Midtown Magazine

u.s. open

locally made

history in the making at pinehurst No. 2

Ten From The Triangle that are loved all over

summer school

school’s not out for summer

Celebrating

Seven Years

Seven

with

Spring Outings page 64

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a note FROM the publisher

Publisher/Editor Jill Futch Advertising Sales Jill Futch | Julie Shaw Creative Director Travis Aptt Graphic Design Jennifer Casey

jill futch

Publisher/Editor

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

Please email jill@midtownmag.com with your comments.

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Midtown Magazine is published six times annually. Any reproduction in part or in whole of any part of this publication is prohibited without the express written consent of the publisher.

Midtown Magazine is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts, photography or art. Unsolicited material is welcome and is considered intended for publication. Such material will become the property of the magazine and will be subject to editing. Material will be returned if accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope. Midtown Magazine will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of USequal opportunity law.

10 top

for the summer of

2010

the most spectacular

AT NIGHT THE MUSEUM

Fall

THE NEW NIGHTLIFE

INSANE

FASHIONS

MALE BONDING

PAcking

WORKING OUT AND STAYING FIT WITH FRIENDS

the

perfect lunch

FASHION

it’s that time of year

BOLD & COLORFUL SPRING IS HERE!

Football

2012

J U LY / A U G U S T

M A R C H / A P R I L

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tailgating tips • apps • recipes

september/october

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2012

2/22/12 8:29 PM

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

Diamond

AWARDS 2012

FooD tRuCKS

the what’s with new craze?

STEPPING OUTSIDE

YouR CoMFoRt ZoNe

MENS’

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

PLUS

Adding ContemporAry touChes to your trAditionAl home

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THE spring MODERN MIDTOWN ST YLE MAN? FASHION WHO IS

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

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jill

Distribution Manager Jeff Prince

P.

June marks an historic event just down the road from us. Pinehurst No. 2 will host the first back-to-back US Open Championships for the Men and Women. I’d like to offer a warm welcome to the visitors in our area during this event. Stay up-todate with the schedule of events for both Championships on page 83.

Also, make sure you check out Dave Droschak’s article entitled “Roughing It?” on page 74. Dave talks with two Pinehurst caddies who are hoping to grab a slice of the limelight in this year’s Championship.

Midtown Magazine extends a gracious thank you for your loyal readership. As always, please continue to send me your comments. I love to receive them and appreciate your time in writing to me. Have a safe summer launch!

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

I am happy to say by the time you read this, we are officially done with our colder days. Bring on summer! And with summer comes the opportunity to get out and try something new. In honor of Midtown Magazine’s seventh anniversary, we have suggestions for your next seven weekends leading into summer. Thank you so much for reading Midtown for the past seven years; here’s looking forward to at least seven more!

Speaking of summer, keeping the kids engaged can be a real challenge. On page 88, writer Illyse Lane talks to local educators who had great advice on how to help our children keep their brains in the “on” position during these crucial months.

May is mental health awareness month. And, boy, is adolescence complicated. It can also be a time when your kids might need a little help. On page 106, writer Jenni Hart talks with professionals to gain a little insight and wisdom about how to help your kids (and you) navigate these years and beyond.

Photography Jennifer Robertson Photography Sean Junqueira Photography

FALL

7 Years and couting

Contributing Writers Christa Gala | Kate Turgeon Watson Dan Bain | Illyse Lane | Jenni Hart Page Leggett | Kurt Dusterberg Dave Droschak | Elie Rossetti-Serraino Darcy Brennan-Huante | George Clark, MD Dr. Jason Gladwell

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

contents m ay / j u n e

2014

features 64 Seven Spring Outings

Adolescent Mental Health 106

88 School’s NOT Out for Summer

114

You and your money

We celebrate our seventh anniversary with seven weekends and seven opportunities to get outside and do some fun and unusual things!

No good can come from a child who hasn’t picked up a book or done a few math problems over the summer.

98 Ten From The Triangle

Triangle residents need not look far.

Here are 10 of our favorite locally made items.

May is Mental Health Awareness

Month, a perfect time to focus on

the unique challenges faced by adolescents.

Ah, money. We wish we had more of it, we spend too much of it, and it’s why most of us work (if we’re honest about it).

National Women’s Health Week is May 11th through 17th. Let May be the month you vow to take care of yourself first.

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Women First

74

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ROUGHING IT?

A first-hand guide through the ins and outs and most intriguing storylines golfers will face trying to tackle Pinehurst No. 2 in the upcoming US Open.

contents m ay / j u n e

2014

departments 26 on the scene 36 Midtown reviews 46 ask elie 48 bain’s beat 50 beauty style 58 DIY Workshop 60 raising the bar 62 scare yourself 86 calendar 103 yourhome: OUTDOOR DECOR 111 inSTYLE: shorts 118 midtown downtown 126 healthy you 132 new around town 134 midtown mingles 138 do this better

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chef mario

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>TASTE

by Kate Turgeon Watson

photography by sean junqueira

Refresh, Relax A summer cocktail worth mixing A few summers ago my aunt offered me a drink to match the breezy, mountain night we were living. “Did you ever have an elderflower cocktail, Katie?” she asked as my uncle sliced a lemon. Well, no; I hadn’t. In fact, I’d never heard of the elderflower.

It sounded like something from a “Harry Potter” book, like maybe professors Dumbledore and McGonagall met for an elderflower cocktail after students retired to the common room.

But it wasn’t from Potter. Turns out the liqueur originates on the hillsides of the French Alps, where elderflowers bloom once a year for one glorious month. And, turns out, it’s heavenly.

Known for its warm floral notes and brightness, elderflower liqueur is a reason to clean the patio furniture, find a colorful shift (or Polo shirt, fellas) and invite your friends over.

And here in Raleigh there’s a spot to enjoy an elderflower cocktail with a view. The Raleigh Times Bar on East Hargett Street, with its rooftop seating, has an elderflower liqueur cocktail created by bar manager John Martinez.

Named the Great Odin’s Raven (a nod to the movie “Anchorman”), the drink is made with Sauza Blue Agave tequila, St-Germain elderflower liqueur, raspberry schnapps and house-made sour mix. Martinez builds the drink in a shaker tin. And once the concoction is ready, he pours it over fresh, cubed ice in a Collins glass.

For Martinez, the cocktail brings back memories of eating grapes off the vine in his grandmother’s Colorado backyard.

It’s that fresh, and refreshing. He likes to serve St-Germain with tequila because it reduces what he calls the “peppery burn” from the Agave and adds sweetness at the same time.

“[The drink] … I would describe it as kissing a unicorn,” he laughs while glancing toward the pinkish cocktail sitting on the bar. “It’s nice, light and refreshing … something you can have a couple of. It’s well-balanced.”

Visit www.midtownmag.com for tips from John Martinez on how to create an easy, at-home cocktail.

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ON THE[SCENE] >>>tech

by Dan Bain

photography © mydogsvoyce.com

puppy love Voyce Removes the Guesswork from Dog Care Virginia-based i4C Innovations has developed a collarlike device that can help you better understand what your dog is thinking and feeling, and what s/he needs.

If you just pictured Dug, the dog from Up, you’re not alone – but the device isn’t quite like that. It won’t translate dog thoughts into words, but according to i4C, it will provide “unprecedented insight into your dog’s health and wellbeing, information and tools for you and your dog to grow together, and ways to share with your veterinarian and social networks.”

Known as Voyce, the comfortably wearable device tracks your dog’s movement and non-invasively measures vital signs such as heart rate, respiratory rate, calories burned, activity levels and rest patterns.

All of the information is easily displayed in an app, allowing you to monitor trends in your dog’s wellbeing and behavior. Changes in the data can be early indicators of potential concerns, allowing you to be proactive regarding your dog’s health.

Voyce also adapts, getting to know your dog,

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and sends you customized tips and advice, as well as relevant articles. It also keeps you and your dog connected, allowing you to share information digitally with your veterinarian, and helps you to improve your relationship with your dog as you learn and set goals. The team at i4C collaborated with biomedical engineers, dog experts and the veterinary virtuosos at Cornell University to develop this crucial tool in understanding and caring for your furry best friend.

The Voyce band is powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion polymer battery, with a full charge lasting about a week. It is waterproof up to one meter, comes in three sizes, and includes a docking station, micro-USB cable and wall charger. The device is optimized for all current major browsers; syncs with PCs, tablets and smartphones; and supports up to 10 separate networks.

Voyce is set to cost $299, plus a subscription fee for the ongoing data monitoring. It should be available this spring from mydogsvoyce.com.

ON THE[SCENE] >>>style

by Elie Rossetti-Serraino

The Closet Nirvana Enough is enough and it’s time for a change I’m a busy mom. I work crazy hours, and for that I had to initiate this daily routine of locking myself up in the closet before the start of the morning to do some yoga stretching, sit-ups, and five minutes of meditation. There, lying on my back on the floor mat looking at my garments upside-down, in my underwear, I decided to organize my closet in a special way. Not a regular optimization, it had to be a nirvana of outfits, a way of no regrets after I picked the outfit to wear. Where all the pieces go pretty much together, it has to be an enlightened closet where dressing is an holistic experience: no bloated feeling nor extra pounds of the excesses of the weekend nor a bad mood would slow me down getting ready for the busy day. The bliss of the day has to have a good start, and I have to experience the serendipity of an easy dress-up. >>Here

is how you can do it:

1. Throw away or donate, give to friends or trade things with neighbors, consign anything you do not wear for a season or six months.

2. Put on the side any illfitting clothing, and if you are on a quest to reach an ideal weight, hide from your sight anything that is not ready to be worn (or conversely, make sure to display well that pretty sundress you fit into before pregnancy, if seeing it every day would motivate you to reach your goal).

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3. If there is an item you absolutely adore and it fits you well, buy it in all the colors they sell it in. It will help you get ready faster when you are in a bad mood.

4. Put all the sweaters, shirts and jackets on top, starting on the left, with the light tanks and sleeveless tops increasing in weight all the way to coats, as you would layer them on yourself. All the bottoms will go in the lower level bar, starting with shorts and pants and ending with skirts.

That is the way the high-end

designer showrooms display clothing for the buyers and fashion magazine editors to select from. Not sure what part of the “buying” brain it triggers, but it works. You will buy from your own closet this way each day.

5. To respect the cleanliness of your area, do not keep the shoes you use the most inside your closet. This will also prevent allergens.

6. Divide your wardrobe by colors, and give them a special meaning. For example,

nominate your lucky color for business, important meetings or interviews (mine for example is dark blue or indigo, probably because it is a perfect city color without the darkness and the seriousness of the black, which I prefer more for evening occasions). Pin the colors that flatter your skin tone and the ones you feel sexy and confident in for date nights. Group together all the tops within the same scale tone. Going to the extreme, designate colors that you think would attract love, money and luck.

ON THE[SCENE] >>>arts

by Christa Gala

photograph © Courtney Volker of Sincerely Papier

Sisters Brittany Makely, left, and Marissa Farrell

Heavenly Sound “Sisters on the Harp” play to give back Chatting by phone with Raleigh sisters Brittany Makely and Marissa Farrell, I noticed two things: first, it’s hard to tell them apart and, second, it’s hard to be serious because they’re laughing and having so much fun together.

But I had to find out how these two began playing what most consider a rare instrument. In fact, the harp is one of the oldest musical instruments in history, going back as far as 3000 BC. Besides that, it’s heavy, big and expensive. So, what gives?

As it turns out, it all came down to a sticker in a Kindermusik program when the girls were young. Brittany Makely wanted the piano sticker, but the teacher gave it to another girl.

“I remember being so upset about it,” says Makely, 28, now a mom to two daughters and a Latin teacher and director of development for All Saints Academy in Wake Forest. “Our teacher gave me the harp sticker because the harp sounded a lot like the piano. I 32 | midtownmag.com

got the harp as sloppy seconds to the piano, and then it just stuck.”

And, boy, did it stick.

“Brittany begged for years to mom and dad to play the harp,” says sister Marissa Farrell, 26, who works in government relations for a local firm.

When Brittany Makely was 10 years old, her parents finally relented and agreed to let her add the harp to her repertoire, which was a challenge.

“I remember my mom having this lost look on her face,” says Makely.

“We went to the North Carolina Symphony and during intermission, I distinctly remember Anita Burroughs Price packing up her harp in Memorial Auditorium, and my mom just walked up to her and said, ‘My daughter really wants to play the harp; what do I do?’”

Anita Burroughs Price, a principal harpist with the symphony, eventually took on Makely and some years later, nearly by default, Makely’s younger sister Marissa Farrell.

“Anita one day said, ‘If you’re going to sit there through the lessons, you might as well learn how to play this thing.’”

Both girls continued taking harp lessons through high school and into college. They got their first harp to share at age 12. Marissa Farrell is also an accomplished flutist, playing for the orchestra in college and receiving a partial music scholarship.

Although both young women decided they didn’t want to be professional musicians, they still play together. “The majority of the time when we’re playing, Marissa is playing the flute and I’m playing the harp,” says Makely. “Unless it’s a really difficult harp piece, in which case Marissa plays it by herself.”

Says Farrell: “We play for fun; it’s a good way to thank our parents for the years and thousands of dollars and hours they’ve dedicated to us investing in music.”

Most of the sisters’ gigs are booked through word-of-mouth and are not for profit.

“We play a lot for church,” says Makely. Our grandmother is 94 and lives in the area; we play a lot for where she lives. Our parents really impressed upon us, when God gives you a gift, something like music, you have a responsibility to develop that gift and use it, firstly for his glory and secondly for his service. Our primary focus is to give it back – to our church, the elderly and people who are sick or homebound.”

Makely and Farrell will occasionally play weddings and other events for profit to keep up with the expenses of owning a harp. It’s a small price to pay for being able to play an instrument that sounds like heaven itself.

“I love that I can play something completely wrong and nobody knows or cares or can even tell, because they’re so enamored with the harp,” says Marissa Farrell.

For more information, email sistersontheharp@gmail.com.

ON THE[SCENE] >>>sports

by Dave Droschak

photograph © rick fisher

A scenic hole at Raleigh County Club, the first of eight private clubs in the McConnell Golf portfolio.

Against The Grain McConnell Golf’s Unprecedented Membership Model Succeeding It started innocently enough and made total sense to Raleigh businessman John McConnell. The final design of legendary architect Donald Ross was on the verge of being plowed under for a condo development when the single-digit handicapper stepped in for the save.

Embedded at the time in the Triangle technology community with ownership of two high-tech firms, McConnell not only purchased Raleigh Country Club in East Raleigh but immediately poured millions of dollars into a renovation.

The seed was laid, so to speak.

Few knew – likely not even McConnell himself – that one private club purchase in December 2003 would turn into a portfolio of eight elite clubs scattered across North Carolina and South Carolina a decade later at 3,000 members strong, and that he would divest his firms to form McConnell Golf.

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He is now described by many as the state’s most influential man in golf, offering his members 153 holes of golf designed by such legendary architects as Ross, Pete Dye and Tom Fazio.

“I’m not sure that’s necessarily true,” McConnell said of the tag. “A better description is I may be viewed with some jealously because I probably have the life that everybody would love to have. But hey, I’m doing my taxes today. You’ve got to stay focused.”

A large portion of McConnell’s golfing empire – and the tens of millions of dollars spent on numerous course and capital improvements – has been accomplished in the toughest of times for the private golf sector as the Great Recession rendered many memberships luxuries golfers could do without.

“The biggest challenge is trying to maintain membership in a market and industry that is flat and has been

declining,” McConnell said. “That’s everyone’s challenge. The formula is you have to keep providing high quality at an affordable value and certainly maintaining high service standards. Every year you have that commitment you’re going to take a market share from others who aren’t willing to make the investment.”

The 63-year-old McConnell hasn’t back off his vision and unique membership plan, which centers on declaring a “home club” while members enjoy reciprocal playing privileges at the other seven. Most recently, McConnell has headed into the Myrtle Beach market to manage Grande Dunes Members Club.

“I guess everyone gets hung up on an acquisition and certainly I always enjoy that, but it’s like a person that starts buying art, and to me these golf courses are like art forms,” McConnell said.

Three McConnell Golf courses – Raleigh Country Club, TPC at Wakefield Plantation (North Raleigh) and Treyburn (Northern Durham) – are scattered strategically across the Triangle, giving members a series of “connector courses” they can navigate.

“In the Triangle you can play three great golf courses any time you want to play them, and one of the advantages is we rotate green maintenance so golfers always have smooth greens to play on,” McConnell said. “Just the fact that you get different varieties and it doesn’t cost you anything more is special and cool. And Raleigh Country Club and Treyburn are ranked No. 1 and 2 in the Triangle, so you have high value and high quality.”

“Our greatest accomplishment is we’re still growing in an industry where a lot of private clubs are closing their doors or turning into semi-private or daily fee,” said Brian “Boomer” Kittler, the firm’s director of golf. “That last 10 years has been a great ride and I’m looking forward to the next 10 years.”

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reviews

neighbors

22 Jump Street

X-Men: Days of Future Past

How to Train Your Dragon 2

Starring: Seth Rogen, Rose Byrne, Zac Efron Rated: R Opens: 5/9/2014 Plot: Rogen, Efron and Byrne lead the cast of Neighbors, a comedy about a young couple suffering from arrested development who are forced to live next to a fraternity house after the birth of their newborn baby.

Transformers: Age of Extinction Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Nicola Peltz, Jack Reynor Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 6/27/2014 Plot: As humanity picks up the pieces following the conclusion of Transformers: Dark of the Moon, Autobots and Decepticons have all but vanished from the face of the planet. However, a group of powerful, ingenious businessman and scientists attempt to learn from past Transformer incursions and push the boundaries of technology beyond what they can control – all while an ancient, powerful Transformer menace sets Earth in his crosshairs. The epic adventure and battle between good and evil, freedom and enslavement, ensues.

Starring: Patrick Stewart, Hugh Jackman Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 5/23/2014 Plot: The X-Men send Wolverine to the past in a desperate effort to change history and prevent an event that results in doom for both humans and mutants – the coming flood that will destroy the world.

Read more: http://www.aceshowbiz.com/movie/transformers_age_ *Opening dates and ratings are subject to change. of_extinction/#ixzz2yz0LEUCG

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Starring: Channing Tatum, Jonah Hill, Ice Cube Rated: Not Yet Rated Opens: 6/13/2014 Plot: After making their way through high school (twice), big changes are in store for officers Schmidt and Jenko when they go deep undercover at a local college. Can two overgrown adolescents grow from freshmen into real men?

Starring: Jay Baruchel, Gerard Butler Rated: PG Opens: 6/13/2014 Plot: When one of Hiccup and Toothless’s adventures leads to the discovery of a secret ice cave that is home to hundreds of new wild dragons, the two friends find themselves at the center of a battle to protect the peace.

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reviews

Ghost Stories (Coldplay) Release Date: 5/19/2014 The British band’s sixth album will arrive May 19th. Ghost Stories is the Chris Martin-fronted group’s first album since 2011’s Mylo Xyloto. In August of last year, the band released Atlas from the soundtrack of The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. Coldplay’s new album will be a “low-key” release with record label insiders saying it will give them a chance to try out different sounds before embarking on a bigger comeback in 2015. Although this year may be a quieter affair, the band is gearing up for bigger things in the future, with a rumoured major tour in the pipeline.

Turn Blue (The Black Keys) Release Date: 5/13/2014 The Black Keys’ Turn Blue is a dreamy, guitar-heavy trip to the ‘60s, much like Fever, the first single from the album.

“When the music is done and all the lights are low,” producer Dan Auerbach sings, “I will remember the times when love would really glow.” It has a burning psychedelic feel, one step further from 2011’s El Camino.

Xscape (Michael Jackson) Release Date: 5/13/2014 Xscape, the singer’s second posthumous album, is set to be executive produced by L.A. Reid, who is said to have been digging through Jackson archives spanning four decades of the singer’s material. The songs have been reworked and modernized, keeping “Jackson’s essence and integrity, creating the best music you’ve never heard” Reid said.

The Hunting Party (Linkin Park) Release Date: 6/17/2014 It’s being described as almost a “prequel” to Hybrid Theory. “The Hunting Party is what it would sound like if the band had a chance to make another first record”, front man and producer of the album, Mike Shinoda said. He wanted to listen to something “louder with more energy”.

*Release dates are subject to change.

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Lazaretto (Jack White) Release Date: 4/15/2014 Jack White, the former White Stripes frontman, will release his new solo album Lazaretto on June 10th via Columbia and his very own Third Man Records. Lazaretto inhabits an exciting place in White’s expansive discography as the follow-up to 2012’s gold-certified international #1 Blunderbuss, and will be preceded by its first single and title track Lazaretto.

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reviews

BY david eddleman, Wine Manager – Total Wine & More

Leinenkugel Brewing Company

Mama’s Little Yella PILS Oskar Blues Brewery

Second Wind pale ale Mother Earth Brewing Company

Mad Beach American Wheat Aviator Brewing Company

best served in:

77 LIGHTEST to DARKEST

El Steinber Dark Lager Anderson Valley Brewing Company

77

Summer Shandy

4.2% abv

5.3% abv

5% abv

4.7% abv

5.5% abv

Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin

Longmont, Colorado

Kinston, North Carolina

Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina

Boonville, California

Carefully brewed using the finest malted wheat with just a touch of real Wisconsin honey, this beer is then mixed with lemonade flavor to create a crisp, refreshing taste that’s perfect for the long, hot days of summer.

Pours a clear golden color with a frothy white head. Aromas of clean Pilsner malts and spicy floral hops.

Crisp, dry mouth feel.

Flavors start with a sweet, grassy malt body and are balanced with a good dose of spicy hop bitterness.

GABF Silver Medal 2012

GABF Silver Medal 2011

$1.99/can 40 | midtownmag.com

$1.99/can

Pours a golden straw color. Aromas of floral hop esters, citrus fruit, light malts and biscuits. A bitter taste of grapefruit, grass, spicy hops, and lemon accented with a touch of sweet malts.

Pours a crystal-clear, gold/yellow color. The nose features notes of toffee, toasted grains, yeast and light caramel. The taste is similar with plenty of sweet toffee and caramel, toasted malts and bready yeast.

Hoppy, Citrusy, Malty, Medium-bodied

Crisp, Wheat, Citrusy, Bready, Light-bodied

$1.79/can

$1.99/can

El Steinber means “the beer” in Boontling dialect.

Brewed with roasted Indio-Hispano blue corn for a toasty flavor.

Midnight Wheat malt imparts subtle sweetness and deep ruby/ brown hue. Earthy, spicy Saaz hop flavors are balanced by German Pilsner malts.

$2.99/can

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reviews

BY david eddleman, Wine Manager – Total Wine & More

Dr Heidemanns Riesling QbA

Caleo Nero d’Avola Terre Siciliane

Bougrier RosÉ d’Anjou

Sobon Estate Syrah

Chateau de Nages Nimes Blanc V V

90 best served in:

Wine Spectator

Bernkastel, Mosel, Germany

Calatayud, Spain

Apple and peach flavors infuse this crisp and refreshing Riesling from Dr. Heidemanns, world renowned as one of the finest estates in the Mosel region. With flavors that are light and lingering, enjoy as an aperitif, with spicy shrimp stir-fry.

Black Off-Dry, Apple, Peach, Medium-bodied

Intense cherry-red color with notes of violet. Aromas of black currant laid over floral notes and dried fruits and spices. On the palate it is meaty with the sweet tannins and fruit.

Intense, Peach, Black Currant, Full-bodied

$10.99/bottle

$9.99/bottle

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Loire, France

This crisp, refreshing blush hails from France’s best terroir for fresh wines, the Loire Valley. Filled with fresh berry and fruit notes, this is ideal for warm days on the patio, as well as elegant poultry dishes.

Crisp, Strawberry, Light-bodied

$10.99/bottle

California

Costieres de Nimes, Rhone, France

Aromas of fresh baked blueberry pie, with flavors that are rich and silky, with mouthfilling fruitiness that suggests pomegranates and plums. It is highly extracted and extremely well structured, with multilayered flavors and a long lingering finish.

Sustainably farmed.

Blueberry, Plum, Medium-bodied

Very pure, with a stony frame to the green plum, yellow apple and melon flavors. A honeysuckle hint lines the finish.

Has weight, but remains fresh and lilting overall. Drink now through 2014.

Elegant, Apple, Citrus, Medium-bodied

$17.99/bottle

$14.99/bottle

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reviews

SkinneePix • $.99

SkinneePix helps you edit your Selfies to look 5, 10 or 15 punds. skinnier in two quick clicks on your iPhone. It’s easy.

It’s simple. It’s fun. Share them with your friends immediately.

SkinneePix makes your pictures look thinner. SkinneePix makes your photos look good and helps you feel good. It’s not complicated. No one needs to know. It’s your little secret.

2048 • Free

Inspired by the Gabriele Cirulli game available on the web. Join the numbers and get to the 2048 tile!

Swipe to move all tiles. When two tiles with the same number touch, they merge into one. Get to the 2048 tile, and reach a high score!

Yillio • Free

YILLIO makes it ridiculously easy to search for restaurants, shopping, nightlife, entertainment, services, and see the cheapest gas along your route every day. Merchants share specials, promotions, coupons, events and real-time gas prices so you can see what’s happening along your route. Start today and find great things along your way.

Flushd • Free

The world’s best bathroom app is now at your fingertips.

Find a bathroom that meets your needs quickly and easily.

Sort bathrooms by distance and quality rating. Bathroom profiles include user ratings and information such as whether they include changing tables, have bathroom attendants and other key features. Is it an emergency?

Hit the Flushd button and get mapped immediately to the closest point of relief.

Cloak • Free

As seen on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, NPR, CNN, TIME, Wall Street Journal, Newsweek and many others.

Cloak scrapes Instagram and Foursquare to let you know where all your friends, “friends,” and nonfriends are at all times so you never have to run into that special someone. Think of it as the antisocial network.

Last Time • $1.99

Have you ever wondered when you last did something? Your last vacation or your last call to your parents? Last Time makes tracking things become an easy and enjoyable task, so that you won’t forget any important thing again. Not just the good things, but you could track events you wish to quit or refrain from, like smoking or being late. Possibility is limited to your imagination.

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Make progress on your money; get step-by-step guidance from an expert, track your spending and saving, set goals and work towards them, securely link your accounts and even add cash transactions on the go. Start making progress on your money today. After beautifying your budget, you can schedule a free call with a LearnVest Expert to get dedicated help achieving your goals.

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midtownmag.com | 45

askelie

Elie

For all your answers on things fashion, style and trends

Costumista & Wardrobe Style arbiter

Q

I like to wear one-piece swimsuits but I wear a size 4 inclothing and have a double D bra size. My bra cup is always disproportionate when I try them on in the stores, and it is always an issue to find anything with a good fit.

Anonymous, Raleigh, NC

The purchase of the perfect one-piece suit is very arduous for myself also.

I have an hourglass body shape, and last year I bought suits from five different stores and I ended up returning them all for the same reason. The most difficult is the fitted form style bra (like the 50’s vintage look), while the one-pieces with no underwire (like the sporty ones) are a bit more forgiving. Try to search online by typing “swimsuits with DD and/or swimsuits by bra

size” in your browser. This year I found great styles at barenecessities.com.

They sell swimsuits by the bra size instead of the broader sizing range by small, medium and large, which personally does not work as I end up with either a small cup or a loose fit or even worse, a too-long suit for my petite-sized torso. On their site you can select your underwire size. Usually a size 2/4 small ranges between a 3234 underwire, and then you can select your cup as your bra size.

What do you think about buying used shoes from the vintage stores?

Question from Facebook I’m a bit hesitant to buy a pair of shoes that has been previously worn for the obvious sanitary issue. That said, I’m guilty of having bought a few gently-used high-fashion designer shoes at consignment stores.

I would of course thoroughly disinfect them with alcohol wipes 46 | midtownmag.com

and with a generous application of anti-fungal disinfectant powder of the sort you buy in the pharmacy foot care aisle and let them sit for a few days before wearing them. I try not to wear used shoes without hosiery or socks.

Germ-phobic fashionistas would not even go close to a previously worn pair but it is also true that obsessed wardrobe stylistas like me would bypass the health issue for an insanely discounted pair of used Prada or Valentino shoes.

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

Question from my brother who is going to a formal event: Does your tie need to match your jacket’s pocket-handkerchief?

Elizabeth, Raleigh, NC Both prints could be mismatched, but they have to be in the same color family (except when wearing a white pocketsquare, which gives a very formal look to any tie color you match it with).

Keeping them in the same color range, you can pair a striped tie or bowtie with a paisley hanky or a checkered tie with a striped pocket-square, for example.

However, I’m not a big fan of mixing little checks with polka-dots. A trick I learned in art school when matching different prints with similar colors: squint your eyes to the point where your vision is blurred and if they look good together, the pair most likely works.

midtownmag.com | 47

bain’s beat

How the Grinch Stole Kids’ Stuff My Neighborhood Inaction

T

by Dan bain, The Cat With a Bat, danbain07@gmail.com

48 | midtownmag.com

hree weeks before Christmas, I started my commute with one of those selfdoubting moments that apply only to locks and fire hazards, wondering if I’d remembered to lock the mudroom door before leaving.

I doubted enough to turn around, drive back, open the big garage door, repark, get out of my car, and check. It turned out to be safely locked.

Which is why it came as such a surprise that night when I came home from work, pulled into the garage, got out of my car, and found the same door to now be ajar.

As I wheeled the trash bin from the curb to the garage, it didn’t take me long to remember having confirmed the door was locked earlier, so now of course I had to wonder if the door had actually been open, something I might not have noticed if I’d been hyperfocused on the knob. This didn’t seem likely as I approached the designated spot for the bin – right next to the opened door –

so I slowed down and tried to put the bin in place as quietly as possible, with my arms stretched to full length in order to maximize the distance from me to the potential hiding spot for a ninja, waiting to assassinate me in my own mudroom. A ninja who’d been careless enough to leave the door open and tip me off, but a ninja, nonetheless. That’s the moment when I knew I wasn’t going into the house without a police escort.

I finally went in about three hours later.

This was after spending a good bit of time standing in my driveway, talking to 911 and texting Kim, repeating the same information for two police officers, a fingerprint specialist, and four curious neighbors – one of whom we hadn’t met before, but was wondering if the break-in might possibly have been related to the three young men she’d spotted running toward the back of our house earlier, from a car idling “in an unusual location” with its driver waiting

behind the wheel. She also wondered if maybe she should have called the police at that time, instead of talking herself into minding her own business. If she’d been standing within arm’s reach when she told me this, the police might have had to investigate a murder in addition to a break-in.

The thieves had broken in through the French doors in the back, where the private view we loved, proved to have a downside. With no one able to see them except the least helpful neighbor in the history of all neighborhoods ever, they’d had plenty of time to climb the full set of stairs to our porch, kick open the screen door, and kick open the French door with the deadbolt. It was a good, strong deadbolt, and stayed intact; too bad I can’t say the same for the wafer-thin doorjamb that it splintered as the doors burst open.

I’m guessing they had opened the mudroom door to check for valuables in the garage and/or to stand watch, allowing them to see or hear anyone who might come home in the middle of the day. Whatever the reason, we can add rudeness to their list of offenses – they hadn’t bothered to close it before leaving. I can almost hear my dad yelling, “Hey! You weren’t raised in a barn!

Close the door; do you expect me to pay to heat the whole neighborhood?”

They were thorough, ransacking the living room, the office, Matthew’s room, the master bedroom, and our walk-in closet, where Kim was later mortified to find that they’d pulled down every box of keepsakes, tossing her wedding veil on the floor and leaving a big mess not only in our home, but in our psyches. They partially hit Christopher’s room, but either they were not very observant, or something spooked them in the middle of the job. I still wonder if it was me, and there really was an assassin waiting inside at first.

In their thoroughness, they upended drawers, emptied out shopping bags, overturned storage boxes, and tore through the corner of a plastic trash bag on a shelf – like rats – to make sure there was nothing valuable inside (at least, valuable in their estimation). They dumped some of the costume jewelry from Kim’s jewelry box, but took the rest of its contents, box and all. We still can’t figure that one out. They took the time to remove something they didn’t want, as if they were doing us a favor. If they’d really wanted to do us a favor, they would

have left us the things no insurance company can replace from that jewelry box, like our class rings, the pendant I gave Kim with the boys’ baby pictures inside, the rings her mother had given her as a little girl, and the rank pins that we had received every time one of the boys earned a new badge of rank in Cub and Boy Scouts.

It took a couple days of alternating between cleaning, crying, and counting to get a full tally. They stole about $8000 worth of portable items – the jewelry, three laptops, an XBOX 360, a 3DS, a lot of videogame cartridges, an iPod, the next two week’s allowance that we’d set aside for the boys, an old camera, a tablet, and three Kindles (they must have been avid readers). Most of the missing things had belonged to Matthew, and Papa Bear raged inside me. They even threw his gym clothes on the floor to steal his bag – as, I suppose, a means of carrying the smaller items. This means, for part of that day, they were carrying a bag with big, bold letters showing the name of the person they had just robbed! I guess, like our neighbor, they weren’t the brightest bulbs on the tree.

Speaking of which, there happened to be one gift under the tree – they ripped open part of the wrapping paper to see what it was, then tossed it aside as worthless. Merry Christmas, Matthew! No need to guess what it is, as you can see the gift that was too crappy to steal. (Kim later compared that to a scene from The Sound of Music, where Maria’s explaining that she’d had to give all of her clothes to the poor when she’d joined the convent – except for the ratty dress she was wearing, because “the poor didn’t want this one.”)

That night, I slept downstairs, because we couldn’t lock the back door.

I kept a baseball bat nearby. (Still do, sometimes.)

During the next few days, friends restored our faith in humanity as they reached out, giving the boys an XBOX, offering us money, giving us gift cards, and generally being as supportive as if we’d lost a family member rather than stuff.

By Christmas, we’d received a big check from our insurance company, albeit not big enough.

And by Epiphany, we’d adopted a guard dog. I like to fantasize about sending him to that neighbor’s yard to do his business. It’s not like she’d call the cops, anyway…. midtownmag.com | 49

1 2 3 4 5

beautystyle

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

Elta UV Clear Broad Spectrum SPF 46 Contains 5% high purity niacinamide (vitamin B3), which helps to reduce the appearance of blemishes, discoloration and photo-damaged skin. This oil-free, lightweight formula leaves no residue and works fabulously alone or under makeup, >>$31, eltamd.com

Phyto C Selenium C Serum The unique combination of selenium, vitamin C and other antioxidants helps to protect the skin from sun and other environmental damage, promotes DNA repair, and reduces the signs of photoaging caused from direct and indirect sun exposure. >>$150, myphyto-c.com

Jane Iredale Powder Me Mineral SPF 30 This dry powder sunscreen is perfect for those on the go; it contains titanium dioxide and ancient natural clay minerals which nourish and calm the skin. The Golden shade option creates an instant summer bronzed look! >>$45.50, Synergy Spa & Aesthetics

Pure Bronze with Self Tan Mitt Tan and shower in one hour or leave on longer for a deeper golden color. Developed in Australia this non- orange, nongreasy, easy to apply formula is enriched with moisturizers which will leaving you skin feeling soft and supple. >>$55, Synergy Spa & Aesthetics

Summer Skin Essentials >> Everyone

wants a golden tan during the summer – however, the damage UV rays can leave behind often adds years to the look of your skin. For a safe summer glow these skin products are essential daily “must-haves” for surviving the harsh summer sun!

50 | midtownmag.com

Revision Intellishade SPF 45 (original or matte) Outsmart the signs of aging with this award-winning SPF tinted moisturizer.

Formulated with advanced peptides and broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, it moisturizes and blends naturally with the color of your skin, making it a great alternative to your daily foundation! >>$52, revisionskincare.com/locator

midtownmag.com | 51

chef mario

Nineteenth Hole Noshes It’s tee time! After you finish up with 18 holes, get into the swing of things and wow your guests with these fun and festive golf-themed snacks!

recipes chef mario copy darcy brennan-huante Photography april maness photography 7 ||midtownmag.com 52 midtownmag.com

Tee Time Cobb Sandwiches Makes approximately 24 sandwiches Ingredients 1 carton Pickled quail egg, cut in half

(see additional recipe) 24 Grape tomatoes, whole 1 package Bacon, cooked to package directions 1 package Bleu cheese, in a block 1 package Fresh arugula 1

Fresh baguette, toasted and cut into slices Directions Cut baguette into thick slices, toss in a little olive oil just until it glistens, and season with salt and pepper. Toast in the oven until toasty but still soft (or skip this step and toss it in the toaster).

To Build Using a small paring knife, make a small incision in your grape tomato on each side (this will make it easier to “pick” with your golf tee). Carefully, using a twisting motion, slide your quail half on the golf tee. Then follow with the grape tomato and set aside.

Place your crouton down. Top with a slice of the bleu cheese, bacon and arugula and top the “Golf Tee” with the tomato and quail egg.

How to Boil and Pickle Perfect Quail’s Eggs Ingredients 1 carton Quail eggs

Pickle juice (you can also use caper juice,

olive juice or pepperoncini juice!)

Directions Fill a small saucepan two-thirds full with water and bring to a boil. Add the quail’s eggs using a spoon. Do not overcrowd the pan.

Boil for 2.5 to 4 minutes, depending on your preference.

Remove with a slotted spoon and cool under cold running water or in a bowl filled with ice water.

Peel very carefully.

To Pickle Place in pickle juice for a minimum of 24 hours.

midtownmag.com | 53

Caponata Wedges (Eggplant Relish)

Serves 8-10 as an appetizer Ingredients

Jumbo shell pasta, cooked to directions 1 Globe eggplant (about 1 lb size), diced 4 Tbsp Olive oil, divided 1 Small onion, minced 1 Celery stalk, minced 1 Garlic clove, minced 4-6 Plum tomatoes, finely chopped ½ cup Pitted green olives, finely chopped ¼ cup Pine nuts, toasted 2-3 Tbsp Small capers, drained 1 tsp Red pepper flakes ¼ cup Red wine vinegar 2-3 Tbsp Sugar 1 Tbsp Tomato paste ¼ cup Chopped basil 1 bunch Fresh dill, for garnish

Salt Directions Toss the diced eggplant with about 2 tablespoons salt and put into a large bowl. Cover the bowl with a plate that just about fits the bowl and weigh it down with a heavy can. Let this sit for 1 hour. Drain the eggplant, rinse with fresh water and pat dry with paper towels.

Heat 2 tablespoons oil in a large skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add onion and celery; season with salt. Cook, stirring occasionally until the onion begins to soften 54 | midtownmag.com

(about 5 minutes). Add the garlic. Cook 1-2 minutes more. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Wipe the pan with a paper towel, turn the heat to high and add the remaining olive oil. Let this heat until the oil is nearly smoking. Add the eggplant and spread it out in as thin a layer as you can in the skillet. Let this sizzle for 1-2 minutes before stirring, then let it sit for a full minute before stirring again. Cook like this for 5-6 minutes.

Add the onion celery mixture, tomatoes, olives, pine nuts, capers and red pepper flakes. Stir well. Add the vinegar, sugar and tomato paste and stir once more. Cook, stirring occasionally until eggplant is very soft, about 8 minutes.

Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Mix in the basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Caponata can be refrigerated, covered, up to 5 days.

To Build Place jumbo shell pasta on a sheet pan or platter, opening facing up. Carefully spoon the Caponata into each shell. Gently insert a golf tee into the shell, garnish with a sprig of fresh dill and serve!

Turkey Bacon BLT Club with Tee Pick

Makes approximately 16 sandwiches Ingredients: 1 package

1 head 2-3

Turkey bacon, cooked according to package directions (we prefer extra crispy) Lettuce (we love green leaf or spinach leaves) Fresh tomatoes, cut into fat, juicy slices Your choice of sliced bread, lightly toasted

Directions Cut bread into triangles or squares (you will need three pieces per sandwich).

Gather all your ingredients and stack sandwiches in the following order (from the bottom up): bread, tomato, lettuce, bacon, bread, tomato, lettuce, more bacon, and top with bread! Garnish with a golf tee pick (we recommend twisting the pick gently as you insert it though the sandwich for best results) and enjoy!

midtownmag.com | 55

Shrimp Salad Stuffed Golf Bags Makes approximately 18 servings Ingredients 1 package

2

Large frozen shrimp (21-25) Cucumber dill sauce (see additional recipe) Cucumbers, whole

Cucumber Dill Sauce

For Garnish: 3 3

1 bunch

Celery stalks Bell peppers, one red, one yellow/ orange, one green, julienned Scallions, cut into 3” long sections (as long as your celery and peppers) Golf tees

Ingredients 1 quart Sour cream ¹⁄³ cup Shallots, minced 1 cup Shredded cucumber 2 Tbsp Lemon juice 3 Tbsp Dijon mustard ¹⁄³ cup Dill, fresh

Salt & pepper to taste

Directions Sauté shrimp until pink and season with salt and pepper.

Chop shrimp into large chunks and toss in the cucumber dill sauce, season and set aside. Taking a peeler, peel the cucumber lengthwise into long strips. Set aside.

Makes approximately 5 Cups

Directions Mix all ingredients together.

To Build Lay out the cucumber strips. Place a couple of strips of celery, scallions and peppers about 1/3 of the way in from the end of the cucumber strip. Spoon a small amount of the shrimp salad onto the peppers/scallions/celery. Starting from the end closest to you, roll the cucumber slice over the shrimp salad and garnish. Continue to roll until the end of the cucumber slice, and garnish with a golf tee.

56 | midtownmag.com

Hole in One Crudité with Dips Now you don’t have to make a golf course display (have fun if you do!) just serve up these delicious dips with your choice of crisp veggies!

Herb Vinaigrette Makes approximately 6 cups 4 Tbsp 4 Tbsp ½ cup 1 cup ½ cup ½ cup 5 Tbsp 1 tsp 1 tsp 4 Tbsp 2 cups 2 cups

Rosemary Oregano Basil puree Fresh parsley Shallot Sherry Dijon mustard Salt Pepper Sugar Red wine vinegar Canola oil

Directions Place everything except the canola oil into a blender; liquefy for 2 minutes. Pour canola oil in a steady, slow stream. Use caution or the dressing will break or separate.

Green Goddess Dressing Makes approximately 6 cups 2 cups Mayonnaise 2 cups Sour cream ½ cups Cider vinegar ¼ cups Dijon mustard 1 tsp Anchovy paste or

fish sauce

1 Tbsp Soy sauce ¼ cups Parsley ¼ cups Scallions ¼ cups Tarragon

Water if needed to thin

Salt and pepper

Directions Process all ingredients together with a blender. Season with salt and pepper. Adjust consistency if necessary.

midtownmag.com | 57

photography © stacy cathey

diy workshop

Window Your World

By Christa Gala and Stacy Cathey

W

e just love this project, and a lot of these “ingredients” we already had on hand.

Why not utilize an old window to display photos and messages? Hang anything from baseball caps to jewelry and scarves. This project costs between $30 and $50 and takes just a few hours. We found our vintage window at a flea market for just $10 and, honestly, we didn’t do much to it, aside from cleaning the glass with a razor blade first (to remove paint) followed by glass cleaner.

Our window came with two portions of glass.

We painted the top portion with chalkboard paint (at least four coats; allow for drying time between coats). The bottom portion we covered with a brightly colored fabric remnant stretched taut across the back of the window, securing it to the window frame with a staple gun.

You could display coordinating fabrics in both panes or photographs as well; it’s up to you.

We secured a shelf to the bottom of the window with two screws to give it more stability.

Initially, our shelf was unfinished, bought at craft store for about $10. We painted our shelf an aqua blue, allowed it to dry, then dabbed on a wood stain, which we immediately wiped off with paper towels. We wanted to “vintage” up our shelf a bit to go with our old window.

Next, it’s time to secure the knobs. We tried a few things but what worked best for us was removing the screws from the knobs and simply gluing two knobs to our window (in the upper left and right corners) and also to the shelf beneath it. We tried “Liquid Nails” initially, but hot glue yielded better results.

Here, it’s a master bath accessory holding bath salts and driftwood, but it would be a perfect piece for a kids’ room to display trophies or organize jewelry or accessories.

You’ll need: • An old window (vintage is best) • Fabric • Knobs

>> Send us your DIY ideas! Email us at diamonds@midtownmag.com.

58 | midtownmag.com

• Glue gun • Chalkboard paint • Paint/stain • Staple gun

midtownmag.com| 59

raising thebar

Youweask

Q

ANSWER

I want to have a big barbecue this summer.

Will I be held liable if one of my friends indulges too much, gets in a car wreck and injures someone? How can I protect myself?

Derek, Cary, NC

Yes, it’s possible that you could be held liable under North Carolina law if: (1) you serve alcohol to a person you know or should know was under the influence of alcohol and (2) you knew that person was going to drive. Whether or not you are held liable will likely depend on whether you exercised “reasonable care” – a question that’s typically answered by 12 strangers, otherwise known as jurors. One of the best ways to protect yourself and others is to make sure that your friends that indulge too much have a safe way home. ~ Chip Campbell, Vice-Chair of CSH Law Trucking & Commercial Transportation Practice Group My 19-year-old daughter was caught drinking a beer at a concert and was charged with underage consumption of alcohol. She has no prior record.

What can we do?

Nancy, Cary, NC If your daughter has been charged with a minor alcohol-related offense and has no prior record, she will be eligible to participate in a first offender program.

This would require her to attend a series of classes, usually 15 hours’ worth, and stay out of trouble until the program is over. If she successfully completes the program, her charge will be dismissed and may be expunged from her record afterwards. ~ Steven Saad, Co-Chair of CSH Law Criminal Defense Practice Group

Have a question?

Let us hear it: raisingthebar@midtownmag.com

I ate some bad seafood recently and ended up in the hospital. Now I’m stuck with the bill. Can I sue the restaurant for food poisoning?

I moved to NC five months ago but haven’t switched over my license and plates yet. Can a cop ticket me?

Linda, Raleigh, NC

Brittany, Raleigh, NC If you were served contaminated seafood by the restaurant and subsequently became sick, then you may have a claim against the restaurant. However, there always seems to be a question in food poisoning cases of whether contaminated food made you sick or whether you were sick for some other reason. Consider whether your doctor performed tests to identify what pathogen (for example E. coli, Salmonella, etc.) caused you to be sick, and call your local health department to see if anyone else has reported symptoms after eating at the same restaurant during the same timeframe. ~ Stephanie Poley, Chair of CSH Law Retail, Restaurant & Hospitality Practice Group

North Carolina gives new residents a 60-day grace period to change over to new driver’s licenses and plates.

You can be stopped and cited after that period has ran. The citations are usually dismissed if you are able to obtain a North Carolina driver’s license and change your plates before the court date. ~ Steven Saad, Co-Chair of CSH Law Criminal Defense Practice Group

MeettheCounsel

Stephanie Poley Retail, Restaurant & Hospitality

Steven Saad

Criminal Defense

Chip Campbell Civil Litigation

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

60 | midtownmag.com

midtownmag.com | 61

scare yourself

Free and Focused

By Christa Gala

T

aking an art class was both easier and harder than I thought it would be. Easier because I was in the company of a girlfriend and an adult beverage and harder because it was a real art class, and I’ve never been very good at art.

My ten-year-old son is always challenging me to drawing contests because he knows he can win. Over Christmas break, we each drew Santa and mine looked like a Harley Davidson motorcycle rider. The beard was ZZ Top and he was too skinny, his belt buckle too big. The Santa hat looked like a do-rag.

“That’s Santa?” my son asked.

I realize my lack of talent, and so I never draw or create much of anything freehand. I lack the confidence to even try. But that’s what this whole year is about, trying new things, so when Marianne Conti Burt, owner of Wine and Design in Cary, invited me for a group art lesson, I accepted.

And as I sat at the table, set nicely with clean brushes in different sizes, a Mason jar filled with water and a palette with a variety of colors, I had the odd sensation of being back in elementary school. Remember tempera paints and paper-mache? That’s the last time I took an art class; I would have been about 10 years old.

I thought the class might be a paint-by-the-number sort of thing, but this was the real deal. Our “subject” was a Monet-inspired vase of flowers (although my knowledge of art is about as good as my Santa sketch). The bare bones of the picture – a few key elements – were penciled in on the canvas to give each student reference points.

Our instructor, Connie, talked about the importance of depth and texture as we began covering our canvases with different shades of gray and white we mixed ourselves. I was timid with color mixing, but my girlfriend covered her canvas with beautiful strokes of deep gray.

Soon we added in blue, pink, green and yellow in soft shades at our own discretion.

Next came the leaves, something we had to do freehand. Mine looked awful. I kept adding paint, but they looked worse. I was messing it up. This was why I didn’t paint.

62 | midtownmag.com

My girlfriend told me, “Just stop. Raise your hand.”

I did, and Connie told me I needed to be bolder with my colors to differentiate the leaves from the other soft colors I’d already added. She also helped me define the arc of the leaves, so they looked more like leaves and less like cotton balls. I had completely covered my pencil lines, a rookie mistake, and she drew those back in for me as well.

One thing that struck me was that even though it was a social setting, and there were 20 of us in the class, we were all intent on painting. When we got to a difficult element, such as shading the glass vase or painting the flower stems, it was silent, as if we were all holding our breath.

It takes concentration to paint and yet you can’t be too rigid in the process. It’s a difficult balance to strike, but it was interesting to feel both free and focused at the same time.

Our paintings, as they began to take shape, were all different even though we were painting the same thing. If I’d known the students, I might have asked why one used bolder colors while another used pastels. Some flowers were quite large and others more delicate.

Each painting was truly an expression of each person.

At the end of the class, as everyone was packing up, I decided to try to add a few more leaves to my canvas; it looked a little sparse. And dang if it I wasn’t able to do it, remembering what Connie had told me an hour before. I learned something!

And I had something to take home – a vase of flowers that actually looked like a vase of flowers. How cool is that?

midtownmag.com | 63

photograph Š Michael Zirkle

The Wailers performing at Artsplosure.

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g n i r Sp gs n e v Se

n i t Ou

in

n Ba

a

by D

[ Is seven a lucky number?

Certainly it is for this magazine, as we celebrate that number of years of publication (with hopes for many more). And as of the publication date of this issue, there happen to be seven weekends before summer starts. With luck, temperatures will be in the 70s (at least). That means seven opportunities to get outside and do some fun and unusual things, and we hope you like our suggestions: ] midtownmag.com | 65

[ May 10th-11th ] Looking for something special to do for Mother’s Day? How about unleashing your creativity together at a ceramics studio? We have at least four in Wake County, including Klaystation in North Raleigh. Moms and their young or adult children can set up time to create and have fun together, picking out a pre-formed bisque piece to paint onsite or at home, returning it to the studio for glazing and kiln-firing.

One week later, it’s a finished work of art! Take Mom there on Mother’s Day afternoon if you think she’ll enjoy participating, or take the kids in advance to paint a gift for her.

If Mom is somewhat folksy or enjoys unique forms of entertainment, think about taking her to see the Cane Creek Cloggers; they’re putting on a special Mother’s Day show at the North Carolina Museum of History at 3pm that Sunday. The award-winning troupe specializes in Appalachian clog dancing, and will be accompanied by Thump Drive on fiddle, banjo, guitar, and bass.

Part of the museum’s Music of the Carolinas series, the free concert takes place in Daniels Auditorium. Last year’s

Our governor’s mansion has been lauded as one of the most beautiful in the nation.

concerts often had overflow from the 300-seat venue, so come early.

While it’s not an event that takes place on that weekend, you might consider giving Mom a reservation for an Executive Mansion Tour. An elegant historic site, the mansion features stunning examples of the Queen Anne style of Victorian architecture, and FDR once described it as showcasing “the most beautiful governor’s residence

interior in America.” The exterior isn’t bad, either, and Mom might enjoy a tour of its gardens with their beautiful floral displays, koi pond, beehives, and the vegetable garden that feeds the first family as well as local families in need.

The free 30-minute mansion tour and 60-minute garden tour take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays this spring, and require reservations at least two weeks in advance.

[ May 17th-18th ]

Artsplosure – the Raleigh Arts Festival has been synonymous with spring in the Triangle for 35 years.

According to the News & Observer, Artsplosure – the Raleigh Arts Festival – is “how the Triangle celebrates spring,” and that tradition marks its 35th year over this weekend. Based in Moore Square and 66 | midtownmag.com

its surrounding streets on Saturday and Sunday, the event has been featured in the New York Times, and never fails to deliver on its promise of having something for everyone. Expect exhibitions from

more than 170 artists and artisans – some local, some national, and many critically acclaimed.

The festival also includes Kidsplosure, a fun, interactive set of educational displays and activities for kids and parents alike; the Student Art Exhibition, featuring the art of Wake County middle and high school students; a showcase of large-scale, interactive visual art installations; performances by aerialists and other unique entertainers; and jazz, blues, and alternative music from national and local performers. You can also expect food vendors and a lively, exciting, family-friendly atmosphere that will have you wanting to spend the entire weekend soaking it in.

[ May 24th-26th ] Memorial Day traditionally has two sides to it – the fun and the solemn.

Both sides involve outdoor activities, which is what spring should be all about. One fun way to kick off the long weekend is a stroll around the brand-new Midtown Park, which will have held its grand opening one month prior. You’d be hard-pressed to find a newer venue, and the 100- by 350-foot esplanade promises to be beautiful and green. You’ll find the tree-lined park in North Hills, on the east side of Six Forks Road, between Chuy’s Restaurant and a permanent stage designed by Thomas Sayre, built specifically to showcase the park. Its creators visualize it as the ultimate gathering place, available for privately hosted small and large events as well as a unique common space for the Midtown community. It features a hardscape of natural stone, brick and concrete, with interactive fountains in front of the amphitheater-style stage. North Hills encourages open use of its community spaces for picnics, which is a great way to kick off the Memorial Day weekend.

This holiday is also about the solemnity of honoring our fallen troops, and Raleigh offers a great way to do that with a Memorial Day Wreath-Laying Ceremony. Hosted by the Tar Heel Detachment Marine Corps League, the event takes place Monday from 11:30am to noon, on the north side of the Capitol building.

Be sure to give thanks for our fallen troops on Memorial Day.

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[ May 30th-june 1st ] Starting the previous Friday, May 23rd, Downtown Raleigh Alliance is hosting its newest outdoor event for six continuous Fridays: the PNC Downtown Raleigh Movie Series. Starting at 5pm, City Plaza will become a living room under the stars, kicking things off with food trucks, downtown restaurant dishes and local microbrews before showing a series of films made in North Carolina. Just because you like to watch movies doesn’t mean you can’t get outside!

And as long as you’re planning to go downtown, you might consider showing up early for a tour of the city. Done that before? How about on a Segway? Triangle Glides, in City Market, offers a series of 60-, 90- and 120-minute tours of different downtown highlights, with different themes. Want the dirt on past scandals and shocking controversies? Try the Raleigh’s Darkest Secrets Tour. For a brief tour of new photograph Courtesy Triangle Glides

blow dry bar

Triangle Glides offers several different Segway tours of our city.

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Each tour includes training, safety gear, and a two-wheeled tour guide. photograph Courtesy Triangle Glides

and historic landmarks, check out the Segway Experience Tour.

Or the Downtown Discovery Tour lets you explore downtown architectural highlights as you see “new views of an old city.” For more history and grandeur, there’s the Historic Oakwood Tour. Or the marathon Capital City East Tour, tacking on some of Oakwood to the Segway Experience.

No previous experience is necessary, as Triangle Glides provides all the training you need, as well as a helmet and wireless audio pack, so you can hear your tour guide’s narration. This experience has earned rave reviews, and is unique and reasonably priced – so try a tour, and glide on!

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[ June 7th ] No discussion of outdoor events is complete without mention of a race or two. Remember the Midtown Race Series? It’s now part of Race 13.1, “the Southeast’s Premier Half Marathon Series.” Race 13.1 holds five races in North Carolina, throughout the year – two of them in Raleigh. Its Midtown Raleigh Spring race takes place at North Hills, with the halfmarathon beginning at 7am and a 5k and 10k beginning at 7:15am. The event will benefit the Triangle/Eastern NC Chapter of Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

If you prefer a more difficult course or a more unique race, you might want to venture out of Raleigh a little, for a Fuquay-Varina event known as the Ninja Challenge. It’s a 5k obstacle race designed for fun and charity, in the name of a lost friend. “This project is in memory of Karl Andrei Besas, a friend, brother, classmate, UNC graduate, motorcycle racer, MMA fighter, adventure seeker, and a true ninja,” write the event’s organizers. “We created this race to remind you to live like Karl and always seek out adventure, push your limits, and enjoy every moment.”

Besas lost his life in a Lake Gaston drowning accident in August 2010.

The Triangle Area Red Cross assisted with the ensuing five-day search-andrescue efforts after Besas disappeared, so the organizers chose the group as a beneficiary of charitable donations from the race – along with Triangle Aquatic Center and USA Swimming’s “Make a Splash” program for the work they do in helping to reduce drownings by advocating water safety and teaching kids to swim.

Organizers say the Ninja Challenge “combines challenging obstacles, crazy costumes, music and awesome people to make it the most memorable run of your life!”

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Take your pick of Race 13.1 Midtown Raleigh Spring, top, or the Ninja Challenge, bottom.

[ June 12th-15th ]

photograph © dave droschak

Pinehurst No. 2 will produce two champions inside of two weeks.

Two is the magic number for golf in North Carolina this spring, as Pinehurst No. 2 plays host to two major tournaments over the course of two consecutive weeks.

The US Open® Championship starts on June 12th, with the US Women’s Open following a week later. Pinehurst No. 2 is legendary, designed by Donald Ross to emulate traditional Scottish courses as blended with the unique landscape of our state’s Sandhills region. The narrow fairways, the turtleback greens, the wiregrass rough – it’s a treacherous set of links, to be sure. It’s also beautiful, and well worth the trip. Go watch the world’s best golfers tackle one of the toughest courses, and marvel at the scenery while you’re there.

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[ june 21st-22nd ] Summer begins in earnest this weekend; why not spend it watching the boys of summer? Baseball is America’s pastime, and Raleigh has two impressive minor league franchises nearby – the Durham Bulls to the west and the Carolina Mudcats to the east. The urban setting and brick construction of the Durham Bulls Athletic Park give it the feel of an old-time stadium, recalling the traditional appeal of baseball. But Five County Stadium, home of the Mudcats, is just as appealing – located near Zebulon, it has an open, pastoral feel to it, reminiscent of Field of Dreams. Both franchises are enjoyable to watch, and both present family-friendly atmospheres, perfect for the first weekend of summer. If it makes a difference, the Mudcats are hosting the Frederick Keys this weekend, while the Syracuse Chiefs are visting the DBAP.

Follow up with some outdoor recreation of your own, and go explore one of our city’s gems – the Capital Area Greenway. You have 28 trails to choose from, spanning 112 miles in and around

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Minor League baseball is always a hit, whether it’s from the Bulls to the west or the Mudcats to the east.

Raleigh. Whether you bike, run, jog or walk, the greenway trails are a great place to spend your weekends. Take in sights like the two suspension bridges on the Neuse River Trail, the boardwalk winding through the trees of Walnut Creek Trail, the artwork along Reedy Creek Trail, the mill and falls of Crabtree Creek Trail, and plenty more. Watch wildlife and find yourself.

Please, go and do as many of these things as possible, on all seven weekends. It will get you from early spring to the start of summer, possibly bringing you some new experiences along the way – along with maybe a deeper appreciation of Midtown, Downtown, Greater Raleigh, and Central North Carolina. You might feel fulfilled after all of them. You might feel exhausted.

But we hope you’ll feel lucky to live here – possibly as if you’re in Seventh Heaven. midtownmag.com | 73

Photograph Š david droschak

Roughing It?

by David Droschak

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Few people know the ins and outs of Pinehurst No. 2 like caddies Joe Crnko (left) and Jamie Whitley (right). It’s their dream to be carrying a bag in the upcoming U.S. Open.

No

rough for golfers to tackle at the U.S. Open for the first time in history?

Technically, that’s true...well, sort of.

There won’t be gnarly Bermuda rough to suck balls to the turf ’s bottom for nearly impossible aiming to the turtleback greens of Pinehurst No. 2. No, what this Donald Ross layout has in store for the world’s best male and female golfers in June appears far more sinister now than it did three years ago when Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw took rake and shovel, and a set of 1943 aerial photos, to this old gem, restoring its yesteryear charm.

It appears harder at first glance because it is, under further examination. The native areas, or “the junk” as described by Pinehurst Director of Grounds and Golf Course Maintenance Bob Farren, have expanded significantly, with plants now reaching 24 inches and once-barren portions of the sandy graveyard resembling organized vegetation chaos.

Just like in U.S. Opens played here in 1999 and 2005, a winning score of par now seems more realistic, more reasonable to most than a potential and almost unheard-of U.S. Open double-digit under par champion.

“The chance of your shot being perfect or having to punch it out sideways was about 50-50 a year or so ago,” said longtime Pinehurst No. 2 caddie Joe Crnko. “By the summer it will be thicker and your percentage may go down

to 30-70. That’s the last thing the golfers want to do is hit it out sideways, but if you get right behind a clump of grass it’s not like deep rough where at least you can advance it forward; you have to go sideways. It’s tough, it’s brutal.”

“This stuff here is where people can actually get injured trying to get out of some spots,” added fellow caddie Jamie Whitley. “I could see Tiger or Phil getting injured out there. They have added so many more of these native plants and they are now filled in. And the course is firmer, faster and harder now. And they’ve already tightened up the fairways since they reopened.”

The course’s throw-back center line irrigation system has purposely “greened up” the optimal landing area of the fairways and rendered the outer edges exposed to the natural elements, which has turned the grass brown, crusty and hard, leaving plenty of room for errant drive run-offs.

“Hey, if you don’t get behind a lump of that native stuff you may be in somebody’s heel print, and if that’s the case you’re going to be hitting a sand wedge, man,” Crnko said.

“This will be a different flavor for the men’s and the women’s championships,” added Farren. “One of the unique aspects of the roughs now, or broken ground, is it changes seasonally. You can play it once a month for a year and it will be a little bit different each time you play it.

These are spring and winter annuals, and they will flower.

As we approach the end of the spring they will go away and the summer plants will come on. They just grow naturally, and there should be a beautiful palette in the summer.”

Midtown Magazine’s very own golf editor David Droschak has enlisted Crnko, Whitley and Farren to guide us through the ins and outs of Pinehurst No. 2 and touch on some of the most intriguing storylines golfers will face trying to tackle Pinehurst No. 2 under the most intense scrutiny and stress.

Pinehurst No. 2’s transformation won’t be a walk in the park for US Open players midtownmag.com | 75 73

Photograph © USGA/John Mummert

Photograph © McKenzie Photography a Beautiful sunrise on the third (above) and sixth (left) holes of Pinehurst No. 2.

THE D Most championships in team sports are won with great defense, and most of the time No. 2 wins with defense – a defense centered around its diabolical putting surfaces and surrounding run-off areas. For all the talk and debating about “rough, no-rough,” Crnko and Whitley say the greens at No. 2 are some of the trickiest golfers can encounter. Ross was a master at angles and slopes off the tee, and he extended his magic to the greens, where players will often leave the putting surfaces shaking their heads from what I can best describe as optical illusions.

Two of the most treacherous greens sit within a chip shot of where Ross lived, his historic brick house with white columns situated along the third fairway. The third green has what can best be described as a “ramp effect,” where an uphill putt from the front of the green actually gains speed, while the nearby fifth green is arguably the most difficult on the entire layout. “As romantic as it might sound, I think there is some validity that Ross lived there and Nos. 3 and 5 are the two most complex, strategic and most difficult greens on the whole course,” Farren said. “I can see him sitting out there on the back porch saying ‘Yeah, I’m going to change 76 | midtownmag.com

If You’re Going Here are the best viewing areas on-course 18th Green Grandstand Sit and watch the 18th green at Pinehurst No. 2 in a 4,500+ seated grandstand, where one of the most memorable moments in sporting history happened when Payne Stewart made a putt to win the 1999 U.S. Open Championship.

>

3rd Green/5th Green One of the more interactive areas on course where you can see the 3rd & 5th greens, along with the 4th and 6th tee shots. There will be grandstand seats in this area, which will provide great views of all this action which includes a short par-4 (3rd hole), a par-3 (6th hole) and the 4th and 5th holes, which will be two of the more talked-about holes since the 4th is now a par-4 and the 5th is a par-5.

>

17th Green The 17th green is a great par-3, which inevitably will have a big impact on the outcome of the Championships. The grandstand for this hole actually sits players left of the 18th tee so spectators will be able to watch the demanding par-3, while still being on top of the players on the 18th hole teebox.

>

8th Green With a grandstand conveniently located right off the 8th green, you’ll be able to see both the 8th hole and the tee shots on the 9th tee (par-3), while being close to a food court in case you want something to eat or a refreshment.

>

13th Green Being able to watch the professionals tackle this challenging green will provide for an entertaining place to sit during the Championship. Centrally located, too.

>

Driving Range/Putting Green Allows you to get an up-close look at how the players prepare to compete in our National Championship. There will be grandstand seating behind the practice range tee box.

>

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Photograph © USGA/John Mummert

10th Hole of Pinehurst No. 2.

that one tomorrow.’ They have so much movement in them.”

The caddies describe the movements on the greens as “little, small subtleties that most people just don’t see.”

“From one side of the hole to the other can be totally different,” Crnko said.

“I tell players I’m caddying for not to pay attention to that putt coming from the other side, because it has nothing to do with ours,” added Whitley. “We’ve caddied here so much we know where all the little nuances are.”

Creativity will come into play if balls roll off the putting surfaces.

“I think the majority of the players will keep the ball down on the ground as much as possible off the green,” Whitley said.

“It takes the guesswork out of it. It’s just easier to judge. These old-style greens with all the elevation and humps are hard, but these golfers are so good with their feel, their distance control.

If they have shots with a lot of green to work with, and if they are barely off the green, then they are going to chip it.”

SCORECARD SELECTION Possibly hidden behind one of the thousands of tufts of native grasses sprinkled throughout No. 2. are a few little secrets not many are discussing. More than a dozen new tee boxes have been added, and the course now plays as long as 7,500 yards.

And that’s just at par-70. But don’t expect USGA executive director Mike Davis to set up the course that long each day for the men. There are a few holes, such as No. 3, where he’ll shorten up the hole and tempt the long hitters to try to drive the green. The 13th hole also played as a drivable par-4 during the 78 | midtownmag.com

recent U.S. Amateur played here, so expect players like Bubba Watson and Dustin Johnson to be swinging from their heels.

But is that the smart play on these two scoring holes?

“Those guys don’t mind hitting it up there into a greenside bunker,” Crnko said. “Some of them can carry the ball 310 or 320 so these holes could produce a fair amount of birdies.”

Or heartache.

“I personally don’t think it’s a smart play to try to drive the green on No. 3, because there is so much trouble around the green,” Whitley said. “But if you can get it in a greenside bunker that is an easy par, an up-and-down 50 percent of the tie for a birdie for most of the field. Most will play short of that waste bunker on the right with a 4-iron. Heck, Zach Johnson will lay up every day and probably birdie it three of the four days.”

And on No. 13?

“If you go for it and miss left, you might lose a ball over there now in that stuff,” Crnko joked.

“And the green is sitting up elevated, and it has probably the hardest pin location of the entire golf course if they put it on the front right,” added Whitley. “It has a false front and if you hit it past that hump, past the flag, good luck – you may spend 10 minutes going up and back, not even able to keep the ball on the green. If the pin is there, hit it to the middle of the green, get your par and get out.”

The 13th hole is a classic example of the Coore/Crenshaw restoration work on No. 2, displaying the diversity of the plant material as well as the severity and difficulty of a strategic ‘thinking man’s’ layout.

Photograph © david droschak

Photograph © david droschak

Photograph © david droschak

Photograph © david droschak

(above) The 16th Hole of Pinehurst No. 2. (below) Pinehurst Resort Director of Grounds and Golf Course Maintenance Bob Farren talks to the media from a kneehigh waste area on the 13th hole.

“On a shorter par-4 you would expect the penalty to be greater, if you miss the fairway as it gets narrower the further you get from the tee,” Farren said. “We’ve talked so much about wider fairways in 2014, and they are significantly wider than they were in the 2005 Open, but there is still much to be paid penalty-wise if you do stray from the fairway, or try to hit it farther up the fairway on some of these shorter holes than your skill set might allow.”

Photograph © david droschak

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CLOSING STRETCH Expect a handful of players to be within striking distance in the final round, with the closing stretch at No. 2 providing a stage for pure drama. Manufacturing a series of pars on holes 16-18 – a 520-yard par-4, a 200-yard par-3 and an uphill par-4 – on Sunday would be a monumental task for anyone on the first page of the leaderboard.

“A lot of them are going to drop one or two shots, possibly three coming down the stretch, especially if they are not playing all that well,” Whitley said. “It would almost be simpler to try to just make pars and let everyone else make the mistakes.

“The 18th hole will most likely be into the wind, and from the tee box it looks intimidating because it really looks narrow – and it really is narrow,” added Crnko. “They pinched in the landing area and there is not much room.”

Remaining focused and poised with the pressure on is easier said than done, according to the two caddies. Remember, Payne Stewart’s winning putt on the 18th green in 1999 was for par, not birdie, after he blocked his drive to the right.

“It is mentally draining,” Crnko said. “And it is going to be hot, too. Most of the good players do fairly well with hanging in there, but a lot of resort guests who play here check out on

the second or third hole. Some of them, after they walk off the third green, they’ve just had it and quit keeping score.”

And we’re not even including the par-3 15th hole on our “closing list” of demanding holes.

In the 2005 Open, only 27 percent of the tee shots stayed on the green.

“And we’re talking about PGA Tour players,” Whitley said. “That green is just that crazy.”

DREAM COME TRUE Crnko and Whitley seemingly know every break on every green. Crnko’s caddying days at Pinehurst date back to 1992 when he was a student at Methodist University, while Whitley estimates he has looped 315 times within the last 12 months.

Now they need a break to get into the Open field. Only about a half dozen Pinehurst-based caddies will get an opportunity to carry a bag in the men’s championship, while the odds are a little better a week later when the ladies tee it up.

Players with full-time caddies are encouraged to secure some of Pinehurst’s best caddies when they come to town for practice rounds, while amateurs and some of the more obscure qualifiers may be looking for that “local knowledge” come Open time.

“A lot of it is being at the right place at the right time,” Whitley said of his chances of caddying in a major championship.

“It would be awesome,” added Crnko, whose first caddying experience at Pinehurst No. 2 was more than two decades ago in the Tour Championship pro-am. “Oh my gosh, as a caddy it would be the best experience I could ever have, being able to caddy in a major championship.”

Whitley remembers his first loop at No. 2 more than four years ago.

“The first thing I asked the caddie master after my first week was: ‘Can I do this full-time?’” Whitley said. “I went and gave two weeks’ notice at the car dealership I worked at back in Rockingham. I’ve walked a lot of miles in the last year, maybe 20,000 miles or more.” midtownmag.com | 81

SCHEDULE OF

U.S. Open Events

MEN’S

WOMEN’S

Practice Rounds >Monday, June 9th (6am-7pm) >Tuesday, June 10th (6am-7pm) >Wednesday, June 11th (6am-7pm)

Practice Rounds >Tuesday, June 17th (6am-7pm) >Wednesday, June 18th (6am-7pm)

All times are EDT and schedules are subject to change. Starting times will be posted when available at www.usopen.com.

Championship Rounds 1 and 2 >Thursday, June 12th (first round) (6am to conclusion of play) >Friday, June 13th (second round) (6am to conclusion of play) Championship Rounds 3 and 4 The first starting time will be determined by the number of players who make the cut at the conclusion of the second round (60 lowest scorers and anyone tying for 60th place).

Generally, the first pairing begins play from the first tee between 8-9am; the last pairing for both days will start from the first tee at approximately 3pm >Saturday,

June 14th (third round) (6am to conclusion of play) >Sunday, June 15th (fourth round) (6am to conclusion of play) Playoff If there is a tie for the low score after 72 holes, an 18-hole playoff will be held on Monday, June 16th. The playoff will begin at approximately noon and finish at approximately 4pm.

(Gates will open at 6am)

All times are EDT and schedules are subject to change. Starting times will be posted when available at www.uswomensopen.com.

Championship Rounds 1 and 2 >Thursday, June 19th (first round) (6am to conclusion of play) >Friday, June 20th (second round) (6am to conclusion of play) Championship Rounds 3 and 4 The first starting time will be determined by the number of players who make the cut at the conclusion of the second round (60 lowest scorers and anyone tying for 60th place). >Saturday,

June 21st (third round) (6am to conclusion of play) >Sunday, June 22nd (fourth round) (6am to conclusion of play) Playoff If there is a tie for the low score after 72 holes, a 3-hole aggregate playoff will take place immediately following the conclusion of play of the fourth round. If the playoff results in a tie, play will immediately continue hole by hole until a champion is determined.

Ora Designers/Fine Jewelers is giving away a pair of limited edition TPC Sawgrass authentic golf ball cufflinks.

Genuine TPC Sawgrass played golf balls, hit by pro and duffer alike, have been retrieved by a scuba diver from the water surrounding the 17th Island Green, witnessed by the Head Golf Professional or PGA TOUR® Staff.

Enter to win by emailing your name with the subject line CUFFLINK GIVEAWAY to lesa.orajewelers@gmail.com midtownmag.com | 83

winnings

Lovely

Diamonds Direct hosts March of the Brides contest

by Kate Turgeon Watson photography by jennifer robertson

F

our hundred wanted in. Only 25 were randomly chosen to compete.

And six went home with prizes that could make any bride-to-be skip down the aisle with a smile.

That was the story at the March of the Brides event, which was held in March at Diamonds Direct-Crabtree on Glenwood Avenue. The jewelry retailer sponsored the event to give women an opportunity to have fun while trying to win complimentary items and services for their weddings.

The fiancées showed up early one Saturday morning in the mall parking lot, many in workout clothes and tennis shoes. They donned “engagement ring” headbands with short veils and got to work at the business of trying to win wedding goodies.

“There’s really nothing like this in our area,” Ginny Terrell Kidd says. “We started brainstorming in the fall of 2013 when I was planning my own wedding and realized how expensive things were.”

Kidd, who works for Diamonds Direct’s marketing department, said the contestants were chosen using a

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Facebook contest. While most of the ladies were from Raleigh, a few came from cities such as Greensboro and Fayetteville.

They participated in events such as a tuxedo dash, where they had to dress a mannequin in a full tuxedo and run it to the finish line, and the champagne relay, where brides carried a tray of five plastic champagne glasses, filled them with water using a sponge and then raced the glasses to the finish line. Many of the engaged contestants emerged completely soaked.

We know what you’re thinking.

Sounds like a field day for an “I do” type of crowd, right? Add in a bouquet toss (for distance), a photo hunt (find the differences) and a ring toss (throw the plastic rings at a target) and it brings back a lot of childhood memories … but themed for brides, of course.

In the spirit of a fourth of July hot dog eating contest, March of the Brides gave its own nod to stuffing one’s self in the name of victory. Brides had 30 seconds to eat as many mini cupcakes as they could. They were awarded points for

each cupcake consumed.

“We got tons of great video and pictures. Every event had its own unique moments,” Kidd says. “Watching the ladies try to put the tuxedo on was hilarious. Most of them didn’t know how to attach suspenders and it made for some funny-looking ‘grooms.’”

The top prize was a $1,500 gift certificate from Diamonds Direct for wedding bands. Other gift certificate prizes: $500 to use toward a reception site, $350 for formal wear, $300 for photography, $250 for cake and $200 to use toward flowers.

For Diamonds Direct, March of the Brides was a way to reach the community in an amusing way.

“It showed local brides that we’re not just their ‘typical jeweler’. We love to have fun and be involved in the community,” Kidd says. “[Participants] had a blast. They won some free things for their wedding and got to hang out with other brides. The families and friends who were there got to see their lovely brides compete, and now they have some great pictures and mementos.”

calendar ofevents

May/June

2014

Still Life Reinterpreted Exhibit Through July 6 | Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm Sun: 1-6pm Durham Arts Council – Ella Fountain Pratt Legacy Gallery | 120 Morris Street Durham | www.durhamarts.org Animation & Fine Art Galleries presents original artwork

by Salvador Dali May 1-July 31 | 10am-6pm Tue-Sat www.animationandfineart.com Recent Paintings by John A. Malveto May 2-July 6 | Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm Sun: 1-6pm Durham Arts Council – Allenton Gallery 120 Morris Street | Durham www.durhamarts.org The Annual Durham Arts Council School Student/Faculty Exhibit: Our House May 2-July 6 | Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm Sun: 1-6pm Durham Arts Council – Semans Gallery 120 Morris Street | Durham www.durhamarts.org Mother’s Day Tea and Art Party May 3 | 11am-1pm Kidz Celebrate | Raleigh www.kidzcelebrate.com Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo May 4 | 1-4pm Fayetteville Street www.downtownraleighfoodtruckrodeo.com

Wine Dinner May 7 & June 10 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com

Mother’s day dinner May 11 | 11am-3pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine at Burke Manor Inn | 303 Burke Street Gibsonville | www.burkemanor.com

“The Color of Light” with artist Suzanne Morris May 9 | 7-9pm ArtSource Fine Art Gallery & Framing 4351-107 The Circle at North Hills Street Raleigh | 919.787.9533 www.artsource-raleigh.com

JOSEPH AND THE TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT May 13-18 Durham Performing Arts Center www.DPACnc.com

NC Symphony: Grant Conducts Mahler May 9-10 | 8pm www.ncsymphony.org Spring Fling Open House and Fashion Show May 10 | 3pm Inspirations Home Decor & More 8601 Glenwood Avenue | Raleigh 919.977.3039 | www.inspirationsraleigh.com Inside Out 5k May 10 | 7:15am Lucy Daniels Center | Weston Parkway | Cary www.lucydanielscenter.org/news-events/ the-inside-out-5k-run-walk/event-information Mother’s day dinner May 11 | 5-8:30pm Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com

Outdoor Fairy Garden Workshop May 14 | 10am/May 17 | 1pm Registration required www.atlanticavenuegarden.com Hot Summer Nights – Vanities, The Musical May 14-25 Kennedy Theatre | 2 East South Street Raleigh | www.theatreraleigh.com Spring Fundraiser Furniture and Home Furnishing Sale May 15 The Green Chair Project www.thegreenchair.org Paint & Sip Art Class May 15 & June 5 | 6:30-9pm Kidz Celebrate | Raleigh www.kidzcelebrate.com Tenth Annual Tour D’Coop May 17 | 10am-4pm Raleigh | http://tourdcoop.com Cedars in the Pines in the Kitchen May 17 | 1-2pm www.ncmuseumofhistory.org Artsplosure May 17-18 Downtown Raleigh | Multiple locations/streets www.artsplosure.org Kidz Night Out May 17 & June 28 | 6-10pm Kidz Celebrate | Raleigh www.kidzcelebrate.com Paint Along Art Class May 17 & June 7, 15 | 10am-12pm Kidz Celebrate | Raleigh www.kidzcelebrate.com

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Gardening for Newcomers May 17 | 3pm Registration required www.atlanticavenuegarden.com Martinis & Makeup Event Featuring Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup May 22 | 5:30-8:30pm Synergy Spa & Aesthetics | 2603 Glenwood Avenue | Raleigh | 919.510.5130 x104 www.feelsynergy.com PNC Downtown Raleigh Movie Series May 23 & 30; June 6, 13, 20, 27 5-10:30pm City Plaza | Fayetteville Street | Raleigh Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony May 26 | 11:30am-12pm North Carolina State Capitol 1 East Edenton Street | Raleigh Cardio Kick Circuit class May 28 | 6-7pm Midtown Park at North Hills | 4011 Cardinal at North Hills Street | Raleigh Hot Summer Nights – Blood Done Sign My Name May 28-June 8 Kennedy Theatre | 2 East South Street Raleigh | www.theatreraleigh.com Cooking Class May 28 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Oak City 7 May 29, June 12 & 26 | 5-10:30pm Raleigh City Plaza | Fayetteville Street Downtown Raleigh | www.raleighcityplaza.com Indoor Dish Garden Workshop May 31 | 1pm www.atlanticavenuegarden.com Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina Benefit Luncheon and Fashion Show June 2 | 11:30am-2pm Country Club of North Carolina lp7611@embarqmail.com | 910.215.8852 Summer Skin Open House June 3 | 12-8pm Synergy Spa & Aesthetics | 2603 Glenwood Avenue | Raleigh | 919.510.5130 x104 www.feelsynergy.com

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Indoor Beach Theme Fairy Garden Workshop June 4 | 10am Registration required www.atlanticavenuegarden.com Pickin’ in the Plaza June 5, 19 | 5-10:30pm Raleigh City Plaza | Fayetteville Street Downtown Raleigh | www.raleighcityplaza.com Ignite Creativity Conference June 6: 9am-5pm, Networking Reception – 5-6pm, First Friday – 6-9pm June 7: 9am-6pm www.visualartexchange.org/ignite Outdoor Beach Theme Fairy Garden Workshop June 7 | 10am Registration required www.atlanticavenuegarden.com Downtown Raleigh Food Truck Rodeo June 8 | 1-4pm Fayetteville Street www.downtownraleighfoodtruckrodeo.com Beatlemania – 1964: The Tribute June 14 | 8pm North Carolina Museum of Art 2110 Blue Ridge Road www.ncartmuseum.org

Fairy Festival June 21 www.atlanticavenuegarden.com The Historic Polk House presents A DOLL CAMP FOR AMERICAN GIRLS – DOLLS GET COOKING June 23-27 The Historic Polk House | 537 N. Blount Street | Raleigh | polkhouse2@bellsouth.net An Intimate Evening With Art Garfunkel June 26 | 8pm Carolina Theatre | www.carolinatheatre.org Normandie Group Trip June 29-July 8 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com

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

South of France Group Trip June 16-25 Saint-Jacques French Cuisine 6112 Falls of Neuse Road | Raleigh www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com Hot Summer Nights – Other Desert Cities June 18-29 Kennedy Theatre 2 East South Street | Raleigh www.theatreraleigh.com

Inaugural Triangle Charity Polo Classic June 8 | 12-6:30pm MacNair’s Country Acres | Raleigh www.trianglecharitypoloclassic.com

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School's

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Out for Summer Sure, I’d be lying if I said it will not be a secret pleasure to forget about that Power School bookmark in Safari for a few months. It will be a joy knowing that if the light in my son’s room is still on at 10:45, it’s not because he’s working on biology questions. But I also know that no good can come from a child who hasn’t picked up a book or done a few math problems over the summer.

By Illyse Lane

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learned that if over the summer, my kids neglect those core academic skills – you know, the oldfashioned areas of reading, writing and arithmetic – it can be much harder for them to get back into the school groove come the fall. Not to mention the frustrations that inevitably surface when they realize if they’d only worked a bit over the summer, the new school year would be just a tad more manageable.

It’s a fact not lost on teachers.

“I think it is vital for kids of all ages to keep working and writing, thinking critically, and not turning off the brain in the summer. Ultimately, it helps the reintroduction into the fall,” says Ann Ashby, a middle school and high school writing teacher at The Trilogy School.

“In my class, we often compare schooling to sports and how if we stop practicing, we become out of shape,” says Elizabeth Rosinksi, a fourth grade teacher at Saint Raphael Catholic School. “The same goes for schooling. If students stop practicing, the skills become out of shape and they end up doing twice the work once they get to school.”

Enter summer, bringing with it a unique gift – the gift of time. “You have the chance to help your kids fill in the gaps before they get a work load that is strenuous, and often, give some level of exposure to the new skills that may be coming. It’s ideal,” says Denise CaballeroMcCann, owner of four local Mathnasium franchises. And a little summer work can go a long way in building not only skills, but also confidence.

Sounds good, right? But how exactly do we get our kids to sit down and do some reading, writing and arithmetic over the summer? And what exactly should we be encouraging them to work on? To get answers, it only made sense to turn to the best resource we as parents have – the teachers themselves.

We gathered a cross section of local educators, spanning from elementary school through high school, and asked them to share their expertise on how to balance summer vacation with summer school work. Consider it our way of giving your kids a boost for the upcoming school year.

You’re welcome.

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL The Approach: They walk into kindergarten barely out of preschool and leave on the cusp of tweendom. When you consider how much development takes place over the elementary school years, it’s no wonder that the experts we spoke with recommended slightly different approaches for summer work.

For the early Debbie Hamrick, a first grade elementary teacher at Saint Raphael Cathostudent: lic School, does think that your

children should do a bit of reading, writing and math practice over the summer. But as you carve out nooks of time to read a book or do some math facts, don’t forget to carve out time for what Hamrick considers to be the most essential activity for reading, writing and math development – free play.

“This is most important, especially for the very young children, such as kindergarten and first grade, ” says Hamrick. “Being outside with friends, getting back to the way it was years ago, that’s what kids need to be doing.”

For the upper “It is important for students in elementary these upper grades to keep up with student: their basic skills over the summer

because of the rigorous curriculum they meet in these higher grades,”

So why exactly is free play so important? Free play forces kids to use their imaginations, a skill that has, believe it or not, been left by the wayside, as kids tend to be quite content playing on their iPads and computers. And although there are positives to using these devices, Hamrick has noticed the drawbacks that can surface due to overuse. “I can ask the children a simple question going into a story, and it can be difficult for them to come up with a good answer, because they just see facts,” says Hamrick. “Free play helps the kids see beyond the facts of the story, and gain life experiences that will help them make connections with the material.” says Rosinksi. However, she also feels that summer work should be about seeking opportunities to incorporate reading, writing and math practice throughout the midtownmag.com| 89

day, without being locked into a specific time. “This way, students won’t be dreading knowing a specific hour will always be dedicated to schooling during vacation. It could be a simple workbook page at breakfast or during a cool down snack time, or practicing multiplication during a car ride,” she says.

And what if your child can’t seem to sit still long enough to focus? Rosinksi recommends thinking out of the box, and using kinesthetic learning techniques. “You can write problems in the sand at the beach, throw a football to practice spelling, go on a scavenger hunt to find words and define them.”

The Skill: Reading

The Skill: Writing

Know This: Regardless of whether or not your child is an independent reader, it’s essential that you keep him reading over the summer. This will help develop fluency and comprehension skills, which also helps with writing.

Know This: These days, especially with the common core curriculum, students as young as kindergarten are being asked “why” when reading a story. Answers will evolve from short sentences to paragraphs and eventually, summaries.

Summer Plan: >> Encourage daily reading. On their own or with you, ten to fifteen minutes a day for the younger elementary child, working up to 30 minutes for the older elementary child. >> Reach out to the teacher for suggestions. “Your child’s teacher may have a packet with information that contains recommended reading lists, websites and word lists to work on,” says Hamrick. >> Help choose the right books. Make visiting the library or local book store a part of your routine. Once there, help your child choose books that are well matched to both his age and reading ability. If your child is not a fan of reading, help search out novels that they may find enjoyable and also encourage reading trade publications. >> Encourage reading aloud. “Practice reading aloud; this will help with fluency,” says Rosinksi. And it doesn’t have to be only books. Consider fun alternatives, such as reading street signs on a car ride.

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Summer Plan: >> Keep a journal. For the younger child, Hamrick recommends the child draw a picture, label it, and then try to write one sentence about it. For example, if you visit the beach, your child may draw a picture of the beach, label the sand and water, and then try to construct a sentence describing the experience. For the older child, journaling is a wonderful way to keep track of new summer experiences and keep writing skills fresh – even if it’s just a few sentences a few times a week. >> Send a postcard. If you travel, encourage your child to send a postcard to family members and friends.

The Skill: Math Know This: Let’s face the math facts. To be strong in math, practice is essential. And when you consider that over the course of the school year, students are expected to learn between 30 and 40 new skills, there’s often very little time to do any practicing.

“For some students, the fast pace can mean that fluency in those foundational areas, beginning with addition, subtraction, division and multiplication, is not strong. And this becomes an issue because math fluency is exactly what’s needed to be successful in math,” says Caballero-McCann.

Summer Plan: >> Understand the fluency ladder.

Caballero-McCann recommends thinking of math as a fluency ladder, with simple addition and subtraction being the first rung, and late middle to high school courses such as Algebra heading toward the top, with the goal being to master the current rung before climbing to the next one. “Thinking of math this way will make sure you don’t push to the harder problems until your child is ready,” says Caballero-McCann. “For example, with younger children, parents worry about the double digits and triple digits, but if students get the fluency at the beginning levels, those harder concepts almost come for ‘free’ later once they move into the higher lessons.” So what does the fluency ladder look like in elementary school?

• Early elementary: Addition and subtraction fluency up to 20. Heads up: look for trouble subtracting a single number from a teen.

This concept can be difficult for kids to grasp, yet as they move up the fluency ladder, every time they borrow, they will be left with this type of problem.

• Mid to upper elementary: Multiplication and division, moving into fractions.

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>> Develop fluency. Some kids respond well to workbook pages and others respond well to drills based on flashcards. But that’s not the only way to develop fluency skills. Out-of-the-box ideas for learning math facts include: • counting games with shells on the beach • using cards to play a game; whatever card you turn over, do multiples • picking a number, a week or a number of the day, and practicing different skills with that number for example, 3 x 3, 9/3 = 3, 1/3 of 9 is? >> Practice Out Loud. It may be easier for some kids to figure out the answers on paper, but practicing aloud gives them a chance to build confidence and make sure they can picture the concepts in their minds.

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middle SCHOOL The Approach: “Long-term planning tends to be hard for middle school students, so making a plan, just like a teacher would, is a good idea,” suggests Jill Scanlin, a math teacher at Saint Raphael Catholic School. “For example, if you have five days, maybe alternate with reading one day, math the next day, whatever works for the family.”

Additionally, middle schools students, who usually thrive on a routine during the school year, can continue to benefit from a routine. “As much as they need a break, they still need a little bit of structure during the day,” says Winnie Reilly, a language arts and math teacher at Saint Raphael Catholic School. “The best time of day for this age is right after they wake up and have breakfast; they are still fresh.” And remember, during work time, all the screens in your house should be off.

The Skill: Language Arts (Reading & Writing) Know This: Once middle school kicks in, reading and writing becomes more intertwined and interdependent, and often, the core skills are taught together in a language arts class. And the experts we spoke with teach with the intention of making sure that as reading levels progress, not only does vocabulary improve, but also a child’s ability to write and think critically – two skills that will be used throughout high school. “We are the building blocks, so when we send them off after 8th grade, it’s important that we have given them the tools,” says Coley Polizzi, a language arts teacher at Saint Raphael Catholic School.

Summer Plan: >> Reading is essential. Kids should spend time reading every day. And while those kids that love to read will willingly carve out time to disappear into the hot new release, you

may have to offer help to spur on a reluctant reader. If your more hesitant reader needs guidance when choosing a book, consider choosing a book that you can enjoy too. “The young adult fiction that is out right now is great. If you read it as your child is reading it, they think it’s really cool, and as a parent, it makes you more involved, because it gives you something to talk about with your child,” says Reilly.

Don’t be distraught if your child doesn’t seem to be taking to reading books. “It’s important for some kids to pick a genre they are comfortable with, even if it’s graphic novels, magazines or the newspaper,” says Polizzi. “You have to find what works. There’s a book out there for everyone, and I have seen so many kids turn into great readers once they found that genre that worked for them.”

>> Expect assigned summer reading. Many schools assign summer reading. It may be an assigned book that will be reviewed come the new school year, a book of the child’s own choosing, or a combination of both, so follow up with your child to make sure he knows what’s expected. If you happen to be at a school that doesn’t assign summer reading, your child’s teacher can be a great resource for suggestions on age appropriate reading materials. Still need help? Check in with the library or local bookstore. >> Consider camps that build reading and writing skills.

For the new middle school student or more reluctant reader, camps that offer a combination of reading, writing and study skills can be a real benefit.

“Sometimes, it’s easier when the kids are reading with somebody who can help explain the book, especially if it’s a hard book,” says Polizzi, who, during the summer, runs these types of camps at Saint Raphael Catholic School. “It makes a difference when you’re reading with other people, discussing the book together, generating ideas and thoughts and then you’re able to write about them and articulate them. It’s so much different than speed reading through a book.”

Additionally, kids in middle school need to learn how to actively read for information, which also means learning how to mark up books. “Learning this skill now helps ensure that students learn how to read a book without having to reread it for the test,” says Polizzi. >> Write! “Kids of all ages are asked to jump back into school and be able to effectively complete written homework and essays with strong written communication skills,” says Ashby. And considering how much time middle school students spend on social media using slang and abbreviations, using the summer to practice grammatically-correct writing is a smart idea.

Postcards, journaling and essay contests are all suggested ways to get writing practice. “Even a letter to your favorite restaurant, telling them about your last meal,” suggests Reilly.

You never know.

It could result in a gift card!

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The Skill: Math Know This: Kids are continuing to climb up that math fluency ladder, and in middle school, decimals, fractions and percents enter the curriculum. “Middle school math is all about proportions and ratios,” says Caballero-McCann. “Fluency is about different names for different numbers in different forms, and converting them back and forth.”

Summer Plan: >> Practice, practice, practice. Even though math ramps up in middle school, most schools don’t assign summer math.

Fortunately, most math teachers are ready, willing and able to help your child figure out what they need to work on over the summer. “Our summer math work is not required, but we do give students a workbook specific to the course they have already finished and the course where they will be placed the next year,” says Scanlin. If your child’s teacher doesn’t recommend a particular workbook, Scanlin suggests checking in with The Teach Me store. “They have had experience dealing with all the local schools. If you tell them this is the class that was just finished, and this is what my child will be taking, they can make recommendations. They are experts,” says Scanlin. >> The workbook strategy. For workbooks to be effective, both Scanlin and Reilly feel it is essential for parents to stay involved.

They recommend the following strategies to help your child get the most out of the workbook: • First, look at the workbook. Figure out how many pages, know when your family is on vacation, and figure out how much can be done.

• Often, a workbook section has a pretest. If your child take the pretest and does well, they can skip those practice pages.

• Tear out the answer key for the summary tests and place it in a safe place.

• Then, check your child’s work to make sure they are getting the concepts. >> Tutoring can be helpful for all students. “I tell parents that middle school is the time to be truly courageous with math,” says Caballero-McCann. “Kids spend all this time chasing grades, but in the summer, you can make a plan just for your child, geared to make them as fluent as possible.”

Students that are strong in math can use the summer to solidify skills and get a glimpse into what’s coming before the school routine kicks in. “And students that need a little extra because they may not be strong in math or may have missed class due to sickness can use the time to catch up and build fluency for the new year,” says Scanlin.

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HIGh SCHOOL The Approach: For high school students, summer is about finding balance. Most students will juggle summer jobs, camps, practices and an active social life with schoolwork, as many classes give summer assignments. Stay involved, but let your child take the lead with their schedule, setting goals and establishing a plan. And even though college is just around the corner, know your teenager needs to refresh over the summer.

“I think summer is the time to pursue your passions. For some students, that may be mathematics or mathematically-related subjects,” says Joan Troy, a math teacher at Cardinal Gibbons High School who has also served as the math department chair.

“But there should also be time for arts, or sports, or whatever inspires a high school student.”

The Skill: Reading Know This: “Even if your child dislikes reading, it’s important to challenge him or her to read over the summer,” says Robert Belknap, who teaches AP Literature at Saint Mary’s School. “Through high school reading, students will cognitively grasp more concepts and better understand how to read between the lines and make inferences, skills that also help in the real world. Additionally, when they read, they will see varied vocabulary and sentence style, allusions, and wonderful ironies. ” Not to mention developing skills that can help with those pesky little tests – you know, the SAT, ACT and for some, AP exams.

Summer Plan: >> Expect summer reading. While many classes assign summer reading, it will be a given for an AP class. Try to connect students who do not like to read with books or other reading materials that reflect their passion. >> Understanding the AP Class. “The AP class is a different kind of beast, and you really need to read books of recognized literary merit over the summer,” says Belknap. However, it’s important that your child realizes that the books he reads may not be reviewed in class, which can make a student wonder why he is reading it. Belknap has the answer. “During the essay portion of the AP exam, there is an open question that asks students to draw on their own personal knowledge to discuss a topic,” explains Belknap. “Students that have a better private library with more books on their mental book shelf will be better prepared, and the better the essay will be.” >> Choosing books wisely. Belknap recommends talking with the teacher before choosing your summer reading. “Sometimes, students may be under the impression that a certain book, especially a thin book, may be easy,” says Belknap. “But if they sit down without any guidance, they can be unprepared.

Sometimes, even a very capable reader may need a bit of a runway to take off from.”

For example, The Sun Also Rises contains what Belknap refers to as talking between the lines, with much of what is unsaid actually being what is important. “A student that is not prepared will read it and not detect that,” explains Belknap. “And then the student has spent all that time reading and not getting anything out of it.” A little guidance can go a long way in setting a student up for success. midtownmag.com | 95

The Skill: Writing Know This: “High school students are expected to be able to produce analytical, cohesive pieces of writing when they arrive the first day of school,” says Ashby. Not only do they write essays in most classes, but they have to think about college applications, personal essays, cover letters for resumes, and be able to articulate their ideas effectively.”

Summer Plan: >> Practice. “Since the way a student writes conveys both intelligence and maturity, it’s worth making sure your child is working to the best of his or her ability.

Practicing over the summer is a simple way to stay fresh,” says Ashby. Since the idea of a traditional journal can feel out dated for some students, Ashby recommends blogging as a way to continue to write while staying connected. >> Reach out to resources. Have your child ask about what will be expected in the new school year and work on it over the summer. Additionally, if he will be applying to college, look into writing groups that focus on application essays.

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The Skill: Math Know This: At this point, most students are looking at four years of algebra-based courses – think foils and factors and graphs. “A student need to be thinking, ‘I am going to use this every school year.’

So understanding Algebra 1 is like mastering your multiplication tables,” says Caballero-McCann.

“Incorporating some elements of math into a busy summer schedule may be challenging given all of the many activities that are available, but just a small investment of time can go a long way to starting the new school year both focused and prepared,” says Troy.

Summer Plan: >> Be proactive with teachers. “It is important for students to know the expectations as they progress into higher levels of math,” says Troy. If summer math work is not assigned, many teachers will guide students in creating a plan for summer study. >> How much time? It may depend on whether or not the summer is beginning or ending. During the beginning of the break, it may be 15 minutes a day, three days a week. “I think of a plan like this as mental sprints that can keep math skills in condition, even for a student with exceptional talent,” suggests Troy.

However, as school approaches, Troy recommends about 30 minutes each day.

>> Approach summer as skill strengthening. “Summer is a great time to strengthen skills that will be used in the student’s next course. Because there are so many opportunities available, teachers are an excellent resource to help students and parents choose the best options for an individual student,” says Troy.

Ideas for skill strengthening include summer math camps that can be offered in conjunction with science, technology and engineering; video instructions; an SAT question of the day and logic puzzles to enhance problem-solving skills and mental dexterity. >> When in doubt, get extra help. The benefit in having a tutor is getting a plan based on your child’s personal needs, which can help build confidence and skills heading into the new school year. Online assessments can also be helpful in identifying needs and designing a plan for practice. >> What about standardized tests? “I have found that for a child who is very fluent with all their skills, there’s not a test they can’t master,” says Caballero-McCann. “If your child can successfully get through the fluency ladder, they will learn better, comprehend better, and they will be successful at any test.

However, even with strong math fluency, it’s a good idea for students to get some SAT and ACT practice before exam day.

Prep course are often offered at schools and private centers, and taking a prep course close to the test date can be very beneficial for students, building both their confidence and comfort level.

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or fresh flavors that sparkle, functional and decorative home accessories, and clothing, jewelry and men’s furnishings with singular style, Triangle residents need not look far. Here are 10 of our favorite locally made items.

The Shizzle Jerk Marinade The Jamaican-inspired infusion of pineapple, habanero peppers, garlic, herbs and spices is made in small batches right here in Raleigh. Offered in Original Recipe and Voodoo Hot for the gastronomically adventurous, The Shizzle is available online and can be found in an expanding number of outlets throughout the country.

Locals can (and should!) look for The Shizzle in Whole Foods, The Fresh Market and additional retailers with gourmet offerings. >> theshizzlesauce.com

Nello’s Sauce The finest vine-ripened tomatoes and cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil are key to the exceptional flavor of Nello’s premium tomato sauces. Just as important is what’s left out. You won’t find added sugar, high-fructose corn syrup or MSG in any of Nello’s three tantalizing sauces, and, unlike many store brands, Nello’s adds just enough salt for balanced flavor. Gluten-free, cholesterol-free and vegan, Nello’s comes in the following flavor varieties: Southern-Crafted Premium Marinara, Piedmont Pomodoro Sauce, and Hot Pepper Pasta Sauce. Based in Raleigh, with production in Hillsborough, Nello’s is now available throughout the Southeast and can be ordered online. >> nellositaly.com

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Escazu Artisan Chocolates

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From roasting and grinding beans to producing the poured bars and delectable, handcrafted truffles and chocolate confections, Escazu is a true “bean to bar” chocolate maker. From its workshop and storefront at 936 North Blount Street, Escazu delights locals and visitors with bar varieties including Chipotle Chili and Vanilla, Sea Salt, and a creamy Goat’s Milk, among others. Orders may also be placed online. >>escazuchocolates.com

Ever So Lovely Lose yourself in the sparkling depth of an Ever So Lovely ring or pair of earrings. Many of these designs are simple little pops of color, while others are like miniature galaxies or slices of a brilliant night sky. Brandi Bowen, founder and designer, launched Ever So Lovely in 2007 as a vehicle for pursuing her own love of design. In addition to studio space at 311 West Martin Street, Ever So Lovely has evolved into a community and social media powerhouse. Bowen supports and promotes artists and designers from all over the world and blogs about the inspiration she draws from nature, vintage treasures, and from fans, friends and followers affectionately known as “lovelies.” In addition to earrings and rings, Ever So Lovely offers necklaces, bracelets and hand-painted silk scarves, all made in Raleigh. >>shopeversolovely.com 100 | midtownmag.com

Humdinger Juice Raleigh siblings Colin Fickes and Mary Holt Collins make their Humdinger juices using all organic, glutenfree, vegan, raw and kosher ingredients. With names like Balance, Glow, Lift, Calm, Charge and Zinger, Humdinger juices come with the simple instructions to refrigerate, shake and enjoy. Anyone interested in the healthful benefits of these cold-pressed juices can order for delivery or pick-up, or visit the handful of select local retailers that carry them. >>humdingerjuice.com

Studio Cicada Emerge from the ordinary with the bestselling Cicada phone case, designed and made in Glenwood South and sold by the thousands on etsy.

In addition to phone and tablet cases, Studio Cicada produces stylish stud earrings, cuff bracelets and home dÊcor items. With most pieces priced at less than $20, it’s easy to indulge in the playful designs, many of which can be monogrammed or customized to reflect your loyalty to a school or the state you love best. Dog lovers can even order earrings featuring their favorite breed, silhouetted against the color you choose. >> studiocicada.com midtownmag.com | 101

Christine Jones Jewelry In 2006, Christine Jones became a third-generation jewelry designer. Her creations are carried by boutiques scattered around the state, including Elaine Miller Collection in North Hills, and her Pearlies for Girlies line of hand-knotted freshwater pearls featuring colorful Swarovski crystals can be found at Bailey’s Fine Jewelry. Jones is perhaps best known for statement pieces: necklaces, rings and earrings that are truly memorable. Jones also enjoys working collaboratively with clients to create custom pieces as unique as the wearer, often incorporating elements of existing pieces with sentimental value. >> christinejonesjewelry.com

High Cotton Ties Picture yourself in a natty polo shirt sewn in North Carolina from 100 percent North Carolina-grown cotton. It simply doesn’t get any more local than that. For more formal occasions, High Cotton has you covered with locally cut and sewn bow ties, neckties, cummerbunds and pocket squares, each deftly crafted from the same cotton. As if the availability of these items in gingham, seersucker and Tattersall weren’t enticing enough, High Cotton comes with a fetching backstory. Read it for yourself as you place an online order, or visit them in person at 19 West Hargett Street or at any of the more than 200 clothiers throughout the Southeast that carry the line. >> highcottonties.com

White Oak Pottery Julie Olson is an award-winning potter, mixed-media artist and bookmaker whose handiworks find their way into homes near and far through her online etsy store. In her Durham studio, which also features a gallery and classroom space, Julie crafts functional and decorative pottery, including the Japanese pottery style raku. Olson’s work is influenced by spiritual and ritual themes. “In honing my skills as a craftsman,” she says, “I strive to make order out of chaos, explorers out of spectators, and to create appreciation through understanding.” >> whiteoakartworks.com

Lumina Clothing From Oxford, poplin and twill button-down shirts to denim jeans, twill trousers and neckwear, Lumina Clothing offers exclusively American-made clothing and accessories for the discerning man. Lumina’s Banks Sweater, named in homage to the Outer Banks, is made in Durham from North Carolina cotton, and the versatile market tote is made from Parrot Canvas just down the road in Greenville.

With a quick visit to the flagship store at 123 East Martin Street, you can score a few comfortable, stylish foundation pieces and support cotton growers, mill workers and craftsmen from our state. Online ordering is also available. >> luminaclothing.com 102 | midtownmag.com

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beautiful outdoor living space is a natural complement to the North Carolina lifestyle. These outdoor items will add that extra element to ensure countless sun-soaked days and moonlit evenings.

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1. Inspirations Home Decor & More/$215 >Garden Statue

2. Form & Function/$30

>Recycled Bottle Tealight Holders

3. Oxford Green/49.99(sm) 99.99(lg)

>Garden Owl Sculptures

4. Hunt & Gather, Glenwood Ave./$225

>Wire Plant Stand

5. Affordable Chic Shops/$195 >Wood Seated Bench

6. Revival Antiques/$185/pair / $16/ea

>Vintage Metal Chairs / Sunflower Pillow

7. Ten Thousand Villages/$145 >Ceramic Birdbath

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adolescent

weight loss

aggression

extreme

health

By Jenni hart

transition

disappointment

y

n

hances are you have been touched by the story

of a young person dealing with a serious illness.

Seeing an entire community rally to support a

family whose child has been diagnosed with cancer, kidney disease or other potentially devastating illness can be incredibly heartwarming. It’s important to remember that families whose children experience mental health challenges are also deserving of compassion, understanding and support. Increasing mental health awareness is the first step in supporting these young people and their families. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a perfect time to focus on the unique challenges faced by adolescents.

Nearly a quarter of those diagnosed with a mental illness experience severe distress or impairment as a result. In addition, suicide is the third leading cause of death for those aged 15 to 24, and mental illness is present in nearly 90 percent of teens who die by suicide.

While these statistics are sobering, there are encouraging developments in child and adolescent psychiatry that offer hope to teens and their families. Research in neuroscience has progressed in the last few decades, and what we now know about the brain and its development has led to greater understanding and more refined diagnoses of mental illness, as well as more comprehensive and effective treatment options.

Anne-Marie Turnier, MD, is board certified in general psychiatry

According to a 2010 report published by the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), the following statistics reflect the prevalence of mental health disorders among youth ages 13 to 19:

14.3%

31.9%

met criteria for mood disorders, including: 11.7% with depression 2.9% with bipolar disorder

met criteria for anxiety disorders

19.6%

11.4%

met criteria for behavior disorders

met criteria for substance use disorders

midtownmag.com | 107

Signs Your Teen May Need Help: Excessive sleeping or any change in sleep habits.

Change in eating habits, including weight loss that can signal an eating disorder.

Decline in academic performance.

Change in peer group or school group.

General lack of interest in activities once enjoyed.

Excessive isolation or secrecy.

Aggression or extreme moodiness, beyond what is typical for teens.

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and child and adolescent psychiatry.

She completed her residency and fellowship in 2004, and in the decade since, she’s seen a dramatic shift in the way professionals approach mental health disorders. “It used to be that childhood and adolescence was seen as a carefree, happy time,” she says.

“No one believed that young people experienced anxiety and depression.

We now know otherwise.”

Turnier, whose practice is in Apex, says that imaging technology shows that the prefrontal cortex doesn’t fully mature until about age 25. This region of the brain is responsible for activities like organization, planning, impulse control and the ability to assess potential longterm consequences when making decisions. So while adults consider jumping off a third-story balcony into a swimming pool a terrible idea, to a teenager, the temptation can be hard to resist. Add an audience of like-minded teenagers and a video camera, and you have the makings of a potential disaster.

Along with risk-taking and attentionseeking behaviors, adolescents are also vulnerable to anxiety, depression and substance abuse. “We don’t appreciate how complicated adolescence is,” Turnier says. “We have to remind ourselves that we’re asking kids to perform an incredible array of tasks at exactly the time the brain is taking in a lot of new information and responding to the raw emotions that come with hormones. It’s understandable that confusion and stress accompany these changes.”

The Mind-Body Connection Increasingly, health professionals are seeing physical health and mental health as inextricably linked. Turnier is encouraged by the shift. “Mental illness used to be thought of as a separate issue, but the brain works in conjunction with the body; you can’t treat mental health disorders without looking at the overall health of the individual,” she says. She points to the connection between sleep disorders and focus, the role of inflammation in cogni-

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tive functioning, and recent research indicating a brain-gut connection, where probiotics have been shown to benefit brain activity. “Not only are we introducing promising new treatment options to patients, we are also presenting information that makes mental illness less stigmatizing,” she says.

Protective Factors The adolescent brain is a work in progress, and because there is still growth and development ahead, there are opportunities to improve teenagers’ resilience and well-being. Turnier says parents can begin building protective factors the moment a child is born.

By creating a safe, loving, supportive environment, parents lay a foundation that greatly influences a child’s future mental health. In addition, a family where relationships are based on honesty and mutual respect helps build healthy self-esteem and better equips the adolescent to navigate social interactions and resist negative peer influence.

Other protective factors include: • School connectedness.

Participating in band, chorus, theater, athletics and clubs provides a sense of belonging to a community.

• Support from peers and adults outside the immediate family.

• Physical activity. Exercise enhances focus, builds self esteem, helps regulate cortisol (the stress hormone), and produces feel-good endorphins.

• Age-appropriate responsibilities.

Completing chores brings a sense of accomplishment.

• Increasing degrees of freedom.

Adolescents need opportunities to experience independence and demonstrate good judgment while still receiving appropriate parental guidance.

Helping adolescents learn to manage stress makes them about half as likely to develop depression, so it’s important to teach them coping skills and to seek counseling when necessary. Turnier says we’re getting better at detecting early signs of anxiety and depression, which is crucial for effective treatment.

“Schools are on board, and students are being educated on how to recognize midtownmag.com | 109

feelings that are troubling to them. They need to know there are adults they can talk to who are trained to help them,” she says.

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Internet and Social Media The Internet and social media can be useful tools and a means of connecting with others who share an adolescent’s particular interests. Turnier cautions, however, that parents need to be aware of their children’s online and social media activity. “With an adolescent’s reliance on the amygdala region of the brain, their focus is on the here and now,” she says.

“The ability to effectively predict consequences hasn’t fully developed, so inappropriate photos are taken and shared, hurtful or embarrassing comments are made – the results can be quite damaging.” She recommends parents ask for all passwords and regularly monitor teens who are new to social media. Using a graduated approach, allow them more freedom as they demonstrate good judgment and restraint. Parents should be aware that the threat of strangers contacting teens online is just one of many potential concerns. Social media sites are rife with unhealthy messages about alcohol and drug use, as well as images that glamorize self-harming behaviors and eating disorders.

A Hopeful Time Despite all that can go wrong in adolescence, parents can be assured that a great majority of teens emerge healthy and well adjusted. Turnier describes the process as a metamorphosis, with the peak time of vulnerability being the middle school and early high school years.

“By the time a kid is a junior or senior in high school, you begin to see evidence that their decision-making and planning skills are becoming more refined, they’re starting to know themselves better and are more comfortable making decisions that are right for them versus caring quite so much what their peers are doing,” she says. “It’s really a beautiful thing, seeing how resilient they can be.” Parents who want more information can go to www.findyouthinfo.gov, www.AACAP.org (includes info on medications and help finding a provider), and www.NIMH.NIH.gov.

Also, www.reachout.com is a website specifically designed for teens and includes support via text – meeting teens where they connect most.

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(Shorts)

inStyle

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Colorful.

Long.

Short.

Dressy.

Comfortable.

Shop our local boutiques and find your favorite shorts for daytime duty or nighttime fun! midtownmag.com | 111

(Shorts)

inStyle

2

3

4

5

back

6

112 | midtownmag.com

1. Trina Turk Monkee’s of Raleigh/$198 2. alice + olivia

dress/$65 3. kensie

Scout & Molly’s/$65 4. San Joy Inspirations Home Decor & more/$31.95 5. Barbara Lesser Lori+Lulu/$94 6. Quicksilver

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CoolSweats/$70 8. JAGJEANS

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Whalebone Urban Surf/$59.50

7

8

)Men’s)

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YOU & YOUR

MONEY

BY CHRISTA GALA

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A

h, money. We wish we had more of it, we spend too much of it, and it’s why most of us work (if we’re honest about it).

Of course, (and this is a wet blanket alert), most of it’s already spent. In fact, when you factor in housing, transportation, food, insurance and health care, the average American has just 19 percent left of his or her annual income, according to the 2012 Expenditure Survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Of that, we spend five percent on entertainment, three percent on apparel and services, four percent on “cash” and seven percent on “other.”

What’s your “other?”

This is where it gets interesting. We all have what marketers like to call our “currency” – items we deem worthy enough on which to spend money. It’s different for every person. We all see value through a different lens, it seems.

Many will invest their “other” in retirement or savings. Others live for today. Psychologists say we often spend how our parents spent.

But what about the small things? What small things do you spend money on? Maybe it’s a daily lunch out or a gourmet coffee every morning. Maybe you pamper your pet or buy your kid the latest styles because you didn’t have that growing up. A lot of our choices are psychological.

The things that delight us And then there’s plain and simple preference.

I’ll give you an example: I don’t care what kind of car I drive.

My car is 13 years old, and it fits me, my kid and my giant dog (and my husband when he reluctantly rides in it). It gets me where I need to go, and that’s cool. My favorite thing about my car is that it’s paid for.

Even when I see a brand-new car, I’m not enticed. You can keep your monthly payment; all that new-fangled gadgetry is going to become old hat in a month, but your payment is for 36 or 60 months. My sister, on the other hand, loves her car more than she loves me. She washes it and parks it 400 miles away from the nearest entrance. It’s insane.

Of course, I have my own insanity. Sheets and towels? I stroke them in the department stores and spend ridiculous amounts of money on them. My sister laughs at me – driving away in her beautiful convertible. Sports events? Find me the cheapest seat.

A comedian? Let’s splurge. You only live once.

What if you gave it away?

Psychology professor Elizabeth Dunn and Harvard business professor Michael Norton co-authored Happy Money: the Science of Smarter Spending.

Surprisingly, they found the key to happiness might be giving away a lot of our money.

Say what?

It’s true. The two found the sharing effect holds up in more than 100 cultures around the world. Even toddlers found more joy sharing Goldfish crackers with a puppet than keeping them for themselves.

Really gives you something to think about.

midtownmag.com | 115

What do you spend money on?

Kathleen Laughlin, of Cary, mom to two grown daughters, spends her dough on books and bike stuff. What she can’t stand paying for? Utilities.

Jodie Lehman of Garner, also a mom of two, saves for the extras. “Vacations and trips are a priority after bills are paid.

I plan opportunities to go places and make memories with the kids.

I want my kids to have more memories and not as much stuff.”

Apex resident Julie Davis thinks of the future when she has a little extra cash. “I’m super thrifty. Using our money to stay debt-free (other than our mortgage) and planning for retirement is what's important to me.

Inexpensive vacations and eating out with coupons with an occasional splurge is how we roll. You can do more by living like this.”

116 | midtownmag.com

Tips to curtail spending There’s a reason we can’t get out of the grocery store for under a hundred bucks or why we go to buy a pair of shoes and come home with pants, a blazer, make-up and three shirts.

It’s called impulse buying. The longer you’re in a store, the more likely you are to make an impulse purchase, according to financialhighway.com.

Combat impulse purchases: • Be focused; buy what you need and head home.

• Separate needs from wants.

• Shop alone.

• Eat before going shopping.

This might not sound like much fun, but it’s worth a shot if you’re trying to stick to a budget (maybe to save for something you really want).

Other tips Trying to “spend smart”? Dunn and Norton recommend: • Buying experiences as opposed to material possessions.

• Treating yourself occasionally instead of indulging every day; you’ll appreciate it more.

• Buying time. Pay for services like housecleaning or lawn mowing that will save you time to do things you enjoy.

• Resisting the urge to put it on your credit card. Pay for it now; when you have the experience, you’ll get a little thrill that it’s already paid for.

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104

and still a busy door

Person Street Pharmacy brings the nostalgia

By K a t e T u r g e o n Wa t so n

I

t’s a rainy April afternoon when “Midtown” stops into Person Street Pharmacy. Two older gentlemen, sitting at different tables near the front door, discuss acreage, sheds, deer and taxes.

In a corner near a wall of neatly-arranged greeting cards, a mother wipes her young son’s mouth with a napkin. He’s enjoying what’s probably a post-school milkshake. She leans in close to him, and lowers her ear to his face so she doesn’t miss a word of what he has to say.

The men arrive at the topic of cigarettes, recalling when they cost 50 cents. “We’d smoke ‘em down at the creek,” one man says to other as they both nod. The second man brings up the Fonz from Happy Days. Did he smoke cigarettes, they wonder aloud. Whatever the answer is, neither can recall. They seem to shrug it off as a mystery.

118 | midtownmag.com

The floor inside Person Street Pharmacy is blue and white, and arranged in a checkered pattern. There are ten round tables with matching, floral-pattern tablecloths.

An old-fashioned popcorn machine stands near a table of used books, some marked for less than a dollar. The popcorn costs 10 cents, and a little blue sticky note warns customers that the machine only accepts dimes.

Toward the back of the store is a pharmacist at work. He wears a white coat and can see out to the patrons – those filling prescriptions, those eating at the counter and those shopping for odds and ends such as powder, ibuprofen or walking canes.

Sure, it’s a day in 2014. But there have probably been many similar days throughout the 104-year history of Person Street Pharmacy – days filled with people conversing, mothers doting on children and a pharmacist at work.

“Our personal service is not going the way of the big box stores,” owner Mike James says. “Walk into our pharmacy any day of the week and you will see all the same faces … our customers like dealing with someone they know and trust. We wait on them; they don’t wait on us.”

Behind the lunch counter, or grill as some call it, is a woman with almost-auburn hair arranged in a bun on top of her head. She’s wearing jeans and a Person Street Pharmacy t-shirt, and can make a homemade milkshake (with malt for an extra 45 cents) within minutes. Want a cherry smash, instead, served on top of pellet ice in a Styrofoam cup? Sure thing.

It’s long past lunch during “Midtown’s” visit, but a snack distributor replenishing and rearranging bags of chips, pretzels, seeds, beef jerky and peanuts clues us in on the favorites: yes, there’s the hot dog, which is popular on Wednesdays because patrons can order two for 99 cents. But, the contractor insists, the bacon, lettuce and tomato (BLT) sandwich is his favorite.

Other reasons to stop by the fountain and grill: chicken salad, pimento cheese, turkey sandwich, patty melt and chili cheese fries. In addition to the milkshakes, Person Street Pharmacy has what it calls fresh-squeezed fruit drinks such as limeade, orangeade and lemonade.

The pharmacy has in-store charge accounts, free delivery and over-thecounter products, says Raleigh resident Debbie Valentine. “New customers come in all the time from downtown and beyond … they’ve heard about the personal service … and yearn for a simpler time,” she says.

did you know?

Person Street Pharmacy Trivia 1. The business has moved four times during its 104-year history, but each location has been within a half block.

2. It was started in 1910 by Oakwood resident Thomas Leavister.

3. Mike and Barbara James purchased Person Street Pharmacy in 1976.

4. In the 1920s and ‘30s, Person Street Pharmacy was the only off-campus location that the Peace College students were allowed to visit. midtownmag.com | 119

midtowndowntown

Downtown Raleigh Movie Series Dates: Every Friday between May 23rd and June 27th Time: 5pm until 10:30pm Where: The 400 block of Fayetteville Street For more info: godowntownraleigh. com/event/pncdowntown-raleighmovie-series

The Big Screen New summer movie series comes to City Plaza

F

By Kate Turgeon Watson

ridays bring a new dimension to Raleigh’s nightlife in late May with the beginning of the downtown summer movies series at City Plaza.

Sponsored by PNC and organized by the Downtown Raleigh Alliance, the event will feature live music, food trucks and cold beer, according to Lacie Lindstaedt, communications director for the DRA. The series is hitting the downtown scene on May 23rd, a time when summer starts to strut its stuff, but doesn’t come on so strong that it’s uncomfortable to sit outside.

This year’s theme is movies made in the Tar Heel state. Here’s a look at five of the six films and where they were filmed:

Bull Durham Who can forget this 1988 flick that gave the Durham Bulls baseball team a nationally-recognized brand and America 120 | midtownmag.com

a beloved movie? Starring Kevin Costner and Susan Sarandon, this romantic comedy/sports movie tells the story of a baseball groupie and the two minor league teammates she’s torn between. Named by Sports Illustrated magazine as the best sports movie of all time, Bull Durham was filmed in Durham, North Carolina. >Look for these NC spots: The historic Durham Athletic Park in old, North Durham (home to the Bulls from the 1920s through the 1990s); the Durham mansion on Mangum Street where Sarandon’s character Annie lived; and when the team leaves for a road trip, look for the iconic white water tower (without the Lucky Strike logo) in the background.

Talladega Nights This 2006 comedy stars Will Ferrell, who plays NASCAR driver Ricky Bobby.

Along with various Saturday Night Live cast members, real NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt, Jr., who was born in Kannapolis, NC, makes an appearance in the movie. >Look for these NC spots: Charlotte Motor Speedway in Concord and the North Carolina Speedway in Rockingham.

Dirty Dancing Starring Jennifer Grey and Patrick Swayze, this 1987 movie was set in the 1960s. And while the story line is set in New York’s Catskill Mountains, the cameras rolled in several picturesque North Carolina locations. And nearly 30 years since the movie’s release, guides in Lake Lure still offer pontoon boat tours of where movie scenes were shot. >Look for these NC spots: the blue waters of Lake Lure and the footbridge and foundations of camp buildings (which were used in exterior shots) in Lake Lure.

DID YOU

KNOW

Hunger Games This 2012 blockbuster film starring Jennifer Lawrence, Liam Hemsworth and Josh Hutcherson was shot in several North Carolina cities and towns.

Capitol city scenes were shot in Charlotte and Concord. >Look for these NC spots: an abandoned mill village in Hildebran; DuPont State Recreational Forest (think: waterfalls and hiking paths) near Brevard; a warehouse hub in Shelby; and character Peeta’s bakery, a real building on Henry River Road in Burke County.

Iron Man 3 With one of the highest domestic openings of all time, Iron Man 3 starred Robert Downey, Jr. and Gwyneth Paltrow. While it caused a super boxoffice frenzy, its filming created much excitement (and revenue) in North Carolina. During the summer of 2012, people hoping for a glimpse of Hollywood magic waited at Cary locations such as SAS Institute and the Epic Games office building on Crossroads Boulevard. >Look for these NC spots: Wilmington International Airport and the skies above Oak Island.

More than 800 featureS have been made in North Carolina since 1980. That’s an average of more than 20 per year! Source: visitnc.com midtownmag.com| 121

first women

National Women’s

Health Week is May

11th through 17th.

Let May be the month

w

you vow to take care of yourself first.

By Page Leggett

Women typically take care of everyone else. Then, if there’s time, we think about ourselves. Even women who don’t have children are typically caregivers – for family, friends and coworkers.

But in honor of National Women’s Health Week in May, Duke Raleigh Hospital staff and administration are suggesting women take time to think about their own health. After all, we can’t take care of others in our lives if we haven’t first taken care of ourselves.

What we always hear before taking off on an airplane is true: “Put your oxygen mask on first.”

Women’s health is often equated with breast and gynecological health. Those are essential, but there’s more to consider. Good bone health is crucial for women, and – for many of us – that doesn’t become a primary concern until our bone health has deteriorated.

William Lestini, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon with

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Triangle Spine and Back Care Center, says the time to think about bone health is when we’re very young.

Until the age of 30, he says, our bodies are practically bone-making factories. “Until we’re 30, our bodies are laying down new bones at a steady rate,” he says.

“After 30, more bone is being taken away than is being produced.”

He invokes a vivid visual to describe the process.

“You’ve got Pac-Man-like osteoclast cells nibbling away at bone, while you have osteoblast cells coming in behind and adding new bone.”

The other silent disease

The best way to prevent too much bone being eaten away is to start out with as much as possible. Losing too much bone, as we know, leads to osteoporosis – the condition characterized by a hunched-over appearance

and propensity to break bones. “Osteoporosis literally means porous bone,” Dr. Lestini explains. “Quality-wise, your bones are still okay. It’s that you have less of them.”

It’s a condition that’s much more common than it ought to be. More than half – 55 percent – of Americans over age 50 have osteoporosis. Of those, fully 80 percent are women.

And the condition sneaks up on you. “It’s really a silent disease,” says Dr. Lestini. “It’s like hypertension. You don’t realize you’re getting it.”

Women need to begin getting regular bone density screenings at around age 65. Get them younger than that, Dr. Lestini advises, if you have a family history of osteoporosis, have significant risk factors for getting osteoporosis, notice your height diminishing when you’re measured at your annual physical or notice a humpback appearance.

Osteoporosis can’t be reversed, Dr. Lestini says. “But we can try to halt the train derailment,” he says.

There are two types of osteoporosis. Primary Type 1 is the equivalent of postmenopausal osteoporosis. Primary type 2 is also (and unfortunately) known as “senile” osteoporosis and occurs after age 75 in both men and women.

Secondary osteoporosis can occur at any age, and in women and men equally. As the name implies, it occurs as a secondary condition to a medical condition or disease, or prolonged steroid use.

Fortunately, there are ways to lessen your chances of succumbing to osteoporosis. And they’re the same ways you’ve probably been hearing about all your life: Vitamin D and calcium. Weight-bearing exercise. Sunshine. (And while protecting your skin with sunscreen is important, some unprotected sun exposure – 15 to 30 minutes a day for most people – is the most effective way to get Vitamin D.)

Getting adequate Vitamin D and calcium are helpful preventive measures, but Dr. Lestini says, “There is a significant portion of the population that does need to be treated surgically after having a fracture or fractures that cannot be treated conservatively – with minimally invasive techniques done in an outpatient setting.” The fractures are often painful, and surgical intervention is the best option to alleviate that pain.

Surgical treatments such as vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty (minimally invasive outpatient procedures where bone cement is injected into the vertebrae that have cracked or broken) may relieve pain from spinal compression fractures resulting from osteoporosis. Both are highly effective and come with low complication rates.

Gynecological cancers

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecological cancer in the United States. Fortunately, it’s also rare. (It makes up just three percent of gynecological cancers.) The reason?

“There’s no screening test for it,” says Paula S. Lee, MD, a gynecologist with Duke Raleigh’s Cancer Center who specializes in ovarian and other female cancers. “And the symptoms are very non-specific.”

Ovarian cancer is stealthy. Its sneaky symptoms include constipation, urinary changes (in frequency or bladder pressure), abdominal pain, and abdominal swelling or midtownmag.com | 123

distention. Of course, these could be symptoms of effective. “Pap smears are able to pick up a pre-cancerous many conditions. state,” says Dr. Lee. So women who get regular Pap tests are

“By the time any symptoms of ovarian cancer are present, able to actually prevent cancer from developing. The old school advanced cancer is already usually present,” says Dr. Lee. “And of thought was to begin getting Pap smears when you become the prognosis is generally poor.” sexually active. The new guiding wisdom is to begin at 21. The

Endometrial, or uterine, cancer is the reason? There were a lot of false most common female cancer. It occurs positives being picked up in the mostly in women who have gone through screening, and younger women were menopause. “When a woman who’s already being over-treated, says Dr. Lee. gone through menopause has vaginal If a Pap smear comes back negative, bleeding, she knows pretty quickly there’s a doctors say you can go three years problem,” Dr. Lee says. That’s why women between screening tests. But Dr. Lee are likely to get to their doctors – and get emphasizes that does not mean you treated – right away. should go three years between visits

Obesity – a risk factor for many diseases to the gynecologist. “Women need a – is also a risk factor for uterine cancer. pelvic exam every year,” she says.

“Fatty tissue gets converted to estrogen A successful advertising and stimulates the uterine lining,” Dr. Lee campaign has led to increased explains. “Obese women with irregular awareness of cervical cancer and Good sources of Vitamin D include vaginal bleeding should not wait for their its link to the HPV virus. Dr. Lee sunlight, fatty fish like salmon and annual physical to mention it to their doctor. says there are two FDA-approved tuna, and mushrooms. If you’re not They should be seen promptly.” vaccines against the virus. Girls need getting enough, talk to your healthcare provider about supplements.

Perimenopausal women should see to get the vaccine at around age 11 their monthly flows getting lighter and or 12 – before there’s a chance they lighter. If instead they’re getting heavier, or could be sexually active. periods are happening more frequently, women should The robotic age be evaluated by a doctor.

A problem that’s common – but seldom talked about – is

Screening tests, when they are available, are remarkably

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vaginal or uterine prolapse. It’s literally a dropping of the pelvic organs, like the bladder, due to weak connective tissue or muscles that normally support the pelvis.

Anthony Visco, MD is a gynecologist and urogynecologist with a specialty in robotic surgery who practices at Duke Urogynecology of Raleigh. He says the condition can impact any of the pelvic floor organs – the bladder, vagina, uterus or rectum. When it happens, the muscles and tissue are unable to hold the organs in their natural position.

The symptoms range from the subtle (“a feeling of fullness in the vagina or pelvic area,” says Dr. Visco) to the dramatic (“women may notice a vaginal bulge and feel as if something is falling out of them,” he says). Bladder leakage can be another symptom.

Doctors are uncertain about the exact causes. “While vaginal childbirth may be one cause, most times we do not know what causes the problem,” says Dr. Visco. “The condition can develop gradually over many years – or it can happen abruptly.”

Fortunately, there are safe and minimally invasive treatment options. “Prolapse can be fixed through the vagina or through the abdomen – usually through very small incisions,” Dr. Visco says.

“Robotic surgery gives a woman a gold-standard repair with a minimally invasive approach,” he continues. “Colpopexy, a procedure where the vagina is moved back into its normal place and held there with soft mesh, has the lowest rate of recurrence. Robotic colpopexy allows women to recover quickly

with a low risk of complications.”

“Prolapse is not only a problem in older adults,” Dr. Visco says. “While most women with prolapse are between 40 and 60 years of age, some women in their 30s also have the problem.”

Dr. Visco and his partners at Duke Urogynecology offer minimally invasive approaches that are usually performed as outpatient surgery. Dr. Visco trained at Duke, where the premier surgical treatment for prolapse was developed: colpopexy.

For women who would rather not have surgery, prolapse can be managed by using pessaries – devices that are placed in the vagina to hold the vagina in place. “A pessary will often work well, but it’s important to remember that it won’t make the condition go away,” Dr. Visco says.

One final word (but, by no means, the last word) on women’s health: Mammograms. They save lives.

Women work hard at taking physical and emotional care of others. But make sure you’re healthy enough to take care of all those who depend on you. What the flight attendants say really is true: Put your oxygen mask on first.

To learn more about osteoporosis, visit trianglespine.com or call 919.876.7676. To reach Duke Raleigh Gynecologic Oncology, call 919.862.5441, or learn more at dukeraleighhospital.orgcancer.

To reach Duke Urogynecology, call 919.684.2471; visit dukemedicine.org/urogynecology to learn more.

midtownmag.com | 125

healthy you

is it the

product

or the

provider?

Great results from Botox, Juvederm, CoolSculpting and Latisse

by bluewater spa

T

he first Botox® advertisement included the tagline: It’s not magic…it’s Botox. Botox is pretty magical. However, the results vary significantly from one provider to another. The best nurse injectors make people look fresh, not frozen, after a Botox treatment. The same skilled nurses can provide a beautiful and natural-looking result with Juvederm®, a filler that can make lips look youthful, beautiful and natural. The newest filler, Voluma™, fills hollow cheeks and can take years off in minutes. The results can last two years. That’s great news, if the result is great, or terrible news if an inexperienced nurse or physician leaves you with chipmunk cheeks. The best results from all of these products make people look beautiful, refreshed and youthful, not “done”, Coolsculpting,

126 | midtownmag.com

an FDA device designed for fat loss with no downtime, is also extremely technique dependent. Performed by a highly trained and experienced professional, the results can be remarkable. The lesson is to look for the best product and the best and most experienced provider, as not all results are created equal.

Insist on seeing multiple before and after images of a nurses’ work. Ask how many of these procedures she performs each year.

The Big Secret The big secret in aesthetic medicine is that the most experienced (and often most talented) physicians often get savings from the manufacturer for being top users of a product. This is why medical offices with state-ofthe-art technology, an immaculately clean facility and aesthetic nurses with expertise and experience may not charge much more than a less impressive facility. The top providers of various products or technology get rebates from the manufacturer.

The reason for rebates is simple: the manufacturers want people to experience the best possible treatment. Rebates and special offers are sometimes available exclusively to the clients and patients of “top docs”.

Safety Unlicensed people can sometimes get their hands on a medical product, or worse, use a knock-off. To be sure you are in the best hands, go directly to the manufacturer’s website and confirm the doctor’s office you are visiting is experienced with the product you are considering.

When to look for a deal?

Many women describe Latisse, an FDA approved product for eyelash growth, as magic in a bottle. The results are simply amazing, and you apply it yourself. A hot new skin care product, SkinMedica TNS, uses growth factors for ant-aging. This is an over-the-counter product. Why not get the best possible deal? Looking for a deal on these products makes sense, it’s apples to apples. Be sure to buy these products from a physician to be sure they are authentic. But, when considering a procedure that requires expertise, the “best deal” could be an expensive mistake. Remember, you are trusting someone with your face.

It’s worth your time to do your research and find the best provider for you. midtownmag.com | 127

healthy you

Aortic Aneurysm:

a silent

killer

by George Clark MD, vascular surgeon, Carolina Vascular

M

ichael, a 78-year-old retiree, was enjoying a visit with his grandchildren over the Christmas holiday in 1992. Following dinner he developed a dull ache in his stomach and went to lay down, blaming this on overeating. Suddenly, at 4am, Michael experienced a sharp pain in his left lower back unlike anything he had ever felt. 911 was called and Michael was rushed to the emergency room. On arrival he was in severe pain with a barely

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obtainable blood pressure. Diagnostic studies revealed that he had ruptured a major blood vessel in his abdomen, an aortic aneurysm. I was called in to operate on Joel, and fortunately he survived the surgical procedure. His surgery required a long incision, multiple units of transfused blood, several days in the ICU, and finally a return to his home nearly three weeks later. Michael was lucky. For 90% of patients with a ruptured aortic aneurysm this is a fatal event and even for those who make it to surgery, up to half of them will die. Unfortunately, aortic aneurysms only become symptomatic when they rupture. It is a silent killer.

So what is an aortic aneurysm? The aorta is the largest artery in the body and is responsible for carrying blood to all the vital organs in the abdomen as well as the legs. The aorta is also the most common blood vessel to develop an aneurysm. By definition an aneurysm is an enlarged blood vessel that is at least 50% larger than the normal blood vessel. Think of an aneurysm as being like a balloon. If you keep blowing it up, at some point it will pop. And just like a balloon, the bigger the aneurysm is, the more likely it is to pop. Aneurysms are much more common in men, especially with any history of smoking cigarettes. In the US it is estimated that at least five percent of males over age 65 have an aortic aneurysm. Because of the large number of men who have an aneurysm, Medicare guidelines recommend the following: Men over age 65 who have smoked more than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime should have an ultrasound screening of the aorta. Our goal1 is 9/27/13 to repair 4:11 the aneurysm carolina vascular_nd.pdf PM

before rupture occurs. Repair is recommended for men who have an aneurysm that is 5.5 cm or larger, and for women, 5 cm or larger.

When I first started practice here in Raleigh in 1992, the standard of care for repair of an aortic aneurysm was major surgery with typically a week in the hospital and up to a three-month recovery before the patient returned to normal activity. In 1991, a pioneering vascular surgeon in Argentina described a technique of aneurysm repair that involved sliding a fabric sleeve inside the aneurysm via small incisions in the groin. In the ensuing years the technological advancements for this minimally invasive technique, known as an endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR), have progressed remarkably. Currently, we are able to repair at least 80% of patients utilizing standard EVAR techniques, and with specialized grafts nearly all patients are candidates for this minimally invasive technique. Jump forward to 2014. Richard, a 65-year-old former smoker, is found on a screening ultrasound to have a 6 cm aortic aneurysm. Three weeks ago my partner and I were able to repair his aneurysm using small catheters with no incision whatsoever. He went home the next morning, needed nothing for pain, and was playing golf two weeks later. It is truly astounding to think about the advancements that have been made in this area of vascular surgery.

I close with my strong advice to any male over age 65 who has ever smoked. Do yourself a favor, request a screening ultrasound of your aorta from your primary care physician.

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healthy you

The Future Is Now‌ Beautiful Smiles Are The Leading Trend 130 | midtownmag.com

gladwell orthodontics_ma.pdf

P

eople all over the world have adopted a fast-paced, technology-driven way of life.

New technologies have made our daily lives easier and more enjoyable, and also advanced the orthodontics industry. In fact, orthodontic treatment and procedures have greatly evolved on many levels in the past decade and there are a variety of options now available to all patients, regardless of age.

With the help of new technology, patients can be more comfortable and achieve results quicker. Here are some examples of how recent innovations can help attain ideal results and reduce discomfort: No More Separators Where it was once the norm to endure the blue separators that went between teeth to make space for bands, modern practices provides us with the option of putting braces on the back teeth, just like we do on the front. This eliminates the need for the sometimes uncomfortable separators and results in a more comfortable experience for the patient, easier application and removal, and easier cleaning.

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other colored beverage, making the “clear” braces stain and stand out.

Digital, Impression-Less Scanner Systems This technology replaces the sticky – and oftentimes uncomfortable – method of impression-taking. No more trays and putty! In addition to ease-of-use, patients benefit from superior precision and unprecedented 360 degree visualization that together enable the quickest scans possible.

It’s important to note that a very few orthodontic practices have adopted this technology, so it is best to do some research to ensure your selected orthodontist offers the exact treatment options you are looking for.

Lasers In certain circumstances, lasers can now be used to accelerate treatment and make the process more comfortable. The laser allows us to uncover teeth from the gum that are not “erupting” as fast as we would like – including teeth that might have otherwise taken up to six months or more to come in, or even required a surgical procedure to help come in.

“Self-Ligating” Brackets With this approach, the braces themselves actually hold the wire, instead of using color rings to attach the wire to the braces. Friction is decreased, teeth are able to shift more quickly and many patients experience a shorter treatment time than with previous methods. These brackets also create a “barely there” or less visible effect. For offices that don’t use selfligating brackets, the orthodontist may use a “clear” bracket/ring combo in efforts to mask the appearance of braces. Unfortunately, these colorless rings can absorb color quickly when drinking tea, coffee, red wine or any

Temporary Anchorage Devices (TADs) TADs are becoming more popular in orthodontics as a way to treat approved patients non-surgically, where traditional procedures might have been required a few years ago.

This is perhaps the fastest-growing segment of orthodontics and will continue to influence treatment modalities and options in the future.

by Dr. Jason Gladwell, Gladwell Orthodontics

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new aroundtown 8601 Glenwood Avenue Raleigh, NC 27617 919.977.3039 design@inspirationsraleigh.com inspirationsraleigh.com a new inspiration!

Inspirations is a community of boutique owners with a selection of everything from home decor and furniture to clothing and accessories. Their desire to bring back the value of customer service is sure to make you smile.

Jet Set Tourism 8601-400 Six Forks Rd. Raleigh, NC 27615 919.521.8111 jetsettourism.com

North Hills Blown Away 201-104 Park at North Hills St. Raleigh, NC 27609 blownawayraleigh.com

Jet set your way to a new vaca!

Jet Set Tourism is new to Raleigh and happy to assist you! Experts in their field, they will plan your vacation from start to finish. Why stress over planning a vacation? Let the professionals do it for you!

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prepare to be Blown Away Blow Away Blow Dry Bar is everything relaxing you would find at a salon except for the cut and color (and throw in a glass of champagne!). Jenny and Julie traveled all over the country to research their space, which is as chic as can be. Please help us welcome them to Midtown!

coming up in the next

YUM! If you liked our Sandwiches article last summer, then you’ll love our Burgers article this summer! Be sure to check out what our local restaurants do to make their burgers unique.

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Brrrrrrr You scream, I scream, we all scream for ice cream!

We take a look at some local favorites.

Boys and Girls Clubs It’s not like the Boys and Girls Clubs of the past. We will talk with some young adults who took advantage of this wonderful club that helped them get through some tough times.

Get your beer here!

Do you like craft beer? Like to try new local beers? Well you live in the right place. We will look at all that is available here in Raleigh…you’ll be surprised!

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

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midtownmingles

lori + lulu grand opening

On March 15th, shoppers enjoyed cupcakes and champagne to celebrate the grand opening of Lori + Lulu in Cameron Village.

This new local boutique will carry such core brands as Barbara Lesser, Judy P, Krazy Larrys, Three Dots, Fresh Laundry, NYDJ and will also have jewelry lines Sorrelli, Theia and Bittersweet.

A taste of sunrise

Sunrise Senior Living held “A Taste of Sunrise” in March at Brighton Gardens of Raleigh. Local professionals sampled a variety of Irish dishes created by the Sunrise Senior Living chefs while enjoying a tasting of Irish beers. This event is held annually to showcase the culinary talent that serves the residents that live at Sunrise.

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City Council Members visit MRA

On March 20th members of the Midtown Raleigh Alliance were greeted by three members of the Raleigh City Council at Mia Francesca Trattoria in North Hills. They all came to share a glass of wine and some great food, and Council members John Odom, Bonner Gaylord and Wayne Maiorano enjoyed the opportunity to meet Midtown movers and shakers and learn about city issues that are affecting Midtown.

PURIM PARTY at NC Museum of Art

On March 22nd, the Friends of the Judaic Art Gallery hosted a fun, lively party to celebrate Purim, followed by a high-energy after-party. Crowns, masks and other festive attire were encouraged! All proceeds benefit the Judaic Art Fund.

midtownmingles

Inspirations grand opening

On March 14th and 15th, Inspirations Home Decor & More held a two-day grand opening event for their new store on Glenwood Avenue. It was a fabulous event that featured food, drinks and door prizes.

Synergy “Night of Beauty”

On March 18th, Synergy Spa & Aesthetics held a launch party featuring their newest medical aesthetic treatments. The spotlight was on Profractional Laser Resurfacing, with live demonstrations throughout the night. Additionally,The Mid Face Rejuvenation Package, Voluma, and Vampire Facial were featured.

Donald Pliner appearance at main & taylor

On April 18th, Donald J. Pliner made a personal appearance at Main & Taylor. Food and drink were enjoyed by all while he signed shoes, took photographs and spoke to all of his fans.

At home with dt nonprofits receive technology makeovers

Milner, Inc’s company-sponsored “Technology JumpStart Your Nonprofit” has awarded Threshold and Ronald McDonald House of Durham office technology makeovers worth a combined $35,000. The money will be used for technologies to make the nonprofit’s office run more efficiently.

The opening of At Home with DT, a new interior design studio and retail space, was celebrated with a book signing with Jennifer Boles. Guests and former DT design clients came from far and near to celebrate! A special thanks goes out to DeGournay Wallpapers and Angela Tripp Patrick for their contribution to the success of the event.

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midtownmingles

St. David’s School welcomes Governor pat mccrory

On March 10th, St. David’s School welcomed Governor Pat McCrory to their campus to speak to their Senior Seminar students. Governor McCrory addressed the topic of ethics in politics as part of the seminar’s study of “The Shape of a Moral Life”. Previous speakers have included former governor Beverly Perdue, former UNC chancellor Holden Thorp, NC Supreme Court Justice Robert Orr and Nobel Laureate Oliver Smithies.

136 | midtownmag.com

doTHISbetter By dan bain

send a Better

patch a

better

We’re not saying you sent the wrong flowers and somebody threw the vase in frustration, but sometimes holes happen.

It’s actually an easier fix than hurt feelings:

M o t h e r ’ s D a y i s c o m i n g u p, a n d pr obably so ar e plenty of other reasons to send flowers to someone special in your life. Her e a r e s o m e t h i ng s t o c o n s i d e r : 1. Know what to order Consider the recipient’s favorite flower and/or color. And find out what’s in season and therefore fresher and more readily available, not to mention more affordable. (Speaking of which, decide in advance how much you’re willing to spend.)

2. Think about where they will be displayed Are they going on a table? Consider its size, and go with a long, flat arrangement for a large dining room table, but something smaller on a little round table.

3. Have those digits ready Be sure you know the recipient’s name, address and phone number before attempting to order.

Don’t laugh; sometimes we rush into things, and forget the details.

4. Find a reputable florist You probably won’t see the arrangement before it ships, so be sure you’re dealing with someone you trust, who uses fresher flowers from local growers.

5. Have your own details ready Be sure to have your PayPal info or a credit or debit card ready before you order, and tell them exactly when you want the arrangement to be delivered. If you’re sending to someone’s office, you might want to make sure it’s delivered in the morning, allowing the recipient time to receive and enjoy it.

138 | midtownmag.com

1. Clean up the hole First, trim off the frayed edges with a utility knife, removing any loose hangings. Use trisodium phosphate (TSP, available at paint stores) to clean greasy drywall around the hole, then let it dry.

2. Apply a patch Purchase a ready-made

HOLE drywall patch from your hardware store, and trim it to fit the hole, with extra backing around it to attach to the drywall. Apply it to the wall and smooth the taped edges with a putty knife.

amount to the patch, smoothing it out by pulling the wide putty knife toward you at a 30-degree angle to the wall. Wipe the blade and wet it if you must make a repeated attempt.

3. Apply joint compound Use a wide-blade putty knife to spread a thin amount of compound around the perimeter of the patch; try to feather it gradually into the rest of the wall, to create a smooth transition. Next, apply a more liberal

4. Let the area dry If it needs another coat, repeat step 3; otherwise, shave off any large blobs with a putty knife, then lightly sand the area with drywall sandpaper on a drywall sander, if available.

5. Prime and paint!

weather a

tornado

Storm season is upon us again; here’s what you need to know about twisters: 1. Move to shelter.

Some public buildings have a designated shelter area; barring that, move to the lowest floor of the building you’re in and get into a small room (bathroom, closet, etc.) near the center of the building, under a stairwell, or in an interior hallway with no windows. Try to remember what heavy items are on the floors above you, and avoid

staying under those areas. If you are in a car, quickly park it out of traffic, get out of it, and seek shelter.

2. Cover yourself

If possible, get under a heavy table or into a tub. Stay low to the floor, with your face down. Pull a mattress, cushions, pillows, or sleeping bags over your body, to protect yourself from falling debris.

3. Exit with care

Stay in your shelter until the tornado has passed, listening to updates from the National Weather Service if possible.

Use caution when moving around an area that has been hit by a tornado, as you will probably encounter other hazards such as floods, falling debris, downed power lines, leaky fuel tanks, etc.

Sources: wikihow.com

Bouquet