Boom! Magazine December Issue by BOOM! Magazine

For a Healthy Relationship

Do yourself a flavor just ask a pharmacist to flavor your medicine

Safe & Effective For Kids & Adults

ONLY

Custom Flavored Medicine

Choose From Many Great Tasting Flavors! Apple, Banana, Bubblegum, Cherry, Grape, Raspberry, Watermelon, & more! Visit us online at www.kerrdrug.com

Holiday Traditions LeTTer FroM THe edITor by Barbara Petty

Published by Prime Communications of the Triangle, Inc. 106 Huntsmoor Lane | Cary, NC 27513 919.302.3329 | Oﬃce/Fax 919.462.0141 | BoomNC.com Publisher Barbara Petty | barbara@boomnc.com Managing Editor/Director of Operations Greg Petty | greg@boomnc.com Sales Associates Western Wake: Ed Twardy | ed@crabtreecommunications.com Preston Stogner | preston@crabtreecommunications.com For other locations, please contact Greg or Barbara Health and Wellness Editor Teri deMatas | Rex Healthcare theresa.dematas@rexhealth.com Financial Editor Gerald Townsend | gerald@assetmgr.com Calendar Editor Luan Harmeson | calendar@boomnc.com Art Director Katie Severa Boom! Magazine, a monthly free publication, is a lifestyle resource for the active adult market in North Carolina. 35,000 copies (60,000 readers) are distributed throughout eight counties in the Triangle/Sandhills areas. Distribution sites are listed on the website, BoomNC.com, under the About Boom! button. Advertising inquiries should be directed to the appropriate individual listed above. Editorial questions should be directed to Barbara. Distribution questions should be directed to Greg. Calendar items should be emailed to calendar@boomnc.com by the 15th of the month. Opinions expressed by contributors and advertisers are not necessarily those of Boom! Magazine. Although care is taken to see that errors do not occur, Boom! Magazine disclaims all legal responsibility for errors and omissions or typographical errors. Use of articles, artwork, and photography is prohibited unless arrangements have been made with the publisher. We do not accept unsolicited manuscripts. Copyright 2012,Solution Prime Communications of the Triangle, Inc. All rights reserved. TOMMY LEE JONES COVER PHOTO: PAUL SMITH / FEATUREFLASH

R A J M A K E S D U R A A G E N T O R E M J U G G E R J A N E D O E S R A L A S E R A N Y J A C K E T S A D O A I L E D R E Y S B A A L E C M O S S M O P E J E W E L R A I T O A A B S E N T J A W B J A R D I N I E R E A L A I E R N E S Y E A S T R E S T

M I N T

E R A T

G A U L

J O L L Y R O G E R

O G E E

S H L E A N T

puzzle answers from page 3

E N A T E

A N T E

D E S P E O N T

ccording to Wikipedia, the definition of a tradition is: “a ritual, belief or object passed down within a society, also a basic character of a society still maintained in the present, with origins in the past... the word ‘tradition’ itself derives from the Latin tradere or traderer literally meaning to transmit, to hand over, to give for safekeeping.” Most families have particular holiday traditions that are important—if for no other reason than to have a shared memory of those experiences. I was raised in a fairly traditional Lutheran household, so I can only speak of what we did at Christmastime. I mean no offense by not including other faiths or ethnicities; this is only what I know. When I was growing up, we always opened gifts on Christmas Eve. My dad and my two brothers, having cut down the tree from the mountains in Colorado (no designated treecutting areas back in those days. The men would simply drive about an hour up into the Rockies and hike back in the woods until they found a suitable evergreen), would be decorated by all of us five kids around midDecember. And the tinsel would have to be placed just right, one strand at a time so it looked nice and neat. We would hand out the packages, one at a time, and everyone would watch you open your treasure—being careful not to rip too much of the paper so Grandma Ruby could reuse. In our house we open gifts Christmas Day—a schedule originally dictated to allow Santa to come in the middle of the night. I can remember a few Christmas Eves, Greg and I would be putting some toy or tricycle together at 3am in the morning, and that would be the gift that Santa left. We also had to eat most of the cookies and drink the milk to make it authentic. When Santa was outgrown, our daughter turned into an elf. She took it upon herself to do something special Christmas Eve night when the rest of us were sleeping. I remember two large candy canes on each side of the door to the living room one year; another year snowﬂakes of all sizes would highlight the path to the Christmas Tree. And when the elf turned into a teenager, the decorations stopped. But that was OK because we started another tradition—making pies together. Puzzle Junction.com I taught Erika how to make piecrust from scratch, just like my mom had taught me. There were always pumpkin and pecan pies, and then the rest would vary from year to year—a fruit pie or a cream pie—but it really didn’t matter because it was the act itself that was the fun. One year we varied the piecrust recipe, which turned out to be a mistake. Another year we had a little too much to drink while cooking, and the crusts were a little catawampus. But they tasted just as fine! When Erika moved to California two years ago, Aaron stepped in to be the pie maker with me. I guess he saw the fun and didn’t want to be left out (this year he also helped with Thanksgiving Dinner!) Erika will be home again this year for Christmas; maybe I will let Aaron and her make the pies, and I will just supervise. We will attend church Christmas Eve, we will open gifts in the morning—one at a time—although we tend to rip rather than tarry. And we will have a Petty Family Christmas hug; knowing that being together is the greatest tradition of all.

new on boomnc.com •

•

• •

NOTE: You can find links to all of these articles from the boomnc.com homepage Boom! Bits: Dining In: Holiday Pork Loin With a Twist; Music Review: The Best of Grayson Capps—A Love Song for Bobby Long; Movie Review: Lincoln; The Three Es—Transitions Your Home to Geothermal Energy HealthWatch: Ask the Pharmacist: Glucosamine and Chondroitin Business: Workplace Bullying: A Chronic Corporate Disease The Fit Life: Five Fitness Mistakes

spotlight 6.

6. 7. 27. 28.

Hit the Ground Running in 2013 by Slowing Down Volunteerism: Chapel Hill Service League 2012 Alternative Gift Guide Fifty and Fabulous: Ginny Bowman Tommy Lee Jones: A Creative Life

16. 17. 18.

Estate Planning 101: Planning for Heirs Year-End Financial and Tax Planning Marci’s Medicare Answers

boom nc.com 12.12

3 boom! box

trianGle and sandhills’ edition

live smart live well

20. Oral Chemotherapy: Usage and Risks 22. Ask the Pharmacist: Natural Supplements 23. Overcoming the Obstacles to Exercise 24. Skin Care: Cutting Edge Technology Without Cutting 25. Nutrition for Life: Sea Salt Versus Table Salt 26. Improve Your Golf Game With Yoga

live large 29. 31. 35. 36.

Tryon Palace is New Bern’s Crown Jewel December Calendar Performing Arts Spotlight Visually Speaking: MaryLou Higgins 1926-2012

4. 5. 5. 13. 14. 14. 15. 15.

Chatter Ask Mr. Modem What’s Your ‘Lie-Q’? The Three Es: Going Green Ruminations The Sock Monkey: Sharing Holidays Past AutoMode Glaucoma-related Vision Loss May Increase Risk for Auto Accidents A Musing Mind Living Single: Finding Peace With Singleness December Puzzle

boom! bits

37. 37. 38.

Subscription Order Form (please print) Name _________________________________________________ Street _________________________________________________ City, State Zip ___________________________________________ Phone _________________________________________________ E-mail _________________________________________________

In Peace,

Total ($22 per year or $40 for 2 years) ________________________ Payment:

Barbara

Check Included

Credit Card

Credit Card No. __________________________________________

PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

Vin Code (on back of card) ________________ Exp. ____________ Payable to: Prime Communications 106 Huntsmoor Lane, Cary, NC 27513

Chatter by GreG Petty

boom nc.com 12.12

boom! bits

new website called HealthPocket. com enables consumers to compare and rank every health insurance plan available in their geographic region. Launched in November, HealthPocket.com allows consumers to see information on the price and quality of their health insurance options, without any insurance company paying to showcase its own plans or selectively highlight information. Over half of the U.S. population will need to make choices about their health insurance carrier by 2014—with millions of Medicare beneficiaries currently facing a Dec. 7 deadline for enrolling in Medicare Part D prescription drug plans and/or Medicare Advantage plans. Americans consistently pay more than they need to for health insurance and don’t always select the plan that provides the right coverage to meet their medical needs. Developers of HealthPocket.com spent decades pioneering online access to health insurance information and say that a major reason so many people buy the wrong plan is because consumers don’t have access to complete and easy-to-understand information about their options. HealthPocket.com is not aﬃliated with any insurance company. It is the only private, independent website able to filter all plans available by cost of premiums, cost of drugs covered, and quality of the plan—without hiding anything. HealthPocket.com uses objective data from government and private sources that carry no conditions that might restrict the site from sharing certain information. The site provides an objective, transparent measure of cost and quality of every plan available in a given region. HealthPocket.com allows consumers to sort plans by information they deem important. It clearly shows all options in ways that can be tailored by users. Users do not need to register on the site or even provide their name. All that’s needed to use HealthPocket.com securely is a zip code. HealthPocket.com is completely free. Site developers say revenues will ultimately come through advertising, but there will never be a charge to consumers to use the site. Consumers can find a health plan that best meets their needs at www.HealthPocket.com. The Shop Downtown website, www. ShopDowntownRaleigh.com, has been enhanced with new features designed to attract more shoppers to downtown by highlighting

unique shops and retail promotions. This user-friendly and sophisticated site features: • Shopping Opportunity Highlights: Interchangeable icons will be used to showcase new businesses and seasonal offerings such as great gift ideas and the Holiday Shopping Passport program. • An Interactive Map: This custom, interactive map makes planning your shopping trip easier than ever. Simply click on the “what’s nearby” link for information about parking, transportation, and neighboring shops in close proximity to the selected store. • Live Twitter Feed: Follow announcements about incentives, new business openings, and events displayed on the home page of the Shop Downtown Raleigh website. • Events: Now shoppers may find retail events in one single website calendar. Enjoy an array of retail-related activities such as wreath-making workshops, grand opening celebrations, and fashion shows. To incentivize shoppers, the Downtown Raleigh Alliance (DRA) is coordinating a Holiday Shopping Passport program. Shoppers may pick up Holiday Passports now at participating stores and receive a sticker for every $20 spent. Once a passport is filled with five stickers, shoppers may drop it off at a participating store to be entered to win one of many great prizes. Over $3,000 worth of prizes will be awarded! The Holiday Shopping Passport program runs through Monday, December 24. Visit www.ShopDowntownRaleigh.com. The Nasher Museum of Art recently announced that Nancy A. Nasher and her husband David J. Haemisegger have given $ million to the Nasher to create two new endowments for a visiting curatorship and the acquisition of modern art. The $5 million gift, the largest single donation since the museum was built in 2005, is twofold. The $4 million Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family Fund for Acquisitions will support the museum’s purchases of works of modern and contemporary art. Another $1 million will support the Nancy A. Nasher and David J. Haemisegger Family Visiting Curatorship Fund, allowing the museum to bring top scholars to organize special exhibitions and projects. “This visionary gift continues the generous tradition of philanthropy by the Nasher/Haemisegger family in support of Duke’s museum,” said Duke University President Richard H. Brodhead. “We are grateful for this new commitment by

Nancy and David, reﬂecting their deep understanding of the many ways the Nasher Museum enriches the Duke community, enhances the educational experience for our students, and extends Duke’s welcome to Durham and the region.” This latest gift brings the total to more than $16 million given to the museum by members of the Nasher/Haemisegger family. For more information, go to nasher.duke.edu. The NC Museum of History Foundation announced the recipients of its inaugural Philanthropy Awards during a Nov. 13 event at the NC Museum of History in Raleigh. The awards recognize individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to the preservation, study or understanding of North Carolina history. The awards also honor exceptional commitment, service and support to history museums or related sites. Julia Jones Daniels and Frank A. Daniels Jr. of Raleigh received individual Philanthropy Awards, and the State Employees’ Credit Union (SECU) Foundation accepted the corporate Philanthropy Award. “We established these awards to show our appreciation of business partners and individuals who have made a difference to the Museum of History in significant and meaningful ways,” said Lyl MacLean Clinard, chairman of the Museum of History Foundation. “Our first award recipients truly exemplify some of the state’s finest representation of business and citizens who care about and share in preserving the rich history of the Old North State.” The couple’s financial gifts have helped open several exhibits, such as The Story of North Carolina. The contributions of the State Employees’ Credit Union Foundation began in 2007, when it funded all student tickets for the exhibit Mysteries of the Lost Colony and A New World: England’s First View of America from the British Museum. Visit www.ncmuseumofhistory.org.

Beware of Security Scams

Q. My health club sent out some promotional CDs that are smaller than normal, like mini CDs. Does my computer need some kind of special adapter for these? I put one in the slot but I’m afraid to push the tray in for fear it will somehow get stuck in the computer. Help! A. As long as the center hole is the standard diameter of any other CD, and the CD doesn’t physically fall through the slider tray, the CD should be fine to use. If the tray does not physically support the CD, then a mini CD adapter would be needed. Run a Google search for “mini CD adapter” and you will find a lovely assortment from which to choose. Q. I’ve got a really dumb question, Mr. M., so here goes: When you scan a document, does it use ink from your printer? I just bought an HP printer/scanner. It has three color cartridges and a black cartridge, which is more expensive than my previous printer, so I want to be careful and not needlessly waste ink. I’m just

not sure how this all works, so any light you can shed would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for being there and not making people like me feel like an idiot. A. There are NEVER any dumb questions here in Mr. Modemville, so I’m glad you asked. When you scan a document, it doesn’t use any ink at all. The act of scanning simply creates a digital image (file) of whatever is being scanned. Think of it as taking a photo of the item being scanned. When you print a scanned document, you are printing a file and that process is identical to printing any other file and does consume printer ink. So if your printer isn’t churning out a printed sheet, it’s not consuming ink. For more information about Mr. Modem’s technology-tips eBooks and award-winning weekly computer-help newsletter, featuring his personal answers to your questions by email, visit www.MrModem.com.

Mr. Modem’s DME (Don’t Miss ‘Em) Sites of the Month Classical NPR Here you will find all sorts of articles about classical music and can listen to live audio streams. Be sure to take a look at the items listed under Features on the Navigation strip. If you love classical music, this is one site worth visiting. Visit it once and you’ll definitely keep coming Bach for more. www.npr.org/music/genres/classical FedSpending Have you ever wondered what

boondoggles the government is squandering our money on? If your blood pressure is running too low and it needs a boost, examine federal spending for yourself at this site. Visit the About the Data section (top right of the page) and see how the data is aggregated. There is even a handy Data Dictionary that can help you translate bureaucratic gobbledygook. Use any of the tabs on the left side of the page to check out the different sections. www.fedspending.org MyMedicare.gov You will have to establish

an account and provide your Social Security number, but if you do, you will have access to your Medicare account. Among other information, you can see what your doctors billed Medicare and how much (more likely how little) Medicare reimbursed them. http://mymedicare.gov

Take the Test to See if ‘Self Lies’ are Holding You Back Submitted by C. Holloway Hill Enterprises

rophets and philosophers throughout history have spoken of the potential calamities embedded within lies. “Relationships are ruined every day because of lies,” says former IBM executive Cathy Holloway Hill, a life improvement consultant and author of “Lies, Love & Life,” (www.chollowayhill.com). “Think about the collapse of our economy starting in 2008—it didn’t happen because bankers and other key players were honest and acted with integrity. It happened because of lies. But the most damaging lies are the ones we tell ourselves.” “Self lies” cause us to perpetuate a cycle of failure, she says, and the first step in reversing the pattern is recognizing them. Hill has developed three questions—a Lie-Q test—for people who can’t seem to find success, whether it’s in romance, weight loss, finances or just general contentment. Have you ever told yourself, “I’m too old for that”? That’s just one of the many common self lies. Others include, “I will never find true love;” “I’ll never get out of debt;” “I can’t change who I am.” While the briefest of analyses demonstrates how illogical these lies are—people find true love, get out of debt and change every day—we persist in believing them. If you tell yourself you can’t, you won’t make the real effort required to succeed. Do you pretend to be happy when you’re not? Many of us have pretended to be happy on the job or at home when, in truth, we’re very unhappy. Sometimes we pretend for the sake of others; sometimes because we worry about the consequences of expressing our true feelings. And sometimes, we do it to convince ourselves that we’re happy. Are you happy? If you’re not sure, or if you’re sure you’re unhappy, Hill recommends getting into “self-discovery” mode. Take a close look at the hobbies, relationships, activities and work you enjoy. Determining what they are and working them into your life starts the process of feeling more content, she says. Do you think you can’t find a more satisfying job? It’s important to find satisfaction and gratification in our work lives, Hill says. “We spend most of our waking hours on the job so if yours feels tedious, meaningless and dead end, you will be happier if you’re at least working on a Plan B,” she says. Since the economic downturn and soaring jobless rates, the mantra has been, “Be grateful if you have any job at all.” That’s the wrong attitude. “If you have an exceptional skill and are willing to work hard, chances are you can find something that makes you happier. If it’s not a paying job, perhaps some volunteer work on the side,” Hill says. Make a list of your skills and the things you enjoy. Do any of these match job descriptions in the real world? You may be surprised to find that your dream job—or something close to it—is out there. “Why wouldn’t you go for it?” she asks. Cathy Holloway Hill is founder of C. Holloway Hill Enterprises, an international consulting, training and professional speaking firm focusing on personal and professional growth and effectiveness. Her guidance is sought by Fortune 100 companies, youth organizations and individuals who want to transform their lives. Hill has a bachelor’s in computer science, a master’s in psychology and numerous life coaching certifications. She is a winner of Indiana’s Torchbearer Award for contributions to her state.

5 boom! bits

Q. SpeedyPCPro appeared out of nowhere on my computer and warned me of a number of security problems that it can fix if I pay them. My McAfee Security runs daily and shows no such problem. I’m inclined to think this is a scam. What do you think, Mr. M? A. Any program that appears out of nowhere and tells you anything about your computer should be considered a scam, malware or worse. Think of it this way: Even if the program was legitimate, for it to analyze your computer without your permission means that your computer was hacked—broken into—which is illegal, not to mention how it can ruin your day. Beyond that, a company that actually hacked into your system would have to be incredibly stupid to announce, “Hey, we just accessed your computer without your permission and we found some problems. If you pay us X dollars, we’ll fix the problems.” That would be like somebody breaking into your home, determining that your toaster wasn’t working properly and leaving you a note, “Hi, there! We broke into your home, looked around and discovered that your toaster isn’t working. Mail us $25 and we’ll come back and fix it for you.” This type of scam is very successful because many users react instead of thinking it through. They see the alert message and think, “Eek! My computer has problems. I’d better get them fixed,” so they click the accompanying link, which then swings open the doors to their computer. Victims then pay to supposedly fix a problem that never existed in the first place.

Boom NC.com 12.12

What’s Your ‘Lie-Q’?

Ask Mr. Modem by Richard Sherman, Senior Wire

Chapel Hill Service League

Hit the Ground Running in 2013 by Slowing Down

Making a Diﬀerence in the Lives of Women and Children VoLUNTeerIsM by Kathleen Worrell

boom nc.com 12.12

by Teresa Ambord, Senior Wire

boom! bits

ost of us think of the new year as a time for a fresh start. We’re going to get in shape, eat better and clean out the garage. Before you buy the new jogging suit and toss out the Ding Dongs in favor of celery sticks, resolve to be wealthier in 2013. How do you do that? First, slow down and take a good, honest look at where your finances are and where they are headed. Here are several areas to consider. 1. What’s on your calendar for the year? Do you generally owe taxes in April? Planning to travel? Attend a wedding? Host the family at Thanksgiving? Those things cost money. Create an overall budget that can have you financially ready for each event so you’re not tempted to use credit cards at the last minute. And don’t forget to plan for cost increases. Also put away something for major expenses that you know are pending, like replacing the roof. 2. What’s not on your calendar? Also give some consideration to those inevitable unplanned expenses. The water heater, new tires, the doctor bill that wasn’t covered by insurance. Saving your credit card use for emergencies is a good idea. But if you can manage it, putting aside a few dollars into a cash reserve each month may allow you to avoid the unforgiving high cost of debt financing. 3. Where are your important papers? Make sure all of your insurance policies are easy to locate if a disaster—such as a ﬂood or fire—occurred. The time you have to file a claim may be limited. Someone else also needs to know in case you cannot be consulted. Do you have warranties on major items? The majority of extended warranties are never used because the policyholders cannot lay their hands on the papers when they need them. If you should lose your wallet or if you find you are the victim of identity theft, can you quickly determine who to contact? Keep a list of contact information for canceling credit cards and notifying your bank if necessary. 4. Are there expenses you can easily cut? It couldn’t hurt to take a look. For example, how much have you really watched the premium movie channels you signed up for last year? If you’re not watching them enough to make them worthwhile, find out if you can save money by eliminating them. On the other hand, you may be able to bundle services and save money. It’s worth a look. Phone service providers are in stiff competition. Can you get a better deal than you’ve got now? If you need to cut costs, consider getting a phone that is… just a phone. Or better still, a prepaid phone that makes controlling costs easier. 5. Is what you have too much, too big, too troublesome? If your house is stuffed full of items you don’t use, now is a good time to give away or sell what you don’t need. You might even consider downsizing your car and/or your house. Your car may be a gas hog. Your house may be an insurance and utility hog. Not to mention a bigger house requires more cleaning. 6. What’s in your portfolio? Don’t let the onslaught of bad news in the stock market make you bury your head in the sand. The people who do that are the ones at greatest risk, according to financial experts. Are the decisions you made last year still working for this stage in your life? Financial advisers can help, but there is also a lot of free help online. 7. Is your will up to date? Families change due to births, deaths, marriages, divorces. It is very common to forget to adjust your will for those changes, and the results can be harsh. Let family members in on the arrangements you’ve made for yourself in terms of “last wishes,” and plans such as the purchase of a burial plot. 8. Are you giving money to causes close to your heart? The economy has hit charities incredibly hard as donations have fallen off. If you are in the habit of making end-of-year gifts, you might consider switching to a plan of making 12 equal contributions throughout the year.

ormed in 1939, Chapel Hill Service League (CHSL) is a local volunteer organization aimed at helping the women and children of Chapel Hill and the surrounding area. With approximately 80 active members and 130+ sustaining and life members providing more than 6,000 hours of “womanpower” each year, the League is able to make a significant difference in the Chapel Hill community. In honor of its many contributions, Chapel Hill Service League received the Bill and Ida Friday Special Recognition Award in 1990 for “long-term commitment to the betterment of the quality of life in Chapel Hill and Carrboro.” Although an important cornerstone of the League, impacting the community is only one of its primary goals. The organization seeks to promote fellowship and contribute to each member’s personal development. A commitment to these goals is reﬂected in the League’s mission and vision: Vision: The Chapel Hill Service League is the premier women’s volunteer service organization. Mission: Our mission is recognition in the community as the leading women’s volunteer organization providing: • Service for the community • Personal growth for our diverse membership Chapel Hill Service League membership is open to women of all ages and backgrounds and recruitment efforts for new members begin each August. There are three areas of service within the League: Community Outreach, Fundraising, and Christmas House. Community Outreach As part of Community Outreach League members have the opportunity to collaborate with other organizations in the Chapel Hill-area while addressing the needs of the community. This year the League will partner with 14 area organizations to support their diverse projects: • A Helping Hand • Book Harvest • Caring House • Communities In Schools • Cornucopia House Dress for Success • Habitat for Humanity • IFC Homestart • NC Children’s Promise • Orange County Smart Start • Piedmont Health • Ronald McDonald House • SECU House • UNC Horizons

Fundraising Just completing its 9th year, the Southern Village 5K and Family Fun Run is the League’s major fundraising project. Each November, runners and families gather for a day of family activities, food, and fun. The 5K course (3.1 miles) is USATF certified and has been enthusiastically received and well attended by runners throughout North Carolina. Proceeds from the 5K and Fun Run help support Christmas House and other Chapel Hill Service League projects.

CHSL Members at the annual Christmas House event.

Christmas House In 1951, Chapel Hill Service League created the “Empty Stocking Fund” to provide holiday gifts for Chapel Hill-area families in need. This project was renamed “Christmas House” in 1961 and is now an annual event that provides coats, toys, and books to approximately 800 children in the Chapel Hill-Carrboro schools. Parents and guardians are invited to a one-day shopping event in early December where they have the opportunity to personally select gifts for their families. Although Christmas House is hosted and organized by Chapel Hill Service League, it is truly a community project which depends on many volunteers, community members, and businesses who donate goods and services to help make a local child’s holiday brighter. The Triangle community can participate by visiting the Chapel Hill Service League Wish Trees at local malls and other shopping areas. The Wish Trees will be decorated with paper ornaments that include information on the gender and age of a child in need. By selecting an ornament and purchasing a book or toy to place under a Wish Tree, members of the community help to provide holiday gifts to local families through Christmas House. For more information on the Chapel Hill Service League or Christmas House, visit www.chapelhillserviceleague.org, email info@ chapelhillserviceleague.org, or leave a message at 919.933.1141. Chapel Hill Service League New Member Coordinator and Publicity Chair Kathleen Worrell is also a board member for the organization.

2012

Alternative Gift Giving Guide Chamber of Commerce to find out where to get information about “shopping local.” I know Chapel Hill has a Shop Local initiative, and downtown Raleigh merchants have a similar organization. Turn a shopping day into an destination day! Wake Forest has The Cotton Company, a merchant cooperative; downtown Sanford has the best antique stores I have ever seen. If you are someone that respects personal endorsements, the Daily Grommet website (www.dailygrommet.com) may be the ticket for you. Daily Grommet is an on-line marketplace and video review site where consumers can learn about, share and buy inventive new products every day. Here are two items that I found particularly interesting: Piperoid Paper Robots are do-it-yourself kits. Kids and adults use their hands while stimulating their brains to build their Piperoid character built entirely out of paper, and they have moveable joints so you can put them in different poses while you are playing. No glue or tape needed, and some of the parts are interchangeable. Flameless Candles overcome the safety hazard of burning candles around children or pets and they look real! The discrete batteryoperated lights put out a glow that gently ﬂickers like a true ﬂame, and a blackened wick adds to the authenticity. You can even operate the candles wirelessly with a

s e t a C i f i t dea! r i t e a C e gr what a Gift nline. hased o c r u p e Can b

driving range x grill x pro shop x rentals x lessons 919.303.4653 x www.knightsplay.com x 2512 ten ten rd, apex

remote control, or you can use the timer, which programs the faux ﬂames to turn on for five hours. Turn your child or grandchild into a superhero! Custom artwork is created from your photos into any Marvel character of your choice. The Comics Factory (www.thecomicsfactory.com) is licensed to reproduce your favorite Marvel superhero into a personalized illustration of a loved one. Turn your nephew into Spiderman, your granddaughter into The Black Widow, or as a joke, put your bosses’ face on the body of The Incredible Hulk. The entire process takes about a week and can be done online.

music services such as Pandora®, iHeartRadio, and free Internet radio stations, shows and podcasts, Sonos is a music-lover’s dream. Sonos brings big HiFi sound in a compact size, with flexibility to stream a different song, station or playlist in every room. And no matter where you are, control the system directly with the free Sonos Controller apps. Right out of the movies comes the ground-breaking 3D motion-control and motion-sensing device from Leap Motion (www.leapmotion.com) that brings Minority Report technology to a Mac or PC computer. Leap is the only motion-control device to track all ten fingers independently, to 1/100 of a millimeter, so you can control your laptop or desktop computer with natural hand and finger movements. It is ready for basic computing tasks right out of the box like flicking a finger in the air to scroll through a website, or pinch-to-zoom to view a map. Show the teen in your life that you can be a geek, too! You can view a video demonstration here: youtube.com/ watch?v=_d6KuiuteIA Stop typing, start talking. Dragon Naturally Speaking software—for home or office—(www. nuance.com/dragon) eliminates the need

Technology If you know someone that is completely obsessed with their digital appendage, now you can stuff their iPads with unlimited access to over 70 publications. Next Issue (www.nextissue.com) is the first and only iPad app that provides users with unlimited and instant access to their favorite digital magazines for a single subscription price of just $9.99/ month (or $14.99/month for monthly and weekly titles). Here’s the cool part, a single Next Issue account can be shared across five iPads. The SONOS Wireless HiFi System (www. sonos.com) is the ultimate music gift. From ® Durham Garden CentertoB12-11 11/22/11 your iTunes library, your favorite

11:22 AM

Page 1

continued on page 

Gifts for the Garden and the Gardener!

919.384.7526 Find the perfect gift for “The Green Thumb” in your family! Can’t decide? Gift certificates are available.

Poinsettias and Christmas Cactus in Stock!

4536 Hillsborough Rd. Durham • www.durhamgardencenter.com

7 gift guide

y the time you read this, Black Friday has come and gone, but for those of us who tend to wait until December arrives before we begin shopping Boom! offers you our Alternative Gift Giving Guide, now in its tenth year. This 2012 edition should be better than ever. I will start by reminding everyone to support our performing arts groups, museums, and non-profits by thinking of them for gift ideas first. Theatre tickets and museum memberships (or shopping at the museum’s gift shop for unique ideas) are always thoughtful items, and you can support your favorite organization at the same time! Donating to a non-profit in someone’s name is always a “feel good” gesture. But do your homework—not all non-profits are created equal! Find out what percentage of their overall budget actually goes to helping someone versus paying overhead. If the executive director makes $500,000 a year or more, I would say look for another non-profit. Another movement that has come on strong in the past few years is the Buy Local or Buy USA Products wave. Since its inception in 1998 BuyDirectUSA.com has been on a mission of promoting Made in the USA products and services. This year, they have launched ChristmasMadeinUSA.com, a gift guide for consumers and businesses looking to purchase more products made in our country. Closer to home, check with your

boom nc.com 12.12

by GreG and Barbara Petty

boom nc.com 12.12

WE’RE WORTH A STOP!

gift guide

Give a

gift that matters.

DOWNTOWN SANFORD

invites you to take the time to SHOP at our antique and specialty stores, EXPERIENCE our pottery tradition, ATTEND a theatrical performance at the historic vaudeville “Temple Theatre”, DINE at one of the many fine restaurants, STROLL an architecturally significant downtown, and

Women fleeing domestic abuse have a safe place to escape and begin a brand-new life … Neighbors with no income or insurance are receiving lifesaving medical care … Struggling families have food to eat … Children are learning important skills to become truly great in life.

919.776.5823 DISCOVER THAT DOWNTOWN SANFORD IS

THE REAL THING.

www.downtownsanford.com

Your contribution gives true joy this holiday season!

United Way of Lee County 507 N. Steele Street Sanford, NC 27330

Destinaton Sanford Historic Downtown Sanford is a unique destination for your holiday shopping—just 45 minutes from Raleigh and 30 minutes from Pinehurst on U.S. 1. Antiques and one-of-a-kind artwork are plentiful, and you can enjoy shopping without holiday crowds. Browse, grab a meal, and stay to see the show at Temple Theatre!

leecountyunitedway.org

Over 70 artists featuring painting, photography, weaving, candles, barn wood art, jewelry, foods, and more. All handmade in the Carolina’s ~ 100% of each sale goes right back into the local economy!

148 S. Moore St. Sanford 919-776-3489 carolinaartiStScolony.coM

VOTED BEST COFFEE! Cappuccino Expresso Soups Salads Sandwiches Desserts

Silver • China • Vintage Clothing Mahogany • Oak • Deco • Retro • Toys Garden • Kitchen • Hardware • Crystal Oriental • Antique Jewelry • Linen Books • Magazines

120 S. Moore Street Sanford, NC 919.777.JAVA

Historic Downtown Sanford 118 South Moore Street, Sanford

919.775.1969 sanfordantiquemall.com

that plug right into your cigarette light sockets. Perfect for anyone on-the-go who wants to be able to pack snacks and lunches that need to be kept cool or warm. Available from PEAK Automotive Products (www.peakauto.com/electronics).

Food and Drink Seafood anyone? A

Christmas Crab Cake Package, shipped directly from the Kent Island Crab Cake plant on Chesapeake Bay (www.kentislandcrabcakes.com), can arrive on time for your Holiday meal if you order by December 19. Made from Blue Crab, these are “Maryland Style” crab cakes and are one of Oprah’s favorite foods (if that means anything to you…) Shipped in a reusable styrofoam container, they come frozen in dry ice and will keep up to six months. I’ve got my order in! Surprise a friend with a “spirited” gift. As we gather with friends and family this holiday, give the gift of fine spirits for those special toasts as we

Start the New Year off with unbiased information for all your insurance needs.

• • • • • • • •

Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments 24-hour nursing services Patio/Balcony Washer/Dryer Plus many more Full Kitchens amenities! Coffee Shop Movie Theater Spa

Call for our current specials! (919) 839-5604 | 501 E. Whitaker Mill Rd, Raleigh, NC | whitakerglen.com

Fourie Insurance B12-11 11/22/11 continued on page 10 10:27 AM

Happy Holidays from Fourie Insurance

We are newly renovated, and apartments are going fast!

boom nc.com 12.12

will appear on the screen instantly. Never worry about paying unexpected baggage fees again! With the demands of work and travel, many of us will find it diﬃcult to get home for the holidays to spend time with family and friends. The 2012 Skype Holiday Look Book (www.skypelookbook.com) contains a sampling of Skype-certified products which are perfect to “see” loved ones this holiday season and throughout the coming year. channel. The perfect traveling alarm clock! The Bedol Water Alarm Clock (www. bedolwhatsnext.com) is an eco-friendly, battery-free timepiece that is powered by water. Just fill with water and it never needs batteries or electricity. Inside of the semi-transparent water reservoir are proprietary metallic plates that allows ions in the water to be turned into current that powers the clock and alarm. Traveling on the road with small children? Here is a really great idea: Fridges and Electronic Cooler/Warmers

gift guide

is open-ended and indefinite. Sim houses to navigate menu options or type in key- and neighborhoods are entirely in one continuous map. The Sims 3 Seawords so users get more done sons Expansion Pack introduces faster. Just tell Dragon what to all-new activities, eventful seado, and it does it. Control applisonal festivals and celebrations, cations or edit and format text dramatic weather effects and using simple voice commands ® more, allowing players to translike “Open Microsoft Word,” form their Sims’ worlds with the “Show my photos,” or “Center change of each season and play the row.” Just say words and with life…and the weather (www. watch them appear on the comthesims.com/seasons). puter screen—three times faster than typing—with up to 99% accuracy. Dragon can learn the words you say every Travel This is a product I need! The last day, including acronyms and proper names. time Greg and I traveled, I was standing at It even gets to know you better over time the ticket counter frantically eliminating for increased recognition accuracy. At this five pounds from my bag to get under the weight limit. If I had the EatSmart Precitime, Dragon is available only for PCs. I have never been much of a gamer; sion Voyager Digital Luggage Scale (www.eathowever, The Sims 3 (the sequel to The smartproducts.com), I could have avoided this embarrassing situation. Sims 2, one of the biggest After clipping onto the video game franchises of handle of your suitcase or all time) has me intrigued. bag, the two handed design It is a strategic life simulaallows for easier lifting of tion computer game. Playeven the heaviest bags. ers control their own Sims When your scale registers in activities and relationthe weight, it will beep ships in a similar manner and your luggage weight to real life. The game play

Gift Guide continued from page 

• LONG-TERM CARE • MEDICARE SUPPLEMENTS • MEDICARE PART D • DISABILITY • LIFE AND HEALTH

FOURIE INSURANCE

51 Kilmayne Drive, # 305 Cary, NC 27511

919.481.1815

www.jfourie.com

boom nc.com 12.12

Gift Guide continued from page 

gift guide

all look back on 2012. Tequila seems to be in the spotlight in the last few years, and a number of outstanding distillers have come to light. Near the top of the exclusive list is Don Julio Tequilas. If you can spring for $350, their most exclusive offering is Tequila Don Julio Real from highly selected agave plants and distilled in an exclusive pot still that produces only three barrels per cycle. If that is too rich for your blood, their commemorative 60th anniversary tribute Tequila Don Julio 142—a silky smooth and rich ﬂavor for $125. Their blue agave Don Julio Blanco is offered at $45 and I can personally vouch for this fine tequila. Last but not least, for the Scotch drinkers in your life, consider a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue Label. It is a blend of the rarest and exceptional whiskies. Each bottle is individually numbered celebrating the skill of the Master Blender for $220. Walker’s Black Label is a signature blend of at least 40 whiskies from the House of Walker that are aged at least 12 years in oak casks— Superb at $34. Visit your local ABC store to see if these spirits are available. For the Italian food lover, how about a gift basket from Rao’s Specialty Foods (www.raos.com). Rao’s sauces are made from natural ingredients, including the highest quality Italian plum tomatoes and fresh vegetables. In addition to sauces, Rao’s offers a selection of dressings and marinades, extra virgin olive oil, Italian imported pastas as well as antipasti. Here are a couple of their most popular items: Rao’s Three-Pack Gift Box—A custom burgundy suede gift box featuring an assortment of three 24 oz. Rao’s sauce— Marinara, Cuore di Pomodoro and Italian Sausage & Mushroom. A Taste of Rao’s—Features a selection of Rao’s homemade products, including Marinara, Arrabbiata and Vodka sauces, assorted pastas, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, aged Balsamic Vinegar, Roasted Peppers with Pine Nuts, Roasted Peppers with Portobello Mushrooms, and Rao’s Original Cookbook.

Books Bob Garner’s Book of Barbecue, North

Carolina’s Favorite Food, published by John F. Blair Publisher (www.blairpub.com). As the long-time host of barbecue segments and other features for UNC-TV, Garner is considered to be North Carolina’s “Barbecue Man.” Since publishing North Carolina

Barbecue: Flavored by Time in 1966, Garner has continued to traverse the state and partake of this “delicacy” at great BBQ joints from the mountains to the coast. Included is the history of barbecue in North Carolina, recipes, reviews of more than 100 restaurants, and personal anecdotes. The Vegan Slow Cooker by Kathy Hester, published by Fair Winds Press (www. fairwindspress.com). As more and more people are turning to a diet based on plants, this book will show you how to create dishes that are fast and easy, delicious, and inexpensive. Chapters include slow-cooker basics, stocking your kitchen, and recipes for soups, stews, casseroles, pasta and grains, meatless main dishes and decadent desserts! It basically eliminates every excuse I have for not trying to eat healthier. Capturing Camelot by Kitty Kelley, published by St. Martins Press (us.macmillan. com/smp.aspx). Kelley has partnered with legendary photographer Stanley Tretick to capture a magical time in our nation’s history. Over 200 photographs, many of them never seen before, are included in this collector’s item. Accompanying the images are Kelley’s essays that trace the friendship between Tretick and JFK and his family, and brings to life an historical era of our country. Horses, The Ultimate Treasury by John Woodard and consultant Kim Bryan, published by DK Publishing (us.dk.com). For the horse lover in any family, this is a beautiful book. It is packed with information and stories that will educate, entertain and fascinate the reader. Topics include where the word “horsepower” comes from, the story of Seabiscuit, what makes a breed a breed, and why horns from the mystical unicorns were thought to have magical properties. The book also includes history, how-to information on keeping a pony, and the classes of horses. Someone in my family is going to be very happy! Give the creative tween or teen in your life a present that could inspire a future career. Conceived by Chapel Hill author Pamela Pease, books in the Design Dossier series from Paintbox Press (www.paintboxpress.com) introduce

young people to a variety of creative professions. They describe the seven-steps of innovation from idea to finished project, include Q&A with contemporary designers and architects, show timelines of 20th and 21st century design milestones, and suggest fun hands-on projects that get kids thinking and creating. Optical Illusions compiled by Fleur Stadesir, senior editor, Jemma Westing, designer and paper engineer and a host of other editors, published by DK Publishing (us.dk.com). This book is just fun! One look at the cover and I was intrigued, although a younger person will be entertained and educated. More than 50 eye-popping illusions that will fool your eyes and educate your brain. The reader is engaged by lifting tabs, turning disks and comparing sizes. And he or she will be challenged to create his or her own illusions!

Fitness, Health and Beauty This is a

new one… a wrinkle reducing pillowcase! It’s the copper in the Cupron Cosmetic Pillowcase (www.cupronsales.com) fabric that promotes the growth of collagen and elastin. It’s a satin pillowcase with a 270-thread count; very pleasurable to sleep on. Independent scientific trials confirm that most people see noticeable benefits to their skin within the first four weeks of everyday use, and the patented Cupron technology that is infused into the fibers stays active for the life of the product. A Talkabout® for your walkabout! The latest Motorola Talkabout MT30R Radios (www.Motorola. com) are ideal for use when you are out of cell phone range at the cabin, hunting, fishing, on the trail, camping, skiing, paddling and even at the park. They feature reliable two-way communications, up to a 35 mile range, ﬂashlight, hands-free capability, NOAA weather channels and best of all the design provides protection from wet weather conditions like snow and rain splashes, as well as dust. Keep your outdoor enthusiast safe!

Pets This holiday season don’t forget to light-up your four-legged friends with Dog-E-Glow™ dog leashes and collars (www. dogeglow.com), a great gift for animal lovers. These lighted dog collars and leashes are the ultimate accessory for canine safety and style. Long-lasting LED lights illuminate the entire length of the collars and leashes for maximum visibility at night. And, they’re also really cool! With one click you choose whether you want the lights to ﬂash or emit a steady glow that’s clearly visible up to 1,000 feet.

Stocking Stuffer /Miscellaneous Ideas

Music star 50 Cent apparently struggled like the rest of us with the quality of sound from his in-ear phones and also the fact that the earbud wires got hopelessly tangled whenever you took them off and put them somewhere. His solution is Street by 0 In-ear wired headphones by SMS (www.smsaudio.com). The earplugs are slightly tilted in order to fit into the left and right ear channels, and the sound is rich and full. Even better, the wires are ﬂat and almost never tangle. The result is superior sound with no hassle earplug lines. I love them and am already spoiled. If you want to hear your music at the beach or while traveling, here’s a stuffer to consider mixing the classic beauty of nature with the functionality of technology with the eco-friendly Japura Wood USB Portable Speaker (www.greatgiftsformen. com), made from 100% natural recycled woods. With a USB rechargeable lithiumion battery and a distinct carved zebra wood appearance, this portable speaker is the definition of cool. Give the gift of power for your devices anywhere and anytime with Duracell’s Instant USB Charger (www. Duracell.com). The Instant Charger is a Lithium-ion rechargeable battery designed to fit your mobile lifestyle. It

Give yourself the gift of beautiful legs. boom nc.com 12.12

Step up to a healthier and happier you with a consultation at Triangle Vein Clinic. We’re dedicated to the expert diagnosis and treatment of venous disorders, and have built a reputation as the Triangle’s first and most reliable resource for eliminating painful and unsightly veins and improving leg appearance. We offer several modalities for comprehensive management of venous disease, including the highly regarded VenefitTM Targeted Endovenous Therapy, formerly known as the VNUS Closure procedure. Don’t wait to discover just how good your legs can look and feel. Phone 919-851-5055 or hit TriangleVeins.com to book an appointment today.

11 gift guide

construction allows the user to use the juicer in the bottom for any citrus and to leave the then squeezed fruit to remain in the bottom of the cup. Just add fresh chilled water and you are soon consuming provides convenient, portable power for nature’s healthiest drinks. devices such as Blackberry’s, cell phones, iPhones and iPads. It provides up to 35 Not for the Stocking Ski season is here. hours of extra power once fully charged. Make your statement on the slopes with Have a cyclist in your family? Give unique one–of-a-kind skis and snowthem a Mako Ti Bike Tool (www.leather- boards from the mountain shredders of man.com) that will ease their mind Ramp Skis & Snowboards in Park City, Utah about having a roadside breakdown. The (www.rampsports.com). You have to see extremely lightweight and compact them to believe the creations Mako features nine essential tools for of these skiers, athletes, arta road or trailside fix to get you back ists, musicians and friends. Buy up and running in no time. Complete direct from the website as you with a bottle opener for the occacannot obtain them anywhere sional “road soda,” five metric box else. RAMP is transforming the wrenches and two spoke wrenches; way skis are manufactured. The this is the first bike tool that you won’t Park City, Utah, based company even notice in your pocket! uses a revolutionary process that Send someone in your family makes use of Earth-friendly, U.S. to Brain Bootcamp. Choose from an made materials to produce the assortment of calendars that aid in most technical products on the keeping the brain in shape. Choose market. Dude, check it out! from Jeopardy 2013, the New York Times Crossword Puzzles, Daily Brain Games Definitely Not a Stockand Will Shortz Presents Sudoku 2013. ing Stuffer Boom! is always on Obtain your favorites from Andrew the hunt for a one of a kind gift McMeel Universal Publishing (www. for the man or woman who has andrewsmcmeel.com). everything. Kind of our take on Tradition in the Petty Family has the Neiman-Marcus catalog always been to have a unique yearcover gift. For the true sports car dated ornament to hang on the tree enthusiast in your life, give the every year and we are now on our 30th year. gift of a Huet Brothers Coupe (www.hbcoupe. Hallmark offers a great selection at local com) The car is a handmade, by order only, stores and also online (www.hallmark. limited production car made in the Nethcom). This year we picked an ornament erlands. Only 40 of them will be produced that lets us slide in a current photo of all in 2014, so you need to submit your order the Pettys. It has snowﬂakes in it and says, now. It is a full-carbon monoco1ue struc“Our Family 2012.” Hallmark also offers ture weighing only 800 KG paired with a many other keepsake ornaments—how 170 HP 4 cylinder engine and a six-speed about Spider-Man or the Avengers for gearbox. This little tiger goes from zero to a movie fan in your life? They also have 100mph in under five seconds! Check out great recordable storybooks that Grandpa the classic lines. It comes in three models, and Grandma can record the story as they Classic Coupe, HB Coupe Road Racer and read along… When the pages are turned HB Coupe Race.(Cosworth 2.0 Litre, 4 cylby the grandchildren it is like they are inder, 255 HP) The car comes with modern right there reading it to them. comforts (leather, touchscreen entertainNow here is a new ment system, heated windows) and you can twist on having some- actually tune it yourself. The Classic and thing refreshing to drink Road Racer start from 67, 800 Euros and the that is good for you. Help Coupe Race from 78,500 Euros. someone you know get away from soft drinks or fruit juices loaded with sugar with a Zing Anything Citrus Zinger Water Bottle (www.zinganything. com). The bottle’s unique

115 Crescent Commons Drive, Ste. 200 Cary, North Carolina 27518

www.TriangleVeins.com

919-851-5055

FREE Sterling Silver Earrings.*

Even Santa Likes Free! Bring this coupon into National Pawn for your free earrings.* Great prices on Amazing Gifts. Guarantee on Everything We Sell.

PawnDeals.com

A+ Accredited 2011 National Pawnbroker of the Year

Raleigh • Durham • Wilmington * Earrings are cubic zirconia in sterling silver setting. One pair per customer, while supplies last. Not shown actual size. Boom

➻

Enjoy the experience of bathing!

Finally... Jacuzzi makes bathing safe and affordable again The Jacuzzi® Walk-In tub is luxurious, feature-packed and affordable

here is nothing like the simple pleasure of taking a warm bath. The cares of the day seem to fade away, along with the aches and pains of everyday life. Unfortunately for many aging Americans with mobility issues, slipping into a bath can result in slipping onto the floor. The fear of falling has made the simple act of bathing and its therapeutic benefits a thing of the past… until now. firstSTREET has partnered with Jacuzzi®, the company that perfected hydrotherapy. Together, they’ve created a walk-in tub that offers more than just safe bathing, peace-of-mind and independence, it can actually help you feel better. Unlike traditional bathtubs, our Jacuzzi® Walk-In Tub features a leakproof door that allows you to simply step into the tub rather than stepping precariously over the side. It features a state-of-the-art acrylic surface, a raised seat, and the controls are within easy reach. No other Walk-In Tub features the patented Jacuzzi® PointProTM jet system. These high-volume, low-pressure pumps feature a perfectly balanced water to air ratio to massage thoroughly yet gently. Some swirl, some spiral, some deliver large volumes of water and others target

specific pressure points. They are all arranged in precise locations designed to deliver a therapeutic massage, yet they are fully adjustable so that your bathing experience can be completely unique.

Jacuzzi® Other Brands SEE THE JACUZZI® DIFFERENCE

Laboratory tests clearly show how Jacuzzi® outperforms other manufacturers’ jet systems, producing a deeper and wider plume of revitalizing bubbles. Best of all, it doesn’t cost you a penny more!

Why spend another day wishing you could enjoy the luxury and pain-relieving benefits of a safe, comfortable bath? Call now and you’ll get an unsurpassed lifetime warranty. Knowledgeable product experts are standing by to help you learn more about this product. Call today!

What To Look For in a Walk-In Tub: Five major considerations to help make an informed decision before buying a Walk-In Tub: ➻ Quality - A walk-in tub is a major investment. You want to find a quality tub that will last for decades. Look for one that’s 100% leakproof, mold-resistant, full metal frame construction and one that’s American made. ➻ Warranty - Ask for a lifetime “no leak guarantee.” The best tubs offer a lifetime warranty on both the tub and the operating system. ➻ Pain Relieving Therapy - Find a tub that has both water and air jet therapy to soak away your aches and pains preferably with a perfectly balanced water to air mix. ➻ Comfort - Insist on ergonomic design, easy-to-reach controls. ➻ Endorsements - Only consider tubs that are ETL or UL listed. Also look for a tub tested to IAPMO (International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials) standards and that’s USPC (Universal Spa Plumbing Code) Certified.

New! • Jacuzzi® PointProTM Jet System • Low Threshold Step

Jacuzzi® Walk-In Tub Forinformation information call: call: For

1-888-743-0809 1-888-218-8570

CallCall now Toll-Free your now Toll-Freeand and mention mention your specialpromotion promotion code code 45836. special 45884. Third-party financing available with approved credit. Not Available in Hawaii and Alaska

80427

Boom NC.com 12.12

Technology Breakthrough

his is the final installment in our twelve part series discussing local, national and global developments in the areas of replacing energy production from fossil fuels, improving energy efficiency and reducing ecological effects on the earth. We began with a two-part review of The Third Industrial Revolution book by Jeremy Rifkin. This important work describes how lateral power can transform these three areas with renewable resources. It is a realization that top-down approaches to problem solving are not getting us where we need to be in light of climate change and ecological impacts that even today some elected officials refuse to admit exist. Superstorm Sandy should put an end to those denials forever. It is also a reiteration of the fact that individuals, actions by enlightened local and state leaders, businesses and energy producers can, and are now, making a difference. The revolution is going to have to be carried by these citizen and business coalitions because the entrenched oil and gas, nuclear and utility lobbies continue to largely hold sway over our elected officials. To read the full reviews of the book click these links: www.boomnc.com/archives/ the-three-es-energy-efficiency-and-ecology and www.boomnc.com/archives/gregs-corner/ energy-efficiency-and-ecology-part-two. The article below comes from Euromed USA whose CEO, Joe Veilleux, discusses their efforts converting a factory to international green standards. This is exactly the kind of enlightened leadership I refer to above. The Triangle has many firms that are doing what they can to support sustainable living. Two examples are Larry’s Beans and the Dorcas Shop in Cary. They understand that “green” is good for business. We also have exciting research and activity in NC around biofuels, smart grid, transportation alternatives, solar and wind energy. We are on the right path but we must be vigiThe Euromed building in Barcelona. lant that the Governor and our legislators continue to provide funds and support for all of the renewable and efficiency projects. We should not be too reliant on federal funding—let’s move forward on our own initiatives.

Our citizens support them. Transit initiatives are at a standstill in Wake County because the Commissioners have refused to put the plans and the ½ cent sales tax on the ballot. The citizens of Wake County deserve the opportunity to vote on the tax ASAP. Orange and Durham counties have already passed their initiatives but will not proceed without Wake. Going ‘Green’ is Good for Business, Exec Says

tips For companies tryinG to clean up their act Despite pressing economic worries, the environment remains a top concern for consumers the world over. And that means environmentallyfriendly business practices are as necessary for the bottom line as they are for the planet, says Joe Veilleux, president of Euromed USA. (www.euromedusa.com) “Being a producer of natural ingredients for pharmaceuticals and health supplements, we’ve always held environmentalism as a major company value,” says Veilleux, a registered pharmacist. “We’re glad to see that, even when people face unemployment and other economic hardships, they’re still committed to green practices.” Recent polls, including BCG’s annual International Global Green Consumer Surveys taken throughout the recession, reveal an unwavering commitment to environmentalism, he says. “Even at the height of the recession in 2008 and 2009, more than a third of consumers said they were willing to pay a little more for products that are better for the environment,” Veilleux says. “A majority said they consider a company’s environmental credentials when making purchasing decisions.” Euromed recently earned “green” ISO 14001 certification for its Barcelona factory by meeting stringent criteria established by the world International Standardization Organization, which sets standards for sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. “In the five-year process of re-engineering our factory to meet the ISO 14001 criteria, we learned a lot that can benefit other companies,” Veilleux says. “Some of the steps we took cost little to nothing; others were, frankly, expensive. But all companies today need to be aware that consumers are looking at what they’re doing to—and for—the planet, and they’re making buying decisions based on that.” These are some of the initiatives undertaken at Euromed Barcelona:

• Recycling biomass—the company’s manufacturing waste product. We’ve found different ways to recycle the post-extraction biomass, depending on the product involved, Veilleux says. “Much of the residue is sent to companies that specialize in creating bio-gas—specifically, methane, which is used to generate power,” he explained. “However, the residue left from milk thistle has such a high nutritional value, it’s actually used to feed farm animals. We ship the waste product to a company that dries it out and cleans it before it’s added to feed for pigs, chickens, cows, and the like.” The biomass is given away for free, he adds. • Wood pallets become compost. At Euromed, wooden pallets are reused until they can’t be used any longer. “At that point, they’re sent to recycling facilities, which use them in composting products,” Veilleux says. This step was easily accomplished by working through waste management companies. • Printer toners get refilled. Empty toner cartridges are shipped to the company’s supplier, where they’re recharged and returned for use. If not for recycling, the toner cartridges would be deposited in landfills. • Cleaner air and water. The company purchased new equipment to accomplish these goals, including on-site wastewater treatment and water purification plants, and equipment to decrease atmospheric emissions. All totaled, Euromed spent $1 million to $2 million to upgrade its factory. It was money well spent, Veilleux reﬂects. “We’re excited about the certification because it verifies that we’re one of the world’s leaders in environmentally friendly production,” he says. “That’s very important to us—we rely on plants, the Earth’s natural, renewable resources, not only for our business but for our personal health. “We have a special interest in making everyone aware of how vital it is that we all take steps to prevent environmental damage.” Comment online at BoomNC.com .

13 boom! bits

THe THree es by GreG Petty and Joe VeilleuX, CEO oF Euromed

boom nc.com 12.12

Going Green

The Sock Monkey: Sharing Holidays Past

‘Twas the Night

by CJ Golden, Senior Wire

rUMINATIoNs by Don Briscar

boom nc.com 12.12

boom! bits

n 1982, I came across a series of essays from the Associated Press wire and all stories related to the Christmas season. The authors are unknown, but I want to share one of my favorites with the readers of Boom! Magazine. One of the most beloved of all the Christmas stories began on a cold winter’s night in New York City in 1822… It was December and the snow fell around the runners of the big black sleigh moving through the streets of the city. Wind whipped around the hunched figures of two men as the sleigh hissed along. The two men were Dr. Clement Moore and his Old Dutch handyman, Peter. Moore was tired, dead tired. He had been all over midManhattan since early afternoon, delivering Christmas presents to neighbors and friends. Daylight was gone now and Dr. Moore was anxious to be home. He was uneasy about his arrival home, too. His wife had planned a Christmas party for that evening and Moore had rashly promised his three children that he would entertain at the party with a little poem for the holiday. Moore was sorry he had made the promise as Christmas poems were not really in his line. Dr. Moore was a scholar, a professor of Oriental languages at the General Theological Seminary of New York. Yes, scholarship was more to his taste. As for the Christmas poems, well, perhaps he would disappoint them. Moore looked at Peter, seated beside him in the sleigh. Peter had just let out a great sneeze and his broad face and round body shook with the effort. Peter’s nose had turned cherry red from the cold. His soft beard was white as snow. He dabbed his nose. Then gestured toward the sky, “A cold night”, he said, “Yes—but a fine one” Moore looked up. Peter was right. A full moon was out, bathing the trees and the snow-covered road in light. “The moon on the breast of the new fallen snow… Gave the luster of midday objects below” Part of a poem, anyway. And with a kind of grumpy satisfaction, Moore filed it away in his memory. He watched as Peter whistled, then shouted to the horse. The sleigh flew swiftly over the winter snow, but Moore thought not fast enough. If they could only fly through the air pulled by some strange creatures of winter. Reindeer would be wonderful, eight strong reindeer. Then, thought Moore, Peter “would spring to his sleigh to his team give a whistle…and away they would fly like---what? Like, yes “the down of a thistle.” A mad dream, particularly since the sleigh seemed not to be going faster, but slower. Peter stopped to adjust a harness and as he did so, Moore saw in the old man’s face sensed all goodness and warmth of Christmas and so, working with Peter as his model Moore labored over his poem all the way home…When he reached his house he went into the study and put it down in pen and ink. It was nothing really, just a bit of doggerel. But Moore was certain the children would enjoy it that evening. He was right. As he read the simple poem that night, the eyes of each child shone like the lights of the nearby Christmas tree, but what Clement Moore didn’t know that night so long ago was that his simple poem was destined for children yet unborn. Children who would always listen with wide-eyed rapture whenever the opening lines were spoken… “Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.” Don Briscar is director at the Holly Springs Cultural Center and a freelance writer. His series of stories appearing in Boom! are excerpted from his book. dbriscar@nc.rr.com

here is definitely magic in the air on December 25th. Whether or not one celebrates the miracle of Christmas, there is no denying that this day holds something special—a day to bring families and friends together; a day to share good food and cheer; and, most special of all, a day to remember Christmases of years past. And that is just what occurred last year when I spent Christmas with my children and grandkids. All because of a sock monkey. Let me explain: While riﬂing through holiday catalogues last year in search of suitable gifts for my friends and family members, I noticed the resurgence of the once ubiquitous sock monkey. These charming little creatures had first appeared in the early 1900s when several very ingenious and talented women started fashioning Rockford Red Heel work socks into monkey dolls for their children. The fad caught on and in short order children around the country began toting their own sock monkey dolls, each with its own personal touches and characteristics. They were totally charming, soft, cuddly and a favorite of many children—myself included. And then they disappeared, going the way of Gumby and Pokey, Mr. Bill and Mr. Potato Head. Yet there they were again in my gift catalogues, the appealing little dolls in an assortment of colors and sizes, replicas embroidered onto cuddly lap blankets, and fashioned into scarves, winter hats and slippers. They were, indeed, the perfect gift for two of my friends, gals who I knew would enjoy the whimsy of these items and would be able to recall their own sock monkey dolls from their childhood. I thought I had found something extremely special and unique. Well, they might have been special, but they certainly were not unique. It wasn’t long before I started spotting adults and teens alike wearing all manner of sock monkey paraphernalia. And in seeing this amazing resurgence I recognized that this was a gift my grandchildren would appreciate, as well. I hadn’t realized, however, the profound significance of sharing this little guy with the children.

Gearing up for my Christmas Eve overnight stay with my husband and daughter Donna at another of our kids’ house, I knew I wanted to appear on Christmas morning in a unique pair of pajamas; it is fun to be the “outrageous” grandmother and I work hard at keeping up that appearance. Locating sock monkey pajamas and slippersocks online, I eagerly ordered them for myself and Donna. And then got smaller versions of the socks for each of the grandchildren. It was Donna who took it a step further; she Googled the Rockford Red Heel site and ordered two pairs of socks with instructions for us to make our own sock monkey dolls. Much to my pleasure, the kids were quite amused when Donna and I appeared in our pajamas and slippers. Even more exciting was their delight at receiving their own pairs of sock monkey foot wear. The pièce de résistance came when Donna produced the sock monkey kits and we proceeded to spend much of the morning making these personable little dolls, complete with the hair color, button eyes and hats of the kid’s choices. And, thus, this charming little fellow, having been reborn, gave to my family’s newest generation the same great pleasure he had given to me so many years ago when I was a child. It is always great fun to revisit my own childhood through a toy that had once brought me such joy. And it is quite amusing to see this affable little fellow sitting atop heads and being wrapped around jackets as he keeps people warm in such a jocular manner. But mostly, the thrill I get from seeing the rebirth of the sock monkey is in sharing a piece of my childhood with my children and grandchildren. They understand that in their sock monkey items they are experiencing a bit of the young girl Grams was so many years ago. And it brings us just a little closer together. And that is what holidays are all about— bridging the years and bringing the generations together.

Season’s greetings and best wishes from all of us at Boom! Magazine.

AUToMode by John DicKerson and John KehlenbecK

amborghinis are Italian. Ferraris are Italian. And so is the $16,000 Fiat 500, now available at your local Chrysler or Dodge dealership. Of course, the Fiat 500 isn’t as fast as its Ferrari cousins, but it does turn heads. And it offers more interior space, better reliability and incredible fuel economy—about 40 miles per gallon on the highway.

pounds, that’s enough power for average driving. More importantly, that small engine only drinks one gallon of gas for every 40 miles on the highway. City driving lands at about 30 mpg. Those wishing for more power and acceleration can upgrade to the 500 Abarth, which produces 160 horsepower and radically enhances the driving experience. With either engine option, Fiat 500 owners will find that this tiny cars handles with Italian excellence. And you won’t drive a car that’s easier to park or maneuver. Today’s small cars are engineered for safety, and the Fiat 500 is no exception. It comes standard with an army of safety features including vehicle stability control, traction control, brake distribution, and a host of airbags protecting driver and passengers. To top it off, the 500 recently received a five star crash test rating for front impact. Fiat has been building the 500 for decades. This particular incarnation of the 500 was selling well in Europe back when Americans were happily buying gas for $1 a gallon. That established, timetested expertise of small car design shows in every detail of the 500. Any small car shopper would do well to give the Fiat 500 serious consideration—and a test drive.

As gas prices remain stubbornly high, auto manufacturers are improving gas mileage across all makes and models. Buyer demand for better fuel economy has ignited a new genre of micro cars— tiny cars that make a Mini Cooper look bloated. Among these small cars, many are zippy and inexpensive, but no others are Italian or beautiful. Enter the Fiat 500, a car that brings beauty and mystique to economical buyers. Drivers who embrace the new ultracompact normal will be rewarded with © 2012 John Dickerson, Horsepower Auto Reviews stares and very infrequent trips to the pump. Shorter and narrower than the Mini Cooper, the Fiat 500 defines what a great  Fiat  POP looking ultra-compact can look and feel like for this emerging market. Personality: A tiny car that gets big looks Like many of the best tiny cars, the Fiat Best Gizmo: Its good looks and Italian feels large inside. The 500’s gorgeous stylphysique ing sets it apart from Toyota, Honda and MPG (as tested): 40 mpg highway/28 Nissan competitors. This is particularly mpg city true inside, where the 500’s dashboard and Most Annoying Feature: A larger high quality materials offer a more luxuHyundai Elantra gets similar gas rious feel and attractive look than other mileage. small cars. Given its tiny dimensions, I was How Much: $16,000 particularly impressed with the 500’s back Competition: Scion iQ , Ford Fiesta, seat comfort for adult passengers—at least Nissan Versa, Mazda 2, Mini Cooper, for brief trips across town. Toyota Yaris, Honda Fit Under the hood, the Fiat offers very Performance: 0-60 in 9.2 seconds little horsepower. Its tiny 1.4-liter engine How fast is that? That is the slowest is central to an old school strategy for gas vehicle we’ve tested in more than mileage. The 500 generates only 101 horsethree years. power, but with a curb weight of just 2,363

he first study to compare accident rates for drivers who have advanced glaucoma—an eye disease that affects peripheral vision—with normal-vision drivers, found that the glaucoma group had about twice as many accidents. This study, which was conducted in Japan using a driving simulator, suggests that potential drivers should pass a visual field test to ensure adequate peripheral vision before a license is granted or renewed. The research was presented at the 116th Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology in November, jointly conducted this year with the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology. Glaucoma, which is an age-related eye disease, can partially or severely restrict a person’s peripheral vision, without damaging their central vision or visual acuity. This means that many people who have the disease would be able to pass the vision test now required for a driver’s license in most countries, known as the visual acuity test. Drivers need good peripheral vision in order to assess and keep up with the flow of traffic, stay in the proper lane, and detect stoplights, pedestrians, vehicles and other obstacles. In this study, which was conducted at Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, in Sendai, Japan, two groups of 36 people each were tested using a driving simulator. People in group one had advanced glaucoma and those in group two had normal vision. The groups were matched for age, driving experience and other characteristics. The most common accident scenario for both the glaucoma and normal-vision groups was when a child, car, or other object suddenly entered the driver’s path from the side. The glaucoma group, however, had more than twice as many collisions as the normal-vision group. Glaucoma affects more than 2.7 million Americans age 40 and older. It is the second leading cause of blindness worldwide. If untreated, glaucoma reduces peripheral vision and eventually causes blindness by damaging the optic nerve. This essential nerve sends signals from the retina—a layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye—to the brain, where these signals are interpreted as the images people see. Only half of the people who have glaucoma are aware of it, since the disease is painless and vision loss is very gradual. As populations grow older worldwide, health officials are exploring measures that will ensure safety on the roads. For instance, in the United States, visual field requirements vary from state to state with 12 of the 51 jurisdictions restricting licenses for those with visual impairments. Some states or territories require the installation of additional mirrors on the vehicles of these drivers. “To help ensure everyone’s safety on our roadways, we would like to create mandatory vision testing guidelines for glaucoma patients,” said Shiho Kunimatsu-Sanuki, M.D., lead researcher on the study. “We now know that integrating the visual field test into the requirements for a driver’s license could save lives.” With proper medical care, many people with glaucoma can maintain a level of vision that would enable safe driving. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that everyone have a complete eye exam at age 40, so that glaucoma and other age-related eye diseases can be diagnosed and treated early to minimize vision loss.

About the American Academy of Ophthalmology : The American Academy of Ophthalmology is the world’s largest association of eye physicians and surgeons with more than 32,000 members worldwide. Eye health care is provided by the three “O’s”—ophthalmologists, optometrists, and opticians. It is the ophthalmologist, or Eye MD, who can treat it all: eye diseases, infections and injuries, and perform eye surgery. For more information, visit www.aao.org The Academy’s EyeSmart® program educates the public about the importance of eye health and empowers them to preserve healthy vision. EyeSmart provides the most trusted and medically accurate information about eye diseases, conditions and injuries. OjosSanos™ is the Spanish-language version of the program. Visit www.geteyesmart.org or www.ojossanos.org to learn more.

boom nc.com 12.12

Submitted by the American Academy oF OphthalmoloGy

Italy’s Fiat  Invades the Micro Car Market

15 boom! bits

Good Things: Small Package

Glaucoma-Related Vision Loss May Increase Risk for Auto Accidents

Estate Planning 101: Planning for Heirs by Gerald Townsend, Financial Editor

boom nc.com 12.12

There is a bumper sticker I’ve sometimes seen on cars that says, “I’m spending my children’s inheritance,” and like most humorous sayings there is also a ring of truth in it. Some folks have no desire, nor any plans, to leave any inheritance for family. In fact, I’ve counseled older clients that one of the best gifts they can bestow on their adult children is the knowledge that the parent’s finances are in good shape and will be suﬃcient to see them through their lifetime—so the kids don’t need to fret about Mom and Dad. Still, most people like the idea of leaving something for their family, and unless your goal is to die broke, you certainly hope assets remain at your death. Whether you like it or not, you need to plan for your heirs. One of the goals in planning for heirs is to minimize the likelihood of conﬂict, resentment and jealousy among family. Did you help one child much more financially than their siblings? Did you have a problem child that needed more family resources and time? Does one of your adult 4:54 children have 1physical, mental, 4/24/10 PM Page

his is the final article in our year-long “Estate Planning 101” series on the basics of estate planning. Over the past year, we’ve discussed wills, trusts, probate, powers of attorney, advanced care directives and tax issues. On the www.boomnc. com website, you can find previous articles in this series, as well as our prior “101” series on Tax Planning, Financial Planning, and Investment Management.

live smar t

Eagen Financial Assistance #1r

Do you qualify for financial assistance for nursing home care?

might have on your child or grandchild. Another heir might work in a high-risk occupation or be struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. The worries are endless. If you are married, providing for and protecting assets for your surviving spouse is probably your biggest concern. Will your spouse be capable of making financial decisions? What about in ten years? How can you best protect an elderly surviving spouse from financial predators? Ultimately, we cannot “rule from the grave,” and we all know that life’s road has many unusual and unpredictable twists and turns. There is no way to anticipate or prevent every risk. Still, the decisions you make about what you leave your family and how you leave it might impact them for many generations, so take the time to plan it well. Gerald A. Townsend, CPA/PFS/ABV, CFP®, CFA®, CMT is president of Townsend Asset Management Corp., a registered investment advisory firm. Email: Gerald@AssetMgr.com Comment online at BoomNC.com .

The Seniors Real Estate Specialist in Chapel Hill

Eagen & Eagen

Elder Law Attorneys • (919) 490-1900 • Wills and Trusts • Medicaid • VA Benefits • Probate • Living Wills • Powers of Attorney • Healthcare Powers of Attorney Over 60 Years of Combined Legal Experience

emotional, financial or marital issues that require you to treat them differently in your estate planning? Deep-seated feelings that simmered just below the surface for years may suddenly erupt in anger and accusations after your death, resulting in a permanently divided family. Even in the best of families, disagreements and misunderstandings arise about money. Sometimes there is nothing you can do, but, assuming your goal is to ultimately treat heirs “fairly,” I believe that early discussions and communication of what you are doing and why you are doing it will help in preventing, or at least minimizing, future conﬂicts. Another goal in planning for heirs is to protect them from future problems— and problems come from many directions. You may have heirs that are still minors and therefore need someone such as a trustee to manage their finances. Of course, heirs may be adults in age, but very immature and naïve about financial matters, and still need to be protected— from themselves. You may worry about the negative impact that someone else

Tom and Elizabeth Eagen

If financial information is what gets you out of bed in the morning, then you need to visit

Eagen & Eagen • 4 Consultant Place • Durham, NC 27707

www.eagenandeagen.com

boomnc.com Tony Hall A Registered Investment Advisor www.AssetMgr.com

Gerald A. Townsend, Certified Public Accountant

Personal Financial Specialist Accredited in Business Valuation

Chartered Financial Analyst

Send email request to Eric@assetmgr.com For a free copy of our “Be Prepared” ebook.

CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER

Chartered Market Technician

5120 Bur Oak Circle, Raleigh, NC (919) 782-9689

Gerald@AssetMgr.com

Residential Real Estate 311 W. Rosemary Street Chapel Hill, NC 27516

919.933.8500 • 800.382.0673 tonyhall@tonyhallassociates.com www.tonyhallassociates.com

and click on the Live Smart section. Our financial writers can’t help the stock market, but they can show you optimal tips for financial planning, cash flow and budgeting, even tips for speaking with your children about money!

he holidays are here, but given the current state of affairs in our tax system, instead of enjoying a classic movie like It’s a Wonderful Life, we are all watching reruns of How the Grinch Stole Christmas! As I thought about what to say on the subject of year-end financial and tax planning, I considered having a very short article, with just a big question mark on the page, because unfortunately that’s where we are. I cannot recall a time when we are not only clueless about next year’s tax law, we don’t even know how some of this year’s tax calculations will work! Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke coined the term “fiscal cliff” to describe the combined impact on the U.S. economy of spending cuts and tax increases that are scheduled to happen in 2013. No one knows whether the politicians will find a compromise prior to year-end or whether they end up picking up the pieces next year, after we fall off the cliff. Even in this murky fog, we must still make decisions.

Tax Rates Versus Tax Revenue With the expiration of the “Bush Tax Cuts,” tax rates are scheduled to rise in 2013, but this is what Congress and the White House are currently fighting about. The Republicancontrolled House wants to keep rates from rising on anyone, while the White House only wants to retain today’s rates for people earning less than a threshold amount. How will this battle play out? Your tax rate probably will not go up in 2013, but you might pay more taxes. Huh? That sounds like a contradiction, but it’s not. First of all, even if tax rates increase on high-earning individuals, most of us will not fall into that category. However, tax revenue (to the government) is determined by multiplying your tax rate by your taxable income. Even if you keep the rate the same, you can increase the tax revenue just by reducing deductions, which raises your taxable income. So, the bottom line is that more dollars will be leaving your wallet and headed to Washington next year. Capital Gains and Dividends While much

of the tax debate is about what the “highest” tax bracket should be, an important topic for investors is how capital gains and dividends will be taxed. Currently, long-term capital gains and “qualified” dividends benefit from a maximum federal rate of 15 percent. In 2013, the maximum rate on gains rises to 20 percent and dividends receive no special treatment, so they are subject to ordinary income rates. For some taxpayers, this change is significant and may warrant selling some appreciated assets in 2012 in order to lock in more favorable taxation. Still, I believe you need to be cautious about making big sales of investments and paying more in 2012 taxes due to a fear of what 2013 taxes might be. You should always make an investment decision first. Don’t let the “tax tail” wag the “investment dog.” Alternative Minimum Tax More and more taxpayers now find themselves trapped each year by the dreaded “Alternative Minimum Tax” (AMT). For the past several years, at the last minute, Congress has passed a “patch” to keep the

AMT exemption from dropping and snaring even more of us. Will we see another patch that will apply for 2012 taxes? Who knows? Other Taxes & Changes There are other taxes headed our way in 2013, including 0.9 percent Medicare tax on the “earned” income (wages) of high-earners as well as a 3.8 percent Medicare contribution tax on the investment income of higher-income taxpayers. Next year will also see a return to phase-outs of personal exemptions and itemized deductions and reductions in educational and child-related credits. The changes coming are too numerous, too detailed, and too confusing to be adequately addressed here, and we don’t know how they might be changed by the actions— or inactions—of Congress and the White House. My advice is to pay close attention to what develops and then to get some good advice from a qualified professional. Gerald A. Townsend, CPA/PFS/ABV, CFP®, CFA®, CMT is president of Townsend Asset Management Corp., a registered investment advisory firm. Email: Gerald@AssetMgr.com

17 live smar t

boom nc.com 12.12

Year-End Financial and Tax Planning by Gerald Townsend, Financial Editor

boom nc.com 12.12

Marci’s Medicare Answers

live smar t

✍ Dear Marci, I heard Medicare covers preventive services. Does Medicare cover HIV screenings? ~ Denise Dear Denise, Yes, Medicare covers HIV screenings. HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks the body’s immune system and may eventually lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). The HIV lab test screening is covered in full for an individual with Medicare once every year, if he/ she asks the provider for it. The screening is also covered in full up to three times a year for pregnant women. The screening is performed as a lab blood test and must be prescribed by your doctor or health care provider. Starting in 2012, Medicare private health plans, also known as Medicare Advantage plans, cover all preventive services in the same way as Original Medicare does. Medicare Advantage plans are not allowed to charge cost-sharing fees (i.e. copayments, coinsurances, and deductibles) for yearly HIV screenings. However, you will most likely need to see an in-network doctor in order for your plan to cover the full cost of the screening. Check with your plan to see what rules apply.

Keep in mind that anyone with Medicare can ask for the HIV screening test and receive it at no cost, but it is especially recommended that people at high risk for HIV be screened. ~ Marci ✍ Dear Marci, I received a notice from my Medicare Advantage plan saying that it will no longer be offered in 2013. What are my options? ~ Scarlet Dear Scarlet, Your plan should notify you if it’s leaving the Medicare program and ending at the end of this year. Since your plan is ending, you can choose your Medicare coverage for the upcoming year. If you want Original Medicare in 2013, you will be automatically enrolled and your coverage will begin on January 1, 2013. You may sign up for a Medigap plan (a supplemental policy that helps pay for gaps in Original Medicare coverage) from October 2, 2012 to March 4, 2013, if you are 65 years or older. During this time, federal law gives people 65 or older the right to buy a Medigap policy and insurers cannot impose a waiting period on pre-existing conditions. Some states are more generous with their Medigap laws and may offer these protections to people under 65. Contact your

Ron Heath

Reverse Mortgage Consultant Office: 919.882.5104 Cell: 919.412.0686 ron.heath@townebankmortgage.com

NMLS#450503

State Department of Insurance or State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) [In North Carolina, our program is called Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)] to learn more about Medigap rules in your state. In addition, if you choose to be covered by Original Medicare in 2013, you can sign up for a stand-alone Part D prescription drug plan until February 28, 2013. However, you should try to sign up for a Part D plan by the end of this year so that you have prescription drug coverage effective January 1, 2013. If you wait until January or February to sign up for a Part D plan, your coverage will start the first of the following month after you enroll, and you may experience gaps in coverage. If you want to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan instead of Original Medicare, you can sign up for a new plan until February 28, 2013. However, it’s best to sign up for a new plan by the end of the year, so you can get coverage beginning January 1, 2013. If you wait until January or February to enroll in the new plan, your coverage will start the first of the month after you enroll. You will have Original Medicare with no

You Can Have Freedom & Flexibility With A Reverse Mortgage Call One of Our Specialists Today For More Information

drug coverage until your selected Medicare Advantage plan coverage starts. ~ Marci ✍ Dear Marci, I have Extra Help. I spoke to someone from Social Security who told me that I am enrolled in a benchmark Part D plan. What is a benchmark Part D plan? ~ Mitchell Dear Mitchell, Extra Help is the federal assistance program that helps people with Medicare with limited incomes pay for their prescription drug costs. If you have Extra Help, you may be automatically enrolled into a benchmark Part D plan. Extra Help will pay up to the federal benchmark amount on a Medicare Part D plan premium (the amount that you pay each month to have coverage). If you have Extra Help and you are enrolled in a benchmark Part D plan, Extra Help pays the entire cost of your Part D premium. Keep in mind that you can have Extra Help and choose a Part D plan above the benchmark amount. However, you will most likely have to pay the remaining cost that Extra Help does not cover (i.e. any amount above the benchmark amount). ~ Marci Marci’s Medicare Answers is a service of the Medicare Rights Center (www.medicarerights.org), a source of information for people with Medicare.

Lance Canada

Reverse Mortgage Consultant Office: 919.882.5108 Cell: 919.395.2225 lance.canada@townebankmortgage.com

NMLS#448781

Evergreen Construction Company, the Triangle’s leading management company that provides affordable age-restricted housing, is now accepting applications for their one- and two-bedroom apartment homes

Evergreen raises the industry standards for quality, value, style and livability. • Wall-to-wall carpet • Laundry facilities • Computer center in most communities • Library • Community room • Exercise room in most communities • TV and lounge area • Planned activities • 24-hour maintenance • On-site management • Mini-blinds • Water, sewer and trash included • Frost-free refrigerator • Pets welcome! (up to 25lbs)

Western Triangle Locations Berkeley Spring Meadow Spring

Weatherstone Windsor Spring Spring 6219 Hunter St.

Terrace Spring

5521 Dixon Dr. Raleigh, NC 27609

190 Fieldspring Ln. 4000 St. James Church Rd. Raleigh, NC 27612 Raleigh, NC 27606 Raleigh, NC 27604 200 Weather Ridge Ln. (919) 791-1000 Cary, NC 27513 (919) 233-0084 (919) 871-5773

(Off of Millbrook and close to Six Forks Rd.)

(Just off of Buck Jones (Between Louisburg Rd. and Rd. close to Crossroads Buffaloe Rd.) Shopping Center)

(919) 786-1106

(919) 469-5445 (Near Maynard and High House)

(Near Lynn Rd. and Creedmoor Rd.)

Must be 55 or older. Certain income limits apply. For more information visit www.evergreenconstructionco.com

boom nc.com 12.12

Not Just a Place to Live, but a Place to Start Living!

Five Points B03 2012 R2

2/27/12

10:53 AM

Page 1

boom nc.com 12.12

APPROXIMATELY 37,000 PEOPLE IN THE US ALONE WILL BE DIAGNOSED WITH ORAL CANCER IN 2012.

live well

ORAL CANCER most often occurs in people over the age of 40 and affects twice as many men as women. The disease kills one person every hour. 75% of oral cancers are related to tobacco or alcohol use... or both. However, the fastest growing segment of oral cancer sufferers are people with the HPV virus. Recent studies shows that certain types of high-risk HPV cause cancers of the mouth and throat areas, not just cervical cancer. The good news is most oral cancer is highly preventable. There are five simple steps you can take to minimize your risk: 1. Do not use tobacco products – in any form. 2. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. 3. Use lip balm that contains sunscreen. Sores on mucous membrane of inner cheek and gum. 4. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. 5. Have an Oral Cancer Exam regularly. It is important to find oral cancer as early as possible when it can be treated more successfully.

DR. STEVEN ANDREAUS AT FIVE POINTS CENTER FOR AESTHETIC DENTISTRY cares about more than just your dental health. He has a significant

interest and focus in your overall health. In fact, Dr. Andreaus includes a complete oral cancer exam with every annual visit. He uses the ViziLite® Plus in his screenings because the light source improves the doctor’s ability to identify abnormalities, even below the surface and not seen with the naked eye. Additionally, Dr. Andreaus will provide HPV/DNA testing based on certain risk factors. In addition to their regular patients, Five Points Center for Aesthetic Dentistry will perform Vizilite Oral Cancer Exams for individuals with another provider who does not offer these services. Choosing a dentist who will partner with you in maintaining your overall health is a wonderful step towards a healthier you. Call today to set up your initial consultation, dental exam or oral cancer exam. Dr. Andreaus and his team of professionals will arm you with valuable tools and information for a healthier you!

FIVE POINTS CENTER FOR AESTHETIC DENTISTRY steven b. andreaus, dds 1637 Glenwood Avenue Raleigh, NC 27608 info@GoAskDrA.com

www.drandreaus.com

919-546-9011

Oral Chemotherapy— Usage and Risks by Mendy Moody, R.N., M.S.N., O.C.N.

hile the traditional method of administering chemotherapy as an infusion in the physician’s oﬃce is still widely used to treat cancer, more and more cancers are being treated or controlled with the use of oral chemotherapy and targeted medications. Oral chemotherapy and targeted medications are drugs that are taken by mouth to treat cancer. Currently, there are more than 33 oral chemotherapy/targeted agents available. Most of these were introduced into the market within the past seven years. This trend is likely to continue as there are several more oral chemotherapy/targeted agents now in development. With the use of oral chemotherapy on the rise, the roles of patient responsibility and care from an oncology nurse become even more important in ensuring proper management of treatment. Nurses are tasked with teaching patients how to correctly and safely take the medications, manage side effects, and monitor complications such as food interactions. They also must ensure that a patient is capable of administering this type of treatment on his or her own and that they will follow the directed regimen. While oral chemotherapy is often viewed as a more convenient option for patients, there is a common misconception that it is a less toxic form of cancer treatment. Patients taking oral chemotherapy are just as much at risk for experiencing harmful side effects as those receiving IV forms. That is why safety is of the utmost importance. Since both forms have the potential to cause harm, nurses must be involved in the care of patients during the process.

Who is a good candidate?

When first assessing if a patient is a good candidate for oral chemotherapy, a nurse will consider the following: • Is the patient a highly motivated person who can assume the increased responsibility that comes with selfadministration of oral chemotherapy medications? • Does the patient want to actively participate in his or her treatment?

• Is the patient mentally and cognitively able to be in control of his or her own oral chemotherapy regimen? If the nurse determines the patient meets these criteria, among others, then the nurse will proceed with planning an educational session to effectively address the needs of the patient and caregivers.

During the educational session, the oral chemotherapy nurse teaches the patient how to correctly take the medication. This includes special instructions, such as whether the medication should be taken on an empty or full stomach. It is also includes teaching the patient to swallow oral chemotherapy whole. The medications should not be broken, crushed, chewed or opened because of their biohazardous nature. If the patient has a complicated treatment plan, he or she is instructed to double and triple check the dose each and every time it is taken. Oral chemotherapy calendars are useful and especially important for patients who have complicated regimens. If used properly, calendars can help simplify complicated treatment plans, help patients remember whether they have taken their medication, and prevent or reduce errors in dosing. During the educational session, patients also learn how to recognize side effects and report them immediately to a nurse or doctor. Side effects can vary from drug to drug and from person to person. Some to watch for include: • Nausea

Safety is Key

As with any medication, proper precautions should be taken to ensure safety for both patients and family members. Patients are advised not to throw oral chemotherapy medications in the trash or ﬂush them down a toilet. Doing so could contaminate the public water supply and landfills. It is also important to wash your hands immediately after touching oral chemotherapy medications. If caregivers must handle the medications, they should wear gloves or pour the proper amount into a paper cup and hand it to the patient. Any gloves, paper cups, oral syringes, spoons, or other objects that come in contact with

oral chemotherapy medications should be put into a resealable bag and taken to the clinic for proper disposal. Patients should also keep these safety measures in mind: • Take oral chemotherapy medications around the same time each day. • Do not make up missed doses, but make a note of them on the calendar. • Do not share medications with anyone. • Store medications in a safe place so that pets, children and other people are less likely to touch them.

IS ANGINA SQUEEZING THE ENJOYMENT OUT OF YOUR LIFE?

boom nc.com 12.12

Vomiting Diarrhea Hair loss Mouth sores Skin changes Low blood counts Once a patient is under treatment, the nurse and oncologist collaborate to ensure appropriate follow-up care. It is important that patients contact the nurse for any problems or questions regarding treatment.

Availability

Most insurance companies cover the cost of oral chemotherapy medications. Check with your provider to see if this may apply to you. Also, talk with your doctor to see if oral chemotherapy may be a good option for you. Rex Cancer Center offers this form of treatment and has oral chemotherapy nurses who specialize in caring for patients who use these medications. For more information, call 919.784.6818.

live well

• • • • • •

Mendy Moody, R.N., M.S.N., O.C.N. is an employee at the Rex Cancer Center, www.rexhealth.com. Comment online at BoomNC.com .

PeriPheral NeuroPathy SymptomS: Numbness Burning pain Cramping Sharp, electric pain pain when walking Difficulty sleeping from leg discomfort tripping over things Can’t feel your feet

Are you confused and frustrated because your symptoms persist even though you medicate appropriately and have “normal” tests results? It’s tIme for some answers. Call Dr. George Case to set up an initial

consultation. He is a chiropractic physician with over 30 years in practice. He holds several certifications in alternative healthcare using the most up-todate technology. He will sit down with you and listen to your issues. He will explain why you can expect better results using the new discoveries gIvIng

you more energy and overall better health!

Dr. George D. Case / Chiropractic physician 240 New Fidelity Court, Garner, NC 27529

Announcing a clinical research study for people with angina. If you’ve been unable to control your symptoms of angina, see if you may qualify for the Renew Study. The purpose of the study is to determine the safety and effectiveness of an investigational therapy using a patient’s own stem cells for the treatment of angina. Each individual must be 21 or older, and will be evaluated to determine his or her eligibility. Qualified participants will receive either the investigational therapy or placebo, or continue with current approved angina treatment options, providing researchers with a standard comparison to the investigational therapy. All participants will receive study-related medical exams and lab tests at no charge. Compensation for time and travel may be available. To find out if you may qualify, visit RENEWstudy.com and call the area doctor below. Contact: Krista Parrish, RN, BSN, CRC Thomas Povsic, MD Duke University Medical Center 2301 Erwin Road Durham, NC 27710 919-681-6949

919-772-3423

baxter6939 Renew_4.725x10.8_M.indd 2

Boom - 4.725”x10.8”

10/5/12 3:20 PM

boom nc.com 12.12

Ask the Pharmacist: Natural Supplements

live well

Q. Is it true that the use of natural supplements can increase brain function? A. It is often stated that as we age we begin to lose things—eyesight, hearing, and even our memory. There are many aids available to assist us with the changes, we can get glasses to help us see and hearing aids to help us hear, but what about our memory? Many people look to natural supplements to increase brain function and reduce memory loss, but some of these products may not be the most effective and may have many side effects. Some of the most commonly used products include caffeine, ginkgo, ginseng, and brahmi. Caffeine is the world’s most commonly consumed psychoactive chemical; it stimulates the central nervous system, heart rate, and respiration. Notable effects of caffeine include increased energy, decreased fatigue, and improved sense of performance. Moderate caffeine consumption, 100-200mg daily or one to two cups of coffee, is generally considered safe and effective in most individuals. Due to its stimulant effects, caffeine should be used with caution in certain populations,

including patients with heart conditions and during pregnancy. Excessive consumption of caffeine can lead to dependence and result in withdrawal symptoms when not consumed. Ginkgo preparations have been used for medicinal purposes for more than a thousand years. Available evidence demonstrates ginkgo’s eﬃcacy in the management of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, as well as “cerebral insuﬃciency,” a syndrome characterized by impaired concentration, confusion, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. Ginkgo appears to be generally safe when taken by healthy adults in suggested doses (usually 120-240 mg daily in two to three divided doses) for up to six months. Due to multiple reports of bleeding, it should not be used in patients who are taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy like aspirin or warfarin, or those who have a clotting disorder. One of the major drawbacks of ginkgo is that it is associated with many possible drug interactions. Check with your pharmacist before taking ginkgo. It is estimated more than six million

Are you feeling depressed? Are your medications not working? Duke University Medical Center is conducting a research study investigating treatment outcomes in adults with late-life depression. Participants will receive an acute course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Those who respond to ECT will be randomly assigned to one of two groups for a six-month follow-up phase: a group that receives medication alone or a group that receives medication plus an investigational course of maintenance ECT.

To be eligible, you must meet the following requirements: • Be 60 years of age or older • Have current symptoms of depression such as sadness, trouble concentrating, and low energy

Please call 919-681-0603 for more information. Duke University Medical Center Sarah H. Lisanby, M.D. www.dukehealth.org

Pro00027625

by Madison DiXon, PharmD Candidate, Dana Petri, PharmD

people ingest ginseng regularly in the United States. Brain activity that is involved in learning and memory processes appears to be affected by certain ginsenosides, the active agents in ginseng. Limited welldesigned trials have been conducted, but the available studies show the short-term effects of its use in healthy adults to be increased mental performance, calmness, and decreased mental fatigue. Much like ginkgo, ginseng has many possible drug interactions and an increased risk of bleeding which limit its use. Bacopa monnieri, also known as brahmi, is an herb that is native to India. Only one clinical trial has been performed testing its effects on cognition in healthy adults, so no conclusions can be made about its long-term eﬃcacy, adverse effects, and drug interactions. Lecithin is found in many animal and vegetable sources. The majority of the studies on Lecithin’s cognitive effects were conducted in the 198090s in Alzheimer’s disease; however, the trials showed conﬂicting results and most could not detect any significant improvement. From the data available, further

studies need to be conducted before brahmi and lecithin can be recommended to improve cognition. When it comes to deciding on whether or not to start a natural supplement there are some general principles that should be followed. Dietary supplements are not regulated by the FDA, thus there is no standardization of the ingredients. Always read the labels to find out what the active ingredient is, how much of it is included in each dose, and to make sure there are no unwanted ingredients included. Also, supplements can interact with medications, so it is important to talk your doctor and pharmacist before starting a new supplement to ensure there are not interactions. reFerences Natural Standard. Available from: http://unc.naturalstandard.com. Accessed on: November 3, 2012. Lexicomp Natural Products Database. Available from: http://online.lexi.com. Accessed on: November 3, 2012.

Madison Dixon and Dana Petri are employees of Kerr Drug, www.kerrdrug.com. Comment online at BoomNC.com .

Trouble Sleeping? If you are between the ages of 18 and 75, and have both major depressive disorder and trouble falling or staying asleep at night, you may be eligible to participate in a research study at the Duke Sleep Disorders Center. Eligible participants will receive an FDA-approved medication for depression and learn new strategies to improve sleep. For more information, call 919-613-3695.

Pro00005187

e all know by now that exercise is crucial to our mental and physical well-being. Additionally, it is nearly impossible to lose weight and keep it off without incorporating a consistent exercise program. Why then is it so diﬃcult for most of us to regularly exercise as part of our daily lives? There are many reasons why 60 percent of Americans do not get the recommended levels of regular physical activity. Some of the obstacles adults cite for not exercising are: • Do not have enough time. • Lack self-motivation. • Find exercise boring. • Lack confidence in their ability to be physically active. • Fear being injured or have been injured recently. • Lack self-management skills, such as the ability to set personal goals, monitor progress or reward progress toward such goals. Understanding the barriers to physical activity and creating strategies to overcome them can help you make exercise part of your daily life.

What obstacles are hindering you from getting healthier? Not enough time? Recent research has shown that even as little as 15 minutes of exercise a day can provide numerous health benefits. What’s more, 15 minutes of high intensity interval aerobics is the equivalent of at least 30 minutes of regular aerobic activity. A more significant obstacle for many of us is motivation or the lack thereof. There are too many easy excuses to skip exercise: too hot outside, too cold, I have a cold, I think my dog might be getting a cold. The list is endless and only limited by your imagination. Don’t jeopardize your health by allowing yourself to succumb to these excuses. Make it a habit to notice this negative self-talk and concentrate on the positive rewards of exercising. Your exercise habit will become easier to maintain if you can focus on the positive outcomes. If you like the idea of an external motivator, find something or someone to hold you accountable; a class you paid for, a friend to walk with or a set date to achieve

Live. Work. Play.

Halle Bulding Group Now Featuring One-Story Homes with Optional Lawn Maintenance. In the Heart of Downtown Apex.

Walk to Clubhouse, Pool, Community Center, Shopping, Parks, School, and More! Halle Homes exclusively marketed by Rex Osborne & Associates with Coldwell Banker Advantage Real Estate. Contact Rex Osborne at (919) 880-7516 Model home open daily! Now building in Rocky Mount and Wendell, NC. hallebuildinggroup.com Enter community traveling east on US 64. Exit on Windy Rd. Turn left on Ambergate Station. Or: Hwy 64 west of Cary. Left on Laura Duncan. Right on Apex Peakway. Right on Ambergate Station. Our model home is on the left.

FIT LIFe by Annie and ChucK CooK

a fitness goal. And track your progress. Seeing your achievements accumulate provides additional motivation. If your hesitancy to begin regular exercise is that it’s too boring, consider new avenues of interest that will stimulate you. Movement in any form accrues benefits. Try mall walking, dance classes, yoga or even activity oriented video games. With so many options available today, it is certainly possible to find one healthy activity that you want to do for pure enjoyment. Finally, if the fear of injury is a concern, start slowly. Walking, yoga, elliptical or treadmill machines are all wonderful options to help you get fit with low potential for injury. At Koko FitClub in Cary, we are focused on removing the obstacles to exercise. Our workouts are time eﬃcient with a 30-minute strength training program and a 15 minute cardio program. Every workout is guided and customized precisely to a member’s personal goals and fitness levels so those members who do not have the confidence or time to develop their own program will benefit from an

effective, professionally designed regimen. Interactive monitoring, video guidance and a program that changes and evolves with the member, adds interest, motivation and reduces the risk of injury. And finally, members are tracked and measured each and every session. When they view their progress on their personal web page, they are motivated by the positive results of all their hard work. At Koko, we find that minimizing the obstacles to exercise helps members stay motivated and ensures greater success. To overcome your obstacles, realize that you don’t have to spend many hours exercising to get healthier. Don’t be afraid to try many different activities until you find those that maintain your interest and motivation. Start slowly, find support, and keep track of how you are progressing. As Henry Ford said, “Whether you think you can or you think you can’t, you’re right.” Annie and Chuck Cook are the owners of Koko FitClub at Tryon Village in Cary. Koko Fitclub is “the World’s best 30-minute workout.” For more information visit CaryTryon.KokoFitClub.com.

Better Than Personal Training. A fraction of the cost! Better results

No scheduling

30 minutes… or less

Precisely customized to YOU

TRY KOKO FREE! Visit CARYTRYON.KOKOFITCLUB.COM for your FREE personal demonstration today!

Koko FitClub Cary Tryon 1105 Tryon Village Dr., Ste. 302 Cary, NC 27518

919-851-2721

boom nc.com 12.12

23 live well

Overcoming the Obstacles to Exercise T

Skin Care: Cutting Edge Technology Without Cutting Final Installment oF a Three-Part Series by Amber SelF

boom nc.com 12.12

Siler City Care and Rehabilitation Center

live well

is pleased to announce

Specialized Alzheimer’s Care We understand the complex needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. That’s why we’re proud to provide specialized Alzheimer’s Care in a supportive environment for people facing the intricate, cognitive, emotional and physical effect of this disease and related dementias.

We use a multi-disciplinary team to address these wide-ranging needs including: • licensed nurses • nursing assistants • rehabilitation therapists • social services professionals • dieticians • activities staff

If you are passionate about your health and want to keep abreast of health and wellness topics, visit

boomnc.com and click on the Live Well section. Boom! articles cover such topics as Diabetes, Patient Advocacy, Chronic Pain, Allergies and Heart Health.

NAWBO Holiday B12 2012

11/21/12

fter reading part one and two of this series, hopefully you have gained a good understanding about how to take care of your skin and some insight to anti-aging treatments. In this final article I am going to discuss the most advanced and talked about treatment to hit the market. It is called Ultherapy. It has become a household name after being aired on Dr. Oz, 20/20, Good Morning America and it has been published in dozens of magazines and journals and continues to blanket the media. Ultherapy is a non-surgical face, neck and brow lifting procedure with FDA indications. It uses tried and true ultrasound technology to lift and tone loose skin. What is amazing about the treatment is that it can target the same deep foundation below the skin that is addressed in facial plastic surgery without making one incision. The process is all about delivering controlled energy into the tissues of the skin. The ability to see where the energy is being 3:53 PM Page 1 treatment is monumental. delivered before

from the National Association of Women Business Owners!

The Natural Choice for a Noticible Lift Ultherapy, an Uplift, not a Facelift Post Treatment: 360 days

Personalized Care Our primary goal is to promote independence through individualzied care planning.

Ultherapy, offered at Bloom Skin Spa in Cary, is a new type of non-surgical, non-invasive procedure for the face and neck that uses ultrasound and the body’s natural healing process to lift, tone, and tighten loose skin. The FDA approved device utilizes the safe, time-tested energy of ultrasound to stimulate and target the deep foundation of the skin, typically addressed in a surgical face lift without disturbing the surface of the skin.

Pre Treatment

DECEMBER HOLIDAY SOCIAL December 12, 6-9pm Home of Tracey Gritz Please register online

Boom! Magazine is a sponsor of NAWBO-Raleigh.

Post Treatment: 120 days

• Tone, Tighten and Lift Your Skin • No Surgery or Down Time • One Treatment Only

FREE SEMINAR coMINg IN FEBRuARy! come and see for yourself the dramatic changes that can occur with ultherapy. Reservations required.

Bloom Skin Spa see your skin blossom

900 West Dolphin Street Siler City, NC 27344 sunbridgehealthcare.com

Ultrasound making us look younger… how could this be? Ultherapy is intended to deliver tiny little points of heat in the supportive structures of the skin. The body responds to this by creating fresh new collagen. Think of collagen as coils in a mattress. As we age we lose those coils. Imagine that we have replaced multiple

Happy Holidays

Pre Treatment

919.663.3431

This truly is a see and treat procedure. At Bloom Skin Spa, where I perform this procedure, I can precisely map out what energy to put and where to customize the treatment based on how you are aging to ensure the most effective outcome.

For additional details and to register visit www.NAWBO-Raleigh.org

www.bloomskinspa.com 919.233.3992 527 Keisler Drive, Suite 204, Cary

Advanced Certified Ultherapist and Master Aesthetician Amber Self is the owner of Bloom Skin Spa— Organic Spa & Wellness. Bloom Spa was the first facility in the Triangle, besides a hospital, to offer Ultherapy. Learn more at www.bloomskinspa.com.

Sea Salt Versus Table Salt NUTrITIoN For LIFe by Barbara Ann HuGhes

ea salt has boomed in popularity in restaurants and supermarket aisles across the country. Many gourmet chefs say they prefer it over table salt for its coarse, crunchy texture and stronger flavor. Manufacturers are using it in potato chips and other snacks because it’s “all natural,” and not processed like table salt. And some health-conscious consumers choose it because it contains minerals like magnesium. Each of the abovementioned characteristics may set sea salt apart from table salt, but in one other very important respect there’s absolutely no difference between the two: sodium content. Both sea salt and table salt contain about forty percent sodium. Unfortunately, many consumers haven’t gotten that message. In an April 2011 survey by the American Heart Association, sixty one percent of respondents said they believed sea salt is a low sodium alternative to table salt. It is very important for consumers to be aware that sea salt has just as much sodium as table salt; especially individuals with certain health conditions that may be affected by their sodium intake, such as high blood pressure. The real differences between sea salt and table salt are in their taste, texture and processing, not their chemical makeup. Sea salt is produced through evaporation of seawater, usually with little processing, which leaves behind certain trace minerals and elements like magnesium, potassium, calcium and other nutrients. The minerals add flavor and color to sea salt, which also comes in a variety of coarseness levels. On the other hand, table salt is mined from underground salt deposits. Table salt is more heavily processed to eliminate minerals and usually contains an additive to prevent clumping. Most table salt also has added iodine, an essential nutrient that’s lacking in naturally occurring sea salt. By weight, sea salt and table salt contain the same amount of sodium chloride. Our bodies only need a very tiny amount of salt to stay healthy. Most people get far too much-mostly from processed foods. So regardless of which type of salt you prefer, use a light hand with the saltshaker. Limiting total sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams a day is recommended. However, if you’re age 51 or older, or if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or chronic kidney disease, you should limit sodium intake to 1,500 milligrams a day. Increasing your intake of fresh, frozen or low sodium canned fruits and vegetables is an easy way to cut back your sodium intake. These foods are naturally low in sodium and are a great way to consume a healthier diet in general. Another way to decrease sodium intake is to watch your intake of processed, smoked and cured meats which are notoriously high in sodium. Be sure to preview sodium levels on food labels when comparing different foods. Dr. Barbara Ann Hughes spent the first half of her career working as state director of the NC public health nutrition and dietary services program. This included the development of the Women’s Infants and Children’s Special Suppmental Food Program (WIC). She was adjunct assistant professor at UNCCH, Univ. of TN. and Case Western University. She can provide nutrition talks to various groups. She accepts most private insurance companies and Medicare. Dr. Hughes treats children, teens, and adults through her office in Raleigh. For more info visit bahughes.com or call 1..24.

H ughes u B.A.

& ASSOCIATES

Medical Nutrition Therapists Registered & Licensed Dietitians & Nutritionists how we can help. If you......

• are overweight or have difficulty maintaining your weight • want to eat right to look & feel your best • want to eat to enhance athletic performance and endurance • want to develop a lifestyle that will PREVENT development of chronic diseases Barbara Ann Hughes, • have cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, Ph.D, RD, LDN, FADA 4208 Galax Drive, Raleigh, 27612 or osteoporosis that require nutrition therapies 919-787-2949 • need low fat, low cost nutritious meal plans www.bahughes.com • manage a vegetarian diet

boom nc.com 12.12

have the stigma of a facelift. Many clients can’t wait to share it with their friends and my treatments have become the topic of conversation at lunches, book clubs and shopping excursions. I usually end up treating groups of friends. A good candidate is anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve to one who is on the fence with plastic surgery or other drastic cosmetic facial improvements. Relaxed skin, lowered brow line, sagging eyelids, deepened folds, sagging neck, jowls and loss of definition of the jawline are all signs that Ultherapy may be for you. Most patients need only one treatment but a few may benefit from two. There are several things that would determine this as we discuss in your consultation such as the degree of laxity, loss of tissue volume and the expected outcome the patient is looking for. The best part is there is practically no downtime, the treatment can be done in an hour or two and clients can walk right out and resume normal activities almost immediately.

25 live well

new coils within that existing mattress. You now have a better support, more structure, more firming and toning which gives your skin its youthfulness. What does it feel like? There is a sensation while the concentrated energy is being deposited, and the comfort threshold varies from patient to patient. But of course, they are excited for the results to come. There are some things that we can do to alleviate the discomfort and make your experience as pleasant as possible. Although there is some discomfort while the energy is being delivered, it is temporary and is a positive sign that the collagen initiation has begun resulting in a toning and actual lift of the skin over time. Ultherapy is not surgery but is a viable option for anyone who does not want surgery or is not quite ready to make that leap. In fact, many clients are having Ultherapy done to maintain results from any previous cosmetic procedure. It has been coined the term “uplift” or a fraction of a facelift for that reason. It is a very natural, gradual change that occurs within two to three months after the treatment as your skin heals from the inside out. Many clients like the fact that it is a natural and gradual change. It also does not seem to

NCCR COPD B12 2012r2

11/21/12

2:17 PM

Page 1

Are You a Current or Former Smoker?

boom nc.com 12.12

Participants Needed for Clinical Research Study

live well

• • • •

Are you at least 40 years of age? A current or former smoker? Do you have trouble breathing or a persistent cough? Do you have no known significant heart conditions?

If yes, you may qualify to participate in a research study. Research on an investigational medication for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease or COPD is being conducted at: North Carolina Clinical Research 2615 Lake Drive, Suite 301, Raleigh, NC 27607

Eligible persons will receive study-related medical exams, study medication and study-related laboratory tests at no cost while participating in the study. Reimbursement will be provided for certain study-related travel. For more information please contact our research staff at:

919 881-0309 www.nccr.com

“Where patient care and the future of medicine come together.” Dr. Craig LaForce and Dr Karen Dunn, Board Certified in Allergy and Immunology.

TRANSVAGINAL MESH HEALTHCARE CONCERNS. LOCAL LAW FIRM CAN HELP!

You’ve seen the ads for women having used Transvaginal Mesh for the repair of common pelvic floor disorders including Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) (sometimes referred to as a bladder sling).

The FDA has issued a safety communication warning doctors, health care professionals and patients that the placement of surgical mesh through the vagina to treat pelvic organ prolapse may present greater risk for the patient than other options. Reported complications from the transvaginal placement of the mesh include erosion of the mesh into the vaginal tissue, organ perforation, pain, infection, painful intercourse, and urinary and fecal incontinence. Often women require surgery to remove the mesh. In some cases, this can require multiple procedures without succesfully removing all the mesh. Currently, we are investigating cases involving mesh manufactured by American Medical Systems, Bard, Boston Scientific, Caldera, and Johnson & Johnson. If you or a loved one has received transvaginal mesh / bladder sling for the treatment of POP or urinary incontinence, and have experienced complications, you may be entitled to compensation. Please contact the Whitley Law Firm today for a free, no-cost, no-obligation evaluation of your case.

It won’t cost you anything to see if we can help: 800-785-5000. 2424 Glenwood Avenue Suite 201 Raleigh, NC 27608 www.whitleylawfirm.com

Improve Your Golf Game With Yoga by Jodi Tata

oga helps with the physical and mental aspects of your golf game. Physically, being ﬂexible and strong helps prevent injury and allows you to hit the ball farther. Mentally, having simple ways to relax and stay focused on course can save a lot of strokes. Yoga breathing techniques can help you improve your focus and mindfulness, meanwhile helping you release tension. Making the exhalation longer than the inhalation calms the parasympathetic nervous system, relaxing your entire mind/body. Another easy way to relax on the course is to inhale deeply, hold the breath for as long as is comfortable while squeezing the muscles of your face and body, then verbally exhale through an open mouth and simply let go. If men can pee in the woods, you can do this without worrying about anyone seeing you, especially if it may save you a few strokes! Having a short physical routine that you can commit to doing on a daily basis is really valuable. Take just 10 or 15 minutes and do a balance of yoga postures and a little bit of meditation. In general, it is very important to keep the core strong, which really helps keep the back healthy. Boat pose is great for this. In yoga, we are always seeking balance, and it is important to do a pose, then a counter pose. For instance, after doing Boat pose, practice Locust pose. Bridge pose and twists are great for spinal health. Forward bends are relaxing. The Sun Salutation sequence is energizing and strengthening. Balancing poses like Tree are excellent for your golf game. A great resource is Yoga Journal online, which describes how to do the aforementioned poses correctly and gives you pictures and videos, all for free. Here’s a few easy things to do to loosen up before playing, and to keep you loose, on the course. Try to walk! It’s a great way to slow down, and be more focused on the course. That said, most people are in carts nowadays, and the cart itself provides a good prop for stretching. Before playing, take at least two or three minutes to warm up before heading

to the first tee. Stand up tall, bring the chin to the chest, then slowly roll the neck from side to side, while breathing nice and slow. Next, take an athletic stance—as you would in the golf swing—feet a little more than hip width apart and knees slightly bent. Clasp the hands behind your back or simply extend your arms straight in back of you, palms up, to open up the chest, and stretch the shoulders. Simply rotate from right to left, taking deep breaths as you stretch. Rest the arms down by your sides, and bend forward from the hips, not the waist, moving into a forward fold. This will give a good stretch to your whole back body. Clasp opposite elbows once you are completely folded over, and gently turn from right to left, moving the stretch all around the lower body and up through the back. Be sure to let the head hang heavy, no holding with the neck. Come to the center, release the arms back down, take a deep bend in the knees and slowly roll up, vertebrae by vertebrae. Take a few breaths to stretch the often-neglected hands and feet. Shift the weight to the right foot and come up onto the toe of the left foot. Rotate the left foot around. If you are feeling balanced you can even lift the left foot off the ground, rotating it around. Meanwhile, extend your arms out in front of you. Inhale pull the fingertips up and back towards you; exhale and press the fingertips down and towards you. Do this five or six times, then rotate the wrists in circles. Pick up the golf club with both hands on either end of it. Place it behind your shoulders. Take your golf stance. Moving with the breath, move the body as though swinging; fully rotating right then left. Great for warming up the spine. You are ready to play! Jodi Tata is a Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT) with Yoga Alliance. She is certified in Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Yoga for Golfers, Yoga for Mood Management, Laugh-a Yoga, Integrative Energy Therapy, and has taught numerous certification classes on her trademarked Quick Fix Yoga (QFY) Techniques. She is an avid golfer, a coach for The First Tee of the Triangle and director of development at Old Chatham Golf Club.

irginia Rand Bowman likes to go by Ginny—it suits her. She is casual in her mannerism, but works like a woman on a mission. She has more energy than I can even imagine, and I suspect she needs it as managing general partner of Northgate Associates, the owner and developer of Northgate Mall in Durham. Northgate is a private, familyowned shopping complex and has maintained that status for nearly 50 years. I’ve known Ginny for over ten years. We used to work together when the marketing/communications firm I worked for had Northgate Mall as an account. After we started the magazine, we would run into each other at various functions in Durham. I’ve admired this woman for a long time and have wanted to profile her in the magazine for years. She finally relented. Ginny comes from a family of entrepreneurs. She recalls how her grandfather became the Coca Cola distributor for Durham: “My grandfather worked for the railroad, and unfortunately fell off a train and had his arm cut off. He received some money for being disabled and he took the funds and bought one of the first horse and cart Coca Cola bottling facilities you could purchase and got the franchise for Durham County. “My dad [W. Kenan Rand, Jr.] grew up with my grandfather in the Coca Cola business, and they built the original bottling plant on Main Street, one of the first full line bottling facilities in the state. But they soon outgrew that location, that’s when my dad bought this property. It was not zoned industrial, and when he saw that he couldn’t get it rezoned, they bought

property on Hillsborough Road, which is where the bottling plant is today.” That plot of land adjacent to Interstate 85 (at that time it was still U.S. 70), Gregson Street and Club Boulevard came to the attention of Will York [J. Willie York, who also founded Cameron Village]. He saw this property while driving along U.S. 70 and thought it was a good site for a shopping center. He met with Ginny’s father, and they started a partnership. Northgate began as a strip center, but as it grew and expanded, the need to enclose the mall became evident. Mr. Rand bought out Mr. York’s interest and took on a consultant with enclosed mall experience and proceeded with the renovations. The new enclosed Northgate Mall reopened in 1974. That was the first year Ginny worked at Northgate. She helped with the Mall’s grand opening before heading off to college at the University of Tennessee. After college she married her husband, John Bowman, and they lived in DC for about two years. While in DC, she kept in close touch with her father and he encouraged

her to become involved in real estate. She worked for two different real estate companies while in Washington, and it proved to be good experience for her. The Bowmans moved back to Buies Creek, North Carolina in 1981 for John to attend law school. After unsuccessfully looking for work, her father mentioned that there were a few job openings at the Mall and “I could come and test the waters,” Ginny said. “I attended the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC), which is our industry trade association, and I learned about the operations and marketing parts of the business. And I just fell in love with the business—of course what woman doesn’t love shopping!?” Ginny started as the Mall manager and gradually moved into the development and leasing end of the business. She has been involved with multiple Mall expansions: in 1986, in 1993, 2001, and 2004. “The average renovation for most malls is about every ten years,” she explained. At the same time, the family continued to purchase surrounding property as it became available. But then several things

Ginny Bowman (third from right) and the Northgate Mall staff as they gear up for Holiday shoppers. ARTICLE AND COVER PHOTO: JOHN ELKINS PHOTOGRAPHY.

occurred that slowed down the Mall growth. In 2005, Interstate 85 was completely redesigned and it took three years to complete. “Interstate 85 has been huge for us; it is a primary north-south traﬃc corridor for the State of North Carolina—we’re a great stopping off point and it’s a fabulous location. The redesign was painful at the time, but it works wonderfully now, so it was short-term pain for long-term gain.” And of course, the economy started to spiral down in 2007. Ginny explains, “Plus, there was so much retail that had just come online… The Streets at Southpoint for example. And when Triangle Town Center opened, the area I think became oversaturated with retail, so we have all been coming back from that.” This transition phase has included streamlining operations and rethinking marketing and customer service. “We’ve divided one marketing position into three: media consultant and media buyer, a social media specialist, and a special events coordinator that also oversees the customer service center,” Ginny remarked. “Many malls are doing away with their customer service centers, but we just feel it’s important to have a warm face and voice. Many of our stores are locally owned and operated and need support for special events and promotions. Northgate’s marketing team frequently as acts like an advertising agency, representing our tenants in negotiating advertising, assisting with advice on social media venues, securing billboards and planning grand openings.” Special events do draw Mall traﬃc, so Ginny and her staff are always looking for continued on page 30

We’ve Got You Covered • 13 locations, including 5 Urgent Cares • More than 115 providers • Specialists in all areas of Orthopaedics • 5 MRI locations • Multiple Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation locations • General Surgery/Breast Surgery • Rheumatology

WWW.TRIANGLEORTHO.COM

boom nc.com 12.12

Ginny Bowman ~ We Still Have Work to Do! by Barbara Petty

27 spotlight

Fifty &Fabulous

Tommy Lee Jones

The Art of Observation

spotlight

Pennsylvania instrumental in the passage of the Thirteenth Amendment. Jones is married to his third wife Dawn and resides in Terrell Hills, Texas outside of San Antonio. He also owns a 3,000 acre ranch in San Saba County. Tommy Lee is a huge polo fan and owns homes in polo playing communities in Florida and Argentina. He has two children from his second marriage, son Austin and daughter Victoria.

ailing from tiny San Saba, Texas, Tommy Lee Jones has made his mark on everything to which he was committed. That includes everything from working on an oil rig to being bright enough to attend Harvard on a scholarship and graduating cum laude with a degree in English literature. While at Harvard he was Al Gore’s roommate and a starting offensive left guard on the football team. It is not hard to envision him as a tough, self-suﬃcient and laser-focused person who always achieves what he sets out to do. I am thinking of his roles such as Chief Deputy Marshall Gerard in The Fugitive and U.S. Marshals as well as the savvy Texas sheriff Ed Tom Bell in No Country for Old Men.

interView

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIFICATIONFRANCE.COM.

boom nc.com 12.12

InterView by Natalie BerGman/The InterView People | Introduction by GreG Petty

Jones has also played more nuanced and comedic roles in movies such as Heaven & Earth, all of the Men in Black movies, Space Cowboys and the movie first discussed in this interview, Hope Springs. His talent for crawling inside a character and making him believable is also on display in Steven Spielberg’s latest blockbuster Lincoln. Lee plays Thaddeus Stevens who was a liberal Republican Congressman from

Why did you say “yes” to a romantic comedy? [Hope Springs] I thought there was some originality to the script. And I thought it would be interesting to find the satire in the hero, in the ordinary problems of ordinary people. My main motivation of course was the opportunity to work with Meryl Streep. How was that? Every day was a joy! Could you use your personal experiences for this role? For any role you use part of your personal experiences. I rely more on my observation of other people’s personal experiences. Do you think there’s a special need for a movie like this one, because more and more people are getting divorced and there is a need of someone who is telling them how to fix their problems? Well, I don’t write an advice column, we are not therapists, we are film makers. The social theory is something I haven’t contemplated, I hope it’s funny and people recognize themselves, and wanna come back to see it again and wanna tell other people to see it. Was there a special scene when you were acting, where you had to laugh and do it again and again? Or did an anecdote occur on set? I can’t really think of any anecdotes, but we had a lot of fun. Meryl was subject to breaking out in laughter at any moment whether the cameras were rolling or not. So of course we had a lot of fun; there was a lot of laughing. It was a real joy to make this movie. I imagine Steve Carell must have repressed laughs very often...? Steve makes people laugh! But he doesn’t do a lot of laughing himself. He’s a master comedian. What was the biggest challenge for you in this movie? Some of those speeches in the therapy scenes were long; it took a long time

to memorize those things and make them feel natural. Have you learned something about women from the film? About women? I knew everything there is to know about women, already before we started the movie! (laughing) When was the point in your life when you thought and you knew “Yes, I have to be an actor!” or “I am an actor!” I don’t know. I hadn’t decided what line of work I was going in to when I grew up. But I enjoyed acting since I was 16 years old, and I continue to love it. Was there a special point? When I first saw a company of actors, rehearsing a play and taking it seriously. What did your family say when you said that you wanted to become an actor? My parents? They didn’t say anything, no. Their advice or admonition was always, that whatever I decided to do, that I should do it as well as I possibly could. Did the study of literature help you become an actor? Of course! I think it’s a good thing for actors to be well read, to know how to read and write and to understand the mechanics of narrative. Your colleagues live in Hollywood, you’ve decided to live in Texas—why is that? At some point I realized, that I could live anywhere I wanted to, and in my wisdom I decided to go home. You also worked as a director before, are you planning to do that again? Yes, the name of the project is The Homesman and it has to do with the homes in the middle of the nineteenth century and the first settlers, homesteaders who went into the Nebraska territory and the problems they had. Is it easy to direct you? Do actors have it

Tommy Lee Jones in No Country for Old Men. PHOTO COURTESY OF IMBD.COM.

easy with you directing? Yes! I don’t give unwanted or unsolicited ideas to directors. Sometimes they’ll ask what my opinion is, and I am always happy to share it. I think it’s very important to collaborate with other actors in a creative way. Could you say a few words about Lincoln? This movie, entitled Lincoln, is based on Doris Kearns Goodwin’s book Team of Rivals, which is about the election and Lincoln’s cabinet during the war. It’s actually about the nomination. And that process and then the election and then the war… This movie concentrates on the last year and a half of the war and the struggle of Lincoln and the left side of the Republican party, which was the liberal party of the day, to pass the 13th amendment before the war ended. That was a very diﬃcult struggle, and very costly and of course very important to the history of the United States. The 13th amendment to the constitution abolished slavery forever, and if they hadn’t been able to get the amendment passed before the war ended, we would be living in a very different world today... Do you like going to the movies, to the cinema? Haha! (laughing) Yes, I’m a movie fan. I watch movies at home, on DVDs quite a lot, because I get a lot of them in the mail, because people want me to vote for them during award season. And I go to the theatre whenever I can. Lincoln, starring Daniel Day Lewis, Sally Field, David Strathairn, Joseph GordonLevitt, Tommy Lee Jones and James Spader is currently showing at local theatres. Hope Springs was released earlier this year and is now available on DVD. No Country for Old Men, which received an Oscar for Best Picture of the Year and Jones received a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture, was released in 2007 and is also available on DVD. The movie Emperor, where Jones plays the role of General Douglas MacArthur, is in post-production and is scheduled for release in 2013. Comment online at BoomNC.com .

hen King George III wanted to project the power and wealth of the British Empire in the colony of North Carolina, he built the grand government house in this colonial capital. The magnificent Tryon Palace, named after George’s governor to the colony, still inspires awe. Long a gem in North Carolina’s famed tourism treasure chest, the Palace now has a modern-day companion. The addition of the soaring North Carolina History Center, opened in 2010 across from the 18th century palace grounds, simply adds to the attraction’s luster. In fact, New Bern itself has an attraction all its own, and is worthy of a long weekend’s stay for the casual stroller or the history-minded. This is a town steeped in colonial history, whose location on the conﬂuence of the Neuse and Trent rivers—the nation’s highway system before railroads and interstates—made it a strategic city well past the Civil War years. New Bern today is a Savannah or a Charleston, only much smaller and minus the glitz. Spanish moss reaches down to embrace you throughout town. Despite the Civil War, a disastrous fire in 1922 and the occasional hurricane, scores of homes dating to the founding of the nation solidly survive, bestowing a charm missing from many vacation spots. You’ll find more bed-and-breakfasts in the core of town than chain motels. We stayed at Aerie Bed and Breakfast, literally a block away from the main gate of Tryon Palace. In many ways, New Bern is a unique destination among North Carolina’s historic Inner Banks towns. Tryon Palace, of course, is the centerpiece. A handsome, two-story brick capital, it was commissioned by William Tryon, the royal governor sent by King George to administer the colony. With the fortune of the empire

A colonial-era town, New Bern has a number of old homes that serve now as distinctive bed and breakfasts. This is a bedroom in the Aerie, which is just a block from the front gate of Tryon Palace. PHOTO BY PAUL V. BROWN, JR.

An impressive gate frames the solidly build front facade of Tryon Palace, named after colonial governor sent by Great Britain to rule the empire’s North Carolina holdings. PHOTO BY PAUL V. BROWN, JR.

and the power to tax the colonial subjects, Tryon didn’t skimp, ordering the massive home, a number of equally solid outbuildings and, to remind him of the fine London estates in the home country, extensive formal gardens. Parties and games held on the rear lawn of the estate enjoyed a commanding view of the Trent. Visit the Palace today during special events, and you can drink in the same breathtaking view. The staff dresses up the Palace for the Christmas holidays. It keeps up the decorations and offers a number of special holiday programs through Dec. 31. Throughout the year, guides dressed in period dress conduct visitors through the reconstructed Palace, which burned to the ground in 1798 and was rebuilt in 1950 based on architectural plans discovered by a member of the reconstruction group. Give yourself at least an hour for the Palace tour and the self-guided tour of the adjoining “kitchen office.” The main building was Tryon’s home—and thus where he threw royal parties and received official visitors. But it also was the seat of the colonial version of the Legislature, so one of the massive, high-ceilinged rooms on the tour is the Council Chambers, with its rich furniture and life-sized portraits of George and his queen, Charlotte (after whom the North Carolina city was named). There’s also the wide formal dining room, the sitting room to which women retired after dinner, and the butler’s chambers, all with wide-planked wood floors, ornate fireplaces, walls more than a foot thick and expansive windows that lit a world without electricity. Fine-crafted shutters are built inside the house, not outside, for ease of use. A unique feature in the center of the mansion is a skylight above the grand vestibule that pours more light

to what otherwise would have been a dark interior space. Upstairs, reached by a set of dark mahogany stairs that seem to ﬂoat in the air due to their cantilevered design, are the family quarters, including a room for the kids that contains toys from the era. Tryon Palace is a state historic site, but the commission that organized its rebuilding scrupulously collected period toys, furniture and equipment to give the mansion its authenticity. In Tryon’s 400plus volume library, for instance, nearly 80 percent of the books are identical editions of the ones the governor owned, carefully collected by conservators of the Palace. Tryon’s successor ﬂed the colony at the outset of the War for Independence and the state capital soon moved west to Raleigh. His palace was put to various uses before it burned down. A highway was built across part of the parcel. A century and a half later, a local group decided that its history was too important to abandon. They mounted a rebuilding effort. By luck, the original plans were found, so visitors know they are seeing close to what Tryon enjoyed. All that was left after the fire were sections of the original foundation. The reconstructed palace was built on those brick sections, some of which were left uncovered for 21st century visitors to see. For the history-minded, Tryon Palace will excite even if the building is a reconstruction. Beside the royal governors, four North Carolina governors lived there. On his 1791 Southern Tour, President George Washington dined in the Palace and slept (really) at the Stanly House, one of three original homes on the palace grounds opened to ticket holders. A second home, Robert Hay House, has been turned into a living history “Please Touch” museum, giving visitors a first-hand feel for life in 1835 by talking with character interpreters who portray Hay household continued on page 30

A historic interpreter cooks a meal as servants would have in the 1th century in the kitchen-oﬃce section of Tryon Palace. PHOTO BY PAUL V. BROWN, JR.

boom nc.com 12.12

by Paul V. Brown, Jr.

29 live large

Tryon Palace is New Bern’s Crown Jewel

boom nc.com 12.12

Powell Spring

live large

Ginny Bowman continued from page 2

Sir Walter Apartments 400 Fayetteville St. Raleigh, NC 27601

ways to tie in the stores with marketing and event traffic. Case in point is their Santa Clause Elf on the Shelf storybook tale and sing-along. It is an interactive holiday hide and seek activity where children visit the individual stores, they get to name the elfs and win prizes. “And the Leonard Bearstein Orchestra is coming back for the Holidays!” Ginny exclaims. When not working a normal 50-60 hour week, Ginny serves on the Durham Technical Community College Foundation board and the Research Triangle Foundation board. She and John have two boys, and you can find Ginny jogging on the weekend with her oldest boy’s dog, whom she refers to as her “granddog.” Philanthropy has been a part of the Rand family, and the tradition continues with Ginny. Several non-profits rent space in the lower level for reduced rates. In addition there are several Wishing Well stations throughout the Mall where people can donate money, and the funds are distributed to various non-profits. There is also a sales and service training center on-site, founded by Northgate Associates, that is designed to help non-college bound students prepare to enter the workforce. Ginny is very confident about the future of Northgate Mall, and she sites a number of reasons. “Being a family business is what makes us different. There are some challenges, for example we don’t have the leverage to offer multiple locations, we’re just Durham. However, a lot of our tenants are locals and regionals, and that makes us unique. We really are a mirror image of Durham, we reflect the diversity of the population in the diversity of our tenants. “Second, we’re small, and that makes it easy to implement new programs. We are very open to new ideas, and we are not locked down to set procedures. And we’ve been around the block and know the market well. “But we still have a lot of work to do! We are bringing the Mall back with more entertainment, lot’s more diversity, and that’s what all malls are doing. Everyone is having to transition—people are buying things online, big boxes are shrinking, so the environment and atmosphere inside the mall is what is important, as well as what’s going on. “We’re very excited about the opportunities and the future. All malls, not just Northgate, have to change, be more diverse. We are a reflection of our industry.”

www.sirwalterliving.net

Comment online at BoomNC.com .

Evergreen Construction – the industry standard for quality, value, and style – introduces its newest independent living community in Pittsboro for adults 55 years or older.

600 Millbrook Drive, Pittsboro, NC 27312

919-542-5410 1 and 2-bedroom apartment homes include: TV and lounge area, community room, planned activities, 24-hour maintenance, and more! Water, sewer and trash included. Certain income limits apply. For more information visit www.evergreenconstructionco.com

Deluxe Senior Housing! • Independent Living • Unfurnished studios, 1 bedroom and 2 bedroom apartments in the heart of downtown Raleigh • On-site Service Coordinator who plans special events for residents • Section 8, Income-based • Must be age 62+ to apply • UTILITIES INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF YOUR RENT!

If you want to make us your next home, please contact Property Manager Felise Knight at 919.832.1300

919.832.1300

The North Carolina History Center in New Bern. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NC HISTORY CENTER.

Tryon Palace continued from page 2

members and neighbors, and by handson experiences with the reproduction furnishings. Ever wonder what a feather bed feels like? You’re free to lie down. It is opened weekends only. The new North Carolina History Center (general admission is free) was built with youngsters in mind. Its Regional History Museum tells the story of the region as far back as prehistory, and it has a section devoted to children. The Pepsi Family Center is full of hands-on activities for youngsters, from sailing a 17th century ship to operating a turpentine still, a throwback to an era when New Bern was the major producer of naval stores. Within walking distance, the compact central business district is surrounded on three sides by the Trent and Neuse rivers, so scenic strolls and breathtaking sunsets are easy to find. So are art shops and locally owned antique shops and boutiques. New Bern is the birthplace of Pepsi Cola, invented by local druggist Caleb Davis Bradham in 1898. The tiny drug store at Middle and Pollock streets now sells all trinkets Pepsi. Owners were expanding into larger quarters next door, with plans to offer more history displays in the drug store and relocate much of the merchandise into the larger retail space. If you’re with the children or grandchildren, there is the Cow Café, a cowthemed restaurant with a delightful train that travels on a track suspended from the ceiling. Treat the kids to home-made ice cream. New Bern gets its name from Bern, Switzerland, whose symbol is the bear. You’ll find decorated fiberglass bears sprinkled throughout town. Pick up a map at the New Bern Visitor’s Bureau, and children can play “Where on the Bear” to find hidden features on each bear using clues listed on the map. The Aerie is the circa 1882 Street-Ward residence and has seven guest rooms. Late

Victorian in décor, the place is comfortable and homey. There were books to borrow and a small library of DVDs to watch in your room. Our breakfast selection, cooked and served by owners Michael and Marty Gunhus, was a three-egg spinach and Swiss cheese omelet that was more than filling and served with fresh fruit— the perfect fuel for a day’s stroll through a riverfront town full of things to see. Paul V. Brown Jr. wrote for newspapers for 30 years before starting PB Media, a media relations firm based in Durham. His family long has enjoyed touring North Carolina attractions, and he shares those experiences now on a travel blog. You may contact him at paul@pbmediacompany.com. Comment online at BoomNC.com .

TRYON PALACE 529 S. Front St., New Bern 800-767-1560, www.tryonpalace.org.

Upcoming Events at Tryon Palace Dec 15 Christmas Candlelight, Tryon Palace Jan 5 Twelfth Night with the Stanlys, Stanly House Jan 11-13 18-20 “Crumbs From the Table of Joy” by Lynn Nottage, N.C. History Center

Jan 13 N.C. Symphony Performance “Four Sea-

sons, New Bern Riverfront Convention Center

Feb 14-17 New Bern Antique Show & Sale, New Bern Riverfront Convention Center

Mar 2-3 18th Annual Train Show, Sudan Temple, 403 Front St.

Mar 3 Vienna Boys Choir, New Bern Riverfront Convention Center

More Information Admission: $20 adults, $10 children grades 1-12. Younger children are free. Museum galleries and gardens pass: $12 adults, $4 children. Gardens pass: $6 adults, $3 children. Palace is closed Dec. 24, 25, 26 and Jan. 1. New Bern Visitor’s Bureau: 203 S. Front St., 800.437.5767, www.visitnewbern.com

December Calendar by Luan Harmeson

Durham Regional Hospital, offers monthly events for December that include: Look Good Feel Better; Monthly Stroke Support Group; and Weight Loss Surgery Support Group. For meeting dates, times, and information: www.durhamregional.org/events.

Dec 1 2 Annual HIV/AIDS Benefit “Night of The nd

Arts,” 4-8pm, Living Arts College, 3000 Wakefield Crossing Dr, Raleigh. Free food, fun, music and testing. Info: www.mynameishiv.com.

Dec 4 & 6 Alzheimer’s CARE Training Program,

6pm, Chapel Hill-Carrboro Chamber of Commerce, 104 S. Estes Dr, Chapel Hill. Sponsored by Home Instead Senior Care. Free and open to the public. Info: 314.982.6210 or www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com.

Dec 8 Developing Healthy Sexual Identity in Girls, 9:30-11:30am, Freedom House Recovery Center Cafeteria, 102 New Stateside Dr, Chapel Hill. A free workshop provided by the Family Advocacy Network, part of Mental Health America of the Triangle. Info: www.mhatriangle.org. Dec 14 Raleigh LIFT Holiday Luncheon, A Support Group for the Widowed, 11:30am, NCSU University Club, 4200 Hillsborough St, Raleigh. Info: 919.218.5656 or www.triangleseniorservices.com. Dec 15 Free 20 Minute Chair Massage, 9:30am-12pm, Guiding Lights Caregiver Support Center, 3724 National Dr, Raleigh. Call to schedule the appointment, which includes the massage and education on pain management and stress reduction. Info: 919.371.2062 or www. guidinglightsnc.org.

Resources Triangle Singles Dance Club has weekly dances, 8:3011pm, Northbrook Country Club, 4905 North Hills Dr, Raleigh. A singles, 40+ social club. December’s dances feature Shag, Swing, and Stealing the Best. No dance Christmas Week. Info: www.trianglesinglesclub.com. Sarah P. Duke Gardens, 420 Anderson St, Durham, offers December classes and events for adults and families like: Photoshop for the Nature Photographer; Walk on the Wild Side; Winter Fun Day; Backyard Composting Garden Forum; Garden Walk for Children; Compost Teas: Controversies and Use; and Teaming with Microbes: No More Chemicals in Your Yard. For a complete schedule of events, dates, times, and information: 919.668.6451 or www.gardens.duke.edu. The Durham Center for Senior Life, 406 Rigsbee Ave, Durham, has ongoing and special offerings. In addition, there are rooms for classes, meetings and exercise space. For a complete listing of activities and information: 919.688.8247 or www.dcslnc.org. Raleigh Community Drum Circle, Lake Johnson Park at the Boat House, 4601 Avent Ferry Rd, Raleigh; and Gifts with a Heart, Swift Creek Shopping Center, 2867 Jones Franklin Rd, Raleigh. No experience necessary. Loaner drums available. For dates, times, and information: 919.233.2121 or www.raleighdrumcircle.org.

Dec 1 Hope For The Holidays Toy Collection for

The Boys & Girls Clubs, 10am-4pm, The Commons At University Place Shopping Center, Durham. Bring new, unwrapped toys for donation. Info: 919.687.4517.

Dec 6 & 8 The Matchmaker Auditions, The Clayton Center, 111 E. 2nd St, Clayton. Students interested in

20), 6-8pm, The Garden Hut, 1004 Old Honeycutt Rd, Fuquay-Varina. Nights of great food, games, demonstrations, and more. Pre-registration is required. Info: 919.552.0590 or www.nelsasgardenhut.com.

Boom NC.com 12.12

Wake County Public Libraries Give Back to the Community with The American Red Cross Bloodmobile. To schedule an appointment or for information and locations: www.redcross.org or www.wakegov.com/ libraries.

Dec 6 & 20 Ladies Night (Dec 6) & Guys’ Night (Dec

Dec 8 Raleigh Rescue Mission Fundraiser featuring

Jeanie DeGroff, author of Everyone Brings Something to the Table, Whole Foods, Six Forks Rd, Raleigh. For time and info: www.raleighrescue.org.

Dec 9-13 Auditions for Durham Savoyards’ The Pirates of Penzance, Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St, Durham. Info: www.durhamsavoyards.org. Through Dec 10 An Introduction to “ChicagoStyle” Improv Class, Mondays, 6:30-9:30pm, Burning Coal Theatre Company, Murphey School, 224 Polk St, Raleigh. Info: 919.834.4001 or www.burningcoal.org. Dec 11 The Raleigh Christian Women’s Connection, 11:30am-1pm, NCSU University Club, Hillsborough St, Raleigh. Learn creative ideas for celebrating Christmas, with Inspirational Speaker Linda McDaniel. Reservations by Dec 4. Info: 919.556.5440.

December 4-9

Groups 10+: 919.281.0587 or Groups@DPACnc.com

Jan 5 & 19 2013 Family Fun Square Dance Nights, First Baptist Church of Raleigh, 99 N. Salisbury St, Raleigh. For everyone 13 years and up. Only requirement is a desire to have fun. Info: www.trianglesquaredance.org. Jan 15 2013 Deadline for Art Submission for the

Hillsborough Sculpture Tour. Info: www.hillsboroughartscouncil.org/63.

Jan 28-Mar 18 2013 A Shakespeare in Perfor-

mance Class, Monday evenings, 6:30-9:30pm, Burning Coal Theatre Company, Murphey School, 224 Polk St, Raleigh. To register or information: 919.834.4001 or www.burningcoal.org.

Media Sponsor

Jan-June 2013 NA-1 Training Programs, Guid-

ing Lights Caregiver Support Center, 3724 National Dr, Raleigh. Six 7-weeklong series. Info: 919.371.2062 or www.guidinglightsnc.org.

Volunteers RSVP Volunteer Programs in Durham and Orange counties have opportunities for people 55 years of age and over who are eager to use their skills to serve an area near them: Garden Docents; Adult Tutors; Hospice; Animal Caregivers; Schools; Volunteer Drivers; Tax Preparers or Support for VITA’s free income tax assistance program. RSVP staff interview volunteers and match them to opportunities available through one of many local agencies registered with RSVP for recruitment assistance. To learn more about these or other opportunities, contact the RSVP agency in your county or go online to find an upcoming Volunteer Information Session. Durham Co RSVP 919.536.7247 or rsvpdurhamnc@ durhamtech.edu; Orange Co RSVP 919.245.4241 or vhill@ orangecountync.gov orwww.orangecountync.gov/ aging/RSVPindex.asp

January 8-13

Sunday, March 10

Tuesday, March 12

Friday, January 18

Thursday, January 24

Friday, January 25

Volunteers for Tax Season. Helping low- to middleincome clients with their taxes through VITA (Volunteer Income Tax Assistance), a free IRS service for eligible clients offered at sites in Orange and Chatham counties. Orientation dates are Dec 5, 1-3pm, Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd, Chapel Hill. Info: 919.245.4240 or www. orangecountync.gov. The Volunteer Center of Durham serves the Triangle area and works toward connecting volunteers with area non-profits. They offer a new online volunteer matching system called HandsOnTriangle. They represent over 700 non-profits and all their services are free. For a full list of their volunteer needs, and information: 919.613.5105 or www.handsontriangle.org. Safe Haven Cat Shelter & Clinic is looking for active seniors that can spare a couple of hours per week to help

continued on page 32

You’ve got to be there.

calendar

The American Red Cross, Central North Carolina Chapter continues its call for blood donations. Take an hour of time to save a life. For Triangle locations and schedules: 1.800.448.3543 or www.givelife.org.

auditioning must be in the 7th-12th grades. Info: www. claytonyouththeater.com.

Original Broadway Cast, Photo by Joan Marcus

Health Related

Calendar continued from page 31 out at the Triangle’s No-Kill Cat Shelter. Info: 919.500.5276 or www.safehavenforcats.org.

Dec 4 Visual Art Exchange needs volunteers for art hanging and installation, 6-8pm, Visual Art Exchange, Raleigh. Info: 919.828.7834 or www.visualartexchange.org.

Boom NC.com 12.12

Activities for Children

calendar

The Museum of Life & Science, 433 W. Murray Ave, Durham, is pleased to announce its December activities highlighted by Santa Train. For a complete schedule, dates, times and information: 919.220.5429 or www. ncmls.org. NC Museum of History, Raleigh, offers special December programs, concerts and exhibits such as: La Posada Time for Tots; Capitol Tree Lighting; and First Night. For schedules and information: 919.807.7900 or www. ncmuseumofhistory.org. The NC Museum of Art in Raleigh wants children to know about their December events and performances highlighted by Holiday Family Fun Friday. For dates, times, and information: 919.839.6262 or www.ncartmuseum.org. Marbles Kids Museum & IMAX Theatre, 201 E. Hargett St, Raleigh, offers December events and activities for children highlighted by Tar Heel Tale Tellers; Little Kids Cook A Gingerbread Man; Baby Time Four-Week Series; An Evening with Elves; Music Makers Tales of Enchantment; School’s Out Camp; and more. For a complete listing of activities, dates, times, and information: 919.834.4040 or www.marbleskidsmuseum.org. The Town of Cary has December events for families highlighted by Tree of Hope Lighting; 18th Annual Cary Kwanzaa; Heart of the Holidays Celebration; Santa’s Workshop; Reindeer Romp 5K; Winter Wonderland at Bond Park; and more. Check the website for Cary’s offerings of classes for children. For a complete listing of

events, dates, locations, and information: 919.460.4965 or www.townofcary.org.

sleigh rides and merriment. Info: www.fuquay-varinadowntown.com.

Wake County Public Library System has expanded their programs for children to incorporate Every Child Ready to Read Skills. Their goal is to educate parents and caregivers on the skills they can use at home to help prepare children for success in school. The library system offers nearly 150 weekly programs for children that include: Baby Storytime; Toddler Storytime; Preschool Storytime; Family Storytime and more. December brings Child Car Seat Safety Checks at Knightdale and Apex branches. For dates, times, locations, and information: www.wakegov.com/libraries/events.

Dec 6 Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony at the State

Dec 1 Voices of Angels featuring the Raleigh Sym-

phony, 8pm, Jones Auditorium, Meredith College, Raleigh. A warm fuzzy holiday event for the whole family. Info: 919.546.9755 or www.raleighsymphony. org.

Through Dec 2 Shrek The Musical, Raleigh Memo-

rial Auditorium, Progress Energy Center of the Performing Arts, Raleigh. Presented by NC Theatre & Broadway Series South. Info: 919.831.6941 or www.nctheatre.com.

Through Dec 2 Alice in Wonderland, Titmus The-

atre, NCSU-Raleigh. Presented by University Theatre. Info: 919.515.1100 or www.ncsu.edu/theatre.

Through Dec 3 A Christmas Story, Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave, Cary. Presented by Cary Players Community Theatre Company. Info: 919.469.4061 or www.caryplayers.org. Dec 4 & 18 Christmas and Winter Carolina Puppet

Theatre, 11am, Holly Springs Cultural Center, 300 W. Ballentine St, Holly Springs. Info: 919.567.4000 or www.hollyspringsnc.us.

Dec 5-9 Disney On Ice Rockin’ Ever After, PNC Center, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh. Info: 919.861.2300 or www.thepncarena.com. Dec 6 Christmas Tree Lighting & Sleigh Rides,

6-8pm, S. Main St, Downtown Fuquay-Varina. Music,

Capitol, 6:30, State Capitol, Downtown Raleigh. Event includes food, holiday tours, decorations and more. Info: www.ncdcr.gov.

Dec 6, 6pm & Dec 8, 10am Clayton Youth Theatre

announces auditions for Thorton Wilder’s The Matchmaker at The Clayton Center, 111 E Second St, Clayton. Students interested in auditioning must be in the 7th12th grade during the 2012-2013 school year. Complete audition information is available at www.claytonyouththeater.com/auditions.html.

Dec 6-16 A Christmas Carol, Theatre In The Park,

107 Pullen Rd, Raleigh. Enjoying 38 years on stage. Info: 919.831.6936 or www.theatreinthepark.com.

Dec 6-16 Cinderella, Raleigh Little Theatre, 301 Pogue St, Raleigh. A holiday tradition for children of all ages. Info: 919.821.3111 or www.raleighlittletheatre.org. Dec 7-8 The Nutcracker featuring City Ballet, Stew-

art Theatre, NCSU-Raleigh. Info: 919.844.9799 or www. city-ballet.com.

Dec 8 Second Saturday Series Family Night, 5-7pm, Logan Trading Company, 707 Semart Dr, Raleigh. Enjoy holiday treats while shopping, a visit from Santa, Christmas Karaoke. Info: 919.828.5337 or www.logantrd.com. Dec 9 Children’s Winter Discovery Series: Winter

Nature Crafts, 2pm at the JC Raulston Arboretum at NC State University. Join us for an afternoon of crafty fun! We bring nature inside to explore evergreen and deciduous plants, berries and cones, and even some winter flowers. We will turn them into snowflakes, winter trees and whatever else your imagination creates! Fee. Preregistration is required. 919-513-7007. www.ncsu.edu/ jcraulstonarboretum.

Dec 14-16 Children’s Christmas Production, Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St, Apex. Info: 919.249.1120 or www.apexnc.org/halle.

Through Dec 16 It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live

Radio Play, Center for Dramatic Art, Country Club Rd, UNC-Chapel Hill. Info: 919.962.7529 or www.playmakersrep.org.

Through Dec 23 The Nutcracker featuring the

Carolina Ballet, Raleigh, Durham & Chapel Hill. For date locations, times, and info: 919.719.0900 or www.carolinaballet.com.

Through Apr 28, 2013 Titanic: The Artifact Exhi-

bition, NC Museum of Natural Sciences, 11 W Jones St, Raleigh. Follow that fateful voyage, take on the identity of a passenger, touch the iceberg and see more than 200 artifacts recovered from the broken ship’s debris field two-and-a-half miles beneath the surface. Info: 919.707.9950 or www.naturalsciences.org/titanic.

Activities for Adults Singles Mingle in Chapel Hill, Meets the 3rd Saturday of each month at 7pm, Franklin Hotel, 311 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill. Ages 30-60s welcome. No cover charge, food available until 11pm, live entertainment, special drink prices. Info: email smich44@gmail.com NC Museum of History, Raleigh, offers December programs, concerts and exhibits activities; The Happy Valley Pals Music of the Carolinas; NC and The Civil War: 1861-1865 Series; The Carolina Moravians History Hunters; Ornamental Holidays Make It Take It; First Night; and more. For schedules and information: 919.807.7900 or www.ncmuseumofhistory.org. The NC Museum of Art, 2110 Blue Ridge Rd, Raleigh, has December exhibits, events, and concerts highlighted by Take A Tour of the New ArtNC; Dining After Dark; Art in the Evening; Holiday Program: The Nativity of Art, Words, and Music; As Time Goes By Senior Sampler; Drawing Outside the Bowl; Please Pass the Stories: Celebrating the Art of the Table; and more. For dates, times and information: 919.839.6262 or www.ncartmuseum.org. The Nasher Museum Of Art, 2001 Campus Dr, Duke University, Durham, presents the opening of The Mark

It’s a Wonderful Life Live From WVL Radio Theatre ON AIR

“When it ended, I sat there... moved to tears, my heart wide open... flooded with gratitude for all the blessings in my life.” ~ From an audience member’s letter to the editor in Asheville, NC

Sunday December 9, 3pm • The Halle Cultural Arts Center

Tickets avaliable at the Box Office, 919-249-1120, or online at etix.com 237 N. Salem Street, Apex, NC 27502 • www.thehalle.org

The Durham Performing Arts Center, 123 Vivian St, Durham, hosts performances in December of Cedric the Entertainer; So You Think You Can Dance Tour; Million Dollar Quartet; A Christmas Carol; Joy An Irish Christmas; The Isley Brothers; and The Nutcracker. For dates, times, and information: 919.688.3722 or www.dpac.com. The Carolina Theatre, 309 W. Morgan St, Durham, wants readers to attend December performances of: Bending Sticks: The Sculpture of Patrick Dougherty Film Premiere; Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour; Keb’ Mo’ Solo Performance; Shawn Colvin; Four Bitchin’ Babes; 92nd Street Y; Natalie MacMaster’s Christmas in Cape Breton; The Nutcracker; and Nneena Freelon/John Brown Christmas. For dates, times, tickets, and information: 919.560.3030 or www.carolinatheatre.org. The Town of Cary and Cary Arts Center sponsors a December full of performances and events for adults and families that include: Arbolito de la Esperanza Tree of Hope Lighting; 18th Annual Cary Kwanzaa; Heart of the Holidays Celebration; Page-Walker Arts & History Center Holiday Open House; Reindeer Romp 5K; Winter Wonderland at Bond Park; Annual Holiday Party 55+; Last Call Pot Luck 55+; A Christmas Story Performance; Jewish Cultural Festival; and more. Also check the Town of Cary’s website for class offerings. For a complete listing of events, dates, locations, and information: 919.460.4965 or www.townofcary.org. The ArtsCenter, 300G E. Main St, Carrboro, has December performances and events highlighted by Transactors’ Improv Holiday Musical Extravaganza; All Is Calm:

Lincoln Theatre, 126 E. Cabarrus St, Raleigh, wants readers to know about their December concerts beginning with Yarn with Corduroy Road; Mayhem Christmas Bash with Old Habits; 3rd Annual Cliff Jackson Memorial Concert; Johnny Folsom 4; Consider the Source; and much more. For dates, times, tickets and information: 919.821.4111 or www.lincolntheatre.com. Moore County hosts December events highlighted by ARTour to DPAC to see Million Dollar Quartet; Reindeer Fun Run; Christmas Open House at the Bryant Center; Carthage and Aberdeen Christmas Parades; An Early American Christmas at Malcolm Blue Farm; Moore Philharmonic Holiday Concert; Jazzy Fridays at Westbend Winery; First Eve; and more. The Artists League of the Sandhills also offers numerous classes throughout the month. For dates, times, locations and information: 910.692.2787 or www.mooreart.org or www. explorepinehurst.com. The Best of Sanford. December’s events include: The Lee County Community Orchestra; Festival Singers’ Holiday Concert; Sanford Christmas Parade; The Christmas Carol at the Temple Theatre; Gregg Gelb Jazz Band at The Flame; and The Blues Experience with Tommy Edwards. For dates, times, locations and info: www.downtownsanford.com or www.discoversanford.com. Holly Springs Cultural Center, 300 W. Ballentine St, Holly Springs, wants readers to know about their December line-up of events highlighted by In My Life Tribute to John Lennon, Holly Springs Community Band Annual Christmas Concert; Route 55 Jazz Orchestra in Blue Santa; and Keith Henderson Christmas. Watch for Main Street Christmas on Dec 7. For dates, times, and information: 919.567.4000 or www.hollyspringsnc.us. Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St, Apex, has holiday events highlighted by It’s a Wonderful Life Live from WNL Radio Theatre; and Children’s Christmas

Production. The Center now offers Track Out Camps at The Halle. For dates, times, and information: 919. 919.249.1120 or www.apexnc.org/halle. The Garner Performing Arts Center, 742 W. Garner Rd, Garner, presents December performances of Broadway Voices with David Burnham; Lunch with Santa & The Sandbox Band; Bill Leslie’s Christmas in Carolina; Miss Black NC Pagaent; and Miss NC Wardrobe Showing. For dates, times, and information: 919.661.4602 or www. garnerperformingartscenter.com. Duke Performances has a December full of performances. They include: Jack Quartet featuring Steven Mackey; Lost in the Trees with Chamber Orchestra; and John Hollenbeck Large Ensemble. For dates, times, locations, tickets, and information: 919.684.4444 or www. dukeperformances.org. Carolina Performing Arts Series, UNC-Chapel Hill presents December performances of The Nutcracker, and Jazz for the Holidays. For dates, times, locations and information: 919.843.3333 or www.unc.edu/ performingarts. The NC Symphony continues its season in December with: Holiday Pops: A Pink Martini Christmas; and New Year’s in Vienna. For dates, times, locations, and information: 919.733.2750 or www.ncsymphony.org. The Raleigh Flute Choir has holiday performances such as Winter Concert, Holiday Concert and Duke University Worship Service. For dates, times, locations and information: 919.781.3225 or www.raleighflutes.org. Dance Seen: First Friday Gallery Walks take place the first Friday of each month at Arts Together, 114 St. Mary’s St, Raleigh. Event features The Even Exchange Dance Theatre. Free and open to the public. For time and information: 919.828.2377 or www.evenexchange.com. EverWondr Network launches a new online events and attractions site that connects Durham arts, culture and entertainment information to the whole state of NC.

Written by David Sedaris

VIENNA WITH A TWIST

An evening of classic Strauss with a big band twist Jeff Tyzik, conductor | Dave Mancini, drums

Show stoppers from Tony Award-winning musicals

Hurry! Seats selling fast! www.ncsymphony.org | 919.733.2750 | 877.627.6724

Sat. Dec. 1, 7pm 10th anniverSary funDraiSing gala with jim witter

fri. jan. 18, 8pm american iDol kriS allen

Sat. feb. 2, 2pm SounD of muSic Sing-a-long

Sat. mar. 9, 8pm marty Stuart & hiS fabulouS SuperlativeS

with bart walker banD anD matt anDerSon

WICKED DIVAS William Henry Curry, Resident Conductor

tickets on Sale now

Sat. mar. 23, 8pm blueS baSh:vii the next generation

MON, DEC 31, 2012 | 8PM

FRI/SAT, JAN 18-19, 2013 | 8PM

Season highlights

continued on page 34

Automatic Vaudeville in Association with Theatre In The Park Present

NEW YEAR’S EVE:

2012-2013

Adapted for the stage by Joe Mantello featuring Jesse R. GephaRt December 12-15, 8pm December 16, 3pm Box Office ~ 919.831.6936 www.theatreinthepark.com

Not for Kids, Y’All!

Sat. apr. 20, 8pm mutual of omaha’S wilD kingDom Starring peter groS

visit us online for a complete schedule www.theclaytoncenter.com

919-553-1737

Boom NC.com 12.12

The Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh, has December performances that include: The Gathering Holiday Concert; Under The Streetlamp; The Army Ground Forces Band Home for the Holidays; Raleigh Ringers Holiday Concert; Brassmas with the Triangle Brass Band; and more. For a complete listing of events, dates, times, and information: 919.831.6060 or www.progressenergycenter.com.

The Christmas Truce of 1914; The Chuckle and Chortie Comedy Show; No Shame Theatre; Almost Ready The Art of Deception; and more. For dates, times, and information: 919.929.2787 or www.artscenterlive.org.

33 calendar

Bradford Exhibit through Dec 9. Info: 919.684.5135 or www.nasher.duke.edu.

Senior’S DAY “Lunch and a Movie” only $12 Per Person, Second Tuesday of each Month $12 per person includes movie admission, lunch, beverage, tax and gratuity - groups welcome!

reservations are required!

Boom NC.com 12.12

enTer To win Senior’S DAY PAckAge for Two!

calendar

Answer the following question and email barbara@boomnc.com with your answer: Which actor played the part of the policeman in it’s a wonderful Life? (Winner will be chosen by november15. Prior winners should not enter for three months to allow other people to win.)

6609 Falls of Neuse Road, Raleigh (919) 847-8370 www.raleighwoodmovies.com

Calendar continued from page 33 Open to local attractions and artists to promote and better market themselves on more than 60 websites. Visit www.durhamculture.com. The Western Wake Farmers’ Market, 1225 Morrisville Carpenter Rd, Cary, will continue its Saturday afternoon markets, 10am-12pm. December market features PreChristmas Market and New Year’s Market. Info: www. westernwakefarmersmarket.org.

Through Dec 1 Antic Shakespeare, Brody The-

ater, East Campus, Duke University, Durham. Info: 919.660.3343 or www.theaterstudies.duke.edu.

Through Dec 1 10th Annual Holiday Shoppe,

Sports and Education Annex, Cary Academy, Cary. More than 100 unique vendors at this free event. Open to the public. Info: 919.228.4653 or www.caryacademy.org/ holidayshoppe.

Dec 1 2nd Annual HIV/AIDS Benefit, 4-8pm, Living

Arts College, 3000 Wakefield Crossing Drive, Raleigh. Local talent will be showcased as they raise awareness of HIV/AIDS. Free admission, fun, food and testing. Info: www.mynameishiv.com, email cmodesigns@gmail. com or 919.453.7386.

Dec 1 Voices of Angels featuring the Raleigh Sym-

phony, 8pm, Jones Auditorium, Meredith College, Raleigh. A warm fuzzy holiday event for the whole family. Info: 919.546.9755 or www.raleighsymphony.org.

Dec 1 The Clayton Center’s 10th Anniversary Gala & Fundraiser, 7pm, The Clayton Center, 111 E. 2nd St, Clayton. Featuring Jim Witter, The Long & Winding Road. Info: 919.553.1737 or www.theclaytoncenter.com. Dec 1 WakeMed Foundation Society of 1961 Appre-

ciation Gala featuring Gladys Knight, Raleigh Convention Center, Downtown Raleigh. Featuring dinner, dancing and the performance. Info: www.wakemed.org.

Dec 1-2 & Dec 8-9 20th Annual Chatham Studio Tour, 10am-5pm, Chatham County. A self-guided tour to artists’ studios. For maps and information: 919.542.6418 or www.chathamartistsguild.org. Through Dec 2 Shrek The Musical, Raleigh Memo-

rial Auditorium, Progress Energy Center of the Performing Arts, Raleigh. Presented by NC Theatre & Broadway Series South. Info: 919.831.6941 or www.nctheatre.com.

Through Dec 2 Alice in Wonderland, Titmus The-

atre, NCSU-Raleigh. Presented by University Theatre. Info: 919.515.1100 or www.ncsu.edu/theatre.

Dec 1 St. Thomas More School’s Annual Christmas

Dec 2 20th Annual Boylan Heights ArtWalk, 12-5pm,

Dec 1 5th Annual St. Nicholas European Christmas Market, 10am-4pm, Saints Cyril and Methodius Parish, 2510 Piney Plains Rd, Cary. A free, family holiday event with food, gifts and music. Info: 919.851.9266.

Dec 2 General Assembly Chorus Concert, 2pm, Cary Academy, 1500 N. Harrison Ave, Cary. Info: 321.345.7464 or www.generalassemblychorus.org.

Holiday Shoppe, 9am-4pm, St. Thomas More Church, 940 Carmichael St, Chapel Hill. Enjoy one-stop shopping with 60 talented artisans, along with live music and food. Info: www.stmhsa.org/events.

Dec 1 Wake Forest Christmas Historic Home Tour,

2-8pm, Historic Wake Forest. Take a horse drawn carriage ride, listen to a performance by the Seminary Carillon and tour beautifully decorated historic buildings. Info: 919.435.9516 or www.wakeforestnc.gov.

Lunch with Santa and the Sandbox Band

Boylan Heights Neighborhood, Downtown Raleigh. More than 100 artists will be showing and selling their work on porches and lawns. Admission is free. Info: 919.337.3633 or www.boylanheights.org.

Dec 2 25th Annual Holiday Auction to Benefit The Orange County Rape Crisis Center, 5pm, Sheraton Chapel Hill Hotel, Chapel Hill. The event will include a silent auction followed by dinner, a live auction, and a dessert auction. Entertainment will be provided by local jazz and blues band Equinox. Info: 919.968.4647 or www.ocrcc.org/auction.

Bill Leslie and Lorica “Christmas in Carolina”

Saturday, December 15, 11am Tickets $10

Saturday, December 15, 7:30pm Tickets $15

It’s an afternoon of fun, food, music and Santa! Join in the excitement as The Sandbox Band brings its unique twist on holiday classics to the Garner Performing Arts Center. Audience members will sing along to holiday favorites such as Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and more! Have your wish list ready for a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. A box lunch is included with admission.

Easily recognized for his popular role as WRAL-TV News anchor, Bill Leslie is also a brilliant, award-winning musician. Aptly described as “one of the greats in modern Celtic music,” Bill’s yuletide fare includes Christmas In Carolina (named Best Holiday Album of 2005) and A Midnight Clear Christmas In Miltford. The latter is among the four number one albums to Bill’s credit!

742 W. Garner Road • Garner, NC 27529 Box Office: Mon-Fri 1:30-5pm • (919) 661-4602 GarnerPerformingArtsCenter.com

Dec 2 25th Annual Apex Historical Society Homes

Tour, 1-5pm, Downtown Apex. Will feature four private homes, along with Union Depot, Maynard Pearson House and the Halle Cultural Center. Tickets and information: 919.290.2575 or www.apexhistoricalsociety.com.

Dec 2 26th Annual Hillsborough Candlelight Home Tour, 12-6pm, West Hillsborough. Eight private homes and structures, many will feature live music and refreshments. Info: 919.732.8156 or www.candlelighttour.com.

Dec 6-16 A Christmas Carol, Theatre In The Park, 107 Pullen Rd, Raleigh. Enjoying 38 years on stage, on of the southeast’s largest theatrical event. Info: 919.831.6936 or www.theatreinthepark.com. Dec 6-16 Cinderella, Raleigh Little Theatre, 301 Pogue

St, Raleigh. A holiday tradition for children of all ages. Info: 919.821.3111 or www.raleighlittletheatre.org.

Sola Coffee Café, 7705 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh. Canned goods and monetary donations will be accepted throughout the day. Info: 919.803.8983.

Dec 8-9 Raleigh Ringers Concert, Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Info: www.rr.org.

Dec 8-9 41st Annual Historic Oakwood Candlelight

7:30pm, Jones Auditorium, Meredith College, Raleigh. Info: 919.760.8536 or www.meredith.edu/music.

Tour of Homes, 1-7pm, Downtown Raleigh’s Historic Oakwood District. Features thirteen historic homes and significant structures. Tickets are available online: www. historicoakwood.org.

Dec 7 6th Annual “Sisters” Exhibition Opening,

Dec 8-9 Christmas Honegger Une Cantate de Noel,

Dec 7 Capital City Girls Choir Christmas Concert,

Local Color Gallery, 22 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh. Info: 919.754.3887 or www.localcoloraleigh.com.

Duke Chapel, Durham. Presented by the Choral Society of Durham. Info: 919.560.2733 or www.choral-society.org.

Methodist Church, 9433 Ten Ten Rd, Raleigh. Australia’s Preeminent Christian Artist. Free and open to the public. Info: 919.772.5294 or www.hollandsumc.org.

Dec 7 Jazz for The Holidays with The NC Jazz Reper-

Through Dec 3 A Christmas Story, Cary Arts Center,

Dec 7-8 The Nutcracker featuring City Ballet, Stew-

Through Dec 9 August Osage County, Fletcher Opera Theatre, Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh. For mature audiences. Info: 919.480.5166 or www.hotsummernightsatthekennedy.org.

Dec 2 Nathan Tasker Concert, 6pm, Holland’s United

101 Dry Ave, Cary. Presented by Cary Players, bring the entire family to this hilarious holiday-classic. Info: 919.469.4061 or www.caryplayers.org.

Dec 4-31 Animation Art Exhibit, Animation & Fine

Art Galleries, University Mall, 201 S. Estes Dr, Chapel Hill. Info: 919.968.8008 or www.animationandfineart.com.

Dec 5-9 Disney On Ice Rockin’ Ever After, PNC Center, 1400 Edwards Mill Rd, Raleigh. Info: 919.861.2300 or www.thepncarena.com. Dec 6 Christmas Tree Lighting & Sleigh Rides, 6-8pm, S. Main St, Downtown Fuquay-Varina. Music, sleigh rides and merriment. Info: www.fuquay-varinadowntown.com. Dec 6 Annual Tree-Lighting Ceremony at the State Capitol, 6:30, State Capitol, Downtown Raleigh. Event includes food, holiday tours, decorations and more. Info: www.ncdcr.gov. Dec 6-8 Tribes, Common Ground Theatre, 4815B Hillsborough Rd, Durham. A play about human identity, communication and love. Info: 919.698.3870 or www. cgtheatre.com.

A Christmas Carol

November 29–December 16 Presented by Temple Theatre The Temple Theatre in Sanford is thrilled to welcome back A Christmas Carol as Sanford’s favorite holiday tradition! Back by popular demand, this original production is sure to delight the entire family. As Charles Dickens’ classic, this production features the traditional story of Scrooge, ghosts and life-changing decisions. Come enjoy traditional Christmas carols, as well as some new songs composed exclusively for this production by Michael Hoagland. One of the songs, Dear Mr. Jesus, was recorded by Lisa Dames, and it became a number one hit online on the country Christmas charts! A Christmas Carol boasts a cast of 42, 17 of which are professionals and the others are local children and adults that want to be involved in theater. With elaborate

tory Orchestra, 8pm, Memorial Hall, UNC-Chapel Hill. Info: www.ncjro.org.

art Theatre, NCSU-Raleigh. Info: 919.844.9799 or www. city-ballet.com.

Dec 8 Triangle Presbyterian Preschool and Kinder-

garten Holiday Craft and Gift Sale, 10am-2pm, Triangle Presbyterian Church, 5001 Tudor Place, Durham. Info: 919.544.2872.

Dec 8 Holiday Pops in Cary, 3pm & 8pm, The Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave, Cary. Performed by Concert Singers of Cary, along with guest artist Bill Leslie. Info: 919.678.1009 or www.concertsingers.org. Dec 8 Second Saturday Series Family Night, 5-7pm, Logan Trading Company, 707 Semart Dr, Raleigh. Enjoy holiday treats while shopping, a visit from Santa, Christmas Karaoke. Info: 919.828.5337 or www.logantrd.com. Dec 8 It’s A Wonderful Life Live From WVL Radio

Theatre, 7:30pm, Seby B. Jones Performing Arts Center, Louisburg College, Louisburg. Info: 919.496.2521 or www.louisburg.edu.

Dec 8 Help for the Holidays: A Day of Music to Sup-

Dec 9 Central Carolina Winter Arts & Crafts Festival, 4-9pm, Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center, 1801 Nash St, Sanford. Over 70 exhibitors, along with live performances, demonstrations, raﬄes and more. Info: 910.364.7302 or www.experiencetheartsnc.com.

Dec 9 Triangle Jewish Chorale’s Winter Program,

3pm, Levin Jewish Community Center, 1937 Cornwallis Rd, Durham. The 5th Annual Rishie Baroff Memorial Concert. Free and open to the public. A second performance will be held on Dec 16 at Durham Public Library. Info: www.trianglejewishchorale.org.

Dec 9 The Durham Chorale Annual Winter Concert,

3pm, Brumley Performing Arts Center, Durham Academy Lower School, 3501 Ridge Rd, Durham. The program offers a wide range of seasonal music from the classical — “For Unto Us a Child Is Born” from Handel’s oratorio, The Messiah — to familiar carols with a surprising jazzy twist. Info: www.durhamchorale.org.

Dec 11 Joy of the Season with NC Master Cho-

Dec 13-23 A Trailer Park Christmas, Common Ground

Theatre, 4815B Hillsborough Rd, Durham. Set in the mobile home of the Dodson/Hussey family, audiences are witness to crazy neighbors, ghosts, fruitcakes and a holiday tornado. Info: 919.698.3870 or www.cgtheatre.com.

Dec 14-15 Sing Noel with Voices, Hill Hall, UNC-Cha-

pel Hill. Festive French carols. Info: www.voiceschapelhill.org.

Through Dec 15 Seventy Scenes of Halloween,

Manbites Dog Theater, 703 Foster St, Durham. Info: 919.682.4974 or www.manbitesdogtheater.org.

Dec 15 The Gathering: A Holiday Concert, 8pm, Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, Raleigh. Presented by PineCone. Info: 919.664.8333 or www. pinecone.org. Through Dec 16 A Christmas Carol, Temple Theatre,

120 Carthage St, Sanford. Back by popular demand, this original production is sure to delight the entire family. As Charles Dickens’ classic, this production features the traditional story of Scrooge, ghosts and life-changing decisions. Info: 919.774.4155 or www.templeshows.com.

Through Dec 16 As You Like It, Burning Coal Theatre Company, Murphey School Auditorium, 224 Polk St, Raleigh. Shakespeare’s comedic romp follows Rosalind out of the court and into the forest, where all sorts of louts, layabouts and fools are waiting to steal her heart. Info: 919.834.4001 or www.burningcoal.org. Through Dec 16 It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live

Radio Play, Center for Dramatic Art, Country Club Rd, UNC-Chapel Hill. Info: 919.962.7529 or www.playmakersrep.org.

Through Dec 16 Oliver, North Raleigh Arts and

Creative Theatre, 7713-51 Lead Mine Rd, Raleigh. Info: 919.866.0228 or www.nract.org.

Dec 16 Little Windows Winter Concert Series,

4-6pm, Page-Walker Hotel, 119 Ambassador Loop, Cary. Info: 919.460.4963 or www.friendsofpagewalker.org.

port The Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC, 3-10pm,

rale, 7:30pm, Meymandi Concert Hall, Raleigh. Info: 919.856.9700 or www.ncmasterchorale.org.

costuming, set and design, Temple’s production uses the Dickens’ narrative as dialogue; therefore, the ‘story’ is told as it has been for centuries in all of its Victorian splendor! Temple Theatre’s A Christmas Carol is directed and choreographed by Artistic Director, Peggy Taphorn, who also served as the costume coordinator for the show. Michael Hoagland is the musical director; Eileen Greenbaum-Mintz is the scenic designer; Samantha Gass is the stage manager; Steven Harrington is the technical director and David Castaneda is the lighting designer. Tickets for A Christmas Carol are $23 for adults, $19 for active military/teachers/ groups of 10+, and $13 for students. Tickets are available by calling Temple Theatre’s Box Office at 919.774.4155, or you may purchase tickets online at www.templeshows.com. The Temple Theatre is located at 120 Carthage Street, Sanford, NC 27331. The box office is open Monday-Friday from 2-6pm. You may also call 919.774.4155 or email boxoffice@templeshows.com. Visit

the website for showtimes and additional ups and downs of love. His hit single Live Like We’re Dying was released just months information, www.templeshows.com. after his American Idol win, and sold nearly two million copies. He is following up with Kris Allen his recently released sophomore album, January 18, 2013, 8pm Thank You Camellia, which showcases the Presented by The Clayton Center Since skyrocketing to stardom as the easy, lived-in richness of his voice. When he’s not on the road, Kris lends winner of the 2009 season of American Idol, his talent and time to supKris Allen has spent a lot port arts organizations of time on the road. He like VH1 Save the Music, toured for 18 months after Little Kids Rock and the debut of his first, selfwww.Donorschoose.org. titled album, playing headVIP tickets for Kris line shows, as well as openAllen are $75, and include ing for the likes of Keith seating within the first Urban, Maroon 5, Barenathree rows and a private ked Ladies and Lifehouse. pre-show meet and greet. Allen auditioned for the eighth season of American Idol in Louis- Reserved seating in all other sections is ville, Kentucky. Throughout the season, he $30. Tickets may be purchased by phone impressed the judges and the audience with at 919.553.1737, at The Clayton Center Box his folk-inspired interpretations of modern Oﬃce from 10am-Noon and from 1-5pm pop songs, including To Make You Feel My Monday through Friday, or online at www. theclaytoncenter.com. Love, Ain’t No Sunshine, and Falling Slowly. All shows in The Clayton Center’s Kris’s impressive talent and warmhearted charm shine in his live perfor- 2012-2013 season are held in the renovated mances. Called “irrepressibly buoyant” by and historic 600-seat auditorium at 111 E. critics, he delivers hook-filled pop melo- Second St. in downtown Clayton, located dies and heartfelt lyrics that explore the about 15 miles east of Raleigh.

continued on page 3

boom nc.com 12.12

Meredith College, Raleigh. Info: 919.760.8536 or www. meredith.edu/music.

35 calendar

Dec 2 Winterfest Concert, 3 & 8pm, Jones Auditorium,

MaryLou Higgins 1926-2012

Calendar continued from page 3

Dec 16 & 19 The Glory of Christmas Concert,

Longview Center, Downtown Raleigh. Presented by Unity Church of the Triangle. Info: 919.832.8324 or www.unitytriangle.org.

Remembrances, Visions and Secrets: A Lifetime of Ceramics and a Legacy in the History of North Carolina Clay VIsUALLY sPeAkING—reprinted with permission From Joe Rowand Fine Art SerVices

Dec 18 The General Assembly Chorus, Temple

boom nc.com 12.12

Theatre, 120 Carthage St, Sanford. Info: 919.774.4155 or www.templeshows.com.

Through Dec 23 The Nutcracker featuring the

Carolina Ballet, Raleigh, Durham & Chapel Hill. For date locations, times, and info: 919.719.0900 or www. carolinaballet.com.

Through Dec 30 The Twelve Days of Christmas, Carolina Inn, Chapel Hill. Now in its 15th year, The Carolina Inn will once again celebrate the Christmas season with enchanting decorations inspired by the traditional holiday song, The Twelve Days of Christmas. Magnificently decorated trees, beautifully appointed holiday décor, and events to keep you and your little ones entertained. Info: tinyurl.com/cm53tt9. Reservations are required for many events and may be made online, by calling 919.918.2735 or emailing crossroads@ carolinainn.com. Through Dec 31 Mid-Century American Exhibit, Adam Cave Fine Art, 115 ½ E Hargett St, Raleigh. Info: 919.838.6692 or www.adamcavefineart.com.

ne of North Carolina’s preeminent ceramic artists, MaryLou Higgins, died peacefully at her home in the Fearrington Village Community near Pittsboro, North Carolina recently. MaryLou was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she met her husband Edward “Woody” Higgins who succeeds her in the their art-filled home/studio. Both went to art school in Wisconsin, they both had art jobs in the military and both taught at various institutions of higher learning in Wisconsin as well as Pennsylvania.

Dec 31 The Bluegrass Experience with Tommy Edwards, Temple Theatre, 120 Carthage St, Sanford. Info: 919.4512 or www.templeshows.com.

Dec 31 21st Annual First Night Raleigh, Downtown Raleigh. This year’s First Night Raleigh festival takes on a French-inspired theme. Many of the celebration’s dozens of performances and activities have been designed to reflect French influences. Passes are required for admission to all First Night Raleigh activities and performances. Info: www.firstnightraleigh.com. Through Jan 2013 Chapel Hill Town Hall Exhibit, 405 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd, Chapel Hill. Featuring artists Brian Joyner, Andrew Kosorok, and Jacqueline Nielsen. Info: www.chapelhillarts.org. Through Jan 6, 2013 Season Of Japan Exhibit, The Ackland Art Museum, UNC-Chapel Hill. Presenting ten unique exhibitions and installations examining myriad aspects of Japanese art and culture. Info: 919.843.3675 or www.ackland.org. Through Jan 6, 2013 The Industrial Revolution and Its Results & Walking on the Bellies of Our Lusts Exhibits, Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St, Durham. Info: 919.560.ARTS or www.durhamarts.org. Through Jan 7, 2013 Long Play Exhibit, Ella Fountain Pratt Legacy Gallery, Durham Arts Council, 120 Morris St, Durham. Featuring works by Nuno Gomes. Info: 919.560.2719 or www.durhamarts.org. Through Jan 13, 2013 Visual Feast: Masterpieces of Still Life from the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, East Building, Meymandi Exhibition Gallery, NC Museum of Art, Raleigh. Info: 919.715.5923 or www. ncartmuseumorg. Through Jan 13, 2013 The Art of Giving Exhibit,

Hillsborough Gallery, 121 N. Churton St, Hillsborough. Info: 919.732.5001 or www.hillsboroughgallery.com.

Through Jan 13, 2013 Sea To Shining Sea Shal-

lotte to Seattle Exhibit, Craven Allen Gallery, 1106 ½ Broad St, Durham. Paintings by Sue Sneddon. Info: 919.286.4837 or www.cravenallengallery.com.

Through Feb 4, 2013 New Artworks by Angel Otero Exhibit, CAM, Raleigh. 409 W. Martin St, Raleigh. Info: 919.513.0946 or www.camraleigh.org.

Through Apr 28, 2013 Titanic: The Artifact

Exhibition, NC Museum of Natural Sciences, 11 W Jones St, Raleigh. Follow that fateful voyage, take on the identity of a passenger, touch the iceberg and see more than 200 artifacts recovered from the broken ship’s debris field two-and-a-half miles beneath the surface. Info: 919.707.9950 or www.naturalsciences. org/titanic.

20 years ago, MaryLou and her husband moved to North Carolina when Woody retired from his teaching jobs after many years. By that time two of their grown children had established identities and lived in other parts of the country. MaryLou had long ago earned the status as a “Who’s Who” in America weaving, also winning awards from what was then known as the Museum of American Craft. She created soft sculpture, baskets, wearable art and extraordinary inventive fiber crafts. Prior to moving to North Carolina and while living in Pennsylvania teaching art history, MaryLou combined her love of drawing with her great love of ceramics and used underglaze pencils while collaborating with her husband Woody, on early ceramic pieces. These early works are signed by both artists. MaryLou is represented in museums all over the country and has exhibited in galleries from the east coast to the west. MaryLou has had gallery exhibitions throughout North Carolina, chieﬂy at the Somerhill Gallery in Chapel Hill, also the New Morning Gallery as well as Conell Gallery in Atlanta. She is represented in the pivotal museums in this state including Mint Museum, Cameron Museum of Art, Gregg Museum of Art and Design

and the North Carolina Pottery Center as well as nationally respected museums. She held teaching positions in five colleges or universities, was published in many prestigious books on ceramics as well as featured in national craft magazines and did public speaking. She had been included in “Who’s Who in American Art” since 1976. Everything about MaryLou revolved around her inspirational passion for creativity. She was exposed to art as a youngster in Wisconsin while filling in as a model for her artist mother’s teaching classes. It was a world she adopted as a child and she herself would say “worked 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” She began working in clay after making a career in fiber, at first black and white drawings and stoneware and gradually adding colors and 22 karat gold glazes to her signature dream fantasies. Some of her early pieces appear functional including a series of cups and plates that were sold in galleries in New York and Maine, eventually graduating to larger bowls and vessels. After moving to North Carolina, MaryLou was no longer content working on a predictable form and she started leaving behind the wheel thrown art pieces and began emerging as a sculptor working on built up sculptured slabs that often has a ceremonial attitude in their inventive shapes; seemingly functional but in reality were the icon of the form it represented in her imagination. Having been a weaver and a teacher in textiles, she was fascinated by the Flemish artwork throughout her life. “The figure,” which she referenced consistently, was an outpouring from her fantasy, originated and stimulated by her love of Flemish tapestries. Never one to stay with one medium, MaryLou expanded to many other mediums and built tables, chairs and other furniture, painted on wood panels, combined her wood sculptures and made beautiful detailed drawings upon wooden desks and tables. She created amazing jewelry from earrings and pins to elaborate, mystical necklaces that were extravagantly formed. The artist has said, “In my mind faces and designs and figures dance around striving to be drawn. Where they come from, so strong and compelling, I can only feel that they are what I am. All the previous souls

that have come together to make me are stretching out to be part of my universe. Each sculpture feeds upon itself, dictating what the next one should be. Sometimes ideas leapfrog ahead so fast that I can’t keep up, thus I wake up each morning driven to create in an attempt to keep up with the ideas that ﬂoat through my head. I don’t intellectualize, but I would be dead if couldn’t put my hands in clay (which she did until her very last day). Art is my life, my blood, my everything. I like the feeling of not knowing what the end is.”

A Trophy to Hope, ceramic vase by MaryLou Higgins.

Director Joe Rowand of the Somerhill Gallery and Joe Rowand Fine Art Services who represented her for many years commented, “I remember the day I met MaryLou. I was thrilled then and remained so lucky to have the privilege of promoting her extraordinary art and being so closely connected to a truly valued friendship.” MaryLou is survived by her devoted husband, Edward “Woody” Higgins, daughters Deborah Soja, actress and singer and her husband Matt Soja of Clewiston, Florida; Karen Young, artist and her husband Mike Young of Tucson, Arizona; and Victoria Sylvestre, artist and teacher, her husband Marc Sylvestre, artist and educator and their sons Maxwell, Jasper and Felix of Chapel Hill, North Carolina.

few weeks ago I came home to find an unsolicited “estimate” for lawn care services—aerating, seeding, fertilizing, liming, and the like—stuck in the handle of my front door. Let’s see now: aerating, $185 (optional, but highly recommended) … seeding and fertilizing, $145 (needed immediately) … lime, pre-emergent, and slow-release nutrient application, $40 per application (six applications per growing year.) Hmm … $185 + $145 + $40 x 6 = … uh? … Anyone have a calculator? Attached to the estimate was a checklist of all the things that can possibly be wrong with a lawn, and a lot of those things were checked: Thin spots, brown spots, heat damage, topsoil erosion, compacted clay, crabgrass, and dandelions: check, check, check, check, check, check, and check. How depressing. Made me want to move. Or, at the very least, apply some lime to a gin and tonic. According to a note from someone named Scott scribbled at the bottom of the checklist, all he needed from me to make all those checks go away was—you guessed it—a check. Hapless, but hopeful, I called Scott and was quite dismayed to discover he was not the same Scott who invented Scott’s Turf Builder, and MiracleGro. Bummer! me: “Scott, I found the lawn care estimate you left me.” scott: “So, how does it look?” me: “Looks just like the one the other guys left me.” scott: “What other guys?” me: “The guys who let my grass get thin, brown, and heat damaged … let my topsoil erode and my clay compact … and allowed crabgrass and dandelions to infest my lawn … for about 700 bucks.” As it turns out, according to Scott—and his estimate—fescue is my best bet for a decent lawn in my yard. me: “But Scott, the other guys have been planting fescue in my yard for five years, and you saw my lawn—thin, brown, damaged, eroded, compacted, and infested—remember? scott: “Yeah, well, here in the south, with our July/August/September heat, humidity and drought conditions, that’s going to happen to fescue pretty much every year.” me: “Well, what about Bermuda grass … or Centipede grass?”

scott: “Both of those require a lot of direct sunlight. You’ve got way too much shade.” me: “So, let me get this straight: I can’t have a fescue lawn because there’s too much sun … and I can’t have a Bermuda lawn because there’s not enough sun? Is that what you’re telling me?” scott: “Pretty much.” me: “Then why did you leave me this estimate? Why didn’t you just leave me a sympathy card?” me (after a long, awkward silence:) “Hello … Scott … are you still there, Scott?” The revelation that you are doomed to be lawn-less is truly traumatic, because a nice, lush, green lawn is all a middle-class, middle-aged—okay, upper-middle-aged— male who doesn’t have grandkids has to brag about. Rhetorical question: What kind of genius starts a lawn care business in a geographic area where lawns simply won’t grow, come (not enough) rain or (too much) shine? Someone whose “Icicles-to-Eskimos” business had failed, perhaps? My neighbor still has a green lawn, even though it’s hot, humid, dry, and shady on his side of our street too. me: “Your lawn is so green; what kind of grass do you have?” my neiGhbor: “Grass? That’s not grass. Those are just weeds.” me: “So, you didn’t aerate, seed or fertilize last fall?” him: “Nope!” me: “And you didn’t put down lime and slow-release nutrients this summer?” him: “Nope!” me: “So … all you did was grow and mow weeds?” him: “Yep!” me: “Where do you get your weed seed?” I “pushed my mower over my yard” recently for the first time in over a month. Know why? To mulch the leaves that have fallen from our two big oak trees; the big oak trees that cause all the shade that prevents Bermuda grass from growing in my yard, but not enough shade to keep fescue grass from having a heat stroke. But, no worries, for soon it will be winter, and perhaps it will snow. And, there’s nothing like four inches of snowfall for making your lawn look as good as your neighbor’s. Bill Massey is a freelance writer, retired middle school teacher, and a former advertising executive.

Finding Peace With Singleness LIVING sINGLe—PArT 12 by J. Scott TruaX

here is a lot of practical and emotional advice out there about how one gets to a point of being “at peace” with their lot in life. The reality of being at a latter stage in life, combined with a sense that one does not have a life partner to share it with, can be deeply distressing. Being content is more of an attitude that reflects one’s innermost disposition than an expression of an objective reality bearing down from the outside. We know this because there are many people who are single and report living contented lives. Kori Ellis, in her web article, Four Ways to Find Peace With Your Single Status, lists several practical ways to come to terms with this reality. While the article has in view those who have become single after a split-up of their marriage, it has applicability to those who are single for any reason. The first step is not to blame—not others, not God, not luck, not yourself. Ellis cites utilitarian reasons for this; it wastes energy and doesn’t change anything. Another is not developing “an attitude” about the opposite gender. It’s neither right nor true to project one’s experience or preconceptions onto a whole half of humanity, thus removing oneself from it in the process. And, as the article points out, it promotes a tone that affects relationships in all of life negatively. Other steps, like “get out of the house,” facilitate learning to enjoy going out with oneself. This counteracts an inward focus and disposes oneself outward toward other people. And “de-cluttering your life”—getting rid of things that remind you of past unpleasant things or people—can be very cleansing. While changing circumstances can help in “finding peace,” ultimately, one can only find lasting peace in something that is not transient and circumstantial, but fixed. Many would say that is a deep and abiding faith in a personal God. Indeed, one of the historic catechisms of the Christian faith begins with the question, “What is the chief end of man?” And answers, “Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever,” reflecting the notion of a lifetime purpose not really dependent on circumstances. Curiously, it seems that peace also requires something that might appear to be counter-intuitive. Gratitude. Rather than being dominated by resentment of one’s circumstance, making a choice to be grateful for the things one does have and the opportunities that are there. Even for the possibilities that a single person might have that a married one might not. Allia Zobel, in The Joy of Being Single, takes a humorous look at being single. While the book uses cartoon illustrations to evoke humor, good humor always has an element of truth. The book cites advantages like being able to vacuum whenever one wants to, or not at all, underscoring the possibilities that can come with that freedom. A post on a blog dedicated to people struggling with being alone (www.enotalone.com), summarized how one woman described “feeling a sudden peace with the fact that I’m single.” After reciting a history of discontent, the post concluded, “I can take care of myself…. it’s something I can control. If I make the effort, I’ll achieve them [goals]. Unlike in dating, where you can’t control what the other person does, thinks or feels.” The post reflects one key aspect of being content with singleness, recognizing the benefits and possibilities of being single when one changes their attitude. And changing that, attitude, to one of appreciation goes a long way toward finding peace with singleness.

J. Scott Truax is a freelance writer in the Triangle area. He can be reached at boom@access4less.net.

boom nc.com 12.12

A MusinG Mind by Bill Massey

37 boom! bits

Leave My Lawn a Loan

T Osborne B11 2012 v2

We Buy Houses!

Boom NC.com 12.12

Easy Move Move What You Want - Leave Behind the Rest! Easy Closing No Repairs or Inspections - No Closing Costs Ease of Mind A+ Rating with BBB

The best way to help prevent falls PuzzleJunction.com

919-858-7060

Kathy Simmers so worth it

7/27/10

NEED MORE INCOME FOR YOUR RETIREMENT?

Work from home advertising for an Inc. 500 company. Find out more today!

www.so-worth-it.com/retire

Kathy Simmers 919-612-0009

READY TO SOUP UP YOUR KITCHEN? JeanE

Kitchen and Bath Design, Inc.

RaleighKitchenBathDesign.com 919/656.0373

December Puzzle answers on page 3 Start of a New Dictionary Page

Across 1 Rule opposed by Gandhi 4 Constructs 9 Prefix with 11:25 AM Page 1 phone 13 ___ mater (brain membrane) 14 Ten-percenter 15 Qom home 16 Utah city 17 Massive inexorable force 19 Unidentified ladies 21 Unnerve 22 Kind of beam 23 “___ questions?” 24 Book covers 27 Tease 31 Big fuss 33 Wing (Fr.) 34 Make eyes at 35 Squirrel’s nest 36 Biz loan giver 37 Like Jack Sprat’s diet 38 Actor Baldwin 39 Forest growth 41 Court do-over 42 Sulk 43 Type of store 45 River islet 46 Propelled a boat 49 Away 53 Mandibles 56 Certain flower pot 58 Rubberneck

and other injuries is to install

GRAB BARS & HANDRAILS! 5

Tom Osborne 919.967.7355

tosbornester@gmail.com

18 20 23 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32

Seven nights in Tracy Arm Fjord 55

9 10 11 12 13

Julep type Part of Q.E.D. Kelt ___ meridiem Executive department, briefly Sci-fi killer Narc’s org. Sergeant’s command Fate Pasta shape Pirate flag Arch type Crate component Lady lobster Singer Guthrie Abstruse

35 40 43 44 45 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 57

Wills, Living Wills, Healthcare Directives and Powers of Attorney prepared and executed in your own home at your convenience. Kathryn Kabat, Attorney at Law kkabat@nc.rr.com Discounts for Veterans, Public Service Personnel, Teachers and Individuals 60+.

(919) 439-3843 www.willsonwheelsnc.com

DISCOVER MUSIC: LEARN TO PLAY PIANO in a group class with other adult beginners. You will learn: • rhythm counting • keyboard geography • music note reading in a relaxed learning environment. “TRY IT” sessions offered monthly. Contact: PianoRAMA, LLC Studio (919) 781-3220 Email: pianoramanc@gmail.com www.pianoramanc.com

$1,199

Includes: All meals onboard, a Veranda stateroom, shore excursions available Holly Woodard & Associates

Independent Vacation Specialists

Farm female Not the fastest Trolley Spiritual leader’s abbr. Singer DiFranco Related maternally Railroad station Open a bit Cotton unit Sp. ladies Redact Napoleon battle site Son of Zeus Cambodian coin Boiling blood

Arthritis or Joint PAin?

PianoRAMA

Sailing round trip from Seattle to Seattle

from

Down 1 Rustic 2 Circus site 3 Ulysses author 4 One of the Balearic Islands 5 Malarial fever 6 They’re tapped 7 Chang’s Siamese twin 8 Ship parts

Sail Though AlASkA September 2013

Jai ___ French commune Royal educator Breather Brewer’s need Soak ﬂax

Bathroom Conversions Ceramic Tile Shower Stalls Wheel Chair Ramps

J.R. Remdeling Co. General Contracting Services

59 60 61 62 63 64

9:44 A

Two thirds of accidental injuries happen in the bathroom

Booming Businesses

www.thehousebusiness.com Boom! Dec. 2012 Crossword

Local Company ~ Working with NC Familes for Over 30 Years!

10/26/12

get • Reduces Inflammation • Increases Circulation • Provides Relief from Arthritis and Joint Pain • Medicare approved for Knees, Back, Hands, Elbows, and Feet

r.L. Perry, 919.215.0779 www.thermoskin.com

CALL toDAY For PAin rELiEF!

hwoodard@cruiseone.com 919.779. 3497 • 855.349.4200 www.cruiseone.com/hwoodard

Aqua Vitae Ionized Alkaline Water

Natural Antioxidant Oxygen Enriched Mineral Enhanced

Be Healthier!

Aqua Vitae Corporation ~ The Leader in water filtration and purification. For information, contact: 919.870.1021 www.AquaVitaeCorp.com

Not Just a Place to Live, but a Place to Start Living! Evergreen Construction Company, the Triangle’s leading management company that provides affordable age-restricted housing, is now accepting applications for their one- and two-bedroom apartment homes

Eastern Triangle Locations Autumn Spring

Cedar Spring

Garden Spring

Lions Spring

Silver Spring

3601 Eck Dr. Raleigh, NC 27604

100 So. Hollybrook Rd. Wendell, NC 27591

(919) 366-1331

2830 Kidd Rd. Raleigh, NC 27610

(919) 212-1750

320 Shotwell Rd. Clayton, NC 27520

601 Pony Rd. Zebulon, NC 27597

(Off Trawick Road, near WakeMed Hospital)

(Across the street from the Eastern Wake Senior Ctr.)

(Close to WakeMed East Campus and the Beltine)

(Minutes away from Hwy 70, shopping and medical services)

(Close to Hwy 96, Hwy 97 just off of US 64)

(919) 878-8820

(919) 550-2890 (919) 404-4753

Must be 55 or older. Certain income limits apply. For more information visit www.evergreenconstructionco.com

ava i l a b l e t h r o u g h c o a sta l f e de r a l c r e d i t u n i o n

Advice You Can Trust. Coastal Wealth Management As a division of Coastal Federal Credit Union, we provide a full range of financial services to create and implement a personal financial plan for you. These services include retirement planning, investment planning, investment management, estate planning, trust services and insurance. Why Coastal Wealth Management? Available through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. Located at Coastal Federal Credit Union. Trust Services offered through Member’s Trust Company.

• We have salaried advisors • We provide unbiased advice • No proprietary products

Contact an advisor today at 919-882-6655

Non-deposit investment products and services are offered through CUSO Financial Services, L.P. (“CFS”), a registered broker-dealer (Member FINRA/SIPC) and SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Products offered through CFS: are not NCUA/ NCUSIF or otherwise federally insured, are not guarantees or obligations of the credit union, and may involve investment risk including possible loss of principal. Investment Representatives are registered through CFS. The credit union has contracted with CFS to make non-deposit investment products and services available to credit union members.