Midtown Magazine

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for the summer of

2010

J U LY / A UGUST

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2010

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a note FROM THE

PUBLISHER

Happy Summer!

It’s hard to believe that summer is officially here!

While I don’t enjoy hot, humid 95-degree days, I still love summer! My favorite things about summer: a song (Under the Boardwalk), a summer treat (strawberry ice cream) or a refreshing cocktail (strawberry mojito). What are your favorite summer things? Check out “The Top 10 of the Summer of 2010” (p.24) for what other Midtowners think of summer.

Summertime is fun. It’s about relaxing and trying new things. This issue of Midtown is sprinkled with the “10” best of everything – from iced tea to beauty products to summer beers and wines. Check out “Late Night Eats” (p.108) for a look at the best late night dining spots; you’ll be hungry soon!

And if you’re looking to get out and enjoy some local scenary, check out “Capital Area Greenway” (p.40). You’ll be amazed to discover all the hidden paths that travel through and around Midtown. After you’ve worked up your appetite, Chef Mario’s “Culinary Cool Down” (p.46) shares recipes for chilling out when dining at home.

For many, an afternoon nap (not sure I know what this is) is the best thing about summer. If you agree, learn about creating a master bedroom that will inspire both peace and sleepiness in “Create an Escape: Your Master Bedroom Retreat” (p.76). Create the perfect haven for yourself this summer.

We love hearing from you. Please keep the letters and emails coming, let us know what you think of this issue of Midtown and share your story ideas with us!

Gina Pearce Stephens

Publisher/Partner Midtown, Cary Living, Pinehurst & Southern Weddings gstephens@midtownmag.com

JULY/AUGUST publisher/partner advertising sales

creative director graphic design

contributing writers

photography

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gina stephens sarah oglesby dolan myra gammon travis aptt heath murray jennifer casey christa gala kate turgeon dan bain illyse lane susan ely jenni hart page leggett april maness kristy stevenson darcy brennan-huante fiquet bailey dr. steven baker carter & laura dalton patrick fitzgerald don stacy april maness photography jennifer robertson photography

subscription inquiries call 919.782.4710 or visit midtownmag.com

Printed on 100% Recycled Paper

Midtown Magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher.

4818 Six Forks Road, Suite 204 Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone 919.782.4710, Fax 919.782.4763 www.midtownmag.com Midtown Magazine 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. Midtown Magazine will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of U.S. equal opportunity law.

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contents JULY/AUGUST

2010

features 32 PENMANSHIP: IS THE WRITING ON THE WALL? Have we bid farewell to the art of handwriting?

40 CAPITAL AREA GREENWAY PROVIDES TREASURE OF LEISURE What’s 63 miles long and green, has thousands of feet and might be hiding just outside your backyard?

48 FASHION FOUNDATION

If you have the right foundation pieces in your wardrobe and you can slide seamlessly from summer to fall, looking fabulous!

54 THE BOTTOM LINE

Using coupons to stretch your family budget.

76 CREATE AN ESCAPE:

Your master bedroom retreat.

86 GIVING BACK

Four businesses have continued and even increased their charitable efforts during the Great Recession, insistent on the need to give back to their community.

94 THIRD TIME’S A CHARM

Two Raleigh teens continue their mission.

98 RAINDROPS TO WATERFALLS Hot time, summer in the city.

112 CANCER CARE IN RALEIGH

The prognosis just got better, thanks to the newly renovated Duke Raleigh Cancer Center.

66 TODAY’S LESSON:

Educating yourself on Midtown’s private & magnet schools.

24

TOP 10 FOR THE SUMMER OF 2010

When we asked, you responded.

So take a seat, kick back and enjoy.

And don’t forget your sunscreen.

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contents JULY/AUGUST

2010

departments 38 bain’s beat 46 chef mario 53 beauty 60 step by step 64 calendar 82 Wine & beer review 84 Dueling columns 90 talk of the town Midtown meets Downtown 102 leaping lizards!

116 healthy you 126 mingles

108

late night eats

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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE top

for 2010

Summer Drinks

Go ahead and indulge just a bit in these summertime favorites.

They taste most refreshing when paired with some of our most favorites places to eat outside. Recipes for items marked with a * can be found at midtownmag.com

Lemonade

Fuzzy Navel*

Mint Julep

Skinnygirl Margarita*

Sangria

Watermelon Martini*

White Wine

Firefly with anything

Tom Collins

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top

for 2010 MIDTOWN MAGAZINE

places to Dine Outside

Whether you crave a burger, burrito, a dish more gourmet or a little something sweet, there are many places to enjoy a hot summer night. The key to success? Hang out with good company!

• Vivace • Seaboard Café • Mellow Mushroom • Moe’s Diner • Goodberry’s Frozen Custard • Five Guys

• Dos Taquitos • Raleigh Times • Lilly’s Pizza • Chargrill Honorable mention: Your Backyard

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Things to do in Midtown & Beyond

There’s no excuse to have nothing to do – unless of course, you want to have nothing to do. With choices ranging from just for the grown ups to those that include the entire family, there’s plenty to choose from. Here are some of your favorites: • Music in Midtown • North Carolina Farmer’s Market • Fireworks at the Fairgrounds • Durham Bulls • Raleigh Amphitheater • NCT’s production of Annie • Art Walk 1st Friday • Movie Night Art Museum • Time Warner Pavilion • Hanging out by the pool until it closes

for the summer of

2010

There’s something about the summer.

The heat rolls in, the days get longer and our swagger starts to sway. We kick back on our decks, sipping cold drinks. We enjoy late sunsets and slightly cool evenings as we dine outside, forgetting about the time. We wrap oceanscented beach towels around us as we sit on our porch, hiding our legs from the nightly outing of the no-see-ums.

We leave early on Friday and return late morning Monday as we escape for a quick beach weekend getaway. We park ourselves on a lounge chair at the pool and catch up on those books we’ve been meaning to read. And, yeah, we know the sun’s damaging, but we just can’t help it. It’s summer, after all.

Regardless of how you spend your time, one thing’s for sure. Summer’s packaged with traditions, routines and memories. It’s the same beach rental, year after year. It’s chasing down the ice cream truck in the early afternoons. It’s a song on the radio that makes us feel 17 all over again.

So we were curious. What does summer mean to you? What takes you back? What are your sure-thing favorites? What never ceases to amaze you?

And when we asked, you responded. So take a seat, kick back and enjoy.

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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE top

for 2010

tHinGS unDer $10

Believe it or not, $10 can still get you a few summer essentials. Here’s what you can do if you find a little extra in your wallet:

• old navy classic flip-flops, $3.50/each or 2/$5 • a bouquet of fresh flowers at north Hills flower market (thursdays 1-5pm in front of Vivace), $6 • The Girl Who Played With Fire

by Stieg Larsson, $7.99 at amazon.com

• Crayola® Sidewalk Chalk with carton, 52/box, $6.49 • Super Soaker Blitz Soaker Wars Bottle Blaster, $7.99 at target • Goodberry’s Carolina Concrete $5.43/jumbo • ice pop maker, $1.99 at ikea.com

• Gossip magazines (US Weekly, Star Magazine or OK!), $5 or less (of course we recommend Midtown Magazine, and it’s free!)

• Battery powered purple doll personal mini fan, $7.99 at bestoffer.com • Herbal armor insect repellent spray, $9.99

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Summer Cravings for Grown-Ups

Who says grown-ups can’t make a list and check it twice? This summer we crave gadgets, as well as a few other treats that make life just a bit more enjoyable.

• iPad: What more can we say? Apple does it again.

• iPhone 4.

• 3-D television (Samsung, Panasonic).

• Tervis Tumbler: No sweating. Really!

Check out Guy Harvey collection for the beach lover.

• Michael Kors watches: Women can’t get enough of this everyday accessory.

• Droid Phone: Fans can’t stop raving about the service, features and apps.

• Wine refrigerators.

• Keratin hair treatments: There’s no denying the allure of frizz free hair, especially when the temperatures top the nineties. End the fight by treating yourself to the joys of easy hair it’s a gift worth giving yourself.

• The beach bag: Whether it’s Tory Burch, Vineyard Vines, the L.L. Bean Boat and Tote or Old Navy, there’s one to suit every style and need.

• Cornhole board: You can’t help but grab a beanbag and start playing.

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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE top

for 2010

Ways to Burn 200 Calories

We know we’ll burn it off if we hit the gym, pound the pavement, bike around town or go for a swim. But did you know there are other fun ways to burn 200 calories?

• Skipping: 12-15 minutes • Walking: 30-35 minutes • Dancing: 50 minutes • Walking the dog: 45 minutes • Gardening: 40 minutes • Hula hoop: 40 minutes • Getting a massage: 100 minutes (no problem except finding someone to give a 100 minute massage) • Adult “nap”: 40 minutes (four to five calories per minute) • Hand washing your dishes for five consecutive nights (Yeah right! Where’s the hula hoop?)

• Biking: 28 minutes

Style Trends for Summertime

There’s no shortage of style this season, as looks that look effortless say so much more. From your head to your feet, here’s what you need to look good this summer.

• Braids: Move over Pippi Longstocking. Braids add romance, youth and fun to your look. And did we mention braids will keep you cool?

• Denim: A vest here, a shirt there. It’s in.

• Full length and flowing dresses with flats • Khakis – but cut for women • Nudes and off whites • Mixing prints • Sandals with chains • Sequin tops • Jumpsuits: You either love them or you hate them, but they’re here to stay this summer.

• Nautical stripes

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“Classic” Summertime Songs

They take you back, they make new memories. We tap our feet and sing the words without even realizing it. We could go on and on, but forced ourselves to narrow it down to just the 10 best. What do you think?

• Margaritaville | Jimmy Buffett • Summertime | DJ Jazzy Jeff & Will Smith • The Boys of Summer | Don Henley • Summer of ’69 | Bryan Adams • Carolina Girls | General Johnson & Chairman of the Board • Kokomo | The Beach Boys • Life is a Highway | Tom Cochrane • American Pie | Don McClean • California Gurls | Katy Perry • One Love | Bob Marley

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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE top

Things to Take to a BBQ

Nothing says summer like BBQ. These never old, tried and true favorites are delicious summer classics.

Recipes for items marked with a * can be found at midtownmag.com.

for 2010 • Deviled eggs • Homemade cole slaw • Grasshopper pie* • Avocado salsa • Lemonade • Watermelon boat (spiked or not) • Baked beans

• Beer (see page 82 for the top 10 beers for summer) • Chilled spiced asparagus* • Romaine and fruit salad with citrus poppy seed vinaigrette* • Corn on the cob

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Expired Things

Maybe we’ve seen a bit too much. Perhaps we’ve been forced to turn our head. Or even whispered about it to a friend. Either way, some things are just out. It’s time to move on.

• Tube tops or crop tops • Floral shirts for men • Speedos (unless you are Michael Phelps) • “Too” Tan • Sunscreen from last year! If you have it left over then you’re not using enough.

• Ugly feet and unpolished toenails. With endless colors, the PedEgg for home use and numerous pedicurists in town, there are no more excuses.

• Overindulging in adult beverages while at the pool with your children • Trendzillas: When it comes to getting yourself dressed, pick one trend and do it well. Too much is really too much.

• Itsy bitsy teenie weenie bikinis: Less is not always more.

• “Too short” shorts: See above

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The days of striving for near perfect penmanship have fallen by the wayside as email, Twitter, texting, blogging and keyboarding have given us a convenient way out of making sure our loop-de-loops fit between the lines. But what are we losing as we bid farewell to the art of handwriting?

Penmanship: Is the Writing on the Wall?

By illyse lane

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I was born on a cold winter morning Dec.13,1910. And so begins the handwritten history of Ruth Wood, written in her own precise penmanship, at the age of 91.

Little did Wood know that eight years later, in the weeks following her death at the age of 99, the discovery of this delicately written life story would be one of the most unexpected treasures left behind for her family. It provided her daughter, Peg Bedini, with answers to questions that she never even thought needed to be asked.

Wood’s story has given Bedini the chance to not only fill in the gaps regarding her family’s history, but also be taken back to an era she knew little about.

“I came along at a time when things weren’t discussed,” says Bedini. “It has meant the world to me to sit down and understand my mother’s childhood, spent on a farm in a tiny crossroads of a town, and how she found her way.”

This history, combined with Wood’s handwritten collection of favorite poems, sayings and original works kept in a now tattered journal written from 1927 to 1929 while she was a student at Appalachian State, have given Bedini and her daughter, Lynne Lewis, a glimpse into Wood’s life before they were a part of it.

Turning the pages of these two cherished books written in her neat, unique penmanship, which she amazingly retained until her death, evokes deep, heartfelt feelings in both women. “When I see my grandmother’s handwriting and read her words, I hear her voice in my head. Her penmanship is like her fingerprint, it’s all hers, ” says Lewis.

Creating Connections Bedini and Lewis are not alone in having an emotional response to familiar handwriting. There’s an intimate quality to handwriting, one that cannot be matched by the typed word. The feel of the paper. The color of the ink. The shape of the letters. The address on an envelope. Even in this age of technology, with social media used as the primary means of communication, there are those among us who still find value in the handwritten word.

For Donna Williams, her handwriting serves as a source of comfort and motivation for her 25-year-old son, Rob, a Marine currently in Afghanistan.

“While the military gives us a number of ways to communicate, Rob’s told me that my handwritten letters are the most special,” says Williams. “After a tough day when he’s missing everyone, he can pull them out, and just by holding them and rereading them, he feels closer to home.”

Writing to her son, who is the youngest of four, takes Williams back nearly three decades to the time she spent writing to her husband, Tom, who was stationed in Beirut. “I still have those letters stored in a shoebox in the closet. When I need a good cry, I’ll go back and read them. They’re beautiful.”

Intimacy vs. Efficiency While it’s nice in theory to think about taking the time to sit and write a letter to a faraway friend, jot a kind note to a teacher, mail a batch of party invitations or journal about the day’s events, let’s face the facts. We’re busy. We crave efficiency. And it shows in the way we live, as we’ve become far removed from holding a pen to paper.

The handwritten love letters of our past, some that give us insights to history – think founding father John Adams and his wife Abigail during the American Revolution – may be the last of their kind as instead we text I ♥ you.

We tweet our every move and the explosion of blogging has, to some extent, replaced journaling as a way to record information. Yet The Diary of Anne Frank wouldn’t feel quite as compelling if it had been typed into WordPress or Blogger.

We’re more likely to find junk mail instead of letters delivered to our mailboxes, as we evite each other to events and our bills are paid online. We only write letters if the situation requires it, such as a child at sleepaway camp or in Williams’ case, a child overseas.

“We’re becoming a more informal society and have lost some of our intimacy,” says Lu Ann Ely-Rudolph, an etiquette and protocol consultant based in Midtown. “But there are instances in life that warrant the handwritten note and the personal touch it brings. A personal notes goes further in buildmidtownmag.com midtownmag.com| | xx 33

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Thinking about putting pen to paper? Lu Ann Ely-Rudolph shares the most commonly made mistakes when it comes to letter writing and RSVPs. How do you stack up?

1) If you send a business letter to a married professional woman, you would address it: a. Mrs. sue smith b. Mrs. thomas smith c. Ms. sue smith d. sue smith 2) When sending a letter to a husband and wife where the wife holds a higher degree, rank and status than the husband, you would address it: a. Mr. and Dr. Michael smith b. Dr. liz smith and Mr. Michael smith c. Mr. and Dr. Michael and liz smith

4) When addressing an invitation where the couple is not married, it should read: a. Mr. thomas Fox and Ms. Cindy reynolds b. Ms. Cindy reynolds and Mr. thomas Fox c. Mr. thomas Fox Ms. Cindy reynolds 5) What is the proper way to complete this RSVP card?

M_____________________________ Will ______ attend 6) When addressing a formal invitation or letter to a widow, it should read: a. Mrs. Mary lewis b. Mrs. richard lewis c. Ms. Mary lewis

answers

1) C and D – Mrs. sue smith denotes she is divorced and Mrs. thomas smith is for a formal letter. In the business arena it does not matter if a woman is married or not.

2) B – the person with the most important title is listed first 3) B – the man is never separated from his last name. If children are listed, they should be on the 2nd line and listed from oldest to youngest.

4) C – the man’s name is on the first line, lady’s name is on the second.

5) Fill in Ms., Mr., or Mrs. next the letter M with your name(s) on the top line. If you will attend, leave the blank space on the bottom line. this indicates you will be attending. If you will not attend, write in the word “not”.

6) B – a woman retains her deceased husband’s name. either b or c is correct if the letter or invitation is informal.

t s e t your s l l i sk

3) When signing a family Christmas card, it should read: a. John and Kathy Fox b. Kathy and John Fox

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ing relationship; it’s permanent; it shows thought and effort.

You can go back and reflect on it. It is written collateral.”

And so are all of our emails, tweets, texts and blogs, a fact we forget as the simple stroke of a key allows us to communicate without giving much thought to what we are saying. “It’s important to remember that any communication sent out is a conversation without a face, void of expressions, eye contact and voice inflections,” says ElyRudolph. This makes the message less personal and leaves the interpretation up for grabs, including the impression we make on the recipient.

A Needed Skill So we may be losing a bit of intimacy. We may have to go back and explain what we really meant to say. But isn’t handwriting – especially cursive writing – destined for extinction as our next generation keyboards their way through school, using spell check and grammar tools, only to eventually move into a world where nearly everyone works using the quick touch of a finger? And if so, should we even care?

Before we dismiss proficient handwriting as being unnecessary, consider that both the SATs and certain AP exams have required, handwritten essay sections. It’s a skill that even our technology savvy children who can text an entire story using chat abbreviations need to know how to do. And it doesn’t always come easy.

Handwriting requires fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and the ability to organize thoughts, followed by an eventual understanding of grammar and spelling. It

Ruth Wood’s treasured journal, kept from 1926-1929, sits on top of her handwritten life story, which she wrote at the age of 91.

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can be a particularly tricky skill for some students to learn, let alone do it neatly. And some educators argue that students who struggle with handwriting may have difficulty with writing and more complex expression down the road.

While the value of handwriting and whether or not it indicates future academic success is highly debated, many schools still choose to fit handwriting into the curriculum, even if it’s not the hour-long lessons that were common back in the day. At the Trilogy School, a Midtown school providing specialized instruction for students with learning difficulties, handwriting is taught twice a week, with the goal of all students being able to read cursive from the board as they leave Trilogy.

“Even though keyboarding may ultimately be preferred for students with dysgraphia, ADHD and fine motor skills problems, our teachers still work closely with students on letter formations to help them learn the correct way to print and write cursive,” says Judy Williams, principal. This focus lays the foundation for future success with the school’s strong writing program, which includes one hour of writing instruction daily at all grade levels.

Find Your Fingerprint So what does all this mean? Should we shut off our emails? Stop tweeting? Handwrite our stories and papers? Absolutely not.

But perhaps we should make sure that every member of our family has stationery. That our children take up journaling before bed to capture the details of their summer vacation. Or perhaps, as Williams would suggest, pick up a pen and write a note to a soldier stationed far away. “Rob has shared that there are soldiers who don’t receive any mail. It would mean the world to receive a handwritten letter, thanking them for what they are doing,” says Williams.

And if you’re still not sure if you should carve out some time to record your memories, consider Wood’s final journal entry, written many years ago, that Bedini discovered shortly after her passing. “She wrote that she prayed to leave this world peacefully, in her own bed,” says Bedini. “Being able to read that and know that her prayers were answered, well, it’s a gift.”

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A glimpse into Wood’s deepest thoughts as a young woman gave her and her granddaughter much to talk about nearly 75 years later.

TECHtips to live by

We live in a time where boundaries are vague as communication takes place everywhere and at all times. So what should we do? Lu Ann Ely-Rudolph offers these tips before you send your next message or invite.

Email • People get very brave behind email, so implement a 24-hour rule if you are writing about something sensitive. Consider putting your thoughts in a word document overnight, and then rereading it before you place it in an email.

• Picture anything you write being posted on the front page of the newspaper.

• Consider what topics are appropriate.

You may want to let a teacher know you wish to discuss a matter further, instead of writing details about the situation in an email.

Evites • Evites are convenient but not personal.

Potential guests may be turned off to your event if an invite list has been copied and pasted from an address book.

• Show your future guests that you care by sending handwritten invitations. Let them make the decision based on their relationship with you, not your guests list.

• Keep in mind that sometimes evites end up in the spam folder, which can lead to no RSVPs and potential rifts. Sometimes, a phone call may be necessary to follow up.

Facebook and other social media sites • Consider what you are sharing, how much information you want to put out there and how much information people want to know about you.

• Certain people may be uncomfortable with the more “in your face” nature of these sites, including how to accept or ignore requests for friendships.

And always remember, there are instances in life that warrant the handwritten note.

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bain’s beat

Lack of Common Census

BY DAN BAIN

A

s the 2010 Census winds down, I’m hoping for a closing ceremony that tops the Olympics. The process certainly started with fireworks when households across America received not the questionnaire, but an advance letter announcing its imminent arrival. This was part of an $85 million campaign in which US Census Bureau Director Robert M. Groves personally reminded 120 million of us in mid-March that “About one week from now, you will receive a 2010 Census form in the mail.” Did anyone else camp out by their mailbox in anticipation?

The Census Bureau claimed the campaign would actually save us money; this was undoubtedly based on data provided by an impartial source – such as the Census Bureau. Regardless, the letter was really nothing more than a “save the date” mailer.

Yes, our government resorted to the methods of a wedding planner.

Next came the questionnaire. Thanks to Robert M. Groves’ warning, I watched for it and gave it the appropriate attention – I stuck it in a pile of unpaid bills. Good thing he followed up with a postcard, or I might have forgotten it was there. That correspondence

was to remind Americans of two things: we had received the questionnaire, and Robert M. Groves resembled not so much a wedding planner as a nagging in-law.

The postcard told us, “If you have already provided your census information, please accept our sincere thanks. There is no need to provide your answers again.”

Having spent $85 million to beg Americans to respond once, did he seriously think someone might respond twice?

Not to mention, the postcard was dated March 22nd – why would anyone have provided their information by then if it was supposed to be based on their situation as of April 1st? A lot can change in 10 days, particularly in today’s economy. I wouldn’t have dared to predict on March 22nd how many people might still be living in my house as of April 1st – by then, it might have already become the bank’s house and we might have been living in our car.

They posted a similar presumption on their Twitter page. (You read that right – the Census Bureau has a Twitter page.) The afternoon of April 1st, they tweeted that it still wasn’t too late to return our forms. Again, this was the first day on which anyone could

logically answer the questions, let alone mail them in – it’s more likely we were all thinking it was still too early to return them.

There was also a problem with the questionnaire’s due date, in that it didn’t have one. Out of three pieces of mail reiterating that our answers are required by law, not one indicated when they were required.

Imagine a hypothetical boss who does something like that...

First he sends you an email telling you he’s going to send you an email. Two days later, he sends the email. The next day, he sends an email saying he sent the email mentioned in his previous email. In all three emails he threatens to sic an intern on you if you don’t answer him by the due date, which he never provided. At what point during this process would you take a three-martini lunch and head to Kinko’s with your resume?

I knew I could probably find the due date online, but I was busy providing some equally pesky data to another branch of the government – namely, the IRS. The day after I finished my taxes (aka April 16th), I turned my attention back to the Census. Their website said the form was due in the mail that day. This left me little time to ponder

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the question of why the website also made a Questionnaire Assistance line available through April 20th – four days after the completed questionnaires were supposed to be in the mail. It also left me no time for my original plan; I’d wanted to send Robert M. Groves an advance letter, telling him to expect my completed questionnaire in about a week and thanking him in advance for promptly opening it and reading my answers.

Despite my rush to fill out the questionnaire, I had to stop for at least a full minute of confusion over the second question. The first one had asked, “How many people were living or staying in this house, apartment, or mobile home on April 1st, 2010?”

Simple enough…until Question 2 asked, “Were there any additional people staying here April 1st, 2010 that you did not include in Question 1?”

What were they getting at? Question 1 seemed pretty simple; why ask it again?

Did they think they might catch us in a lie by repeating it? If so, someone ought to tell them that particular style of rapid-fire cross-examination typically works only when it’s conducted in person. Also, most people weren’t likely to lie about having additional

people in their house, seeing as we don’t live in a V.C. Andrews novel.

But we might be living in a Thomas Harris novel, given the number of Americans who’ve been ready to try Hannibal Lecter’s fava bean recipe whenever a census taker comes to their door. I don’t understand the anger; in spite of mocking the logistics of the Census, I’m still willing to participate in it. Others are against it, claiming questions about gender, age and race violate their right to privacy. Is it possible to be private about something the casual observer can discern? What’s the point in me not telling the government I’m a middle-aged, vampirically pale white guy when a quick glance makes it obvious, anyway?

Plus, answering the questionnaire actually helps keep the cost down – postage is a lot cheaper than the personal visit you’re guaranteed to get if you write “MYODB” on the form. Yet people are determined to keep the gubmint outta their bidness – to the point of trying to literally shoot the messenger. Census takers have reportedly been threatened with dogs, guns, cars, pickaxes, lawsuits and crossbows. (About that last one, Boss Hogg must have been across the

county line, leavin’ them Duke boys to take out their frustrations on some other varmint.)

The Senseless Bureau may be inefficient, but they’re just doing what the Constitution mandates. Let them do their job, but feel free to voice your opinion. Threats won’t make a statement, but a follow-up postcard to Robert M. Groves? That makes census to me....

Editor’s Note: If you enjoy reading Bain’s Beat, be sure to check out Bain’s book! Laugh your way through 28 life lessons in A “Nay” For Effort, available online only and benefitting North Carolina’s schools. Please see www.danbain.net for details.

Dan Bain, Decennial Dissident mail@danbain.net

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a e r a l a t

i p ca

Q

Quick – what’s 63 miles long and green, has thousands of feet and might be hiding just outside your backyard? No, it’s not a monster – although the people in charge of it might argue that it’s a monster of a project. It’s the Capital Area Greenway, one of Raleigh’s most ambitious undertakings and possibly one of its most overlooked gems.

A greenway is a series of trails and open spaces that provides recreational areas while preserving and protecting natural ones. Greenways are created to link natural areas, parks and cultural sites while providing connectivity, recreation and alternative transportation routes. They typically follow natural terrain features, and Raleigh’s is no different, mapped to our waterways.

gre e

The Capital Area Greenway was conceived in the mid-70s when the City became concerned about rapid growth and developed a plan for the preservation and networking of 270 miles of Raleigh’s stream, creek and river corridors. It was built with seven goals, says Vic Lebsock, Senior Greenway Planner for the City. Four of those goals are environmental: protection of vegetation; protection of animal habitat; fl ood control management; and water quality preservation. The other three goals are social: the creation of a buffer between different land uses; opportunities for expanded, low-impact recreation; and the creation of a multi-purpose trail (which includes the added benefi t of improved public health).

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e enway Provides

BY DAN BAIN

Treasure o

f Leisure

Paved Trails Unpaved Trails Alleghany Trail (3 mi)

Bent Creek Trail (1.1 mi)

Flora, FaUna and FUn Wondering what “low-impact recreation” means? Pretty much anything you can think to do on 10-foot-wide paths (most of them paved), boardwalks, bridges and culverts that pass through parks, marshes, rivers, woods and other natural areas. Lebsock says he’s seen every non-motorized form of movement imaginable – walking, bicycling, inline skating, stroller-pushing, jogging, skateboarding and running. “It’s not ballfi elds, but it is recreation,” he says. “My wife and I spend a lot of time just walking greenway trails, plus I lead a church group that meets once a month to walk different trails.”

As an added bonus, the Greenway grants access to our ecology in its pristine state. Wander far enough on some of the trails and you’re liable to forget you’re not in the middle of the

wilderness, despite the fact that there might be a subdivision over the next rise. That’s just how Raleigh resident and nature-lover Lisa Conklin likes it, as she uses the trails for viewing wildlife in addition to exercise.

Conklin walks the Greenway trails several times a month; she’s been doing so since she moved to Raleigh more than fi ve years ago and says she never tires of it. She brings binoculars and bread crumbs with her – for interacting with nature, not for fi nding her way out. Conklin enjoys watching and feeding the animals, and says the experience helps her relax and gives her an appreciation for the world around her.

“The Greenway offers some spectacular views of nature and glimpses of wildlife you simply cannot witness from your back porch,” Conklin says. “It’s worth exploring…and you’re bound to meet some nice people along the way.”

Crabtree Creek – Oak Park Trail (1.6 mi) Crabtree Valley Trail (1.7 mi) Inman Connector Trail (0.2 mi) Ironwood Trail (1.8 mi)

Lake Park Trail (0.5 mi)

North Hills Trail (0.2 mi)

Sawmill Trail (0.9 mi)

Shelley Lake Trail (3.1 mi)

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A blue heron cools off in the falls at the old Lassiter Mill, located on the Greenway’s Alleghany Trail.

Sig Hutchinson, Chair of the Open Space and Parks Advisory Committee for Wake County and an outspoken advocate of the Greenway for the past 15 years, agrees. “Everybody on the Greenway is in a good mood. I define it as ‘miles of smiles’ – you can’t be out on the Greenway and be in a bad mood,” he laughs.

“I try to get out there at least once or twice a week, riding bikes with my wife. We bought our house because we knew it was going to be on a trail!”

Interconnectivity and Alternative Transportation One of the goals of the current plan is to connect the Greenway’s trails in one closed network. There are 37 trails of varying length in the current 63-mile system, and while not all of them are connected, the City plans to make significant progress toward that goal with the 30-40 miles of new trail planned for construction over the next three years. The Greenway currently encompasses 3500 acres of publicly owned natural areas, says Lebsock, and the City ultimately hopes to acquire and protect 7000 acres.

“The original concept was to deliver a segment to as many neighborhoods as possible. The City changed its philosophy in the early 90s and said it’s time to put them together. That’s when we started getting significant links,” he explains. “We acquire Greenway in bits and pieces all across the city, when it becomes available to us. We have to create a network, but in a lot of cases what we own is little pieces of that network. Then we begin to compile the necessary linear footage for connection.”

Hutchinson says the City was “incredibly visionary” to adopt its Greenway plan. He believes most people in Raleigh are not aware of what the ultimate plan will mean. “We have not hit the tipping point of people’s total understanding of the interconnectivity of the Greenway system,” he exclaims. “There are some 42 | midtownmag.com

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Winding through the North Carolina Museum of Art’s Museum Park, Reedy Creek Trail affords views of several large pieces of outdoor artwork such as Ledelle Moe’s “Collapse I” (above), Thomas Sayre’s “Gyre” (below, at left) and Vollis Simpson’s “Wind Machine” (below, at right).

one- to two-mile segments missing between 10-mile segments. In two or three years, people are going to wake up one morning and think, ‘Oh my God, I can get to work, I can go downtown, I can go to the Art Museum.’ But now they don’t have any idea of the Greenway system that’s developing before their eyes.”

Lebsock cautions against too much optimism about the Greenway being a commuter’s aid, as it doesn’t allow motorized vehicles and it maintains a maximum speed limit of 10 mph.

Still, for the bicycling set, there’s potential for alternative routes, as even the current segments allow them to avoid the highways.

That convenience should grow as more connectors are built at the headwaters of streams, creating internal loops within the system.

The trails targeted for new construction/connectivity, says Lebsock, are Crabtree Creek, Walnut Creek and the Neuse River.

As the central stream corridor on the receiving end of multiple tributaries, the Neuse is a top priority. Once the Neuse River Trail is complete, it will extend from the Falls Lake Dam to the Wake/Johnston County line – a distance of nearly 30 miles in one segment. Hutchinson predicts the system will also connect to Wake Forest, Knightdale, downtown Raleigh, Umstead Park, Apex, Morrisville and Durham.

In a sense, though, the Greenway’s current lack of connectivity is also part of its charm. Hutchinson says trail entrances tend to be “hidden” but that’s part of a Catch-22, as one value of a stream corridor is that it’s located away from major traffic areas. Also, he says, the segmented nature of the trails lends itself to a sense of “ownership” of the individual segments. “Greenway trails are very personal; people love ‘their’ trail. They’re aware of the segments they use, and they love them,” he says. “I hear stories weekly of people who get out on theirs and use it every night, but they’re not familiar with others. They come to a point where theirs ends, turn around and go home.” midtownmag.com | 43

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Vollis Simpson’s colorful “Wind Machine” seems out of place in this rustic field alongside the Greenway’s Reedy Creek Trail.

tHe doWn sIde? With plans in place to expand the Greenway by 70 percent over the next three years, Lebsock says the City might face occasional concerns about new construction, but that overall, residents have been supportive of the Greenway. “There are always concerns, but those are usually expressed at the time we begin buying, planning or constructing in a neighborhood. Usually those concerns go away by the time a segment is fi nished, because they see what the reality is,” he says. “The concerns raised by those not familiar with the Greenway are based on criminal activity and/or property values, and in both cases, both across the country and in Raleigh, statistics do not support that. The criminal rate neither increases nor decreases, while property values tend to support an increase once a greenway trail is installed. There are several factors involved – how much land is protected, how close the home is to the trail, etc. – but in most cases, values do increase. Once a trail was in place and built, I’ve never heard anybody complain.”

With that, all that’s left is to make people aware of this precious natural resource. While some are aware only of “their” trail, some don’t know about the Greenway at all, while others simply haven’t bothered to check it out. “It’s surprising, the number of people who haven’t gotten out there,” Hutchinson affi rms. “They’re missing an incredible opportunity. You gotta get out, you just gotta get out. I would challenge anyone who hasn’t experienced the Greenway to get out and try it. It’s one of the Triangle’s greatest amenities and it’s all there to be explored…absolutely free.”

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3RD ANNUAL • 2011 WE WANT YOUR OPINION! IN THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2011 MIDTOWN MAGAZINE, WE WILL HONOR OUR READERS’ FAVORITE MIDTOWN PLACES AND THINGS WITH THE “DIAMOND AWARDS”.

YOU CAN EMAIL US, SNAIL MAIL US, VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FAX US YOUR FAVORITES!

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BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE BIG GAME _________________________

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BEST WAY TO ENTERTAIN THE KIDS ON A RAINY DAY _________________________

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SHOPPING/BEAUTY (MENS & WOMENS): FRIENDLIEST CUSTOMER SERVICE _________________________

WINNING WINE LIST _________________________ MOST UNIQUE COCKTAIL _________________________ MOST KID-FRIENDLY DINING _________________________

FAVORITE PLACE FOR A BLOW OUT _________________________ MOST UNIQUE SPA TREATMENT _________________________ BEST RELAXATION/WAITING ROOM _________________________ BEST PLACE TO GET A NEW COIFFE _________________________ BEST PLACE TO BUY ESTATE JEWELRY _________________________ BEST PLACE TO BUY HOTTEST “IT” JEWELRY _________________________

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chef mario

Culinary COOL DOWN How to chill out when dining in during the summer

recipes chef mario copy darcy brennan-huante Photography april maness photography

I

t’s time to chill out! When it’s 100 degrees in the shade and we are all ‘glistening’ our collective rears off in the summer sun, hot spicy foods just don’t sound good. We’re more inclined to reach for iced coffee to get us going and chilled white wine over full-bodied reds. It makes sense when you think about it-during the winter we use hearty stews and hot beverages to help us keep warm, and this time of year it works in reverse. Your body is trying to tell you how to keep cool with foods that can actually reduce your body heat and control your overall body temperature, even when the North Carolina summer is in full swing.

Just like mama always told us, load up on your fruits and veggies, especially cucumbers, watermelon, citrus, grapes and bananas. Fruit juices, popsicles (snag a couple from the kiddos), salads and wraps are all in high demand, which will be great for your waistline as well as your temperature control during the all-important bathing suit season! Also, don’t forget that running after the ice cream truck counts as part of your cardio for the day!

Tomato, Basil and Creamy Goat Cheese Profiteroles with pistachio lime vinaigrette Serves 6-8 4-6 roma tomatoes, sliced 1 cup whole basil leaves, plucked 12 slices crisp cooked bacon (optional) For the Profiterole:

(that’s the fancy name for cream puff dough) 1 cup water 1/2 cup butter, cut into chunks 1 tsp salt 1 cup flour (all purpose) 6 eggs 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese 1/2 tsp black pepper Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. In a sauce pan, add water, butter and salt. Bring to a boil until the butter melts. Add flour, stirring over heat until everything comes together, about 1 minute. Let sit for about 5-6 minutes to rest and cool. Using a wooden spoon, add the eggs one at a time to the flour mixture and mix well before adding your next egg. Stir in the Parmesan and pepper. Using a 1 1/2 - 2oz ice cream scoop, scoop and place dough on a pan about 2” apart. Bake profiteroles until golden brown and firm, about 35-45 minutes. Cool completely.

Chef Note: Can be done ahead of time and frozen until ready for use.

For the Filling: 8 oz goat cheese, soft 6 oz cream cheese, soft 1/3 cup heavy cream Salt and pepper Place goat cheese and cream cheese in a mixing bowl and mix with the paddle attachment on medium high.

Slowly add the cream, then salt and pepper. Whip until light and fluffy.

For the Pistachio Lime Vinaigrette: 3 Tbsp lime juice 2 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1/2 cup olive oil 1/4 cup crushed pistachios Salt and pepper Whisk together lime juice, honey and mustard.

Slowly whisk in oil and pistachios and season with salt and pepper.

To Build: Slice profiterole in half, creating a top and bottom. Spoon the goat cheese mixture on the bottom half and place the sliced tomato, basil leaves and bacon on top. Serve the vinaigrette on the side.

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chilled strawberry soup with grand marnier Serves 6-8 4 cups ripe strawberries, cleaned and sliced 1 cup orange juice 1 cup sour cream 1/2-1 cup sugar (amount depends on how sweet your berries are) 1 cup heavy cream 3 tbsp sugar 1 tsp vanilla (you are making whipped cream from scratch) grand Marnier Fresh mint for garnish in a blender, place strawberries, juice, sour cream and sugar.

Blend to puree. For your homemade whipped cream: and in a chilled bowl, add heavy cream, sprinkle with sugar, add vanilla. Using a whisk, mix until whipped and at the proper consistency. Divide soup between serving bowls. give a dollop of whipped cream to each. Drizzle with grand Marnier (use your discretion - just add enough to flavor the soup). top with a sprig of fresh mint and serve!

chef Note: if you’re bringing this to a friend’s house, mix dressings and salad together last minute and just transport them in plastic bags.

watermelon, tomato and strawberry salad with lemon and feta Serves 8 3 tbsp lemon juice 1/3 cup olive oil 1/2 cup crumbled feta 2 tbsp sugar salt & pepper to taste 3 cups watermelon, bite sized chunks 3 cups juicy ripe tomatoes, large diced 2 cups sliced strawberries 1/2 cups blueberries sprig of fresh mint in a bowl, add lemon juice, olive oil and feta. stir to mix. add sugar and season with salt and pepper. Mix. in a large bowl, add tomato chunks, strawberries, watermelon and gently stir to mix. add the lemon feta mixture and fold to mix. sprinkle with blueberries and garnish with a mint sprig, serve immediately.

blacKened chicKen with cool cucumber dill Serves 6-8 6 chicken breasts, about 6 oz per breast For super spice (or use your other favorite cajun spice) 2 tbsp chili powder 2 tbsp paprika 1 tbsp garlic powder 1 tbsp salt 2 tsp pepper 1/2 tsp cayenne 1 tsp crushed red pepper Mix together and set aside.

For cucumber Dill sauce 1 cup sour cream 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 cup cucumbers, small diced into little cubes 2 tbsp lemon juice 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped salt and pepper, to taste cut each chicken breast in half. place 2 or 3 pieces in a plastic bag and pound chicken breasts to equal thickness. Lay chicken out on a foil-lined sheet pan. sprinkle the chicken cutlets in a bit of olive oil until cooked through. combine sour cream, mayonnaisew, cucumber, lemon juice, Dijon, dill, salt and pepper - mix well. serve chicken cutlets over greens and top with cucumber dill sauce or roll into a tortilla for a wrap! midtownmag.com| 47

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b. Marco Biego | Bailey’s

fashion foundation

Introduction By illyse lane | Photography by April Maness

Yes, it is 97 degrees today and fall seems too far away! In reality we are only 8-10 weeks away from packing up the summer wardrobe and unpacking fall. The transition from summer to fall can be a fiasco for some of us. Solution: have the right foundation pieces in your wardrobe and you can slide seamlessly from summer to fall, looking fabulous.

Here’s a look at what our favorite boutiques recommend:

a. Rag and Bone | Vermillion

c. PeJay Creations | Diamonds Direct Crabtree 48 | midtownmag.com

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d. Southern Frock

a. Rag and Bone | Vermillion.

This tailored, silk, two-button blazer with contrasting trim makes it the perfect staple piece. Wear it now over a tank or sundress on a cool summer night and then through the fall paired with your favorite jeans. Versatile enough to be dressy or casual; leave it open, button it up or roll up your sleeves to change your look from day to night.

B

b. Marco Biego | Bailey’s

Whether you’re in a t-shirt or a cocktail dress, these unique, in-demand, 18-karat yellow gold pieces with a splash of color are sure to impress. Designed to be worn together, yet perfectly acceptable to be worn alone, these rings add flair to any outfit and are destined to be wrapped around your fingers for the next few seasons.

c. PeJay Creations | Diamonds Direct Crabtree

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and there’s no better way to wear them than as bangle bracelets. Fitting for both casual and formal occasions, these bangles, available in 18-karat white gold, yellow gold and rose gold are perfectly styled to be worn alone or stacked with other bangles. Certain to add the finishing touch and bring your look together.

d. Southern Frock

This is the ultimate year-round sundress.

Whether celebrating a beach weekend in our great North State or planning a fall getaway to a faraway location, the Shackleford’s comfortable style is an easyto-pack must-have. Perfect for the heat of the summer day, and even more perfect with a cardigan in the months to come.

C

e. Michele | Charlotte’s

e. Michele | Charlotte’s

White has taken over for the summer, and watches are keeping up with the trend. White watches are the accessory that everyone, regardless of age, craves.

This watch will add an element of freshness to any look, be it the bare arm of summer or peeking through the sleeve of a blazer in the fall.

f. CJ by Cookie Johnson | Certain Things Not every woman is built to wear lowrise, tight jeans. Thank goodness for this boyfriend jean, made with premium denim, sitting slightly higher with a little more give around the bottom and hips.

Perfectly suited for a summer’s night out when paired with a dressy blouse and sandals and ready to take you through sweater weather.

f. CJ by Cookie Johnson | Certain Things midtownmag.com | 49

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h. Babette | C.T. Weekends

i. Corso Como | Kristen’s Shoe Boutique

g. Judith March | Hayley’s Boutique

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g. Judith March | Hayley’s Boutique Wear this dress now on the hottest of days to keep your cool and then plan on adding a jacket or scarf as the summer turns to fall. An added bonus? All fabrics are one of a kind, so you’re sure to be the only one out and about in this quintessential transition dress.

h. Babette | C.T. Weekends

j. Mod-O-Doc | CoolSweats

A fashionable foundation piece for any wardrobe, this 100% cotton white permanent pleat blouse can be dressed up or down to complete any look. Wear it closed, wear it open with a t-shirt for a layered look or play with the sleeve length. Any way you choose to style it, this must-have blouse is sure to be a favorite.

i. Corso Como | Kristen’s Shoe Boutique

Summer’s been all about the gladiator, and this trend shows no sign of slowing. The shoe for any outfit, it will complete your look when worn with your sundresses and shorts all summer long and then with your skinny jeans and cropped pants for fall. An absolute wardrobe must.

j. Mod-O-doc | CoolSweats

This all-cotton, no-wrinkle, waffletextured jacket is certain to become your go-to jacket. Great for layering, traveling and keeping yourself warm on a cool beach night, you’ll be reaching for this for months to come. Guaranteed, this will be the piece you keep going back to buy in every color.

k. Elaine Miller Collection

k. Elaine Miller Collection

There’s no denying the allure of a simple strand of pearls. It’s the accessory you don’t need to think about, for every season and occasion. Now, with Japanese Akoya, South Sea, Tahitian, or freshwater, white, black, golden, natural or dyed, the selection of pearls has never been greater. Your strand will become your staple.

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m. J Brand | gena chandler

l. Graham & Gunn LTD | Varsity Men’s Wear

n. Teri John | Tyler House l. Graham & Gunn LTD | Varsity Men’s Wear

The wool, silk, and linen blend of this jacket invites it to be worn with a wide range of slacks and shirts. With colors perfect for the bright sun of summer and the crispness of fall, this jacket will give you that added dash. Pair it with a tie for that special evening dinner or a polo for lunch and early afternoon activities.

m. J Brand | gena chandler

This is the must have pant. The skinny cargos with side ankle zipper are perfect for day-to-night dressing. The Houlihans look great with a tee during the day and then with a silk tank and leather jacket for night. They are available in over eight washes including the popular army, sharkskin, sahara & vintage navy. A great transition investment.

n. Teri John | Tyler House

This feminine, ruffled white blouse looks smashing with your favorite summer skirt and will soften your suit jacket. A wardrobe essential, this crisp classic will carry you through summer and well into the fall, pairing well with nearly everything in your closet. A must.

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10

summer beauty staples

Beauty tips courtesy of Fiquet Bailey, Luxe Apothecary Check out Fiquet’s blog at: thebeautyofitall.net

1) Cheek Stain Sheer stains give cheeks realistic color and work well over bare skin. I love Tarte Cheek Stain.

Available at Sephora, $30

2) Bold Colored Nail Polish Trade your standard pink polish in for this summer’s blues & greens.

Keep nails short when experimenting with color. Try Essie Lapis of Luxury or Turquoise & Caicos.

Available at Luxe Apothecary, $8 3) Sheer Lipstick with SPF Double duty formulas add color while providing protection from the sun. Try Bobbi Brown Treatment Lip Shine SPF 15.

Available at Bobbi Brown counters, $22

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7) Self Tanner We all know that tanning isn’t safe. Fake it with a great self-tanner. I prefer spray-on formulas such as L’Oreal Sublime Bronze ProPerfect Airbrush.

Available at cvs.com, $10.49

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8) Curl Enhancing Spray Stop fighting humidity & instead work with it! Enhance your natural curls with a curl defining spray.

I swear by Philip B. Maui Wowie Beach Mist.

Available at Luxe Apothecary, $22

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4) Mattifying Primer North Carolina summers can leave even the driest of skin shiny.

Keep oil at bay with a great mattifying primer. Urban Decay “De-Slick in a Tube” Mattifying Gel does the trick.

Available at urbandecay.com, $28 5) Blotting Paper If you find yourself getting oily, avoid re-powdering, which will leave behind a cakey mess.

Instead, use blotting paper to absorb excess oil. Keep Sonia Kashuk Blotting Powders in your bag for quick touch-ups.

Available at Target, $6.99

6) Sunscreen Invest in great sunscreen. If you are on a tight budget, save by using generic sunscreen for body and spend on the best facial sunscreen you can afford. My sensitive skin loves Natura Bisse SPF 30 Daily Defense Oil Free Fluid Available at neimanmarcus.com, $95

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3

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9) Mineral Foundation Lightweight & easy to apply, mineral powders are perfect for this time of year. The natural sun protection that they offer is a bonus!

Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15 is great for applying on the go.

Available at lauramercier.com $35 10) Waterproof Mascara I don’t recommend waterproof mascara for daily wear, but it’s a must-have for summer! When heading to the beach I use Loreal Voluminous Waterproof Mascara.

Available at cvs.com, $7.49

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By kristy stevenson

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With two-thirds of American shoppers cutting coupons more frequently, seeking out low price over convenience and emphasizing saving over spending, it’s no wonder that an infectious ‘couponing fever’ is spiking in the Triangle. In this economy, coupons, specials and rebates are buzz words on the tip of many tongues. And by setting aside just an hour a week, plus a willingness to shop at least two grocery stores, people are saving money.

To cut your grocery bill in half: (1) Buy what you need when it’s on sale, (2) Capitalize on techniques of doubling or even tripling coupons, and (3) Stockpile items so that you don’t have to make emergency runs when things are not on sale.

According to the The Wall Street Journal, an hour spent clipping coupons can yield $100 in savings. That’s a pretty decent return on a job you can do in your pajamas while watching TV.

Sue Stock, retail reporter for The News & Observer, devotes part of every week to a blog (takingstock.newsobserver.com) she’s maintained since 2007 which answers questions about retail in the Triangle and also shares her savvy shopping expertise. Stock also teaches two N&O-sponsored couponing classes per year which cover equal parts couponing, rebates and meal planning.

Ten years ago, Faye Prosser developed the Smart Spending System (www.smartspendingresources.com) when she left her job to become a stayat-home mom. Cutting her family income in half meant learning how to save money and stretch remaining dollars as far as possible. Today, Prosser has become a successful author, instructor and professional blogger as WRAL’s Smart Shopper (www.wral.com/5onyourside/smartshopper) – and she’s teaching others how to live more comfortably within their means.

Prosser does most of her shopping at Harris Teeter or Lowes Foods.

This is surprising to some because their prices can be steeper. “Both stores are actually very competitive with their sale prices,” says Prosser. “But when you match a sale price with a coupon that is then doubled (or sometimes tripled), your savings become exponential. They cannot compare with your ‘low price leaders.’”

To maximize on your trip to the supermarket, you must first understand how the process works and familiarize yourself with store coupon policies. For our purposes, we will focus on local grocers – although there are savings to be found in just about every retail market.

Lowes Foods

Will double the face value of a manufacturer coupon up to 99¢ every day.

Will double up to 20 coupons per day; will double 4 multiples; store will occasionally triple coupons.

Harris Teeter

Will double the face value of a manufacturer coupon up to 99¢ every day.

Will double up to 20 coupons per day; will double 3 multiples; store will triple coupons ~4x/year.

Kroger

Will double the face value of a manufacturer coupon up to 50¢ every day.

Varies by store.

Do not double coupons.

Stores accept coupons at face value.

Food Lion, Kmart, Target, Walmart

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Know the Lingo ‘Triple coupons,’ offered occasionally in our market by Harris Teeter and Lowes Foods, are a special window of opportunity where the store will triple the face value of a manufacturer coupon up to 99¢. ‘Super Doubles’ are when the store doubles the face value of a manufacturer coupon up to $1.98. Couple these deals with an ongoing store sale, then layer a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon (which then either doubles or triples), and you’ve got some real savings.

During the triples window, Stock will buy things like rice, soup, mustard and peanut butter. “Often, I can get those items either totally free or for a very small percentage of what they would normally cost. This saves cash in the long run and allows you to use your weekly shopping trips to pick up meat, veggies and just the really good bargains of the week.”

Getting Started So where do you find coupons? Your local Sunday paper, magazines (Gourmet, Cooking Light, Good Housekeeping, and Walmart’s All You are good choices), manufacturer and coupon websites, friends and family, product packaging, the internet, mailers, Blinkies, Catalinas, via coupon swaps (through work, church, or savvydollar.org), or even by sending a complimentary email to your favorite product manufacturer.

Brand loyalty can often get in the way of real savings, so be flexible. The key to the system is buying what’s on sale in a given week. “Your goal – as a smart shopper – is to get in, get those loss leaders, and get out,” says Prosser. Stock up on the non-perishable deals stores run every single week to build your reserves (three to four of an item), thereby offsetting the cost of your healthy produce and high quality, high protein meats.

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There are literally tons of online sites to help you save money on everything from diapers to travel expenses. You don’t have to frequent all of them – just pick the ones that are right for your family. Here’s Midtown’s best of the best for grocery deals: • Coupons.com – coupons.com • Hot Coupon World – www.hotcouponworld.com • RedPlum – www.redplum.com • Savvy Dollar: NC’s Source for Savings – forums.savvydollar.org • SmartSource – www.smartsource.com • The Coupon Clippers – www.thecouponclippers.com • All Recipes – www.allrecipes.com • $5 Dinners – www.5dollardinners.com Coupons for organic, gluten free and other special dietary needs are available through links like these, as well as clipping services and even eBay: • Eat Better America – www.eatbetteramerica.com/Coupons • Enjoy Life Foods – enjoylifefoods.com • Mambo Sprouts – www.mambosprouts.com/coupons • Organic Grocery Deals – www.organicgrocerydeals.com/forums • Whole Foods Market coupons – www.wholefoodsmarket. com/coupons

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Getting Organized Ever get to the checkout and have the cashier say, “Do you have any coupons?” Of course you do, but they’re in your car, or on the kitchen table at home, or in your other purse. Wouldn’t it be nice to know where all those coupons were and have them handy?

Whether it’s a binder or some other sort of filing method, find a system that works for you and stay on top of it by updating weekly and removing expired coupons once a month.

Stock and Prosser both recommend creating a price notebook that allows you to know the best prices so you can effectively stock up when items go on sale. You can’t build a stockpile over night, however. It will take some time, so start by making a list of your family’s top 10 favorite items (things you buy regularly), and then record the lowest price you paid for each. Include the date, store, item, brand, size, the price you paid and unit price to ensure that you’re getting a fair comparison from store to store.

online. You will also find specifics on store promotions (including the Food Lion MVP Shopper’s Companion online coupons, Lowes Foods Fresh Rewards, Harris Teeter’s e-VIC weekly online deals, and Kroger digital and e-coupons) as well as reward and instantrebate offers (like CVS Extra Bucks, Walgreens Easy Saver program, and Rite Aid Rebates).

And if you subscribe to the N&O and want extra copies of the coupon sections each Sunday (but don’t want to buy extra papers), call them and they will add extra coupon sections to your paper for $1 per set.

Meal Pl anning Now that you’re organized, make a shopping list based on what’s already in your house and what is on sale. Plan at least five dinners per week, and set a goal of $5 per dinner (for the entire meal based on a family of four). Not every meal will fall into that category, but that’s your goal. Batch-cook or use your crockpot and freeze one or two dinners for another week to add variety.

Letting the Experts Work for You In our area, you don’t even have to deal shop as Stock and Prosser do the work for you and then post weekly lists on their blogs. For more on how to get started and what’s on sale, please visit them

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money $aving mamas CAT Novice/Intermediate/Pro Family of 6 Difficulty finding coupons for her items “I prefer to buy 100% juice as opposed to Kool-Aid,” says Youngsville’s Cat Redd.

“And I try to buy snacks that aren’t made with high fructose corn syrup or any type of food coloring. Whole wheat is a must and soy milk is preferred,” she continues. “It’s tough finding coupons for those items.”

In the spring and summer months, Redd frequents local produce stands and eats out of her own organic vegetable garden. “My husband makes our meal plan each week; we try to use what we have on-hand so our pantry doesn’t overflow, but often buy different things just to add variety,” she says.

If she could find a way for her family to eat healthy while still saving money, she would try it.

Cat’s Tip: Research is key in finding the best price on quality items and those that adhere to a restricted diet.

PENNY Novice/Intermediate/Pro Family of 5 Uses couponmom.com to see savings percentages “To me, the process is more than just couponing, it’s meal planning and portioning,” says Clayton’s Penny Juarez. Her family picks fresh fruit and “quick freezes” it (putting individual grapes or berries on a cookie sheet and popping them in the freezer).

The fruit is then ready to bag and freeze for up to three months – and it won’t clump together. After three months, your stashes can still be used in milkshakes or punches.

Juarez also likes to track meat sales with an online calendar. Similar to a price book, her link tells her what will go on sale and when.

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“Kmart runs super coupons a few times a year where they will double the face value up to $2!” says Juarez.

“Sometimes the event will include Super Kmarts so you can purchase food items too.”

Penny’s Tips: Holiday weekends are traditionally light coupon distributions, so you may consider buying extra papers the following Sunday as that paper will be loaded with deals.

DEANNA Novice/Intermediate/Pro Family of 3 Spent $19, saved $68 on a triple shop

(Clockwise from top left) Cat, Penny and Deanna share shopping tips for all experience levels.

“I started clipping coupons to save money when my husband was laid off from his job,” says Raleigh’s Deanna Polito-Laughinghouse. She hops to different stores for different deals, frequenting between three and four stores.

“I look for items that are basically free with coupons, staples, and baking supplies,” says Laughinghouse.

She says Aldi is a great place to buy baked, boxed and canned goods. “I’ll pay $35 there for the same items that would run at least $50 at any other grocery store,” she says.

Deanna’s Tips: Write up a list and stick with it – but if you find something you regularly use on sale, go ahead and get it as it will save you money in the long run; carry your coupons with you at all times so you can couple a surprise sale with a voucher and save even more money!

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step by step

1, 2, 3…

2

3 Easy As Whether it’s the grocery store, the farmer’s market or the North Hills Flower Market – finding and buying fresh flowers has never been easier. So what are the tricks to creating a lovely bouquet yourself? Floral designer and owner of English Garden, Cydney Davis-English says it is as easy as 1, 2, 3.

When choosing flowers try to stick with one color palette. If you keep it simple, you can’t go wrong! Before you begin working on the arrangement, you should prep all your flowers – this includes removing all foliage below the water line and cutting flowers down to the proper length for the vase (always cut roses diagonally).

1b

2

1. Use a 5 x 5 square vase.

Take the shrub rose stem and cut it down the middle.

Cross the stems in the vase (this forms the framework of the arrangement).

• Take the roses and fill in. You often hear that you should use an odd number of stems, but I disagree with that. I think each arrangement is different and you need to make sure it looks balanced.

• The finished arrangement is soft and lovely.

2. Find a vase that you love and use it time and time again.

• Remove the pollen source from lilies before arranging.

(Tip: To remove pollen without staining, use tape.)

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• Again, I wanted something green and leafy to build the framework of the arrangement; this time it’s Aralia.

• Add the lily and you are done!

3

3. I like using a mason jar when working with a traditional market bouquet.

• Start by cutting something green like Ligustrum from a shrub (can be found in almost every backyard).

• Cut the greenery into two pieces that crisscross to form the framework.

• Fill in with flowers. Turn the jar after each flower is added to make sure it is balanced.

• Save the largest or prettiest bloom for the center of the arrangement, and you are done.

3 arrangements for total of $12 and ½ hour of time!

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1

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not your average

ICED TEA

BY RICHARD HINSON, TeaGschwendner

If you are from the South or call it home today, then “sweet tea” is probably a favorite. In fact, tea is the second most consumed beverage, just behind water. But like everything, from time to time it is nice to spice things up and try something new. We asked Richard Hinson, owner of TeaGschwendner, to share 10 new teas worth trying this summer.

China Yunnan Golden Downy Pekoe (Classic Black) – A wonderfully delicate, slightly sweet and mildly spicy Black Tea, close in character to Assam. This black tea is excellent for making Southern Sweet and Unsweet Teas. Ingredients: Lightly rolled leaves with a high content of golden tips.

Blood Orange (Black Aroma) – The bold, tangy flavor of blood oranges. Ingredients: A blend of black tea from Ceylon and China, orange peel, safflower blossoms and natural blood orange oil.

Lemon Vanilla White Tea (White Aroma) – Finest White Tea from the best gardens of south India harmoniously unite with the gentle freshness of Lemon myrtle and a gentle touch of the best vanilla.

Ingredients: White Tea from India, lemongrass, lemon myrtle, vanilla pieces.

Rooibush Jungle Fire (Rooibush Aroma) – Sweet cinnamon and fruity orange ignites a tropical fire.

Ingredients: Rooibush tea, cinnamon pieces, orange peels and cloves.

Arabian Night (Green/Black Aroma) – A blend of rare fragrances.

Ingredients: A blend of green tea from China and black teas from India, Ceylon and China blended with rose, jasmine, and sunflower blossoms.

Rooibush Jungle Fire (Rooibush Aroma) – Sweet cinnamon and fruity orange ignites a tropical fire.

Ingredients: Rooibush tea, cinnamon pieces, orange peels and cloves.

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Green Coconut (Green Aroma) – Choice shredded coconut and the finest Sencha leaves gives this tea its extraordinary aroma. Ingredients: A blend of green tea, shredded coconut with a hint of coconut oil.

Cranberry Mango (Green Aroma) – A refreshingly crisp, excitingly sweet, fruit flavor.

Ingredients: A blend of green teas from China and Ceylon, cranberry and mango pieces with natural citrus oils.

Smooth Strawberry Dream (Honeybush Aroma) – A delightfully creamy, strawberry-caramel flavor.

Ingredients: A blend of Honeybush tea, pieces of caramel, strawberry bits and strawberry leaves.

Strawberry Kiwi (Fruit Tea) – A cool, refreshing blend of ripe strawberries and kiwi.

Ingredients: A blend of apple pieces, hibiscus blossoms, rose hips, sunflower blossoms, strawberry leaves and freeze-dried strawberry pieces.

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calendar

july/august 2010

Flower Market at North Hills July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | 11am-5pm | www.northhillsraleigh.com

Independence Day July 4

Beach Music at North Hills July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 | 6-9pm | www.northillsraleigh.com

July 4th Celebration at NC Fairgrounds July 4 | 2:30pm-9:30pm | Fireworks begin at 9:15pm | 919.831.6854 | www.ncstatefair.org/events

Hot Summer Nights at the Kennedy: Great American Trailer Park July 1-11 | 866.811.4111 | www.hotsummernightsatthekennedy.org

And Old-Fashioned 4th of July at Joel Lane House July 4 | 1-4pm | 919.833.3431 | joellane@bellsouth.net

First Friday Art Walk Downtown Chef Tony’s Italian Food Tour at Gravy July 2 | 6-10pm | www.godowntownraleigh.com – A Night of Calabria July 5 | 919.896.8513 Farmers’ Market at North Hills July 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31 | Tuesdays Duck and Dumpling’s Taste of Bangkok 4-7pm; Saturdays 8am-12pm | July 6 | 919.838.0085 www.northhillsraleigh.com Caregiver Support Group Meeting July 8 | 6:30pm | 919.746.7050 | www.sarahcare.com Sushi Tasting Luau at Mura July 8 | 9pm | Tickets $5-10 | 919.781.7887 | www.muranorthhills.com Magic Monday at the Raleigh Times July 19 | 7pm | Bell’d Expedition Stout Cask and Magic Mike | 919.833.0999

PARAMORE at the raleigh amphitheatre July 23 | 6:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre Annie at North Carolina Theatre July 24-August 1 | 800.745.3000 | www.nctheatre.com Ivan Parker Concert at Trinity Baptist Church July 24 | 7pm | $25 | 919.218.2075 | www.tbcraleigh.com shinedown at the raleigh amphitheatre July 25 | 5pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre Annual Birthday Party at The Cupcake Shoppe Bakery July 27 | Free cupcakes all day! | 919.821.4223 | www.thecupcakeshopperaleigh.com Hot Summer Nights at the Kennedy: Death and The Maiden July 28-August 8 | 866.811.4111 | www. hotsummernightsatthekennedy.org slightly stoopid, cypress hill and collie buddz at the raleigh amphitheatre July 28 | 6:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre

Local Beer Tasting at Sitti July 20 | 6pm till close | 919.239.4070

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chelsea handler: chelsea chelsea bang bang at the raleigh amphitheatre July 30 | 8:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre Cherry Bounce Concert July 31 | Hargett Street in front of Raleigh Times | 919-833-0999 bare naked ladies at the raleigh amphitheatre July 31 | 7:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre Farmers’ Market at North Hills August 3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24, 28, 31 | Tuesdays 4-7pm; Saturdays 8am-12pm | www.northhillsraleigh.com Beach Music at North Hills August 5, 12, 19, 26 | 6-9pm | www.northillsraleigh.com Sushi Tasting Black Tie Naked Sushi at Mura August 5 | 9pm | Tickets $5-10 | 919.781.7887 | www.muranorthhills.com First Friday Art Walk Downtown August 6 | 6-10pm | www.godowntownraleigh.com Isda Trunk Show at Certain Things August 6-7 | 919.786.6104

Flower Market at North Hills August 7, 14, 21, 28 | 11am-5pm | www.northhillsraleigh.com Goo goo dolls at the raleigh amphitheatre August 9 | 6:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre OAR at the raleigh amphitheatre August 10 | 6:30pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre

Hot Summer Nights at the Kennedy: Tell Me on a Sunday August 18-31| 866.811.4111 | www.hotsummernightsatthekennedy.org Carolina Classics at the Capital August 20-22 | Raleigh Convention Center | www.classicsatthecapital.com or call 919.896.7448.

Kinross Cashmere Trunk Show at Tyler House August 11-14 | 919.781.9210

sound tribe sector 9 at the raleigh amphitheatre August 25 | 7pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre

Caregiver Support Group Meeting August 12 | 6:30pm | 919.746.7050 | www.sarahcare.com

Have an important event? We would love to hear about it. Please send the details of your calendar events to: sarah@midtownmag.com.

umphrey’s mcgee at the raleigh amphitheatre August 13 | 6pm | www.raleighconvention.com/amphitheatre Racquets for Research August 14 | 8am | Raleigh Racquet Club | www.regonline.com/racquets

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A

… and then let them guide you through the admission process.

Private schools traditionally offer smaller class sizes, meaning more personal attention and less chance for your child to get lost in the shuffle. They also maintain a competitive academic standing and selection of advanced placement (AP) options, and often a faith-based foundation. Educators are also highly qualified in that they usually have a first degree in their subject. Seventy to eighty percent will also carry a masters and/or terminal degree. Most private schools do not have to teach to a test – meaning that they can focus on teaching your child how to think, rather than what to think. And as school funding is not mandated by state budgets, private schools are known for their superb media and athletic facilities.

Perhaps most important, however, is that in private schools being smart is cool. Too often on mainstream campuses the students who want to learn and who excel in a given field are ostracized. In a private setting, the smarter you are, the more the school will do to stretch your intellect to its limits. So if you’re in the market for private instruction, consider what these Midtown schools have to offer:

s a Triangle parent, you have many options on the horizon concerning your child’s education.

From base schools (with traditional, modified, and multitrack year-round calendars), to magnet, charter, and private instruction options – there’s a lot to assess. And to select the best fit, you’ll need to do a little homework of your own.

Wake County school reassignments and families split by different calendars have caused many to re-examine their options. So why send your child to a private school? Is it worth the investment?

Take a closer look. Researching schools is key, along with gathering referrals and making visits to campuses of interest. From attending information sessions to monitoring deadlines and filling out applications, the process can be daunting – but it doesn’t have to be. From traditional to progressive, our area has a variety of private schools from which to choose. It’s important to find an institute whose approach and philosophy best meet your family’s objectives

today’s lesson: Educating Yourself on Midtown’s Private & Magnet Schools

By Kristy Stevenson

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The Montessori School of Raleigh

The Montessori School of Raleigh Preschool-9th Grade www.msr.org Annual Tuition: $8,350-$17,676 Number of Students: 450

As an independent school designed to create confident, self-motivated and academically prepared children, The Montessori School of Raleigh is based on the philosophy and methodology of what they call “freedom in a framework.” Over 100 years ago, Dr. Maria Montessori observed that children learn best by doing, and produced a teaching method which matches teaching styles to the intellectual, emotional and social development of children.

The Montessori School of Raleigh’s curriculum spans three grade levels in each classroom, providing hands-on lessons and activities to enhance learning in a tangible method. Their program is interdisciplinary so every student may participate in all programs. Montessori students are nurtured as individual learners and leaders to be competent and confident in their skills and abilities.

Experienced, certified teachers – called directors – who have studied and interned to teach children of specific age groups (e.g., ages 6-9 instead of grades K-8) are unique to the program. A nine to one student-to-faculty ratio at the middle school level assures strong instruction and high accountability.

Further, students are matched to appropriate classes according to their skill sets, and the curriculum does not end at state required benchmarks.

“The development of engaged and responsible citizen-scholars and curious and successful intellectual explorers who read great works with understanding, calculate with accuracy, write with clarity, solve problems, and think critically is at the heart of MSR’s work with children,” says Meg Thomas, Head of School.

At the end of each school day, students may participate in the Studios program which imparts a rich variety of developmentally appropriate activities. A rotation of offerings include piano, guitar, drum circles, Girl Scouts, book clubs, film making, volleyball, handball, flag football, lacrosse, kickball, scoops, basketball and floor ball.

“We’ve recently added a mixed school golf team to our athletic program, which already includes soccer, basketball, volleyball and cross country,” says Thomas. midtownmag.com| xx

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Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School

Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School Kindergarten-8th Grade www.olls.org Annual Tuition: $4,700 (varies) Number of Students: 524 Our Lady of Lourdes Parish School believes that parents and guardians carry the obligation of being the fundamental educators of their children, and the school shares that responsibility with them. For 56 years, Lourdes has partnered with parents to provide a quality Catholic education that focuses on the spiritual, intellectual, emotional and social growth of its students. “We offer a wonderful community, strong academics, an extensive extracurricular program, and excellent high school placement,” says Pam Mueller, Director of Admissions.

Grades one through five are self-contained classes in which the students stay with the same teacher throughout the day (with the exception of specials). Grades six through eight, however, become departmentalized. All teachers are certified and offer basic core classes in religion, language arts, reading, social studies, math and science. Algebra is offered to eighth graders who qualify for advanced math. Diverse enrichment courses include Spanish, music, art, physical education, media center time, computer science and Japanese.

Beginning in the upper grades, electives like band and strings, student council, the Science Olympiad and athletic team sports are offered.

Lourdes started the lacrosse program in the middle schools and recently won the league championship in volleyball. They also added a cross country team to their roster in 2009-10.

This year, Lourdes retained a teacher who became a finalist for the Lewis Award for Excellence in Education. “As a Catholic School, we are called to teach, to form community, and to give service,” says Mueller.

Beyond academics, Lourdes’ students develop an understanding of Catholic worship and engage in service projects throughout the year on school-wide, class and individual levels.

Ravenscroft School Preschool-12th Grade www.ravenscroft.org Annual Tuition: $11,100-$17,900 Number of Students: 1239 Ravenscroft has a legacy of excellence as a college preparatory school with an exceptional and well-established fine arts program, highly competitive athletics lineup (50 teams in grades 7-12), and a commit68 | midtownmag.com

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Ravenscroft School

ment to community and service. Providing the continuity of a pre-K through twelfth grade education, the school has earned a wide range of honors and leads 24 advanced placement courses.

They introduce intramural and interscholastic sports at the middle school level, as well as a wide range of electives such video editing, technology foundations, stagecraft and public speaking. The upper school also offers a diverse selection of courses in three levels of study, plus a wide array of clubs, athletics and arts opportunities.

“Our goal is to embrace excellence through a rigorous academic curriculum taught by skilled and highly trained teachers with the finest resources,” says Pamela Jamison, Director of Admissions.

Ravenscroft’s faculty has an average of more than 18 years teaching experience, and more than 60 percent have attained advanced degrees. International education/exchange/travel abroad opportunities exist for middle and high school students, including a new International Diploma Extension Program. And 100 percent of Ravenscroft

students are accepted to four-year colleges and universities.

Located on a 127-acre campus, the school is equipped with exceptional facilities and is currently undergoing a renovation that should be nearly complete by the fall. “This project – Phase I of our new campus master plan – includes new front and back entrances to the school; an outdoor learning center & amphitheatre; and roadway and security enhancements including a new stone and wrought iron perimeter fence,” says Jamison. As part of Ravenscroft’s commitment to environmental sustainability, a new rain garden is being built, and installation of solar panels will provide educational and environmental benefits for the campus. Also new is after-school enrichment through the pre-K and K Plus programs, and an honors engineering course in the upper school.

“Community service is an integral part of Ravenscroft’s culture.

Through these experiences, students recognize their capacity to make a difference in the lives of others and in the world,” says Jamison.

Saint Mary’s School 9th-12th Grade www.sms.edu Annual Tuition: $17,540-$37,630 Number of Students: 277 Saint Mary’s School prepares young women for college and life in a community dedicated to academic excellence and personal achievement. “We offer a partnership in and commitment to your daughter’s intellectual, emotional, social, physical and spiritual development,” says Theo Wilkes Coonrod, Head of School.

Grounded in the liberal arts, Saint Mary’s teaches students to think critically, develop analytical skills, express ideas coherently and

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Saint Raphael Catholic School Kindergarten-8th Grade www.saintraphaelschool.org Annual Tuition: $6,170 (varies) Number of Students: 466 When Saint Raphael Catholic School was established 16 years ago, the goal was to provide a Catholic education within a vibrant community, where each individual is recognized and respected, where religious values are central and where academic excellence is achieved.

saint raphael catholic school

saint mary’s school

persuasively, make connections among disciplines of study, and take responsibility for their own learning. “Knowing that a solid education requires strong academics, Saint Mary’s offers AP- and honorslevel courses, complemented by both a vigorous athletic program (11 varsity and five junior varsity sports) and a comprehensive visual and performing arts curriculum (all levels of instrumental and vocal music, dance, drama and visual arts),” says Coonrod.

Also part of the package are co-curricular programs that teach important and practical life skills and habits; opportunities for internships, focused independent study, and community service; and a technology program that provides technical as well as management skills that help students navigate the real world. Saint Mary’s students have accessibility to every opportunity, not just equal opportunity.

Classrooms are staffed with nationally recruited, highly educated teachers (75 percent holding advanced degrees) – experts in their disciplines with a passion for teaching girls. Small, manageable class sizes are the norm so that discussion and debate may flourish. And school

placement counselors are dedicated to finding a student’s best fit among the nation’s top colleges and universities as 100 percent of Saint Mary’s graduates move on to college.

The school created signature programs to ensure that each student finds her internal compass and can navigate her world successfully. With an international student body, Saint Mary’s is comprised of pupils with serious purpose, high ambition and extraordinary commitment.

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St. David’s School Kindergarten-12th Grade www.sdsw.org Annual Tuition: $11,700-$15,000 Number of Students: 624

st. david’s school

Holding true to its mission, Principal Barry Thomas has seen firsthand how the faith-based community is structured in a way that encourages all students to be challenged to reach their full potential. “We hold students to high academics and work to help each child unleash their potential to become moral leaders committed to social concerns,” says Thomas.

With two classes per grade, Saint Raphael School offers a solid curriculum based on the North Carolina Standards, with the Gospel message weaved into all aspects of teaching. Core classes include language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and religion. Special offerings include physical education, art, music and technology. Spanish is introduced in kindergarten and becomes a part of the core curriculum in middle school.

This course load thoroughly prepares students for the transition to high school. “Our students consistently score in the highest percentiles on national standardized tests, and roughly half of our graduating eighth grade students go on to attend Cardinal Gibbons High School,” says Thomas.

An impressive 95% of Saint Raphael’s graduates have achieved success in their advanced placement courses at the high school of their choice.

A competitive athletic program is offered, with boys teams of lacrosse, soccer and basketball and girls teams of volleyball, soccer, basketball and cheerleading. There are also numerous extracurricular activities to take advantage of, including the science club and Faith In Action Team.

Since opening its doors 38 years ago, St. David’s School has been identified as an independent Episcopal campus with a challenging college prep curriculum – providing opportunities to excel in the areas of faith, virtue and knowledge. “We look for significant achievement measured by how our students apply their knowledge and understanding, develop a foundation of mature Christian character, and pursue acceptance in accredited colleges and universities,” says Mary Dickerson, Director of Communications.

The school prides itself on a well-educated faculty (with greater than 50 percent holding advanced degrees) who strive to inspire rather than just teach. With an average class size of 14, and 19 advanced placement courses offered, enrollment is up for the fourth year in a row.

Providing the necessary foundation for success in college and beyond, the core curriculum at St. David’s School is designed to challenge students to ask questions, think independently, critically, and creatively, and to reason cogently.

“We offer integrated lower, middle and upper school curriculum, daily chapel services and an outstanding interscholastic athletics program,” says Dickerson. “We also provide an exceptional fine arts program including band, chorus, drama and visual arts.” Extracurricular activities include a sports program featuring middle school, JV and varsity sports, a fine arts program with two drama productions each year and numerous organizations, activities and school-sponsored clubs such as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Friday Morning Fellowship and the National Honor Society/National Junior Honor Society, among others. These occur both 72 | midtownmag.com

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during the day and after normal school hours.

“St. David’s has recently concluded a major building program which added a new performing arts center to the school – including new choral and band practice rooms as well as a 400-seat auditorium; a new gymnasium; new dining hall; student commons; and new offices and classrooms,” says Dickerson. “We are thrilled with the new spaces and the opportunities they will provide for us.”

St. Timothy’s School Preschool-8th Grade www.sttimothys.org Annual Tuition: $8,500-$11,070 Number of Students: 485

st. timothy’s school

Acclaimed for academic excellence and an outstanding liberal arts curriculum, St. Timothy’s School has strived to develop students with great character for over 50 years. With an Episcopal tradition of encouraging critical thinking and reasoning, St. Timothy’s prepares students for extraordinary success in secondary school, college and life.

As the first non-public elementary school to receive accreditation from the NC Department of Instruction in 1970, the school’s goal is fostering the development of the whole child. “We are a school where it is entirely possible for the shyest child in junior kindergarten to blossom and eventually run for the office of Student Council President in middle school,” says Cathy Clement, Director of Admissions. “And excitement is building for our half-day junior kindergarten program which has been added for the 2010-11 school year.”

The core curriculum positions reading at the heart of the instructional program and technology is integrated throughout all classes.

In addition to more traditional electives such as show choir, theatre arts, creative writing, newspaper and yearbook, past offerings included debate, claymation, sewing & fashion, German, Greek, dance and digital video studio. “If there is an interest and an available faculty member, we will create an elective,” says Clement.

Students can also branch out into a competitive athletic program upon reaching the sixth grade. And on the sports scene, St. Timothy’s has been elevated to Division I of the Triangle Middle School Conference. A plethora of extracurricular activities are available at every level – from on-site piano, guitar and violin lessons to Boy & Girl Scouts, the Geography Bee and Latin club. St. Timothy’s is also proud to announce that one of their own achieved a perfect score on the National Latin Exam.

All grades learn the importance of serving others through many community service opportunities.

“Whether reading in chapel, loading supplies for delivery to a food pantry or practicing for chorus – students find many opportunities for life outside of the classroom,” says Clement.

St. Timothy’s is proud to have a very active parent organization, and strives to be an environment where strengths are valued, traditions are honored and successes are celebrated.

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Magnet schools are another definitive option for families looking for more from the classroom. The objective of any magnet program is to foster healthy campuses throughout the public school system by providing choices to help: reduce high concentrations of poverty and support diverse populations; maximize use of school facilities; and provide expanded educational opportunities. As magnet programs are offered through public schools, tuition is not a factor. There is, however, an application process.

Wake County Schools Magnet Program Kindergarten-12th Grade www.wcpss.net/magnet Number of Magnet Themes: Approx. 15 Number of Students: 29,600+ countywide A Schools of Choice program was launched in 1982 as the cornerstone of what has become the abundantly diverse magnet curriculum now available in Wake County. Magnet schools offer enhancements to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study through the use of innovative teaching methods or extensive elective offerings. In the past year, programs have been added to three more schools: the Brentwood Elementary School of Engineering, and the Smith Elementary and Millbrook High School International Baccalaureate Programs.

“As magnet schools offer an eclectic array of learning experiences, we give families the opportunity to apply to schools that offer an academic program which may better fit their child’s learning style within the public school setting,” says Tamani Anderson Powell, Director of Marketing. “We prepare students to become responsible citizens in a global society.”

This year, 14 of the county’s 33 schools were awarded the title of either School of Excellence or School of Distinction. Many were also recipients of the Blue Ribbon award from the US Department of Education, or others from their theme-base organization.

Each school imparts a variety of extracurricular activities appropriate for their given grade levels. Past electives have included Author! Author!; Kitchen Chemistry; Shutterbug; We, the People; and Freaky Fractions; along with those in the visual and performing arts, technology and foreign language arenas. Many magnet schools also offer activities not available in non-magnet environments.

As demand often exceeds space, an electronic application process takes place each February. All students registered in the Wake County Public School System are eligible. “We use a computerized selection process with information about the base school as criteria,” says Powell. “Students who are selected may remain in that school/program until the end of that grade configuration. Magnet students then have the highest priority to continue in a magnet program at the next grade level.”

The Magnet Resource Center hosts events throughout the year that allow parents to glean more about all programs. Additionally, each school has a magnet coordinator available to assist families as they visit schools, explore options and see the programs in action.

Raleigh is fortunate to have so many schooling options. Take advantage of all our area has to offer when shopping for an education. If a private or magnet school is on your family’s agenda, ask questions and learn all you can. Find out about their accreditation, course selection and activities; how long a school has been active in the community; whether their enrollment fluctuates; and what kind of financial aid they may offer. Referrals can also be helpful. Consider your child’s personality and which option they are most interested in before throwing your own expectations into the mix. And when you feel you’ve found a suitable blend of “fit” and opportunity, your homework is done. xx | midtownmag.com

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College Quest By jenni hart

Local Teens and Their Parents Find Help Along the Way If you have a child about to enter high school, you may be thinking you have ample time before college tours, applications, and interviews are on the agenda. But that’s about the right time for many families to begin fashioning a strategy that will set their college-bound student on the right path. Raleigh resident Pandora Shaw is uniquely qualified to assist students and their families throughout the entire process.

Shaw, a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Texas, also graduated from Harvard Law School, but it was her five-year tenure as Dean of Students and Admissions at the University of Maine School of Law that garnered her special insight into the college application process. “I’ve read through thousands and thousands of college applications, so I’ve seen the process from the other side of the table,” she says. This rare perspective inspired Shaw to want to help students and their families through what can be a very trying time.

Through her College Quest business, Shaw lends her advice and expertise to help demystify the college application process. “The best-case scenario for me, and I think the student as well, is for them to come to me as early in their high school career as possible, so that I can help them develop strategies and plans of action for selecting the high school courses and activities that selective colleges are really looking for,” she says.

She also helps students select colleges that are best suited to their academic ambitions, as well as their personalities and lifestyle.

And she guides them as they complete the applications and essays.

“And let me be absolutely clear,” Shaw says. “I do not write the students’ essays for them. I help them choose a topic that will result in an essay that’s interesting, that reflects their passion. And I’ll help them edit, refine, and go through as many drafts as they need to get to that final product.” Finally, Shaw offers students rigorous coaching to ease them through their college interviews.

Shaw offers some sage advice, including some that seems to fly in the face of conventional wisdom. “I hear this from parents all the time,” she says. “They’ve somehow gotten this idea that colleges are looking for applicants who are well-rounded, who have played multiple team sports and who’ve been in every club on campus. It’s just a false assumption.” Shaw says, instead, that colleges look for a strong academic record first and foremost, and then they want to see a student with initiative and focus, ideally in one specific area of interest. If you’re a student who is interested in pursuing a journalism

degree, it helps to have that reflected in the majority of your outside activities. “Serving as editor of your school newspaper, along with attending reputable summer writing programs or working as an intern for some sort of publication is much more impressive than dabbling half-heartedly in a wide range of activities,” she says.

Shaw is quick to point out that not all activities are created equal.

“Some extracurricular activities are regarded almost as a waste, while others are seen as the next best thing to a hard-core academic course,” she says. Shaw recommends that when choosing classes and activities, and reflecting those through the application process, a student needs to weave a theme through everything they’re submitting; in effect creating a tag-line for themselves. “They’re going to be remembered for all of the right reasons if their academics are strong and then they focus on one particular passion and the admissions committee can look and see all the ways their activities supported that passion,” she says.

Shaw cringes at the many ways that college applicants undermine themselves. “These students are fully aware that they’re vying for a limited number of openings, and many of them are determined to make sure that their applications set them apart,” she says. “But gimmicks are not the way you want to go about distinguishing yourself from the competition.” Shaw cites cases where, while serving on the admissions board at the University of Maine School of Law, she regularly came across letters written on colored, scented stationery.

Another strategy used by some applicants is to ask prominent people to write letters of recommendation. “Your family may in fact know Senator Burr or Governor Perdue socially, but receiving a letter of recommendation from one of them is not going to sway the decision of the admissions committee,” Shaw says. She cautions that it may indeed have the unintended effect of insulting the committee and souring them on the candidate.

“When you think about the senior year of high school, there’s almost a feeling of panic that sets in for a lot of families,” says Shaw. “In all likelihood, this will be the last year you spend living in the same house together, and you want that to be a special time, a time that you can treasure and not have it be so incredibly stressful. The whole college application process can seem very overwhelming. If a family has someone who can demystify the process and reduce the stress level during this important last year, it can make that time so much more enjoyable.”

For more information, visit www.collegequesteducationalconsulting.com. midtownmag.com| 75

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Courtesy of Lavender and Lace, Š SFERRA BROS., LTD

C r e at e A n E s c a p e : Your Master Bedroom Retreat By illyse lane

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Courtesy of Lavender and Lace, © SFERRA BROS., LTD

With a bit of planning and some help from our Midtown experts, you can transform your master bedroom into a comfy, soothing retreat that you’ll love to spend time in.

It used to be updating our home meant a brand new kitchen with shiny appliances, a sunroom addition and an expanded bathroom with a walk-in shower. But the tide is turning. Slowly, the master bedroom is joining the ranks as a room to redo, as we realize the importance of having a place in our home to take a break and recharge.

“Master bedrooms have often taken second place to other rooms, but we are beginning to understand how important that room really is,” says Beth Lindsey, co-owner of BeyondBlue Interiors. “Our bedroom should be an aesthetically pleasing, calming place to move away from our hectic lives.”

For this reason, it’s time to consider an investment in your master bedroom a worthy one. “Many people figure they’ll redo their master bedroom down the road, before they sell their home,” says Lisa Coleman of Coldwell Banker Howard Perry and Walston “If you do it now, you get the benefit of enjoying it. And, if you eventually decide to sell, you’ll feel as though you have gotten your return.”

Getting your return can be as simple as enjoying a mild redo, with fresh, updated bedding, window treatments and a new paint color or a full-fledged remodel, complete with renovated bathroom and new walk-in closets. Either path can make a significant impact, changing the look and feel of your room.

So let’s get started.

The Elements of Bedroom Style Whether it’s a facelift or a renovation, there are certain elements at the foundation of any well-designed master bedroom retreat.

The Ambiance When it comes to choosing a design scheme for your master bedroom, think about how you like to unwind. Is it a visit to the spa?

Or sitting on the beach? Perhaps it’s a hike through the mountains?

Or an early morning run?

Once you identify what makes you feel relaxed, choose a design style that connects you to those peaceful moments. “Ultimately, you want to make the space personal.” says Rebekah Lindsey, co-owner of Essence Design Studio. “For some, it may be a serene and romantic room. For others, it may be a clean and fresh feeling.”

If you are not sure where to begin, looking through magazines for inspiration is always a smart idea. “Considering how much time you spend in your bedroom, it has to be a space that you truly love,” says Beth Lindsey.

Creams and blues combine to create an inviting, soothing master bedroom retreat.

(Courtesy of Essence Design Studio)

The Colors One of the easiest ways to change the feel of a room is with paint.

While various colors, design styles and textures will pull your room together, the paint color you choose will be at the foundation of your look and will reflect the ambiance you are trying to achieve.

Choosing from a subtle palette with colors such as the light hues of blue, tan, pewter and green can give the room a calming effect.

And the benefit of selecting a more neutral shade will open up many options when it comes to adding accent colors later on. “Splashes of your favorite colors can be brought in through elements like bedding, artwork, pillows, throws, and accessories,” says Beth Lindsey.

Words of caution: Once you choose your color, resist the urge to run out and buy it by the gallon. “Instead, hold off until other, larger room elements, such as your linens are chosen,” suggests Jeanne Clay, owner of Lavender and Lace. “While you may gravitate toward a specific shade, you may decide to go either slightly darker or lighter depending on what you choose.”

The Focal Point As with any room, a focal point is essential, drawing your attention and making you feel comfortable. Even in a master bedroom that includes a fireplace or sitting area, the bed is considered the primary focal point.

One way to ensure that your bed gets proper attention is starting with a headboard that you love. Upholstered headboards are all the rage right now, available in both fabric and leather, giving a bedroom a luxurious, clean feel. Just be aware of how it fits into the room – as with any piece of furniture, you want to make sure it’s balanced within its space.

The Linens Plain and simple, your bed should call to you. You should look forward to going to sleep. You should look forward to sleeping in. And the quality of linens that you choose can make the difference.

If the thought of venturing out of the bed-in-a-bag zone intimidates you, let it go. We spend a significant amount of time in our bed; it’s worth it to be selective. Go with something that makes you feel relaxed and soothed. Any custom shop will be willing to walk you through the various styles that are available, ranging from sleek and contemporary, to French, romantic, and even a simple neutral with textured fabric. midtownmag.com| 77

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“I recommend shopping around to feel the difference in linens, especially sheets, so you know what you like,” says Clay. “There’s no better test than to place your hand in the middle of the package and feel the sheet touching your skin.”

If you’ve been hesitant to invest in fine linens because of the care they require, it’s time to dispel the myth. Today, nearly all linens are machine washable, so there’s no excuse for not having nice bedding – even if your dog sleeps in your bed.

The Lighting Good, balanced lighting is an essential component of a comfortable master bedroom, as bright light is needed for reading and dim lights are a requirement for relaxation. For this reason, several layers of lighting is a must. “You do not want to read a book in bed with bright overhead lights on,” says Rebekah Lindsey.

Instead, install a dimmer on overhead lighting to allow different settings and use lamps with three way bulbs to function as both task and ambience lighting. When it comes to choosing lamps and a chandelier, go with styles that play up the tone of your room and also help pull it together.

The Furniture Furniture gives you the opportunity to be creative, as mixing and matching styles is not only allowed but encouraged. While it may make sense to have a few pieces from the same line, blending styles can give your room a personal touch, making it even more of a getaway.

Since furniture placement helps determine the overall layout and flow of your space, avoid common mistakes by following these tips from our experts: • Avoid purchasing pieces that overpower a room.

• Don’t have too many pieces of furniture. It will make your room seem smaller. If you find your room is crowded, try moving one piece into a closet or reorganizing what you own.

• Don’t design a room around a television. When possible, put televisions behind closed doors such as inside an armoire.

• No computers or desks allowed. Your master bedroom is supposed to be an escape, not a reminder of the office. If they’re in there, you’ll never quit working.

The Windows Custom window treatments will add an additional level of depth to your master bedroom retreat by bringing in different shades of your core colors. With numerous styles available, it’s up to you to decide what will compliment the rest of your décor.

“While there are many popular styles, top treatments such as cornice boards combined with drapery panels are always an elegant look,” says Ralph Townes, owner of Draperies by Townes. Right now, browns, creams and taupes mixed with teals and aquas are favorites, creating a warm effect. And if your goal is to make your room look a bit larger, consider raising your valence above the window to add height to your room.

Townes also reminds us that in addition to looking great and finishing your room, window treatments also serve various functions, including giving you privacy and with the addition of a room darkening lining, keeping the morning sun out.

Treating your windows to preserve your investment is also a smart tactic. “Treating your windows cuts down on the damaging rays of the sun and helps prolong the life of your floors and furniture,” says Randy Silver of Tint World. Solar control window films manage the glare of the sun and can make your home more energy efficient. And, if adding a little bit of flair is more your interest, there are maintenance-free decorative films available. xx | midtownmag.com

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Protecting Your Investment Let’s face it. Regardless of the season, that beautiful sunshine we so enjoy is damaging. Hence the reason we slather sunscreen all over our skin.

Believe it or not, the sun’s rays can also harm your furniture, floors, artwork, fabric and even your clothes. But never fear, for there is a solution.

Treating your windows is the surest way to guarantee that the investment you’ve made in your master bedroom retreat continues to pay you back. “Tinting your windows cuts down on the damaging rays of the sun and helps prolong the life of your floors, furniture and other elements of your room,” says Randy Silver of Tint World.

In addition, solar control window films manage the glare of the sun and will make your home more energy efficient by helping regulate its internal temperature. “Considering how hot our summer days can be, minimizing these heating and cooling imbalances is a tremendous benefit,” says Silver. And, of course, if adding a little bit of flair while preserving your new retreat is more your style, there are maintenance-free decorative films available.

The Finishing Touches The bed is made, the furniture is perfectly placed, the window treatments are up and the walls are painted. But you’re not finished.

Now’s the time to make your room your own by adding finishing touches that create a retreat you look forward to spending time in. And the good news is that many of these essential finishing touches come in a wide range of price points. You don’t have to spend a lot to get a high-end look that ties your room together.

Items such as family photographs in modern frames and artwork with complimenting colors are wonderful ways to add personality to your room. Collections of items that either remind you of your favorite places, such as sea shells or a group of objects that you find interesting, such as different sized vases, will also add your individual style to the room. Even finding a spot for a small chair with a throw can add a level of coziness.

When it comes to accessories, think in terms of items that can not only add character, but serve a function as well. Items such as decorative bowls and plates can look fantastic while also holding keys, phones and even jewelry. Even a trunk or ottoman at the base of the bed can be a wonderful source of additional storage.

Creams combine with a touch of black and red to add personality and ambiance to this more contemporary feeling bedroom. (Courtesy of BeyondBlue Interiors)

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Do A Little, or Do A Lot Your budget, space, home values and the amount of time you’re willing to commit will all be factors that determine the scope of your master bedroom project. Our experts share their suggestions for a redo at any level.

The Mild-to-Moderate Redo “If you don’t have a budget for a redo, but would like to bring a new perspective to your room, try playing around with the furniture you have,” suggests Rebekah Lindsey. Moving furniture within the room and even swapping out pieces with other rooms in your home can give you a new perspective.

Another option is to try repainting your existing furniture. “Notice what finish of furniture you are drawn to – light, dark, medium toned,” she says. “A fresh coat of paint can easily change an otherwise old piece of furniture into something worth keeping a little longer.”

For a very limited budget, a do-it-yourself paint project can transform your space. “And, for a little bit more, elegant bed linens can make a big impact,” says Beth Lindsey.

If you have a slightly bigger budget, investing in timeless, high quality furniture will work alongside fresh paint and bedding to elevate the feel of your master bedroom. “In addition, changes such as adding moldings and replacing old ceiling fans and light fixtures with chandeliers or recessed lighting will bring a new feel to your room while also making it more attractive should you go to sell,” says Coleman.

The Massive Redo Although it requires deeper pockets, a complete remodel of your master bedroom is the surest way to guarantee you end up with a relaxing retreat. Before you begin, Coleman recommends putting on your Realtor hat and giving some thought to whether or not the enhancements you are making are worth it. Evaluate the value of your home against others in your neighborhood.

“If you plan on staying forever, this may not be a concern, but it’s important to know where you stand,” she says. Keep in mind that side projects that accompany master bedroom redos, such as an updated bathroom with a walk-in shower, whirlpool tub and television can add immediate value to the master bedroom and home.

Your design becomes critical at this stage, as a great layout is imperative for a successful remodel. And don’t get discouraged if adding square footage isn’t in the cards. It is possible to renovate your existing bedroom simply by reallocating your space, a remodeling technique that David Warren, owner of Westpine Builders, specializes in.

“There are many people who love their homes and their neighborhood but are unhappy with their space,” says Warren. In this situation, Warren works with the homeowners to make the footprint of the original master bedroom larger by tapping into other spaces in the home.

For example, it may be that three bedrooms become two, one being a master suite with an updated bath, additional closets, a sitting area and new windows. It could be the addition of a fireplace or butler’s pantry, fresh carpet or hardwood floors. Yet from the outside, the house looks the same. “It’s always a nice surprise to come in and see such a tremendous change,” says Warren.

If this is the path you decide to take, Warren stresses the importance of finding a remodeling contractor that understands the challenges that come with an existing, older home. “It’s very important to get along with the existing home,” he says.

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wine & beer review

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By Patrick Fitzgerald, store manager, Total wine – north hills PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL MANESS PHOTOGRAPHY

With the heat of midsummer there is nothing better than a cool, crisp white wine or a delicate, dry Rose. At the same time an easy drinking red wine will pair up with hamburgers right off the grill. Here is a selection of best-selling wines and beers for the summer, all of them available at Total Wine North Hills. Many of these are already in the cooler ready to go to your picnic.

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Bourgrier rose d’anjou 2009 | $9.99 Loire, France – this crisp, refreshing blush hails from France’s best territory for fresh wines, the Loire Valley. Filled with fresh berry and fruit notes, this is ideal for warm days on the patio as well as elegamt poultry dishes.

Boulder Sweaty Betty Blonde – $8.49 Colorado – american Pale Wheat ale – this beer is a cloudy gold color with a fluffy white strong head. the aroma has prominent lovely banana notes with citrus fruit accents shining through.

angeline chardonnay – california, 2008 | $9.99 California – made mostly from vineyard fruit fron santa Barbara County, this wine shows gorgeous flavors of ripe tropical fruits, apples and citrus. rich aromas of vanilla and toasty oak wrap around the elegant full finish.

Sea dog Blue Paw Blueberry Wheat – $7.79 maine – Fruit Beer – this beer features the nutty quench of a wheat ale combined with the delightful aromatics and subtle flavor contributed by wild maine blueberries. slightly sweet and refreshing.

kupelwieser Pinot grigio – alt adige, 2009 | $12.99 alto adige, Italy – Crisp and refreshing pinot grigio handcrafted by award-winning winemaker Peter Zemmer. this complex white reveals flavors of citrus and tree fruits with nuances of mineral, all showcased by a lengthy finish.

carolina Strawberry ale – $7.99 north Carolina – Fruit Beer – this amber-colored ale has enough enhancement from real strawberries to be very pleasant but not overwhelming. this is a refreshing, full-bodied, crisp ale that bursts on your palate with just the right hint of sweetness for balance.

la Vuelta torrontes, 2009 | $8.99 mendoza, argentina – aromas and flavors of white peaches, jasmine and rose petals are followed by a crisp minerality on the palate, ending with a nice balance of its natural sweetness and acidity. torrontes pairs well with spicy dishes, like thai or Indian foods, as well as sushi.

Flying dog raging Bitch – $8.99 maryland – Belgian IPa – 8.3% aBV. this, Flying Dog’s 20th anniversary beer, is an american IPa augmented with Belgian yeast. “Delicate hops bitterness nips at your taste buds.” Hazy amber in color. Citrusy hops and caramel malt flavors add to the Belgian yeast notes. Unique.

Montelliana Prosecco extra dry | $10.99 Veneto, Italy – Delicious. Fresh and fruity, with melon and apple character and a fine bead. almond notes echo on the clean finish. a fun sparkler for everyday drinking or for large parties.

Big Boss angry angel – $9.49 north Carolina – Kolsch – Pours a clear light-golden color. mild aromas hint of grains and hops with some sweetness. the medium body brings fruity flavors from yeast, with bready biscuity malts, and some mild balancing hops bitterness. refreshing alternative to wheat and pale ales.

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Martin ray chardonnay – russian river, 2008 | $16.99 russian river, sonoma Ca – rich, creamy apple and pear fruit are complemented by subtle oak shadings in this elegant, graceful wine. Courtney Benham is sourcing grapes from premier vineyard sites to provide the consumer with fantastic value. enjoy with seafood, chicken or pasta.

Steel creek Pinot Noir – Monterey | $13.99 monterey, Central Coast, Ca – Intensely flavored with rich, earthy cherry, wild berry, spice and touches of vanilla. Finesse and elegance carry through the smooth, soft finish. enjoy with baked stuffed salmon or tuna steaks, roast chicken and duck.

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Sobon zinfandel rocky top, 2007 | $16.99 amador, Ca – an outstanding bouquet of crushed raspberries leads to tiers of wild berry, raspberry, plum and smoky vanilla flavors that are rich, ripe and jammy. supple texture with notes of spice on the long finish. enjoy with lamb, grilled pork or braised meats. organically farmed.

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Flichman Malbec tupungato 2006 | $15.99 mendoza, argentina – a luscious blend of malbec, cabernet sauvignon and merlot. these grapes are handpicked from the best of tupungato and Barrancas and have been aged for 12 months in oak barrels to create this full-bodied wine with well-rounded tannins and a dark fruit palate.

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castillo de clavijo – rioja crianza | $9.99 rioja, spain – aromas of ripe red berries, spices and vanilla emanate from this wine made from 90% tempranillo and 10% garnacha grapes.

Well balanced with a smooth texture, this wine was aged for 12 to 18 months in american oak barrels. serve it with full-flavored meat dishes.

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Michelob Hop Hound amber Wheat – $3.99 missouri – american Pale Wheat ale – spring seasonal. this Wheat Beer is brewed with the choicest blend of imported and domestic hops for a balanced, slightly citrus hop aroma and a caramel, malty taste. great for light-bodied wheat beer lovers.

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Bell’s Oberon ale – $9.99 michigan – american Pale Wheat ale – oberon is a very refreshing american wheat ale brewed with Belgian wheat malt and Czech saaz hops to provide a spicy, fruity balance and the color, scent and taste of a summer afternoon.

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Samuel adams Summer ale – $8.49 massachusetts – american Pale Wheat ale – samuel adams summer ale is tangy and refreshing. It is brewed using malted wheat, lemon zest, and a rare african pepper that creates body and crisp spicy flavors. It’s a quenching, clean finishing beer that is perfect for the summer.

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Victory Whirlwind Wit Beer – $9.49 Pennsylvania – Witbier – offering a tamed tempest of flavors both spicy and sublime, this softly fermented ale greets the nose and tingles the tongue. Imported Belgian yeast charges Whirlwind with an energy all its own. It is a refreshing interpretation of this classic style.

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Blue Moon Honey Moon Summer ale – $7.99 Colorado – american Pale Wheat ale – Blue moon Honey moon is a fantastic beer that pours a cloudy golden color with a lasting white head. the aroma is complex and smooth with scents and flavors of wheat, lemon, honey and apple. midtownmag.com| 83

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dueling columns

Let’s Get Away...

BY susan ely

W

ho doesn’t love a good old summer beach vacation, especially here in North Carolina?

Me! Although Carolina beaches are one of my favorite vacation spots, I’m not game in the summer. At age 57, with fair skin, red hair, and freckles, I’m paying the price for the sunburns of my youth – and it’s not pretty.

And let’s not forget loading up and driving to your destination. “Are we there yet, huh, huh, are we?” Oh, yes. The ghosts of vacations past haunt me occasionally, like the time we stayed at the exclusive Marco Island resort, courtesy of Marriott points from my husband’s job; great, except for the part when we pulled up to valet parking driving an ancient Olds Delta 88 with a flat tire. I’ll never forget the look in the attendant’s eyes.

Or the 600 mile return trip from the beach when my three-year-old had a bad case of diarrhea; forget the A/C – those

windows were open the whole way.

Then, there was the Ohio to North Carolina trip with my father-in-law, who insisted on smoking cigars in the car and then became furious when my daughter puked all over the white leather seat of his Cadillac.

Ah, making memories with family.

Don’t get me wrong; I love taking trips with my husband, child, or grandchild – just not all at the same time.

There you are, schlepping your coolers and chairs and totes down to the beach, spending your one precious week of leisure not just with your family, (or extended family, shudder) but with hundreds of other families.

For an introvert, that’s like drinking five shots of espresso then slamming a Big Gulp. Then there’s the lack of clean restrooms, the sand in your ……. Not relaxing!

It’s too much! Chill out? When you’re the one responsible for that little head

bobbing in the water? Searching the horizon, with your heart in your throat, swearing you’ll wring their neck once you find them?

Look up the word vacation; see where it says freedom, leisure, respite, breather, suspension of activity?

My ideal vacation (sounds like a grade school essay) is solitary in nature – somewhere peaceful, quiet, some exploring but not so much that I get exhausted. The cherry on the sundae: a stack of books to read. I always come away refreshed. Isn’t that the point?

This time of year the beach resembles an arribada, the mass nesting phenomenon of thousands of sea turtles. Yeah, good luck finding a patch of sand on which to pitch that oversized beach towel while you roast with 19 of your closest kin, after which you’ll argue about where to eat, who’s had too much to drink and who got the nicest room.

Sounds like fun, but I think I’ll pass.

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dueling columns

From It All BY christa gala

B

y the time this article is printed, I will no doubt be ensconced in my once yearly family vacation that would have Susan weeping. We go to Emerald Isle for July 4th with my mom and also my sister’s family, and rent a five-bedroom home on the beach. My two brothers have homes on the island as well, and their grown children come down and we all frolic together.

Yes, Susan. I did say frolic.

For the entire week, it’s a family free-forall with beach time, swimming in the pool, boating, go-karting, mini-golfing, board games and plenty of eating.

Now, Susan, I know you’d rather be holed up in a little villa somewhere, a sparkling water view beckoning, and, frankly, that does sound nice. But hear me out on this. I know you’ve been burned, but I’d like you to reconsider.

The family beach vacation: yes, it’s a lot of work. You must take half the house and tote

crap for other people because you have the biggest car. Dinners are a 24-person event and loud, with people shouting over one another to be heard. My siblings’ grown kids help my son, the youngest cousin, light sparklers and caution him to stand back when the bottle rockets are ready for lift-off.

And, yes, there are mishaps. Last year my son accidentally pooped in the pool (basically a little gas gone wrong). It was shocked with chlorine and we were ordered to stay out for 24 hours.

My sister was peeved at this, true. But it did give us time to bike the island together and for my mom (Gram) and my son to comb the beach together looking for shells and to play endless games of Sorry.

It’s not necessarily the most relaxing vacation, I will grant you that, but it gives me a taste of life unfettered, when all you have to do is figure out what you should do that day.

It reminds me of what life was like when my family first started going to Emerald Isle, when I was just a few years older than Tyler is now.

Of course, by the end of the week, we’re ready to go home. Someone’s getting on our nerves or we’re bloated and sunburned and, sometimes, all of the above. When we pack it all up, we take something home for our trouble – something we don’t even realize until later, when the days are shorter, the weather colder.

The stories, Susan. How the oven almost caught fire the last night. The look on Tyler’s face when he caught his first Red Drum fish.

The way we all chimed in with advice when my niece began talking about her impending year at NCSU. The joke one brother always plays on another and how he got him yet again.

Those stories, the memories, make it all worth it. All the sweating and packing and tolerating things that drive you crazy. They all lead to that. And I wouldn’t miss it for anything.

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© BLUE WATER SPA

giving back

BY DAN BAIN

About 2500 years ago, Confucius said, “He who wishes to secure the good of others, has already secured his own.” The principle stands fi rm today, even with varying reports estimating a two-year decline in charitable giving at more than 10 percent. During tough economic times, it’s not uncommon to see donations become the fi rst casualties of budget reductions, but try telling that to four Raleigh businesses.

These businesses have continued and even increased their charitable efforts during the Great Recession, insistent on the need to give back to their community. And for each, giving has turned into gaining. The representative of each business spoke of their charitable contributions leading to growth – fi nancial, emotional and/or spiritual.

There’s a common thread to each of their stories that would have made Confucius proud.

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© BLUE WATER SPA

BlUe Water spa A medical spa recognized for contributing to charities and the community as a whole, Blue Water Spa takes that philanthropy a step further by rewarding customers who make similar contributions. The Spa maintains a community calendar, offering discounts to donors or volunteers with a revolving monthly list of charitable organizations including the American Heart Association, Hospice of Wake County, the Raleigh/Durham Rescue Missions, the SPCA of Wake County, the V Foundation and many more. In addition, the spa offers a year-round 20 percent discount on all services to people who work in careers that make a difference in the community: teachers, clergy members, fi refi ghters, police, nurses and the military.

Co-owner Kile Law, who received the 2005 Humanitarian of the Year Award from Aesthetics International, says Blue Water donated about $600,000 in cash and in-kind gifts to numerous local charities last year. But there’s one that stands out for her. “My pet project you could say is working with the Inter-Faith Food Shuttle. It’s so great; they do such good work over there,” she exclaims. “I started this in November 2008, after my mother died. While I was grieving, as we all do, I thought, ‘What can I do to make myself feel better?’ We started a campaign just before the holidays and it was such a powerful experience, we continued it. We feel her presence as we’re doing a lot of these things.”

That campaign was with BackPack Buddies, an Inter-Faith program that provides a weekend’s worth of food to impoverished children to take home at the end of every school week. Blue Water offers special spa pricing to food donors and Law says their customers have risen to the occasion, helping the spa become the Inaugural BackPack Buddies Adopt-A-School Sponsor as it has raised and donated 50,000 pounds of food to 805 local children in need. “For me this is a very selfi sh pursuit, because it’s so fulfi lling,” says Law. “In the beginning we thought it was a responsibility, but now it’s a reward. This is what warms my heart and helps me go to sleep at night.” esChelon hospitality Managing three restaurants across Raleigh – Mura, Sono and The Oxford – Eschelon Hospitality enjoys high visibility within the community and does its part to give back to that community. Once a month, usually the fi rst Thursday, Mura hosts sushi tastings for a fee to benefi t local non-profi t organizations. But Eschelon also supports its employees, so when Marketing & Events Director Tara Zechini was concerned about another community, the company rallied to her side. That community was Haiti, devastated by January’s earthquake. “Eschelon had worked with non-profi ts on a smaller level in the past, but after the earthquake I was visibly upset, because I have a lot of friends down there. All of management came to me and asked how they could help,” Zechini remembers.

It was only natural, then, for Eschelon to assist the Hope For Haiti Foundation [HFHF]. The weekend following the earthquake, its restaurants offered gift cards as incentive for patrons to make donations, with Eschelon matching the amounts and adding 10 percent of Sunday’s intake from all three restaurants. The Oxford hosted a concert and silent auction that Sunday to benefi t HFHF. All of these efforts raised $16,000 the fi rst weekend, with subsequent ongoing efforts generating more. Mura donates 10 percent of every Thursday night’s bar intake during the Midtown Music Beach Music Series at North Hills this summer and Eschelon is planning more fundraisers soon.

Eschelon’s Tara Zechini (front right) and G Patel (rear right) and their fellow construction trip travelers stop their rebuilding long enough to stand atop a Hope for Haiti Foundation dorm in Bainet, Haiti.

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The group has also donated more than money; when Zechini requested time off to travel to Haiti the first week of May to assist with rebuilding efforts, Eschelon Owner G Patel insisted on going with her HFHF group of seven laborers. Facing down the devastation, Zechini organized a clinic while Patel helped complete the foundation of a dormitory. “He’s normally very dapper, but he really had to rough it for a week; for him to do that was really special.

He did great,” Zechini gushes. “It’s rare to be employed at a place that cares so much and steps up to give time in addition to money.

It’s really touching to me how much they’ve stepped up and gotten involved, and I never even asked them to.”

Gena Chandler Some charities are born like a phoenix from a person’s first-hand adversity; such was the case with the National Students of AMF Support Network [AMF]. That’s the charity of choice for Gena Chandler, a women’s boutique run by best friends Gena Fajgenbaum Combs and Chandler Woodall. AMF was created in memory of Combs’ mother, who died of a brain tumor in 2004. “The rest of us were living close enough to find support, but my little brother David was a freshman in college and going through this all alone,” Combs remembers. “He chose to start this support network in memory of Mom two weeks after we lost her.”

The “AMF” in the network’s name stands for “Ailing Mothers and Fathers” but the letters also are the initials of Combs’ mother, Anne Marie Fajgenbaum. Combs says the network is just the sort of thing her mother would have approved of. “She was a very caring mother and she was all about giving back, being kind and compassionate and doing good for others,” she says.

That good comes in the form of a two-pronged healing process for grieving college students: through their membership, they are able to attend fundraisers for various organizations combating cancer in an effort to support others; and they are able to find support for themselves at the on-campus facilities, bimonthly meetings, telephone hotline and/or interactive website. “It’s a place for them to turn to, so they don’t feel alone,” Combs explains. “It’s different from other charities – it provides support and mentoring, and the kids get together and do amazing things for other organizations.”

Gena Chandler donates proceeds to AMF as well as sponsoring, promoting or otherwise supporting various fundraisers each year.

Last year, the store sold discount cards to benefit AMF. In April, they sold tickets for the Spring Soiree, the AMF’s benefit event. Gena Chandler and Charlotte’s Jewelry & Gifts (a store owned by Anne Marie Fajgenbaum’s best friend), sell commemorative tank tops to benefit AMF. “This charity is very near and dear to our hearts,” says Combs. “If it helps one person, it’s a job well done.”

Diamonds Direct As an importer and retailer of precious stones, Diamonds Direct is in a position to donate not only profit, but product, to charity. Barak Henis, Vice President of Diamonds Direct Crabtree, believes the most efficient way to raise funds is to use the value of his showroom’s diamonds, thereby passing on the value of the Diamonds Direct brand. As part and parcel of that brand, he expects his staff ’s expertise and assistance to contribute to the value. “We are very hands-on; we’re not the type of company that just writes a check so that our name can be associated with that non-profit,” he explains. “We help them – from helping to get the word out among our clients to however much support they’re looking to us for.”

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A single diamond awaits a lucky bidder amid a sea of cubic zirconia in these champagne glasses during one of Diamonds Direct Crabtree’s exlusive Diamond Drop fundraising events.

That help includes silent auctions, blacklight raffles (where the winning tickets are marked in advance, but the marks can only be detected under the showroom’s blacklight) and the exclusive Diamond Drop. Attendees pay to choose a champagne glass from a table full; one contains a diamond while the rest contain cubic zirconia. The glasses are shuffled after the stones are dropped into them, so that no one knows the location of the real diamond until onsite experts examine the purchased contents.

Henis says creative fundraisers generate excitement, which in turn generates donations. A recent Diamond Drop raised $5200 for the Carolina Hurricanes Kids ‘N Community Foundation, thanks to bids on a chance to pull a $4000 stone out of one of 150 glasses. A $2500 “dropped” diamond raised $4160 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

And an in-house, after-hours event last November raised $11,225 for the NC Center for the Advancement of Teaching, thanks to a blacklight raffle, $4000 Diamond Drop and purchases of three donated pieces of jewelry.

Non-profits can request donations from the Diamonds Direct Foundation, which operates off a separate budget in order to make sure there’s always an opportunity for monthly contributions. The company contributes to five to six fundraisers each month, which Henis feels is important not just to his business, but to his soul. “Personally, I feel very spiritual on the Judaism side of it – by Judaism law, 10 percent of your profit has to go back to charity of some sort. There’s no getting without giving,” he says. “You want to make sure you help anybody you can, and it will come back big time. Truly, I believe that.”

Reciprocity The “give to get” concept is found in business doctrine as well as religious dogma. Henis insists that consumers prefer to do business with a company that gives back to the community, while Law tells of a discovery she made about consumers’ perception of success. “People say, ‘You must be doing well because you continue to give more.’ This was not even on my radar when we introduced these programs, but it makes sense as a way for prospective clients to see how successful a business is – by taking a look at their charitable giving.”

Call it religion, call it karma, call it good business sense.

Confucius, who had a good deal to say about charity, called it “reciprocity” and it essentially boils down to what we know as the Golden Rule: Help others, and you help yourself.

Smart man, that Confucius. midtownmag.com| 89

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talk of the town

HERE IS WHAT’S HAPPENING

around town

Diamonds Direct Crabtree Exclusive Breitling Dealer in Raleigh Diamonds Direct Crabtree, the official jeweler of the Carolina Panthers and the Triangle’s only direct diamond importer, is now the exclusive authorized dealer for Breitling timepieces in Raleigh. Breitling has manufactured fine Swiss timepieces for 125 years.

Winners Announced in the 2010 Second Empire Grand-Prix Spring Series

Richardson, Carrington, Weaver & Associates donates to Food Bank

Srini Iyer, 20, of Raleigh, is the top point earner and overall male champion. Kimberly Bowler, 39, also of Raleigh, is the overall female winner.

The top five male and female point earners, as well as the top three point earners in each age group, will be recognized and awarded prizes at a luncheon on July 17th at Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern.

Richardson, Carrington, Weaver & Associates, a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. donated 200 pounds of food to the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina on April 22nd. They also hosted a booth on June 12th at the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

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coming up in the next

Fall Fashion Guide

We’ll feature the hottest looks for fall from Midtown boutiques and beyond. From the handbag to have to the length of your skirt get everything you need to be ready for autumn.

Terrific Tailgating

NCSU, UNC or Duke? Fall means ACC football and that means tailgating! We’ll show you how to create a Terrific Tailgating party with tips on everything from delicious recipes to must have gadgets.

Bonus Rooms

Sometimes it’s a home office...other times it’s a playroom or even the occasional guestroom. What is it? Your bonus room, the hardest-working space in your house. It may have an identity crisis but it doesn’t have to look that way. Get great ideas for creating Beautiful Bonus Rooms!

Fun Festivals

We take you around the state for a look at Fun Festivals you’ve probably never heard of before!

Plus lots more…

Wine Review | Chef Mario Bain’s Beat | Calendar of Events Talk of the Town | Healthy You Midtown Mingles | and much more!

midtownmag.com| xx

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LISTEN, SHOP AND RUN Raleigh Benefits from Local Fundraisers

BY JENNI HART

North Raleigh Ministries (NRM) is hosting three fun and exciting events this summer to raise funds for their Crisis Center and Food Bank programs. NRM, which just last year helped nearly 3,000 people right here in our community with food and financial assistance, also collects and distributes Christmas toys, Easter baskets and school supplies every year, and feeds 40 children each week through the Backpack Buddies program.

There’s something for everyone, and you’ll feel good knowing that the proceeds for these events stay right here in Raleigh to help our neighbors in need.

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Ivan Parker in Concert On Saturday, July 24th, award-winning gospel vocalist and North Carolina native Ivan Parker will perform a benefit concert at Trinity Baptist Church, with proceeds going to North Raleigh Ministries. Concert planners are offering an exclusive Artist Circle ticket opportunity, which allows purchasers to attend a meet and greet with Ivan prior to the show, in addition to preferred seating.

Purses, Pumps and Pearls Just in time to burnish your fall wardrobe, NRM will host its first-ever fashion event. Scheduled for Saturday, August 28th, at a location soon to be announced, the event will feature a silent auction as well as a sale of new and vintage purses and gently used, lovingly restored shoes. Pearl necklaces, bracelets, brooches and enhancers will be featured for sale as well.

Fourth Annual North Hills 5K, One-Mile Fun Run On Saturday, September 11th, runners will lace up to take part in the fourth annual North Hills 5K to benefit NRM. The race course has earned a reputation as a challenging 5K, winding through the quaint and picturesque North Hills neighborhood, beginning and ending in the rear parking lot of Trinity Baptist Church. Rev. Spencer Good, Minister of Recreation and Activities at Trinity, is excited about the fourth annual running of the race. “Every year I’ve talked to the runners who’ve finished first or second, and I’ve asked them what they thought of the course.

They always tell me it’s the hardest 5K they’ve ever run, but they love the course,” he says.

“The one-mile is going to appeal to an even larger number of people, from recreational walkers to families with young children,” Good says. “And then we have an opportunity for those we refer to as ‘inspired, but too tired’ and that’s everyone else who is simply too busy to train or who can’t make it on September 11th.

For those individuals, making a donation is the way to support this important ministry.”

Ask volunteers at North Raleigh Ministries what makes their time at NRM worthwhile, and they’ll tell you that people in North Raleigh are in need, families are hurting, and the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life lies right here in our own community. Located in the Pavilion Shopping Center at the corner of Spring Forest Road and Atlantic Avenue, North Raleigh Ministries operates a Thrift Shoppe, Food Pantry and Crisis Center.

For more information, visit www.northraleighministries.com, www.ivanparker.com, www.pursespumpsandpearls.com or www.northhills5k.com midtownmag.com| 93

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third time’s

A CHARM

Two Raleigh teens continue their mission

BY KATE TURGEON

Sami Mareny and Hannah Roe are the kind of teenage friends who can practically have a conversation using only their expressions. Inside jokes? Sure. Shared memories?

Definitely. A commitment to making the world a better place? You better believe it.

This summer, for the third time since 2007, the girls will travel to the Amazon River basin together for 10 days of mission work. For these Raleigh teens, both rising juniors at North Raleigh Christian Academy, summer is time to claim a cozy hammock for nights aboard a three-tiered boat and spend their days teaching Vacation Bible School (VBS).

Before they departed for this year’s trip, the pair talked with Midtown Magazine about preparing for the trips, working with children and their ever-growing friendship.

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Sami Marenyi and Hannah Roe take their mission trips with Amazon Outreach, a non-profit interdenominational mission organization formed to support Brazillian churches and other organized ministries.

MIDTOWN MAGAZINE: Why the Amazon River basin?

HANNAH ROE: My parents have always had a heart for Brazil because they grew up there. They found this organization, Amazon Outreach, and my dad has been on mission trips with them multiple times.

When us kids got older, they started taking us.

MM: How do you raise the funds necessary for the trip?

SAMI MARENYI: I sent out support letters to everyone I knew – I think I sent out 64 letters. It costs $2,000 for the trip, plus airfare… this year it was about $2,700 total.

MM: How do you prepare for the trip?

HR: We spend a lot of time together before the trip…pretty much hanging out by the pool and in prayer. We’re always in prayer for things to go well and that God will lead us.

SM: And a week before we go, we always have a packing party where we go through the donated supplies for people in the villages.

MM: What do you take with you?

HR: Our carry-on bag is for clothes…basically T-shirts, shorts, bathing suits, tennis shoes and flip-flops. But we check two suitcases that are for supplies. We make announcements at church and school. I’ve been handing out donation lists so people will donate clothes, baby stuff, shampoo and toiletries.

MM: What are the children like in the Amazon River basin?

SM: We love the kids; they’re so awesome there. Right as we get off the boat, they’ll just run up to us and grab our hands…they’re so open and thankful for everything. At VBS, we give them snacks and some kids will take home the snack and share it with their family because their family needs food.

MM: What was surprising to you?

HR: Some girls 12 and up are having kids. A lot of times the girls our age who have kids are with the kids at VBS, so they’re standing around and we get to talk with them.

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For ten days, missionaries sleep on hammocks aboard a boat in the Amazon River basin.

At the end of the trip, many choose to purchase their hammocks and take them home.

MM: What was the weirdest moment you experienced?

SM: One of the weirdest moments was during the 2009 trip when I got to play with a little monkey, which was really fun actually, but kind of scary because it hissed.

HR: I was really afraid the monkey would bite me, I was afraid of rabies. And there was this one-eared pig all of a sudden. We got to pet the pig, and it was really weird.

MM: What was most physically uncomfortable?

SM: It can get pretty rough sometimes. I definitely start to feel gross when I have been sweating all day.

HR: I feel like I’m always caked in mud and dirt because it’s so dusty and when I’m playing it becomes a layer of mud and dust on my skin.

MM: What about sleeping in hammocks on the boat, was that uncomfortable?

SM: No. Those are so comfortable. And at the end you can buy your hammock and take it home…my brother bought his and put it up in his room.

MM: What’s most enjoyable?

SM: Really, it’s probably just hanging with the kids. There was one girl in one of the villages… and we were just hand-inhand the entire time. She never left my side. Even with the language barrier, we just hung out. I was just so happy around her.

HR: It’s really fun when we can give the kids something and they’re smiling the entire day…we hand out cross necklaces or bubbles.

SM: They would play with bubbles for three hours – we can go on the boat for lunch and come back to see them still playing with Hannah with one of the children from vacation bible school. For Hannah and her friend Sami, the best bubbles. It’s adorable.

part of the trip is working with the children who, they say, are so thankful, kind and fun to be with.

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For friends Hannah Roe (center) and Sami Marenyi (right), this summer’s mission trip to the Amazon River basin will be their third together.

MM: Did you have any life-changing moments?

HR: Yes. We were meeting with girls our age and we asked them what they struggle with. For Americans girls, it’s things like gossip or boys. For a long time no one answered…but one girl did finally speak up. She said that she had a hard time when she tried to tell people about Jesus and they rejected her. We didn’t know what to say. We weren’t expecting that. For Americans, what we struggle with can be so different.

MM: What’s life like when you return home to Raleigh?

SM: It’s hard leaving the villages. It’s like I’m so happy to be down there, but really glad to be back with my family as well.

HR: Swaying. Since we’ve been on a boat for so long, it still feels like it for about three more days. It’s the weirdest thing.

MM: Once you’re home and you think about the Amazon, what do you miss most?

HR: I miss how it takes me away from the busy everyday life of America. I like going down there and knowing that the next day I get to go out to the village and see all the kids again.

MM: Have the trips made you better friends?

SM: Yes. It’s really personal on a boat because we’re really living with each other.

HR: You can’t escape from anyone because the boat is the boat. Once you’re on the river, you can’t get away!

The mission boats have three tiers: the top deck is for meals and worship, the middle is filled with hammocks for sleeping and the bottom deck is dedicated to laundry.

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around the state

WHITEWATER FALLS, TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

Head east on Highway 70 on just about any Friday afternoon in the summer and you’ll join a caravan of teenagers, couples and families heading to the beach. If you want to escape the Triangle’s sultry summer heat, the waters of the Atlantic Ocean are mighty tempting and we are blessed to live so close.

For many, the mighty Atlantic is unequivocally North Carolina’s best summer vacation option, and we’re not disputing its lure, but the truth is The Old State is brimming with places to experience the restorative qualities of water. Whether your thing is fishing, boating or taking a quick dip in the old swimming hole, we’ve come up with a list of the best, the largest, deepest, widest, oldest, highest places in North Carolina to get your water fix.

RAINDROPS

TO WATERFALLS

Hot time, summer in the city…

BY SUSAN ELY

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© NC DIVISION OF PARKS AND RECREATION WHITEWATER FALLS, TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

An aerial view of the New River, believed to be the oldest river in North America.

THE OLDEST Despite its name, the New River, located in the northwestern corner of the state, is hardly new – in fact it’s the oldest river in North America and the second oldest river in the world, between 10 million and 360 million years old. Even more astonishing is the ancient granite wall that rises 200 feet above river level, which is considered to be more than one billion years old.

If you’d like to try your hand at canoeing, the calm waters of the New River make it an excellent choice for beginners, groups and families. Even experienced paddlers will appreciate the peace and tranquility of the scenery as they drift by farmlands and gaze at the rugged hillsides and riverbanks clad in wildflowers.

The New River area is old-fashioned and charming. Take your time perusing the narrow, winding mountain roads dotted with small farms, churches and country stores.

Visit ncparks.gov for info on canoeing, camping, fishing, hiking and picnicking Where to stay: River House Country Inn and Restaurant 1896 Old Field Creek Rd. Grassy Creek, NC 28631 336-982-2109 | riverhouse@skybest.com THE L ARGEST Awe-inspiring in size and unparalleled in beauty, Lake Mattamuskeet, which makes up most of Matatamuskeet National Wildlife Refuge, has no underground springs or headwaters feeding it and is North Carolina’s largest natural lake.

Like a number of Carolina Bay Lakes, Mattamuskeet’s origin is disputed; scientists suspect a prehistoric meteor shower or underground peat fires. Indian legend has it that the lake was formed by a fire that burned for 13 moons.

On July 11th, 1585, 60 English explorers from Sir Walter Raleigh’s Roanoke Island expedition visited the lake. Today, visitors still come to the lake and discover the same wonders as did those early explorers – incredible wildlife, peace and tranquility.

The lake and surrounding habitat provide habitat for over 240 bird species, including the peregrine falcon and bald eagle and have a history for being known as the Canada Goose Hunting Capital of the World.

If getting back to nature is your thing, Lake Mattamuskeet is for you, offering fishing, hunting, crabbing, boating, wildlife viewing, kayaking/canoeing, bird watching and hiking.

Visit mattamuskeet.org for more information on the lake and wildlife refuge.

Where to stay: Carawan’s Motel and Cabins 510 NC Highway 94 Swan Quarter, NC 27885 877-788-0764

Belhaven Water Street Bed and Breakfast, Ltd. 567 East Water Street Belhaven, NC 27810 866-338-2825 midtownmag.com| xx 93

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THE MOST SPECTACUL AR How could you stand near a waterfall and not find yourself searching for superlatives to describe the experience? The sights and the sounds will send you leafing through your thesaurus; unless you’re a poet, best to say it with photographs. Here are some of North Carolina’s best: Highest Known as the “king of falls,” Upper Whitewater Falls in Transylvania County is the highest waterfall east of the Rockies.

No other in the East can boast its combination of water volume, visibility and height, plunging an amazing 411 feet! The best part is that you can get a great view with a short walk.

Closest Falls closest to the Triangle are in Hanging Rock State Park, a good family spot north of Winston-Salem.

Most Popular The most photographed falls are Looking Glass Falls, which are also one of the most easily accessible waterfalls in the state.

Most Accessible Bridal Veil Falls –You can see the falls from your car as you drive under it, or you can get out and walk beneath the falls.

Most Impressive Rainbow Falls – warm weather plus constant mist equals rainbows!

Visitors are able to experience the falls from the front, bottom, side and top.

Transylvania County, the “land of waterfalls,” is the perfect base for your waterfall explorations, with over 250 to choose from. Lodging in or near Brevard is your best bet.

Choose from rustic cabins to four-star resorts. Visit landofwaterfalls.com for a guide.

For more information, visit northcarolinawaterfalls.com and visitwaterfalls.com.

Check out kadamsphoto.com for information on purchasing a “Waterfalls of North Carolina Map” and “North Carolina Waterfalls”, a hiking and photography guide.

Most Fun Remember the delight of dipping into the old swimmin’ hole when you were a kid? They’re still around! Why not introduce your kids to these refreshing, natural spots to cool off and have fun? SwimmingHoles.org lists a total of 24 in North Carolina.

Experts (and yes, there are swimming hole experts) use the “holy trinity” method to evaluate their favorites. Factors include height of adjacent rock walls, depth of water and privacy. Holes are rated from one to five in ascending order of righteousness.

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WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE Rivers, lakes, waterfalls, swimming holes –North Carolina has it all!

While the above listings are by no means exhaustive, hopefully they will whet your whistle to explore the outstanding water attractions of our wonderful state. Sometimes, though, a summer shower is enough to restore your soul. If your idea of heaven is a walk in the rain, head to Transylvania County, which has the highest rainfall of any county east of the Rocky Mountains; average annual rainfall there is 80 inches, plus they have the best water quality in the state. And while you’re there – check out those waterfalls!

Best Swimming Hole for Laps Hooker Falls, DuPont State Forest Best Swimming Hole for Tubing Davidson River, Pisgah National Forest Best Swimming Hole for Sunbathing South Toe River God’s Own Water Slide Turtleback Falls, Nantahala National Forest. Falls and natural water slide all in one. Height: 3: Depth: 4; Privacy: 1 Swimming holes aren’t always easy for visitors to find, so check out Exploreasheville.com and Swimmingholes.org for maps, directions and descriptions.

DID YOU KNOW? The mouth of the Neuse River is the widest (5 miles across) in the United States and is a haven for sailing, fishing and boating.

miles wide. As a whole it is the second largest estuary in the United States.

Deepest lake: Fontana at 440 feet.

Longest river that starts in NC: New River, which flows into Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky, and then into Ohio to merge with the Ohio River.

Longest river wholly in NC: Cape Fear River, 202 miles.

Pamlico Sound is the largest sound along the US East Coast, at 80 miles long and 15-30

Longest lake shoreline: Lake Kerr, 800 miles.

Highest lake elevation: Bass Lake, 3,560 feet.

Linville Falls has the largest volume of water of any waterfall on the northern edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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downtown

Leaping Lizards!

Local girls bring Annie to main stage By kate turgeon

I

t’s early June and some eager girls from the cast of Annie are sitting together inside a North Hills sandwich shop. The topic is Andrea McArdle, the Tony-nominated actress who played “Annie” on Broadway 33 years ago and will star as “Miss Hannigan” in the North Carolina Theatre (NCT) show this summer.

I ask if they have met her yet. “No,” sighs Mary Callan Kelso, 9, with the wide-eyed look of someone who may be counting the days until she does. “But I have seen her picture,” she adds quickly as she smiles and flicks her pointer finger into the air.

Young actresses English Bernhardt, 14, and Katherine Fritsch, 11, nod with understanding. They’ve seen pictures, too. She’s “really pretty” and “talented,” they agree. In a matter of seconds, the conversation turns to speculation of McArdle’s height, their own heights and the heights of their mothers.

These gals can cover ground. But it’s what you may expect from a group used to lengthy

dance lessons, training sessions and 12-hour rehearsals. The energy at the table seems almost too plentiful to be coming from just a few girls. But it is.

It’s that liveliness that the show’s director, Casey Hushion, loves to work with. To be cast in Annie is a dream come true for any girl who loves theater, says Hushion, who once played the role of “Annie” herself and still remembers the thrill of sitting on stage with a dog (“Sandy”).

“I want…the best show humanly possible.

But it’s also important to me that these girls have an incredible experience…joy will surely manifest itself in the show and be tangible on stage,” she says.

Join Midtown Magazine for a glimpse into the world of the show’s youngest cast members.

What kind of courage and love does it take for an actress to stand in a warm spotlight with Byown Christa Gala her and nothing but her shadow behind hundreds of discerning theatergoers in front of her? And how does she get there? Let’s find out!

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But she wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It was kind of cool,” she says about the birthday practice. “On Easter we had an egg hunt, that was so fun.”

She’s also having a good time with Annie. But, how does she feel about red? “I mean, I hope I don’t look too bad in red,” says English while tugging at the unicornshaped silly band on her wrist. “The wig has serious curls, it’s hilarious.”

English Bernhardt, 14 “Annie” Ray Walker, a Broadway veteran and NCT Conservatory instructor, knows how heavy the weight of a starring role can be. He also knows when a young actress can meet the challenge. English Bernhardt, he says, has just the star power to sing a difficult role and command the stage as “Annie” for a twoand-a-half-hour musical.

“She was one of the rare students who walked through our doors at a very young age with natural talent spilling out of her,” says Walker. “She is what we call a ‘triple threat,’ talented beyond her years in acting, singing and dancing.”

For English, the journey to the main stage began early. She laughs about starting ballet lessons at two-and-a-half and a half years old. “I was supposed to be three to start classes, but I begged my mom to let me do it. The teacher let me stay,” explains English.

“And every year I’m the youngest in my class because I started early.”

Support, she says, comes from instructors at the NCT Conservatory (where she takes lessons) and her family. “Definitely, my mom helps me,” says English. “She grew up singing in beauty pageant…and always loved the stage. I wanted to be like her, of course.”

But, as any actress will tell you, there are challenges. English remembers once walking out before an audition because she felt too scared. And she can laugh when she recalls an on-stage incident during NCT’s production of The Sound of Music when her zipper became stuck in her slip and caused an open-back dress. But that wasn’t the worst of it. Her foot got caught on the dress and her arm came out of a sleeve. “It was pretty bad, but it happens,” she says shrugging her shoulders. “I learned that it’s definitely not as easy as it looks and it’s a group effort sort of thing…one girl during the scene,” zipped it for me.

And when it’s a group effort, there’s also no time for absence. NCT has a strict “no conflict policy” for rehearsals and shows. English has found herself at rehearsal on her birthday, and even on Easter Sunday.

Katherine Fritsch, 11 “July” (“Annie” understudy) Katherine Fritsch has a lot figured out. For one, she knows it’ll be a fun summer. “I’m going to enjoy Annie,” she says. “If someone likes doing whatever it is, I guess it just works better.”

And it’s definitely working for her.

Katherine, who is known for singing the National Anthem at Carolina Hurricanes’ home games, landed her first NCT role at five and began classes at NCT’s Conservatory.

Like English, Katherine can giggle over little snags. In Peter Pan, she played “Jane,” a role that gave her the opportunity to fly in a harness. Only there was a bit of harness trouble right before the scene. If it didn’t lift, she was supposed to just flutter her arms.

“What I learned is that the show must go on. Even if I didn’t end up flying with the harness, I would have just had to…well… pretend,” says Katherine as she laughs and flaps her arms like wings.

When she’s not in the spotlight, Katherine can be found jumping on her trampoline, where she likes to sing. And when she settles into the couch to watch her favorite movie, Sandra Bullock is on the screen.

“The Blind Side is a meaningful story,” says Katherine in a more serious voice. “My favorite part was when they all joined at dinner and she moved all the plates (to the dining room) and they all ate there together…it shows how a family can change by just one person.”

Mary Kate Englehardt, 8 “Molly” When she was three years old, Mary Kate Englehardt practically jumped onto a karaoke stage and grabbed a microphone. Never mind that she couldn’t read the words on

the screen. Never mind that she didn’t know the song. She knew how to wing it, and that was enough. When the music stopped, she wanted to go again. But, alas.

“Unfortunately, there were other people in line,” recalls Mary Kate, a boisterous girl with a bouncy ponytail, blue eyes and a dimple in her right cheek.

Fortunately for Mary Kate, there won’t be anyone in line this summer when she takes the stage as “Molly.” It’s a role the young dynamo is ready to tackle. “‘Molly’ is very tough for a little girl like that. She has a way of standing up for herself, but gets kind of scared sometimes. That’s where ‘Annie’ comes on and where they have their connection,” says Mary Kate, who has appeared in other NCT shows and on the television series One Tree Hill.

She knows she’ll have to cry as “Molly.”

She’s already thinking about it. “Yes. I have to do it. In the very beginning I have to cry for my mom,” says Mary Kate, who instinctively takes hold of her own mother’s arm and nuzzles close to her at the thought of “Molly’s” fictional heartache.

When she’s not at lessons or rehearsals, Mary Kate likes to draw, write, read (Little House on the Prairie is her favorite), and stay active by jumping rope, swimming and playing soccer.

Kelsey Healey, 9 “Tessie” If you ask Kelsey Healey which role she’s playing in Annie, you probably won’t get a simple answer. She’ll tell you she’s “Tessie.”

But she’ll follow it with a little performance.

With her hands to her cheeks, she’ll deliver a quick and articulated performance of the line “Oh my goodness, oh my goodness.”

And even if it has been years since you’ve seen Annie, you’ll immediately remember the worrisome “Tessie” with just a midtownmag.com| 103

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ming frogs, two fish and one cat in her house.

And the auburn-haired, hazel-eyed charmer has a newfound appreciation for musicians in the orchestra pit, which she gained from recent recorder lessons at school. “It is hard,” she says. “Very, very hard.”

Payton Prince, 11 “Duffy”

few well-delivered words from Kelsey. That’s drama. Like her cast members, Kelsey has got “it.”

“I just love being on stage and I love being on TV. It’s very fun,” says Kelsey, who has appeared in numerous shows (such as NCT’s Phantom of the Opera) and television commercials for Juicy Fruit gum and Blue Cross Blue Shield.

Before big auditions, Kelsey works on lines with her dad. The first step, she says, is memorization. Once the lines are memorized, she adds emotion.

Kelsey’s free time is often spent with friends, and she loves to swim. She also has a fondness for pets, with three dogs, two swim-

Before Payton Prince has an audition, she practices with her mother, going over every detail from introducing herself to the song she’ll sing and whatever else the audition may require. They do this over and over and over again. But, does it calm the jitters?

“No. Not really,” says Payton with a smile.

“But, I mean, it helps to be more prepared. For me, the nervousness never decreases.”

It’s hard to imagine her nervous. With long brown hair, blue eyes and a myriad of endearing freckles, Payton keeps a steady demeanor that seems calmer and more matter-of-fact than the dispositions of many girls her age. Although she will crack a nervous grin toward her dad when she talks about her favorite television shows.

“Whenever I can, I like watching those mystery detective shows. I’m not allowed to watch them…but whenever my parents make the exception,” she says as her voice trails off.

Payton, who also enjoys horseback riding and schoolwork that involves problem solving, can easily recall her first role as a munchkin, an uncomfortable spoon costume she wore in a production of Beauty and the Beast and a role as a townsperson in Theatre in the Park’s A Christmas Carol.

And she’s looking forward to playing “Duffy.” “She’s not really one of the leaders like ‘Annie’ or ‘Pepper.’ She kind of follows those two,” explains Payton. “I have thought about her being an orphan. When I think of her I kind of feel bad…I feel sympathy.”

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Alexa Robertson, 10 “Kate” If it’s true that one is “never fully dressed without a smile,” then Alexa Robertson is dressed to the nines.

With long blond hair and a gentle happiness that yields a big grin, Alexa isn’t a stranger to performing.

Ask her how long she has been dancing and she’ll probably answer, “always.” But even without inquiring, it’s easy to tell by her perfect posture.

And while she only started theater training about a year ago, it didn’t take long for Alexa to find herself on stage at Memorial Auditorium.

In NCT’s recent production of Cinderella, she played “young Cinderella”. “It wasn’t a big part. But it was, to me, a lot of fun. I got to meet all these wonderful people,” says Alexa. “I just love performing…the work is basically the fun part,” she adds.

When Alexa is at home, the “fun part” is listening to Carrie Underwood, throwing water balloons, making up dances with friends or playing with her sisters. (Interestingly, Alexa counts a Yorkshire Terrier-Maltese (“Morkie”) puppy as one of her sisters.)

She says she often feels different from other children at her school because she’s not interested in things like soccer or Harry Potter. She also adores math. “It’s the easiest…at school all of my friends are like ‘oh no, it’s math’ but I’m like ‘yay, it’s math,’” says Alexa, who wants to be a doctor or an actress when she grows up.

Kelsey Walston, 16 “Pepper” Kelsey Walston was a third grader when she went to her first major audition. She didn’t just try out in front of a director and a few panel members.

Nope. Kelsey sang in front of fellow performers and numerous onlookers at Theatre in the Park’s A Christmas Carol audition.

While some may have found this intimidating, it was the right pace for Kelsey. “It was really cool,” she says of the experience, which didn’t happen to land her a part.

Kelsey took the energy she gained at that audition and went head-on into her chosen art. She has been in countless productions since, and started taking lessons at the NCT Conservatory when it opened in 2004.

Today she spends at least four days a week there. She knows her dedication causes her to miss other things she may like to do, such as playing a sport or spending more time with friends. At her high school homecoming, she missed taking pictures with friends because she had to sing. But, she says, it’s worth it.

When she does have free time, she likes to watch Disney movies (she’s obsessed with Beauty and the Beast) and be creative with her friends. “I guess my friends and I like to hang out…like we’ll just go to a park,” says Kelsey. “We were making a video of our year at school…that was kind of crazy.”

By summer’s end “Annie” will probably be on the list of favorites for Kelsey and her fellow cast members. From “Tomorrow” to “It’s A Hard Knock Life,” Annie has practically all the charm and heart an audience could ever be looking for. And when theatregoers file into Raleigh’s historic Memorial Auditorium to see it, there will be a talented cast – filled with many young members – awaiting the curtain’s draw. midtownmag.com| 105

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QA

quick

&

Gracie DeLoache

with the orphans from...

Hayley Lundberg

Alexis van Venrooy

Cady van Venrooy

Midtown Magazine: What do you do when you feel worried?

(This girl has a little secret about big grins. She uses them when she’s happy and when she’s nervous. It’s a workable tactic!)

Gracie DeLoache: Whenever I’m nervous I always smile, which is a good thing. It’s a good habit to have.

MM: Who helps you feel comfortable before a big audition?

Mary Callan Kelso: My babysitter Lauren…she also sings, and every time I have a performance she always helps me. And my mom and dad help me, too. They tell me not to worry, that everything will be okay.

MM: If your friend wanted to try out for a musical, what advice would you give her?

Hayley Lundberg: Think of your favorite person and imagine their picture hanging on the wall…and then sing right to them.

Sometimes you get the part and sometimes you don’t. But if you love theater, just keep trying and doing what you love to do.

MM: What do you like best about theater?

Avery Hoerdemann: I like being in theater because it’s fun and it helps people achieve their dreams of acting, singing and dancing.

MM: What’s something about you most people don’t know?

Alexis van Venrooy: I’m double-jointed in my elbows and fingers. And I know how to tie a monkey’s fist, which is also called an old time sailors’ knot.

MM: What do you like to do when you’re not at rehearsal?

Cady van Venrooy: I like to play outside and swim at the lake. I like to put on Justin Bieber and make up dances with my sister, Alexis.

Mary Callan Kelso

Avery Hoerdemann

MM: What do you like to do in your spare time?

Hannah Hoskins: I like to read fantasy books like Harry Potter and Percy Jackson. Sometimes I watch movies and play ball outside with my sister.

MM: What’s one thing about you most people don’t know?

Allison Cochrane: One thing most people don’t know about me is that before a big test at school, I like to read a love story to get in my testing zone. If I cannot find a love story to read, I sing “Love Story” by Taylor Swift in my head.

Hannah Hoskins

Allison Cochrane

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Dr. randy Woodson, Chancellor North Carolina State University My all-time favorite book is A Team of Rivals by doris Kearns Goodwin. I am a history buff and love reading about the people and events of our past. It appeals to me not only because of the history it holds, but also because it demonstrates the importance of building a successful team. In it, we learn about President Lincoln’s ability to pull together a group of unlikely team players into a cohesive and powerful group. The story has a lesson for all of us through the necessity of putting aside differences to work together and accomplish great things.

Scot Wingo, Ceo ChannelAdvisor I’m a business book-aholic and read a ton of blogs.

Therefore, I was really excited when I found out that the authors of a blog I read regularly about entrepreneurship, management and software had written a book called Rework. In the book the authors, Jason Fried and david Heinemeier Hansson, put together some thought-provoking ideas such as “meetings are toxic – avoid them” that make you rethink some of the things you take for granted in the workplace. I would highly recommend the book for anyone in the business world as a great way to shake things up a little and challenge the status quo.

Frances Scott, anchor ABC 11 Eyewitness News My favorite political books are The World is Flat by Thomas Friedman and An Inconvenient Book by Glenn Beck. I think perspectives from both the political right and left are fascinating, because I love to understand why each side argues the way it does. The other books my husband and I are both reading are Rich Dad, Poor Dad and The Millionaire Next Door.

My favorite fiction book is This Present Darkness. I read it years ago, as a freshman in college, and became much more interested, as a result, in the power of prayer and how God cares about our lives, even the small stuff.

John kane, Chairman and Ceo Kane Realty Corporation Tom Wolfe and Pat Conroy are two of my favorite authors. I loved [Wolfe’s] The Bonfire of the Vanities and A Man in Full. His writing style is appealing and reads so eloquently.

I also like Pat Conroy and have read all of his books. I especially enjoyed The Great Santini, South of Broad and My Losing Season.

I am currently reading Lone Survivor, a fascinating book about Navy Seals in Afghanistan.

Melissa ross Matton, 2009-2010 President Junior League of Raleigh I am currently reading Stieg Larsson’s The Girl Who Played with Fire. I read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo in May and found it a fascinating (but dark), well-structured, well-translated mystery. I could not wait to start The Girl Who Played with Fire and have a copy of The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest waiting on the shelf.

My reading habits are eclectic. I love to read everything from wonderfully done American history books like Alexander Hamilton or Team of Rivals.

And of course, summer would not be complete without a few chick lit books – I am waiting for Emily Giffin’s new book Heart of the Matter.

My family is a family of readers. you can find us at the Cameron Village Library on Sunday afternoons hunting for books for the boys, Chris and me. We try to work reading into every day – and it seems to be working since my sons will take a break from play and read at the drop of a hat. midtownmag.com| midtownmag.com|107 xx

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downtown

Late Night Eats Top ten spots for late night eats.

By kate turgeon Photography by april maness photography

F

rom a writer’s perspective, all stories are not created equal. Some are more fun than others. Case and point: photographer April Maness and I were recently given an assignment to find 10 of the best places for late night eats in downtown Raleigh.

It may sound like an easy (and delicious) task, but consider that the Capital City has more than 115 eateries according to the Downtown Raleigh Alliance. To get our list of 10, we chatted up friends for their favorites, looked around online and asked waiters more questions than they probably cared to answer. We searched for spots with different types of food offered at various price points.

Then we really had to get to work. Yes, we visited them all, just not on the same night. We stayed out past our bedtimes and learned that Raleigh has a welcoming nightlife, even for two girls (OK, women) who normally feel most comfortable in flip-flops. The fantastic food is just part of the city’s late night eats scene. From the soft, candlelit sophistication of Poole’s Diner to the modern styling at Buku to the ease of Snoopy’s walk-up

window with Tuesday’s 99-cent hot dogs, we think there’s something for everyone. Here they are, in no particular order:

Raleigh Times Bar 14 E. Hargett Street

By Christa Gala

Signs of Raleigh’s growth and future are everywhere. But a trip to the Raleigh Times Bar reminds

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us of where the fair city has been, too. While the Raleigh Times newspaper (the bar’s namesake) put out its last issue in 1989, the eatery’s walls are lined with photographs of memorable people and events.

And the welcoming, 100-year-old building is a suitable setting for notable beers and a new take on bar food. The Times is famous for its BBQ Pork Nachos. After one bite, we know why. The barbecue is made by celebrated pit master Ed Mitchell at the Times’ sister restaurant, The Pit. Add fresh-made tortillas, fresh jalapenos, cheese, pico and sour cream, and patrons have a treat. Other favorites: chicken fried pickles with roasted garlic ranch and seasonal desserts such as fried PB&J and house-made waffles with chocolate sauce, chocolate chips, peanuts, caramel sauce and freshly prepared whipped cream. We’re told that a lot of people get hooked.

The Diner 410 Glenwood Avenue As we brainstorm about the top 10, this Glenwood South eatery comes to mind first.

After all, it’s a diner. And it’s open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. In addition to serving breakfast around the clock, The Diner has malts, burgers, salads, ribs and other American fare, as well as a bar and plenty of patio and indoor seating.

They’re having some fun with the menu, too; take the “Wolfpack” omelets and adult milkshakes for example. (The “Sweet Caroline” has Bailey’s Irish Cream, raspberry Schnapps, fresh raspberries, white chocolate chips and vanilla ice cream.) One popular late night choice is the “Ranchero” breakfast; think hash browns topped with eggs, cheese sauce, salsa, sour cream and green onions. We tried it ourselves and liked the fresh tomatoes and crunchy, golden hash browns. Plus, it’s a heaping portion that can easily be shared. And P.S., Elvis has not left the building. He’s in corner setting the pace for The Diner’s nostalgic 50s theme.

Red Room Tapas Lounge 510 Glenwood Avenue April is a huge fan of tapas. Evidently, so is the rest of Raleigh, given the look of Red Room on the Thursday night we stopped in. With a dull roar of spirited conversation, Red Room has the Spanish ambiance you’d expect with tile floors and thick, red curtains that separate some of the tables from one another. But here’s what you may not expect: a complimentary salsa lesson (9-10pm on Thursdays) before you enjoy your paella and sangria (from traditional to honey-watermelon).

Other favorite menu items include gourmet flatbreads, baby back ribs in spicy sherry glaze and grilled vegetable Napoleon with veggies and fresh mozzarella with balsamic drizzle and basil oil. Because they’re small and savory, ordering a few tapas to share can be a great way to sample several dishes. midtownmag.com| midtownmag.com|107 xx

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Krispy Kreme 549 N. Person Street

Bada Bing Pizza 222 Glenwood Avenue See that glowing, neon pizza sign complete with directional arrow? It could be time to channel your inner New Yorker at Bada Bing’s pizza window. The guys at Bada Bing say late night is becoming a specialty, with walk-ups grabbing a slice, groups snatching a table for a whole pie or late nighters picking up to-go orders. Bada Bing serves beer and wine, too. And they’re focusing on nightly specials, such as trivia night, ladies night and Friday and Saturday night hours until 3am. Some dough, sauce, toppings and bada bing, bada boom – you have a NYstyle pizza place in the heart of Raleigh.

Poole’s Diner 426 S. McDowell Street At Poole’s, the menu constantly changes to incorporate the best seasonal, and often local, ingredients. But the famous macaroni and cheese, served bubbly and golden in a substantial bowl, is a mainstay. Summer favorites include the tomato salad with hothouse tomatoes, goat cheese, avocado and basil; the Royale, a “steak of a burger” served openfaced on brioche bread with red wine shallot beef au jus; and beet salad with buttermilk blue cheese and soft, lightly pickled onion.

Poole’s enjoys a tremendous relationship with nearby Memorial Auditorium, as both patrons and artists of the theater, symphony and ballet often flock there both before and after performances. (As far as late night eats, Poole’s serves a full menu until midnight Wednesday through Saturday.) It’s easy to understand why the place is always buzzing: good food in a relaxing atmosphere has a way of welcoming people to the table.

It’s ba-ack!

After a brief remodel, Krispy Kreme Doughnuts reopened its doors in June. And the downtown landmark is still a go-to spot for late nighters savoring something sweet.

Krispy Kreme serves the full menu all day long and the drive through is open 24 hours a day; inside seating (which has recently doubled in capacity) is available until midnight. The busiest time, according to management, is from around 9pm until 1am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Let’s face it: The wellknown “Hot Now” sign is practically love at first sight for those who enjoy fresh, warm original glazed doughnuts. Some new menu additions: Chillers drinks (“kremey” or fruity) and “Kool Kreme” (milkshakes, sundaes and cones).

Buku 110 E. Davie Street There’s a saying at the bottom of Buku’s menu: The world is a smaller place. And finding global street food in Raleigh can certainly make it feel that way.

We start with a popular hot pot, soup made with coconut, red curry, straw mushrooms and braised chicken, and then move to a Lebanese fattoush (salad) with grilled pita, tomato, olives, lettuce, fragrant herbs and a light lemon dressing. And we couldn’t pass up the incredible Korean barbeque with shaved prime sirloin, garlic, dark soy, kimchi, sesame spinach and hot mustard.

In addition to the food, what we appreciate about this spot is its penchant for nightly, live music. And no one here seems to be taking himself too seriously. Check out the koi pond painting on the ceiling above the sushi bar or a waiter who will play the blues on his harmonica.

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Dos Taquitos Centro 106 S. Wilmington Street So, maybe the late night at Dos Taquitos Centro ends a bit earlier than some of the other spots, but it’s fabulous, fresh food worth going out for, even if it’s a bit on the earlier side of late night.

(Dinner is served Thursday, Friday and Saturday until 10:30pm)

Dos Taquitos Centro is famous for its traditional and unique Mexican cuisine, often made from organic, local ingredients. Tamales de la Casa (tender corn masa-tamales, stuffed with a weekly specialty) is a top menu item for the evening crowd.

Other favorites are fresh made guacamole and crispy golden tortilla doritos and warm queso dip made with epazote, a traditional Mexican spice.

Snoopy’s Hot Dogs 600 Hillsborough Street It’s 2am on Saturday night, and there’s a strong possibility that a line is forming at Snoopy’s Hot Dogs. Hot crinkle-cut French fries, hot dogs, cheeseburgers and homemade chicken salad are some of the big draws of this eatery, which opened in 1990.

(The original Snoopy’s location opened in 1978 on Wake Forest Road, where it remains today.)

Over the years, it’s the little things that have kept Snoopy’s an unfailing spot for many late night eaters. Things like speedy service, cold soda over pellet ice, specials and affordable prices have kept it popular. And who can forget “Mr. Snoopy,” the iconic hot dog in a tuxedo and top hat?

The Duck & Dumpling 222 S. Blount Street For eight years the Duck & Dumpling has earned its reputation as downtown Raleigh’s spot for a modern take on traditional Chinese-Vietnamese home cooking. These days the late night crowd seems to be loving the Ahi tuna tacos, which are made with cilantro, daikon raddish, sesame oil, red bell pepper and kimchi, and topped with avocado salsa and served in crispy gyoza skin. Other popular menu choices include Satika Joes (glazed pork loin served with slider rolls and Vietnamese slaw) and green curry. But no trip to The Duck is complete without yummy pork and cabbage dumplings to eat and tasty sangria sake to drink!

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cancer care in

Raleigh

The prognosis just got better, thanks to the newly renovated Duke Raleigh Cancer Center

BY PAGE LEGGETT

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B

Being diagnosed with cancer is hard enough.

Getting treatment for cancer should be as easy as possible.

That’s what the staff at Duke Raleigh Hospital aims to do when they open a newly renovated cancer center in July.

“When you have cancer, you might need a medical oncologist, a radiation oncologist and a surgeon,” said Dr. Michael D. Spiritos, an oncologist and the medical director of Duke Raleigh Cancer Center. “You shouldn’t have to drive all over town to get to each appointment.”

The renovated cancer center offers all three specialties under one roof. “It’s a convenience for the patient, but it also offers an incredible coordination of care,” Dr. Spiritos said. “Patients have access to all Duke providers, and they’re all in one place.”

The mOsT cUrrenT care Since Duke is among the leading cancer research centers in the country, having access to Duke providers means patients have access to clinical trials.

Dr. Spiritos said patients considering participating in a clinical trial “can feel good knowing they’re getting the most current care out there.”

“Plus, any treatment used in a clinical trial has been approved by the NCI [National Cancer Institute],” he said.

“Finally, all trials are conducted under the strictest possible observation. The follow-up involved with trials is meticulous.”

Patients at Duke Raleigh can now get this cutting-edge care from Duke doctors without ever leaving Wake County.

Dr. Carol Hahn believes that the Duke Raleigh Cancer Center’s strong ties to Duke are a big benefi t to patients. She should know; she’s been the medical director of radiation oncology at Duke Raleigh since 2006 and has been on the Duke faculty for 15 years. “We’re bringing all the expertise and clinical research going on at Duke to the Wake County campus,” she said.

The mInd-BOdY cOnnecTIOn But, that’s just one benefi t of many. Among Dr. Hahn’s research interests are depression and anxiety levels in cancer patients. She has a concern for – and has done extensive research on – the psychological side-effects of cancer. When she sees or suspects depression, she can refer those patients to the providers they need.

And, those providers are onsite.

“The psychological component [of being treated for cancer] is an important one,” said Dr. Hahn. “About 15 percent of cancer patients will have signifi cant depressive symptoms. When I see patients, I look into their medical history and at the support levels available to them.”

“If someone comes to us with no family support, we can help,” she said.

“We offer psychological support through our counselors,” she continued. “But, we also have some cancer survivors who have volunteered to serve as a support network. People with head and neck cancers, for instance, have a very diffi cult course of treatment. It can be very helpful for patients to talk to someone who’s been there.” midtownmag.com| xx

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©todaysseniorsnetwork.com The Duke Raleigh Cancer Center team members are pictured in the new infusion area which offers a serene and calming atmosphere for patients and overlooks the Duke Raleigh Gardens.

“We’re supporting the whole patient here,” she said. “We’re not just looking after someone’s medical needs. We understand that they have social and psychological needs, too.”

Part of that understanding led to the creation of an expanded and more appealing chemotherapy infusion area in the new center. “This is a very attractive physical space overlooking the gardens,” Dr. Hahn said.

Even with all the attention paid to patients’ mental health and to the physical surroundings at the center, medical treatment is still at the forefront of everyone’s minds. Dr. Douglas Tyler, Associate Medical Director, Oncology Services, Duke University Medical Center and a surgeon who specializes in oncology, said he’s most excited about “the new minimally invasive surgical techniques that allow us to perform cancer operations through small incisions.” Patients benefit because they recover faster and can get on with their additional treatments, if needed, faster.

The greatest advancement Treating the emotional effects of cancer and using minimally invasive techniques are tremendous advancements in cancer care. But, Drs. Spiritos and Hahn say that the single most exciting advancement in cancer research is the advent of “multidisciplinary care.”

Dr. Tyler agrees. A multidisciplinary evaluation of patients gets them “the best treatment as determined by a panel of expert cancer physicians,” he said.

A multidisciplinary approach brings a surgeon, medical oncologist and radiation oncologist together to weigh the options and determine the best course of treatment. Dr. Hahn used the example of a patient with breast cancer in explaining how it works. A multidisciplinary approach might treat the cancer with radiation and limited surgery, thus saving the breast.

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©todaysseniorsnetwork.com

“If a woman needs reconstruction, we want to make sure the cosmetic surgery doesn’t interfere with her course of treatment,” Dr. Hahn said. “If reconstruction happens at the wrong time, it can actually slow down her treatment. The entire plan needs to be thought out as a whole.”

In the genes Part of looking at the whole picture is zeroing in on an individual’s DNA.

Dr. Spiritos explains, “Medicine has long viewed a heart attack as a heart attack and lung cancer as lung cancer. But even though two people may have the same diagnosis, their DNA means the genes in their cancer are different.”

“The way medicine is evolving now, I think we’ll get to the point where you have 100 different people with the same diagnosis, but they get 100 different treatments. When you can tailor the treatment to an individual cancer, it’s much more likely to work.”

“There is a large and active genomics institute at Duke,” Dr. Spiritos said, and Duke Raleigh patients will benefit from the research going on there.

Clearly, there are many benefits Wake County patients will see at the new Duke Raleigh Cancer Center. A cancer diagnosis is never easy, but the staff at the center is working to make it a lot more tolerable. midtownmag.com| 115

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healthy you

Hip Resurfacing as a “New” Option by orthopaedic specialists of north carolina

As the population of Baby Boomers ages, the number of individuals with painful arthritic joints will increase as well. In the past, many younger individuals with hip arthritis were left to suffer or limit their activity. The other option was to undergo a total hip replacement, which often limited their activities after surgery. The development of arthritis in the hip is common as one ages. For some, this process can occur at an accelerated rate, leading to poor quality of life.

Hip replacement is very common in the US, with approximately 120,000 procedures performed annually. This operation is typically done for the 60-80-year-old individual and involves replacing the worn out ball with a metal (or other material) ball on a stem and inserting a metal cup into the prepared socket to accept the new ball. This had been done regularly for the past 40 years, and recent outcomes are very predictable for return of function in the arthritic hip.

For younger individuals who develop debilitating hip pain due to arthritis, there is another option: hip resurfacing. In a hip

resurfacing procedure, your surgeon mills down the worn-out head and replaces it with a metal cap – preserving more of the normal anatomy.

The cup is prepared in a way similar to that of a contemporary total hip replacement. The advantages of this type of procedure are conservation of normal bone, more accurate reproduction of a patient’s normal anatomy and fewer limitations on activity after healing is complete.

All artificial joints are mechanical and will wear out with time. This is one of the concerns with hip replacement in younger individuals, and several decades ago this was addressed with hip resurfacing. Due to technical and material problems, this first generation hip resurfacing procedure was abandoned in the US. It has only been recently that a second generation of implants with a refined technique has been FDA approved in the US. Much of the work to improve this concept occurred in Europe over the past two decades. As a result of these efforts, the clinical results appear much more promising for properly selected individuals.

Because more normal bone is conserved in resurfacing, this procedure is able to address the ultimate failure of any implant over time. A contemporary resurfacing can be converted to a standard total hip – effectively prolonging the life of the worn out hip and avoiding the need for revision hip replacement. These historically have not performed as well as primary hip replacement. In addition to this, the bone-conserving resurfacing allows for a larger cap to be implanted, and this gives a more accurate reconstruction of the patient’s anatomy. The advantage of this is a fuller range of motion in the hip with excellent stability, which equates to high function and limits restriction after recovery for the patient.

Hip resurfacing is still a major operation and is not an option for everyone. The decision for surgery and the type of surgery to have is an individual decision between the patient and their surgeon. Dr Yenni sees patients in the Medical Office Building on the Duke Raleigh Campus, and in Wake Forest and Knightdale.

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healthy you

RX fOR pROBLeM HaiR by don stacY, DS PARADA

These quick-fix remedies are ideal for locks in need of some TLC. Hard-to-handle hair can strike anyone at any time. In fact, it’s a sorry fact of life. However, there are ways to combat the most common hair hassles…and here’s how! proBleM: lacK of lUster Solution: For hair to really shine, the cuticle (outer layer) must lie flat, creating a smooth, reflective surface. Chemical treatment (like hair color) raises the cuticle, leaving hair dull. To restore gloss, apply a silicone – based shine serum or shine enhancing gel to damp hair. This temporarily reseals the cuticle. Also worth trying: a semi-permanent color that deposits color on the outside of the hair shaft, filling in the cracks in the cuticle and giving hair luster. Finally, go with a blunt cut, which will reflect light more effectively than a layered look. For more gloss, spritz dry hair with shine spray. proBleM: drY, daMaGed or friZZY hair Solution: you could be unknowingly committing hair abuse. Daily blow-drying, rough brushing, perming, coloring, spending time in the sun and swimming in a pool can all lead to dry, damaged hair. To heal your hair and restore elasticity: Wash with a moisturizing shampoo or one formulated for chemically treated hair (these products contain milder, less drying detergents than regular formulas). Once a week, give hair a deep conditioning treatment. After hair is in good shape again, cut back treatment to once a month, for maintenance, to prevent future breakage. Handle tresses with tender loving care. Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle wet hair, starting at the ends and gradually working upward. When locks are dry, opt for a paddle brush that has widely spaced bristles (nylon or natural) set in a flexible base. The reason: the more “give” a brush has, the less likely it will be to tug on your hair and tear or split it. To stop split ends before they start, get a trim every six weeks and blow dry less often. Instead, apply a bit of leave-in conditioner to damp hair, let it air dry and then finger style. proBleM: thin, fine hair Solution: It probably looks worse then it really is. Once you reach 30, your hair starts getting finer, so it appears that you have less of it. While your first instinct might be to reach for a body-building shampoo, believe it or not, your best bet is to use a deep-cleansing one. This frees hair of any dirt or product residue that can flatten hair, making it appear thinner. For the same reason, choose a light, oil-free conditioner over heavier formulas. To pump up the volume: apply a nickel-sized amount of liquid gel to roots only. This adds height without weighing down the ends. When blow-drying, use your fingers to lift hair straight up from the roots. midtownmag.com midtownmag.com| | 125 xx

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healthy you

MigRane HeaDacHes

by J. steVen BaKer, dds, lVif, COSMETIC DENTISTRY OF RALEIGH

Headaches have been a part of one’s life at one time or the other. They may only be slight in nature and just a minor annoyance, or they could actually put you in the hospital. Many people suffer from what they perceive as “migraines.” This may or may not be true because migraines may have a vascular origin, may be hormonally induced, or may be caused by muscular tension or skeletal deformities, temporomandibular joint dysfunction or malocclusion (bad bite).

Many of the severe headaches which debilitate patients affect the temporalis muscles, which are located on the sides and back of one’s head. These are perceived by many in the medical community as “migraines,” when in fact they are caused by malocclusion, which leads to temporomandibular joint dysfunction. basically, your bite can cause you to have these severe headaches. So how do we treat these headaches in dentistry? A thorough medical history is taken for the patient to rule out any systemic disease, and a comprehensive exam is performed on each patient to gather as much information about the patient as possible. Diagnostic radiographs, photographs and study models are also used to aid in an accurate diagnosis.

To establish a patient’s occlusion (bite), it should be done with the muscles of the face in a relaxed position. This is accomplished by using an ultra-low frequency TENS unit (see Figure 1 ) to stimulate nerves of the face and neck, which in turn relaxes the muscles. Myotrodes are placed on the

face and neck and connected to the TENS unit. A kinesiograph is also used to measure the activity of the muscles associated with the head and neck (see figure 2). Each muscle has a standard value which has been established by the medical community.

A bite is taken when the muscles are at a relaxed value. This bite, along with the diagnostic models, are sent to the lab, where an orthotic appliance is fabricated for the patient to wear. This orthotic is worn 24 hours a day. The patient eats and sleeps with their new appliance, with the reason being that it will allow the temporomandibular joints (TMJ) to remodel. Without getting too technical, your teeth dictate the position of the TMJ, so when your bite is in a relaxed state, your TMJ is in its most physiologic position. This will also help to align your C1 vertebra (Atlas) which improves your overall posture, improves blood supply to the brain and causes an increase in oxygen to the brain. So in a nutshell, your bite can actually affect your posture.

It’s like the old saying, “your footbone is connected to your headbone.” your teeth are an integral part of your body. If your teeth are not in a neuromuscular relaxed position, your overall posture can be affected, which will cause muscle tension, which can displace your TMJ, which in turn will cause severe headaches. Neuromuscular dentistry can alleviate these problems if the headaches are related to malocclusion. For more information, please visit www.stevenbakerdentist.com or www.myotronics.com.

Figure 1

Figure 2

Editor’s Note: Dr. Baker is a Fellow of the Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies.

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healthy you

tHe KeYs tO YOuR HeaLtHiest Life by carter & laUra dalton, GNC AT NORTH HILLS

Best all-aroUnd: Omega 3 fatty acids are the winner! Omega3’s from fish oil help you achieve your best heart, best mood, best brain, best skin, best joints, best eyes – you name it!

HONORABLE MENTION: flax, chia and salba seed are rich in a different form of omega-3, great for inflammation, skin, eye moisture and digestion.

1ST RUNNER UP: Vitamin D. It’s essential to immune system health as well as bones.

C, D, E) is vital for optimal health (and stress…and bones…and energy…).

Best dailY detoXifier: Green foods – keep your body purified all year round!

HONORABLE MENTION: Milk thistle works wonders for your liver.

Best Male/feMale sUpport: Saw palmetto for prostate (160mg320mg extract daily) and evening primrose for women (1g-3g daily for hormone relief).

Best Versatile antioXidant: Grapeseed extract or pycnogenol. These guys cross over into brain cells as well as everywhere else to fight free radicals and control inflammation.

Best anti-aGers: Acetyl-l-carnitine, alpha lipoic acid and resveratrol – help your cells regenerate and allow antioxidants to be used for longer periods of time in your body – even your brain!

Best Bone health: Calcium and magnesium – coupled together, these also help with stress, anxiety and sleep.

Best heart sUpport: Coenzyme q-10 brings oxygen to the energy cells in your heart and all over your body. It can lessen the negative effects of Rx cholesterol meds, increase circulation and help alleviate migraines.

Best anti-inflaMMatorY: Turmeric (curcumin) – this herb will help take the “stiff” out of your joints.

Best insUrance policY: Take a multi! your daily alphabet (A, b,

HONORABLE MENTIONS: Hawthorne and garlic are two herbs great for controlling blood pressure.

As always, ask your doctor before beginning any new supplement or program. midtownmag.com| 119

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6/27/10 10:31:03 PM

SCOTT

3

turns

FREE

BY MICHaEL OSBORNE

Summer is here again! It’s an exciting time to be a kid. Many will soon travel to exciting camp programs that allow them to experience a whole new world outside of their everyday lives. There’s nothing quite like the freedom, fun and camaraderie of summer camp. Without groups like The Scott-Free Scholarship Foundation, many local at-risk kids would miss out. But now, for the third straight summer, Scott-Free scholarships are sending kids to camp and opening the door to new opportunities.

Along with over 20 camp partners from the North Carolina coast to the mountains, Scott-Free is providing kids with all kinds of unique experiences.

The camps specialize in sports, theatre, science, music, cooking, computer animation, dance and more. Scott-Free works with both day camps and residential camps. Partner camps help out financially with either discounted or donated camp spots, but Scott-Free also pays the full fare for some camps in order to ensure that children are paired with camps that match their unique interests and abilities. To date, Scott-Free has sent 68 kids to camp, and expects to send over 55 more this summer.

After three years of growth, Scott-Free is sending more kids to traditional sleep-away residential camps. A sleep-away camp can be an amazing new environment for these children, who often face constant struggles at home. Thanks to both new and existing camp partnerships,15 kids will attend 12 different residential camps this summer, Scott-Free!

After camp, if a child puts forth effort to actively participate in her

progress by volunteering in her community, she can be considered for camp the next summer as well. Over their three years, Scott-Free has witnessed amazing growth and progress in many of the returning campers. This summer, several will be attending their third straight camp with Scott-Free.

One great example of returning campers progressing with Scott-Free is twin brothers Wyatt and Carter. For two summers, Scott-Free helped send the talented violinists to the Green Mountain Music Festival Camp in Vermont. Between summers, the twins performed regularly for volunteered community service as well as to help fund their camp programs. For their abilities, the boys were invited to attend the prestigious International Music Academy in Pilsen, Czech Republic this July. Thanks to their amazing efforts and assistance from Scott-Free, the boys will benefit from some of the world’s finest instruction.

3rd Annual Scott-Free Event Scott-Free is excited to announce that this year’s annual fundraiser will be hosted by Raleigh Ensemble Players (REP) in their new home on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh. REP is one of Raleigh’s oldest theatre companies.

After many years of performing in downtown’s Artspace, they have finally secured their very own space in the heart of downtown Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street. The event is scheduled for September 11th, which is National Public Service Day, to celebrate the accomplishments of a community committed to being a friend to at risk children. Save the date! If you would like to receive an invitation to the upcoming event, check out www.scott-free.org for more information and add your email address under the “Contact Us” section.

Scott Free

ScottFree In loving memory of Scott Gruder

“A gift is most precious when given under no obligation and received without any expectation” “Journeys Urging Mammoth Possibilities” dba “Scott-Free” is a 501(c)(3) tax exempt non-profit organization P.O. Box 19681 Raleigh, NC 27619-9681

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midtown

mingles

affordable chic celebrates one-year anniversary

grand re-opening at beyond blue

On May 1st, Affordable Chic held a one year anniversary celebration.

Guests enjoyed food, refreshments and live entertainment as they shopped.

Affordable Chic is a specialty mall that features antiques, home furnishings, accessories, gifts and services for your home. Visit their website for new additions to inventory, store specials, classes and upcoming events.

Beyond Blue Interiors celebrated their grand re-opening on May 4th at their new location in North Hills. Guests enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres as they toured and shop the store. Beyond Blue Interiors offers a wide selection of unique furnishings. The talented designers can help you create a comfortable space with style.

sex and the city 2 party

Rachel Pally Trunk Show at Gena Chandler

Charlotte’s at North Hills hosted a Sex and the City 2 party on May 26th. Guests enjoyed browsing the jewelry selections from Moon and Lola along with tons of amazing giveaways, free gifts with every purchase, 20% off storewide and more.

Celebrity designer Rachel Pally was at Gena Chandler on May 6th doing personal fittings and styling. Guests received a free gift with every purchase.

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helene charity ball

The first annual Helene Charity Ball was held on April 30th at the Brier Creek Country Club in Raleigh. Guests enjoyed live entertainment, dinner and dancing as well as a live and silent auction. The foundation sponsors families for one year, providing food, transportation, child care and other comforts, while the mother undergoes cancer treatment.

girl’s night in at kristen’s

Kristen’s held their Girls Night In event, featuring NC jewelry designer Lauren Gindes on May 20th. Guests enjoyed wine and hors d’oeuvres as they shopped for shoes, jewelry and accessories.

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1st annual brickmagic convention

Over 8,000 children and parents attended the 1st annual Brickmagic (LEGO®) convention Mother’s Day weekend.

Exhibitors traveled from across the US to show off their creations.

Next year’s show is set for Mother’s Day weekend 2011.

WakeMed Celebrates Heart Tower & Children’s Hospital Opening

On Sunday, May 23rd WakeMed celebrated the Heart Tower & Children’s Hospital opening. Guests enjoyed various activities including facility tours, caricature artists, face painting, tours of the critical care trucks and air ambulance, blood pressure checks, performances, a giant slide and much more.

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skin sense grand opening

Skin Sense, A Day Spa, celebrated their grand opening on May 6th at their new location in The Arboretum at Weston. Guests enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres, spa tours and complimentary mini treatments, giveaways and discounts on services.

tea tasting at TeaGschwender

An informative tea tasting was held on May 20th at the store’s location in Cameron Village Shopping Center. Participants sampled hot teas and enjoyed a private shopping experience with tea consultants.

Guests can save 10% on featured teas from the tasting.

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