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aversion to belly sliders, which is one reason I prefer digging in the yard this time of year.

A good thing, as it turns out,

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because this is the ideal season for planting, pruning, and landPhoto by Mick Schulte

scape planning (page 16).

I

There’s another magical aspect to 2020: It’s a leap year! That means we’re all gifted with an extra day in the calendar—and even better, February 29th falls ’m an incorrigible optimist.

on Saturday. Maybe that’s the perfect

It’s a trait passed down from

day to try a new restaurant, shop a

my father, who at 92 is still

new store, or schedule that spa service

jumping out of bed every

you’ve been dreaming of. Skip over

morning with a smile on his

to page 78 and look at who won gold,

face and a conviction that today will

silver, and bronze awards in our annual

be the best day ever.

Best of Raleigh readers’ choice survey.

You’ll probably find your favorites

Given my genetics, it’s hard to ring in

among the winners, as well as some

the New Year with anything short of a

you might not have visited yet.

positive outlook, which is basically true every year, but this year we’re crossing

And please, keep reading us in 2020.

into a new decade and 2020 sounds

Next up is our Home & Garden issue,

so profound. (Okay, in the spirit of

and in addition to stories of design

truth in journalism, there are those

and outdoor living, you’ll find a plan-

who’ve predicted 2020 portends more

ning guide for summer fun as well

dark than light—but we’ll leave those

as what’s new in wedding fashion

contemplations to the skeptics.)

for brides and guests.

For me, the year 2020 inherently aligns

Cheers,

with a sense of balance. A time to rethink healthy choices (check out the feature on fitness centers and gyms, page 56), or a time to help neighbors (I’m loving the Buy Nothing Project,

Connie Gentry Editor / Publisher

page 50). And a time to make smarter choices for our planet: Cheryl did an awesome job describing the dos and don’ts of recycling (page 96).

Get Midtown delivered to your home! $10.99 for a 1-year subscription

About that optimism thing: It doesn’t

at MidtownMag.com.

hold true with certain subjects—take

Your opinions matter to us. Let us know what you think of this issue of Midtown magazine.

Please email connie@midtownmag.com with your comments.

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Publisher / Editor Connie Gentry Design Director / Copy Editor Cindy Huntley Graphic Design Jennifer Heinser Advertising Design Jordan Beard Social Media / Community Engagement Brittany Murdock Senior Account Executives Meredith Mills Charis Painter Cary Living Associate Publisher Maddi Blanchard Distribution Manager Joe Lizana Editorial Contributors Kurt Dusterberg, Kat Harding Katie Jansen, Beth Peterson, Bryan Reed, Mick Schulte, Lipsa Shah, Cheryl Capaldo Traylor, Ginny Williams, Melissa Wistehuff

Contributing Photographers f8 Photo Studios, MASH Photography Joe Reale, Mick Schulte Ginny Williams

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.

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 JA NUA RY

VIVACE

features 56

/

F E BRUA RY

2 0 2 0

78

Fitness Plans for Every Lifestyle Workout options around the Triangle.

68

Birthday Bonanza Ideas to make your child’s party the best ever!

78

The Best of Raleigh 2020 Diamond Award winners as voted

96

Photo courtesy of Vivace

by our readers.

Sustainable Solutions Master the art and science of recycling in 2020.

104

Recovery Comes to Raleigh NextStep offers therapy and support for individuals living with paralysis.

110

Valentine’s Weekend Splurges to pamper your spouse, your sweetie, or yourself.

110 10 | MidtownMag.com

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CONTENTS JA NUA RY

/

F E BRUA RY

2 0 2 0

Photo by f8 Photo Studios

on the scene 16 Plant, Prune, Plan!

This is the season to ready your yard for spring.

20 The Old Man and The Old Moon

Imagination takes the stage at Theatre in the Park.

Photo courtesy of Kale Me Crazy

24 Travel Take a mini excursion up the road to Hillsborough.

26 Music American Aquarium comes home.

departments 30

46

30

Meet the Mayor Mary-Ann Baldwin promises

in every issue

to lead with passion.

34

Chef’s Table

14 Social Scene

At High Horse, Chef Katsuji

0040

Tanabe lights a fire.

42

54

Work / Life Balance Local companies create health and fitness opportunities for employees.

46

Living Well Feed your New Year’s resolutions with healthy eats and drinks.

50

Community The Buy Nothing Projects helps neighbors share.

116 Home Cooking Cinnamon rolls, gingersnaps, and winter kale salad.

12 | MidtownMag.com

sponsored content 129

WELLNESS Q&A

Tastes of the City

122

Healthy You

Foodie Focus

124

Home Styler

120 Sister Cities 143 Out & About

• Dine & Draft

• Jan / Feb Events

• Midtown Mingles

• New Around Town

162 Kaleidoscope Living

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On the SOCIAL Scene

Let’s Connect!

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

Many of us search for something warm and sweet as winter approaches.

Grab a latte and a London Fog Scone from Joe Van Gogh’s newest location, right here in Raleigh.

Experience Kings Dining & Entertainment 2.0.

Their new renovations include a 1Up Retrocade and an indoor/outdoor interactive patio. Play all your arcade favorites including four-player air hockey, Ghostbusters pinball, NASCAR Team Racing, Pop-a-Shot hoops, and many more.

They don’t call them famous for nothing!

Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls has become a popular lunch spot for many in the North Hills area. Keep things classic when you order a Connecticut Roll—served warm and tossed in butter—and a side of their potato salad.

Get Social With Us! 14 | MidtownMag.com

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On the HOME Scene

Plant, Prune, Now is the season to set the stage for spring and summer.

BY CHERYL CAPALDO TRAYLOR

16 | MidtownMag.com

PLAN

I

t’s winter, and spring certainly has not sprung. But cold temperatures won’t stop folks who are ready to spend some time in their gardens. We are lucky to live in the Triangle where gardening is possible year-round, which is why North Carolina is often referred to as a gardener’s paradise.

With our fairly mild winters and rare snowfall, now is the perfect time to get outside and improve our landscapes with the bonus of no humidity, heat, mosquitoes, or ticks to contend with. To help alleviate cabin fever and stretch those gardening muscles, here are a few tasks that can be performed now.

Plant Keith Ramsey, owner of Garden Supply Company in Cary, says clients are very surprised to hear winter is the best time to plant in our region. “It’s an almost impossible thing to convey, but it’s an absolute truth,” he says. Even though it’s cold out, the plant’s roots are underground, and that’s where all the growing takes place in winter. Ramsey says heat, not cold, is what really stresses plants in this climate.

January and February are perfect months to plant trees or shrubs, and with the leaves off deciduous trees, opening the views around your neighborhood, it’s also the best time to evaluate and plant privacy screens. Relocating small trees and shrubs while they’re dormant

in winter allows time for them to become acclimated to their new surroundings before the heat of summer arrives.

Many cold-hardy perennials—including irises, peonies, hostas, hellebores, and daylilies—can also be planted now. Shop early for the best selection of bareroot roses to plant around Valentine’s Day (a perfect gift of love).

Looking for a smaller planting project?

Fill a weather-resistant container with a variety of seasonable plants such as small conifers, grasses, colorful heucheras, and cheery pansies to create a welcome splash of color in the winter landscape.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Prune February is prime pruning time.

Always remember the four Ds: dead, diseased, dying, or damaged—these branches can be removed any time. Otherwise, you will want to keep in mind why you are pruning. Are you creating a desired shape, or opening up the plant for better air circulation and light? Then clean and sharpen your pruners and get to work.

FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES BELOW FOR PRUNING IN THE WINTER MONTHS. • Prune summer-flowering woody ornamentals such as crepe myrtles, butterfly bush, chaste tree, and Rose of Sharon before the new growth starts.

• Overgrown red twig dogwoods and willows can be cut down to within a few inches of the ground, for the best color show and to

control height.

18 | MidtownMag.com

• Evergreens like boxwood, privet, hollies, and osmanthus can be pruned to shape as needed.

• Don’t prune spring-flowering shrubs like azalea, forsythia, and lilac until after they bloom or you will lose the flowers.

• Mow liriope and cut back ornamental grasses to the ground before new growth emerges.

• In February, prune hybrid tea, grandiflora, and floribunda roses when the buds begin to swell.

Thin mature plants, keeping at least three to four healthy young canes.

• Remove old, ragged leaves off hellebores and epimediums so flowers are more easily seen.

• Deadhead pansies throughout the season to extend bloom time.

Maintenance Projects and Plans Winter is an ideal time to remove invasives like honeysuckle, English ivy, and wisteria from the landscape.

Beware, though, of working around poison ivy vines as you can still get a rash in winter.

Think globally while acting locally by starting an eco-friendly backyard composting project. It can be as simple as a pile, or as elaborate as a threebin system. Dispose of kitchen and garden waste while creating beautiful humus to add to your garden soil later in the summer. You’ll also be helping the environment by keeping organic material out of the landfill.

Now is the perfect time to plan for upcoming seasons in the garden.

Visit local arboretums, gardens, and nurseries to see what’s in bloom so you can plant today what you want blooming in your garden next winter.

You don’t have to be stuck indoors during these chilly pre-spring months.

Grab your shovel and pruners and get outside! After all, we do live in a gardener’s four-season paradise.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Imagination

takes the stage

The Old Man and The Old Moon leads the audience to dream bigger.

20 | MidtownMag.com

Photo by MASH Photography

On the ARTS Scene

TT

he must-see show of the season is one you’ve probably never heard of.

Unless, that is, you’re a follower of rising star performances that garner awards at theatre festivals and earn stellar reviews in cities from New York to Boston to Chicago.

When The Old Man and The Old Moon makes its regional debut at Theatre in the Park on February 14th, it will surprise and delight audiences with a whimsical, transformative experience.

Nancy Rich, director of the show, admits she was at first puzzled by the selection because it is such a novelty. Rich, a local director whose recent projects include Sister Act at Raleigh Little Theatre and the Cary Players’ performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat, explains, “Generally the theaters around town will pick shows that people have heard of because they’re easier to market. But as soon as I went on YouTube and started to see clips of The Old Man and The Old Moon, I just fell in love. It’s one of these great little folklore shows. If you’re a fan of Hans Christian Anderson or The Goonies, either one, this is a show for you.”

In this classic tale of fantasy and personal odyssey, the old man who serves as caretaker of the moon is forced to choose between his duty, collecting spilled light to refill the moon, and his love, searching for his wife who has been mysteriously drawn away in search of past memories. It’s described as “an imaginative sea-faring epic, encompassing apocalyptic storms, civil wars, leviathans of the deep, and cantankerous ghosts, as well as the fiercest obstacle of all: change.”

Rich’s dream for the show: “Let’s not make this show rich with technical effects; let’s make the show rich with imagination.” Originally created and produced in 2007 by seven young thespians in their freshman year at Carnegie Mellon College of Drama, it has risen in acclaim just as the troupe—the PigPen Theatre Company—has done. (They have continued to produce original plays and were ranked among the top 10 theatrical performances in 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2016.)

In their original performance of The Old Man and The Old Moon, the cast consisted entirely of these seven men. “The producers of the show will let it be done with a sevenperson cast or with a larger cast, and we’ve chosen to do it with a larger cast,” Rich

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo courtesy of PigPen Theatre Co.

says, explaining that the larger cast includes a small band.

“We’d love to have the band float into the cast and the cast float into the band. At auditions, we asked if people play unusual instruments like xylophones or spoons.”

The play also brings shadow puppets and rod puppets to the stage, adding to the sense of wonderment and creative energy inspired through the storytelling. Rich, whose day job is working as an animator producing animation and special effects, is ironically focused on creating imagination without using a lot of tech. “I’m excited about how minimalist I can get with the technical aspects of the show and how minimalist I can get with the number of props we use,” she says. “How much I can push the audience to use their imagination? I think that’s the most fun of the show.”

The music for the show is all original, written by PigPen Theatre, and falls into the realm of indie-folk—clearly a folk music vibe but enhanced by the indie interpretations of those seven young creators. An accordion, an old upright piano, guitars, and maybe a banjo will be included in the performance at Theatre in the Park.

22 | MidtownMag.com

The Old Man and The Old Moon

Theatre in the Park Februar y 14th to March 1st

A FAMILY-OWNED TRADITION OF “This is a play with music, as opposed to a musical,” Rich notes. “In a musical it’s mostly songs and a little acting between the songs; this is a play with a piece of music from time to time.

The cast is really going to be asking the audience to use their imaginations in this show. To think about when you were a kid and if a sheep can become the ship or an old mop can become the dog. We want to try to get people to jump out there and be imaginative,” she says.

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For the setting, Rich chose the period around 1907, a time that fascinates her because electricity was new; and she’s placed it in a shipbuilder’s warehouse, perhaps in Scotland or London, holding true to a very nautical theme.

ING

Photo courtesy of PigPen Theatre Co.

N

The 90-minute show is great for all ages, especially children age 7 or older, and promises to be as transformational for adults (perhaps more so) as for the younger audience.

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On the TRAVEL Scene

Local Road Trip Looking for a mini-vacation close to home?

Head about 30 miles west from Raleigh on Interstate 40 and you’ll wind up in Hillsborough, an idyllic, fast-growing area with a small-town feel and a vibrant historic downtown listed on the National Register of Historic Places. During the 18th and 19th centuries, Hillsborough was a hub for politics and was home to a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Now, just about 7,500 people reside in the town, making Hillsborough the perfect lowkey getaway from the hustle of the Triangle. Plan for a full day of exploring, with these picks to put on your agenda:

24 | MidtownMag.com

BY KAT HARDING

Drink: Volume Volume, a record store and bar combo, is the perfect place to spend a few hours perusing new and used vinyl while sipping on a beer from one of 11 taps (the twelfth tap is reserved for wine!) Try beers from near and far, like local Trophy Brewing, Cleveland’s Great Lakes Brewing, New Orleans’ NOLA Brewing, and Bell’s Brewery from Michigan. Being so close to Redeye, one of the leading indie music distributors, means their new release section is always fully stocked with the most soughtafter new records. Co-owners Tony Lopez and Nathan Andrews can help you find your next favorite record to grace your turntable.

Photo courtesy of Volume

VOLUME

Photo courtesy of The Wooden Nickel

Listen: WHUP Tucked away on King Street, WHUP-LP reaches thousands of people each day, hitting people while they’re driving on 104.7 FM, streaming on demand at WHUPfm.org, and through the TuneIn app. The community-run radio station, founded in 2015, features highly specific shows showcasing each DJ’s passion for music. (All 80s country music on Sunday mornings, anyone?) Other shows feature live composers, all indie-rock, morning news, psychedelic tunes, and so much more. DJs are local musicians, community members, and—above all—music lovers. There is a show for everyone. Find the whole schedule, and donate to keep it going, at WHUPfm.org.

See: Art Galleries Looking for the perfect piece of art to commemorate your day away? Hillsborough is home to many art galleries.

Visit the ENO Gallery, Hillsborough Gallery of Art, and other artists’ studios, to discover your new favorite local artists.

You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and other crafts that will really tie the room together. The perfect time to hit the galleries is on the last Friday of the month. Known as Last Friday Art Walk, the Hillsborough Arts Council throws a party and the 11 participating galleries stay open late to celebrate.

WHUP

Photo by Kat Harding

Volunteer: PORCH Travel with a purpose! Spend the afternoon working with PORCH, an all-volunteer hunger-relief organization. Founded in 2011 by co-director Nancy Grebenkemper and her friend Claire Millar, the organization now serves almost 4,000 pounds of food monthly in more than 30 neighborhoods.

Find a drop-off point for one of their monthly drives or donate on their website. Volunteers (this could be you!) quickly get the food onto the tables of participating families, making an instant difference in the community. Co-director Elizabeth Dicker says, “I love the small town-ness of Hillsborough.

Everyone seems to know their neighbor and looks out for them.” Join the community and spend the day helping others.

THE WOODEN NICKEL

PORCH

Photo courtesy of PORCH

Eat: The Wooden Nickel The Wooden Nickel has been a Hillsborough mainstay since 2003. Order wings and one of their many craft beers on tap.

Their beer may be from all ends of the country, but their meat is all local. They are dedicated to sustainable and free-roaming farming practices from meat suppliers in nearby Cedar Grove.

The burgers just taste better that way! Don’t believe us? Just go try it! Check the daily specials board for treats like chili, shrimp tacos, and more.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

| 25

On the MUSIC Scene

American Aquarium

Photo by Cameron Gott

BY BRYAN C. REED

Comes

26 | MidtownMag.com

A

s the Raleigh country-rock band finalizes its eighth studio album, they’ll preview the new songs for home-town fans at their annual “Roadtrip to Raleigh” shows.

As the Raleigh-bred country-rock band American Aquarium prepared to record its seventh album, 2018’s Things Change, things changed, indeed. The longest-running lineup frontman BJ Barham had ever known decamped, almost all at once, leaving the singer/songwriter to start fresh.

These days, he recalls that moment as “The Re-Shuffle of 2019,” with the same stinging nostalgia given to blizzards and hurricanes. “Turnover is still very real in my world,” he says.

“I think I’m up to 47 now in the course of 15 years.”

But for Barham, giving up was never an option. As he’s done since founding the band as a student at NC State, Barham regrouped with a new gang of musicians, hit the studio, and made his band’s biggest record to date. A debut on the stalwart Americana label New West Records, Things Change found American Aquarium fluidly shifting gears from the heartland rock of “Tough Folks” and “Crooked+Straight” to more introspective country songs like “When We Were Younger Men” and “One Day at a Time.” They bared political leanings on “The World is On Fire” and embraced honky-tonk humor with “I Gave Up The Drinking (Before She Gave Up On Me).”

Home

And, again in December, Barham took a new band into the studio to craft a new batch of songs—the forthcoming Lamentations— which he describes as a “super jangly guitar rock record,” and compares with Tom Petty’s work in the late ’80s. When I speak to Barham by phone, he’s stepping out of the Airbnb the band is sharing for the 10 days they’ve booked at Dave’s Room in North Hollywood, California, with Grammy-winning producer Shooter Jennings at the helm. “We’ve got 10 songs total and 10 days to do them, and we knocked seven of them out in two days,” Barham says. “So we’re sitting ahead of schedule. I don’t want to speak too soon because we could have that one song that just gives us five days of trouble, but so far everything has been going really great.”

The studio, which has hosted acts like Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Lucinda Williams, is a bit of retro comfort in the midst of L.A. “It’s kinda stuck in the ’70s,” Barham says. “It looks exactly like your grandmother’s living room, with wood paneled walls. It’s fantastic.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo courtesy of American Aquarium

AMERICAN AQUARIUM’S NEW LINEUP, FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: RYAN VAN FLEET, ALDEN HEDGES, SHANE BOEKER, NEIL JONES, RHETT HUFFMAN, BJ BARHAM

It seems like the ideal space to capture the band’s shift into the chiming and easy-grooving vibe to which Barham alludes. “I’ve always wanted to make a Southern California, Laurel Canyon– type record, so we decided to pull the trigger on it,” he says.

And, to wit, last year’s shows counted most states and several countries represented among its attendees. “You think about it as these hometown shows, but it’s really more of a destination festival for a lot of people.”

That might come as a bit of a surprise coming from a band that often feels so inexorably linked to Raleigh. Not only is Barham an alum and die-hard fan of the NC State Wolfpack, his career started in the shadow of Ryan Adams and Whiskeytown, 6 String Drag, and The Backsliders—young and rowdy songwriters barely a generation past who found the allure of a twangy guitar and earnest songwriting.

It’s also become a reliable showcase for rising Americana talent.

“We take a lot of pride in cultivating and curating these lineups,” Barham says. “Hell, you could take the last six years’ lineups and that’s the AmericanaFest lineup in Nashville next September. You start throwing out names like Hayes Carll, Turnpike Troubadours, John Moreland, and Cory Branan.” Or, if you’re focusing on this year’s lineup, you find rising acts Charley Crockett, Kelsey Waldon, Mike and the Moonpies, and Futurebirds.

As the band has grown and evolved, stretched its sound beyond barroom alt-country to incorporate shades of classic rock and pop, churned through rosters, and logged cross-country miles, it’s gained a steadily growing national following. “We spent the first 10 years doing 250 shows a year everywhere else. We had our sights set on not just being a local band, or not just being a regional band,” Barham says. These days, he’s the only North Carolina resident in the band.

But Raleigh is still where American Aquarium’s roots run deepest. “It’s about always making sure I don’t forget the town that gave me my first gig,” Barham says. “This is the town where people started singing along to my songs. Whether or not it’s our biggest market, it’s still home.”

“The only thing we all have in common is there’s an acoustic guitar in the band,” Barham says. “Every one of those bands reaches toward a different thing, and it’s going to be cool to bring it together.

I never worry about people getting their money’s worth.”

In addition to the talent on the undercard though, “Roadtrip to Raleigh” offers an increasingly rare homecoming for the band’s longtime fans. As Barham has charted his, sometimes unsteady, path into adulthood through his songs, so too have his fans grown alongside him. As the cast of players has shifted, and as Barham sings with a look to the past, so, too, have the character of the songs grown.

On January 24th and 25th, American Aquarium will come home for the first time since they headlined the State Fair last fall. Their audiences in Raleigh will be among the first in the world to hear those jangly new songs. The band’s sixth annual two-night stand at Lincoln Theatre, dubbed “Roadtrip to Raleigh,” has become not only a homecoming for the band, but also a gathering for its far-flung fans.

“It’s fun to watch,” Barham offers. “Songs that I’ve played for 10 years, when this band got ahold of them, they completely changed.

There’s more life, there’s more energy, different nuanced guitar parts and drum patterns. It’s really fun to watch the songs evolve as the band evolves.”

“I’d say 75 percent of the crowd is from outside the state of North Carolina, which is pretty wild to think about,” Barham says.

Maybe it’s true that you can never really go home again. But at least once a year American Aquarium is gonna give it their best effort.

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CANDID Conversation

30 | MidtownMag.com

Meet Raleigh’s

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

NEW MAYOR

PHOTOS BY F8 PHOTO STUDIOS

Mary-Ann Baldwin has plenty of passions.

For the next two years, her primary one will be the city of Raleigh, where she was elected mayor on October 8th. After five terms as an at-large member of the city council, she has begun a two-year term and succeeds Nancy McFarlane.

Baldwin is also the executive director of the Holt Brothers Foundation and the vice president of marketing and business development at Holt Brothers, Inc., founded by former NC State and NFL players Terrence and Torry Holt.

Congressional and Senate leaders every week about universal healthcare—that was his passion. He brought me up to believe that we all could make a difference.

The thing that really shaped me was that I played sports. I played softball, basketball, and I was on the swim team. Being a part of team sports taught me a passion for sports and how to work as a team.

Her professional background includes work as a communications executive and as the cofounder of Innovate Raleigh, a charitable organization focused on innovation and entrepreneurship. Now, after years of learning the ropes of city government, she will guide a council with several new faces.

It’s a new challenge, and she is ready to face it straight on. In the days before she was sworn in, she took some time to reflect on how she got here.

I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I graduated from high school. I went to Rhode Island Community College and worked as a waitress and a bartender. That’s kind of where I found my passions, which were journalism and photography. I also participated in theater, which no one in my family ever thought I would do, being more of the quiet type growing up. By the time I got to the University of Rhode Island for my final two years, I helped administer the dark room and I helped start a student magazine.

I spent a lot of time working nights and making that dream come true.

It’s a broad question, but what was your childhood like? I know you grew up in Rhode Island.

I was very shy, and my dad loved politics.

My earliest memory with him was going to vote; back then it was kind of scary.

I remember him helping me to open the curtain. I was wondering if we were ever going to get out! He used to write to our

Who played a key role in shaping you?

My mom. She grew up poor with four sisters and came from a close family.

Working hard was really important. She was always very direct; you always knew where she stood. She didn’t have a problem speaking her mind. I was also blessed to have some really good teachers who pushed me in high school and college.

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What was your initial reaction upon winning the election in October?

I was ecstatic. I spent 10 years on the council, so this wasn’t new territory for me. I felt strongly that I was uniquely qualified to take the reins and step into the role.

Experience does matter.

How would you describe yourself—your personality— as a politician?

I’m very direct, like my mom. Sometimes people don’t like that, but that’s who I am. In politics as well, the dynamic of your team influences the type of leadership you have to exercise. The team we have coming in is younger. I think my responsibility is to mentor them to be great leaders. On former councils, I always found myself pushing the council. In this role, I think I’m going to be pulling the reins a little bit.

We all feel like we have stuff we want to do and we have a sense of urgency, but I don’t want to go too far too fast because that scares people. On the other hand, people are expecting us to do certain things. So from a leadership and style standpoint, it’s about changing your style of leadership to match the situation.

What priorities do you want to address right away?

In the very first meeting we will address three issues that came up in the campaign: One was the ban on accessory dwelling units, another was excessive regulation of short-term rentals, and the third was scooters. Love ‘em or hate ‘em—and young people love them—we made it almost impossible for scooters to operate here. Those issues are low-hanging fruit, and we’re going to fix them in the first 90 days.

Then we are immediately going to start tackling housing affordability. We will be looking at our policies and how we can support more housing choices. In 80 percent of our city, we can’t build townhomes. That’s usually someone’s entree into the housing market. We need housing choices.

If I had not spent 10 years on the council, I would be feeling very different right now than I am. But I know the people, I know the process, and I know how to get things done.

This is kind of second nature to me.

If I was learning all this now, I would be totally overwhelmed. I feel very grateful and honored, but I also feel like, yes, I can do this.

Will it still be manageable to continue your work at Holt Brothers Foundation?

Yes, I worked for them when I was on the council and I will continue to work with them to do the things that are important to us. We support children who have a parent with cancer; that’s the part of my world that feeds my soul, taking care of kids who are vulnerable. It’s Terrence and Torry’s pay-it-forward mission.

I’m really proud of what we do.

Tell me about your family.

My husband, Jim, and I have been married 21 years. He has two children from his previous marriage and six grandchildren. When we visit them in Boston, it’s just wild. They range in age from 10 to 2. It is fun and active. I have a daughter who lives in Atlanta with her husband. We’re a close family, and I have two dogs, Jack Bauer and Charlie Brown.

How do you like to unwind?

I love to cook; that’s how I relax. Cooking Sunday night dinner for my friends is something I love to do. We like hiking at Umstead Park, and I like to play golf, but I don’t get to play as often as I did because it’s a little busy. We also like to travel. We have an annual ski trip, and that’s how I cleanse my head. When you’re skiing, you can’t be on your phone. You have to be thinking about being safe and getting down the mountain. And there’s all this natural beauty along the way. [My ski trip is] the week when everything kind of goes away; it’s pretty awesome.

The other thing that is important to us is transportation, and housing and transportation are linked. Innovation in our government, within companies, and entrepreneurship—[these are] important to me. I’m always looking for ways to do things better and more efficiently. I want our employees and their big ideas to be rewarded for thinking big.

We also like to travel and see the world, so we’ve been to Alaska, on a Baltic Sea cruise, to Italy a couple times, and to Paris. Recently we took a hiking tour of Yellowstone and Grand Teton [National Parks].

When you see those, you become a major national parks fan.

Homelessness is tied in with housing affordability. I was a big proponent of Oak City Cares, which is the multi-service center serving our homeless community. I believe a lot of people think, oh, we did that. But we will be looking at ways we can continue to support our homeless population.

I hear you’re also a Boston Red Sox fan.

I am—that’s another thing I got from my dad. I would sit on his lap when I was four years old and we would watch Red Sox games together. Having worked for the Hurricanes, I’m a big fan, and we also adopted NC State when we moved here. That’s my sports world.

32 | MidtownMag.com

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CHEF’S Table

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Risky

Business

BY KATIE JANSEN

/

PHOTOS BY NANCY GRANADOS

At the new High Horse, cooking over an open flame allows for a celebration of the food’s imperfections.

Katsuji Tanabe lives for risk.

Throughout his career, he has used what he calls his signature hashtag, #itookarisk. His career began with a huge risk, when he moved to the U.S. at age 19. He didn’t know English, but he knew he wanted to be a chef.

Now—after opening restaurants in Chicago, Las Vegas, and Whittier, California—the three-time Top Chef contestant has brought his penchant for risk to Raleigh, where he engages in risky behavior every night: cooking everything for his new restaurant, High Horse, on a wood stove over an open flame.

“It’s hard, it’s intimidating, and you have to learn to know the beast of the fire, to understand what it will do five minutes ahead of time,” Tanabe says. “But we have all this talk about using local products, knowing where your food comes from—what’s more natural than cooking in the simplest way, using fire?”

High Horse opened in November in Raleigh’s City Market, in a building that was once a barn and blacksmith workshop. Nods to this history are embedded everywhere in the restaurant’s concept, from the name—complete with a horseshoe logo—to the wine list, which features many brands with equineinspired names. And don’t forget the rosé.

Tanabe guesses that High Horse has one of the longest rosé and Champagne lists in Raleigh—the perfect accompaniment to the Sunday brunch that the restaurant is expected to unveil this year.

The location and its history gives the restaurant character, Tanabe says, which aligns with his perspective on food. “Food should never be perfect,” he says. “That’s part of why we cook over an open flame—it’s easy to give it some char, to show the food’s beauty and imperfections, and to keep your palate interested in what you’re eating.”

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HIGH HORSE CHEF AND OWNER KATSUJI TANABE SAYS COOKING OVER AN OPEN FLAME SHOWS THE FOOD’S BEAUTY AND IMPERFECTIONS.

Tanabe describes High Horse as a rustic American restaurant. He’s of Japanese and Mexican descent, but he gets frustrated when people expect him to cook “fusion” food. Although he uses influences from both sides of his heritage, he sees fish sauce and chiles as natural complements, and adds that he also draws on the flavor profiles he has learned throughout his career via working in many different restaurants and competing on both Chopped and Top Chef. As he describes it, “I can combine flavors without making miso soup pozole.” This mixture of inspiration is apparent in High Horse’s menu. From a wide variety of charred vegetables—shishito peppers (with ponzu and butter) and corn (with dashi mayo, cotija cheese, and Aleppo pepper) are just two of the offerings—to small, sharable plates like NC Grilled Oysters with country ham aioli and lime, diners can choose from local ingredients reimagined by Chef Tanabe. Entrees range from Southern offerings, such as the NC Duroc Spareribs with tamarind vinegar sauce and cilantro corn salad, to upscale classics infused with Tanabe’s playful style, such as the Foie Gras Torchon served with a “Kool-Aid pickle” and toast.

With all of the entrees on the menu priced under $20, Tanabe envisions High Horse as a place for date nights, girls’ nights, and bachelor parties—a place where groups of friends can relax and everyone can find something affordable and delicious.

36 | MidtownMag.com

But Raleigh is more than a home for his new restaurant— Raleigh is a new home for his family. Along with all of the influences throughout his career, Chef Tanabe also makes sure his two daughters make an appearance on the menu via the red velvet cake, which is shaped like a unicorn and filled with “unicorn farts” (cotton candy, for the uninitiated).

The welcome Tanabe has received has been open and genuine, he says. To give back to his newfound community, he continues to take risks—and by doing so, he puts on a show every night.

“Every night, we’re on stage,” Tanabe says. “We’re more than cooks—we’re performers. Food is the vehicle we use, but we’re here to entertain.”

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BY CHEF KATSUJI TANABE

Charred

Cauliflower

Ingredients

Instructions

1 head ¼ cup 3 Tbsp 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp

¼ cup

2 Tbsp 2 Tbsp 2 Tbsp 2 Tbsp Salt

1. Preheat oven to 500°F.

cauliflower honey thick Greek yogurt preserved lemons sliced Fresno, jalapeño, or serrano chili peppers chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, mint) fresh chopped garlic extra virgin olive oil light olive oil apple cider vinegar to taste

2. Rub cauliflower with 1 tablespoon of light olive oil and season with salt. Roast until charred, then cool and cut florets into individual pieces.

3. Using a sauté pan, on high heat, add the other tablespoon of light olive oil to the pan and add florets of cauliflower and chilies. Sauté quickly until crispy and hot. Add chopped garlic and salt to finish the sauté. Plate your cauliflower.

4. Garnish with preserved lemons, dollops of Greek yogurt, and fresh herbs.

5. Drizzle with apple cider vinegar, honey, and extra virgin olive oil.

38 | MidtownMag.com

TASTES of the CITY Contact Raleigh Food Pics to be featured on their Instagram feed: raleighfoodpics@gmail.com

1 2

4

3

(1) St. Roch Fine Oysters + Bar St. Roch Po Boy with fried oysters, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and hot sauce aioli (2) Raleigh Raw The Hustle bowl with tuna, dragon fruit, jalapeùo, shredded beets, scallions, pistachio dust, shallots, seaweed salad, microgreens, avocado, and sesame seeds (3) Big Dom’s Bagel Shop BLT with bacon, arugula, tomatoes, mayonnaise, and avocado (4) Farmhouse Cafe Avocado Toast on whole grain bread with smashed avocado, microgreens, olive oil, and fresh fruit 40 | MidtownMag.com

Welcome to your year-round wonderland A private mountain community in the High Country

Located minutes from Blowing Rock, Blue Ridge Mountain Club is a four-season, year-round community that offers Raleigh families a wealth of activities and amenities—from the ski slopes in winter to the swimming holes of summer. And it’s all just three hours away.

To learn more or plan your visit, contact Team BRMC, the Official Sales Team of Blue Ridge Mountain Club at 828-414-4261 or online at ExploreBRMC.com Homes & Condominiums from $430k. Homesites from $80k. Lookout Ridge Village Homes from $575k.

A top-of-the line fitness center with unparalleled views

The heart of the community and a perfect gathering spot for families

Casual fare and cocktails with a stunning mountain backdrop

6I[HPU [OL 7YVWLY[` 9LWVY[ YLX\PYLK I` -LKLYHS 3H^ ILMVYL ZPNUPUN HU`[OPUN (SS PUMVYTH[PVU PZ ILSPL]LK [V IL HJJ\YH[L I\[ PZ UV[ ^HYYHU[LK ;OPZ PUMVYTH[PVU ZOHSS UV[ JVUZ[P[\[L H ]HSPK VɈ LY PU HU` Z[H[L ^OLYL WYPVY YLNPZ[YH[PVU PZ YLX\PYLK ;OPZ information and features and information described and depicted herein is based on proposed development plans, which are subject to change without notice. Actual development may or may not be as currently proposed. No guarantee is made that the features, amenities, or facilities depicted by an artist’s rendering or otherwise described herein will be built, or, if built will be the same type, size, or nature as depicted or described. © 2015 Blowing Rock Resort Venture, LLC.

HEALTH

Corporate Wellness Fosters

Work-Life Balance

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

SAS and Clean know healthy employees are happy employees.

Like most working professionals, Lee Davis knows the stress of daily life in the workplace.

As the managing director at Clean, a Raleigh marketing and advertising agency, he rides the emotions of professional highs and lows. “We’re constantly being bombarded with challenges to come up with ideas and ways of thinking of things differently,” Davis says. “You’re doing that with the knowledge that, in many cases, what you’re doing may be shot down. Having the strength to withstand those things, both mentally and physically, is critical.”

All types of employment come with stressful elements, but many corporate cultures have made strides to address those challenges, often under the heading of “corporate wellness.” Depending on the employer, the programs can vary widely. Large companies may offer structured plans that promote healthy choices such as gym memberships, 42 | MidtownMag.com

while also offering programs to address unhealthy behaviors like smoking or poor diets. Small employers may address wellness more informally, providing time and activities for employees to free themselves from sedentary work environments.

Regardless of the offerings, most people welcome a personal break from the work routine. “In this business, you can be here 24/7,” Davis says. “When you’re here that long, you’re not in the best position to make great decisions on things, so we’re pretty good about making sure people have a balance.”

At Cary’s SAS Institute, the world’s largest privately held software company, corporate wellness has long been a focus.

The SAS campus includes soccer fields, a gymnasium, and more than 12 miles of trails. The list of healthy activity options seems limitless.

Photo courtesy of Clean

Pam Cole is the director of fitness and wellness at SAS. Since she began as an activities instructor 26 years ago, she has watched the company’s programs grow to include almost anything that the employees can imagine.

The wellness and training facility includes standard gym equipment, and there are two group exercise studios. One space holds up to 50 people for group exercise classes, while the mind/body studio fits 35 for yoga, tai chi, and Pilates.

“We can help people at all levels—from beginners to the person who wants to complete their first ironman triathlon,” Cole says. “We have others who are more into lifting [weights]. Myself, I do more of the rehab end of things. When folks are injured or dealing with aches and pains, I help them get stronger.”

The wellness programs at Clean, which has about 30 employees, are less formal but equally important to the staff. Some activities aim to promote healthy habits, like a step challenge each March to see which team can rack up the most steps.

The company promotes self-discovery with a “get-a-life” fund, set aside for anyone who wants to try a new personal enrichment activity. Many of the programs involve staying active and giving back to the community. “We just did a cleanup at the North Carolina Museum of Art,” says Victoria Kearns, the group business director at Clean. “It was outside on a scary hot day, but it was so much fun.

There are a lot of things that aren’t directly about wellness, but are about holistic wellness and our whole being, that make for a better workplace.”

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Photo courtesy of SAS

Wellness programs come with benefits to the employer, too.

Workers who engage in active behaviors are likely to be healthier workers, and people who view the wellness offerings as meaningful perks are likely to be satisfied with their employment. “People don’t take it for granted,” Cole says. “They’re very appreciative of having [the fitness center] here and having it so close, with all the variety. The SAS population is so diverse; I think there’s something here for everyone. The feedback we get is so positive.”

At Clean, some of the wellness support is tailored to the company’s size. A smaller group means people get to know one another better. “Being a small business, we are more familyesque,” Davis says. “If someone has a kid who is playing in the semifinals of the state volleyball tournament, some of us will go to watch it.”

Employer support for those values creates a favorable work-life balance. “That can mean I feel freedom to go and spend time at my kids’ school volunteering one morning, and I don’t feel bad when I say I’m going to be in late,” Kearns says. “It plays heavily into my decision to be an employee of an organization that supports a holistic wellness view. I’m going to support you back with a good, healthy working relationship.”

SAS has seen changes in the use of its facilities. Cole remembers an era when the fitness center rush came at lunchtime, noting that parents of young children had little free time outside of work hours. As the SAS population has changed, folks are filling up the gym in the mornings and evenings, too.

“The programs that speak to me the most are those that bring together some of the elements of moving, but you’re not just running on a treadmill,” Cole says. “If there’s some other purpose behind it—you’re still getting the stress reduction and getting that social connection with people—then it’s that much more fun.”

SAS senior technical writer Mackelly Ray has taken part in many of the company’s programs, including clean food group challenges, advanced exercise classes, and swimming. “I look at it as part

44 | MidtownMag.com

of my compensation, but I do it primarily because I want to stay fit,” he says. “When I did team challenges, I was usually on a team of people I know pretty well, and it was fun to do stuff together.”

The chance to address workplace stress is also important to Ray. “It’s important to have options to be able to get away from my desk,” he says. “I would be unhappy at a job where I didn’t have opportunities to participate in things like this.”

One old school staple of after-work wellness has found its way into the office: happy hour.

Clean employees meet up for drinks in-house every Thursday. At SAS, some of the gettogethers call for being light on your feet. In October, folks gathered for “pints and polka,”

Photo courtesy of SAS

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followed by “salsa and sangria” in November.

For any workplace wellness plan, the key is providing options that allow everyone to participate. Activities that break up the grind, get the blood pumping, or build relationships add to job satisfaction. Whether it’s Clean’s ultra-competitive kickball tournament or a “martini and mambo” social at SAS, letting off some steam is a good start.

“I have the best job in the world because I get to see people when they’re taking a break out of their day,” Cole says.

“Even if they’re coming over here stressed and needing some of that decompression, by the time they leave they’re happy and glad to be here.”

www.bluewaterspa.com | 919.870.6066 10941 Raven Ridge Rd Suite 103 | Raleigh, NC 27614 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo by Foodie Teee

Living WELL

Feed Your New Year’s

HAPPY + HALE

RESOLUTIONS

BY LIPSAH SHAH

Healthy eats and drinks at local restaurants.

46 | MidtownMag.com

Food for Good RALEIGH’S HOT NEW MEXICAN RESTAURANT HAS A GLOBAL MISSION. HAPPY NEW YEAR, READERS! NEW YEAR, NEW DECADE, NEW LIFESTYLE CHANGES. IF ONE OF YOUR RESOLUTIONS WAS TO CREATE A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. IF YOU THINK HEALTHY EATING IS NOT ACCESSIBLE OR IS TOO TIME-CONSUMING TO BE PRACTICAL, THE LIST BELOW WILL COME TO YOUR RESCUE. THESE ARE MY TRIED-AND-TRUES FOR FLAVORFUL HEALTHY EATS:

Raleigh Raw

7 W. Hargett Street

Happy + Hale

443 Fayetteville Street, Downtown Raleigh 200 Park at North Hills A true gem. With locations in Raleigh and Durham, Happy + Hale is easily accessible. I look forward to the weekends for their brunch menu in North Hills (downtown location is closed on weekends). Sometimes there is simply nothing better than a delicious avocado toast paired with a smoothie or kombucha. And did you know you can make any of their bowls into a wrap? (You’re welcome.) My personal faves: The City of Oats smoothie, or the quinoa bowl as a wrap.

Fiction Kitchen 428 S. Dawson Street, Downtown Raleigh

Fiction Kitchen focuses on locally grown produce, only relying on what is in-season. Their dishes exceed any culinary boundaries, and range from sushi and tacos, to the Southern staple of chicken and waffles. Fiction Kitchen’s cheese board (vegan cheese options are available) may be one of the best I’ve ever had. While their regular menu is delicious, I also recommend checking out their specials board. Fiction Kitchen is 100 percent vegetarian, with many vegan options.

DICED

Oberlin Court, Raleigh Shoppes of Kildaire, Cary Parkside Town Commons, West Cary

The founder, Dr. Sam Prince, opened the first Zambrero location in 2005 while in the midst of medical school.

Since its inception, Dr. Prince has grown Zambrero to be Australia’s largest Mexican chain, with more 170 restaurants across the country. In recent years, the brand has expanded to New Zealand, Ireland, and the United States, putting its global total at more than 200 restaurants.

What sets Zambrero apart from other Mexican restaurants in Raleigh? Meats are cooked using the sous vide method (cooked slower at lower temperatures by vacuum-sealing and submerging in hot water). Their menu is also deemed a superfood menu, with items such as pepita salsa, which is packed with protein and fiber. They have made Mexican food healthier and more accessible for everyone.

DICED offers salads, bowls, and wraps while supporting local farms and keeping all their items at an affordable price. They easily have some of the best salads I have ever had in Raleigh. Their soups are made daily from scratch, and you have the option to create your own salad. Not sure why you would, though, because their offerings are so delicious that you can take the guesswork out of your lunch. The ultimate, guilt-free grab-and-go spot.

Photo courtesy of Zambrero

The trendiest spot in downtown Raleigh, Raleigh Raw strives to provide the community with healthy grab-and-go options in addition to a variety of smoothies, juices, and coffees. Crack Coffee, anyone? (It’s blended with coconut oil and grass-fed butter, yum!)

The owner of Raleigh Raw is committed to a life of living well and making it easy for all. They make most of their products in-house, and provide exceptionally friendly service. This is one of those places that makes you want to grab a drink and stay for a while.

If going to Australia has always been on your bucket list but not something that can come to fruition in the near future, no problem. Australia is coming to us!

Kind of. Australia–based restaurant Zambrero is marking their territory in Raleigh at One Glenwood.

And that’s good for many reasons.

Zambrero exists—literally—to fight world hunger. They have created the “Plate 4 Plate” program: With each burrito, bowl, or bottle of water purchased, Zambrero donates a meal to someone in need via their partnership with global distributor Rise Against Hunger. So far, Zambrero has provided 34 million meals to help combat world hunger, with a goal of 1 billion meals by 2025.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo courtesy of Juicekeys

Kale Me Crazy Cameron Village

So convenient, Kale Me Crazy is a perfect addition to the Raleigh health scene. The best part? They offer a variety of juice cleanses to kickstart your new year. Are juice cleanses better than simply eating healthy, raw foods? It’s not that they are actually better, but they are certainly more convenient because the nutrients are easily digestible, making juice cleanses a good alternative when you are trying to get back into your routine after the holiday madness.

JUICEKEYS

Juicekeys

5011 Falls of Neuse Road, North Raleigh 8490 Honeycutt Road, Lafayette Village Where do I begin with Juicekeys? Their menu is completely stacked; meaning, you could probably go there 20 different times and get something new each time.

They have come up with some pretty interesting concoctions that will make you believe you’re enjoying a dessert when you’re actually nourishing your body. Case in point: the creamsicle smoothie. It is as delicious as it sounds.

Cold Off The Press 416-100 W. South Street

Cold Off The Press keeps it nice and simple. Located on the outskirts of downtown Raleigh, they provide fresh ingredients with tons of nutrients, all packed in a 17-ounce bottle. Have you seen their juices? Not only do they consistently taste delicious, but they are also in the prettiest array of colors. As a nice bonus, they offer delivery and regional shipping—very essential for someone like me, who visits her parents in central Jersey, where the juice shops are scarce. I can have my juices shipped prior to my visit and they’ll be in my parents’ fridge before I land!

Nourish Raleigh

Photo by Foodie Teee

1829 Capital Boulevard

KALE ME CRAZY 48 | MidtownMag.com

When you hop onto Nourish’s website, their homepage proudly proclaims: “We believe that breakfast is the best meal of the day and even better when it tastes like dessert.”

Great minds think alike—when I read that, I knew I could trust this place. My sweet tooth began pulsating simply by looking at their pastel-hued drinks. No pre-made juices here—everything is made on the spot. Specials on the winter menu include Peppermint Mocha and the Russian Twist, an energy tea with chai + orange Liftoff.

8724 GLENWOOD AVENUE FURNISHNC.COM

RALEIGH, NC 27617

@FURNISHRALEIGH

919.670.4400

FACEBOOK.COM/FURNISHNC

COMMUNITY

MARY BODMER AND HER DAUGHTER, GRACE, ENJOY SHARING

AND RECEIVING THROUGH THE BUY NOTHING PROJECT.

50 | MidtownMag.com

Pay It orward f

without spending a penny

BY KURT DUSTERBERG

/

PHOTOS BY MASH PHOTOGRAPHY

THE BUY NOTHING PROJECT ENABLES NEIGHBORS TO HELP ONE ANOTHER AND CLEAN OUT THEIR CABINETS IN THE PROCESS.

Diana Brown recalls the time that she had nothing in her wardrobe for an upcoming wedding. Her sister-in law, the bride-to-be, asked the women guests to wear navy blue dresses to match the wedding party, and Brown wasn’t excited about buying something new. “I’m not a dress person,” Brown says.

So the Apex resident turned to her local Buy Nothing Project group, hoping to find a fit. Sure enough, 22-year-old Grace Bodmer had a prom dress in the right color and size. “I didn’t really want to get rid of it,” Bodmer jokes. “But I wasn’t planning on ever going back to a high school prom.”

So Brown got a fancy dress and Bodmer cleared a bit of closet space, and no money changed hands. That’s the way the Buy Nothing Project works. In communities all over the Triangle, the organization has groups that work on the model of a hyperlocal gift economy. The idea is simple: Post anything you would like to give away, lend, or share, and ask for anything you would like to receive for free or borrow.

The communities are hosted on Facebook groups. Once an item is posted, other members can request the item, explaining their interest or need. The giver is encouraged to take some time before choosing who receives the items. Making a thoughtful choice is part of building relationships within communities. “We have a simmer time to allow everyone to be considered and participate, not just the first person to claim an item,” says Brown, a paralegal who works in Raleigh. “It creates a bond between people that you’re not just giving things off to a donation site. It’s going to a person who is going to use it.”

The Buy Nothing Project has taken root in the Triangle, with six communities in Raleigh, four in Cary, and three in Apex. Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina each have one. There are hundreds across the United States, as well as groups in 30 countries. Residents can join only the community in which they fit geographically. Admins, like Brown, moderate the groups,

approving new members and making sure everyone follows the guidelines.

Some members look to the Buy Nothing Project for the chance to list unwanted items, while others are motivated by need. Sometimes it can be both. Elizabeth Dillingham, an admin for the Northwest Raleigh group, is in a tough spot.

Her husband, Jamie, was diagnosed with cancer three years ago. “It’s been a very rough road,” she says. “Life has been difficult for us.” Dillingham has acquired some mobility items from group listings so her husband can maintain his independence around the house. “I haven’t told a lot of people [in the group] about my husband being sick,” she says.

But in a time of tremendous difficulty, her sense of gratitude has helped her think about others. “I’m so appreciative of the things that friends and family and co-workers have done for me,” says Dillingham, a special education teacher at Pine Hollow Middle School. “I wanted to find a way where I could pay it forward to others. I want to bless other people’s lives with things they need if they’re having a hard time. We don’t have extra money to donate, but when I clean out my closet, I’m sure there’s somebody somewhere who needs a waffle maker or clothes or moving boxes.”

While Buy Nothing Project allows people to stretch their budget, most of the members take part in both the give and take. Grace Bodmer is a nursing student at Wake Tech Community College. She lives at home with her parents, where she is transitioning her room to reflect her adult tastes. “I’ve redone my bedroom and gotten rid of some of my teenage things that were hard to let go of,” Bodmer says.

“That’s been nice, finding someone else who’s in that stage of life who would appreciate those things.”

As she gives away some items from her past, she’s on the lookout for things she might need in the future. “I’ve recently found an

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THE BUY NOTHING PROJECT IS A MIX OF EVERYDAY

EXCHANGES AND GOOD DEEDS TO HELP THOSE IN NEED.

interest in cooking, so it’s nice to get cooking gadgets,” she says.

“I’ve gotten some things for the in-between stage like small furniture.”

Bodmer’s activity on the platform got the attention of her mother, Mary Bodmer, who also now participates. She recently had to clean out her parents’ home, and she has taken comfort in knowing some sentimental items are now in the hands of her neighbors. “I love that it’s hyper-local, and I like the fact that I can pick who receives it,” Mary says. “It makes you feel like you are getting to know your community. There are stories why people want something or why they are giving something. It makes you feel really good about gifting as well as receiving. I feel honored when I get chosen for something.”

After participants have listed items and selected someone to receive them, the two parties usually make arrangements for porch pickups.

In the Bodmer household, all the sorting and listing can lead to some hasty postings. “Sometimes I see Grace posting stuff of mine that I still use,” Mary says with a laugh, recalling a workout shirt that almost got away. “She’s much more of a minimalist than I am.

If I haven’t used something, she’s ready to get rid of it.”

Carla Timmerberg Austin is a co-admin with Dillingham in Raleigh.

In their group of 237, she keeps an eye out for items suited to her 52 | MidtownMag.com

two young children. She recently found a raincoat. “I’m pretty frugal and don’t usually buy anything new for my kids,” she explains.

As for the admin duties, she says most members play be the rules.

“I’ve never had any problem with anyone being mean or uncivil,” she says. “It’s just a good free group.”

Business is booming in many communities, including Brown’s group in Apex. In the month of November, the 1,500 members posted almost 3,500 items. Among the many typical exchanges, Brown oversees occasional interactions that bring out the best in people. “There have been a couple members we’ve had who were leaving domestic violence situations,” Brown says. “They had nothing. We’ve gathered certain types of items without specifically naming that person and delivered the items to them.”

The good deeds are highlights for any Buy Nothing Project groups, but the everyday exchanges add a layer of familiarity that strengthens relationships among community members. “It’s amazing to see how many people are in need and don’t have anything to go to,” Brown says. “There’s a lot of good stuff out there, and people just want to give back.”

For more information, visit BuyNothingProject.org.

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FOODIE Focus

Expanding for Good: A Place at the Table, the pay-what-you-can cafe concept in downtown Raleigh, celebrates its second anniversary in January and is currently in the midst of a major expansion. The restaurant is adding 2,000 square feet, 50 more seats, and a commercial kitchen, with a stovetop, oven, and hood.

Currently, the menu is limited to only what can be made with toasters and waffle irons, or served cold. The expansion should be finished by March or April. In their first year, they gave away more than 8,000 meals.

By October of their second year, they had already provided 11,000 meals.

Opening Soon: Signage is up at the former H Street Kitchen / Pizza La Stella location on Raleigh’s Hillsborough Street, indicating it will become Umami Asian Bistro. A new burger restaurant, Hightop Burger, is coming to McNeil Pointe—taking over the Muscle Maker Grille space. Look for them to open in late February. A place called Lady Luck, serving small plates and cocktails, is expected to open in early March, taking over the former Blue Mango/Indio space on Glenwood South. It will be headed by Balu Torres, who has been involved in many other local restaurants. Thaiphoon Bistro on Glenwood South is opening a second location at Stonehenge Market. The restaurant plans to be open by March. BBQ pit master Ed Mitchell, along with his son, Ryan Mitchell, have joined Lou, Joy, and Amber Moshakos of LM Restaurants (think Carolina Ale House, Vidrio, and Taverna Agora, to name a few) to open a barbecue restaurant called The Preserve at the site of the original Carolina Ale House at 512 Creekside Drive in Raleigh. The restaurant is slated to open in the spring.

Goodbye Favorites: After a 30+ year run, Sunflower’s Cafe, located in front of Seaboard Station on Peace Street, closed on December 21st. And after 42 years of making sandwiches, Boondini’s Sandwich Superstore owner Billy Williams also closed his doors in December. Those are two big blows to the Raleigh deli scene. In the movie-pub category, Raleighwood Cinema Grill filed for bankruptcy liquidation and closed its doors in December.

Mark Your Calendar: THAIPHOON BISTRO

The 8th annual Bull City Food and Beer Experience will take place on Sunday, February 23rd at DPAC. The event pairs delicious local restaurants with breweries from across the nation.

Come Hungry!

Open Now:

BY SEAN LENNARD / TRIANGLE FOOD GUY

/

TRIANGLEFOODBLOG.COM

Chef Tom Cuomo’s Papa Shogun at Seaboard Station, the unique restaurant concept featuring classic Italian dishes that incorporate traditional Japanese ingredients and techniques, re-opened in December with a reinvented space and menu. At presstime, the Norse Brewing Company was on tap to open in downtown Wake Forest before year-end, located in the former La Foresta space. Also in December, the folks over at Sir Walter Coffee planned to open their Sir Walter Coffee + Kitchen concept at 242 South Main Street in Holly Springs’ new Town Hall Commons. In addition to their coffee and tea, they have a full kitchen serving breakfast, light lunch, and all-day snacks.

54 | MidtownMag.com

Sean Lennard has been catering in the Triangle for more than 15 years, and his blog is a go-to foodie hotspot. He taps into local restaurant partners and his online catering business, Triangle Food Guy, serves events of all sizes. Check out TriangleFoodBlog.com for weekly news.

Spend a Perfect Day in

NORTH HILLS

VisitNorthHills.com

MADABOLIC FITNESS TRAINING

fitness plans T E X T A N D P H O T O G R A P H Y B Y M I C K S C H U LT E

FOR EVERY

56 | MidtownMag.com

BOX, Burn, Stretch, Lift— workout options abound throughout the Triangle.

Most fitness professionals agree that variety is the key to an effective workout program.

With that in mind, if the Triangle community were a human body, we would be in the best shape of our lives. Thanks to a thriving group of local fitness boutiques, residents have endless opportunities to move their bodies in fun, new ways. From boxing to heated yoga, interval training, and even jumping on a trampoline, the Triangle is fit for any body at any stage of a person’s fitness journey.

Check out the local studios and gyms listed on the following pages for inspiration as you look to challenge yourself and try something new in 2020.

LIFESTYLE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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SAM WILLIAMS AND HER TEAM OF YOBA STUDIO INSTRUCTORS

SAM WILLIAMS, CEO AND FOUNDER OF YOBA STUDIO

A

s people walk inside the YoBa Studio, they’re greeted with a bright yellow sunshine mural spanning the entire wall and a team of smiling faces behind the front desk. The décor and people model the “YoBa Shine” philosophy: “We believe that when you shine at YoBa Studio, we all shine—together.”

Sam Williams, CEO and founder of Yoba Studio, set out to create this warm and welcoming environment in her North Raleigh studio when she opened in 2016.

“My mission statement has always been movement, intention, and community for all. There is truly no right and no wrong as long as it feels good in your body,” Williams says.

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Her studio offers infrared-heated and non-heated yoga, barre, and YoBa signature classes that blend dynamic movements with powerful music. “Every class is strongly influenced by heart-pumping music, which helps people focus on how they feel inside instead of how something looks,” explains Williams. Teachers from the studio often share their class playlist on social media, and they pull songs from a wide range of genres.

Richardson. “I never practiced studio yoga before YoBa, but I felt zero intimidation from their classes. The way that Sam teaches is about body movement. It’s not about becoming great at yoga, it’s just about it feeling good for you.”

Nikki Richardson and her husband Billy have been members at YoBa for about a year, and what keeps them coming back is the positive energy once they walk through the door. “The ladies there are so friendly,” says

First-timers can take advantage of two weeks of unlimited classes for $30 by signing up at YobaStudio.com or by using the MINDBODY app. Unlimited YoBa classes are offered for $115 per month, or you can pay different amounts based on the number of classes you wish to take.

58 | MidtownMag.com

YoBa Studio in North Raleigh

Renting could be the best financial decision of your life!

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Burn Boot Camp in Cary

With music pumping and Arias’ high-energy coaching, members at the Cary Burn Boot Camp use a variety of tools in each workout. The brightly lit, blue and white gym is filled with kettlebells, TRX bands, medicine balls, and ropes.

In addition to the workout, members attend one-on-one focus meetings on a regular basis to set goals and get advice from the trainers.

LINDSAY ARIAS, HEAD TRAINER AT BURN BOOT CAMP CARY

B

urn Boot Camp is a rapidly expanding franchise based out of Huntersville, with 10 locations in the Triangle. They offer “campers” a personalized approach to fitness and nutrition in a group exercise setting.

“Lots of people are limited to who’s around them to tell them they can do more,” says Lindsay Arias, head trainer at Burn Boot Camp in Cary. “The training aspect at Burn is essential for people to have someone cheering them on and believing in their potential.”

60 | MidtownMag.com

Every Burn Boot Camp workout lasts 45 minutes and includes a warm up, an interval-based workout, and a finisher, which lasts around five minutes and is often the most challenging part of the class. Skilled personal trainers create the workouts and each day of the week has a different focus, including strength, cardio, plyometrics, and others.

“I’ve been coming here for three years, and I still get sore,” says Deena Pagliaro, an original member of the Burn Boot Camp in Cary. “I’ve literally never done the same workout twice because our trainers are so good at mixing it up. I’m never bored, and the variety keeps it fun.”

For parents, one attractive feature of Burn Boot Camp is the free childcare that is included in the membership package, which costs around $150 per month for unlimited classes. The Cary location is offering a special from January 6th through February 16th, where campers pay $99 for six weeks of camps.

To sign up for a free 14-day test drive, go to BurnBootCamp.com and find a location near you.

BOTOX

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M

ega is not just a workout—it’s an experience, from the moment you walk inside.

The walls are full of neon graffiti and vintage posters of fit ladies from a time when ladies weren’t encouraged to be so fit. One room is dark and sexy, with small trampolines scattered across the floor. The other room is full of natural light, graffiti by a local artist, and spring-loaded machines called Megaformers.

Alicia Belle, founder of Mega, was intentional with each aspect of the design. “I wanted it to be bright and fluid throughout the whole space,” Belle says. “When you’re at Mega, I want you to be inspired and energized by your surroundings.”

Her studio offers two types of workouts that complement each other in their differences.

One is the Megaformer class, where clients use the machines and time under tension, working in muscle blocks, to effectively train their entire body. All of Mega’s instructors are certified in the Lagree Fitness Method, which focuses on activating slow twitch muscles for a long, lean result. “The Megaformer workout is unique to Raleigh, and something it’s really been missing,” explains Belle. “Compared to Pilates, the Megaformer is next-level. There’s lots more planking and lunging, so a bit of cardio is involved for a low-impact, high-intensity workout.”

Kaitlyn Francese has taught and worked out at Mega since it opened in March. “It’s been a year since I’ve started doing the Lagree Method, and I’ve never felt stronger in my life,” Francese says. “I love that it’s high-intensity and low-impact, so it doesn’t compromise my joints as I age. I plan to work out for the rest of my life, and this sort of exercise supports that goal.”

Mega offers a first-time special of two classes for $30. Class cards and monthly memberships can be purchased for anywhere from $25 to $225. Find more information at TheMegaWorkout.com.

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Her trampoline classes are mainly cardio-based, and something she created from her dance and cheerleading background. “It’s kind of like old school aerobics, where you put sequences of movements together, but it’s not so difficult that you can’t pick up on it. It’s just super fun cardio with a bit of arm and leg toning work sprinkled in,” she says. Each class is 45 minutes, set to high-energy music, and the routines stay the same for about three weeks. “The consistency is nice for clients so they can build confidence and then nail it on that third week,” Belle notes.

Mega in Midtown

ALICIA BELLE, OWNER OF MEGA

62 | MidtownMag.com

Are Your Legs Resort Ready?

RANDY WOOD, HEAD BOXING COACH

is a fighter, because we’re all fighting “E veryone something—whether it’s paycheck to paycheck, our goals, or even depression,” says Randy Wood, head boxing coach at Knuckle Up Boxing and Fitness Center in downtown Raleigh. “I want to teach people how to get up when they’re down and build mental strength as well as physical.”

His gym opened in January of 2019 and offers group boxing and fitness classes as well as personal training. People can learn true boxing techniques in a Rocky-esque warehouse setting.

Members punch, jab, kick, and block in an actual boxing ring and learn self-defense moves while getting a full-body workout. Some of the trainers even strap on padding and members are encouraged to take out their aggression by fighting the “juggernaut.”

Wood stresses how the gym is not only a workout, it’s also a community. “We are a family here, and we are all fighting for each other to see positive progression in our lives—physically, mentally, and emotionally. It’s my dream for that positive attitude to spread from our gym to the community and make the Triangle a healthier place to live.”

He believes every person is capable of learning to box, and people should give it a try before believing it’s not for them. “I pride myself on being able to communicate the form and techniques of boxing to every individual who walks through our door,” he says.

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Knuckle Up Boxing Gym and Fitness Center in Downtown Raleigh

Jamie Alvarado is an original member of the gym and appreciates the approach that Wood takes while teaching. “It’s very one-on-one based and thorough, which is important when you’re learning a new sport like that,” Alvarado says. “Plus, I really like the atmosphere. It’s very family-based, and everyone comes in with great energy.”

First-time boxers at Knuckle Up get a complimentary class. Monthly memberships are available for as low as $129 per month. Visit KnuckleUpGyms.com for more information.

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THE DREAM TEAM Photo by Somer Handley

WHO WE ARE WHAT NEW SERVICES ARE YOU EXCITED TO OFFER? Patients are often anxious to get back to their fitness routine after surgery. We now offer patients complimentary post-op Emsculpt treatments, which allows them tomaintain some aspects of their fitness level and further improve their physique during recovery. We also offer Emsella to strengthen the pelvic floor, which can enhance the results of a Mommy Makeover.

HOW DO YOU SHOW PATIENTS YOU CARE POST-TREATMENT? We are preemptive and proactive about post-operative pain control. Our goal is for patients to leave the recovery area with a smile and to enjoy a less than 24-hour return to light, routine daily activities.

DESCRIBE YOUR DOCTOR/PATIENT RELATIONSHIP DYNAMIC. We pay very close attention to our patients’ goals, routine and lifestyle to tailor a plan that suits them best.

WHAT SETS YOUR PRACTICE APART? Our practice is designed for the most discerning patients, many of which are physicians, physician’s assistants and nursing professionals.

We only employ boardcertified anesthesiologists and our on-site ambulatory surgery center has both AAAASF and Joint Commission accreditation. Our high-profile patients appreciate our discreet private entrance.

WHAT IS THE MOST OUTRAGEOUS MEDICAL MYTH YOU’VE HEARD?

MOMMY MAKEOVER Actual patient of Blue Water Plastic Surgery

That breast augmentation is a“simple surgery.”

Merely making breasts bigger is pretty easy to do, but creating augmented breasts that look and feel natural, that have an aesthetically ideal shape and that maintain a beautiful appearance for years to come requires expertise, attention to detail and an artist’s eye.

MICHAEL LAW, M.D. ALEXANDRA SCHMIDT, M.D. Fellowship Trained Plastic Surgeons

10941 Raven Ridge Rd, Raleigh

919.256.0900

BlueWaterPlasticSurgeryPartners.com

EMILY BARTON AT MADABOLIC FITNESS CENTER SHOWS HOW TO USE THE RINGS.

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JODI SCHOENBERGER HAS WORKED OUT AT MADABOLIC FOR FIVE YEARS.

MADabolic Fitness Training

in Downtown Raleigh

R

ob and Emily Barton first experienced the MADabolic fitness method five years ago, and they loved it so much that they bought a franchise of their own. Their trendy studio is set in downtown Raleigh and offers people an interval-based strength and endurance program.

“I think the main thing that sets us apart is that we believe not every workout should kill you and leave you lying on the floor,” says Emily. “We have days that are uncomfortable and we push to our max, but we also have days where we slow it down and force ‘time under tension.’ We also encourage people to rest, which is a crucial component to avoiding injury, maintaining longevity, and seeing improvement when you come back for your next workout.”

Each of the daily workouts are predetermined and structured by the team at MADabolic headquarters, so members will find

the same class at any given location on any given day. With this carefully planned format, you can map out a weekly exercise schedule that focuses on the three different interval types: Momentum, Anaerobic, and Durability.

“I was an athlete growing up, so I love the structure and form of the classes,” says Jodi Schoenberger, who started doing MADabolic workouts five years ago. “Even though I’ve been here for five years, there’s still tons of variety in each class and the focus on strength and athleticism really fits with my goals.”

First-time clients can sign up for 10 consecutive days for $10, giving them an opportunity to experience the range of interval training MADabolic provides. Monthly memberships for unlimited classes cost $178, and MADabolic offers a wide range of class packs at varying prices to fit individual lifestyles and budgets. Visit MADabolic.com for more information.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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68 | MidtownMag.com

Birthday bonanza

BY MELISSA WISTEHUFF

IDEAS TO MAKE YOUR CHILD’S PARTY THE BEST EVER!

For a child, not many things beat the excitement of receiving a birthday invitation in the mail with their name on it. But gone are the days of handwritten notes with a simple “who, what, where.” Also gone are the days when the only choices for “where” were McDonald’s, Chuck E. Cheese, and the roller skating rink. As we’ve evolved to evites and texts, we’ve also welcomed a gold mine of options for unique party themes and venues. Whether you prefer to invite the madness into your home, or kick the party out of your house, we’ve got you covered, and our Cupcake-o-Meter will help you budget.

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Bring the Party to You There are many plusses to throwing a birthday party at home, with cost certainly being one. Birthday parties at home can cost as little or as much as your budget allows and offer the flexibility of being able to invite as few or as many guests as you wish. If you have the room and don’t mind your house being ransacked, then this option is perfect for you. Choose a theme and run with it.

Using Pinterest as your guide, let your creative juices flow!

If the weather forecast is on your side, consider an outdoor free-for-all complete with water guns, a pirate treasure hunt, or a kickball game. No matter the theme, kids simply love seeing where their friends live, so an at-home party will be sure to please.

Here are some ideas to consider if you’d like to stay close to home: 70 | MidtownMag.com

under $100

$100–$150

$150–$200

$200–$250 $250+

Cupcake Decorating Contest Bake the cupcakes ahead of the party and have a table set up with one cupcake on each plate. Each child can decorate their own cupcake with icing, sprinkles, candies, and lots of imagination. Then have an adult or older child judge, just like they do on TV. Added perk: No need for an expensive birthday cake, because the children can eat their own creations!

Same Day Crowns

BEST DENTIST

BEST DENTIST

Happy Campers Is your child begging for a sleepover, but you’re begging to avoid the hassle of setting it all up? Let Happy Camper do all the legwork for you. They’ll bring cozy setups for indoor spaces or all that’s needed for an outdoor campout. Happy Camper parties come complete with teepees, floor pillows, a popcorn machine, movie projector, and other festive adornments depending on your little camper’s party theme.

HappyCamperParties.com

Pancakes & Pajamas Brunch

Photo courtesy of Happy Camper

Is your child a tad too young for sleepovers, or you’d simply like to avoid the hassle of an overnighter?

Invite friends over for brunch instead!

Ask guests to wear their favorite pajamas and bring along their favorite teddy, and serve them pancakes.

Faces of Fun What kid doesn’t like to be transformed into an animal or superhero at the drop of a hat (or paintbrush, as it is)? Mimi the Clown has been bringing smiles and laughter to birthday parties and events in the Triangle for over 20 years. With face painting, balloon twisting, inflatable rentals, and carnival games, you’re sure to have a party to remember with The Melody Maker.

TheMelodyMaker.net

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Magic Made Real Would your child be stoked to meet his or her favorite superhero, or tickled pink to hug a reallife princess? Then Fairytale Dreamer is a perfect choice for you! With more than 45 characters, you’re sure to find one that would make your child’s day! Costumed characters bring magical fairytales and imaginary friends to life.

FairytaleDreamer.org

Have a Ball (Be the Ball!)

It’s bumper boats meets hamster wheel! Imagine the smiles and laughter of climbing into a giant inflatable ball and racing friends.

Triangle Knockerball brings the fun to you, so sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. KnockerballTriangle.com

YOUR BRAND. OUR BUSINESS.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Party on the Town At-home parties are loads of fun, but the set-up, clean-up, and overall stress of having kids destroying your house might not seem like a treat. If the thought of having a party at home doesn’t fill you with delight, perhaps it’s time to consider the range of choices that Wake County has to offer.

Zipping Good Times Climb and zip through the treetops with your pals at TreeRunner Adventure Park, where you’ll find 70 exciting obstacles and zip lines, with three difficulty levels and seven different courses. No matter your experience level, fitness ability, or age, there is fun to be had for all at TreeRunner. TreeRunnerRaleigh.com

Bring On the Ninjas Let your child live out their inner karate kid and bring your party to Championship Martial Arts. At its location in Cary, kids can learn basic martial arts moves in a real dojo (martial arts school), and you can relax and enjoy the party. CMA-Cary.com

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Adventure Landing Coconut Charlie’s Bump N Bounce Frankie’s Games Gone Mobile (at your location) Gaming Unplugged (at your location) Hill Ridge Farms (Youngsville) Lego Bricks 4 Kidz (at your location) The Little Gym NC Museum of Natural Sciences Posh Party Palace (at your location) Pro 3:5 Sports Pullen Park Pump It Up Three Bears Acres (Creedmoor) Wine & Design Art Buzz Kids

Where's the Party?

■

Experience Matters.

Mary Shaver, RN, BSN, CANS Aesthetic Nurse Specialist

•18+ years experience •Certified Advanced Injector • Dually licensed Medical Aesthetician

Michael R. Zenn, MD, FACS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon •25+ years experience • Former Professor, Vice Chief, • Duke Plastic Surgery

ZENN PL ASTIC SURGERY AESTHETIC EXCELLENCE. SURGICAL EXPERTISE. EXCEPTIONAL CARE. 7920 ACC BOULEVARD, SUITE 110 | 919.480.3885 | ZENNPLASTICSURGERY.COM

Measuring, mixing, baking, oh my! Head to Flour Power to show off your inner Iron Chef and enjoy the fun of cooking with friends without the mess. With themes such as Pizza Palooza, Sweet Treats, and Grosser than Gross, your child is sure to find something to satisfy their taste buds. Stir up some fun at one of the many locations throughout the Triangle.

FlourPowerStudios.com

Photo courtesy of Pinot’s Palette

Photo courtesy of Flour Power

Cooking Creations

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Make a Masterpiece

Play Fearless

Unleash your child’s inner Picasso at Pinot’s Palette.

Kids’ painting classes celebrate your child’s creativity, and with locations throughout the Triangle, Pinot’s Palette is convenient for all. Experienced instructors guide the children through the painting, and their masterpieces go home as a keepsake of the fun.

PinotsPalette.com

Kids leap with excitement over trampolines, so they’ll definitely jump at the chance to have a party at Defy. Defy is perfect for kids of all ages, as well as adults who are young at heart, so bounce on over to one of the Triangle’s Defy gyms. Defy.com

LEADING WITH HEART When Kathryn traveled to Zambia as a Ravenscroft freshman, she discovered the power of combining global experience with philanthropic leadership, learning more about the lives and cultures of people across the world and the impact of partnership in addressing real-world challenges.

Learn more about our one-of-a-kind citizen leadership framework!

Visit www.ravenscroft.org to learn more and call our Admissions Office at 919.848.6470 to schedule a tour.

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

Follow Vinnie’s:

Y’all want a deviled egg?

Nightly Features Tuesday & Thursday: All Bottled Wine is Half Price.

Includes Our Reserve Collection Wednesday: $99 Dinner for Two. Includes a Bottle of House Wine.

Friday & Saturday: Slow-Roasted, Certified Angus Beef Prime Rib. Complimentary Deviled Eggs Every Night

BEST STEAKHOUSE

7440 Six Forks Rd. Raleigh, NC | www.vinniessteakhouse.com | 919.847.7319 • Call for reservations or JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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OGM^H]O2 OGM^H]O2MAMCON M^H]O2M MAMCON — The Best of Raleigh — CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS OF THE 2020 DIAMOND AWARDS! READERS THROUGHOUT OUR COMMUNITY CAST THEIR VOTES FOR THE BUSINESSES, SERVICES, AND VENUES THAT THEY LIKE MOST. CHECK OUT THE WINNERS OF THE GOLD, SILVER, AND BRONZE AWARDS TO SEE IF YOUR FAVORITE IS ON THE LIST—AND TO MAKE YOUR OWN LIST OF NEW PLACES TO VISIT.

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984.200.8614 | 4242 Six Forks Road, North Hills

| StirRaleigh.com

Open for Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brunch Happy Hour Monday-Friday 4-6:30

BEST PLACE FOR A COCKTAIL

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

Dining BEST RESTAURANT

GARLAND BREWERY BHAVANA TIE: BIDA MANDA TIE: POOLE’S DINER TIE: WINSTON’S GRILLE

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

JOLIE STIR BARCELONA WINE BAR

BEST CHEF

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BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER GARLAND SECOND EMPIRE HERONS AT THE UMSTEAD

BEST BREAKFAST

THE PHARMACY CAFE BRIGS RESTAURANTS BIG ED’S RESTAURANT

BEST WEEKEND BRUNCH

HERONS AT THE UMSTEAD COQUETTE WINSTON’S GRILLE

BEST BBQ

THE PIT AUTHENTIC BARBECUE CITY BARBEQUE CLYDE COOPER’S BARBEQUE

BEST BURGER

BAD DADDY’S BURGER BAR CHUCK’S MOJOE’S BURGER JOINT

GOLD WINNER 80 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

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BRONZE WINNER

An award winning, service oriented team with a fresh and professional approach to selling real estate.

Voted Best Real Estate Agent

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

CVRealtyGroup.com | 919.646.4006 | @cvrealtygroup

BEST PIZZA

LILLY’S PIZZA TROPHY BREWING + PIZZA OAKWOOD PIZZA BOX

BEST STEAKHOUSE

ANGUS BARN THE CAPITAL GRILLE TIE: SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE TIE: VINNIE’S STEAK HOUSE AND TAVERN

BEST HEALTHY EATS HAPPY + HALE CLEAN EATZ RALEIGH RAW

BEST BEER SELECTION

RALEIGH BEER GARDEN ALAMO DRAFTHOUSE CINEMA YARD HOUSE

BEST PLACE FOR A GLASS OF WINE

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SOLA COFFEE JUBALA COFFEE THE THIRD PLACE

BEST BREAD BAKERY

YELLOW DOG BREAD CO LA FARM BAKERY BOULTED BREAD

BEST CAKES AND SWEETS

LUCETTEGRACE HAYES BARTON CAFE & DESSERTERY EDIBLE ART BAKERY & DESSERT CAFÉ

BEST ICE CREAM

TWO ROOSTERS ICE CREAM FRESH. LOCAL ICE CREAM GOODBERRY’S FROZEN CUSTARD

GOLD WINNER 82 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

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BRONZE WINNER

What’s the most important investment you’ll ever make?

Your child’s TK-12 education!

That’s why we offer an award-winning Classical Christian education designed to teach students how to think, not tell them what to think.

Discover what Trinity parents know.

Schedule your tour today.

trinityacademy.com/invest 10224 Baileywick Road, Raleigh, NC 27613 (919) 786-0114 trinityacademy.com

MIDTOWN DIAMOND AWARD Best Private School - 2020

BEST FOOD TRUCK

CHICAGO J HOTDOGS COUSINS MAINE LOBSTER BUOY BOWLS

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR NORTH RIDGE PUB PERSON STREET BAR THE PLAYERS’ RETREAT

BEST ITALIAN FOOD CAFÉ TIRAMISU VIVACE BELLA MONICA

BEST SEAFOOD

42ND STREET OYSTER BAR THE CORTEZ CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY

BEST MEDITERRANEAN FOOD SASSOOL NEOMONDE SITTI

BEST INDIAN FOOD

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RED DRAGON CHINESE RESTAURANT BIDA MANDA LAOTIAN RESTAURANT AND BAR BREWERY BHAVANA

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BEST CATERING

CATERING WORKS ROCKY TOP CATERING LADYFINGERS CATERERS

GOLD WINNER 84 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

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BRONZE WINNER

extraordinary events Vibrant private event spaces at Raleigh’s premier Mediterranean Restaurant Chef-driven. Craft Cocktails.

48 Wines on Tap. Space for 250.

RALEIGH’S PREMIER Mediterranean RESTAURANT | UNIQUE Private Event SPACES 500 Glenwood Ave. | Downtown Raleigh | 919-803-6033 | VidrioRaleigh.com | Events@VidrioRaleigh.com

Old World Charm, Modern Style

All Weather Rooftop Terrace + Bar Sunday Brunch Greek Night Private Event Space BEST OUTDOOR DINING

326 HILLSBOROUGH ST. 919.881.8333 | TavernaAgora.com Events@TavernaAgora.com

Entertainment & Relaxation BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE RED HAT AMPHITHEATER COASTAL CREDIT UNION

MUSIC PARK AT WALNUT CREEK KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE

BEST LIVE THEATRE DURHAM PERFORMING

ARTS CENTER

RALEIGH LITTLE THEATRE TIE : LINCOLN THEATRE TIE : THEATRE IN THE PARK

BEST PLACE FOR FAMILY FUN MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM PULLEN PARK FRANKIE’S BEST MUSEUM NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF ART NORTH CAROLINA MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM

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THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA RENAISSANCE RALEIGH NORTH HILLS HOTEL RALEIGH MARRIOT CITY CENTER

Professional Services BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

RAVENSCROFT SCHOOL TRINITY ACADEMY ST. DAVID’S SCHOOL

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

CHRISTINA VALKANOFF REALTY GROUP ROCIO ROJAS AT FATHOM REALTY TIE : A COLE REALTY TIE : THE JIM ALLEN GROUP

GOLD WINNER 86 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

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DIAMOND AWARDS

BEST BUILDER

 ��� � ­ €­‚ƒ„… † ‡‚­ � ��ˆ„ ‰��†Š­�ƒ�… ‹­ †�ƒ€­ �ˆ�‚­ŠŒ­‚ ƒ… �‡Žƒ…„ � ­ ‘ˆƒŠ€ƒ…„ †��‰­‚‚ ­…’�“‡‘Š­ ”�� �ˆ� ‰ˆ‚���­�‚  ­� ­� “�ˆ ‡�­ ‚­‡�‰ ƒ…„ ”�� ‡ …­‹  ��­ ‹ƒ� ˆ…€­�‚�‡�­€ ­Š­„‡…‰­ �� ‚�† ƒ‚�ƒ‰‡�­€ ‰ ‡�� ‡ �‡’�� �­��€­Š �� ‡… ‡€€ƒ�ƒ�… ”�� ‡ „��‹ƒ…„ ”‡�ƒŠ“ “�ˆ�  ��­ ‹ƒŠŠ ‘­ ‡ ˆ…ƒ•ˆ­ �­–­‰�ƒ�… �” “�ˆ� €�­‡�‚ —

Thanks for your vote!

OUR CUSTOMERS ARE WHAT INSPIRE US TO GIVE OUR BEST.

Congratulate us in person and we’ll take 30%* W‍ ٺ‏IVa XQMKM WN furniture in the store.

VALID IN STORE ONLY WITH COUPON CODE:

30off1 * Off Orignial Prices. Excludes Everyday Values, and Stearns & Foster and Jasmine mattresses. Cannot be combined with other offers or applied to previous purchases.

8201 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, (919) 781-5161 Bassett Custom Shop, Cameron Village, (919) 831-4511

bassettfurniture.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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BEST BUILDER

TIE : HOMES BY DICKERSON TIE : LOYD BUILDERS TIE : BELLEWOOD BUILDING + DESIGN TIE : DIXON/KIRBY JOHN C. SANDERS & COMPANY

Health & Beauty BEST HAIR SALON

MARK CHRISTOPHER SALON VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON SPA ROOT & HONEY SALON

BEST PLACE TO GET A MANI / PEDI PAINTBASE CAMERON SPA & NAILS TIE : HAYES BARTON NAILS TIE : HIGHPARK NAIL SPA TIE : SEABOARD NAILS

BEST BROWS AND LASHES

BEST YOGA AND PILATES STUDIO

BARRE-UP GRATITUDE HOT YOGA CENTER TIE : MIDTOWN YOGA TIE : YOBA STUDIO

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THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA SKIN RALEIGH MEDSPA AT DAVIS & PYLE PLASTIC SURGERY VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON SPA

BEST MASSAGE

VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON SPA THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA MASSAGE ENVY

BEST MED SPA

GOLD WINNER 88 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

SKIN RALEIGH MEDSPA AT DAVIS & PYLE PLASTIC SURGERY REGENESIS MD THE MEDSPA AT RALEIGH PLASTIC SURGERY CENTER

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BRONZE WINNER

DIAMOND AWARDS

THANK YOU RALEIGH! GREAT PLACE TO SHOP, ALL HEALTHY THINGS FOR THE KITTIES AND PUPS. STAFF IS AMAZING AND ALWAYS THERE TO HELP. LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED LITTLE GEM! THE BEST PLACE IN RALEIGH FOR PET FOOD/TREATS! GREAT STORE FOR PETS. THEIR ALL NATURAL FOODS HAVE REALLY MADE A DIFFERENCE IN OUR DOGS HEALTH. THE BEST PET STORE IN THE TRIANGLE! AMAZING STAFF AND VERY INSIGHTFUL ON TIPS FOR A HEALTHY PET! GREAT e dog and cat store PEOPLE, GREAT STORE GREATt h DOG FOOD. A SUPREMELY TRUSTED PLACE. GREAT PLACE TO SHOP, ALL HEALTHY THINGS FOR THE KITTIES AND PUPS. THE STAFF WORKING ARE ALWAYS SUPER FRIENDLY AND HELPFUL! I LOVE THIS STORE.

BEST PET STORE

UNLEASHEDMUTT.COM

4 RALEIGH LOCATIONS / 2 CARY LOCATIONS/ 2 WILMINGTON LOCATIONS

BEST PET STORE

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE

THANKS FOR VOTING US

BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE! REDHATAMPHITHEATER.COM JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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BEST PLACE TO DE-AGE

SKIN RALEIGH MEDSPA AT DAVIS & PYLE PLASTIC SURGERY REGENESIS MD VON KEKEL AVEDA LIFESTYLE SALON SPA

BEST DENTIST

RENAISSANCE DENTAL CENTER DR. JAMES SARANT AT THE DENTAL MARKET BUFANO AND BUFANO

BEST ORTHODONTIST

ZAYTOUN ORTHODONTICS WELLS ORTHODONTICS TIE : BOVENIZER & BAKER ORTHODONTICS TIE : GLADWELL ORTHODONTICS

BEST FAMILY DOCTOR

REGENESIS MD CAPITAL FAMILY MEDICINE FISCHER CLINIC

BEST OB\GYN

KAMM MCKENZIE OB\GYN MID-CAROLINA OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY ARBOR OB\GYN

BEST PEDIATRICIAN

OBERLIN ROAD PEDIATRICS RALEIGH CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS MEDICINE JEFFERS, MANN & ARTMAN PEDIATRICS

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

ATLAS CHIROPRACTIC OF RALEIGH OAK CITY CHIROPRACTIC DAVIS FAMILY CHIROPRACTIC

BEST VETERINARIAN

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GOLD WINNER 90 | MidtownMag.com

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DIAMOND AWARDS

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GREAT

FOOD

CLASSIC

ROCK

TAPS

JOIN US FOR LUNCH, HAPPY HOUR, DINNER, AND LATE NIGHT DINING BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

BEST BEER SELECTION

NORTH HILLS 4208 Six Forks Road | 919.881.2590 | YardHouse.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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BEST FINANCIAL ADVISOR AMERIPRISE RICHARDSON PRIVATE

WEALTH ADVISORS TIE : WELLS FARGO NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL FORTRESS FINANCIAL PARTNERS

BEST HOUSE CLEANING

BEST PET PAMPERING

TRINITY ANIMAL HOSPITAL CANINE COUNTRY CLUB & PET HOTEL WOOF GANG BAKERY

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY MAUPIN TRAVEL AAA TIE : EXPEDIA TIE : TRAVELOCITY

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FALLON’S FLOWERS WATERED GARDEN FLORIST KELLY ODOM

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

NORTH HILLS CAMERON VILLAGE CRABTREE VALLEY MALL

BEST PET STORE

UNLEASHED, THE DOG & CAT STORE PHYDEAUX WOOF GANG BAKERY

BEST FURNITURE & HOME DÉCOR (LOCAL) GREEN FRONT INTERIORS & RUGS RALEIGH FURNITURE GALLERY STEVEN SHELL LIVING

GOLD WINNER 92 | MidtownMag.com

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SILVER WINNER

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DIAMOND AWARDS THE

D E N TA L M A R K E T OLDE RALEIGH VILLAGE SHOPPING CENTER 3121-103 Edwards Mill Rd., Raleigh BellaMonica.com | 919.881.9778

RALEIGH

Vivi, Ama, Mangia!

BEST ITALIAN FOOD

VOT E D B E S T D E N T I S T

BEST DENTIST

[BUILDING CONFIDENCE] SMILE MAKEOVER SPECIALIST Get your Free Virtual Smile Consult without leaving your home at TheDentalMarket.com PARKSIDE TOWN COMMONS 1150 Parkside Main St., Cary StellinosItaliano.com | 919.694.5761

Now Accepting New Patients 3713 Benson Drive | Suite 102 919.855.8600 | TheDentalMarket JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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BEST FURNITURE & HOME DÉCOR (NATIONAL) HOMEGOODS ETHAN ALLEN BASSETT HOME FURNISHINGS

BEST GARDEN CENTER

LOGAN’S GARDEN SHOP ATLANTIC GARDENING COMPANY HOMEWOOD NURSERY & GARDEN CENTER

BEST LUXURY CARS AND SERVICES JOHNSON LEXUS OF RALEIGH LEITH CARS HANNA IMPORTS

BEST JEWELRY STORE

BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY KAY JEWELERS DIAMONDS DIRECT

BEST PLACE TO BUY WEDDING RINGS BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY DIAMONDS DIRECT FINK’S JEWELERS

BEST WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE EDGE OF URGE SWAGGER BOUTIQUE KANNON’S CLOTHING

BEST MEN’S BOUTIQUE

NOWELL’S CLOTHIERS KANNON’S CLOTHING LILES CLOTHING STUDIO

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BEST RESALE AND CONSIGNMENT CLOTHING

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BEST WOMEN’S SHOE STORE

GOLD WINNER 94 | MidtownMag.com

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MAIN & TAYLOR DSW TIE : MONKEE’S OF RALEIGH TIE : NORDSTROM

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SILVER WINNER

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DIAMOND AWARDS

BEST MEN’S BOUTIQUE

1632 North Market Dr. | Raleigh, NC www.NowellsClothiers.com

FALLON’S FLOWERS

Photo by Lily & Vine Photo

Serving Raleigh as a real, local, family-owned florist since 1920

BEST FLORIST

Thanks for voting us as Best Real Estate Agent, The Best of Raleigh 3 years in a row!

Now booking weddings and events for 2019.

FallonsFlowers

FallonsFlowers

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

919.538.6477 | 6531 Creedmoor Road Suite 207 | AColeRealty.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Check out our new website! www.thebrapatch.com

Recycling

BY CHERYL CAPALDO TRAYLOR

2.0

What you need to know to master the art and science of recycling in 2020.

We’ve all been there. Standing between the trash can and the recycling bin trying to figure out where to place an item. Searching the item for clues, then finally Googling: “Is a No. 2 plastic tub recyclable?”

Hundreds of conflicting results appear. What’s a conscientious citizen to do? Trash it? Recycle it? Clean it? Ask the waste gods for guidance? It’s enough to make anyone confused. But wait! There’s hope.

Fitting the Needs of Women for Over 30 Years • Professional bra fitting

“Recycling isn’t intuitive, but it doesn’t have to be frustrating,” says Sara Davarbakhsh, Wake County environmental program coordinator. And the best place to start is with the fundamental question: Why recycle?

• Specializing in hard-to-fit sizes

John Roberson, solid waste management director for Wake County, says recycling is important for several reasons. Mainly it provides the ability to reduce our dependence upon virgin materials like wood and metals.

And the more we recycle, the less we put in landfills.

• BOC Certified Mastectomy fitters

• Sizes 28-56 in A–N cups • Bridal & formal foundation wear • Maternity & nursing bras • Now carrying bra sized swimwear 1603 North Market Drive • Raleigh • 919.876.8677 Tuesday-Friday 10am-6pm • Saturday 10am-5pm

www.thebrapatch.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Bring Your Your

Waste is something everyone should consider.

Collectively we contribute to the problem— a lot. On average, each Wake County resident produces five pounds of waste per day. With a booming population, recycling is more essential than ever.

For years the U.S. sent recyclables to China.

But in 2018, China cut back on the amount of materials they were importing. Almost instantly the market for recyclables changed and local waste facilities had to adjust. “Wake County is paying more to recycle than we are to dispose of it, but that’s something we are willing to do because we believe recycling is that important,” Roberson says.

Worth the cost and worth the time, most would agree, but few understand the many steps involved in the process: Once recyclables leave the curbside, they are taken to a Material Recovery Facility (MRF) where workers presort items by hand on a conveyer belt. Next, items pass through a series of mechanisms that further sort by using gravity, magnets, eddy currents, and optical sorters. Afterward, the like materials are baled and shipped to companies that reuse or recycle that material.

Own Container Cups, bags, bottles—BYOC to keep it clean!

REUSABLE CUPS Regardless of material (plastic, paper, Styrofoam), to-go cups are not accepted for recycling.

SHOPPING BAGS Americans throw away 100 billion plastic bags annually.

WATER BOTTLES Nationwide, fewer than 30 percent of plastic bottles are recycled.

DOGGIE BAGS It’s used to transport leftovers from restaurant to home, then tossed. Plus, many establishments still use non-biodegradable Styrofoam.

SUSTAINABLE STRAWS In the U.S., 500 million plastic straws are thrown away every day.

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genuine

maine mouth to

C U I S I N E.

free cup of

SOU P

with the purchase of any roll

4121 Main at North Hills St., Raleigh, NC 27609 MasonsLobster.com

CERTIFIED

SUSTAINABLE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Recycling Rules PAPER, CARTONS, AND CARDBOARD Keep paper dry; it’s hard to recover if it’s soaked.

No shreds or scraps

GLASS Only bottles and jars are accepted.

No broken glass or mirrors.

PLASTICS Think shapes, not numbers.

Jugs, bottles, tubs, and jars are recyclable. Labels stay on.

LIDS Place lids back on plastic bottles and tubs if you have them.

Don’t recycle any lids separately. Toss pump-type lids.

PLASTIC BAGS AND STRETCHY PLASTIC WRAPS The answer is yes, but recycle with caution!

(Think cling wrap, bubble wrap, and baggies.)

Place these in the bins found at grocery stores.

Do NOT mix with curbside recycling. Stretchy plastics are the No. 1 recycling contaminant.

Wishful Recycling Here’s a sobering statistic: Approximately 20 percent of material received at the Sonoco MRF in Raleigh must be landfilled because it is not recyclable. Chelsea Arey, Wake County environmental program coordinator, says people want to do good by recycling everything. She calls this “wishful recycling.”

The reality is that some things are not practical to put in your bin. Tiny scraps of paper blow away, and small items clog the machinery. “Place anything smaller than your palm in the trash [instead of recycling],” Arey advises, and be practical in thinking about what could be recycled. Strange things show up at the MRF: bowling balls, hypodermic needles, Christmas lights, and car parts—all of which are no-nos. When a non-recyclable item gets placed in with recyclables it adds to the cost, and it can also contaminate materials that end up being rejected by vendors.

METALS Cans are good.

Aluminum foil and trays without food residue can go, too.

TIPS CLOTHING Apex and Raleigh partner with Simple Recycling to keep unwanted clothing and accessories out of the landfill by providing free curbside recycling. Individuals are also encouraged to donate items to charity shops or drop off at one of Wake County’s Multi-Material Recycling Facilities, and they’ll donate the items for you.

Rinse glass, plastics, and cans; they don’t have to be spotless.

MOST-ASKED QUESTION The infamous peanut butter jar?

Remove globs, rinse, and try to get all the water out.

KEEP IT SIMPLE Don’t bag any recyclables.

ELECTRONICS Accepted at Wake County Multi-Material Recycling Facilities. Vendors will sell functioning computers and electronics, or sort components into metals, plastic, and wood to be reused or recycled.

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From infancy through elementary school...

Our preschool offers the perfect balance of learning and play and our nearby elementary school offers challenging academics and specialty classes.

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Preschool: 2215 W. Millbrook Rd. Elementary School: 10200 Strickland Rd.

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According to a recent Wake County waste characterization study, more than 60 percent of the waste sent to landfills could have been recycled or composted. If each of us does our part, we can change the amount of items sent to landfills. It’s perfectly okay to start small. Arey suggests residents choose to focus on a few items; once you get these down, step up your game.

Roberson and his waste management team recognize that recycling can be confusing.

They are working with local cities and towns to create more uniform guidelines.

However, the overall message is that we need to reduce the amount of disposable items we purchase in the first place.

You know the drill: Reduce, Reuse, Repair.

And then, if necessary, recycle correctly.

“When in doubt, throw it out,” Roberson says. “Even better: When in doubt, do your research. Spend an extra minute to make sure what you put in that recycling container is actually recyclable.”

Go to WakeGov.com/recycling for lists of accepted materials.

Follow links to each town under Curbside Recycling. Rules are ever-changing, so always check with your municipality for current guidelines. You can also request a tour of a local MRF and landfill for a firsthand look at how waste is managed in Wake County.

RecycleMoreNC.org contains good information on what and how to recycle in North Carolina.

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Be Sure to Save Room for Dessert at Midtown Grille!

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MICHAEL THOR (CENTER) WITH HIS MOM, KAREN, AND NEXTSTEP TRAINER NICK FOSTER.

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Recovery

BY BETH PETERSON / PHOTOS BY JOE REALE

Comes to Raleigh NEXTSTEP OFFERS THERAPY AND SUPPORT FOR INDIVIDUALS LIVING WITH PARALYSIS.

In November 2015, Michael Thor, co-owner of Whiskey Kitchen, was riding his motorcycle through downtown Raleigh when he was hit by a car and thrown into a utility pole. Among other injuries, Michael fractured his C2 vertebrae. The swelling caused by the fracture bruised his spinal cord, resulting in paralysis from the neck down.

Michael was taken immediately to WakeMed Raleigh, but after only two weeks, he was on a plane to Atlanta, where he was admitted to Shepherd Center, a top-ranked rehabilitation facility specializing in spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury. For nearly three years, Michael, his wife, and his parents called Atlanta home in order to get Michael to and from the Shepherd Center for the daily therapy he needed.

The Shepherd Center’s paralysis rehabilitation program, Beyond Therapy, offers its patients intensive activity-based therapy and electrical stimulation. Paralysis occurs for many reasons, but in Michael’s case, the spinal injury interrupts the messages from the brain to the muscles. Electrical stimulation utilizes electrodes to transmit those messages through neural pathways to individual muscles.

Michael’s treatment at the Shepherd Center included two types of electrical stimulation: Functional Electric Stimulation (FES) and Neuromuscular Electric Stimulation (NMES). FES stimulates the muscles directly, producing contractions that create movement in the paralyzed extremity. NMES works at a deeper level to increase the spinal cord’s “excitability,” producing functional movement by targeting specific nerves rather than individual muscles.

These therapies have helped Michael regain motion and muscle tone in his body. Evidence suggests that NMES helps the body remember what it was capable of prior to the trauma of spinal cord injury.

Despite the growing body of evidence that activity-based therapies such as NMES are an effective treatment for spinal cord injury, there are only a handful of facilities worldwide that offer this specialized treatment. Insurance companies don’t cover it, and very few people can afford to pay the outof-pocket expenses. And if the cost of therapy wasn’t enough to deter treatment for the millions of individuals living with paralysis, relocation in order to pursue long-term therapy at one of the few specialty hospitals is rarely an option. Michael and his family longed to come home to Raleigh (after all, Michael had a restaurant to help run), but moving back was impossible without access to neurorecovery therapies.

The question that Karen Thor, Michael’s mother, raised: How to bring the therapy to Raleigh? And the answer she found: NextStep Fitness, a nonprofit that makes lifechanging rehab and fitness accessible and affordable to individuals living with paralysis. For $1 a year, Karen Thor purchased her own franchise with the goal of opening a NextStep here in Raleigh.

All she had to do was find office space; purchase specialized exercise equipment, including FES and NMES devices; hire and provide specialty training to the activity-based trainers; and get the word out. Oh, and bring Michael home. Does it seem like a lot? Well, not all of us are named Thor, but most of

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COMMUNITY HEALING NextStep addresses the effect of paralysis on both the body and the spirit. Along with providing the activity-based therapy that has been so successful for Michael, NextStep has provided a community of support for (and through) the 20-plus individuals who’ve “joined the gym” in the year since it opened its doors.

People like Brandon Lawrence, who leaned over the edge of his boat a year and a half ago to make adjustments to the anchor—a task he’d performed hundreds of times before. This time, however, he lost his balance and fell into the shallow water where the boat was docked, landing awkwardly, breaking his C-4 and C-5 vertebrae. It was a freak accident, and Brandon lost all function from the chest down. After spending eight weeks at the Shepherd Center, Brandon also returned home to Raleigh, to the newly opened NextStep Fitness Center. “My focus at NextStep is in building up my core.

I work on holding myself upright,” Brandon says. “It’s more of a gym environment.”

BRANDON LAWRENCE, WHO LOST ALL FUNCTION FROM THE WAIST DOWN AFTER A BOATING ACCIDENT, VISITS NEXTSTEP THREE TIMES A WEEK FOR ACTIVTY-BASED THERAPY.

us are acquainted with the power of a mother’s love. Within nine months, Karen had opened the world’s sixth NextStep Fitness center, right here in Raleigh. There are now nine centers worldwide, with others in the works.

Yes, Karen did it for her son. But through their experiences with paralysis recovery, the entire Thor family developed a vision for improving quality of life for all individuals living with paralysis. They saw first-hand the true cost of spinal cord injury—that paralysis doesn’t simply immobilize a person’s body. Other potential complications include intense neuropathic pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, decreased bone density, and pressure sores—all of which can result in recurring hospital stays. People living with paralysis are “some of the most vulnerable” in our society, Karen says, noting that these individuals typically get very little help from insurance or the government and are prone to depression, due to their health issues and isolation.

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Brandon and his wife, Angi, are thankful to have had the support of their church, which rallied around them in their moment of crisis, and their sense of community has been enriched by NextStep’s impact. “NextStep [has] become almost like family, cheering Brandon on,” Angi shares. Brandon is at NextStep three times a week to participate in activity-based therapy, and continues to receive treatment at WakeMed, along with visits to Extivita, a hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment center.

“They do a good job blending his therapy at WakeMed and what he’s doing there,” Angi says of the NextStep staff. “This is Brandon’s job,” she adds. “It’s going to take time.”

Recovery does take time, and Brandon and Angi are hopeful for their future because of the progress Brandon has made at NextStep.

In the 18 months since his accident, Brandon has already made amazing advances in regaining movement in his arms.

Another story of inspiration comes from Emma Bailey, who was involved in a serious car accident during her senior year of high school that also left her paralyzed from the chest down.

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Bootlegger’s Bash A

silent auction to benefit

NextStepRaleigh.org January 25th at Imurj in Downtown Raleigh NextStep Raleigh is part of the Christopher and Dana Reeve Neurorecovery Network.

She was in the hospital the entire summer, moving from the ICU to a step-down unit, all the while receiving in-patient therapy until she went home with a power wheelchair in September.

Not long after Emma left the hospital, she heard about NextStep. “I was one of their first clients,” Emma recalls. “The first day I toured [the facility] it felt like a family home. They want you to get back as much movement and strength as you can.”

She began to go to NextStep twice a week for two hours at a time. Through neurostimulation, abdominal exercises, and posture exercises, she has slowly regained enough strength and muscle control to graduate from a power wheelchair to a regular wheelchair. Having reached her goal of being able to go to school— she’s now a college sophomore at Meredith, majoring in interior design with a minor in graphic design—Emma is determined to gain enough strength and coordination to be able to drive a car again. “They don’t limit you to anything,” Emma says of the staff at NextStep.

“They try to prove the doctors wrong.”

Emma, Brandon, and Michael have all benefited physically from the intensive activitybased therapy NextStep Raleigh provides. But, they’ve also found a social outlet and a support group among NextStep clients.

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THANKS TO THERAPY AT NEXTSTEP, EMMA BAILEY HAS REGAINED ENOUGH STRENGTH AND MUSCLE CONTROL TO GRADUATE FROM A POWER WHEELCHAIR TO A REGULAR WHEELCHAIR.

Karen Thor estimates there may be thousands of people in the Triangle and beyond who are living with some form of paralysis and could also be helped by the therapies available at NextStep Raleigh. Until insurance companies begin to acknowledge the success of intensive activity-based therapies in neurologically impaired individuals, it is up to the individual or fundraising efforts to cover the cost.

Those living with paralysis spend an average of 36 days in some kind of rehabilitation before insurance will no longer pay for therapy sessions.

With no ongoing therapy, an individual’s recovery plateaus or regresses, and isolation occurs due to limited mobility.

But that doesn’t have to be the end of the story. To help NextStep Raleigh reach its goal of offering scholarships to those individuals who can’t afford to pay for ongoing therapy, you can make a donation at NextStepRaleigh.org, or purchase tickets to the 2020 Bootlegger’s Bash, a silent auction to benefit NextStep that will be held at Imurj in downtown Raleigh on January 25th.

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Photo by @BeckEatsWorld LAYERED CRIOSSANTERIE

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Romantic

BY KAT HARDING

RENDEZVOUS LOVE YOUR SPOUSE, YOUR SWEETIE,

OR SIMPLY YOURSELF WITH A WEEKEND

OF VALENTINE SPLURGES.

W

hile any day is a great day to show someone you love them, the most popular day to showcase your love is coming up quickly. This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, so we’ve got a list of date ideas that span the weekend. From free to fancy, and everything in-between, we’ve broken the list down by price point so you can keep the new year going on budget.

$ Raleigh’s hottest new bakery has just one kind of pastry: croissants. Many, many kinds of croissants. Take your date to Layered Criossanterie for a coffee break with a sweet or savory croissant (or both!) Try The Reuben pastry followed by a twice-baked Banana Foster croissant for dessert.

(The menu changes frequently, but there are always plenty of selections.) Take a moment to appreciate the work that goes into these handcrafted pastries by peeking through the kitchen window to catch a glimpse of the bakers.

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FREE Easy on the eyes: A memorable date idea is to visit a local art museum!

CAM, in downtown Raleigh, is free to visit, as is the North Carolina Museum of Art on Blue Ridge Road and the Gregg Museum of Art and Design at NC State.

Plenty of places to stroll through the galleries, sparking conversation or just taking pretty portraits.

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FREE The world of wine can be a little bit intimidating, but who doesn’t love trying new wines? Bring your beau to Taylor’s Wine Shop, which regularly hosts wine tastings, to learn more about the ancient beverage. Give a wink to Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine and fertility while you find a new favorite for free. Purchase a bottle from their carefully curated selection to take home to remember the date!

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Photo courtesy Plates Neighborhood Kitchen

$$ Cheer on the Carolina Hurricanes in a home game versus the New Jersey Devils on Friday, February 14th. Get dinner at the game (the Smoked BBQ Sandwich from NC Barbecue Company is a winner) and grab a beer from the many local brewery stands, like Foothills and Deep River Brewing. The ‘Canes made it to the Eastern Conference Finals last year during the playoffs and they’re playing strong this year, so snag your tickets early.

$$ Did you know that Sur la Table hosts cooking classes? The North Hills location has a jam-packed schedule featuring classes on everything from knife skills to making pasta. Their Valentine’s Day weekend highlights classes with a romantic edge: think bold Tuscan flavors, Valentine macarons, Parisian cuisine, and artisan chocolate. Nab a spot for you and your date to learn how to cook like a pro. You get to make and take all of the dishes and get a discount in the store as well. Bon appetit!

$ One of the best spots in Raleigh is the triedand-true Plates Neighborhood Kitchen.

On Friday nights they host Five Dollar Fridays, featuring bar snacks for $5 after 8:30pm and a rotating selection of $5 martinis all day long. Their brunch is a bargain, too, with $3 mimosas and incredible dishes like the NC Crab Cake + Fried Egg Benedict, Huevos Rancheros, sandwiches, and more. Whether you’re there at night or the next morning, you’re sure to have a great meal.

$$$ The gold standard in luxurious relaxation in Raleigh is a staycation at The Umstead Hotel and Spa. The spa offers a range of treatments, from massages and facials to manicures, pedicures, and more. Spend the whole day in the spa enjoying the steam rooms, whirlpools, and saunas, then end your day with a reservation for Valentine’s Day dinner at Herons, one of only 64 restaurants in the world to have earned the Forbes 5-Star ranking. When you’re ready to tuck in for the night, their rooms feature privately curated works of art and some of the comfiest beds in the biz.

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- S. Gaylord “Liles CLothing is the best clothing store I’ve ever shopped. Quality!”

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“The selection, knowledge, quality, and taste is like no other store south of New York. The staff hand picks the most tasteful designs from the most prominent designers in the world, bringing you a selection you will not be able to find anywhere else in Raleigh. If you are looking for a style inspired by the Italians, and influenced by the bespoke gentleman, Liles is your place.

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HOME Cooking

Spicy Black Bean & Sweet Potato

Tortilla

Soup

RECIPES & PHOTOGRAPHY

BY GINNY WILLIAMS

Ingredients: 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 large yellow onion, chopped 1 small sweet potato, peeled and diced into ¼-inch pieces 1 red bell pepper, medium, chopped 1 jalapeño, medium, seeded

and finely chopped 4 cloves of garlic, minced 2 tsp cumin 1½ tsp chili powder (divided) 2 cans black beans, drained

and rinsed 1 can diced fire-roasted

tomatoes, with liquid 4 cups vegetable broth 3–4 corn tortillas, cut into

small strips 3 Tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped 2 Tbsp lime juice ¼ tsp red pepper flakes ¼ tsp salt

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Instructions: 1. In a large dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat until simmering.

2. Add the onion, sweet potato, bell pepper, jalapeĂąo, and salt.

3. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the sweet potatoes have softened.

4. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and chili powder, and cook for 1 additional minute. Immediately add in the black beans, tomatoes, and broth.

Simmer for 30 minutes.

5. Preheat oven to 400° F. 6. Add the tortilla strips to a bakingsheet and sprinkle with a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Bake for 8 minutes, stirring halfway through.

7. Once the soup is ready, stir in the cilantro, lime juice, and red pepper flakes (if you want more spice).

8. Serve the soup hot, topped with the tortilla chips, chopped avocado (optional), and extra cilantro.

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HOME Cooking

Crispy Smashed

Potato Dippers

Ingredients: 1 lb 2–3 Tbsp

1–2 tsp

with a Tangy Sun-Dried Tomato Aioli Sauce

new potatoes extra virgin olive oil sea salt black pepper garlic powder fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions: 1. Preheat the oven to 450° F. 2. In a large pot, add the potatoes and just enough water to cover them plus a few inches.

3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for about 25 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool.

4. Lightly grease a large baking sheet with some coconut-oil spray (do not use parchment paper!).

5. Place the potatoes on the baking sheet. Using the bottom of a large mug or a mason jar, gently press down on each potato until it flattens into a ½-inch thick disk.

Be gentle.

6. Using a basting brush, brush some olive oil onto each potato.

Follow with a sprinkling of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

7. Roast the potatoes for 30 to 35 minutes, until crispy. (Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.)

Remove from oven and let cool.

8. Transfer to a serving plate and sprinkle with parsley and some more salt and pepper.

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Tangy Sun-Dried Tomato Aioli Sauce

Instructions: 1. Soak the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water for 10 minutes and then drain.

This will help soften them.

Ingredients: ¼ cup ½ cup 2 Tbsp ¼ tsp ¼ tsp ¼ tsp ¼ tsp

sun-dried tomatoes (dry; not the ones soaking in oil) vegan mayonnaise freshly squeezed lemon juice chili powder Dijon mustard sea salt black pepper

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2. Add the sun-dried tomatoes with the remaining sauce ingredients in a mini food processor or high-speed blender and blend until very smooth and creamy.

3. Drizzle the sauce on top of the crispy smashed potatoes, or serve as a dip.

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SISTER Cities

Mountain Events,

from Classy to Quirky The Crawleys Come to Biltmore

Photo courtesy of Imagine Exhibitions, NBCUniversal International Studios, and Carnival

No, we don’t live in the UK, but if the recent Downton Abbey movie left you yearning for yet more of the historical drama, you’re in luck! The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is playing host to the Crawleys in Downton Abbey: The Exhibition. This immersive exhibition features a collection of the show’s props, highlighting the fashions, locations, and historic events of the time period, in addition to interactive elements connecting you to the characters.

Complete your experience with a stay at one of the estate’s two hotels to enjoy Biltmore as it was originally intended—as an overnight guest!

The exhibition runs through April 7th.

Add a quirky touch to your winter ski trip with a stop at Sapphire Valley’s Outhouse Races on February 15th. What is an outhouse race, you ask? Well, imagine watching someone dressed in a crazy outfit climb into a decorated outhouse built on skis, sit on a toilet seat, and fly down the slopes—all while attempting to stay upright without crashing into the banks.

The creatively decorated outhouses are equipped with a toilet seat and toilet paper—and the more outlandish the participant’s costume, the better. Past participants have included themes like “Who Cut the Cheese,” “Redneck Wishing Well,” and “Party Poopers.” Free to watch, the Outhouse Races are a spirited event full of creativity and humor. For more information, visit DiscoverJacksonNC. com/calendar-event/outhouse-races.

Photo courtesy of Nick Breedlove Jackson County Tourism Development Authority

A Truly Unique Winter Event— The Outhouse Races

Skiing, Tubing, and Ice Skating, Oh My! Don’t let winter pass you by without a snowy adventure on one of North Carolina’s beloved slopes! Head to Beech or Sugar Mountain—both just a short drive west from Boone—to hone your ski skills, or if skiing isn’t your thing you can enjoy their tubing parks and outdoor ice skating rinks. Other activities include a freestyle Terrain Park at Beech Mountain, and snowshoeing rentals and guided tours at Sugar Mountain.

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• Operation School Bell • Kid’s Place • Community Sharing • Scholarships • Women in Need • Smile Transforming Lives, Strengthening Our Community.

919.875.8901 | ALTriangle.org | Join@ALTriangle.org JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Healthy You

Sparkle and Shine into a Healthier New Year!

How a clean home can benefit your health.

The holiday festivities have come to an end, and most of us are thinking of our 2020 goals. Personal health usually ends up at the top of the list.

Often, the focus is on diet and exercise; however, we should consider the value a clean home has on our well-being. We spend upward of 90 percent of our time indoors, and studies show that the environment we expose ourselves to has a direct effect on our health. Let’s put our best selves forward in the new year by increasing our awareness on the benefits of a clean home.

Reduce stress and fatigue.

Researchers at Princeton found that a more organized and clean home reduces stress and leads to higher productivity, better sleep, and a stronger immune system—providing you with more energy! Without distraction from clutter and dirt, you can be less stressed and more focused, enabling you to spend more of your time on other goals.

Create healthier relationships.

Clean house, happy spouse? It may sound silly, but it’s true. A Pew Research Center study found that over half of married respondents said sharing household chores was “very important” to a happy marriage. By keeping up with the clutter, laundry, and dishes—and keeping the household clean and organized—couples become less frustrated and overwhelmed, thereby spending more quality time together in happier, healthier relationships.

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Kill germs and reduce allergens.

Cleaning your home on a regular basis with a quality disinfectant can kill up to 98 percent of germs that suppress the immune system.

Regular cleaning of the kitchen, bathrooms, and flat surfaces reduces germs, bacteria, and allergens. In doing so, you can improve the air quality in your home and significantly lower the potential for sickness.

So how do you manage a clean and organized home?

Here are three quick tips from the professionals: • Clean a little every day. Spend 15–30 minutes picking up each night before bedtime. Clear clutter, fold laundry, dust a room, or sweep/vacuum.

• Make your bed. Keeping your bedroom neat is conducive to better sleep and gives you a sense of accomplishment each morning.

• Kitchen clean-up. Load the dishwasher, wipe the stovetop and countertops, and wipe out the microwave.

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a l l u r e h o m e s n c . c o m

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Be a Sweetheart.

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| 123

HOME Styler

SET THE

BY BRITTANY MURDOCK

MOOD

Make every room a sanctuary and pamper yourself with self-care, from soothing light and colors of comfort to all the little touches that bring you calm.

1

2

1 Neck wrap by Slow North, $44 Edge of Urge 2 Tinsley king quilt, $360.80 Steven Shell Living

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Classic Blue, the Pantone Color of the Year, is a favorite of Raleigh designers Zandy Gammons and Liles Dunnigan of The Warehouse Interiors, who say: “It’s a timeless, comfortable departure from light neutrals.”

3 Walls painted in Downpour Blue Starting at $42.99/gallon Benjamin Moore 4 Trinket dishes, $6 Swagger Boutique 5 Salt and storage box, $14.95 NOFO @ the Pig

4

3

5

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

| 125

778 6

8

9

6 Leather journal, $26.99 | StUf n SUCh 7 Musee bath balm, $12 | The Local Squirrel 8 Derince chandelier, $649 | Bassett Furniture 9 Orchid mini, $16.99 (planter not included) | Homewood Nursery & Garden Center

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IDEAS

EVENING

GET INVOLVED. GET CONNECTED.

ACCESS

OPPORTUNITY

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WELLNESS

Q&A PROFESSIONALS SHARE OPINIONS ON THE LATEST BREAKTHROUGHS, SERVICES, AND TECHNIQUES IN THEIR AREA OF EXPERTISE. ALL TO HELP YOU MAKE EDUCATED CHOICES FOR A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE.

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HOW CAN YOU LOOK AND FEEL YOUR BEST AT ANY AGE? Thomas J. Weber Jr, DO Midtown Pain and Spine Clinic

Board certified in anesthesia and pain management, Dr. Thomas Weber is highly proficient at a myriad of interventional procedures that successfully treat pain but also slow the quite painful aging process.

Dr. Weber founded Midtown Pain and Spine in 2017 to create a pain clinic unlike all others.

As the only “boutique pain clinic in the area, we offer a collaborative, comprehensive, and patientcentered approach to caring about patients living with pain–whether it be chronic, acute, or complex.

In addition to our non-surgical and interventional pain treatments, we are now offering anti-aging therapy, using cutting-edge technology that includes platelet rich plasma (PRP), stem cell therapy, Botox injections, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

As part of his comprehensive treatment plan, he is now including use of Botox injections to not only treat cosmetic appearance of wrinkles but to relieve pain from conditions such as migraines, TMJ, and excessive sweating.

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Dr. Weber also employs the use of PRP and stem cell therapy as regenerative medicines for joint pain. These cellular therapies, which are effective in treating muscle and tendon injuries and other joint problems, work by modulating the repair and regeneration process which promotes the healing of bone and soft tissue.

In addition to chronic pain conditions, Midtown patients often present with chemical imbalances. By offering hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Weber benefits patients who have low libido, decreased energy levels, night sweats, hot flashes, and sleep disturbance. HRT can be effective for both women and men to support reproductive function, build muscle bulk, and maintain hormone levels.

With Dr. Weber’s extensive background and skill, he and his team offer patients innovative, personalized treatment plans that are transformative. Allow us to put you on the road to new ventures, young and pain-free, by calling for an appointment today.

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2605 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 240, Raleigh, NC 27607

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919.277.9845

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MidtownPainSpine.com

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WHY IS MOUTH BREATHING BAD, AND WHAT CAN BE DONE ABOUT IT?

If you ever sit beside a mouth breather while eating a meal, you will hear the vortex sound of food being crushed by molars as air weaves in and out, trying to escape the food storm via a slight humming sound. Thanks to that humming sound, their epiglottis is on full alert to keep food out of their airway while they practically breath and swallow at the same time. It’s amazing they don’t choke more than they do—no, really! But how are they supposed to know this isn’t normal, or even notice anything at all while their poor brain is trying to manage two different life-sustaining systems at once?

Dr. Jill Sonner, DDS Renaissance Dental Center

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We are in a new era of breathing. For so long people have focused on relaxing breathing “exercises,” but improving your breath is really a requirement for life every second of every day. We are learning so much about our airways, and the challenges an obstructed one can cause. Once we have a healthy airway, we won’t need the exercises—our body will function at the level it was meant to.

Many people have night guards made, and find out they can’t sleep without them.

WELLNESS Q&A |

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They think, “Wow, that dentist cured my grinding, and now I can sleep!” But it’s more likely a bigger feat that they accomplished—improving your whole airway so that your body doesn’t make you grind your teeth in order to keep your airway open.

The doctors at Renaissance Dental Center are committed to studying airway prosthodontics in their continuing education, in order to improve patients’ airways—and, as a result, improve their sleep. Because, after all, air is our most important need in life. Visit Renaissance Dental to see how they can change your life—or, better yet, your sleep!

3803-A Computer Drive, Suite 200, Raleigh, NC 27609

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919.786.6766

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WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL NEUROLOGY? Darcy D. Dane MDiv, DC, DACNB, Owner of Carolina Brain Center

A new concept for many, functional neurology—also called chiropractic neurology—is the clinical evaluation and treatment of the central and peripheral nervous system. Since our brain and body functions go hand-inhand, there are often abnormal muscle movements when the brain is not functioning properly. We see this occur in a number of conditions from concussions and migraines to Lyme or Parkinson’s disease.

Carolina Brain Center provides a high degree of specificity in treatment and neurological care. Through in-house diagnostic testing, Dr. Dane assesses the visual, vestibular, sensory, and motor systems, as well as the patient’s cognitive function. Laboratory, imaging, and outside diagnostics are ordered when necessary.

The effectiveness of CBC’s treatments are attributed in part to Dr. Dane’s chiropractic background, which emphasizes a whole-body view of health and healing, combined with her advanced training in neurology.

The human body and all its systems work together.

People with neurological issues learn quickly that a diagnosis is not enough; they want treatment options, guidance, one-on-one time with their doctor, compassion, and positive outcomes—which is what CBC has to offer.

6404 Falls of Neuse Road, Suite 201, Raleigh, NC 27615 134 | MidtownMag.com

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919.703.0207

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C a r o l i n a B r a i n C e n t e r. c o m

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TMJ Headaches

Stress

Insomnia

Neck Tension Vertigo

Tinnitus

WHAT CAUSES MY PAIN?

Whether you’re dealing with migraines, TMJ, vertigo, back pain, insomnia, or all of the above and more, there’s probably more than one reason for your discomfort. Proper treatment requires a medical professional who has the expertise to consider the full spectrum of issues you’re facing—along with any past or present contributing factors—and can identify what will be most effective.

Solutions for chronic pain typically require interaction among a team of healthcare providers who can address each area causing your pain. But it all starts with a doctor who is a leader in their area of expertise, one who understands how everything is connected and who appreciates that communication among medical and dental professionals is key.

Tracy Davidian DDS, FAACP, LVIF, PA Diplomate, American Board of Craniofacial Pain

Drs. Tracy and Dan Davidian have earned the trust and respect of the patients they serve as well as their colleagues in other medical disciplines. Dr. Tracy sees referrals from across the state because of her reputation for quality, comprehensive care. “People think a TMJ dentist just works with the joint,” she says. “But TMJ has possible connections to migraines, neck pain, ear symptoms, vertigo, unexplained tooth pain, and sleep disorders.”Together, Drs. Tracy and Dan work to improve the overall health and quality of life for every patient they serve.

Proud Supporter of the

Helene Foundation 5904 Six Forks Road, Suite 205, Raleigh, NC 27609

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919.782.9955

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CarolinaTMJ.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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HOW DOES INVISALIGN HELP YOU LIVE LIFE WITHOUT INTERRUPTIONS? Let’s say you’re a busy mom trying to juggle career and family. How do you fit personal care time, such as caring for your teeth and smile, into your busy schedule?

Invisalign makes it easy for you! Invisalign treatment only requires four office visits per year. In addition, patients are able to eat without any restrictions. And the best part of the whole process? Most people won’t even know you’re straightening your teeth.

Dr. Jason Gladwell, of Gladwell Orthodontics, is North Carolina’s No. 1 Invisalign® provider. His credentials are impressive. Dr. Gladwell is a distinguished Invisalign Global Faculty Member, and has been serving the Triangle for more than a decade. As a parent himself, he understands the enormous amount of stress associated with the balancing act of work and family, and strives to make your orthodontic care as effortless and uncomplicated as possible.

Life keeps moving. Make sure your smile keeps up.

Dr. Jason Gladwell

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2824 Rogers Road, Suite 200, Wake Forest, NC 27587 13271 Strickland Road, Suite 100, Raleigh, NC 27613 5 1 0 G l e n w o o d Av e n u e , S u i t e 1 0 0 , R a l e i g h , N C 2 7 6 0 3 919.453.6325 | GladwellOrthodontics.com

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HOW DANGEROUS IS VAPING? Vaping is our newest epidemic, and a marketing misnomer. There is zero water vapor present in e-cigarettes.

Instead, the four main compounds include nicotine, propylene glycol, glycerin, and flavorings. In urinalysis studies, toxic metals like lead, chromium, and manganese by-products have also been found.

Dr. Brent A. Meekins

Although introduced to wean smokers from cigarettes, Juul and other influential companies pushed powerful marketing ads toward teens and young adults as an introductory means to smoking; in fact, teens are about four times more likely to become smokers after vaping due to the efficiency by which e-cigarettes function and volatilize nicotine. A Stanford study found that one pod or cartridge could equal up to two packs of cigarettes.

During and after vaping, lung tissue and other tissues within the mouth and oropharynx become inflamed.

The chemical components in e-cigarette liquids essentially kill the exposed surface of epithelium. It is still too early to understand what other long-term implications can be found within our gums, teeth, and throats, but so far the results are potentially irreversible with high degrees of morbidity and mortality.

2 1 7 W. M i l l b r o o k R o a d , S u i t e B , R a l e i g h , N C 2 7 6 0 9 | 9 1 9 . 7 8 2 . 6 2 8 6 | R a l e i g h M i d t o w n F a m i l y D e n t i s t r y. c o m JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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WHAT SHOULD I BE LOOKING FOR IN AN ANTI-AGING INJECTOR?

Meredith Harris, NP Founder

Seeking treatment for aging related concerns can be a daunting task.

An internet search is often the quickest, most available resource, but what should you be looking for? North Carolina law requires that injectors be licensed in nursing, medicine, or as a physician’s assistant. It is important to consider the amount of experience your aesthetic medicine practitioner has and the number of hours per week they dedicate to injecting, in addition to their ongoing education and educational advancement.

An elite few injectors are chosen to train and educate their peers. As a master injector and national educator and trainer for Allergan, Meredith Harris is a thought leader in aesthetic medicine, and is sought after for her delivery of optimal treatment outcomes.

Meredith Harris is the owner and nurse practitioner of New Life Aesthetics. With 12 years of experience specializing in the art of ageless injectable therapies, Meredith believes that the time she spends educating her guests empowers them to make the right decision for their care.

5816 Creedmoor Road, Suite 103B, Raleigh, NC 27612 | 919.521.8282 | NewLifeAesthetics.com 138 | MidtownMag.com

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HOW IS GUM HEALTH RELATED TO ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA?

Dr. Macon Singletary Diplomate of The American Board of Periodontology

Periodontal disease has long been associated with heart disease, diabetes, stroke, osteoporosis, and cancer. The American Academy of Periodontology (AAP) has now confirmed the link between periodontal health and brain health in a study where almost 100 percent of people with Alzheimer’s had the same bacteria in their brains that is found in plaque, the sticky white substance on teeth that leads to gum disease.

In view of these new findings, the CDC estimates that over 50 percent of Americans over age 30 have some degree of periodontal disease.

This concerning statistic begs the question: What is periodontal disease, and how do I know if I have it?

Periodontal disease is chronic and inflammatory, and affects the gum tissue and bone supporting the teeth.

Signs to look for are bleeding, swelling, and bad taste that lasts for more than a couple of days. Fortunately, periodontal disease can be treated and managed. Dr. Singletary has treated periodontal issues in the Raleigh area for over 25 years and is happy to answer any questions you have.

North Raleigh Periodontics 7 8 0 5 F i e s t a W a y, R a l e i g h , N C 2 7 6 1 6 | 9 1 9 . 5 1 8 . 8 2 2 2 | N o r t h R a l e i g h P e r i o . c o m JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE DRY EYE DISEASE? Contrary to popular belief, Dry Eye Disease is not only an older adult issue.

In fact, it’s the No. 1 vision disease in the U.S. across all age groups due to our increasing use of digital devices, which disrupts the normal blinking pattern.

If blinks are incomplete or infrequent, the surface of our eyes suffer, leading to vision impairment and eye discomfort.

Susan Watson, MD, FACS

“Eye dryness” is only one of the many symptoms one might experience.

The right questions can mean a proper diagnosis is made and treatment can begin sooner.

Four questions to ask are: • Do your eyes ever feel dry or uncomfortable?

• Are you bothered by changes in your vision throughout the day?

• Are you ever bothered by red eyes?

• Do you ever use or feel the urge to use eye drops?

A “yes” answer to any of these prompts evaluation and diagnostic testing.

Early awareness of the presence of Dry Eye Disease, education regarding lifestyle influences, and adherence to treatment recommendations can have a positive, lifelong impact on vision health.

11081 Forest Pines Drive, Suite 120, Raleigh, NC 27614 140 | MidtownMag.com

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252.231.0424

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WELLNESS Q&A |

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HOW DO I CHOOSE A PHYSICAL THERAPIST? When your doctor prescribes physical therapy, it’s important to know that you can choose the clinic that’s best for you. And not all PT clinics are created equal.

CORA is an industry leader, with proven superior outcomes and a focus on getting every patient back to life as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

In fact, through direct access, you can start physical therapy even without a prescription. Our complimentary assessments identify the source of pain and pinpoint how we can help. Call to schedule today.

Apex 919.626.9799 | Chapel Hill 919.929.5686 | Clayton 919.773.4086 Leesville 919.822.8198 | Falls Pointe 919.421.8490 | Fuquay-Varina 919.557.3017 Visit us online to find the location nearest you.

C o r a P h y s i c a l T h e r a p y. c o m

WHAT CAN CBD BE USED FOR? CBD can help with things like workout recovery, inflammation and pain, stress reduction, and overall health and wellness. Peak City CBD is crafted by a chemist and made with the key cannabinoids and terpenes that can help with muscle recovery; some people take it pre- and post-workout.

Peak City CBD is a family owned company, and offers locally grown, Triangle–produced CBD products. Listen to their podcast or visit their blog at PeakCityCBD.com to learn more about CBD and how it can benefit you.

Info@PeakCityCBD.com 833.223.5253 | PeakCityCBD.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Roman Szpond Owner

BEST YOGA AND PILATES STUDIO

Gratitude Hot Yoga Center is locally owned-and-operated by Roman Szpond. With Roman’s 20 + years of experience, he and his leadership team have refined a proven process that makes yoga accessible, enjoyable and gets results. Come and experience why we were voted among the best yoga studios in Raleigh.

MENTION MIDTOWN MAGAZINE FOR TWO WEEKS OF UNLIMITED YOGA FOR $25!

10501 Shadowlawn Drive #109, Raleigh | 919.307.3325 | GratitudeHotYoga.com

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DINING GUIDE

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MIDTOWN MINGLES

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NEW AROUND TOWN

PAPA SHOGUN

Triangle Restaurant Week January 20–26

Photo by Carolina Stamey

TriRestaurantWeek.com

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Dine & Draft A FOODIE GUIDE TO RALEIGH

American 41HUNDRED 4100 Main at North Hills Street 919.278.1478 41HundredRestaurant.com BERKELEY CAFE 217 W. Martin Street | 919.828.9190 Facebook.com/BerkeleyRaleigh BLOOMSBURY BISTRO 509-101 W. Whitaker Mill Road 919.834.9011 | BloomsburyBistro.com TROPHY TAP + TABLE 225 S. Wilmington Street 919.424.7817 | TrophyBrewing.com CAMERON BAR AND GRILL 2018 Clark Avenue | 919.755.2231 CameronBarAndGrill.com

KINGS 141 Park at North Hills Street 919.600.5700 | KingsBowlAmerica.com

LYNNWOOD GRILL & BREWING CONCERN 4821 Grove Barton Road 919.785.0043 | LynnwoodGrill.com MIDTOWN GRILLE 4421 Six Forks Road | 919.782.9463 TheMidtownGrille.com

NORTH RIDGE PUB 6010 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.9125 | NorthRidgePub.com

VILLAGE GRILL 8470 Honeycut Road | 919.890.5340 VillageGrillRaleigh.com

NI ASIAN KITCHEN 8817 Six Forks Road 919.916.5106 | NiAsianKitchen.com

WINSTON’S GRILLE 6401 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.0700 | WinstonsGrille.com

ORCHID JAPANESE RESTAURANT 7432 Creedmoor Road | 919.890.5345 OrchidJapaneseBuffet.com

YARD HOUSE 4208 Six Forks Road 919.881.2590 | YardHouse.com

ZEST CAFE & HOME ART 8831 Six Forks Road 919.848.4792 | ZestCafeHomeArt.com

Asian

SHABASHABU 3080 Wake Forest Road 919.501.7755 | Shabashabu.net SONO 319 Fayetteville Street 919.521.5328 | SonoRaleigh.com SUSHI BLUES CAFE 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.664.8061 | SushiBluesCafe.com SPRING ROLLS RESTAURANT 4361 Lassiter at North Hills | 919.783.8180

ORO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE 18 E. Martin Street 919.239.4010 | OroRaleigh.com

BIDA MANDA 222 S. Blount Street 919.829.9999 | BidaManda.com

PLATES NEIGHBORHOOD KITCHEN 301 Glenwood Avenue 919.828.0018 | PlatesKitchen.com

BREWERY BHAVANA 218 S. Blount Street 919.829.9998 | BreweryBhavana.com

THE POINT AT GLENWOOD 1626 Glenwood Avenue | 919.755.1007 ThePointAtGlenwood.com

BU•KU 1228 Heritage Links Drive | Wake Forest 919.435.1595 | BukuWakeForest.com

SECOND EMPIRE RESTAURANT AND TAVERN 330 Hillsborough Street 919.829.3663 | Second-Empire.com

CHAI’S ASIAN BISTRO 8347 Creedmoor Road 919.341.3715 | ChaisAsianBistro.com

STANBURY 938 N. Blount Street | 919.977.4321 StanburyRestaurant.com

CHAMPA THAI & SUSHI 8521 Brier Creek Parkway 919.806.0078 | ChampaThaiSushi.com

Bakery & Desserts

TASTE 1912 Bernard Street | 919.948.7815 JMRKitchens.com/Taste

CO 101 Park at North Hills Street 919.258.2070 | EatAtCO.com

ANISETTE 209 Bickett Boulevard 919.758.3565 | SweetAnisette.com

THE OAK 4035 Lake Boone Trail | 919.787.9100 JMRKitchens.com/Oak

DAVID’S DUMPLING & NOODLE BAR 1900 Hillsborough Street 919.239.4536 | DDandNB.com

ANNELORE’S GERMAN BAKERY 1249 Farmers Market Drive | 919.294.8040 Facebook.com/AnneloresGermanBakery

THE PLAYERS’ RETREAT 105 Oberlin Road 919.755.9589 | PlayersRetreat.net

FIVE STAR RESTAURANT 511 W. Hargett Street 919.833.3311 | FiveStarRaleigh.com

BITTERSWEET 16 E. Martin Street | 919.977.3829 BittersweetRaleigh.com

HAYES BARTON CAFE 2000 Fairview Road | 919.856.8551 ImaginaryStudioOnline.com/hayes

THE RALEIGH TIMES BAR 14 E. Hargett Street | 919.833.0999 RaleighTimesBar.com

IMPERIAL GARDEN 7713 Lead Mine Road | 919.846.1988 ImperialGardenRestaurant.com

BOULTED BREAD 614 W. South Street 919.999.3984 | BoultedBread.com

IRIS RESTAURANT 2110 Blue Ridge Road | 919.664.6838 NCArtMuseum.org/Visit/Dining

THE ROCKFORD 320 Glenwood Avenue | 919.821.9020 TheRockfordRestaurant.com

LEMONGRASS THAI RESTAURANT 8320 Litchford Road #142 | 919.954.0377 LemongrassThaiRestaurant.net

DUCK DONUTS 8323 Creedmoor Road 919.847.3800 | DuckDonuts.com

CAPITAL CLUB 16 16 W. Martin Street 919.747.9345 | CapitalClub16.com CARROLL’S KITCHEN 19 E. Martin Street 919.670.3622 | CarrollsKitchen.org CLOCKWORK 519 W. North Street 919.307.3215 | ClockWorkRaleigh.com CRAWFORD AND SON 618 N. Person Street | 919.307.4647 CrawfordAndSonRestaurant.com DEATH & TAXES 105 W. Hargett Street | 984.242.0218 AC-Restaurants.com/Death-Taxes EDWARDS MILL BAR & GRILL 3201 Edwards Mill Road | 919.783.5447 EdwardsMillBarAndGrill.com GLENWOOD GRILL 2603 Glenwood Avenue #151 919.782.3102 | GlenwoodGrill.com

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VISIT MIDTOWNMAG.COM FOR A COMPLETE LISTING

5433 Wade Park Boulevard 919.803.1118 | SpringRollsRestaurant.com SUSHI O BISTRO + SUSHI BAR 222 Glenwood Avenue 919.838.8868 SushioRaleighNC.com THAIPHOON BISTRO 301 Glenwood Avenue #190 919.720.4034 | ThaiphoonBistro.com WARAJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 5910 Duraleigh Road | 919.783.1883 WarajiJapaneseRestaurant.com

EDIBLE ART BAKERY & DESSERT CAFÉ 4351-115 The Circle at North Hills 919.856.0604 | EdibleArtNC.com

ESCAZÚ ARTISAN CHOCOLATES 936 N. Blount Street | 919.832.3433 EscazuChocolates.com GOODBERRY’S FROZEN CUSTARD 2421 Spring Forest Road | 919.878.8159

THE PHARMACY CAFE NEW WORLD CAFE 702 N. Person Street 4112 Pleasant Valley Road 919.786.0091 | NewWorldCoffeeHouse.com 919.832.6432 | PersonStreetRX.com

Burger & Hot Dog

SIR WALTER COFFEE 145 E. Davie Street 919.322.0019 | SirWalterCoffee.com

BAD DADDY’S BURGER BAR 3300 Village Market Place 919.297.0953 BadDaddysBurgerBar.com

VINOS FINOS TAPAS AND WINE BAR 8450 Honeycutt Road | 919.747.9233 VinosFinosyPicadas.com

Carribbean

9700 Strickland Road | 919.676.8580 2042 Clark Avenue 919.833.9998 | Goodberrys.com HAYES BARTON CAFE 2000 Fairview Road | 919.856.8551 HayesBartonCafeAndDessertery.com

CHOW 8311 Creedmoor Road 919.841.4995 | ChowRaleigh.com

CARIBBEAN CAFÉ 2645 E. Millbrook Road | 919.872.4858 CaribbeanCafeNC.com

THE COWFISH SUSHI BURGER BAR 4208 Six Forks Road | 919.784.0400 TheCowfish.com

JAMAICAN GRILLE 5500 Atlantic Springs Road 919.873.0200

LUCETTEGRACE 235 S. Salisbury Street 919.307.4950 | LucetteGrace.com

CLOOS’ CONEY ISLAND 2233 Avent Ferry Road | 919.834.3354

LEE’S KITCHEN 4638 Capital Boulevard | 919.872.7422 LeesKitchenJamaican.com

PREMIER CAKES 6617 Falls of Neuse Road #105 919.703.0095 | Premier-Cakes.com

MOJOE’S BURGER JOINT 620 Glenwood Avenue | 919.832.6799 MoJoesBurgerJoint.com

YELLOW DOG BREAD COMPANY 219 E. Franklin Street | 984.232.0291 Facebook.com/YellowDogBread

PHARAOH’S GRILL AT NORTH HILLS 4421 Six Forks Road | 919.420.0840

VIDERI CHOCOLATE FACTORY 327 W. Davie Street | 919.755.5053 VideriChocolateFactory.com

BBQ BIG AL’S BBQ 2920 Forestville Road | 919.217.0653 BigAlsBBQAndCatering.com CLYDE COOPER’S BBQ 327 S. Wilmington Street 919.832.7614 | ClydeCoopersBBQ.com OLE TIME BARBECUE 6309 Hillsborough Street 919.859.2544 | OleTimeBarbecue.com THE PIT AUTHENTIC BARBECUE 328 W. Davie Street | 919.890.4500 ThePit-Raleigh.com

SNOOPY’S HOT DOGS 600 Hillsborough Street 919.839.2176 | Snoopys.com

Cafe BENELUX COFFEE 402 Oberlin Road | 919.900.8294 BeneluxCoffee.com DESPINA’S CAFÉ 8369 Creedmoor Road 919.848.5007 | DespinasCafe.com JUBALA COFFEE 4300 Honeycutt Road | 919.758.8330 JubalaCoffee.com KALE ME CRAZY 2018 Cameron Street 919.239.4660 | KaleMeCrazy.net

Breakfast/Specialty

MANHATTAN CAFE 320 S. Wilmington Street 919.833.6105 | ManhattanCafeNC.com

ANOTHER BROKEN EGG CAFE 160 Park at North Hills Street 919.307.8195 | AnotherBrokenEgg.com

PINE STATE COFFEE 1614 Automotive Way PineStateCoffee.com

BRIGS 8111 Creedmoor Road 919.870.0994 | Brigs.com

SOLA COFFEE 7705 Lead Mine Road 919.803.8983 | SolaCoffee.com

JUBALA COFFEE 8450 Honeycutt Road 919.758.8330 | JubalaCoffee.com THE MORNING TIMES 10 E. Hargett Street | 919.836.1204 MorningTimes-Raleigh.com

MUM’S JAMAICAN RESTAURANT 3901 Capital Boulevard | 919.615.2332 MumsJamaicanFood.com

Catering CATERING WORKS 2319 Laurelbrook Street 919.828.5932 | CateringWorks.com DONOVAN’S DISH 10251 Little Brier Creek Lane #107 919.651.8309 | DonovansDish.com EMPIRE EATS CATERING 919.582.9470 EmpireEatsCatering.com

THE GARDEN ON MILLBROOK CATERING 2400 E. Millbrook Road 919.790.8900 TheGardenOnMillbrook.com

ROCKY TOP CATERING 1705 E. Millbrook Road 919.850.2340 | RockyTopCatering.com SOUTHLAND BBQ CATERING 5000 Departure Drive | 919.757.4972 SouthlandBBQCatering.com

GROUCHO’S DELI 10 Horne Street 919.977.7747 | Grouchos.com LINUS & PEPPER’S 126 S. Salisbury Street | 919.833.3866 LUNCH BOX DELI 2816 Trawick Road | 919.872.7882 POPPYSEED MARKET 8801 Lead Mine Road 919.870.4997 | PoppyseedMkt.com VILLAGE DELI & GRILL 500 Daniels Street 919.828.1428 | VillageDeli.net

French CREPE TRADITIONS 141 Park at North Hills Street 919.977.3425 | CrepeTraditions.com COQUETTE BRASSERIE 4531 The Circle at North Hills 919.789.0606 | CoquetteRaleigh.com JOLIE 620 N. Person Street 919.803.7221 | RestaurantJolie.com ROYALE 200 E. Martin Street | 919.977.3043 SAINT JACQUES 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | 919.862.2770 SaintJacquesFrenchCuisine.com SIMPLY CRÊPES 8470 Honeycutt Road 919.322.2327 | SimplyCrepes.com

German J. BETSKI’S 10 W. Franklin Street 919.833.7999 | JBetskis.com

Indian AZITRA 8411 Brier Creek Parkway 919.484.3939 | Azitra.com GARLAND 14 W. Martin Street | 919.833.6886 GarlandRaleigh.com

IRREGARDLESS CATERING 901 W. Morgan Street 919.610.0872 IrregardlessCatering.com

KADHAI THE INDIAN WOK 6260-112 Glenwood Avenue 919.785.2864 TheIndianExpressKadhai.com

SOSTA CAFE 130 E. Davie Street 919.833.1006 | SostaCafe.com

Deli/Sandwiches

ROYAL INDIA 3901 Capital Boulevard 919.981.0849 | RoyalIndianNC.com

THE DAILY PLANET CAFE 121 W. Jones Street | 919.707.8060 TheDailyPlanetCafe.com

THE COMMUNITY DELI 901 Oberlin Road | 919.896.6810 TheCommunityDeli.com

TAJ MAHAL INDIAN CUISINE 6611 Falls of Neuse Road | 919.848.2262 TajMahalIndianRaleigh.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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THE WILD COOK’S INDIAN GRILL 3212 Hillsborough Street 984.232.8530 | WildCooksGrill.com ZAYKA INDIAN CUISINE 10410 Moncreiffe Road | Suite 103 919.361.5370 | ZaykaRaleigh.com

Irish THE HIBERNIAN 311 Glenwood Avenue | 919.833.2258 8021 Falls Of Neuse Road 919.803.0290 | HibernianPub.com SAINTS & SCHOLARS IRISH PUB 909 Spring Forest Road | 919.878.8828 SaintsAndScholarsPub.com TRA’LI IRISH PUB 10370 Moncreiffe Road | Suite 109 919.544.4141 | TraliIrishPub.com

Italian AMEDEO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3905 Western Boulevard 919.851.0473 AmedeosRestaurant.com ASSAGGIO ITALIAN RESTUARANT 3501 W. Millbrook Road 919.785.2088 | Assaggios-NC.com

BELLA MONICA 3121 Edwards Mill Road 919.881.9778 | BellaMonica.com BRUNO SEAFOOD & STEAKS 11211 Galleria Avenue 919.435.6640 | BrunoRaleigh.com CAFE TIRAMISU 6008 Falls of Neuse Road 919.790.1006 | CafeTiramisu.net

CAFFÉ LUNA 136 E. Hargett Street 919.832.6090 | CafeLuna.com

MULINO ITALIAN KITCHEN & BAR 309 N. Dawson Street 919.838.8595 | MulinoRaleigh.com PICCOLA ITALIA 423 Woodburn Road 919.833.6888 | PiccolaItaliaNC.com JIMMY V’S OSTERIA + BAR 420 Fayetteville Street 919.256.1451 | JimmyVsRaleigh.com

MIA FRANCESCA 4100 Main at North Hills Street #114 919.278.1525 MiaFrancescaRaleigh.com

Mediterranean FRESH LEVANT BISTRO 8450 Honeycutt Road 984.200.3999 | FreshLevant.com JASMIN MEDITERRANEAN BISTRO 424 E. Six Forks Road 919.743.3336 | JasminBistro.com MONA PITA MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 5260 Capital Boulevard 919.431.6500 | MonaPita.com NEOMONDE 3817 Beryl Road 919.828.1628 | Neomonde.com

CAPRI RESTAURANT 6325 Falls of Neuse Road 919.878.4424 | CapriRest.com

NINA’S RISTORANTE 8801 Lead Mine Road | 919.845.1122 NinasRestaurant.com

THE OLIVE WAGON 8490 Honeycutt Road #106 919.845.7266 | TheOliveWagon.com

CASA CARBONE RISTORANTE ITALIANO 6019 Glenwood Avenue 919.781.8750 | CasaCarbone.com

VIC’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA 331 Blake Street | 919.829.7090

SASSOOL 9650 Strickland Road 919.847.2700 | Sassool.com

FARINA NEIGHBORHOOD ITALIAN 8450 Honeycutt Road 919.890.0143 | FarinaRaleigh.com

4035 Lake Boone Trail 984.200.9292 VicsItalianRestaurant.com

SITTI 137 S. Wilmington Street 919.239.4070 | Sitti-Raleigh.com

GRAVY 135 S. Wilmington Street 919.896.8513 | GravyRaleigh.com

VIVACE 4209 Lassiter Mill Road 919.787.7747 | VivaceRaleigh.com

TAVERNA AGORA 326 Hillsborough Street 919.881.8333 | TavernaAgora.com

Sweet. Southern. Scratch-made. Since 1982.

Call today to advertise

HERE! 919.782.4710 MidtownMag.com BEST CAKES AND SWEETS

919.856.0604 • edibleartnc.com 4351-115 The Circle at North Hills 146 | MidtownMag.com

TAZA GRILL 6325 Falls of Neuse Road 919.872.7161 | TazaGrill.com VIDRIO 500 Glenwood Avenue #100 919.803.6033 | VidrioRaleigh.com

Mexican BAJA BURRITO 2109 Avent Ferry Road #108 919.834.3431 | BajaBurrito.net CAFE CAPISTRANO 8471 Garvey Drive | 919.872.1127 CafeCapistrano.com CANTINA 18 433 Daniels Street | 919.835.9911 18RestaurantGroup.com CENTRO 106 S. Wilmington Street 919.835.3593 | CentroRaleigh.com DOS TAQUITOS 410 Glenwood Avenue 919.835.9010 | DosTaquitosNorth.com EL DORADO 2811 Brentwood Road | 919.872.8440 8111 Creedmoor Road | 919.848.0788 ElDoradoMexicanRestaurant.com GALLO PELÓN MEZCALERIA 106 S. Wilmington Street 919.835.3593 | GalloPelon.com GONZA TACOS Y TEQUILA 7713 Lead Mine Road | 919.846.5478 2100 Hillsborough Street | 919.268.8965 GonzaTacosyTequila.com GRINGO A GO GO 100 N. Person Street 919.977.1438 | GringoRaleigh.com JOSE AND SONS 327 W. Davie Street 919.755.0556 | JoseAndSons.com LA CARRETA 1028 Oberlin Road 919.977.3271 | LaCarretaAVL.com

BEST SEAFOOD

LA RANCHERITA 2400 Hillsborough Street 919.755.9697 | RancheritaMex.com LOS TRES MAGUEYES 10410 Moncreiffe Road 919.484.9258 | LosTresNC.com THE ORIGINAL FLYING BURRITO 4800 Grove Barton Road | 919.785.2734 OriginalFlyingBurrito.com SAN JOSE MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5811 Poyner Village Parkway 919.790.1919 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Celebrating 45 years in the Triangle

Pizzeria CRISTO’S NY STYLE PIZZA 1302 E. Milbrook Road 919.872.6797 | CristosPizza.com DEMO’S PIZZERIA & DELI 222 Glenwood Avenue | 919.754.1050 DemosPizzeriaDeli.com

Award-Winning Farm-To-Fork Fare

DONATOS 111 Seaboard Avenue 919.828.5111 | Donatos.com LILLY’S PIZZA 1813 Glenwood Avenue 919.833.0226 | LillysPizza.com MOONLIGHT PIZZA COMPANY 615 W. Morgan Street 919.755.9133 | MoonlightPizza.com PIZZA LA STELLA 219 Fayetteville Street 984.200.2441 | PizzaLaStella.com STROMBOLI’S EXPRESS 2900 Spring Forest Road 919.876.4222 | StrombolisExpress.com

Live Music | Tues-Sun Saturday Night Jazz from 9-11pm Join us for Veganuary and Triangle Restaurant Week

Café 919.833.8898 | irregardless.com Urban Garden | wellfedgarden.org

North Ridge YOUR LOCAL NEIGHBORHOOD PUB WITH AN UPSCALE TWIST AND AFFORDABLE OPTIONS.

6010 Falls of Neuse Road Raleigh, NC 27609

919.790.9125 | N o r t h R i d g e P u b . c o m 148 | MidtownMag.com

THE PIZZA TIMES 210 S. Wilmington Street 919.832.4411 | RaleighTimesPizza.com TROPHY BREWING + PIZZA 827 W. Morgan Street 919.803.4849 | TrophyBrewing.com

Seafood 42ND STREET OYSTER BAR 508 W. Jones Street | 919.831.2811 42ndStOysterBar.com CAPTAIN STANLEY’S SEAFOOD 3333 S. Wilmington Street 919.779.7878 Facebook.com/CaptainStanleys

SHUCKERS OYSTER BAR & GRILL 3009 Rogers Road, Wake Forest 919.453.1593 | ShuckersGrill.com

South American ALPACA PERUVIAN CHARCOAL CHICKEN 4614 Capital Boulevard 919.713.0000 AlpacaChicken.com BARCELONA WINE BAR 430 W. Martin Street 919.808.5400 BarcelonaWineBar.com GUASACA AREPA & SALSA GRILL 4025 Lake Boone Trail 919.322.4928 | Guasaca.com MAMI NORA’S 2401 Wake Forest Road 919.834.8572 | MamiNoras.com OAKWOOD CAFE 300 E. Edenton Street | 919.828.5994 OakwoodCafeRaleigh.com VINOS FINOS TAPAS AND WINE BAR 8450 Honeycutt Road | 919.747.9233 VinosFinosyPicadas.com

Southern BEASLEY’S CHICKEN + HONEY 237 S. Wilmington Street | 919.322.0127 AC-Restaurants.com/Beasleys BIG ED’S CITY MARKET RESTAURANT 220 Wolfe Street | 919.836.9909 BigEdsCityMarket.com DRIFTWOOD SOUTHERN KITCHEN 8460 Honeycutt Road 919.977.8360 | DriftwoodRaleigh.com HUMBLE PIE 317 S. Harrington Street | 919.829.9222 HumblePieRestaurant.com

CAPE FEAR SEAFOOD COMPANY 832 Spring Forest Road | 984.242.4600 CapeFearSeafoodCompany.com

MANDOLIN 2519 Fairview Road | 919.322.0365 MandolinRaleigh.com

COUSIN’S MAINE LOBSTER 411 W. Morgan Street | 919.867.6203 CousinsMaineLobster.com

NOFO @ THE PIG 2014 Fairview Road 919.821.1240 | Nofo.com

MARGAUX’S RESTAURANT 8111 Creedmoor Road | 919.846.9846 MargauxsRestaurant.com

PAM’S FARMHOUSE 5111 Western Boulevard 919.859.9990 Facebook.com/PamsFarmhouse

MASON’S FAMOUS LOBSTER ROLLS 4121 Main at North Hills Street #100 984.200.1845 | MasonsLobster.com

POOLE’S DINER 426 S. McDowell Street 919.832.4477 AC-Restaurants.com/Pooles

SALTWATER SEAFOOD MARKET AND FRY SHACK 4 Fenton Street | 919.834.1813 SaltWaterSeafoodNC.com

RELISH CAFÉ & BAR 5625 Creedmoor Road 919.787.1855 | RelishRaleigh.com

RYE BAR & SOUTHERN KITCHEN 500 Fayetteville Street 919.227.3370 | RyeRaleigh.com

COUSINSMAINELOBSTER

COUSINSMAINELOB

CMLOBSTERRALEIGH

STATE FARMERS’ MARKET RESTAURANT 1240 Farmers Market Drive 919.755.1550 | RealBiscuits.com FLYING BISCUIT CAFÉ 2016 Clark Avenue 919.833.6924 | FlyingBiscuit.com THE MECCA RESTAURANT 13 E. Martin Street | 919.832.5714 Mecca-Restaurant.com

Steakhouse ANGUS BARN 9401 Glenwood Avenue 919.791.2444 | AngusBarn.com

The Best of Raleigh 4 years in a row !

Come and taste what the BUZZ is about at our RALEIGH-AREA FOOD TRUCKS and MORGAN STREET FOOD HALL. We also CATER!

BRASA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE 8551 Brier Creek Parkway 919.544.3344 | BrasaSteakHouse.com SULLIVAN’S STEAKHOUSE 410 Glenwood Avenue, Suite 100 919.833.2888 | SullivansSteakhouse.com

BEST FOOD TRUCK

VINNIE’S STEAK HOUSE AND TAVERN 7440 Six Forks Road | 919.847.7319 VinniesSteakHouse.com

BEST FOOD TRUCK FOOD TRUCKS | MORGAN FOOD STREET HALL | CATERING

COUSINSMAINELOBSTER.COM | 919.867.6203

Vegetarian/Vegan DICED 1028 Oberlin Road 919.307.3613 | DicedSalads.com FICTION KITCHEN 428 S. Dawson Street | 919.831.4177 TheFictionKitchen.com FRESH LEVANT BISTRO 8450 Honeycutt Road | 984.200.3999 FreshLevant.com GRABBAGREEN 4421 Six Forks Road #103 919.326.7799 HAPPY + HALE 443 Fayetteville Steet | 919.307.4148 200 Park at North Hills Street #101 984.200.3802 | HappyAndHale.com

IRREGARDLESS CAFE 901 W. Morgan Street 919.833.8898 | Irregardless.com

RALEIGH RAW 7 W. Hargett Street 919.400.0944 | RaleighRaw.com THE REMEDY DINER 137 E. Hargett Street 919.835.3553 | TheRemedyDiner.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo by Charles Harris

Events

‘ North Carolina 'Cuegrass Festival April 18 Downtown Raleigh’s Warehouse District The Pit’s annual ‘Cuegrass Festival features a jam-packed day full of great ‘cue, local brews, and toe-tappin’ bluegrass music.

Cuegrass.com

2020

20

MUST-SEE EVENTS IN

Chinese Lantern Festival

Triangle Restaurant Week

January 1–12

January 20–26

8003 Regency Parkway, Cary Koka Booth Amphitheatre in Cary will once again be transformed into a magnificent setting with the return of the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival, featuring all-new lanterns.

BoothAmphitheatre.com

Throughout the Triangle During Triangle Restaurant Week, participating restaurants offer special three-course menu options and fixed pricing, a great opportunity for residents and visitors to indulge in the area’s finest cuisine!

It’s a great time to visit reinvented restaurants like Papa Shogun, which re-opened in December with a re-imagined menu and setting.

TriRestaurantWeek.com

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African American Cultural Celebration January 25, 10:30am–4:30pm 5 E Edenton Street, Raleigh Join the statewide kickoff to Black History Month at the North Carolina Museum of History.

This event will feature musicians, storytellers, dancers, chefs, historians, playwrights, authors, artists, and more.

NCMuseumOfHistory.org

Krispy Kreme Challenge February 1, 8am 2011 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh The Krispy Kreme Challenge is a studentrun, charity-based race in support of the N.C. Children’s Hospital. Participants begin at the Memorial Belltower on N.C. State’s campus and travel 2.5 miles throughout historic downtown Raleigh to Krispy Kreme. After attempting to eat a dozen original glazed doughnuts, they must run 2.5 miles back to the belltower in order to complete the challenge.

KrispyKremeChallenge.com

Raleigh Half Marathon

Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival March 14 Downtown Raleigh Celebrate your Irish pride or simply your love of Irish beer at the Raleigh St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival. Enjoy live music, a parade, an array of vendors, and much more.

RaleighStPats.org

Art in Bloom March 19–22 2110 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh This annual festival of art and flowers takes place at the North Carolina Museum of Art. The event features more than 50 floral masterpieces, each created by a world-class designer and inspired by a piece of art in the museum’s collection.

NCArtMuseum.org

February 22

Photo courtesy of NC Museum of Art

Crabtree Creek Greenway, Raleigh The Raleigh Half Marathon is back for 2020! This year’s course will take place on the Crabtree Creek Trail, starting by the recently redeveloped Gateway Plaza and running to Anderson Point Park and back.

RaleighHalfMarathon.com

MY Wellness Summit March 1, 8am–5pm 500 N. Blount Street, Raleigh Join Midtown Yoga for the inaugural MY Wellness Summit at the MerrimonWynne House. Take a deep dive into your wellness with a day of panels, restorative workshops, keynote speakers, and fireside chats with proactive thought leaders.

MidtownYogaStudios.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Photo by RL Photography

Brewgaloo April 24–25 400 Fayetteville Street, Raleigh Brewgaloo, presented by Shop Local Raleigh, is North Carolina’s largest craft beer festival, featuring local beer, food trucks, live music, vendors, and the best of all things local.

ShopLocalRaleigh.org

Sola Hot Mini 5K March 28 7705 Lead Mine Road, Raleigh The Sola Hot Mini 5K is now in its seventh year! The 2020 race will raise funds to support the Duke ALS Clinic alongside the Team Drea Foundation.

SolaHotMini5K.com

Live & Local Spring Fest April 11 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh This spring celebration is your chance to join our community in celebrating the unique art, music, food, and beer of North Carolina.

Come out to Hillsborough Street for an afternoon of performances, food trucks, and craft beers.

LiveAndLocalHillsboroughSt.com

Got to Be NC Festival May 15–17 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh Join your friends and family for three great days of down-home celebration North Carolina– style at the Got to Be NC Festival at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds.

GotToBeNCFestival.com

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Artsplosure May 16–17 Downtown Raleigh Known as Raleigh’s arts festival, attendees can enjoy artwork by over 170 juried fine artists and craftspeople exhibiting original works of art in 10 different categories. Artists’ booths will line Fayetteville Street amongst music, art installations, food trucks, and more.

RaleighArtsFestival.com

Raleigh RunDown Downhill Mile June 12 Centennial Parkway, Raleigh Looking to run your fastest mile? We have the race for you! The Raleigh RunDown is the fastest mile in North Carolina. Starting atop Centennial Parkway and heading down, this race is your chance for a personal record.

RaleighRundown.com

Summer Daze Music Festival

Wide Open Bluegrass

August 15, 12–11pm

September 29–October 3

4011 Cardinal at North Hills Street, Raleigh Bring your crew and head to the Coastal Credit Union Midtown Park at North Hills for a variety of great tunes, local vendors, and food trucks.

SummerDazeFestival.com

Downtown Raleigh Wide Open Bluegrass is the largest integrated platform for bluegrass music in the world. This one-of-a-kind urban bluegrass festival features free music on eight stages, a dance tent, tons of art, and craft and food vendors.

WorldOfBluegrass.org

Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival August 22–23

October 15–25 1025 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh Celebrate everything that is uniquely North Carolina at the N.C. State Fair, taking place in 2020 from October 15th–25th. Guests can enjoy food, vendors, rides, games, livestock shows, live music, and fireworks.

NCStateFair.org

Photo courtesy of My EP Events

Academy Street, Cary This two-day event will feature over 300 artists, live music, children’s activities, and a variety of food and drink vendors.

TownOfCary.org

N.C. State Fair

City of Oaks Marathon November 1 Throughout Raleigh Lace up your running shoes and get ready to run Raleigh’s hometown race! The 14th annual City of Oaks Marathon is returning on November 1st with a distance for everyone. Tour the City of Oaks on foot and enjoy a post-race party equipped with live music and free beer.

CapstoneRaces.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Midtown MINGLES URBAN MINISTRIES’ STONE SOUP SUPPER

ZENN PLASTIC SURGERY HOSTS MIX, MINGLE & ‘MARY’MENT

Photos by Kathleen Nolis Photography

MARYment was in the air when Zenn Plastic Surgery celebrated their annual Mix, Mingle & MARYment open house event— a fun-filled party featuring great swag for the many guests who attended.

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Photos By Josh Manning / Jericho 7 Films

Photo courtesy of Urban Ministries

Members of our staff enjoyed tasting soups from Raleigh’s top restaurants at Urban Ministries of Wake County’s 15th annual Stone Soup Supper fundraiser. Congratulations to the “Soup”erior chefs of the evening—Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant with their Brunswick Stew, and BRAISE Contemporary Southern with their Jerk Chicken Corn Chowder. The event raised more than $107,000 to support the organization’s missions.

MEDSPA GRAND RE-OPENING RAFFLE BENEFITS PRETTY IN PINK FOUNDATION The MedSpa teamed up with the staff of Raleigh Plastic Surgery Center to host their annual holiday party and open house. This year guests were welcomed into the newly updated and redecorated practice for their grand reopening. The event featured a fundraising raffle benefiting Pretty In Pink Foundation, which raised over $2,300!

Attendees were greeted with swag bags, giveaways, a sensational spread of food and cocktails, and holiday merriment!

Photos by Arika Jordan Photography

LOCAL AUTHOR AND PHILANTHROPIST HOLDS BOOK SIGNING Jess Ekstrom, a Raleigh native and founder and CEO of Headbands of Hope, celebrated the launch of her bestselling book, Chasing the Bright Side, at a special book signing at Kendra Scott in North Hills.

The fun-filled event featured Champagne, refreshments, and books and headbands available for purchase.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Midtown MINGLES

BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY SPREADS HOLIDAY CHEER TO CHILDREN Bailey’s Fine Jewelry hosted children from the Salvation Army’s afterschool program for an afternoon of holiday cheer. The children, ranging in age from 5 to 8, enjoyed sweets from The Cupcake Shoppe, sent letters to Santa, received gift cards from Crabtree Valley Mall, and had the opportunity to meet and take pictures with Bruce the Spruce.

MARTA’S HOSTS DESIGNER SHOWCASE Gene Kagan, owner and designer of Lola & Sophie, made a personal appearance at Marta’s, allowing retail clients to schedule one-on-one appointments with him. Marta’s donated 15 percent of the event’s proceeds to WakeMed Children’s Hospital.

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HOME & GARDEN COMING IN MARCH / APRIL

Showcase your new developments, design professionals, and winning landscapes in our special section for home and garden.

Space Closing: February 3rd

Materials Due: February 7th

919.782.4710 | MidtownMag.com | advertise@midtownmag.com

Midtown MINGLES

ST. TIMOTHY’S SCHOOL BREAKS GROUND ON 1.5 NEW ACRES St. Timothy’s celebrated a groundbreaking for 1.5 acres of new outdoor space that will include a multi-use field, amphitheatre, loop trail, and playground.

Lower and Middle School homerooms contributed small items such as a class photo, thumb drive, pencil and STS car magnet to a time capsule that will be buried on site and opened again in 25 years.

ICG HOMES TAKES MULTIPLE AWARDS IN 2019 PARADE OF HOMES ICG Homes was honored with awards for five entries in the 2019 Triangle Parade of Homes—North Carolina’s largest open house tour, presented by the Home Builders Association of Raleigh–Wake County and the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties. ICG’s awards included two gold awards in addition to a perfect score award, which is a coveted accomplishment.

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MIDTOWN ART CONSULTING FALL FOR ART EVENT Midtown Art Consulting hosted a Fall for Art event at the Transfer Co. Ballroom in downtown Raleigh. The show featured works from four local professional artists as well as an Artists’ Panel Discussion led by Vivian Howard, wife of artist Ben Knight and chef and co-owner of Chef & the Farmer in Kinston. Hundreds of guests attended the event, including several prominent local art collectors.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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NEW Around Town ROSEWATER KITCHEN & BAR OPENS IN NORTH HILLS

110 Park at North Hills Street 919.424.7886 | RosewaterRaleigh.com

A devot ion to pu rpos e ful foo d c ultu re brought to us by the pere nnial garden

W E L C O M E T O RO S E WAT E R . . .

ROW HOUSE OPENS FIRST LOCATION IN NORTH CAROLINA

Photos By Josh Manning / Jericho 7 Films

Veteran restaurateur Giorgios Bakatsias, founder of esteemed NorthCarolina restaurants including Parizade and Bin 54, has chosen North Hills for his newest venture. Rosewater Kitchen & Bar, conceived as a lush and romantic European-style garden bistro, is a festive, light-filled setting for gathering and feasting. Guests are invited to curate their dining experience with sharable dishes complemented

by American wines, craft cocktails, and local beer. Rosewater is now serving dinner Monday through Saturday and brunch on Saturdays and Sundays, and will soon open for breakfast and lunch service.

Row House is a boutique indoor rowing concept that is revolutionizing the way people view fitness. Experience a rewarding 45-minute, full-body, low-impact workout that individuals of different shapes, sizes, abilities, and fitness levels can do together. All classes combine the building of aerobic endurance and muscular strength.

1101 Mercantile Drive | Suite 130 984.500.3040 | TheRowHouse.com

Wine & Design—the leading paint and sip franchise in the nation, made famous on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2017—opened its newest location at Union Station in Raleigh. The space features a chic bar, seating for 50, sweeping views of downtown Raleigh, and access to Union Station’s expansive third floor patio.

510 W Martin Street | 919.410.6101 WineAndDesign.com

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Photos by Revolution Studios

WINE & DESIGN OPENS RALEIGH LOCATION

Ginny Williams Photography

Plant-Based Recipes, Food Photography, & Video

www.GinnyWilliamsBlog.com

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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Kaleidoscope LIVING

Photo courtesy of Juli Leonard

POTTERY GETS PERSONAL A RT I S T: GRETCHEN QUINN

“I make functional ceramics with a clean, modern feel and the inspiration for my work comes mainly from what I want to have and use in my own home. I’m definitely under the spell of well-made crafts and much of what I make spins out from my love of Danish Modern and Shaker designs, where simplicity, utility, and honesty are among the guiding principles in their work.

The pieces are handmade out of beautiful, dark brown stoneware clay and glazed in glossy white.

The pattern details are carved freehand or painted with a 22kt gold luster. I never use pre-made patterns, templates, or textures. To me, it’s the freehand markings that make my pots feel fresh and modern— and that is what tells the user every piece is handmade. I love that the mix-and-match aspect of my work makes customers active participants in building their collections. Some customers will choose to stay with just one pattern; others will select a few, while some just go for it all.

All of my pottery is made in my downtown Raleigh studio and durably designed for daily use.”

Gretchen Quinn lives in Raleigh and makes all of her work in her downtown Boylan Heights studio. Her work is shown regularly at juried shows and art festivals around the country, and her distinctive collection of mix-and-match wares can be found at shops throughout the Triangle. Gretchen is also a ceramics instructor at the NC State University Crafts Center. You can find more of her work at GretchenQuinn.com and in her studio at 1201 West Lenoir Street.

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4401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh, NC 27612

(919) 571-2881

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www.diamondsdirect.com

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