Cary Living Magazine

On The Move - BUYING - SELLING - BUILDING

Spa Guide

Facing Facts

FASHION

SPRING

+ What’s App

2012

With That?

MARCH | APRIL 2012

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publisher

A NOTE FROM THE

© Jennifer Robertson Photography

Publisher/Par tner Gina Stephens Adver tising Sales Myra Gammon | Jill Futch Creative Director Travis Aptt

HERE’S TO A BIG, BOLD, COLORFUL

SPRING

I am very excited about this issue of Cary Living. We’ve

managed to stuff it full of great ideas for looking and feeling

Ar t Director Jennifer Casey Graphic Design Heath Hilliker Contributing Writers Christa Gala | April Schlanger | Illyse Lane | Jenni Hart Carter & Laura Dalton | Darcy Brennan-Haunte Elie Rossetti-Serraino | Nelsa Cox Photographers Gabriel Nelson | April Maness Photography Jennifer Robertson Photography

good this spring.

This issue should probably come with a warning label: “Bold Colors Can Lead to a Shopping Spree.” Check out Cary Living’s “Spring Fashion 2012” spread – it features the season’s best looks all available at local boutiques. Plus, make sure you bookmark “Spring’s 5 Must Haves” (p. 29) – it’s an easy guide to gather all the staple pieces you’ll need for the warmer months.

Car y Living 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.

Car y Living is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is considered intended for publication. Such material will become the property of the magazine and will be subject to editing. Material will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Car y Living will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.

And in “Facing Facts” (p. 42) we send four Cary Living readers to the spa for a little facial TLC and pampering.

We’re hoping you’ll find a new treatment or spa to try.

Plus, it is time to cast your ballot! On page 41 check out our Cary Living Diamond Awards ballot. We’ve made it easier this year to vote – just visit www.caryliving.com and click on the Diamond Awards banner and then pick your favorites. You can vote for every category or just one; each ballot is counted. The winners will be announced in our September/October 2012 issue.

We love hearing from you – please keep your ideas and comments coming.

Subscriptions 6 print issues (1 year) only $20 Available online via paypal •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

GINA PEARCE STEPHENS

4818 Six Forks Road, Suite 204 Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone 919.782.4710, Fax 919.782.4763 www.car yliving.com

Publisher/Partner Cary Living & Midtown 4818 Six Forks Road | Suite 204 | Raleigh, NC 27609 919-782-4710 | gina@caryliving.com

Printed on 100% Recycled Paper

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contents

MARCH | APRIL 2012

features

10 ON THE MOVE Local housing market shows encouraging signs of recovery.

19 CANDLESTICKS

Whether you are using a pair, three, five, or more this accessory will add just the right sparkle to your home.

22 SPRING FASHION 2012 Create your own masterpiece look this spring!

32 WHAT’S APP WITH THAT? Apps are everywhere. Could you build your own?

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42 FACING FACTS Are you bothered by those pesky little signs of aging? Find out what spa treatments help you get the face you want.

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departments 16 | CHEF MARIO 36 | WINE REVIEW 38 | CALENDAR OF EVENTS

NEW DRIVER IN THE FAMILY Teenagers behind the wheel can be a mixed blessing. Help keep them safe as they navigate this next stage of independence.

50 | FARM FRESH

58

72 | SIGHTINGS

EXPLORING NEW WAYS TO LEARN What does a single-gender education really mean?

56 | GARDENING 69 | NEXT ISSUE 70 | HEALTHY LIVING

63 PERSONALIZED AND PRETTY The personalization craze is in full swing.

See what’s in style and how to do it right.

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On On

Move THE

BY JENNI HART

The Oaks at Fallon Park

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Local Housing Market Shows Encouraging Signs of Recovery

If you’ve had a home on the market at some point in the past five years, you don’t need statistics to tell you it’s been a bumpy ride. Though relatively insulated compared to other markets, the Triangle has not been immune to the national trend of sluggish sales and deflated pricing. But many real estate agents and homebuilders are expressing guarded optimism, as the remainder of 2012 shows signs of at least a moderate rebound.

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Walker Design Build home in Sunset Oaks

“People have been sitting on the sidelines, wondering when is the right time to get in the market,” says Realtor Van Fletcher. “And for a number of different reasons, that time is now.” Fletcher points to the fact that in our area, while sales have been slow, we haven’t experienced the wild fluctuations that have impacted other markets across the country. So while some regions had inflated pricing ten years ago and dipped harder during the down times, the Raleigh area had a more tempered rise and fall, and is therefore better poised to make a healthy recovery.

Numbers from a variety of fronts back up these claims, as reported by the Triangle Multiple Listing Service (TMLS), which measures things like median and average sale prices, and a factor known as the Months Supply of Inventory (MSI). In the period spanning January 2011 to January 2012, the MSI was down over a third, to 5.9 months. Analysts consider an MSI of less than six months to be a “balanced market”, and most experts agree that inventory numbers are a reliable bellwether of the health of a local or regional real estate market.

“Interest rates seem to be holding steady, the market kind of had its correction, and most people feel we’re past the bottom and on the way back up,” Fletcher says. A Realtor/Broker with Allen Tate Real Estate, Fletcher believes oaks at fallon_ma.pdf

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these factors have contributed to the psychological shift local buyers are feeling that has them more confident about the coming year.

Whether you’re looking at building new or buying an existing home, the Triangle offers unparalleled potential for making a sound investment. We’ve always enjoyed a mild climate and affordable living compared to other areas of the country. The diversity of our workforce

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“

and our proximity to three renowned universities also factor into the allure of the area. “This isn’t a region where the downturn of a single industry is going to wipe out a significant segment of your workers. With Raleigh being the capital city, we have government employees; in RTP you have medicine and pharmaceuticals, you have technology, you have an overall jobs picture that is more resilient to economic fluctuations because it’s so diverse,” At The Oaks at Fallon Park, we had Fletcher adds. And this, he says, contributes to renewed optimism about the local housing market. a dip just as everyone else did. 2010 Other housing professionals and builders agree that the psychological factor is what will was not a great year. But in 2011 we continue to spur on the real estate revival. Randy Walker, of Walker Design Build, says buyers’ contripled our number of homes sold, and fidence is the number one factor leading them to seek out a custom-built home. “People have to have this year is already looking promising. confidence in the economy and in their jobs,” he says. “They have to have a certain comfort level that their investment is going to hold its value. I think – Joyce Watkins King, that’s why we’re seeing an increase in buyers lately.”

Marketing, The Oaks at Fallon Park Walker says today’s buyer is a much more judicious client. “This generation isn’t interested in buying for show. They’re buying for practicality,” he says. Walker’s typical client is looking for a little less square footage, more usable space, and smaller lot sizes than those of a decade ago. He and other builders we interviewed said many features

”

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JVI Development home in The Groves

have lost favor, especially among younger homebuyers. Soaring, twostory foyers and family room areas, and the once-beloved garden tub have given way to cozier spaces and larger, luxurious showers. Where do buyers draw the line? All the professionals we spoke to agree that high-end finishes and appliances are on the must-have list for buyers across the board. “Even in a more modest price range, buyers may opt for less square footage but they still want granite countertops and professional-grade appliances,” Walker says.

So where does that leave you if you’re ready to move and your house isn’t ready to see you go? Existing homes are always going to compete with new construction, so you have to be willing to do the necessary work to get your house ready for prime time.

Every seller has two goals: Selling their home quickly, and as close to the original asking price as possible. Your real estate agent shares those goals, which is why you should listen carefully to their suggestions for getting your house ready to go on the market. Because your home will have a lot of competition, you have to be objective about the product you’re offering potential buyers.

If you’re like a lot of people, you’ve been patiently riding out the fluctuating interest rates, wondering when the prices will hit rock bottom, and waiting for the right time to make a move. Many experts will tell you that time has come.

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Curb Appeal

FIRST IMPRESSIONS MATTER

Easy Fixes

• Power-wash the exterior to freshen up siding and brick • Trim bushes and overgrown vegetation • Plant colorful annuals, especially near walkways and entrances • Make obvious repairs to screens, replace burned-out bulbs in light fixtures • Stain the deck

Or Dig Deeper • Paint the exterior • Replace doors or windows if needed • Repair or replace the roof

Interior • Consider installing granite countertops and neutral tile to kitchens and baths • Update hardware (faucets, light fixtures, knobs, etc.) and ensure consistent finishes throughout the house • Paint to neutralize and update the color palette • Replace worn carpeting • Refinish hardwood flooring if distressed • Install hard window coverings like shades, shutters or blinds And because you can never have too much storage, consider installing custom closet systems to differentiate your home from the competition. This will help attract buyers who are also considering new construction homes.

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TEA FOR

two

(or Two Hundred!)

The key to entertaining is to keep it simple enough that you can handle it, yet eye-popping enough to look like you have had nothing to do with your life other than devote every moment of your time to what is about to be laid out before your guests. That can’t be too hard, can it? Just keep your garnish vibrant, your platters abundant and keep the spirits freely flowing!

Mango shrimp cocktail Ingredients 1 clove garlic, minced 2 tsp ginger, minced 1/2 lb shrimp, diced 1/4 cup lime juice 2 Tbsp sugar 1 cup red pepper, diced small 1 cup green pepper, diced small

2 Tbsp red onion, diced small 1 mango, diced 1 ripe avocado, diced 1/4 cup cilantro, minced 1 tsp jalapeno, minced 3 Tbsp olive oil Salt and pepper

Directions Sauté ginger and garlic in 1 Tbsp oil. Add shrimp and sauté for about 3 minutes or until shrimp are pink. Remove shrimp from pan, set aside to cool.

Place sauté pan back on heat and add lime juice and sugar. Reduce until only about 2 Tbsp of liquid is left and it is thick. Dice peppers, mango, avocado, onion, cilantro and jalapeno then add olive oil, salt and pepper, folding gently until mixed. Spoon into martini glasses then garnish with cilantro, lime and fried wonton wrappers. Enjoy! (Serves 8)

RECIPES BY CHEF MARIO COPY BY DARCY BRENNAN-HUANTE PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL MANESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Get bonus recipes for Lemon Poppy Seed Spring Rolls With Chicken and Truffled Tea Sandwiches online at:

caryliving.com

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Orange scones Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour 2 Tbsp and 2 tsp sugar 2 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt 1 tsp orange zest 1/2 cup butter or margarine, cut up 2/3 cup milk One large egg, separated

Directions Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl, stir together flour, 2 Tbsp of sugar, baking powder, salt and zest.

Use a pastry blender or two butter knives (used in scissor fashion) to cut butter into mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.

In a small cup, using a fork, mix milk and egg yolk together. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture.

Pour in milk mixture, and stir just until combined.

Transfer dough onto ungreased large cookie sheet. With floured hands, shape into 7 ½ inch round.

With a floured knife, cut round into eight wedges, but do not separate.

Brush wedges with whipped egg white and sprinkle remaining 2 tsp of sugar on top.

Bake for 22 to 25 minutes, until golden brown and just cooked through. Separate the scones and serve warm, or transfer to wire rack to cool. (Makes 8 scones) CARYLIVING.COM | 17

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candlesticks No other accessory lights up a room or creates a mood like candlesticks. Whether you are using a pair, three, five or more, this accessory will add just the right sparkle to your home. We asked several stores to share their favorite candlesticks we hope you find your favorite!

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Ivy Cottage Collections,

Sixpence Accents,

$54, $49 & $39

$85 each

Once you’ve chosen the right candlesticks, choosing the right type of candle will ensure you achieve the right look. Here are a few styles to consider‌ Many consider pillar candles to be the most popular type of candle. These are great for creating a relaxing ambiance around the bathtub, a romantic ambiance in the bedroom, or a pleasant ambiance in the living area.

Votive candles are little candles, but grouped together, they create a big effect. They fit in lanterns or ornamental candle holders, and must never be used without being secured because they are small and burn down rapidly.

Taper candles are used to provide some kind of smooth illumination at the dining room table. They fit traditional candlesticks, and they burn gently for a couple of hours.

Floral Accents & Interiors, $42.50 & $35.50

Aria Gifts & Home Accents, $35 each

Sixpence Accents, $24.95 each

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Floral Accents & Interiors, $36.50 each

Floating candles are a great approach for creating a beautiful attraction. The lovely look is created by flames reflecting over the water’s surface.

Jar candles are perfumed candles made out of high quality paraffin or soy.

These candles can really make a house smell superb.

Ivy Cottage Collections, $36, $34 & $32

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The retro element this summer is the 20s Art Deco meet “Roaring Twenties” and the flappers.

Jumpsuits for evening with bold jewelry.

This look could replace the party dress!

Digital abstract prints.

This is a trend that will continue for the next couple of seasons. Don’t be afraid to splurge on a dress, you will use it for a while.

Bold floral prints.

Think of the very chic French Limoges porcelain, hand painted flowers on white or black background.

Pretty pleats used everywhere.

The neckline, the sleeves and of course in skirts.

Things to look for to unleash your own fashion style:

This spring is about wearable art, a 3D print blouse, flowery dress or even unusual clothing structure. Like artists, we will be inspired by colors and trying different proportions.

Create your own masterpiece look this spring!

WEARABLE ART

2012

SPRING FASHION

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Tank, Jeans, Poncho, Earrings – Sophie & Mollies Boutique Bracelets, Ring (LH) – Charlotte’s Ring (RH) – Diamonds Direct Crabtree Shoes – Main & Taylor Shoes

By Elie Rossetti-Serraino Photography by Gabriel Nelson

The wardrobe is your paint palette and the world is your canvas!

The perfect bold colors: bright oranges and pinks, even combined in the same outfit.

The most important accessories will be big, bold, colorful enamels plus glass and semiprecious stone earrings and cat eyeglasses. The same color blocking in clothing will be strong in accessories.

Dress – gena chandler Earrings, Rings – Diamonds Direct Crabtree Bracelet (LH), Necklace – Charlotte’s Shoes, Purse – Main & Taylor Shoes

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Dress – Gigi’s Boutique Necklace, Earrings, Rings (LH) – Diamonds Direct Crabtree Bracelets (RH), Ring (RH) – Elaine Miller Collection Bangle Bracelet (LH) – Charlotte’s Purse – Le Feme Chateau

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Jeans, Top – Swagger Gifts & Style Necklace, Ring (LH) – Elaine Miller Collection Earrings, Watch – Charlotte’s Shoes – Main & Taylor Shoes

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Dress – Flaunt Boutique Necklaces – Elaine Miller Collection Earrings – The Purple Polka Dot Watch – Charlotte’s Monogram ring (RH) – Diamonds Direct Crabtree Rings (LH) (RH) – Elaine Miller Collection

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Dress, Bracelets (RH), Necklace – Charlotte’s iPhone Purses – Main & Taylor Shoes

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˜° in˛

5

MUST HAVES

LINK NECKLACES

SORBET BAGS

STATEMENT JEWELRY

HELLO TO BOWS, DECORATIONS AND COLOR BLOCKING

COLORFUL, OPTICAL RINGS

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Dress – The Purple Polka Dot Necklace, Earrings, Ring (RH) – Charlotte’s Link Bracelets (RH) – Elaine Miller Collection Bangle Bracelet (RH) – Sophie & Mollies Boutique Ring (LH) – Elaine Miller Collection Purses – Main & Taylor Shoes

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SPECIAL

THANKS Photography Gabriel Nelson www.gabrielnelson.com

Fashion Stylist, Trend Analyst & Photo Styling Elie Rossetti-Serraino www.eliephotostylist.com Wardrobe Supervisor Susann Hodges Photographer Assistant Nick Herman Set Building John Ferrell john@thepropguy.com Makeup Artist Fiquet Bailey Swain Luxe Beauty Boutique www.liveloveluxe.com Hair Styling Bethany Wish Lux Salon www.luxsalonspa.net Ashley Powell Von Kekel Salon Spa www.VonKekel.com

OUR RETAILERS Charlotte’s Flaunt Boutique Diamonds Direct Crabtree Elaine Miller Collection gena chandler Gigi's Boutique Le Feme Chateau Main & Taylor Shoes The Purple Polka Dot Sophie & Mollies Boutique Swagger Gifts & Style

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WHAT'S APP WITH THAT? Lately it seems you can’t read an article or watch the news without hearing about a kid making money from a smart phone “app” he or she created and launched.

Take Nick Landry, 13, an 8th grader at Cary Academy. His app, Answer iBall, has earned him about $2,000 to date and he’s learning lessons in economics and marketing to boot, thanks to his dad. Not a bad return on what started as an interest in video gaming.

But here’s the million dollar question: Can anyone make an app? Cary Living decided to find out.

BY CHRISTA GALA

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WHAT IS AN APP?

“App” stands for “application” and basically works a lot like user-installed software does on your computer, but an app is for a smart phone such as an iPhone or Droid. Many apps are games; others provide information, like recipes, or where to find the cheapest gas in your area or the closest restaurant or bank. Some are free and some cost a small amount.

Nick’s app falls into the gaming category. Answer iBall, which costs 99 cents from the iPhone app store, is similar to the Magic 8 Ball. In Nick’s high-tech version, you ask the iBall (dancing on the screen of your phone) a yes-or-no question, shake it, and it answers.

“It’s one of those things that you think of when you’re going through ideas,” Nick says “I don’t remember exactly how I came up with it, but I stuck to it and it turned out really well.”

Nick built the app with help from his dad, computer programmer Ken Landry.

“He was playing a lot of Xbox and he would build these little worlds and his friends would come and play,” says Landry, who then introduced Nick to Dark BASIC computer programming, a beginner’s guide to learning code and building games. “He loved it; he would spend hours programming it. He built a zombie game Nick Landry and it just went from there.”

CAN ANYONE MAKE AN APP?

So, is making an app like blogging? Can anyone do it?

Technically, yes, but it’s not like blogging where you can sit down and have a finished product in an hour.

“With the advent of these smart phones and apps, it’s the perfect world for anyone with the expertise to do it,” says Landry. “It’s not so complex that he (Nick) can’t put it out there without a full testing team. It’s small enough to be able to do on your own.” In fact, Nick’s formed his own company, TechNick.

That said, it’s easy to get bogged down in some of the code, not to mention maneuvering around the smart phone company’s development and legal guidelines. Our sources say a Droid app is easier to design and launch than an iPhone app.

If you’re a complete beginner, Landry suggests learning either through books, courses or development environments designed to help beginners.

“The development environments are limited but they are out there. They allow people who are creative but don’t know the language to put together at a high level how they want an app to work without writing any code, but it’s limited and hard to do. You almost have to have some form of programming.”

But it could be worth teaching yourself. “With Nick, when it came to iPhone programming, I got him a couple books, and a lot of them are stepby-step that take you through and let you build three or four apps along the way,” Landry continues. “They were really good for him. He could sit down, walk through it, do it on the computer, and the end result was an app that he’d built.”

TECHNOLOGY MAKES ITS WAY INTO SCHOOL CURRICULUM

Regardless of how you feel about smart phones, video games or apps, the numbers don’t lie. In the past year, consumers downloaded more than 17 billion apps to their mobile phones and computer tablets, and that number is only expected to increase. It’s a growing industry in an economy full of declining industries.

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More than ten years ago, Apex High School had an inkling things might continue to percolate in the technology industry, and the principal attended a National Academy Foundation (NAF) conference hoping to start an Academy of Information Technology at Apex. It was a worthwhile trip. The first class of freshmen started in the fall of 2001.

This year, through NAF and Lenovo (the latter headquartered in Morrisville), Apex High School will offer an Android Application Development Self-Guided Course, a free 12-week afterschool course that will teach students how to design and market mobile applications. Apex High School is one of just five in the test market, joining schools from New York, Los Angeles, Connecticut and Texas. Teachers will act as advisors, but the bulk of the class will be online through Carnegie Mellon University.

“The feedback from students, parents and the community has been great,” says Julie Oster, director of the Academy of Information Technology at Apex High School. “I’ve discovered this is an area of great interest for so many students. We hope to turn this into a course in the future so more students can participate.”

Students have varying degrees of experience. “Some have already done some app development by ninth grade, while some only know the basics of the Internet and Microsoft Office,” says Oster.

There are two pathways in the Academy of Information Technology curriculum. One focuses on programming and information technology, and the other includes multimedia design, audio and video editing and web design with HTML and Dreamweaver.

Students can take courses from both paths or choose one.

LeeAnn Moffitt, 17 and a junior, decided to enroll in the course. “I would love to create a doctor app or some type of

medical help app in the future,” Moffitt says. “The app could show you virtually what to do if you were in an emergency and the person needed medical help right away.”

“Even though I haven’t started to form an application yet, I feel a potential roadblock could be in not understanding a higher level of coding,” she continues. “Or making a mistake over and over that keeps the application from working. Other than that, I feel my programming teachers and courses – Visual Basic, C++ and, now, SAS – have helped me to better prepare for creating new apps.”

APPS IN

David Maydew and Ian Henry are two more examples of kids who turned their hobby of playing video PROGRESS games into cash – to the tune of $8,000. Henry’s got a 1988 Toyota Supra to show for it. Maydew put his portion in the bank.

Maydew, 16, and Henry, 17, are both juniors at Cary Academy and last fall launched a popular Droid app, Black Ops Intel. The 99-cent app is designed to teach gamers how to enhance their skills in the popular video game Call of Duty.

“We were avid Call of Duty players ourselves,” says Henry.

“There were other similar apps on the market, but we thought we could make a better one.”

Henry wrote most of the code, and Maydew does the graphic design for Black Ops Intel, as well as other apps the two are working on. One is an app for a game called Battlefield 3; another will great harvest_ma.pdf 1 1/13/12 9:25 feature gaming trivia questions. Yet another will allow gamers to

AM

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Top image: David Maydew.

Bottom image: Ian Henry.

submit strategy videos. “We’ve got social networking pages – Twitter and Facebook – hooked up to our company and people will submit their videos so they’re showcased on these apps,” says Maydew.

Maydew and Henry have formed their own companies: Idealistic Technologies and 50 Caliber. “I feel like this is what I’m going to do when I grow up, become a businessman,” says Maydew. “I’ve just started the college search process. Out of this I’ve learned computer science, but also the idea of running a business.”

Henry and Maydew have had to figure out what people are willing to pay for since many gaming apps are free. “It’s lots of hours talking on the phone to each other,” Maydew says.

Henry’s had to learn how to take criticism.

“The reviews are very interesting,” he says. “I think that’s really the most interesting part of the entire process – learning to deal with complaints and being able to accept criticism. Since I wrote the program, I take insults to the program very seriously and very personally. It was interesting to resolve issues with people I’ve never met before, sometimes even from different countries.”

Henry hopes to make a career of writing code and plans to study computer science when he graduates.

GOOD ADVICE

Maydew and Henry have some parting advice for teens – or anyone – who wants to experiment with making a mobile phone application.

“I would say make sure the program is something you’re really interested in. That’s the difference between making it a homework assignment for school and being a passion you’re willing to stay up late at night for,” says Maydew.

And be willing to invest a lot of time, says Henry, noting he and Maydew have spent months improving Black Ops Intel, which took many months before that to design. “Since version 1.0, we’ve probably put tenfold that amount of time into improving it,” says Henry. “We’re always adding features; we’ve found out you’re really never done.”

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| wine review

Fashionable Great reds and whites to share this spring.

2010 GROVE WINERY, TEMPRANILLO

2010 DOMINIO, STILL LIFE VIOGNIER

North Carolina

Oregon

$12.99

If you are all about locally sourced or recycled, then you will enjoy a jelly jar of this locally grown Tempranillo. It is packed with ripe fruit, spice and soft wood tones.

$24

This wine has aromas of sliced peaches, Meyer lemon, fragrant wildflowers and cinnamon. Bring this wine to your next gathering and guests will oooh and ahhh over your impeccable taste.

BY APRIL SCHLANGER, OWNER, SIP…A WINE STORE

WINES

2009 CHATEAU HAUTMONPLAISIR, CAHORS France

$18.99

Cahors is the ancestral home of the Malbec grape and this one will not disappoint. An immense wine with succulent, spicy plum and prune fruit, wrapped in round tannins and long with its iron-infused terrior.

2010 TIAMO, PINOT GRIGIO

2008 MOFFITT VINEYARDS, SCREENPLAY

Italy

California

Oregon

$12.99

$48

$13.50

Pleasant and refreshing with citrus and herbal tones. Your girlfriends will gush at how young it will make them feel.

This wine will make you feel like a movie star. Aromas of rich black fruit aromas, chocolate, vanilla, oak and a nice floral edge.

2010 MONTINORE, BOREALIS, WHITE BLEND

The inspiration for this wine grew out of the wine-maker’s love of wines like Albariño from Spain and Torrontes from Argentina, wines with pronounced aromatics and great fruit flavor but a dry finish.

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SALEM STREET greenpea baby_nd.pdf

9/28/11

EXCEED YOUR STYLE EXPECTATIONS AND FLAUNT YOUR FASHION SELF.

L O C AT E D I N H I S T O R I C DOWNTOWN APEX

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NDI

F L AUNT BOUTIQUE

120 N. Salem St., Historic Downtown Apex 919-335-6500

www.flauntbtq.com

Look for Flaunt Boutique on facebook for the latest instore styles UTTERMOST

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calendar

OF EVENTS

MARCH | APRIL 2012

CARY GALLERY OF ARTISTS – ANN HOWE & EMILY LEES February 24-March 27 | Cary Gallery of Artists | 200 Academy Street | Cary www.carygalleryofartists.org SMALL TREASURES JURIED SHOW February 29-March 28 | Cary Gallery of Artists | 200 Academy Street | Cary www.carygalleryofartists.org

APPLAUSE! PRESENTS ARGONUTS March 2-3, 7:30pm | March 4, 2pm Cary Arts Center | 101 Dry Avenue | Cary www.townofcary.org PAINTING WITH PATRICIA PITTMAN March 5, 12, 19, 26 | 1:30-4pm Chambers Arts | 200 S. Academy Street Suite 130 | Cary | www.chambersarts.com WATER SOLUBLE OILS March 7, 14, 21 | 10am - 12pm | The Nature of Art | 870 Sunrise Drive | Garner www.TheNatureOfArtFrameShop.com VIENNA BOYS’ CHOIR March 8 | 7:30pm | Cary Arts Center 101 Dry Avenue | Cary | www.wsk.at FUN WITH WATERCOLOR! March 8, 15, 22, 29 & April 5 | 7-9pm Chambers Arts | 200 South Academy Street | Suite 130 | Cary www.amyhautman.com KIDS – TWEENS – TEENS BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT SALE March 8, Preview Sale | March 9-10, Public Sale | Waverly Place Shopping Center 302 Colonades Way | Suite 201, Cary www.UpscaleResale4Kids.com 2012 RALEIGH BRIDES’ BALL March 9 | 8pm | Raleigh Marriott City Center | 500 Fayetteville Street Raleigh | http://raleighbridesball2012.org

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LULA KATE TRUNK SHOW March 9 & 10 | Raleigh Bella Bridesmaid 2425 Kildaire Farm Road | Suite 305 Cary | www.bellabridesmaid.com

KITE FESTIVAL March 10 | 1pm | Fred G. Bond Metro Park | Multipurpose Field | 801 High House Road | Cary | www.townofcary.org CHICKEN TALK WITH BEV GELVIN March 10 | 11am | The Garden Hut 1004 Old Honeycutt Road | Fuquay-Varina 919-552-0590 | www.nelsasgardenhut.com 3RD ANNUAL DIG IN March 10 | 8:30am-12pm Marbles Kids Museum | Raleigh www.advocatesforhealthinaction.org DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME BEGINS March 11 CHINESE BRUSH PAINTING March 11 | 11am-4pm | The Nature of Art 870 Sunrise Drive | Garner www.TheNatureOfArtFrameShop.com

FATE PRESENTS STAND-UP TRAGEDY March 16-17, 23-24 & 29-31 | 8pm FATE’s Perfomance Space | Harrison Pointe Shopping Center | Cary www.FATE4.us SAINT PATRICK’S DAY March 17 ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARTY March 17 | 12-5pm | Beautimous Beads 107 West Chatham Street | Cary www.beautimousbeads.com LAUGH AND WINE March 17 | 7:30-9:30pm | Chambers Arts 200 S. Academy Street | Suite 130 | Cary www.chambersarts.com THE SEASONS March 17, 7pm | March 18, 3pm Cary Arts Center | 101 Dry Avenue | Cary http://philharmonic-association.org SEPARATION AND DIVORCE SEMINAR March 20 & April 17 | 6:30pm | Smith Debnam | 4601 Six Forks Road | Suite 400 Raleigh | http://familylaw-nc.com

WBON – CHARITY FASHION SHOW March 14 | 11:30am – 1:30pm Prestonwood Country Club | Cary www.womenbusinessassociation.com

SPRING OPEN HOUSE March 21-24 | Floral Accents & Interiors 220 W. Chatham Street | Cary www.floralaccentsandinteriors.com

CITIZEN DIPLOMACY SUMMIT March 15 | 5pm | Cary Arts Center 101 Dry Avenue | Cary www.sistercitiesofcary.org

ANNUAL HEALTH FAIR (AGES 55+) March 22 | 9:30am-1pm | Cary Senior Center | 120 Maury O’Dell Place | Cary www.townofcary.org

CARY CUP TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP March 15-18 | 1pm | Bond Park Community Center | 150 Metro Park Drive Cary | www.townofcary.org

SPRING GALA March 23, 7pm | March 24, 2 & 7pm Cary Arts Center | 101 Dry Avenue | Cary www.caryballetconservatory.com

ST. BALDRICK’S SHAVE-A-THON March 16 | 4:30-8pm | J & F Gemelli Hair Salon | Stone Creek Village | Cary www.stbaldricks.org/events/jfgemelli

MAMIE & JAMES TRUNK SHOW March 23 & 24 | Raleigh Bella Bridesmaid 2425 Kildaire Farm Road | Suite 305 Cary | www.bellabridesmaid.com

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CARY GALLERY OF ARTISTS – WENDY MUSSER, CONNIE BELTON & DIANE STARBLING March 24-April 24 | Cary Gallery of Artists | 200 Academy Street | Cary www.carygalleryofartists.org WHEELS ON ACADEMY March 24 | 9am-5pm | Downtown Cary www.townofcary.org SPRING FLING March 24 | 12-5pm | Hope Chapel Church | 6175 Old Jenks Road | Apex 919-303-4673 | www.springflingapex.com RAPUNZEL March 25 | 3pm | Cary Arts Center | 101 Dry Avenue | Cary | www.ctcharlotte.org PRESERVATION SPEAKER SERIES: “WHERE DID I COME FROM? A GENEALOGY PRIMER” March 27 | 7:30pm | Page Walker Arts & History Center | 119 Ambassador Loop Cary | www.friendsofpagewalker.org BRAINS AND BODIES WORKSHOP – FOR SALE: HEALTHY FUNDRAISERS, CONCESSIONS & SCHOOL STORES March 29 | 10am-12pm Bond Park Community Center | Cary www.AdvocatesForHealthInAction.org EASTER CANDY HOP March 31 | 4-8pm Downtown Fuquay-Varina www.fuquay-varinadowntown.com

BREAKFAST WITH THE BUNNY March 31 | 8:30-9:30am | Fred G. Bond Metro Park | Kiwanis Shelter | 801 High House Road | Cary | www.townofcary.org EASTER EGG HUNT (TIMES VARY) March 31 | Fred G. Bond Metro Park 801 High House Road | Cary www.townofcary.org 4TH ANNUAL ALTAR EGO EVENT March 31 | 6-11pm | The Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club | Durham Tickets available at Bella Bridesmaid or at http://altarego2012.eventbrite.com.

PAINTING WITH PATRICIA PITTMAN April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 | 1:30-4pm Chambers Arts | 200 S. Academy Street Suite 130 | Cary | www.chambersarts.com GOOD FRIDAY April 6 VEGETABLE GARDENING April 7 | 11am | The Garden Hut 1004 Old Honeycutt Road Fuquay-Varina | 919-552-0590 www.nelsasgardenhut.com OPENING DAY AT THE WESTERN WAKE FARMERS’ MARKET April 7 | 8am-12pm 1225 Morrisville Carpenter Road | Cary www.westernwakefarmersmarket.org EASTER April 8 WBON – WELLNESS PANEL April 11 | 11:30am-1:30pm Prestonwood Country Club | Cary www.womenbusinessassociation.com HIGHLIGHTS ON PERSPECTIVE April 11 | 10am-12pm | The Nature

of Art 870 Sunrise Drive | Garner www.TheNatureOfArtFrameShop.com DOWNTOWN CRUISE-IN April 13 | 4-8pm Downtown Fuquay-Varina www.fuquay-varinadowntown.com WHAT’S ON YOUR PLATE? April 17 | 6-8:30pm Cary Arts Center | 101 Dry Avenue | Cary http://wakeaha.eventbrite.com ADVANCED COLOR MIXING April 18 | 10am-12pm | The Nature of Art | 870 Sunrise Drive | Garner www.TheNatureOfArtFrameShop.com 9TH ANNUAL GREAT GRAPES! WINE, ARTS & FOOD FESTIVAL April 21 | 11am-7pm | Koka Booth Amphitheatre | 800 Regency Parkway Cary | www.uncorkthefun.com EARTH DAY April 22 DESIGN ELEMENTS April 25 | 10am-12pm | The Nature of Art | 870 Sunrise Drive | Garner www.TheNatureOfArtFrameShop.com SPRING DAZE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL April 28 | 9am-5pm | Fred G. Bond Metro Park | 801 High House Road www.townofcary.org CHILDREN’S FLIGHT OF HOPE CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC April 30 | MacGregor Downs Country Club | Cary www.childrensflightofhope.org

SENd u S y Our EVENTS Community events you would like published in the calendar can be emailed to myra@caryliving.com.

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d Ow NTOw N C A ry

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t h e

F O U R T H

cL

a n n u a l

Diamond Awards c a r y

l i v i n g

We want your opinion! In the September/October 2012 Cary Living we will honor our readers’ favorite Western Wake places and things with the “Diamond Awards”.

To vote you can visit our website at www.caryliving.com or email us at diamonds@caryliving.com with your favorites!

cL

FOOD:

BEST WAY TO SPRUCE UP YOUR HOME

BEST PLACE FOR

BEST PLACE FOR A DATE NIGHT

__________________________________________

A FINISHING TOUCH TO AN OUTFIT

__________________________________________

BEST PLACE TO KEEP LIVING HEALTHY

__________________________________________

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

__________________________________________

BEST PLACE TO GET THAT GREAT-LOOKING SMILE

__________________________________________

cL

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BEST PLACE FOR A POWER LUNCH __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO SATISFY A SWEET TOOTH

BEAUTY/SHOPPING:

cL

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FRIENDLIEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

ENTERTAINMENT:

BEST TAKE-OUT

__________________________________________

BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC

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BEST PLACE TO FIND

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BEST WAIT STAFF

UNIQUE BRANDS OF CLOTHING

BEST SPOT FOR WI-FI

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WINNING WINE LIST __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO GRAB A BEER __________________________________________

cL

LIVING: BEST PARK __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO GO IN YOUR RUNNING SHOES

BEST PLACE TO GET YOUR "BLING" (REAL OR COSTUME) __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO BUY HIM OR HER A GIFT __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS __________________________________________ BEST WAY TO SAY “THANK YOU” __________________________________________ BEST PLACE FOR A “LITTLE” SPLURGE __________________________________________ BEST PLACE FOR A “BIG” SPLURGE

BEST PLACE TO READ CARY LIVING __________________________________________ BEST FAMILY OUTING __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE BIG GAME __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO WIND DOWN __________________________________________ BEST PLACE TO SWEAT __________________________________________ BEST WAY TO

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

ENTERTAIN THE KIDS ON A RAINY DAY

FAVORITE PEOPLE-WATCHING SPOT

BEST PLACE FOR A NEW “DO”

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

BEST PLACE TO GO OUTSIDE OF

BEST PLACE TO WALK THE DOG

FAVORITE PLACE TO GET PAMPERED

WESTERN WAKE ON A WEEKEND GETAWAY

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__________________________________________

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BEST PLACE TO DONATE YOUR TIME

BEST PLACE FOR UNIQUE SPA TREATMENTS

BEST PLACE TO IMPRESS A DATE

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BEST PLACE TO DROP FIVE POUNDS

BEST OVERALL PAMPERING

BEST PLACE TO EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS

__________________________________________

__________________________________________

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c a r y

l i v i n g

www.caryliving.com | E: diamonds@caryliving.com | P: 919-782-4710 | F: 919-782-4763

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FacingFacts

BY ILLYSE LANE

Pictured from left to right, Mandy Becker, Kris Ference, Lisa Davidson and Susan Washburn

[

You’re moving along, getting ready to leave the house, just going about your

]

business, when you stop to make sure there’s no toothpaste on the side of your mouth or mascara smudged under your eyes. You glance in the mirror for the final check and suddenly you’re not even noticing the toothpaste.

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PHOTOS BY JENNIFER ROBERTSON PHOTOGRAPHY

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Instead, your eyes are drawn to the lines forming around your mouth and the ones sitting beside your eyes. You notice the brown spots. The dark circles. The dull finish. And you wonder, what’s happened?

I’ll tell you what’s happened. Thanks to a little thing called aging, our collagen production has slowed down. Our dead skin cells are having a hard time sloughing off on their own, making our tone, texture and radiance fade. And all those years of parking ourselves in the heat of the midday sun, lathered up with baby oil, thinking the browner the better, have come back to bite us.

Oh yes, the thought of all that self-inflicted damage still makes me cringe a bit.

But never fear; help is here. Help that doesn’t include anything more than a willingness to learn the facts about your face.

Still not convinced it could be that easy? We thought you might say that. So we’ve enlisted the help of experts - lead estheticians at some of the most popular local spas - to teach us some basic face facts. They willingly embraced four local women frustrated by typical skin care concerns. Women who wondered what they could do to improve the look and feel of their skin.

And here’s what we learned.

HAND & STONE MASSAGE AND FACIAL SPA At the time of her spa treatment, Becker was the new mom to a one-month-old little girl. Like many new mothers, Becker’s skin was in a state of transition. She’d been a dedicated user of a medical grade skin care line that gave her results, but pregnancy forced her to stop using the more aggressive products. Now, she’s seeing some mild discoloration, which could be linked to pregnancy, as well the emergence of fine lines.

Mandy Becker – Age 36

THE PLAN: A Classic Facial with the addition of a Lip and Eye Treatment, provided by lead esthetician Ceshele Grabowksi.

These treatments combine pampering and relaxation with exfoliation and extractions to give results. “While there are other types of treatments that could work, such as microderm, a peel or even lasers, it’s been a while since Mandy has had a facial, and we’re not going to do anything too aggressive,” says Grabowski.

“But we can still work to improve the appearance of her skin.”

HOW IT WORKS: The facial begins with an aromatherapy oil pre-cleanse, designed to attract the oil and dirt that may be on the skin, followed by close examination to determine if Becker’s concerns are valid.

“Our perception of what is going on can be different than what is really going on,” says Grabowski. A resurfacing cleanser containing a blend of lactic acid to help with congestion and arbutin, which works to suppress melanin, is used for cleansing. A daily micro-exfoliant consisting of rice powder

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grain and lightener is applied, along with an eye and lip treatment consisting of crushed bamboo, pineapple derivatives and jojoba beads. After the products have had a chance to penetrate the skin, Grabowski performs minor extractions, followed by the application of a post extraction fluid containing witch hazel, ginger and salicylic acid to prevent the spreading of bacteria. Becker could get truly comfortable during the next part of the signature facial – a massage for the head, face and décolleté area. Then, a collagen multivitamin treatment, with ingredients such as lactic acid, vitamins A, C, and E is heated and applied to the face, followed by a hyaluronic acid serum and multivitamin antioxidant mist to seal in the moisture and maintain balance in the skin. Did we mention the cucumber eye mask?

Before she walks out the door, Becker gets eye cream and sunblock, two essentials. Her skin feels hyrdrated and looks bright.

WE LEARNED: Topical products and facials can work in tandem to improve the appearance of Becker’s skin.

But whatever you do, keep in mind that diligence is best. “You can correct your issues, such as spots, but if you go back into the sun, they will reappear in the exact location they were before treatment,” says Grabowski. She also reminds us that what you do at home is most important. For Becker, adding a few products to her current regime that address her specific concerns could help her skin, including a corrector to brighten and a cleanser containing a bit of lactic acid.

BLUE WATER SPA Like so many busy women, Ference is looking for a low maintenance routine to help with very typical concerns. Prone to breakouts, Ference has always believed that a facial treatment would only serve to irritate her already sensitive skin. On top of that, she has combination skin, and is beginning to see the first signs of aging, with slightly uneven coloring and a few fine lines.

THE PLAN: Peel-A-Bliss, a customized treatment blending facial massage with a chemical exfoliation.

Since Ference has never had a facial, Heather Hall, medical esthetician, recommends beginning with a low-grade peel, guaranteed to be mild enough for her skin.

“Peels can really help with uneven pigmentation due to sun damage,” says Hall.

HOW IT WORKS: Hall begins with a creamy pre-cleanse to remove surface dirt, and then applies a Kris Ference – Age 39 light lactic cleanser.

The main ingredient, lactic acid, is known to help with many of Ference’s skin care concerns. To ensure the product penetrates most effectively, she uses the Clarisonic Brush. “The Clarisonic brush is also perfect for home care; it can help you clean your face a lot more effectively,” says Hall. After a careful examination of Ference’s skin, Hall determines a 20 percent lactic acid peel packed with antioxidants would be ideal. Ference only feels a slight tingling during the peel process, accompanied by what she described as a very clean feeling. After the peel sits, a neutralizer is used to maintain a proper balance of the CARYLIVING.COM | 45

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skin’s pH. Mild extractions are performed (to Ference’s delight, her skin is more clear than she expected), followed by the application of toner. Then, Hall massages an emulsified hyaluronic acid, considered to be the gold standard for adding moisture, into the skin and follows with an antioxidant mask. A neck massage that ends with a warm, deliciously smelling lemongrass towel added to the relaxation. A vitamin C serum, an essential product for protection against free radicals, was put on the face, with eye cream and physical sunblock as the final step.

WE LEARNED: Ference feels clean, clear and bright well into the days following her treatment.

She hopes that other women who have been afraid to have a facial because of sensitive skin can learn from her experience.

“Investing in a home care regime can help prolong the results you get from a treatment,” says Hall. And the products you choose should contain ingredients that are going to be beneficial for your skin. “Also, keep in mind that pampering treatments can also be corrective,” says Hall.

NIRVELLI DAY SPA Washburn has always been very interested in taking care of her skin. She’s on a faithful regime but like most women, is prone to noticing the areas she’d like to improve upon. She’s concerned about the emergence of fine lines and some hyperpigmentation.

THE PLAN: The Three Touch Massage performed by lead massage therapist Tracey Maloney, followed

by Medi-Facial by Osmosis performed by lead esthetician Lindsay Marshall.

This two-step course of treatment is designed to make sure that Washburn is completely relaxed before going in for her facial. This massage blends the three most popular massage styles, Swedish, deep tissue and trigger point therapy, with aromatherapy and hot Susan Washburn – Age 43 stones to create the ultimate combination of pampering and relaxation. The medi-facial is a results-oriented facial using natural, medical grade products, designed to penetrate the deep layers of the skin. One key ingredient in this line is a natural vitamin A derivative called retinaldehyde, known to help repair the skin.

HOW IT WORKS: Marshall begins with a pre-cleanse to prep the skin, then follows with an enzyme wash for a gentle exfoliation.

“This wash contains licorice root extract and paper mulberry bark, two ingredients that can help lighten the skin and address Susan’s hyperpigmentation concerns,” says Marshall. She then

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The Men Factor Guess what? Women aren’t the only ones wondering what’s going on with their skin.

“More and more men are coming in on their own for facials, either to treat acne, acne scarring, hyperpigmentation, aging, and even ingrown hairs,” says Laura Brandon, medical esthetician at Blue Water Spa. “They do want to look good and take care of their skin.”

While facials can be relaxing, cleansing, and result-oriented, Brandon often recommends a series of microdermabrasions or peels as an effective way of treating many of the common problems men face. And, just as with women, men should be investing in a skin care regime to use at home. “Often times, men just use soap and water,” says Brandon. “A simple, cleanse-exfoliate-moisturize routine can make a difference.” She recommends:

• either a cleanser containing an exfoliant, or • a moisturizer with glycolic to help exfoliate and • a physical sunscreen.

SUNSCREEN:

The One Ingredient You Can’t Afford To Be Without But there’s been a lot of talk about the difference between physical and chemical sunscreens. And all of the experts we spoke with recommend going with a physical one. So what’s the deal?

A physical sunscreen is also referred to as a sunblock.

It contains titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which block the sun’s rays from penetrating the skin. A chemical sunscreen contains chemical ingredients that reduce the sun’s radiation.

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massages a cranberry enzyme polish designed to immerse antioxidants into the skin, followed by a warm towel wrap to make sure the product penetrates. While extractions for blackheads and milia (those pesky white bumps that are not whiteheads) are the standard next step of this facial, Washburn may be one of the few women in the world with nothing to extract. After spraying facial conditioner on the face, Marshall mixes a strong antioxidant concoction, consisting of sensitive skin serum and two powders – one composed of ingredients known to lighten and one composed of ingredients known to fight aging - to form a soothing gel mask.

“This will add radiance to her skin,” says Marshall. While the mask sits, Marshall gives Washburn an extensive décolleté massage. For finishing touches, she layers three separate serums, each packed with ingredients to assist the skin in cell reproduction, antioxidant absorption and damaged cell repair. “These serums are very light and easily absorbed, so they can be layered,” says Marshall. Final steps? A gentle eye cream and sunscreen day cream.

WE LEARNED: Washburn finds the massage to be fabulous, with the hot stones providing a fantastic bonus.

Lindsay finds Washburn’s skin to be well hydrated, with nice, even texture, small, clean pores and good elasticity. To help with her brown spots, Washburn could benefit from adding one or two products, such as a spot treatment serum, to her current routine. “You don’t have to change everything you are doing if you are happy, but you can add a product to your home care that can help you see your results a lot faster,” says Marshall. She also recommends a facial every two weeks when trying to see results quickly, and every four to six weeks for cleaning.

VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON SPA Davidson is most concerned with the signs of aging that seem to be slowly evolving. Over the years, Davidson has had about ten facials, all with a more clinical approach.

This time, she’s interested in minimizing what she is seeing, which includes returning the tone and texture to her skin, in a more natural way.

THE PLAN: Aveda Enbrightenment Treatment, performed by esthetician Vanessa Holt.

“This natural treatment contains botanicals that can help with hyperpigmentation, minor acne and removing dead skin,” says Holt.

HOW IT WORKS: After examining Davidson’s skin, which she found to be well hydrated and with very few fines, Holt performs an aromatherapy opening ritual focused on balancing movements and relaxation.

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Lisa Davidson – Age 46

and an exfoliation. Holt then applies a toner to help balance the skin and hyperpigmentation. Warm cloths are used on the face to help the product absorb.

With all the good ingredients sinking in, Holt performs an extensive arm and hand massage while Davidson’s feet are wrapped in steamed towels infused with blue oil. This is clearly more than a facial, as Davidson’s entire mind and body are completely relaxed. Once the cloths are removed, the skin is ready for extractions, which are done gently without the use of a tool. A mask geared to remove dead skin cells is applied to the face and neck. “This will dissolve into the skin, so it doesn’t disrupt or remove any live skin cells, which is very important,” says Holt. Toner is reapplied, along with a green science eye cream, an enbrightenment serum for the face and a cream for the neck. Before performing the closing ritual, which includes a neck and head massage, Holt applies a lip saver and sunscreen.

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WE LEARNED: In this age of chemicals and injections, it’s important to know that a facial using natural products can be results-oriented.

“We can customize your facial to address what you are concerned about,” says Holt. It’s also important to not forget about sunscreen, a daytime essential, and also to add moisture back into your skin, especially at night. A little bit of home advice, just in case you need a quick way to refresh your eyes? Put some cold spoons in the freezer, and when they’re nice and cold, rest them on your eyes.

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farm

˜ °sh

mushrooms

SAUSAGE STUFFED MUSHROOMS 1/2 pound ground pork sausage 8 ounce package cream cheese, softened 8 ounce package fresh mushrooms, stems removed Preheat the broiler. Place sausage in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium-high heat until evenly browned. Drain and transfer to a medium bowl. Blend cream cheese with the sausage. Stuff mushroom caps with the cream cheese and sausage mixture. Arrange stuffed mushroom caps on a medium baking sheet. Broil in the preheated oven 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.

PORTABELLA PIZZETTAS 5 ounces frozen chopped spinach 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese 1 tsp dried basil, crushed 1/4 tsp fresh coarse ground black pepper 12 portabella mushrooms (3 to 4 in diameter) 2 medium tomatoes, sliced large 2 Tbsp butter, melted Salt

Healthy, Local Produce and Foods Every Tuesday and Saturday at the Western Wake Farmers’ Market in Cary!

Please check www.WesternWakeFarmersMarket.org for weekly guest educators and musicians.

Thaw spinach and press out liquid; finely chop.

Combine spinach, cheese, basil and pepper in a mixing bowl. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Clean mushrooms, remove stems and place mushroom caps top side down on a lightly greased cookie sheet, then brush with butter. Spoon about 2 Tbsp of spinach mixture into each cap. Sprinkle with tomato and salt. Bake for 12 minutes or until heated through. Cut into quarters and serve.

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MUSHROOM FUN FACTS SELECTION For common mushrooms, choose those with a firm texture and even color with tightly-closed caps.

If the gills are showing, it’s an indication of age, and they are probably past their prime. Discolored, broken and damaged mushrooms with soft spots should be avoided.

In North America alone, there are an estimated

10,000 SPECIES

COMMON VARIETIES Agaricus (white or button) Chanterelle Crimini Shiitake Oyster Enoki Portabello/Portabella Porcini

ONE

PORTABELLA has

more potassium than a banana.

White and crimini mushrooms are also good sources of potassium. Potassium helps the human body maintain normal heart rhythm, fluid balance, and muscle and nerve function.

Approximately

200

mushroom species cultivated in the U.S.

MUSHROOM STORAGE Store mushrooms in your refrigerator crisper where they can benefit from cool air circulation.

Keep partially covered to prevent them from drying out, but never store packaged mushrooms without venting. Paper bags are a good storage alternative. Most fresh mushrooms should be used within three days.

NUTRITION • Excellent source of niacin • No cholesterol • Low in calories, fat and sodium • Contain antioxidants to support a strong immune system CARYLIVING.COM | 51

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in the Family

N O I T U A C H T I W D E E C O PR

BY JENNI HART

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As a parent, you may find these statistics sobering: In North Carolina, a teenage driver is involved in a crash every 15 minutes; and car crashes are the leading cause of death among teenagers in our state. Also troubling, speed-related crashes account for about half of all fatalities among 16- to 19-year olds.

These figures, from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV), are just abstract numbers until they touch a family member, or the friend or classmate of one of your children. Every year in the Raleigh area, communities are wracked by the tragic loss of a teenager in a car crash. And in many cases, the events and choices leading up to the crash paint the same picture – that of a preventable death. Even with no loss of life, resulting injuries from a car crash can be devastating; and simple property damage can be expensive and at the least, inconvenient.

Before you hand over the keys to a newly-licensed teenager, you should consider the many ways you’ll continue to guide, influence and protect them as they enter this next stage of independence. Patrick Schuette is a personal injury attorney in North Raleigh whose practice represents victims of automobile and motorcycle wrecks. Schuette finds that many clients who seek his advice are uninformed, and as a result, very vulnerable when it comes to their family’s wellbeing out on the roads. He says it’s important for families to acquaint themselves with the risks associated with young, inexperienced drivers, as well as the new driving laws in our state.

SAFETY FIRST – THE DRIVING TO LIVE CONTRACT Encouraging a new driver to adopt safe-driving practices is one of a parent’s greatest responsibilities. The Driving to Live Contract offered by the NCDMV gives families the opportunity to talk openly about the risks of speeding, driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and the use of cell phones while driving. Requiring consistent seatbelt use for the driver and all passengers, and even school attendance and performance are also addressed in the contract.

Schuette stresses the importance of backing up the contract with action, in the event any of the rules are broken. He points to the state law that went into effect December 1st, 2009 banning texting while driving.

“Studies have shown it can be as dangerous as driving while intoxicated,” says Schuette. Wake County is among the worst offenders in the state for texting while driving, a fact that won’t surprise anyone who has glanced around at surrounding drivers while waiting for the light to change.

When a teen driver breaks any of the contract rules, parents have to be prepared to enforce appropriate punishments, including the loss of driving privileges, loss of cell phone use, or requiring the teen to pay for any damages or fines that may result from their unsafe driving.

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NEW LAWS AFFECT GRADUATED LICENSING Effective January 1, 2012, North Carolina adopted new requirements for teen drivers in an attempt to ensure adequate driving time behind the wheel with supervision from parents or guardians.

A new driver will begin with a Level 1 Limited Learner Permit, which is kept for a full year. This is for a driver who has turned 15 (but is no older than 18). During the Level 1 Permit period, a driver is now required to log 60 hours behind the wheel, including 10 hours at night.

B

A – For drivers between 15 & 18, red color bar.

B – For drivers between 18 & 21, yellow color bar.

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A completed log, signed by the supervising parent or guardian, must be turned in to the DMV to apply for the Level 2 Limited Provisional Driver License. Then at Level 2, which is kept a minimum of six months, the driver must log at least an additional 12 hours of driving, six of which have to be at night. A completed, signed log must be turned in to apply for the Level 3 Full Provisional Driver License. Additional restrictions specific to each level can be found on the DMV website.

YOU MAY HAVE TO PAY FOR YOUR TEEN’S MISTAKE A common misconception is that a parent cannot be held liable for the cost of injuries or damages caused by their child as long as the car is titled in the teenager’s name. In his practice, Patrick Schuette has worked with clients who have had to learn nuances of the law the hard way. If the teen resides in the family home, and the car is being driven for some kind of family business, including running an errand, shopping, or even transporting the teenager to school or work, that falls under what’s known as the Family Purpose Doctrine. “If it can be proven that the parent gave express or implied permission for the teen to use the car, regardless of whose name is on the title, then the parent can be held liable if a crash occurs,” Schuette says.

Negligent Entrustment is another way a North Carolina parent can be held liable for the driving mistakes of their teen. This is when a parent knowingly allows a teenager to drive when they have demonstrated prior reckless driving, when they are known to be intoxicated, or even when the parent knows the teen lacks sufficient experience to operate the car. chef mario_CL_ma.pdf

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INSURANCE MATTERS Because the potential for being found liable in the event of a crash can be so financially and emotionally devastating, families with a new driver should carefully consider their insurance plan. In North Carolina, all drivers are required to carry at least $30,000 liability coverage for any one person injured by that driver, or up to $60,000 to cover all the people injured in a single crash. Every driver is also required to carry a minimum of $25,000 to cover property damage. But Schuette believes this isn’t enough. “With the high cost of medical care, it doesn’t take long for a hospital bill to reach $30,000 if a serious accident has occurred, and then the family becomes responsible for the remaining costs,” he says. Schuette recommends at least $1 million in liability coverage and $50,000 in property damage coverage.

If a parent is out of work, or for some other reason a teenager does not have health insurance, parents can add a program called Medpay to their auto insurance policy to cover medical costs associated with a wreck.

Also important is UM/UIM coverage, which pays for medical bills in case your teen is injured by a driver who is uninsured or under-insured. When parents consider the statistics associated with teenage drivers, and the soaring costs of medical care, insurance is one of the smartest and most affordable purchases they can make in order to protect their families and their assets. Driving is serious business, and watching your 16-year-old back out of the driveway for the first time may be a terrifying prospect, but there are strategies to help you keep your family safe and protected. For more information, go to www.ncdot.gov/dmv/ and for legal matters visit www.injurylawyersnc.com.

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Despite careful training and preparation, your young driver may still be involved in a car crash. A lot is riding on the way they conduct themselves in the aftermath. The following advice applies to all drivers regardless of age or experience.

1. Report the crash to the proper authorities as soon as safely possible, and cooperate with the police as they respond to the call. Although it may be human nature to want to put others at ease, this is not the time to give any statements to bystanders or the other driver about how the wreck occurred, or to give assurance that you’re okay. “It may take a few days for injuries to be properly diagnosed, so walking around the accident scene telling everyone you’re fine may give the insurance company reason to deny a future claim,” says Schuette. “The best advice is to remain calm and say as little as possible.”

2. Take pictures of your vehicle and the accident scene, and document your injuries. This can help provide an accurate account of the circumstances surrounding the wreck, as well as provide proof of property damage. Write down the name, address and phone number of the other driver and any witnesses.

3. Take great care when talking to insurance company representatives. Though they may be sincere about their concern for your situation, they are working for a business that is trying to limit its payout. Any statement you provide to an insurance adjuster may be used against you later and may impact your ability to receive compensation. Even when the cause of a crash is clearly one driver’s fault, an insurance company may look for something called Contributory Negligence on the part of the other driver to avoid taking full responsibility. Contributory Negligence could mean not adequately anticipating the likely outcome when another driver appears to be driving unsafely.

4. Finally, seek legal counsel. Information is your greatest asset as you navigate the trauma, confusion and aggravation that can follow a crash. “Crucial mistakes are often made soon after an injury occurs, and victims need to get good advice before they take an action which could harm their claim,” Schuette says.

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| gardening

HEUCHERA Tough Perennials with Interesting Foliage

BY NELSA COX, OWNER & HEAD HORTICULTURIST, THE GARDEN HUT

AMETHYST MIST

MARMALADE

MIDNIGHT ROSE

Has very dark foliage with splashes of pink speckles and whitish flower plumes in late spring.

Leaves have hot-pink undersides. Perfect foliage plant for containers.

Average landscape size: Clumping foliage 9 in. tall, 17 in. wide; flower stems 26 in. tall.

Average landscape size: Foliage mounds to 10 in. tall, 16 in. wide; flower spikes to 18 in.

Average landscape size: 10 in. tall, 16 in. wide; flower stems reach 2 ft. tall.

Average landscape size: Clumping foliage 14 in. high, 24 in. wide; flower stems 22 in. tall.

A beautiful combination of silvery and plum foliage and as a bonus, creamy flower plumes in spring.

Has blended shades of yellows, embers and reds.

Spikes of reddish brown flowers May and June.

Companion Plants: Plant coral bells with other shade loving flowering plants such as astilbes, phlox, iris, or bleeding-heart. Consider using Heuchera plants with other foliage superstars like ferns, hostas or caladiums.

SOUTHERN COMFORT

Seasons of Interest: Heuchera plants have high interest in the garden all year; the foliage is evergreen for most gardeners and highly attractive. Heucheras also have interesting flowers that appear in late spring.

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heu路cher路a (hyo o-ker-uh) Any of various North American plants belonging to the genus Heuchera, of the saxifrage family, having clusters of small, cup-shaped flowers, especially the alumroots.

PLUM ROYALE

Provides plum-purple leaves with darker purple veining and ruffley leaves.

Average landscape size: Moderate growing to 20 to 25 in. tall and wide.

SWEET TEA

Striking orange tea-colored foliage is emblazoned with huge star-shaped bursts of cinnamon. The big, palmate leaves darken in the summer and lighten in the fall.

Average landscape size: Quick growing to 20 in. tall by 28 in. wide.

Maintenance: Provide coral bells with winter mulch and deadhead to encourage repeat blooming through the summer. Pruning back the coral bells foliage in early spring to make room for the new growth can help it stay in better form but is not absolutely necessary.

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EXPLORING

new ways

TO LEARN

BY CHRISTA GALA

This fall, the Wake County Public School System is going to experiment with two single-gender schools. The news has some folks cheering and others in an uproar.

What does a single-gender education really mean?

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It’s a good question. So we decided to ask those with a proven track record.

Martha Griswold is the academic dean at Chatham Hall, an Episcopalian girls’ boarding school in Chatham, Virginia, founded in 1894. Griswold says her school often pushes students to take on things they might not otherwise do in a co-educational setting.

“Girls are leaders, and the only leaders, in all-girls’ schools,” says Griswold. “Theirs are the voices that one hears in classrooms, on stage and in the dorms. Girls are leaders in their math and science classes; girls are receiving attention from their teachers, and girls learn how to navigate and without having to compete for those opportunities.”

In fact, with boys out of the classroom, girls tend to come into their own a lot faster, says Theo Wilkes Coonrod, Head of School at Saint Mary’s School in Raleigh.

“They have a chance to flex their muscles – all of them – without running it through that filter of ‘What will he think about me?’” says Coonrod.

“Look at the media; what are the messages the media is telling girls? How they have to act, what they have to eat, how big they have to be, what they have to look like. The pressures are poisonous.

“We offer a place for girls to be exactly who they are,” Coonrod continues. “A girl has space to be herself without being reminded of her gender. You are who you are.”

OPPONENTS AND PROPONENTS The Wake County School Board in October approved the academies, the Wake Young Men’s Leadership Academy and the Wake Young Women’s Leadership Academy. The now-co-ed William Peace University in Raleigh will host the schools which are slated to open in Fall 2012. At capacity, each school will serve roughly 400 sixth through 12th graders.

Proponents of the single-gender academies think they will be a good choice for families; students can also earn college credit. The academies will be modeled on a college preparatory single-gender system in Guildford County with a 100 percent graduation rate of high school students.

There’s also evidence that in single-gender schools, both sexes are more likely to take courses that go against stereotype. A University of Virginia study found boys from single-sex schools were more likely to take art and foreign languages when compared with boys in co-educational schools. And girls were more likely to take physics and excel in math and physical activities compared with girls in coeducational schools.

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Chatham Hall in Chatham, Virginia brings female world leaders to campus through its Leaders in Residence Program. The all-girls’ school was founded in 1894.

Opponents of the single-gender academies want the funds to be spent on expanding alternative programs for struggling students. They also oppose the suggestion that students from both academies attend a Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corp (JROTC) program in the ninth grade.

LEADERSHIP, DIVERSITY AND DISCIPLINE The goal of the public school single-gender option is to focus on

leadership and diversity. Dr. Gary Fountin, rector at Chatham Hall, with 140 students, says Chatham Hall has focused on those characteristics as well, with great results.

“We have a Leaders in Residence Program that brings major female world leaders to campus each year: presidents of countries, scientists, Nobel Peace Prize winners and artists,” says Fountin.

(In fact, Gloria Steinem recently participated.) “We have travellearning programs that make Chatham Hall a center of world

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WANT TO KNOW MORE? Chatham Hall: www.chathamhall.org Saint Mary’s School: www.sms.edu To learn more about Wake County’s upcoming single-gender leadership academies, visit www.wcpss.net.

Note: The deadline to apply for the 2012-1013 school year has passed.

learning: service learning in South Africa, a grant available for student international research and scholarships for summer international study and home stays. Our classes are small and intense because we believe that the smartest girls want direct contact with their teachers.”

Wake County’s not the only school system considering offering single-gender schooling options. The number of public single-sex classrooms rose from 11 in 2002 to 540 in 2009, according to the National Association for Single Sex Public Education.

Many think the discipline at single-gender schools is tighter and the academic curriculum more rigorous without the distractions of the opposite sex.

At Saint Mary’s, Coonrod demands a lot of her students and starts early. “You put challenges in front of them and then give them the support to succeed,” she says, adding Saint Mary’s has a public speaking requirement. “We want every student to be able to stand in front of a crowd of people she doesn’t know and advocate for a position she feels passionate about. We want our girls to be able to handle money; we want them to be able to earn it, save it, invest it.

“Our ninth graders are going out to North Carolina Outward Bound, every one of them,” Coonrod continues.

“I want those girls to climb a mountain, be scared to death and do it anyway. They find that confidence. You’ve got to put challenges in front of them and help them overcome.

And then they know they can, and then they do the next one.

That’s how you build it.”

SCHOOL TRANSLATES TO COMMUNITY Chatham Hall is the third girls’ school for which Fountin has served as rector during his career. Each of the schools, he says, is a powerful community. “The combination of intellectual striving, honor and unity is palpable in each one of them. Girls are natural at blending the actions of mind, heart, soul and body in building community. This unique combination stays with women; it serves as a model for their lives.

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Saint Mary’s in Raleigh has a public speaking requirement for all students, and every ninth grader attends North Carolina Outward Bound. Saint Mary’s was founded in 1842. apex physical therapy_jf.pdf

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“When I asked a Chatham Hall alumna why she took such strong political stands in her community to defend what she believed – even to the point of receiving threats from corrupt officials – she said, simply, ‘This is what Chatham Hall would have expected.’”

Coonrod also wants her students to be prepared for the world.

Saint Mary’s students are held accountable every single day through the school’s My Achievement Program (MAP), where girls are divided into advisory groups of no more than six. Each morning the groups meet, and each group advisor asks a variety of questions ranging from personal responsibilities to what subjects the students would like to learn more about. The goal is to prepare them for the next step – life in college and, ultimately, life in the world.

Griswold is determined that her students find what they’re passionate about, that anything is possible.

“At the time the school was begun, there were very few options for young women – options that offered rigor and the ability to learn independence. Now, they are free to discover and to be who they are,” she says. “Girls are head of everything. Leadership opportunities abound. There is a lot of collaboration and student-to-student support in all-girls’ schools. At Chatham Hall, girls will always be valedictorian, the voice of Student Council, and the stewards of the Honor Code. In classrooms, girls are the only high achievers and the girls’ role models are other girls.”

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P

BY ILLYSE LANE

ersonalized & retty

In case you haven’t noticed, it seems we’ve developed a preoccupation with personalization. And while we could call it a trend, for many, personalization is a tradition that’s here to stay.

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It’s hard to pin down the exact number of children who have frolicked around our city in monogrammed dresses and jumpers thanks to Elegant Stitches, a shop specializing in smocking, heirloom sewing, quilting and hand embroidery supplies. But one thing’s for sure. When Elegant Stitches opened its doors 25 years ago, it immediately filled a need in the community. “We couldn’t find smocking and heirloom sewing supplies to sew for our own children,” says Renee Spell, co-owner. “Our store opened out of necessity.”

You’ ve come a long way, baby These days, top-of-the-line embroidery and sewing machines have taken over as the primary way Elegant Stitches can assist you in adding that personal touch, be it through an initial, a monogram, a first name or even a character appliqué. “We sell the machines, the software, the know-how, and we teach the service, through classes for both adults and children,” says Spell.

This interest in making it your own doesn’t surprise Alison Kim Perry, owner of Cute Buttons, who has firsthand experience with the allure of personalized stationery.

“It’s a ‘must-have’ that should live in the drawer of everyone’s bedside table,” says Perry. “It’s always been in style, but it’s definitely gaining in popularity.”

Classics such as stationery and clothing are just the tip of the personalization iceberg. Visit Elegant Stitches and you’ll find pillows, table runners and quilts, all works in progress with a personal touch. Walk into Cute Buttons and you’ll notice personalized business cards with motifs.

Venture into any of our local boutiques and you’ll find handbags, totes, towels, bathrobes, sheets, umbrellas, boots, cell phone cases, notepads, acrylic clipboards, scarves, platters, picture frames and glasses, all calling to be customized. And let’s not forget the well-loved vinyl car monograms, now available in rhinestones to glisten in the sun while displayed on your back window.

This fascination with personalization is not just for items used by grown-ups. “Some of our favorite items to personalize are for babies, including the layette, the bumper pads, sheets and even a fug in front of the baby’s bed,” says Stephanie Sneeden, manager and partner of Charlotte’s, Inc.

Roots run deep While it may appear that this desire to put our name on our possessions is a new sensation, it’s in fact a tradition that began centuries ago. “The idea of personalizing by monogramming or engraving dates back hundreds of years when nobility wanted to see their name or initials on much of their personal belongings,” says Sneeden.

There’s also no denying that good, old-fashioned Southern roots get significant credit for the personalization craze. It’s hard to find a woman from the South who doesn’t have memories of monogrammed clothing, purses, silver picture frames or platters. “I was born and raised here, and we have always stuck initials on everything,” says Sonya Brinson, owner of Southern Charm Boutique. “But these days, the personalization is catching on with all people, regardless of where they are from.”

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Initial vs. Monogram: The Lingo One way to make sure you get what you want when it comes to personalization is making sure that you understand the lingo when it comes to using initials. Our experts offer the following tips: INITIALS: Initials are just that. Initials. This is especially obvious when it comes to using only a first initial or a first and last initial.

But it gets a little confusing when talking about using three. If you ask for initials, you are asking for three initials to be used straight across, in the same size, reading first, middle and last. For the man in your life, the three initial style is the preferred choice.

MONOGRAM: The monogram consists of the three initials, with the last name in the center, in a larger size, with the first initial on the left and the middle initial on the right. For women, the monogram is the preferred choice.

FOR HUSBAND & WIFE: Buying glasses, towels or even stationery for the married couple? The monogram is the way to go. For the married couple, the woman’s name has traditionally gone on the left, the couple’s last name is in the middle, and the man’s name is on the right.

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The initial evolves As people – especially women – embrace personalizing almost anything they can, they’re moving beyond the one initial standard that had been prevalent over the past few years “Today, it’s more about bold personalization, with three initials being the most popular,” says Mandy Becker of Swagger Gifts. Rings, earring and pendants, specifically the Mother’s Pendant, with the mother’s monogram surrounded by her children’s first names, have been in high demand.

“The styles we initially saw, such as a bag or a necklace with just one initial, have given way,” says Amanda Woerner, owner of The Sassy Blossom. “We’ve seen it evolve from one to three to whatever is unique for that individual.” As a matter of fact, Woerner has seen a trend in which customers prefer to use a first name, or, in some cases, a phrase, to make it special. “I’ve had customers put an inside joke or family saying on cups and platters,” says Woerner. “It may not make much sense to us when we personalize it, but it makes sense to the recipient.”

It’ s personal That desire to create meaning and attachment by letting a bit of yourself shine through is what’s driving the personalization trend, especially when it comes to giving a gift. “When you take the time to put initials or a monogram on a gift, it says that you are thinking of that person on a more personal level. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. It’s a thoughtful gift and people appreciate that,” says Brinson.

So whether you want to personalize a houndstooth scarf for your sister, a set of acrylic cups for your children’s teachers, a money clip for you husband, or a pair of sandals for yourself, here’s what you need to know and where you need to go to find the most in-demand items…

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These are a few of my favorite things: THE SASSY BLOSSOM “You don’t have to be a whimsy person to take advantage of personalization, you can use all sorts of color combinations.

Black, white and pink have been very popular. Cutting boards, license tags, travel cases and ice buckets make great wedding gifts. Totes, lunchboxes and coolers can also be personalized without compromising the integrity of the product,” says Amanda Woerner.

The ideal warm weather accessory, Emma classic sandals from Stephen Bonanno.

Feminine iphone case, available in either single initial or monogram.

Stacy Claire Boyd business card with a modern twist.

Above, a monogrammed altar cloth for the ceremony, left, a traditional wedding quilt with an embroidered Irish blessing.

The scripted monogram notecard, a staple for every woman.

CUTE BUTTONS “Personalized stationery continues to grow in popularity. As more and more people start their own businesses, they are looking for an inexpensive way to woo or thank their clients. If people are looking for employment, they feel the traditional thank you email just won’t do,” says Alison Kim Perry.

The in demand, gold vermeil monogrammed necklace.

A more contemporary block monogram jewelry case, an essential for the traveling woman.

ELEGANT STITCHES “Throughout history, challenging times have often prompted women to want to create with their hands. I have seen a shift over the past years where many women feel the need to go back to the basics. When you make it yourself, you have more of an attachment to it; you’ll be less likely to get rid of it, and it will give you a great sense of pride,” says Renee Spell.

CHARLOTTE’S, INC. “We all enjoy seeing our very own monogram on items we use daily, making it seem more personal and oftentimes, finer. For generations, families have “passed down” monogrammed or engraved items as heirlooms and we often see grandparents who want to give a wonderful piece of jewelry engraved with a sentiment or date.

We do sell D-I-Y iron-on monogram patches that are beautiful and very popular,” says Stephanie Sneeden.

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Insulated market tote, perfect for a springtime picnic.

Laser cut baltic birch cutout monogram, perfect for the front door, a wreath or a child’s room.

SOUTHERN CHARM BOUTIQUE “Personalization is not just for women.

It’s perfect for housewarming gifts, family gifts, baby showers and baby products.

You can do laser engraving for frames for special events instead of just plain silver, adding that personal touch. I had a blanket made for my husband over Christmas with his name embroidered on it. One evening, I had a chill and went to grab it, when he kindly reminded me that it was his,” says Sonya Brinson.

Swaddle your baby in style with a personalized chevron baby blanket.

Be chic on wet days with Zoubaby monogrammed rainboots.

SWAGGER GIFTS “Personalization has been taken to the next level, with something new coming out all the time. People want gifts to be extremely personal. They want their friends and family to know that they went above and beyond and did it for them,” says Mandy Becker.

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shopping

SO UTH C A RY

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COMING UP IN THE NEXT

CARY LIVING’S MODERN MAN We know today’s man is different from his father.

More is expected of him as a man, as a husband and a father. So how does he do it all? What inspires him? What’s his style and what are his interests?

Who is the Modern Cary Living Man? LOOKING COOL AND STAYING COOL Summer is all about dresses, from fun and flirty to serious and sophisticated!

We’ll show you great dresses for all occasions.

SENSATIONAL SHOPPING From one end of Western Wake to the other great new shops and shopping centers are opening. We’ll take you on a tour that’s guaranteed to add a few shops to your favorites.

PLUS… Great recipes for your Cinco de Mayo party!

every issue

• SIGHTINGS • HEALTHY LIVING TIPS • CHEF’S CORNER • CALENDAR OF EVENTS • TALK OF THE TOWN • & MUCH MORE!

Look for the MAY | JUNE edition on shelves the first week of May.

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H E A LT H Y

LIVING

Say Goodbye to Your Belly Fat

BY CARTER & LAURA DALTON | GNC AT PARK WEST VILLAGE & LASSITER AT NORTH HILLS

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With the summer in full swing, it’s getting harder to deny the fact that many of us need to take a stand – a stand against our bellies!

Yes, your abs are the worst place to store fat (just ask Dr. Oz), and the most difficult place to get rid of fat once it’s there. Ask the college student struggling with the “freshman 15”, men approaching 40 and any woman who’s gone through menopause – you feel like you wake up to a dead metabolism and new spare tire around your waist. Well, folks, I’d like to introduce you to CLA (conjugated linoleic acid).

Promising research has shown that CLA can reduce abdominal fat, increase your fat metabolism, may improve insulin sensitivity and could even be beneficial in relation to cancer. What makes it different from other weight management products on the market is that it doesn’t contain stimulants, and is designedw for safe weight management.

THE SCIENCE CLA is a naturally occurring fatty acid found in animal tissue and food sources, including beef, eggs and dairy products. (Kangaroo may actually have the highest concentrations of CLA, but it’s not exactly found in a family pack at Harris Teeter.) Beef is a rich source of CLA, but because most cows are grain-fattened in feed lots and not on grasses, there is much less CLA in food today.

CLA’s proposed effects are likely due to its ability to regulate the metabolism of fat through a process having to do with our bodies’ enzymes. The long and short of it is that CLA appears to block fat uptake. If your fat uptake is limited, the amount of fat deposited in the cell is reduced, so the size of your fat cells remains small. Evidence also suggests that CLA may increase your body’s ability to burn fat and preserve muscle tissue. Postmenopausal women tend to lose muscle at the same time that body fat accumulates toward their middle; this research shows how healthy fats can complement lifestyle in helping women manage their health.

A recent study showed that adding 3.4g of CLA to a healthy diet reduced fat in the legs and abdomen for women and in the abdomen for men. At the study’s end, the CLA group lost 3.3 more pounds and more body fat mass than the placebo group. Another study conducted at Purdue University found that Tonalin CLA improved insulin levels in about two-thirds of diabetic patients, and moderately reduced their blood glucose and triglyceride levels.

DOSAGE The stats on CLA’s effectiveness were based on three to four grams a day for fat loss, taken in divided doses and with meals.

To help increase lean body mass and muscle tissue growth, close to six grams of CLA were used. So depending upon your goal, that’s four to six softgels daily.

Here’s the catch (isn’t there always?): it could take up to three months to see measurable results, so if you are a person afraid of commitment, you might be disappointed. Fatty acids have to get into your system and take time to “do their jobs”, much like fish oil and vitamin D. In supplement form, Tonalin CLA, which is derived from safflower oil (vs. sunflower oil), has been the most studied.

Blends that include flax, fish and borage oil are very popular, as these fatty acids help round out the health benefits of CLA. Some also contain MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) which are particularly helpful in maintaining healthy muscle tissue.

As always, consult your doctor before starting a supplement program.

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sightings C A RY C HR ISTIAN S C H OOL B ENEFIT AUC T I ON The Ballroom at Prestonwood Country Club was filled to overflowing on February 10th. More than 300 people gathered for the 9th Annual Cary Christian School Benefit Auction.

By the end of the night, more than $100,000 was raised for the school.

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Chef Martin Sreshta of Martin’s Curry Rice in Morrisville was awarded the Iron Carrot at Lunch In on February 17th.

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RI BBON C UT T I NG KinderVillage Music Studio celebrated the ribbon cutting for their new studio at Lochmere Pavillion in Cary on January 27th.

C ONC E RT S E RIES C E LE BRAT E D C H RI ST MA S S EASON The Friends of the Page-Walker Hotel celebrated the Christmas season with King’s Tavern Madrigal, as part of the Friends’ Winter Concert Series, on December 18th.

G RA N D OPE N I NG Menchie’s, located in Waverly Place, held its grand opening celebration on February 11th. They offer more than 100 rotating yogurt flavors and more than 70 rotating toppings.

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Want your event featured in our sightings? Email us!

myra@caryliving.com 919-782-4710

RE TI R E ME NT PA RT Y On February 5th friends, family, customers and staff of Elegant Stitches said happy retirement to Ruth Sparks. After 25 years, Ruth decided to put down her needle and thread (at the shop!) and is looking forward to spending time with her family. Congratulations Ruth...and best wishes!

BR I DA L OP E N HOUS E Cute Buttons Gift and Paper Boutique held a Bridal Open House on February 15th and February 18th. One lucky bride won a $100 gift card for her wedding paper suite!

S E N I OR H E ALT H FA I R AND PA N E L D I S C U SS I ON SearStone, Christ the King Lutheran Church and the Senior Resource Alliance of the Triangle partnered to sponsor a senior health fair and panel discussion on February 9th. The event was held at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Cary.

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