat 8am - 10pm
The Basics 319 N. Front St., 343-1050. A little Southern, a little gourmet, a little rock n’ roll. Traditional Southern fare with a twist, including fried green tomatoes, smoked pork BBQ, grilled pimento cheese, and a fried chicken BLT. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily, Sunday brunch. The Pilot House 2 Ann St., 343-0200. Overlooks the Cape Fear River with a large outside deck. Menu ranges from down home cooking to Cajun, as well as traditional Southern fare with a contemporary twist. Lunch and dinner daily. Towne Tap & Grill 890 Town Center Dr., 256-6224. Situated next door to the Mayfaire Cinema, this is the place to see and be seen before or after the movie. Great American fare with burgers, steaks, and cold beer. Lunch and dinner daily. White Front Breakfast House 1518 Market St., 762-5672. Historic downtown diner—a local favorite. Biscuits and gravy, corned beef hash, smoked sausage, eggs any way you like. Open daily 6 am-2 pm.
Indochine 7 Wayne Dr., 251-9229. Enjoy the finest Thai-Vietnamese cuisine in a beautifully decorated environment. Voted best Asian 10 years in a row. Lunch and dinner daily. Szechuan 132 419 S. College Rd., 7991426. Voted best Chinese restaurant 12 years in a row. Fine contemporary dining in a relaxed atmosphere, serving exceptional dishes like rosemary lamb and filet mignon. Lunch and dinner daily. Tokyo 101 880 Town Center Dr., 3993101. Traditional Japanese with fresh sushi, diverse noodle dishes, combination plates, and appetizers. Lunch and dinner daily. Yosake Downtown Sushi Lounge 33 S. Front St., 763-3172. Lacquered walls and unique art surround guests as they dine on sushi and Pan/Asian fare. Dinner nightly at 5 pm.
Bars Bottega Bar and Gallery 208 N. Front St., 763-3737. Friendly downtown wine bar with ever-changing art exhibits. Nibbles available while savoring a choice of wines by the glass. Monday dinner only, lunch and dinner Tue-Sun.
Asian
Copper Penny 109 Chestnut St., 7621373. More than a sports bar, offering an eclectic mix of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches along with an extensive selection of mixed drinks and beers. Lunch and dinner daily.
Bento Box 1121 Military Cutoff Rd., 509-0774. Asian street food with a combination of Japanese, Korean, Vietnamese, and Thai dishes. Sushi bar. Lunch Mon-Fri, Dinner Mon-Sat.
Costello’s 211 Princess St., 362-9666. Tiny but sophisticated piano bar. Gather ‘round for sing-alongs at the local spot for much of the late night theatre crowd. Nightly 7 pm-2 am.
Big Thai 1319 Military Cutoff Rd., 256-6588. Famous for authentic Thai cuisine. Don’t miss the coconut cake as a sweet and savory finale. Lunch and dinner daily.
Dirty Martini 1904 Eastwood Rd., 679-8050. A stylish, sophisticated nightspot with a twist. Come relax or mix things up and make new friends with a lusty martini menu that will leave you shaken and stirred.
Blue Asia 341 S. College Rd., 799-0002. An Asian bistro offering a wide range of authentic Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisines using the freshest seafood, meats, and vegetables. Lunch and dinner daily. Double Happiness 4403 Wrightsville Ave., 313-1088. A great mix of traditional Chinese dishes and modern twists on favorites. Prepared fresh daily. Lunch and dinner daily.
Wilmington Wine 605 Castle St., 202-4749. Close to downtown, this is a wine shop worth visiting. By the glass or by the bottle. Frequent wine tastings peppered with local conversation. Opens daily at noon.
Cajun Bourbon Street 35 N. Front St., 762-4050. Experience authentic Cajun
Stylish, Sophisticated Night Spot with a Twist. cuisine in a uniquely decorated setting that has the appeal of being in New Orleans. Try the famous charbroiled oysters. Lunch and dinner daily.
Fine Dining Aubriana’s 115 S. Front St., 763-7773. A quaint Italian bistro with a menu that is updated frequently, offering reative dishes made with the freshest ingredients. Trained wait staff assists with pairing an extensive wine list with your meal. Dinner Tue-Sat. East Oceanfront Dining 275 Waynick Blvd., 256-2251. Award-winning cuisine accompanied by the sounds of breaking surf and a soothing coastal breeze. Enjoy fresh local seafood or grass-fed beef while you dine under a canopied, oceanfront deck or inside. A great selection of wine, beer and spirits. Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. Manna 123 Princess St., 763-5252. A favorite among the film industry stars. Serving New American cuisine with European flare, they utilize the freshest ingredients from the local farmers and fisheries of North Carolina. Dinner Tue-Sun.
910-679-8050 • 1904 Eastwood Road • Wilmington, NC
Port City Chop House 1981 Eastwood Rd., 256-4955. Known for fresh seafood, steaks, and chops prepared using the highest quality ingredients. Lunch and dinner Mon-Fri, Saturday dinner only. Port Land Grill 1908 Eastwood Rd., 256-6056. Progressive American regional cuisine served in a casual yet elegant coastal setting. Dinner Tue-Sat. Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse 301 N. Water St., 343-1818. Nestled inside the Hilton Wilmington Riverside, famous for excellent steaks and service. Come celebrate a romantic evening. Dinner nightly. Rx Restaurant & Bar 421 Castle St., 3993080. Tickle your taste buds and experiment with local foods prepared with a uniquely Southern twist. Best Southern fried chicken. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun.
French Brasserie Du Soleil 1908 Eastwood Rd., 256-2226. French café with both patio and inside dining. Pick your own salad ingredients from a wide selection of items. Lunch and dinner daily. Caprice Bistro 10 Market St., 815-0810. Authentic French bistro. Elegant dining
5564 Carolina Beach Road Wilmington, NC 28412 ruckerjohns.com
✮ Breakfast is served all day. ✮ Open 7am seven days a week. ✮ Open 24 hours Friday & Saturdays.
910.341.7655 127 N. Front Street ✮ Wilmington, NC
BREAKFAST
• BRUNCH • LUNCH
downstairs with sofa bar upstairs and a great martini selection. Dinner nightly.
sausage, baked breads, and more. Dinner Tue-Sun.
Le Catalan French Café & Wine Bar 224 S. Water St., 815-0200. “Wine down” on the Riverwalk. European and romantic, enjoy outdoor dining overlooking the Cape Fear River. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sun.
Osteria Cicchetti 1125 Military Cutoff Rd., 256-7476; and 5104 S. College Rd., 392.3490. Serves a variety of pasta dishes, pizza, salads, and antipasti. Lunch MonFri. Dinner nightly.
Our Crepes & More 3810 Oleander Dr., 395-0077. Family-owned French creperie. Authentic homemade cuisine. Breakfast, brunch, and desserts, Tue-Fri., 7 am-3 pm, Sat. 8 am-3 pm, Sun. 8 am-2 pm.
Pizzetta’s Pizzeria 4107 Oleander Dr., 799-4300; and 1144 E. Cutler Crossing (Leland), 371- 6001. Hottest spot for pizza by the slice, offering dozens of pizza choices with a New York flair. Lunch and dinner daily.
Perkeo Wine Bistro 114 Market St., 769-3338. Wide-open spaces and bold turquoise walls with a lighted waterfall make this a chic, cozy dining spot. French and Vietnamese-infused dishes. Extensive wine list from around the globe. Dinner Wed-Sun. The Little Dipper 138 S. Front St., 251-0433. Unique, fun fondue menu includes premium meats, seafood, vegetables, appetizers, desserts, and homemade dipping sauces. Dip assorted breads into hot melted cheese prepared tableside by your server. Dinner nightly Memorial Day-Labor Day.
Italian Eddie Romanelli’s 503 Olde Waterford Way, 383-1885. A longtime local favorite serving up scratch-made Italian fare in a family-friendly atmosphere. A diverse menu includes baked ziti, handmade pizzas, steak, burgers, and salads. Lunch and dinner daily. Fat Tony’s Italian Pub 131 N. Front St., 343-8881; and 250 Racine Dr., 452-9000. Great family-friendly restaurant. Front St. location offers fantastic views of the Cape Fear River. Serves a mix of Italian and American fare and a full bar, including 25 beers on tap. Lunch and dinner daily. Georgio’s 5226 S. College Rd., 790-9954. From Old World-style dishes to modern day creations, Georgio’s menu showcases multiple flavors. Offers pasta, seafood, steaks, pork chops, soups, and salads. Dinner Mondays, lunch and dinner Tue-Sun.
HOURS
Tuesday–Friday 8am–3pm Saturday–Sunday 9am–3pm Visit our online menu at
www.jesterscafe.com 607 Castle Street
•
910.763.6555
Kornerstone Bistro 8262 Market St., 686-2296. Traditional Mediterranean fare and wood-fired pizzas. Homemade desserts. Lunch and dinner daily. Nicola’s 5704 Oleander Dr., 798-2205. An Italian eatery with daily homemade pasta,
Roko Italian Cuisine 6801-105 Parker Farm Dr., 679-4783. Features authentic northern Italian cuisine. Reservations are often necessary at this intimate spot in Mayfaire. Dinner nightly. Sienna Trattoria 3315 Masonboro Loop Rd., 794-3002. Enjoy authentic Italian food in a warm, casual setting. Dine indoors or on the outside courtyard. Perfect for the entire family, with delicious brick oven pizza, seafood, and pasta specials. Fully stocked bar and lounge. Dinner nightly. Soho Bakery & Cafe 431 Eastwood Rd., 859-7714. Offers fresh baked goods such as bagels and sweets, great pastas, and authentic Italian deli sandwiches. Guests are guaranteed to get a taste of New York. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily.
Organic Epic Food Co. 1113 Military Cutoff Rd., 679-4216. Choose from a menu of sandwiches, salads, and noodle and rice bowls, with organic and all-natural selections. Sauces and salsas are made from scratch. Vegan and gluten-free dishes also offered. Lunch and dinner, Mon-Sat. Lovey’s Market & Café 1319 Military Cutoff, 509-0331. A health food store with fresh, delicious, healthy organic food prepared daily. Organic groceries, produce, supplements, and beauty aids. Café offers organic smoothies and fresh juices. Freshly baked goods with gluten-free options. Café is open daily 11 am-6 pm. Tidal Creek Co-op 5329 Oleander Dr., 799-2667. An organic grocery store with an inside café offering organic and veganfriendly options for casual dine-in or take out. Café open 11 am-6 pm daily.
Seafood Black Sea Grill 118 S. Front St., 254-9990. Mediterranean style eatery in a quaint downtown location. Lamb chops, seafood, vegetarian options. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat. Bridge Tender 1414 Airlie Rd., 256-4519. Features fresh seafood, certified Angus beef steaks, delicious appetizers, and mouthwatering desserts. Choose to dine on the outdoor patio overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway or enjoy the cozy interior setting. Lunch Mon-Fri., dinner nightly.
Made-from-scratch every day. Lunch and dinner daily. Hieronymus 5035 Market St., 392-6313. Come enjoy locally sourced seafood and fresh vegetables in a casual atmosphere. A locals’ favorite for more than 30 years. Lunch and dinner daily. Phun Seafood Bar 215 Princess St., 762-2841. A fun 22-seat eatery serving Southeast Asian tapas food, Vietnamese and Thai style. Sample lemongrass pork wontons, country ham-green mango rolls, and hot noodle bowls. Beer and wine available. Lunch Mon-Fri, dinner Wed-Sat.
Cape Fear Seafood Company 5226 S. College Rd., 799-7077. Specializes in regional American seafood, handcut fish, steaks, and chicken along with freshly made desserts all served in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily.
Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar 6A N. Lake Park Blvd., 458-7380; 109 Market St., 833-8622. Come watch your favorite sports team while enjoying some great oysters, shrimp, crab cakes, po’ boys, and fresh salads. Casual, family-friendly atmosphere. Lunch and dinner daily.
Catch 6623 Market St., 799-3847. Awardwinning local chef Keith Rhodes has been voted the city’s best chef for three consecutive years. A stickler for wildcaught and sustainably raised seafood, his modern seafood cuisine comes through in every bite, with dishes like NC sweet potato salad and seafood ceviche. Acclaimed wine list. Lunch Tue-Fri, and dinner Mon-Sat.
The George 128 S. Water St., 763- 2052. Southern coastal cuisine with a diverse selection of steak, pasta, salad and fresh seafood, including the best shrimp ‘n grits in town. Outdoor deck, waterfront dining, full bar with extensive wine and martini lists. Dock your boat at the only dock ‘n dine restaurant downtown. Lunch and dinner Tue-Sat., Sunday brunch.
Dockside 1308 Airlie Rd., 256-2752. The place to be for the best seafood on the Intracoastal Waterway, Dockside is synonymous with great food and a casual atmosphere. Uses only the freshest and highest quality local and regional ingredients whenever possible. Lunch and dinner daily. Dock Street Oyster Bar 12 Dock St., 762-2827. Voted best oyster bar 13 years in a row. Come enjoy some great Caribbean style fare in a chic atmosphere. Serving an array of seafood, pasta, and chicken. Lunch and dinner daily. Elijah’s 2 Ann St., 343-1448. Casual American grill and oyster bar overlooking the Cape Fear River. Seafood, steaks, chicken, salads. Lunch and dinner daily, Sunday brunch. Fish House Grill 1410 Airlie Rd., 256-3693. A landmark seafood restaurant for decades, the Fish House Grill offers a casual, fun place to eat fresh seafood while enjoying the outdoor waterfront overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway.
VOTED CITY’S BEST CHEF 3 YEARS IN A ROW!
FRESH LOCAL AUTHENTIC
Serving local sourced seafood using sustainable fishing practices.
Tapas Circa 1922 8 N. Front St., 762-1922. Great bar and ever-changing small plates, serving the likes of maple-glazed pork belly, grilled stuffed quail, and lamb shank. Dinner nightly, Sunday brunch. 9 Restaurant 9 S. Front St., 523-5912. Breakfast café during the day serving homemade pastries, and a tapas bar and lounge at night. Jazz and blues music. Breakfast, lunch, dinner daily. The Fortunate Glass 29 S. Front St., 399-4292. A wine bar at heart, the focus is on wines from all regions, with 50 wines by the glass and about 350 wines by the bottle and 30+ craft beers. A small menu of fine cheeses, Italian cured meats, and decadent desserts served tapas style will complement your wine selection. Dinner Tue-Sun. The Olive Café 1125-E Military Cutoff Rd., 679-4772. An Epicurean emporium for everything taste. Wines, bakery, and somewhat bigger than small plates.
6623 Market Street • Wilmington 910-799-3847 catchwilmington.com
Visit our sister restaurant serving the best Vietnamese and Thai.
215 Princess Street Downtown Wilmington 910-762-2841
Fall Getaways
With normal routines in full force during the Fall, planning a getaway can be a challenge. But with so many good reasons to take a post-summer trip–fabulous weather, fewer crowds, and the giddy delight that you’re getting away with something–it’s worth finding the time. Need ideas? Read on. By Katie Mcelveen
Hugging about 18 miles of the Gulf Coast between Destin and Panama City, Route 30A is a coastal road with a difference: there are no high-rise hotels along this two-lane stretch, which is dotted with idyllic beach towns with names like Seaside and WaterColor. Bikes are the primary means of transport from town to town, unless you count kayaks, which use a network of coastal dune lakes and inlets to get from beach to beach. The beaches—creamy white sand, emerald-green water—are dreamy, especially this time of year, when the crowds thin and the temperature cools. What to do: Artsy enclaves like Grayton Beach and Old Seagrove are filled with funky galleries; at night live music at Red Bar is a local tradition. Where to eat: Try Criolla for Creole-inflected dishes served in elegant surroundings; Vue on 30A serves creative continental dishes with gorgeous sunset views. Where to stay: Perched on a dune overlooking the beach, the chic 60-room WaterColor Inn offers free bikes and kayaks to explore the trails that loop through the region; rooms have private balconies. For more information: visitsouthwalton.com
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Photos South Walton
Florida Panhandle
Left Photo TravelOregon.com; Right Photo Colonial Williamsburg
Portland, Oregon
Williamsburg, Virginia
Portlandia aside, this riverside city – it’s located near the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia rivers – offers a refreshing blend of rugged outdoor fun and sophisticated shopping and dining. Although downtown is packed with activities, including an awe-inspiring Saturday morning farmer’s market, riverfront walking path and the Pearl (a warehouse district that’s been transformed into a hip shopping and dining destination), you’ll want to rent a car to explore the region. What to do: Spend one day hiking in the misty trails that lace the waterfall-strewn Columbia River Gorge, another visiting the Willamette Valley’s wineries. Sokol Blosser offers food pairings with their organic wines; buy a bottle of wine and you can picnic at Penner-Ash, one of the valley’s newest wineries. Where to eat: Tapas shines at Ataula, a Spanish gastropub; for Italian specialties, particularly pastas, head to Ava Gene’s. Where to stay: Catch views from Mount St. Helens to Mount Hood at the rooftop bar at downtown’s Nines Hotel. For more information: traveloregon.com
Used to be, a day in Colonial Williamsburg was spent watching candle-dipping demonstrations and taking photos of friends in the stocks. And while you can still check out live exhibitions, Colonial Williamsburg is attracting a whole new breed of history lovers with street theater productions, alternative reality games that begin online and finish in town, a music festival and museum programs. What to do: Within Colonial Williamsburg, special behind-thescenes tours of Colonial Williamsburg’s conservation facilities, equestrian area and gardens are available. Nearby are Yorktown and Jamestown, which you can also explore by kayak, bike or guided boat tour at the Eco-Discovery Park. There’s also golf to play at the Robert Trent Jones, Sr.-designed course and culinary classes at Taste Studio. Where to eat: The food is better than you’d imagine at any one of Williamsburg’s historic dining taverns, whichever you choose, order an Old Stitch Brown Ale, which is brewed especially for Colonial Williamsburg. Where to stay: The Williamsburg Lodge offers a host of amenities including free bike rentals, tennis and golf clinics, preferred spa access and a great location. For more information: colonialwilliamsburg.com September/October 2014 | 91
The weather cools early in Maine, but for visitors on the hunt for lobster, it’s the best time to visit – by summer’s end, the sweet crustaceans are fat and happy. And Kennebunkport, with its not-quite-so-touristy vibe and George H.W. Bush pedigree, is the place to get it. What to do: Cram leaf-peeping, a little exercise and lobster eating into one activity: White Barn Inn Chef Jonathan Cartwright’s Crustacean Crawl, a 6-mile bike tour that includes sampling lobster at several local haunts. There’s also shopping in nearby Kennebunk, the art galleries and shops of Dock Square and, of course, L.L. Bean’s headquarters in Freeport, about an hour away. Where to eat: It may be called the Clam Shack, but this waterfront dive has the best lobster roll in town. Where to stay: Choose from rooms or cottages at the elegant – and recently renovated – White Barn Inn (pictured). Thoughtful touches abound – think booklights on your bed at turndown, loaner laptops and free canoes. In the spa, Maine sea salt infuses the Mineral Wrap treatment. For more information: kennebunkport.org 92 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Photos White Barn Inn
Kennebunkport, Maine
Photos Twin Farms
Woodstock, Vermont Vermont’s got more than fabulous fall color going for it. Established in 1761, Woodstock is a quintessential New England town, complete with a village green, a covered bridge over the rocky Ottauqueechee River and a general store – F.H. Gillingham’s – that’s been operating since 1886. What to do: You could burn off an entire day exploring Woodstock’s shops, galleries and restaurants. For a bird’s eye view of the fiery foliage, climb to the top of Mt. Tom or stroll the trails in the park next to town. For a view without the walking, hop onto Route 4 east to 165-foot-deep Quechee Gorge. You’ll be able to see the rushing river far below and the dramatic 1911 bridge from several viewing points. Where to eat: Glassmaker Simon Pearce’s riverfront restaurant sources from Vermont farms and producers. Where to stay: Twin Farms (pictured), a Relais & Chateaux property, is an intimate, all-inclusive country hideaway set amidst 300 acres of meadows and woodlands in an unspoiled valley 15 minutes north of Woodstock. Rooms are filled with original artwork and each night’s dinner is curated from what’s in season. For more information: woodstockvt.com September/October 2014 | 93
Mountain purists flock to this pristine slice of forest west of Asheville for its easy access to Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Nantahala River Gorge. Gear up in mountain villages like laid-back and outdoorsy Bryson City; refuel at Sylva’s two microbreweries, Heinzelmannchen and Innovation. What to do: Perched on the shore of the Nantahala River where it intersects with the Appalachian Trail, Nantahala Outdoor Center is surrounded by 500 acres of forest. Plan to spend the day white water rafting, zipping over the landscape on the four aerial lines, mountain biking on nine miles of private trails or hiking. For a more zen-inducing activity, try stand-up paddleboarding on Lake Fontana. Where to eat: Bryson City’s Cork & Bean serves up a full range of delights, including homemade cinnamon rolls at breakfast, grassfed burgers and local trout. Where to stay: Rent a condo at Smoky Mountain Country Club in Whittier, and you’ll have access to the resort’s pool, tennis and golf courses and fitness center. For more information: mountainlovers.com 94 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
Photos Jackson County
Jackson County, North Carolina
Photos Katie McElveen
San Jose del Cabo, Mexico Lovers of blue water can get their fall fix in coastal Mexico, without the fear of hurricanes ruining their plans. San Jose del Cabo has a compact but lively downtown filled with outdoor cafes, galleries and shops. What to do: The Sea of Cortez is one of the world’s best fishing locations; blue and black marlin, sailfish and wahoo are all in season during the fall. Spas abound in the region, one of the most unique is the SOMMA winespa at the Fiesta Americana Hotel, which uses wine as well as local grapes, oils and other botanicals in their treatments. Ask to have yours on the beach at sunset. Where to eat: Located within an organic farm, Los Tamarindos serves margaritas made from fruit grown on the premises, mesquitegrilled local fish and salads from greens picked that hour on the porch of a hacienda built in 1888. Don’t miss the afternoon cooking classes or tiny boutique filled with a selection of handcrafts. Where to stay: How cool is Hotel El Ganzo? For his August wedding, Maroon Five front man Adam Levine put his wedding party up at the waterfront resort. For more information: visitloscabos.travel Editor’s note: Got a favorite fall getaway that merits our attention? Share on Facebook, or drop us an email. Editor@WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
September/October 2014 | 95
On The Town Cape Fear Memorial Bridge heading into Wilmington, NC Photograph by LEE PARSONS
Congratulations to Lee Parsons on winning our Facebook photo contest! See more photos at facebook.com/wilmingtonmagazine Contest sponsored by
96 | WilmingtonNCmagazine.com
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