Midtown magazine – July/August 2023

COCKTAILS

AND CONSTELLATIONS

STARGAZING IN THE TRIANGLE

BONDING TH R OUGH ADVENTU R E

ERICA DELONG: RADIO’S SWEETHEART

NEWCOME R ’S GUIDE, EDUCATION GUIDE, GO PLAY SEE

Whether your summer plans entail a tropical getaway, adventurous excursion or fun-filled staycation, your first step begins at Woodhouse Spa We offer a wide variety of facial options tailored to the results you desire, and our warm and tranquil atmosphere will make you feel like you’ve transported to a relaxing destination without ever leaving home.

EDITOR’S LETTER

I visited Morehead Planetarium and Science Center for the first time in July 1997. Nearly nine months pregnant with my oldest child, I welcomed the opportunity to relax into the facility’s cool, comfortable seating and look up at the cabaret of constellations. After just one view of “Carolina Skies”—the planetarium’s longest-running show—my husband and I were both hooked. We returned to the planetarium time and time again while raising our three children to enjoy shows like “The Longest Night: A Winter’s Tale” and “Magic Tree House Space Mission.” We stargazed at home. On clear nights, my husband would get out his telescope to show the kids the Orion Nebula, Saturn’s rings, moon craters and other wonders of space.

If you need a celestial fix like we did, read “Cocktails and Constellations” on page 30 to discover stargazing opportunities at local museums, parks—even rooftop lounges. Our cover, for example, features guests at The Willard Rooftop Lounge enjoying celestial cocktails as the Raleigh Astronomy Club aims telescopes at the night sky.

Our annual Go Play See issue continues with a hefty dose of adventure. When I recall the challenges my family embarked on over the years, a few rise—quite literally—to the top. ZipQuest in Fayetteville comes to mind. The kids and I soared across as many as 800 feet of treetops, landing on wooden platforms 150 feet up in the air. A few summers ago, we kayaked down the Cape Fear River as a treacherous storm approached. When lightning struck the other side of the river, we frantically rowed ashore just in time for the skies to break open. We had to walk a full mile back to the rental site—carrying the kayaks over our shoulders as lightning and thunder filled the sky.

But nothing compares to Zion National Park in Utah, where we hiked 2,100 feet up narrow switchbacks to Observation Point—elevation 6,507 feet. At the top, we encountered an even more tenuous adventure: navigating the point’s delicate ledge. We stepped lightly out onto it for a spectacular view—and a few photos, of course. The bonds we forged during those experiences were more valuable than the adventures themselves. On page 40, discover 13 heart-pumping opportunities to make lasting memories with your family in “Bonding Through Adventure.”

For more than two decades Erica DeLong has been the voice of G105’s morning and—more recently—afternoon commute as host of “The Erica Show.” This mom of two shares her experiences as a wife, mother and radio personality in “Radio’s Sweetheart” on page 56. Some of the celebrities Erica has interviewed over the years likely starred in a movie or two that was filmed in North Carolina. Check out “Blockbuster Backdrops“ on page 62 for a rundown of the Tarheel State’s most popular movie sites.

Prevent “summer slide” with “20 Brain-Boosting Activities” to keep your child’s mind engaged on page 68, go on a summer romance adventure in “Love Stories” on page 76, and learn about Operation 36 Golf on page 90. Discover how and where to hunt for North Carolina gems on page 94, take a Crystal Coast aquaculture tour on page 98 and explore Las Ramblas Spanish tapas on page 102. Check out our Go Play See partners on pages 38–39, Newcomers Guide on page 46 and Education Guide on page 81. We hope you’ll take our July/August issue with you to all of your favorite places this summer as you soak up the southern sun. We’re glad you are here!

Beth Shugg, Editor

PHOTO BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY

PUBLISHERS

Ronny Stephens

Kent Braswell

EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Beth Shugg

ART AND WEB DIRECTOR

Sean Byrne

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Dathan Kazsuk

COPY EDITOR

Cindy Huntley

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Janice Lewine

SOCIAL MEDIA AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT MANAGER

Melissa Wistehuff

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Sherry Braswell

Paige Gunter

Stefanie McClary

Laura Morgan

DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mario Boucher, Katie Dixon, Kurt Dusterberg, Mandy Howard, Janice Lewine, Charlotte Russell, Dolly Sickles, Anita Stone, Melissa Wistehuff

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Alisha Cleveland Photography, Bruce DeBoer, MASH Photography, Jenny Midgley, Brian Mullins, Peyton Sickles

Midtown magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher. Copyright 2023. All rights reserved.

Midtown magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is considered intended for publication. Such material becomes the property of the magazine and is subject to editing. Midtown magazine will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

6 print issues (1 year) Available online at midtownmag.com

4818-204 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone: 919.782.4710

Fax: 919.782.4763

ON

Nancy Anderson, Melissa Wistehuff and Rae Hackney enjoy celestial craft cocktails at The Willard Rooftop Lounge in Raleigh.

Photo by Bruce DeBoer.

CITY SCENE | SOCIAL SCENE

TEXT AND PHOTOS BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF ( unless otherwise noted)

PBS’ “Antiques Roadshow” stopped at the North Carolina Museum of Art on May 16. Antique collectors brought personal artifacts to be appraised by the show’s experts.

Hydrangeas were just one type of flower blooming at the WRAL Azalea Garden in May. While most azaleas bloomed in April, May visitors could see dogwoods, magnolias and tulips.

There’s no mistaking where you are when you visit the Raleigh Convention Center.

Midtown Social Media Manager Melissa Wistehuff (fourth to the right) joined fellow writers on a foodie trip to the Crystal Coast in May. Here, the group is touring Oysters Carolina.

PHOTO BY KATE BODDICKER

PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG

Carolina Brewery in Pittsboro hosted a delicious shrimp boil and toe-tapping live music in April.

PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG

The North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores puts its location in perspective.

Tobacco Road Sports Cafe offers the perfect spot for watching a Durham Bulls game while enjoying ballpark fare.

CROCHET COMEBACK

CURATED BY SOFIA LUJAN | PHOTOS BY JENNY MIDGLEY

Loosely woven, crocheted fashions made popular in the ’70s have made a comeback as designers and boutiques are reinventing new ways to wear them C rocheted styles can be worn alone or layered over other pieces. Here are three ensembles from Rose & Lee Collective in Apex featuring crocheted pieces and accessories.

Amber’s Look

Ria vest | $58

Effortless tank | $39

Leeds shorts | $54

Hand-woven rattan tote | $59

Christina’s Look

Pascal top | $48

Kinsley tank | $26

Paloma pants | $118

Brylee snake cuff | $34

Brady chain bracelet | $34

Hammered gold bangle | $18

Shelby’s Look

River tank | $59

Cohen pants | $59

Crochet yin yang bag | $48

PHOTOS, CLOCKWISE: Amber Brennan, Christina Long and Shelby Johnson modeled these looks.

Hang in there, kiddo.

At WakeMed Children’s, we love what we do almost as much as who we do it for. That’s why, at the community’s only children’s hospital, you’ll nd all sorts of pediatric specialties, all under one roof. Physicians, surgeons, nurses, techs and support specialists, all pediatric-trained. And inpatient care, outpatient care and emergency care designed just for kids. Delivered by hundreds of experts, all of them thoroughly dedicated to a happy, healthy childhood for every one of our kids. To learn more, visit us online today.

wakemed.org/childrens

WOODHOUSE SPA HOSTS GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION

On March 18, Woodhouse Spa celebrated the grand opening of its luxury spa at 4204 Six Forks Road, Suite 102, in the Park District of North Hills. Woodhouse Spa offers guests well-appointed amenities, high-end retail and premier services. Their HydraFacial Deluxe, therapeutic massages, luxurious facials and signature services such as the Holistic Body Detox are only the beginning of the vast array of treatments available. Guests can immerse themselves in a calming environment at Woodhouse Spa, which is rich with warm earth tones and textures, sounds of nature and soothing aromatherapy.

QUAIL RIDGE BOOKS OBSERVES INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE DAY

Quail Ridge Books, located at 4209-100 Lassiter Mill Road in Raleigh, celebrated Independent Bookstore Day April 29 with treats, a scavenger hunt with prizes, hourly raffles for children’s and adult books, and a kids activity table. Storytimes with David Burney of the Johnny Folsome Four, and Darren Farrell, author of “Dandelion Magic” and “Give This Book Away,” capped off the event. Independent Bookstore Day is a one-day national party that takes place at indie bookstores across the country on the last Saturday in April that features exclusive literary items.

ICID LAUNCHES WITH A SUMMER BASH AT USA FLOORING

Raleigh-area designers, industry partners and realtors enjoyed an evening of networking and socializing May 18 at the launch of International Community of Interior Designers (ICID), hosted by USA Flooring at 4721 Capital Boulevard in Raleigh. Attendees learned about the benefits of being in the ICID community, which provides a centralized location for all aspects of interior design for the industry. Delectable food from Donovan’s Dish, summer-themed cocktails and energizing music highlighted the bash, which featured representatives of ICID and USA Flooring, as well as Carly Bragg, co-host of CBS 17’s “My Carolina.” Staff from Midtown magazine, an ICID media partner, also attended the event.

GARNER LOCAL HEROES BREAKFAST HONORS FIRST RESPONDERS

More than 200 law enforcement officers, government and community leaders came together May 10 to honor first responders at the sixth annual Garner Local Heroes Breakfast. The event, held at the Grand Marquise Ballroom in Garner, supported these individuals and their families by celebrating excellence, providing monetary support and building community. Those who were recognized included first responders from the Garner Fire Rescue team, Garner Police Department, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, North Carolina State Highway Patrol, Wake County Emergency Medical Services and Raleigh Wake 911 Communications. Honorary awards were given to the families of K-9 Deputy Ned Byrd, who was killed last August in the line of duty, and Raleigh police officer Gabriel Torres, who was killed in a mass shooting near the Neuse River Greenway last October. The 200 Club of Wake County and Garner Police Athletic/ Activities League each received charity awards of $7,100.

PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG

PHOTO COURTESY OF QUAIL RIDGE BOOKS

PHOTO COURTESY OF ICID

PHOTO COURTESY OF GARNER LOCAL HEROES

CHRISTOPHER J. MOREA, MD

Dr. Christopher Morea is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 25 years of experience. Dr. Morea has the highest credentials, including membership in the American College the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic

MIDTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE PRESENTS COMMUNITY HERO SCHOLARSHIPS

John Soter O’Neil and Aaron Ng from Sanderson High School in Raleigh were each presented $1,500 Midtown Community Hero Scholarships from Midtown Raleigh Alliance at the organization’s May board meeting. In addition to their impressive academic and leadership achievements, both young men were inspirational to their peers and generously volunteered their time in various community programs. O’Neil will attend the University of Minnesota and Ng will attend Duke University.

ATHENS DRIVE HIGH SCHOOL’S MARCHING BAND PARTICIPATES IN THE NATIONAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE

The award-winning Athens Drive High School Marching Band of Raleigh performed in the National Memorial Day Parade May 29 in Washington, D.C. As the largest Memorial Day event in the country, the parade featured three grand marshals who traveled to the moon: Astronauts Rusty Schweickart (Apollo 9), Charlie Duke (Apollo 16) and Jack Schmitt (Apollo 17). The Athens Drive High School Marching Band, which was the only band from North Carolina that participated in the parade, took part in four state band competitions during the school year and won Grand Champion honors in two of them. Jerome “Doc” Markoch is the Athens Drive High School Marching Band director. In August, he will enter his 30th year at the helm.

DEVIL-DOG DUNGAREES HOSTS 75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Launched in 1927 by army veteran Louis Rosenstock, Devil-Dog Dungarees has always touted superior strength and durability—much like the brand’s namesake: the U.S. Marines who earned the nickname “Devil Dogs” during World War I. Today, Louis’ grandchildren Jeff and David Rosenstock manage the Zebulonbased company, which relaunched in 2019 as a men’s denim and lifestyle brand.

On June 8, Olde Raleigh Distillery hosted a reception that featured its signature spirits along with food and entertainment prior to guests visiting the Devil-Dog Dungarees distribution center. Once at the distribution center, guests attended a ceremony commemorating the fully restored 1950s Devil-Dog Dungarees neon sign relighting and a check presentation to the Wounded Warrior Project. DevilDog Dungarees has donated $125,000 to the Wounded Warrior Project since 2019.

COMMUNITY MUSIC SCHOOL CELEBRATION RAISES $136,000

Raleigh nonprofit Community Music School hosted “Creating Brighter Futures Through Music,” a celebration held May 10 at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater in Raleigh to honor the late philanthropist Tom McGuire that raised over $136,000 to provide life-changing benefits of music education to Wake County youth. Two hundred attendees came out to support the Community Music School, which makes music lessons affordable by charging only $1 for private lessons and provides instruments free of charge to students with financial need. The lineup of musicians included guest artist American pianist and singer songwriter Vienna Teng, the Venable & Wilkins’ family, as well as the Pop Band and graduating seniors of Community Music School, and other student and faculty musicians.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MIDTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ATHENS DRIVE HIGH SCHOOL MARCHING BAND

PHOTO BY DATHAN KAZSUK

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LANNY EALEY

POOL PERKS

When the weather warms up, the action heads poolside. Tuck your outdoor items in a colorful tote that transforms into a beach towel, throw some drinks in a Chillpod, and show off your style with a whimsical straw hat and matching tote. You’re sure to make a splash!

1. Lilly Pulitzer tote/beach and picnic blanket, $54.95 | Pink Magnolia Boutique

2. Dock & Bay quick drying, lightweight towels, starting at $34 | Swagger Boutique

3. 25-quart Corkcicle Chillpod, $269.95 | NOFO @ The Pig

4. Artisan-made chip and dip two-piece set, $350 | La Maison

5. Tote bag and wide-brimmed straw hat, $55 | Inspirations Home Decor & More

BY JANICE LEWINE

WAKE FOREST WELCOMES CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

Offering fresh seafood, hand-cut steaks and Calabash-style fried offerings, Cape Fear Seafood Company opened a new location May 29 at 3612 Rogers Branch Road, Suite 112, in Wake Forest. The restaurant is the third Wake County location for the celebrated Wilmington, North Carolina seafood brand, joining the established Village District and Spring Forest locations in Raleigh. The opening was preceded by four reservation-only charity events May 25–28 to benefit three community partners: First Tee of the Triangle, The Joel Fund and the Trawick Pediatric Cardiology Research Fund at Duke Children’s Hospital. Each charity received $3,750.

3612 Rogers Branch Road, Suite 112, Wake Forest 919.295.2455

capefearseafoodcompany.com

CORRAL RIDING ACADEMY BREAKS GROUND ON RALEIGH CAMPUS

CORRAL Riding Academy hosted a Spring on the Farm event April 15, which served as the groundbreaking of its Raleigh campus at 3120 Tarheel Clubhouse Road. The event also expedited much-needed farm work of its 102 acres along the Neuse River that will serve as the organization’s permanent home. Guests received a guided tour of the property and learned about CORRAL’s history and programming expansions. CORRAL is a faith-motivated nonprofit that serves adolescent girls in high-risk situations through a long-term, holistic program of equine therapy and education.

3120 Tarheel Clubhouse Road, Raleigh 919.355.2090

corralriding.org

GLENWOOD FINE ART DEBUTS IN RALEIGH

Wine, hors d’oeuvres and live music entertained guests at the June 2 grand opening of Glenwood Fine Art, Raleigh’s newest boutique gallery exhibiting 12 select artists and featuring 70 pieces from nationally recognized to emerging talent. Located at 20 Glenwood South, the gallery is open by appointment or when a flag is flying outside the building, which signals that an artist is using the space to create works.

20 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh glenwoodfineart.com

LOCAL MOM INFLUENCER OPENS SUSTAINABLE CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE IN FIVE POINTS

Cheyenne Levinson, digital creator of Triangle Families

Explore, which boasts 22,000 Instagram followers, has launched Little Oak Collective in Raleigh’s Five Points neighborhood. The result of a successful Kickstarter campaign, Little Oak Collective offers a sustainable and trendy location to buy and sell children’s items, and it also provides a space for families to feel supported and connected. Shopping hours are 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Tuesday–Saturday; and online appointments are required for consigning children’s clothing, gear, books and toys.

233 Bickett Boulevard, Raleigh 919.917.7180

littleoakcollectiveraleigh.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF LITTLE OAK COLLECTIVE

PHOTO BY JOSH MANNING

PHOTO COURTESY OF GLENWOOD FINE ART

SYNERGY FACE + BODY OPENS SIXTH TRIANGLE LOCATION

Synergy Face + Body, a premier spa, med spa, and laser and plastic surgery center with five locations in Raleigh, recently opened at 1628 S. Main Street, Suite 110, in Wake Forest. Founded in 2004, Synergy Face + Body is led by founder and CEO Anna Churchill; Dr. Duncan Hughes, a board-certified plastic surgeon; and over 75 providers who offer plastic surgery for the face and body, clinical skin therapy, nonsurgical fat reduction, laser therapy services and more.

1628 S. Main Street, Suite 110, Wake Forest 919.561.5271

feelsynergy.com

DR. KEN FORTIER ESTABLISHES FORTIER GYNECOLOGY

Dr. Ken Fortier, a preeminent provider of women’s health care who served on the faculty of obstetrics and gynecology at both Duke University and the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, is pleased to announce his return to private practice by establishing Fortier Gynecology at 2301 Rexwoods Drive, Suite 114, in Raleigh. The practice, which opened June 14, offers compassionate, patient-centered care in a small-office setting. 2301 Rexwoods Drive, Suite 114, Raleigh 919.916.3333

fortiergyn.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF SYNERGY FACE + BODY

PHOTO COURTESY OF FORTIER GYNECOLOGY

BY MARIO BOUCHER PHOTOS BY BRUCE D e BOER ( unless otherwise noted)

Stargazing offers us an opportunity to look up at the marvels of stars and planets. Jonathan Pishney, head of communications at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences’ Nature Research Center in Raleigh, reminds us that astronaut training isn’t necessary to appreciate what makes space so cool. “I fell in love with astronomy in grade school, when one of my teachers would gather students on the playground at night and let us look through a couple of telescopes,” he says. “I was so amazed at how many more stars were in the sky that you couldn’t really see with the naked eye. A telescope showed so much more.”

Those early educational experiences paved the way for Pishney’s lifelong love of space. “From there, I started learning—way before the internet was a thing—about constellations and the different star names, as well as the moon and planets,” he says. “It was fun to share that knowledge with my daughter as she was growing up.”

Nick Eakes, a science education specialist at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center in Chapel Hill—and native of the town—attended UNC–Chapel Hill and has been involved with the planetarium for 16 years, thanks to working there as a high school volunteer. Since 2015, Eakes has coordinated both the Mobile Planetarium and Skywatching programs, which have given him the opportunity to travel to all 100 North Carolina counties in order to bring stargazing to students who may not be able to make the trip to Chapel Hill.

“Gazing up at the night sky sparks the curiosity of most people who try it. The cosmos can make us feel so small, but working to understand these distant objects brings everything a bit closer to home,” he says. “Understanding the way things work beyond our Earth helps to inform how we approach physics, chemistry, biology and much more here on our planet. People across the world have used the sky to explain their own cultural stories and the happenings of their daily lives throughout human history.”

OPPOSITE AND THIS PAGE:

THE GREAT UNIFIER

Since 2014, Eakes has also served as a NASA JPL (Jet Propulsion Laboratory) Solar System Ambassador, hosting events and informing local communities about current NASA missions and research. “To me, this just speaks to the fact that we can look at the sky through a cultural and scientific lens at the same time,” he says. “The night sky is a great unifier. There is a lot of value in the fact that we all are a part of a larger universe, despite our differences here on the surface.”

Bruce Betts’ interest in astronomy and space exploration since childhood led him to earn a doctorate in planetary science from the California Institute of Technology, before settling in as chief scientist and LightSail program manager with The Planetary Society, based in Los Angeles. “Even as a kid I loved staring up at the sky, enjoyed learning constellations at camp, and loved seeing pictures of other worlds as they came back from spacecraft exploring the solar system,” he says. “I did research studying spacecraft and telescope data of planets and moons. I managed some programs at NASA, and then I came to The Planetary Society to manage science and technology programs.”

Betts is enthusiastic about finding ways to share his love and knowledge of astronomy and space exploration with the public. “There’s always something new to look at, for the soothing experience of looking back at beautiful things you’ve already seen before,” he says. “There are so many different things that we continue to learn and discover, and so many mind-blowing facts to digest and ponder. Seeing planets, the moon or stars in the night sky can be interesting, and it can also be a profound experience to see things so far away—weird and wild.”

Eakes remembers his own personal fascination with the night sky during his childhood. “I visited Morehead [Planetarium] as a small child and was enraptured by the giant Zeiss projector in the center of the theater—creating images and moving us through the stars,” he says. “Though we’ve moved away from the Zeiss projector and on to digital projection technology, my fascination for astronomy remains. If I can inspire students of all ages in our state to simply look up and dream, I can rest easy as a small part of this beautiful universe.”

PAGES 30–31: Melissa and Jason Wistehuff, Jason and Nancy Anderson; and Rae and Austin Hackney gather at The Willard Rooftop Lounge to enjoy celestial cocktails and views of the constellations.

The Raleigh Astronomy club meets monthly at the Willard Rooftop Lounge to set up telescopes so guests can view the stars, planets and galaxy.

LOCAL STARGAZING EXPERIENCES

What marvels can Triangle residents see when they look up at the stars and planets? Opportunities to view constellations and craters abound—in places you might never have suspected.

Pishney lives in the city’s outskirts near Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Apex, where less light pollution allows him to clearly see the stars and moon through a telescope. “It’s crazy to see all those craters up close,” he says. “Crazier to think of the astronauts who have set foot on the moon. And soon, perhaps a new generation of astronauts will do the same.”

Books, the internet and apps like Night Sky, SkySafari and SkyView can provide in-depth insight into what to look for in the sky. To see the moon, planets and stars brighter and clearer, a pair of astronomy binoculars can cost as little as $50 and an amateur telescope can cost $100–$300.

“An important thing to realize is that you don’t need any equipment to explore the night sky, though certainly having binoculars or telescopes will open up additional possibilities,” Betts says. “One of the best ways to get started is to just look up with your eyes and start learning constellations and stars, and look for the planets and note how they move across the sky over days, weeks and months. There are telescopes which allow you to see additional things—from the rings of Saturn to gaseous nebula.”

More can be seen 30–60 minutes away from city lights. Explore the night sky at public parks like Little River Regional Park & Natural Area in Rougemont, Eno River State Park in Durham, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Apex, and Falls Lake State Recreation Area in Wake Forest.

Eakes says anyone can go outside, look up and “find a clear patch of sky and wonder what is out there, free of charge. Our ‘Carolina Skies’ show at Morehead Planetarium gives an overview of the types of objects you can find in your own backyard here in North Carolina, so I recommend that program for the curious stargazers out there.”

The Nature Research Center is a wing of the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh that houses an astronomy research lab with two on-staff astronomers. Outside the lab, discover interactive computer displays highlighting the moon, sun, solar system, distant planets and stars; a moon rock collected during the Apollo 17 mission in 1972; and a lunar meteorite displayed under a microscope with changing lights to highlight the different minerals. For more information, visit naturalsciences.org

Since 1949, Morehead Planetarium and Science Center has been on UNC-Chapel Hill’s campus. There is a full-dome planetarium with a variety of shows and newly expanded interactive exhibits that demonstrate current scientific research at UNC. The planetarium will celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2024 with a series of community events, including a solar eclipse watch party. Learn more at moreheadplanetarium.org.

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham offers an “Aerospace” exhibit, which features space artifacts from the Apollo era such as astronauts’ space suits, a Mercury capsule that carried the first U.S. animal into orbit, a moon rock and a prototype of the Apollo 15 Lunar Lander. Learn more at lifeandscience.org/explore/aerospace

Founded in 1978, the Raleigh Astronomy Club is a nonprofit organization promoting amateur astronomy to increase members’ knowledge and pursuit of astronomy. In 2021, membership increased to more than 400 astronomy enthusiasts. The club provides educational lectures, public observing sessions, astronomy workshops and social connections for amateurs. There are no requirements to join the Raleigh Astronomy Club, and some of the benefits include the use of club-owned telescopes. Learn more at raleighastro.org.

The Planetary Society is the world’s largest space interest group, with tens of thousands of members worldwide. Visit planetary.org for information on how to join the organization.

Raleigh Astronomy Club member Tony Verdone shows a guest constellations that are viewable from the Willard Rooftop Lounge.

COSMIC COCKTAILS

The Willard Rooftop Lounge has shared some of the bar team’s celestial cocktail recipes for you to make at home and enjoy under your own little piece of the night sky. These cocktails were made with and perfected by input from every bartender on staff—and even took inspiration from cocktails created by past bartenders. Give these a shake and stir!

FULL MOON

Ingredients

.75 ounces of vodka

.5 ounces of Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur

.5 ounces of espresso

.5 ounces of grenadine

.25 ounces of Montenegro

Directions

Stir ingredients together and pour the mixture in a coupe glass. Top it with Pepsi and garnish it with a moon-shaped ice sphere.

LIMON-STELLAR

Ingredients

1.5 ounces of Citrus-Cello

2 ounces of chai tea syrup

.5 ounces of lemon juice

1 bar spoon of maple syrup

Directions

Using a shaker, mix all ingredients together and pour the mixture into a sherry glass. Add ice and garnish the cocktail with spun sugar.

GALAXY GUEST

Ingredients

2 ounces of Raleigh Rum Company

Sweet Dark Rum

1 ounce of Coco Lopez cream of coconut

.5 ounces of simple syrup

Directions

Using a shaker, mix all ingredients together and pour the mixture into a rocks glass. Add 1-by-1-inch ice cubes. The Willard Rooftop Lounge’s bartenders garnish this cocktail with a homemade green, blue and purple sugar plate that resembles a galaxy.

ASTRONOMY EVENTS TO CHECK OUT

JULY 24: Stargazing with Morehead Planetarium on The Durham’s rooftop.  thedurham.com/events/views-from-the-durham

AUGUST 13: Peak of Perseid meteor shower. in-the-sky.org/news.php?id=20230813_10_100

AUGUST 19: Stargazing at the North Carolina Museum of Art. ncartmuseum.org/events/summer-stargazing-2/?occurrence=2023-08-19

AUGUST 27: Saturn is at opposition of the sun, appearing brighter and larger. in-the-sky.org/news.php?id=20230827_12_100

AUGUST 31: The Raleigh Astronomy Club will stargaze from The Willard Rooftop Lounge, which will offer celestial-inspired cocktails during this free event. thewillardraleigh.com/happenings/stargazing

OCTOBER 14: The North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences will host a solar observing session for the partial solar eclipse with, potentially, two telescopes (H-alpha and white light) so guests can see different layers of the solar atmosphere. timeanddate.com/eclipse/in/usa/raleigh

METEOR SHOWERS

Perseids (peak August 12–13)

Draconids (peak October 8–9), Orionids (peak October 22)

Leonids (peak November 18)

Geminids (peak December 13–14)

Ursids (peak December 22).

OPPOSITE PAGE: Celestial cocktails from The Willard Rooftop Lounge. THIS PAGE, TOP: Raleigh Astronomy Club telescopes; photo by Richard Barlow. AT LEFT: Morehead Planetarium and Science Center; photos by Mario Boucher.

Have You Heard?

Cary Living is now 5 West Magazine!

When Cary Living launched in 2003, Western Wake’s growth and energy was on the rise, and Cary was at the epicenter of it all. As Cary grew, so did the surrounding towns of Apex, Morrisville, Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina.

Each offers something unique to its citizens. All deserve a publication dedicated to sharing what makes this region special. Find a distribution site near you at 5westmag.com/find-our-magazine.

Pick up a copy of our complimentary 5 West magazine today and join us in celebrating Western Wake’s 5 amazing towns:

Cary Apex Morrisville Holly Springs Fuquay-Varina

Dr. Miller enjoying a round of golf on the World-Class greens of “America’s Resort” at Greenbrier Resort in West Virginia.

BONDING adventure THROUGH

Try something new with your family this summer

BY MANDY HOWARD

t the beginning of last summer, my family was going through a tough season. A middle schooler and two high schoolers meant we were in for a year’s worth of academic stress— amplified by ongoing issues surrounding COVID, combined with life’s everyday anxieties and frustrations. Add a job change for Mom and some not uncommon middle-age life issues … I’m not ashamed to say, there were days we were seriously riding the struggle bus.

After one too many sleepless nights of useless worry, I looked into something I knew my kids wanted to try that had also been on my bucket list for a long time: surfing. I had written stories in the past featuring WB Surf Camp in Wrightsville Beach. I knew in addition to camps, they offered a myriad of lessons and training options, so I researched that first. Before I knew it—and after the easiest sign-up ever—my three kids and I were scheduled.

During the entire two-hour drive there we listened to the Beach Boys—a musical education I realized I had neglected to share with my children. It’s amazing how stepping out of your routine helps you remember the things that bring you joy. Just moments into the trip, anxieties that had been weighing on us felt miles away. Instead, we debated whether we thought the word “surf” or “girl” was more frequent in the lexicon of Beach Boys lyrics. (While we were unable to factually settle that debate, I bet someone, somewhere has.)

We pulled into Wrightsville Beach with crystal-clear instructions. From parking to paddling, WB Surf Camp made the entire experience amazing. All three kids, while never attempting anything like this before, were

able to get up and catch waves. Each of them actually surfed! Their smiles and sense of accomplishment gave me chills. My feet planted on the board once. I knew what to do, but my body disagreed that I should do it. It’s OK. I have other gifts. I learned a lot and had fun.

Lack of balance and all, that day will go down as one of my all-time favorites. And somehow, a chapter flipped the moment we chose to break away. We had a choice. We could have wallowed in our stress; we could have tried to talk about it more; we could have stuck to our routine. Or, we could do something completely different to get our adrenaline pumping. We chose the latter.

As much as I’m an advocate for family dinners and game nights, sometimes it’s healthier to not talk about it—whatever your current “it” may be. Instead, go do something different. Challenge yourself and create beautiful memories.

Not sure where to start? Fortunately, you live in a state where adventure abounds. Check out some of these activities and let adventure be the tie that binds your family this summer.

OVERCOME OBSTACLES

Warrior Tech OCR

220 Dominion Drive, Suite G, Morrisville 919.230.1992

Warrior Tech Raleigh

6451 Triangle Plantation Drive, Suite 107, Raleigh 919.803.8007

warriortechnc.com

If you love NBC’s “American Ninja Warrior,” this may be the adventure for you. As Warrior Tech states on its website, this is not a gym, nor an entertainment center. This is a training facility that pushes limits, increases strength and allows for participants to work hard for a sense of accomplishment. Warrior Tech’s Morrisville and Raleigh locations offer a variety of classes and camps, along with birthday parties, team building and group activities. (Talk about the best family reunion with the cousins ever!)

Rock Solid Warrior

6109 N.C. 55, Suite 125, Fuquay-Varina 919.307.7448

2131 E. Williams Street, Apex 919.246.6258

rocksolidwarrior.com

If you live in Western Wake County, Rock Solid Warrior is the perfect place to slip into ninja warrior mode. In addition to ninja rigs and obstacles, you’ll also discover rock climbing challenges, competitions, camps, birthday party facilities and more. The Apex location offers 14,000 square feet of fun while the Fuquay-Varina location covers 8,000 square feet.

REACH THE SUMMIT

Triangle Rock Club

6022 Duraleigh Road, Raleigh

102 Pheasant Wood Court, Morrisville

1010 Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway, Suite 400, Durham 919.803.5534

trianglerockclub.com

It’s good for kids to see their parents struggle, work hard and, possibly, take defeat with grace. If you’re anything like me, this defines a trip to Triangle Rock Club. Thousands of square feet of Eldorado climbing walls throughout Triangle Rock Club’s three Triangle locations allow for climbers of all experience levels to give rock climbing a go. Climbing experts guide you, keep you safe and help you reach your goals. Discounted group rates and dedicated belayers are available for parties of 6–20.

CATCH A WAVE

WB Surf Camp

222 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach

910.256.7873

wbsurfcamp.com

For our lesson, two instructors were assigned to the four of us. Surfboards and rashguards were provided, each perfectly sized based on information we provided during registration. Instruction began on the beach with, literally, the basic building blocks, and ended in the water where all three of my children, ages 12–16, actually got up and surfed. We all had an absolute blast.

WALK—OR ZIP—FROM TREE TO TREE

TreeRunner Adventure Park

12804 Norwood Road, Raleigh

919.410.7347

treerunnerparks.com

If you don’t have time to travel far but want to experience a day the whole family will remember, visit TreeRunner Adventure Park. You’ll find eight aerial courses and two ground courses split among five difficulty levels. The courses feature more than 90 obstacles, including zip lines. What makes this bonding opportunity so unique is you can choose your own adventure and go at your own pace. So there is time and opportunity to cheer one another on—no matter what skill level you are comfortable with. My favorite part? When my teens would try difficult courses, fail, then get right back up and try them again. This allowed for us all to practice encouragement and grit—something parents definitely can’t do for their kids! The Junior Park is for climbers from 4–7 years old with trails and obstacles that are 2–3 feet off the ground. Reservations are required, and parents must complete a waiver for guests under age 18. The staff offers a safety briefing at registration.

“Hideaway Woods”

Museum of Life and Science

433 W. Murray Avenue, Durham

919.220.5429

lifeandscience.org/explore/hideaway-woods

The Museum of Life and Science’s popular “Hideaway Woods” exhibit—a 2-acre nature discovery environment featuring eight handcrafted treehouses, a flowing freshwater stream guests can wade through, and ageappropriate play zones—is perfect for younger adventurers. Children up to age 6 can traverse a scaled set of mini treehouses, while older kids can scramble across cargo nets and climb ladders to treehouses offering views up to 20 feet off the ground. Access to “Hideaway Woods” is included in the museum’s admission fee, which ranges from $18–$23 per person (ages 2 and younger are admitted for free).

Canopy Ridge Farm

7115 U.S. 64/74A, Lake Lure 828.625.4500

canopyridgefarm.com

While I don’t have personal experiences with every attraction on this list, I do with Canopy Ridge Farm. This 60-acre zip line park is a few minute’s drive from beautiful Lake Lure (of “Dirty Dancing” fame). It’s consistently rated a top zip line destination in North Carolina—and the country—and provides incredible peace of mind with robust safety instructions and protocols, while providing unforgettable adventure and fun.

ZipQuest

533 Carvers Falls Road, Fayetteville 910.488.8787

zipquest.com

If you'd like to soar across the treetops a little closer to home, ZipQuest is less than an hour away in Fayetteville and offers two adventures. The waterfall expedition ($89/person) features eight tree-to-tree zip lines, three suspension bridges, three spiral staircases and a spectacular view of Carver’s Falls. The treetop excursion ($59/person) is shorter but still packed with fun. It includes five tree-to-tree ziplines, one suspension bridge and two spiral staircases.

PAGES 40–41: PHOTO COURTESY OF U.S. NATIONAL WHITEWATER CENTER. OPPOSITE PAGE: TOP PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG; BOTTOM PHOTO BY SPYRAKOT - STOCK.ADOBE.COM.

ABOVE: PHOTO COURTESY OF TREERUNNER ADVENTURE PARK.

BELOW: PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG.

NAVIGATE THE WHITECAPS

Blue Heron Whitewater

35 Little Pine Road, Marshall 888.426.7238

blueheronwhitewater.com

Offering half- and full-day trips on class I–IV whitewater rapids, Blue Heron Whitewater is just 22 miles from downtown Asheville and calls the French Broad River its rafting home. The company is locally owned by three guides who have more than 75 combined years of rafting experience. Whether you have teens hoping to battle waves or a kindergartner just getting his or her adventure-loving feet wet, Blue Heron is a perfect choice for an unforgettable day on the water.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

5000 Whitewater Center Parkway, Charlotte

704.391.3900

center.whitewater.org

An all-access activity pass to the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte costs $75–$250 and gives visitors access to 30-plus outdoor recreation experiences, including whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking/stand-up paddle boarding, flatwater kayaking/stand-up paddle boarding, climbing, mountain biking, a ropes course, zip lines, the “world’s first deep water solo climbing complex” and ice skating. Single activity passes range from $27–$55 and allow guests to choose from whitewater rafting or kayaking/stand-up paddle boarding, flatwater kayaking/stand-up paddle boarding, climbing, mountain biking, deep water solo climbing, and ice skating.

PADDLE A LAKE

Crosswinds Boating Center

565 Farrington Road, Apex 919.387.7011

crosswindsboating.com

Give kayaking or paddleboarding a go on a quieter part of Jordon Lake in Chatham County, and experience the lake’s beauty from a new vantage point. Guests can rent single and tandem kayaks at the Crosswinds Boating Center marina. Rent a stand-up paddleboard for one, two or three hours for $20, $40 or $55, respectively. Those rates also apply to 12-foot tandem kayak rentals. A 10-foot single kayak costs $15 for one hour, $40 for two hours and $40 for three hours. Life jackets are included and there is a weight limit of 250 pounds for single kayaks and 500 pounds for tandem kayaks.

FEEL THE THRILL

Charlotte Motor Speedway

5555 Concord Parkway S., Concord 704.455.3223

charlottemotorspeedway.com/experiences/speedway-tours

North Carolina is no stranger to speedway action, and thanks to Charlotte Motor Speedway’s Feel the Thrill Speedway Tour ($15/person), you can experience it for yourself in a comfortable van ride offering the full-tilt force of the speedway’s 24-degree banking. Take the fun up a notch with a Fast Pass Tour ($50/vehicle), which puts you behind the wheel of your own vehicle.

HIKE TO THE FALLS

Linville Falls Visitor Center

Blue Ridge Parkway, Milepost 316.3

828.765.1045

blueridgeparkway.org/poi/linville-falls

You don’t need to go to Hawaii or Costa Rica for lush green landscapes or waterfall hikes. North Carolina’s got ’em—no reservations necessary. We saved this adventure for last because it’s a reminder that when you’ve got the ocean and mountains nearby, there are plenty of places to build a family-bonding adventure, free of charge. If you’re new to hiking, check out Linville Falls just southwest of Boone and Blowing Rock. From milepost 316, you’ll turn into the entrance and travel about 1.5 miles to the parking lot and visitor’s center. From there, you can choose the moderate 1.6 mile Erwins View Trail, or the strenuous Linville Gorge Trail. Believe the ratings for the courses—Linville Gorge Trail requires some steep hiking and high knees to climb up rocks. But no matter what route you choose, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, a sense of accomplishment and wonderful family memories.

Try It ALL

Choose your challenge at an adventure park The Triangle is home to a great variety of adventure parks that offer little bit of everything.

Fantasy Lake Adventure Park at 3601 Quarry Road in Wake Forest combines water adventures—from an inflatable water park and scuba diving, to kayaking and paddle boarding. Half-day and all-day passes are available for the water park.

Learn more at gofantasylake.com

Urban Air Adventure Park at 7810 Poyner Pond Circle in Raleigh combines 17 adventures for all ages under one roof. Discover a ropes course, drop zone, warrior course, tumble track, climbing walls, bumper cars and more.

Learn more at urbanair.com/north-carolina-raleigh.

OC Aerial in Durham at 3463 Coates Industrial Boulevard, Suite 200, offers a chance to navigate a ninja course, ropes course, zip line, warped wall, cargo net, top rope and boulders. Climb across monkey bars or a pegboard. You can even conquer your fears with a 22-foot belayed free fall off the Leap of Faith.

Learn more at oc-aerial.com

PHOTOS THIS PAGE, ABOVE: FANTASY LAKE BY BRIAN MULLINS; THIS PAGE, BELOW: PHOTO BY SETH K. HUGHES/GETTY IMAGES.

PHOTO OPPOSITE PAGE, LEFT: COURTESY OF BLUE HERON WHITEWATER; OPPOSITE PAGE, RIGHT: FANTASY LAKE BY BRIAN MULLINS.

Welcome to the Triangle!

We’re so happy you are here. As you settle into your new home, refer to this list of important websites to help you explore the area and all it has to offer.

Wake County Cities + Towns

City of Raleigh: raleighnc.gov

Town of Apex: apexnc.org

Town of Cary: carync.gov

Town of Clayton: townofclaytonnc.org

Town of Fuquay-Varina: fuquay-varina.org

Town of Garner: garnernc.gov

Town of Holly Springs: hollyspringsnc.org

Town of Knightdale: knightdalenc.gov

Town of Morrisville: townofmorrisville.org

Town of Wake Forest: wakeforestnc.gov

Town of Wendell: townofwendell.com

Town of Zebulon: townofzebulon.org

Wake County Public School System wcpss.net

Private Schools

North Carolina Department of Administration’s directory of nonpublic schools: ncadmin.nc.gov/divisions/non-public-education/private-schools/school-directory

YMCA of the Triangle ymcatriangle.org

Restaurants midtownmag.com/dine-draft + 5westmag.com/dine-draft

Hiking Trails

American Tobacco Trail: wake.gov/departments-government/ parks-recreation-open-space/all-parks-trails/american-tobacco-trail

Bolin Creek Trail: townofchapelhill.org/government/departments-services/ parks-and-recreation/greenways/bolin-creek-trail

Eno River State Park: ncparks.gov/state-parks/eno-river-state-park

Harris Lake County Park: wake.gov/departments-government/ parks-recreation-open-space/all-parks-trails/harris-lake-county-park

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve: carync.gov/recreation-enjoyment/ parks-greenways-environment/parks/stevens-nature-center-athemlock-bluffs-nature-preserve/trails-at-hemlock-bluffs

Historic Occoneechee Speedway Trail: visithillsboroughnc.com/ things-to-do/historic-occoneechee-speedway-trail/

Horton Grove Nature Preserve: triangleland.org/explore/ nature-preserves/horton-grove-nature-preserve

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area: ncparks.gov/state-parks/ jordan-lake-state-recreation-area

Little River Regional Park & Natural Area: orangecountync.gov/ facilities/facility/details/little-river-regional-park-natural-area-7

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area: ncparks.gov/state-parks/ occoneechee-mountain-state-natural-area

Neuse River Greenway Trail: raleighnc.gov/parks/places/ neuse-river-greenway-trail

North Carolina Museum of Art Park: ncartmuseum.org/visit/museum-park

White Pines Nature Preserve: triangleland.org/explore/nature-preserves/ white-pines-nature-preserve

William B. Umstead State Park: ncparks.gov/state-parks/ william-b-umstead-state-park

Fairs + Festivals midtownmag.com/north-carolina-festivals

Museums

CAM Raleigh: camraleigh.org

COR Museum: cityofraleighmuseum.org

Kidzu Children’s Museum: kidzuchildrensmuseum.org

Marbles Kids Museum: marbleskidsmuseum.org

Museum of Life and Science: lifeandscience.org

Nasher Museum of Art: nasher.duke.edu

North Carolina Museum of Art: ncartmuseum.org

North Carolina Museum of History: ncmuseumofhistory.org

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences: naturalsciences.org

North Carolina Railway Museum and New Hope Valley Railway: triangletrain.com

Malls + Shopping Centers

Crabtree Valley Mall: shopcrabtree.com

Fenton: fentonnc.com

North Hills: visitnorthhills.com

The Streets at Southpoint: streetsatsouthpoint.com

Village District: shopvillagedistrict.com

Movie Theaters

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Raleigh: drafthouse.com

Cinemark Raleigh Grande: cinemark.com

CMX CinéBistro at Waverly Place: cmxcinemas.com

Marbles IMAX: marbleskidsmuseum.org/imax

Marquee Cinemas (various locations): marqueecinemas.com

Paragon Theaters (Fenton and Parkside): paragontheaters.com

Regal (various locations): regalmovies.com

Rialto Theatre: Soon to reopen under new ownership

Pet Rescues

Wake County Animal Center: wake.gov/departments-government/animal-services

SPCA of Wake County: spcawake.org

Saving Grace Animals for Adoption: savinggracenc.org

Safe Haven for Cats: safehavenforcats.org

Midtown + 5 West Diamond Award Winners

midtownmag.com/2023-diamond-awards

5westmag.com/2023-diamond-awards

Thank You Partners

Thanks to the following advertisers for supporting our Newcomers Guide

Bardi Designs: bardidesigns.com

Blake Interiors: blakeinteriors.co

Buckthal Keyser Orthodontics: drjamesbuckthal.com

Fortier Gynecology: fortiergyn.com

Homestead Builders: homesteadbuilt.com

Kate Kenney of Compass: compass.com/agents/kate-kenney

Max Hugo Interior Design: maxhugointeriors.com

Merriment Realty: merrimentrealty.com

North State Bank: northstatebank.com

Olde Raleigh Real Estate: olderaleighrealestate.com

Prime Time Mobile Detailing: primetimemobiledetail.com

Welcome

Just like farm to table food, local banking has its perks. Our bankers are focused on people, not products or quotas. We want to know you. Small doesn’t mean sacri cing on digital access. We have robust on-the-go services, from account opening to ID protection tools. Make a local bank your bank.

Alicia B. Patient

Family

Erica DeLong

BY Melissa wistehuff | photos by brian mullins

When you think of the Triangle, majestic oaks, tall pines, Tobacco Road rivalries and Carolina barbecue may come to mind. But iconic personalities also enrich the region’s allure. With over two decades as the voice of G105’s morning and, more recently, afternoon commutes as host of “The Erica Show,” Erica DeLong ranks among Central North Carolina’s signature symbols, and is to local radio what the Carolina Hurricanes are to PNC Arena.

A Durham native who made the short jump to Raleigh in the early 2000s to attend what was then called Peace College (renamed William Peace University in 2011), Erica DeLong encountered an opportunity to intern for G105’s “Bob and the Showgram” morning program during her sophomore year. “I would wake up to go to work at the same time my friends were getting home from staying out all night,” she says. “I’d go do the show, then come back to classes.”

The rest, as they say, is history. The next year, she became an assistant producer for the program, and “I never looked back,” she says.

Although DeLong moved to different cities early in her career, Carolina called her home. From zany morning show antics, to a more relatable girl-next-door tone on “The Erica Show,” DeLong’s audiences have had a front-row seat for all of her major milestones.

A self-described “open book,” DeLong doesn’t mind sharing her life with her “extended family.”

From airing her path to love after meeting husband Ken—also known

as “Boston”—to welcoming their children, Easton (7) and Ella (4), and rescuing their dog, Lucy Lou, DeLong’s audience has lived through it all with her.

Nowadays, this active family stays busy with events, volunteering and “as much travel as possible.” We sat down with Erica and Ken to chat about their adventures with Easton and Ella, their travel dreams, and what it’s like to live in the spotlight.

How do you balance all that you do in life, with your careers, marriage and children?

Erica: That’s a tough one. Ken is such a hands-on dad, which makes all the difference. If I go out of town for an event, I fly home as soon as it’s over. I don’t stay for days like I used to. As much as I want to do everything, I’d wear myself out if I don’t balance. Plus, our babies are only little for a short amount of time, so quality time with them is my priority.

I’m working on saying “no” without feeling guilty. I’m such a people-pleaser, so it’s a challenge to tell someone that I can’t do something or go to an event, but I’m trying to

get better at choosing what I do more carefully. Our kids are entering the sports and activities stage, too, so our weekends will soon be made up of cheering them on with whatever they’re doing. I’m excited about that.

Ken: I think we do a good job at finding a work-life balance.

Erica: Don’t lie—we fail miserably! (Laughs.)

Ken: During the week, we work on time management, especially when it comes to Erica’s events. We always prioritize time with the kids and each other.

Erica: The kids and I are so blessed that he’s such an involved dad.

Social media is a big part of your job, Erica. Have you two discussed limits for what you share about your family life?

Erica: I’ve always loved sharing my life with listeners, because it really does feel like we know each other. Since people only hear me on the radio, social media helps fans see me instead of just hearing my voice. As of now, I’m fine with showing the kids on social, but I don’t share details like where we live or what school they go to.

‘Radio’s Sweetheart’ is an open book—and proud of it

on family, work, travel and adventure

Ken: I only have family and close friends on my social media, so it’s a little different for me.

Erica: I do think we’ll have to adjust what we do on social media as the kids grow up, but as of now, I feel comfortable sharing some of our lives. What is your favorite summer memory as a child, and do you try to recreate those memories for your children?

Erica: I grew up going to Atlantic Beach in the summers, and we love taking the kids there now. Phone service can sometimes be spotty, which is a good thing! Taking a boat over to Sand Dollar Island, or packing a lunch and spending the day at Cape Lookout and renting a side-by-side UTV makes a perfect day. That whole area is a special place for me.

Ken: I grew up in Boston, and we did a lot of camping with a travel trailer. We’d go to Maine every year and spend time at Sebago Lake. I love to travel with my own family now. We took an RV up to Sebago Lake in 2020, stopping to see my parents on the way. It was really fun to recreate that trip with my kids.

Describe your ideal day with family, without venturing far from home.

Erica: My ideal day would be to play with the kids at the Museum of Life and Science (in Durham). I went there growing up, and now it’s one of our favorite spots to take the kids. We even had Easton’s third birthday party there. We also love going to a Hurricanes game or to DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) to see a show. Our favorite restaurant is Angus Barn. Yes, even with the kids! They love the treasure box, kids’ goodies and ice cream with sprinkles. For a more casual vibe, we like MoJoe’s Burger Joint. It’s fun to sit outside in downtown Raleigh, watching people go by.

Ken: The kids are at great “park” ages, so we like to go to local parks. We like to grab lunch and head to a different park, trying new ones as much as possible. We all love riding bikes, so finding a greenway trail is fun, but even

Erica’s ideal family day is to “play with the kids at the Museum of Life and Science.“

Here, the DeLong family checks out the museum’s “Hideaway Woods” exhibit.

riding in the cul-de-sac is great, too. We tried Urban Air [Adventure Park] today, which has indoor skydiving and zip lining. The kids love adventure like we do, so we’re always looking for something fun and active to do.

Erica: We’re really lucky to live in the Triangle, where there are so many fun options!

What is your favorite day trip outside of the Triangle?

Erica: We love to take day trips! I love any place with water, whether it’s kayaking or hiking next to a waterfall. As long as I’m near water, I’m happy. Wherever we go, I use Roadside America, which is an app that shows random attractions on road trips. It’s fun to open the app and see what unique tourist trap we’re near, like the giant muffler man in Wilson, or the King Neptune statue in Morehead City. It adds a little extra fun to road trips.

Ken: We’re always up for an adventure, even if it’s just for the day or weekend.

Where is your dream, bucket list vacation?

Erica: When Easton was little, we traveled to eight countries. I strapped him to me in a carrier and we visited as many places as possible. Ella was a NICU baby, so she was sheltered more when she was a newborn. Then, the pandemic happened, so her first few years were different in almost every way, including travel.

Now that she’s older and the world has opened up more, I really want to start traveling again. So far, Iceland has been my favorite place. Our goal is to visit every continent. I’ve always wanted to go to Africa, but we’ll wait until the kids are older for that.

Ken: My favorite trip we’ve been on is Ireland, and I’d love to go back one day. I’d also like to explore more of Europe. There are so many great places there with so much history.

Erica: He always wants to go somewhere new, whereas I want to return to some of the great places we’ve been to.

Ken: One of the places I went to as a child was in Canada, called Bay of Fundy outside Nova Scotia. It’s the most beautiful place. I’ve always told Erica about it, so she very sweetly planned a trip for us to take Easton, but she planned it for the opposite side of Bay of Fundy.

Erica: That ended up being a good kind of oops!

Ken: It’s such a big place that it was actually nice exploring the other side. What are your favorite hobbies to do without the kids?

Erica: We prioritize date nights, even if it means getting a sitter and having Ken join me for a work-related event. I even brought him to Midtown’s Diamond Awards celebration! I like bringing him along as much as possible.

Ken: We’ve done dance classes, gone horseback riding and roller skating.

Erica: We hugged the wall a lot while roller skating!

Ken: Whatever adventure we can find, we’re generally up for it.

Can you describe your parenting style in three words?

Erica: I’d probably say loving, disciplined and understanding.

Ken: Gentle, hands-on and fun.

Erica: I’m the stern parent, whereas Ken’s the teddy bear. We’re both super loving, though. Even in the middle of a hard moment, we say “bring it in for a hug.”

Where do you see yourselves in 10 years?

Erica: Old as hell! (Laughs.)

Ken: In a 55 and older community. (More laughter.)

Erica: You’ll be there, not me!

Erica: In all seriousness, in 10 years, we’ll be enjoying our teenagers ... Shuffling around to activities and proms. In 20 years, we’ll hopefully be cruising around on a boat with a lake house. That’s definitely a dream.

ERICA’S INSIDE SCOOP

With 20 years in the entertainment business, Erica has met the most famous celebrities, walked the fanciest red carpets and enjoyed some posh perks along the way. We asked her to dish on her favorite moments.

Favorite celebrity you’ve interviewed: I’ve talked to so many cool people, but I really liked Steve Harvey. He is so personable and has endless words of wisdom.

Dream interview: Hands down, Oprah! I wanted to be her when I was young. I still do!

Biggest diva: I met Mariah Carey for an in‑studio interview, and she was the biggest diva! She complained about puffy eyes, so I held frozen peas on her eyes during the interview.

Favorite perk of the job: I’m thankful to have a job that happens to be so community focused. I love meeting listeners, as well as participating in charitable events. It’s important to me that I am involved in so many organizations that are meaningful to me. What are you listening to right now: I love all kinds of music, but I’m partial to ’90s rap. If I want to be in a good mood, I put on some Snoop Dogg. Right now, I’m also listening to the Bible on audio.

Favorite red carpet: I love the Country Music Awards. I think country artists are generally the most approachable and down to earth celebrities. Taking a selfie with Brad Pitt on the 2020 Academy Awards red carpet is hard to beat, though!

BLOCKBUSTER BACKDROPS

North Carolina sets the scene for Hollywood family fun

BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

The Tar Heel State has lured many Hollywood location scouts in search of the perfect setting for bringing their director’s vision to life. These North Carolina towns offer a glimpse of movie magic and opportunities for family fun. Go for the nostalgia, but stick around to discover what made them worthy of a highlight reel.

MOUNTAIN MAGIC

“Dirty Dancing” (PG-13)

Lake Lure

The fictional Kellerman’s resort is the real-life Lake Lure, where fans of this film can reenact favorite scenes from the 1987 classic.

“Forrest Gump” (PG-13)

Linville

Tom Hanks shot part of his famous running scene on what is now called Forrest Gump Curve on Grandfather Mountain (see page 64).

“The Fugitive” (PG-13)

Robbinsville

Harrison Ford leapt off the Cheoah Dam in an action scene for this flick, and the site of the train wreck during his character’s prison transport is located about an hour east of the dam.

“The Hunger Games” (PG-13)

Asheville, Black Mountain and Shelby

The first movie in the bestselling book trilogy was shot entirely in western North Carolina. The Henry River Mill Village—about an hour from Asheville and abandoned since the 1970s—came back to life as Katniss’ home of District 12, and DuPont State Recreational Forest was used for much of the games’ forested setting.

PHOTOS, OPPOSITE PAGE: Lake Lure by Jon Bilous - stock.adobe.com; THIS PAGE: Bald Head Island by Fotosearch/Getty Images

PIEDMONT PICTURES

“The Color Purple” (PG-13)

Lilesville, Marshville and Wadesboro

This award-winning movie was primarily shot in Anson and Union counties. Director Steven Spielberg approached a Lilesville homeowner in hopes of using his property for filming, perhaps due to its field of purple flowers growing in the yard.

“Leatherheads” (PG-13)

Salisbury and Spencer

The Historic Salisbury Foundation’s Depot and North Carolina Transportation Museum in Spencer serve as backdrops for this George Clooney gem.

“Days of Thunder” (PG-13)

Concord

Charlotte Motor Speedway is the setting for much of this blockbuster hit, and City Chevrolet—the sponsor for Tom Cruise’s character—is a real-life dealership owned by Rick Hendrick of Hendrick Motorsports. Hendrick also supplied race cars for the movie.

“Patch Adams” (PG-13)

Chapel Hill and Asheville

In the summer of 1988, UNC–Chapel Hill’s campus was transformed into Virginia Medical University for Patch Adams, starring Robin Williams.

“Shallow Hal” (PG-13)

Charlotte

This comedy starring Gwyneth Paltrow and Jack Black was shot in and around the Charlotte area, with notable scenes filmed in Freedom Park.

PHOTO OF LIN COVE VIADUCT BY PGIAM/GETTY IMAGES

PHOTO COURTESY OF CHARLOTTE MOTOR SPEEDWAY

The ‘Nicholas Sparks Effect’

An impressive 11 of North Carolina author Nicholas Sparks’ 21 bestselling novels have made it to the big screen, creating what is known as the “Nicholas Sparks Effect”—a tourism spike for the towns featured in his novels-turn-movies. These include:

“A Walk to Remember” (PG) – New Bern “Safe Haven” (PG-13) – Southport

“The Choice” (PG-13) – Wilmington

“The Longest Ride” (PG-13) – Wilmington

“Nights in Rodanthe” (PG-13) – Rodanthe

“Talladega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky Bobby” (PG-13)

Concord

Many of the scenes from this Will Farrell comedy were shot at Charlotte Motor Speedway, and Ricky Bobby’s home can be seen on the shores of Lake Norman.

COASTAL CLASSICS

“Iron Man 3” (PG-13)

Wilmington

Many of this movie’s action scenes, including the helicopter and parachute sequences, were recorded just off the coast of Oak Island. The penultimate dockside battle scene between Iron Man and Aldrich Killian was shot under the towering cranes at the Port of Wilmington.

FOR PARENTS’ EYES ONLY

These R-rated movies were also filmed in North Carolina:

“Bull Durham” (R)

Durham

“The Conjuring” (R)

Wilmington and Currie

“The Green Mile” (R)

Blowing Rock

“I Know What You Did Last Summer” (R)

Southport and Durham

“The Last of the Mohicans” (R)

Chimney Rock

“Sleeping with the Enemy” (R)

Wrightsville Beach

“Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” (R)

Sylva

“Muppets from Space” (G)

Wilmington

The exterior of the Muppet Boarding House is actually the Fennell-Crump House on North Seventh Street in Wilmington. Cape Doom, where Gonzo meets his alien family, was set at Fort Fisher State Recreation Area.

“Weekend at Bernie’s” (PG-13)

Wilmington

The Hamptons scenes were taped on Bald Head Island, and Bernie’s house was located at Fort Fisher. The ferry scenes were filmed on Wrightsville Beach. Old Baldy lighthouse takes center stage when one of the characters, Richard Parker, is temporarily blinded.

PHOTOS: Rodanthe beach home by APGOUGE/ WIRESTOCK CREATORS - stock.adobe.com; Durham Bulls Athletic Park by Brian Fleming Photography; Book cover courtesy of NicholasSparks.com

The Raleigh Astronomy Club offers stargazing opportunities around the triangle, including at the Willard Rooftop Lounge in Raleigh. Photo courtesy of Richard Barlow

BRAIN-BOOSTING ACTIVITES

to keep your child engaged over the summer

BY JANICE LEWINE

Summer is in full swing, which means plenty of sun and fun. While these lazy days offer endless playtime for kids, they can also usher in the phenomenon known as “summer slide,” which is a regression in academic proficiency that many students experience when school is not in session. Take advantage of these stimulating activities—many of which can be done at home or locally in the Triangle—that will engage your child’s mind and turn summer’s brain drain into a brain gain!

THIS PAGE: sunflowers at Dorothea Dix Park by Janice Lewine; OPPOSITE PAGE: Cameron Kinard plays checkers in Apex by MASH Photography.

1. Read. Reading is essential for kids to maintain their language and comprehension skills while school is out. Reading stimulates the brain, increases knowledge, reduces stress and teaches empathy. Whether it’s a picture book, novel, biography or book series, have your child read for at least 20 minutes a day. Find a good read at your local library or bookstore. (Be sure to check out our story about independent booksellers in the Triangle on page 40).

2. Take a StoryWalk. StoryWalks display laminated pages from a children’s book along a walking path. As you stroll, the story unfolds as you’re directed to the next page. StoryWalks often feature activity prompts to encourage movement and discovery. Visit the parks and recreation website for your city or town to find a StoryWalk near you.

3. Explore a local park. North Carolina boasts numerous parks and greenways for kids to explore while enjoying physical activity. Two new parks will open this summer in Apex and Raleigh that will expand young minds: Pleasant Park (apexnc.org/1163/pleasant-park), located at the intersection of I-540 and Old U.S. Highway 1 in Apex, fosters creative exploration in eight inclusive play villages and a water play facility inspired by fairy tales and folklore. North Carolina Freedom Park (ncfmp.nationbuilder.com), located at the corner of North Wilmington and East Lane

streets in downtown Raleigh, features wall inscriptions, walkways and structural elements that honor African American struggles and triumphs in pursuit of freedom and equality.

4. Stroll among the sunflowers. Sunflower fields serve as pollinator habitats for bees and other species. These large flowers make it easy to identify their integral parts and, once harvested and processed, sunflower seeds create biodiesel. Sunflowers generally peak in July in North Carolina. Raleigh boasts two large fields. One is within Dorothea Dix Park at 75 Hunt Drive (dixpark.org/sunflowers) and another is on the property of the North Carolina Museum of Art at 2110 Blue Ridge Road (ncartmuseum.org/series/city-of-sunflowers). Admission to both fields is free.

5. Go on a scavenger hunt. Whether it takes place indoors or outdoors, a scavenger hunt fosters problemsolving in a tangible way. Kids hone their concentration, attention and reasoning skills, and increase their identification abilities by finding items on a list. Plan your own scavenger hunt or take part in a professionally organized one, such as those offered by Triangle Treasure Hunt (triangletreasurehunt.com) or Wacky Walks (wackywalks.com/locations/raleigh-nc)

6. Discover a geocache. Take your child’s thrill of the hunt a step farther by geocaching. In this outdoor adventure participants use apps, such as Geocaching or Cachly, to locate cleverly hidden containers that contain small treasures such as keychains and small toys, and a logbook they can sign. Geocaching teaches kids how to navigate their surroundings, use technology to crack clues, work with others to find a cache and practice etiquette (if you take something from a cache, leave something of equal or greater value.)

7. Go birding. North Carolina is home to more than 475 wild bird species including songbirds, hawks, herons, owls and more. Watching birds as they forage for food, preen themselves and utter their distinctive sounds connects kids with nature and expands their identification skills. Learn to identify bird species using a field guide or app, and create a simple bird feeder using a pine cone covered in peanut butter and birdseed to attract them to your yard.

8. Stargaze. Observe stars, planets and constellations to increase your child’s knowledge of the night sky. Three of the season’s most prominent constellations in the Northern Hemisphere are Hercules, Cygnus and Lyra. Certain planets, depending on their orbit, are often visible with the naked eye. Three supermoons make their appearance July 3, August 1 and August 30. Even counting the twinkling stars is educational. Free celestial charts are available online.

9. Dig for treasure. Mining is a fun way for kids to uncover gems, minerals, fossils and shells of the earth. Identifying these geologic finds is an enlightening experience. Find treasure at Treasure Quest Mining (treasurequestmining.com) in Apex, Spring Haven Farm (springhaven.farm) in Chapel Hill, Blue Diamond Gemstone Panning (bluediamondgemz.com) in Cary and Xtreme Park Adventures (xtremeparkadventures.com) in Durham. Head west toward Charlotte to pan for gold at Reed Gold Mine, a former working mine in Midland (historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/reed-gold-mine) open for tours Tuesday–Saturday. Keep heading west and you’ll reach Gem Mountain in Spruce Pine (gemmountain.com), which offers flume mining and mining trips to two secluded mines.

10. Take an educational road trip. Museums, heritage sites and nature centers throughout North Carolina feature educational displays, historical interpretations, interactive exhibits and hands-on activities to discover the state’s history, art and natural environment. Learn more by visiting the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources website (ncdcr.gov/experiences/ museums-north-carolina) and the North Carolina Science Trail website(ncsciencetrail.org). Also, The North Carolina Museum of History, North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences and North Carolina Museum of Art have joined forces to offer a summer passport program. Take a trip to one of the museums through August 31 to get your passport stamped while exploring family-friendly activities.

11. Play a classic board game. Nostalgic games like Checkers, Pictionary, Scrabble, Boggle, Scattergories, Candy Land, Chutes and Ladders, Rummikub and Clue remain effective learning tools for children, who can hone their memory, reasoning and communication skills while having fun. Physical games like Charades and Twister can enhance gross motor, color recognition, observation and problem-solving skills.

12. Unleash your inner artist. Draw, sketch or paint. Experiment with colors and textures. Spark creativity using everyday objects like fabric, rocks, popsicle sticks and paper plates—and turn them into beautiful works of art.

13. Create a scrapbook or journal. Encourage kids to preserve their memories of special occasions, vacations and family members in a scrapbook, or express their feelings in a journal. These personalized books help nourish creativity and boost memory, organizational and writing skills. These keepsakes will be even more precious as the years go by.

14. Make a graphic novel, comic strip or storyboard. Kids can develop their artistic, writing and technology skills by creating a digital graphic novel, comic book or storyboard. StoryboardThat (storyboardthat.com) is a drag-and-drop creation platform for comic strips and storyboards. Smilebox’s Comic Strip Maker (smilebox.com/maker/comic-maker) enables kids to upload their own photos to create a comic strip they can print and share online. Pixton (pixton.com) is an interactive platform for creating comic book storyboards using avatars, backgrounds, text and themes.

PHOTO BY BRDSTOCK.ADOBE.COM

15. Grow a sensory garden. Tending to a small garden activates children’s senses, increases their planning and organizational skills, and develops their self-confidence as they care for living things. Choose colorful flowers like begonias, marigolds and zinnias; aromatic herbs like mint, basil and lemon verbena; and fuzzy plants, like chenille and lamb’s ear. Paint smooth stones to add more color and texture in the garden.

16. Discover the joy of cooking. Cooking is a life skill that builds reading, math, science and fine motor skills in kids, and increases their knowledge about nutrition and food safety. With adult supervision, young children can measure and mix ingredients, wash fruits and vegetables, crack an egg and learn to follow a recipe. Depending on their maturity level, older children can chop vegetables, juice fruits, boil items on a stove and bake foods in an oven.

17. Be an international pen pal. Practice letter-writing and language skills with a newfound friend across the globe. The joys of learning about another culture while sharing details about one’s own can be a rewarding experience. Find a pen pal through a trusted website, such as kidsforpeaceglobal.org/peacefulpenpals, epals.com or globalpenfriends.com.

18. Build financial literacy. Talk with your child about earning, saving and spending money. Teach your child how to count coins and bills, and consider age-appropriate chores they can do to earn money. Take your child shopping so he or she understands the cost of items and how money pays for them. Open a kid-friendly bank account and let your child deposit and withdraw money from it. Older children can learn about budgeting and how to divide their money among wants and needs; the advantages and disadvantages of debit and credit cards; and how mobile payment services such as Venmo, PayPal and Apple Pay work.

19. Keep skills sharp. Review notes and worksheets from the past school year, or practice reading and math on free websites like Khan Academy (khanacademy.org) or Math Playground (mathplayground.com).

20. Attend a summer camp or class. Kids gain independence, confidence and a lifetime of memories as they connect with others and learn new things at camp. If a particular subject area interests your child, check out the parks and recreation websites in your city or town that focus on visual arts, performing arts, music, sports and outdoor activities being offered at local community centers and cultural arts centers.

TIPS FOR ENCOURAGING READING

Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill Director of Institutional Equity Shaun Satterfield, who is also a former elementary school teacher, offers these suggestions to encourage reading. “Have your child read aloud, but audiobooks are reading, too! The key is to let them listen to something that is interesting to them. Have your child limit their screen time and listen to a book while they’re cleaning their room or packing for a trip. Some reluctant readers may enjoy nonfiction, especially on topics that pique their interest. Have them read the instructions and build that bookcase you've been meaning to put together. The trick is to be creative, like hiding the broccoli under a creamy layer of cheese!” she says.

PHOTO BY PIXEL-SHOT – STOCK.ADOBE.COM

Love Stories

BY DOLLY R. SICKLES

PHOTOS BY PEYTON SICKLES (unless otherwise noted)

Dolly Sickles writes romance novels under the pen name of Becky Moore

Iwas 35 when my first romance novel was published by a now-shuttered small e-book publisher in Canada. Close friends congratulated me with a healthy dose of sarcasm and sprinkling of side-eye. For one thing, romance. For another, e-books were new, and the small Canadian publisher was as believable as me telling them I’d had cocktails with the Sasquatch family across the street. But I took it in good stride because I was once like them: I sneered at the romance my mom read in the ’80s.

When I was a kid, Mom took me to the library every other Saturday. While I grabbed two or three forgettable books, she filled her canvas bag with a dozen or more romances. I didn’t get it.

Then I went to college and majored in English, and read my body weight (and yours) in “scholarly” literature that makes my eyeballs melt now if I pull one off the shelf. Yet she continued to read voraciously, and I didn’t get it.

I don’t think I read any books, really, for a good five years after graduation. I was working and starting a family, and I was over my college literary approach. So, I still didn’t get it.

And then the “Carolina Crusher” hit the Triangle in January 2000. I was stranded in the house with my husband, a one-year-old and 24 inches of snow. We were a week away from my mom’s birthday and I had three new romances wrapped up on the sideboard, ready for her party. I was desperate for something to do. So, after my long book hiatus, I unwrapped those books and read them all in two days.

And then, I got it.

I read for the sheer joy of reading. People with harrowing journeys and family tragedies, and hopes and fears like my own, had found happiness. It was cathartic.

The Genre

Romance is genre fiction that consists of multiple subgenres. There’s contemporary and romantic suspense (my two favorites to read and write), along with historical, paranormal, romance with spiritual elements, young adult and erotic. Romance readers are legendary in their pursuit of happiness and connecting with romance authors. They’re educated, well-read, white, Black, Hispanic, Asian American, straight, male, female, bisexual, pansexual, gay, lesbian and nonbinary.

Despite its large piece of the publishing pie—including its multimedia dominance in spring 2022 with “The Lost City” at the box office and “Bridgerton” on Netflix—romance as a literary industry continues to be overlooked. Entertainment Weekly posed an interesting observation: “One typical answer to this conundrum is sexism: Female-focused content is institutionally belittled and dismissed.” It’s a short-sighted assumption, because while most readers identify as female, it doesn’t take into consideration the fact modern romance readers and writers are no longer only represented by cishet women.

Romance Writers of America tells us the romance genre makes up 23% of the overall fiction market, and its readership is 82% female. In a December 2019 Glamour magazine article, novelist and Washington Post columnist Sarah MacLean is quoted as saying, “Whatever is going on in the world, and whatever is happening to women or marginalized people, is happening in the pages of romance novels, but with the promise that everything will be okay. That no matter how bad it gets, happily ever after will come.”

If you’re reading this essay, you are probably a romance reader. If you’re not, you can be! Every individual I listed

(and also those I didn’t) is represented in the industry as an author. Could the romance industry, and publishing in general, be more inclusive? Yes! Should you read or write romance in the meantime? Yes! But don’t just take my word for it.

The Authors

I reached out to five romance authors who live in the Raleigh/Cary/Pittsboro area to ask them why they write in this genre. My first conversation was with historical author Sabrina Jeffries. I met her 15 years ago when I was just getting started in the industry. A friend of my mom’s who knew I wanted to learn more about romance writing told me Sabrina’s family had lived on our street during the ’70s and ’80s.

“I love the warm familiarity of romance and the way it depicts intimacy in both an understated and graphical way; and the fact that it celebrates love of more than one kind—family, friends and romantic interests.”

— Sabrina Jeffries

Pictured above right, with fellow author Dolly Sickles.

Sabrina answered: “I love the warm familiarity of romance and the way it depicts intimacy in both an understated and graphical way; and the fact that it celebrates love of more than one kind— family, friends and romantic interests.”

Contemporary author Reese Ryan has been married for 34 years and admits that relationships are hard. “They’re imperfect, and sometimes messy,” she says. “But when you find someone who is both worth it and willing to do the work, it’s a beautiful thing. So I enjoy crafting stories about flawed characters who navigate finding love while dealing with family drama, career crises and coming to terms with their own messy pasts.”

“I write romance because I believe in love as the most powerful, transformative

force there is,” says contemporary author Kianna Alexander. “I write it because Black women are often told, implicitly or explicitly, that they aren't worthy of love. I write it to spite those who say I can’t. Romance is more than just ‘kissing books,’ but even if it weren’t, it would still be just as valid and I’d still happily pen my smooching tomes.”

Spicy contemporary author Sawyer Bennett transitioned to her life as an author from a busy career as a trial lawyer. She counts among her reasons for writing romance the fact that it’s a great unifier of women. “I also love coming up with a story that involves people having significant growth journeys to reach their happy ending,” she says.

For me, romance on the page and in real life means I look for the happy, hopeful possibilities. A happy, optimistic ending in the story is one of the genre’s two elements—along with a central love story. But I also apply that optimism to life in general. I think it’s a choice, to be happy and hopeful. And it’s pretty universal in our industry.

For Kerry Adrienne, who writes paranormal and LGBTQIA+ romance, “Romance is a quiet thoughtfulness,” she says. “It’s about paying attention to the small things, and an extra effort to make your partner smile, feel safe and laugh.”

Contemporary romance novelist Samantha Chase believes “romance is all about a feeling—feeling loved or making someone feel loved.”

The Research

I published four more contemporary romances with small publishers before an accident and traumatic brain injury sidelined me in 2012. In many ways, I’m back to square one, but the writing and researching experiences I’ve shared with other authors are universal.

For example, while conducting research for a Christmas novella, Sabrina got brave with a burning bowl of brandy for the Regency era-game, Snapdragon. “I wanted to use it in the story,” she says, laughing. “You put raisins in a bowl of

brandy, light it on fire, and then see who can eat the most alight raisins by plucking them out of the bowl and into their mouths! To my surprise, the fire wasn’t that hot, so it wasn’t as hard as I thought. Still, maneuvering a burning bowl of brandy with raisins was not how I thought I’d be spending my Saturday.”

We romance authors are often questioned, enthusiastically, if our research is firsthand. This can result in hysterical conversations. My husband strutted around for weeks after my latest romantic suspense novel was published in 2021, because some of our new friends were certain he was the inspiration for my hero. Reese says only “dudes” ask her if her stories are written from firsthand experiences. “It’s a question they would never ask a horror writer or mystery writer.”

I laughed when Samantha described her situation so similarly to mine, because the questions always sway toward our husbands, and whether they’re the inspiration for the hero’s, uh, prowess. “My husband has asked that I never put him in a book, and we’ve had to make that point abundantly clear to his family because some of them do read my books. He wants them to know that none of the sexy stuff is based on him.”

The Reviews

Dabney Grinnan of Chapel Hill is publisher of All About Romance, a review site at allaboutromance.com (originally created in 1996 by Laurie Gold). Since All About Romance’s creation, over 16,000 reviews have been written by countless reviewers. (I’m one of them.) Today, the site receives over 50,000 visits per month. “It is clear to me that if I lived in New York, the heart of publishing, I and AAR would be able to have closer relationships with publishers—but I’m not sure that would be a good thing,” Dabney says. “There is something uncompromised about choosing, reading and reviewing books because they sound excellent rather than because a marketing team has pitched them to you.”

The Reward

Any number of powerhouse romance authors, representing a wide range of genres, are dynamos and live right here in the Triangle. Sabrina writes historical romances and is a New York Times bestselling author of more than

“My husband has asked that I never put him in a book, and we’ve had to make that point abundantly clear to his family because some of them do read my books. He wants them to know that none of the sexy stuff is based on him.”

— Samantha Chase

50 books. Reese hosts “The Story Behind the Story,” a YouTube show during which fellow authors join her for interactive discussions with readers based on a variety of topics—from writing love scenes, to the need for more books with older characters, and writing historical fiction based on historical figures.

Samantha is a USA Today and New York Times bestselling author of 95 books. “The Christmas Cottage” is now a Hallmark movie. Sawyer is a USA Today, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. Her 100th book was published at the end of February. Kianna is an author and national speaker with over 40 titles across romance, women’s fiction and historical genres. Kerry is a USA Today bestselling author and Amazon No. 1 bestseller in gay romance and gay fiction, and counts among her honors a Rainbow Award Honorable Mention and EPIC Awards e-book finalist.

The Dream

I left full-time work a dozen years ago because, at the time—and before my traumatic brain injury—I had three romances and one children’s book published. I taught creative writing classes at Wake Technical Community College. I was a freelance journalist and a book reviewer. I still do all those things, and I still tell stories for a living, and I still love what I do. But as

Samantha sums it up, “writing is hard.”

Today’s authors are small business owners and experts in the industry. All six of us are hybrid authors, meaning we’re traditionally and self-published. Some of us self-published from the get-go. Some of us self-publish books that roll off contracts once the rights revert to us. Some of us are with big publishers. Some of us are with small “indie” publishers. Some of us publish in hardback. All of us publish in paperback and digitally; and all of us are experts in marketing, merchandising, editing and touring. We pay our taxes and must think about survivor rights for our works after we’re gone.

“Being an author was always my dream, but I had no idea [about] all the work that goes with it, whether you’re traditionally published or independent,” Samantha says.

“So, when people hear what you do and say things like ‘Oh, maybe I should write a book,’ it leads me to believe they think this is easy. It’s rewarding and can definitely be fun, but trust me, it’s exhausting—both mentally and physically. Still, I wouldn’t trade this career for anything. I know I’m blessed to have this success, and I’m thankful for it every day.”

NEW RELEASES

Check out the latest romance novels by the authors featured in this essay.

“Fae” by Kerry Adrienne, kerryadrienne.com

“Can’t Let Her Go” by Kianna Alexander, kiannaalexanderwrites.com

“Cannon” by Sawyer Bennett, sawyerbennett.com

“Tempt Me” by Samantha Chase, chasing-romance.com

“What Happens in the Ballroom” by Sabrina Jeffries, sabrinajeffries.com

“Mine By Design” by Becky Moore, beckymoore.net

“Return to Hummingbird Way” by Reese Ryan, reeseryan.com

WHAT ARE ROMANCE AUTHORS READING?

The authors featured in this essay are currently reading these books:

“Wellington’s Spies” by Mary McGrigor

“The Family You Make” by Jill Shalvis

“To Catch a Raven” by Beverly Jenkins

“Single and Ready to Jingle” by Piper Rayne

“The House at the End of the World” by Dean Koontz

“Oscar Wilde: A Life” by Matthew Sturgis

“Lady in Waiting” by Anne Glenconner

“What You Are Getting Wrong About Appalachia” by Elizabeth Catte

“Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano

“Reverb” by Julie Kriss

“Cruel Seduction” by Katee Robert

PHOTO COURTESY OF REESE RYAN

PHOTO COURTESY OF SAWYER BENNETT

“I love coming up with a story that involves people having significant growth journeys to reach their happy ending.”

— Sawyer Bennett

Reese Ryan says only “dudes” ask her if her stories are written from firsthand experiences.

“It’s a question they would never ask a horror writer or mystery writer.”

EDUCATION GUIDE

PREPARE FOR THE FUTURE

Explore this guide to learn more about the education resources available here in Wake County.

PHOTO BY IMAGE SOURCE/GETTY IMAGES

FORGING THE FUTURE AT IRON ACADEMY

Iron Academy is a 6th–12th-grade all-male school that believes Christian families deserve a school that encourages their sons’ faith.

With an emphasis on both superb academics and intentional, daily discipleship, we are devoted to partnering with families who are raising their sons to follow Jesus.

Our male-focused education style incorporates regular bursts of exercise throughout the day, so students can stay alert and engaged during their classes. And our targeted learning

methodology teaches critical-thinking skills while being tailored to how young men's brains work.

So much of the world is fighting against our young men and we’re here to fight for them, because God designed them for so much more.

We invite you to tour our campus in the heart of Raleigh, where your son will be loved, encouraged, inspired and forged to be all God created him to be.

PREPARE TO SOAR AT RAVENSCROFT

Ravens soar together in a learning environment that values community, collaboration and strong social bonds. By sharing their diverse individual experiences and then rising together, Ravenscroft students become creative thinkers, capable doers and thoughtful leaders—ready for the real world and eager to make it better.

There are no limits for learners at Ravenscroft. We combine rigorous academic programming with citizen leadership by learning to cultivate leadership skills that allow our students to soar. Our "Lead From Here" curriculum—a pioneering PreK–12 program developed in partnership with the Center for Creative Leadership—prepares students to thrive in a complex, interdependent world.

We'd love for you to experience our campus in person and invite you to join us for an on-campus tour. Or, if you prefer, you can enjoy a virtual tour from the comfort of your home by visiting our website. To learn more, contact us at 919.848.6470 or email us at admissions@ravenscroft.org.

• PreK–grade 12 (coed enrollment 2022—23 school year: 1,240)

• Over $3.5 million in tuition assistance awarded yearly (financial aid available)

• Eight areas in the greater Triangle area served by Ravenscroft buses

• Average class size: 15 students

• Tuition range: $12,510—$30,690 (2023—24 school year)

• 100% acceptance to colleges and universities

SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL EMPOWERS YOUNG WOMEN TO LEAD

At Saint Mary’s School, we challenge girls academically to be BOLD, to be INSPIRED, to be PREPARED and to become EXTRAORDINARY.

Never before has there been a moment when women’s education has been so important. We need to hear women’s voices as leaders, scientists, engineers, advocates, politicians … the list goes on. Research shows that in all-girl learning environments, young women are free to discover and use their voices, speak without interruption and feel empowered to become bold leaders.

Self-confidence is built through the occupation of leadership roles at all levels.

In our all-girls learning environment, we create a culture of achievement where no stereotypes about how girls excel—or what they like—exist.

We also champion girls’ educational needs as a group currently underrepresented in STEM majors and careers.

Since 1842, Saint Mary’s School has inspired girls to step outside their comfort zones, engage their minds, amplify their voices, and discover who they are and who they want to become. Our students graduate with stronger academic skills, demonstrate higher self-confidence in science, display higher levels of cultural competency, express stronger community involvement and exhibit increased political engagement. Explore Saint Mary’s School for your daughter today.

ST. TIMOTHY’S SCHOOL PREPARES STUDENTS FOR A LIFETIME OF LEARNING

At St. Timothy’s School, we believe the foundation for a life of integrity, service and purpose begins with smaller, everyday moments. We educate intentionally in each moment—a thought-provoking conversation in language arts, a first try at a new technique in art class or a hard-fought game on the athletic field. We cherish every opportunity for our students to demonstrate compassion, to solve problems with diligence and creativity, to learn through a lens of both faith and reason, and to build the confidence and skills that will prepare students for life's journey. Our St. Timothy’s community knows that every moment matters, because it all starts here.

“Since coming to St. Timothy’s School, my children have blossomed in their educational journey. The teachers keep learning fun, exciting and hands-on, so my children are intrigued and interested in what they learn. St. Timothy’s emphasizes being polite, courteous and respectful to others as well as being a kind, caring person. My children thrive in this environment, and we are so grateful for St. Timothy’s and all it offers.”

— Casey Hale, mother of a St. Timothy’s 7th-grader, 8th-grader and 2021 alumnus

TRINITY ACADEMY: SHAPING HEARTS AND MINDS TO LOVE THE TRUE, THE GOOD AND THE BEAUTIFUL

At Trinity Academy, we seek to glorify God through Christ-centered classical education. Knowing Christ as the One in whom “all things hold together” (Colossians 1:17) emboldens us to investigate history, literature, philosophy, science, theology and mathematics as potential expressions of worship that are as varied as they are unified. We joyfully pursue our mission to equip students to live with wisdom, excellence and purpose in the modern world by offering an education grounded in the Christian faith and the classical tradition.

Trinity Academy is a training ground where future researchers, government officials and business leaders are learning to integrate their thoughtful Christian worldview with their aspirations. Our community is unified

as we prepare young people to be lifelong learners who can evaluate life with precision, because they live with conviction. In partnership with parents, students, faculty and churches, we will deliver the very best education possible: a classical, Christ-centered education that highlights the true, the good and the beautiful.

CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY: THE PERFECT BALANCE OF LEARNING AND PLAY

Chesterbrook Academy Preschool in Raleigh provides the perfect balance of learning and play. Our proprietary curriculum, Links to Learning, prepares children for kindergarten and beyond by developing important academic, social, and emotional skills. Visit Raleigh.ChesterbrookAcademy.com to learn more or to schedule a private tour. 2215

THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF RALEIGH INSPIRES CURIOSITY AND DISCOVERY

The Montessori School of Raleigh (MSR) practices the Montessori method established by renowned educator Dr. Maria Montessori.

Serving children six weeks to grade 12, students begin by building foundational skills through a rich hands-on curriculum. In elementary grades, students build on that foundation and grow as independent and confident learners. A project-based approach has middle school students working collaboratively to explore more

advanced subject matter. In high school, students transition to the International Baccalaureate program, a rigorous, global-focused, collegepreparatory curriculum.

MSR inspires curiosity and discovery while providing children of all ages with the building blocks they need for every step of their journey.

WANT TO LEARN TO PLAY GOLF?

Operation 36 makes it happen, one putt at at time

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

Ryan Dailey was thinking ahead, even before his first child was born. The PGA teaching professional knew the golf course provided a good environment in which kids could build a healthy outlook on life, and the soon-to-be-dad wanted to put together something specific: a community where kids could come together and thrive.

“In the beginning, it was all about, how do I get five other kids his age to come out here so they can hang out and be outside, to be in an environment where people aren’t swearing, there are no drugs,” Dailey says. “It’s a good atmosphere for them to grow up in.”

Operation 36 is the result of a decade of fine-tuning his approach to teaching the game. Dailey began by putting together an after-school program in 2009 while he was a faculty member at Campbell University in Buies Creek. But retaining the kids year over year at Keith Hills Golf Course was difficult. Just learning the fundamentals did not hold the attention of his young golfers. They needed something else.

“It takes playing the golf course, getting them out there on a consistent basis, being able to hit different clubs, shooting certain scores,” he says. “When they make their first par ever, their first birdie, those experiences keep you hungry and excited.”

But pars and birdies don’t come easy on a standard golf course, so Dailey developed Operation 36. The trick was to teach the game on a much smaller scale, where measurable success can happen in a couple of weeks rather than a couple of years. Enjoying success on the course begins with a few easy steps.

Golfers play nine holes from just 25 yards away from the green. You have four shots to make a “par.” Once you shoot or break par for nine holes (36 or better), you move to 50 yards and try to repeat the achievement. With each successful round of par, golfers move back 50 yards until they are beginning each hole from 200 yards away. Then it’s back to the actual tee boxes, where there are five more steps. That’s 10 divisions in all, but only when a golfer is ready.

“To get someone to feel competent, you can do all of that from 25 yards away,” says Dailey, who has licensed his program to 730 courses in 15 countries. “The average score for the first time they play is a 48. They will usually beat 36 after four or five attempts. That can take them a month, two months.”

By allowing new players to test out the sport, it also eliminates some of the initial costs. At 25 yards, golfers need just a couple of clubs, which are provided by Operation 36.

“Instead of starting on the driving range, where you have to buy a $500 driver and get frustrated, just see if you like it,” Dailey says. “You can do it with your wife or your kids. It’s amazing how fun golf is at its most basic level.”

The Operation 36 program is offered at 12 courses around the Triangle, with locations in Raleigh, Durham, Cary and other communities. Classes meet twice a week. The first class is reserved for learning the basics of the game, while the second is an evening set aside to play the course under coach supervision.

“There’s going to come a point where they need to upgrade their skills. That’s what the classes are for,” Dailey says. “You’re going to think technically when you’re in class with the coach. But when you’re on the course, you need to problem-solve how to get the ball in the hole.”

Learn more about Operation 36 and its locations at operation36.golf .

Nightly Features

Nightly Features

Tuesday

Tuesday & Thursday: All Bottled Wine is Half

Wednesday:

Saturday:

Friday

BACKYARD TREASURES

STORY BY ANITA B. STONE

If rocks and colorful stones fascinate you, you’re in luck. North Carolina is blessed with a highly mineralized soil composition containing an abundance of colorful minerals, semiprecious stones and precious gems waiting to be found—sometimes in your own backyard. North Carolina is among the best rockhounding states in the country, where quality minerals aren’t hard to find—if you know where to look and what to look for.

Rockhounding is the recreational study and collection of rocks, gems, minerals and fossils from their natural environment. Crystals, gemstones, fossils and artifacts are there for anyone who

wants to search for them. They can be found lying in plain sight along roadsides, lurking in gravel pits and piles, resting in creeks or stream beds, and possibly in your backyard garden dirt. You need only take the time to explore.

THE MANY COLORS OF QUARTZ

Sometimes referred to as the most common mineral on earth, quartz is a plentiful backyard crystal that appears in many shapes and forms. Semiprecious varieties of quartz are used in lapidary projects, or simply put on shelves for display. Quartz can appear as a beautiful clear transparent crystal or include other minerals, which produces white,

grey, milky or pink coloring (pink quartz crystals are referred to as rose quartz). Quartz can also take the form of the beautiful purple crystal known as amethyst, which can also be found across the state.

Quartz compacted in soil is referred to as chalcedony, a term that encompasses flint, onyx, jasper, agate and chert. All of these chalcedony quartz crystals can be of gemstone quality and feature multiple colors and astounding beauty. Agate can appear black, brown, yellow, red, green or white, depending on its mineral inclusions. Jasper, an equally colorful and prized quartz material, will not allow light to

Find crystals, gemstones, fossils and more— if you know where to look

PHOTO BY MVH/GETTY IMAGES

penetrate its surface. These stones vary in color, are sometimes striped and are considered semiprecious gems.

Uncertain as to the validity of your quartz? Test its hardiness. If you’re unable to scratch your rock with a knife blade, it’s most likely some form of quartz. The value of any rock depends on its rarity, as well as current social demand. Value generally depends on the stone’s hardness, desirability and beauty.

Aside from quartz, North Carolina is home to many other fascinating rocks valued for their uniqueness, rarity, gem quality or history. Some, such as opals, pearls or fossils, are organic in origin, while others are composed of mineral combinations separate from quartz, such as rhyolite, staurolite, obsidian, garnets and mica. You can even find precious gems like emeralds, rubies and sapphires. Various mineral combinations within one rock can create beautiful stones, forming stunning additions to any rock collection.

ROCKHOUNDING TIPS

To start your search, travel no farther than your own backyard. Just ask Daniel Coleman, a rockhound veteran who is head of Emerald Hollow Mine in Hiddenite and digs in the dirt daily. “Rocks speak to me,” says Coleman, whose touring group, Digging with Daniel, helps rockhounds learn where and how to find crystals and gems in their backyards. “There might be treasure right under your feet. You have to know where to look.”

Coleman posts news about his group on Facebook (search for “Digging With Daniel”), as well as videos about how to recognize and hunt for gems and minerals. “It’s never-ending,” Coleman says. “Over the years I have found the equivalent of 30 tons of gems.”

Coleman suggests clues rockhounds can look for to spot where to dig for gems and minerals. “If you find mica, then it’s a good indication of the presence of quartz and gemstones,” he says. “Just keep digging.” But, he adds, if you rockhound on private property, be sure to “get permission from the owner before you bring your spade or shovel.”

Additional tips from Coleman and other local rockhounds include:

• Look for gems in nearby creeks and streams. Check the bottom silt and watch for flashes of color or light.

• Check road cuts and crumbling embankments where erosion is occurring.

• If you are safely—and legally—able to roam a construction site, they can also be good gem hunting locations.

• Invest in a good rockhounding book. Rockhounding often begins at home, whether in a backyard, hidden stream or eroding embankment. The excitement of finding your first gem or mineral ensures that once you begin the hunt, you will continue for many years to come.

GEM HUNTING SITES

These local and statewide mining sites and businesses offer guidance and a pretty good chance of discovering treasure.

Treasure Quest Mining, Apex treasurequestmining.com

Spring Haven Farm, Chapel Hill springhaven.farm

Blue Diamond Gemstone Panning, Cary bluediamondgemz.com

Anita Stone has been collecting rocks for more than 30 years. Additional sources for this story include the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, fellow rockhounders Stone is associated with and the following books:

• “The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Minerals, Rocks & Fossils of the World” by John Farndon and Steve Parker

“The Practical Geologist” by Dougal Dixon

“National Geographic Pocket Guide to Rocks and Minerals of North America” by Sarah Garlick

“National Audubon Society Field Guide to Fossils” by Ida Thompson.

Xtreme Park Adventures, Durham xtremeparkadventures.com

Emerald Hollow Mine, Hiddenite emeraldhollowmine.com

Reed Gold Mine, Midland historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/reed-gold-mine

Gem Mountain, Spruce Pine gemmountain.comw

Quartz compacted in soil is referred to as chalcedony. It can be of gemstone quality and feature multiple colors.

PHOTO BY URBAZON/GETTY IMAGES

DOCK TO DISH

STORY AND PHOTOS BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

North Carolina’s rich history of agriculture harvests more than just vegetables and tobacco. From the mountains to the Piedmont—and up and down the coast—aquaculture is forging its way to the top of the Tar Heel State’s list of best industry contenders.

Aquaculture—the process of growing and farming fish and aquatic plants—creates sustainable seafood in fresh or salt water, both in indoor and outdoor settings. North Carolina’s plentiful natural water resources make it possible for the aquatic farming industry to boom across the state.

Our main source of sustainable seafood farming comes from trout in the west, catfish in the central regions and oysters along the coast. According to North Carolina State University’s NC State Extension, which has an aquaculture division, the flourishing industry produced $56.5 billion in state revenue during 2019. With numbers like that, North Carolina is considered a big fish in the sustainable farming industry.

We visited two Crystal Coast aquaculture farms to see firsthand how it all works. Hint: It was shuck-ingly interesting!

OYSTERS CAROLINA

While oysters were once plentiful along the North Carolina coast, overharvesting them became problematic due to unsustainable practices that depleted oyster beds. Until the 1880s, small oyster gardens were manned by local fishermen.

By the end of the decade oysters were being harvested at an unprecedented rate, as large out-of-state dredgers sailed along our coastline, kicking off the “Oyster War” between North Carolina and Maryland. Today, local oyster farmers report that numbers have still not returned to what they were at the peak of the late 19th century—but with an uptick of interest in sustainable farming, they hope this will soon change.

Enter Oysters Carolina. Durham native Ryan Bethea heard the ocean calling in 2011. Bethea says he was immediately drawn to the world of oyster farming when he read a story in a local magazine about how the North Carolina coast is prime real estate for oysters, yet we have so few oyster farmers. “I love my home state, and I’ve always loved the water. Plus, oysters are delicious!” says the Oysters Carolina founder and owner. “I combined all three and dove right into the oyster world, learning as much as I could.”

Keeping oysters alive can be tricky, since factors such as weather and natural disasters fall outside of Bethea’s control—not to mention the intricate scientific details that affect the life and viability of an oyster. “Oysters are part of a delicate ecosystem,” he says. “They’re a keystone species, meaning that if they weren’t here, everything around it—the seagrass, the other sea life—would all be affected,” he explains.

Bethea leases water off the coast of Harkers Island, which is considered one of the saltiest waterways in the country. The salinity of the water there creates a naturally saltier oyster. Bethea takes pride in ensuring that all his oysters are harvested and delivered within 24 hours. “There is a big difference in the taste of an oyster that is fresh, versus one that has been out of the water for several days,” he says. Try out Bethea’s “fresh is best” theory yourself! All oysters served at Herons in Cary are delivered within 24 hours from Oysters Carolina. Learn more at oysterscarolina.com.

MARSHALLBERG FARM

According to a February 2020 report from Business Insider, China supplies one-third of the world’s caviar. Since Chinese caviar farms are significantly less regulated than U.S. caviar farms, much of this imported seafood is created in conditions lacking environmental, chemical and hormonal regulations. Marshallberg Farm set out to change this

How aquaculture along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast is making fresh seafood more attainable—and tastier—than ever

CLOCK WISE FROM TOP: Oysters Carolina owner Ryan Bethea explains the oyster harvesting process. Oysters pair well with spicy condiments such as hot sauce and cocktail sauce. To produce caviar, Marshallberg Farm must raise Osetra, a critically endangered Russian sturgeon.

by sustainably producing Osetra caviar in indoor facilities located in the western town of Lenoir, and just outside of Harkers Island in Marshallberg.

Marshallberg Farm is the only farm in the country that utilizes the state-ofthe-art recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) technology. Ranked a “Best Choice” for sustainability by the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, RAS works much like that of an aquarium and is the newest way to raise fish without negatively impacting the environment. “Our mission is to support sustainable aquaculture in America,” says owner Lianne Won-Reburn.

To produce caviar, Marshallberg Farm must raise Osetra, a critically endangered Russian sturgeon found in the Caspian Sea. By using RAS, Marshallberg Farm can recycle more than 95% of its water, as well as responsibly dispose of waste, instead of releasing it into the environment.

“By using a recirculating system, we are not at the mercy of outside pollutants and maintain full control of our water quality,” Won-Reburn says. “This system is more like a water treatment plant than a fish farm. We filter about 1 million gallons a day, giving us the highest filtration possible for our fish.”

In addition to serving as the primary source of caviar, sustainable aquaculture of sturgeon is considered the most important component of wild sturgeon conservation. Marshallberg Farm “walks the walk” by supporting other organizations committed to sustainable aquaculture. North Carolina State University’s Marine Aquaculture Research Center, for example, was founded in 2009 in part from a generous Marshallberg Farm donation.

Learn more about Marshallberg Farm and where to buy its caviar and other products at marshallbergfarm.com.

MEL’S MEALS

Midtown’s Social Media Manager Melissa Wistehuff spent a week being

BREAKFAST

wined and dined along the Crystal Coast. Here are her top picks for eateries to check out the next time your family visits the region. 1 2 3

The Village Market, Emerald Isle thevillagemarketofei.com

Try: Country-style ham, egg and cheese on a croissant.

Do: Shop for local artisan crafts while waiting for your food.

The Banks Grill, Morehead City facebook.com/thebanksgrill

Try: Biscuit and gravy.

Do: Share a “soon-to-be-famous” jumbo cinnamon roll.

LUNCH

Black Sheep, Beaufort blacksheepbeaufort.com

Try: Any of the brick oven pizzas.

Do: Catch the nearby Island Express Ferry from Beaufort to Shackleford Banks.

Surf’s Up Grill & Bar, Emerald Isle (photo 1) surfsupemeraldisle.com

Try: Cocktails—both shrimp and on the rocks.

Do: Walk out on the neighboring Bogue Inlet Pier.

DINNER

Moonrakers, Beaufort (photo 2) moonrakersbeaufort.com

Try: Baked shrimp with a cup of clam chowder.

Do: Sit on the rooftop and take in the view of Carrot Island.

Prime Bistro, Morehead City (photo 3)

eatprimebistro.com

Try: The seafood tower.

Do: Leave the kids with a sitter and make this a date night.

Laszlo Lukacsi (left) and Executive Chef Brian Jenzer (right) are committed to sharing a piece of Barcelona with Las Ramblas diners.

DEPARTMENTS CHEF’S TABLE

LAS RAMBLAS

Share a piece of Spain with friends

BY KATIE DIXON | PHOTOS BY ALISHA CLEVELAND

At Las Ramblas, one in a trio of new restaurants opened by the prolific Giorgios Hospitality Group this year, a new way of thinking is on the menu. Located in Raleigh’s North Hills, this Spanish tapas joint takes its name from a famous street in Barcelona. Las Ramblas emphasizes distinct aspects of Spanish culture, including social connection, taking the time to enjoy a meal at a slower pace and, most importantly, sharing dishes with friends.

AN INTENTIONALLY EVOLVING MENU

Sharing is the name of the game for Executive Chef Brian Jenzer and restaurant partner Laszlo Lukacsi, who are committed to offering guests all the things they discovered during a research trip to Barcelona last fall. Upon returning to Raleigh and opening Las Ramblas in January of this year, Jenzer and Lukacsi took great care to create an authentic experience, from small details—like the water service with lemon and lively décor—to their favorite jamón and chorizo imported directly from Spain. “We went [to Barcelona] with an open heart, an open mind, and brought back the best things to share with our guests,” Lukacsi says.

That’s not to say everything is transported directly from the streets of Spain. Jenzer, who is also executive chef at Rosewater Kitchen & Bar—another of Giorgios Hospitality Group’s Raleigh restaurants—also puts his personal flair into the menu, leading to specials that cross over between Spain and the American South. Take, for example, a recent dish he featured that drew inspiration from both regions: fried grouper cheeks with crème fraiche buttermilk ranch, trout roe and caviar.

“With Spanish tapas, because plates are smaller, we can use cuts we don’t

typically see—like cheeks, collar and tail portions,” Jenzer says. “In Spain, they utilize everything with their seafood.”

Taking that approach to preparation and combining it with Southern flavors results in “just small plates that we know our clientele will like,” Jenzer adds. Offerings at the restaurant change frequently and depend on the seasonality of produce he sources from local vendors, from heirloom tomatoes to Padrón peppers.

Lukacsi agrees on the importance of catering to diners’ tastes, while also helping them to experience and learn about something new. “The market probably won’t be familiar with everything on the menu, but we want people to know about this food,” he says. At the same time, “This

is always an evolving project. We will listen to the market, listen to our guests, and continue to make changes over time.”

SERVING A NEW GENERATION

Listening to the market was one of the reasons Las Ramblas came into existence. Headed by famed restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias, Giorgios Hospitality Group is behind restaurants offering cuisine from all over the world, from Durham’s French restaurant Vin Rouge, to Kipos Greek Taverna in Chapel Hill.

Not only did the partners at Giorgios Hospitality Group see a gap in the Raleigh market when it came to Spanish tapas, but they also wanted to add yet another feather in the company’s cap—this time a casual atmosphere that enabled diners to try

Las Ramblas’ lively decor represents some of the colors and interior features Lukacsi and Jenzer observed while in Spain.

lots of new things, rather than having to choose one large entrée.

“We wanted to bring new energy and do something that was approachable to the younger generation,” Lukacsi says. “Las Ramblas is a fun, vibrant concept that gives diners the opportunity to try more dishes.”

Las Ramblas’ menu emphasizes inclusivity and conscious eating. There are many vegetarian-friendly options on offer, and the small-plates style allows diners to enjoy a variety of food without getting too full. The menu was also created with flexibility in mind, as seen in menu items like the tuna tartare or the beef carpaccio that come by the individual unit, or the drink menu offering wines and sangrias in “single or social” options (a glass or carafe).

This structure is for everyone, from the solo business traveler to the large group that wants to try many different things. Open until 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Las Ramblas has also become a dining destination for those who might crave a light bite and drink later in the evening. The restaurant, which offers indoor and outdoor seating, can comfortably seat about 160.

In April, Las Ramblas also expanded to offer a Sunday brunch—still tapas-style, but combining components of the dinner menu with brunchy fare like tortilla Española—a Spanish-style omelet that is offered in various options like Manchego cheese or chorizo.

As Jenzer and Lukacsi continue to refine Las Ramblas, the research—and sharing of this research—will continue. They plan to take future trips to Spain, exploring regions like Madrid, Valencia and Seville.

“As we continue to learn about different styles of tapas and cuisines, we’ll continue to bring back the things we like most to share with our guests,” Jenzer says.

LAS RAMBLAS’ TORTILLA ESPAÑOLA

Ingredients

2� ounces of Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cooked 8 ounces of scrambled eggs (uncooked) 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme

Spanish olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Peel the potatoes and put them in cold, salted water. Bring them to a slow simmer and cook them whole. Once they are cooked, remove the potatoes from the water and let them cool on a tray. Don’t rinse them under cold water. Dice the cooked potatoes.

Coat a 7-inch nonstick pan with Spanish olive oil and put it on low heat. Add most of the thyme to the oil and cook it until fragrant. Next, add the uncooked scrambled eggs and diced potatoes.

To create the egg tortilla, put the pan in the oven for 7–8 minutes and cook the eggs until they are set, but not overcooked or dry. The cooked egg mixture should be bouncy and resemble a tortilla.

Flip the egg tortilla onto a large round plate and garnish it with sea salt and more fresh thyme. Cut it into wedges or serve it whole.

My mission is to guide my clients in finding a true and unique style that will help them feel self-confident and have a positive attitude. I strongly believe that to find your own style you need to embrace your personal journey and story. featured

This list represents the Raleigh restaurants that have advertised with us since the start of 2023. Looking for our comprehensive Dine & Draft directory? Check out midtownmag.com/dine-draft for a detailed foodie guide to Raleigh. Here’s a snapshot of what you’ll find.

BAZIL INDIAN CUISINE

6602 Glenwood Avenue 919.307.3034

bazilindiancuisine.com

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

832 Spring Forest Road 984.242.4600

2018 Clark Avenue 984.200.5455

capefearseafoodcompany.com

CATERING WORKS

2319 Laurelbrook Street

919.828.5932

cateringworks.com

GLENWOOD GRILL

2603-151 Glenwood Avenue 919.782.3102

glenwoodgrill.com

JUICEKEYS

5011 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite B

919.980.5443

8490 Honeycutt Road, Suite 102 919.710.1109

juicekeys.com

KANDY APPLES BY K

6320 Capital Boulevard, Suite 107 919.703.6683

kandyapplesbyk.com

MIDTOWN PHO

424 E. Six Forks Road, Suite 105 919.747.9899

midtownphoraleigh.com

NOFO @ THE PIG

2014 Fairview Road 919.821.1240 nofo.com

OLDE RALEIGH DISTILLERY

209 N. Arendell Avenue, Zebulon 919.208.0044

olderaleighdistillery.com

SALT & LIME CABO GRILL

6006 Falls of Neuse Road 919.872.2230

4800 Grove Barton Road 919.473.6066

saltandlimecabo.com

TAVERNA AGORA

326 Hillsborough Street 919.881.8333

tavernaagora.com

TIFF’S TREATS

421 Daniels Street 984.664.5990

cookiedelivery.com

VIDRIO

500 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 100 919.803.6033

vidrioraleigh.com

VINNIE’S STEAK HOUSE AND TAVERN 7440 Six Forks Road 919.847.7319

vinniessteakhouse.com

WINE & DESIGN

510 W. Martin Street, 3rd Floor 919.803.3343

wineanddesign.com

BLUEPER REEL

Edit Beer Co.

1911 Sego Court, Suite 101 Raleigh

Just in time for the heart of summer, you can enjoy Edit Beer Co.’s Blueper Reel, an Imperial Blueberry Ale residing at 7.5% ABV. This tart, yet refreshing beer is fruited with over 6 pounds per barrel of blueberry puree. The beer’s lovely purple hue with just a slight hint of berry tartness makes it a perfect summer sipper. Edit Beer Co. added ample amounts of biscuit malt and golden naked oats to level out the taste and give it a touch of sweetness, to contrast with the tart blueberries.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MIDTOWN PHO (LEFT) AND TAVERNA AGORA (RIGHT)

PHOTO BY DATHAN KAZSUK

1. FOX LIQUOR BAR

Fox Liquor Bar’s BFD—a maple-glazed fried chicken and waffle sandwich with bacon.

PHOTO BY LAUREN VIED ALLEN

3. THE PARLOR AT HEIGHTS HOUSE

The Parlor at Heights House’s Ionian Sea Cocktail.

PHOTO BY DATHAN KAZSUK

2. GYM TACOS

Gym Tacos’ shrimp taco with avocado cream and carnitas tacos on handmade corn tortillas.

PHOTO BY BETH SHUGG

4. THE BBQ LAB

The BBQ Lab’s homemade BBQ potato chips.

PHOTO BY KATIE SHUGG

News for Raleigh foodies compiled by the Midtown staff, with contributions from TriangleFoodGuy Sean Lennard, who blogs at trianglefoodblog.com

NEWS

After a nine-year run on South Street in downtown Raleigh, award-winning Boulted Bread has moved into a larger warehouse space just around the corner at 328 Dupont Circle in Boylan Heights. They opened at the new location on May 19. Sassool, a Lebanese/Mediterranean fast-casual restaurant with locations at 9650 Strickland Road in Raleigh and 1347 Kildaire Farm Road in Cary, is now hosting Sassool Senior Day every Monday from 4 p.m. to close. Guests ages 55 and older receive 15% off all in-store and phone orders. On Wednesday, the restaurant is now also offering half-price wine. Ashley Christensen sold her stake in BB’s Crispy Chicken in May. She developed the fast-casual restaurant with Raleigh-based MDO Holdings, which had been the brand’s majority owner and will now be the full owner.

NOW OPEN

Il Falò , a new wood-fired Italian-inspired kitchen, opened in May at the Westin RaleighDurham Airport hotel, located at 3931 Macaw Street in Brier Creek. Il Falò offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and drink menus. Cape Fear Seafood Company has opened a Wake Forest location at 3612 Roger’s Branch Road, Suite 112 . This is the Wilmington-based restaurant’s third Wake County location and sixth location overall. Prior to opening the new location, Cape Fear Seafood Company hosted four reservation-only charity events to raise funds for First Tee of the Triangle, The Joel Fund and the Trawick Pediatric Cardiology Research Fund at Duke Children’s Hospital & Health Center.

L a Terraza Mexican Restaurant has opened at 2217 Avent Ferry Road in the Mission Valley shopping center in the former El Cerro building. Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams has opened at 2014 Cameron Street in the Village District . Patrons can choose from creative combinations such as High Five Candy Bar, Middle West Whiskey & Pecans, Sweet Cream Biscuits & Peach Jam, and Goat Cheese With Red Cherries. E njoy more frozen delights at the new Raleigh Rolls location at 10750 Wakefield Commons Drive, Suite 105

REOPENED

Fox Liquor Bar , Ashley Christensen’s subterranean drinking den, which was named after her late father, has reopened at 237 S. Wilmington Street for the first time since the pandemic started. Customers can enjoy classic and contemporary cocktails, a zero-proof program and bar snacks. In May, the newly renovated Village Grill reopened at 8470 Honeycutt Road in Lafayette Village Wednesday–Sunday, 5–9 p.m. (open until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays), with lunch service on Wednesdays

COMING SOON

Wayback Burgers is coming to Wheat Field Shopping Center in Wake Forest. The restaurant will be located in the same building as Summer Moon Coffee and Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. Torchy’s Tacos and Cava are coming to the Grove 98 development on Highway 98, across from Wegmans in Wake Forest.

PHOTO BY DATHAN KAZSUK

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

PHOTO COURTESY OF RALEIGH ROLLS

PHOTO BY LAUREN VIED ALLEN

you head out, be sure to check

“SPIDERS: FEAR TO FASCINATION”

Through October 8

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

11 W. Jones Street, Raleigh

Get an up-close look at more than 48,000 known spider species and discover how this incredibly diverse group of animals has survived for 300 million years. View more than 250 real and preserved specimens, hold virtual spiders in your hand, test your fang agility and create your own animated arachnid. Discover how webs are produced and how spiders communicate, and see the world through spider vision. Purchase tickets for $10–$14 online. naturalsciences.org

ENOFEST

July 1 and 4, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. West Point on the Eno 5101 N. Roxboro Street, Durham EnoFest raises awareness and funds for land protection in the Eno River basin. Enjoy live music from over 60 bands, a juried craft show, food and crafts. Tickets are $25 for adults, $16 for kids ages 5–17 and free for ages 4 and younger. enofest.org

UNC HEALTH SUMMERFEST 2023

July 8 and 16, 8 p.m.

Koka Booth Amphitheatre

8003 Regency Parkway, Cary

SUMMER MOVIES AT THE NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART

Select nights through August 26, 8:30–11 p.m.

Park Theater, North Carolina Museum of Art

2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh

See some of the most well-known films to grace the silver screen in recent years outdoors at the North Carolina Museum of Art. Movies include “Grease” July 7, “Dirty Dancing” July 8, “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse” July 14, “The Banshees of Inisherin” July 22, “Slumdog Millionaire”

August 4, “Everything Everywhere All at Once” August 12, “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” August 17 and “In the Heights”

August 26. Tickets are free for museum members and $7 for nonmembers. ncartmuseum.org/series/outdoor-films

“ART OF THE BRICK”

Through August 31

Pleasant Park Promenade

6240 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh

Marvel at over one million LEGO bricks that have been transformed into more than 90 sculptures by artist Nathan Sawaya. View reimagined versions of famous masterpieces like Michelangelo’s “David,” Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” and Da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa,” as well as dozens of original sculptures. Tickets are $13.90 for children and $21.90 for adults.

theartofthebrickexpo.com/raleigh

MIDTOWN FARMERS MARKET

Saturdays through November 4, 8 a.m.–noon

4191 Main at North Hills Street, Raleigh

Enjoy a vibrant farmers market in Midtown that features locally farmed foods and unique programming for kids. midtownfarmers.com

Enjoy live music under the pines during Summerfest 2023 at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. On July 8, singer Camille Zamora performs tango classics with award-winning Argentine dancers. The Catalinas bring their energizing beach and soul music to the stage July 16. Lawn tickets for either show are $24.

ncsymphony.org/summerfest-2023

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: SUMMER TOUR ‘23

July 16, 8 p.m.

Carolina Theatre of Durham

309 W. Morgan Street, Durham

Known for her confessional lyrics and raspy, smoky vocals, Etheridge has remained one of America’s favorite female singer-songwriters for more than two decades. Hear her perform memorable originals “Ain’t It Heavy,” “I’m the Only One,” “Come to My Window” and others at the Carolina Theatre of Durham. carolinatheatre.org

Before

the websites for the events listed here to ensure they are still taking place.

“Spiders: Fear to Fascination” is on exhibit through October 8 at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES

Introducing

CONNECT. LEARN. GROW.

Emerging Midtown is a valuable professional development opportunity for younger professionals, executives and entrepreneurs in the Midtown community.

Participants will: Build strong connections, Develop critical professional elements, Gain unique access to influencers shaping our marketplace and our communities.

On June 8, 2023, we will launch this new program with a kick-off social at the Level7 Rooftop Bar at 5:30pm.

FIND OUT MORE

For program cost and session descriptions, please visit our Emerging Midtown webpage at: midtownraleighalliance.org/emerging

SUPER DUPER DUCK SPLASH

July 22, noon

WRAL Soccer Park

7700 Perry Creek Road, Raleigh

Adopt a yellow rubber duck for $5 and watch it race to the finish line for a chance to win cash and other prizes totaling more than $3,000. The 5th Annual Super Duper Duck Splash is sponsored by the Wakefield Rotary Club to benefit local youth nonprofit initiatives. duckrace.com/wakeforest

PAPERHAND PUPPET INTERVENTION

“WHERE OUR SPIRITS RESIDE”

August 4–September 17

123 S. Boundary Street, Chapel Hill

Creatures and characters of all shapes and sizes come alive in Paperhand Puppet Intervention’s annual pageant at the open-air Forest Theatre. The family-friendly shows take place Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 7 p.m. with a pre-show at 6:20 p.m., and also on Labor Day. Matinees take place September 10 and 17 at 3 p.m. with a 2:20 p.m. pre-show. Purchase tickets online. paperhand.org/summer-show

KIRBY DERBY: HOLIDAZED & CONFUSED

August 19, 3–8 p.m.

Harvey Hill at Dorothea Dix Park

Cranmer Drive, Raleigh

Celebrate your favorite holidays in costume at the 21st Kirby Derby as you cheer on kids racing their mini pinewood cars at 3:30 p.m., then watch adults compete in their soapbox cars at 5:30 p.m.—all for the Kirby Cup. A festive parade takes place at 4:30 p.m. (Registration is required to participate in the parade.) kdd.gmail.com

ART IN THE PARK PAINTING CLASS

August 26, 9:30–11:30 and 1:30–3:30 p.m.

E. Carroll Joyner Park

701 Harris Road, Wake Forest

Paint for fun while improving your artistic skills. Two sessions are offered: 9:30–11:30 a.m. for ages 6–11, and 1:30–3:30 p.m. for ages 12 and older. The cost is $15 for children and $25 for youth and adults. All materials are provided. Online registration is required. wakeforestnc.recdesk.com

PACKAPALOOZA

August 26, 2–10 p.m.

Hillsborough Street, Raleigh

Packapalooza is North Carolina State University’s all-day block party and street festival capping off Wolfpack Welcome Week at the start of the academic year. Celebrate in NCSU style with great music, activities throughout the day and entertainment for the whole family. packapalooza.ncsu.edu

FROM TOP TO BOTTOM: The Super Duper Duck Splash, Paperhand Puppet Intervention and Packapalooza at North Carolina State University.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SUPER DUPER DUCK SPLASH, PAPERHAND PUPPET INTERVENTION AND ROSS JOYNER/NCSU

SOUTHERN CHARM ALONG THE ALBEMARLE SOUND

Travel to Edenton and Elizabeth City to savor life in the slow lane

EDENTON

Founded in 1712, North Carolina’s beautifully preserved first Colonial capital was named for Royal Governor Charles Eden. Today, it boasts an extensive historic district with architectural styles spanning 250 years, including the 1767 Chowan County Courthouse National Historic Landmark and the restored 1886 Roanoke River Lighthouse, one of the last surviving screw pile lighthouses of its kind in the U.S.

Start your discovery at the Penelope Barker House Welcome Center, known as “Edenton’s Living Room” for its views of Edenton Bay, where you can learn about the town’s storied past. Hop aboard the Edenton trolley, which showcases the town’s historic homes, buildings and waterfront, or discover Edenton from the water by taking a relaxing bay cruise or paddling excursion.

Sample Southern fare at restaurants offering “catch of the day” options and farm-to-table vegetables grown in Chowan County, named for the Chowanoac Indians who occupied both banks of the present-day Chowan River in northeastern North Carolina

The Table at Inner Banks Inn, Waterman’s Grill, 309 Bistro and Spirits, and Edenton Bay Oyster Bar are just some of the town’s beloved eateries. Learn more at visitedenton.com

ELIZABETH CITY

Elizabeth City enjoys an ideal location on the Pasquotank River and Intracoastal Waterway that is frequented by sailors and landlubbers alike. Luring visitors for weekend jaunts and travelers to and from the Outer Banks and Virginia’s Hampton Roads area, Elizabeth City offers museums, historic sites, dining and entertainment that bring the region’s culture to life.

Mariner’s Wharf offers free dockage for 48 hours at one of 14 complimentary boat slips. Its neighboring park features a large greenspace that hosts the Summer Sounds Concert Series, Music on the Green and Mariners’ Wharf Film Festival. Live music flows from establishments like Ghost Harbor Brewing Company and Seven Sounds Brewing Company, while Water’s Edge Boutique, Bijoux Vibes and Lazzy Frog showcase trendy fashions.

Nature and history lovers can view the dark waters of the Dismal Swamp Canal, which begins in Elizabeth City and extends to Chesapeake, Virginia, to reflect on the defining moments that have happened along the waterway—from Native American tribes who hunted for fish and game, to freedom seekers who sought refuge in the 1800s. Albemarle Fishing Charters offers tours of the canal, where you can enjoy abundant wildlife along its shores Learn more at visitelizabethcity.com

COURTESY OF VISIONS OF AMERICA/JOE SOHM/GETTY IMAGES AND VISIT ELIZABETH CITY

The cannons and Penelope Barker House overlook the Albemarle Sound in Edenton.

Elizabeth City is located on the Pasquotank River.

Patrons hang out at Seven Sounds Brewing Company in Elizabeth City.

MARINA BOSETTI

GARDEN FANTASY, 2023 6 X 6 X 84 INCHES

SCULPTURED GARDEN DELIGHTS

Raleigh-based ceramic tile artist Marina Bosetti takes a painterly approach to clay. The painters, sculptors and drawing instruction she received while earning her bachelor’s in fine art from Pratt Institute in 1982 influenced her ceramic tile practice.

Bosetti creates custom tile pieces inspired by the client and his or her home, such as her recent tile sculpture, “Garden Fantasy,” which was installed in the garden of a New Jersey home; the client commissioned Bosetti to create it for her daughter as a thank-you gift for allowing her to move into a new suite in her home. Bosetti, who always incorporates personalized elements into commissioned work, added geraniums and other floral features from the client’s garden, along with a bird at the top of the sculpture to represent the client’s grandchildren, who will one day take flight. The sculpture consists of nine interlocking sections that are stacked so that the sculpture is not permanent. One day, this sculpture can be taken apart to move with the family.

Bosetti’s Boylan Heights studio is located at 1201 W. Lenoir Street in Raleigh, and is typically open 10 a.m.–5 p.m. View her work online at bosettiarttile.com and on Instagram @bosetti_art_tile.

“Ceramics are incredibly complicated, to the point where it is almost magical.”

– Marina Bosetti