April - May - June 2022 CIRCA Magazine by CIRCA Magazine

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APRIL

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M AY

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JUNE 2022

G ROW I N G F L OW E R S F O R C U T T I N G • S I M P L E S P R I N G S U P P E R S • f i n a n c i a l f o c u s • g o g r e e n w i t h f i d o • C H E E R S T O S P R I N G s u s ta i n a b i l i t y b y d e s i g n • S P R I N G I N T O AC T I O N A RO U N D T OW N • S W E E T O N S C A L L O P S • r i d i n g t h e R E A L E S TAT E ro l l e rc oa s t e r T H E 5 L S O F L I F T I N G • e n s u r e yo u a r e i n s u r e d • w e a l l s c r e a m f o r c h o c o l at e i c e c r e a m • g o o d r e a d s • A N D M O R E

c i rc a m ag a z i n e . c o m

A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER

Hello CIRCA readers! And hello spring! While I’m not very excited about all the yellow pollen that is a surefire way to know that spring has arrived, I am excited that the temperatures are on the rise, the days are longer, and the trees and flowers are gracing us with their colorful splendor and lovely fragrances. Yes, spring has arrived, and this issue of CIRCA Magazine welcomes it, and you, with all things spring. As you can probably tell by the lovely front cover, nothing says spring to me more than beautiful blooms. “Growing Flowers For Cutting” provides helpful gardening tips, along with a guide of pretty plants, to help you kickstart your own floral garden that will allow you to enjoy vases full of vibrant blossoms during the spring season, and throughout the year. To help showcase these beautifully-grown garden wonders, check out “Spring Crafts To Put A Spring In Your Step” for a little floral container inspiration – as well as a step-by-step guide on how to craft pom-pom garlands to decorate for the season. Speaking of decorating, don’t miss “Décor Dilemma?” for insight into the top trends for Spring ’22, as well as advice for brightening your space, making it feel like you’ve brought the outdoors in. “Sustainability By Design” details several nonconventional decorating materials that can be refinished and updated over time, should your tastes change. If you’re looking for some fun in the sun this spring, “Spring Into Action” offers up a wide array of exciting events to fill your seasonal calendar – from movie nights and concerts in the park to Friday Night On White to Easter egg hunts, and much more. And take time to stop and smell the roses – and other springtime flowers and foliage – not just in your backyard, but at the many local botanical treasures that are waiting to be discovered in this edition of “Hidden Gems” (again, spring is all about gorgeous gardens and beautiful buds!). Check out “Driveable Destination” to learn about the wonder of nearby Halifax County – the perfect day trip or weekend escape. While the warm weather, the fabulous flowers, and the longer days of spring are great, so is the seasonal fare. This time of year is perfect for enjoying fresh fruit and veggies, seafood, ice cream, and beer! And all are featured on the following pages – “Cheers To Spring,” “Simple Spring Suppers With Seasonal Ingredients,” “Sweet On Scallops,” and “ I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream For Chocolate Ice Cream” … your tastebuds won’t want you to flip by any of these pages, I assure you! Of course, this isn’t all that is waiting for you here in this latest edition of CIRCA. We’re also cleaning up some of the dirtiest kitchen cleaning myths, sharing tips on how to safely lift to avoid back pain and injury (very important for you spring mulch-spreaders out there), offering suggestions for prepping your home for the hot selling market, recommending entertaining and educational reading options, helping with identifying your estate planning objectives, and much more. I can’t sign off without saying thank you to all of the incredible local businesses that advertise with us. Please continue to support these businesses – they are the backbone of our community, and they and their amazing staff are excited to provide you with their great products and services. Just don’t forget to let them know you found them in CIRCA Magazine! As you enjoy the warmth, beauty, and joy of spring, I hope you continue to stay safe, happy, and healthy. I’ll see you again this summer!

A P R I L • M AY • J U N E 2 0 2 2 6

Spring Into Action – Let’s Get Out And Celebrate Spring Around Town

Decor Dilemma? Design Tips, Tricks, And Helpful Hints

Ensure You Are Insured – Does Your Homeowner’s Insurance Policy Cover A Second Home?

Presbyopia – Insight Into Age-Related Farsightedness

Financial Focus – Estate Plans Let You Control Your Legacy

Anyone Need A Lift? The 5 Ls Of Lifting

Cooked In Tradition – I Scream, You Scream, We All Scream For Chocolate Ice Cream!

Simple Spring Suppers With Seasonal Ingredients

Good Reads

The New Normal – Anxiety ... What You Should Know

Put Down The Bug Spray – And Pick Up Your Smartphone!

Cleaning Myths Debunked – The Kitchen

Hidden Gems – Stop And Smell The Roses

Seasonal Selling – How To Get Your Home Ready For a Spring Sale

Spring Crafts To Put A Spring In Your Step

Foods For Healthy Gums

Cheers To Spring

Celebrating 100 Years – Happy Anniversary Wake Forest Federal!

Go Green With Fido – Reduce Your Pup’s Carbon “Paw” Print

Wisdom Teeth 101 – Everything You Need To Know About These Molars

Riding The Real Estate Rollercoaster

Direct Primary Care – A Snapshot

Let’s Talk Health – A Minimally Invasive Treatment Option For BPH

Growing Flowers For Cutting

Driveable Destination – The Wonder Of Halifax County

Bringing “Old School” Marketing Back To Life

Sweet On Scallops

Sustainability By Design – Decorating Materials For Changing Tastes And Trends

Our Heritage – Baseball And Easter Monday: A North Carolina Tradition

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kent Lower CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Allison Caudle Abbott Ed Morris Todd Nelson Robyn Goss Bennai Nick Pione Buck Buchanan Tom Piper Camp Bow Wow Rhonda Benvie Plummer Margarita Cohen Raleigh Radiology Mauranda Dalziel Dolores Riggins Jonathan Daniel Amy Rikhoff Bracy Dutton Dr. Mackenzie Dziedzic Dr. Macon Singletary Dr. Edmond Suh Jay Goodman Thomas Walters Toni Kenion Town of Wake Forest Suzanne Lucey Bob White Tina Mast Brad Wynn Stacey Moritz CONTACT INFORMATION BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC P.O. Box 1182 Wake Forest, NC 27588 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com circamagazine.com ADVERTISING SALES 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com MANAGERS Kent Lower & Mitch Lower Printed by Walton Press Inc.

AD SPACE RESERVATIONS JUL / AUG / SEPT 2022: May 25, 2022

CIRCA Magazine is published quarterly by BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within; however, BallPointe Publishing & Design assumes no liability for accuracy or omissions.

show is highly interactive, and Joshua always makes good on his promise to treat every participant with respect, creating moments of joy and amazement that last long after the evening is over. Joshua’s performance is an Arts for All program supported by the United Arts Council of Raleigh and Wake County. Admission is free. The show will have festival seating, so plan to arrive early. For more information, visit wakeforestrencen.org.

FRIDAY NIGHT ON WHITE Friday Night on White (FNOW) returns to S. White Street in historic downtown Wake Forest on April 8 with The Magic Pipers. The 2022 series continues May 13 with Sleeping Booty, June 10 with Soul Psychedelique, July 15 with Love Tribe, August 12 with The Brickhouse Band, and September 9 with Crush. These concerts get underway at 6:00 PM and conclude at 9:00 PM. While you’re enjoying the music, be sure to visit sponsor exhibits and enjoy delicious food at downtown’s outstanding dining establishments or from several food trucks that will be on-site. A special thank you to the Grand Sponsor, White Street Brewing Co., for their continued support. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Friday Night on White.”

EASTER EGG HUNT The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources (PRCR) Department will host its annual Easter Egg Hunts on Saturday,

BY TOWN OF WAKE FOREST

SPRING

INTO ACTION LET'S GET OUT AND CELEBRATE SPRING AROUND TOWN

he Town of Wake Forest is excited to offer a full calendar of events over the next several months guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a spring in your step! After two years of hosting fewer events due to COVID, we’re gearing up for a full season of Friday Night on White, Six Sundays in Spring, and Family Movie Nights at Joyner Park, plus several other favorites you and your family won’t want to miss.

JOSHUA LOZOFF – LIFE IS MAGIC The Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts (405 S. Brooks Street) presents Joshua Lozoff ’s “Life is Magic” on Friday, April 1, at 7:00 PM. Joshua’s stage show combines amazing illusions with mental feats that will amaze and entertain the entire family. The 6

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April 9. Presented by Primrose School of Heritage Wake Forest and Bumgarner & Martin Orthodontics, the festivities will take place at E. Carroll Joyner Park, (701 Harris Road), beginning at 10:00 AM. PRCR will offer several egg hunts for children of different ages, along with an Egg-ceptional Egg Hunt for children with disabilities. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Egg Hunt.”

S-O-L-E DEFINED The Renaissance Centre will host a performance by S-O-L-E Defined on Saturday, April 9, at 7:30 PM. S-O-L-E Defined is the Washington Metro area’s leading arts organization specializing in percussive dance – using the body as an instrument to create musical expression. Showcasing advanced styles such as tap, stepping, body percussion, sand dance, and gumboot, this BIPOC-led company infuses powerful skills to delight and inspire audiences. For more information, visit wakeforestrencen.org.

SIX SUNDAYS IN SPRING

career options, STEM Saturday will feature STEM-related exhibits, demonstrations, and hands-on learning activities. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “STEM.”

FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS AT JOYNER PARK The PRCR Department is delighted to offer Family Movie Nights at Joyner Park on the following Saturdays: May 21 (Trolls World Tour), June 18 (Secret Life of Pets 2), July 23 (Little Mermaid), and August 6 (Shang Chi). Family Movie Nights will also include movie-related pre-show activities beginning at 7:15 PM. Showtime is 8:30 PM and admission is free. Assorted food vendors will be on-site selling snacks and beverages. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Movie Nights.”

NATIONAL TRAILS DAY The Recreation Advisory Board will host National Trails Day on Saturday, June 4, at Joyner Park. Presented by Burn Boot Camp

Pack a picnic, grab your lawn chairs, and get ready for some foot-tapping, fingersnapping good times. The 2022 Six Sundays in Spring concert series takes place at Joyner Park and is scheduled from 5:30 PM 7:30 PM on consecutive Sundays from April 24 through May 29. Co-sponsored by the PRCR Department and ARTS Wake Forest, these free outdoor concerts offer something for all music lovers. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase or feel free to bring your own. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Six Sundays.”

Wake Forest, this family-friendly event will include a timed 5K/3K walk/run race for children and adults. Check-in on the day of the event starts at 7:00 AM, and the race begins at 8:00 AM. Funds raised through race entry fees will be used to support the maintenance of current greenways and the development of new ones throughout Wake Forest. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Trails Day.”

STAY CONNECTED! Always be the first to know about Town of Wake Forest announcements, programs, and special events by signing up for E-Notifier, downloading the Town app, visiting the Wake Forest website, and/or following the Town on social media @TownofWakeForest. For complete details, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Communications.”  Anna Bolton is the marketing and business relations specialist for the Town of Wake Forest. To learn more about Town events, sponsorship opportunities, and how you can be involved, contact Anna at 919-435-9422 or abolton@wakeforestnc.gov.

GET IN GOOD WITH AN EXPERT Because I know the risks in the area, I’ll use my local expertise to help you choose the right amount of protection. And I’ll be there to help you as your coverage needs change. Call or stop in for a free, no-obligation Personalized Insurance Proposal today.

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Area middle school and high school students and their parents are invited to Wake Forest’s STEM Saturday on April 30. Presented by the Wake Forest Wireless Research Center, this free family event is scheduled from 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM at the Joyner Park Community Center. Designed to expose students to a variety of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)

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Q: What are the latest trends for spring? A: This year, the latest trends can be summed up in three words: color, texture, and warmth. When it comes to color, there are no rules. Bold hues are hot this season – take bold even further by painting all the walls and the ceiling of a particular room the same color. Warm tones are more popular, but brighter colors can be toned down when paired with blacks and neutrals. If paint bores you, wallpaper is still on trend – anything from textured to big, bright patterns and florals. Paint the ceilings a complementary color or pick a complementary wallpaper to hang on the ceiling. BY RHONDA BENVIE PLUMMER

DECOR

DILEMMA?

DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HELPFUL HINTS

pring – the season when days brighten, temperatures rise, flowers bloom, and our spirits lift. It’s also a time when homeowners are itching for a refresh of their living spaces – we all want the inside of our homes to reflect the beauty of the outdoors this season. But how do we do that, you ask? Well, some of our readers are wondering the same – and I’m here to help show how you can spruce up your spaces so you can embrace the sights and scents of spring. Q: My house does not have much natural light. How do I brighten my space so it feels brighter and cheerier? A: I get asked this question frequently – good lighting is the foundation to any space. Without the proper lighting, everything will feel dark. First, let’s take a look at your bulbs. Do you have fluorescent ones? I often call fluorescent light “depressing light.” If you do have fluorescent bulbs, I recommend switching them out to LED bulbs in 3000K temperature. These provide the perfect lighting for a living space – not too warm and not too cool – and are the closest to actual daylight. Be sure to pay attention to the wattage equivalent, so you do not go over the wattage limit for your particular fixture. Lamps are important as well. The height of the lamp should be tall enough so that the light disperses into the room, and doesn’t aim directly onto the floor. And why not take this opportunity to further brighten up your space by introducing a new color – whether via a fun new lampshade, or the lamp itself? Even when turned off, a whimsical, colorful lamp or lampshade can add a splash of spring color to help brighten any room. 10

CIRCA Magazine

Bringing the outdoors in is a trend that has returned, just in time for spring. Incorporating greenery, moss, fresh flowers, twigs, etc. indoors adds warmth and texture to your space – and if you use fresh florals, lovely fragrances as well. If you don’t want to cut fresh flowers from your garden, faux flowers work just as well – just be sure to get ones that look authentic. Spend the extra money for realistic-looking blooms because you will be able to use them over and over again. Find places in each room to add beautiful flowers or foliage – for instance, place a large hydrangea bloom atop a tall candlestick on the mantel or several smaller vases filled with colorful blossoms on the coffee or side table. If you do not have a place to sit something, remember you can always hang it. Wall vases grouped together with just a sprig of different flowers provide a lovely decorating aesthetic. Bring the outdoors in with your table centerpiece – fill a non-traditional container such as a tiered fruit stand or wire basket with Easter eggs, flowers, greenery, etc. – just make it colorful, bright, and cheery. Another way to take advantage of the color, texture, and warmth trends for the season is to swap out pillows with some new bright hues or subtle seasonal pastels, or perhaps large floral prints. Are your rugs getting a little worn out? If so, a new one could be just what the room needs. Introduce another color palette with the rug and change out a few accessories with new ones that highlight the rug’s colors – what a difference it will make. While Mother Nature is gracing us with warmer weather, there are still times when it’s nice to snuggle up with a lightweight, comfy blanket. Toss one in a vibrant shade or subtle pastel hue or funky bright pattern over your back porch rocking chair, or on the back of your living room sofa for instant color and texture. This spring, experiment with color and texture, bring the outdoors in, and above all, brighten up your world and enjoy your home.  Rhonda Benvie Plummer is the owner of Help Me Rhonda Interiors and Open Door Furniture & Accents, a furniture and accessories store located at 11605 Durant Road in Raleigh. Visit helpmerhondainteriors.com or opendoorfurnitureandaccents.com or call 919263-9054. Rhonda is also a regular guest on WPTF’s “Making Your Home Great” radio show, the second Saturday of every month, when you can call in with any design questions you may have.

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2. NAMING SOMEONE TO MAKE DECISIONS FOR YOU IF YOU BECOME INCAPACITATED: Naturally, you hope to stay in good physical and mental shape throughout your life and remain capable of making your own financial and health care decisions. But the future is not ours to see. So to protect your interests and those of your loved ones, you may want to consider creating arrangements such as a power of attorney, health care directive, and a living will. This way, you’ll still be able to control the key choices that may lie ahead. 3. PROVIDING FOR MINOR CHILDREN OR DEPENDENTS: If you have young children or other dependents, you’ll want to make sure they’ll be looked after if you aren’t around. In your estate plans, you can name a guardian for them. You can also use various estate planning tools, such as life insurance, beneficiary designations, and the establishment of a trust to provide the necessary financial resources for your loved ones.

BY TOM PIPER

FINANCIAL

FOCUS ESTATE PLANS LET YOU CONTROL YOUR LEGACY

When you hear “estate planning,” what comes to mind? For many people, these words evoke images of immense wealth. But estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy – it’s for everyone. And it’s about more than preserving wealth – it’s about putting you in control of your own legacy. But how can you achieve this worthy goal? You can start by identifying your estate

4. SUPPORTING CHARITABLE ORGANIZATIONS: Leaving something behind for your family is obviously an enormous part of your legacy – but it may also be important to you to provide support for charitable groups whose work you’ve admired. Of course, you can contribute to these organizations while you’re alive, but through strategies such as donor-advised funds and charitable remainder trusts, you can include these groups in your estate plans. 5. MANAGING TAXES EFFICIENTLY: If you’re likely to have a large estate, your heirs may need to be concerned with income and estate taxes. To help control these taxes, you can take a number of steps, such as making outright gifts to your family during your lifetime, establishing an irrevocable life insurance trust, creating a family limited partnership, and making charitable donations. All the estate-planning strategies and techniques mentioned here can be complex – so, to implement them, you’ll need to work with an estate planning attorney and a tax professional. You may also want to include your financial advisor, who can help ensure your estate planning objectives align with your important financial goals, such as living comfortably in retirement and providing for your children’s or grandchildren’s education.

planning objectives. Here are five of the most common ones. 1. CONTROLLING MOVEMENT OF ASSETS TO BENEFICIARIES: During and after your lifetime, you will want to ensure that your loved ones receive what you want them to have, and when. Through documents such as a will and a living trust, and techniques involving life insurance and using proper beneficiary designations, you – not the courts – will control the movement of your assets to the desired recipients. 12

CIRCA Magazine

By identifying your objectives and working with your professional team, you can create an effective estate plan – and help yourself maintain control of your legacy.  Tom Piper is a financial advisor with Edward Jones, located at 203 E. Whitaker Mill Road, Suite 107 in Raleigh. He may be reached at 919-833-3390 (office) or 386-299-2434 (cell). For more information, visit edwardjones.com.

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ANYONE NEED

A LIFT? THE 5 Ls OF LIFTING

BY JAY GOODMAN

It’s spring cleaning season, which means many of you are cleaning out the clutter and working on your yards. We’re tackling our closets, moving heavy boxes out of storage, and laying down bag after bag of mulch in our flowerbeds, among

are about to lift. Your muscles work more efficiently when closer to the load being lifted. 2. LUNGS: Keep breathing and try not to hold your breath. The rule of thumb is to inhale when you pull an object, and to exhale when you push an object. 3. LUMBAR: Keep your back straight by flexing at your hips before

other chores. All of this means lots of lifting. While it may not

BY TOM PIPER

seem like a big deal in the moment, lots of lifting can lead

to awkward movements and repetitive stress in the joints. s a physical therapist, I have treated thousands of patients with low back pain. During my initial examinations, I ask them to squat down as if they had to pick up an object from the floor without giving them any visual or verbal cues to guide them. Almost every patient bends at their knees before hips or simply bends over at their waist first, and I point out that bending at their knees first causes the body to shift forward, increasing the load on the knees and lumbar joints. “But I’ve always been told to bend at the knees,” is the usual response from my patients. We then have a conversation about how to flex at the hips first, like a hinge, and then flex at the knees to lift someone or something safely. Learning how to use the hip muscles to lift will help reduce forces over the back and knees.

THE FIVE Ls OF LIFTING Let’s discuss the five Ls of lifting for proper body mechanics applicable to any lifting situation. 1. LEVERAGE: Simply put, get close to the object or person you 14

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your knees for a hip hinge. The hips unlock a split second before the knees to allow the lumbar spine to remain in a neutral position. 4. LEGS: By successfully flexing at the hips then knees for a hip hinge, it stretches the glutes and quadriceps, allowing them to contract forcefully if necessary. As the hips and knees extend to lift a patient or object, the lumbar spine is held in neutral. 5. LOAD: Find out how heavy the object or person is you are about to lift. This could be done with a scale or with an attempt to lift the object. If you know the patient or object is heavy, then it is time to ask for help with the lift. Even if you develop perfect lift form, it is still important to ask for help when lifting heavy objects or when lifting light objects repetitively throughout the day. It is also important to keep your core and lower extremity musculature strong and flexible to deal with the rigors of lifting. If back pain develops 24 hours after a lift, and the pain doesn’t resolve within two weeks, then it is time to seek out a physical therapist for care and lift training to prevent a relapse.  Jay Goodman is a physical therapist with WakeMed. WakeMed’s team of physical therapists create an individualized plan of care designed for patients of all ages to achieve a healthy, strong, flexible back and leg musculature. To get back to your active lifestyle, visit wakemed.org for more information.

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SIMPLE SPRING

SUPPERS

WITH SEASONAL INGREDIENTS BY STACEY MORITZ

Happy spring! Thankfully we have shaken off the chill of winter and are now embracing the warmer weather that is finally here to stay. Just because we are moving away from those heavy dishes we craved during the colder months, it doesn’t mean we have to say goodbye to our favorite easy cool-weather mainstays like pastas and soups. Easy meals can still be a staple in your kitchen now that it’s time to tran-

sition your dinner routine from winter to spring. n addition to lots of sunshine, warmer temps, and longer days, this time of year also welcomes an abundance of fresh vegetables, fruits, herbs, and leafy greens that can really brighten up your culinary repertoire. I highly encourage you to visit local farmers markets and buy a bounty – not only are they a healthful addition to any meal, they also add flavor and texture to your plate and brighten any dish. What a great way to celebrate all that spring represents! If you are looking for a lighter fare pasta to enjoy this time of year, reach for a box of orzo. This rice-shaped option is perfect for springtime stars like fresh asparagus, sweet baby peas, or pan-roasted tomatoes. Whip up a simple pesto incorporating your favorite herbs combined with a little olive oil and garlic. Feel free to add a splash of white wine or swirl in a bit of cream if you are feeling indulgent. Top with a handful of shaved parmesan or romano cheese – serve alongside a salad and maybe a crusty ciabatta bread and you have a satisfying and healthy meal in a matter of minutes. Gnocchi is another great springtime option – especially if you are following a gluten-free diet. When preparing it for my family, I love to sauté a little bacon with onions, garlic, and spinach in a good olive oil, then add the gnocchi and a little half-and-half or heavy cream, simmering until the gnocchi is warmed through. Take it up another notch by sprinkling your favorite cheese on top … so good! Feeling a little spicy this spring? Cilantro lime chicken or carne asada pork are ideal ingredients for an amazing southwest burrito bowl, a topping for nachos, or a filling for tortillas or lettuce wraps (all perfect for that Cinco de Mayo party). Top your favorite flat16

CIRCA Magazine

bread with a handful of baby greens, grilled chicken, sausage, fresh tomatoes, garlic, and herbs – drizzle with a little olive oil and crumble your cheese of choice for a sophisticated pizza. Cook extra sausage and meats to have on hand – they are great the second time around as a stuffing for bell peppers or added to an entrée dinner salad. They also make yummy paninis for a quick meal on the go. Roasted chicken is a staple in my kitchen throughout the year, and spring is no exception. The season provides the perfect opportunity to incorporate fresh leafy greens into my culinary creations – do a quick sauté and serve them alongside the chicken for a quickly-prepped yet delicious and healthy dinner, or for lighter fare, serve the chicken atop a bed of lettuce or spinach, and top with your favorite fresh fruits and veggies. For a leafy green twist, consider fresh leeks – sauté them in a little olive oil until soft and fragrant. Add a handful of kale and simmer for a few minutes until the kale is bright green and just wilted. Pour a splash of chicken broth in the pan and you will be rewarded with a lovely light spring stew. Serve in a bowl topped with the chicken and accompany with a little bread to mop up the aromatic broth. Fresh herbs and panroasted tomatoes add a colorful and tasty finish. Many grocery stores are tapping into the busy cook market by offering pre-marinated meats and seafoods – a huge timesaver for those of us with hectic schedules but who still want to enjoy delicious meals. Tasty new flavors of chicken and pork sausages are popping up, along with appetizing ingredients like apples and fresh herbs. Robustly flavored marinades for steak and chicken welcome bold flavor with little effort on your part. Flavors like Jamaican jerk and Korean barbecue are just the beginning. With the addition of pre-cut and prepped veggies and greens, you have everything you need to put together a delectable meal in no time. Easy meals, especially those prepped with fresh seasonal ingredients, are the perfect way to end the day. With just a little planning, you can get in and out of the kitchen in the blink of an eye, and outside to enjoy this beautiful spring weather we’ve all been craving.  Stacey Moritz is the owner of The Lemon Tree Cafe, located at 113 S. White Street in Downtown Wake Forest (919-521-5806), offering freshly prepared salads, pastas, soups, and take-away fare. The Lemon Tree Cafe serves breakfast and lunch Monday - Friday, 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM and Saturdays 7:30 AM - 3:00 PM.

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the washer and dryer. Better yet, trade them in for washable dish rags. For your sink (unless otherwise indicated) – at the end of each night, wash with soap and water, then give it a final mist with a spray bottle of diluted bleach water (1 teaspoon of bleach per quart).

BY TODD NELSON

CLEANING MYTHS

DEBUNKED

MYTH #2: You can clean stainless appliances with just polish. FALSE. Your bottle of stainless steel cleaner and polish is lying to you. It doesn’t clean – at least not well. Legally, because the oils in the product do lubricate some dirt, it can technically be called a cleaner … but the truth is that it has no detergents or disinfectants to remove dirt and germs. Worse yet, the polymers and waxes in many of these products actually create a film that traps any dirt you have not removed. Trapped, oily dirt actually makes it easier for new dirt and germs to stick and grow on your appliance. The solution? Clean before you polish. Especially for appliances in the kitchen that you are constantly touching with dirty, raw-meaty hands, it’s important to select a quality, disinfecting, all-purpose cleaner that is safe for stainless steel. Then, simply wash down the appliance. After it dries, buff in a small touch of polish to enhance the natural beauty of your stainless steel. As an added bonus, your pricey polish will now last a lot longer and save you money. MYTH #3: Kitchen cabinets don’t need to be cleaned that often. FALSE. Nothing could be further from the truth. Your cabinets, especially the handles, are some of the most frequently touched and

THE KITCHEN

he kitchen – the heart of the home. It’s where we eat, we gather with friends and family. It’s also the room that requires more cleaning than any other. The kitchen hosts the ideal environment for bacteria to grow, primarily because of its warm and moist conditions. There are many kitchen cleaning myths out there, and I’m here to debunk some of the biggest. MYTH #1: Floors and stove tops are the most unsanitary surfaces in your kitchen. FALSE. While kitchen floors and stovetops are undoubtedly grimy, the surfaces most likely to spread food-borne illnesses are your sink and sponge – which are used for everything from scrubbing raw chicken juice off cutting boards to rinsing E. coli and other germs from Romaine lettuce leaves. The problem is that most people don’t properly clean and disinfect their cleaning tools and basins, essentially creating the perfect conditions for germs to thrive and multiply. Your sponge and kitchen drain stink because they’re home to a breeding germ jamboree. How do you shut down their microscopic fun? Clean, dry, and disinfect. Germs hate dry, clean surfaces as they literally starve them to death, so throw your sponge through 18

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unfairly neglected surfaces in your kitchen. Just think about how many times your sniffly children have rubbed their dripping noses and then opened the cabinet for a snack; or how many times mid-recipe you’ve yanked open a cabinet for one last ingredient with your raw egg or meaty hands. I won’t even discuss your family’s overly speedy bathroom hand washers. Beyond germs, steam rising off your stovetop also carries oils and food particles that eventually coat all surrounding cabinets with a fine layer of sticky grime. Countertop fryers speed this process up tenfold. Long story short, your cabinets deserve a full wipe down every week with a quality disinfecting all-purpose cleaner, especially in the areas surrounding the handles. If you have grease build-up that won’t budge on fine wood cabinets, a wood-safe degreaser can work wonders. MYTH #4: Quickly spraying and wiping countertops with disinfecting cleaners is good enough. FALSE. Most people’s lack of knowledge when it comes to properly using disinfectants is a problem throughout the house, but creates the most risk in the kitchen. Spraying and then immediately wiping off disinfecting cleaners is actually making your battle against the germs harder. Almost all disinfectants need at least 60 seconds to sanitize and up to 10 minutes for full hospital-grade disinfection. Removing a disinfectant instantly only kills off the very weakest of germs, leaving their beefy brethren to breed without competition. Disinfectant misuse, along with antibiotic misuse, is how we as a society are breeding stronger and more dangerous germs, commonly called super bugs. Don’t want to contribute to the next plague? Just remember to wipe down your counters but leave them damp with enough soap to remain wet for at least 60 seconds, though the longer the better. You can always dry off the excess later if need be, and that quick rewipe is far better than the alternative. 

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HIDDEN

GEMS

STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES BY ROBYN GOSS BENNAI

pring is a time for celebration. The blooming colors, sounds of nature awakening, and the warmth of the sun all lend themselves to a feeling of joy and contentment. It is the time of the year during which we can literally stop and smell the roses and other blossoming plants around the Triangle. To make the most of this season and be intentional in your desire to enjoy the foliage of spring, here are a few hidden gems to give you the chance to do just that.

The Rose Garden shares a space with The Raleigh Little Theater. Originally established to add beauty to the natural amphitheater, the Rose Garden – “one of three accredited rose gardens in North Carolina” and whose grounds “include 60 rose beds with varieties of hybrid teas, floribundas, grandifloras, miniatures, and antique roses, surrounded by an arboretum of evergreen and deciduous trees,” as described on its website – has grown to serve as the backdrop for family gatherings, weddings, concerts, and other events.

A SOUTHERN LANDSCAPER’S DREAM

The garden, which was officially handed over to the city of Raleigh in 1951, has served as a source of pride and collaboration for the community. It is maintained by the staff of the City of Raleigh’s Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources department with the help of an army of volunteers known as the “Dead-Headers.” Admission is free. Learn more at raleighlittletheatre.org/visit-us/rose-garden/.

JC Raulston Arboretum 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh The JC Raulston Arboretum is a 10-acre garden that is part of NC State University. It has one of the largest and most diverse world-renowned collections of landscaped plants adapted for use in the Southeast. It was first started by J.C. Raulston upon his arrival at NCSU in 1976, originally developed as a trial garden to determine which plants could be evaluated in a garden setting in North Carolina because he recognized that any plants that were able to grow and adapt could be distributed to nurseries across the state to be sold. This in turn made North Carolina one of the largest nursery producers in the country. The arboretum consistently has 5-star reviews and is repeatedly described as “well-maintained.” This is no surprise as its staff is composed of nationally recognized gardeners. The arboretum offers programs throughout the year to enthusiasts of all ages. Admission is free. Hours and programs can be found at jcra.ncsu.edu.

FOR THE ROMANTIC IN ALL OF US The Raleigh Rose Garden 301 Pogue Street, Raleigh Peaking around Mother’s Day, The Raleigh Rose Garden provides a place of tranquil beauty until fall’s first frost. You can often find solitude on the grounds of the garden allowing for peaceful reflection. It has also served as the location for many a couple’s engagement, paintings by local artists, and frolicking. 20

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WORTH THE DRIVE NC Botanical Garden 100 Old Mason Farm Road, Chapel Hill The North Carolina Botanical Garden, operated by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, is a conservation garden made up of over 1,100 acres of different display gardens and conservation areas. The guiding mission is to “inspire understanding, appreciation, and conservation of plants and to advance a sustainable relationship between people and nature.” The popular display gardens take you on a beautiful and educational journey – from the NC mountain habitat to the coastal plains, you will enjoy a botanically-inspired walk through the different regions of the state. You will also have the opportunity to view other displays including the Children’s Wonder Garden and, for the adventurous at heart, the Poisonous Plant Garden. Printed versions of a display garden map can be found at an outdoor station under the breezeway next to the Allen Education Center. The NCBG plays many roles within the community. In addition to the outreach and research, they also offer a wide variety of learning programs and events for all ages. Additional information on these programs can be found at ncbg.unc.edu. Admission is free.

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DISCOVERING UNIQUENESS IN BOTANY Juniper Level Botanic Garden 9241 Sauls Road, Raleigh Juniper Level Botanic Garden (JLBG) is unique in its approach to botanic gardens. According to its website, the mission of JLBG includes both a desire to preserve and protect botanic diversity and to create a “serene venue for noticing the impersonal nature of presence using the pointers offered within the perennial wisdom teachings.” The garden consists of a large and diverse collection of ornamental plants. By using the specific beauty and design of each plant for placement, the garden is able to highlight the best attributes of the plant. While emphasis is placed on aesthetics, the garden also serves a practical and important role through ex-situ conservation by spreading rare plants around the world to increase their chances of survival during ongoing climate change. This 28-acre garden is free of charge to visit. There is also a nursery on-site as well. Check jlbg.org for times the garden is open to the public, maps, and additional programming information. This is just a sampling of the many wonderful gardens in our area. A number of others await your visit this spring. For instance, the 55-acre Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham (right in the heart of Duke University) is another favorite destination for many – more than 300,000 visitors come from all around the world each year. Distinguished as one of the premier public gardens in America, it is celebrated for its landscape design and high-quality horticulture. Learn more at gardens.duke.edu. Additionally, the Louisburg College’s De Hart Botanical Gardens include, according to Louisburg.edu, “preserved forestation and an open area with a lake that protect a wide range of botanical species.” The WRAL-TV Gardens, located behind the WRAL television studio in Raleigh and between the main and Centennial campuses of NC State University, showcase beautiful azaleas of all shapes and colors. As you stroll among the gardens, you’ll enjoy “wonderful fragrances [that] fill the air, providing another dimension of delight for your senses,” as described on their website (wral-gardens.com). As the surrounding area becomes more urban, these gardens are a wonderful way to stay connected to nature. They can also serve as a way to expand your understanding of how to incorporate the beauty of a garden into your own immediate surroundings. So this spring, I hope you take the time to visit one – or all – of these lovely local gems … and stop to smell the roses.  If you know of a “Hidden Gem” you think our readers should learn about in a future issue, please let us know at info@circamagazine.com! Robyn Goss-Bennai is a local writer and can be reached at robyngossbennai@gmail.com.

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BY ALLISON CAUDLE ABBOTT

SEASONAL

SELLING

HOW TO GET YOUR HOME READY FOR A SPRING SALE The current seller’s market is still as hot as ever. With low inventory, buyers are searching high and low for homes to purchase, many of which are bought sight unseen (or only seen virtually or via photos) and for offers at thousands above list price. But even in a hot seller’s market, you don’t want to get complacent when it comes to getting your home ready

the front door. A new coat of paint and a fresh handle will transform the entryway into your home. Top off with a lovely spring wreath, a flag, and a new welcome mat, and you’ll be photo ready. – GIVE BUYERS THE OUTDOOR SPACE OF THEIR DREAMS: Outdoor living spaces are becoming increasingly popular for buyers. Power wash your patio, add a fresh coat of paint or stain to your porch and decking, clean off your patio furniture, and spruce up this outdoor space as if it was your living room. Tie it all together with an outdoor rug, colorful plants and flowers, and a few throw pillows – your potential buyers will surely be dreaming of summer nights in no time. – FIX WHAT IS BROKEN: Winter months can put a damper on our to-do lists. Now that spring has arrived, it’s time to break out the tool belt and get to work. From updating light bulbs to fixing up any blemishes in the walls to repairing fencing that the wind has tried to take down, now is the time to make a list and check it twice. When prospective buyers come into your home or are previewing it online, they want to feel like they could live there – not be making a mental checklist of everything they’d need to repair once they move in. – LET THE SUNSHINE IN: Springtime means longer days and warmer weather. Let all of that sunshine in! A bright house can feel like a happy house and a spacious home. Open the blinds before professional photos and showings. Just make sure that the windows are nice and clean first! – KEEP IT SIMPLE: When it comes to decor, window coverings, porches, kitchen counters, bathroom counters, closets, bookshelves, or built-ins, it’s always important to remember that less is more. The buyers need to visualize themselves living in the home, not you and your family as the sellers. It will likely seem very empty for you at first when you start removing items. Just remember, you are creating an environment to sell for someone else to live in, not for you to live in.

to sell. The first impression still matters, regardless of what the market is doing. Potential buyers are still using their emotions when putting in those offers, as hard as it is to keep

W those emotions at bay.

hether it’s enhancing curb appeal, giving buyers the outdoor living space of their dreams, or letting the sunshine into the house for a welcoming and bright home, preparation is instrumental when it comes to listing your home this spring. I have a great checklist that will make your preparations easier. – ENHANCE YOUR CURB APPEAL: Swap out the old mulch for new, and add some freshly potted plants with a pop of color to your front porch. A fresh coat of paint to a mailbox can go a long way, as can new paint to your outdoor light fixtures. Don’t forget

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BONUS TIPS: Pros and cons of Homeowners Associations to keep in mind as you prep for the spring selling and buying season. – PRO: Someone else taking care of the common areas of your community. – CON: Some fees can add quite a bit to your monthly payment. – PRO: Committees to help with different things, like a social committee to help plan community-wide events. – CON: Needing permission or having restrictions to paint your front door a different color, add a deck, etc. – PRO: Better curb appeal and upkeep of homes with the HOA’s stipulations on grass height, weed control, mulch guidelines, etc. – CON: Enforced rules and regulations on parking, number of vehicles that can be in your driveway, etc.  Allison Caudle Abbott is the owner and broker-in-charge of Southern Lux Living, serving buyers and sellers throughout the Triangle. She may be reached at 919-395-6186 or visit www.southernluxliving.com.

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SPRING CRAFTS

TO PUT A SPRING IN YOUR STEP

BY DOLORES RIGGINS

lowers are blooming, temperatures are rising, days are longer – spring is here, and it’s time to brush off the gray of winter and embrace all the bright, beautiful glory the season has to offer. What better way to do this than to tackle some fun, creative crafts to freshen up your home, adding whimsy and delightful spring cheer? If you’re like me, you’re always looking for fun, new DIY ideas and inspiration – Pinterest seems to always be calling my name, no matter the time of year. But I must confess, I particularly love crafting for spring (Easter and Mother’s Day, in particular) – there’s just something about the season’s lovely colors that brighten my day. Who can resist a vibrant pom-pom garland or a quintessential mason jar craft? I sure can’t! Needless to say, I have pinned so many great ideas that it’s hard to choose which ones to challenge myself with first. I did finally narrow it down to two fun and simple projects to share with you that will allow you to tap into your crafty side and encourage you to use your imagination when creating them.

ter; or pick Mom’s favorite colors in honor of Mother’s Day. Maybe you’d like to go the extra mile and incorporate several yarns of the same color, but in different shades, for added personality but still with a cohesive look. That’s enough chatter … let’s make some poms-poms! Although there are several methods for making them using cardboard or forks, the best – and easiest – way is to purchase a pom-pom maker. These come in assorted sizes and I recommend getting the variety pack so you have options for different projects. Select your yarn color of choice – if using just one color, grab at least two skeins. Simply follow the easy directions on the package, sit back, relax, and let the pom-making fun begin. The number of cute fuzzy balls you make will depend on the length and spacing you choose.

For the recent Valentine’s Day holiday, a friend asked me to craft a heart-shaped wreath from handmade pom-poms. Naturally, I said yes – but seeing as how I hadn’t really done anything with these fuzzy little creations since Vacation Bible School in 1968, I truly didn’t know where to start. After some Pinterest diving, I quickly educated myself on how to make these – I must say I was pleasantly surprised with the outcome of my heart-shaped creation, and now, oh my goodness, I am obsessed with making pom-poms! Doing so is quite fun and relaxing – and as a bonus, it doesn’t require a tremendous amount of brain power, of which I seem to be short of lately. A hot new trend is the adorable pom-pom garland – great for decorating your walls to fill up some of that blank space; hung over windows or window treatments to add pops of color and character to a child’s nursery or bedroom; draped over the fireplace mantle to help highlight holiday or seasonal decor; as a fun and festive backdrop for a photo booth at a springtime party; or simply displayed on the kitchen table alongside beautiful blooms cut fresh from the garden for a unique tablescape. The number of ways to decorate with pom-pom garlands is almost endless. Tailor the colors based on the holiday or its particular purpose – for instance, blues, greens, yellows, and pinks are nice choices for Eas24

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When you have made as many as you need, trim any of the longer pieces of yarn to ensure a symmetrical shape. Next, measure a piece of coordinating yarn and thread it through a large tapestry needle – be sure to add a few inches of yarn so you can attach your garland wherever you’d like to hang it. Using the tapestry needle, go through the center of the pom-pom to thread it onto the yarn. Continue this process until you’re satisfied with the number you have used. Perhaps you want the garland to be full or you might prefer they are spaced out – the choice is yours. If you do want to space out your poms, hang the garland and then move them until you achieve the look you want.

hot glue the end of the ribbon where you made the mark. Slowly wrap the ribbon around the container until you’re back to where you started. As the ribbon is being adhered, add a little glue to keep it in place, pulling the ribbon firmly as you go. Tie a simple little bow, wrapping the center with twine for a little extra pizzazz. Hot glue the bow onto the box where the ribbons meet, and if you feel so inclined, add a little extra embellishment, such as a small, wooden bunny cut-out, to help showcase a particular holiday or season. Simply place the jars inside and fill with fresh flowers or

greenery. Spring is the perfect time for bringing fresh beauty and fragrance from the outdoor garden indoors, and this beautifully handcrafted box is the ideal way to show them off. I’d love to stay and chat about crafts all day, but Pinterest and pom-poms are calling me. Happy spring!  Dolores Riggins is the co-owner of Southern Suds & Gifts, featuring over 35 craftsmen and artists, located at 213 S. White St. in Downtown Wake Forest (www.facebook. com/SouthernSudsAndGifts).

While we’re in the pom-pom making zone, let’s fashion some cute fuzzy bunnies. Grab your yarn (color of your choice), some white and light pink felt, two black and one pink pony beads, and your handy dandy hot glue gun. Make two poms, one a bit larger than the other, trimming any excess yarn pieces. Use the two black beads for the bunny’s eyes, attaching them onto the smaller pom. Repeat, using the pink bead for the nose, then glue the two poms together. Next, cut two large bunny ear shapes out of the white felt and two slightly smaller ones out of the pink. Glue the pink ears onto the white, pinching the bottom sides together and adding a dot of glue in the crease. Use a healthy amount of hot glue on the bottom of the ears and insert between the bunny’s head and body. Now you have created an adorable little furry friend. Don’t stop at just one … craft a whole family of cottontails to add to your spring décor. Like many, I am obsessed with mason jar crafts – this particular one can be used and enjoyed throughout the year. For this project, you’ll need two or three quart-size jars, a decorative wooden box, ribbon of your choice, twine, and your hot glue gun. I purchased a 12” x 5” whitewashed box from a major craft store and the jars fit inside perfectly. From the top edge of the container, measure down about a half to one inch. Mark this area lightly with a pencil, and

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It may be surprising to learn that consuming moderate amounts of dairy products can also improve one’s gum health. Bacteria produces oral acids in our mouths which, unless carefully controlled, will irritate and eventually destroy our teeth and gums over time. However, dairy products such as milk, yogurt, and cheese contain a protein called casein that helps to neutralize oral acids formed in the mouth. To help naturally negate bacterial acids that break down the teeth and gums, consume a reasonable amount of dairy.

BY DR. MACON SINGLETARY

FOODS FOR

HEALTHY

GUMS While most people realize that flossing, brushing, and visiting their oral health professional are integral components of maintaining oral health, many do not know that the foods they eat have a direct impact on their periodontal well-being. That’s right – your diet uniquely affects your gum’s ability to clear away plaque and calculus, freshen your breath, and

strengthen and regenerate gum tissue. runchy foods are great at scraping away bacteria and calculus that accumulate along the gumline. Fresh fruits and veggies like apples, cucumbers, celery, and carrots not only scrape at bacteria, but they also help eliminate food particles between the teeth and keep the breath fresh between tooth brushing. It’s a good thing there’s an abundance of delicious seasonal fruits and veggies that can be found at farmers markets and grocery stores right now! Moreover, crunchy, fibrous foods take longer to chew, generating more saliva, which in turn helps flush the mouth of bacteria near the gum line. Adding fresh, fibrous, crunchy fruits and vegetables to your diet will help rid your mouth of food particles, freshen your breath, and clear away plaque that accumulates around the gums.

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Also, foods rich in vitamin C offer a plethora of periodontal benefits. Vitamin C is powerful! It strengthens blood vessels by boosting the production of red blood cells, helps repair and regenerate gum tissue, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties found naturally in foods. Add some color to your diet with vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables like peppers, oranges, kiwis, pineapple, strawberries, kale, and spinach – again, great springtime fruits and veggies! Other foods with high vitamin C content include fortified foods like breads, grains, cereals, potatoes, and tomatoes. Your gums will thank you for adding such foods into your diet. Additionally, foods containing polyphenols contribute to gum health through the powerful antioxidants of which polyphenols are composed. Antioxidant-filled polyphenols slow bacterial growth that cause gum disease, cavities, and bad breath, and these polyphenols are abundant in plant-based foods. Such foods battle degenerative and infectious diseases through antioxidant activity and by neutralizing bacterial proteins. In fact, recent research increasingly demonstrates that foods high in polyphenols may even effectively combat oral cancer. You can easily add foods dense in polyphenols to your diet by drinking coffee and green tea, eating olives and pumpkin, adding spices likes cloves and cinnamon to your dishes, and even indulging in dark chocolate. Finally, simply sipping some old-fashioned H2O helps strengthen teeth and gums, fights inflammation, and prevents tooth decay. Water does all this by helping keep saliva levels up and washing away food particles. Furthermore, water contains minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that strengthen teeth and gums, fight inflammation, and prevent tooth decay. To conclude, the very foods we put into our bodies directly impact our periodontal health, for better or for worse. By being intentional about what you eat and drink, not only can you impact your physical well-being, but you can also greatly improve your periodontal health.  Dr. Macon Singletary, periodontist at North Raleigh Periodontics, is a diplomate with the American Board of Periodontology, and has been improving smiles in the Raleigh area for over 25 years. For more information, visit northraleighperio.com or call 919-518-8222.

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CHEERS

ferment it gather at the bottom of the fermentation tank) results in a crisp, light, refreshing beer with a smooth, mellow taste (as well as usually a lower alcohol and slightly higher sugar content). – SAISON: A Belgian style of beer fermented with complex flavored yeasts, saisons – full of fruity and spicy notes and typically lower in alcohol – are light-bodied beers that are very refreshing and considered easy drinkers. Known as a farmhouse beer, saison was traditionally brewed solely during the winter months when farmworkers had less field work to do. Saison ferments and matures for an extended period of time, making it perfect for enjoying during the spring and summer seasons. – KOLSCH: Born in Germany, the light and crisp Kolsch is similar to an ale, but is fermented like a lager, and features fruity ale notes, resulting into a very balanced beer, without a bitter taste. – HEFEWEIZEN: The original wheat beer, the popular Germanborn hefeweizen boasts crisp, refreshing, bright flavors. Using a top-fermenting ale yeast, and at least 50% wheat malts, along with barley, the unfiltered hefeweizen is characterized by its cloudiness and white head. – WITBIER: Belgain witbier, or white beer, is a sessionable beer at just 4%-5% ABV. Pale in color, witibiers are often cloudy and creamy, due to incorporation of oats and wheat. The addition of citrus peel and coriander make the beer bright, fragrant, and refreshing – a perfect beer for drinking in the spring sunshine. – PILSNER: The pilsner is known to be a clean, crisp, and almost

TO SPRING

arm weather means spending more time outdoors – oftentimes with a nice, cold, refreshing beer in hand. After months hibernating inside savoring dark, heavy, more comforting ales, spring is the perfect time to enjoy a lighter, fruitier brew. But with so many delicious varieties out there, how do you decide which one to pop open on that beautiful spring Saturday afternoon, or order the next time you visit your favorite bar, brewery, or restaurant for a much needed night out? We asked our friend and long-time Triangle brewmaster Brad Wynn, co-owner of Norse Brewing Company in Downtown Wake Forest, for a few suggestions – and descriptions – of warm weather brews that are sure to give your tastebuds a muchneeded spring awakening. – LAGER: The lager is the most common type of beer in the world. The bottom-fermented brewing technique (the yeasts used to

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spicy-flavored beer, featuring a slight peppery taste. Originated from the town of Pilsen in the early 1840s, pilsner was the first of its kind. – HELLES: Helles, a refreshing lager, is golden in color and considered to be malty, light, and sweet. – FRUITED SOUR ALE: With its vibrant fruit flavors, the popular fruited sour ale is a great way to balance sour and sweet, while also adding depth of flavor. From citrus to berries to peaches to pineapples, there are a number of fruited sour ales on the market today – most of which are not nearly as sour as their name implies – so you are sure to find one to satisfy your spring sour ale craving.

marinate fresh summer veggies with herbs such as rosemary and thyme for a tender, flavorful side dish. Perhaps you aren’t a big beer fan, or you’re just craving something a little different this spring – Brad’s daughter and Norse bartender Taylor recommends a Mezcal Paloma. The cocktail’s smoky flavor balances quite nicely with the sweet yet bitter taste of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice. But before you create this tasty concoction, run a lime wedge along the rim of the glass, and dip into tajin seasoning. Your first taste will be a chili-lime flavor from

the tajin rim, and have you dreaming of hot summer days in no time.  Special thanks to Brad Wynn, the brewmaster for Norse Brewing Company. For over 25 years, Brad has committed his heart and soul to redefining the craft of brewing. His skills and talent have made him a brewing legend – not just in the area, but among beer lovers around the world. Now, as co-owner and brewmaster of Norse, he continues to push the boundaries of the art, creating truly unique and delicious beers. Norse Brewing Company is located at 203 S. Brooks Street in Downtown Wake Forest. For more information, visit norsebrewingco.com.

In addition to enjoying a nice cold glass of beer on a beautiful spring day, a good beer also makes for good spring grilling ... specifically, a good marinade – an easy way to incorporate beer into a recipe. Whether your weekend grilling calls for steaks, pork, chicken, or seafood, you can’t go wrong with a recipe made with beer. Thanks to its distinct, unique flavor, beer can enhance a dish’s overall taste. Its flavor, compared to other popular marinade bases (i.e. wine or citrus juices), is much less acidic, but is still chock full of flavor. Plus, because of its alcohol content, beer tenderizes meat and breaks down fatty tissues. Additionally, any of the beer’s added herbs and spices provide even more delicious flavor. Furthermore, beers offer a large variety of types and flavors, thus encouraging chefs and grillmasters to experiment with flavor combinations. Chances are if you use a beer you like to drink, you’ll like eating with it as well. Some delicious springtime beer-inspired grilling dishes include beer marinated steak (maybe sprinkle in some salt and lemon pepper, along with your favorite brew); beer lime chicken (toss in some cilantro and honey for added flavor); grilled beer shrimp; beer marinated fish tacos; and beer marinated vegetables – beer doesn’t only pair nicely with meat and fish …

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CELEBRATING

100 YEARS HAPPY ANNIVERSARY WAKE FOREST FEDERAL!

BY BOB WHITE

Founded in 1922, Wake Forest Federal’s 100-year legacy was built on a goal to promote savings and home ownership in the Wake Forest and surrounding communities. At the time, the Association’s assets totaled $573. Today, 100

years later, the bank’s assets total over $112,000,000. s we celebrate this amazing milestone, let’s talk about the story of this bank that has stood the test of time, surviving depressions and recessions and serving as the longest continuously operating bank in Wake Forest.

Wake Forest Federal started from humble beginnings. T.E. Bobbitt was its first president, and he ran the bank for 11 years from his home on S. Main Street, just down from Wake Forest Baptist Church. The original safe with the lettering “Wake Forest Building and Loan Association” still resides in the house. In 1933, Mr. Bobbitt was forced to give up the office since he was also the chief examiner of the state’s regulatory agency. Oddly, his wife was allowed to replace him. The first board of directors consisted of a merchant, seed store owner, cotton merchant, college administrator, dentist, attorney, mill owner, grocer, and three college professors. The board has always been made up of a cross section of the community, and for years, had strong ties to many old Wake Forest families – the Brewers, the Holdings, and the Mackies, to name a few. The bank also had close ties to Wake Forest College, and many of the bank’s directors were administrators or professors. Murray Greason was an early member of the board, and also the college’s head basketball coach, later becoming ACC coach of the year. Beverly Lake, who later ran for governor twice and served on NC Supreme Court, was also an early board member. For many years, the bank conducted its business on S. White Street at a teller window of the Durham Bank and Trust Company (which subsequently became CCB, and then SunTrust). In those days, banks and savings and loans had delineated lines of business and were not competitive with one another. Savings and loans typically provided loans to promote home ownership; commercial banks did

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not. Most of the older homes in Wake Forest were financed with funds made available by Wake Forest Federal. During this time, the officers and directors of the bank knew everyone in town, and the borrowers’ character was a critical factor in lending money, regardless of their current situation, race, or the size of their checkbooks. But what might make Wake Forest Federal unique is that it was often run by female presidents – five, in fact. The longest running president was Glen Glover who took over in 1948 and held that position for 31 years. In 1988, Anna Sumerlin became president until her retirement in 2002 – she continues to serve as chairman of the bank’s board today. In 2017, Renee Shaw took over the position, which she still currently holds. In 1964, the bank moved from its storefront building on S. White Street to its current location on Brooks Street across from Town Hall. In the mid 1990s, the bank was enlarged, and underwent further renovations in 2018. It is now a full-service bank offering a range of financial services to both individuals and commercial businesses including mobile, online banking, and many other products typical of much larger institutions. Wake Forest Federal continues to be successful by targeting customers who prefer a higher level of special attention. Renee Shaw states that “Our employees greet each customer by name. We take the time to get to know their families and understand their financial situation.” And customer service is not the only attribute that differentiates the bank. Its employees love working in the familylike atmosphere – so much so that not a single employee has left the bank to take a job elsewhere in the last 30 years. Renee shares that “We attempt to make our workplace a family setting where we all pitch in, regardless of the task. We make it hard to leave.” She also states that “The bank will be celebrating its 100 year anniversary with a series of events throughout the year. Special appreciation occasions are being planned to say thank you to the community, our customers, and shareholders. We love this community and are grateful that a small bank like Wake Forest Federal still has the support from locals who prefer a different and more intimate banking experience.” Congratulations Wake Forest Federal on 100 years! 

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GROWING FLOWERS

FOR CUTTING

Nothing says spring like a vase full of vibrant, beautiful flowers cut fresh right from your garden – bountiful blooms of an array of colors, shapes, and fragrances that are sure to look

BY TINA MAST

Plants I call “cut-and-come-again” are great for cutting gardens. These are plants you cut and will then produce another round of flowers. The more you cut them, the more they bloom! Some good one for this are cosmos, marigolds, gomphrena, and zinnias.

as good in the ground as they do atop your springtime table.

PLANTING TIPS

Use these tips, along with the list of regionally-appropriate

Space annuals closely to reduce weed pressure. Try five rows that are 48” wide per bed. You’ll get many more flowers from a much smaller space. Planting in 9” squares in a 48” x 10' bed allows you about 65 plants and works for almost any annual cut flower bed. (Annuals die at the end of the season, while perennials return each year.)

plants, to get you started on your own bouquet-cutting garden to enjoy throughout the year.

SITING YOUR GARDEN Plants for a cutting garden can be sited informally as part of a general garden design or in an area specifically for one. A separate growing area has advantages – a place to try new plants, to experiment with color schemes, to put plants that become unsightly or out of place in a design, and to allow for very tight planting in grids for maximum production and longer stems. Planting in blocks allows for easier access to flowers. Some plants for cutting, such as hydrangea shrubs, are better incorporated into the yard where their larger footprint won’t take up too much space in a bed. Many good candidates for cutting gardens prefer well-drained soil. If you have heavy clay, plant in raised beds where strong breezes won’t buffet the flowers or plant/construct a windbreak. If deer are a problem, it may be necessary to fence the area or use repellents or netting.

SELECTING FLOWERS Beginners should start with a mix that includes both foliage and flowers unless you already have plenty of foliage to use. The mix should contain both tried-and-true flowers and flowers with which you want to experiment. Try to include plants that bloom at different times for a long season of material for bouquets. A good ratio is about half the plots or area planted with reliable filler foliage, interesting twigs, or plants with showy seedpods. The other half should be reserved for your superstar bloomers. Also, I suggest starting with maybe a half-dozen varieties your first year and building from there. 32

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KEEPING FLOWERS FRESH Containers or vases should be cleaned beforehand with antibacterial soap and hot water. Keep flowers in a cool location out of direct sunlight. Be sure leaves are not sitting and rotting in vase water. Many flowers are sensitive to ethylene gas and should therefore be kept away from fruit and gas stoves. Store arrangements in the fridge overnight – it shouldn’t be too cold for flowers. Exceptions include tropical plants, zinnias, and monkshood. Floral preservative added to vase water will keep flowers fresh longer by feeding them and keeping vase water free of stem-clogging bacteria. Replace water if it starts to look stale and cloudy, and re-cut the flower stems before placing them back in the fresh water.

GOOD CUT FLOWERS (Please note this is a sampling of flowers that are ideal for cutting, rather than a comprehensive list). – Black-Eyed Susan: Flowers last 6-8 days. Cut when flowers are fully open. Bright orange yellow daisy flowers, sometimes with reddish centers. Plant in full sun to part shade. Grows to 3'. – Daffodil: Flowers last about five days. Early to late spring blooms in white, yellow, cream, sometimes with darker colored, pink, peach, yellow, or orange coronas. Sap is harmful to other cut flowers so keep in a separate vase with cut flower food. Plant as a bulb in November.

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Additional flowers that produce beautiful cut blooms to enjoy include: blazing star/gayfeather, bluebell, butterfly weed, gerbera daisy, yarrow, cockscomb, coreopsis, cosmos, crocosmia, goldenrod, helenium, coneflower, lenten rose/Christmas rose, pincushion flower, red hot poker, sedum, sunflower, and Veronica/spike speedwell.  Tina Mast is communications director for Homewood Nursery & Garden Center in Raleigh and can be reached at 919-847-0117 or info@homewoodnursery.com. For more information, visit homewoodnursery.com.

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– Snapdragons: Flowers last 8-12 days. Re-cut stems to lengthen vase life. Annual plant with spikes of lobed red, yellow, pink, white, or orange flowers in spring to early summer. Plant in sun. Grows 6”-3'. – Tulip: Flowers last 5-10 days. Bulb flowers vary in form and color. Bloom times range from March to May. Plant bulbs three times as deep as they are wide, 4”-8” apart, in November in full sun. Plant the Clusiana species for longer garden life. – Windflower: Flowers last about 7 days. Cut when petals have started to open. Poppy-like spring flowers bloom in red, purple, pink, and white. Plant in full sun to part shade. Grows to 6”-18”. – Zinnia: Flowers last 6-10 days. Cut when flowers are fully open. Double-flowered, cactus-flowered, or crested-flowered annuals bloom in summer in bright shades of orange, yellow, pink, purple, salmon, green, and white. Plant in full sun.

– Foxglove: Flowers last 7-10 days. Lovely spires of bell-shaped, tubular, pink, white, or yellow flowers in spring and summer. Plant in light shade in a rich soil. Cutting the main spike will encourage side shoots to bloom. – Globe Amaranth: Flowers last 7-12 days. Little lollypops of rich candy pink, white, lavender, or red. Great for little pops of color in arrangements. Prefer good drainage and full sun. The more you cut, the more it blooms. No pinching needed. – Hyacinth: Flowers last 7-14 days. Fat, fragrant spikes of densely clustered spring flowers in violet, blue, pink, cream, crimson, and white. Plant bulbs in full sun to part shade in early fall. – Hydrangea: Flowers last 5-10 days. Cut when flowerheads are mature. Deciduous shrub with large lacecap, mophead, or pyramidal clusters in pink, white, or blue. Plant in part sun in rich, well-drained soil. – Larkspur: Flowers last 5-7 days. Bright spikes of light or dark blue, purple, lavender, or pink in spring. Plant by seed in mid to late fall. Likes sun with some afternoon shade. Grows 2'-3'. – Lavender: Flowers last 8-10 days. Slender spikes of fragrant lavender purple summer flowers – sometimes also in pink or white. Plant in full sun in a lean, well-drained soil with little to no fertilizer. – Lily: Flowers last 8-15 days. Handle cut flowers carefully; remove white section of the stem. Flared trumpet-shaped flowers in many colors and color mixtures. Plant in deep, loose, rich, well-drained soil. Best when roots are shaped and tops are in sun to part sun. – Marigold: Flowers last 7-10 days and plants produce many flowers from a single plant. Harvest when beds are halfway open. Tough and low maintenance. Plant in full sun. Grows 1'-4' tall. – Peony: Flowers last 5-10 days. Cut when buds are showing strong color but are not yet open. Herbaceous shrub with lush, bowlshaped fragrant spring flowers blooming in pink, white, or red. Plant in sun with afternoon shade in well-worked, rich, welldrained soil. – Peruvian Lily: Flowers last about 14 days if kept in cool temperatures. Tubular red flowers in summer. Foliage is dormant in summer and late winter, but lovely in early spring to early summer, and in fall to mid-winter. Plant in morning sun with afternoon shade. – Phlox: Flowers last 5 - 10 days. Form varies but upright varieties bear clusters of flowers, some fragrant, in summer. Colors: pale blue, pink, white, pale violet, purple. Grows 1'-5' depending on species / cultivar. Plant in full sun. – Rose: Flowers last 7-10 days. Keep vase water fresh and mixed with flower food. Do not remove thorns. Beautiful flowers in a multitude of forms and colors, many fragrant. Make clean, slanting cuts just above outward facing leaves with five or seven leaflets. Plant in full sun in rich, well-drained soil. – Shasta Daisy: Flowers last 7-14 days. Cut when flowers are fully open. Single or double white daisy flowers Plant in full sun and well-draining soil. Varieties grow 1'-4'.

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with its locks, culverts, and massive aqueduct – was built and turned the Roanoke River into a superhighway of commerce during the early 19th century. The story continues by explaining how the canal was transformed from a trade route into a hydroelectric power resource just over a century ago before becoming the greenway and historic site of today.” Along the 7.5-mile length of the trail, you will bear witness to “some of the most impressive and best preserved early 19th century canal construction in the nation, including hand-hewn stone culvert, power canal bulkhead, locks, and an aqueduct that spans 35-feet in a single arch – one of the greatest engineering feats of the time,” according to visithalifax.com. BY ROBYN GOSS BENNAI

DRIVEABLE DESTINATION

THE WONDER OF HALIFAX COUNTY orth Carolina is made up of 100 counties with the formation of the earliest counties in 1664. Founded 240 years ago, Halifax County has become a tourist destination for lovers of history, nature, and the arts as they seek to explore new and exciting adventures. Located just a little over an hour away, approximately eight miles from the Virginia border and in the Roanoke River and Tar-Pamlico basins, is the northeastern county of Halifax, one of the largest geographical counties in the state. No matter what you fancy, this “Driveable Destination” is a must-visit.

FOR THE NATURE LOVER Medoc Mountain State Park provides 10 miles of hiking trails that meander along a creek, while other trails can take you several hundred feet to the moutain’s upper reaches. Fishing Creek is loved by paddlers and anglers alike as it is considered to be one of the cleanest streams in the region and flows 2.5 miles through the park. If you prefer to explore on wheels, Medoc Mountain provides nine miles of mountain biking trails for riders of all skill levels. Straddling the North Carolina and Virginia border between I-85 and I-95, Lake Gaston is a 34-mile, 20,000-acre lake bound by the Kerr and Gaston Dams. Public access can be found at the Lake Gaston Day Use Area where you can also take advantage of a fish-

FOR THE HISTORY BUFF Nicknamed by many as North Carolina’s “cradle of history,” Historic Halifax is the birthplace of the “Halifax Resolves,” a resolution, according to northcarolinahistory.org, that was “adopted by the Fourth Provincial Congress of the Province of North Carolina on April 12, 1776 ... [and was] a forerunner of the United States Declaration of Independence.” While visiting, be sure to include the Historic Halifax State Historic Site, where you can turn back the clock and experience how those early revolutionaries lived. The Visitor Center offers an audiovisual presentation, guided tours, and exhibits depicting the town’s history. You can also step back in time as you explore several historic structures – including the Sally Billy House (1808), the Burgess House (1808), the Halifax County Jail (1838), Eagle Tavern (1790), the Owens House (1760), and the Clerk’s Office (1832). Aptly called “North Carolina’s longest museum,” the Roanoke Canal Museum & Trail, as detailed at roanokecanal.com, “utilizes traditional and interactive exhibits to explain how the original canal – 36

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ing pier, boat ramp, and public swimming area. Teeming with game fish, including striped bass or rockfish, largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and several varieties of catfish along with a variety of other species of less prevalent fish, Lake Gaston is a local fishing paradise. Avid bird watcher or not, you won’t want to miss the world’s largest collection of rare and endangered waterfowl at Sylvan Heights Bird Park. Visitors can observe over 2,500 birds from around the world including ducks and geese to swans and parrots, toucans, flamingos, and more throughout the continentally-themed aviaries. While there, you can “Feed parakeets and flamingos in the Landing Zone exhibit, enjoy the amazing handicapped-accessible tree house that overlooks the natural wetlands, and get closer to North Carolina’s native wildlife at the Beaver Pond Blind,” shares visithalifax.com.

FOR THE FAN OF THE ARTS While you make your way through the county, be on the lookout for a different sort of fish – you won’t need a rod and reel to catch a glimpse of these. As part of a public art campaign by The Halifax County Convention and Visitors Bureau, a collection of handpainted six-feet tall rockfish statues are installed throughout the Roanoke Valley. They were designed to “uplift and inspire” the Roanoke Valley with their colorful stripes, swirls, and scenes. As you tour from Hobgood to Littleton, see how many you can “catch” located in area sites, businesses, and recreational areas.

PREFER THE UNUSUAL? The Cryptozoology & Paranormal Museum located in Littleton brings something non-traditional to its visitors. As described on their website, crypto-para.org, this museum is “Dedicated to the study of creatures and phenomena not recognized by traditional science.” You will find information, stories, and tools that include familiar phenomena such as Bigfoot, ghosts, UFOs, and lake monsters. The museum is open to explore their collection and offers ghost tours in the evenings. This is a must-see for anyone who likes to venture outside the scope of normal scientific understanding. Additional attractions to check out include the new Weldon Mill Distillery, (“pouring spirits on the banks of the Roanoke River”), the Halifax Underground Railroad Trail (according to halifaxundergroundrr.com, “Halifax County has three National Park Service designated Network to Freedom Sites” – Old Town of Halifax, Roanoke River, and the Roanoke Canal), the Halifax County Agricultural Museum, where you can see antique pieces of farm equipment used in the early days of the 20th century, and much more. Whether you plan to take a rod and reel, binoculars, or bikes to tap into the wonder of Halifax County on your day trip or weekend escape to this “Driveable Destination,” the area has something for everyone.  Robyn Goss-Bennai is a local writer and can be reached at robyngossbennai@gmail.com.

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April • May • June 2022

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nown as a seafood delicacy, scallops are often highly regarded for their soft texture and taste. They are delectably tender and sweet whether pan seared, baked, or grilled and are found in restaurants around the globe. Scallops are bivalves, meaning they have two hinged shells. The muscle that opens and closes the shell is called the abductor muscle, and is the part we eat. The term “scallop” is actually applied to numerous clams or mollusks and come in many varieties, the most common being bay or sea scallops. Let’s dive more into scallops, the terms surrounding them, shopping for them, and how to prepare this succulent and sweet jewel of the sea.

BY BRACY DUTTON

SWEET ON SCALLOPS

As I mentioned, scallops typically fall under two distinct categories: bay or sea. Sea scallops are the larger of the two (often growing as big as two inches) and bay scallops are bite-sized (often the size of a dime). Sea scallops are caught and harvested yearround in deep cold sea water, whereas bay scallops, on the other hand, are caught in shallow bay waters. While they are usually a quarter of the size of sea scallops, they tend to be much sweeter in flavor, more tender, and succulent. Bay scallops are generally less expensive than sea scallops and are an excellent choice for the French classic – and perhaps the most famous baked scallop dish – “Coquilles Saint Jacques” … scallops baked au gratin, with creamy sauce and breadcrumbs forming the crust and oozing with cheese.

Scallop season has arrived, so now is the perfect time to enjoy these succulent treats from the sea. Not only are they delicious, they are also good for you! Widely considered as one of the healthiest foods out there, scallops are, according to webmd.com, “made up of 80% protein and sport a low fat content, [and they] are rich in vitamins and minerals” (such as zinc, magnesium, and vitamin B12). Additionally, they also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower cholesterol, regulate your heartbeat, support nervous system function, and may support memory, webmd.com continues. Furthermore, since they are such an excellent source of lean protein, scallops can help you feel full longer. 38

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Scallops can be processed by being packed either “wet” or “dry.” When shopping for scallops, both sea and bay, look for drypacked ones. Dry-packed scallops have been shucked, packed on ice, and have no chemical additives, whereas the wet-packed, on the other hand, are very white and more translucent in appearance and have been soaked in sodium tripolyphosphate, which preserves their color and texture while frozen. Wet-packed scallops tend to hold a lot more water. This presents itself when trying to pan sear and the excess water “steams” the scallop, making it difficult to get them seared and leaving you with a “soggy” dish. Following is how I achieve the perfectly caramelized exterior with wet scallops: – Pat scallops dry and sprinkle with salt (the salt will draw out excess water from the scallop). – Heat a non-stick pan until very hot. Note: It’s best to use a high smoke point oil, such as grapeseed oil. – Place the scallops in the hot pan with space between each (this helps minimize the scallops from “steaming”). Do not move them for 2 minutes, in order to maintain the seared crust. – Turn scallops over and sear for an additional 2 minutes. – Remove, plate, and serve. Whether served as a starter dish for a gathering of friends or as a delectable date night dinner, scallops are not only delicious and easy to prepare, they’re good for you too. So this spring, I hope you get a chance to savor some scallops.  Bracy Dutton and his wife Bridget are the owners of Fishin’ Shrimp, serving Wake Forest and the surrounding area. Fishin’ Shrimp is bringing fried and steamed seafood specialties to the area via their food truck and is accepting party platter orders through their website for pick up or delivery most weekends. For more great seafood (that you don’t have to cook yourself), follow Fishin’ Shrimp on Facebook and Instagram @fishinshrimp and visit fishinshrimp.com.

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April • May • June 2022

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DESIGN SUSTAINABILITY BY

DECORATING MATERIALS FOR CHANGING TASTES AND TRENDS

BY AMY RIKHOFF

hen it comes to home renovation or decorating design projects, it seems that there are literally millions of material options from which to choose – stone, granite, marble, tile, fabrics, concrete, and glass, for example. Yet it also seems that in most homes, common materials such as these are continually used for countertops, islands, fireplaces, kitchen backsplashes, walls, shelving, etc. Sticking with the conventional is always an easy and safe route to take. You know how it will look as it’s already in your friend’s house and you see it every time you visit. You see these standard materials routinely featured as you scroll through decorating pages on Instagram. You know they are a reliable bet for your financial investment and will certainly look attractive in your own home.

bit tricky to work with, as it is a thin, sharp metal. However, it can be painted over and over, distressed, and refreshed as years – and your tastes – go by. Installation of pressed tin is more costly than some other materials, but can end up being a more costeffective solution in the long run, as you won’t find yourself demoing and replacing when you’re ready for a new look. This makes it a great backsplash option, providing a classic look that can add texture to a modern or traditional home. I have also used pressed tin as a no demolition way to cover outdated tile around a fireplace – simply apply construction adhesive to the tin, manipulating it around the fireplace edges, and caulk to ensure no exposed sharp points … an easy and updated method to create a stunning focal point for your space.

But this spring, if you are looking to tackle a kitchen facelift, want to tear out and replace that outdated fireplace, or give your living room a total redo, why not take this opportunity to push yourself out of your decorating comfort zone and create the best atmosphere to showcase your personal style? You don’t need to get caught up in incorporating the materials that your neighbor has or what that builder is putting into that new construction neighborhood down the street. You don’t need to simply update your space with a newer version of what you already have. Getting out of your decorating comfort zone may sound scary and might make you a tad bit uncomfortable – but that fear and discomfort just might lead to a beautiful living space that you didn’t even know you dreamed of. As I stated previously, there are numerous alternative decorating materials out there. I would like to share three of my favorites, all of which can be incorporated into both transitional and modern home designs. Each are sustainable, and ultimately cost-effective, design options, as they can be refinished and updated in various ways, should you find your tastes changing over time. 1. PRESSED TIN: Pressed tin can be used for walls, fireplaces, ceilings, backsplashes, windowsills, and more. This product can be a 40

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2. BRICK VENEER: Brick veneer is composed of actual brick slices that can be applied similarly to tile and can completely transform the look of any room. One of the primary reasons I love designing with brick veneer is its versatility. For instance, it can be found in the many hues of real brick; there are ample ways in which mortar can be applied, accentuating an old world or a modern design plan; and it can of course be painted – maybe give it a lime wash, then sandblast it back to its original stage, adding an aged and distressed appearance. Brick adds warmth, texture, and personality to a backsplash, your fireplace, or that wall that you just don’t know what to do with. Brick veneer is a project I feel most decorating DIY-ers can tackle themselves. However, keep in mind that they are heavy and will require a lot of physical work. 3. WOOD: Wood has always been on the design scene. Its versatility can boast an inherently natural rustic aesthetic applicable in all design styles, creating a lovely and inviting space. Even though the reclaimed wood trend has passed, there are still some ways it can be added as accents. Heavy beams, mantels, doors, and floors are great ways to use it, as is adding it to a kitchen island among painted cabinets, or even as a countertop (especially since wood is antimicrobial). Of course it can be painted or refinished in several ways, making it a long lasting and eco-friendly product (using reclaimed wood reduces landfill waste and deforestation, and will continue to live for years in your home). Furthermore, each piece is unique, as no two features will ever look the same. Even if you live on a street with 25 houses, and all showcase reclaimed wood, each will be distinct with its own features, and history.

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The trend of completely painted cabinets has also started to circle back – including wood accents. This is where choosing real wood will again save you money down the line. However, if your budget does not allow for stain-grade cabinets throughout your space, then you still have options. For example, consider purchasing paint-grade versions for your lower and upper cabinets, or those in your island. Doing so will allow for future transformations when you’re ready to go with a different color scheme in the future. When it comes to refreshing your living space, I hope you remember that it’s okay to break out of your design and decorating box. I understand you may be a little nervous at first, but don’t be afraid to be a little bold. Adding a bit of non-typical sustainable materials to specific details in your home doesn’t have to pose great risk … emotional or financial. So go ahead and use painted brick for your backsplash. Add that distressed pressed tin to your fireplace. Transform your island with wood accents. Hang that mantel made from a beautiful reclaimed beam. You just might be surprised at how getting out of your comfort zone lets you breathe new life into your home. 

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Amy Rikhoff is the owner of Wake Forest Interiors. For more information, visit wakeforestinteriors.com.

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April • May • June 2022

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ENSURE YOU

ARE INSURED

DOES YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE POLICY COVER A SECOND HOME?

hether it’s to live out each winter as a snowbird or enjoying the majestic mountains, or spend warm weather weekends at a lakeside retreat or beachfront abode, a second home can have tremendous appeal. But, as with your main residence, a vacation home is something that you’ll probably want to protect with homeowners insurance. Will your policy on your primary home help protect your second home? Read on to learn if homeowners insurance extends to two residences and when you may need separate policies. DO I NEED A SEPARATE POLICY FOR MY VACATION HOME? You’ll likely need to purchase a separate insurance policy for your second home if you want to protect its structure and the contents inside. If you have a mortgage on your second home, your lender may also require you to insure it. In some cases, insurers may extend the liability coverage portion of your existing policy to a second home. This means if someone is injured at your vacation home, and you’re found liable, your primary home’s insurance policy will likely help pay for their resulting medical bills or legal expenses you incur. SECOND HOMES ARE DEEMED RISKIER. You may find that vacation home insurance is a little different than your primary residence’s policy in terms of cost or coverage. That’s because sometimes what makes a vacation home so appealing may be considered more risky (a waterfront location, for instance). Soughtafter features like this can sometimes make a property more expensive or difficult to insure. SECOND HOME COVERAGE MAY BE MORE LIMITED. Insurance for second homes and vacation homes is typically written on a “named perils” basis. This is because a second home is typically not occupied as your full-time residence and, for example, you might not keep valuable contents there year-round. With a named perils insurance policy, your place would only be covered against events that are specifically outlined in it – for example, due to lightning damage or theft. That means if your vacation home and the items inside are damaged by a peril not listed in your policy, it

CIRCA Magazine

BY THOMAS WALTERS

likely wouldn’t be covered. On the other hand, covered perils in a standard homeowners insurance policy may be more broad. Named perils policies may also provide limited coverage for other structures on your vacation home’s property. For instance, other structures – like detached garages, sheds, or boathouses – may have less coverage than they would in a conventional homeowners policy. BOOSTING YOUR VACATION HOME’S PROTECTION. There are some things you can do to help better protect your vacation home. You’ll find that most homeowners insurance policies include personal property coverage – this coverage helps replace the stuff you own, such as furniture, electronics, and clothing, after you file a covered claim. However, it’s important to remember that personal property coverage may provide limited coverage for certain items. For example, say you keep a boat at your vacation home. If your boat was destroyed by a covered peril, the personal property coverage in your policy might only pay a small amount toward repairs. In this case, you may want to consider a separate boat insurance policy. You might also want to consider a personal umbrella policy (PUP), which provides greater liability protection. This protection generally extends to a second home. But, some insurers may require that you don’t rent out the property for the coverage to be extended – otherwise, a separate optional coverage may be required when renting out the property. Here’s an example of how a PUP works. Say a guest at your vacation home is injured and sues you for $1 million, but the liability coverage limit in your homeowners insurance policy is $500,000. You’d be responsible for coming up with the extra $500,000. A PUP would help cover these additional costs beyond your homeowners insurance coverage. You may also want to talk with your insurance agent to find out if there are any other insurance protections for your second home that you may want to consider. For instance, if you have a waterfront property, you might want to purchase flood insurance, because flood damage usually isn’t covered by a typical homeowners insurance policy. Or, if you have a boathouse on your vacation home’s property, you may be able to increase coverage limits to better protect that structure.

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SAVING ON A SECOND HOME POLICY. You may be able to save a little bit of money on your second home’s insurance policy in a few ways. If you purchase it from the same insurer you buy other insurance policies from, you may qualify for a bundling discount. Or, if your second home has security features, you may be able to lower your premium — the amount you pay to keep a policy in force. Be sure to discuss any special safety features your second home has with your insurer so you can take advantage of any discounts they may offer.

your current homeowners policy to the home while it’s rented out. Other insurers may require you to purchase an endorsement to the existing policy in order to extend that policy’s coverage. – If you plan to rent out your home multiple times to various renters, some insurers may consider this a “business.” You may need to purchase a business policy to help ensure your home is protected. – If you’ll be leasing your home to one person for an extended period of time, you may need to purchase a landlord policy.

INSURANCE FOR RENTING IT OUT. If you decide to rent out your vacation home for part of the year, the policy on your second home may not cover damage that occurs while it is being rented out. Depending on your situation, some insurers may require you to purchase an entirely separate policy when you rent out your vacation home. Following are several scenarios to consider: – If you plan to rent it only one time, your insurer may extend the protection from

By having insurance in place on your second home, you can have peace of mind knowing it is protected, whether you’re there or not. If you have any questions about whether your second or vacation home is adequately insured, check with your insurance agent. 

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Thomas Walters is the owner of Walters Insurance Agency, located at 3207 Rogers, Road, Suite 100 in Wake Forest. Call 919554-0267 or email twalters@allstate.com for help with all your insurance needs.

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YOUR PURCHASE! USE CODE:

YOUNGS20

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PRESBYOPIA INSIGHT INTO AGE-RELATED FARSIGHTEDNESS BY DR. MACKENZIE DZIEDZIC

Presbyopia is one of the most common eye conditions, affecting approximately 128 million Americans. Do you find yourself holding reading material or menus further away, or reaching for more light? As we age, it becomes harder for our eyes to focus, causing nearby objects to be blurry. For most individuals, presbyopia begins around age 40 and will gradually worsen with time for 15-20 years. The lens in the eye begins to harden and becomes less flexible, making it harder

to read and focus on up close objects. he most common symptoms during early presbyopia include blurred vision, eye strain, and headaches. Now more than ever we rely on our smart phones and computers which can be challenging if the screens on these devices are blurry. Americans spend approximately 6.3 hours a day looking at screens, and this trend is expected to increase each year. During the early stages of presbyopia, affected people may find themselves holding material further away, increasing the font size on phones and computer, and finding more light. Fortunately, there are many treatment options for presbyopia, depending on one’s lifestyle and preference.

GLASSES The most common treatment option for presbyopia is glasses. For those who have 20/20 distance vision, reading glasses may be a good option. These are to be worn while reading or on the computer and then removed while looking far away or driving. If you already wear glasses, a bifocal or progressive lens may be recommended. A bifocal divides the lens into a top distance portion and a bottom reading segment, separated by a visible line. The all-in-one glasses, also known as progressive lenses, provide distance, computer, and near vision assistance without the visible line. There are pros and cons to both the bifocal and progressive lens, but with time, most people adapt within the first few weeks of wearing either. Trying your first pair of progressive lenses may seem intimi44

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dating, but having your lenses customized and fitted correctly by your optometrist and optician will help reduce the adjustment time.

CONTACT LENSES For those who prefer another option besides glasses, contact lenses may be something to consider. While contacts will likely not provide as precise clarity in vision as glasses, they are great for active lifestyles. There are two options when it comes to presbyopia and contact lenses – monovision and multifocal. Monovision is designed for one contact lens to correct distance vision, usually the dominant eye, and the other contact lens for reading vision. There are limitations when it comes to monovision, including a slight decrease in depth perception. Although this setup may seem difficult to adjust to, most adapt within a couple weeks. The other contact lens option to help with near vision is the multifocal lens. This lens provides both distance and near vision in each eye. There are two different designs, one with a bullseye-like pattern, alternating distance and near correction, and the other, a blended transition between prescriptions which changes as you move from the center of the lens to the periphery. Similarly to monovision contact lenses, there may be an adaptation period – but when fit correctly, you should not need glasses for most of your daily activities.

SURGERY There are a couple of surgery options for presbyopia that are minimally invasive, but a more permanent decision. LASIK is a popular refractive surgery to correct distance vision. However, if LASIK is performed to give each eye 20/20 distance vision, one will then need reading glasses to see anything near. To reduce to the use of reading glasses, monovision LASIK may be a good option for presbyopic patients interested in surgery. Similarly to monovision contact lenses, monovision LASIK will correct one eye for distance vision and the other eye for reading vision. Most surgeons will do a trial period with contact lenses to mimic postsurgery vision. Refractive lens exchange is another procedure that can be performed to reduce the need for glasses. Since presbyopia is a con-

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dition related to the hardening of the lens, refractive lens exchange replaces your natural lens with an artificial one. This surgery is similar to cataract surgery, yet done for a refractive purpose, rather than removing a cloudy lens due to a cataract. Depending on your eyes and goals post-surgery, there are different types of artificial lenses available. Monofocal lenses provide clear vision at one range – distance, intermediate, or near. A multifocal lens provides clear vision at multiple ranges, similarly to the multifocal contact lens previously discussed. Full recovery after surgery takes a few weeks, but most resume their normal daily activities within a week.

VUITY The newest option to treat presbyopia is an eye drop called Vuity. Vuity is the first and only eye drop to treat near vision and was recently FDA approved in 2021. The once daily drop begins working in 15 minutes and can last up to six hours. The drop is designed to reduce the pupil size, which improves near vision without affecting distance vision. Most people tolerate the drop well, while some may notice minor side effects such as a mild headache, eye redness, and reduced room lighting. These side effects should improve with use of the drop, and for most, subside after one to weeks of consistent use. If interested in trying this new drop, schedule an appointment with your optometrist to see if you would be a good candidate for Vuity based on your prescription, lifestyle, and ocular health. Presbyopia is a normal part of aging that can be frustrating as our dependence with digital devices increases. Thankfully, today there are many different treatment options available to ease the stress of blurred near vision.  Mackenzie Dziedzic, OD, is a doctor of optometry with McPherson Family Eye Care, located at 3150 Rogers Road, Suite 100 in Wake Forest. For more information and to learn more about presbyopia and available treatment options, call 919-2639163 or visit mcphersonfamilyeyecare.com.

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eaten in the Byzantine empire. (Thankfully for us ice cream lovers, numerous varieties and delicious flavors – more than 450 concocted myself – of that simple dessert have evolved since then.) It is written that in the 16th century, Marco Polo introduced it to Italy. Around the same time, England welcomed “cream ice.” And in 1550, Katherine de Medici was introduced to the delectable dish in France. And, starting in 1660, ice cream was no longer solely in the hands of the royals and the commoners were finally able to enjoy it – but only in winter! Then, thank goodness, ice cream finally made its way to America. The first mention of it in the States was on May 12, 1777, when it was advertised in the New York Gazette that ice cream was now “available almost every day.” Making life easier for ice cream fans in 1843, Nancy Johnson invented the first hand-cranked ice cream machine.

BY BUCK BUCHANAN

COOKED IN TRADITION I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM, WE ALL SCREAM FOR CHOCOLATE ICE CREAM! And we should all scream extra loud on June 7! Why? Because it’s “National Chocolate Ice Cream Day” of course! To help celebrate this glorious day honoring a favorite childhood treat (and still one of the best), I’m here armed with some chocolate ice cream history, a little science, perhaps a little trivia, and some advice for creating the perfect base

for the perfect warm weather dessert. rom the beginning, starting back in the 2nd century, ice cream has been a favorite of all people. I for one have spent the past 25 years or so obsessed with it. Its beginning, however, was quite humble – simple snow topped with honey, or so “they” say, and was

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Back to Italy … in 1692, the first recipe of chocolate ice cream was featured in The Modern Steward. That recipe was nothing like what we recognize today. The original formula was chocolate mixed with cinnamon and spice, and sometimes orange, almonds, anise, and many other spices as well. It was also made with whole cream, giving it a buttery consistency. Nowadays, ice cream producers generally use a 10%-16% butterfat base. The ice cream makers of generations past also didn’t have the luxury of modern methods of producing consistent chocolate. Today, we have beautifully crafted blended chocolates that have been formulated to be consistent and smooth. Whether you choose to work with a chocolate liquor (100% chocolate), an 80%, a 60%, or a cocoa powder, you are 100% better off than those trying to make ice cream back in 1692. Now we can get blended chocolates from all over the world – some of the best coming from Belgium, France, Switzerland, and many small chocolatiers right here in America. If you are like me and prefer a variety, try some single source chocolates from many of the central and south American countries, as well as Africa – each boasts its own qualities and difficulties of blending. Because of the difficulties of blending chocolate and cream together (as well as cost), most ice cream makers use cocoa powders. Every artisan shop prepares their chocolate ice cream distinctly, with a different chocolate variety, ratio of chocolate to cream, and amount of sugar – each trying to match their idea of the perfect chocolate ice cream. Nowadays, chocolate is the most popular flavor in the world. Ok, that’s not exactly true … in grocery stores, vanilla outsells chocolate. But in scoop shops, chocolate takes the top spot. Overall, though, the most sold single flavor universally is cookies and cream. But if lumped into two categories, chocolate, and its varieties like cookies and cream, versus vanilla varieties, chocolate is by far the winner. Don’t believe me? Just ask your friends, your kids, your spouse … or stop by and peruse the monthly world ice cream report I get!

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Now that we have gone over the history, a bit of science, and some meaningless discussion of sales trends, let’s talk about making some chocolate ice cream (more specifically, the ever-important chocolate ice cream base). I’ll start by saying I prefer a Philadelphia-style version – this rendition contains no eggs, making it easier to prepare and reduces the production time (not to mention, I’m allergic). Although I am not a mathematician, I’m pretty sure that if you mix equal parts heavy cream (32% butterfat) and whole milk (3% butterfat), you are sure to have yourself a fairly good chocolate ice cream base. Now comes the best part – the chocolate itself! Or maybe I should say, the hard part. Heat half of the base with 1/2 pound of sugar and 4 ounces of chocolate liquor. Chocolate liquor – where, pray tell, do I get some of that? The grocery store, of course! You may know it as bakers chocolate. Slowly stir the chocolate, base, and sugar together until smooth, then temper into the remaining base (temper means to slowly mix the cold and hot

together, so as not to curdle the cream mixture); then let it cool in your fridge. Now you’ve created the perfect chocolate base. Or maybe not – if this combo isn’t to your liking, go ahead and play around with the amount of chocolate or the sugar quantity until you get it just right for your tastebuds. And then take that delicious chocolate base and create your own delicious chocolate ice cream and chocolate ice cream-inspired desserts that are perfect to enjoy on National Chocolate Ice Cream Day, and every day.  Please share your National Chocolate Ice Cream Day pictures with us! Email us your photos or tag us on social media. And as always, if you have a favorite recipe or dish that is “cooked in tradition,” email us a copy at info@circamagazine.com for a chance to be featured in a future issue of CIRCA Magazine! Buck Buchanan is the owner of Lumpy’s Ice Cream, located at 306 Wait Avenue in Downtown Wake Forest. Follow them on social media and visit lumpysicecream.com.

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GOOD

READS

BY SUE LUCEY

pring is a hot season – ok, not hot like it is here in summer – but it is hot … for us book lovers! That’s because April 5 is one of the biggest book release days of the year. For me, it’s like Christmas in April (my version of Christmas in July)! If you are as excited about the new releases hitting the bookshelves this spring as I am, here are some upcoming ones that caught my eye – books perfect for enjoying on your back porch, or in the backyard hammock on a warm Saturday afternoon. Or, if you’re already thinking about hitting the beach as the temperatures continue to rise, I’ve got you covered there too. So sit back, relax, and spring into a good book this spring.

You’re Loved by Liz Climo This loving, uplifting, adorable picture book that is the perfect gift for the parents-to-be in your life is a heartfelt and joyous shout out to all the caretakers and parents who cheer children on through their childhood.

YOUNG ADULT Dreams Bigger Than Heartbreak by Charlie Jane Anders From the internationally recognized author of Victories Greater Than Death comes, as Levar Burton describes, “A wickedly funny voice that the world really needs right now.” Dreams Bigger Than Heartbreak is a thrilling adventure full of fun.

(Please note several of these books will be available after April 5.)

CHILDREN’S BOOKS Cat Kid Comic Club by Dave Pilkey You will, without a doubt, love this heartwarming and hilarious graphic novel, brought to you by the author of the internationally bestselling Dog Man and Captain Underpants series – and if you have any reluctant readers at home, this is the book that will transform them into bookworms. 143 Story Tree House by Andy Griffiths As described on publisher Macmillan Publishers’ website, “New York Times-bestselling team Andy Griffiths and [illustrator] Terry Denton invite readers to come hang out with them in their 143Story Treehouse – the eleventh book in the illustrated chapter book series filled with Andy and Terry’s signature slapstick humor!” This Book Will Get You To Sleep by Jory John Everyone knows someone who is reluctant to say good night. This book will make them laugh out loud until they are so tired, they just might fall asleep! 48

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Bravely by Maggie Stiefvater (available May) Have you seen Disney’s popular movie Brave? If so, then are you are sure to love this follow-up, set several years after Merida set out on a life-altering quest to save everything she loved. Disney and Stiefvater is a match made in Heaven!

ADULT NON-FICTION Unmasked by Paul Holes (available late April) For all the true crime fans out there, Unmasked is for you. Disturbing at times – as you get inside the mind of someone who hunts for cold case grisly murderers – this memoir gives you the inside scoop on what Holes experienced throughout his 27 years as a detective and how he expertly tracked down these monsters. The Truth About Crypto: A Practical, Easy-To-Understand Guide to Bitcoin, Blockchain, NFTs, and Other Digital Assets by Ric Edelman (available May) Cryptocurrency … the only word heard throughout the financial world these days it seems. This easy-to-understand guide is here to help you navigate all that is cryptocurrency. Even if you don’t

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want to invest now, this guide will help you understand this new economic world in real talk.

ADULT FICTION Sister Stardust by Jane Green One of the best parts of my job is reading books before they are available to the consumer – and this is one of the novels I was fortunate enough to read before everyone else. And it’s a winner! If you liked Daisy Jones and the Six, you will love this fun romp taking place back in the swinging ’60s. Based on the true story of socialite Talitha Getty – one of Paul Getty’s wives who died of an overdose – Sister Stardust explores the elite lifestyle of the rich and famous during that generation, and delves into what led up to Talitha’s demise. Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel For those who enjoyed Station Eleven, you know what a powerful voice Emily St. John Mandel has, and it’s quite apparent yet again in her latest work. Featuring imaginative time travel combined with a look at society and how our actions play a role in shaping the world, Sea of Tranquility boasts a seamless storyline full of creative insight to all that surrounds us. This is definitely a spring read that you won’t be able to put down. Book Lovers by Emily Henry (available May) Rom coms are just what we need right now … and readers are devouring them. Book Lovers is one of the best. Bookworm Nora arrives in North Carolina, ready for a much-needed weekend with her sister – but she keeps bumping into editor Charlie. When you aren’t looking for love, how does it suddenly find you? Grab a beach blanket and cozy up to enjoy this great spring or summer read. Home Wreckers by Mary Kay Andrews (available May) Book lovers agree that the summer season starts with a Mary Kay Andrews book – and she successfully kicks it off once again with Home Wreckers. Funny and romantic at the same time – and with just the right amount of mystery – this book has it all. Added bonus? It has to do with a TV show featuring two stars who are redecorating a home on Tybee Island (get it … home “wreckers?”). I read this in just a few day and absolutely loved it. City On Fire by Don Winslow (available late April) Called “America’s greatest living crime writer,” Don Winslow takes on the classic themes of honor, betrayal, and loyalty throughout the pages of City On Fire. A mob story set in 1986, this exciting new novel takes you for an epic spin of the globe – you won’t be able to get it out of your head for quite awhile after you put it down.  Suzanne Lucey and her husband Dave own Page 158 Books, located at 415 S. Brooks St. in Wake Forest. She may be reached at 919-435-1843 or visit www.page158books.com.

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Despite having the knowledge that I cannot control everything that happens, I struggle with these consuming symptoms daily.” – “Anxiety takes you to a place where you’re outside of your body and cannot determine fantasy from reality. It’s debilitating, scary, and downright gut-wrenching.”

BY NICK PIONE

THE NEW

NORMAL ANXIETY – WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

When I was a teenager, the movie Top Gun was a favorite of mine – my buddies and I would quote the movie to each other all the time. One particularly popular line was “I feel the need, the need for speed” … but when we drove around town in my 1978 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, it was clear

that I was not Tom Cruise. heesy lines aside, the movie was all about speed and pushing the limits on a motorcycle or in a fighter plane. I remember the loud roar of the jet engines throughout the film, and those feelings of exhilaration and anxiousnesses, all at the same time. Those feelings of course left as soon as I exited the theater. But what if they didn’t? What would it feel like to be that amped up all the time, 24/7? Well, it might feel like someone who’s living with anxiety, which is becoming the new normal for too many of us. As described by some of who suffer from anxiety disorders: – “Anxiety is like an adrenaline rush without the actual roller coaster. Heart races, palms sweat, knees get weak. You have all the physical symptoms of a thrill ride, but your brain has no actual event to tie the symptoms to.” – “My anxiety takes over my body. My breathing is irregular, my heart is racing despite minimal activity, and my muscles are tense unless I consciously relax them. My mind doesn’t shut off. I think about things that could go wrong, things that went wrong in the past, and things I have absolutely no control over. 50

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See what I mean? It can feel like a movie that never ends, and more and more of us are experiencing this emotion every day. According to a National Health Survey by the National Center for Health Statistics (cdc.gov/nchs/data/nhis/mental-health-monthly-508.pdf), the range of average monthly percentages of U.S. adults reporting symptoms of anxiety from January 2019 through December 2019 was 7.4%-8.6%. Alternatively, data collected between April 2020 and October 2021 for the National Center for Health Statistics Household Survey on anxiety and depression (cdc.gov/nchs/ covid19/pulse/mental-health.htm) indicated that the average monthly percentages during this timeframe skyrocketed to 28.2%-37.2%. Why is this becoming the new normal? Partially due to the prolonged state of COVID and the influence of social media, just to name a couple. These conditions have resulted in many of us experiencing a level of anxiety that has never been seen before. Depression is also becoming more prevalent, increasing approximately three-fold over the past few years. Anxiety and depression often coexist, as depression is found in approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with anxiety. They may seem similar, sharing symptoms like insomnia, trouble concentrating, and fatigue, yet they are uniquely different. The following can help differentiate the two, recognizing that we are all unique and symptoms can overlap: – People with depression generally experience a lack of energy, whereas those with anxiety tend to be more worked up and nervous as thoughts race through their minds. – People with anxiety often have more worries, many times unsubstantiated, about the future, while those struggling with depression are less likely to be concerned about future events, because the future is often viewed as hopeless and almost non-existent. It’s normal to worry about things like the economy, your job, and family. Where it can become more problematic is when those worries become more constant, or you begin to worry about things that do not affect your daily activities. The following are common symptoms for those diagnosed with anxiety disorders, and a licensed healthcare professional can help you determine if these symptoms are normal or need further attention: excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, lack of memory and difficulty concentrating, change in appetite, anger and irritability, sleep disturbance, and muscle tension. What can you do to help yourself or someone you love? This is the good news – there are a few resources to help: – Psychotherapy or talk therapy: (conducted by a licensed practitioner, either virtually or in person); cognitive behavioral therapy

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(CBT) is the most effective form of psychotherapy for anxiety disorders. Generally a short-term treatment, CBT focuses on teaching you specific skills to improve your symptoms and gradually return to the activities you’ve avoided because of anxiety. Consult your insurance provider’s directory of licensed mental health professionals, and consider online platforms like betterhelp.com. – Medication: Prescriptions are available and a licensed healthcare professional can help you determine what’s best for you. – Natural alternatives: Such as chamomile (limited data shows that short-term use is generally considered safe and can be effective in reducing symptoms), lemon balm (preliminary research shows it can reduce some symptoms, such as nervousness and excitability), valerian (in some studies, people who used it reported less anxiety and stress), CBD (shown in several studies to help reduce the symptoms of generalized anxiety and PTSD), and exercise (the type does not seem to matter, but doing it consistently does). If you are suffering with anxiety or depression, don’t suffer in silence. Tell the people you know and love how you’re feeling. And if you ever find yourself in a place of hopelessness and consider harming yourself, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255.  Nick Pione is a local business owner, blog writer, and natural wellness expert. He co-founded Trek CBD and contributes to medium.com and trekcbd.com. He may be reached at nickpione@trekvitality.com.

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PUT DOWN THE

BUG SPRAY AND PICK UP YOUR SMARTPHONE!

BY MARGARITA COHEN

pringtime – to me, it’s the best season of the year. I know many of you love winter. Some may prefer being cold rather than hot, or love winter sports like football, skiing, or hockey. Some may even prefer winter because it’s a great excuse to stay inside and stream shows on their 4K TV.

But to me, the longer days and warmer weather make it the best season of the year. Spring is when the birds return. It is a time to get outside or open the windows and bring the outside into our homes. It’s a time to take long walks and see everything around us blooming. I love spring, and I especially love spring in our area. Of course, there are a couple of negative sides to spring. Tax time, it’s dark when we wake up, and the pollen … oh, the pollen and the allergies. But worst of all is spring is when mosquitoes return. As temperatures begin to exceed 50 degrees, those pesky pests are no longer dormant. They become active and again breed, buzz, and annoy. But the truth is, we don’t have to let them ruin our outside fun.

The industry is taking another major step forward and introducing new technology to help repel pesky pests – all controlled from a smart phone! In partnership with Thermacell, a company that has been protecting millions of people from the harmful effects of insects for over 20 years, an installation-based repeller system that provides protection where and when you need it is now available to consumers. Highly effective, these small and stylish repellers can protect up to 20 feet in diameter of outdoor space within minutes of turning it on. For those of you who need to protect a larger area, you can daisy chain up to five repellers on one loop. Based on a personal protection technology from Thermacell that has been available to hunters, fisherman, and outdoor enthusiasts for decades, these new Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent Systems combine season-long protection and ease of use.

We’re fortunate that today we have more options than ever to rid ourselves of these uninvited guests – from DIY options that address breeding areas to services that can make your yard virtually “bite free.” And what’s even more exciting is how many companies are partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (ESP) to create new and even more effective low-risk pest management alternatives that address yard pests like mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks – truly making our outdoors safer and even more fun. Several years ago, we were the first mosquito control company to be admitted to the ESP’s Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program (PESP). At that time, we expressed a hope that others would follow suit – I am happy to report that indeed, others are beginning to join. Through joint efforts with these other organizations, new mosquito control solutions are being rolled out. In addition to traditional services like mosquito barrier treatments that have been applied safely and proven effective for years, our industry now has newer options that minimize the amount of product needed, or leverage products whose ingredients all come from natural sources – for instance, innovative control technologies like mosquito traps and tick tubes that reduce the need for broadcast spray treatments. These new innovative strategies are becoming increasingly popular. 52

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The most exciting aspect of this new technology, however, is the contribution it can have in the pest control industry’s commitment to the goals of the PESP program. It leverages a spatial repellent that only effects small insects like mosquitoes, gnats, and no-see-ums, while not harming beneficial insects like honeybees or other pollinators. We used this innovative technology in pilot mode last season with great results. Users would turn the system on, and within 15 minutes, created a zone within their yards absent of annoying pests like the justmentioned mosquitoes, gnats, and no-seeums. Outside the protected area, those pests, along with beneficial insects, are still there – unharmed. This is an exciting solution that provides protection safely, where and when it’s needed, with the flexibility provided by controlling the system with an application on a smartphone. A repeller-based systems won’t satisfy all situations, but I do think this it’s a great addition to the options we now have to make our yards more enjoyable. Whether it’s someone looking to protect a partial area within a large yard – for example, around a swimming pool – or the owner of a townhome who just wants to protect their back patio, these new systems could be ideal. Bottom line … as the weather warms, you want to enjoy your yard and be confident there are safe and effective options that can meet your and your family’s needs. Whether a DIY solution, a traditional mosquito barrier service, or new options like installationbased repeller systems, all natural pesticides, mosquito traps, or tick tubes, the choice is yours. And with programs like PESP, I am confident this list will only grow.  Margarita Cohen is the owner of Mosquito Joe of Raleigh – Durham – Chapel Hill, making “Outside Fun Again” with mosquito, tick, and flea control treatments for residential and commercial customers. For more information, or to schedule a treatment, call 919-926-8851 or visit Raleigh-DurhamChapelhill.MosquitoJoe.com.

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DONATE GENTLY-USED TOYS AND BLANKETS. All too often, perfectly good toys and blankets end up in the garbage because a pet doesn’t use them anymore. But when you donate your goods, you put a smile on a dog’s face and cut down on unnecessary waste. AVOID OVERFEEDING YOUR DOG. First and foremost, overfeeding your dog can lead to a number of obesity-related health issues, so it should always be avoided. But there’s another issue that comes up when you feed your pup too often or give too many treats – it negatively impacts the environment. The water, land, and food needed to produce animal-based dog foods quickly adds up if you’re feeding your pup several times a day. LOOK FOR NATURAL GROOMING PRODUCTS. Check the labels in dog shampoos or other grooming products and choose ones that are made without chemicals that are harmful to the environment. REDUCE PET OVERPOPULATION. There are millions of homeless dogs in America which puts a strain on the environment and resources. Spay or neuter your pup and consider adopting your next furry family member to avoid contributing to pet overpopulation. 

GO GREEN

Camp Bow Wow – where a dog can be a dog – offers doggy daycare and overnight boarding. Camp Bow Wow is located at The Factory, 1839 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. For more information and to book your reservation, visit campbowwow.com/wake-forest.

WITH FIDO

REDUCE YOUR PUP'S CARBON “PAW" PRINT arth Day is April 22, and in addition to taking steps to improve your personal environmental awareness, there are also several small things you can do when it comes to pet care to reduce your dog’s carbon “paw” print and show the planet some love.

CHOOSE SUSTAINABLE OR REUSABLE PRODUCTS WHENEVER POSSIBLE. Poop bags aren’t exactly something pet parents want to think about, but, unfortunately, they’re a major source of waste. And while you may not be able to avoid using them altogether, you can choose biodegradable bags that are meant for composting. LIMIT THE NUMBER OF PLASTIC TOYS YOU BUY OR CHOOSE TOYS MADE FROM RECYCLABLE MATERIALS. When it comes time to reward your furry friend with a new toy, avoid ones that are made with a lot of plastic. Especially if your pup is rambunctious, there’s a good chance plastic toys will quickly end up in a landfill.

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Technically, wisdom teeth don’t have a set purpose, which is why they are often removed. Since your permanent teeth are already in place, the new ones can cause crowding and other damage.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOUR WISDOM TEETH ARE COMING IN? The average person has healthy wisdom teeth that come through easily, with just a little discomfort. Your brain even recognizes the signs of wisdom teeth growth since they are similar to when your permanent teeth came through. BY DR. EDMOND SUH

WISDOM TEETH 101 EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THESE MOLARS

However, you’ll definitely notice some problems if your mouth is small or your teeth are already tightly spaced. As your wisdom teeth grow in, they’re going to need some room, which means they will try to shift or displace the teeth that you already have. When that happens, a dentist will help guide you through this next phase of your oral health to ensure your wisdom teeth don’t get impacted or cause other damage.

WHAT ARE IMPACTED WISDOM TEETH? The phrase “impacted wisdom teeth” can sound scary, but with a good dentist, it’s often a straightforward fix. Wisdom teeth can get impacted when they grow, but they’re not in the right position to come straight up your gums as they’re supposed to. This can cause them to get stuck below the surface, and, therefore, impacted.

Taking care of your oral health means paying attention to preventive care and symptoms you might not notice if you’re not looking for them. This is especially true when it comes to your wisdom teeth since they can grow in without any pain, but still cause many problems as they do. We know a lot about our molars, incisors, and other necessary teeth, but there are many unknown answers when it comes to our wisdom teeth. Yes, you have to take care of them like the rest of your teeth, but there’s so much more to watch for when these are growing.

WHAT ARE WISDOM TEETH FOR? We all know that our teeth grow in phases. Slowly, over our childhood years, we gain our baby teeth and then lose them as our permanent teeth take their place. But just as you think you don’t have to deal with the discomfort of feeling your enamel push through your gums anymore, here come the wisdom teeth! “Wisdom teeth,” otherwise known as your third set of molars, usually appear when you’re between 17 and 21 and are gaining your own life knowledge. Assuming you were born with all four, you’ll get two wisdom teeth in each corner. 56

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Impacted wisdom teeth can range in severity from annoying to majorly painful. Your dentist will keep track of the progress of your wisdom teeth as they grow and check for signs that they might be impacted to be taken care of early.

DO ALL WISDOM TEETH NEED TO BE REMOVED?

– – – – –

causing infection; Cysts around the impacted teeth; Damage to surrounding teeth and/or jawbone; Gum disease is starting to set in; Your teeth are decaying; Your mouth is already overcrowded and the permanent teeth are shifting.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR TEETH

Chances are, you know someone who has had their wisdom teeth removed. It’s a popular procedure, but it’s not a guarantee for you. Everyone has a unique mouth shape, so whether you’ll need to have your wisdom teeth taken out or not depends on how they grow in and what’s going on with the rest of your oral health.

It’s quite possible that your wisdom teeth will come through with no problems, but it’s better to have a dentist monitor the growth and watch for signs of upcoming issues. To prevent damage to your permanent teeth, contact your dentist, or your child’s, for an evaluation. 

There are some basic signs your dentist will look for that signal the need for a wisdom teeth removal procedure, such as: – Moderate to severe pain as they grow through; – One or more impacted teeth; – Long-term bacteria around the area

Dr. Edmond Suh, DDS is with Supremia Dentistry, located at 1704 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. He is an international lecturer on contemporary dental techniques. At Supremia Dentistry, expect something different as they welcome you to their patient family. Call 919-556-6200 to learn more or schedule an appointment. You can also visit supremiadentistry.com.

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in the Triangle’s real estate market, this fee was approximately 1% of the offer price – but today, that fee has skyrocketed to about 10% (at a minimum) of the offer price. It is important to note two things about this charge. First, it is non-refundable, for any reason, unless there is a defect with the title and the property cannot be sold. Sellers find this highly attractive, because if you back out of the purchase at any time, that due diligence money remains in their pocket, and they can return their home to market and collect another fee from a new buyer. Second, this fee is credited to you, the buyer, at closing. When discussing an offer with your real estate agent, make sure that you fully understand what the due diligence period is, and how much you should offer for your particular situation.

BY JONATHAN DANIEL

RIDING THE REAL ESTATE

ROLLERCOASTER

s we continue to ride the crazy real estate rollercoaster, it’s important to know what exactly you are facing if you are looking to buy a home. With low housing inventory throughout the pandemic, the Triangle market has struggled to crawl its way back to the days when homes averaged time on the market for at least over a week. With so few houses available right now, buyers are having to pay more and more in order to win the contract. This situation has resulted in inflated housing prices in our area, at such an unprecedented speed. It is my hope through this discussion that if you are buying a home, you gain a better understanding of the market we are in and confidence in making an offer.

One aspect that has changed over the last year is due diligence. What is this exactly? Since North Carolina is a buyer beware state, due diligence is incorporated into real estate contracts to provide buyers the necessary time to fully check out the house and get their finances in proper order before they are no longer able to back out of the purchase. This time period is typically two to three weeks, depending on when the lender can order an appraisal, giving you ample time to conduct a property inspection, ensure it appraises, and negotiate any repairs for which the seller is responsible. Along with the period of inspection and appraisal, the due diligence period requires a charge known as the due diligence fee – this is where things have gotten a little crazy in today’s world. Once upon a time 58

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While I have discussed the fee component of due diligence and how it has changed with the evolving market, I have not talked about the inspection portion of it. When making an offer on a home, keep in mind that the buyer isn’t considering only the strongest financial offer, but also its terms – these can help give you a leg up with your offer when compared with competing ones. One of the most frequent conditions I’m seeing nowadays is a waiver of the home’s repairs and negotiation of such repairs. This condition allows the seller to confidently know that they will be able to close on time and that there is nothing else for them to deal with. This usually comes with a strong due diligence fee, and the understanding of the buyer that they are buying the home “as is” – something almost unheard of just a few years back. It should be noted that with North Carolina’s market being what it is right now, all real estate in the state is sold as is according to the contract. Repairs are not always guaranteed, but do happen in certain circumstances, however. Your agent should help walk you through the terms that would be most favorable for your offer, and most attractive to the seller. Lastly, waiving your appraisal gap will also enhance your bid. With offers coming in for higher than list price, waiving the appraisal gap becomes important if you are borrowing to pay for the home. Presenting an appraisal addendum demonstrates to the seller that while you are willing to pay more for the property, if it doesn’t appraise for what you have offered, you will still pay them the full offer price and make up the gap. Today, with a significant number of cash-paying buyers out there, this can certainly strengthen your offer to compete with those that do not require an appraisal. My last words of advice when it comes to navigating this crazy real estate market is to stay the course. You will most likely not get the first home on which you make an offer, and that is okay! Just lean on your real estate professional to guide you and help you find your dream home – the ups and downs may have you feeling like you’re riding a rollercoaster, but I assure you, the ride will be worth it.  Jonathan Daniel is a realtor with Bespoke Realty Group. He may be reached at 919-283-1122 or visit bespokerealtygroup.com.

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DIRECT PRIMARY CARE A SNAPSHOT BY TONI KENION

Are you someone who has not seen your doctor because you don’t have insurance or feel you just can’t afford to go? Maybe you are a small business owner whose bottom line currently doesn’t allow you to acquire health insurance for yourself or your employees. Perhaps you are looking for a provider who can dedicate more in-depth time addressing your medical needs and concerns. Or maybe you desire access to a medical professional whom you can contact directly via phone, text, or email, so your questions can be answered at your convenience. If so, then direct primary

care may be the healthcare option for you. irect primary care, or DPC, is a relatively new alternative to the traditional insurancebased care model in America. DPC brings affordable, effective, and necessary healthcare to everyone, regardless of their employment or insurance status.

Direct primary care gives patients on demand access to a provider who covers all their primary care needs, including preventive care, chronic care management, acute care, and/or sick visits. This newer model of care offers unlimited office visits, direct provider contact, and extended appointment times, as well as same or next day appointments, for a fixed monthly fee. This is all accomplished without billing insurance – one of the many ways it is different from concierge medicine. There are so many benefits to this innovative approach that it’s difficult to know where to begin, but I’ll start with perhaps the most attractive: – LOWER COSTS. The DPC model is effectively a subscription service that grants the patient access to affordable care, even when

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employer-paid health insurance or private pay policies may not be an option. With DPC, there is one monthly fee, with no copays per visit, and the patient is able to see their provider as many times as needed to address all of their health concerns. – IMPROVED HEALTH OUTCOMES. Building a strong health partnership where the patient is the center of care has been proven to improve health outcomes. One of the most exciting things about the DPC model is that it allows for great patientprovider relationships. Most direct primary care providers limit their patient panels to somewhere between 500 to 900 patients, allowing them to spend more time with each without restriction. – POSITIVE PATIENT EXPERIENCE. Lower costs and extended time with your healthcare provider can only lead to one thing – a great patient experience. A positive patient experience is so important in healthcare. Knowing your provider is always available by phone, text, or email to address your concerns (even the simplest), brings a sense of security. Also, there is less sense of financial stress and a healthy patient-provider relationship that encourages patients to get the care they need, when they need it. – NOT AN INSURANCE PLAN. Health insurance is still a good idea, even with DPC, to cover things beyond the scope of primary care – such as hospitalizations and speciality care. By pairing low cost and high deductible insurance plans with direct primary care, patients are able to achieve superior health benefits at a reduced cost. Many Americans go without needed life-saving and preventive health services for a variety of reasons, whether a lack of insurance coverage, inconvenience of scheduling, the feeling that their concerns aren’t adequately addressed, etc. Direct primary care is one avenue that aims to allow affordable, convenient, and personalized access to reliable healthcare.  Toni Kenion, a board-certified family nurse practitioner, is the owner of Concinnity Health Direct Primary Care. Toni is accredited by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners to assess, diagnose, and treat disease. Concinnity Health is located at 258 Southtown Circle in Rolesville. For more information, call 919-8041658 or visit concinnityhealth.org.

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Traditional treatment of BPH involves medication as well as several procedural options, some of which require surgery, an inpatient hospital stay, and the potential for unpleasant side effects. Additionally, a patient must meet certain requirements to qualify.

PROSTATE ARTERY EMBOLIZATION There is a different way – a minimally invasive approach with relatively few side effects that does not involve burning or removing the prostate. Introduced more widely within the past 10 years, prostate artery embolization (PAE) has grown in popularity due to the benefits and its success rate. The patient receives moderate sedation, so general anesthesia is not necessary, and the procedure takes anywhere from one and a half to three hours. Ravi Dalal, MD, board-certified interventional and vascular radiologist with Raleigh Radiology explains, “The idea is that if we shrink the prostate by getting rid of the blood supply on both sides, it will have the same effect as other treatments, but it is safer. Without a blood supply, nutrients can’t reach the prostate, and the cells will die. The body’s immune system will then remove the cells and create scar tissue. The prostate will shrink, and the tissue around the urethra will open up, allowing urine to flow freely and reducing many symptoms.” Performed in the hospital, PAE is a technical procedure that requires precision and expertise one would get through an interven-

LET'S TALK

HEALTH

A MINIMALLY INVASIVE TREATMENT OPTION FOR BPH

common condition among most aging men is benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous condition where the prostate becomes enlarged and urinary issues start to take hold. BPH can have a deeply negative impact on a man’s quality of life, leaving him searching for relief. Symptoms include urinary urgency, frequent urination, straining to urinate, urinating multiple times in the night, incomplete emptying of the bladder, and sometimes sexual side effects.

WHY DOES THIS BECOME A PROBLEM? When the prostate becomes enlarged, pressure is placed on the urethra, and a man cannot urinate properly or efficiently. The goal of treatment is to remove this pressure. 62

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tional radiology fellowship. The radiologist may perform the procedure trans-radially (through the patient’s wrist) or through the groin. Either option creates no more than a 2 mm incision and requires no stitches. The radiologist then injects microscopic beads into the artery that runs to the prostate. These beads will ultimately block the blood supply. Multiple techniques are employed during the procedure to ensure the beads are inserted into the correct artery. After about two hours in recovery, the patient is sent home and prescribed antibiotics and NSAIDs to help with any inflammation or pain.

pre-existing conditions where surgery is not an option, this may be a good alternative. PAE can also help patients who have chronic indwelling foley catheters by shrinking the prostate and removing the catheter, as well as men who have hematuria, or bleeding from the prostate. By blocking the blood supply, the radiologist can use PAE to help stop the hematuria and shrink the prostate. “Urologists prefer to avoid surgery with their high-risk patients, making PAE a good choice. The risk is less for PAE since it only requires moderate sedation and is not a surgical procedure,” explains Dr. Dalal. The

radiologist will consult with your urologist to develop a multidisciplinary approach and develop the best treatment option. “PAE takes a lot of skill and experience. Every patient is different,” reflects Dr. Dalal. “The fact that we can treat these patients with a minimally invasive approach and have such a significant impact on their symptoms is very exciting and satisfying. I’ve actually had patients tell me they feel like they are 20 years old again.”  To learn more about Raleigh Radiology and their imaging services, visit raleighrad.com.

Before PAE, most men report a variety of negative symptoms that impact their quality of life using a symptom tracking score methodology known as the International Prostate Symptom Score (I-PSS) rubric. The eight-question screening tool tracks and assesses symptoms of patients with BPH by determining a man’s difficulty with urination and also helping select the best treatment options. “After a PAE, we want to see those screening scores trending in the right direction. Greater than 75% of men say they experience an improvement in symptoms after this procedure. Patients also appreciate that PAE comes with few side effects, most commonly mild pain upon urination which usually subsides within days to a few weeks,” says Dr. Dalal. Rarely, post embolization syndrome can occur after PAE (low-grade fever, nausea, chills, discomfort when urinating), but this is temporary and resolves within a week. After the procedure, a patient should meet again with his radiologist to assess progress. Interventional radiologists and urologists are very selective when assessing patients for PAE. It is most helpful in patients who have markedly enlarged prostates. Using a CT scan prior to the procedure, the physician maps out the prostate’s anatomy and ensures the blood vessels are healthy enough for a successful procedure. For patients where medical therapies have failed or those with

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BRINGING “OLD SCHOOL" MARKETING BACK TO LIFE

BY MAURANDA DALZIEL

Times, they are changing. We’ve all heard the overplayed word “pivot” a lot the last couple of years. And with good reason. We all had to change and adapt the way we did business during trying times of isolation and quarantine. Those of us who were used to being able to walk up to someone, or rather them walk up to us, to make a purchase were immediately

brought to a halt during a stressful and panic-induced time.

1. PRINT ADS: Purchasing ads in a magazine, newspaper, or other publication can bode beneficial for you as part of your marketing strategy. Keep in mind that the typical consumer needs to see your brand/product/service multiple times before purchasing. Leverage these print ads by complimenting them with an article if the publication allows. Telling a story, offering value, and building more content will help build trust between you and the consumer. Always be sure that the publication you are advertising in also offers an online platform. This way the consumer can view your ads both online and in-person.

any turned to social media marketing, Google ads, pay-per-click, and other digital forms of advertising, and a number who did this “pivot” did so without even really knowing what they were doing.

For some, it worked. For others, sadly, it did not. Regardless of which list you are on, my hope is that you have rebounded and never see yourself in that moment again of “what now” when it comes to getting in front of your ideal customer. Most of us, if not all of us, in some way, shape, or form, run or work for a relationship-based business. And since the beginning of 2020, we have honed in on the importance of those relationships – what they mean to us as business owners, managers, supervisors, salespeople, hustlers, and everyday people doing what we do to provide a product or service to others. So I ask you this – if you were faced with another moment to “pivot” yet again, could you? Would you? Perhaps going back to some tried and true relationship building (and thus, business and network building) marketing methods is the way of the future. Here are four ways to bring “old-school” concepts into your marketing plans, so if the time comes when your strategy needs to change abruptly again, you’re already one step ahead. 64

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2. MAILING: Yep, mailings are back. Now, before you run out and have a bunch of salesy postcards printed up to mail out all around town, get your strategy in place first. Think of what you like receiving in the mail. Do you prefer a handwritten note or personalized piece of mail? Or do you prefer a jumbo-size postcard with a random ad slapped on it? Find a happy medium that works for your target audience and stay consistent with your mailings. Be sure that you are coming from a place of contribution and offer value in your mailings. 3. PICK UP THE PHONE: Remember when … way back when, we would pick up the phone and call someone. Those were the days. Give it a try now! Call your past clients, customers, friends, and family and check in on them, see how they are doing. I know, this can seem daunting. But you know what happens when we do things that make us uncomfortable? Typically, growth – in ourselves, our businesses, our relationships, and our network. 4. SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING: Yes, it’s still important to keep up with social media marketing and tell the world what you’re up to and what you can offer them. Similarly to mailings, when coming from contribution, this means of communicating with your audience can be very successful. Social media marketing can be an amazing tool for the success of your business as well as network and relationship building. When it comes to marketing, regardless of which avenue(s) you use, consistency is key. Create a plan that works for your target demographic, goals, and budget, and go with it. Now is your time – let’s go!  Mauranda Dalziel is the founder and CEO of Gather Group & Co., a full service marketing firm located in Wake Forest. She may be reached at 919-446-5511 or gathergroupco.com.

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OUR HERITAGE BASEBALL AND EASTER MONDAY – A NORTH CAROLINA TRADITION BYBY EDAMY MORRIS PIERCE

f you are over 40 and have lived most of your life here in North Carolina, you likely remember that Easter Monday was a beloved state holiday. It was a time for Easter egg hunts, spring picnics, and the first beach trip of the year. Few people realized that the holiday’s origins had little to do with Easter, but rather baseball. The tradition of collegiate baseball in North Carolina dates to 1891 when Wake Forest and North Carolina Agricultural and Mechanical College, now NC State University, met for the first intercollegiate baseball game in the state. Ten years later, on April 8, 1901, the two teams played on the Monday following Easter Sunday. That was the first of an annual matchup that would continue to be met on the day following Easter for the next 55 years. By 1908, the Easter Monday game garnered an unheard-of crowd of more than 2,500 – at that time, the largest crowd to ever gather in the state for a sporting event. During these early years of baseball, the Wake Forest baseball field, also used by the football team, was the 400 block of Faculty Avenue, now North Main Street. If the address seems familiar to some of you, it is because today the Calvin Jones House and the Wake Forest Historical Museum occupy that block. The Easter Monday tradition continued to grow. Before long, the railroad added cars to the trains that ran between Raleigh and Wake Forest to handle the crowds of fans heading to the game held in either school’s stadium. Over the next few years, schools and government offices closed so that children and politicians alike could attend what has been called North Carolina’s version of the Kentucky Derby. Ladies dressed in their finest, men wore suits and ties, and everyone had to have a hat. In the years before there was an ACC basketball tournament, it was without a doubt the social and athletic event of the season. Newspapers, primarily The News and Observer, repeatedly ran editorials condemning the practice of closing offices and schools to attend a ball game. Of course, the newspaper was owned by a family with a long connection to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Let’s face it – the only way a Carolina fan is going to appreciate a game between NC State and Wake Forest is if both teams could lose at the 66

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same time. By the 1930s, NC State and Wake Forest alumni, especially those from the law school, dominated the North Carolina General Assembly. The bipartisan sentiment between the two alumni groups was clear. Something had to be done to solve the issue that threatened the annual and near-sacred event. The Monday following Easter must become a holiday. In 1935, the North Carolina General Assembly made Easter Monday a state holiday. Few would oppose extending the most holy of Christian holidays. The state of North Carolina and the United Kingdom were the about the only places in the world that celebrated the day following Easter Sunday as an official holiday. For years, the ballgame continued to be played on Easter Monday and both schools produced several baseball legends. In 1955, Wake Forest won the College World Series. The last game between the two local rivals was scheduled for the Monday following Easter in the spring of 1956. In May of that year, Wake Forest College moved 110 miles west to Winston-Salem, and the tradition came to an end. Although NC State and Wake Forest continue to meet for baseball, no longer is the game played on the day following Easter. But what about the holiday? Only in North Carolina did Easter Monday remain an official observance of Easter for another 31 years. Under pressure from the banking industry and other worldwide businesses, the General Assembly moved the official state holiday to Good Friday in 1987. The change was met with considerable opposition from North Carolinians who had no association with the two schools or even knew that a baseball game was the origin of the Monday holiday. By the way, if you are wondering who won that first game, it was Wake Forest. And for the final game in 1956, almost poetically, it was rained out.  Ed Morris is executive director of the Wake Forest Historical Museum and Wake Forest College Birthplace, located at 414 N. Main Street. For more information, visit wakeforestmuseum.org.

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Articles inside

Bringing “Old School” Marketing

Let’s Talk Health

Our Heritage

Wisdom Teeth 101

Riding The Real Estate

Direct Primary Care A Snapshot

Go Green With Fido

Good Reads

The New Normal

Put Down The Bug Spray And Pick Up Your Smartphone!

Presbyopia Insight Into Age-Related Farsightedness

Ensure You Are Insured Does Your Homeowner’s

Sweet On Scallops

Sustainability By Design

Celebrating 100 Years

Cheers To Spring

Simple Spring Suppers With Seasonal Ingredients

Anyone Need A Lift? The 5 Ls Of Lifting

Cleaning Myths Debunked

Spring Crafts To Put A Spring In Your Step

Seasonal Selling

Hidden Gems Stop And Smell The Roses

Foods For Healthy Gums

Financial Focus