Midtown Magazine

st e i t s a t e th Cat f i s h sandwic h

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HEALTH: An Uphill Battle Against Stubbornness page 120

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Who m a d e th ee ls e li s t?

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Ultimate Spa Guide pag e 8 6

a note FROM the publisher Publisher/Editor Jill Futch Advertising Sales Jill Futch | Julie Shaw | Jimmy Orban

jill futch

Publisher/Editor

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

Please email jill@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 U.S. 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

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M A R C H / A P R I L

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tailgating tips • apps • recipes

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

Diamond

AWARDS 2012

FooD KS tRuC with the what’s new craze?

STEPPING OUTSIDE

YouR CoMFoRt ZoNe

MENS’

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

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Photography Jennifer Robertson Photography Sean Junqueira Photography David Davies Photography

P.

sport for your kids? Local clubs offer all levels of instruction and time commitments. Check out “Dive In” on page 66.

Did you attend a high school graduation recently? Then you know what’s next: college. On page 108 we have tips on sending your kid off with everything he or she needs to know and have. Not to mention a little info on helping you get through it.

Don’t forget our home story on page 70, a must-see for anyone on the hunt for that perfect lamp, throw rug, buffet or footstool. Meet the owners and learn their inspiring stories.

Finally, do you like us? If you’re a “Facebooker,” like us officially. You’ll get updates on local shops and eateries, special deals and information on special events.

Thank you for your ideas and your comments; we read them all, and they help shape Midtown.

Enjoy this issue and stay cool,

Contributing Writers Christa Gala | Kate Turgeon | Dan Bain Illyse Lane | Jenni Hart | Page Leggett Carter & Laura Dalton | Kurt Dusterberg Dave Droschak | Elie Rossetti-Serraino Darcy Brennan-Huante | Dwight Carter Dr. Jason Gladwell | Fiquet Bailey-Swain Kari Richie

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

We had a relatively cool spring, but now the heat is officially on. There’s no better time to peruse Midtown, preferably by the pool or in the air-conditioning.

Start on page 120 for a special look at men’s health for our favorite guys and the women who love them. You’ll discover great tips and information from local professionals about how to stay heart-healthy and be proactive with preventive measures. You know what they say about an ounce of prevention…

And did you see our cover photo?

Sandwiches rock. Summer is the perfect time to turn off the oven and order take-out for the whole family. We asked a few local hot spots to share their personal faves.

Your kids get a summer break but what about you? If you’re pining for fall already, take a look at our enormous spa feature on page 86. Relish the summer deals, photographs and helpful tips, then pick up the phone and schedule an appointment for the person who holds it all together: you.

Guess what? The Triangle is among the best in the nation when it comes to swimming, and we have summer swim teams to thank for it. Could this be the

Graphic Design Heath Hilliker | Jennifer Casey

FALL

the summer heat is here!

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 j uly/ augus t

2013

features 52 Raleigh’s “Go-To” Place Expanding

North Hills Investment Reaching $1 Billion Mark.

66 dive in

Work up a sweat and you won’t even notice.

Swimming is exploding in the Triangle.

Should you give it a try?

70 Making your house a home

Triangle home furnishings stores offer style choices for every taste.

86 your summer break

Find yourself pining for fall already? It may be time for a luxurious visit to one of our local spas. Here’s a quick tour of some Triangle favorites.

108

The Launch

Preparing your college-bound freshman for what’s ahead.

Run Local, Give Local 114

Feeling motivated? Good. Now let us help you get up and running.

Women can expect to live five years longer on average than men. We’ll show you how to close the gap.

Two Duke Raleigh urologists say low T and ED are (thankfully) conditions that get men to the doctor.

Men’s Health: An Uphill Battle Against 120 Stubbornness

134

Man, Oh, Man!

40

the tastiest sandwiches in town Sandwiches; bread on both ends and something you can sink your teeth into in the middle. Here’s a sampling of some of the Triangle’s tastiest sandwiches.

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contents july/ augus t

2013

departments 20 on the scene 30 Midtown reviews 60 bain’s beat 62 The standing o 81 your home: summer 84 calendar 102 ask elie 103 in style: summer tops 106 new to you: blue 113 beauty style 128 midtown downtown 138 healthy you 146 diy workshop 148 financial focus 150 midtown mingles 154 do this better

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>TASTE

by Kate Turgeon

photography by sean junqueira

dog days of summer Hot dog! Raleigh spot serves up flavors made famous in Detroit, Chicago and more.

There are a couple of top dogs on the menu at Cloos’ Coney Island, a hot dog spot that’s occupied Mission Valley shopping center near N.C. State’s campus for 25 years. The Coney Island hot dog is a Detroit original, much like the restaurant’s owner, Daniel Cloos, who originally hails from the Motor City. The Coney Island hot dog is served with chili, mustard and onions on a steamed bun.

The Chicago dog (pictured, right) is a popular choice, too.

Cloos says the secret is starting with the right hot dog.

He uses Vienna Beef brand dogs in a poppy seed bun, topped with chopped onion, yellow mustard, tomatoes, bright green relish and spicy sport peppers. A cool kosher dill pickle spear tempers the pepper.

AT HOME DOG Cloos has pointers for creating hot dog perfection at home. First, resist the urge to grill. He suggests cooking the hot dog in a skillet on the stove to retain the dog’s flavor. And get the best hot dog (he likes a beef-pork mix) you can find, such as Boar’s Head. He also suggests warming the bun for 10 seconds in the microwave.

Kraut Dog “It’s very simple, but very good,” explains Cloos.

First, put the dog in the bun and then add spicy brown mustard. (He recommends Gulden’s.) Top with sauerkraut. (Hint: warm up the sauerkraut in the same skillet you used to cook the hot dog.)

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Dixie Dog “It’s the North Carolina version of all the way,” says Cloos with a smile. Put the dog in the bun. Add chili, then mustard, ketchup and onion. Finally, top with coleslaw and serve.

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>tech

by Dan Bain

photography © getpebble.com

the pebble watch Smart investors know a smart watch when they see one When Pebble Technology failed to win over enough traditional investors, the company turned to Kickstarter, a crowd-funding platform, and within a week became its most highly-funded project. Their product has been billed as both a “smart watch” and “the first watch for the 21st century” – leading-edge claims for a product that leadingedge investors obviously believed.

connection to avoid ports, allowing the device to remain water-resistant (rated at 5ATM).

This device alerts its wearer to incoming calls and messages from email, SMS, Facebook, Twitter, and other apps. It provides caller ID and calendar reminders. It plays music and can be used as a bike or running computer, stopwatch, or golf rangefinder, among many other current

Just what is the Pebble? Think of it as an eWatch. It has a backlit LCD “e-paper” display in 144x168 pixels, and its face is customizable with countless downloadable designs. But it does a whole lot more than simply tell time. The Pebble can download and run apps, as well as communicate via Bluetooth with your iPhone or Android smart phone, offering limitless possibilities. It’s equipped with a vibrating motor, magnetometer, and an accelerometer – standard issue for smart phones and tablets. The seven-day battery recharges via special, magnetic USB

and future app-based possibilities.

The display clocks in at about an inch-and-a-quarter, requiring housing a bit clunkier than your standard fashion watch, but it makes up for that in other areas. This watch fits most 22mm bands, comes in five colors so far, is scratch- and shatter-resistant, and sports an anti-glare lens – and don’t forget those downloadable faces, making for infinite customized looks.

If you think it’s time to upgrade your watch, you can pre-order the Pebble for $150 at getpebble.com.

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>style

by Elie Rossetti-Serraino

no more wire hangers!

Enough is enough and it’s time for a change!

So what if wire hangers are in my closet?

Well, first I’m going to scream the movie line, “What are wire hangers doing in this closet?” while wearing a thick, white night cream on my face like Faye Dunaway in the scene from the movie. After about five minutes, I’ll calm down and kindly explain the two main reasons this really is a problem.

The first is a very practical reason.

This is probably what ticked off Joan Crawford: She was a very hard worker, 24 | midtownmag.com

coming from a humble upbringing, and after buying very expensive and delicate dresses for her daughter, she discovers them stored in the closet on wire hangers – leaving those unsightly bumps in the shoulders and causing that crumpled shape. She felt disrespected! The moral of this story? When you use the wrong hangers, you are not caring for your hardearned wardrobe properly, either.

photography © Paramount Pictures

One of the recurring jokes shared among my fashion insider friends in our Facebook posts is a reference to the “No more wire hangers!” scene from the film Mommie Dearest.

For those who don’t remember, it is the move adaptation of one of Hollywood’s first tell-all books, written

by Joan Crawford’s adopted daughter, Christina. A memoir of her allegedly traumatic childhood, the book detailed Christina’s life with the glamorous and often generous movie star, unveiling an apparently dysfunctional relationship that bordered on abuse.

The screaming hysteria delivered by actress Faye Dunaway on discovering cheap wire hangers from the dry cleaners being used for her daughter’s nice little dresses is both painful and a little hilarious for me and my fellow fashion-obsessed peers.

The second reason is highly subjective. It is about making your closet look and feel like a high-end boutique.

Notice at the mall and in any cute indie boutique, much effort and attention are given to the nice wooden hangers – that for a store can be very expensive. The clothing immediately looks more upscale and well cared for. There is something

about a birch or walnut wood next to a garment that makes it look more elegant and refined than a horrible white plastic one or, worse yet, a wire hanger – even if it is free from the dry cleaner.

I replaced all of mine with a little investment. The big box retailers now sell them in boxes of 10 to 15, and they are fairly priced. I also have some vintage hangers from my grandmother’s closet from the ‘30s and ‘40s that have her cute little name hand-written on them, making me think of all the parties or concerts she went to where she played the piano and needed to bring a pretty dress to change into. The signature kept her hanger from being confused with some other damsel’s hanger in the changing room.

After I replaced all of my hangers I proceeded to change my hubby’s, and I know that may be a delicate maneuver for some ladies out there. You may have to do this secretly and without getting his consent first. As we know, guys are creatures of habit and may criticize the purchase of something they find so frivolous. There is no need to mention this is to make his closet look like a pricey boutique or to make his morning wardrobe selection more enjoyable.

Rather, it is to maintain his clothing properly and because you care about him not going around with two gigantic bumps on his shoulders. He may even be thankful for this closet investment.

ON THE[SCENE] >>>arts

by Christa Gala

Lyssa Fineman, of Cary, sells her clay polymer and silver jewelry, Melissa Dawn Jewelry, all over the world.

Tell me a story Jewelry that was once used to supplement her college educati on is now Lyssa Fineman’s livelihood, attractin g buyers from around the world.

Miniature dollhouse furnishings intrigued Lyssa Fineman as a little girl – so much she dreamed of making the tiny items herself. “They were making these things from ceramics and paints, and I couldn’t do that with eight-year-old hands so I picked up some polymer clay and kept playing with it,” Fineman says.

Fineman experimented with clay for several years and then one summer, while a student at ECU studying theater design, she couldn’t get enough scholarship money together for her classes.

“I just started selling what I made, and then I started my ETSY shop and it snowballed. By the next semester, I was paying my rent with the money,” says Fineman, who lives in Cary and now sells her clay and silver jewelry full time through her Melissa Dawn jewelry line.

You can’t find her wares in Raleigh – yet – although she occasionally sells at local festivals and events, including making a recent appearance at Mosaic Wine Lounge in Raleigh. But Fineman’s clay jewelry, particularly her specialty Infinity Twist earrings, is all over the world. She’s a huge hit in the Philippines, endorsed by several Filipino actresses and models, and she was recently featured in Cosmopolitan (Philippines). She also sells to customers in

Italy, Brazil, Korea, Australia, England, but no one knew what she was talking Mexico, France and Japan. about. “I waited a few minutes and

The Infinity Twist is designed to then said, ‘Library. Book. Towee.’ Tell look like a wide ear plug (think ear me a story.” gauge) but goes into the ear with a

Her silver Towee pieces do just that. regular post, so the lobes don’t sustain “I love to read, and I can take the symthe stretching that a true plug would bols from books and convert them into cause. In the U.S., something I can wear,” Fineman’s pieces says Fineman, whose can be found in pieces are inspired by shops in Wilmingthe works of Tolkien ton, Kernersville, and Lewis Carroll.

Greensboro, CharLast year, an lotte and Rehoboth independent arts Beach, Delaware. organization, RAW:

She also travels natural born artists, to what she lovingly contacted Fineman calls “geek convenand asked her to apFineman’s Infinity Twist design is tions” where anime ply. With artists in 80 popular all over the world. It has fans scramble to cities in the U.S. and been featured in Cosmopolitan buy her kitschy Australia, RAW strives (Philippines). earrings – grapeto give new artists the fruit slices, glazed tools, resources and donuts, chocolate chip cookies, exposure to help them make a living macaroons, sushi rolls – with intricate with their artwork. Fineman applied details that mimic the dollhouse and was accepted. furniture she once loved.

RAW sponsored the Holiday RAWks

Also taking off is Fineman’s silver show at Solas this past December fealine, called Towee (Toe-ee), inspired turing more than 20 artists, including by another childhood experience. As a Fineman. “I cannot be more thankful. toddler from the backseat of the car, I made some really great friends at the Fineman kept yelling, “Daddy, Towee!” show who are also artists.”

RAW: natural born artists >>RAW shows feature artists from a variety of venues, including film, fashion, music, visual art, hair and makeup artistry and performance art. The next Raleigh show is August 1st at Lincoln Theatre from 8 pm to midnight; tickets are $15. For details, visit www.rawartists.org/raleigh/enmasse

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>sports

by Dave Droschak

Captain Eric Staal models the team’s new classic home and road uniforms.

a new storm Carolina Hurricanes Hit Ice in 2013-14 with Updated Look The Carolina Hurricanes won a Stanley Cup in red, black and white sweaters, and the numbers of Ron Francis, Rod Brind’Amour and Glen Wesley were retired over the team’s first 15 seasons in North Carolina.

Now the Canes, after a two-year internal project that saw designers sift through several hundred uniform renderings, are giving their players and fans a new look on the ice for the 2013-14 season, creating what team officials are calling a “classic and timeless” design.

The updated home and road uniforms, to be manufactured by Reebok, also take practicality into account as well as fashion, with the club’s logo on the front of the jerseys reduced by 15 percent. Less weight on the crest is designed to flex with the player, decreasing the amount of binding that occurs during movement on the ice.

“We won a Stanley Cup in the other 28 | midtownmag.com

uniforms so they will always be special, but I’m looking forward to hopefully doing the same in these new jerseys,” said captain Eric Staal, who modeled the new uniforms for his teammates prior to the end of last season.

“I think it’s cool. I’m excited; it’s certainly a different look. It is a little bit cleaner. The numbers on the back are a little different shape, a little bit more character to it,” added Staal. “I really like the road uniforms; the overthe-shoulder look is pretty cool.”

Instead of just reversing colors from the home uniform, the white road uniform provides an altogether unique look. The most noticeable is the red shoulder yoke, which extends onto the back. The Hurricanes will be the only team in the NHL with the name plate resting inside that red shoulder yoke.

Black numbers with a silver outline with bold striping on the arms and

base further establish the classic look.

“It’s a chance for us to rebrand after 15 seasons on the ice,” said Ben Aycock, the team’s senior director of marketing and brand development. “We listened closely to the fans and an internal committee as to what they would like to see, so hopefully we delivered.”

While the team’s logo is smaller on the chest of the sweaters, it was one of the few items that remained constant with the new digs.

“When kids see our logo they immediately say ‘hockey’ and that’s awesome for a brand that’s only been around for 15 years,” said Doug Warf, vice president of marketing. “We didn’t want to alter that. We wanted to change the look of the uniforms without changing the brand.”

The new uniforms will go on sale in early September, prior to the start of training camp.

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movies

midtown

reviews

movies

The Wolverine

2 Guns

The Smurfs 2

We’re the Millers

Starring: Hugh Jackman, Famke Janssen Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 7/26/2013 Plot: Logan (Jackman) travels to Japan, where he engages a mysterious figure from his past. Vulnerable for the first time, he confronts not only lethal samurai steel, but also his inner struggle against his own immortality, emerging more powerful than ever before.

Starring: Neil Patrick Harris, Hank Azaria, Jayma Mays Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 7/31/2013 Plot: The Smurfs team up with their human friends to rescue Smurfette, who has been kidnapped by Gargamel since she knows a secret spell that can turn the evil sorcerer’s newest creation – creatures called the Naughties – into real Smurfs.

Grown ups 2

Starring: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Chris Rock, David Spade Rated: PG-13 Opens: 7/12/2013 Plot: The all-star comedy cast from Grown Ups returns (with some exciting new additions) for more summertime laughs.

This second gathering of childhood friends finds Lenny (Adam Sandler) moving his family back to the same small town where he grew up. Now, the adults are the ones learning from their kids as the last day of school and its antics and surprises take center stage. Between old bullies, new bullies, schizo bus drivers, drunk cops on skis, and 400 costumed party crashers, sometimes you figure out that crazy just follows you. *Opening dates and ratings are subject to change.

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Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Denzel Washington Rated: R Opens: 8/2/2013 Plot: A DEA agent and an undercover Naval Intelligence officer who have been tasked with investigating one another find they have been set up by the mob -- the very organization the two men believe they have been stealing money from.

Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Jason Sudeikis Rated: R Opens: 8/9/2013 Plot: A pot dealer (Sudeikis) sets out to retrieve a staggering amount of weed from Mexico. Feeling that a family is a better cover for drug smuggling, he cajoles a local stripper (Aniston), a homeless teen, and a nerd who lives in his building to pose as a family. They’re the Millers.

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midtown

reviews

music

music

Magna Carta Holy Grail (Jay-Z) Release Date: 7/7/2013

X (Chris Brown) Release Date: 7/16/2013

Jay-Z surprised fans during the NBA playoffs when he made the announcement that he will be releasing a new album on July 7th. The news of the album came as a bit of a surprise to the public. This will be Jay-Z’s first solo album since his release of The Blueprint 3 in 2009.

Chris claims that his sixth studio album takes on a number of meanings. “It’s about being a reject in a sense. In me being myself, being able to grow up, me not always hanging around the right crowd or doing the right thing all the time – it’s me saying, ‘I’m over it.’”

Stars Dance (Selena Gomez) Release Date: 7/23/2013 In regards to her debut solo album, Selena Gomez revealed an array of details about the album including a track about her relationship with Justin Bieber. In Love Will Remember, she said, “I think it’s a sweet way of releasing it. It’s not an aggressive approach to what people are probably expecting. I’m sure he’ll love it, too.”

Blurred Lines (Robin Thicke) Release Date: 7/30/2013

Right Thoughts, Right Words, Right Action (Franz Ferdinand) Release Date: 8/27/2013

Thicke revealed a little bit of what we can expect off of his upcoming album Blurred Lines. Reality TV Magazine notes that the singer described a single off the album titled “Give It 2 U” as: “It’s very Michael Jackson, Prince but also pretty hip-hop.” This furthers Thicke’s statement that his upcoming album will have a “feel good” vibe.

Scottish group Franz Ferdinand will release their fourth studio album on August 27th.

The physical copies of the album will be accompanied by a bonus disc containing a live studio recording called “Right Notes, Right Words, Wrong Order.” *Release dates are subject to change.

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beer

midtown

reviews

beer

Sunny Haze Mother Earth

Live Southern Tier brewing company

Petrus Aged Red Brouwerij Bavik

Chocolate Orange IPA

Toasted Coconut Porter

Thomas Creek

Orange Blossom

best served in:

77 LIGHTEST to DARKEST

77

BY TED Gross, Owner – Bottle Revolution

4.9% abv

5.5% abv

8.5% abv

7.5% abv

5.3% abv

Kinston, North Carolina

Lakewood, New York

Harelbeke-Bavikhove, Belgium

Greenville, South Carolina

Chicago, Illinois

It’s easy to spot a summer beer when the ocean is on the can. Brewed by our friends at Mother Earth, this Hefeweizen has the classic style notes of banana and spices. If you’re not on the beach, we suggest pouring it into a glass to enjoy its unfiltered, cloudy goodness!

We never saw this one coming! Southern Tier is know for some bold flavored beers [Creme Brule, Pumking, etc], yet they also have the ability to produce a beautiful, sessionable Pale Ale like Live. It’s bold enough for the IPA lover, yet balanced enough when you want to take a break from the bitter brews.

A new offering from Bavik this year. Fans of their Pale or Bruin may be expecting another sour seeing the red/brown color. The cherry flavor really shines though with a balance of tartness and sweetness! Fruitbeer lovers will probably enjoy this more than those looking to pucker a new sour.

This has been a favorite on-tap since we opened. Malted chocolate with the addition of chocolate powder, makes this more of a Black IPA – and actually, it’s not very chocolaty [or ‘orange-y’ for that matter]. However, it does possess a nice citrus aroma and flavor and it’s definitely delicious!

We like this porter as an option for the hotter days ahead. The body and color are both a bit lighter than most porters. Don’t jump into a bottle of this expecting a ‘coconut bomb’ ... rather, the coconut adds a little additional sweetness to compliment the light coffee/ chocolate flavors.

$1.89/can

$1.59/bottle

$4.49/bottle

$2.29/bottle

$1.99/bottle

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midtown

reviews

wine wine

BY ERIC CASTEEL, Wine Manager – Total Wine & More

Domaine Rabiotte Aix Provence Rose

Gazela Vinho Verde

Rueda, Spain

Aix-en-Provence, Rhone, France

Vinho Verde, Portugal

Winzer Krems Gruner Veltliner

Quinta De Ventozelo QV Tinto

best served in:

Arindo Rueda Verdejo

Juicy and ripe with crisp pineapple, pear and apple flavors.

Strikes a great balance between crisp, lively acidity, juicy texture and enjoyably ripe fruit flavors. A must try for Sauvignon Blanc fans looking for something new.

Crisp, Pineapple, Pear, Light-bodied

$13.99/bottle

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Fresh and fruity, with a zesty acidity that tingles the palate, this refreshing rose marries notes of strawberry and mineral. It will pair beautifully with appetizers and fresh seafood dishes.

Crisp, Berry, Mineral, Medium-bodied

$11.99/bottle

Austria

Douro, Portugal

Here’s a zesty, light and crisp white offering bright lime and pear flavors with subtle spicy notes of ginger and even a hint of tangerine on the lively palate. Pure and clean, this is a truly refreshing wine.

Crisp, Citrus, Pear, Light-bodied

This crisp, balanced white is an excellent introduction to a wine that is quickly becoming the white of choice for those who discover it! Full-bodied with hints of pepper and spice, this delicious mineral-driven delight will pair well with fresh seafood and vegetable dishes.

Crisp, Citrus, Tree fruit, Medium-bodied

Medium-light bodied wine. On the nose, you find a very fresh, fruit forward wine. On the palate, there are vanilla notes, ending in a slightly spicy but nice finish. Serve with pasta, pizza and red meats.

Fresh, Raspberry, Vanilla, Mediumbodied.

$7.99/bottle

$12.99/bottle

$9.99/bottle

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midtown

reviews

apps

apps

Decide Shopping & Price Predictor • Free

Shop with confidence – easily read through product recommendations based on millions of reviews from experts and shoppers like you. Always know what to buy, when to buy it and get the price guaranteed on your purchases of electronics, appliances, home & garden and sporting goods.

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ParkMe shows how much you should expect to pay for parking before you arrive. With prices laid out on the map, you can easily compare parking options.

In a growing number of cities, ParkMe can even show you a live map of available parking for certain lots, garages, and city blocks! Avoid circling the block and get on with your day faster.

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Drync • Free

Drync lets you buy wine the moment you taste it. Simply snap a photo of a wine label and buy on the spot for home delivery. You can also rate, save tasting notes and remember where and when you had the wine and share what you are drinking with friends via Facebook, Twitter or email.

Buy wine you love based on YOUR taste. At restaurants, wine events, or even a friend’s home, you can now remember and buy wine you know you love, because you drank it!

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Drinkster • $.99

Drinkster is not your standard calorie counter. They allow you to enter individual drinks and parts of drinks to find out the calories and units in that crazy drink you had last night! 2 pints of lager, with a shot of vodka and a whole load of coca-cola?

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38 | midtownmag.com

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catfish sandwich from the pit

t h e t a s t i e s t

i n

t o w n B y K u r t D u s t e r b e r g P h o t o g r a p h y B y S e a n J u n q u e i r a

When you size up a restaurant menu these days, it’s clear that you have plenty of choices. You can be good and order that salad with the healthy dressing. Or you can opt for a sophisticated entree that steers clear of french fries and feel-good sides. But sometimes you want a meal that keeps it real. We’re talking about sandwiches - bread on both ends and something you can sink your teeth into in the middle. Whether it’s a turkey sandwich or something more creative, area restaurants offer plenty of tempting creations that can get your stomach growling by lunch time. Here’s a sampling of some of the Triangle’s tastiest sandwiches. midtownmag.com | 41

the braised beef

Short Rib sandwichat Gravy Chef Brent Hopkins has a passion for sourcing local product and his efforts shine through on his Beef Short Rib sandwich. The local beef is slow-braised to extreme tenderness then placed on a baguette with beef sugo, fresh mozzarella cheese and giardiniera (pickled cauliflower, spicy peppers, celery, olive oil and vinegar).

$10.45 135 Wilmington Street gravyraleigh.com

the bahn mi

sandwich

at Zinda

Marinated and grilled chicken or beef forms the foundation for this Vietnamese sandwich.

A sambal aioli - fish sauce, lime juice, palm sugar, Thai peppers - is spread on a baguette to give this sandwich a condiment that is sweet, salty and spicy. But you get your veggies, too. The sandwich comes with cucumbers, carrots and onions.

It’s one flavorful meal.

$8.95 301 Fayetteville Street zindaraleigh.com. photograph by Eschelon Hospitality

42 | midtownmag.com

smoke pit

pulled pork sandwich at Village Grill

the

Kafta Wrap at Sitti

$7.99 137 S. Wilmington street sitti-raleigh.com 44 | midtownmag.com

If you’re looking to try an authentic Lebanese dish, the Kafta Wrap is the way to go. The kafta recipe is handed down from the owner’s grandmother and includes ground beef and lamb mixed together with parsley, garlic and other seasonings. It’s formed into a patty and grilled to perfection. The kafta is then cut into pieces and paired with hummus, tomatoes and sumac onions in a pita pocket, which is also made fresh daily in-house.

catfish

sandwich at The Pit

This one gets a lot of TLC before it reaches the table.

They start with a Challah bun, brought in from Tribeca Oven in New York. The pork is cooked overnight, then seasoned and shredded. The barbecue sauce? It boasts about a dozen ingredients. Add some cole slaw and a pickle, and you’ve got one of the most popular items on the menu.

You can also order the pulled pork on the nachos.

$9 8470 Honeycutt Road villagegrillraleigh.com

photograph by Eschelon Hospitality

Braised short rib

sandwich at The Oxford The short ribs are braised more than four hours, giving the meat that pull-apart appeal that people love.

Then they add the other must-haves: barbecue sauce, white American cheese and caramelized onions. The

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buttered brioche bun is a nice touch, making this an extra-hearty sandwich.

$10.50 319 Fayetteville Street oxfordraleigh.com

10:27 AM

The Pit may be famous for their barbecue (and rightly so), but don’t forgo the delectable Catfish Sandwich. It’s fried to perfection then served on brioche with lettuce and tomato.

What makes it so good?

The generous topping of crispy onions and the kick of the spicy remoulade sauce.

$8.59 328 W. Davie Street thepit-raleigh.com midtownmag.com | 45

the turkey

bacon & cheddar The first building block for this warm sandwich is a square of rosemary focaccia bread from Neomonde. The turkey and cheddar are grilled before the bacon goes on top. For that little extra touch that sets it apart, the sandwich gets

46 | midtownmag.com

at Midtown Grill

a spread of cranberry mayo. Homemade russet potato chips round out this popular lunch.

$10 442 Six Forks Road themidtowngrille.com

grilled

mushroom You don’t have to think vegetarian to imagine the layers of flavor here. It starts with a light wholewheat bread, rubbed with a walnut pesto spread. Next up are the grilled portobellos, slow-roasted tomatoes and spinach. Top it off

photograph by Eschelon Hospitality

Grilled Low Country

sandwich at The Morning Times with a local goat cheese, and put it on the panini press.

$7 10 E. Hargett Street morningtimes-raleigh.com empire eats.pdf

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Pimento Cheese Sandwich at Cameron Bar & Grill Chef Dave Baysinger was looking for a way to make the restaurant’s pimento cheese sandwich a little more southern.

So he decided to add a fried green tomato and applewood smoked bacon, and that did the trick. Adding to the flavor, the

tomatoes are brined in pickle juice and breaded before they take their place on the toasted sourdough bread.

$9 2018 Clark Avenue cameronbarandgrill.com

midtownmag.com | 47

$7.15 8450 Honeycutt Road jubalavillagecoffee.com

turkey avocado

sandwich

at Jubala Village Coffee Pork

belly reuben

at The Raleigh Times This one is a twist on a classic sandwich. They start with a cured pork belly that is braised and sliced like corn beef. A sugar and salt cure is the finishing touch. Then the reuben gets the traditional treatment: homemade sauerkraut, Russian dressing (with bread and butter pickles) and Swiss cheese. The marbled rye bread comes from The Bread Shop in Pittsboro.

$9.95 14 E. Hargett Street raleightimesbar.com

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North Carolina

ham sandwich

While coffee takes center stage, the turkey avocado sandwich is far and away the most popular item for hungry guests. It starts with smoked turkey and sharp cheddar, served

warm after a turn on the panini press. After adding sliced avocados, they top it with a chipotle aioli - a blend of mayo, adobe peppers and honey. Kettle chips round out this tasty lunch.

at POGO (Marbles Kids Museum) Here’s an unusual twist: after the ham is pan seared, it is covered in a Coca-Cola glaze. The ham is topped with North Carolina hoop cheddar cheese and served on spicy cornbread, with cornmeal from Atkinson Milling Company in Johnston County. This locally sourced lunch is topped off with pan-fried greens.

Opening July 18th!

$7.50 201 E. Hargett Street pogoraleigh.com midtownmag.com | 49

the best of the

rest The Critical Violation A beef brisket, french fries and slaw on an Italian loaf makes this a house speciality. They may not have invented it, but they sure perfected it!

Backyard Bistro – 1235 Hurricane Alley Way. $10.95. the Mozzarella Sandwich Fresh mozzarella served on grilled pumpernickel bread with tomatoes, fresh spinach and pesto spread. The Rockford – 320 1/2 Glenwood Avenue. $8.25. the Grilled Chicken Sandwich jubala_mj.pdf 3/25/13 This grilled sandwich 1is made with2:40

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PM

chicken, pears, honey and basil. Busy Bee Cafe – 225 South Wilmington Street. $9.

fries, sweet potato fries, spicy Thai cucumbers or edamame. The Cowfish – 4208 Six Forks Road #100. $14.

The Muffaletta A new Orleans specialty. Properly served on a Muffaletta round with ham, salami, capicola, mortadella, and provolone topped with Olive salad. Big Easy – 222 Fayetteville Street.

Muffaletta. $8.75.

The Chicken Biscuit Chicken with pickled green tomato, Dijon and honey between a biscuit is simply delicious. Beasley’s Chicken & Honey – 237 S. Wilmington Street. $6.75.

The Chicken Salad Made fresh daily with all white meat.

Order it on bread or with just lettuce and tomato, either way, it’s a Pharoh’s Favorite! Pharohs @ North Hills – 4421 Six Forks Road. $6.49.

the Open Face Sandwich Homemade whole wheat bread layered with avocado spread, sautéed mushrooms and onions, sliced tomatoes, sunny side egg and finished under the broiler with melted mozzarella cheese. Irregardless Café – 901 W. Morgan Street. $8.75.

The What’s Shakin’ Tuna Bacon Slices of seared rare blackened Ahi tuna, applewood bacon, iceberg, jalapenos, tomato salsa and slaw, served between grilled spring roll wrapper “buns” filled with kani and sushi peace_mj.pdf rice. Served with a side of seasoned

the Shrimp BLT Shrimp, bacon, lettuce, tomato, Havarti, and mayo on grilled sourdough bread. Another wonderful twist on the BLT sandwich! NoFo @ the Pig – 1 4/4/13 PM – $9.95.

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The most recent North Hills expansion is a $250 million investment by Kane Realty, which has revitalized this location over the last decade with 950,000 square feet of retail space, distinctive urban living, overnight accommodations, prime office space and popular eateries.

A

decade ago North Hills was known as “the other mall,” a successful retail center in its own right but far from a destination point for most Raleigh residents.

Fast forward to the summer of 2013 and Kane Realty Corp. -- responsible for the rapid growth around Interstate 440 and Six Forks Road -- is proudly unveiling an additional $275 million investment that will include a Midtown Park, two residential projects, a 7-story hotel and an 18-story office building to complement the already existing Captrust Tower at North Hills.

“We are delighted to have the (seven-story) Hyatt House concluding construction and opening this summer,” said John Kane, chairman

Midtown’s presence in the greater Raleigh market.”

Kane Realty president Mike Smith promises the same attention to detail with the new additions that has clearly placed North Hills at the top of the charts for trendy treats and awesome action. On the way is arguably the best Tex-Mex restaurant on the planet in Chuy’s, which will have expansive outside seating that overlooks the new “central park” of North Hills.

“Chuy’s architecture is very different, funky, eclectic, so this will be a very different building,” said Smith, who says the Texas-based establishment should be opening in four to five months. “The expression within Chuy’s is that if you’ve seen one

A rendering of the Texas-based Chuy’s, the latest in a wide selection of restaurants in North Hills. Chuy’s patrons will enjoy great views of the new Midtown Park and its stage while dining on the patio.

and CEO of Kane Realty. “Also adding 650 residential units to North Hills will give people more options for living in and around Midtown and North Hills. The Midtown Park will add an exceptional artistic expression and a terrific venue that will allow us to expand our events and community offerings. We have much more in the planning stages at North Hills which will continue to establish

Chuy’s you’ve seen one Chuy’s.”

The latest North Hills expansion will continue to highlight Kane Realty’s goal of providing dawn-to-dusk activity for residents and their guests.

“The old adage in real estate is location, location, location and this is clearly it,” Smith said of the escalating demand for additional residential units, along with retail and office space. “The success to date of having

midtownmag.com | 53

4

24/7 activity where you can live and work and be a guest only works if you have successful retail, and this was a historically successful retail site. We’ve come back with 950,000 square feet of retail over the past decade that continues to get stronger and stronger.”

Construction on Allister North Hills Apartments, just inside the beltline but still within an easy walk to the center of activity via Six Forks or Lassiter Mills roads, should be completed by December, Smith said.

If you drive by the area and see a large tower crane, that’s the new site for Midtown Green, which will provide balcony views by the spring of 2014 of the adjacent Midtown Park for its residents.

The Midtown Park, which will include an amphitheater, will serve as a gathering place for a wide range of planned

54 | midtownmag.com

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An aerial view of the expansive North Hills area at the intersection of Six Forks Road and Interstate 440.

events, or just a place to unwind with a book on a bench while eating a slice of pizza or sipping some coffee.

“The greatest lesson learned from all of our development here at North Hills is if you can preserve some land that you don’t build on and create a place where people can gather, the more attractive it is for everyone,” Smith said. “The park, which is three-quarters the size of a football field, has always been our long-term vision, having it in the middle of where people are living, working and playing.”

Look no further than your java from Starbucks as a barometer of how North Hills has emerged as a major player in the Triangle residential, retail and restaurant trifecta.

“They are one of the greatest selectors of real estate in the country and there are three Starbucks here within three blocks,” Smith said.

“Raleigh was missing a ‘go-to’ place,’’ he added.

“This community and Wake County in particular is at the top of the charts in terms of people moving here from out-of-state. These residents coming into our market have expectations that they are bringing with them from where they used to live, to be able to find places that are 24/7 active.”

midtownmag.com | 55

chef mario

Berrylicious Bounty!

Making the best of what the berry season brings.

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

Bacon Wrapped Chipotle Berry Glazed Pork Tenderloin Serves 4 Ingredients 1 pork tenderloin trimmed of silver skin ½ lb bacon [ ½ cup vanilla berries, pureed [ ¹⁄³ cup brown sugar 1 Tbsp chipotle in adobo, pureed 1 Tbsp lemon juice

salt & pepper to taste Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 2. Start by spraying your work surface with a light mist

of water or a clean sponge to moisten surface

3. Lay out plastic wrap on top of work area 4. Lay strips of bacon in a shingled fashion, pulling to

stretch each bacon strip thin. Apply some pressure and pet the bacon to make the shingled bacon strips into one large bacon strip. Trim the ends of the bacon to create straight lines 5. Season bacon with salt and pepper 6. Trim each end of the pork tenderloin to fit bacon, then lay the pork on the bacon and roll the bacon. It should be long enough to wrap around the pork several times.

7. Use toothpicks to secure bacon only push in halfway so they are visible and easy to remove 8. Roast pork 15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 150.

9. Combine vanilla berries, brown sugar, chipotle puree and lemon juice to create berry glaze 10. Remove pork from oven. Remove toothpicks and brush on berry glaze mixture 11. Return to oven for about 2-3 minutes, then remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing Find the recipe online at MidtownMag.com!

Complete

the meal!

Parmesan Roasted Asparagus Ingredients 2 asparagus bunches 2 Tbsp olive oil 2 Tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated 1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped 1 lemon (juiced)

salt and pepper to taste Directions 1. Toss the asparagus in olive oil, parmesan, thyme, salt and pepper and lemon juice and mix well.

2. Spread the asparagus in a single layer on a foil lined baking sheet.

3. Roast in a 425 degree oven for 7 minutes and serve immediately

Buttered Purple Potatoes Ingredients 2 lb purple potato, cut into uniform pieces ½ cup butter, cut into cubes 1 cup half & half or heavy cream

salt and pepper to taste Directions 1. In a large pot, add potatoes and cold, salted water over high heat and bring to a boil then reduce to simmer 2. Cook potatoes until tender, then drain in colander 3. Place potatoes back in pot, add butter, cream, and salt and pepper 4. Use potato masher to combine ingredients 5. Mix potatoes with a whisk to create smooth, creamy potatoes midtownmag.com | 57

Crepes with Cream Cheese and Vanilla Berries Serves 4 Ingredients 1 cup flour ½ cup milk ½ cup water ½ tsp salt 2 tsp butter, melted 2 eggs

The Cream Cheese Cloud Serves 24 Ingredients 16 oz cream cheese, softened ½ cup butter, softened 2 cups sifted confectioners' sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract Directions 1. In a medium bowl, cream together the cream cheese and butter until creamy.

2. Mix in the vanilla, then gradually stir in the confectioners' sugar.

3. Store in the refrigerator after use. chef mario_ja.pdf

58 | midtownmag.com

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Directions 1. In a large bowl whisk together flour and egg.

In separate bowl mix together milk and water.

2. Gradually, add wet mixture to dry mixture stirring to combine.

3. Add salt and melted butter then beat until smooth 4. Heat a lightly oiled non-stick pan over medium high heat 5. Add 1/4 cup batter to pan. Tilt pan in circular motions to spread batter over the pan 6. Cook the crepe about 2 minutes or until edges start to pull away from pan 7. Use spatula to flip crepe and cook other side, about two minutes. Remove from pan.

12:01 PM

CREPE

ASSEMBLY Ingredients • Crepes • Vanilla berries • Cream cheese cloud • Fresh berries • Fresh mint sprigs Directions 1. Lay crepe on a flat surface, place a spoonful of cream cheese cloud in a line in the center 2. Drizzle vanilla berries on top of cream cheese then sprinkle with fresh berries 3. Roll the crepe up To Serve Place crepes on a plate and garnish with a dollop of cream cheese cloud. Drizzle more vanilla berries on top.

Finish with fresh berries and mint sprigs

dress_ja.pdf

Lemon Glazed Vanilla Berry Cake Makes 12 servings or one 9” cake Ingredients 2 ½ cup ¾ cup 1 Tbsp ¾ tsp 1 1 cup 1 tsp ½ cup ½ cup

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12:57 PM

Lemon Glaze • Zest of 1 lemon • ½ cup confectioners’ sugar • 2 Tbsp lemon juice

flour sugar Mix the zest, sugar and baking powder juice and set aside salt large egg milk vanilla extract butter, melted vanilla berries, pureed

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350. Use cooking spray to coat a 9” cake pan and line bottom with foil or parchment paper.

2. In a large bowl, stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

3. In another bowl, mix together the eggs, milk and vanilla.

4. Melt butter and mix into egg mixture 5. Add egg & butter mixture to flour mixture and combine. Do not over mix!

6. Spread batter into prepared pan evenly 7. Spoon pureed vanilla berries on top of batter. Using your spoon, push the puree into the batter making a swirl design 8. Bake for 15 minutes. Turn pan and bake for 5-10 minutes or until inserted toothpick comes out clean.

9. Remove from oven and pour lemon glaze over muffin bread while it is still hot.

10. Remove from pan and allow to cool 11. Pipe a pile of cream cheese cloud (from crepe recipe) on the center of cake and place fresh berries and mint sprigs in decorative fashion on top.

extraRECIPES! Log on to: midtownmag.com for bonus recipes! midtownmag.com | 59

bain’s beat

Too Fake

A Tale of Phantom Pain and Misplaced Cavities It started with the nachos. I shouldn’t have eaten that last one before we left our booth; I’m sure it was the one responsible. A sharp corner broke off and scraped my gum, somewhere in the upper right quadrant of my mouth. The pain was mercifully shortlived, or so I thought as we went about our business on that fateful Saturday afternoon.

By the time we got home, a throb had started up there. I used my tongue to investigate between those teeth and my inner cheek, and the problem seemed to go away.

For about five seconds. Then, another pain hit me – and I nearly hit the floor. It felt like someone was rubbing a sheet of aluminum foil along my teeth, stopping only to try to shove it up into my gums.

I grabbed my jaw and ran to the master bathroom, where I wasn’t sure if I 60 | midtownmag.com

was going to floss, brush, or vomit from the pain. I opted for the first two, followed by a handful of Aleves. The pain subsided within an hour, and I forgot about the incident for a couple of weeks.

It continued with a beer. I was thirsty and hot, and the drink was ice-cold. I think you know where I’m going with this. I took a big gulp and, as the drink passed my back teeth, it felt like someone had jammed a lightsaber through the roof of my mouth. I grabbed my jaw and bent over double while I waited for the pain to subside. Bending over double has no effect on pain, of course, but it serves to distract me from it.

Once the pain level dropped to a 10, I stood up, inhaled deeply to regain the breath I had just lost, and discovered the lightsaber was double-ended. Apparently,

Darth Maul was Sithing it up on my teeth.

That, or air had caused this bout – I had inhaled, and as the air went over my teeth, the Force was unleashed. Now, I couldn’t have nachos, beer, or air – three of my favorite things – without causing undue pain.

I considered calling a dentist, but it would probably be a hassle to find out if I was insured for that. Yes, most people know these things, but I’m not most people. So I came up with a new plan – eat and drink on the left side only.

This happened at the same time I was in the throes of an addiction to Keebler® E.L. Fudge® Original cookies and milk. I like to dunk the elves upside down, then bite their soggy heads off. It’s sadistic, but tasty. Also very painful for a man with dental issues. It didn’t take long to discover

kristens shoe_ja.pdf

that I couldn’t keep their cold, fudgy brains on the left side of my mouth – and these elves were mad enough to cast some spells on my teeth.

It’s also impossible to eat cereal on only one side of my mouth, and my favorite cereals did little to abate the milk’s cold temperature. So I resigned myself to searching for my benefits information and a dentist. While I was on the phone with HR, I was filling out online inquiries with local dentists. I found out that: 1) I actually have dental coverage, and 2) dentists where I live aren’t in any hurry for new patients.

But one emailed that she could make an opening that afternoon by cancelling another appointment, and told me to call the office in 15 minutes. When I called, she seemed surprised because “another man with a name like yours just called and took your spot!” (I wonder if it was that Trader Joe’s guy?) She gave me the next available appointment, three days away.

I counted the days while subsisting on warm drinks only, and trying not to inhale through my mouth. The big day came, and I couldn’t tell them which tooth hurt – it was somewhere on the upper right, but I couldn’t narrow it down. I watched as the hygienist typed “somewhere” into my form – in quotation marks – and wondered if I’d just been victimized by passive aggression.

The dentist searched for the afflicted tooth by tapping on each one with an unknown blunt instrument. “Does this hurt?” “’O.” “This?” “’O.” “This?”

“’ES! ‘ESSS! ‘ATS IT!” I screamed with open mouth as it became clear that the instrument was a jackhammer.

He asked me if I grind my teeth. I told him no. He asked if I’d been under any stress lately. I could only laugh in derision for an answer. He said there were no cavities on that tooth, but maybe stress had been making me grind my teeth while sleeping. I tried to bite back the tears at the prospect of having a phantom toothache – one with no evident cure – and thought of all the Keebler elves who must now be set free.

He told me to give it time and see if relaxing helped, because he didn’t want to have to pull it just yet. Nor did

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I want him to – it’s essentially yanking a bone out of my body – so I gained new resolve to make the situation work.

He said I had a cavity on the left side, adding insult to injury. This wasn’t fair; how could I have a fake cavity? But when I came back a week later for a long-overdue cleaning, another hygienist found three barely perceptible decaying spots that “might be causing the pain.”

Hope renewed, I scheduled all four fillings for two days later. That’s the first time I’ve looked forward to having cavities filled. I was even willing to welcome the things I had hated in my childhood, like the drill that smells like burning Fritos®, or the suction device that feels like it could pull my brain into my mouth through my sinuses.

The process took less than an hour, and I was feeling no pain when I left.

The hygienist warned me that the proximity of the worst filling to the gumline might cause some pain for a few more days. But I didn’t care; I was pain-free for the moment, and wanted to enjoy a cold beverage. Too bad I wasn’t able to use a straw while both cheeks were numb; I couldn’t have puckered to save my life.

So I waited. And waited. That night, they were still numb, but I could drink. And it was glorious. Not an inkling of pain. I went to bed happy, woke up, and cheerfully poured extra milk on my cereal – then hit the floor with the first spoonful.

The fillings hadn’t worked! I began to reconsider having the offending tooth pulled. It still amazes me that people don’t seem to mind – would we be so cavalier about having a finger bone removed? Plus, the word “somewhere” was in my chart – what if they pulled the wrong teeth?

I decided to forbear, and it paid off.

A week or two later, the pain started to subside. First, cereal wasn’t so bad. Next, cold beverages. I even ground my back teeth intentionally, as a test. The hygienist had been right! Apparently, the lingering pain wasn’t from the cavities, it was from the procedure.

And now I’m happy to report that my long nightmare is over. Too bad it’s just beginning for some certain elves….

Dan Bain, Dental Impatient danbain07@gmail.com

>>By

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9:02 AM

the standingO

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association:

A Century of Influence The Top 10 Tar Heel Prep Sports Figures of All Time

A

By Dave Droschak

pproximately 200,000 prep athletes compete annually on the fields and courts across the state, so selecting the top 10 sports figures of all time as the North Carolina High School Athletic Association celebrates its 100th anniversary seemed like a daunting task.

I’m here to tell you it wasn’t easy; even coming up with the criteria for the list was akin to putting together one of those 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzles. Who was the best? What era dominated more than another? Which record-holder was the most deserving? Why is Michael Jordan not on the list?

In the end, crunching the numbers wasn’t the correct answer, nor was success after the high school ranks (see Jordan above). Instead, my list is comprised of the most influential prep figures our state has produced, the athletes, coaches or administrators who “moved the meter,” the ones we remember from the sleepy small tobacco towns to the metro areas for their prep accomplishments – and sometimes future failures.

“I am prejudiced because I grew up in North Carolina but our list of great high school athletes compares with anybody’s,” said Rick Strunk, the NCHSAA’s longtime media director.

In alphabetical order, the following sports figures are the ones we still remember and reminisce about. Log on to Midtown Magazine’s Facebook page and let us know who you would have included in your Top 10.

62 | midtownmag.com

Charlie Adams Under his longtime leadership (24 years) as executive director, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association took a place near the top of the national landscape in terms of innovative programs and progressive thinking. Among his list of truly forward-thinking concepts that many other prep organizations have adopted include “endowment games” to help fund state playoffs, college campus sites for state championships and the institution of a prep hall of fame. “Influential certainly is a way to describe him on the state and national level,” Strunk said.

Josh Hamilton At 6-foot-4, 205 pounds and size 19 feet, Hamilton was truly a man among boys as baseballs seemingly rocketed off the bat of this “can’t miss” prospect out of Athens Drive High School in 1999. Hamilton hit over .550 and threw 96-mph on the mound. And he roamed center field like Mickey Mantle.

After suffering through a much-publicized drug addiction in the minor leagues, Hamilton recovered to become a professional star, winning the American League MVP award in 2010.

James “Catfish” Hunter Hunter played linebacker in football and was a shortstop and a cleanup hitter in baseball, but it was his skills on the mound that attracted Major League scouts to the small Eastern North Carolina town of Hertford in the mid 1960s. Hunter was

wounded in a hunting accident his senior season that left him somewhat hobbled, but he was still drafted and is on a short list of players who went straight from high school to the Majors. Hunter played for colorful owners Charlie Finley in Oakland and George Steinbrenner in New York – winning a combined five World Series titles -- but was always known for maintaining his North Carolina roots.

Charlie Justice There was way more substance to Justice than his colorful nickname. Could anybody tackle Justice in high school in the early 1940s? Nicknamed Choo Choo, he averaged 25 yards – that’s correct, 25 yards -- per carry as he dodged tacklers during his senior year at Asheville’s Lee H. Edwards High School.

Justice, who ran, passed and punted in those days as a “three-way player,” starred on two undefeated prep teams. His senior season, Edwards outscored its opponents 400-6. After serving in World War II, Justice went on to become one of the University of North Carolina’s best football players and became somewhat of a folk hero in later days.

Tom Knotts Knotts was the coaching architect of the Charlotte Independence football teams that won 109 straight games from 2000-2007. In just nine seasons at Independence, Knotts compiled a record on the field of 131-6 with a pass-happy offense that featured former Florida quarterback Chris Leak. He captured seven state championships (including one with West Charlotte) and appeared in four other title games, finishing as runner-up.

Larry Lindsey Retired in 1992, Lindsey won a remarkable eight state basketball championships in three different classifications, along with 20 conference championships in 28 seasons at Youngsville and Wake Forest-Rolesville. Dean Smith once said Lindsey was “ahead of the curve defensively” as a coach. Lindsey, who won 609 games, also played on the 1956 state title team at Youngsville.

Pete Maravich Nicknamed “Pistol Pete,” the Broughton High School basketball star’s style was unmistakable, shooting from the hip while donning his floppy socks. Pistol Pete drew added attention as the son of N.C. State coach Press Maravich in the mid-1960s. But the younger Maravich thrived in the spotlight, averaging

32 points per game at Broughton and scoring 42 points as the MVP of the 17th East-West All-Star game. His 44.2 points per game scoring average at LSU is one of the records in sports that may never be broken. His sudden death in 1988 while playing basketball at the age of 40 just adds to the mystique of one of the NBA’s 50 Greatest Players.

David Thompson’s high school uniform is displayed at the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s office in Chapel Hill.

“Pistol” Pete Maravich’s No. 23 hangs from the rafters at Broughton High School in downtown Raleigh and A photo of a skinny Maravich in his high school East-West All-Star jersey.

Brien Taylor Armed with a virtually unhittable 99-mph fastball as a lefthander prep pitcher at East Carteret High School, Taylor was poised not only to be the next great Major League pitcher, but he was selected first overall in the draft by the storied New York Yankees. How dominant was Taylor as a high school player?

In his senior season he struck out 213 hitters in 88 innings, meaning 81 percent of his outs were recorded via the strikeout. However, Taylor never progressed past Double AA, injuring his throwing shoulder in a fist fight defending his brother. He is only the second player in baseball history to be selected first overall and not play in the Majors.

David Thompson In a state that has produced its share of truly great basketball players, Thompson stands alone atop the pinnacle of scoring talent and natural physical skills. You don’t earn the nickname “Skywalker” for being ordinary.

Thompson’s play and leaping ability at Crest High School in Shelby from 1969-71 remains legendary – even in an age where the dunk was not allowed. Thompson helped bring down UCLA’s massive winning streak in 1974, leading N.C. State to the national championship. Once in the NBA, Thompson’s dunks would have “blown up” YouTube had it been invented at the time.

Chris Washburn As a 10th grader at Hickory High, Washburn was the subject of a Sports Illustrated story.

Why? As a 6-foot-10, 275-pound sophomore, he was arguably the most sought-after prep player during the height of college basketball’s recruiting wars of the mid-1980s.

Washburn received more than 250 letters, postcards and mailgrams from N.C. State alone – the school he chose. Washburn left college early and was the third overall pick in the NBA Draft. He was banned from the NBA for life in 1989 after failing three drug tests in three years. The same magazine that featured him as a “can’t miss” prospect later named Washburn the second-biggest draft bust of all time. midtownmag.com| 63

The Game Within the Game J

Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic Celebrates 20 Years Of Funding Cancer Research in August

By Dave Droschak

im Valvano was a great motivator and a national championship coach who had little or no time for golf when he coached for North Carolina State in the ultra competitive Atlantic Coast Conference.

When he left the game and began a career in broadcasting, Valvano’s schedule remained hectic, but he would often lug his clubs and mediocre 15-handicap to the links on a regular basis.

Why golf, Valvano was once asked?

“He said, ‘I play golf because that’s where my friends are.’ That’s a heck of a statement. That tells you a lot about the guy,” said Frank McCann, the longtime executive director of The Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic.

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McCann said Valvano hatched the plan for a celebrity tournament two decades ago as he was losing his battle with cancer as a way to fund the Jimmy V Foundation for Cancer Research. Valvano was always the life of the party -- including a color analyst gig during one World Football League from a couch on the 50-yearline -- so a fun time on the links was a natural fit.

The tournament celebrates its 20th anniversary in August at North Ridge Country Club in Raleigh. This year’s theme is centered around “Passing the V,” which references the need to keep educating the next generation about the importance of the V Foundation and all of its benefits in the cancer research field.

(far left) Dr. Cavanagh talks with ESPN’s Stuart Scott at his lab. (left) Scotty McCreery and team celebrate a big putt

Money raised from this year’s event will benefit the Therapeutics Cancer Research Lab at N.C. State University, headed by Dr. John Cavanagh. Through a grant from the V Foundation, Cavanagh was able to start a lab four years ago that teaches the next generation of students how to be cancer researchers.

And according to Cavanagh, there is some major news coming out of the program, which has included 50 students on all levels, including high school.

“In the last few months we’ve had what seems to be a remarkable breakthrough based on one of the V Foundation students’ work,” Cavanagh said.

“We seem to have come up with a set of drugs that make existing chemotherapy treatments work 100 to 1,000 times better. We’re in the real infancy of this but we’ve tested this on some renal, colon and breast cancer cells and we’ve taken these drugs that kind of work and made them work a lot better.

“It has just been remarkable and not only opens up all the chemotherapy drugs we have out there now but potentially there are a lot more out there that weren’t quite as potent that we can make more potent,” said Cavanagh, noting that this may help in the field of pediatric cancer drug treatments.

The very first student through the program, Sean Stowe, is responsible for the discovery, according to Cavanagh. The proceeds from this year’s golf tournament will help Stowe relocate to the University of Maryland Medical Center, where he will continue his discovery work.

Cavanagh said the program at N.C. State began when Nick Valvano, Jim’s older brother, was looking to make a connection with the V Foundation and

(left) Volunteer Director Charlie Halloran Passes The V along to Corporate Sponsorship Director Anna Jackson (right) Executive Director of The Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic Frank McCann passes the V along to Director of Marketing Autumne Bennett

the university where his brother made such a coaching impact.

“You know we’re not known for our cancer work,” Cavanagh said. “People tend to think about NC State as being this agricultural- and engineering-based university, and people don’t really know that there is a huge amount of fundamental life sciences and medical work going on here. Just because we don’t have a medical school doesn’t mean we’re not fully engaged in doing that sort of thing.

“The idea came over my desk and I got to meet Nick Valvano and we chatted for quite a while. I felt that anything that would be named after Jim on campus was a big deal to us. We tried to find the right vehicle to do that. The V Foundation wanted to try something a little different. Usually they will just fund specific researchers doing specific projects in the cancer arena. So over

but not necessarily of Valvano himself or how the charity was founded.

“Twenty years ago I remember one of the first board meetings we had and one of the board members said ‘You know we’ve got to face the fact that in 10 years there are people who are not going to know who Jim Valvano was.

So we’ve got to find ways to put that name and put the Foundation’s name out there,”’ McCann said. “The foundation has done a great job with respect to making that happen with ESPN, which has been absolutely incredible to us. We try to enlist the aid and help and support of our peers who set an example. Some of the board members didn’t know Jim but maybe their father did, so that’s how they got involved.

“This is about cancer, about fighting the fight, and what we try to do at every event is create awareness,” added Mc-

Just because we don’t have a medical school doesn’t mean we’re not fully engaged in doing that sort of thing. the next few months Nick and I came up with this idea of a program for all kinds of students. The goal was to try to develop the next generation of cancer researches.”

And the new program has helped Valvano’s memory live on, even many of the students who knew of the V Foundation,

Cann, one of Valvano’s golfing buddies.

“We’ll play Jim’s ESPY Speech, and I’ll tell you right now no matter who you are if you see that ESPY speech you can’t help but want to ‘Pass the V.”’

Log on to www.golfclassic.org or more information on The 2013 Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic.

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Dive IN

The perfect summer sport: swimming. Work up a sweat and you won’t even notice. Swimming is exploding in the Triangle. Should you give it a try?

By Christa Gala

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f were you on a summer swim team as a kid, you likely remember lounging on a towel waiting to be called to the Clerk of Course, flip turns, the crack of the starting gun, and eating flavored powder with candy sticks. And who can forget the unfortunate side effects: green hair and swimmer’s ear?

Back in the mid-80s when I swam, only an elite handful of kids moved on to what we called year-round swimming, which required grueling daily practice – sometimes twice a day.

That’s changed over the decades. The sport of swimming in the Triangle has grown exponentially – both in summer swimming and year round. The Triangle is a hot spot for talented swimmers, and local clubs are being creative in offering plans that appeal to swimmers of all levels.

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How good are we?

There are currently five year-round swim clubs in the Triangle – TAC Titans, the Waves, the Marlins of Raleigh, Raleigh Swimming Association (RSA) and YOTA (YMCA of the Triangle Area Swim Team) – that keep roughly 1,500 kids in competition swimming four strokes – breaststroke, freestyle, butterfly and backstroke. Not to mention a variety of relays, both team and individual.

“Each team has some strong individual swimmers; they’re very competitive programs,” says John Payne, the head of coaching at the Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary, a $22.5 million facility that opened in 2007. “USA Swimming has a virtual club championship where it looks through its entire database of times and rankings of clubs. Wake County has four

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The TAC Titans offer both summer and year-round swimming at the Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary, a $22.5 million facility that opened in 2007.

of the top 50 clubs in the U.S. It’s very impressive. The quality of swimming is very strong in this area and stacks up against the best clubs from around the nation.”

How did we get so good? You have neighborhood pools to thank for that. “We actually use summer league swimming as part of our recruiting tools to get kids involved in yearround swimming. We do free clinics for all the summer league teams,” says Matthew Wallace, director of operations for Raleigh Swimming Association, one of the oldest swim clubs in Raleigh.

What do the kids get out of it?

“Everyone looks at athletics as a way to teach time management skills and character building,” Payne says. “Swimmers start to learn to prioritize their time around what will make them the most successful in the water – and that translates out of the water. The skills they use in the pool to be goaldriven start to seep into other aspects of their life, and they’re very successful in and out of the pool; we’re proud of all those things.”

Claire Watts’ two kids have been swimming for RSA for more than six years. Summer swim team launched their love for the sport. “The discipline, commitment, team spirit and emotional intelligence they both have gained from swimming have permeated their school work, their interaction with the adult world and their overall attitude toward life,” says Watts.

“My son Ben is now a USA Swim Coach and coaches several of the RSA younger groups and hopes to continue coaching while he attends UNC-Wilmington.” Daughter Charlotte is still swimming for RSA and looking forward to swimming in high school and college.

Michelle Lombana’s son Greg, 14, has been swimming for seven years. Lombana says her son, a TAC Titan, is a patient athlete which has served him well.

“Swimming is a very emotional sport with highs and lows,” Lombana says. “It’s not uncommon for a swimmer to plateau for a period of time, even a year or two. They must be able to deal with the disappointment and frustration while continuing to train hard. After a growth spurt or a period of intense training, they may find themselves dropping large amounts of time in an event.” midtownmag.com | 67

Coaches work with kids in the water and on land to improve their strokes and build strength.

Looking for water Raleigh Swim Association, one of the oldest swim clubs in the Triangle, will be moving out of the Triangle Aquatic Center in the fall and is currently on the hunt for a new home pool; RSA needs $1.4 million in financing. “We don’t want to see a program that’s been around for 53 years die, and we’re committed to not letting that happen, but at the same time we have to have the money to do it,” says Matthew Wallace, director of operations at RSA. For more information or to donate, visit www.swimrsa.org 1

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Considering time and money Competitive swimming is accessible to a large number of kids these days. Most clubs offer month-to-month memberships for a nominal fee so kids can try it.

There are also options with scaled-back requirements for kids who participate in other sports.

“We’ve looked at soccer programs and how they’re constructed,” Payne says. “What can we take from that to allow for the best possible situation for growth? We’ve got three tracks that we’ve created. I feel like we’ve developed a program that will fit every athlete at every level in their career path.”

Greg Lombana is involved in TAC at the highest level. “He swims nine times per week for a total of about 22 hours, including dryland training,” says his mom, Michelle Lombana. “This is the highest commitment level available.

He also swims for Panther Creek High School in the winter and the Cary Park Sea Dragons in the summer. Due to the demands of the year-round teams, most swimmers participate in meets but attend minimal practices when they swim high school or summer league.”

Lombana pays roughly $2,500 annually plus meet fees for her son to swim at that level. “It may appear that swimming doesn’t cost much compared

North Hills 5K

September 7, 2013 Benefitting North Raleigh Ministries www.NorthRaleighMinistries.com

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Want to dive in?

There are all kinds of opportunities in the Triangle to get wet – from a oneday pass for easy floating to summer competition and year-round. Below, a few good places to start: TSA: recreational summer swimming, more than 10,000 athletes; www.tsanc.org RSA: Raleigh Swimming Association; www.swimrsa.org.

Marlins of Raleigh: www.marlinsofraleigh.com WAVE: Nonprofit, parent-owned for kids four and up, www.newwaveswimteam.org.

TAC Titans: www.swimtitans.org, can purchase day passes YOTA: www.yota.ymcatriangle.org luxe_ma.pdf 1 2/18/13 9:55 AM

to sports with helmets and pads,” she says.

“However, a male technical suit for a championship meet can easily cost in excess of $200 and it only lasts for a handful of swims.”

On a national level There are a few local swimmers you might catch in the national spotlight, including Hannah Moore, a prolific backstroker, and siblings Sarah and Andrew Henry, who are both swimming on college teams. And YOTA Coach and Master Swimmer Matt McGinnis recently broke the World Record in the 100 meter freestyle (25-29 years old) at the 2013 Pan-American Master’s Swimming Championship in Sarasota, Florida.

The entire nation is caught up in swimming it seems. USA Swimming boasts more than 300,000 members nationwide and sanctions more than 7,000 events each year. “USA Swimming has done a great job of promoting swimming,” says Wallace of RSA. “You now see Olympic trials on TV; it’s a major event that everyone looks to. In Olympic years, our membership increases significantly more than it would in a non-Olympic year. It’s a very interesting dynamic.”1 5/24/13 11:20 AM comfortable soles_ja.pdf

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Triangle home furnishings stores offer style choices for every taste

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e’ve all done it at some point – walked into someone’s home for the first time and been surprised by the décor. Some folks like a piece of furniture with a little history, something that has stood the test of time. Other people prefer a foundation piece with clean, modern lines. Then there are those free spirits who favor some outrageous accessory that just speaks to them. Indeed, there’s no accounting for taste.

In Raleigh, you can satisfy almost any style in home furnishings if you’ve got a weekend to browse the area’s many home stores.

If you want something different from the everyday, there’s a good chance you can find it. Antique store owners often travel the country for regional and stylized items, while larger stores carry items from around the world.

We spoke to several area home store owners to get a feel for what they do best. So here’s your guide to finding that just-right item that makes your home reflect your personal taste.

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adLib ANTIQUES

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eff Hudgins knew what he was cut out for at an early age.

“My involvement in antiques and home furnishings began when I was 13,” GLENWOOD AVENUE he says. “That’s when I was bitten by the auction bug and found the beautiful things from the past often up for auction.”

Hudgins owns the Glenwood Avenue location of Hunt & Gather, which is not affiliated with the Bernard Street location.

“While our dealers are all from North Carolina, they have items from all over the world,” says Hudgins, noting that the store has carpets from the Far East, porcelains and decorative objects from Europe. “Our dealers are almost all long time professionals in the antiques and interiors market, but our doors are always open to vendors or dealers who specialize in art, estate jewelry or more contemporary furnishings.”

Hudgins maintains a career at SAS, where he is a senior corporate events producer, leaving much of the day-to-day work to his managing partner, Abbott Tompkins. Hunt & Gather allows Hudgins to maintain his love for the industry that caught his attention as a kid.

“After years of doing weekend warrior antique shows up and down the eastern seaboard, my partner and I began an estate tag sale company, which quickly led us to want to have our own brick and mortar store,” Hudgins says. “Hunt & Gather Fine Estate Furnishings is truly a culminating dream for us realized by incredibly hard work and several equally hard working partners.”

With a 15,000-square-foot showroom, shoppers and designers have extensive options to consider.

“It’s advantageous to be this large, as it affords both professional decorators and people furnishing their homes to put together an entire look for a space rather than just find a single item,” Hudgins says.

While the showroom enjoys a reputation as a full design center, it is also known for particular items.

“The addition several years ago of Bob Fritz Oriental Rugs has put the store on the map as a location for fine rugs,”

HUNT & GATHER

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t doesn’t take much to get Libby Wojcik talking about antiques.

“I love what I do, even after all these years,” says Wojcik, the owner of adLib Antiques. “I still get excited and still see things I’ve never seen.”

The store is filled with her personally selected finds, gathered from auctions, antique markets and Americana shows. Wojcik specializes in antique furniture and unique accessories, and she makes regular trips to New Mexico to look for exquisite pieces of Native American jewelry. She heads north to search for her finer American pieces, while she has good luck locating French country items near Atlanta and Savannah.

“My roots are really American furniture, with an emphasis on Southern,” she says. “And always an emphasis on surface. I’m very big on original surface, original paint. Also folk art – one-of-a-kind things. Then I like to mix up the shop with some rustic French accessories as well.”

Currently, Wojcik is excited about a rare find from North Carolina.

“It’s an all-original, Southern hunt board,” she explains. “This one came out of Sampson County.

Not one repair, original surface, a great configuration. These are pieces that were used in the South mostly. They’re tall; they were used in a foyer where people would serve off of them. It’s a quintessential Southern form.”

If you like vintage pieces but you’re not quite sure how to blend them into you home decor, Wojcik has you covered. She also provides help with interior design.

“Hopefully what I bring to the client is a strong background and a good eye – and some knowledge of what I’m looking at,” she says. “I’m all about the

Hudgins notes. “Additionally, we have an impressive collection of chandeliers that runs from enormously elegant Baccarat and Swarovski fixtures to more contemporary drum shade pieces as well as European styles.”

If you’re looking for the right venue to sell a valuable piece, Hunt & Gather might meet your needs, too.

“Consignment for us really is a substantial part of the business,” he says. “While we are extremely choosy about what we accept to actually come in on consignment, we are always actively seeking fine furnishings and estate pieces to be included in our store.”

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history and the patina, and the way it speaks to you.

I’m a teacher. I will spend any amount of time with people if they are interested. I want people to learn how to appreciate and pass it on.”

And if you think these fancy finds might be too high-end for your budget, Wojcik says don’t be intimidated.

“Not all this stuff is super expensive and original and serious. Some of it is, and it should be.

But it’s fun to have a variety and pull it together and make it look good. It’s nice to have somebody walk into your house and say, “Gosh, this is fabulous.

Where did you get this?’”

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t Revival Antiques, you won’t find a lot of knick knacks. That’s by design.

Instead, you’re likely to find something that will get noticed.

“We sell to people who are living their life - and you want a piece that can come into your house and be functional as well as attractive and unique,” says Jodie Hinge, who owns the business with her husband Joe. “Most of the older pieces we sell, we have rehabbed them a little bit to give them a more fresh appeal and make them practical for everyday living.”

Every month or so, they head north with two trailers, searching for finds in upstate New York and western Massachusetts. She says her choices are often “early 1900s furniture and with more of a country-industrial-primitive look than what’s typically thought of in the South – which is refinished oak and mahogany.”

REVIVAL ANTIQUES

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jodie and joe hinge

Revival Antiques features a lot of foundation pieces, but they get a new life before they hit the 5,000-square-foot showroom.

“We take a contemporary approach to old pieces,” Hinge says.

“We have a mix of old, new and in-between things in the store – much as people would decorate in their home. Our furniture is old, or vintage, then we add in new lighting or art work to give it a fresh look.”

The Hinges began their business 15 years ago at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds, before moving to their current location on Capital Boulevard. Much of their clientele has remained loyal through the years - and now their needs have changed.

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home at the beach or in the mountains,” Hinge says. “We have young families here in the Triangle that just bought their first house and need to fill it up. We’re able to help them out with unique pieces that will stand the test of time and won’t break the bank.”

That’s a point Hinge stresses. Shopping for antiques doesn’t have to be a budget-busting experience.

“It’s a lot less expensive to shop at an antique store than it is at a new furniture store for the most part,” she says. “I think that’s a pleasant surprise for most people – that they can come in and get a solid wood piece of furniture, done in a fresh way, and they can afford it. They can afford a whole room instead of one piece.”

If you’re really looking for a bargain, Revival Antiques has an “as-is” warehouse just down the sidewalk.

“The pieces are as we found them up North, so they may be a little rough and need a little work here and there.”

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eth Lindsay wasn’t always a risk-taker.

But after 18 years at IBM, she was ready to indulge a secret passion.

So she teamed up with fellow IBMer Susan LaFera and opened a home furnishings store. The name, Beyond Blue Interiors, is a nod to IBM’s nickname.

“We’d been toying with the idea, and it was a dream of Susan’s,” Lindsay says. “I was willing to branch out and do something new.

My husband was at IBM beth lindsay and susan lafera too, so we had all our eggs in IBM’s basket.

And I’d always been interested in interior design.”

The Beyond Blue Interiors website describes the style of furniture with beyond three words: Modern, sophisticated blue and fresh. When Lindsay remodeled interiors her own home years ago, she was surprised at the lack of furniture that reflected her own tastes.

“I had a hard time finding the style I wanted,” she says. “I felt the Triangle was missing this kind of simple, modern, clean style of furniture.”

So today, Lindsay carefully considers all the furniture that winds up on the showroom floor.

“With all the furniture, we see it first. We go to the furniture market in High Point, and I won’t put something on the floor that I haven’t seen, touched and sat on. We have to be able to personally attest to the quality.”

That’s because Beyond Blue Interiors counts on a loyal customer base.

“We have a lot of repeat customers, and they want to see something new and different,” she says. “We try and find things that are unique for this area. It might not be the furniture, but the accessories or the art work.”

Moving away from corporate America has been liberating for Lindsay. LaFera, on the other hand, continues at IBM. But together they’ve branched out into a satisfying second career.

“Our motto is ‘Buy and sell what you love,’ and we try very hard to be true to that,” says Lindsay, who supports artists and upholsterers from North Carolina. “Susan and I make 95 percent of the buying decisions for the store. People come to our store for the specific furniture we carry.”

Lindsay is confident that customers will find a quick comfort level when they come in. Lori Langdon, the store manager, is one of several associates who have degrees in interior design.

“Buying furniture is a huge decision and we understand that,” Lindsay says. “People have their own ideas, but they’re gun shy. They feel very comfortable with someone who has the right education - someone who can validate what they want to do and pull it all together.” midtownmag.com | 75

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ob Drake and Lee Tripi tout their taste right in the name of their store: Trig trig Modern. modern The word “trig,” meaning smart, trim and stylishly fashionable, describes their approach to comtemporary living spaces.

Tripi has been a fixture in Raleigh for 23 years, specializing in the modern aesthetic. Most of his work involves kitchen and bath renovation, particularly in downtown Raleigh condos. He says many of those pricey residences were contructed with buildergrade materials over the past decade and are now due for a fresh look.

“They just want something a little bit better -they feel like it should reflect quality throughout,” Tripi says. “The modern aesthetic works really well with an urban residential setting like these condos.

And this has always been my niche, but it’s even more so now that we have a showroom downtown.”

Typically, the renovations will include an upgrade to cabinetry and fixtures. That’s where Trippi’s two decades of expertise in modern design comes into play.

“There are plenty of options out there for

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ianne Thomson and Sallie Jackson are confident you will find what you need at Affordable Chic. affordable

“We’re sort of a one-stop chic shop,” says Jackson. “We have ceiling to floor and everything in between, as well as a great baby department and gift department.

I think we’re an interesting store with a lot of unique things you’re not going to find other places.”

Affordable Chic features 17 individual vendors, who bring their own interests to their displays. You’ll find vendors with a flair for French, rustic, and country, among others. And if you’re buying for someone else, you can count on your purchase looking good as you leave the store.

“We have free gift wrapping. Our customers love that,” Jackson says. “The number one appeal here is our service.”

And that’s what brings their loyal customers back.

“We have a lot of regulars,” Thomson says. “The reason we think this is such a good format is our inventory is constantly changing. Every day somebody brings something in. Dealers tend to stay within their parameters. Everyone kind of has their own look going on.”

While the store features many vintage finds, the owners also pride themselves on staying current, carrying Amy Howard At Home Paints, designed to add dramatic color and patina to your own furnishings.

Affordable Chic can hold a shopper’s attention with a wide variety of choices, ranging from smaller items like baskets and cake stands to chandeliers and furniture.

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and antique furniture. We have painted and stained. Plus, we have vintage accessories.”

Looking for something unique? Affordable Chic carries miniature gardening figures (also known as fairy gardens). If you enjoy wreaths, one dealer specializes in vintage-ornament Christmas wreaths.

“We monitor what the dealers sell before they come on board, to make sure they don’t carry exactly the same thing as other dealers and they have things of substance and quality,” Jackson says.

After four years in business, the owners feel they’ve created a nice environment for everyone involved.

“I think our store is very happy and cheerful,” Thomson says. “We have vendors who are happy and cooperative.

They seem like part of the family.”

traditional, but I’ve been the only option for 20 years for people who want modern,” he says. “Lately that’s been gaining popularity. It’s a cyclical thing.”

Drake’s focus is more on furniture and lighting, again with a modern emphasis.

“With cleaner and simpler manufacturing, there’s not a lot of room for flaws,” says Drake, who owned the Metro showroom in Charlotte for 26 years before teaming up with Tripi. “Everything has to be good. We sell a better product.

We have a lot of furniture that’s made in North Carolina.

I just like it. It’s efficient and beautiful. If something is too ornate, it doesn’t appeal to me at all.”

Once you’ve identified the furniture, Drake can provide a variety of lighting options.

“It’s not a brass chandelier or wrought iron,” he says.

“Some of the lighting comes out of Hickory, North Carolina, some of it comes from Germany, some from New Zealand, and Italy. We kind of cover the gamut.

There’s no point in buying all this great furniture if you can’t see it.”

Having opened within the year, Trig Modern is still finding its audience. That shouldn’t be too difficult if Drake has the right read on the Triangle.

“Raleigh is youthful and energetic and diverse,” he says. “People come in here and they already have a sense of what they want and they’re glad to see it in person.”

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arol Marcotte doesn’t want to see useful items go to waste. That’s one of her main concerns at Form form & & Function. function

“We definitely have a green aspect to the business,” says Marcotte, who opened her store in May. “We’re trying to find things that were maybe destined for the landfill and turn them into functional, beautiful pieces for the home.”

Marcotte prides herself on the ability to turn discarded and forgotten items into worthwhile additions to your home.

“Things that had a former life that I’ve updated for today,” she says. “I try to find pieces that are quirky and fun, but things that I can turn into a functional piece.”

For example, she took a military trunk and added industrial casters and glass to make a coffee table.

“The repurposing things I have are unique to this area,” Marcotte says. “I’ve taken old railing parts to my welder and he’s made lamps out of them. I have an old industrial kitchen palette that we turned into a coffee table. It’s stainless steel. It looks very modern.”

In case you don’t make the connection when you’re looking at a piece, many items have story boards with them, suggesting for example, “I was old barn wood.”

“People may not be aware that it is repurposed or that there is a green aspect to it,” she says. “They’re just looking at it as a

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beautiful, classic piece of furniture to add to their home.”

One of her favorite pieces is a galvanized metal top coffee table.

“It’s such a unique, beautiful piece with great patina. It has a circular top and a circular base. There’s rawness and an organic feel, yet it’s very classical. It’s stunning.”

Marcotte can do more than just sell you a re-imagined item to adorn your home.

She provides interior design consultation, restyling and repositioning a homeowner’s furniture and decor.

“I want to use as much of the homeowner’s stuff as possible and not push more stuff on them,” she says.

Marcotte is doing her part to keep her line of work in the public’s awareness. She is developing a map that highlights 26 businesses in Raleigh’s design district, all of which are antique and design businesses. The maps will be carried in all participating stores.

carol marcotte

it. It’s also part of the store. The visual and the layout is very much part of what I do.”

Some of that is reflected in the setup of the store. There are glazed containers, sculptures and “really funky jewelry,” she says.

“The buildout here I did myself. Above everything else, it should be charming. I have a very unique style when I present things. It seems to engage people of all ages.”

Sowder does a lot of landscape design for high-end residential properties, so she’s skilled at container gardens, poolscapes and estate gardens. One of her favorite items in the store is a carved sandstone piece imported from India.

“I think it’s beautiful and I haven’t seen anything like it in Raleigh,” she says. “I want to teach people to use sculpture in a garden. This is five feet tall, a sculpture of a woman in grief.”

So if you find the right piece for your garden, you can count on some expert advice to make it look its best.

“When I work with clients from a landscape design perspective, I want to blur the lines. There should be a seamless transition and points of interest. You’re really framing a view.

I feel like a garden fails if it doesn’t engage you.”

Owning a retail operation is still new for Sowder, with all its day-to-day challenges - but she’s learning every day.

“People do it all the time, but independently, sure it’s a little scary,” she says. “It’s part of the fun and excitement and it challenges me. It makes me develop my skills more.

I don’t want to be a garden center and I’m not just a stray importer. I understand end use and I want to help people.”

oxford green

shawna sowder

B

y the time Shawna Sowder decided to open Oxford Green, she had plenty of experience in all the behindthe-scenes work.

“I worked for importers and retailers, managing stores and doing visuals for a number of years,” she says. “I worked very closely with companies that were doing corporate imports. I was very interested in that.”

Since March, the store has been building a reputation in Lafayette Village in North Raleigh. With Sowder’s background in landscape design, Oxford Green emphasizes unique finds, estate pottery, fountains and metal art.

“It’s a tiny little space but people spend a lot of time in here,” she says. “I guess it’s just very unusual. I use a lot of local pieces. I restored an old farm house in the area, and the reclaimed pieces are part of the interior of my store. I rescued a chandelier from an old Raleigh home and restored

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patrick casey

adlib_ja.pdf

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green front interiors & Rugs

W

hether you are planning to furnish a home or find a coffee table, block off a healthy chunk of time for your visit to Green Front Interiors & Rugs. With 35,000 square feet of furniture and accessories, the Raleigh showroom will keep you busy.

And if you’re in the market for an Oriental rug, general manager Patrick Casey will tell you you’ve come to the right place.

“The owner of Green Front goes to India and Pakistan and chooses all the rugs,” Casey says. “By doing that, he cuts out every middle man imaginable. The pricing is just phenomenal.”

If you haven’t taken notice in recent years, you might be surprised to learn that modern rugs no longer resemble the ones you remember from your grandmother’s home.

“They go from contemporary to uber traditional,” he says. “They’re always changing and evolving, depending on what the design trend is.”

With so much inventory, the Green Front associates won’t point you toward only what is trendy or stylish. Instead, they will find out what appeals to the customer, then go from there.

“It’s more about the person who comes through the door,” Casey says. “If they’re more transitional to contemporary, then we find those items within our tried and true North Carolina companies. We try to stay as close to home as possible in North Carolina.”

Of course, trends are what drive the business, so Casey and his staff stay current.

“All the buyers go to market, whether it be High Point, Atlanta or Las Vegas,” he says. “For the vendors we carry, we see what is hot. We look at trade magazines and try to have those items in the store.”

With a variety of stylish brands, Green Front offers an array of accent furniture, table top accessories, wall decor and lighting. The trick is to make all of it come together in a tasteful way. The store’s design staff takes the time to guide customers through the process and take some of the worry out of making a match.

But it’s not just the style that should speak to you, Casey says. If you’ve got a piece in mind, take the next step and think about color.

“My personal inspiration is more about color,” he says. “When people come in and talk about whatever their personal vision is, it’s nice to cut to the chase and find out, what color palette are you looking at? Going past that, the challenge is to embrace color.”

Don’t just assume that only light colors will make a room feel spacious. Sometimes, the opposite is true.

“Paint scares people for some reason. You can still have a darker color on a wall and it can actually make a room look bigger. And don’t be afraid to paint your ceiling colors that go with it.” midtownmag.com | 79

A

t Hunt and Gather on Bernard Street, there’s a HUNT & good chance you’ll GATHER find something that bernard street reflects your style – and you can be certain of the quality.

“It’s a pretty eclectic mix,” says owner Kathy Mitchell. “We only accept fine estate furnishings. We’re looking for traditional furniture that stands the test of time, as well as unusual pieces and accessories. We set the tone of the store that way, and as we accept vendors, it’s Cathy Fisher and Kathy Mitchell the same thing.”

Hunt and Gather opened in 2004, operating mostly as a consignment store.

Mitchell says that customers often Today, it features 40 vendors as well as have an idea in mind when they walk in consignment items.

“We’re not an antique mall, and we’re the door – only to stumble on something else that catches their eye. not a new furniture store, but we do have

“You might be looking for something new furniture and antiques,” Mitchell for your child’s teacher, and while you’re says. “All of the people are focusing on there, you might find the perfect mirror the higher end. That’s just the niche that for your bathroom,” she says. “It’s a great nobody was working in when we started our business. People were asking for it. So place to come shop for a gift because you can find in any price range. we decided to stay at the upper end.” 1 5/29/13 hunt and gather_bernard_ja.pdf 2:48something PM

80 | midtownmag.com

You can find something and know that somebody else doesn’t have one just like it. That opens it up to a wide range of people.”

The vendor items come from a variety of interests and inspiration.

You can find estate jewelry, a mahogany desk or a ceramic bird from Italy.

There’s art work, flea market finds – even a booth devoted to contemporary items purchased in England.

“It’s a great experience for the customer. They have the opportunity to shop for a lot of things from a lot of people without traipsing all over the city to find what they’re looking for.”

If you have an interest in selling your own fine items, Mitchell recommends Hunt & Gather as a good way to test the waters.

“We usually have a waiting list of people who are interested in trying their hand at selling,” she says. “There are a lot of people out there who enjoy selling.

It’s a nice way for dealers to get started or if they do not have time for a retail shop of their own.”

(Summer)

yourHome

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2

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(Summer)

yourHome

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9

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(Summer)

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11

12

1. Hunt & Gather, Bernard St./$25 (left),

$45 (right – set of six)

>Crab

(left) and butter (right) dish set

2. Form & Function/$72

>Hummingbird

feeder

3. Ora Designers/Fine Jewelers/$100

>Non-tarnish

starfish serving bowl

4. Beyond Blue Interiors/$275

>Indoor/outdoor

Pouf ottoman

5. Trig Modern/$235

>Panton

Chair

6. Ten Thousand Villages/$94

>Lazy

afternoon hammock chair

7. Green Front Interiors & Rugs/$219

>Mosaic

seashell lamp

8. adLib Antiques/$395

>English

19th century child’s wheelbarrow

9. Oxford Green/$5,400

>Hand-carved

sandstone original statue

10. Revival Antiques/$245

>Outdoor

table and chair set

11. Affordable Chic Shops/$25

>Lantern

with candle

12. Hunt & Gather, Glenwood Ave./$250/ea

>Crane

statues

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calendar ofevents

July/August 2013

North Hills Kids Open Play Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday of every week July-August | 9am-1pm | Commons at North Hills | www.northhillsraleigh.com

First Friday Film Series July 5 & August 2 | 6-9pm | Zinda New Asian www.zindaraleigh.com

Chef Mario’s COoking class July 11, 18, 25 & August 1 | 6pm chefmario@bellsouth.net

Meet Your Museum Tour July 6 & August 3 | 11am, 2pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org

Paul Taylor Dance Company July 12-13 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

Run CBG – A Social Run Club Every Tuesday evening | 6pm | Cameron Bar and Grill | www.cameronbarandgrill.com

Midtown Farmers Market July 6, 13, 20, 27 & August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 8am-noon | Commons at North Hills www.northhillsraleigh.com

Dale Watson and The Lonestars followed by screening of Bernie July 12 | 7pm (movie starts at 9 pm) N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org

Art in the Evening Every Friday | 5:30-8:30pm | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org

At the Movies: Gettysburg July 7 | 12:30-6pm | N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org

The Duhks July 13 | 8pm | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org

23nd Annual Historic Independence Day Open House July 4 | 11am-4pm | Joel Lane Museum House 160 South Saint Mary’s Street | www.joellane.org

Summer Workshops for Teens (age 14–18) July 8-12 | 9am-noon & 1-4pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org

Bastille Day French Festival July 13 | www.LafayetteVillageRaleigh.com

Live Music Every Friday and Saturday night | 10pm-2am The Oxford | www.oxfordraleigh.com

Midtown Beach Music Series – Special Independence Day Celebration!

July 4 | 6-9pm | Commons at North Hills www.northhillsraleigh.com Brenda Angiel Aerial Dance Company July 5-6 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

Celebrity bartender event series July 10 & August 14 | 5-9pm | Zinda New Asian | www.zindaraleigh.com Summer Drop-in Studio July 10, 17, 24, 31; August 7, 14, 21 | noon-3pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org Summer Family Film Series July 10, 17, 24, 31; August 7, 14, 21 | 1pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org Midtown Beach Music Series July 11, 18, 25 & August 1, 8, 15, 22 6-9pm | Commons at North Hills www.northhillsraleigh.com Oak City 7 July 11, 25 & August 8, 22, 29 | 5-10:30pm City Plaza (on Fayetteville Street) http://oakcity7.com Storytime in the Gallery July 11, 18, 25 | 10-10:30am N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org

Pets in the Plaza First Saturday of Every Month | 11am-3pm www.LafayetteVillageRaleigh.com 84 | midtownmag.com

Artist at Work: Bob Meier July 13 | Noon-3pm (drop-in program) N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org Make It, Take It: Clay Creations July 13 | Noon-3pm (drop-in program) N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org Portraits in Your Pocket July 13 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org Bastille Day July 14 | Saint-Jacques French Cuisine www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Doll Camp for american girls July 15-19 & July 29-August 2 Historic Polk House | polkhouse2@bellsouth.net Wine Walk for Charity July 18, 25 & August 15, 29 | 6-8pm www.LafayetteVillageRaleigh.com Lil’ Chef Kids’ Night Out July 19 & August 9 | 6-8pm www.northhillsraleigh.com Trisha Brown Dance Company July 19-20 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

5 6 12 13 19 20 26 27

Designer Trunk Show July 19-21 | 10-8pm, 10-8pm, 12-6pm Diamonds Direct Crabtree www.Diamonds-Direct.com Conservation Assistance Day July 19 | 9am-4pm | N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org SUMMER MOVIES July 19, 20, 26, 27 & August 2, 9, 10, 16, 23 | 9pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org Permanent Collection 101 July 19 & August 16 | 7 pm N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org Saturdays in the Garden July 20 & August 17 | 1:30-2:30pm N.C. Museum of History www.ncmuseumofhistory.org O.A.R. July 21 | 6pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com Reveal: Portraits by Carrie Levy July 21-January 26 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org Outsiders: Facing the Camera July 21-January 26 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org Cooking Class July 23 & August 27 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Black Crowes & Tedeschi Trucks Band July 23 | 7pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com Wine Dinner July 24 & August 28 | Zinda New Asian www.zindaraleigh.com Psycho Beach Party July 26-27, August 1-3 | 7:30pm July 28, August 4 | 3pm Special Late Show – August 3 | 10:30pm Theatre In The Park | www.theatreinthepark.com

AUGUST

JULY

1 2 3 4 7 8 9 10 11 14 15 16 17 18 21 22 23 24 25 28 29 30 31

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

Monthly Beer Dinner July 22 & August 26 | Cameron Bar and Grill www.cameronbarandgrill.com

Forces of Dance July 26-27 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

Disney Junior Live On Tour!

August 16 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

Shades and Shadows: Art of the Silhouette July 27 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org

Tift Merritt August 17 | 8pm | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org

Barenaked Ladies, Ben Folds Five, Guster July 28 | 6:30pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com Group Trip to the South of France July 28-August 6 | Saint-Jacques French Cuisine | www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Jonas Brothers July 31 | 7pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com Bruce Hornsby & the Noisemakers August 3 | 8pm | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org

Toni Braxton August 18 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com Close to Home: A Decade of Acquisitions August 18-February 9 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org Wine Dinner August 21 | Saint-Jacques French Cuisine www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic: “V Jam” Concert August 22 | 6pm | Red Hat Amphitheatre www.golfclassic.org

Sheryl Crow August 3 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com

Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic Reverse Raffle August 23 | Raleigh Convention Center 919.319.0441 | www.golfclassic.org

SEC Tailgate Party August 3 | Sparians at North Hills www.alumni.uga.edu

Lost Bayou Ramblers followed by screening of Beasts of the Southern Wild August 24 | 7pm (movie starts at 9 pm) N.C. Museum of Art | www.ncartmuseum.org

National Night Out at North Hills August 6 | 6-8pm Bill Maher August 10 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com Running of the Bulls Spanish Festival August 10 | www.LafayetteVillageRaleigh.com Animals of Ancient Egypt August 10 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org THE KILLERS August 12 | 7:30pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com Ke$ha August 14 | 7pm | Red Hat Amphitheater www.redhatamphitheater.com

Rickey Smiley August 24 | Durham Performing Arts Center www.dpacnc.com Inaugural V Fashion Show & Celebrity Chef Brunch August 24 | 11am-2pm | Zinda New Asian www.golfclassic.org/events A Walk in the Park August 24 | N.C. Museum of Art www.ncartmuseum.org Jimmy V Celebrity Golf Classic August 25 | North Ridge Country Club www.golfclassic.org

Have an important event? We would love to hear about it. Please send the details of your calendar events to: julie@midtownmag.com. midtownmag.com | 85

SUM

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the spa at pinehurst

MER

break

By Christa Gala midtownmag.com | 87

S e r i o u s ly. T h e k i d s a r e o u t o f s c h o o l f o r a giddy three months, but what about you?

F

or many of us, summer means a lot of planning. And work. Of course, you look forward to beach trips and

pool time, but they don’t happen in a vacuum, that’s for sure. So, when do you get your summer break? If you find yourself pining for fall already, why not treat yourself to a spa visit

bloom skin spa

this year? You’ll be in good company; last year Americans enjoyed more than 156 million trips to the spa. There’s nothing quite like retreating into a relaxing environment and shutting out the world and its loud demands. Spas offer all sorts of treatments these days – from the traditional massage or pedicure to body sculpting and contouring. You deserve a little rejuvenation. Whether you’re thinking of heading in for an hour or a whole day (lucky!), here’s a quick tour of what the Triangle offers...

88 | midtownmag.com

Bloom Skin Spa

You go here for: Bloom receives high marks from clients for its Ultherapy (a non-surgical lift), LED light rejuvenation treatments, Eminence Organic Skin Care, services and products. This organic wellness spa in Cary will plunge you into a Zen-like peacefulness with its muted color palette and friendly staff.

Bloom showcases natural/holistic alternatives for antiaging, acne, rosacea and pigmentation issues.

Our stand-out amenity: Ultherapy (non-invasive) facelift alternative.

Our Summer Deal: $49 for a 60-minute organic watermelon massage. get in touch: 527-204 Keisler Drive • Cary 919.233.3992 www.bloomskinspa.com

Bluewater

bluewater spa

Spa

You go here for: Laser treatment, Botox and CoolSculpting. The infinity waterfall is both soothing and mesmerizing at this spa that often gives back to local charities through Team Blue Water Spa, contributing to the Boys & Girls Clubs, among others.

Our stand-out amenity: CoolSculpting, a fat loss procedure without surgery or downtime that utilizes controlled cooling as well as compression and vibration to target and crystallize stubborn fat cells. Visible results after just one treatment. No needles or incisions.

Our Summer Deal: CoolSculpting instant rebates allow for a buy-one-get-one-free special – $750 for two areas (typically $750 for one area). Laser hair removal is fifty percent off for specific areas of the body.

On the website, look for treatment discounts when you make charitable donations to certain causes. get in touch:

davis plastic surgery & aesthetic

10941-103 Raven Ridge Road • Raleigh 919.870.8660 www.bluewaterspa.com

Davis Plastic Surgery & A e st h e t i c

You go here for: Porcelain skin. The most requested laser treatment is our Fraxel re:store® DUAL procedure. It safely and consistently gives patients healthier, smoother skin in less time. (Cost: $750 to $1,000 per treatment.) Combat “muffin top” with CoolSculpting; Davis Plastic Surgery staff has performed more than 1,000 fatreducing treatments.

Our stand-out amenity: Clients love viewing their results in 3D. Men and women considering any kind of skincare or non-surgical enhancement can view their options

and outcomes before they even enter a treatment room. The revolutionary Vectra 3D system visualizes results from laser skin treatments, chemical peels – even fillers – giving patients more confidence in their choice and expected outcome.

Our Summer Deal: Join Davis Plastic Surgery in supporting N.C. children battling cancer. Register to walk with us at the Get Heeled 5K on September 14th (or donate $25) and we will take $50 off any Fraxel DUAL or CoolSculpting session with us this summer. You can register, donate or learn more at getheeled5k.com.

get in touch: 2034-360 Wesvill Court • Raleigh 919.785.1220 www.drgmdavis.com

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dermatech md

dermatech | MD

You go here for: Aesthetic and laser skin care as well as a friendly, helpful staff ready to answer questions.

Our stand-out amenity: Permanent cosmetics. Andrea Crane, R.N., is a boardcertified fellow of the American Academy of Micropigmentation with twenty years of experience providing thousands of permanent cosmetic enhancements.

Consider eyeliner or lip color or scar camouflage.

Our Summer Deal: Fraxel Flash. This package includes Fraxel, IPL (intense pulse laser) and Obagi skin care for $999 (a $2,100 value). Fraxel Flash combines two abbreviated Fraxel and IPL treatments plus a travel size Obagi Condition and Enhance System. These three treatments will address a variety of skin conditions, including age spots, broken blood vessels, fine lines and wrinkles while also stimulating collagen production. get in touch: 3320-218 Executive Drive • Raleigh 919.871.3292 www.dermatechmdmedspa.com

90 | midtownmag.com

eco friendly beauty bar

Eco Friendly beauty bar

You go here for: Guilt-free decadence. Eco Friendly Beauty Bar offers a fullservice spa experience, including facials, sauna, massages, nail care and waxing with a distinctly “green” appeal. Vegan and organic products are offered, and the spa has taken care to adopt practices that minimize its impact on the environment. The ambience is light and bright with a collection of repurposed furniture that is both eclectic and fun.

Our stand-out amenity: A down-to-earth spa that offers the latest trends and fivestar spa treatments.

Our Summer Deal: Enjoy a complimentary Cucumber & Mint spritzer with a Cucumber Mani/Pedi or a Cucumber Facial for $50. get in touch: 8801 Lead Mine Road • Raleigh 919.845.2626 www.ecofriendlybeautybar.net

glo de vie med spa

Glo De Vie med spa

You go here for: Goal-oriented treatments. Glo De Vie is a “med spa.”

Think of it as a doctor’s office in a spa environment – complete with Asian influences and soothing music.

Our stand-out amenity: Exilis – a body contouring and skin tightening procedure achieved through Radio Frequency. Perfect for abs, thighs and derriere. It’s great for removing unwanted fatty areas, while tightening the skin. In fact, a few treatments of Exilis for some customers yielded as much improvement as working out with a personal trainer. An average of four treatments provides the best results, but many see improvement after just two treatments.

Our Summer Deal: Typically Exilis costs $350 per treatment; this summer save 10 percent off one area, 20 percent off two areas and 30 percent off three areas. Downtime is minimal, similar to having a facial. get in touch: 4209 Lassiter Mill Road • Raleigh 919.510.5919 www.glodevie.com

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lambeth plastic surgery

photograph © sean junqueria

hand & stone massage and facial spa

Lambeth

p l a st i c s u r g e r y

Hand & Stone M a ss a g e a n d F a c i a l S p a

You go here for: Relaxing restoration. Hand & Stone nurtures health and wellness through massage, facials and hair removal.

Our stand-out amenity: Known for its Hot Stone Signature Massage; consider also the Cold Stone Face Massage, a perfect antidote for the summer heat. To be pool- and beach-ready, try the Hot Towel Foot Exfoliation Treatment.

Our Summer Deal: One-hour Relaxation Massage session and one-hour Signature Facial at the Member rate of $99.90 (first time Guests only). get in touch: 6625 Falls of Neuse Road • Raleigh 919.729.5606 www.handandstone.com

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You go here for: A variety of skin care, including facials, chemical peels and LED light facials. Diane Lambeth specializes in chemical peels. “I find a peel offers more bang for your buck.

If you really want to see a change in your skin, you’ll see more of a change from a chemical peel.”

Our stand-out amenity: Customized skincare from a professional who cares. “I always start off conservatively. For someone who is a first-timer, I might suggest a series of six straight glycolic peels. I’ll start at 20 percent and each time I see that patient I’ll go up 10 percent until I reach their maximum level,” says Lambeth. “You can tell immediately; your skin just looks really plumped up. At the end of six weeks, I’ve pretty much retexturized their face.” get in touch: 4201-103 Lake Boone Trail • Raleigh 919.782.1818 www.lambethplasticsurgery.com

Massage Envy You go here for: High-quality, affordable massages and facials; multiple times and therapists available to fit with busy schedules.

Our stand-out amenity: Enhancement add-ons for any massage, including Aromatherapy, Deep Muscle Therapy or a Sugar Foot Scrub.

Our Summer Deal: Book two services and save; an introductory one-hour massage followed by a Murad® onehour Healthy Skin facial is $108.

photograph © Amanda Grace Keller

Spa North Hills

get in touch: 141-104 Park at North Hills Street • Raleigh 919.398.6499 www.massagenvy.com

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massage envy spa north hills

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The MedSpa

a t r a l e i g h p l a st i c s u r g e r y

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the medspa at raleigh plastic surgery

You go here for: Top-notch skin treatments like facials delivered by a friendly and warm staff to ensure a comfortable and inviting experience.

Our stand-out amenity: Promoting the integrity of a client’s skin with consistent, honest solutions. The staff – from the doctors to the estheticians to client/patient coordinators – all strive to help you be and look your best.

Our Summer Deal: Protect your skin with 20 percent off your sunscreen purchase with the mention of this article. get in touch: 1112 Dresser Court • Raleigh 919.872.7317 www.raleighplasticsurgery.com

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modern enhancement salon day spa

Modern Enhancement salon day spa

You go here for: Time with friends in a welcoming environment, complete with a relaxation room and “Outdoor Oasis,” perfect places to gather and enjoy a glass of wine after a relaxing massage.

Our stand-out amenity: Decadent and unique body treatments; consider a Clay Body Masque, Rosemary Mint Detox or a scalp massage.

Our Summer Deal: Enjoy a wine and fruit tray when you book a Spa Day; must be at least four people with two hours of services each. get in touch: 8320-166 Litchford Road • Raleigh 919.875.8668 www.modernenhancements.com 96 | midtownmag.com

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Park Centre spa

You go here for: Luxury resort treatment. Elegant lighting sets the stage as you slip into a cozy robe and slippers and make your way to the relaxation room where you’ll get a warm neck wrap and mineral foot soak before your treatment. Can’t find a sitter for the kids? No worries, free childcare is provided during spa services. Monthly memberships available.

Our stand-out amenity: The HydraFacial, a non-laser skin resurfacing treatment that combines cleansing, exfoliation, gentle acid peel, extraction, hydration and antioxidant protection. Featured on The Doctors and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. For those currently undergoing oncology treatments, Park Centre offers use of its Relaxation Room, a warm neck wrap, cup of tea and herbal foot bath free of charge.

Our Summer Deal: Try the award-winning HydraFacial for only $99 or purchase a Summer Tea Room Spa Package for $199, which includes a Sweet Tea Scrub and Massage, Herbal Tea Botanical Facial and White Tea & Ginger Pedicure. get in touch:

photograph © Sean Junqueira

8300-131 Health Park • Raleigh 919-846-1920 www.parkcentrespa.com

park centre spa midtownmag.com | 97

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the spa at lafayette

skin sense, a day spa

Skin Sense, a day spa

You go here for: An entire room dedicated to relaxation where you’ll wait for your treatments. Sip ice cold water with cucumber and lemon or relax with a cup of tea (Nannie’s tea) before a massage, facial, microdermabrasion, peels, makeup application, waxing and mani-pedis. It’s all about total body wellness and balance.

Our stand-out amenity: Eucalyptus steam rooms, saunas and mud rooms, all complimentary with spa treatments.

Our Summer Deal: The Skin Sense treatment series returns for a limited time in July. Purchase five of the same treatments and receive the sixth treatment free. (Offer valid July 1-31, 2013) get in touch: 2058 Renaissance Park Place • Cary 6801 Falls of Neuse • Raleigh 8441 Brier Creek Parkway • Raleigh 919.870.0700 www.skinsense.com

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The Spa a t l a f a y e tt e

You go here for: Contemporary elegance and the latest in non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures to look and feel good, including body contouring procedures Liposonix, Radio Frequency and Symphony RF Thermigen.

Our stand-out amenity: A new 4,000-square-foot facility with elegant changing rooms, slippers and robes and a friendly staff ready to answer any questions about body sculpting and contouring. Summer is a great time to learn more about body sculpting, particularly around the arms, back and abs.

Our Summer Deal: The Spa at Lafayette is offering 25 percent off all cosmetic procedures, including savings on Clear and Brilliant with free procedure skincare, including antioxidant and skin lightener, and Liposonix with free Botox. get in touch: 8480 Honeycutt Road • Raleigh 919.322.5555 www.thespaatlafayette.com

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The Spa a t p i n e h u r st (pictured on opening spread) You go here for: It’s a little further out, but The Spa at Pinehurst offers both luxury and history – not to mention a four-star rating by Forbes Travel Guide. It’s also the site of the 2014 U.S. Open. Go now and beat the crowds. While you’re at it, stay a night or two and explore the village, stocked with upscale shops and eateries. a quick tip: Keep your facial toner in the fridge for a quick, refreshing pick-me-up on hot days.

Our Summer Deal: Try the Naturopathica Natural Face Lift Facial through August at an introductory price of $130. get in touch: 80 Carolina Vista Drive • Pinehurst 855.235.8507 www.pinehurst.com

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Synergy

s p a & A e st h e t i c s You go here for: A meticulous urban retreat located in The Shoppes of Glenwood Village. Enter a relaxed haven for serious skin care and body treatments.

Clinical in nature and results-oriented, guests are supported by an expert staff of med-spa, skin care, nail and body technicians who utilize an innovative product suite. a quick tip: Pre-book your next appointment at the time of check-out within four weeks and save 10 percent on all non-discounted services.

Our Summer Deal: At Synergy Spa & Aesthetics, we’re always offering ongoing specials and savings. Visit our website at www.feelsynergy.com to stay updated and to join our email list. We also send special promotions to our Facebook fans. You can find us at facebook.com/feelsynergy get in touch: 2603-121 Glenwood Avenue • Raleigh 919.510.5130 www.feelsynergy.com

synergy spa & aesthetics through 8/31/13 and can be discontinued by the owner at any time. midtownmag.com | 101

askelie

Elie

For all your answers on things fashion, style and trends

Costumista & Wardrobe Style arbiter

Q

I’ve been replacing all my jeans over the past two years with a more slim, skinny cut and I kept all the old bootcut ones, which still fit well around my waist and hips. Do you think this is a style that won’t come back? Should I get rid of them?

Scilla, Raleigh, NC

My rule of thumb is that if they were very expensive and made by a major brand name, I would not let them go just yet. You can try to consign them if they are still sitting unused in your closet in a few months. My own fashion armoire rule is if I don’t wear an item for a year, it is out: bye-bye!

Consider also that pants with wide, long legs (enough to cover a high heel shoe) are still very trendy and a classic that I would definitely keep. If you are talking about cheaper pants in pretty colors, consider rough-cutting the legs and converting them in to shorts. I did this myself with some inexpensive white and colored jeans. I cut them right above the knee with zigzag scissors (available at craft stores) and then washed them before wearing for that frayed-edge look.

I work as a script supervisor for video and film productions, and I am either typing on my laptop or taking notes while standing up and moving to multiple indoor and outdoor locations throughout the day. I need to wear comfortable attire, but I feel a t-shirt may be too casual. I’d like something that feels more professional, especially for studio or office settings or for meetings with advertising agencies and corporate clients. Can you help with some suggestions?

beach or paired with a ball gown for a formal evening ensemble.

Choose a classic cut closest to a men’s dress shirt, wrinkle-resistant and in an assortment of versatile colors like pale gray, green and midnight blue. These are comfortable yet always appropriate for a professional environment. Keep the sleeve down for indoors or roll them up if filming outdoors. This shirt is so versatile it can even provide extra protection against sun and insects.

Jill, Raleigh, NC I have the same style challenge. In my line of work, I may have to unload tons of wardrobe items from a van in 100-degree heat, and then run into a meeting with advertising agencies and Fortune 500 clients while trying to remain presentable and a bit polished.

My solution is always a crisp, white cotton shirt. Designer Carolina Herrera calls it the staple wardrobe item that every woman should own.

Herrera is known for wearing this quintessential, all-purpose item at the

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I wear sandals all summer long and sneakers in the winter. I would like to

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

try a pair of penny loafers, especially now that they’re available in so many nice colors. But I don’t like wearing close-toed shoes without socks, so I’m afraid that may limit me to wearing them only in colder weather.

Christy, Cary, NC Because I work on video sets and stand and walk throughout the day, I also find that sandals in summer are not a very good choice for me. I wear moccasins and penny loafers quite often.

You’re right about all the nice color options available in stores, and I have quite a few in pastels. I wear mine with hidden liner socks in a skin tone color to keep them discrete. I like cotton because they are more breathable and comfortable in the heat of summer.

My favorites right now are the ones with the soft extra padding or silicon patches under the foot, and lately I’ve seen the option with reinforcements on the Achilles tendon, right above the heel where the shoe may rub and cause discomfort. Kudos to the person who invented them!

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1. Joy Joy

Hayley’s Boutique/$84 2. tibi

Monkee’s of Raleigh/$190 3. LucyParis

Dress/$48 4. Didier Parakian C.T. Weekends/$338 5. Madison Marcus

Anna & Alice/$223 6. Naked Zebra

Apricot Lane/$40 7. Topra

Adore Boutique/$22.99 8. Rip Curl

Whalebone Urban Surf/$39.50 9. Annie Griffin

Charlotte’s/$246 10. Dylan by True Grit CoolSweats/$105

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alice & trixie $129, nora & nicky’s

trina turk $48.99, adore boutqiue

valentino $162.99, adore boutqiue

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Trina turk $88, NORA & NICKY’s

jack rogers $67, dress

Diane von Furstenberg $151, dress

blue n e w

t o

y o u:

The color blue communicates significance, importance, and confidence without creating somber or sinister feelings.

This is where the corporate blue power suit and the blue uniforms of police officers and firefighters came from.

Different shades of blue can have different meanings. Royal blue can represent superiority, and light blue can mean honesty and trustworthiness. Which blue are you? midtownmag.com | 107

THE

LAUNCH Preparing your college-bound freshman for what’s ahead.

By Kate Turgeon

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R

Rachel Rea knew it was coming. Her oldest child, Macee, was graduating from Apex High School and heading to Appalachian State University. Sure, Rachel had friends who had recently sent their kids off to college. She had her husband to talk to.

But there was a nagging feeling that occupied her thoughts. And it wasn’t about a dorm room fridge.

“Did I do a good enough job to let her out on her own?,” she remembers asking herself. “You know … here you go, world, here’s my kid!”

But that was last year. And this is now. From a couch in her family room, Rachel sits next to Macee and the two are able to reflect on the first year of college. They laugh about the money that needed to be added to Macee’s food card.

They share knowing nods about the challenge of switching roommates and dormitories mid-year.

They openly discuss some of the dangers college students face. But safety was a topic they discussed before she left for college, too.

“I knew that I had to be careful when I went to school and I wasn’t thinking ‘oh, that couldn’t happen to me,’” says Macee, who would walk with a friend or use the university’s Mountaineer Safe Ride service for evening transportation.

Safe Ride wasn’t the only school resource Macee would use, she often visited the library to meet friends and study.

When she started college, Macee changed her mindset from high school, where she would constantly strive to take and succeed in the most difficult classes possible, to college, where she was seeking a balance her freshman year as she adjusted. Taking a course load she could handle was important to her mother.

“What I’ve learned is that kids need to have a good time [in college.] And they need to do well in classes. To put so much importance on one or the other is impossible. There has to be a middle,” suggests Rachel. “There’s this huge year of adjusting. Make sure your child takes on enough that’s good, but not too much that she can’t experience everything else.” midtownmag.com | 109

“There’s nothing anyone can tell you that’s going to make it easier those first couple months [your child is in college.] It takes time. After I’d realized she was doing a good job, it became easier.” ~ Rachel Rea

Rachel Rea launched her college-bound daughter Macee last year. Looking back, they say it was a transition they met with understanding and a range of emotions.

For Macee, the first-year college experience was social, academic and also athletic. She played on a club volleyball team to stay fit, enjoy the sport and make new friends. She admits to struggling a little with time management, and learning a lesson about finding time for herself and letting friendships develop naturally.

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A psychologist weighs in Rachel and Macee’s launch story is just one of many.

This time of year moms and dads are preparing to send their sons and daughters off to college, and it’s no easy feat. The sometimes-difficult task is so prevalent that Cary psychologist Dr. Susan Orenstein, who is sending her own son to college this fall, created an eBook series on the subject titled, “The College Companion: Your Survival Guide to College Life.”

According to Orenstein, one of the most important things parents can do is adopt a supportive mindset and expect that kids will go through bumps in the road. Parental support, she says, is huge.

“I think what happens is four months down the line a lot of things happen that are messy and

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stressful and confusing because they didn’t anticipate it in the first place,” she said. “Most people are pretty positive and happy at thinking things are going to go smooth and then later on they get into these big conflicts about … dropping classes, failing [and] money.”

Dr. Orenstein suggests that parents use tools to help their children thrive and achieve academically. For example, she suggests they stay calm and be present. This can often keep little problems (a poor grade on an exam) from becoming big ones (academic probation.)

Consider making a card for your student that lists the academic support services available at the college or university. That way if there’s a problem, he’ll know where to turn.

A strength worksheet can also be a positive exercise for parents and their emerging adults. Parents and students make a list of the student’s strengths and a list of how he or she has handled setbacks in the past. This exercise recalls past events, such as not making a basketball team but working hard and finding a new team, and reminds students about their resilience.

Think: I picked myself up before; I can do it again.

She notes some of the differences between launching a college bound female and a college-bound male. Young women, she says, are particularly vulnerable for eating disorders and sexual assaults.

Another issue for young women to be aware of is setting their personal, sexual boundaries.

She says that confident, selfaware women are better at setting boundaries in their relationships.

So, parents, confidence building is more important than ever.

“For young men, and definitely for young women but not quite to the same degree, binge drinking is definitely an issue for college students,” said Orenstein. Her suggestion for preparing a freshman for these challenges? Don’t lecture on the topic; kids hate that. Instead, model positive, healthy behavior.

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Other practical advice from Orenstein: Little things matter. For example, encourage your student to go to a professor’s office hours even if he or she is just a little bit confused about homework. Suggest they seek out the counseling center if they’re feeling anxious.

Let your freshman know that people want to help them and things are often easy to handle in their early stages.

Encourage your student to speak up, especially in tense roommate situations. Assure them that being assertive is OK. Resist the urge to pressure your son or daughter about a course of study. “Sometimes I see parents being really concerned about their child’s future, the economy and careers. And I totally get that,” she says. “But it just turns out to look like they’re being critical of everything.” Hint: If your freshman wants to take an art history class, don’t ask the classic question -- “What are you going to do with THAT?” Support the idea of why kids go to college – to be open-minded and to learn.

Don’t dole out all the spending money all at once and expect a freshman to budget properly.

Instead, spread out the deposits weekly or on a basis that works for your family.

Remind your student that the resources at a college or university are part of their tuition and that it’s good to seek out help when needed.

Her last two pieces of advice: remember to bring Kleenex for the drop off. And if you need a good laugh to get you through the experience, catch the Modern Family episode about Haley Dunphy going to college.

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beautystyle 1

Skip shadow and define eyes with lengthening or curling mascara.

Avoid volumizing formulas that add bulk to lashes. The key here is to darken and define lashes without looking like you are wearing mascara.

Clinique Naturally Glossy Mascara This mascara’s glossy finish mimics the sheen of natural lashes and defines lashes without clumping. >>$16, Department Stores

2

Perfect skin without covering it up. Turn to lightweight tinted moisturizers and sheer formulas that diffuse imperfections without heavy coverage.

BECCA Bronzing Skin Perfector Evens skin tone while adding a natural sunkissed glow. This lightweight bronzing cream is universally flattering and can be applied alone or mixed into your favorite sunscreen or moisturizer. >>$36, Luxe Beauty Boutique

The Art of Going Natural Easy as 1, 2, 3 3 Beauty tips courtesy of Fiquet Bailey Swain, Luxe Beauty Boutique liveloveluxe.com Check out Fiquet’s blog at: thebeautyofitall.net

When it comes to summer beauty, less is more. That being said, we could all use a little help looking our best through the steamy days of summer. Pare down your routine and enlist these summer essentials for a natural look. The key to summer beauty is to look your best without looking like you tried too hard. Think effortless, fresh and simple.

Give cheeks and lips a boost with a sheer stain.

Stila Cherry Crush Lip & Cheek Stain A cult favorite for a reason!

Stila’s lip and cheek stain reacts to your skin’s PH to create a custom shade that’s perfect every time. >>$24, Sephora

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Run Local, Give Local

For ten years, The Second Empire Grand-Prix Race Series has been a staple on the local running scene.

I know. It’s hot outside. Really hot. And you may feel a bit lazy. I mean, it can be hard to get out and get moving when we are in the midst of summer.

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Second Empire Grand-Prix Series

photography © Carolina Snapshot

The Grand-Prix Fall Series is coming. And presenting sponsor Inside-Out Sports is ready. “We are excited to be a part of such a great Grand Prix Series in the Triangle area and are dedicated to providing runners with the best experience,” says Chase Williams.

Interested in participating? Here’s what you need to know:

September 7th North Hills 5K September 15th The Magnificent Mile September 28th Patrol Stroll 5K October 12th Triangle Run/Walk for Autism October 27th Monster Dash 5K November 9th Southbridge Run to Reclaim 5K November 28th Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot December 7th Jingle Bell 5K December 14th St Michael Jolly Elf Trail Run December 31st Run in the New Year (RITNY)

But you should. Because in just a few weeks, the local race scene will be kicking into gear, with a race for everyone at every level. And the bonus that comes with running one of these races extends far beyond exercise. With each race donating a percentage of its proceeds to organizations within our community, these races give you a way to give back. What could be a better?

Feeling motivated? Good. Now let us help you get up and running. We are giving you the scoop on two popular local race series; two series that are each home to some of the numerous running events in our community.

So yes, you may be hot. But fall will be here before you know it. Lace up those running shoes and circle a few dates on your calendar. These are things you won’t want to miss.

The Gold Standard: Second Empire Grand-Prix Series secondempireseries.com Kim Reynolds remembers it clearly, even though it happened almost two years ago. In the midst of running a race, the founder of the Second Empire Grand-Prix Series who also happens to be the owner of Second Empire Restaurant and Tavern, heard a runner having a one-way conversation. “I realized the man was on the telephone, and I heard him saying that he had been forced by his brother to do this race series that was supported by some restaurant,” recalls Kim. “I chimed in and said ‘the best restaurant!’”

The runner was Troy Smith. And although he was a regular at the annual Triangle Run/Walk for Autism, the motivation had never been about fitness. “Running that race was to show support for my daughter,” says Smith, who teaches middle school in Holly Springs.

But times were changing. Smith had put on some weight and realized it was time to do something about his expanded physique. So when his brother challenged him to start running the Second Empire Grand-Prix Series, the umbrella name given to a race series consisting of two independent series, one held in the fall and one held in the spring, he accepted. “I began running with the Fall Series in 2011. In the first race, I came in so far behind everyone,” says Smith. But even with his slower times, Smith discovered something that appeals to so many of the runners that participate in the Series: the ability to place.

A Win for All While prizes are normally given at races for the top runners in each age group, the Grand-Prix Series awards runners based on a point system that combines finishing times and number of races completed. Simply put, the more races you run, the more points you earn. At the conclusion of the series, Reynolds and her Second Empire team host a luncheon for all race participants completing at least seven races. “The format is a win for both runners and race directors. Runners are more motivated to run, they feel part of a community, and they enjoy a little friendly competition. Race directors have access to more participants, improved publicity, and better networking to share ideas,” says Reynolds.

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that since that first race almost two years ago, he’s shed 60 pounds, taken a total of 13 minutes off of his 5K time and has grown his fitness repertoire to include half marathons, a marathon and triathlons. “The Series have been fantastic.

Knowing that I had a race on the calendar, I could set goals,” says Smith. “I’ve learned that you don’t know what you are capable of, you just have to figure out what you are willing to give up.”

A Community of Support As the Grand-Prix Fall Series gets ready to begin its 10th year, it can be credited with helping numerous organizations in the area raise funds, including Special Olympics of North Carolina, North Raleigh Ministries, the Autism Society of NC and the NC Lung Cancer Partnership. Presented by Inside-Out Sports, whose owner, Cid Cardoso, Jr. suggested the series idea to Reynolds years ago, the Grand-Prix Fall Series has become a way to help generate awareness within the community while tapping into a steady stream of participants.

“A big benefit from a race director’s standpoint is that you attract people who are series racers, which can be a challenge if you’re just a stand-alone race,” says Sarah Witt, founder of the Magnificent Mile, the Fall Series kickoff race. “You’re attracting the attention of a lot of individuals who otherwise wouldn’t know about your race or your cause.” The Magnificent Mile donates its proceeds to the Spastic Paraplegia Foundation, which is dedicated to creating awareness and funding research to cure rare motor neuron diseases such as Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS).

Race directors and sponsors have also come up with innovative ways to help both new and experienced runners get motivated and participate.

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Sarah Witt, founder of The Magnificent Mile, the first race in the Second Empire Grand-Prix Fall Series

Runners take off from the North Hills parking lot off Lassiter Mill at the Midtown Races Series’ June event.

This spring, Grand-Prix Spring Series presenting sponsor Capital Run Walk launched the Triangle Wellness Challenge, a program that encourages corporations as well as other types of organizations (think teachers, schools, churches and individuals) to form teams, train and ultimately run the Series. And, just as the Series awards individual runners for their achievements, the Triangle Wellness Challenge awards teams, creating healthy, friendly competition.

To Mike Zimmerman, owner of Capital Run Walk, adding the Triangle Wellness Challenge was a natural extenstion of the other wellness programs offered by the store.

“We’ve seen people come up through our Fit-Tastic program, a 13- week program for beginning runners, and over the seasons, go from walkers to runners. We had to add a Complete Runner program as a next step,” says Zimmerman. “We’ve seen the benefits of being fit first hand, and we’ve seen what fitness programs can do for people if they want to change their lives. Hopefully we can help make a difference.”

It’s exactly this kind of thinking that continues to lure runners such as Smith and race directors such as Witt to the Grand-Prix Series. The fact is, the Series is making a difference. It’s a difference Reynolds is proud of. “The Series began as a way to get the running community behind something, but it’s turned into so much more,” says Reynolds.

New & Improved: Midtown Race Series midtownraceseries.com Kim Patterson has always been inspired to serve.

And as the executive director for Camp Oak Hill, a nonprofit Christian summer camp about an hour north of Raleigh, her inspiration has been fostered by working alongside her camp family of coworkers, counselors and campers to fulfill the camp’s

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Runners wait for the start of the Midtown Race Series Lookout Capital 5k, 10k & 13.1 presented by Massage Envy, held on June 1.

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mission of “building for character, not for fame.”

So it’s only fitting that when Camp Oak Hill was named by Bruegger’s Bagels of North Hills as the organization it wanted to support as part of the Midtown Race Series’ Charity Challenge, Patterson’s first reaction was not only to say thank you, but to reach out to her Camp Oak Hill family and together, jump in to help with the event.

“When we mentioned that we wanted to support them, they immediately had teams working the water stations, managing the Bruegger’s tent to supply bananas, and cheerleading along the race course,” says Michael Jefferson, owner of the North Hills Bruegger’s. “This is charity that doesn’t want to just receive; it’s quite a ministry.”

The Race is On This is exactly the kind of community connection and support that John Kane, founder and owner of Midtown Multisport, was hoping to promote when he launched the Midtown Race Series in 2012. The series is composed of two running events, each consisting of a 5K, 10K and half marathon, starting and finishing at North Hills. “North Hills is the perfect venue for a race, with easy access to the greenway and easy parking,” says Kane, who is also an associate with Lookout Capital. “Folks like participating in an area that has lots of amenities; you can have coffee before the race or grab lunch after.”

And the running community agrees, with more than 1,500 participants having completed the June 1 Lookout Capital 5K, 10K and 13.1 presented by Massage Envy. Registration is already open for the September 21st Johnson Lexus 5K, 10K and 13.1, also presented

by Massage Envy, which comes with the added features of both a generous car giveaway (a brand new Lexus IS C) and the opportunity for runners to participate in the

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Campers enjoy a wagon ride at Camp Oak Hill, a non-profit Christian camp that has benefitted from the Midtown Race Series.

Fall Triple Crown Series, a series of three local halfmarathons – the Johnson Lexus race, the RunRaleigh Half and the Hallowed Half. “Having the Triple Crown Series is a great way to unify the running community and work together to support each other,” says Kane. “Runners who participate in all three will receive a 39.3 medal.

Additionally, our September half-marathon course will be different than the June half-marathon course, giving runners who run multiple races a different experience.”

Giving Local While Kane is thrilled that Raleigh is on board with this Midtown event, he is most proud that many non-profits are benefitting from the Charity Challenge, an easy, fool proof way to give back. Each sponsor chooses an organization that will benefit from donations taken during registration. With the click of the finger, individuals registering can elect to make a donation to one of the numerous charities represented, with 100 percent of the donation going to the charity. Additionally, at the end of the race, a percentage of race proceeds is donated to the charity that collected the most donations during the registration process. “We’ve been able to help so many organizations, such as Make-A-Wish, Marbles Kids Museum, Raleigh Rescue Mission, The Lucy Daniels Center, and of course, Camp Oak Hill,” says Kane.

Patterson couldn’t feel more grateful. “Serving is at the heart of our organization. We are a give-back program,” she says. “Camp Oak Hill is the beginning step; we want people to go out and serve locally, through business, through ministry. We want the kids to take this experience and make an impact.”

And that’s just what the Midtown Race Series and its sponsors are doing. midtownmag.com | 119

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An Uphill Battle Against Stubbornness

by Dan Bain

OKAY, guys

First, the good news – we are closing the gap between women’s life expectancy rates and ours. Now for the bad news – we still have plenty of room for improvement.

According to the National Institutes of Health, women can expect to live five years longer on average than men – mostly due to some of the stupid things we do. Men are likely to smoke and drink more than women, we engage more frequently in risky activities, and we are less likely to pay attention to what our bodies are telling us or to seek medical advice.

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Are we really that stubborn?

Before you answer, consider the following

statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2009, the top ten risks to men in the U.S. were: 1. Heart disease 25.2% 2. Cancer 24.4% 3. Unintentional injuries 6.2% 4. Chronic lower respiratory diseases 5.3% 5. Stroke 4.3% 6. Diabetes 2.9% 7. Suicide 2.4% 8. Influenza and pneumonia 2.1% 9. Kidney disease 2.0% 10. Alzheimer’s disease 2.0% Now look at those top two again. Notice anything? About half the risks to our lives can be attributed to only two ailments. They are serious ailments, to be sure, and sometimes we can’t stop them, but there are some easy preventive measures. Furthermore, both risks could be significantly averted if we would just go to the doctor once in a while!

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Bringing the doctor to you – so you will go to the doctor We can’t force you to visit your doctor for an exam, but we can – and did – talk to local experts in order to bring their advice here. And guess what?

A lot of that advice was to get yourself to a doctor. This came from four physicians: Dr. Howard W. Newell Jr., with Boylan Healthcare (part of UNC Physicians Network, a joint venture of UNC Health Care and Rex Healthcare); Dr. Matthew Payne, with Duke Primary Care at Blue Ridge; and Dr. Michael Trombley and Dr. Douglas Brooks, both of Vitality Health Services.

We asked them for general and age-related medical advice for men, and one of the most recurring answers was to find a doctor and go to them regularly. Brooks says annual well visits – preferably starting as a young man – are key to two important things: establishing your own baseline numbers for essential tests/measurements, and building a personal relationship with your doctor. “Annual visits are helpful in identifying and addressing issues before they become a major health problem,” he says.

Brooks recommends six essential measurements: a weight/BMI check, blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, testosterone, and thyroid level. “These baseline values will become strategically important in health decisions in the patients’ later milestones of life because they will have their own values rather than having to rely on a lab range,” he explains.

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“Keep up to date with immunizations as well,” Newell adds. “Discuss this with your provider when you go in for routine health and wellness visits.”

Honest, open discussions are vital, says Brooks, and are dependent on a close relationship with your doctor. “It is of utmost importance for a gentleman to have a personal patient/physician relationship,” he says. “This is only obtained when a gentleman feels comfortable enough with his physician so that any and all issues can be discussed and that the physician will take the necessary time to fully address and educate.”

But to start a patient/ physician relationship requires a big step for men – actually going to the physician’s office.

It seems we treat that the same way we treat the idea of stopping and asking for directions – we simply don’t do it until we feel like we absolutely have to. “Women are a lot better about their medical care than men are,” says Payne. “Maybe it’s a social stigma – men are brought up to be tough and independent; they don’t like to ask for help or believe there’s a problem.

With men, it’s, ‘Out of sight, out of mind’ – unless they feel pain or see a problem.”

Waiting is a bad idea, he says, as some medical issues aren’t evident to us, but would be evident to a doctor. One such example is high blood pressure, which, he says, “can be difficult for the patient to detect; it can have been mildly elevated for years with no signs. Sometimes we don’t catch symptoms because a patient hasn’t been to the doctor in a while – that’s why it’s important to get yearly screenings, or every other year at the very least. I think men tend to come in from time to time.

Sometimes we hear, ‘My wife made me come in’ but they don’t come in consistently, which is a problem.” midtownmag.com | 121

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What should men be worried about?

Brooks says the health conditions that men of all ages face include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, prostate cancer, low testosterone, colon cancer and obesity. Most of these conditions are related to two issues, says Newell: inheritable disorders and lifestyle. That second one is especially important to remember, as it’s within our power to change it. “Encouraging an active lifestyle and proper diet are paramount in keeping men healthy,” says Newell, “especially adopting these habits when young.”

Trombley stresses five integral areas for men to focus

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on, healthwise: mind, body, nutrition, hormone balance, and avoiding toxins. “A very simple model to remain healthy and fit is to exercise, eat right, and talk about it with your doctor,” he says. “Physician in the true definition of the word means ‘teacher.’ Let your physician be your mentor, and guide you down the path to good health!”

Newell says the nutritional aspect can be covered by eating a variety of foods in a variety of colors, while Payne stresses that it’s equally important to avoid overeating. He says it’s important to eat properly, with plenty of fruits and vegetables; limited caffeine, alcohol, salt, and fat; lean meat; and reduced portion sizes. “We have a huge problem with obesity in this country, and usually it’s just from overeating,” he says.

These are some general issues, but it’s also important to consider some issues by age. Below are tips from our fab four on men’s health by age group:

Establish baseline measurements/family history; start an exercise/diet regimen.

Beware of accidental injuries and other acute issues.

Watch that substance abuse, and use designated drivers when going out drinking.

Conduct regular self testicular exams.

Wear sunscreen.

More chronic issues tend to arise now, such as hypertension and type 2 diabetes. It’s not too late to reverse the risk with exercise and proper diet. Consider having a diabetes screening after 40, as well as thyroid and cholesterol checks every year.

Beware of cancer and heart disease. Watch your blood pressure and cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart and vascular disease, and keep up the exercise and dieting.

It’s also not too late to stop smoking, as you can still regain a significant amount of your lung functionality.

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•

•

•

•

It’s common to experience decreased sex drive and energy at this age; if that happens, discuss with your doctor the possibility of a testosterone level check.

Check your level of vitamin D, as there is evidence that vitamin D affects both bone strength and immunity.

Erectile dysfunction is more likely now; see below for further information.

At age 50, start screening for colon cancer (unless you have a family history, in which case you should have started earlier).

Schedule a colonoscopy; as long as the

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Major concerns now include heart disease, cancer, prostate issues, type 2 diabetes, respiratory disease, kidney disease, and stroke. Previous diagnoses of diabetes or hypertension are risk factors for kidney disease; have your physician check annually via blood test.

If you’re still a smoker at age 65, you should get a low-resolution computerize tomography (CT) scan for lung cancer. Consider a screen for abdominal aortic aneurysms, which are most common between ages 65 and 75, are more common among men and smokers, often have no symptoms, and can be fatal if they rupture.

Make sure you have routine eye checkups to watch for glaucoma and retinal disease.

Keep on top of your immunizations – especially influenza, pneumonia, and shingles.

Continue with the proper diet and exercise; at this age, they improve dexterity, help prevent falls, maintain mobility, and even help prevent memory loss.

•

•

results are normal, have one every decade.

Prostate exams are questionable – the rule of thumb used to be to start annual checks at 40, but some organizations now say they are not worthwhile and can give false positives or cause complications. Discuss the need with your physician.

50 is also a good time to consider starting daily aspirin therapy (81 mg), as it might help men prevent heart attacks and strokes.

It does, however, include the risk of causing bleeding and cerebral hemorrhages, so this is another one to discuss with your physician.

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Gender-specific concerns Some issues, of course, are specific to men – low testosterone, erectile dysfunction (ED), and premature ejaculation, to name a few. These are also issues that, while not uncommon, can cause embarrassment for the patient. That’s why Brooks and Trombley recommend a strong patient/physician relationship – one in which the patient can feel more comfortable discussing such sensitive issues, and depend on professional, discreet diagnoses and treatments.

That’s also the reason Vitality Health Services sees only male patients, with only male physicians.

Both agree that low testosterone tends to go under-diagnosed and under-treated. Men often ignore the issue, due to the gradual onset of early symptoms – lack of energy, decrease in strength and/or endurance, decrease in work/sports performance, and decreased enjoyment of life. “Men have historically been taught it is just a normal part of aging,” says Trombley. “The continued decline in testosterone then leads to sexual problems – decreased libido, less strong erections – which are issues that the majority of men don’t want to talk about.”

That goes double for ED, which is most likely to occur between ages 40 and 70. High cholesterol increases the risk of ED by 80 percent, while 85 percent of men with diabetes have some form of ED – further argument to keep those two issues at bay from a younger age. ED can cause psychological issues in men, and it damages intimate relationships. While not life-threatening, issues such as ED and premature ejaculation can certainly impact quality of life for you and/or your partner, and they can be treated – but only if you are willing to discuss them with your physician.

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A word about alcohol While Newell notes that some studies show moderate alcohol use as helping lead to better long-term health, it’s especially important to take note of that word “moderate.” Payne stresses that two drinks a day is enough; any more is technically overdrinking for men. He says typically physicians see binge-drinking issues only in the 20s – think college – but it can lead to other problems.

“Binge-drinking can lead to more health problems, like liver disease or high blood pressure,” he adds. “Most come out of that stage just fine, but there are some where binge-drinking turns into everyday drinking.”

Sometimes there’s a chicken-versus-egg issue with drinking – does it cause health problems, or do health problems lead to more drinking? Substance abuse might provide a temporary escape, but it will only exacerbate health problems in the long run. Consider the patient/ physician relationship again, and be honest when your doctor asks about alcohol and drug use.

Depression repression Payne notes that health care providers are seeing more issues with mental health from men in their 20s and 30s – problems such as insomnia, anxiety and depression. “They often come in with chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations of the heart, and sweating, and think it’s a physical problem. So we do the testing, the EKGs, and eventually get to that it’s more anxiety and panic-type symptoms, and we recommend either counseling or certain medications,” he says.

“They’re reluctant to believe it. Men who have depression

Exercising options One of the recommendations to consistently pop up from our doctors, is to exercise.

Options abound in Midtown Raleigh; what venue and/or regimen would be most beneficial? To find out, we talked to the owners and staff of three local fitness studios.

Katherine Williams, owner of CORE Fitness Studio, says an active lifestyle can have endless benefits, including endorphin release to reduce stress, pain or anxiety; a boost in testosterone levels, fighting back against moodiness, lethargy and weight gain; reduced risks of high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity; and assistance in the prevention of mental disorders such as Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Williams says CORE offers personal training, group fitness

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classes, small group training, and customized nutritional guidance for all ages and fitness levels.

Their equipment includes TRX suspension trainers, BOSUs and kettlebells, tires, battle ropes, medicine balls, and more; and they offer classes such as Boot Camp, Ballet Burn, TRX, and Slosh Pipe. “We believe in switching things up so you don’t get bored, and your muscles don’t know what to expect next,” says Williams. “You can always look forward to a unique fitness experience with customized, challenging workouts in a fun and energetic environment.”

Burn Athletic offers yoga, circuit and cycle training, aiming for an integration of “sweat, strength and serenity” with equipment ranging from mats, blocks, and bolsters, to Schwinn bikes, TRX, kettle-

bells, sand bags, BOSUs and more. Co-owner Josh Garrison says Burn has options for men of every age and fitness level, offering small classes covering a range of workouts from heated yoga to TRX training to group cycling. As an option for busy clients who wish to maximize their time, the studio offers Burn Blends, classes combining two forms of exercise to achieve multiple fitness goals in one class. “A balanced workout program is important at any age,” Garrison stresses.

“There are more than 650 muscles in the human body, and the term ‘use it or lose it’ is accurate to some point.”

Pilates is another exercise regimen to consider, with its blend of flexibility, core strength, and endurance routines. Elisa Buxbaum,

in particular are reluctant to come to the doctor (that’s true at all ages, really). They would rather stick it out or deny it, but are often coaxed into coming by a relative or their wife.”

Newell agrees that men of all age groups tend to avoid discussing stress and depression, but notes that it is important to recognize that emotional issues have a direct impact on all aspects of a man’s health – including the physical. Trombley adds, “Clinical depression can always play a factor, and because depression can mask and imitate so many other health conditions, it should always be considered a potential culprit. Low testosterone is a major cause of depression, as well as hypothyroidism and low vitamin D levels.”

owner of Pulse Pilates, says Pilates emphasizes moving from the center of the body and developing core strength to stabilize the trunk and protect the back, focusing on muscles that don’t get a lot of attention in other regimens and creating a foundation for other sports.

Buxbaum says Pulse has classes on the Reformer and Cadillac, incorporating the Spine Corrector, Wunda Chair and Orbit, as well as cardio classes. The Pilates regimen was invented by a man (Joseph Pilates) and, says Buxbaum, “has been a training vehicle for elite athletes for more than 50 years. Pilates is a controlled, well-aligned movement, which is the ticket to a deeper level of fitness!”

Here’s what each exercise specialist had to say for specific men’s age groups:

Williams:

“One word: prevention. One of the best things young men can do to prevent some of the health issues mentioned above is exercise. A good fitness routine for men of this age is 30 minutes of weight training and 30 minutes of cardio two to three times per week, along with 30 to 45 minutes of cardio or interval training two or three times a week, allowing one to two days off per week. You’re young; make it count!”

Buxbaum:

“Pilates can really help men in their 20s and 30s reach their maximum fitness level by strengthening the body from the inside out.”

Garrison:

“Many men in their 20s and 30s have the goal to gain muscular strength and/or build a desirable physique. If this is the goal, then training at a heavier workload to enhance their strength and power would be the way to go. Strength training three days per week, with rest days in between. Either take a rest day in between each strength-training day, or use the days in between to train cardiovascular endurance. It’s also important to change up the exercise/cardio routine to provide some muscle confusion, to see results faster. Stretching to maintain flexibility is important at the end of each workout to prevent injury.”

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Garrison:

“Many guys age 40 to 50 are trying to stay healthy to enjoy the sports they love, or possibly a new passion that they have picked up such as running a marathon, or playing in a rec league. Strength training is still important, and since back or knee issues become more common as men try to keep up with the activities they enjoy, core training and flexibility training will be even more important to prevent injury. Further, to avoid weight gain as the metabolism slows down, interval training with spurts of cardiovascular activity is one of the best ways to burn fat and maintain a strong, healthy heart.”

Williams:

“Aging men tend to see a loss of muscle mass and lower testosterone levels. One of the best training methods to reverse muscle loss and raise testosterone levels is resistance training three to four times per week. With today’s busy society, many men in this age group tend to feel as though they don’t have time to work out. Training using exercise techniques that strengthen multiple muscle groups at the same time, will allow for shorter workout sessions at higher intensity levels.”

Buxbaum:

“In your 40s and 50s, Pilates can help you maintain all your fitness goals as well as help prevent nagging injuries that are common in athletes of this age.”

YOGA CIRCUIT CYCLING

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Buxbaum:

“In your 60s, 70s and beyond, Pilates helps with flexibility, balance, muscle tone and general well-being. Joseph Pilates practiced his method into his 80s.”

Williams:

“Staying active is important for men of any age, but with this age group comes the importance of promoting a healthier lifestyle that will allow for a longer life without frequent injuries. Men within this age group should primarily base their exercise routines around functional movements and strength-building exercises.

Exercise should be moderate – about 30 minutes per day, and about five or six days per week.”

Garrison:

“Since bone and muscle loss are a lifelong battle as we age, men in their 60s or later should continue to engage in moderate strength training and weight-bearing exercise. Cardiovascular exercise is important for heart health and can be achieved by walking, swimming, or walking the golf course (also technically a weightbearing activity). Working the core and back muscles is important to maintain good posture and strength training to enjoy doing the things you love, such as playing and lifting your grandkids!”

s n i m a t i V Q&A

We heard a couple of times about the benefits of vitamin D, but what about other vitamins and supplements? Laura Dalton, co-owner of GNC North Hills and GNC Park West Village, has some strong opinions on that topic, and was happy to share them with us by answering a few questions:

Why should men take vitamins and/or other supplements – what can they help with?

Some folks will question the true usefulness of vitamins. All I can tell you is my father-in-law is 76 going on 60 – no joke. He’s taken vitamins for 40 years. My husband’s blood work comes out virtually perfect at (almost) 49, and he strains to make his three servings of veggies daily. If you are going to live to be 80, 90 or 100, you might as well do everything you can to live well!

What supplements are essential for men?

The two things everyone needs to have in their cabinet are a good multivitamin and fish oil. The multi needs a good shot of vitamin D and a solid B-complex included. Fish oil helps with brain, eyes, heart, skin, joints, mood and cholesterol. At some point in your life, some doctor will most likely recommend it to you.

Are there certain supplements men should take during certain times of their life?

It’s difficult for me to guess people’s ages anymore, except that I am

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pretty good with the 40-year-old man. This customer will walk in and explain he is starting to feel “his years” and is suddenly worried about his heart, his joints, or his “performance.” Maybe his cholesterol is inching up, too. Aside from the multi and fish oil, a prostate formula, Coenzyme Q10 (to accompany his fish oil and keep the heart muscle strong), glucosamine (to keep cartilage healthy) and maybe an herb like maca or ashwagandha (to help with stamina) will be where he starts.

L-Arginine helps with the creation of nitric oxide, which can produce stronger results in the gym as well as help with blood pressure. Testosterone boosters are also popular with all crowds, though the younger lads often use it for strength in the gym while the older folks just want to get back some of that energy and “interest” that was pulsing through their veins when they were 22.

The 50-plus generation also strives to look and feel younger. Aside from the test-boosters and nitric oxide supplements, there are also the “anti-agers” – resveratrol, grape seed extract, turmeric, alpha lipoic acid and acetyl L-carnitine are some of the best. These antioxidants can cross the blood-brain barrier and protect cells from all of the invaders that have been attacking on a daily basis for the last several decades. They work against cancer, diabetes, dementia, and inflammation, to name a few.

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hair today, gone tomorrow

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ST CHURCH, R PTI AL EI BA Y G IT

C ,N

TR IN

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While not a life-threatening condition, hair loss is an important issue to many men. Joseph Ellis, owner of Raleigh Hair Concepts and board member of the American Hair Loss Council, says hair for most people is their crowning glory, and if a man suffers from hair loss, he can feel like he has lost a part of himself. Also unlike some of the other issues covered here, hair loss can happen at any age. “I personally began to thin at 22 years old,” Ellis remembers. “I have clients 19 years old to 82 years old.”

Hair loss can be genetic, inherited from either parent’s side of the family. At an unknown predetermined age, says Ellis, genes signal the hair follicle to produce an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. Combining with testosterone in the hair follicle, the enzyme produces dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which starts the process of male pattern hair loss, and there’s no way of knowing when it might happen. Of course, adds Ellis, hair loss can also occur due to environmental causes, such as stress, diet and medications.

But take heart, because no matter the cause, there are treatments available, from DHT-blocking shampoos and other topical treatments to laser scalp therapy to surgical and non-surgical hair replacement techniques. Raleigh Hair Concepts offers all of them, and Ellis gives free consultations to develop a customized treatment plan for each client. “Hair replacement has come so far and is a beautiful artwork of design,” he says. “If a client catches the hair loss in time, we can see great results.”

North Hills 5K

t r o f f E Team So guys, there you have it. Your health requires smart lifestyle choices, but it’s not a solo effort. Get a doctor and visit them regularly. Work together to develop and stick to a plan for healthier living and prevention.

Maybe then we can further close the gap with our better halves. Not that it’s a competition – we don’t necessarily want to surpass them. We just need to stick around long enough to annoy them for their entire lives, rather than give them five years without us….

September 7, 2013 Benefitting North Raleigh Ministries www.NorthRaleighMinistries.com

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midtowndowntown

Owned by the National Society of the Colonial Dames of America, the award-winning Joel Lane Museum house welcomes visitors for tours led by costumed guides. For more information, please visit joellane.org.

Where Raleigh was born

Joel Lane’s historic home is a Wake County treasure

By Kate Turgeon Photography By David Davies

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O

n a sunny afternoon in early June, a visitor opens a gate at the Joel Lane Museum House. Birds chirp; they’re more heard than seen. A blooming gardenia bush brims with fragrance and glossy leaves. A not-too-distant train whistles as it chatters through downtown Raleigh.

It’s a quaint setting, the type that almost makes a visitor forget he’s in one of America’s fastest growing cities.

In 1768 that same location was the middle of nowhere.

It was “back country.” And a young man named Joel Lane made that rural area his home. There’s much that’s unknown about Lane. How did he earn enough money to purchase thousands of acres of land? What did he look like?

How did he die? What happened to his belongings? And where is he buried?

But there’s much information that historians have collected. Lane had 12 children by two wives. When his first wife died, he married her sister. He was a sheriff, a Revolutionary War patriot and a state senator. He was a member of the first board of trustees for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where his nephew, Hinton James, was the first student.

To learn more about Lane’s life, take a tour of his home with Midtown.

When you visit Ask your guide about the letters and drawings a Colonial Williamsburg architect found in the 1970s that were written by a mapmaker in the 1760s.

The Formal Garden The garden is manicured in English style. Imagine trimmed boxwood, pomegranate trees and brick parterres. But Belle Long, the museum’s director, doesn’t believe Lane would have had a garden like this one. “If you think about it, when Joel Lane moved here they were doing subsistence gardening.

The enslaved people were growing their food and making their clothes,” she says.

“They did not have time to be out here clipping hedges, you can be sure of that.”

The Kitchen Garden When visitors enter this stone-pathway garden, the scent of Rosemary saturates the air. A young girl on the tour says, “it smells like bread,” before turning to inspect poppies. Long explains that this would have been where herbs were grown for cooking and treating ailments. Visitors may see feverfew, a medicinal herb with ornamental qualities. Long explains that the Lanes could have put feverfew leaves in their tea to treat inflammation and headache.

When you visit Try guessing the time of day using the shadow on the garden’s sundial. midtownmag.com| 129

The Kitchen “We call this building the kitchen … in quotes … because it’s really not a kitchen,” says Long, who adds that the wood floor gives it away since a true Colonial-era kitchen would have had a dirt floor.

“The kitchen” has nothing to do with the Lane family, but exists on the site as an example of a middle class home. The house, or outbuilding, was moved to the museum house site in 1979 from the northern part of Wake County.

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When you visit Ask your guide how many people would have lived in the small structure.

The answer may surprise you.

When you visit Don’t miss William Lane’s bible. William was the third son of Joel and his first wife Martha.

The bible was donated in 1988 to the museum house by a Lane family descendant.

The Lanes’ house There’s a reason guides save this building for last. It’s the proverbial icing on the cake. “This is the front door,” gestures Long, “and when you walk in here … look at the entryway, compared to where we just were. Joel Lane was saying, ‘wow. I am an important man. I want you to be impressed when you walk in the house.’”

With its wide, painted stairs, a staircase reveals the upper class status of the Lanes. Visitors can see a parlor, bedrooms and an office. “This may have been Joel Lane’s desk,” explains Long about a desk in the home. A china press (china cabinet) has connections to the Lane family, as does an impressive Windsor armchair and a mosaic pin.

How much do you know about the father of Wake County?

1739: Joel Lane, a fourth generation

colonist, is born in Halifax County.

1760: Lane is appointed sheriff at age 21.

1762: He marries Martha Hinton, whose

father owns land along the Neuse River (near present-day Wendell.)

The couple moves to Halifax County,

has three sons.

1768: The couple moves to what’s now

known as downtown Raleigh. They

purchase land.

1769: Lane builds his home near what’s now

known as the 600 block of West

Morgan Street.

1771: Martha Lane dies.

1771: Lane, a state senator, introduces the

bill to create Wake County.

1772: Lane marries Mary Hinton, his first

wife’s sister. Between 1773 and 1793,

Mary gives birth to nine children.

1792: Lane sells 1,000 acres of his property

to the state of North Carolina to create Raleigh.

1795: Lane dies at age 56. Five days later,

his wife Mary dies at age 39.

Thomas Lane inherits his parents’

home. His guardian rents it and

removes the home’s contents.

1911: House moves to its current location

at corner of St. Mary’s and West Hargett Streets.

1927: Colonial Dames, a historic preservation

group, purchases the property.

1970s: Home is restored to its 1793 appearance.

1976: Joel Lane Museum House opens,

furnished and fitted with items

appropriate to Joel Lane’s era.

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midtowndowntown

PARK IT

Downtown Raleigh and City Parks

By Kate Turgeon

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It’s official. July is national Parks and Recreation month. So sayeth the National Recreation and Park Association. And far be it from Midtown to look the other way. Join Midtown for a look at parks in downtown Raleigh and its surrounding area.

Pullen Park is a perennial favorite with its carousel, paddleboats and train. But did you know the City of Raleigh Parks & Recreation also has a BMX bike track, a historic mansion and an off-leash dog park?

By Kate Turgeon

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4.

5.

1. Capital City BMX Track It’s summertime at the track. Volunteer operator Chad McCoy sprays water at the dirt surface to keep the course dry and compact. Nearby a BMX bike rider talks to a friend about racing shoes. And a pre-recorded automated voice near start line pronounces: “Riders ready, Watch the gate” just before racers speed their way out of the opening.

Located at Lions Park, the track has been a draw for Raleigh BMX bike racers since 1981. “You get to compete, generally for proficiency and age,” explains McCoy. “There are different age groups. There’s novice, intermediates and experts.” Participants advance with wins. For example, 10 wins earn the racer intermediate status. 20 more means expert. At the end of the day, it’s the city’s BMX enthusiasts who are all winners; they have a place to race for just dollars a day.

2. Fred Fletcher Park Purchased by the city in 1982, Fred Fletcher Park is situated on the former campus of the Methodist Home for Children. The park features the Garris building for youth programs, Borden building for special events, Fred Fletcher Amphitheatre, a shelter, a play area, fields, a water garden, basketball and tennis courts. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic, stroll or game of Frisbee. The day Midtown visited, park-goers were doing all three, plus some jogging and sunbathing. What makes this park special is its attention to detail with plants, trees, perfectly placed benches and flowers. Visit in early summer and you just may see every color of hydrangea.

3. Tucker House A Raleigh historic landmark, Tucker House on North Blount Street is a neo-classical revival style mansion managed by the Raleigh Parks and Recreation Department. It can be rented for meetings, parties, weddings and other special events. But before it became a community treasure, Tucker House was built around 1914 as a private residence for Garland S. Tucker, who owned a furniture company, and his family.

Tucker’s descendants donated the house to the city of Raleigh in 1975.

The city moved the house one block from its original location, renovated the mansion and filled it with antique furniture.

4. Oakwood Dog Park Shade. Retreat. Canine companions. The Oakwood off-leash dog park has all three. This city park gives a little freedom to Raleigh’s dogs.

With two separate sections, one for small dogs (or dogs who are older or shy) and one for large dogs (or dogs who are more social), the park is complete with water for the pups, and chairs where pet owners can rest and converse. Organizers suggest visiting the park for the first time without a dog, to see if it’s the right fit for his or her temper. Other suggestions: wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and appropriate shoes.

Also, be sure to read the rules before a visit.

5. Mordecai Historic Park This downtown Raleigh treasure offers history and an open place to play. Think: a picnic and a game of toss. The Mordecai House, the birthplace of Andrew Johnson (17th president of the United States), St. Mark’s chapel and trolley tours are just part of the attraction. The park is also home to several events such as Free Friday tours and seasonal events.

To learn more about these five locations and see a full list of what Raleigh Parks & Recreation has to offer, visit the official city portal online at: www.raleighnc.gov/arts/ content/PRecParks/Articles/ ParksFacilities.html midtownmag.com| 133

man, oh, man!

Two Duke Raleigh urologists say low T and ED are (thankfully) conditions that get men to the doctor

By Page Leggett

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t is generally accepted as truth that men will do just about anything to avoid going to the doctor. Most women go faithfully each year for a physical and, once over a certain age, a mammogram. Moms make sure their children get to the doctor for both routine physicals and sick visits.

But men can be achy, bedridden and suffering fever-induced delusions and will still insist they can tough it out.

But there’s one problem for which men are a little more willing to see a doctor. Two words: Intimacy issues.

The one problem men seek help for Aaron Lentz, MD, and Charles Viviano, MD, Ph.D., partners at Duke Urology of Raleigh, say erectile dysfunction (ED) may lead men to the doctor’s office, but it could also lead to some surprising and more serious diagnoses. Whatever it takes to get men (and women) to their health care provider is, ultimately, a good thing.

What frequently leads men to their primary care doctor – and maybe to a urologist – is trouble in the bedroom. “It’s tough to get men to a doctor’s office,” says Dr. Viviano. “But low sex drive – that will usually get them here.” Low testosterone, a condition getting a lot of attention via pharmaceutical commercials these days, is one condition that concerns men and their partners.

“Low T has broad symptoms that may range from fatigue to low libido [sex drive] and from an inability to concentrate to irritability,” says Dr. Viviano. “But these symptoms can also indicate other problems. It’s important to get tested and ensure a proper diagnosis so you can be sure you’re treating the right condition. Low T can sometimes get lumped in with erectile dysfunction, and they are not the same.”

A simple blood test can determine if you’re suffering from low T. But it must be performed at the right time of day – and that’s especially true in men ages 40 to 60 – and that’s generally before 10 a.m. “Testosterone is like a stress hormone,” explains Dr. Viviano. “Men wake up with higher amounts of it to prepare for the day. That’s why we have to test it early in the morning.” A test any other time of day may not give an accurate reading.

If a patient is shown to have low T, there are a number of treatment options – from gels and lotions to injections to subcutaneous pellets. There is no oral medication for low T available in the U.S., though. And with good reason, says Dr. Viviano. “Most oral medications are dangerous in the treatment of low T. They can lead to liver failure.”

Men go through hormonal changes just as women do.

Men lose testosterone – about 1 percent a year – as they age, beginning at about 40. “It’s not like menopause,” says Dr. Viviano of testosterone loss. “It happens very slowly.” And it can lead to loss of muscle mass, lethargy, difficulty concentrating and – although this is debatable – ED.

Treating ED should begin with simple things – like lifestyle management. “Smoking, being overweight, leading a sedentary lifestyle – we start by changing those things, if they’re present,” says Dr. Viviano. “We’ll also look at the list of medications a patient is on. There are some prescription medications that can make ED worse.” Some of those are important enough – like beta blockers – that a patient needs midtownmag.com | 135

partners at Duke Urology of Raleigh (LEFT) Aaron Lentz, MD and (RIGHT) Charles Viviano, MD, Ph.D.

to stay on them. You should never stop a medication without first discussing with the prescribing healthcare provider, notes Dr. Viviano.

Like low T, ED may be the result – the presenting symptom – for a host of different ailments.

Low T, ED … or something else?

Drs. Lentz and Viviano use a patient-driven approach to determine the root cause of the problem and treat it. “If a patient complains of fatigue, I make it clear that there are plenty of different reasons they could be experiencing fatigue,” Dr. Viviano says. In other words, low T may not be the culprit.

It could be sleep apnea, Dr. Viviano says. And if a patient presumes his low energy and low libido are caused by low T – and a doctor begins replacing his testosterone – it can actually make the untreated sleep apnea worse. Treating the whole person – and not just one ailment – is essential.

Depression and anxiety could also be underlying causes for ED. Drs. Viviano and Lentz don’t just presume their patients have a urological condition. It could be something else entirely that’s led to their ED or low energy or inability to concentrate. Getting to know their patients on a personal

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level is the first step toward determining what’s really wrong.

Of course, the problem may be ED. It’s so common that it’s estimated that more than 50 percent of men over the age of 50 in the United States have some form of sexual dysfunction. TV commercials have made us all more familiar with oral medications (Viagra, Cialis, Levitra – which are not testosterone replacement pills; they dilate blood vessels) than we’d probably like to be. But those don’t work for everyone.

When they don’t work, doctors may recommend a vacuum erection device (VED), penile injection therapy, urethral suppositories or implanting an inflatable penile prosthesis. “We place the device inside the body during a 45-minute procedure,” Dr. Lentz says. “When working properly, it’s 100 percent effective and offers the highest levels of patient and partner satisfaction.”

When ED is more than ED There are times, though, that ED is like the canary in the coalmine. It may be the condition that leads a man to his doctor, but it could lead to the diagnosis of something more serious. It’s hard to overstate how important it is to see your doctor about ED. Dr. Lentz says, “ED may be the most important symptom and diagnostic tool when it comes to general health in the male baby boomer population.”

When a man comes to Drs. Lentz and Viviano complaining of ED, they’ll recommend further testing for heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. Surprised? Yes, ED can be a warning sign of all of the above.

A man who comes to his doctor complaining of ED may discover he has diabetes. “ED may be the primary cause for a man to visit a health care provider,” says Dr. Lentz. “Part of the routine work-up for ED consists of a lipid panel and blood sugar testing. Not surprisingly, many men with ED will be diagnosed with diabetes or pre-diabetes.”

One study shows that up to 85 percent of men who have diabetes may also experience ED. The reason: high blood sugar can permanently damage the nerves and blood vessels responsible for erections.

There’s a link between ED and cardiovascular disease, too. “ED can be a warning sign of silent vascular disease,” says Dr. Lentz.

Dr. Viviano likens an erection to something that needs both an electrical and plumbing system to function.

Erectile function relies on blood flow. So does the heart. The arteries to the penis are much smaller than those going to the heart, so they clog first. (See the connection?) When a man complains of ED, it could be a warning sign of future disease. “Men who have ED and no other evidence of active heart disease have a 50 percent or greater risk of a future cardiac event,” explains Dr. Viviano.

The average onset of cardiovascular issues after ED first appeared is three years. You might call this canary in the coal mine a blessing in disguise. “ED may give men a three-year lead to investigate possible heart disease they wouldn’t have known about otherwise,” says Dr. Viviano.

ED is a common condition with several solutions. It should never be ignored and – fortunately – men aren’t inclined to ignore it the way they might some other symptoms. It may be nature’s way of getting a reluctant man to his physician. midtownmag.com | 137

healthy you

TurningBackTime Reversing the Effects of Sun Damage article provided by dermatech | MD

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n the 21st century, healthy skin is associated with a “glowing tan” complexion. Many people spend hours in the sun and money in tanning booths to achieve this look. However, many do not know that a darkened complexion (tanning) is a by-product of sun damage and an increased risk of cancer.

The longer a person is exposed to the sun without protection, the greater the chance that UV light will damage fibers in the skin called elastin. These fibers break down and cause the skin to sag, stretch and develop wrinkles. While it may not show when a person is young, it has become apparent that it will show later in life.

The sun is responsible for 90 percent of our aging and damages the skin in numerous ways. This includes increased wrinkles, pigmentation and broken blood vessels. Besides premature aging, sun exposure is also responsible for skin cancer. Cancerous cells are a result of the break down of the skin’s immune function.

Exposure to the sun is damaging but there are treatments that can address the resulting effects.

Three treatments that address sun-damaged skin and generate dramatic improvement are Fraxel, IPL and the Obagi skin care system.

Fraxel Fraxel uses laser technology to help reverse the visible effects of aging by promoting the skin’s natural healing process. Fraxel is used to treat fine lines and wrinkles, pigmentation (sunspots), skin resurfacing, and precancerous skin conditions such as Actinic Keratosis (AK). Fraxel treatments vary with the patient’s skin type and severity of damage, but results are both immediate and progressive as skin heals over time.

IPL IPL photo rejuvenation (Intense Pulse Light) is a quick, gentle and non-invasive treatment that uses a broad spectrum of light to improve skin damaged by sun exposure. It may be used anywhere that sun damage is present including the hands, face and neck. It effectively removes age spots, brown spots and redness.

Obagi Obagi is a prescription strength skin care system used to treat premature aging of the skin by accelerating skin cell turnover. It is used to smooth out uneven skin tones and treat discoloration resulting in healthierlooking skin. Noticeable improvements are visible after using these products for four to six weeks. The Obagi family of products for the correction of sun damage includes Obagi Nu-Derm for moderate to severe correction and Obagi-C Rx Early Intervention System for mild to moderate correction. The Obagi skin care system is sold exclusively by physicians.

Sun damage will continue to occur as long as the sun shines. While it is important to take protective measures like using sunscreen and minimizing sun exposure, it is nice to know that there are solutions available to reverse damage and rejuvenate the skin.

midtownmag.com | 139

healthy you

Braces

W h at T o E x p e c t W h e n G e t t i n g

A

re braces in your near future? If so, don’t worry!

While visiting an orthodontist may be scary, overwhelming and everything in between, there are some ways to help calm your nerves.

Here we’ll look at some frequently asked orthodontic questions to provide you with a little insight into treatment so that you’re able to prepare yourself for your appointment.

Is there a minimum age for patients?

To ensure proper positioning of teeth and avoidance of over/under bites, the American Association of Orthodontists recommends that all children visit an orthodontist by age seven. While braces won’t be required for everyone, the appointment will simply be a way to help predict any future alignment issues.

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What is Invisalign?

An alternative method to traditional wire braces, Invisalign is an orthodontic treatment that uses a series of clear, removable teeth aligners. Invisalign may be a good choice for those looking to avoid the look and feel of traditional braces as these are removable and virtually invisible.

Using custom-made aligners, Invisalign gradually and gently shifts your teeth into place. Because it’s removable and plastic, there is no pain to the

(LEFT) Invisalign’s clear teeth aligners compared against (RIGHT) braces.

patient! The high level of comfort, convenience and confidence gives Invisalign a popular vote in terms of types of braces.

A Mod-O-Doc Specialty Store

Do you have to have a referral to visit an orthodontist?

A referral isn’t required to visit the orthodontist. This is a major misconception as many dentists will suggest making an appointment if they see any potential problems. If you feel you have a new or existing problem, do not hesitate to schedule an appointment.

Once I get braces, how often do I have to visit the orthodontist?

Once you begin orthodontic treatment, you’ll need to visit your orthodontist regularly – recommended every six to eight weeks.

As a regular check-up, each visit will allow the orthodontist to make any necessary adjustments and check your progress.

Additionally, continual cleaning from your primary dentist is a must.

Braces may help address alignment problems; however, cleaning helps prevent bacterial discomfort. Therefore, it’s critical to see a dentist every six months.

www.coolsweats.net

Village of Pinehurst 910.295.3905 Raleigh at North Hills 919.782.0012 Wrightsville Beach 910.509.0273

Are mouth guards required when wearing braces?

A mouth guard is VITAL for those playing in sports, or even in P.E. at school. The goal of braces is to help address any alignment issues and an accidental hit to the mouth may be detrimental to this process. It’s best to play safe and invest in a sturdy mouth piece.

Orthodontic treatment can enhance the overall health of your teeth, which can also improve selfesteem, so don’t be afraid to ask any questions! While questions and concerns always pop up, it’s advised to go in to the appointment with an open mind. Orthodontists and their assistants are more than capable of answering any and all questions that may arise in the process.

by Dr. Jason Gladwell, Gladwell Orthodontics

midtownmag.com | 141

healthy you

Meet the Dual-Action

Fat Buster:

Garcinia

F

Cambogia

at-burning: it’s the most popular topic of conversation in our store every day. With success stories of raspberry ketones and green coffee, America is hammering for the newest, fastest non-stimulant fat buster for summer (and fall…and winter…). The million dollar question always seems to be: “How can I get rid of this fat?” With research showing a decrease in body fat WITHOUT exercise or altering diet, the answer is suddenly coming up: GARCINIA CAMBOGIA.

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Garcinia Cambogia is a pumpkin-shaped fruit found in Indonesia and Asia. This “superfruit” has been around for years and years, but has been recently impressing the scientific community with its promising findings from a study at the Georgetown University Medical Center, where they found that garcinia inhibited the production of fat in the body while retaining muscle mass. Add to it other effects, such as appetite control and mood-boosting, and you’ve got yourself a cocktail everyone is looking to drink!

The Science Stopping fat production – Hydroxycitric acid (known as HCA) is a main ingredient in garcinia. HCA naturally inhibits an enzyme in the body whose primary responsibility is to convert excess carbohydrates in the body into stored fat deposits. Instead, the body converts it into more glycogen, which is stored as energy for future use. Increased glycogen stores allow you to exercise longer without feeling so worn down and tired. Keep in mind that the more energy you expend, the more muscle you will strengthen and the more calories you will burn!

Suppressing appetite – HCA in its natural form has been shown to work as an effective natural appetite suppressant, most likely in part due to its ability to keep blood sugar more stable. It also works to boost your metabolism simultaneously, giving you double fat burning power.

Increasing serotonin levels – Serotonin is the natural chemical in your body that is responsible for mood stabilization. Increasing the levels of serotonin in your body is one of the best ways to have better moods, which can help stop you from the dreaded “emotional eating.” Your stress hormones (cortisol) are also decreased which makes it much easier to lose weight and decrease BELLY FAT. Lower stress, lower bingeeating and lower body fat? Sign. Me. Up! Other studies are continuing to test the benefits of garcinia cambogia on lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as aiding in digestion.

How Much Should You Take?

Studies suggest using anywhere from 1500mg3000mg, though 3000mg is gaining more in popularity, as it seems to quicken results.

Taking it on an EMPTY stomach 30min before meals is what is recommended for best efficacy.

As with most things, eating well and exercising will accelerate your results! We always recommend consulting a physician when beginning any new supplementation program.

by Carter & laura dalton, north hills

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healthy you According to the Mayo Clinic, physical changes and health conditions, as well as medications used to treat some conditions, can put you at greater risk of falling. Here are a few tips that the Mayo Clinic suggests people follow in order to decrease their risk of incurring injuries from falls: Make a doctor’s appointment: Doctors will assess your medication, fall history and determine whether your health conditions (eye and ear conditions can be troublesome) can contribute to your fall risk.

Exercise: We all know that it’s good for us, but it becomes especially important as we age that we keep moving. If you are leery of exercise out of worry that you might fall, consider exercises that use slow movements like low-impact dance, or water workouts.

steps to

prevent the fall

by Kari Richie, Health and Fitness Director, Springmoor Life Care Retirement Community

J

une was National Safety Month, an observance that was implemented to remind people – especially seniors – that there are many ways that they can take control of their bodies, and help prevent injuries, falls and even accidental deaths.

I work with seniors on a regular basis and help them to improve dexterity, motor skills and muscle strength, all of which will support them in their effort to maintain balance and coordination in preventing falls, slips and other accidents. Falls have the potential to cause serous injury, but by working on strength training, and following a few simple guidelines, many falls can be prevented, or minimized.

The International Council on Active Aging suggests seniors think positively about their fitness goals, and celebrate successes in the gym; increased strength fuels energy on all levels, both physically and mentally, and gives you the power to take better control of your balance.

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Make sure your shoes fit your activity style: It might be time to get rid of high heels, floppy sandals and socks that increase your chances of slipping. Make sure shoes fit, have nonskid soles and consider lace-up shoes over slip-ons for a better fit.

Fall-proof your home: Remove obstacles from walkways and stairs, secure loose rugs with doublesided tape, always clean up spills immediately, and make sure bathtubs are equipped with nonslip mats.

Let there be light: Add night lights if walking around at night becomes hazardous, store flashlights in easily-accessible locations and make sure a lamp is at your bedside for use in emergency situations.

Use your cane or walker: If your doctor wants you to use a cane or walker, please use your cane or walker.

Doctors prescribe assistive devices because they don’t want to see you fall.

Make sure to use hand rails, and any other means of walking assistive devices that are within your reach in situations where you feel unsteady.

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photography © stacy cathey

diy workshop

Flippin’ Fun Flops I

By Christa Gala and Stacy Cathey

t’s summer and flip flops rule! You need a pair of kicks in every color for the pool, beach and, heck, even the grocery store.

How about a pair you can make in thirty minutes for about five bucks? These custom-made flops are a great way to show off your personality or just utilize a few items stashed in the junk closet.

You’ll need: • Generic foam flip flops • Two pieces of fabric, two to three inches wide and about 20 inches long.

• Scissors • Buttons, rhinestones (optional) • “Super Glue” (optional; we recommend E6000 glue)

Step 4 Thread the points of the two strips of fabric through the toe hole of the flip flop, securing with a small knot on the bottom side of the flop. Cut off any frayed material.

Step 5 Now you have the two strips of cloth coming from the toe hole. Try on the shoes now to figure out where you want the slip knot. It usually works well about an inch from the toe hole, but it depends on the size and shape of your feet. You definitely don’t want the knot between your toes; adjust accordingly before you secure your slip knot.

Step 1 Purchase a pair of foam and plastic flip flops from the Dollar Store or Walmart, costing between $1 and $2 a pair.

Remove the plastic toe separator and discard.

Step 6 Once you’ve secured the slip knot, thread each strip through the separate holes on either side of the shoe, securing with a small knot and cutting off the fray. (Note: the knots ARE on the bottom side of the shoe, but aren’t noticeable. Since there are three, the surface remains even.

Our tester says the knots flatten quickly).

Step 2 Get two pieces of fabric, two to three inches wide and 20 inches long. We used a fabric remnant for one pair and a hot pink bandana for the other.

We purchased two bandanas for $3 at Walmart.

Fabric remnants can be purchased for between $1 and $3 apiece. Consider also using a scarf or pieces of a tie-dyed t-shirt if you want to recycle.

Step 7 Finally, decorate your flop if desired with rhinestones or buttons, securing with “super” glue.

Since the straps are fabric – not plastic – our tester didn’t get the “rub” between the toes that usually happens with a cheap flip flop, dubbing them “super comfy.” And her daughter tried to take them away from her, citing the amazing cool factor. We think so.

Step 3 Cut a point at one end of each strip of fabric.

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>> Have questions or suggestions? Email us at diamonds@midtownmag.com

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Women’s Health Not sure if what you are feeling is normal? We will take a look at women’s health issues and determine when you need to call on the experts.

Pets Pets Pets Everyone loves their pet! From sitters to groomers, to adoption agencies, everything you need to know about your pet.

Fall Fashion Can’t miss our highly anticipated, annual Fall Fashion spread! Look at what our local shops are telling us to wear this fall.

Hockey!

Let’s go Canes! Will this be the year for the Hurricanes? We find out what we can look forward to this season.

Midtown Reviews | Bain’s Beat | Calendar of Events Healthy You | Midtown Mingles | and much more!

oops!

On page 129 of our May/ June issue we incorrectly attributed the financial focus article to Beau Keyes. It was actually written by Cole Taylor Mortgage V.P. Branch Manager, Micah Rickard.

midtownmag.com| 147

financial focus

Annuities:

A Solid Addition to a Retirement Portfolio

T

by Dwight Carter, president, Financial Security Associates

hey have been a bastion of security to consumers for almost 100 years. They are annuities. They may sound boring, but in a volatile market, boring can be good.

While annuities are issued by insurance companies, they have such attractive features and benefits that most investment advisors offer them to clients. (And investment advisors are not in the insurance business.) With an annuity, your money grows tax-deferred, meaning the interest it earns is not taxed as long as it stays in the annuity contract or another tax-deferred annuity contract.

Most insurance agents offer annuities to their clients. Insurance agents who sell annuities are usually independent and represent several insurance

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companies, so they have a wide range of highquality products to offer.

Annuities also provide a future guaranteed income benefit. Money can be transferred from one annuity to another without disrupting the taxdeferral status. You can own as many annuities as you want, as long as the ownership meets certain suitability tests and the assets do not represent a disproportionate percentage of your total assets.

If you haven’t considered an annuity before – or in recent years – take a look. Today’s annuities offer enhanced income death benefit and liquidity features that weren’t available in annuities issued before the 1990s. (Changes were made to these 100-year-old instruments to meet the increasing

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income needs of baby boomers.)

Those new(ish) features and benefits make today’s annuities a great addition to a retirement savings plan.

They offer security, help facilitate an orderly distribution of assets to heirs (because they pay beneficiaries immediately and directly) and are a great way to minimize taxes.

It’s important to note that annuities only have a tax-deferred advantage over other investment choices on non-qualified assets.

(Non-qualified money is money that has already been taxed such as your paycheck, for example.) This already taxed money, when deposited to an annuity, gets tax deferral not available in most other investment choices.

Qualified money (401k, pension plans, IRAs, for instance) gets tax deferral in any investment approved to accept retirement account money.

Still, an annuity represents a popular and attractive alternative for qualified funds because of those income, death and liquidity features.

These are the two types of annuities – fixed and variable. Both contain similar basic features. For younger savers and/or those with a moderate to high risk tolerance, a variable annuity may be attractive.

The variable annuity deposit is placed in a selection of mutual fund accounts – chosen by the consumer in consultation with an insurance agent or financial advisor.

The deposit, like other investments, is subject to the gains and losses of the market. The variable annuity can still provide income, a death benefit and liquidity features.

Fixed annuities provide the income, death benefit and liquidity features as well, but they also guarantee preservation of the investment and a guaranteed minimum interest.

Annuities are not the same as life insurance, but they are an insurance contract. Annuities are generally compatible with the needs and goals of people in their 50s and older. Having one or more annuity in your financial plan can add stability, income you cannot outlive, a good death benefit and – perhaps most importantly – peace of mind.

And it’s not every investment vehicle that comes with peace of mind. midtownmag.com | 149

midtownmingles

affordable chic shops celebrates a birthday!

Affordable Chic Shops were rocking for their 4th Birthday celebration! Durwood Martin and Tony Davis (Martin Davis Band) played that great, swinging beach music! There were plenty of of guests, birthday cake and sweet tea. It was a great time to thank wonderful, loyal customers who have made it possible for Affordable Chic Shops to make it to four years.

Saks Breast Cancer Fashion show and Tea

On June 1st, American Cancer Society, in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, held Raleigh’s first Pink Fashion Show and Tea Party at Saks Fifth Avenue in Raleigh to raise funds for the fight against breast cancer. In celebration of life, each survivor model wore the latest spring fashion exclusively by Saks Fifth Avenue. The fashion show was a time of empowerment and healing, a remembrance of loved ones we’ve lost, awareness of hope, a moment to stand together, each of us touched in some way by breast cancer, making strides towards finding a cure.

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photography © Lindsay Aikman Photography

midtownmingles

Starring Role Reception

On April 26th, the North Carolina Theatre welcomed top donors to a mix and mingle event with the stars of The Drowsy Chaperone at the home of Gail and Dean Jordan.

Beth Leavel, whom will be reprising her Tony-AwardWinning role in The Drowsy Chaperone, performed.

JDRF Hope Gala 10th Anniversary

Hope Blossomed as the JDRF Hope Gala raised more than $800,000 at their 10th anniversay celebration. This year’s event brought in the highest-grossing auction to date with highlights being the Pixar Preview Gala that sold twice for $11,500 and the surprise NFL in London including seats with the NFL Commission thanks to Ambassador Jim Cain – which also sold twice for $10,000!

NOra & Nicky’s opens downtown

On May 23rd, Nora and Nicky’s designer resale celebrated the grand opening of their second location in downtown Raleigh. The event was hosted by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, with the official ribbon cutting by Mayor Nancy McFarlane and owner Cathy Brooks. Food and drinks were enjoyed as DJ Joseph SPCLGST Gaimpino provided the perfect soundtrack.

form & function grand opening

Form & Function celebrated its May 10th debut with a grand opening ribbon cutting on Saturday, June 1st with Councilmember Russ Stephenson doing the honors. Champagne and food followed with many local folks eating and drinking in the atmosphere of this unique new store. midtownmag.com | 151

photography © Michael’s Memories Photography & Design

midtownmingles

the carying place 20th anniversary hayley’s 5th annivesary

On April 27th, Hayley’s Boutique’s celebrated a 5 Year Anniversary party! It was a fun-filled day, with regular customers and new ones! Friends and family shared in the celebrations, and chatted about how fashions have changed over the last five years.

On June 12th at The Oaks of Salem in Apex, The Carying Place (TCP) celebrated 20 years of helping homeless working families with children. More than 100 people helped kick off the celebration which was presided over by WTVD-TV’s Steve Daniels. TCP has helped bridge the gap between homelessness and permanent housing in Cary and Western Wake County for 303 families since 1993.

annual wish ball

On May 18th, Make-A-Wish® Eastern North Carolina hosted their annual Wish Ball fundraising event at the Raleigh Marriott City Center.

The evening began with an exclusive reception honoring the sponsors, followed by dinner, live and silent auctions, live music and dancing.

Some of the prizes included jewelry from Diamonds Direct Crabtree, dinner at local restaurants, grand vacations and more! Proceeds from this event help grant wishes to children in the 49 counties of eastern North Carolina.

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photography © Jared Lazarus

midtownmingles

Ravenscroft 150th Anniversary Gala

photography © North Carolina Museum of Art; Christopher Ciccone

On Saturday, April 20th, more than 700 members of the Ravenscroft community attended the 150th Anniversary Celebration Gala at the Raleigh Convention Center in downtown Raleigh. The event featured remarks by Head of School Doreen Kelly, Chairman of the Board Charles Winston ‘78 and parent, trustee and CEO of Seventh Generation Inc., John Replogle. The Character Tree Sculpture by artist Jeffrey Hurr was also unveiled at the Gala and later installed on campus to commemorate the school’s anniversary.

Triangle women of distinction awards event

On April 18th, Soroptimist International of Raleigh hosted its annual Triangle Women of Distinction Awards Event at the North Hills Club. The event honors women who are making a difference in the lives of women and girls.

NCMA Art of the Auction Benefit

On June 8th the North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) hosted its third annual Art of the Auction, a benefit that supports the NCMA Foundation. A silent auction featured juried works by more than 70 local artists as well as items that reflect the Museum’s collection and exhibitions. A live auction featured one-of-a-kind experiences, works of art and other exclusive packages. Guests enjoyed catering by the Museum’s Iris restaurant, as well as a DJ. midtownmag.com | 153

doTHISbetter By dan bain

Build a

Sand

Burger Whether you’re at the beach or in the back yard, celebrating a holiday on a three-day weekend or simply making dinner on a weeknight, summer is a great time for grilling up burgers. Here are a few tips to help you master the art: Buy the right meat At a minimum, make sure it’s fresh – bright pink in color, with no dark spots. Check it for unpleasant odors. Beyond that, look for grass-fed or certified Angus beef for flavor, or go to a butcher shop for a blend of flavors with just the right amount of fat – that’s what gives burgers their flavor and juicy consistency. If you must go lean, try to add moist ingredients to make up for it.

Minimize your handling Try not to overmix your patties, as ground beef becomes tougher the more it’s handled – the fat softens and melts, and the meat compresses, making for a tough, chewy burger. Form the patties quickly, keeping them light and loosely formed and foregoing the perfect shape.

Work with chilled beef and grill the patties immediately, or cover them and return them to the fridge until it’s time to put them on the grill.

Leave them alone!

Put the patties on a hot grill and let them cook. Avoid “juggling” the burgers, and resist the temptation to press down on them with a spatula – that will only squeeze out the juices, leaving you with dry burgers.

After 3-4 minutes, try to lift a patty. If it clings, leave it on that side to sear for another minute. If it lifts easily, flip it over. Depending on how “done” you want the burgers to be, rely on 1-3 flips for proper cooking through.

Don’t skimp on the buns Why ruin a good burger with a lousy framework? Use the best quality you can get, going for fresh and firm, yet tender. Let the burgers stand for 2-3 minutes to let the juices redistribute, so they don’t run out after the first bite, then serve ‘em hot!

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Maybe you have kids. Maybe you are one at heart. Either way, if you go to the beach this summer, you’ll probably end up partaking in this fun tradition at some point, and the interested parties are apt to stay interested longer if you do it right: Start with the right ingredients.

Use fine sand and plenty of water. Course sand doesn’t bind as well as fine sand, with lots of sediments and silt. Test the sand by making a small ball out of it, then holding it between two fingers to see if it will retain its form. And water, of course, holds it together.

Be an engineer.

Cut the bottom off of a large bucket, set it on the sand, and alternate dropping in layers of sand and water. Mix them well and allow the excess water to drain out the bottom. Tamp it down and tap the sides to set it, and repeat until the bucket is filled with a firmly packed mixture. Lift the bucket off for a solid cylinder of sand, which can be shaped and accessorized. Do this with different sizes of buckets and tubs to create a “snowman” effect, with smaller cylinders on top of larger ones.

Add details.

Start at the top of your basic structure and work your way down; otherwise, you’re apt to mess up the bottom details with sand falling from the top. Use simple tools, from your home – try things like spoons, straws, melon ballers, funnels, screwdrivers, paintbrushes, spatulas, and putty knives. Experiment with them to add shapes and designs to your towers and walls, and to cut out features such as doors and arches. Bring a mister or squirt bottle to keep the sand moist and workable.

Sources: Better Homes & Gardens, Cleveland.com, Grandparents.com, Orange County Register

Grill a Better

better castle

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