Midtown Magazine

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A Handmade

Holiday

page 70

TURKEY

TIME

giving

page 78

back

page 82

the holiday issue Holiday gift guide | out and about for the holidays A christmas carol 40th anniversary

E D or I f U lf

se r!

G r A ou yea

no v e m b e r / d e c ember

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y ew P r S pe e n m pa th

a note FROM the publisher Publisher/Editor Sioux Watson Advertising Sales Sioux Watson | Julie Shaw | Charis Painter

Sioux watson Publisher/Editor

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

Please email sioux@midtownmag.com with your comments.

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Distribution Manager Jeff Prince 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 US equal opportunity law.

10 top

for the summer of

2010

the most spectacular

AT NIGHT THE MUSEUM

Fall

THE NEW NIGHTLIFE

INSANE

FASHIONS

MALE BONDING

PAcking

WORKING OUT AND STAYING FIT WITH FRIENDS

the

perfect lunch

FASHION

it’s that time of year

BOLD & COLORFUL SPRING IS HERE!

Football

2012

J U LY / A U G U S T

M A R C H / A P R I L

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tailgating tips • apps • recipes

september/october

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GRILLING, SK YDIVING, BEER, APPS, MUSIC, MOVIES & MORE!

Diamond

AWARDS 2012

FooD tRuCKS

the what’s with new craze?

STEPPING OUTSIDE

YouR CoMFoRt ZoNe

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guiDe to VALeNtiNe’S DAY J A N U A RY / f e b R U A RY

PLUS

Adding ContemporAry touChes to your trAditionAl home

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THE spring MODERN MIDTOWN ST YLE MAN? FASHION WHO IS

iphone VERSUS droid S E P T E M B E R / O C T O B E R

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Photography Sean Junqueira Photography Davies Photography Jennifer Robertson Photography

P.

Back in Raleigh, Mordecai and Oakwood residents celebrate the option of shopping local by walking or biking to neighborhood shops for goods and services. Check out the range of stores open or about to open in the North Person Street area. Another “keeping it local” option is NC State College of Design grad Holly Aiken’s storefront and studio in downtown Raleigh, a local woman gone global with her bags and accessories. Peruse our suggestions of gift ideas in our annual holiday gift guide, or contemplate making your own heirloom gifts when you read “A Handmade Holiday” for inspiration. Check out our other articles and tidbits to keep you and your holiday guests entertained and fed during November and December. Keep us on your coffee table until January 2015 when we’ll see you again.

I am committed to making each of our city magazines – Midtown, Cary Living and Pinehurst Magazine – YOUR community magazine, as relevant and local as possible. Feel free to send me your thoughts on how we can improve and what else we can do in the future to keep you coming back for more.

Contributing Writers Christa Gala | Kate Turgeon Watson Dan Bain | Illyse Lane | Jenni Hart Page Leggett | Kurt Dusterberg Dave Droschak | Elie Rossetti-Serraino Darcy Brennan-Huante | Anna Churchill Christopher J. Morea | Jessica Bottesch E. Eugene Bain III

UT -O NG LL DI PU ED DE W UI G

Although new to Midtown Magazine, I’ve lived in the Triangle and been in the publishing industry here for over 30 years. Back in the day my parents lived in Cary, my father worked in RTP and my mother took me shopping for freshman year at North Hills Mall and Cameron Village. My first college experience was NC State summer school before going off to another Southern college town for undergrad.

Already I feel at home here at Midtown, thanks in large part to the friendly and hard-working staff at the magazines.

As the holiday season approaches, it’s a good time to reflect on the traditional holiday meals and celebrations from years past. Whether your family traditions involve blood family or family of close-knit friends, traditions you create pass down to our younger generations.

My own family lives in the Southeastern United States and four other countries – England, Lebanon, Canada and Australia; our holidays are more often spent with the “family” of friends we have acquired over many decades of living in North Carolina. My two daughters celebrate “American Thanksgiving” in Vancouver and Sydney, usually scrambling to find all the ingredients necessary to replicate those family favorites they grew up with.

They’ll gather their own family of friends in faraway living rooms and dining rooms and create their own traditions.

Graphic Design Jennifer Casey | Jennifer Heinser

FALL

Back Home For The Holidays

Creative Director Travis Aptt

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Subscriptions 6 print issues (1 year) only $20 Available online via paypal ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• 4818 Six Forks Road, Suite 204 Raleigh, NC 27609 Phone 919.782.4710, Fax 919.782.4763 www.midtownmag.com

contents n o vember/ decem ber

2014

features 70 A handmade holiday

We talk with four women who make different things for different reasons each holiday season.

78 Turkey Time

Holiday Staple Seeking Broader Audience.

How Wake County’s home grown nonprofit “Note in the Pocket” became one of a kind.

82 So Noted…with love

86 A Raleigh Tradition:

Celebrating 40 years with the one and only Ebenezer Scrooge.

Looking to ramp up your child’s athletic career?

Travel teams might be the answer.

Have Game, Will Travel 109

114 Midtown spa guide

Feeling good and looking good really is good.

Don’t shoulder the burden alone 132

Although shoulder problems often have simple solutions, self-treating without seeing a doctor first is not a good idea.

92

holiday gift guide

56 items to satidfy your holiday shopping needs!

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contents novem ber/ decem ber

2014

departments 28 on the scene 38 Midtown reviews 48 ask elie 50 bain’s beat 54 beauty style 62 DIY Workshop 64 financial focus 66 raising the bar 68 scare yourself 76 calendar 89 instyle: denim 126 midtown downtown 136 healthy you 143 midtown mingles 146 looking back

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chef mario 26 | midtownmag.com

ON THE[SCENE] >>>TASTE

by Kate Turgeon Watson

photography by sean junqueira

Our Roots Sweet Potato Fries and a side of sauce The Tar Heel state is tops when it comes to sweet potato production. Maybe it’s the rich soil and warm weather. Or maybe sweet and delicious just come easy here. In either case, each year NC plants about 50,000 acres of its official state vegetable.

It’s no surprise, then, that sweet potatoes and their deep, caramel flavor are found on tables throughout the state. Some are cut into cubes, others wedges and matchsticks. Some stay whole and meet butter, cinnamon and a fork. Some are baked, others fried.

For hungry folks looking for the fried variety, search no more. Midtown visited two local restaurants known for the sweet potato fries they’re dishing out.

NOFO at the Pig Café Jean Martin leaves no doubt. “I don’t like sweet potato fries,” she says while sitting at a back table in her colorful eatery. “I love them.”

NOFO’s sweet potato fries are served topped with kosher salt and parsley. The hot, crunchyon-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside fries are good enough on their own. But a little cup of citrus-cajun mayonnaise makes this a must-try menu item. The dipping sauce is made with green onions, Duke’s mayonnaise, lemon juice and cajun seasoning.

“The acid in the lemon juice cuts some of the fat in the fry and some of the sweetness, too … and mayonnaise is just good on fries,” explains chef Peter Gibson. “It’s textures. You’ve got the crunchy fry and the creamy that’s there.” nofo.com

Chow At Chow the sweet potato fries are cut thin, and they’re flying out of the kitchen. About 35 pounds worth per day on average, general manager Terry McNulty says.

Topped with a salt-pepper-garlic seasoning, Chow’s sweet potato fries are packing Southern charm and flavor. McNulty says he orders sweet potato fries over traditional fries because they’re different and aren’t something that every restaurant offers. Plus, he says, sweet potato fries are the right complement to many of the burgers.

Regular customers know their sauces, he adds. The top two choices with sweet potato fries: chipotle aioli, which lends some spice to the natural sweetness of the fries, and honey mustard, which is sweet and tangy. chowraleigh.com 28 | midtownmag.com

ON THE[SCENE] >>>tech photography © moorescloud.com

very smart Holiday interactive light string brings technology to tradition Last year, MooresCloud introduced Holiday, a string of smart lights billed as “the world’s first connected, intelligent, beautiful and easy-to-use set of holiday lights.” It’s a mouthful, but it appears to be true.

The 22-foot string holds 50 LED globes, each programmable in tandem with or independent of the others, across a spectrum of more than 16 million colors. Yes, 16 million. The lights are interactive and responsive, controlled via smartphone, tablet, or web browser apps. Dozens of apps and functions are available for the device, including: • • • • • • • •

Color Wheel: Dial up an instant change in color to whichever one you’re touching onscreen.

Blinking Colors: Display random colors in each globe, changing at customizable speeds.

Rainbow: Select multiple colors to “chase” down the string.

Holiday Visualiser: Coordinate the lights to music.

LightCompass: Modulate the colors in sync with the movements of your mobile device.

PhotoGrabber: Select an image on your mobile device, then send a color from it to the globes.

Timer: Set times to turn on and off.

Countdown: Set a duration to be counted backward, and the colors will change from green to yellow to red to blinking red as the time ticks away.

Holiday can also be used for mood lighting and other decorative purposes, any time of year. Although the $199 product is currently sold out, MooresCloud offers a “wish list” – whereby consumers can request them to manufacture more – at moorescloud.com. Happy Holidays!

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by Dan Bain

ON THE[SCENE] >>>style

by Elie Rossetti-Serraino

photography courtesy of LOCKE Management

Regional Modeling Agencies: Greensboro: LockeManagement.com DirectionsUsa.com | MarilynsAgency.com Charlotte: EvolutionMt.com Richmond, VA: Modelogicwilhelmina.com

So You Want To Be A Model? here’s where you need to start...

As wardrobe and set stylist I’ve worked with models who have started from a regional commercial market and now are based in New York, working internationally. Conversely I’ve seen many very beautiful faces and talented models who quit right after a few tries because they could not handle the income uncertainty.

Modeling may be about beautiful clothing in amazing locations, but also involves long hours and working in all kinds of weather elements. If you think you have what it takes, one important step is to be represented by a legit modeling agency. They will be instrumental in getting your career started properly by connecting you to the right photographers, advertising agencies and apparel companies and you don’t necessarily need to be in LA or New York to get started. The most crucial task is be honest with yourself

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to understand if you fit in the fashion modeling business or in the television/ lifestyle side of the business.

We know the industry standard request for female runway and apparel models is a minimum height of 5’9” and slender. Male models range from 6’ with a waist of 31”-33”, says international model Ed Locke, founder of Locke Management Agency. His company is based in Greensboro but they work with clients on a national level. “Toned, proportioned body and healthy skin are a must. Outgoing personality, definitely. Interesting facial traits may work, but nearly everything can work today. Try not to get discouraged by initial closed doors ... you never know, different agencies may have other advertising Clients in search of your look.” he adds.

In fact, you may be turned down for things that sound silly or irrelevant,

like your feet too big, or your hair being too yellow or red, too short or too long ... but trust the industry insider’s experience, they know what works in their market and what will get you hired. Do listen to suggestions with a logical and open mind, and never take anything personally. Model and talent agencies want you to get hired – if they don’t get you work then they don’t make any money, and they are not in the business to make you feel good or bad about yourself.

“Send non-professional digital pictures of yourself, it can even be with your phone,” Ed Locke continues, “Simple makeup for the face, close-up, and t-shirt and jeans for the full length body picture may be sufficient to get the first call to come and meet us. If we think you may be able to model in our market, we will contact you asap. If we think you have potential, you may even get hired by our clients with just some digital pictures taken here at the agency.

Keep in mind, like any other professional career, it takes money to make money.

Plan to spend $400-$750 for your first model test, he concludes.

If you do not fit in the fashion modeling standards, there is a market for catalogs and fitting models that includes plus and petite sizes. Also, some agencies specialize in real people.

It is a pool of models who have an interesting look or better represent the demographics the advertisers want to portray in commercials, and size and shape come secondary.

Feel free to keep emailing me (info@ eliephotostylist.com) with your questions about modeling. I will try to answer as many as I can!

ON THE[SCENE] >>>arts

by Christa Gala

Three-time White House artist Seton McGlennon specializes in personalized art that tells a story – on canvas, furniture and holiday ornaments.

Visit www.setonmcglennon.com.

Chutz-pah noun / hutz·pah / personal confidence or courage that allows someone to do or say things that may seem shocking to others. (Merriam-Webster) Cary artist Seton McGlennon has chutzpah in spades, cold-calling famous people – from Oprah Winfrey to US presidents.

As a result, she’s never been a starving artist.

“Since 1993, I could feed myself every year,” says McGlennon, now in her 21st year of working full-time selling her customized painting and illustration all over the world, largely by word-of-mouth.

Big risk, big reward She’s a three-time White House artist (Bill Clinton in 1999 and George Bush in 2004 and 2006), and in 1999 she appeared on Oprah’s renowned “Favorite Things” show, where the star praised McGlennon on-air for her hand-painted memory trunk, a surprise McGlennon painstakingly researched and shipped to Chicago on her own dime.

On the day we chatted, McGlennon was getting ready to cold-call Michael Reagan, author and 34 | midtownmag.com

son of the former US president, at a fundraiser at the North Ridge Country Club in Raleigh. Her strategy: buy a ticket, eat dinner and, during the meet-and-greet, present Reagan with two hand-painted ornaments – one for him, the other for his stepmother Nancy Reagan.

She’s hoping the gifts could lead to a bid for work on Ronald Reagan’s Presidential Library in California.

After all, she’s got experience – two limited-edition ornaments for The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas, Texas.

It was worth a shot.

“He [Reagan] doesn’t know me at all, but he will when he sees these,” says McGlennon. “He’s going to love them.

The men like the house ornaments.”

Closing gift leads to new business A realtor in the early 90s, McGlennon gave all her clients closing gifts – a hand-painted ornament featuring their new home. As her son and daughter began to grow, she needed a career

that didn’t require nights and weekends.

“My mother said, ‘Why don’t you just stay home and do your ornaments?’” says McGlennon.

The house ornaments led to canvases and furniture, things that had enough space for McGlennon to paint a life story instead of a single home.

The personalization is another tool in McGlennon’s arsenal, always endearing and irresistible to her clients – commissioned or otherwise.

And if not?

“So what?” McGlennon says with a shrug. “If nothing else, it’s a gift for a person I like. I only do it for people that I think will appreciate it and that I would appreciate doing it for.”

Spinning the tale Her process includes a questionnaire.

“Then I spin your tale,” she says.

A memory canvas or chest might include the growing-up years, college, marriage, births of children, favorite vacation spots, pets and hobbies.

She’s currently working on a hired memory canvas for a big name in New York City, but no amount of armtwisting could get her to spill. Some of her clients are concerned about confidentiality, and McGlennon’s a true professional.

But she was right about Michael Reagan; he loved his unexpected gifts.

“He was shocked,” says McGlennon. “He had just been talking about the Reagan ranch with the person in front of me, and then when I presented him with the ornaments, he said, ‘Oh my gosh. It’s the ranch.’”

It could be her next assignment.

ON THE[SCENE] >>>sports

by David Droschak

photograph © bob jordan

happy anniversary ACC Celebrating 10th Anniversary of Football Championship Game It’s hard to believe a decade has passed since the Atlantic Coast Conference expanded with the likes of Boston College, Miami and Virginia Tech, split into Atlantic and Coastal divisions, and began staging the Dr Pepper ACC Championship Game.

Since then, other conferences have followed suit with major expansions and the ACC again has added additional schools (Louisville, Pittsburgh and Syracuse) to its growing geographical footprint, upgrading its football image significantly in the process.

Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte is hosting the game between division winners for the fifth straight year. The December 6th game is also the first in a six-year contract extension, essentially making the home of the NFL Carolina Panthers the “unofficial home” of the ACC title game.

Last year’s game featured eventual

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national champion Florida State and upstart Duke, drawing more than 67,000 fans.

“Everyone is competing for the discretionary dollar, wherever you may be holding your event,” said Michael Strickland, the league’s senior associate commissioner for football.

“And our TV partners have created a great product at home for fans that have invested countless thousands of dollars into nice TVs and viewing rooms. So, we have to do a great job of staging an event that motivates folks to come out to the stadium and experience college football live. We believe the in-venue experience is still something not to be missed.”

Two of our local teams – North Carolina and NC State – have yet to advance to the ACC title game. Same holds true for one-time power Miami.

Florida State and Virginia Tech have each won three title games over the last nine seasons.

“The one main positive about the creation of this game over the last 10 years is that, for 99 percent of the folks who put on the uniform, this is the highest level of football they will ever play,” Strickland said.

“For all those seniors who won’t play professional football, this will be the final major sporting event of their life. So from touchdown to takeoff – from the moment they land in Charlotte to the moment they leave – we want the student/athlete to have a fantastic experience. Same holds true for the fans.”

Log on to www.theacc.com for additional ticket information.

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reviews

Interstellar

Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway Rated: PG-13 Opens: 11/7/2014 Plot: A group of explorers makes use of a newly discovered wormhole to surpass the limitations on human space travel and conquer the vast distances involved in an interstellar voyage.

Exodus: Gods and Kings Starring: Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, Ben Kingsley Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 12/12/2014 Plot: From acclaimed director Ridley Scott (Gladiator, Prometheus) comes the epic adventure Exodus: Gods and Kings, the story of one man’s daring courage to take on the might of an empire.

Using state-of-the-art visual effects and 3-D immersion, Scott brings new life to the story of the defiant leader Moses (Christian Bale) as he rises up against the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses (Joel Edgerton), setting 600,000 slaves on a monumental journey of escape from Egypt and its terrifying cycle of deadly plagues.

The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 1 Starring: Jennifer Lawrence, Josh Hutcherson Rated: PG-13 Opens: 11/21/2014 Plot: Katniss is in District 13 after she shatters the games forever. Under the leadership of President Coin and the advice of her trusted friends, Katniss spreads her wings as she fights to save Peeta and a nation moved by her courage.

*Opening dates and ratings are subject to change.

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Dumb and Dumber To

Starring: Jim Carrey, Jeff Daniels Rated: PG-13 Opens: 11/14/2014 Plot: Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels reprise their roles 20 years after they set out on their first adventure. This time they are in search of one of their long lost children in the hopes of gaining a new kidney.

Horrible Bosses 2

Starring: Jason Bateman, Charlie Day, Jason Sudeikis Rated: R Opens: 11/26/2014 Plot: The guys decide to start their own business but things don’t go as planned because of a slick investor, prompting the trio to pull off a harebrained and misguided kidnapping scheme.

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reviews

The Endless River (Pink Floyd) Release Date: 11/10/2014 The Endless River will be the fifteenth studio album by Pink Floyd. The album is the band’s first since the death of keyboardist and founding member Richard Wright, who appears posthumously, and the third by the Gilmour-led Pink Floyd after Roger Waters’ departure from the band in 1985.

The Endless River mostly comprises instrumental, ambient music. It is based on twenty hours of unreleased material the band wrote, recorded and produced with Wright during sessions for Pink Floyd’s previous studio album The Division Bell in 1994. The album was finished aboard the Astoria, Gilmour’s houseboat recording studio, in 2013 and 2014.

Sonic Highways (Foo Fighters) Release Date: 11/10/2014 Sonic Highways will be the eighth studio album by The Foo Fighters and will consist of eight songs, each recorded in a different US city: Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles, Nashville, New Orleans, New York, Seattle and Washington, D.C. The album’s lead single Something from Nothing was released on October 16th, a day before their HBO series premiered.

The Art of McCartney (Various Artists) Release Date: 11/18/2014 The Art of McCartney is a tribute album to musician Paul McCartney. The 42-song set, which covers McCartney’s solo work and work with the Beatles, features artists such as Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Alice Cooper, Smokey Robinson and Kiss. According to producer Ralph Sall, the project has been in the works for over 11 years.

Shady XV (Eminem) Release Date: 11/24/2014 Shady XV is an upcoming hip-hop compilation album.

The double-disc album will be released in honor of the label’s 15th anniversary as the 15th project on the label.

The compilation will feature one disc including the label’s greatest hits, while the second disc will feature new material from Eminem and other Shady Records artists. *Release dates are subject to change.

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Rock or Bust (AC/DC) Release Date: 11/28/2014 Rock or Bust is an upcoming album by Australian hard rock band AC/DC. It will be the band’s 15th internationally released studio album and the 16th to be released in Australia. It will be the shortest studio album ever released by the band. At under 35 minutes, it is two minutes shorter than Flick of the Switch, released in 1983.

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reviews

BY michael t. gallo, Wine Manager – Total Wine & More

Adriaen Brouwer Dark Gold Ale

Beer Army Combat Battle of Brock’s Mill

Brouwerij Roman

Beer Army Combat Brewery

Scuttlebutt Porter Scuttlebutt Brewing Co.

Atwater Vanilla Java Porter Atwater Block Brewery

Clown Shoes Chocolate Sombrero Stout Ipswich Ale Brewery

94 DRAFT

best served in:

77

77 LIGHTEST to DARKEST 8.5% abv

5.5% abv

5.5% abv

6% abv

9% abv

Oudenaarde, Belgium

Trenton, North Carolina

Everett, Washington

Detroit, Michigan

Ipswich, Massachusetts

European Beer Star Gold Award 2010.

Pours an inviting deep burgundy color.

Creamy head. Sweet, bready caramel malts and dark fruit and roast character deliver flavorful complexity with an engaging vinous essence. Creamy.

Delicious. Appealing.

Pours a light brown color with toasted malt and nutty aromas with whiffs of wood and chocolate.

Nice roasted malt flavors with hints of light toffee. Finishes smoky with notes of cocoa and coffee.

Enjoy!

$3.49/bottle

$4.99/bottle

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Dark brown-black color. Pleasant aromas of roasted coffee and chocolate.

Toasted grains on the palate evoke the coffee and chocolate flavors from the nose.

The carbonation delivers a creamy mouthfeel with an appealing robust, roasted finish.

$4.79/bottle

Pours a dark brown with a brown head.

Distinct aromas of vanilla and coffee abound, leading to sweet flavors that mirror the aroma.

The mouthfeel is of light to medium body with a slight creaminess.

$2.79/bottle

Pours black with a mocha-colored head.

Aroma is a blend of spicy ancho chili with roasted malts, sweet chocolate, cinnamon and vanilla. A creamy, malty taste of chocolate, vanilla, smoky ancho chili and cinnamon.

$9.79/bottle

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reviews

BY michael t. gallo, Wine Manager – Total Wine & More

Chateau Clos Floridene Rouge Graves

90

90 Wine Advocate

Clos Saint Michel Chateauneuf du-Pape

93 Wine Advocate

San Lorenzo Brunello di Montalcino

90 Wine Enthusiast

Amici Cabernet Sauvignon

91 Wine Enthusiast

best served in:

Wine Spectator

Chateau de Chantegrive Graves

Graves, Bordeaux, France

Sleek, elegant style, with high-pitched plum eau-de-vie, cherry skin and floral notes, and a nicely focused iron-tinged finish. Pure and focused.

Intense, Spice, Black Cherry, Medium-bodied

$24.99/bottle

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Bordeaux, France

Notes of tobacco leaf, creme de cassis, barbecue smoke and loads of flesh, opulence and richness characterize this dense purplecolored wine, which is full-bodied and over-achieving.

Drink it over the next decade. A major sleeper of the vintage.

$29.99/bottle

Chateauneuf-duPape, Rhone, France

Tuscany, Italy

Napa, California

Reveals lots of garrigue, forest floor, jammy black currant and cherry notes, plenty of glycerol and good acidity as well as delineation.

This ripe, generously endowed, perfumed Chateauneuf du Pape is irresistible already.

Concentrated, Raspberry, Spice

This impressive Brunello exhibits aromas and flavors of coffee, underbrush, and sweet black cherry with currant fruit in its full-bodied, dense, concentrated personality. This outstanding effort is opulent and accessible now, and will continue to improve with age.

This classic Napa Cabernet (with a splash of Petit Verdot) is elegant, streamlined and absolutely lovely ... it’s dry and balanced in acidity and tannins, and has rich layers of cassis, mocha, plums and toast.

Intense, Blackberry, Vanilla, Spice, Full-bodied

$39.99/bottle

$42.99/bottle

$44.99/bottle

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reviews

The Christmas List • $1.99

The must-have app for your holiday shopping! Not only can you create and manage your Christmas lists, you can: track budgets per person, track gifts by status (shipping, received, and wrapped), keep photos of people and gifts, share list using messages or email, view the shopping progress of each person, print lists from the app and even use password protection.

Move Loot • Free

Buy, sell and discover awesome pre-owned furniture and decor from the comfort of your home.

Request a pickup or delivery time that works for you, and they handle the rest. Furniture is curated before it is listed on Move Loot, so you can find stylish pieces that fit your personality.

Signal • Free

Like privacy? Secure your calls for free with Signal. Signal provides end-to-end encryption for your calls, securing your conversations so that nobody can listen in. Signal uses your normal phone number to make and receive calls. It’s free and open source, enabling anyone to verify its security by auditing the code. And best of all, it uses wi-fi or data, not your plan’s voice minutes.

Shelfie • Free

Shelfie allows you to make your store better by taking a pic whenever you don’t find a product at the shelf.

While making an impact in your favorite store, you also accumulate points that can later be redeemed for coupons or gift cards!

Pennies • $1.99

Track your money with ease.

Pennies is an amazing new app for managing your personal budgets and finances on the go, in a way that’s never been done before. With its super simple setup, you’ll be managing your money in seconds.

Budgeting shouldn’t be hard work or boring. That’s why in Pennies you won’t find any charts, graphs or diagrams. It’s personal finance, made easy.

It’s your money, made simple.

Scanner Radio Deluxe • Free

Listen to live audio from over 4,400 police and fire scanners, weather radios and amateur radio repeaters from around the world. Add scanners you listen to the most to your Favorites list for quick access. The audio is provided by volunteers using real scanner radios.

Sensorly • Free

Do you want to know more about your carrier’s coverage and network performance?

Whether you subscribe to AT&T, Sprint, Verizon or any other carrier across the globe, what can you expect from your plan?

As a crowdsourced service, Sensorly gathers anonymous data from all its users willing to share their experience as carriers’ clients, just like you.

This free app hands you the key elements to fully understand your carrier’s quality of service:

MiFlight™ • Free

How long is the security checkpoint line at the airport?

Every traveler wants and needs to know. This app tells you.

How does it work? Simple social sharing. This app has over 50 of the world’s busiest airports, including terminal maps, and they are planning on adding more soon! We all need our travel experiences to be more efficient, and definitely less stressful.

*Prices are subject to change.

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askelie photography © getzstudios.com

Elie

For all your answers on things fashion, style and trends

Costumista & Wardrobe Style arbiter

Q

This winter season a camel color is on trend for coats and sweaters, but I’m not sure how it will look with my complexion.

Anonymous, Rocky Mount, NC

I love wool coats and cashmere sweaters in a camel color! I actually consider them a classic every year during the cold season. The best combination is with a charcoal or red skirt or pants. When I wear something camel colored (I have tons of scarves and shawls in this color) I occasionally get complimented on how it is a good color for people with darker hairs and olive complexions. It may also be a good color if you have warm, honey blonde hair. If you’re not sure it could flatter you but you would like to give it a try, opt for a camel pencil skirt with a black or grey top.

It also works with bright yellow orange, and any shade of pink.

I have an old designer handbag and a portion of the handle’s stitch came undone. My regular shoe repair store advised me to call the flag store in New York to see if they would repair it, but I bought it at a consignment store and it is at least 20 years old.

What is your experience on this?

Leonira, Raleigh NC Usually a very high-end and expensive brand with artisanal craftsmanship would have an in-house service set up for their own customers where you can ship the damaged item to them and they try to repair it. I had good service and happy endings in the past reaching out to the main companies, but my bags were fairly new and I bought them at the official retail.

If it is over the customary one-year warranty, it may be expensive.

There are also a few reputable companies that you can find online and locally under “fine leather repair service.” I also had luck with a minor

48 | midtownmag.com

stitching repair with this kind of aftermarket business with a vintage tote that is probably 30 years old.

Have you seen the latest Gap campaign “Dress normal”? I’m not ready for the simplicity and boring outfits of the Normcore style. What about white sneakers with dress pants? High waist jeans? No thanks.

Do you think this is fashion?

Anonymous, sent via email

FollowElie Instagram.com/EliePhotoStylist Facebook.com/ArbiterElieGantiarum Twitter.com/EliePhotoStyle Vine: Elie Rossetti Serraino Blog: ArbiterEliegantiarum.typepad.com Submit your question info@eliephotostylist.com

Fashion can be a definition of expression, and Normcore clothing style is presently an evolution of the post-hipster culture. Apparently 70 percent of the twenty and thirty somethings in Brooklyn think it is fashion or at least they like to dress comfortably. It has been a matter of just a few months, and the mall mainstream clothing companies have already picked the trend up from the street to cash in. These past winter and summer fashion weeks have displayed a flock of white shiny leather sneakers with pencil skirts, both on the runways’ models and on the magazine editors attending them.

Do I like them? No, not yet. High waist pants? I’m too old for them.

I might change my mind in a few months, but in the meantime for this winter I bought some retro-looking Nike running shoes in the palest shade of grey I could find. I’m wearing them with dressy wool flannel pants with a one-inch cuff.

bain’s beat

A Macy’s Mockery Baining on Their Parade

I

by Dan bain, couch potato, danbain07@gmail.com

n my youth, one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions was to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade from start to finish. The balloons! The music! The rosy-cheeked bystanders! The excuse to sit on the couch for three hours, while everyone else worked to prepare the day’s big meal!

That tradition fell by the wayside as I grew older, and people started expecting me to help out. But I’ve often wondered if the parade is still as awe-inspiring as it ever was.

Last Thanksgiving morning, I was at my in-laws’ house, which was the perfect time to shirk my duties and find out if Macy’s has changed their big parade much. As a bonus, I took notes; these were the high points: 8:59 – NBC’s Al Roker, Matt Lauer and Savannah Guthrie are talking up the high winds in New York City; apparently, officials are still not sure whether it’s safe to fly the giant balloons.

50 | midtownmag.com

9:09 – The “gametime decision” is to include the balloons despite the winds, and keep them on shorter ropes. Balloons at street level – this oughta be interesting….

9:10 – The first Broadway musical sampling.

From Motown, several numbers from, umm, Motown.

9:15 – The first balloon sighting as it rounds a corner. It’s Hello Kitty in an airplane, too close to the ground for a real pilot to have FAA approval.

9:20 – From Matilda, a bunch of British kids do a number called “Revolting Children.” It reminds me of a cross between Harry Potter and the meat-grinder scene from Pink Floyd’s The Wall.

9:26 – Roker distracts and annoys the handlers anchoring the Diary of a Wimpy Kid balloon.

The camera focuses on him, running alongside them and shouting about the great view. We don’t get to see the balloon.

9:27 – From Kinky Boots, a number that makes me glad my kids are still asleep. Something about a shoemaker who pairs up with a cabaret dancer? We see lots of women – and men – in lingerie, and some guy in his boxers and thigh-high red vinyl boots. Obviously a nod to the holiday’s Puritanical roots.

9:33 – A Zaxby’s commercial. Because everyone needs to think about going out for poultry today.

9:34 – A commercial for Carrie Underwood in Sound of Music live, next Thursday.

9:35 – Lauer introduces Pippin. Are those circus characters?

Why are they dressed in lingerie?

9:38 – Roker talks to the stars of The Blacklist, pronounces “terrorist” as “tourist” – sorta changes the whole context of that show. When one star won’t reveal a plot secret, Roker actually says he doesn’t have anything to be thankful for.

9:42 – Commercial for ExxonMobil about responsible energy use. They show lots of modes of transportation, but conveniently omit the Valdez.

9:43 – Roker interviews Betsy Brandt, from the new Michael J. Fox show, spends the whole time asking her what it’s like to work with Michael. Must be a great self-esteem boost for her.

9:44 – Lauer and Guthrie interview Carrie Underwood about next week’s Sound of Music. She introduces a preview: 16 Going On 17.

9:49 – Breaking for commercial, they show a quick glimpse of Snoopy and Woodstock. Remember when this parade was actually about the balloons?

9:51 – Sound of Music commercial. It’s next Thursday.

9:52 – Glimpse of Sonic the Hedgehog, two floats, and Hello Kitty again.

9:53 – The Rockettes, who are a lot less provocative than some of the Broadway numbers we’ve seen so far. An aerial shot shows them forming a shape that looks a lot like the CBS eye.

Great job, NBC. 9:55 – Cut to commercial with yet another shot of Hello Kitty.

I’d like to say Good-bye, Kitty.

9:58 – Guthrie says the front end of the three-mile-long parade has completed its route. Yet we’ve seen three balloons. We see the Tom Turkey float. Guthrie says 45 million turkeys will be eaten today – one-sixth of the total number consumed in a year.

10:00 – James Madison marching band plays My Favorite Things.

I wonder how they picked that number?

10:02 – Finally! The new Snoopy balloon, in full view. Love it.

10:03 – Pilgrim Man and Pilgrim Woman wobble down the midtownmag.com | 51

street with giant, frowning balloon heads. Dear God, they frighten me.

10:06 – A three-second spot for Sound of Music.

10:06 – A Chick-fil-A “your bustid” commercial. Yup, let’s advertise more poultry on the day we eat one-sixth of all the turkey sold in a year.

10:09 – Sonic the Hedgehog reaches Macy’s. Lauer jokes about Guthrie curling up into a ball and mowing down her enemies.

10:22 – Stop showing Hello Kitty!

10:30 – We finally see the Wimpy Kid’s face! I’m glad to see Roker didn’t distract his handlers into letting go.

10:31 – The Gibson float, with a giant Les Paul electric guitar – named for the inventor of this staple of rock-’n’-roll. So naturally, they feature Florida Georgia Line with a countrywestern number. Side note: when lip-syncing, if you’re going to attempt to make it seem real, you should probably have the guitarists remove their gloves.

10:37 – Sea World float. The orcas are supposed to be swimming and jumping, but they look like two dead or dying whales. Are they sure this isn’t the Blackfish float?

10:39 – An 11,000-gallon Kool-Aid Man on a float. Guthrie fails in an attempt to mimic his iconic, “Oh, yeah!”

10:41 – Wow, ZZ Top is on a float? No, wait, it’s just the Duck Dynasty guys.

10:47 – Mount Rushmore float, with The Summer Set lipsyncing. Why can’t small groups perform live? The big marching bands manage it. Can you imagine if they tried to fake it?

10:49 – The Big Apple Circus float. Clydesdales and clowns.

Both freak me out.

10:49 – Ronald McDonald balloon, plus Ronald himself in a big red shoe car. How is this guy allowed to be within 100 yards of children?

10:50 – A McDonald’s commercial. Well-played, NBC – lump them together and get them out of the way, so we can collectively get them out of our consciousness.

10:54 – The Zhu Zhu Pets float, featuring Debby Ryan – two children’s products that make annoying noises.

10:58 – Kristin Chenoweth on the Royal Caribbean float, lipsyncing New York, New York in a horrible case of misplaced geography. She also fails to start lip-syncing on time, not even getting the mic to her face before the vocals start.

11:04 – Toothless from How to Train Your Dragon, as a giant balloon. Absolutely terrifying.

11:09 – Wizard of Oz. A live Dorothy and Toto, followed by bighead characters. God, the witch is scary. The wizard is 52 | midtownmag.com

in a hot air balloon; bet he’s hoping those ropes stay, or he really might be headed for Oz. Also, Roker attempts a wizard impersonation. Awful. Can we get a new host next year?

11:14 – Joan Jett on a cheerleader/pep rally float. Something doesn’t fit.

11:16 – The Big Apple float, with legendary NFL players from the NY Jets, the NY Giants, and … the Pittsburgh Steelers?

11:17 – The NYPD Marching Band plays the theme from Rocky – a movie about a Philadelphia criminal.

11:20 – We see a rotating earth balloon, complete with guy lines.

We may never know how it’s rotating that quickly, as the camera shows it only from Antarctica up. Are there a bunch of poor saps below, running in a circle for the full parade? Sucks to be them.

11:24 – Pikachu and a Pokemon ball. Lauer pronounces it, “Pokey man.”

11:26 – They announce Santa again. Before breaking, they show a balloon, but it’s mostly covered onscreen by the Macy’s logo. No idea what it is.

11:28 – Oh, is Sound of Music on TV next week? I hadn’t heard.

11:29 – Pillsbury Dough Boy balloon. Roker does the tummypoke giggle. Kill me.

11:32 – Build-a-Bear float with Austin Mahone, lip-syncing Banga Banga. Is there no shame?

11:40 – Cornucopia float, with Cherokee National Youth Choir singing a traditional Thanksgiving song in their language. Is that a pang of guilt I feel? I couldn’t blame them a bit if the song were actually cursing Squanto for having shown us how to survive that winter.

11:42 – M&Ms “He does exist” commercial – way to put questions in the kids’ heads.

11:46 – Virginia O’Hanlon balloon. The hosts tell the story of her famous letter, asking about the big guy. Way to put questions in the kids’ heads.

11:47 – Delta float. Sharon Jones and the Dap-Kings sing No Chimneys in the Projects, about asking her mom how Santa got into their apartment. She sings, “Mama now I know – you were the one.” Way to put answers in the kids’ heads.

11:49 – Elf on the Shelf balloon. Way creepier at 64 feet than he is at one.

11:52 – Automated dreidel on a stack of coins, driving along.

The first day of Hanukkah won’t coincide with Thanksgiving again for another 78,000 years. Here’s hoping Roker won’t still be hosting then.

11:58 – The big guy and his wife! Macy’s releases snow. I release my laptop. The couch releases me. I wonder if everyone else has finished making dinner yet. midtownmag.com | 53

beautystyle anna’s

by anna churchill, synergy spa & Aesthetics, >> feelsynergy.com

PICKS

Looking and feeling fabulous is easy when you have all the right beauty tools! Here are a few product and treatment suggestions that will help get your skin and body holiday ready. Give yourself a little gift this holiday season, you deserve it!

Jane Iredale Golden Shimmer Face and Body Balm

TNS Essential Serum

Compliment any holiday ensemble with a warm and smooth glowing complexion. Worn alone or paired with your favorite makeup, this lotion is a must! Shimmer may be applied to the face or body using fingers to blend. Every girl needs a little gold this year! >>

Cashmere Cleanse Brush Head by Clarisonic So soft and so clean! Attach to any of your Clarisonic facial cleansing devices for a luxurious cleansing experience. This dual layer design allows the ultra long bristles to gently massage and cleanse the face 6x better than hands alone. Perfect for any skin type. Makes a great stocking stuffer! >> $30, clarisonic.com

$32, janeiredale.com

The best recipe for skin regeneration can be found in one amazing serum. Renowned growth factor formula in one chamber combines with antioxidants and peptides in the other.

They work synergistically to transform your skin.

Tighten, tone, repair and strengthen all in one. Not only can you ensure a holiday glow, but keep it going into the New Year. >>

$270, skinmedica.com

CND Shellac Manicure Osea Anti-Aging Body Balm Winter can bring many great things, dry skin not being one of them. As soon as you turn the heat on indoors, your skin starts to dry out. Nourish and tone your entire body with this enriched balm. Full of vitamins and minerals, the combination of Undaria Pinnatifida Extract and botanical coconut oils will rejuvenate and restore! >>

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$40, oseamalibu.com

The most wonderful time of year can also be the busiest. A shellac manicure is the only way to go! Polish wears flawlessly for up to 14 days with a high gloss shine. This will get you through all of your holiday festivities without a chip! >> $35-55, see CND. com to find a certified CND Pro in your area.

chef mario

Holiday

Hors d’oeuvres Make your memories extra special with some simple, elegant and awe-inspiring culinary creations!

recipes chef mario copy darcy brennan-huante Photography april maness photography 56 | midtownmag.com

Sweet and Savoy Baked Brie Profiteroles Profiterole Ingredients 1 cup water ½ cup butter ¼ tsp salt 1 cup all-purpose flour 4 eggs Directions Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Bring the water to a boil in a saucepan. Stir in the butter and salt until the butter has melted; remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the flour until no dry lumps remain; let cool slightly.

Stir in the eggs, one at a time, adding the next egg only after the last one has been completely incorporated into the mixture.

Drop the profiterole paste into the prepared baking sheet in evenly spaced dollops the size of walnuts.

Bake in the preheated oven until the pastries have puffed up and turned golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes. Remove from the baking sheet and cool to room temperature.

Apple Walnut Filling

Tomato Shallot Filling

Makes 3 Cups

Makes 2 Cups

1 wheel Brie cheese, with

rind cut off and cut

into 3/4” chunks 1 Tbsp butter 2 cups diced apples

(Granny Smith) ½ cup brown sugar 2 tsp lemon juice 1 cup chopped, toasted

walnuts

1 wheel Brie cheese, with

rind cut off and cut

into 3/4” chunks 1 tsp butter ½ cup shallots, sliced 1 tsp garlic ½ tsp cumin 2 cups tomatoes, diced

salt & pepper

Directions Heat sauté pan over medium heat; add butter to melt.

Then add apples and brown sugar; stir to mix and let brown sugar melt. Add lemon juice and cook for 1 more minute, then add walnuts and remove from heat. Set aside.

Directions Heat sauté pan over medium heat; melt butter and add shallots. Sauté for 1 minute then add garlic and cumin.

Sauté for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and sauté until liquid is reduced by half.

Season with salt and pepper.

To Prepare Using a paring knife, cut a lid from the top of each profiterole.

Drop a chunk of Brie in each, then top with either the Apple Walnut or Tomato Shallot filling, about one teaspoon.

Place stuffed profiteroles on a lined sheet pan. Right before service, heat in a 350 degree oven for four to seven minutes or until Brie is melty and bubbling, and serve immediately. midtownmag.com | 57

Sausage, Pepper & Pineapple Kabobs Makes 12-16 Kabobs Ingredients 4 links Italian sausage 3 cups chunked pineapple, preferably fresh 1 red pepper, diced about the size of a quarter 1 yellow pepper, diced about the size of a quarter 1 green pepper, diced about the size of a quarter 1 medium red onion, diced about the size of a quarter

salt cayenne pepper 2 Tbsp olive oil 12-16 wooden skewers Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove casing from sausage and pinch each link into 10 chunks. Roll each chunk into a meatball. Lay sausage balls on a foil-lined sheet pan sprayed with cooking spray.

In a bowl, toss pineapple chunks, peppers, onions and olive oil. Season with salt and just a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Pour the veggies over the sausage balls and roast for 20 to 30 minutes, or until sausage is cooked and vegetables are soft.

Cool enough to handle. String sausage, peppers, pineapple and onions onto wooden skewers in decorative fashion. Heat slightly or serve room temperature.

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Honey Mustard Ingredients ½ cup Dijon mustard 1/3 cup honey 2 Tbsp soy sauce or tamari Directions Mix everything together.

Serve with sausage, pepper and pineapple kabobs.

Crispy Onion Tortilla Stacks Serves 8-10 Ingredients ¹�³ cup olive oil 4 cups small diced onion ½ cup garlic, minced 4 Tbsp butter, soft ¹�³ cup Parmesan cheese (grated) ¼ cup mayonnaise 3 Tbsp oregano (fresh minced)

salt & pepper 24 small corn tortillas Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large skillet over medium heat add the olive oil. Add onion and garlic; reduce heat to low and cook onions until golden, about 20 minutes. Set onions aside to cool.

Evenly spread mixture on top of 12 tortillas. Stack tortillas on top of one another and repeat with the other dozen tortillas.

Wrap the tortilla stack in a plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

In a bowl, add the butter, Parmesan, mayonnaise, fresh oregano and cooled onion/garlic mixture, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.

Preheat the griddle or sauté pan. Cut the tortilla stack into 12 to 16 wedges. Using tongs, grill each wedge on all sides until golden brown and serve immediately.

midtownmag.com | 59

Coconut Buffalo Chicken Baby Cakes Makes about 20-25 appetizer portions Ingredients 4 cups cooked pulled chicken ½ cup Frank’s Red Hot ¹�³ cup coconut oil

thinly sliced celery and carrots

soaked in ice water to curl and

crisp up (for garnish) Directions Melt coconut oil and whisk into Red Hot. Toss chicken in mixture.

Lay out pancakes (see recipe on next page) and top each one with chicken mixture. Finish with carrot, and celery garnish.

60 | midtownmag.com

Paleo Pancakes (Baby Cakes) Makes about 20 Baby Cakes Wet Ingredients 1 cup almond milk 1 tsp apple cider vinegar 5 eggs 2 tsp coconut oil, melted 2 tsp honey Dry Ingredients ¼ cup almond meal ½ cup coconut flour ½ cup tapioca flour 1 tsp baking soda Directions Mix all dry ingredients together. Mix all wet ingredients together.

Mix dry and wet ingredients together, then let sit for five minutes.

Using a spoon, melt a small amount of coconut oil on the griddle.

Spoon the batter onto griddle and let cook about 1 minute on each side. Finish pancakes in 350° oven for 4 minutes.

midtownmag.com | 61

photography © stacy cathey

diy workshop

A Great Place to Unload

By Christa Gala and Stacy Cathey

O

ne of the rites of passage of having school-aged kids seems to be tripping over bulging backpacks left in the foyer, on the stairs or just flat-out in the middle of the room.

Unless you have a designated mudroom, often there’s just no home for backpacks, not to mention briefcases, computer bags and purses.

With the holidays upon us, and folks dropping in seemingly all the time, why not make a home for these loads we’re so ready to get rid of ? This super-easy project took a few hours and cost under $50. We added a shelf to ours, which holds a wire basket perfect for papers that need to be signed or phones that need to be charged.

First, paint your shelf and shutter; both of these items are available at salvage yards or thrift stores for between $5 and $10 a piece. We painted our shelf and shutter white, sanding both after they dried for a shabby-chic look. Our

62 | midtownmag.com

You’ll need: • Simple wooden shelf • An old shutter • Hooks

• Power Drill • Screws • Paint

shelf is slightly longer than the shutter at 60 inches and 47 inches, respectively.

Next, screw the shelf to the top of the shutter so that they’re now one piece. Fasten the shutter-shelf to the wall securely with screws. If you have young children, hang the shutter low enough so they will be able to reach the hooks comfortably; consider utilizing wall space under a knee wall or bar.

Now it’s time to attach your hooks. We used three, costing between $5 and $10 each and easily found at any home improvement store. Space them equal distance apart on the shutter. Make sure you space your hooks to allow for the width of a heavy backpack or other bag.

The last step is the toughest: Train the kids to unload on those hooks the minute they hit the door.

financial focus

Financial Strategies for Women Investors

by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of Mason & Clark Wealth Management of Wells Fargo Advisors

T

oday, women are playing an ever-increasing role in making important financial decisions – whether for themselves or for their families. While many of the basic rules of investing hold true for all investors, some life events will affect women differently than they will men, and these can also have an impact on investment decisions.

Following are a few areas of special consideration for women investors: Longer life expectancy People in general are living longer these days, and conventional wisdom will tell you that women tend to outlive men. Studies have, in fact, confirmed that this is the 64 | midtownmag.com

case. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, women outlive men by an average of more than five years.* So women in particular often end up facing more years in retirement. To be prepared for such a situation, women need to take special care to implement select strategies catered to their possible long-term needs.

Being on your own Statistics also show that women have a very high probability of being on their own at some point in their financial lives, not only as a result of a spouse’s death, but also because of divorce or simply remaining single. Dropping from two incomes down to one would obviously require

making some adjustments, so it’s important to think about alternatives and options in the event you should be faced with a similar situation.

Time spent out of the workforce When caring for children – or even an elderly parent – women tend to spend more time away from work than men.

Some surveys have shown that, on average, women spend more than a decade out of the workforce. The implications for women with regards to investments are clear: they will have less time than their male counterparts to contribute to their retirement nest eggs.

While these are just some of the many important considerations for women investors, there are also several simple steps women can take to come up with an effective financial strategy.

For starters, you should look for ways to educate yourself about investments. The financial press and financial web sites are loaded with information about investments and alternatives. It’s important to remember that not every source is the most reliable, but the bottom line is that there is plenty of information out there.

You may also want to seek advice from a professional.

The act of enlisting a financial advisor to help with your

investments does not take away from your ability to make the final decisions. It does, however, provide you with someone you can turn to for guidance as you make those important decisions.

One of the most important things you can do is make a list of your financial goals and then develop strategies to meet those goals. Taking the time to assess your current financial situation will help you get a clear picture of where you are, and then you can envision where you want to go.

Keeping in mind the special circumstances we mentioned earlier, you can chart a course of action that will enable you to meet any challenges that may arise in the future. * CDC, NCHS, http://www.cdc.gov/nchs/products/life_tables.htm

This article was written by Wells Fargo Advisors and provided courtesy of JoAnna Clark, CFP®, First Vice President-Investment Officer in Raleigh at 919-841-5343. Investments in securities and insurance products are: NOT FDIC-INSURED/NOT BANK-GUARANTEED/MAY LOSE VALUE. Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC, is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.

midtownmag.com | 65

raising thebar

ask You

Q

ANSWER

we

Will a speeding ticket that I received in another state affect my license and insurance in North Carolina?

Mark, Garner, NC Yes, probably. All but five states are part of a national drivers license compact.

Unless you were cited in Georgia, Wisconsin, Massachusetts, Michigan or Tennessee, the ticket will affect you in the same way it would had you received it in North Carolina.

Have a question?

Let us hear it: raisingthebar@midtownmag.com

~ Steven Saad

though, to have a quick chat with an IP attorney to clear the specifics.

Can I get in trouble for being a passenger in a car where the driver is charged with DWI? Kevin, Garner, NC

I’ve been making cuff links using golf ball markers from various courses.

I want to sell them on etsy or something like that. Could I be sued for any reason? Patent infringement?

Although you should try your best to not allow others to drive impaired, you will not be in trouble for being a passenger.

The scenario is different if it happens in your car. If you allowed an impaired person to drive your car you could be arrested for aiding and abetting DWI, which carries similar consequences to a DWI charge.

Matt, Raleigh

~ Steven Saad Which of the legal holidays is my employer required to observe?

Sarah, Cary, NC None. No employer is required to observe holidays or give holiday time off at all, either with or without pay.

It is entirely up to the employer. If the employer does promise to give holiday pay, however, it must put that holiday policy in writing and make sure that all employees know about it. ~ Paul Derrick 66 | midtownmag.com

~ Rupen Fofaria

The use of a golf ball marker could implicate multiple intellectual property – patents, trademarks and/or copyrights.

However, each of these IP laws contains an exception to infringement called the “first-sale doctrine.” Once a work (i.e. golf ball marker) is lawfully sold, the IP owner’s interest is exhausted.

The purchaser can now dispose of it basically as (s)he wants. Here, if you obtain the markers lawfully and don’t base the cuff link on another cuff link design, you should be fine. Best,

MeettheCounsel

Steven Saad

Criminal Defense

I signed a confidentiality agreement at my job, but I often tell my wife everything that I do at work.

Is that a problem?

Will, Raleigh Yes. Unless your agreement says that it is okay to tell your spouse, you’re in violation. “It was just my wife” is not a good legal defense. The only safe bet is to honor your agreement and not discuss confidential work matters with her. You should also make it clear that she should never reveal anything that you’ve already told her, or it could cost you your job. ~ Paul Derrick

Cranfill Sumner & Hartzog LLP | www.cshlaw.com

Paul Derrick

Employment Law

Rupen Fofaria

Intellectual Property

This content has been prepared for general information purposes only. This information is not intended to provide specific legal advice. Legal advice is dependent upon the specific circumstances of each situation. The information provided cannot replace the advice of competent legal counsel by a licensed attorney in your state.

midtownmag.com | 67

scare yourself

That’s what I wanted to figure out. In fact, that’s what I’ve been trying to figure out all year with this column – how to engage in new, often scary things to result in a happier self.

Go Ahead, Be An Expert

By Christa Gala

S

o, what makes an expert an expert?

Experience. Credentials. Testimonials.

But what if you have those things and still don’t feel like an expert? What then?

I didn’t have an answer when I was driving to UNCChapel Hill to go sit on a panel of experts about writing – a panel for which I volunteered because I thought it would be good for me; a panel that agreed to have me.

These things notwithstanding, still a voice in my head shouted “Fraud! Fraud!” as I barreled toward campus, doing my best to ignore it completely.

That stupid voice You know how this story goes, right? Please tell me I’m not the only one with a voice in my head.

The panel was terrific and inspiring, with students asking questions about both the craft and the business of writing. So my original instinct that it would be good for me was correct.

But what about that voice? Where did it come from?

And how could I keep it from coming back the next time I wanted to be an expert?

68 | midtownmag.com

Phone a friend I called my roommate from college, Ann Jacob-Smith, who just happens to be a clinical psychologist in private practice in Washington, DC.

“It’s our internal critic,” said my friend, about that negative voice. “In general, it affects women more than men. I think it’s part of our socialization as women; we feel like it’s not good enough to just be good enough. Typically, it’s more noticeable the higher you go in your career. As women become equal earners and breadwinners, this phenomenon is getting more press.”

My former roomie suggested I read The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance – What Women Should Know (HarperCollins, 2014) by New York Times best-selling authors and journalists Katty Kay and Claire Shipman.

The book is a blend of hard-core neuroscience and anecdotal interviews; Kay and Shipman say the “inner critic” has a definite genetic component. But other factors play a role, too.

What to do about it I took the authors’ confidence quiz (you can too at theconfidencecode.com) and my results were, well, unsurprising: “You have lower than average confidence.”

No news flash there, but the response gave me a few things to try that I thought I’d share: •

•

•

Large assignments are often overwhelming; dissect a project into smaller assignments over a period of time and go in well-prepared in each area.

Ban “NATs,” Negative Automatic Thoughts. Defy each NAT with three logical statements. For example: “I’m not smart enough to do this.” Three logicdefying facts: 1. I have two higher-education degrees.

2. I teach college kids. 3. I passed a Spanish literature test in grad school and that was really hard.

Be more grateful – for big things and small things, like someone letting you in traffic. This one surprised me, but apparently being grateful encourages confidence because it demands a change in your perception. And that’s what confidence is, the perception you have of yourself.

The last nugget I’ll leave you with that the book advocates is that confidence is a choice that ties in largely with less worrying about people-pleasing and perfection (guilty!) and more action, risk-taking and (gulp) accepting the possibility that you could fail.

And if you do fail, you’ll be all right.

Really.

midtownmag.com | 69

handmade

HOLIDAY

By Kate Turgeon Watson

70 | midtownmag.com

Soon, I hope, my mailbox will fill with Christmas cards. You know … photos of smiling people in beautiful places with greetings such as “Merry Christmas,” “Peace” or “Happy Holidays.” I know these greetings.

I’ve used these greetings.

I, too, have uploaded an image from my computer to a card-making website. (Hold your applause, please.)

I thought I was doing pretty well to get cards printed and delivered before December 25th.

And then I opened up a tattered envelope marked, “Lennie and Josie’s Christmas Cards. Keep!”

It was in a box of my grandparents’ things. And inside the envelope was a mix of drawings, humor and history.

There was almost every card this couple, Lennie and Josie, had ever sent to my grandparents. There was an off-white, folded card marked “1963” in gold-color ink. On the front was a drawing of an angel – wings and all – wearing a robe and shedding a tear on her cheek. In the background is a flag at half-mast.

As I held it I thought, “1963 … the year President Kennedy was assassinated.”

The 1972 card had a drawing of what looked like the moon or a planet and the message, “Peace on Earth – and elsewhere.” I had to google. Turned out 1972 was the year Apollo took its last flight to the moon. It was also the year a space probe named Mariner returned to earth from Mars.

The 1976 card, which referenced America’s bicentennial, was a drawing of the Liberty Bell with the greeting “Jingle Bells.”

The cards didn’t all acknowledge

well-known historical events. Some recalled moments in the card maker’s life, such as his retirement. Some, like the 1995 card with a smiling Santa in an Atlanta Braves cap, recalled moments in sports history. Some cards referenced the weather, such as El Niño and a hurricane.

There were witty (or not-so-witty, depending on your party affiliation) political cards. But I’m not going into details.

When I saw the cards, I felt like I needed to appreciate them. I organized them by date, as any type-A person would. I researched the years I didn’t understand; many of the cards were made before I was even born.

I tried to “get” the decades-old lingo and images. I wondered what had happened to the years that weren’t there. I missed them. There I was, sitting in my living room in 2014, wondering what one person’s holiday card from 1983 was all about and pouting that it wasn’t in the bunch.

That’s the beauty of handmade.

I was interested in what this couple had created and how they had interpreted history. I was amazed at how honestly they approached all kinds of topics, from wars to the World Series.

And I wondered if my cards were carrying anything other than a heartfelt message and family photo. Like I frequently do, I gave myself a break.

The holidays are busy, after all. Just ask anyone in a Harris Teeter who is buying vanilla extract at 1am.

There are still many who take the time to make something by hand and share it with others. Midtown caught up with four ladies who make different things for different reasons. Join the magazine for a little piece of their handmade holiday. midtownmag.com| 71

Mary-Ellen Krull, who teaches high school Spanish, started to cross stitch a specific Santa pattern in the 1980s.

Artist Elena Caron is working on unique ornaments for her three daughters.

Mary-Ellen Krull’s Santas Mary-Ellen Krull has her comfy chair near the television and a cabinet full of quilting and cross-stitching supplies. But it’s her interest in a cute Santa Claus pattern that has created a tradition in her home.

“I saw these and I thought they were just so pretty,” she says, looking down at plans from Prairie Schooler, a company that makes a Santa pattern each year. “I thought I would do four; that was the original intent.”

That was 30 years ago. Since then she has made about 10 cross-stitched Santas. She doesn’t make them in order of distribution. And, she admits, she doesn’t make them every year.

Krull adapts the patterns to avoid what’s “hokey.” She’s drawn to the ones that have personal meaning, such as a

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Santa with a red cardinal, which reminds her of her husband’s hometown of Saint Louis. She especially likes a Santa with sunflowers.

There’s one Santa on Krull’s table that’s unfinished. Her younger daughter started it 13 years ago when she was 10. “I’m going to give it one more try this year … and see if she’ll do it for me for my Christmas gift,” Krull laughs. “And if she doesn’t do it, then I am going to pick it up.”

Krull displays the framed Santas, which usually take her about a month each to create, on her kitchen wall during the holidays. While she enjoys her handiwork, she’s quick to note that the talent belongs to the person who made the pattern.

Cross-stitching is fun, she explains, and these Santas are “beginner projects.”

Krull makes most of her cross-stitch progress while traveling by car or airplane. She has been known to precut her supplies so she can take the work on a plane and leave the scissors behind. For her, it’s a quiet way to pass time and end up with a finished product she enjoys.

“Of course, this is not really in vogue anymore,” Krull laughs about cross-stitching. “But I’m not really following the vogue.”

Elena Caron’s ornaments Elena Caron is an artist who has to gently remind her loved ones that they have to “wait for the holidays.”

Caron, who creates notecards and original watercolors, is known for giving friends and family members original, personal pieces at Christmastime.

This year she’s working on three special ornaments for her daughters: Sophie, 16; Emma, 5; and Vera, 3. The ornaments are part of her embroidery hoop art collection.

The art, which depicts a female with a slight nose and red lips, is done on thick, cotton duck canvas and features a large, colorful arrangement of flowers and shapes on top of the woman’s head.

For her daughters, she’s creating four-inch circular hoop art that includes personal touches, such as fabric from her daughters’ favorite pieces of clothing. Instead of flowers, she’s imagining snowflakes and other holiday touches.

When creating the ornaments, she thinks of each daughter. They’re all blonde, she says, but that’s where the similarities end. Sophie, she said, was adopted from the Ukraine as an older child, so it’s important to create memories. Emma is a music lover. And Vera, the youngest, “thinks she’s a tiger.”

By the time they are under the tree the gifts will be similar, but different. Creating something original, Caron says, can save money but, more importantly, is a meaningful gift.

“It has heart and spirit and love, sweat and … blood,” she laughs, pointing to her needle-pricked fingers.

Carol Blanchard’S Chocolate-covered treats For Carol Blanchard and her two sons, it all starts with a Costco-sized jar of pretzel rods. Another necessary ingredient: the chocolate bars that Blanchard buys each Black Friday while she’s out shopping with her mom.

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At the Blanchard household, hand-dipping pretzels in melted chocolate and sharing the treats with friends has been a tradition for 14 years.

“I think, being a teacher, it was always more special to think that the person thought of you while they were making something,” she says. “We might give a gift card with it, too, but … really it’s nice to know that the student made something for you.”

That’s the way it’s been for the last 14 holiday seasons.

When the boys were younger they were quick to help create the chocolate-covered pretzels, Blanchard says. Now that they are teenagers, however, they help “most of the time.”

The process is easy, she says. Melt the chocolate. Stir. Melt again. And then dip each pretzel rod in the chocolate by hand.

The trio adds toppings like holiday sprinkles, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, peppermint pieces and crushed pecans.

“When the boys were little we’d be in the grocery store and they’d ask, like in September, ‘can we buy pretzels yet?’” Blanchard laughs. “And I’d say, ‘not yet. When it’s time.’”

They make batches of the pretzels throughout the season.

And they give the treats as gifts to teachers, friends and neighbors.

They’ve even been known to mail boxes of the pretzels to former neighbors who moved away.

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Susan Johnson’s ornaments Susan Johnson grew up in Hyde County. Talk to her and she just may tell you about the rural, small-town community on the northeastern coast of North Carolina.

She may also tell you about moving to the state’s capital city, attending college at NC State University and stepping foot into a downtown Raleigh church one Christmas season.

“I saw these two trees covered in only gold and white beads … I thought they were the most beautiful things I had ever seen.

They just took my breath away,” Johnson says. She learned that they were called Chrismon trees (something she hadn’t seen at home), and that they were named for the ornaments called Chrismons, which carried religious significance.

Time marched on for her. She graduated, got married and started a family.

Decades later she was a member of that same church she had visited as a college student. And the church was looking for people to repair the original Chrismons from the 1960s.

“I knew those were the ones I had seen in the ‘80s when I was a college student,” she says. Johnson became part of the

For Susan Johnson, restoring and creating beaded ornaments by hand is both an honor and a privilege.

restoration team that replaced old wire with new, fortified the ornaments and replaced beads. She also helped to make new ornaments for a new tree.

But Johnson wasn’t finished. She decided she wanted to make an entire series for her home church in Hyde County. She crafted a couple hundred by hand.

Some of the simple ones, she says, take about two hours to make. The more intricate patterns may take up to five hours each. Do the math and you’ll learn that looking at one large tree filled with about 200 ornaments is like staring at 700 hours of work.

“Looking at the trees … it just gives me a feeling of awe and pride.

There’s meaning and a little story that goes with each ornament,” she says. “It’s an honor to give back to the tradition.”

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calendar ofevents

November/December 2014

Phantoms of the Orchestra November 1 | 1 & 4pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org

JUMP FOR THE CHILDREN Horse Show November 4-9 Gov. James B Hunt, Jr Hunt Horse Complex 4601 Trinity Road | Raleigh www.jumpforthechildren.org

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE November 2 | 1pm Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden 919.459.2788 www.atlanticavenuegarden.com

history hunters: new north carolinians November 5 | 11:15am-12:15pm North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St | Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org

official saint-jacques 10 year anniversary wine dinner November 4 | 6:30pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 919.826.2770 www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com/ time for tots: early american indian life November 4 & 18 | 10-11am NC Museum of History | Raleigh www.ncmuseumofhistory.org

storytime in the gallery November 6, 13, 20 | 10-10:30am North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St | Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org Fall Admissions open house November 6 | 7pm St. David’s Performing Arts Center www.sdsw.org 40th Annual Visions of Sugarplums Holiday Art & Gift Show November 6-8 Quail Hollow Swim Club | 800 Orleans Place Raleigh | www.visionsofsugarplumsraleigh.com NC Symphony Copland in Mexico November 7-8 | 8pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | ncsymphony.org circa buying event November 8 | 10-6pm Fink’s Jewelers | North Hills | www.finks.com FAIRY GARDEN WORKSHOP November 8 | 1pm Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden 919.459.2788 | atlanticavenuegarden.com SUCCULENT TABLE CENTERPIECE November 8 | 3pm Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden 919.459.2788 www.atlanticavenuegarden.com make it, take it: bluegrass banjo November 8 | 1-3pm North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St | Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org

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music of the carolinas: dark water rising November 9 | 3pm North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St | Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org cooking class November 11 | 4:30pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 919.826.2770 www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com history a la carte: veterans histories November 12 | 12-1pm North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St. | Raleigh www.ncmuseumofhistory.org an evening at the spa with unc pelvic health providers November 12 | 6-9pm Skin Sense, a Day Spa 6801 Falls of Neuse Rd. | Raleigh voicesforpfd.org/events Adlib antiques HOLIDAY open house November 13 | 5-8pm Lafayette Village | 8480 Honeycutt Road Suite 116 | Raleigh | adlib-antiques.com Brandenburg November 14 | 8pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org Ricky Bobby’s No. 26 Wonder Bread Race Car on Exhibit November 15 NC Museum of History | Raleigh www.ncmoh-starring.com QDR COUNTRY FOR KIDS CONCERT November 15 | 7pm Durham Performing Arts Center | Durham 919.680.2787 | DPACnc.com 4th annual lighting of the tree November 15 | 4-8pm Lafayette Village | Raleigh lafayettevillageraleigh.com

2 9 16 23 30

3 10 17 24

4 11 18 25

5 12 19 26

6 13 20 27

7 14 21 28

S 1 8 15 22 29

DECEMBER

NOVEMBER

S M T W T F

S M 1 7 8 14 15 21 22 28 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

annual beaujolais nouveau wine dinner November 20 | 6:30pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 919.826.2770 www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com

santa & tree lighting celebration & santa at north hills November 22 | 4-8pm North Hills | Raleigh www.northhillsevents.com

HOLIDAY PARTY November 21 | 5-8pm Fink’s Jewelers | North Hills | www.finks.com

holiday sip & shop November 22 | 2-6pm Noth Hills | Raleigh www.northhillsevents.com

film premiere: first language – the race to save cherokee November 21 | 7-9pm North Carolina Museum of History 5 East Edenton St | Raleigh ncmuseumofhistory.org Brandenburg & Brahms November 21-22 | 8pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org maitreya loving kindness tour November 21 | 10am-7pm November 22 | 10am-5pm Kadampa Center | Raleigh www.kadampa-center.org 19th Annual American Indian Heritage Celebration November 22 | 11am-4pm NC Museum of History | Raleigh www.ncmuseumofhistory.org

S 6 13 20 27

Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer: The NC Symphony Holiday Pops November 28-29 | 7:30pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org Musical November 28-December 24 Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts Storybook Theater Series www.dukeenergycenterraleigh.com NC Symphony Sound Bites at Humble Pie December 1 | 6pm Humble Pie Restaurant 317 S. Harrington Street | Downtown Raleigh 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org cooking class December 2 | 4:30pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com 12 annual cary academy holiday shoppe December 4 | 9:30am-5pm December 5 | 10am-5pm & 6:30-9pm December 6 | 10am-4pm 1500 N. Harrison Ave. | Cary Academy Handel’s Messiah December 5-6 | 8pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org WINTER wonderland at midtown park December 6 | 4-7pm Park District | Raleigh www.northhillsevents.com

7th annual winter chill tennis tournament December 6 | 9am-12:30pm | 12:30-4pm NC State’s J.W. Isenhour Tennis Center www.atanc.org ARISE SHINE WORSHIP CONCERT December 7 | 6pm Christ Baptist Church | 400 Newton Road Raleigh | 919.573.5454 www.ChristBaptist.org Tristan and Isolde Prelude and Act II, in concert December 9 | 3pm North Carolina Opera | Raleigh 919.792.3850 | www.NCOpera.org A Pink Martini Christmas December 19-20 Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org special new year’s eve dinner December 31 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 919.826.2770 www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com/ NC Symphony New Year’s Eve with Tony DeSare December 31 | 8pm Meymandi Concert Hall Duke Energy Center for the Performing Arts 919.733.2750 | www.ncsymphony.org CRIMSON & CREAM SCHOLARSHIP GALA February 14 | 8pm Sheraton Imerial 919.302.9839

Have an important event? We would love to hear about it. Please send the details of your calendar events to: travis@midtownmag.com. midtownmag.com | 77

turkey

time Holiday Staple Seeking Broader Audience

By David Droschak

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Are we all just a bunch of turkeys for not eating more turkey?

Sure, we’ll grab a piece of our favorite bird during the upcoming Thanksgiving or Christmas seasons, and a trip to the deli counter usually has a turkey purchase on the list. But what about the hundreds of other meals we eat during the year? Can we even find turkey products at the supermarket in the so-called “off season?”

“We have done such a great job telling you that turkey is a holiday dinner that it can be a double-edged sword,” said Tony Seta, director of culinary service for Garner-based Butterball, the nation’s largest turkey producer. “We’ve definitely been promoting our slogan of ‘Everyday Turkey.’ We’ve got a number of items that are starting to take hold. And some grocery store chains are starting to realize and follow suit with what is happening in some restaurants, where turkey is on the rise.”

Seta is not alone in his thinking. The National Turkey Federation has been focusing on marketing awareness of turkey for years in its ongoing white meat competition with chicken, especially recently with the creation of new packaging and products, from ground turkey to turkey bacon to turkey chops.

“We have sort of joked about it; what comes first in creating awareness – the turkey or the egg?” said Keith Williams, the federation’s vice president of communications and marketing. “Each of those brands you know very well and have grown up with has looked at innovation to find a packaging and portion size that fits – different flavors and pairing options that go with turkey. You even see wine pairings suggested with turkeys now.”

In case anyone is counting, North Carolina inched past Minnesota as the nation’s No. 1 producer of turkeys, with 1.2 billion pounds coming from the Tar Heel state last year.

Turkey consumption outside of the bookend midtownmag.com| 79

Get creative in the kitchen or on the grill. You can find more than 1,000 turkey recipes at www.eatturkey.com.

holiday seasons has always fought an uphill battle. And there are some tangible reasons. One is size. Most associate the product with large, 20-pound Tom turkeys, and long, drawn-out cooking times. Second, the supply of turkeys can be an issue when comparing the product to chickens.

“For broiler chickens, like the ones you see at KFC, those birds go on the market by 30-35 days of age, so within a month they are out there on the market,” said Dr. Peter Ferket, a turkey nutritionist at North Carolina State University. “Very few chickens are marketed beyond 56 days. For turkeys, 56 days is the shortest period of time for some hen products, and that might be a small little whole turkey. Then at the other end of the spectrum some Toms are going to market at 20-22 weeks of age at a size or well over 45 pounds. So it is a function of time and resources.”

However, the push is on, big time, to create an image that turkey is versatile. At a recent food show in Durham, Butterball’s marketing pamphlet featured photos of bacon, lunch meat, sausage, wraps … even kabobs. No whole turkeys were highlighted as the product begins to branch out into mainstream offerings.

“Sliced turkey is the main ingredient in most of the sandwiches in the United States (other than ground beef in a hamburger) so we’ve made great inroads there,” Seta said. “But now we’ve got a chef select line; we’re working on turkey chops. I’ve even done it Korean style. When I go out to Butterball sales meetings, my charge is to come up with items that we can serve with turkey. I’ve even done taco bars … any which way that I can use veal or I can use beef, I have applied it to turkey. Some individuals have come up to me and said, ‘That’s not turkey’ and I’ve said, ‘Oh yes it is.’”

Turkey is also healthy – low in calories and saturated fats – and priced right.

“A lot of items are really starting to take hold, especially with other meat prices rising the way they are,” Seta said. “We can slip in quite easily with turkey.”

Williams also noted that turkey exports continue to rise.

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“Exports are very important to the United States poultry farmer,” he said. “We’ve been known for years as the breadbasket of the world. Let’s face it, we feed the world, we just do.

And in learning about what some countries prefer, we’ve also looked at the influx of our new citizens that come to places like North Carolina and the Research Triangle Park to work. They come with tastes that do include turkey in their menus. America has always been a melting pot, blessed with new ideas. It is quite a natural thing for us to look at.”

Seta is biased, but he makes three different turkeys for Thanksgiving – one in a conventional oven, one grilled and one deep-fried, in which case a 14-pounder can take just one hour.

And hats off to the cold turkey leftovers.

“It is the best part of the meal, a nice turkey sandwich on white bread with some mayonnaise, said Backyard Bistro owner Joe Lumbrazo. “There’s nothing better than turkey leftovers.

“A lot of times it goes to the marketing of it; food suppliers that have come into my restaurant to sell to me have always pushed chicken, chicken, chicken,” added Lumbrazo.

“Very seldom has a guy come through my door pushing turkey, only around Thanksgiving time. The other 364 days of the year are they saying you can make a turkey tetrazzini or a turkey pot pie?”

Looking for some everyday turkey ideas? Log on to www.eatturkey.com, where more than 1,000 recipes are readily available. midtownmag.com| 81

So noted...

with love

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How Wake County’s homegrown nonprofit “Note in the Pocket” became one of a kind.

By Kate Turgeon Watson

It’s a fall afternoon in an elementary school classroom.

Twenty students sit on a colorful mat that doubles as a map of the United States. A boy plays with his shoelaces. A girl bends her knees, wraps her arms around them and rests her cheek on a knee. A few children sit with posture a dancer would envy. Almost all of them, from 1st grade through 5th, have questions.

“How do you know the shoe size they need?” one asks.

“How can a family call you?” another says.

“Where do you keep all the clothes?” still another wants to know.

Dallas Bonavita answers the young inquisitors. As executive director of Note in the Pocket, she’s used to talking about the nonprofit she represents. She explains: they know shoe sizes because they’re written down, a family can’t call (but “helper” agencies can), and Note in the Pocket has a volunteer center. The center is on Newton Road, Bonavita adds, close to their school and near “where the horses are.”

If they weren’t before, the kids are definitely with her now. They say “oh” and nod their heads in understanding.

There are questions they don’t ask. They don’t ask why 51,000 students in Wake County may need Note in the Pocket. For them, the “why” isn’t nearly as important as what they can do to help.

The students are members of Ravenscroft School’s student council. They’re planning a clothing drive for Note in the Pocket, an organization that provides clothing to impoverished and homeless children in Wake County.

Throughout the year Bonavita visits groups like this one. She visits churches, scouting groups and clubs from Wake County Schools.

The donations that groups gather are a lifeline for her nonprofit, which started in 2005 as one family’s ministry.

“That’s really who we are. We are ‘the community.’ We collect the clothes. We process the clothes. We quality control. We sort. We size.

We shelve. And we deliver clothes to children in Wake County who need clothes for school.”

– Dallas Bonavita, Executive Director of Note in the Pocket

It began with a kindergarten teacher who was new to the profession. She noticed that many of her students were coming to school hungry and wearing clothing that didn’t fit and wasn’t right for the weather. The situation made it hard for them to learn. As the story goes, Bonavita says, the teacher called her mom. And the mom replied, “We can’t fix everything, but we can do something.”

They decided to make sure each child had a coat. They reached out to their community for help. Coats were donated. And each student in that classroom went home with a winter coat. What the young teacher didn’t expect, however, was that many of the coats were returned the day after they were given.

“The families couldn’t believe that anybody would give their child a coat,” Bonavita explains. “They just didn’t believe it. And they thought, ‘maybe it was just a coat to get them home that one day?’ So they sent them back.” midtownmag.com | 83

(left) Dallas Bonavita, executive director of Note in the Pocket, talks to the lower school student council at Ravenscroft School. (right) Students prepare signs to encourage their classmates to donate to a clothing drive for Note in the Pocket, an organization that provides clothing and a special note to impoverished and homeless children in Wake County.

Out of necessity, the teacher and her mom put a note in each coat pocket that read: “This coat is your child’s to keep. It’s a gift from the community.” The mother-daughter pair, who, Bonavita explains, prefer not to have their names in the spotlight, sent the coats home again.

That coat drive was the first project for what would become an organization named Note in the Pocket.

For years the coat drives continued.

Word got around and, pretty soon, people were just bringing coats at all times of the year, and in great numbers.

People started to bring clothes, too.

Organizers and friends would drop the clothes off at schools’ clothing closets for those in need and social workers would handle distribution.

“It just kinda grew … people would bring whatever they had whenever they had it,” Bonavita says.

While growth was welcomed, it was also time for a more organized effort. That meant community calendars and monthly clothing drives.

A steady stream of clothes coming in could mean a steady stream of clothes going out. The first clothing drive in 2012 yielded more than 100 bags of clothes from an Our Lady of Lourdes Vacation Bible School group.

“At that point all bets were off,” Bonavita laughs. “People were just

– immediately – wanting to schedule clothing drives. Exponentially, as people would hear about us, we had more volunteers show up. We had more requests for clothes.”

They grew their partnership base with school social workers and homeless and transitional housing agencies. Through the partnerships, they could identify the children most in need of their services.

Note in the Pocket had found its niche providing clothing to school-age children. They were delivering a week’s worth of clothing to each child in need. In the care package were shoes, socks, underwear and seasonallyappropriate, well-fitting clothes. There was no one, they discovered, who was doing what they were doing.

“We deliver … the families in financial crisis can’t get to where there are free or reduced-priced clothes,” Bonavita says. “And those places don’t have a week’s worth of clothes in that child’s sizes. Forget it if you have several children and … you might need size 14 husky. What thrift shop is going to have five pair of size 14 husky pants? You’d be lucky to find one.”

To get the clothing they’re looking for, Note in the Pocket volunteers have been known to visit several thrift shops and discount stores. “They’re great,” she says of the shops. “We

For more information 84 | midtownmag.com

919.714.9403 info@noteinthepocket.org www.noteinthepocket.org

Notes...

2005: Note in the Pocket starts as a family ministry. The first mission is to give winter coats to a classroom of children.

2005-2011: Operating from a private home, the organization continues to donate coats and clothing to students in need.

2012: Note in the Pocket becomes a ministry of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church.

2013: Note in the Pocket becomes a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, and serves more than 1,550 people (mostly children). NITP begins to operate out of a volunteer center in North Raleigh.

2014: Note in the Pocket reaches more than 2,000 people. Children are still the focus, but NITP will provide clothes to others in a child’s household. There’s a note that goes on top of each bag. It reads, simply, “You are loved.”

have relationships with all of them. We partner with all of them.”

Note in the Pocket volunteers never see the happy faces of the people they serve. But, Bonavita insists, that’s perfectly fine. What’s most important, she adds, is that the work is done anonymously and with dignity. Volunteers deliver to schools and, oftentimes, the schools’ social workers deliver to children when they do home visits.

Like the Note in the Pocket volunteers, those student council representatives – the ones sitting on the USA map rug – won’t ever know exactly whom they are helping. All they know is that they are holding a clothing drive to help others.

“Our motto is all about leading with others and changing our world,” Ravenscroft teacher Megan Bever says.

“They’re helping other children … this gives them a sense of a way they can help the community.”

For those who volunteer for Note in the Pocket, the word community is what they are all about. And the word recalls the words written on those very first notes that were sent home in the pockets of winter coats.

“We always say we do clothes. And we do them well. We have a very tight focus on what we do,” Bonavita says. “When you get something from us, it’s going to be new or like new because it’s a gift.” midtownmag.com | 85

a raleigh

tradition Celebrating 40 years with the one and only Ebenezer Scrooge

By David Droschak

Ira David Wood III has played a cold-hearted miser who despises Christmas for the last four decades. But sit with the Raleigh acting celebrity for more than a few minutes and it’s difficult to envision a mean bone in his 67-year-old body.

Wood had me busting a gut with laughter, from calling the famous author of A Christmas Carol Chucky D to describing the time when he was tapped on the shoulder in China by a South Carolina couple who asked, “Are you Ebenezer Scrooge?”

“That was rather depressing because in the 1970s they knew who I was, and I didn’t even have my nose or wig on,” Wood said. “Now the makeup just jumps out of the box to my face.”

Wood has been irreverent, comical and downright brilliant with his writing prowess and acting skills in the Theatre in the Park’s hit musical comedy adaption of the 1843 novel by Charles Dickens. The show celebrates its 40th anniversary this holiday season with a series of December performances at Raleigh’s Memorial Auditorium and Durham’s Performing Arts Center.

The community theater production had humble beginnings, when an overflow crowd of 200 attended the first showing, some purchasing sofa cushions from the lobby to sit in the aisles of the tiny theater.

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and cushions, and the baker used to come out in the opening act with real cookies and pass them out to the kids in the front row,” Wood said. “That’s how close we were to everyone.

Those were the days.”

When Wood opened the show in 1974, most if not all of the region’s theaters were closed for the holidays. “I thought that was crazy,” Wood said. “The holidays are a time families love to do things together, but after a few evenings gathered around the hearth you are ready to get out of the house. I said, ‘my golly, we should do a holiday show.”’

At the time, Wood’s acting season was filled with Shakespeare, but none of his work translated into holiday themes.

“We went to the next great English author in Chucky D,” Wood recalled. “We decided on ‘A Christmas Carol.’ I wanted to be faithful to Dickens’ book and I think people would be surprised in what we’ve actually lifted out of the book in terms of dialogue. But I didn’t want it to be the morose character that Dickens wrote about. I wanted our audience to be able to identify a little bit more with the character. If you can identify with Scrooge, you have more of a chance to make that transformation with him. I also believe there is a little Scrooge in all of us around Christmas. I haven’t met an adult yet who

hasn’t wanted to hit Tiny Tim in the Christmas started. face with a lemon meringue pie. That

“Certainly it has become a child is just too sweet. significant part of our family and

“I also wanted it to be a family has been healing for us, a real neat show, which presented a challenge experience. When I originally did this because the humor in the show in some I thought I would do it for a year or cases has to fly over the heads of the two with my daughters, but it helped kids. But at the same time we wanted me to do something that was out of elements in the show to speak directly my comfort zone, to step out on a limb to the child in all of us.” without my wife beside me because

Once drawing a few hundred, the we had always done things as a pair. show is now wildly successful in terms It was a monumental moment for me of attendance, critical acclaim and in repairing from my grief. Now that tradition. Some families in the Triangle I’ve done it for so long and built such don’t light their Christmas tree until wonderful friendships with other adults, after seeing the show.

I can see myself doing it for 40 more

“There is a sense that this is a gift years. I know Lisa is up there grinning that we give to the community, so from and rolling her eyes at the same time.” the beginning of the rehearsal period

Wood himself had a life-changing there is that talk, not just about what’s experience in November 2010 when funny or how to execute certain things, he was diagnosed with a serious heart but that we are gifting valve problem. He was Christmas to people,” said examined on a Tuesday Diane Petteway, the show’s and was in emergency music director for the last surgery three days later.

20 years. “We are also a His son Ira Wood IV community theater. This is played his part of Scrooge a group of people who are that season – the only time not trained theater actors, the elder Wood has missed so the things we look for in four decades. are different than what a

“My surgeon told professional theater might me I should have had look for … but with very a sign by my heart that professional results. read ‘Sanford and Son’, The show deals with because it was a pile of the community, spirit junk,” Wood said. “I called and heart.”

Ira up and he came by the Ira David Wood III is

Bruce Ham, whose house and when he walked still embracing his day job is that of chief in the door I said ‘Hello role as Scrooge development officer for Mr. Scrooge.’ And the well into his 60s. the YMCA of the Triangle, color just drained out of has played a townsperson his face. He said, ‘Are you for the last four seasons. Ham’s wife Lisa serious?’ And I said, ‘I’m as serious as a was in the production with the couple’s heart attack.’” oldest daughter for several years before

Wood’s son studied videos and then she passed away in 2010 from colon went to work. His father was released cancer at the age of 39. from the hospital in a week and in the

Ham’s three daughters – ages 12, audience for many of the performances.

14 and 17 – talked their father, who has

“It was kind of an outer body mastered dance steps at home in front of experience,” the elder Wood said. the mirror, into trying out for the play.

“He had every one of my moves and

“Raleigh has a lot of special things nuances down. I knew then that the about it,” Ham said. “Some of it are show was going to outlast me.” our restaurants, or our culture, but

Nothing appears off limits in terms there are certain events like this that of Wood’s comical adaptations to the really make our community what it is. show. He has poked fun at the likes of With our production of A Christmas former Gov. Mike Easley – his neighbor Carol being 40 years old, it really is a – former president Bill Clinton … even part of the culture of Raleigh. It has a flu outbreak. meant a lot to the people who come

“I don’t know that we’ll make too and see it; it’s really how they get their much fun of Ebola this year, but if midtownmag.com | 87

there is a chance to get people to laugh about some of the serious issues without offending people, we’ll do anything,” he said. “The biggest laugh we got was the piece we did on Monica Lewinsky and Clinton. For three minutes we held for the laugh. I said to the audience, ‘Go ahead and laugh because you’re not having as much fun as me.’ You push the boundaries a little bit.”

Wood is quick to call the actors a family, not a cast.

“We’re huggers, so if somebody walks in to rehearsal that looks like they need a hug, you give them a hug,” Wood said. “This company brings a generosity of spirit. I couldn’t pay them what they are worth. They are volunteers, which makes it even more beautiful because they are giving from their heart and their soul. We have doctors, ministers, lawyers, school teachers and students. This year we have 32 little kids in the show. That’s right, 32! Everybody looked at me and said, ‘Have you lost your mind?’ I said, ‘Completely.’

A brother and sister will alternate playing Tiny Tim for the 40th anniversary season. Their mother was also in the production years ago.

“She was a little kid in the show way back in the old days and used to say, ‘Look, it’s Ebenezer Stooge.’ I look back at those faces on the stage and I can’t believe where time has gone.

“Now every year it’s like I’m going to sit down and meet an old friend again,” Wood added about playing Scrooge. “Since he delights in wrecking Christmas the way we play him, it’s a joy to sit down. I think it would probably be a little depressing to play the real Scrooge the way Dickens wrote him, to every night have to go in and turn my nose up. After the heart surgery [Scrooge] and I got closer because I got a second chances like Scrooge, and those second changes don’t come often in people’s lives. When they do, if you embrace them, it’s a whole new chapter.”

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C.T. Weekends/$79 2. LyssĂŠ (tight ankle)

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10. J. Brand (skinny) Dress/$68, consigned

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01. Sonicare Toothbrush $80 Renaissance Dental Center Includes two toothbrush heads and a two-year warranty. Get a healthier mouth with gentle technology.

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02. Teardrop Shaped Earrings $59 Ten Thousand Villages Natural gourd shell is preserved and etched by hand to create these earrings from Manos Amigas. Framed in sterling silver and hung from French wires.

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American-made bowties packaged with extra Southern charm. USA made.

04. Interchangeable Serving Pieces Prices Vary (minis, platters, bowls, plates) Nora Fleming at Affordable Chic Shops Who doesn’t love a fab-looking table?

Entertaining is easy with Nora Fleming. One gift, every occasion!

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05. Soy Delicious $34.50 Lorena Luca Spa and Skin Clinic Once the candle liquefies, dip your finger into the soy and use as a moisturizing rub for hands, feet, cuticles and elbows.

06. Bamboo Firming Fluid $58 Skin Sense, a day spa Smooths the appearance of wrinkles, delays signs of aging, and hydrates and firms the skin – without the photosensitizing and irritation from traditional retinols.

07. Export Lacquer Box $725 DT & Co From China, each of eight sides decorated with scenes of figures in outdoor architectural settings, 10 ½” x 5 ½".

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08. The Essence of Style $50 to $66 C.T. Weekends Bracelets by Petra Meiren, Germany. Available in many colors trimmed in gold or silver. Sizes small, medium, large

09. Handpainted Ceramic Cow Pendants $72 dress A great selection, and no two are alike!

10. Diamond Hoops Price Varies Diamonds Direct Crabtree Diamond hoops are on every lady’s wish list this Christmas! Available in white, rose or yellow gold in any carat weight.

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11. Limited Edition Smoke & Mirrors Smoky Eye Kit $50 Modern Enhancement It holds eight shades to create your favorite smoky eye! The perfect holiday gift for yourself and your makeup mavens!

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12. EltaMD® UV Clear BROADSPECTRUM SPF 46 $30 Bain Dermatology, Skin Cancer Surgery & Cosmetic Specialist Calm and protect sensitive skin that is prone to breakouts, rosacea and discoloration. It contains ingredients that promote skin health, and is paraben free.

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13. Shelley Kyle Fragrances Price Varies Shabby Rose at Affordable Chic Shops Simple, elegant and timeless. A whiff of Southern elegance – Shelley Kyle world of fragrance.

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14. Belt Buckle $169 Oxford Green Vintage chic. Grandmother’s china never had such attitude. Authentic. Serving style one dish at a time. Pattern belt buckle on genuine leather. midtownmag.com | 95

15. Todd Reed Jewelry $1895 Hamilton Hill Silver, gold and palladium jewelry for women and men, including this uber cool unisex silver and black diamond ring.

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16. Wine Bottle Holder $36 Revival Antiques This wine bottle holder with chalkboard labels makes a fun and practical gift!

17. Fashionable Fido Bow Tie $12.95 Woof Gang Bakery 100% American made for your furry best friend! These bow ties are hand-made right here in North Carolina! Also available online at www.FashionableFido.com.

18. Gift Basket $30 and up Tin Roof Teas Custom gift baskets for any tea or honey lover! Choose from a selection of accessories, teas and local honeys.

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19. Minis and Mini Gardens from $.50 up to $37 The Wright Place at Affordable Chic Shops Pack up your fairy/mini garden and furnish it with many of our mini selections.

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20. Mossed Topiary Dog $99-$499 Oxford Green For the dog lover. Mossed topiary canine.

Chose from many breed varieties.

21. A Christmas Carol Prices Vary Theatre in the Park Give the gift of entertainment with tickets to see the 40th anniversary production of A Christmas Carol at Memorial Auditorium December 10th-14th, or at DPAC December 18th-21st. For more info visit theatreinthepark.com.

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22. ReFRESH dry conditioner $22 Plum Hair Atelier A weightless conditioning spray for impossibly soft and silky hair. Fights frizz, static and flyaways. Restores fullness, moisture and shine.

23. BUBA Clutch $548 lori+lulu Indian-inspired clutch by BUBA London.

Handmade and beaded with Swarovski crystals.

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24. LATISSE® (3mL bottle) $89 Davis Plastic Surgery LATISSE® is the only prescription treatment that’s FDA-approved for promoting longer, darker and thicker eyelashes.

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25. Christmas Mini Cakes $25 and up The Cupcake Shoppe Perfect for any holiday table, gift exchange or party! A festive treat for two to four, available in your choice of flavors!

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26. Batucada Necklace $20-50 At Ease Simple, elegant French designed creations are hand-made with an exclusive material, 100% recyclable, totally eco-friendly – leadfree, oil-free, phthalate-free.

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27. The Nutcracker $10 and up City Ballet Share the magic of the holiday season! Shows on December 12th and 13th at Rolesville High School. More information city-ballet.com.

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28. Transit Pint Glass $13 BeyondBlue Interiors Made in the USA, these stunning glasses are a modern, graphic interpretation of the transit system of your favorite cities! midtownmag.com | 97

29. Kitchen Towels $13.75-$18.75 Affordable Chic Shops Servant’s Heart inspirational kitchen towels.

Produced in Greenville, NC and manufactured in the USA.

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30. Prepared Dinners $185 and up Chef Mario’s, Inc Chef prepared dinners for a week from Chef Mario’s, Inc! Two-person packages start at just $185.

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31. Scent Savvy Electric Lumine Fragrancer $50-$60 Homewood Nursery Electric Lumine Fragrancers are a beautiful decor piece that safely add fragrance to rooms.

Gelee fragrances mean no hot wax to spill.

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32. Rain Boots $199 Lori+Lulu Ilse Jacobson rain boots from Denmark in a variety of colors.

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33. Hand-Knotted Necklace $30 and up CoolSweats Wear it long, doubled, or even with a dangle.

The Tango – hand-knotted oversized 1940s vintage plastic in a really cool tangerine, and The Dot – hand-crocheted with turquoise.

34. Panels Painted on Silk $675/pair DT & Co Early 20th century pair of panels painted on silk.

Framed under glass within original gilded frames.

From an estate in Virginia. 53 ½" x 23 ½".

35. Custom Gifts $10 and up Pinot’s Palette (Brier Creek) Custom gift baskets or stocking stuffers for the art lover. Choose from a wide variety of gift cards, wine and specialty items.

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36. 18kt White Gold Necklace $1995 Reliable Jewelry Features multicolored sapphires, gemstones and diamonds hanging from a double white gold adjustable chain.

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37. Holiday Box Sets $26 and up Salon Blu New glamorous gift sets by Redken and Pureology are sure to impress. Multiple product options for both men and women.

38. Ultra Premium EVOO $10.50 and up Midtown Olive Oil Taste the difference in our extra virgin olive oil. Also offering traditional balsamics, white balsamics and specialty oils.

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39. Ring Holder $100 Ora Designers and Fine Jewelers This hand cast Windsor ring holder from Olivia Reigel is adorned with hundreds of Swarovski crystals.

40. Beautiful Color Collection $76 Mark Christopher Salon May your hair be healthy and bright with this beautiful color collection including shampoo, conditioner and masque.

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41. Custom Wood Monograms Price Varies Southern Accents at Affordable Chic Shops Custom monograms are the hottest holiday trend for 2014! Add a touch of elegance to your entryway with custom wreaths and garlands and personalized monograms. 42

42. Tacori Island Rains Ring $190 Bailey’s Fine Jewelry Inspired by the crystal clear Barbados blue water, this ring feels tropical yet glamorous at the same time. The Island Rains ring is stackable or perfect all on its own. midtownmag.com | 99

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43. Rhombus Scarf / NUNO $140 At Ease The reversible Rhombus scarf woven with fine wool yarn, the scarf has a soft, crepe-like texture and is warm but lightweight.

44. Angelica Bracelets $22.50/each Twelve Forks Junction at Affordable Chic Shops Adjustable stacking bracelets featuring unique designs. A portion of each sale benefits Generation Rescue, a nonprofit that supports autism.

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45. Build-Your-Own Gift Basket Massage Envy Spa Massages and facials as well as a large selection of Murad速 Healthy Skin products and Biofreeze速 products for muscle soreness. Grab a basket and build your own!

MassageEnvyRDU.com.

46. Susan Shaw Necklace $72 Hunt & Gather Fine Estate Furnishings on Glenwood Avenue The gold large-loop chain beautifully offsets the stunning stone.

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47. Crystal Necklace $290 Lori+Lulu Cushion cut crystal statement collar

48. Mailly Brut Reserve Gift Set $54.99 Total Wine & More 91 points Wine Spectator! The Mailly Brut Reserve is on the dry side, with a lingering honey accent on the finish.

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49. Bangle Bracelets $95/each Reliable Jewelry Charles Garnier sterling multi-colored finished bangle bracelets.

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50. Bra and Panty Set $104 The Bra Patch Effortless support, sophisticated styles and blissful fabrics will wrap you in amazing comfort and fill you with confidence.

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51. David Yurman Bracelet $1450 Fink’s Jewelers Narrow bracelet with black diamonds, hematines, black onyx and 18kt yellow gold.

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52. Magna Mini Vest $59 Charlotte’s Whim at Affordable Chic Shops No buttons…closes with magnets.

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53. AVEDA Stress-Fix Body Creme $50 Von Kekel Deeply moisturizes dry, dehydrated skin with its unique blend of sustainably harvested sea algae, organic shea butter and sunflower seed oil that locks in hydration.

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54. Hayes Pottery $15.99 and up Sillygrits.com Handcrafted in Wake Forest, Hayes Pottery reflects the pride and tradition of North Carolina. Give a little piece of the South this holiday season. Shop sillygrits.com.

55. Spartina Fall and Holiday Jewelry $20-$100 Homewood Nursery Beautiful, elegant jewelry and handbags of Belgian linen and leather will make any girl’s holiday bright.

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56. Leather Club Chair Oxford Green Vintage look leather club chair. Leather collection includes ottomans, club chairs and sofa options. Made in America. midtownmag.com | 101

SAINT-JACQUES The South of France is only minutes away! Join Lil Lacassagne and his talented staff for a delightful French meal at one of their two locations: Raleigh (Falls of Neuse Road) or Gibsonville (between Greensboro and Burlington).

Second Empire Offering a holiday (and everyday) dining experience that combines an atmosphere of classical history and elegance with a selection of cuisine that is as exquisitely unique as it is delicious.

FOOD & DRINK Catering Works Catering Works offers cooking class gift certificates, the perfect holiday gift for foodies and cooking novices alike. Classes include hands-on interactive instruction, all the ingredients and tools required, complimentary wine and lots of fun! www.cateringworks.com/classes_personal_chef/ classschedule.php.

Empire Eats Wrap up an Empire Eats gift card, valid at all our locations: The Pit, The Raleigh Times, The Morning Times, Sitti, Gravy and The Pit in Durham!

Village Grill Let the Village Grill host your holiday party, office party or family get-together in our beautiful private dining room, or let us bring the party to you. Gift cards are available for a great holiday treat!

Eschelon Experiences Give the gift of food with a gift card to one of our five restaurant concepts; Mura @ North Hills, The Oxford, Zinda New Asian, Faire Steak & Seafood, and Cameron Bar and Grill. Buy them in the restaurants or online at www.eschelonexperiences. com/shop.

Mia Francesca At Mia Francesca Trattoria Italian Restaurant, our chefs bring you what true Northern Italian casual fine dining is. Our ever-changing menu always includes made-from-scratch Italian sauces, pastas & dishes.

MIDTOWN GRILLE Enjoy regionally-inspired, creative cuisine in an intimate dining setting or a cocktail after work in the heart of North Hills.

FITNESS Empower Personalized Fitness Empower Personalized Fitness, a local, boutique fitness studio that specializes in highly personalized fitness services like private personal training and focused group fitness classes, is offering a FREE $25 gift card with the purchase of any $100 gift card. Something nice for them, a little something for you!

Pulse Pilates Give the gift of fitness for the holidays! Buy a Pulse Pilates gift certificate and start the new year off right! Purchases of $100 or more will recevie a free t-shirt.

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TRAVEL BEAUTY Hand & Stone Massage Hand & Stone offers expert massage, facials & wax-free hair removal seven days a week. Our professionally licensed NC bodywork therapists and estheticians are here to assist you in achieving your goals. Take advantage of our special introductory offers for first-time visitors. Gift cards and spa packages are available for purchase as well.

High Park Nail Spa Give the gift of pampering and relaxation this year with a gift card to High Park Nail Spa. Here you will find the best manicures and pedicures in the Triangle with complimentary wine and organic nail products.

LAMBETH PLASTIC SURGERY Lambeth Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics offers antiaging cosmetic procedures for the whole body to clients in the Triangle. Be an ageless beauty and get the expertise of a caring specialist. Perfect for the holidays – gift certificates are available for any amount.

Morea Plastic Surgical Center Look dazzling this holiday season for all of your parties and festivities. Schedule a visit with Dr. Morea at The Plastic Surgical Center of North Raleigh for Botox®, Restylane® or Perlane.

919.845.7880. www.drmoreaplasticsurgery.com.

THE SPA AT LAFAYETTE Experience the ultimate oasis of relaxation. Gift cards are available for indulgent facials and expert massages. Enjoy for yourself before the holidays and give as gifts for post-holiday love.

Skin sense, a day spa Gift cards for massage, facial and nail treatments are a special gift for family, friends, colleagues and anyone else special in your life. Give a series or spa membership for a gift that lasts throughout the year. Buy gift cards totaling $150 and get an additional $25 gift card for free! Call 919.870.0700 or visit www.skinsense.com.

Expedia CruiseShipCenters Give the gift of cruising this holiday season! Offer your friends and family memories of a lifetime with a $100 gift certificate toward a spectacular cruise vacation experience. Call 919.827.0190 or visit www.cruiseshipcenters.com/North Raleigh for more info.

soapbox salon Beautiful hair is the gift that keeps on giving.

Treat a loved one to a wide range of hair services or products with a gift card for the holiday season.

Synergy Spa & Aesthetics This holiday give the gift of relaxation and rejuvenation with a gift certificate to Synergy Spa & Aesthetics. From December 1st-24th receive a complimentary manicure gift certificate with every $150 gift certificate purchased in person, over the phone or online at www.feelsynergy.com.

SHOPPING north hills Live, work, shop, dine and play at North Hills!

Drop by the North Hills Guest Services (also the Coldwell Banker HPW sales office), next to Vineyard Vines, and get your gift card today. Use it at almost any North Hills store, restaurant or salon. Available in amounts up to $500. It’s the gift that’s the perfect stocking stuffer.

ENTERTAINMENT Marbles Kids Museum & IMAX Theatre Imagine - Discover - Learn at Marbles Kids Museum & IMAX Theatre. Give the gift of family fun!

Gift cards are good for museum admission and membership, giant screen IMAX ticket purchases and concessions, and purchases at Marbles Corner Store. All proceeds benefit Marbles, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

North Carolina Theatre Give the gift of theatre! Gift certificates available for any of the remaining five shows on NC Theatre’s 2015 season including the Tony awardwinning smash hit Billy Elliot, classic Gershwin in Nice Work If You Can Get It and The Buddy Holly Story! wine and design This year, why not get creative? Paint your own unique gifts to give to your loved ones, or spread the joy of wine and design with a gift card!

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And

Out

About for the

November 22nd-February 1st Ipreo Raleigh Winterfest This ten-week celebration of winter features an outdoor ice-skating rink in City Plaza, at 421 Fayetteville Street. Admission is $9, including skate rental. The rink will be open daily, with varying hours of operation. Expect plenty of other festivities throughout its run, including the December 6th Tree-Lighting Celebration – a party from 3-10pm that includes festive decorations, live entertainment, and an opportunity to visit Santa’s Winter Wonderland. >> www.godowntownraleigh.com/winterfest

photography © Carolyn Scott Photography

holidays Raleigh Activities and Events

By Dan Bain

November 22nd WRAL Raleigh Christmas Parade The largest Christmas Parade between Washington, DC and Atlanta is marking its 70th occurrence this year.

The grand marshal will be none other than Ebenezer Scrooge himself, Ira David Wood III. This annual parade starts at Hillsborough and St. Mary’s Streets at 9:40am and proceeds approximately 1.4 miles down Salisbury, Morgan and Fayetteville Streets before disbanding at Lenoir Street. The parade lasts about two and a half hours, but will be telecast from 10am to noon on WRAL-TV and UNC-TV. More than 60,000 will attend in person, with more than 250,000 watching from home.

Having gained notoriety as a Christmas parade that takes place before Thanksgiving, the parade is typically rebroadcast on Christmas morning. >> grma.org/christmas-parade/

November 28th-29th Holiday Pops Special Concert A sure sell-out performance that’s fun for the whole family, this concert will include carols, classical favorites, seasonal gems, a sing-along, and a visit from Santa himself. Get out after your Thanksgiving, and start your holiday season with a night of music!

The shows start at 7:30pm Friday and 3pm Saturday, at Meymandi Concert Hall. >> www.ncsymphony.org/

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December 6th

November 28th-30th

Scandinavian Christmas Fair

The Christmas Carousel Holiday Gift Market

Sponsored by a Swedish-American organization and a Swedish women’s organization, the Scandinavian Christmas Fair is an authentic celebration of traditions from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. Known as “Julmarknad” in Swedish, the Christmas Fair has taken place for 18 years, filling the Holshouser Building at the State Fairgrounds with artisans, vendors, and thousands of enchanted guests.

Enjoy unique crafts, exotic food, live entertainment and countless opportunities to learn about Scandinavian customs.

Admission is $7 for guests 13 and older, and proceeds go toward scholarships and the support of local Scandinavian initiatives. >> www.scanfair.org/

Billed as “the Triangle’s largest marketplace for arts, crafts and seasonal favorites,” this market has been delighting holiday shoppers for 27 years. More than 250 exhibitors will fill the Jim Graham Building at the State Fairgrounds to offer arts, crafts, and unique holiday gifts of all sorts. Enjoy the music of the White Christmas Carolers as you browse, shop, or plan your visit with the Market’s very authentic Santa. The Market is open from 9am-7pm Friday, 9am-6pm Saturday, and 11am-5pm Sunday. Admission is $8 per adult, $7 per senior (60+), $4 per child (6-12), and free for children 5 and younger. >> www.christmascarousel.com/

December 4th-7th Holiday Express at Pullen Park

December 13th-14th 43rd Annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight Tour™

photography © B. TAYLOR

With its beautiful Victorian architecture, the Oakwood community is a perfect setting for a Christmas right out of the pages of history.

Take a walk through Christmas past from 1-7pm each day, and revel in the beautiful interiors of the homes that so many passersby regularly admire from the outside. >> www.raleighirishfestival.com.

All aboard! This favorite Raleigh tradition – one that has sold out regularly over the last few years – pulls in from 4-9pm daily over the course of two four-day blocks, with new improvements based on past feedback. As in previous years, visitors will see the park turned into a winter wonderland of lights and displays, plus music and entertainment, arts and crafts, Santa time, carousel rides, and of course the Holiday Express train ride around the park! For the first time this year, customers will register for a specific ride boarding time for the train, cutting down on line waits and allowing them to maximize their time enjoying the other activities. The city has also added two nights and decreased the number of tickets per night, further reducing wait times, and has reserved additional inclement weather days. Tickets are $8 per guest over the age of two, available online through Reclink at parks.raleighnc.gov or at any staffed Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources facility. Proceeds support Rotary charities. >> www.raleighnc.gov/parks/news/content/CorNews/Articles/PRecHolidayExpress.html

December 31st First Night Raleigh Celebrate New Year’s Eve at dozens of locations across downtown Raleigh as you wait for the iconic acorn to drop in the countdown to midnight. A pass grants admission to almost 100 family-friendly performances and other fun activities throughout the day (children 5 and under are admitted free with another guest’s paid admission). Buy passes in advance for $10 at Harris Teeter, Rite Aid, and other local businesses, or online via etix.com, or buy them onsite for $13. www.first-nightraleigh.com/

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Belly

Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Chef Gunning For State Culinary Crown

By David Droschak

Executive chefs toiled in virtually anonymity before the likes of celebrities Bobby Flay and Rachael Ray, or TV competitions such as Hell’s Kitchen and Chopped cut deep into the reality TV ratings.

“Most people don’t ever think about what it takes to get a plate in front of you,” said Dean Thompson, executive chef at Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Flights Restaurant and now two-time winner of the elite cooking competition Fire in the Triangle. “Once you dig a little deeper, you find out how much really goes into it.”

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The public relations staff at the hotel thought it would be a good idea for Thompson and his team to compete in the inaugural Got to Be N.C. Competition Dining in 2012 – a statewide event in which each region hosts a series of dinners where local chefs face off in a bracketed, single-elimination, blind-dinner format.

The executives never dreamed how much publicity Thompson would garner the hotel after winning Fire in the Triangle each of the last two years, once again advancing to the Fire Finals in late November on his home turf at the Renaissance.

“The PR people for the event told me we got 11 million Internet views between my name and the hotel,” the 32-year-old Thompson said. “It has been good and done some good things for me as well. Before I won, nobody knew who I was. It’s not like I’m a celebrity by any means, but in the industry the guys know who I am now. When I see chefs out, they say hello and want to chat.

“And when you go to these events now I’m the one to beat, which is kind of weird, it’s crazy – but we’ve taken out the highest profile places in the area,” he added.

The 2014 Fire Finals will be Thompson’s 12th time in the Fire so to speak, since he advanced four rounds in 2013 and 2014, along with his Fire Finals appearances.

In the Raleigh final last year, Thompson was pitted against Midtown Grill chef Scott James.

“I called my dessert the Homer Simpson because it had beer, beef and donuts in it,” Thompson said.

“I think when you are creative and come up with something like that on the fly, people tend to give it a little extra credit.”

In the regional rounds, 70 percent of the judging is scored from the 160 “Ordinary Joes” who purchase tickets to the tasting, while 30 percent is scored from the “pros,” a three-team panel of culinary experts or chefs. In the Fire Finals, the percentages are reversed.

The chef ’s menu consists of three courses, including a dessert, which is created around one or two North Carolina ingredients. However, those ingredients are not revealed until noon on the day of the competition.

“We’re always dreaming of different ingredients that haven’t been used yet, because in the final they usually break out the nicest stuff they can,” Thompson said. “Last year it was North Carolina truffles, apples and apple cider, and we got pecans. I’ll be prepared for any fall ingredient in North Carolina. It could be anything from Texas Pete hot sauce to Krispy Kreme donuts that they make you cook with.”

Thompson’s Fire Finals team on November 21st will consist of Anthony Zinani, the Renaissance executive sous-chef, and his brother Matt Thompson, the executive chefs, at 214 Martin Street.

The Fire Finals sold out in 12 minutes last year, yet another signal of the growing popularity of these types of local, statewide, regional and national food competitions.

“As fun as it is, it’s the hardest day of the year in terms of work,” said Thompson, who was born in Cary and went to high school at Cardinal Gibbons. “Every time you compete you can barely get out of bed the next day. It’s the stress; and it’s also physical. You are preparing for 160 people in seven hours, three courses with just three chefs in your team. And we do the Fire in the Triangle in the middle of the summer. The first year they didn’t have any air conditioning and I lost 14 pounds.”

Thompson’s dream is to open up a BBQ and fried chicken restaurant in the Triangle with his brother.

“I believe it’s just as important as a chef to be able to do all the simple things really well,” Thompson said.

“Working at Hope Valley Country Club in Durham for five years I touched a little bit of everything, from grilled cheese to chicken fingers to lobster.”

No telling what Thompson and his team will get handed on November 21st. He warned not to anticipate too much what type of products might pop into their hands.

“This year I was going against Cantina 18 and the pastry chef was trying to anticipate what food we would get,” he said. “It was beer and bread, and she just took her paper and crumbled it up and had to start all over.

It’s hard to bounce back from that mentally. It’s like writer’s block for a chef.” midtownmag.com | 107

Have Game, WILL TRAVEL Looking to ramp up your child’s athletic career?

Travel teams might be the answer.

By Kurt Dusterberg

midtownmag.com| 109

it

always starts with modest intentions. You’ve got a little athlete at home, and the time is right to enroll your child in the community rec league.

Soon, your budding star has played a few seasons of soccer, softball or a host of other sports, and you start seeing something special.

A coach or supportive parent suggests that you should consider a more challenging level of play for your child. It’s flattering and exciting.

It’s also a slippery slope.

Loosely referred to as “travel” sports, the organizations and teams you can pursue will help your child become a much better athlete. The level of coaching and competition is greater, and there are more games and practices to accelerate the learning curve.

But before you jump in with two cleats, there is a lot to consider.

For starters, is the increased commitment right for your child? Even if little Kyle or Kaitlyn loves soccer, will they want to play and practice five days a week? Also, is your child emotionally ready for the next level of competitions? Travel coaches are more demanding than rec coaches, and most children face an adjustment period when they join better competition. Will your child be devastated if he or she is no longer the star player – or winds up on the bench?

Many parents begin thinking of travel sports when their kids are middle-school age. That’s a transitional time for emotional maturity.

The next issue is an important one. Most travel teams involve a substantial financial commitment. Organizations and individual teams typically rent practice facilities, buy equipment and pay tournament fees. Parents are also expected to spring for uniforms, personal equipment and travel expenses. It’s easy to push a family beyond its budget.

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THE PROS If you’re on board with the athletic commitment and the cost, travel sports might be worth exploring. There are plenty of benefits.

An active, healthy lifestyle

In an age where adolescent development includes a lot of downtime on smart phones and electronic devices, playing for a travel team is an ideal way to get exercise and make other smart choices – ones that can last into adulthood.

An opportunity to excel at something worthwhile

Athletes learn how to function in a team setting, prioritize their responsibilities and learn what it takes to succeed against other highly-skilled competition. That’s three good life lessons.

A chance to build a social network with like-minded kids

If your daughter likes volleyball, what could be better than spending time with peers who love to play the game? There are potential social benefits for parents, too. If you’re all supporting your children’s budding sports careers, you’ve got something in common.

THE CONS Travel sports often draw criticism, however, questioning the wisdom of making children’s sports a centerpiece of a family’s life. Here are some of the drawbacks.

Lost weekends

This is the biggie. A weekend tournament can be just that – an all-weekend event. If that idea doesn’t square with your other family priorities, it may not work. Keep your other children in mind, too. Sitting on bleachers watching endless hours of games doesn’t appeal to most siblings.

Expenses

This can be a real eye-opener, because costs vary dramatically. Many teams have multiple uniforms. Baseball/ softball bats can run close to $300. Depending on how far you have to travel, you might need to absorb hotel costs and additional meals. At minimum, be prepared to spend $1,000 for a year of travel sports. And don’t be surprised if it costs four times that much.

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THE QUESTIONS So, how do you choose what is right for your child? For starters, investigate your options. Soccer, for example, has different organizations and levels of competition. Players try out and are assigned to teams. Softball, on the other hand, is more team driven. Individual coaches can start a team and recruit players, then enter tournaments run by different sanctioning organizations.

If your child is invited to join a team, ask plenty of questions.

Are the coaches paid?

This simply depends on the organization. Paying the coaches can drive up the cost dramatically, but good coaching might be worth the investment.

Does the team or organization do fundraising?

Not only can fundraising curb your cost, but it’s a chance for your child to take responsibility for the opportunity that travel sports represents.

What constitutes a “season”?

Some teams play seasons that run four months. Others play almost year-round. Find out if you are committing to six weekends in the spring – or 20 weekends over the calendar year.

What is the team’s idea of “travel”?

Some coaches schedule most of their games and tournaments within an hour’s driving distance, avoiding the need to stay in hotels overnight. Others look for tournaments all over the Southeast.

Is your child guaranteed playing time?

If you’re paying, it is reasonable to expect your child will be playing. Ask other parents about their experience before you join.

One last thing

Forget about landing a college scholarship. Less than one percent of all high school varsity athletes earn athletic scholarships to Division I universities. Outside of football and basketball, the vast majority of those scholarships are partials ones. Don’t take on travel sports thinking your son or daughter will parlay the experience into an all-expenses-paid college career.

Instead, if your child begins playing travel sports between the ages of 10 and 14, here’s a more reasonable goal: encourage them to become a standout high school player. Many kids who make their high school teams will have similar travel sports experience or other specialized training, so don’t count on your kid’s experience to be a fast track to college athletics.

The benefits of keeping your child involved in competitive sports through high school are far more tangible than pursuing an elusive athletic scholarship. The personal memories, good work habits and healthy lifestyles will be reward enough. midtownmag.com| 111

9:1

“True Love of Sport”

Propels Apex Volleyball Star

Ally Beckman began playing competitive volleyball late in middle school. Once she caught the bug for the game, she poured her energy into playing with Triangle Volleyball Club, spending countless hours on courts near and far.

Now the Apex High School senior is ready for the next level. She has accepted a volleyball scholarship at the College of Charleston in South Carolina.

Ally is among the most fortunate of travel sports athletes. Earning a college scholarship is the ultimate payoff for the years spent pursuing youth sports at a high level. But if you ask her mother, the scholarship isn’t what matters most.

“If Ally’s scholarship were taken away tomorrow, it would have been well worth it for us,” Lauren Beckman said. “She truly loves volleyball that much. That’s why she’s playing. You have to keep that in perspective. It can’t be about college and a scholarship.”

Lauren Beckman has learned what so many other travel parents come to find out: the pursuit of elite-level youth sports is often its own reward. College scholarships are rare by any standard.

“We got into it because we thought it would be great for Ally,” Beckman said. “You have to get into it for the love of the sport and for what you’re going to put into it – and what it’s going to give you in the moment, not in the future. “ Volleyball has already given Ally a head start on values and experiences that are not typical for teenagers. She went to Costa

Rica last year for 10 days to build volleyball courts with her club team. When college coaches caught wind of her on-court skills, Ally had to learn some adult skills.

“Early in her sophomore year she was talking to coaches on a regular basis on the telephone and sending out letters,” Beckman said. “Basically she was searching for a job, interfacing with adults. Nowadays, kids don’t do that. She was put in situations that kids their age typically don’t face until they are out of college.”

At the most advanced level, a year of Triangle Volleyball Club can cost about $8,000, which includes dues, uniforms and travel. While that is a major financial commitment for anyone, Beckman sees an immediate reward.

“It has been very beneficial and productive,” she said. “I don’t want to say it’s kept Ally out of trouble, but for her, sports has been a really positive influence socially.

It’s been a productive way to fill her time.”

Like many people writing the checks, Lauren and her husband Chris don’t dwell on the cost. Just as importantly, they didn’t focus on earning a scholarship either.

“It can’t be about the end game,” Beckman insists. “If it is about the scholarship, that’s the kid who won’t last but a season in college. It has to be about the true love of the sport. She’s healthy and happy, and we’ve gotten her through her adolescent years successfully. It cost a little bit more, but if we hadn’t done this, then I don’t know what her life would have been like.”

Looking for more?

Looking to get your child involved in a more competitive level of sports? Here are some Triangle-area resources to consider. Keep in mind, the various sports operate differently.

Some involve joining an organization and being placed on a team. Others require finding a team (or forming one) and entering tournaments with different sanctioning organizations.

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VOLLEYBALL Triangle Volleyball Club: trianglevolleyball.org

SOCCER Capital Area Soccer League: caslnc.com

LACROSSE North Carolina Lacrosse Academy: nclaxacademy.com

BASEBALL North Wake County Baseball: wcba.com

BASKETBALL Triangle Flight Basketball Club: raleighaaubasketball.com

HOCKEY Raleigh Youth Hockey Association: ryha.org

MidtownSpaGuide

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Feeling good and looking good really is good.

It’s no mystery why the spa industry is growing; revenues reached nearly $15 billion nationwide at the end of 2013. Whether it’s a simple pedicure or a day of face and bodywork, spa services can improve your mood and your health, renewing your perspective about what’s ahead. But don’t take our word for it; here, local spa owners tell us what’s changing and why, dishing about their most popular treatments, what’s new and how you can get the best deal for a lot of rejuvenation.

Intro by Christa Gala

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MidtownSpaGuide

Davis Plastic Surgery The MedSpa at Davis Plastic Surgery is passionately committed to providing results-oriented options for beautiful skin on your face and body. Our newest space (opening January 2015) is being designed as a fresh and modern, yet warm and luxurious environment to gently anti-age and rejuvenate. Providing optimal patient care is the cornerstone of Davis Plastic Surgery, and we deliver this care by providing you with carefully customized treatment plans, employing cutting-edge techniques and equipment, and surrounding ourselves with experienced and compassionate team members. “I truly appreciate the ‘team approach’ this office used in designing a plan for my skin, now and into the future.”

w w w. d r g m d a v i s . c o m 919.785.1220

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Hand & Stone

massage and facial spa

w w w. h a n d a n d s t o n e . c o m 919.729.5606 (raleigh) 919.546.8890 (cameron village)

Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spas provide world-class spa services, conveniently and affordably. Our prices start at just $49.95* for a massage or facial for first-time guests.

We are an affordable luxury with lifestyle programs that provide even further discounts.

However, don’t let our affordable price and seven-day-aweek convenience fool you. The certified estheticians and licensed massage therapists at Hand & Stone provide quality, therapeutic, clientfocused services, customized to each individual’s needs.

Visit us at our convenient Raleigh locations to schedule an appointment. *Introductory offer is for first-time visit only and not valid for gift cards. Offers may not be combined.

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MidtownSpaGuide

Lorena Luca

spa and skin clinic

At Lorena Luca Spa and Skin Clinic, the focus of our warm and knowledgeable therapists is centered completely on your wellness! Lorena Luca’s signature services, all customizable for the most beneficial spa experience possible, are the heart of our serene setting, located in Cameron Village.

Our guests are encouraged to relax and decompress before or after any treatment in our unique infrared sauna, steam room and relaxation longue. Allow our inviting staff and atmosphere, transformative services, and custom at-home wellness plans to provide you with the sense of harmonized wellbeing you’ve been seeking.

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Massage Envy Spa Massage Envy Spa is the leader in affordable, professional massage and healthy skin facials.

Our conveniently located 14 Raleigh-Durham clinics feature a variety of customized massage services, Enhanced Therapies, and Murad® Facial Services designed to improve your physical and emotional well-being. You are invited to be our guest and enjoy a $49.99 Introductory 1-hour massage session or a $59.99 Introductory 1-hour Murad® Healthy Skin facial session. Please visit MassageEnvyRDU.com and call one of our 14 area locations to schedule an appointment. Open Late, Nights and Weekends.

Hours Vary.

w w w. m a s s a g e e n v y r d u . c o m 919. 398 . 64 99(nor t h h i l l s) • 91 9. 7 8 7. 1 1 1 4 (c rab t re e val l e y ) • 91 9. 8 0 6. 368 9( b r i e r creek ) 919. 8 4 7. 3633(f al l s of ne use ) • 91 9. 8 4 7. 8 220 (c re e d m oor / st r i c k l and ) • 91 9. 8 38 . 50 6 0 ( o ber lin ) * 8 more clinics in the R D U area

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MidtownSpaGuide

Modern Enhancement salon day spa

At Modern Enhancement Salon Day Spa in North Raleigh, clients enjoy a unique approach to a NOT-so-average salon day spa. The experienced staff provides the latest techniques and trends in both the day spa and styling industries. Flawless skin, impeccable nails and our specialty hair and lash extensions are a key component of accentuating beauty. The stylists and therapists give each guest a personalized experience that complements a unique style. They offer a lush relaxation room complemented with a soothing fireplace, trickling fountains, massaging chair, eucalyptus steam room and an outdoor oasis.

Delicious light snacks and complimentary wine are always offered. So whatever your pleasure may be – Modern Enhancement Salon Day Spa is there to “Enhance.”

w w w. m o d e r n e n h a n c e m e n t s . c o m 919.875.8668

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Skin Sense,

a day spa

Skin Sense, a day spa, has been relaxing and rejuvenating the Triangle since 1991. We bring balance to life through an emphasis on total body wellness and the highest quality treatments and skin care products. Our highly trained therapists customize every treatment for the unique needs of each client.

With two locations, Skin Sense is an exceptional day spa experience.

We offer the only therapeutic salt cave in the area. Our spas feature steam rooms, saunas and locker rooms. Our gift cards are the best gift for loved ones, cherished friends, valued employees and anyone else you want to thank.

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MidtownSpaGuide

The Spa at Lafayette The Spa at Lafayette is committed to providing the highest quality day spa and cosmetic medical services in the safest and most peaceful environment possible. It was founded on the idea of bringing a little bit of California to Raleigh.

With an emphasis on healing, our luxurious spa is an oasis for the mind. Beginning with the exchange of clothes for a cozy robe, guests will be able to relax in our warm pod before being escorted to a personalized treatment by our boardcertified physician, RN or therapist. Our intimate spaces enable us to give each client the highest level of personal attention. Enjoy the tranquil warm pod with heated, Tempur-Pedic beds, the rainforest shower, eucalyptus steam room and private changing facilities at your leisure and learn what relaxation and healing are all about.

919.322.5555 w w w. t h e s p a a t l a f a y e t t e . c o m

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Synergy Spa

& aesthetics

f e e l s y n e r g y. c o m 919.510.5130

Synergy Spa & Aesthetics combines advanced clinical skin care with comprehensive spa therapies. At Synergy Spa and Aesthetics our goal is to combine consistency with experience and training from around the world to offer every guest the best treatments available. Featuring a meticulous urban retreat, we are the area’s most sought-after haven for serious skin care and body treatments. Synergy Spa & Aesthetics was established in 2004 by owner, Anna Churchill. In December 2015, Synergy will open their second location alongside plastic surgeon, Dr. Stewart Collins, MD in North Raleigh.

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MidtownSpaGuide

Von Kekel

aveda lifestyle salon spa

At Von Kekel AVEDA Lifestyle Salon Spas our focus is more high touch versus high tech, we concentrate more on the art and skill of the touch of hand and massage movements, and all of our spa treatments utilize the healing essences of pure organic plant oils and aromas.

Since 1978 AVEDA has been committed to producing plant-based products to deliver long-term results, and since 1998 Von Kekel has serviced guests with these therapeutic methods, leaving the chemicals and perfumes out. At Von Kekel we firmly believe that through human touch and the power of plants, your mind and body will be in balance.

w w w. v o n k e k e l s a l o n s p a . c o m 919.782.0808(north hills) • 919.841.5711(lafayette village)

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2014 HAS BEEN A FANTASTIC YEAR FOR MIDTOWN AND THE MIDTOWN RALEIGH ALLIANCE. WE'D LIKE TO EXTEND OUR SINCERE APPRECIATION TO OUR LEADERSHIP FOR THEIR TIME, SUPPORT AND COMMITMENT TO OUR COMMUNITY AND WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! Carla Parker Hollis Chairperson

Michael Thorton Vice Chair

Mike Smith Treasurer

Jill Futch Secretary

Britt Carter Executive Committee

John Kane Executive Committee

Chris Young Executive Committee

Kent Christiston Executive Committee

Shaun Barry Executive Committee

Doug Vinsel Immediate Past Chair

If you love Midtown... Join Us! LEARN MORE AND JOIN ONLINE AT:

MIDTOWNRALEIGHALLIANCE.ORG MidtownRaleighAlliance MidtownRal MidtownAlliance

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Midtown-Raleigh-Alliance MidtownRaleighAlliance.org/ Eye-on-Midtown

COME JOIN THE CONVERSATION!

midtowndowntown

PERSON

STREET PLAZA

An explosion of fresh new faces and places

By Sioux Watson

A

one-block area of East Franklin Street in Raleigh between Person Street and North Blount Street, catty-corner to William Peace University, is enjoying a resurgence of new businesses. The adjacent neighborhood is ecstatic. Five local independent shops have opened in the last two and a half years and three more are slated to open soon.

Some springing from the energy and imagination of local entrepreneurs, while a couple are successful startups from elsewhere in North Carolina who want to bring their homegrown franchise to the capitol city. Who could blame them? Raleigh is a vibrant and verdant place to do business these days.

Just a 20 minute walk from the state capital area, where 40,000 people work, Person Street Plaza is one block north of the Peace/Person Street Krispy Kreme, a Raleigh icon that bakes 3,000 dozen doughnuts every day.

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Oak City Cycling Project 212 E Franklin St 919.436.0527 • oakcitycycling.com David Zell, Jared Harber and Kenneth Metzger, owners Their website states “A local, independent cycling shop in Downtown Raleigh, NC focused on increasing bicycle ridership through sales, service, outreach, and community.” The shop had two earlier incarnations before opening in May 2012 in the present underground location. Light and airy with the large garage door open, the community bike shop offers stands for rent at $5 an hour, plus all the tools you need to do-it-yourself repair. Selling new and refurbished bicycles, there are price points for every potential bike owner. In March the partners were doing well enough to give up their various “day jobs” to be able to commit full-time to their bike business. Open six days, closed Tuesdays.

Raleigh City Farm 800 N Blount St at E Franklin St 919.636.2926 • raleighcityfarm.com Christopher Rumbley, CEO RCF is a high profile, high-production, community-supported, urban farm in the heart of Raleigh that accelerates new farm entrepreneurs to build a robust local food system. The large corner lot started in April 2012. The main source of revenue is selling to chefs and restaurants in Raleigh, by acting as a “food hub” representing 20 local/ regional farms. A goal is promoting farm entrepreneurs while creating easy access to the highest quality, most local food in order to build a stronger farmto-fork movement. An annual dinner features local chefs and musicians as a community-supported fundraising event; revenues help build farm infrastructure to better serve farm entrepreneurs. The website offers upcoming events and volunteer options.

locally grown, baked and small farmer sourced shops.

Yellow Dog Bread Company 219 E Franklin St 984.232.0291 yellowdogbread.com Tanja and Matt Andrews, owners Now a year old, opening in September 2013, Yellow Dog was the first business in the renovated building project

by John Holmes and Hobby Properties. NC natives Tanja and Matt, both originally from Nash County, bring their Southern sensibilities and heritage to the artisan breads and pastries made from scratch and baked fresh every day. A typical day has 13 varieties of breads on offer and 13 varieties of pastries, on a rotating basis.

Matt makes and bakes breads in the late night hours and Tanja bakes the pastries in the early morning wee hours. Yellow Dog has a full coffee bar as well as wi-fi, and delightful café seating indoors and outdoors. Open six days, closed Sunday.

Wine Authorities 211 E Franklin St 919.831.9463 • wineauthorities.com Craig Heffley, owner Craig opened his first Wine Authorities shop in Durham’s Rockwood neighborhood back in 2007, and added his second store January 2014 at the Person Street Plaza. Although the space was larger than he thought he needed, he’s added wider aisles, indoor tables, a good sized cheese/ charcuterie section, and a kitchen to offer small plates of cheese and charcuteries, to accompany wine by the glass or bottles of craft beer. By late afternoon, large glass doors are opened and there is additional café seating outdoors under a bright yellow awning. Craig’s wine offerings follow a business model of small farm-to-table philosophy, by only working with family-owned farmer wineries worldwide. The neighborhood has embraced the store enthusiastically and folks come after work for drinks and a bite to eat, or simply walk over from home to pick up wine and extras for dinner that evening. While only selling wine priced under $50, sales have exceeded expectations, another indication the locals appreciate the convenience of shopping in their own neighborhood, and sales are quickly approaching the Durham store’s numbers. midtownmag.com| 127

Person Street Bar 805 N Person St 919.977.5953 • person-street.com Jeff Clarke, co-owner The bar opened in March 2014, and is already a local favorite. Jeff ’s time at the Orange Co Social Club and King’s Barcade made him want to create a friendly, intimate neighborhood bar. PSB is a private club (open membership to all), has a full bar and rotates eight craft beers on tap. No constant televisions, but a HUGE wall screen TV for big sporting events. Amenities of pool, foosball and a jukebox while bartenders are normally spinning vinyl. Four staffers join Jeff, each with 16+ years experience. There’s pride at the variety of patrons at PSB, which sits between the Mordecai and Oakwood neighborhoods. A new, private outdoor patio out back has a recycled materials fountain, all built by Jeff and friends and assisted by Cravin Bridger/Red Wine Construction.

Open seven days, 4pm-2am.

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patrons can enjoy beverages inside or outside in a secluded patio

Slated to open in Fall-Winter 2014/15 Standard Foods 209 E Franklin St Scott Crawford Scott Crawford, formerly of Heron’s at the Umstead Hotel and a James Beard Foundation semifinalist for “Best Chef in the Southeast”, plans to open the first of two Raleigh restaurants. Part restaurant, part grocery store with a butcher shop, SF will also offer a prepared food section and box lunches. Serving lunch and dinner in the restaurant, Scott told The News & Observer earlier this year that Standard Foods would be “a modern

version of an old grocery store. You know the butcher. You know the grocer, and there’s a restaurant.” Destined to be worth a drive across the Triangle.

Edge of Urge 213 E Franklin St 919.827.4000 • edgeofurge.com Jessie Williams Selling unique, one-of-a-kind, and handmade clothing and gifts in a Wilmington store since 2002, Edge of Urge “has been a launching pad for up-and-coming designers” for

over a decade. Now owner Jessie has moved to Raleigh to create a second store in the capitol city.

Plans include a “mini-maker” space where local designers can work. The company has fostered hundreds of small entrepreneurs and will be fundraising soon with a kickstarter campaign, Mama Bear. The plan is to bring together independent designers and artisans, helping teach startup “makers” with packaging, inventory, marketing and source manufacturing. Look for a midNovember opening in conjunction with new neighbors Lumina.

Lumina 215 E Franklin St 919.977.0130 • luminaclothing.com Barton Strawn, Justin Carey, Paul Conner and Peter Landis, co-owners Lumina, which opened in 2012 on Martin Street, moves to its new Person Street Plaza location soon.

The owners met in Raleigh, and initially raised money via kickstarter. com. Offering American-made clothing with their Raleigh based brand Lumina, they feature shirts, pants, jeans, grooming products and accessories. For instance, you can buy polo shirts knit in South Carolina, and dyed, cut and sewn in North Carolina.

Keeping it local in the Carolinas, while offering most items for sale anywhere UPS ships via their website.

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More information Person Street Partnership – Philip Bernard founded PS Partnership a few years back, when he and a group of other neighbors decided to work with the city and other local stakeholders to consciously build momentum for growth and bring the right mix of businesses to the neighborhood. The group meets quarterly and has a monthly social at The Station. Philip credits John Holmes of Hobby Properties with revamping the Person Street Plaza and adding new blood to the North Person business district.

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midtowndowntown

bag

Holly Aiken launched her handbag line in 2004, focusing on durability and whimsical design. See more at www.hollyaiken.com

all about a

Made here, designed here – and built to la st.

By christa gala

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P

urses have never been a big deal for Carolyn Sloan, so when someone gave her a gift certificate for a Holly Aiken bag, she wasn’t sure what to think.

Until she found out she could design it herself.

Then it was love at first sight – or, ahem, carry.

“I’ve never been one to carry a bag or care about bags, but I had this made custom with the colors that I love,” says Sloan. “I love her designs, love the colors she uses, love that they are made here, locally.”

Sloan’s daughter, Avery, helped her pick out the colors and patterns of her new bag, browsing the options at Stitch on Hargett Street in downtown Raleigh.

“I could have spent hours in there,” says Sloan.

“It was an incredibly tough decision, but they were great about helping me navigate through the possible choices. They also upload your choices on their computer so they can immediately show you what it will look like. I also love that they didn’t charge more to make it custom.”

Designed and built downtown Sold throughout the US and carried around the world, the bags are designed and built in downtown Raleigh at Stitch. Holly Aiken just opened a second Stitch location in Wilmington as well.

The growth indicates Aiken is meeting a need by pairing fashion with function.

A graduate of NC State’s prestigious College of Design, Aiken launched her namesake brand in 2004, envisioning a complete line of bags that were both fun and durable.

Her slogan: Uncomplicate your life.

She incorporates stripes, geometric patterns, whimsical flowers and bird designs with vibrant colors inspired by dime stores and retro culture, including turquoise, black, lime green, orange and chartreuse.

All totes, purses, messenger bags and wristlets are made of a durable vinyl and range in price from $60 to $180. Unlike leather and cloth, they’re easy to clean with soap and water or, if you come across a stubborn spot, a bit of rubbing alcohol.

A bag with meaning A coworker gave Kristi Grice a Holly Aiken bag after Grice’s father passed away from cancer last spring. The friend, who hand-selected the purse for Grice, had lost her mother to cancer as well.

“It’s my favorite color, pink, and has a dove on it in flight,” Grice says. “She gave me a hand-written card with it that also had a similar symbol on it that was very touching about why she chose the design she did.

“I tend to use it for special occasions as it is special to me and also a dressier style,” continues Grice. “I love it as my handbags are usually Target or Kohl’s buys; how I received it I will never forget. I love that it was made local and for me. I think she does fantastic work.”

Loving local Sloan appreciates that Holly Aiken still makes her bags in Raleigh after a decade of success.

“I prefer to shop locally and avoid chain stores whenever possible,” Sloan says.

In early October, downtown Raleigh was the host city for the second year in a row to the World of Bluegrass, an annual music festival sponsored by the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).

The first year, Aiken made a special “banjo” bag that sold out quickly. She produced more banjo bags this year, offering them at her downtown location as well as at a booth at the street festival.

After years in Nashville, the IBMA likes what Raleigh has to offer; the festival has committed to Raleigh through 2018.

It’s good news for Holly Aiken and for other local entrepreneurs who, for the next few years, will get a chance to show off their wares each fall to more than 140,000 people.

Ready for the next one As for Grice and Sloan, both say they’re ready for their next Aiken bag.

“I look forward to getting another one from her in the future – different style, different color scheme and different size,” says Sloan. “If money were no object or if I was a purse collector, I’d have several. We will likely get Avery a custom bag when she turns 13.” midtownmag.com| 131

shoulder don’t

the burden alone

Although shoulder problems often have simple solutions, self-treating without seeing a doctor first is not a good idea.

By Page Leggett

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Some changes that accompany aging are predictable.

For instance, many of us will need reading glasses eventually.

Losing weight becomes a little harder. And here’s a littleknown truth: A weakening in the shoulders will take place.

Bone spurs in the shoulder will happen, says Kevin Speer, MD of Southeastern Orthopedics Shoulder Center, but they will not likely be painful or even noticeable.

Aging, in fact, is the biggest cause of shoulder weakness and other degenerate changes.

But you can’t pinpoint an age at which the shoulder will get weaker or degenerative, says Dr. Speer, a Johns Hopkins graduate who did his residency at Duke Medical Center. He says, “There’s no age I’d say is ‘old.’ Many people in their mid- to late 40s have degenerative shoulder issues. It’s mostly a matter of genetics, wear and tear, and luck. And there are plenty of people in their 70s who have good shoulders.”

He likens shoulder weakness and degenerative changes to having gray hair. Neither condition indicates a medical problem. “It’s no statement on your health or vigor,” he says.

“It just is. It is a reflection of not being 20 anymore.”

It’s like gray hair “Some people don’t get their first gray hair until they’re 55,” he continues. “Others are mostly gray by 40. It’s the same with shoulders.” Age is not necessarily an indicator of when you might notice the onset. Genetics and wear and tear play a large role as well.

Some body parts don’t deteriorate as much as we get older. The elbow, for instance. But just as the low back and neck show signs of age, so does the shoulder – the body’s most moveable joint. The rotator cuff tendons soften as we age and may eventually wear out and tear, the doctor explains.

In fact, by age 70, one in three people probably has a complete tear in shoulder tendons, says Dr. Speer. But the condition is usually not even painful. You can have it and be unaware – and have no reason for concern.

“As we age, we tend to become less active…so that can allow a degenerative tear to occur without producing symptoms,” he explains. Then, if you strain your shoulder, you feel it – which leads you to a doctor, at which point the doctor may discover a tear that’s been dormant for years.

Dr. Speer cautions that no one should take this news

Kevin Speer, MD

as advice to be sedentary. Staying active is crucial for good overall health. “It’s not that you can’t stay active as you age,” he assures. “It’s that it requires more maintenance.”

And some patients are reluctant to believe maintenance is required on an aging body – just as it is on an aging car or home. Even if you never stretched before a game of golf or tennis before, you’ve got to start once you reach your 50s or so.

Dr. Speer is accustomed to talking candidly to his patients about the importance of stretching before physical activity.

“Don’t be impatient,” he tells them. Put in the extra few minutes, and your body will thank you. Twenty-two muscles work the shoulder joint. Getting them warmed up makes them more resilient. And resilience keeps them in good condition.

“I have patients say, ‘But I’ve been playing golf for 30 years, and I never used to have to stretch.’” His wisdom: “That was then; this is now.” If you want to be able to do the things you love without experiencing pain, then allow your body time to prepare. Keep your shoulder toned and limber.

Patients who come to him with shoulder pain will often say, “But I didn’t injure it.” Dr. Speer knows. He assures them it’s a natural part of getting older, and that strain injuries can make it hurt.

Even yard work, for older adults, may require some stretching in advance. “It’s a good idea to stretch a bit before raking, pruning or bagging leaves,” he says. Then, if you’re sore after the job is done, use ice packs and take ibuprofen or Aleve® so you’ll feel better the next day.

Minimal time and effort can make a difference in shoulder performance – and in how you feel. As few as five minutes may even be sufficient.

Getting to the doctor Clearly, if you’ve injured or aggravated your shoulder in some way, you need to seek medical attention. “We’re not talking about shoulder trauma,” Dr. Speer says of the kind of shoulder weakness and degenerative change that’s a natural part of aging. “If you injure your shoulder, you need to get to a doctor. For shoulder pain that you can’t attribute to any cause or accident – that comes on gradually – you still should see a doctor for an evaluation. Getting a proper diagnosis is helpful in thoughtful treatment.”

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Dr. Speer advocates looking for the simplest solutions first. Start with anti-inflammatory meds and ice packs, he says. Work on getting the shoulder more limber and stronger.

If those don’t provide relief, a physician may recommend injections. The injections can be helpful for bursitis.

Physical therapy will generally be part of any commonsense prescription. “People are often reluctant to begin physical therapy because of the perceived time commitment,” he says. “I tell them: ‘You don’t have to sign on to go for six months or even three months. Go once or twice. Learn, and then do it at home.’”

One of the most important aspects of physical therapy is the educational component, Dr. Speer says. A PT can show you the proper way to exercise and stretch at home. “Think of a physical therapist as an educator,” he says. “They can be a very good resource for patients.”

If you have a desk job, the solution to achy shoulders may be as simple as altering your work station. “Maybe all you need to do is raise your chair by an inch or two and move your mouse closer to you,” he says. “The solutions don’t have to be complicated.”

One of the most important pieces of advice Dr. Speer gives patients is: If you lift weights, your hands should always stay below the eyes. “Putting even a light weight above your head may not be good for the shoulder, no matter what your personal trainer tells you,” he says.

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As we age, the shoulder needs to be exercised. And that’s as simple as making sure you have good range of motion with no pain. Stretch daily to keep the shoulder limber and strong.

“If at-home treatments fail to get the patient better – and the patient is unwilling to accept the limitations the shoulder places on them – then we talk about further treatment such as injections, physical therapy or even surgery,” he says. But it’s not the first step.

And if you do experience shoulder problems? “You’re not doomed,” he says. “It’s not the beginning of the end or a sign your body is falling apart. But it does benefit from your attention.”

“Most shoulder problems have very easy remedies,” he assures. Only a small portion will require advanced treatment such as surgery. A doctor can give you a diagnosis; suggest appropriate, individualized treatment; and, whenever possible, help you avoid surgery.

The doctor’s most vital message: Do not ignore shoulder pain, especially pain at night. “The reason to see an orthopaedic surgeon is because you need directed care and proper counsel,” he says. “A visit to a surgeon doesn’t mean you are ready to be considered for surgery.”

Learn more about Dr. Speer’s practice at seortho.net and dukeraleighhospital.org.

healthy you

Winter Sun

Protection TipS A

s we enter the colder months of the year, sun protection is often the furthest thought from our minds. However, everyone must be diligent about sun protection on a daily basis throughout the year. Because we are fortunate enough to reside in a more temperate climate in the Triangle and North Carolina in general, this often means that we are able to continue many outdoor activities into the late fall and winter.

Sun protection in the winter is just as important as in the summer given that the same cancer-causing ultraviolet (UV) rays are bombarding our skin during all four seasons. The link between UV rays and skin cancer is undisputed, and with a rising number of skin cancers occurring each year there are a number of important steps that we must take to protect ourselves.

Sunscreen is Key In general, sunscreen should be a part of one’s daily skin care regimen. As a dermatologist and fellowship trained Mohs

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micrographic surgeon who treats skin cancers on a daily basis, I am especially attuned to the importance of regular sunscreen use. Even if one is only going to be sitting in a car or office for most of the day, year-round use of a moisturizer with sunscreen is vital. Longer wavelength UV-radiation (UVA) is able to penetrate through most window glass and cause damage to cells in our skin. This UVA induced damage may lead to skin cancers as well as cause the skin to have a prematurely aged appearance. Moisturizers with sunscreen, with a Sun Protection Factor or SPF of at least 30, should be applied in the morning prior to any other make-up or skin care products.

When engaged in outdoor winter sports, the use of a dedicated sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) that offers broad-spectrum protection against both shorter and longer wavelength UV light (UVB and UVA, respectively) is warranted.

In addition, because activities such as skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are typically enjoyed at higher altitudes, our

skin is exposed to more intense UV radiation than it would be at lower elevations. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two to three hours.

Not Just Skin to Protect In addition to sunscreen on areas of exposed skin, sun protective measures should be undertaken for one’s lips and one’s eyes. A lip balm with sunscreen should be applied whenever heading outside. Just like our skin, our lips are vulnerable to UV radiation and may develop pre-cancerous and cancerous lesions. The regular use of polarized sunglasses can help protect the skin near our eyes from damaging UV radiation. Sunglasses also lower the risk of UV radiation-induced cataract development.

E. Eugene Bain III, M.D. ebain@baindermatology.com

7200 Creedmoor Road Suite 104 Raleigh, NC 27613 P F

919.518.0999 919.518.0939

b a i nd e r m a t o l o g y.c om

More than Creams Sun protective clothing is an important adjunct in one’s armamentarium against sun-related skin damage. Wearing hats in the winter when outdoors not only maintains warmth, but also helps to shield from harmful UV damage.

Hats that also cover one’s ears are best. In addition, sun avoidance is a helpful strategy. It is best to avoid overexposure to the sun between 10am and 2pm as UV radiation is most intense during these hours.

Following these reminders for sun safety can be helpful throughout the year, regardless of the season or temperature, in mitigating one’s risk of developing sun-related skin cancers as well as sun-related photoaging. And always remember that any lesion that is new, changing or symptomatic (painful or bleeding) should be evaluated by your dermatologist for possible biopsy and further treatment.

by E. Eugene Bain III, M.D. Board certified dermatologist and fellowship trained mohs micrographic surgeon, bain dermtology, P.A.

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healthy you

HIIT

An All-Time High

by Jessica Bottesch, Empower Personalized Fitness

T

hink you need to run endlessly on a treadmill or lift the heaviest weight in the gym to achieve your fitness goals? Think again. The popularity of high intensity interval training, usually referred to as HIIT, is growing rapidly – and with good reason. There are many great benefits to this physical fitness technique and as long as you proceed with caution, there are few drawbacks.

What is HIIT? HIIT refers to a training technique that involves repeating alternating bouts of rapid, intense exercises with periods of low-intensity recovery exercises. The intense work periods may range from a few seconds to several minutes long, 138 | midtownmag.com

and are performed at maximum effort or 80-95% of a person’s estimated maximal heart rate. The recovery periods may also vary in length and should be performed at less than 50% of a person’s estimated maximal heart rate.

Benefits of HIIT According to the Academy of Sports Medicine HIIT training has been shown to: • Improve aerobic and anaerobic fitness • Lower blood pressure • Decrease risk of cardiovascular disease • Decrease insulin resistance • Improve lipid profiles • Decrease abdominal fat and body weight while maintaining muscle mass.

Why We Love HIIT: Versatility: HIIT program exercises can easily be modified for people of varying fitness levels.

Variety: You can apply the HIIT workout format to almost any mode of exercise including cycling, running, swimming, total body strength and conditioning drills and more, which keeps your workout routine fresh and fun!

Convenience: HIIT requires very little or no equipment, so you can take this style of workout with you anywhere you go.

Efficiency: HIIT has been shown to provide similar fitness benefits as continuous endurance workouts, but in shorter periods of time. This is because

HIIT workouts tend to burn more calories than traditional workouts.

HIIT increases the resting metabolic rate (RMR) for the 24 hours following the workout due to excess postexercise oxygen consumption. In other words, your body is burning more calories at rest for a whole day after one of these workouts!

Sample Quick HIIT Program Warm-up Complete a light jog or dynamic movements for 3 minutes, or until you break a light sweat

The Workout Repeat each of the following exercise sets 3 times at 30 seconds high intensity / 30 seconds recovery interval, then move immediately to the next set and complete all three exercise sets – a total of 9 minutes Set #1 Speed jump rope *High Intensity (as fast as possible) Easy jump rope *Recovery (slow and easy) Set #2 Squat jumps *High Intensity

Body weight squats *Recovery Set #3 Push ups *High Intensity Abdominal bicycle crunch *Recovery Cool-down Perform 5-10 minutes of total body stretching

Before Jumping In: While HIIT can be modified for different fitness levels, it is recommended that you establish a basic fitness level prior to attempting higher intensity exercises. If you are new to HIIT it may also be helpful to seek advice and instruction from a fitness professional or attend a HIIT group fitness class for guidance.

Happy HIITing! midtownmag.com| 139

healthy you

Mommy Makeover Reversing the Effects of Pregnancy on the Body

T

he birth of a child is one of life’s greatest gifts.

However, pregnancy and breastfeeding can take a tremendous toll on a mother’s body. Breastfeeding can result in changes to the breasts such as loss of breast volume and breast asymmetry. The breasts may begin to sag or droop. Childbirth affects the abdominal wall in many ways. The abdominal wall skin can become lax and stretch marks may appear. The abdominal wall muscles can become weak and the supporting structures can stretch.

Some of the effects of pregnancy can be improved by the “mommy makeover” procedure. Simply stated, the mommy makeover is a combination of cosmetic

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breast and abdominal surgery. The breast procedures may consist of a breast augmentation, breast lift or a breast lift and enhancement with the use of breast implants. The breast procedure of choice will depend upon the changes that have occurred following pregnancy and the look or breast size that a woman desires. Breast augmentation will involve the placement of a breast implant, which can be either saline filled or silicone filled, to enhance the size of the breasts.

A breast lift procedure would be required to correct sagging or drooping of the breasts, also referred to as ptosis. Women should be aware that a breast lift operation will leave their breasts smaller because of

the removal of tissue required to lift the breasts. If a woman desires her breasts to be lifted as well as enhanced in size, the use of a breast implant would be required.

The abdominal component of the mommy makeover will depend upon the degree of excess or loose skin, the strength or weakness of the muscle wall and the amount of excess fatty tissue. These factors will determine whether the patient needs abdominal liposuction, a minor abdominoplasty or a full abdominoplasty. Abdominoplasty is also referred to as a tummy tuck.

Abdominal liposuction involves the use of a cannula to remove excess or unwanted fatty tissue. There are multiple techniques by which liposuction can be performed.

Liposuction will have no effect on the abdominal muscle wall and does not involve removal of excess skin. A tummy tuck operation will involve the removal of fatty tissue, excess loose skin and tightening of the muscle/ fascia layer. By removing loose skin, the appearance of stretch marks will be improved. The muscle/fascia layer will be tightened with the placement of sutures, which will help flatten the abdomen and help restore the prepregnancy appearance. If the excess skin is limited to the lower portion of the abdomen, below the umbilicus, a mini tummy tuck may be the best option.

A mommy makeover surgery can take between two to six hours to perform, depending upon which procedures are required. Most patients can return to work or work in the home within seven to ten days or sooner, depending upon which surgeries are required. These operations should be performed in a fully accredited surgical facility by a board certified plastic surgeon, preferably one who is a member of both the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.

by CHRISTOPHER J. MOREA, MD FACS, morea plastic surgical center of north raleigh

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coming up in the next Diamond Awards Our Annual Diamond Awards are always eagerly anticipated – your votes will be tallied and the results will be announced in our first issue of 2015!

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Health and Fitness in the New Year Always good to know you can start fresh with your goals for health and fitness every January! We’ll lead the way on how you can achieve new levels of happiness and energy when you eat right and get enough exercise.

Wedding Guide Raleigh has so much to offer to brides and their entourage – we’ll be covering highlights of all things weddings, from tiny to grand, for 2015 wedding planners.

Raleigh’s Top Plastic Surgeons Plastic surgery is not for everybody, but it is for a lot of folks, young and old, and males and females alike. Check out the local specialists who help thousands of people correct Mother Nature’s imperfections, injuries and gravity!

Midtown Reviews | Bain’s Beat | Calendar of Events | Healthy You living well | on the scene | Midtown Mingles | and much more!

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midtownmingles

Get Moving Midtown!

On September 28th, Midtown’s Fittest joined forces at the Midtown Park to take the 100-Minute ‘Get Moving Midtown’ Fitness Challenge! The day focused on health and fitness while raising funds for the Wake County Boys & Girls Clubs. The event was organized by the Midtown Raleigh Alliance, with participation from over 30 sponsors and vendors!

2nd annual iron Chef challenge

On September 27th, the 2nd Annual Iron Chef Challenge was held on The Commons at North Hills. Chefs from four North Hills restaurants competed against each other to create two signature courses. In the end, Mura was named the Iron Chef Challenge winner, while Vivace took home the award for best presentation.

Mia Francesca was the people’s choice winner.

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midtownmingles

scott kay at diamonds direct

Diamonds Direct Crabtree was proud to host world-renowned jewelry designer Scott Kay on September 11th-13th. Scott Kay brought his entire collection to the Diamonds Direct showroom, met with and signed autographs for customers, and shared fascinating stories about his 30 years in the jewelry industry. At the end of the event, one lucky couple won a stunning pair of weddings bands, courtesy of Scott Kay!

Century 21 triangle Open house

Century 21 Triangle Group owners Dan Nicely and Stephen Votino, along with their staff, hosted a grand opening celebration in their new retail space located in North Hills.

Clients had a chance to see how home buying and selling is happening in a whole new way, and area real estate agents came to hear about exciting career opportunities.

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the power of pink

On October 3rd the Mason & Clark Wealth Management Group of Wells Fargo Advisors attended the third annual Power of Pink Tennis & 9-Hole Golf Event. It benefits Rex Mobile Mammography with their ongoing mission to provide life-saving mammogram screenings to uninsured women throughout the community. To date, they have raised nearly $15,000 to help make a difference to our neighbors in need!

midtownmingles

Temple St. Clair Carr personal appearance Bailey’s Fine Jewelry hosted head designer Temple St. Clair Carr of Temple St. Clair Fine Jewelry for a personal appearance and trunk show at the Cameron Village location on October 3rd. She spoke with patrons about her exclusive lines and unique pieces.

NC theatre season kickoff event

NC Theatre kicked off their 2014/15 season with a Season Kickoff party at Synergy Spa. The event was attended by top NCT donors and supporters along with the cast of A Chorus Line. Students from the NC Theatre Conservatory performed.

For more info on the upcoming season, visit NCTheatre.com.

an afternoon at the Food Bank

Richardson, Carrington, Weaver & Associates, private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, hosted a volunteer day at the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. They packaged over 9,800 juice boxes to be distributed to those in need.

outdoor classroom at hudson memorial preschool

On September 23rd, Hudson Memorial Preschool dedicated its newly built Playgarden, a one-of-a-kind outdoor learning classroom. The dedication is the culmination of several years of planning and fundraising to build a space where children, from toddlers to 5-year olds, can learn, grow and explore in a unique, natural and creative play space. midtownmag.com | 145

LOOKING

BACK

By dan bain

Last year, Abby Ryan Design culled a list and created an infographic of “some of the most popular holiday toys from the past 50 years.” Some were worth the hype, others not so much. But all created memories, as well as December 26th bragging rights. Take a look at the biggest toys from half a century of wishful thinking. Which did you have? Which did you give? Which did you love?

1963

Easy-Bake Oven The bane of many a daddy, forced to endure an underbaked lump of dough, barely warmed by a light bulb.

1979

ATARI video computer system A video game system no longer had to be dedicated to one game. This one started it all.

1992

barbie dream house The pinkest doll of all made a condo-sized comeback.

2004

nintendo DS The Game Boy revamped/ replaced. Two screens, great graphics, and touch control; Nintendo wins again.

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1967

BATTLESHIP Kids found out which of their friends were honest.

1983

cabbage patch kids The first time I remember hearing about adults resorting to fisticuffs in toy stores.

1995

beanie babies Some parents literally bankrupted themselves in misguided attempts to “invest” in these things.

2006

playstation 3 The seventh generation continued with HD movie playback, via 3-D Blu-ray.

1970

LITE-BRITE I think I went through all 12 of the included black design sheets before Christmas dinner.

1985

nintendo entertainment system Atari’s video game craze had ended years prior, in recession.

Nintendo saved that economy.

1996

tickle me elmo Up until now, parents had only to turn off Sesame Street to escape the annoying voice of this red Muppet.

2009

zhu zhu pets Mechanical hamsters that run around uncontrollably speaking gibberish. Appealing to little kids, who do the same.

1974

TONKA TRUCKS Kids discovered how cool they were in a sandbox. And months later, they rediscovered them buried in the sand and rusty.

1989

jenga Simple concept, complex execution. To be played far from meddling pets and siblings.

1998

furby An unidentifiable stuffed animal with the ability to learn from its owner. Kids wanted it, parents feared it.

2010

iPad Like a giant iPod touch.

Behold, the tablet onslaught begins.

1978

SIMON The colors! The tones!

The addiction!

1993

game boy The original “apps” – video games went portable, and Nintendo won.

1999

pokemon cards Trade them, fight with them, and win them from your friends. Cry like crazy when they go through the wash.

2012

Wii U Nintendo finally went hi-def with its new console, complete with a special GamePad controller and touchscreen.