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HOLIDAY
Shopping GUIDE
N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2009
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4421-109A Six Forks Road www.ElaineMillerJewelryCollection.com
Raleigh, NC 27609 Mon-Sat 10:00 am-6:00 pm
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847 HOLT DRIVE, RALEIGH $5,500,000 www.PruYSU.com/1685160 Laura Bromhal, 919.961.8008
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125 GLEN RIDGE, CHAPEL HILL $699,000 www.PruYSU.com/1681044 Jeannie Kyle, 919.215.3631
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10520 CRISP DRIVE, RALEIGH $325,000 www.PruYSU.com/1684742 Lee St. Peter, 919.645.2521
www.PruYSU.com North Hills 919.782.6641 | Cameron Village 919.832.8881 | North Raleigh 919.782.5502 | Cary 919.859.3300 2009. An independently owned and operated member of the Prudential Real Estate Affiliates, Inc. is a service mark of The Prudential Insurance Company of America. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information deemed reliable, but not guaranteed.
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MIDTOWN NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2009
PUBLISHER / PARTNER
A NOTE
from the
Gina Pearce Stephens
PUBLISHER…
ADVERTISING SALES Sarah Oglesby • Myra Gammon
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Happy Holidays! It’s hard to believe the holidays are almost upon us. For many of us, 2009 seemed like a really long year. Many of us will remember it for its economic woes and losses. But the holidays are a time of hope and renewal. This issue of Midtown Magazine features story after story with great ideas from local businesses. Across the country many small businesses have thrown in the towel and closed. While some here have experienced that same fate, for the most part we’re in better shape than other places. For that to continue, it’s critical to shop locally. Local businesses create an unmatchable ambience and character for our community; the people behind the counters are our neighbors and friends. To get you started shopping locally, Midtown Magazine teamed up with North Hills businesses to offer the Midtown Magazine Holiday Discount Card for North Hills. You’ll find the card on page 19 of this issue. Cut it out and visit our website, www.midtownmag.com , for special store discounts valid from November 1st to December 31st. Use the card as many times as you want for the entire two months. Help local businesses ensure a good 2010! For great gift ideas for everyone on your list make sure you turn to page 82 for our special pull-out holiday gift guide. You will find gift ideas from $10 to $10,000. We hope this issue of Midtown Magazine will inspire you to enjoy entertaining and shopping this season. For great ideas on creating an amazing holiday table, check out “Join Us for Dinner” on page 28; we worked with local businesses for suggestions on how to update your holiday table without a lot of work or expense. If you think your holiday entryway could use a little more pizzazz – check out “Step by Step” on page 60. We have a guide to creating a new holiday wreath. And if that little black dress in your closet needs a little pizzazz too, we’ve got sparkle to spare. In “ Little Black Dress” on page 36, local boutique owners share ideas – from sensational shoes to fabulous wraps that will create just the look you’re after. And if you’re in need of a new LBD, we’ve got one that will work for you. Thank you so much for the story ideas many of you generously share each month. We love hearing what topics you enjoy and what you’d like to see more of. In short, your opinions matter.
Cindy Huntley
GRAPHIC DESIGN Rachael Redmond • Travis Aptt
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Susan Ely • Christa Gala • Dan Bain Kate Turgeon • Page Leggett • Illyse Lane Chef Mario • Darcy Brennan-Huante • Robyn James Michael Osborne • Dr. Alan Holton
PHOTOGRAPHY April Maness Photography Jennifer Robertson Photography
Midtown 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. 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 will not knowingly accept any real estate advertising in violation of US equal opportunity law.
4818 Six Forks Road – Suite 204 Raleigh, North Carolina 27609 919.782.4710 gstephens@midtownmag.com www.midtownmag.com
Gina Pearce Stephens Publisher/Partner Printed on 100% recycled paper with soy ink
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n o v e m b e r /d e c e m b e r ‘09
Special thanks to Ashley Carter of Goldbug Studio for the beatutiful ornaments on our cover, and to Jennifer Robertson for the fabulous photography.
in this issue… 22 WORKIN’ IT For some, retirement isn’t the right fit. 28 JOIN US FOR DINNER Beautiful ways to dress up your holiday tabletop. 36 THE LITTLE BLACK DRESS Versatile, chic and always in style. PLUS…Don’t miss our special pull-out holiday shopping guide!
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contents 44 A JOYFUL NOISE The African Children’s Choir finds a home in the Triangle.
74
50 SELLING LOCALLY, THINKING GLOBALLY There’s a movement you ought to consider this holiday season. 56 HOW TO HANDLE HOMEWORK A guide for helping your child succeed in school. 64 ROMANCING THE STONE Five facts to know before you make a jewelry purchase. 70 HARDCOVER DREAMS We help another reader check an item off her bucket list. 74 BE THEIR GUEST Away from home for the holidays. 84 EVERYTHING THAT GLITTERS IS GOLDBUG An amazing company with roots right here in Raleigh. 92 HOLIDAY TRADITIONS AND RECIPES From our family to yours. 100 GIVE YOURSELF A HOLIDAY BREAK Cozy and charming bed and breakfasts across the state. 106 TOO GOOD TO BE TRUE No, really! These foods are good – and good for you. 114 MARBLES MIXES FUN AND LEARNING A look at the museum that inspires imagination. 120 THE FACES BEHIND THE RACES: PART II The people who inspired and organize the Grand Prix races.
departments 48 Bain’s Beat 54 Wine Review 60 Step-by-Step 82 Calendar 90 Dueling Writers 112 Chef Mario 128 Healthy You 136 Talk of the Town 143 Midtown Mingles
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022-027 Working Later in Life
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W Elaine Miller
“I
AM SO FORTUNATE TO BE ABLE TO CONTINUE TO PURSUE MY PASSION.
”
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WORKIN’ IT
by Kate Turgeon
For some, retirement isn’t the right fit
While some people her age are retiring, Elaine Miller isn’t about to hang up her jeweler’s loupe. And why should she? She loves her career. “I built the business, I made it happen,” says Miller, 73, owner of the Elaine Miller Collection at the Lassiter at North Hills. “I enjoy selecting the jewelry and gift items for the store…it’s the excitement of the hunt for just the right thing to bring to my customers.” Miller’s not alone. More and more Americans are working after 65, about the average age of retirement. Everincreasing life expectancies are part of the reason; the need for activity is another. According to a 2008 US Census Bureau report, people are working later in life because activity improves emotional well-being and physical health, while also promoting social integration and support. The social aspect of connecting to others through work is important to Miller. After all, she chose Raleigh as her home because of its people. “I fell in love with this part of North Carolina and the wonderful people here,” says Miller, who relocated from Mamaroneck, New York. “The holiday season is my biggest push…it’s also the most exciting time because I see my customers who have become like family and I have the opportunity to meet new customers, too.” Even as a child, she was interested in jewelry. Her uncle manufactured fine costume jewelry for his company, Jewels by Bogoff, and he’d often send her packages full of interesting pieces. And by the time she was a young woman, Miller was searching the vintage shops of New York City, where she’d spot hidden treasures among boxes of broken and worn jewelry. Restoring jewelry was perfect work for a mother looking to follow
her professional passion while parenting a son. By the time she was 66, Miller was opening her own salon with fine estate jewelry and pieces by new designers. “By 90 she’ll start franchising,” laughs her husband, Selwyn. She agrees. “I would love a chain of stores when I grow up,” she adds with the certain oomph that is unmistakably hers. Also unmistakably hers is dedication to her occupation. Work is continuous, she says, and even happens in her sleep when Miller dreams about ideas for the store. In the wakeful hours, she is frequently traveling for business, working from home and meeting with customers at the shop. “I love the challenge of the business world with its hectic pace to keep me sharp,” she says. “I love the excitement of sharing in the good times…no one comes into a jewelry store for an unhappy occasion.” Like most professionals, Miller knows when it’s time to take a step back from the busy pace. To relax, she enjoys visiting her son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren, traveling to a favorite spa in Florida and dining at local restaurants such as Mo’s Diner, Winston’s Grille and Coquette. “I am so fortunate to be able to continue to pursue my passion. It keeps me young in mind, heart and spirit,” says Miller.
www.midtownmag.com – 23
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Paolo DeMartino A Man With a Mission Paolo DeMartino begins every day pretty much the same way. He leaves home in his spotless blue Lincoln and drives five miles to Café Tiramisu, where he has a cup of coffee and reads the newspaper before donning an apron and getting to work. It’s a ritual he’s not shrinking away from, even at 81 years old. So why is this Italian-born chef spending his golden years in a kitchen? “To be happy and make sure everything is done right…I have to prepare,” says DeMartino plainly. Sitting nearby, his son R.D. doesn’t look surprised by the admission. “Dad still makes the sauce. No one else makes the sauce,” he says. “It’s no problem,” shrugs DeMartino, waving his hands across his chest before tightly crossing his arms. Not only is it not a problem, it’s a way of life. DeMartino has been preparing meals in restaurants and hotels his entire adult life. A self-taught chef, he made his mark on the Raleigh restaurant scene in 1975 when he opened Piccolo Mondo, an upscale Italian restaurant he owned for nearly 20 years. And when his sons opened Café Tiramisu in 1996, DeMartino was happy to get back in the kitchen. A few things have changed over the years. For starters, he has given up on the formality of a white chef’s hat. And many of the celebrities he once served, such as comedian Red Skelton, singer Perry Como and musician Chet Atkins, aren’t as well-know among many of today’s restaurant-goers. But there are a few things that haven’t changed. Osso Buco, a
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“R
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ETIRE... NO, NO... I CAN’T.
”
roasted veal shank in wine sauce, is still his specialty. And folks still come in looking for lobster bisque, no matter what the weather is. DeMartino’s work ethic is a constant, too. “You have to have a mission. Retire…no, no…I can’t,” he says. It’s a philosophy that seems to run in his family, even at 96 years old his mother was still referred to as a drill sergeant. While he’s not ready to retire, he does appreciate occasional breaks from the ordinary, and enjoys traveling to Atlantic City or Las Vegas with a group of friends. But don’t count on him being away from home too long or being away on a Saturday, most of his vacations last about four days and are planned for the restaurant’s non-busy days. But even if he were to win a lotto jackpot or bring home copious amounts of cash from a guys’ weekend, DeMartino says he’d still show up for work everyday to prepare the sauce. It’s just how he likes to play.
www.midtownmag.com – 25
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“B ” E SURE YOU’RE DOING SOMETHING YOU ENJOY & LOVE. The Quintessential Lady
Ann Weaver
Ann Weaver remembers her first job. She was 21, and worked as a secretary for a public office service in Rocky Mount. Eventually she left that job to marry, start a family and volunteer in her community. She returned to the workforce part time in her 50s when she opened an antique shop, Divine Collections, in Raleigh. “At 70, I was working full time for the first time,” laughs Weaver while sitting behind a stylish white desk in her store, Quintessentials at the Lassiter at North Hills. “I enjoy working, being active and staying busy,” she says thoughtfully. For Weaver, 75, having a certain approach is important to the success of owning her own business. “I look at this shop as an extension of my home. I want all shoppers to feel comfortable here,” she says. By her design, Quintessentials is the type of store where shoppers are called by name, and new shoppers are greeted with the same warmth as
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Offering Comprehensive Health Services Including: Primary Care • Radiology • Cardiology • Plastic Surgery • Dentistry • Orthopaedics • Pharmacy • Chiropractic Executive Health • Physical Therapy • Fitness Center • Dermatology • Nutrition • Endoscopy Center Gastroenterology • Café • Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy • Lab • Mental Health • American Cancer Society
AIHF.net | 919.926.3015 | 8300 Health Park | Raleigh, NC 27615 Located off of Forum Drive, between Six Forks Road & Lead Mine Road 26 – Midtown Magazine
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regulars. When I recently visited the store, a platter teetered on its stand and fell to the ground. Shoppers and staff members rushed to the table to see what happened, but Weaver wasn’t fazed. Picking it up, she brushed it off and quietly said, “I don’t worry about the things, people are more important. As long as no one was hurt.” Like any working adult, there are days when she’s overextended and has to depend on her staff. “My husband has a form of dementia. He’s my priority, so there are some days when my schedule is different…I have wonderful employees whom I trust,” says Weaver. And while she counts on them to help with the displays and other business tasks, she has a few work duties that she likes doing herself. “I love purchasing merchandise for the store. I work just as hard at finding $5-$10 gifts as I do the higher priced items,” she says. When she’s not working or spending time with family, Weaver, who was born in Charlotte and raised in Wilmington, likes to read and meet with her neighborhood book club. She’s full of book recommendations, and good, practical advice for people wishing to work later in life. “Be sure you’re doing something you enjoy and love,” she says. Doing work they love is the common thread for Miller, DeMartino and Weaver. These three professionals prove that retirement isn’t at the top of everyone’s wish list. Sometimes continuing to do what one enjoys most is the best reward for all those years of hard work.
(
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“I WANT WOMEN TO MAKE MY CLOTHES COME ALIVE.” – KASIA SHOPPES OF GLENWOOD VILLAGE | GLENWOOD & OBERLIN | 919.787.9073
WORKING LATER IN LIFE Did you know?
o Workers 65 years and older are more likely to be part time, self-employed or in sales/management jobs than younger workers. o Workers 65 years and older are more likely to be married, in better health and financially better off than non-workers 65 years and older. o About 15% of people over traditional retirement age (65) are still working.
)
o The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the labor force participation rates for the population 65 and older will continue to increase through 2014.
Source: The US Census Bureau
www.midtownmag.com – 27
028-035 Holiday Tabletop Decorating 2
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It is likely that the holidays bring out the entertainer in you; at no other time of year are we more likely to entertain on a grand scale than during the holidays. candles and ringing in the New Year. But making the holidays memorable does not necessarily mean extravagant preparation. My best memories of entertaining are was able to enjoy the party as much as my guests. Midtown Magazine turned to some of the area’s best entertainers, Ann Weaver of Quintessentials, and designers
join us for dinner... 3
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Looking For A Home In Midtown For The Holidays?
Then try this address: www.LiveInRaleighMidtown.com
❄ 6421 Lakeway Drive
It is, after all, the season of carving the turkey, decking the halls, lighting the Hanukkah the celebrations where I enlisted professionals for a little assistance; this guaranteed that I at Debby Gomulka Designs for tips on setting a spectacular table for every holiday. 1) Anna Weatherley Mint Green Charger and “Simply Anna” dinner plate. Hermes “Jardin De Pythagore” salad plate and breakfast cup and saucer. 2) Goblet and large wine crystal by Sequso Viro. “Ca Vitter 3) Sferra Linen napkins with cherry quartz napkin ring. 4) Italian marble fruit by William Yeoward. 5) Simon Pearce small bowl.
5
4313 Quail Hollow Drive • All-Brick in Midtown • Fenced Backyard • Two-Car Garage •
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FUN. CREATIVE. AFFORDABLE. Flowers & Gifts from the English Garden.
Page 3
1) For a themed table consider “A Moroccan Holiday” designed by Debby Gomulka theme. Items from nature, the golden leaves, greenery and orange highlight the with a beautiful burgundy ribbon and a single ornament adorns a dining chair. orange ground to decorate the red dinner plates. 4) Splashes of color mixes with to highlight and accent our Moroccan table theme.
3 THE CHRISTMAS TEDDY Starting at $45
919.341.6650 | WWW.ENGLISHGARDENRALEIGH.COM 30 – Midtown Magazine
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Photography by Jennifer Robertson
028-035 Holiday Tabletop Decorating 2
ARE YOU... CONFUSED IN A RELATIONSHIP? FEELING BAD ABOUT CHOICES YOU’VE MADE? FEELING ANXIOUS OR DEPRESSED?
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1 Designs. A brightly colored table skirt from the Marrekesh textile collection sets the stage for a magical table copper charger and green bamboo placements. 2) An elegant way to add some festivity use raffia intertwined 3) To enhance the look of your place setting use wispy fern greens and golden leaves mixed with bamboo and natural elements jazz up your holidays this year. We created a layering effect with gold and red pillar candles
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032-035 Champagne andInvitations.bin
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Chambord & C H A M PAG N E 4 oz chilled champagne 1/2 oz Chambord® raspberry liqueur Pour the champagne into a champagne flute. Add a healthy splash of Chambord raspberry liqueur, and serve.
break out the bubbly! NEW FALL ARRIVALS! loeffler randall olivia rose tal bettye muller kate spade aquatalia mz wallace diane von furstenberg beverly feldman
919.678.1234 | 2045 RENAISSANCE PARK PLACE | CARY WWW.KRISTENSSHOES.COM 32 – Midtown Magazine
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Bubbly M A RT I N I
Bellini
1 1/2 oz gin 3/4 oz champagne
6 oz champagne 1 oz peach schnapps Mix ingredients and serve.
Ambrosia 1 oz ApplejackÂŽ brandy 1 oz brandy 1 dash triple sec Juice of 1 lemon Chilled champagne
C H A M PAG N E
Blitz 4 oz champagne 3/4 oz white creme de menthe Pour both ingredients into a champagne flute, stir, and serve.
Combine and shake all ingredients (except champagne). Pour contents into a highball glass over ice cubes. Fill with chilled champagne, stir lightly, and serve.
www.midtownmag.com – 33
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Tuscan Hills Come Home to Excellence Every Day
Expect...Enduring Craftsmanship Experience...European Design Enjoy...Exceptional Midtown Address Located in the most desired North Raleigh “hot spot”. Your time is valuable…don’t waste it driving, spend time enjoying. Enjoy Tuscan Hills’ top-notch features such as first floor master suites, gourmet kitchens, 10-foot ceilings, granite countertops, custom hardwoods, unique design features, and a low maintenance, water-conscious landscape.
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mailing
the invitation...
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It’s official – you’ve decided to have a holiday party! Whether it’s a small dinner party for eight or a neighborhood bash for 200, your invitation will be the first hint that guests get about the celebration you are hosting. So pick an invite that reflects the feel of the evening you have planned. Derek Stockman, the owner of locally based www.Invitationbox.com, provided us with some great examples of their fun and fabulous designs for this holiday season!
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THE LITTLE
black dress Photography by April Maness
V
Versatile, Chic and Always in Style… The little black dress is the essential for every woman's wardrobe. First made popular in the 1920s by fashion designer Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, it was intended to be a long-lasting, versatile and affordable look. When Chanel featured a little black dress in Vogue, the magazine predicted the little black dress would become “a sort of uniform for all women of taste”. Now almost 90 years later it is still considered the look. Midtown Magazine asked local boutiques for advice on dressing up the little black dress or buying a new one for the holiday season…Get ready to be wowed!
Kenneth Jay Lane Cuff – Charlotte’s Kenneth Jay Lane Necklace – Charlotte’s Sylvia Benson Earrings – Scout & Molly’s
Alice + Oiva Dress – Scout & Molly’s Ann Roth Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
36 – Midtown Magazine
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“A
UNIFORM FOR ALL
women of taste” – VOGUE MAGAZINE
Echo Design Scarf – Charlotte’s Something Bleu Shoes – WALK Clutch – Tyler House
Bracelet – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Michele Watch – Charlotte’s Bravo Purse – Scout & Molly’s Gold Earrings – Charlotte’s Alwand Vahan Bracelet – Charlotte’s Bettye Muller Pumps – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Black Halo Dress – gena chandler
www.midtownmag.com – 37
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Oui Moments Dress – Jbat Boutique Scarves – Carolina Silver Bracelet & Ring – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
Hobo Purse – Certain Things Ring – Uniquities
38 – Midtown Magazine
Sonia by Sonia Rykiel Dress – Vermillion Loeffler Randall Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
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Necklace – Uniquities Weiz Dress – C.T. Weekends Alwand Vahan Ring – Charlotte’s Lela Rose Gloves – Vermillion Bracelet – C.T. Weekends
Olivia Rose Tal Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Frederic T Clutch – C.T. Weekends Alice + Oiva Dress – Uniquities
www.midtownmag.com – 39
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Donna Ricco Dress – Tyler House Michael Kors Watch – Charlotte’s Inge Christopher Clutch – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
Beverly Feldman Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Earrings & Bracelet – Tyler House
40 – Midtown Magazine
Candice C Original Design Necklace – Carolina Silver Luna Luz Dress – Possibilities
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Beaded Choker – Tyler House Lulumari Dress – Nativa Tolani Scarf – Certain Things Anya Hindmarch London Clutch – Vermillion
Helga Wagner Pearls – Charlotte’s Corso Como Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
Taylor Dress – Certain Things
www.midtownmag.com – 41
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Dreaming of Warmer Days Ahead?
DRESSING UP
the look Clutch – Uniquities Olivia Rose Tal Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Raymond Mazza Necklace – Charlotte’s Nina New York Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
The Lassiter at North Hills 4421 Six Forks Road ~ Raleigh
919.781.9210 www.tylerhouseraleigh.com
Bangle – Carolina Silver Whitney Davis Clutch – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique Ann Roth Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique
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Shawlsmith Scarf – C.T. Weekends Moon & Lola Pearls – Charlotte’s Valentino Purse – gena chandler
Emily Ray Necklace & Earrings – Carolina Silver Urban Expressions Clutch – Charlotte’s Teresa Goodall Necklace & Earrings – Possibilities
Nina New York Shoes – Kristen’s Shoe Boutique JPK Paris Purse – Charlotte’s
044-047 African Childrens Choir
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A JJoyful oyful
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At just nine years old, Robert was orphaned when his parents were killed in Uganda’s civil war. Busi, a quiet girl who cared for her younger sisters, never knew her father and was abandoned after the 2003 death of her mother. Mercy was one in an eight-person family that struggled for its necessitates. Like many vulnerable African children, they could have been heartbreaking images on the news or in a glossy magazine. But powerful voices have a way of changing things. Even Africa – a continent with stark poverty and staggering incidences of AIDS – has hope. Today Robert is a medical doctor, Busi is a top student in primary school and Mercy, a secondary school student, is preparing to attend a university. The African Children’s Choir (ACC) made all the difference. Twenty-five years ago the ACC was born when human rights activist Ray Barnett visited Uganda. Moved by the singing of one little boy, Barnett sought to bring the world what was most beautiful, intrinsic and moving about Africa: its music. And as far as Raleigh’s Taylor Stewart is concerned, Barnett’s original vision is today’s palpable reality. “No matter how poor, every nation has a redemptive gift. To me, it reflects the heart of God,” says Stewart, a pastor at King’s Park International Church (KPIC), where the ACC has visited. Stewart, who lived abroad as a missionary and recently visited Africa, says song is the continent’s most treasured offering. “It’s one thing to hear about the African Children’s Choir or see a picture, but it’s another to hear their voices. When they sing, that’s when the magic happens,” he says. The “magic” has inspired audiences all over the world. The ACC was invited to the White House, Westminster Abbey, Disneyland, Italy’s Assisi Cathedral and the Statue of Liberty. They appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres show and wowed American Idol viewers when they sang “You Raise Me Up” with Josh Groban. In addition to well-known spots, ACC tours also include performances at churches. It’s not unusual to see congregation members cry, sway, clap, sing along or smile broadly. For many, the emotional reaction stems from witnessing a true dichotomy: talented children who had desperate beginnings, now have hope and smiles as bright as their futures. Using funds raised from donations and ticket sales, the ACC provides for the care of its members. Children who had no prospect of education are being taught. Children who were hungry and needing basics such as clothing and healthcare are now nourished, clothed and cared for. To date, more than 800 vulnerable African children have belonged to more than 38 touring choirs. Antony Shisia Were was a member of the ACC in the early 1990s. Were says the choir became a new, loving family for him during his childhood. And traveling to America, Canada, Singapore and Northern Ireland was a worthwhile experience, he adds. “I gained my faith, my confidence and my current qualification – broadcast journalism,” explains Were, a reporter for Nation Media Group in East Africa.
N oise Noise by Kate Turgeon
044-047 African Childrens Choir
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t
The Mirembe House in Chatham county serves as a home base for the ACC when they are not touring the US. Mirembe means ‘peace’ in Ugandan. Eliza Taylor (center), president of Student Friends of Mirembe at St. David’s School, with two of the choir members.
For more information, please visit www.friendsofmirembe.com or www.africanchildrenschoir.com.
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But the prospect for a better future doesn’t end with the choir’s members. The ACC has provided hope to more than 7,000 African children who aren’t in the choir. “These are children who have so very little – in some cases nothing – but who now have opportunities,” says the ACC’s Dawna Hodgins. “Education is the key to long-term change on the continent. When students learn how to read and write they have additional opportunities for jobs that can support themselves, their families and, ultimately, their villages.” Midtown’s in the Mix While the ACC is singing and dancing for better tomorrows for Africa, some Midtown-area residents are enjoying opportunities to support the ACC. And their efforts are easy to see, especially at Mirembe House in Chatham County. A home base for touring choir members, Mirembe (which means “peace” in Ugandan) is a quaint sanctuary set on six acres. With separate living quarters for boys and girls, the home also has a schoolroom, sprawling front porch and kitchen windows filled with decorative butterflies and flowers. Outside the backdoor is a makeshift soccer field with small goals. In a shed, three galvanized trash cans store soccer balls and play equipment. Swing sets, picnic tables and a trampoline add to the yard’s friendliness; a nearby pear tree, camellia bush and bird feeder seem to beckon the children to play. While Stewart’s church, KPIC, provided the down payment for the home, it takes a community to keep things running. “I could sit here all day and tell you about the kindness and generosity of people,” says Stewart’s wife Elizabeth, president of Friends of Mirembe. A Cary developer gave a guest home that sits next to Mirembe and houses extra crewmembers and visitors. Countless local volunteers prepare meals and donate items such as books and pajamas. A local man sends landscapers to care for the grounds. Area sports teams and museums have given tickets so the choirs can enjoy area attractions. The North Hills Club has hosted pool parties and buffet dinners for the choirs. Local students are stepping forward, too. A Leesville Road High School shop class built the home’s bunk beds. A Root Elementary School student organized a clothing drive. And at St. David’s School, Stewart’s daughter Eliza is president of the Student Friends of Mirembe, an organization that recently provided welcome letters and baskets for a choir returning from tour. Eliza, 16, also started a Facebook page to make the club more accessible. But interacting with the choir through crafts, skits and fellowship is “most rewarding” to her. “The first time we met Choir #31…we saw them get off the bus and see the Mirembe house for the first time. They were so excited and their joy was contagious,” she says. Raleigh resident Julia Bryan Canavan shares her sentiments. Canavan first met a traveling choir in 2008 when she and her daughter visited a local museum with them. Since then she has also helped clean and decorate Mirembe House at Christmas time. For Canavan, the experience of interacting with the choir is deeply spiritual. For example, when they say their blessing before a meal, they express gratitude for every little thing. It’s genuinely from the heart and not from a script, she says. “The benefit is being around children who have nothing material in this world, but who have pure joy in their hearts,” says Canavan. “It’s important for my daughter to see these very young children with such a pure love for God. And it’s not for the things that he can give them, it’s just for who he is to them.”
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044-047 African Childrens Choir
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048-049 Bains Beat
10/28/09
10:23 AM
Page 1
B A I N ’ S B E AT
bringing
TURKEYback
by Dan Bain
I
48 – Midtown Magazine
can’t remember the exact moment I vowed to break from tradition, but I know it was the Sunday after Thanksgiving and at the time, I was swearing a couple of other things. And I’m pretty sure my mouth was the only thing moving in our car. Suddenly, Thanksgiving tradition wasn’t important anymore. I could see my family on any of the other 51 weekends of the year; why in the world should I choose to do it when every other car in the country was seemingly crammed into the same 12-mile stretch of I-95? I think it took us five hours to move those 12 miles, by the way. Why is travel considered such a necessary part of the tradition, anyway? The original Thanksgiving celebrants weren’t looking for a reason to travel; rather, they were happy to be exactly where they were. And their guests had only to walk a little way through the forest – you never heard of Squanto experiencing hours of onlooker delay due to a de-shoed horse in the breakdown path, did you? Which is why we decided there was no reason we should do anything similar. This was maybe a decade ago, and the vow has held – no traveling that Sunday, no traveling I-95 during the other three days of Thanksgiving Weekend, if it’s avoidable. There are other holidays. Besides, Thanksgiving traditions aren’t that important to me and my wife. Neither one of us knows the first thing about cooking turkey, my mashed potatoes are too lumpy, and she hates pumpkin pie. What does that leave? We’ve tried alternative traditions. One year, early in our marriage, we had lasagna for Thanksgiving. It was delicious, and it didn’t put me to sleep. Turkey, I’m convinced, does. I know, I know – nutritionists have debunked that myth, blah-blah-blah. As our neighboring state to the south would say, they lie. For years, the theory was that turkey makes people sleepy because it contains the amino acid tryptophan – not only a natural sedative, but one the FDA banned as an over-the-counter supplement. And with good reason. I’ve struggled with sleep disorders for most of my life, so I remember tryptophan supplements. They helped me sleep, but they gave me weird dreams. Much worse than the garden-variety dreams of showing up late for finals in my underwear – rather, these were the most vivid, bizarre things to ever come from my brain, and that’s saying something. If the Beatles had known about tryptophan, Sergeant Pepper would have been twice as brilliant. Yet millions of Americans willingly ingest it every fourth Thursday of November (not to mention for weeks afterward).
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Alleged scientists claim the tryptophan in turkey is inactive as a sedative, instead blaming our sleepiness on overeating and imbibing. Pshaw. So what if we eat roughly ten times our normal daily intake of carbs in one meal? Carbs are supposed to give us energy, not yawns. Besides, I haven’t always overeaten on Thanksgiving, but I’ve always fallen asleep. When I was a kid, I ate like a bird – a cannibalistic bird, but a bird nonetheless – and fell asleep anyway. I remember napping on Thanksgiving as early as age seven, so you can’t blame the wine, either – having been raised in a Catholic household, I didn’t drink wine until I was at least eight. Nope, I’m not buying it. I’ve researched the issue personally, and turkey makes me tired. The year we dropped turkey from the menu, I was actually able to stay awake all afternoon, and you know what? It turns out there are football games on Thanksgiving! Karl Marx knew nothing – religion’s harmless, it’s turkey that’s the opiate of the masses. Still, I sometimes found myself missing it over the years, especially after we had kids. It seemed unfair to feed them Pop-Tarts on Thanksgiving. It deprived them of the traditions I remembered – the turkey, the pie, the shrimp cocktail. Yes, that last one actually was a tradition in my house when I grew up. This was long before shellfish caused deadly allergic reactions, or required a second mortgage to buy in the grocery store. Shrimp cocktail was the thing I looked forward to the most as Thanksgiving approached. Some time during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, Mom would come into the living room with a huge bowl of cold shrimp, complete with a little matching bowl of cocktail sauce clipped to the rim. I think those were the only two matching pieces of serving ware that we had left in the house. Over the years, eight kids and numerous visitors had managed to break, chip or steal other pieces.
The year we dropped turkey from the menu, I was actually able to stay awake all afternoon, and you know what? It turns out there are football games on Thanksgiving! And with dinner guests often exceeding 20, there was no chance of having enough matching plates. Or flatware. Or chairs. That’s probably why the concept of the kids’ table was invented – it wasn’t a way to hide the kids so much as the mismatched chairs. Our makeshift, satellite dining area for the under-13 set had folding chairs, lawn chairs, and even a large cooler gathered around a couple of rickety card tables with maybe seven functioning legs between them. Charlie Brown had nothing on us. With a family of four, our challenges aren’t as great today. It seems like turkeys are becoming easier to cook. I read somewhere that the first Thanksgiving celebration lasted for three days – they probably had to wait for the turkeys to be done. I remember my mom getting up at 3am to start the oven, so the turkey could bake for its requisite 12 hours. Nowadays, it takes about a minute and a half in a decent microwave. So this year, turkey’s back on the menu, and it’s game on. You and me, tryptophan – mano amino. Bring it. I have coffee, I have football, I have two sons who make it impossible to nap. We’ll re-instate traditions one at a time. I may stand behind the meal, but I still won’t get behind the wheel.
DAN BAIN, TURKEY TRIPPER mail@dan-bain.com
050-053 Fair Trade
10/28/09
10:53 AM
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Selling locally,
thinking globally
“Galimoto” push-toy bicycle rider, Kenya. Available at Ten Thousand Villages. $6.
Basket assortment. Available at Gifts with a Heart.
Photo courtesy of Ten Thousand Villages
50 – Midtown Magazine
3-D Butterfly Cards on Handmade Paper, Bangladesh. Available at Ten Thousand Villages. $3.
Photo courtesy of Ten Thousand Villages
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There’s a movement you ought to consider this holiday season.
Photo courtesy of Ten Thousand Villages
by Dan Bain
Finger Puppets, South Africa. Available at Gifts with a Heart.
Not one to donate to – rather, one to buy from. It’s a perfect way to find a gift that’s symbolic, environmentally sound and meaningful. The person you give it to is sure to appreciate it, as is the person you ultimately bought it from. Such gifts are readily available through a movement that’s growing, but often misunderstood – fair trade. So, what is fair trade? Thanks to frequent misconceptions, the best way to answer that is to start with what it isn’t. Fair trade isn’t outsourcing. It isn’t anti-capitalism. It isn’t charity. It isn’t substandard goods for inflated prices. And it isn’t coffee. (Okay, maybe sometimes it’s coffee, but it’s also a whole lot more.) Essentially, fair trade is a movement that promotes better trading conditions for marginalized workers – artisans and farmers whose products wouldn’t otherwise reach a fair market. Its goal is to help them move from poverty to self-sufficiency through their hard work (as opposed to hand-outs). The movement advocates paying fair wages to them while striving to create better standards in their underdeveloped regions and countries. Retailers are certified by a handful of governing organizations who have agreed to maintain principles such as fair price, direct trade, respect, transparency, community development, safe working conditions and environmental sustainability. Barbara Erickson is one of them.
050-053 Fair Trade
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z e s t CAFE & HOME ART 919.848.4792 8831 Six Forks Road Raleigh www.zestcafehomear t.com 52 – Midtown Magazine
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GIFTS WITH A HEART CONDONES GIVING WITH TWICE THE HEART Erickson owns Gifts with a Heart, a fair trade store in Cary. “You can always find something unique here, almost exclusively made with naturally available products,” she says. “Every gift is able to say something meaningful about the person you’re presenting it to, and has something meaningful behind it. Every gift gives twice...You would hope your gifts are from the heart, but not every gift is made by someone with a heart, with love and appreciation that someone has bought that gift.” Potential gift items in the store include Guatemalan handbags, Haitian wall art, embroidered and beaded clothing from India, hemp clothing from Nepal and sterling silver from Mexico. Some of the more interesting products are made from items that might otherwise turn into litter – animals sculpted from wire, wall art constructed from oil drum lids, and beaded jewelry made from recycled paper. But don’t make the mistake of assuming the products look like trash – far from it. Some are charming, some are beautiful. All are surprising. One of the store’s more whimsical products is a series of South American finger puppets, and it’s a perfect example of how tradition and artistry have found their way to an outlet in the 21st century marketplace. There's no better product guarantee than knowing that the product was used successfully for generations before anyone ever thought of marketing it to other users. The puppets entertain kids because that was their original intent, with no thought of selling them to someone else. “Knitting them is something the women in this particular village high in the Andes Mountains have been doing forever as a way of entertaining their children,” Erickson recounts. “Now they can still be at home with their children, but get these products to a market with consumers who appreciate that talent and are willing to buy them.” The consumers appreciate more than just the talent, Erickson says. “People love the mission,” she adds. “They love the fact that they’re getting something they want, but at the same time doing something to help people.” FAIR TRADE EMBODIES THE SPIRIT OF COOPERATION Such sentiment drives the fair trade movement, something that fosters a sense of shared goals and a purpose that's greater than the market, greater than oneself. As the owner of Jinja Fair Trade, Stacey Ferguson supplies some of the products sold at Gifts with a Heart, as well as other retailers. When she was trying to break into the fair trade wholesale market, Ferguson recalls, “There was always this sense that we’re all out for the greater good – there's no competition or jealousy among the retailers. If one can't buy the products, they're willing to give tips on who might. Everybody is working toward the same good cause and that’s a nice part of it.” As proof positive of that cooperative atmosphere, Erickson met Ferguson through another fair trade retailer. Erickson was volunteering there as a salesperson, and had aspirations of starting her own store. Ferguson had approached the retailer about selling the jewelry she'd brought back from Uganda, but the retailer couldn't buy it at the time. Instead, they told Erickson about Ferguson, and both women were able to get their businesses off the ground together. Ferguson became a wholesaler to Gifts with a Heart as well as the other retailer, now known as Ten Thousand Villages. TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES, COUNTLESS SMILING OCCUPANTS You might have heard that name elsewhere in the country. Ten Thousand Villages is actually a network of more than 100 stores across North America. The Raleigh store operates with about 60 volunteers and six paid employees, says Marketing Manager Elizabeth Altman, and
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Photo courtesy of Ten Thousand Villages
050-053 Fair Trade
they enjoy the same team spirit that Erickson and Ferguson have discovered. “It’s their camaraderie that I enjoy. We’re all there because we believe in what we’re doing, so it’s different from some jobs where you don’t have a common core value,” Altman declares. “I really love the environment there and I love what we’re doing.” What they're doing, she says, is providing a marketplace for handicrafts and food products from low-income artists and groups in dozens of countries. Those products include home decor, textiles, personal accessories, toys, instruments, coffee, chocolate and tea. The producers use whatever resources are easiest to come by, lending a local or exotic flavor to their products – vases spun from Peruvian clay, furniture built from Vietnamese bamboo, etc. As a result, says Altman, the store's environment is “So engaging – so many colors, textures and beautiful things to look at.” Equally engaging are the organization's annual learning tours, which provide opportunities for Ten Thousand Villages staff to travel as a group for several weeks, meeting the artisans in their countries. They visit the artisans' workshops and homes, and learn first-hand how fair trade has improved their lives – whether by enabling a farmer to move his family from a hut to a house, helping a seamstress pay for her children's education in a country where there's no public school system, providing enough income for a family's medical needs, etc. Stories like these keep customers coming back, says Altman. “We have some people who are totally committed to fair trade and will buy all of their gifts at our store,” she exclaims. “So many people just love our store before they even know the mission behind it; they just love the products. Then they start noticing the educational signs, or interact with a volunteer who tells them about the mission. Really, the products sell themselves and the mission makes it an even better experience.” It's a mission that the customers can share, Altman explains, because when they buy the products, “They are providing hope and they’re providing jobs with dignity for people they won’t meet, but you know we’re all connected.” Why not join that connection? It’s only fair...
www.midtownmag.com – 53
054-055 Wine Review
10/28/09
5:10 PM
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WINE REVIEW
ARGIANO BRUNELLO DI MONTALCINO TUSCANY, ITALY | 2004 | $63 Raisins, blackberries and roses on the nose. Full-bodied, with a soft and silky tannin structure and a long and delicious finish. This is the best Brunello ever from here. Classic vintage. TOMASELLO CRANBERRY WINE, HAMMONTON, NEW JERSEY | $10, 500ML 100% natural cranberries strike a perfect balance of light sweetness and tartness. The color is an intense cranberry red and the aroma enticing. Mix with sparkling wine for a perfect holiday toast! BOARDING PASS FIRST CLASS SHIRAZ, MCLAREN VALE, AUSTRALIA | 2006 | $30 An alluring bouquet of cedar, mineral, tobacco, smoked meat, and blueberry. Excellent depth, savory black fruit flavors, plenty of spice, and a lengthy finish.
CHILDRESS TRIO, YADKIN VALLEY, NC | 2008 | $13 You gotta have a local wine to show off. A blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Pinot Gris, it has aromas of grapefruit and lemongrass and a hint of almond on the finish.
CHATEAU BERTINEAU ST. VINCENT LALANDE DE POMEROL, BORDEAUX | 2005 | $27 The best vintage ever, prices are tumbling on these great Bordeaux. Boasts plenty of chocolate, berry fruit, and spice characteristics along with a luscious, hedonistic texture. CHATEAU MONTELENA CHARDONNAY, NAPA | 2007 | $48 The classy winner in the movie, Bottle Shock offers up aromas of white peaches and apple skins presented in a fresh, medium-bodied, dry, zesty format.
SILVER PALM CABERNET SAUVIGNON, CALIFORNIA | 2006 | $17 Offers seductive scents of ripe blackberry, roasted coffee, dark chocolate and cinnamon. On the seamless, mouthfilling palate, it has a pretty, oaky nuance. A great value in California Cab.
RIONDO PINK PROSECCO, ITALY | 12 All the rage, and gorgeous sparkle in the flute. Flavors of cherries and fresh picked strawberries. Lively, fresh and explosive, a real crowd pleaser.
MCGUIGAN SPARKLING SHIRAZ, AUSTRALIA | $12 Delightful dark berry fruit flavors of blackcurrant and plum highlight this sparkling wine with a hint of sweetness. A touch of spicy oak and chocolate. 54 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Midtown Magazine
054-055 Wine Review
10/30/09
4:07 PM
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gift the
of wine
Pretty much fits the bill when searching for “the perfect gift”. It literally disappears (down the hatch) and there are so many different kinds that one can never get tired of it. People love to experiment with tasting new wines, so you need not worry about whether you got the “right one” or not. You can never have too much wine! It’s a perfect gift even for someone who may not imbibe. We are always recommending wines to teetotalers who are purchasing for entertaining. Wine can literally fit any budget. You can get a tiny bottle under $2.00 for a stocking stuffer, or you can spend hundreds of dollars or more for that special wine geek in your life. Here are some picks for 2009, the ten fabulous wines that make great gifts, covering a range of prices, places and flavors!!
JONSEY RARE AGED TAWNY PORT, AUSTRALIA | $11 A sensational blend averaging 46 years in age. An extraordinary bouquet of sweet candied fruit intermixed with gorgeous notions of maple syrup, earth, and hazelnuts.
056-059 Homework Guide
10/28/09
5:24 PM
Page 1
how to handle
homework
by Illyse Lane
So how’s homework going at your house? Truth be told, just the mention of this word can send chills up a child’s and a parent’s spine. Why is it that something intended to reinforce the day’s school work causes so much frustration? Perhaps it’s the amount of time homework requires. Or the high level of concentration our
56 – Midtown Magazine
children need to complete it. Maybe it’s finding the time to do it. Or the fact that the assignments are just difficult. Regardless of the homework battle you’re fighting with your children, it’s easy to wonder what teachers are thinking. Instead of guessing, we caught up with three experts – teachers – who shared their strategies
on how parents and kids should approach homework. We learned that while the amount of work will vary from classroom to classroom and grade to grade, understanding the rationale behind homework can help all of us get through the afternoon – and sometimes the evening – without tears, fights and frustration.
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The Importance of Time & Place While we can’t control how much homework teachers assign to our children, we can control the atmosphere in which they tackle it. And a smart setup is essential to success. Children should have a designated homework space. Whether it’s the kitchen table, a desk in their room or a computer in the den, pick a spot with good lighting. Stock it with the supplies they will need to complete assignments, such as pens, pencils, rulers, glue sticks, paper and a dictionary. This way, interruptions are minimal, as they don’t need to go searching for materials. Make sure any distractions, such as a television or noisy siblings, are removed. Once you have established a homework place, establish a homework time. A stick-to-it routine is best for children of all ages. Obviously, there are days the routine may be more difficult to follow, due to practices, jobs and other family commitments. On days such as these, try to plan in advance and have a strategy. For children getting dragged to a sibling’s practice, stock your car with supplies so they can complete homework while they sit.
Elementary School René Herrick, fourth grade teacher, A.B. Combs Leadership Magnet Elementary School, 2009 Wake County Teacher of the Year PHILOSOPHY: Herrick wants her students to be motivated and take pride in their work, without worrying or giving up if they don’t understand something. “Students should understand that they need to be fully invested in their own education and always ask for more information when they aren't sure of the questions or the tasks,” says Herrick. YOUR CHILD IS LEARNING: How to build confidence and dig deep for answers. “I remind my students that homework is about remembering the skills they were taught,” she says. Herrick encourages her children to note any trouble spots so they can discuss it at school. “We don’t want tears at the table; just talk to me,” says Herrick. She also believes that if a student has mastered a topic, it should be noted as well. “If I assign a math sheet, and after 20 problems, the child clearly gets it, he should draw a line, make a note and stop. He has gotten what he needs from the exercise,” says Herrick. This sensible approach promotes students taking responsibility for their own learning. PARENTS SHOULD: Offer support but not reliance. Parents should allow their children to struggle a bit in order for them to uncover their skills. The key is being available for help. “Let them start their work, but offer help along the way by using encouraging phrases such as ‘show me what you can do first’, ‘maybe you need a break’ or ‘let’s try it this way,’” says Herrick. Also, communicate with the teacher, especially if your child cannot explain the difficulty. Believe it or not, your child’s teacher doesn’t want him to fail. They want a partnership with you. TIME: 10 minutes per grade; fourth grade equals 40 minutes. It is also beneficial to teach children to plan ahead, especially if assignments are given with advanced notice.
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Clockwise from left: Bill Roth, Ravenscroft School; René Herrick, A.B. Combs Leadership Magnet Elementary School; Jasmine Hart, Sanderson High School
Middle School Bill Rothe, social studies instructor and middle school dean, Ravenscroft School PHILOSOPHY: “Homework is assigned to promote responsibility and to provide academic practice outside the classroom,” says Rothe. It sounds simple, but during middle school, the workload increases while students get their first taste of school sports and activities. YOUR CHILD IS LEARNING: Planning is essential. “The pressures of middle school can be overwhelming; however, with some simple planning and regular communication, homework can be a positive experience,” says Rothe. By using a school agenda to record assignments as well as other information linking home to school, students practice responsibility and organization. PARENTS SHOULD: Understand that students are not fully capable of independently managing homework, especially sixth graders. Being involved and offering support are necessary until a consistent pattern of managing their own work is reached. Rothe suggests that parents monitor progress by performing nightly checks, especially in the beginning of the year, and then weekly as the student gets back into the rhythm of school. As children take on more responsibility, parents can feel out of the loop. Remember that most schools offer a website link to view assignments. Also, conversations with your children are a good way to gauge an understanding of their knowledge and also demonstrate your interest in their work. When offering help, keep in mind that teaching strategies have evolved and it’s important to appreciate there are other ways to learn the same material we learned in middle school. Rothe also recommends sitting down together for dinner each night and sharing experiences of the day. “This is valuable practice that can serve middle school students well,” says Rothe. TIME: Up to an hour and a half of homework per night. Rothe suggests a 20-minute work segment followed by a five minute break is a much better approach than working through the entire hour and a half.
58 – Midtown Magazine
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High School Jasmine Hart, tenth grade English teacher, 2009 Sanderson Teacher of the Year, 2009 Wake County Teacher of the Year Semi-finalist PHILOSOPHY: “Students should have responsibility for their assignments and the flexibility to discover their own rhythm for completing their work,” says Hart. They also need a healthy dose of downtime. “High school students have days packed with school, activities, jobs and homework. They also have a lot going on socially,” says Hart. “They need a break.” YOUR CHILD IS LEARNING: Good organization is the key to finding a routine that works. And how teens organize their work during the school day will have a direct correlation on their ability to complete homework. Hart has learned that even high school students need reminders and help getting organized. “With so many classes, students need a place to write down the assignments, put homework before it’s complete and after it’s finished,” says Hart. She begins with the basics, helping students set up their binders and determining what stays in class, a task most teachers do. If homework is hard, Hart recommends that students take advantage of school resources. “Teachers want to help,” says Hart, “Programs such as Sanderson’s Smart Lunch, where students are given 30 minutes to eat with the option of a 30 minute tutorial helps make sure our kids are learning.” PARENTS SHOULD: Wean themselves from being hands on but stay involved. Take advantage of school websites where assignments are posted. “Parents can say things like, ‘I saw you have a paper due’ and offer prompts to encourage them to start homework,” says Hart. By high school, kids may be more comfortable reading on the couch, sprawled out on the floor, or with headphones in their ears. As long as the work is done, parents shouldn’t worry. Monitor computer time to ensure kids don’t get distracted. Additionally, since most teens are night owls, set a lights out or bedtime. TIME: Usually 20-30 minutes per class. “I tell my students how long assignments should take; if they take much longer, we’ll find strategies to be more efficient,” says Hart. And, if your child is up until 4:00A.M. doing homework, it’s likely that they’ve waited until the last minute for a project that was assigned weeks ago. The fact of the matter is homework is here to stay. And in the race to get it done, we can overlook the lessons beyond the worksheets. If we consider what it’s supposed to be teaching our children, we can make homework a less grueling, more productive exercise.
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STEP-BY-STEP
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Do you feel like your holiday decorations look the same year after year? If so, it may be time to add a little do-it-yourself pizzazz! Whether it’s a whimsical wreath on the front door or a new look for your Christmas tree, our step-by-step guide will help you create a memorable holiday look! We turned to the local experts at Logan Trading Company and Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden Center for step-by-step instructions on updating your home’s holiday decorations.
step by step to a beautiful holiday! Pat Kandefer says her job at Logan’s “feeds a habit” and love of beautiful flowers. Kandefer joined Logan Trading Company three years ago and says she’s loved every minute of it. She promises it’s a piece of cake to freshen up the look of your wreath.
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The first step is to choose a wreath that is the right size for your front door. The bigger it is, the better. You should be able to use the front door without damaging the wreath – for a standard door you should consider at least a 30-inch wreath (wreaths are always measured across from outside to outside).
Next, add your artificial items to the wreath. It is ideal to pull it apart and slide each individual piece into the wreath. You should work in odd numbers – three sections are ideal for this.
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Whether you are using a real wreath or an artificial one, you will need to fluff up its branches.
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Start by feeding a colorful ribbon around the wreath. You can use one or two different colors of ribbon – either way, you will need 4-5 yards of wire ribbon of each. The ribbon should come together and meet at the bottom of the wreath.
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To add the last layer, consider an evergreen that will compliment the color and style of your wreath. These should be added one sprig at a time. We used five groups of three.
6 5
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Next, add in ornaments in the same color scheme but use lots of different shapes and sizes. Use six ornaments. Make sure your ornaments hang but do not lean on braches.
The last step is to tie a beautiful bow. You can place the bow to the top, bottom or side of the wreath â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whatever fits your style.
Time Required: Less than 30 minutes
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all the trimmings...
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The first step is lights. If your tree is not pre-lit, make sure you buy “smart” lights. With these lights, you will not lose the entire strand if one light burns out. When you add lights to your tree, make sure you don’t wrap lights around the outside of the tree, you want to go inside each branch with the lights.
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©2009 Benjamin Moore & Co. Benjamin Moore, Natura and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks, licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.
c
The next step is to add your garland. This should reflect your personal likes. This year the trend is expected to be traditional and retro, with the colors red, gold and silver.
Dean McKinney, the Christmas & Gift Manager at Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden Center, says this year’s decorations are returning to the classics. He recommends you use the biggest tree possible for your space – for 10-foot ceilings, use a 9-foot tree and for 9-foot ceilings he suggests at least a 7-1/2 foot tree.
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Next, add large ornaments (150 mm). You should position these very close to the center of the tree, working in odd numbers of three and five.
d 4
Begin adding your glass ornaments (120 mm or smaller). Make the extra effort to use floral wire to tie these ornaments to your tree. He suggests if you can only buy one new thing for your tree this year, invest in mercury glass. Use six or seven ornaments.
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62 – Midtown Magazine
919.341.7971
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Fill in open spots with clear ornaments; these reflect light and add a twinkle to your tree.
d8 And there you have it – a beautiful, festive tree!
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Next, add in ornaments in the same color scheme but use lots of different shapes and sizes. Use six ornaments. Make sure your ornaments hang but do not lean on braches.
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Add branches of artificial evergreens to your tree – this will add contrast. Use eight to nine pieces.
HOW MANY LIGHTS & ORNAMENTS DO I NEED? The general guideline is to use one set of 50 miniature lights per foot of tree. More lights and ornaments will create more drama and impact. 4-foot tabletop tree: 200-350 lights / 50-75 ornaments / 40’ of garland • 7-foot tree: 350-550 lights / 150-200 ornaments / 70’ of garland 7.5 foot tree: 400-650 lights / 175-275 ornaments / 80’ of garland
Provided by Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden Center.
www.midtownmag.com – 63
064-069 Holiday Bling
10/28/09
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Romancing
the Stone:
a
Are we there yet? That’s the question most of us want answered as we anxiously anticipate bidding farewell to 2009. The year’s slip-and-slide economy has given most of us a literal run for our money and changed the way we think about spending and saving. But before we can flip that calendar page, we still have to get through the most challeng-
64 – Midtown Magazine
five facts to know by Illyse Lane
ing time of the year when it comes to being cost conscious – the holidays. And although we’ve tightened our money belts, there’s no denying that the buckle will get a little loose when it comes to holiday shopping. In this environment, a smart gift buying strategy is going with a sure thing. An investment. A gift with meaning. Jewelry always fits the bill. And now, more than ever, it’s important
to be educated about your purchases. We had the chance to talk with four highly respected jewelers and while their expertise could fill pages, we limited them to five facts to know when you shop for that perfect gift. Their tips will help you buy with confidence and make sure the box that ends up under your tree is exactly what you had in mind.
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How To Buy Estate Jewelry With 50 years of experience with both new design and fine estate jewelry, Elaine Miller of Elaine Miller Collection shares her insight on how to navigate the world of estate jewelry. When shopping, know your definitions. Estate jewelry simply means preowned jewelry and can cover any time period. It is more of an umbrella term, with the categories of antique and vintage falling under it. Antique jewelry is jewelry over 100 years old, while vintage jewelry continues up until the 1950’s. Not all estate jewelry is created equal. For most people, the word “estate” brings to mind images of grandeur. However, when it comes to jewelry, the word “estate” is overused. “It’s important to remember that just because a piece is labeled estate or even antique, it does not necessarily mean it is a fine quality piece,” says Miller. Find out if the piece you are considering has been restored to its original condition. Miller suggests looking at parts such as the clasp and hinges to see how the piece is made. “Restoring a piece of jewelry is similar to restoring a piece of furniture,” says Miller. “You want it to be as close to its original condition as possible.” Quality cannot be stressed enough. In order to determine value, look for significant markings. Original, more valuable pieces will have a stamp identifying the type of metal, such as 18K/750, 14K/585 Plat/900 or 950. If the item is from a specific designer, look for the hallmark, such as Tiffany and Co. “It can also be helpful to understand the various eras of jewelry,” says Miller. For instance, the Victorian Era (1837-1901) brought about the popularity of sentimental jewelry such as lockets and during the Edwardian Era (1901-1915), platinum, diamonds, and pearls symbolized prosperity. The allure of fine estate jewelry is a uniqueness that comes from a one-ofa-kind, handmade piece of jewelry. Additionally, these pieces have a quality of workmanship that cannot be found in mass produced jewelry. For many, buying a piece of estate jewelry is like buying a work of art. Signed pieces will increase in value with age. Final Thought: “Estate jewelry can be a difficult and confusing area,” says Miller. “My best advice is if you do not know estate jewelry, know your jeweler. It takes years of experience to feel comfortable with pre-owned jewelry.”
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Magnificent diamond & platinum Edwardian era necklace with characteristic swags and filigree work. Elaine Miller Collection.
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Victorian era wedding cuffs. Elaine Miller Collection.
How To Buy A Gemstone
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Frank Jolly Ragsdale, owner of Jolly’s Jewelers in North Hills explains why colored gemstones are a tradition that never goes out of style. Colored gemstones add elegance and flare to any jewelry wardrobe. Sapphires have been a southern tradition for generations, with rubies and emeralds also being popular in the upper echelon of price ranges. Women are warming up to new, colorful stones such as chrome diopside, a stone with a rich green color and tourmaline, which comes in a variety of colors. When mixed with different metals or in some cases, diamonds, these stones create beauty that doesn’t have to be saved for formal occasions. More people are asking for custom designs. “People want something that is theirs and theirs alone,” says Ragsdale. When it comes to custom, it could be working with your grandmother’s sapphires that have been handed down from generation to generation or designing your own ring with a newly purchased genuine stone. Either way, going the custom route has its benefits. “Nicely made jewelry ties families together,” says Ragsdale. “You may have never heard your grandmother’s voice, but you’ve got a piece of jewelry that belonged to her.” A jeweler is required to tell you the origin of the stone you purchase. One way to be assured of a genuine gemstone is to shop at reputable jewelery store, where the jeweler knows his sources and the gemologists are highly trained. Ragsdale actually encourages his customers to ask to see a gemologist’s certification, which can give them peace of mind.
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A trained gemologist will also determine the value of the stone. A natural stone will have a higher value than a manmade stone. However, value takes on a more subjective interpretation when working with a manmade stone that has been passed down through the family. Jolly’s has evaluated stones with significant sentimental value to customers that end up being of little monetary value. The stone could still be beautiful and usable, but the key is to know what you are working with. If a price seems too good to be true, it probably is. It’s easy to be drawn in by a potential bargain, but be cautious, especially of on-line sales involving fine gemstones. For example, a sapphire can look real, but upon inspection, reveal that it is not a natural stone and only the skin is blue. The safest protection you have is working with a jeweler that researches its sources. “Jolly’s is very restrictive on the sources from which we get our jewelry and stones,” says Ragsdale. “We check and check and check.” Final Thought: “There’s tremendous value in putting a name, a face and a location with your purchase,” says Ragsdale.
Clockwise from top left: emerald ring; sapphire bracelet; sapphire square ring; ruby ring. Jolly’s Jewelers.
How To Buy A Diamond “When it comes to diamonds, it’s all about finding the one that makes an emotional connection for you,” says Barak Henis, Vice President of Diamonds Direct Crabtree. Whether it’s a necklace, bracelet, stud earrings or a ring, a diamond represents the ultimate for many. Selection is key. Henis’ experience has taught him that even with a trained eye, the only way to understand the differences in diamonds, especially when it comes to color, is to compare them. Be leery of stores that offer a limited selection. “I like to say, ‘no selection, no purchase’,” says Henis, “I’ll show my customers pieces three and four at a time. By the time they finish comparing, they know for sure which ones they like.” An educated shopper is a smart, confident shopper. “At Diamonds Direct Crabtree, we tailor our program for every customer, so they understand the value they are getting,” says Henis. The education begins with learning about the 4 C’s as well as understanding how diamonds are priced, which is especially important when buying a ring, for the center stone accounts for 70-80% of the value.
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68 – Midtown Magazine
About those Four Cs... Cut : The most important of the four Cs. A good cut allows the diamond to show its maximum brilliance. A poor cut can take away 40-50% of a stone’s value. Color: The key to understanding color is selection. Compare, compare, compare. Clarity: Few diamonds are perfect; most have slight inclusions. It important to consider the location and color of the inclusion and whether it is visible to the naked eye. Carat: Prices jump when you cross from one carat range to another. A smart shopper may seek a stone at the high end of one carat range, such as a 1.49 carat within the 1.0-1.49 range, recognizing that although it may be harder to find, it will cost less than a 1.52 carat and the difference to the eye will be minimal. An understanding of the four Cs will help you understand price. Diamonds can be expen-sive. And there’s comfort in understanding exactly what you are buying. Diamonds Direct Crabtree uses the Rapaport Diamond Report, the industry standard for pricing, as a tool to help shoppers understand price. “This allows our customers to see the recommended wholesale price,” says Henis. “They then feel like they have an anchor and don’t have to put all their trust in the jeweler.” Certification is an independent, unbiased, third party evaluation of your diamond’s quality. There are three recognized labs that certify diamonds – G.I.A., E.G.L. and A.G.S. The majority of stones are sold with certification. If the stone you are buying is not certified, you can pay a small fee and get it certified to ensure the description of your diamond is accurate. While a certification is valuable and recommended, you should never buy a diamond strictly on certification. Always see a diamond before purchasing. Final Thought: “Eyes are the best tool you have, and the diamond you buy should sing to you,” says Henis.
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Rolex offers a wide range of styles, from formal to sporty. Johnson’s Jewelers.
How To Buy A Rolex There’s a timeless, classic allure that is synonymous with Rolex. “It’s a luxury item that can be used everyday,” says Joey Lee, owner of Johnson’s Jewelers in Olde Raleigh Village. “It’s a proven investment, withstanding the test of time.” Rolex was born over a century ago and has always held true to its mission. Even during the 1970s, when the introduction of digital and quartz movements (the mechanism that actually calculates the passage of time) forced many watch companies to change directions, Rolex stayed on its course and continued to make high quality watches with Swiss movements. This dedication has enabled Rolex to sit at the top of the industry. Rolex quality is unique and unmatched. Rolex movements are completely manufactured in house and have an average value of several thousand dollars. Each movement takes 14 months to complete and over 200 technicians help in producing a Rolex watch movement. The oyster case and screw down crown make Rolex one of the most durable watches available. When you purchase a Rolex, you are making an investment. While most watches have very little value when sold as used, Rolex is known for having a strong resale value in the secondary market. Rolex has a large selection of styles. Ranging from formal to sporty, there are numerous selections to choose from. Features to look for include different size, dial selections, bracelets as well as varying materials such as stainless steel, gold and platinum. A few of the more popular styles include the GMT, Submariner, Daytona & Explorer II. It is important to make sure that you have a certified and trained jeweler to take care of your investment. An Official Rolex Jeweler such as Johnson’s Jewelers will be able to provide complete service of your Rolex, without ever having to send it out to the factory. “We take great pride in our craftsmanship,” says Lee. “It is a tradition that began with my grandfather, Mr. Alton Johnson, as he started in this business being a watchmaker & repairing watches.” This differentiating factor should be considered when deciding where to purchase a Rolex. Final Thought: “Buying a Rolex as a gift for yourself or someone special to celebrate life’s achievements, milestones or special occasions will give a lifetime of appreciation, enjoyment and service,” says Lee.
An Easy Choice Our experts agree that when purchasing a piece of quality jewelry, it’s important to get to know the jeweler you’re working with and feel comfortable talking about your purchase. This includes finding out about the shop’s return, upgrade and repair policy. So whether it’s a fine estate piece, a gemstone, a diamond or a Rolex watch this holiday season, jewelry is a can’t-go-wrong gift – not only because it can be used every day, but also because it creates a reminder of the thought and caring that went into choosing it. And isn’t that the best kind of gift?
070-073 Bucket List
10/30/09
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HARDCOVER
Dreams by Illyse Lane
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A few months ago, we asked you to share your bucket list. You responded. Last issue, we taught the tango. Now the presses are rolling as we help Mary Lane Mallory achieve her dream of getting her first book published. Will you be next?
70 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Midtown Magazine
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Three years ago, Mary Lane Mallory was living a typical, happy life. She would go to work, spend time with her husband, Revill, her two grown sons and two grandchildren. But then something happened. After reading a book written by a distant family member, memories of her childhood spent in Williamston, North Carolina came rushing back. Suddenly, Mallory, who has never considered herself a writer, would awake at 2am with the urge to write. “I’d wake up, sit down at my computer, and just write,” said Mallory. “I was tickled because once I began, everything just started flowing.” As she wrote, she had only one goal – to finish her story. Chapter upon chapter poured out through Mallory’s fingertips and four months later, her book, Going Home Again, a fictional story based on true events from her life in Williamston, a small town located on the banks of the Roanoke River, was complete. It wasn’t until Mallory finished her book that she even considered publishing her story.
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However, the thought of getting Going Home Again published seemed daunting. Between the research process to find the perfect publisher, the expected rejections along the way and Mallory’s concern over the potential cost, the process appeared overwhelming. “I sat on this for a long time,” says Mallory. That is until she read about Midtown Magazine’s Bucket List. A simple e-mail relaying her wish to have her novel published resulted in an introduction between Mallory and Lulu.com, a self-publishing company based in downtown Raleigh. With its international scope, availability of tools that assist authors in building an audience and easy accessibility to a vast array of markets, Lulu.com was able to take Mallory’s publishing goal and make it a reality.
“We were thrilled to participate in this project,” says Jonathan B. Cox, Lulu.com spokesman. “Mary Lane is like so many people out there. They have poured their heart and soul into writing. But they just don’t know how to get their works into print.” With its easy-to-use publishing platform that allows writers to download their manuscripts, photos, recipes or any other content and get them into print without any up-front fees, Lulu.com has taken the historically, nearly unattainable goal of publishing a book and put it within reach for writers. As a matter of fact, Lulu.com has been ranked number one among self-publishing websites and since 2002, has helped more than one million authors in 80 countries achieve their goal of being in the marketplace. And this non-traditional way of
“We believe in the power
publishing allows authors to keep a large 80% of the profits from works sold. Cox is quick to credit the Lulu.com philosophy for making it simple. “We believe in the power of ideas and the potential of everyone to create something powerful. We believe that if you want to be in the marketplace, you should be in the marketplace,” he says. Mallory has not decided if she will try and sell her book in Lulu’s own online marketplace or perhaps try to gain access to one of the online stores, such as Amazon.com. She may just decide to keep her newly published, hardback book for herself, proudly displayed on her bookshelf. “I’ve just been so excited to have been chosen to do this,” says Mallory.
of ideas
and the potential of everyone to
create something powerful.“ — Jonathan B. Cox, Lulu.com
72 – Midtown Magazine
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How Do You
Lulu? •••••••••••• Lulu.com understands the amount of work that goes into writing a manuscript. “One of our authors compared turning over her manuscript for publishing to sending her kindergartner off to the first day of school,” says Jonathan B. Cox, company spokesperson. “Authors connect with their works at that level. And nobody should deprive them the joy of seeing their works in print; of holding a book with their name on the cover.” To support its mission of helping writers be published, Lulu.com has a user friendly process that is as simple as logging onto www.lulu.com, uploading your manuscript and then using the formatting tools to get your book set up just the way you want it. Lulu.com will walk you through a series of questions, beginning with entering your book’s title and then choosing your book’s style, size, binding, and cover art as well as your goal for your book. For example, you may decide to keep it private and accessible only to you or you may choose to make it public. If you decided to make your work public, you can choose to either sell it in the Lulu Marketplace, or assign your title an ISBN – that funny looking bar code on the back of a book – to sell your book in online bookstores such as Amazon.com as well as the Lulu Marketplace. Lulu.com will help you set the price. It will also print and ship as books are ordered. This seamless, stateof-the-art process charges no set-up fees and allows authors to collect 80% of the creator revenue on every sale. There are also additional value added tools to take advantage of, such as weRead, a popular book application that helps authors find new readers and readers find new authors that they will enjoy based on past selections and book reviews by friends. “We want everybody to see how easy it can be and know that they deserve a voice in the world as loud any bestseller,” says Cox.
•••••••••••• www.midtownmag.com – 73
074-079 Guest Etiquette
10/28/09
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be their guest
AWAY FROM HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
by Kate Turgeon
R
Remember Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation? He’s the uninvited, overnight guest who feels surprises are better than telephone calls. He brings his dog, and overstays his welcome. Now, I feel fairly certain that there are no
74 – Midtown Magazine
Cousin Eddies lurking in Midtown. But, comedy aside, the holidays can be a tricky time for all of us. It’s easy to feel hurried, emotional and tired. Throw a suitcase and travel time into the mix, and even the most thoughtful person is wonder-
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ing how to be the perfect houseguest. If you’re hoping to be the guest who is invited back, think of what it was like when you were the hostess – was there anything a guest did that you particularly enjoyed? Take that knowledge, and Midtown’s seven tips for being the best guest, and you’re on your way to a visit that’s as merry and peaceful as the holiday cards in your mailbox.
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It’s important to keep time with the family you’re visiting. If you’re a night owl visiting an early bird, you may want to go to bed earlier than usual.
#1 It’s about time The good guest, experts say, is a person who arrives and leaves on time. Decide on mutually agreeable dates and times beforehand, and keep them. If you’re running more than 30 minutes early or late, call and let your host know. Also, it’s important to keep time with the family you’re visiting. For example, if you’re a night owl visiting an early bird, you may want to go to bed earlier than usual so that you can keep pace with your host. “You must conform to the habits of the family with whom you are staying…take your meals at their hours,” writes Peggy Post in Etiquette.
#2 No “plus one” If you and your family are invited to a friend’s home, it’s you, your spouse and your children who are welcome. Don’t ask if your son can bring a friend or if your dog can come, too. In her book Excuse Me But I Was Next, Post writes, “Leave pets at home or in a boarding facility unless your host insists that your animal comes along.”
#3 If you don’t have anything nice to say… Then don’t say anything at all, right? When you’re a visitor, it’s important to keep negative comments to yourself. There’s no need to burden your hostess with the knowledge that you don’t care for the scent of her fresh, Fraser Fir Christmas tree. “Have a positive attitude from start to finish,” suggests Letitia Baldrige in her book New Manners for New Times. “Be determined that nothing will affect your cheerfulness and enthusiastic participation.” And, finally, find something you appreciate about the home and pay your hostess a compliment, such as “I like the way that your house backs to these beautiful trees.” In her book A Modern Girl’s Guide to Etiquette, Sarah Ivens writes, “Don’t insult someone’s home. 76 – Midtown Magazine
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PHOTO BY HAL GOODTREE
074-079 Guest Etiquette
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Even something as subtle as ‘I wouldn’t have chosen those colors is extremely rude.”
#4 Tidy Tim Remember that you’re living in someone else’s house; it’s not a Marriott. Keep things clean by making the bed daily, putting dishes in the dishwasher and keeping your belongings in your room. This includes, experts say, your toiletries. When you leave the bathroom, especially if it’s a shared bathroom, take your things with you. “Be neat in your room…so that your hosts will enjoy walking past it instead of feeling the need to hire a professional cleaning squad,” writes Baldrige.
#5 Low tolerance for high-tech In a world where information is at our fingertips, it’s easy to get carried away. But when you’re visiting, be careful how much time you spend on the telephone and Internet. Laptops and cell phones are wonderful inventions, but it’s not polite to spend too much time with them. When your hostess is around, give her your full attention. After all, she’s giving you her hospitality.
Celebrate the Holidays In Magical Style
#6 Houseguests & housework Experts suggest that you always offer to do chores such as empty the dishwasher, make coffee, set the table or prepare a meal. “But if told a firm ‘No,’ take your hostess at her word,” writes Baldrige. “Many host couples prefer to do all the chores themselves.”
#7 What to do with sheets and towels? Unless otherwise directed by your host, it’s customary and polite to strip the bed of sheets and pillowcases, and then make the bed with the comforter. Fold the used linens and place them at the foot of the bed, along with the towels you used.
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The tradition of bringing a gift from one’s home state or country is about as old as the Christmas tree itself.
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The Hostess Gift Almost every etiquette expert suggests that guests show their appreciation with a gift (upon arrival or as soon as possible after the visit) and a handwritten thank you note following the visit. Knowing your host is important. For example, the ever-entertaining couple may enjoy a bottle of wine, while a busy host family would appreciate a gift card for pizza. If your hostess is a single woman who enjoys pampering, why not surprise her with a gift card to a nearby spa? And there’s always the tradition of giving a gift from one’s hometown or state; it’s a custom that’s about as old as the Christmas tree itself. If you’re traveling out of state, or even within North Carolina, here are some tried and true gifts that will deliver a bit of your home to your hostess.
1 Cookbooks – Why not bring her a taste of the Tar Heel state? For cookbooks with southern fare, check local museums – the NC Museum of Art has An Appetite for Art, churches – consider White Memorial Presbyterian cookbook, schools – consider Ravenscroft’s – and organizations like the Junior League of Raleigh.
EVENT & BRIDAL MAKEUP • BROWS • FACIALS COSMETICS & SKINCARE • PERFUME KIEHL’S • MOLTON BROWN • CREED • BOND NO. 9
919.881.7828 THE ALEXAN AT NORTH HILLS SHOP ONLINE! WWW.LUXEAPOTHECARY.COM 78 – Midtown Magazine
2 Elegantly Edible – Nothing says a North Carolina Christmas quite like Moravian sugar cakes and cookies from Winston-Salem. You can find them at Dewey’s, Winkler Bakery and Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookies. Or visit the NC Museum of History’s shop for a sampler gift basket with gourmet peanuts, Hatteras blend ground coffee, Forge Mountain wild strawberry jam and more. 3 Ornaments – America’s largest home, Biltmore House, is a North Carolina treasure. And for less than $20, you can say, “thank you” and “remember” with an eye-catching Biltmore orna-
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2
The Spectacle
z
5
Under the Red Awning
919.783.5863
Dont’ forget him! A gift from Old Sport and Gallery in Pinehurst is perfect for the host who loves to golf.
ment. From a miniature replica of the Vanderbilts’ china to a handcrafted, blown-glass ornament depicting the house, there are more than 20 ornaments to choose from.
4 Wine – To savor a taste of North Carolina, Total Wine & More suggests Pilot Mountain Red ($7.99). With floral aromas and berry flavors, it’s a smooth, medium-sweet Muscadine wine made in the traditional southern style. 5 Something for him – If your host likes beer, why not give him a six-pack of NC’s best brew? With more than 50 breweries in NC, choices abound; visit www.beerme.com for a list. If he’s a golfer, nearby Pinehurst is full of surprises – try Old Sport and Gallery in the village for a token of appreciation. www.midtownmag.com – 79
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g n i k c o St RS E F F U T S
Clockwise from top left: Orange Crush Jellybeans – The Lollipop Shop Teddy Bear – Quintessentials Lollipops – The Lollipop Shop Socks – dilly dally at OhBaby! Elephant Music Box – Quintessentials Candy Cane – The Lollipop Shop Retro Gum – The Lollipop Shop Wind-up Car with Candy – The Lollipop Shop Wind-up Toy – The Lollipop Shop
80 – Midtown Magazine
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Steps to Delicious Cookies – Every Time! 1 Keep butter and eggs at room temperature for about an hour before using – it will blend better. And always use stick butter.
2 Use all-purpose flour! 3 Use shiny baking sheets. 4 Cool baking sheets between batches –
if not, the dough will melt before cooking.
5 Cool cookies before storing – use airtight containers for chewy cookies and tins for crispy cookies.
www.midtownmag.com – 81
082-083 Calendar
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C A L E N DA R
november december
2009
SMEDES PARLOR CONCERT SERIES November 3 | 8pm | Chopin in Warsaw: Music from the Early Years | Saint Mary’s School | 919.424.4045 | www.sms.edu
HOSPICE OF WAKE COUNTY TRAINING DAY November 16, 23 | 9am-5pm | 250 Hospice Circle Rd. Raleigh | 919.828.0890| www.hospiceofwake.org
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY AT SCHWARZ PLASTIC SURGERY November 5 | 11:30am-6:30pm | Welcome to new and existing clients & enjoy 20% off all products and services | 919.848.2423 | www.schwarzps.com
ELIZABETH LOCKE TRUNK SHOW November 17 | Elaine Miller Collection | 919.571.8888 | www.elainemillercollection.com FREE! INFORMATION SESSION AND OPEN HOUSE November 18 | 6-8pm | Explore Duke Integrative Medicine | 919.681.2958 | info@dukeintegrativemedicine.org
JOHN HARDY TRUNK SHOW AT BAILEY’S November 5 | 12-3pm | Bailey’s Fine Jewelry in Cameron Village | 919.878.1144 GIRLS NIGHT OF SHOPPING AND WINE! November 5 | 7-10pm | Sample wines, delicious food and shop accessories from local shops to support Make-A-Wish Foundation of Eastern NC | $75/advance, $95/door | 919.821.7111 | www.eastncwish.org. ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE AT OUR LADY OF LOURDES CATHOLIC SCHOOL November 5 | 6:45-8pm | 2710 Overbrook Drive | 919.861.4635 | pmueller@olls.org VISIONS OF SUGARPLUMS November 5-7 | 9am-8pm | Holiday art and gift show | Quail Hollow Swim Club | www.visionsofsugarplumsraleigh.com INTRODUCTION TO NEW DESIGNER LINE BY JOSE & MARIE BARRERA AT ELAINE MILLER COLLECTION November 6, 7 | The Lassiter at North Hills | 919.571.8888 | www.elainemillercollection.com OPEN HOUSE AT THE FRANCISCAN SCHOOL November 7 | 2-4pm | 919.847.8205 ext. 256 | www.franciscanschool.org HOLIDAY FESTIVAL WITH A HEART November 8 | All day event raising funds for Hospice of Wake County for their gardens in new facility | Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden | www.hospiceofwakec.org PIE AND WINE TASTING November 8 | 2pm | Holiday wine and pie pairings | The Umstead Hotel | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com COOKIE SOCIAL AND SALUTE TO MILITARY VETERANS November 8 |7-9pm | St. Timothy’s Church Parish Hall | 919.543.0457 OUT OF THE DARKNESS COMMUNITY WALK November 8 | 2pm | Support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 82 – Midtown Magazine
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AT NORTH HILLS November 19 | 6-8pm | www.NorthHillsRaleigh.com
and the Triangle Consortium for Suicide Prevention by participating in the walk | 919.866.3275 | www.outofthedarkness.org HOLIDAY TRUNK SHOW AT JBAT BOUTIQUE November 10-12 | 5-8pm | Luxury fur collection by designer Paula Lishman | RSVP 919.786.5411 | www.douglascarrollsalon.com
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT November 19 | 5-8pm | Boutique Collection at North Hills evening of shop-ping & food to support SPCA | 919.781.9210 CHRISTINE JONES TRUNK SHOW November 19 | 5-8pm | Tyler House | 919. 781.9210 BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU WINE DINNER November 19 | 6:30pm | Saint-Jacques | 919.862.2770 | www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com
CULTIVATING THE INNER LIFE THROUGH SERVICE November 11 | 9am-4pm | Special one-day seminar; contemplative practices for healthcare professionals & caregivers | 919.660.6826 | info@dukeintegrativemedicine.org
“UNDER THE TREE, ONTO THE WALL” OPENING RECEPTION November 19 | 79pm | ArtSource North Hills | 919.787.9533 | www.artsource-raleigh.com
FRENCH COOKING CLASS November 11 | 4:30pm | Outstanding cooking class with Chef Lil | Saint-Jacques | 919.862.2770 | www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com
ANTIQUES SHOW November 20, 21, 22 | 10am-5/6pm | The Woman’s Club of Raleigh | Kerr Scott Building at NC State Fairgrounds | www.womansclubofraleigh.org
FESTIVAL OF TREES November 13 | 6:3010:30pm | Assistance League of Raleigh and Broadway Series South, launching the Gala Festival of Trees. | $75 | Progress Energy Center | 919.623.7734 | www.raleigh.assistanceleague.org
SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL FALL PLAY November 20-22 | 3pm, 2pm | Twelve Angry Women by Reginald Rose | $8 | 919.424.4063 | www.sms.edu
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE November 14 | Affordable Chic Shops | 919.846.0676 | affordablechicshops.com HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE November 14 | 12-5pm | Come sample sweet holiday flavors at The Cupcake Shoppe | 919.821.4223 | www.thecupcakeshopperaleigh.com
TREE LIGHTING AT NORTH HILLS November 21 | 6pm Tree Lighting; 3pm-7pm Festivities | www.NorthHillsRaleigh.com HABITAT WAKE HOLIDAY HOME TOUR & PARTY November 22 | 5-9pm | Tour of Habitat homes followed by an oyster roast & live music | $50 | 919.833.1999 | www.HabitatWake.org THANKSGIVING DAY November 29
“GATHERING AROUND OUR TABLE” WINE DINNER November 15 | 6:30pm | Five course dinner benefiting Learning Together | Irregardless Café | 919.856.5202 | info@learningtogether.com
THANKSGIVING BUFFET November 29 | 12-6pm | The Umstead Hotel | $65/adult, $18/child | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com
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HANGING OF THE GREENS AT TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH November 29 | 6pm | 919.787.3740 | www.tbcraleigh.com SLANE AND SLANE TRUNK SHOW December 1, 2 | Personal appearance by Heath Slane December 2 | Elaine Miller Collection | 919.571.8888 | www.elainemillercollection.com BENEFIT SHOPPING NIGHTS AT TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES December 1, 3, 7, 8 | Come enjoy a day of shopping while supporting local non-profits | 919.821.1100 | www.villagesofraleigh.org HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA AT DIAMONDS DIRECT CRABTREE December 4, 5, 6 | Dozens of vendors and 20% off merchandise for the holidays | Diamonds Direct Crabtree | 919.571.2881 | www.ddusainc.com JINGLE BELL RUN/WALK FOR ARTHRITIS December 5 | 8am | Saint Mary’s School | www.sms.edu TEA WITH SANTA December 5, 12, 19 | 11am-1pm | Raleigh Boys Choir, Santa and Mrs. Clause| The Umstead Hotel | $36/adult, $18/child | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com HOLIDAY BEAUTY & PAMPER PARTY December 5 | 2-6pm | Free salon and spa services and a gift give away | Douglas Carroll Salon | 919.786.5411 | www.douglascarrollsalon.com
dents and their parents | 919.424.4000 | www.sms.edu GOLDBUG STUDIO HOLIDAY SALE & OPEN HOUSE December 11, 12 | 6-9pm, 11am-5pm | 919.834.1523 | www.goldbugstudio.com ORCHESIS FALL CONCERT AT SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL December 11, 12 | 7pm, 2pm | 919.424.4089 | www.sms.edu ALEXIS BITTAR STYLE & FASHION EVENT December 11, 12 | Elaine Miller Collection | 919.571.8888 | www.elainemillercollection.com JOLLY ELF TRAIL RUN December 12 | Second Empire Grand Prix Series | 919.632.7723 | school.stmichaelcary.org 37TH ANNUAL HISTORIC OAKWOOD CANDLELIGHT TOUR December 12, 13 | 1-7pm | $15/advance, $20/tour day | www.historicoakwood.org THE NUTCRACKER December 12, 13 | 2pm, 7:30pm | City Ballet at the Stewart Theatre | $20 | 919.844.9799 | www.city-ballet.com LIGHTING O’ THE GROVE AT SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL December 13 | 7:15pm | Carols, tree lighting and Santa | 919.424.4000 | www.sms.edu
BOYLAN HEIGHTS ARTWALK December 6 | 12-5pm | www.boylanheights.org
CHRISTMAS CANTATA “JOY, JOY, JOY” December 13 | 8:30 and 10:55 am| Trinity Baptist Church| 919.787.3740 | ww.tbcraleigh.com
NEW COVENANT AND LIVING PRAISE CONCERT December 6 | 6pm | Trinity Baptist Church | 919.787.3740 | ww.tbcraleigh.com
ESTATE JEWELRY CLINIC December 15, 16 | Elaine Miller Collection | 919.571.8888 | www.elainemillercollection.com
A CHRISTMAS CAROL December 8-11, 12-13 | 7pm, 2pm | Theatre In The Park’s 35th annual production | Progress Energy Center | $21-$77 | 800.745.3000 | www.theatreinthepark.com
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT December 17 | 5-8pm | Boutique Collection at North Hills evening of shopping and food to support Literacy Council of Wake County | 919.781.9210
FUR TRUNK SHOW FROM HERTZBERG December 10 | 11am-5pm | Tyler House | 919.781.9210 PHOTOS WITH SANTA & HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE December 10 | 4-6pm | Harrington Bank in Falls River Town Center | 919.582.2660 SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL Overnight/Visitation Day December 10-11 | For prospective stu-
CHRISTMAS CAROLING WITH TRINITY BAPTIST December 20 | 5pm | 919.787.3740 | www.tbcraleigh.com CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER AT SAINTJACQUES December 24 | 5-8pm | Saint Jacques | 919.862.2770 | www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE AT TRINITY BAPTIST December 24 | 5 and 10 pm | 919.787.3740 | ww.tbcraleigh.com
CHRISTMAS EVE DINNER December 24 | 5:30-8pm | The Umstead Hotel | $70/person | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com CHRISTMAS DAY December 25 CHRISTMAS DINNER December 25 | 5:38pm | The Umstead Hotel | $70/person | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com NEW YEARS EVE GALA December 31 | 10pm-1am | Dance the evening away with a 10 piece band Casablanca style | $150/couple for dancing, $295/couple for dinner and dancing | The Umstead Hotel | 919.368.4987 | www.theumstead.com NEW YEARS EVE DINNER AT SAINT-JACQUES December 31 | Saint Jacques | 919.862.2770 | www.saintjacquesfrenchcuisine.com
send us your
events
please email the information about your community event to to sarah@midtownmag.com
084-089 Goldbug new
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Editor’s note: This is the second in a series of stories Midtown will be doing on local businesses that have attracted both national and international clients.
all that glitters
by Christa Gala / photography by Anna Paschal, Goldbug Studio
Eight years ago, Ashley Carter was spending a lot of time at a beat-up work table in her 1920's farmhouse – fiddling with paper, vintage flowers and embellishments...waiting. Her husband Graham was on tour in Europe with his band, and Carter found she had a lot of free time on her hands. "We were recently married, and I was really missing
84 – Midtown Magazine
Graham; I needed an outlet to fill my nights,” says Carter, 43. “I started making different projects, and before I knew it I'd created a ton of stuff – something that actually looked like a collection." Carter’s “stuff” consisted of handmade gift tags, ornaments, slightly self-absorbed party hats, fairytale-inspired figures and crownsitems she used to
make for friends and family. She called a few local stores, and they agreed to display the items during the holidays. But then a funny thing happened. “They sold out and wanted more!” Carter laughs. Goldbug Studio was born that fall of 2000. By July of the next year, Carter was taking orders for her handmade creations at the Atlanta Gift Show, one of
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DO YOU WISH
Your Office
WAS IN MIDTOWN?
3901 Barrett
3948 Browning
2609 Atlantic Forks
3900 Merton
612 Wade
LEASING • MANAGEMENT • BROKERAGE INVESTMENT SALES • BUILDING RENOVATION
isGoldbug! the largest wholesale gift venues in the country. Today, Carter sells her creations to household names like Disney, Bergdorf Goodman and Anthropologie. Her work is sold in nine foreign countries – from England to Saudi Arabia – and she’s been featured in two dozen magazines, including Modern Bride, Town & Country and Martha Stewart’s Weddings. And Carter makes everything just around the corner – in a renovated fire engine factory in Five Points. Ashley's husband, Graham Fry, is the behind-the-scenes partner of Goldbug Studio. "Graham is Goldbug’s unsung hero,” says Carter. “He's helped me
Celebrating 20 Years In Midtown Real Estate ‘Tis Better To Give Than To Receive ACTS 20:35
This Thanksgiving & Christmas seasons, more than ever the need is great in our community. Give back by giving your time to someone in need. By giving, be blessed.
Mikels & Jones Properties
919.781.9998 • WWW.MJPROPERTIES.COM 3901 BARRETT DRIVE • SUITE 102 • RALEIGH
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••• A Goldbug Christmas Show Open to the public If you go… 518 Pershing Rd, Raleigh 27608 Friday, December 11th & Saturday, December 12th. For more information visit www.goldbugstudio.com or call 919.834.1523 •••
with so many aspects of the business – shipping and handling, setting up for shows and upfitting the studio and retail showroom – all while he was building his own hardscape business, Winding Path." “A LITTLE MAGIC” The light streams through expansive windows in Carter’s narrow shotgun-style studio, not open to the public. It’s a cheery place for the detailoriented work required of Carter and the five artists that make team Goldbug. I’m looking at Peter Pan’s Ship and Cinderella’s Pumpkin Carriage, which will soon be shipped to the new Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco. Each is a three-dimensional paper masterpiece that seems to have jumped straight from the storybook pages. Carter points out a two-foot handmade doll named The Magical Muse of Animation, which has plagued her for weeks. It will eventually be shipped to the Disney Museum as well, but it’s not ready yet. Carter has invested close to one hundred hours into the doll. The skirt alone is made up of hundreds of Disney images printed on 86 – Midtown Magazine
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“I hope my collection makes people feel the way they did when they were a kid, like there’s still a little magic in the world.” — Ashley Carter
“Building a Better Lifestyle”
AFTER
BEFORE
• NEW CONSTRUCTION • • TEAR DOWNS • REMODELS • • ADDITIONS • COMMERCIAL UPFITS •
paper that has been aged, colored and folded. It will retail for $3,600 if it ever makes it off Carter’s work table. The problem? When Carter turns the doll upside down, she can see the wire and glue between the paper folds of the skirt. And that’s not cool. “I don’t like to see how something is constructed; it takes away from the magic of the piece,” says Carter. “I like to cover my tracks well.” Goldbug Studio creations are about fantasy and folly – adornments for the home and for special occasions. “I hope my collection makes people feel the way they did when they were a kid, like there’s still a little magic in the world,” says Carter. LESSONS LEARNED The business side of Goldbug Studio is anything but magical; it’s a business like any other. In 2004, Carter got her first big contract with a major department store. It was a challenge. “That was a bit of a rough ride because I didn’t really know what it was like to deal with a big department store,” says Carter. Although it was a good experience creatively – Carter designed several one-of-a-kind Santas that retailed between $2,500 and $10,000 each – she was unfamiliar with the strict rules about invoicing and shipping. “The department stores operate differently than mom-and-pop boutiques,” says Carter. “They have very specific regulations, and they will charge you penalties if you don’t follow their instructions correctly. You have to have some sort of system in place to be able to handle big stores like that. I also learned that I have some power to ask for things.” There is one thing Carter has learned not to do. She does not make black-and-orange Halloween items. “I’ve had a lot of stores say ‘Please do Halloween.’ Every time I’ve tried to do it, it felt like a lie in my mouth. It just didn’t work,” says Carter. “There are other companies out there that do vintage Halloween really well. What works for me are glamorous gold foil and glass glitter pumpkins with a really sexy platinum glass glitter mask on top.” Each Goldbug Studio folly is handmade to order for each store. Carter’s buyers know they need to order early because the custom pieces take time to make. It’s an efficient business
AFTER
BEFORE
919.460.1580 | WWW.WESTPINEBUILDERS.COM
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Ashley Carter model. Everything that goes out is pre-paid, with no backlog of inventory. “Trends change,” says Carter. “We have a tight production schedule, and we don’t want to produce inventory that we then have to find a home for.” Carter listens to her customers. In 2005, she heard from a few retailers who wanted to purchase her work, but were concerned their customers couldn’t afford it. “I started to really look at my collection, and I realized my lowest price point was $75 wholesale,” Carter says. “I was pricing myself out of an entire marketplace because my price point had gotten too high. I came home and created an entirely new line in two weeks between the Atlanta and New York shows.” The new line, offering six to eight items between $12 and $25 retail, was a huge hit. She calls it the Goldbug Starter Kit, which has now expanded and become a very important part of her collection. “It changed the opportunities for my business. It expanded my line into home décor – still handmade and still lovely, but also affordable. I listened, and I didn’t wait for diminishing returns. I just acted quickly,” says Carter.
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WEATHERING THE ECONOMY At the end of 2008, Carter sensed the market might be turning. “I thought, ‘Who needs a $250 party hat right now?’ My business follows what’s happening in retail so when retail’s struggling, we feel it.” Carter could feel the economic insecurity at the international gift shows in January 2009. “Everyone was scared.” She thought a little frivolity was in order. “I just decided that my booth was going to look like a great big piece of candy,” she says. “It was colorful and joyful. We had a varied price point. Then we just held on for dear life.” Typically, Goldbug’s most profitable pieces are those it can make in multiples – like German glass glitter birds and starburst snowflake ornaments made with French metal lace. Goldbug’s retailers generally order very early in the year. But 2009 held new challenges. Many stores ordered late, creating a real rush at the end of the year. “People were much more careful about what they spent and where they spent it,” she says. Carter was ready. She hired seasonal assistants to help with the fall rush; team Goldbug worked doggedly to fill the orders. “Having done this for a while, I think I understood the psychology of my buyer. This past year was about survival and about getting yourself out there.” Good planning saved Goldbug Studio. “I have great credit; I’ve made that a priority. Because I’ve kept my credit history strong, I was able to secure enough capital to survive a difficult year,” says Carter. “I’m not dumb about how much money it takes to run my business.”
THE FUN AHEAD As an artist, Carter is always moving forward. If she runs out of vintage ribbon or flowers, it’s a relief. It gives her permission to move on to something else. Carter would love one day to work in set design for movies and theater production. She’s headed in the right direction. A few months ago, a set designer from the movie Sex and the City 2 spotted Carter’s work at a New York gift show. The designer ordered gold swan place card holders dressed in tiny party hats for a birthday party scene for Charlotte’s daughter, Rose. Hollywood celebrities are getting in on the action too. You’ll find Carter’s pieces in the homes of Academy Award winners, music legends, fashionistas – even royals. But she’s not naming names. In fact, she’s quite protective of her famous collectors. “They’re buying the pieces for themselves; it would feel like I was betraying their trust.” As she talks, Carter looks, for a moment, like her creations – animated with glittering eyes, bright blond hair brushing her shoulders. And I know that Carter won’t give up on The Magical Muse; the doll will make it to Disney after all. I ask Carter: “Aren’t you proud?” She shrugs her shoulders and smiles. “I am proud. The goal is for all of us – myself and my staff – to have careers in art,” says Carter. “Some people think it’s just luck. Don't get me wrong – I have been very lucky. But luck alone will not sustain success. There’s a lot of hard work in there, too.”
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090-091 Dueling Column
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UNTIL IT COMES, THAT IS!
The season is magical…
by Christa Gala
DUELING COLUMN
An overwhelmed Christa groans, while Susan happily enjoys her Christmas morning cocoa.
mell that, Susan? Christmas is in the air. Take a great big sniff. Sigh. I love Christmas. Correction: I love getting ready for Christmas. I’ve already picked the photo for the front of my Christmas card. Yes, Susan, I do send cards – almost seventy-five. And then I get cards back! I just love it. I also write a newsletter each year to send to out-of-town folks. It’s a great way to catch up and I love receiving those too. I know you’re making fun of me Susan; I can feel it. Christmas is of course all about the birth of Jesus Christ, but really, isn’t it also about reconnecting with folks you haven’t seen in a long time, making that trip from the mailbox, your arms laden with red and green envelopes? And the treats! I can’t believe, foodie that you are, that you don’t bake at Christmas. Even I bake! I do the requisite Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies (my fave) and also an easy “turtle” treat that consists of a mini-pretzel with a Rolo candy placed on top. After the tray of Rolo pretzels come out of the oven, you mush a pecan into each one, and that’s it. There’s no sifting of flour, no shaving of chocolate, no cookie presses that I don’t have room to store. Now that’s my kind of baking. I even like wrapping gifts. Did you know I buy real ribbon, Susan, because I love hand-tying bows? What about the Christmas tree? Each ornament has a story; it’s fabulous. And the culmination of the perfect holiday season is the Christmas Eve service at my church, singing Christmas carols and watching a reenactment of Jesus’s birth with my husband and son. It’s all downhill from there. Are you surprised? Hoo, boy, once that church service is over, I begin the
S
90 – Midtown Magazine
annual three-part whirlwind Christmas tour, which consists of Christmas Eve at my house and me going to bed at about 2am. Christmas morning I find myself, bleary-eyed, stepping over piles of trash and being yelled at to “open this!” for, oh, about five hours, after which my fingers are bleeding from trying to undo the twisty ties that are obviously an overseas plot to make parents homicidal, suicidal or both. The fun continues with a long, drawn-out Christmas dinner and exchange for my side of the family – though, thankfully, not at my house. I wash more dishes than I own and eat an obscene amount of food. I vacuum until my arms hurt, both in preparation of family members arriving and after they leave. I have dishpan hands, a bloated figure, a splitting headache, and I’m more than ready to drag the Christmas tree right out the front door – ornaments and all. Just so you know I’m not exaggerating, this is me the morning after Christmas: I lift my head from the pillow and glare at my husband from under my Flock-of-Seagulls bedhead. Then comes the moaning: “Don’t talk to me. Get out. I need sleep.” And God Bless him, he usually does. I think husbands can tell the difference between a woman threatening to crack and one that’s really on the brink of a major hair-pulling episode. I lay there and think about the mess downstairs, the twisty-ties and wrapping paper and various gifts that need a new home in an alreadycrowded house. And then I say a silent apology to God that I am always such a crabapple on his son’s birthday and get up, finally, and console myself with about twelve Rolo turtles served with a side of peanut butter cookies. And then I go back for seconds.
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by Susan Ely
I
I love Christmas Day...
t’s the morning after Labor Day – 111 days, 4 hours and 44 minutes until Christmas. I haven’t done any planning or shopping and I won’t for probably another 100 days or so. Yes, I am a holiday procrastinator. Don’t get the wrong idea, Christa, I love Christmas. But let’s face it; I’ve experienced quite a few more than you and have had more time to develop some holiday quirks. After years of buying Christmas cards and never getting around to addressing them, I finally gave up. The perfunctory task of name signing is so impersonal and there isn’t room to write much more, which leads me to my pet peeve: the dreaded Christmas letter. There’s the “little Jimmy graduated summa booma cum laude from Yale,” version; a friend sends me a variation of this every year. “Grandma has boils on her butt and the baby has colic,” is lovely, too, don’t you think? Christa, I know you’d never succumb to penning anything that silly……Christa?! What makes you think I don’t bake at Christmas? Granted, I cut back when I worked for a national mail-order bakery, but you would too if you iced forty Red Velvet cakes a day! I used to bake cutout cookies, thumbprints, java sticks, 12layer Dobos tortes, chocolate mousse cakes with hand-dipped chocolate leaves, chocolate marzipan mice, fudge, and chocolate dipped cherries, for starters. These days I bake as little or as much as I want. Ah, the freedom that comes with age! BTW, Christa, your pretzel-Rolo “turtles” do not constitute baking – sorry. I went all-out wrapping gifts…once. And no, Martha, oops – Christa, I don’t use real ribbon, or hand-tied bows, although my mom did teach me to use scissors to make ribbon curlicues; does that count?
IT’S THE 3-MONTH PRELUDE THAT I DREAD!
Photography by April Maness
090-091 Dueling Column
Our tree trimming system is simple: hubby puts up the tree and strings the lights and I decorate. Then one Christmas the tree refused to stay lit; now it’s the same every year, no matter how many new strands we buy. One seven-footer fell over in the middle of the night, smashing beautiful glass ornaments I’d collected over the years, not to mention scaring the ‘youknow-what’ out of us! We called that one ‘O Tannenbomb’! Last year we said no tree, but caved in a week before Christmas when we found a last-minute three-for-one clearance deal. I just bought a vintage wrought iron tree stand that weighs about twenty pounds – this year’s tree is staying put! We never lived close to family, Christa, so the exhausting Christmas rounds you describe sound glorious to me. I was always a bit envious of my friends who had your “problem.” Still am, for that matter. You didn’t ask, but my hard-won advice is to stop expecting so much of yourself and be grateful you have family to celebrate with! Christa, right about the time you begin your “downhill slide,” I finally start to settle in and cozy up to Christmas. I love the fact that the whole world seems to grind to a halt. By 2 pm Christmas Eve, I toss my to-do list and stop stressing. If it’s not baked, not purchased, not wrapped, who cares? I just want to enjoy my family. We host the annual Ely Unplugged talent show, laugh about how my mom always got the names wrong on our gifts, drink Cranana daiquiris and then go to sleep anticipating all that awaits us in the morning: a fire, coffee with brandy and whipped cream, opening gifts and reading the Christmas story, which puts all the craziness into perspective. The real gift of the season? The Giver himself.
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My family always went to a late church service on Christmas Eve and then everyone would come back to our house to exchange family gifts. We would have lots of finger foods that could be prepared beforehand, and my mom's beef barbecue was always the star of the show. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Cindy Huntley
Holiday TRADITIONS & From Our Family To Yours 92 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Midtown Magazine
RECIPES
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My mom always makes Cheese Wafers for Christmas. As a child it was my favorite holiday treat. It is also one of the first things I learned to bake and now as a mom I make the wafers for my children and neighbors at Christmas every year. — Gina Stephens
You may laugh when I, a Northerner, try to make claim to a collard green recipe. That was exactly the reaction I had eight years ago when my husband first asked me to make this dish for Christmas. I assumed he was joking! When he asked if I had gotten the greens the day before our holiday feast I fibbed and said “YES”, then ran out to the farmers market, called a southern friend, and started what felt like the 5-hour process of washing and boiling the weirdest looking leaves I had ever seen! But it ended up being worth every minute, the dish was a big hit and I have made it every year since. — Rachael Redmond
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The holidays always seem to provide a time to reminisce on things held close to the heart; family, traditions and food to name a few! Here at Midtown we consider each other an extension of our families and came together to share with each other, and you, the traditions and recipes that conjure up our favorite holiday memories. We hope you enjoy them as much as we do. Happy Holidays from Midtown Magazine! The Midtown Magazine Staff â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Top Row: Ronny Stephens, Gina Stephens, Travis Aptt; Bottom Row: Myra Gammon, Rachael Redmond, Cindy Huntley, Sarah Oglesby.
94 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Midtown Magazine
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MARBLED CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
COLLARD GREENS
1 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup sugar 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla 2 eggs 2 1/4 cups flour
3/4 pound bacon 1 large onion, thinly sliced 4 bunches collard greens 1-2 large chicken bouillon cubes
1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 2 Tbsp cocoa 1 cup white chocolate chips 1 cup semisweet chips
In a large bowl, with electric mixer, beat butter, sugars and vanilla until creamy. Beat in eggs. Combine flour, soda and salt; gradually beat into butter mixture until well blended. Scoop about 1/3 of the dough into a separate bowl. Mix in cocoa until thoroughly blended; stir in semisweet chips. Stir white chips into remaining white dough. Return chocolate dough to mixing bowl; with a wooden spoon stir the two doughs together just until marbled. Drop dough onto ungreased cookie sheets (For uniformly round cookies, roll dough into balls). Bake 8-12 minutes until cookies are set and edges lightly browned. Cool 1 minute on cookie sheets; remove to a wire rack to cool completely. Makes about 4-5 dozen.
2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 Tbsp brown sugar 1 Tbsp hot sauce Salt, pepper and garlic powder to taste.
Wash the collard greens thoroughly. Remove the stems that run down the center by holding the leaf in your left hand and stripping the leaf down with your right hand. Stack 6 to 8 leaves on top of one another, roll up, and slice into 1/2 to 1-inch thick slices. Boil in batches to shrink, drain and sit aside. Cut the bacon into 1" pieces and fry in the bottom of a very large pot until crisp. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes. Add in the greens and seasonings, cover with water and boil for 2.5 to 3 hours or until tender. Adjust the seasoning to your preference and serve with extra hot sauce on the side.
My wife Kathy starts baking Christmas cookies months in advance. She freezes them and we present friends and family with overflowing trays of over a dozen varieties as gifts for the holidays. My personal favorite is her marbled chocolate chip cookie. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Ronny Stephens
www.midtownmag.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 95
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My mom has been making these cookies for Christmas for at least 40 years. She always makes our favorite Christmas treat – and this is what I always request. I think it’s my favorite because remembering back to when I was 5 years old and got my first China Tea Set for Christmas – these are the cookies I served my dad and I for our tea party on my new china! It always brings back happy childhood memories of Christmas. — Myra Gammon CREAM WAFERS 1 cup butter, softened 1⁄2 cup whipping cream 2 cups all-purpose flour* Granulated sugar Creamy Filling (below)
Mix thoroughly butter, cream and flour. Cover and chill. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Roll about 1/3 of dough at a time 1/8 inch thick on floured cloth-covered board (keep remaining dough refrigerated until ready to roll). Cut into 1 1⁄2 inch circles. Transfer rounds with spatula to piece of waxed paper that is heavily covered with granulated sugar; turn each round so that both sides are coated with sugar. Place on ungreased baking sheet. Prick rounds with fork about 4 times. Bake 7 to 9 minutes or just until set but not brown; cool. Put cookies together in pairs with Creamy Filling. Makes about 5 dozen cookies.*Do not use self-rising flour in this recipe.
The Alexan at North Hills 919.881.9480 www.genachandler.com
CREAMY FILLING Cream 1⁄4 cup soft butter or margarine, 3⁄4 cup confectioners’ sugar and 1 tsp vanilla until smooth and fluffy. Tint with a few drops food color. (Add a few drops of water if necessary for proper spreading consistency.)
BEEF BBQ 3 lbs london broil 3 Tbsp butter 1/3 cup chopped onion 1 cup ketchup
1/3 cup vinegar 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1/3 cup water 2 tsp mustard
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce Mini croissants or dinner rolls
Cut london broil into palm-sized chunks. Cover with water and cook in crock pot on low for 6-8 hours. Drain excess liquid and shred meat with fork. Melt butter in a pot and saute onions. Mix in ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, water, mustard and worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 15 minutes, then add shredded beef and simmer for an additional 30 minutes. Serve on mini croissants or dinner rolls.
This household tradition dates back before I can remember. Every Christmas morning I would awake to the smell of my Mom baking this tasty treat. We would dive into our presents, have a family breakfast and then finish off by opening our stockings. Definitely a tradition that I never want to end. Thanks Mom! — Travis Aptt MONKEY BREAD 4 tubes of buttermilk biscuits 1 2/3 cups sugar (divided)
2 tsp cinnamon 1 1/2 sticks butter
Spray a large tube pan with cooking spray. Mix cinnamon and 2/3 cup of the sugar in a plastic bag. Separate the biscuits from the tube. Cutting each into 4 pieces, coat in the sugar mixture and drop in the pan. Melt butter and mix in 1 cup sugar, stirring to dissolve. Boil for 1 minute. Pour evenly over the biscuit mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until browned. Place a plate on top and invert immediately to pop out. Serve warm. 96 – Midtown Magazine
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CHEESE WAFERS 1/2 lb margarine or butter 1/2 lb grated sharp cheese 1 tsp salt
2 cups all purpose flour 2 cups Rice Krispies cereal Cayenne pepper to taste
let us take you on a vacation… to your own back yard
Mix and form dough into balls the size of walnuts. Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and press with a fork to flatten. They do not spread. Bake at 350 degrees for about 20 minutes. Makes 7 dozen.
Every Christmas morning after my family has opened gifts, my dad always makes country ham with red eye gravy and grits. This is something my dad’s family used to make growing up and has always been a family tradition. A Christmas morning is never complete until we’ve had our favorite “southern breakfast”. — Sarah Oglesby COUNTRY HAM AND RED EYE GRAVY 2 (8 oz) packages of center & end cut country ham 2 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp sugar 1-2 cups water (as needed for gravy)
919.782.9181
Ham: Trim fat from ham and place in large cast iron skillet with 2 Tbsp butter. Cut remaining ham into individual serving sizes. Once butter melts, lay ham pieces on top of fat trimmings and cook covered over medium heat for 3 minutes. Turn ham pieces and cook for another 3 minutes covered. Remove ham, leaving fat in the skillet, and place in covered dish in warm oven (125 degrees). Red Eye Gravy: Continue to fry fat pieces in skillet until crisp. Drain butter and set aside. Sprinkle 1 Tbsp sugar in bottom of skillet on medium heat. Stir until sugar is browned, then add 1 to 2 cups water. Use a fork to rub fat pieces on bottom of skillet releasing ham parts into gravy. Pour drained butter back in skillet, bring to a boil and blend well. Remove ham parts and pour gravy over ham to serve.
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SECOND ANNUAL
M
The Diamond Awards M I DTO W N M A G A Z I N E
WE WANT YOUR OPINION! IN THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2010 MIDTOWN MAGAZINE, WE WILL HONOR OUR READERS’ FAVORITE MIDTOWN PLACES AND THINGS WITH THE “DIAMOND AWARDS”. YOU CAN EMAIL US, SNAIL MAIL US , VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FAX US YOUR FAVORITES!
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100-105 Across the State
10/29/09
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ACROSS THE STATE
Give Yourself
a holiday break by Susan Ely
the verandas
t
he holidays are magical, aren’t they? All those shiny packages under the tree, the mailbox stuffed with cards, cookies baking in the oven – suddenly you’re a kid again, until it all somehow goes wrong: the tree topples over, the stores are out of the one toy your child wants, the computer crashes, taking with it your entire address list and while you’re looking for the computer geek’s business card, you accidentally burn the cookies. Our solution? Plan a holiday hiatus at a bed and breakfast! This year, give yourself the gift of a day (or two) away from home. Do it now, before you’ve RSVP’d your calendar into a blur of cocktail parties and cookie exchanges. One caveat: make sure the location really meets your needs; if you’re craving peace and quiet, don’t book a reservation in the city. Likewise, a remote country inn will drive you nuts if you can’t sit still. If you’re unfamiliar with B&B’s, ask friends for recommendations – inns are as individual as the owners. Here’s what to expect:
100 – Midtown Magazine
• Outstanding concierge service • Complimentary afternoon snacks, beverages, tea and wine and cheese • Breakfasts so hearty you’ll want to take a nap later (give in; naps are great stress-busters) • Luxury linens • A touch of history – 75% of B&B’s are run out of historic homes. • Opportunity to make life-long friendships. Ready to make a reservation? We’ve highlighted some of North Carolina’s best B&B’s across the state, all guaranteed to put that holiday sparkle back into your eyes! * One suggestion: leave your electronic devices behind and make a pledge not to talk about work. You have our permission to pick up a gift or two while you’re away.
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e
A Visit that’s Second to Nun! In just a little over two hours, an easy drive from the Triangle, you could be checking in to The Verandas Bed and Breakfast Inn, an 8,500 square foot, four-story mansion located at 202 Nun Street, in the heart of the historic district of Wilmington. You won’t be the first though; this totally restored and award-winning property has delighted guests for 12 years – over 20,000 of them! Innkeepers Chuck Pennington and Dennis Madsen say loyal customers are their best advertising. Their AAA Four Diamond ranking doesn’t hurt, nor do the four wisteria-covered verandas, complete with porch swings and rockers. Downtown streets may be steaming, but you’ll stay cool in the shade as well as in the individually climate-controlled rooms. Each of the eight guest rooms has its own personality, and all are tastefully decorated with traditional furniture and both English and American antiques. Cozy robes lay across the bed, outfitted with coverings so comfy you’ll be tempted to sleep in, at least until that first whiff of French-press brewed coffee comes wafting up the stairs. Breakfast is served in a gorgeous light-filled dining room – the table impeccably set with linens and fine china. The innkeepers are gracious hosts: Dennis prepares delightfully original and hearty breakfasts; he had me at the shirred eggs and homemade biscuits. Chuck keeps the coffee coming and the table conversation flowing with his fabulous stories and suggestions for sightseeing and dining. This is Southern Hospitality at its best. Complimentary wine, sherry and fresh baked cookies are served in the afternoon and beer, wine and sodas are always available in the well-stocked fridge. Make sure to visit the cupola for a wonderful treetop view of the city. The Verandas is located at 202 Nun Street, Wilmington, NC 28401 / 910.251.2212 / www.verandas.com.
C E L E B R AT I N G 2 5 Y E A R S
e
the verandas
~ Proven Excellence In Retirement Living ~
919.848.7080
1 5 0 0 S AW M I L L R OA D • R A L E I G H W W W. S P R I N G M O O R . O R G
100-105 Across the State
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fearrington house country inn The Fabulous Fearrington House Country Inn There’s no place like home, so why not opt for a luxurious weekend right here in the Triangle? Rather than waste precious hours driving, book a room nearby at The Fearrington House Country Inn. Fearrington’s current owners, R.B. and Jenny
102 – Midtown Magazine
Fitch, have recreated the charm and hospitality they experienced while traveling in Europe. That influence is felt throughout the property, from the gardens to the village center and the awardwinning restaurant, located in the original Fearrington Farm homeplace. Even the cows have a European pedigree – the rare, black and
white Belted Galloway is a Scottish breed. With all that Fearrington has to offer, their byline could easily be “Let us spoil you.” Each guest room is individually designed and decked out with plush feather beds, micro-fiber robes, European bath products and fresh flowers. Original artwork, European antiques, decadent fabrics and heated towel racks are additional amenities sure to give you that “wrapped in luxury” feeling. And that’s not just any floor you’re walking on; it’s imported pine from a workhouse along the River Thames. The bathroom floor? Heated, of course. There’s plenty to do: meander through the gardens, visit the farm, or stroll through the village and poke around in the shops. At Dovecoat, you’ll find everything from jewelry to unique furnishings and accent pieces; check out their fall trunk shows and December holiday market. At Roost, you’ll discover eclectic treasures gathered from around the world. Visit McIntyre’s Fine Books for a good read. Complimentary items include full gourmet breakfast, Molten Brown bathroom amenities, daily national newspaper, high-speed wireless internet access, traditional English afternoon tea, and Port wine and chocolate truffle at turndown. The Fearrington House Country Inn is located at 2000 Fearrington Village Center, Pittsboro, NC 27312 / 919.5422121 / www.fearrington.com.
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“Sourwood is as far away from the hustle and bustle as you can get.”
THE STORE ON EVERYBODY’S LIST...
CJ BY COOKIE JOHNSON ‘LOVE’ BOYFRIEND JEANS
100-105 Across the State
MICHAEL STARS DAVID KAHN UNCLE FRANK JOY JOY PEACE OF CLOTH KAY CELINE NALLY & MILLIE & MUCH MORE
Certain Things at North Hills will be open late ‘til 8pm every Thursday until Christmas!
NORTH HILLS | 786-6104 CAMERON VILLAGE | 828-5055
sourwood inn When You Really Want To Get Away From It All Go ahead – book an extra night at Sourwood Inn, because once you get there, you won’t want to leave. It’s not just the elevation (3,200 feet) that will make you giddy, it’s the feeling that finally, you’ve managed to get away from it all. Located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway a mere 20 minutes from Asheville, Sourwood is as far away from the hustle and bustle as you can get. Driving up the narrow switchbacks that lead to Sourwood, you’ll wonder how there could possibly be an inn this deep in the forest. The stone and cedar Arts and Crafts style building appears to be part of the mountain itself, hugging the slope in a manner that gives each room a sense of seclusion. Gazing at the majestic view of the Blue Ridge from your private balcony, it’s like you’re the only guest. There’s a fireplace in every room and a large central one in the lobby, a perfect spot to sip an early morning cup of coffee. Settle down after breakfast in one of the rocking chairs lining the wraparound porch. There are several hiking trails to pick from; after a brisk walk you can relax in the soaking tub with yet another amazing mountain view. Breakfasts are hearty affairs served up with stimulating tableside conversations with owner/philosopher Nat Burkhardt. Make sure to ask him about the statue at the back of the inn. Dinner is available Thursday through Sunday, reservations only. Chef Kacia Stewart makes a mean benne seed fried trout! The inn offers a variety of guided fly-fishing packages, workshops on bird watching, nature photography and wildflower identification. Sourwood Inn is located at 810 Elk Mountain Highway, Asheville, NC 28804 / 828.255.0690 / www.sourwoodinn.com. www.midtownmag.com – 103
100-105 Across the State
10/29/09
princess anne hotel
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Princess Anne Hotel, a Royal Treat Love the mountains but prefer to stay in the city? Princess Anne Hotel is just what you’re looking for. Located in the desirable Chestnut Hill National Historic District of Asheville, this bed and breakfast-style hotel offers true convenience to its guests. From its residential location, it’s an easy walk downtown and just a short drive to the Biltmore Estate, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Pisgah National Forest. You can hike in the morning, poke around the shops in the afternoon and catch an art exhibition in the evening. Howard Stafford, the present owner, innkeeper and award-winning preservationist, has lovingly restored this historic hotel, built in the 1920’s. Financed by George Mercer (father of Johnny Mercer, the singersongwriter famous for his hit “Moon River”) the hotel’s original motto, “Comfort First,” is as fitting today as it was 85 years ago. Each of the sixteen accommodations is designed with comfort, relaxation and convenience in mind. From the romantic claw-foot bathtubs in the one-bedroom Grande Suites, to the spacious two-bedroom, two-bath suites, amenities include zoned heating and cooling, LCD flat screen TV’s, wireless and high-speed internet and micro-kitchens in selected suites. Think of the Princess Anne as a place where you get the personal attention of a bed and breakfast and the privacy of a hotel. Complimentary full gourmet breakfasts are served from 8:30-10am each morning, perfect for early risers or sleepyheads. Wine and hors d’oeuvres are served from 4:30pm-6pm and include distinct cheeses, savory spreads and assorted French country olives. Other personal touches, such as in-house made biscotti, truffles, and bottled water replenished in your suite daily, will make you feel like a princess yourself. Princess Anne Hotel is located at 301 East Chestnut Street, Asheville, NC 28801 / 828.2580986 / www.princessannehotel.com.
100-105 Across the State
10/29/09
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lois jane’s riverview inn
“This lovely 19th century home will steal your heart.” Captivated by Lois Jane’s Riverview Inn You’ll want to sleep with the windows open at Lois Jane’s Riverview Inn; better to catch the breezes that blow in off the Cape Fear River. Located in the charming, historic village of Southport, not far from the creek where Stede Bonnet, the Gentleman Pirate, was captured, this lovely 19th century home will steal your heart. After a true Southern breakfast (their Praline French Toast is famous,) take a book and head outside to one of the inn’s two porches, although with the view of the Cape Fear River from the upstairs balcony, we doubt you’ll get past the first chapter. It’s easy to spend the morning mesmerized at the ships and sailboats, barges and tugboats drifting by. Later you can explore the village or sightsee at the numerous nearby attractions. This historic home, built by Lois Jane’s father in the 1890’s and restored by her children in 1995, is adorned with family heirlooms and period pieces, but never, ever feels stuffy or claustrophobic. The parlor and the library are ideal spots to while away the hours on a rainy day. Each of the four rooms has varying amenities, such as fireplace, private balcony and breathtaking views of the river. For a longer stay, you might want to consider the Queen’s Deluxe Suite, located just behind the Inn, which includes a full kitchen, private deck and bath. The family also owns Southport’s only motel on the riverbank in historic downtown; Riverside Motel offers wide porches with swings facing the river and a panoramic view. Innkeepers Joanie Morris, Jeremy Truett and Wanda Hayes don’t just treat you like honored guests; they treat you like family. Lois Jane’s Riverview Inn is located at 106 W. Bay Street, Southport, NC 28461 / 910.457.6701 / www.loisjanes.com. Enjoy!
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106-111 Too Good to be True
“
10/28/09
12:15 PM
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That’s too good to be true!
”
No, really! These foods are good – and good for you. 106 – Midtown Magazine
106-111 Too Good to be True
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by Christa Gala
Did you do the happy dance when you heard dark chocolate and red wine were good for you? Go science! Gone are the days of bashing eggs and butter; recent research is revealing foods that taste good are actually good for youâ&#x20AC;?from blueberries to cinnamon. But beware of tall tales too; Laura Dalton, owner of GNC at North Hills, separates fact from fiction and gives us the skinny on what you need to know to make the right choices.
106-111 Too Good to be True
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• DARK CHOCOLATE: Sweet justice. Dark chocolate has plant phenols, namely cocoa, that have been proven in numerous studies to lower blood pressure. But don’t drink milk with your dark chocolate or expect the same benefits from milk chocolate; the milk interferes with the absorption of the phenols. Also, don’t overdo calorie-wise. Three dark-chocolate Hershey kisses have just under 70 calories.
GIVE THE OF GOOD
GIFTHEALTH
• ACAI (A-SIGH-EE) BERRY: “It’s like a super blueberry,” says Dalton. “Because it has a high antioxidant value, it has a lot of value to your body.” What are antioxidants? Simply put, antioxidants are nutrients in our food that protect our cells from damage, which can lead to heart disease, cancer, diabetes and all sorts of bad things. “Antioxidant” is actually the umbrella term under which many nutrients fall, like lycopene, beta-carotene and polyphenols. Many fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, but the acai berry has a pretty impressive score. Get it in a capsule, shot, powder or pre-made drink. • RED WINE: The benefits here are two-fold: resveratrol and, believe it or not, alcohol. “Resveratrol has gotten a lot of hype and is very promising in terms of what it can do inside your body with aging,” says Dalton. “Some people have come in and said it’s really helped with their joints and that they have a lot more energy.” Resveratrol has been shown in studies to protect against artery damage and increase good cholesterol. The Mayo Clinic reports the alcohol is heart-healthy too. There’s no conclusive evidence, however, that the alcohol in red wine is any better than that in wine, beer or liquor. So imbibe, but in moderation; otherwise you’ll be doing more harm than good. But you knew that.
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“
Imbibe, but in moderation; otherwise you’ll be doing more harm than good.
”
• CINNAMON: Helps stabilize blood sugar. “Some studies are showing that taking a half-teaspoon or teaspoon after meals can help keep your blood sugar stable,” says Dalton. Try a little in your coffee or on top of oatmeal.
• GREEN TEA: Sip away. Polyphenols (also under the antioxidant umbrella) in green tea have been shown to prevent the oxidative stress that causes the cell damage that leads to Alzheimer’s Disease, as well as breast cancer. Green tea is the most popular tea in China and Japan, which has among the lowest breast cancer rates in the world. www.midtownmag.com – 109
106-111 Too Good to be True
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“
Don’t go
• TURMERIC: Indian food anyone? If you have psoriasis, Crohn’s Disease, heartburn, or reflux, consider foods with turmeric. “Turmeric is an herb that’s a spice,” says Dalton. “There’s an active ingredient in turmeric called curcumin and the curcuminoids are what help inflammation.” You can also try mustard. • BIGGEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK: FISH OIL “Fish oil is wonderful,” says Dalton. “It’s great for inflammation and great for things having to do with the brain and the eyes.” The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil (and in mackerel, salmon, tuna and halibut) have been proven time and time again to reduce pain and inflammation, improve heart health, decrease depression, reduce cancer risk and improve memory, recall, focus and reasoning.
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106-111 Too Good to be True
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crazy. Just because something is good for you doesn’t mean you should binge on it. Myth busters Don’t believe everything you hear. Dalton says some product claims are just hype. There are two she’s always trying to shed more light on with customers. • DIET PILLS: “People see the commercials and think, “I’m going to take this pill and I’m not going to eat and I’ll lose a bunch of weight and I don’t have to exercise,’” says Dalton. Don’t fall for it. “It always comes down to the fact that these things can help a little. They can suppress your appetite or give you natural energy. But if you don’t eat for six hours, I don’t care what you take; you’re going to be hungry and your body needs food.” The best thing you can do? Eat breakfast. “If you skip breakfast your metabolism is going to
slow down.” Don’t forget the exercise. Weight loss is simple math. Calories “out” should exceed calories “in.” • COLON CLEANSING: Likely not necessary. “If you’re eating well and you’re not eating tons of processed foods and you’re not on a lot of prescription medicines, your body is probably doing a pretty good job of it already,” says Dalton. Remember Getting any of these nutrients in your diet is a great way to go, but a lot of folks prefer taking a capsule form, as it gives a more significant amount and the dose is the same every day. Dalton cautions people to check with their doctors before adding any supplements via
”
pill form as some can interact with prescription medications or thin the blood, making surgery dangerous. And although it should go without saying, don’t go crazy. Just because something is good for you doesn’t mean you should binge on it. “That’s some of the problem with all of us is we just start loading ourselves up on one thing and sometimes it can deplete certain minerals,” says Dalton. Finally, if you choose to go the supplement route, know where the products are coming from. The Internet is dicey at best and you may not be getting what you think you’re getting. Find a place you trust with reputable people to answer your questions. Then, eat, drink and be merry – and healthy!
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CHEF MARIO
Recipes by Chef Mario / Copy by Darcy Brennan-Huante / Photography by April Maness
Edible Elegance – I was approached by a client the other day and she was frustrated with what she viewed as limited options for holiday dinners. In her childhood, the menus were set in stone and usually included either a whole roasted turkey or fighting the lines at the holiday ham store, some form of ambrosia, green bean casserole complete with canned soup and crispy onion topping, mashed potatoes, rolls and of course pie for dessert. She was excited about a few of the items, but felt others needed a “facelift”, and we couldn’t agree more! Satisfy the traditionalist and leave the staple foods alone (these usually change from family to family – or family member to family member – in our home it’s the pies and mashed potatoes that always have to make it to the table) but the rest is fair game! In the following recipes, we’ve taken a few classics and tweaked them a bit to bring them up to the times. Feel free to get creative and add your personality to your recipes and onto your table!
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NEW TWISTS ON OLD CLASSICS Old Classic – Dinner Rolls New Twist – Garlic Oregano Roll Poppers Makes about 64 poppers Ingredients 2 lbs roll dough, bread dough or pizza dough 3 Tbsp olive oil 1/3 cup oregano leaves, fresh and chopped 3 Tbsp minced fresh garlic (the smaller you chop garlic, the more powerful it is) 2 Tbsp parmesan cheese Salt and pepper to taste Directions Let dough thaw just until you can cut and roll it. Use flour so the dough doesn’t stick to your hands. Cut dough into walnut-sized chunks, then cut in half
again. They will seem small, but they will rise and get bigger. Place the dough balls on a lined sheet pan with plenty of space between them so they don’t touch when they rise and spread. Spray the balls with non-stick cooking spray and cover loosely and lightly with plastic wrap. Set in a warm place to rise. When balls have doubled in size, bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for about 4 minutes, then turn pan and bake 4 minutes more or until golden. For the yummy garlic oregano topping In a sauté pan over medium heat, add olive oil, oregano and garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes or until fragrant. Place in a large bowl. When your roll poppers come out of the oven, toss them with the garlic oregano mixture and sprinkle with parmesan cheese, salt and pepper.
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Old Classic – Spinach and Artichoke Dip New Twist – Savory Spinach Artichoke Cheesecake Makes (1) 2-pound cake (feeds 15-20 as an appetizer) Sautéed Onion Mixture 1/4 cup onion, minced 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced Directions Sauté onion and garlic in 1Tbsp oil until soft (not brown). Set aside to cool. Cream Cheese Mixture 1 1/2 lbs cream cheese, softened 3 eggs Directions Use hand mixer to whip cream cheese. Add eggs one at a time, scraping bowl as you go. All the yumminess! 1 cup parmesan cheese 1 (10 oz) jar marinated artichoke hearts, chopped 1 (10 oz) box fresh spinach, thawed and squeezed dry 3 Tbsp sherry 1 Tbsp fresh dill, chopped 1 Tbsp fresh tarragon, chopped 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp hot sauce Directions Fold into cream cheese mixture together with sautéed onion mixture. Layer a 10" cake pan with cooking spray, parchment, then more cooking spray. Pour in cheesecake batter and bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until cheesecake is set. How will you know? Use the “wiggle test”! Shake the pan and if everything moves and wiggles together, it’s done. For the Garnish 1 cup sour cream 1 can roasted red peppers, patted dry and diced small 1/2 red onion, diced small 1/2 cup scallions, chopped Crackers of your choice Salt and pepper Directions Spread a layer of sour cream over top of cheesecake, like you’re frosting a cake top. Toss the scallions, peppers and onion together in a bowl and sprinkle on top of cheesecake. Serve with crackers and enjoy!
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Old Classic – Roasted Turkey or Spiral Cut Honey Ham New Twist – Cinnamon-Rubbed Pork Loin with Roasted Pineapple, Peppers and Red Onions Serves 8 Ingredients 2 cups red onion, large diced 2 cups pineapple, large diced 2 cups red bell peppers, large diced Olive oil Directions Toss the onions, pineapple and peppers with 2 Tbsp olive oil and lightly season with salt and pepper. Roast on a foil-lined sheet pan in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20-30 minutes or until fruits and veggies deepen in color and become slightly chewy. Set aside. For the Rub 4 tsp cinnamon 2 tsp cumin 2 tsp black pepper 4 tsp kosher salt 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 2 Tbsp brown sugar 1-3 lb pork loin roast, trimmed Directions Mix the rub ingredients together and coat the pork loin with the rub. In a heavy pan over high heat, sear all 4 sides of the rubbed pork loin with 1 Tbsp olive oil on each side. Once seared, place the pan into the 350 degree preheated oven and cook for about 25 minutes or the internal temp reads 155160 (about 9 minutes per pound of meat). Chefs note: Searing meat prior to cooking adds a ton of flavor to the outside and seals in the juices so your roast will be super tender when done! Let the pork loin rest for about 8 minutes (When you cook meat, all the muscle fibers contract and push the juices all over. Let it rest and when the fibers cool, they can reabsorb the juices and keep it in your roast versus on your cutting board) Slice it thin and present on a platter. Garnish with roasted veggies and serve with whole grain mustard and mini rolls.
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M I DTO W N | D O W N TO W N
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MARBLES
mixes fun & learning
by Dan Bain
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Where in Raleigh can your child shoot a goal in a miniature hockey rink; sift through a pit of giant green peas; swab the deck of a pirate ship; create a still-life painting; learn sensible fiscal habits in a money machine; build an arctic icehouse; dress up like a doctor and drive an ambulance; make and race a car;
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plant a garden; or command a space station with Mr. Potato Head? If you answered “in their imagination,” you’re half right. But there’s a place at the corner of Blount and Hargett Streets that empowers that imagination with just the right tools – a place where children up to age 12 or so can learn about
the world around them while using all five of their senses in an interactive environment. That place is Marbles Kids Museum, a self-described “hands-on, minds-on museum that inspires imagination, discovery and learning through extraordinary adventures in play and larger-than-life IMAX experiences.”
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It also won last year’s Midtown Magazine Diamond Award for “Best Place to Entertain Kids on a Rainy Day,” but don’t let that fool you – kids love Marbles no matter what the weather is. In September 2007, Playspace merged with Exploris Museum, combining the former’s whimsical children’s playtime motif with the latter’s international flavor, then adding themes to create a whole new experience. The result was named Marbles for two reasons: kids “use their marbles” when they’re there; and part of the building is a wall filled with more than a million free-spinning, illuminated marbles – a centerpiece that never fails to attract the eyes (and hands) of the museum’s patrons. At Marbles,
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TONS of FUN and so much more! kids “learn mostly about themselves and how they can experience the world in a more enriching way. We try hard to give them opportunities to learn, but not instructions,” says Deidre Albert, director of marketing. “Kids get to be themselves – no stress, no worries. ‘Back to basics,’ we like to say. They play, experiment and get back to the serious business of being kids.” That business is conducted in numerous exhibits across five themed galleries: Around Town, where the youngest visitors can dress up and play on a stage or in settings ranging from the farm to downtown; Splash, where they experiment with the wonders and power of water (as well as climbing onboard the Blue Marble, a fun-filled pirate ship); WorldTrek, where older kids can become a member of the press and report on international culture; IdeaWorks, where future designers can create anything from clothing to airplanes to skyscrapers; and a fifth gallery for special exhibits. Currently, it’s home to The Adventures of Mr. Potato Head, a literacybased exhibit that allows kids to learn with the titular spud in the jungle, the desert, the ocean and outer space. Other special exhibits have included Power2Play and Canstruction, both of which will be back this winter. Power2Play features physical activities and promotes healthy eating and living, while Canstruction is a unique combination of a design contest, sculpture exhibit and food drive – entrants build their sculptures from cans of food, which are later donated to the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina. Additionally, during the January 16th-18th opening weekend,
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We Carry Unique Jewelry & Accessories
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Engraved & Monogrammed Items & Gifts
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Marbles will give one free admission for every five cans of food donated by museum patrons. Canstruction isn’t the only way that Marbles gets involved with its community. Albert says they take their show on the road, bringing “marblicious” crafts to the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Wide Open and other community events where, she says, “It’s great to see the impact we have.” As a non-profit organization, Marbles holds an annual “Evening with Elves” as a fundraiser for various charitable programs [see sidebar]. The museum also donates admission coupons as fundraisers for other educational and non-profit institutions, and offers camp scholarships to underprivileged children. The scholarships include summer camps that focus on popular book series, world exploration, games, cooking and other week-long themes. The museum also offers School’s Out Camps on teacher workdays and school holidays when parents might have to work, as well as the members-only First Fridays Kids Camp, a monthly parents’ night out. But Marbles has an appeal to more than children, as evidenced by the 14 weddings that were held there last summer. The facility is available to rent for private events and offers children’s birthday parties during regular hours. The museum’s IMAX Theatre, North Carolina’s only giant screen, is capable of showing 3D films. The theatre is educational and fun, as Albert says it offers a healthy mix of documentaries and Hollywood feature films for all age groups (including grown-ups). “We’re trying to define the Marbles and IMAX experience in the way the community tells us they’d like it, which is, ‘Tons of fun and so much more,’” she explains. That philosophy seems to be working, as Albert says the museum’s “thought boxes” often receive suggestion cards commenting along the lines of “I want to live here!” Apparently, it’s just as appealing to work there. “It’s wonderful; every day is challenging in the best way challenging can be. We’re constantly moving, always trying something new, and almost feel like we get to be kids, too,” Albert exclaims. “Whenever you have a stressful day, the best thing to do is go out and watch the kids play, and remember why you’re there.” Sounds marble-ous.
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dancing, giggling, food & fun “An Evening with Elves” Fundraiser
Marbles will host its third annual “Evening with Elves” fundraiser on Friday, December 4th from 6-9pm. Albert says the staff decided in the museum’s first few months that its fundraisers should be accessible to families. “We wanted to make it a magical family shindig,” she says. “There will be a lot of dancing and a lot of giggling.” The shindig includes live entertainment, food, activities and decorations. Going for a seasonal theme, staff members dress up like elves and lead a dance party with typically upbeat, high-energy bands that appeal to children. The event includes a catered dinner, hot chocolate bar and kid-friendly desserts. The museum’s gift shop will also be open, offering an across-the-board discount. Tickets went on sale in late October and are available in three package options: Family ($75), allowing entry to everyone from one household; Family Plus ($100), adding a personalized “sponsorship” snowflake that will be on display during the event, then taken home as a souvenir; and Block Party ($255), a discounted set of Family Plus packages for three families. “The funds that we raise from these events allow us to keep being responsive to the community as to what they’d like to see us do,” says Albert. “One of the places it goes is our Full Circle program, where we give back to the community – allowing preschools with underprivileged children to play for free, holding Family Fun Nights for kids with special needs, etc.” To be a part of the fundraising fun, order your tickets on the museum’s home page: www.marbleskidsmuseum.org.
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No“bah, humbugs” by Page Leggett
The beloved musical version of ‘A Christmas Carol’ is back for the 35th year
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You don’t mess with a holiday tradition. You’d never try to tweak Grandma’s Thanksgiving dressing. You’re either a white light or a colored light kind of family. And, if your family opens presents on Christmas Eve rather than Christmas Day, well then, that’s the way it’s going to be for generations. But, some holiday traditions can be improved upon. Look at what Ira David Wood III did with Charles Dickens’s A Christmas Carol 35 years ago. He added music, costumes, a comic element and staging to the beloved holiday classic, and a new classic was born.
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This year, the musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol will again go global. After tours to France and England in the late 1980s, the musical version of the play will return to Raleigh’s sister city, Compiegne, France, for performances on November 26th and 27th. But then, what has become a holiday tradition for many Raleigh area families returns to the Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts Raleigh Memorial Auditorium for an 11-show run. The show runs from December 8th through 16th. Matinees are performed on Saturday and Sunday. The show is akin to The Phantom of the Opera, Broadway’s longest-running musical. A Christmas Carol has been performed every
holiday season since its debut in 1974. About 30,000 people attend the show annually in Raleigh. And, if the musical is a gift to the people of Raleigh, then the theater that gave birth to it is, too. Theatre In The Park, the state’s largest nonprofit performing arts organization, is celebrating its 62nd season this year. Ira David Wood III founded the theater in 1974 and still serves as its executive director today. Wood has deep North Carolina roots. He was raised in Enfield, NC, graduated from the NC School of the Arts and spent his summers during college as a leading actor in The Lost Colony, the oldest outdoor drama in the country.
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Early in his career, he was named director of The Children’s Theater of Raleigh. He expanded the organization’s scope and established a home in the Pullen Park Armory. Under his tenure, the theater changed its name to Theatre In The Park, and it became the largest community theater in North Carolina. During Wood’s remarkable 30-year tenure at Theatre In The Park, he has been presented three keys to The City of Raleigh, had a week named in his honor and received The Order of The Long Leaf Pine, the state’s highest honor. Although Wood has appeared on screen with the likes of Christopher Walken, Natalie Wood and Burt Reynolds, he is perhaps best-known (and loved) for his annual portrayal of Ebenezer Scrooge. He’ll do it all over again this holiday season. And, we’ll get to laugh, be entertained and hear again that ageless lesson Scrooge learns…”to honour Christmas in our hearts and try to keep it all the year”. For more information visit www.theatreinthepark.com.
Ira David Wood’s musical version of A Christmas Carol is a holiday tradition for many Raleigh families.
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120-125 Grand Prix
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BEHIND
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the THE Races RACES by Illyse Lane
Back in September, the 2009 Second Empire Grand Prix Series kicked off its eight-race series that’s changed the face of running in the area. Runners accumulate points for participating in each race while helping a worthy cause. Meet the faces behind the final four races in the 2009 series. ‘Tis the season. Well, almost. And whether it’s hosting Thanksgiving at your home, having a holiday party for your neighbors, or watching the Acorn drop in downtown Raleigh, this time of year is ripe with traditions. The same holds true for the four races in the Grand Prix Series that fall within the months of November and December. We had the chance to talk with the individuals behind these events and what we discovered is that each race has had a hand in starting a new running tradition in the area. Free to Breathe Lung Cancer 5K Saturday, November 7th Benefiting the NC Lung Cancer Partnership www.freetobreathe.com In 2002, Sandy Oehler, a young, working mother recovering from heart surgery, was struggling with a nagging backache. “Normally, I would have been sent home with a heating pad, but because of my recent surgery, they decided to do a CAT scan,” says Oehler. The explanation was nothing she was prepared for. Oehler was diagnosed with stage one lung cancer. And the prognosis was not good. “When the oncologist said the five-year survival rate had really improved, I thought ‘five years?’” said Oehler. At the time, Oehler didn’t fully grasp that her diagnosis was so grim. That even with a stage one diagnosis, there was only a 15% survival rate. As the shock of her situation set in, feelings of guilt arose, as she felt that she somehow brought this on herself – feelings not uncommon for those stricken with the disease who were once smokers. These feelings, combined with the fact that there is no approved screening for lung cancer, are the reasons why lung cancer is often called the silent, stigma cancer. “When you say lung cancer, people have a vision of an old man sitting with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth,” says Oehler. “I hadn’t smoked in over 10 years. I was only 40 years old; I was healthy.”
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Second Empire 5K Classic Is Springing Forward To 2010!
The Grand Prix Series is expanding into the Spring in 2010 – more details to follow! Sunday, September 13th • Raleigh The Magnificent Mile Sunday, September 27th • RTP Anna’s Angels 10 Miler Saturday, October 10th • Raleigh Triangle Run/Walk for Autism Sunday, October 25th • Morrisville The 5K Run for Healthier Babies Saturday, November 7th • Raleigh Free To Breathe Lung Cancer 5K Thursday, November 26th • Cary Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot 8K Saturday, December 5th • Raleigh Jingle Bell 5K Run Saturday, December 12th • Cary St. Michael Jolly Elf Trail Run
As a matter of fact, lung cancer is the number one cancer killer of both men and women, with 60% of those diagnosed being either long-term nonsmokers or people who have never smoked. “Our spokesperson is a 22-year-old girl, an athlete, who has had part of her lung removed,” says Oehler. After 33 days of chemo and radiation, Oehler emerged as one of the few survivors, determined to give back. It was then that she met Amy Cipau, who was reeling from the numerous family members who had been touched by lung cancer. Oehler and Cipau would meet at the local Starbucks to brainstorm on ways they could make a difference. In 2007, a tradition was born, as the newly formed NC Lung Cancer Partnership hosted its first Free to Breathe® 5K, attracting 850 participants. Last year’s event drew 900, even with pouring rain, a number that didn’t surprise Cipau. “There aren’t any support groups or big events for lung cancer,” says Cipau. “So when something happens, people show up.” This year, the Free to Breathe® event, combined with other fundraising efforts by the North Carolina chapter, awarded a $100,000 research grant to be spread over a two-year period. Oehler credits the event’s presenting sponsor, Duke Raleigh Cancer Center, for making it successful. “Every cancer is scary. But in many other types of cancers, there’s hope. With lung cancer, you can be told there is nothing you can do,” says Oehler. “We want to change that.” Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot 8K / Thursday, November 26th Benefiting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society / www.insideoutsports.com For many runners, a holiday is no excuse to take a day off. This is precisely the logic that Cid Cardoso, Jr. used when deciding to host a Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot. Seven years ago, Cardoso, the owner of Inside-Out Sports and a seasoned triathlete, husband and father, was approached about starting a 5K in the area. Cardoso decided against the traditional “pick a Saturday” technique. Instead, he thought that hosting a 5K race on a holiday would not only differentiate the event but also cater to runners who craved their daily running fix. “Most runners run on Thanksgiving. You wake up, go to a run, race or not, and then you spend the rest of the day with your family,” says Cardoso.
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Cid Cardoso’s kids and their cousins cut loose at the 2008 Inside-Out Sports Turkey Trot.
“Every cancer is scary. But in many other types of cancers, there’s hope. With lung cancer, you can be told there is nothing you ca do. We want to change that.” Little did he know that his event would turn into a tradition for so many families, including his own. The Turkey Trot, now entering it seventh year, has evolved into a race that not only attracts premier runners in the area looking to add Grand Prix points, but for families looking to do something fun and active together. “A great majority come out because it’s a big family event. When you look around, everyone has a number – even the kids,” says Cardoso. Each year, Cardoso’s wife, two sons and daughter join him to participate. Besides hosting a race on a holiday, which is unique, the race is unusual because the concept for the 8K was born before the beneficiary was chosen. “This race was more about creating an enjoyable event for runners in community, and then, benefiting a good cause,” said Cardoso. And when the time came to find a worthy recipient of the race proceeds, Cardoso didn’t have to look far. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society was a natural fit. “The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society had done a lot to help the sport of running; they were one of the first ones to take the concept of running for a good cause,” said Cardoso. “I wanted to help a cause that helped a sport.” Cardoso is also quick to acknowledge that the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society never has any trouble getting volunteers, which can be a daunting task on any race day, and even more so on a holiday. With an attendance of roughly 1200 last year, Cardoso is most proud of this Triangle tradition he has helped to create that is enjoyed by so many.
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Jingle Bell 5K Run for Arthritis / Saturday, December 5th Benefiting the Arthritis Foundation / http://jinglebellrunraleigh.kintera.org If you’re cheering too loudly as you watch the runners come in from the Jingle Bell 5K, you may miss hearing a Raleigh tradition. For every runner participating in this event, which benefits the Arthritis Foundation, will get a set of bells to tie to his sneakers. And what a joyful noise those bells make. The event, entering its fifth year, is heavily attended as runners come out to support research for numerous types of arthritis. “Our foundation funds the bright ideas that may end up being something,” says Candice Fuller, Manager of the Triangle/Coastal Region. When you think of arthritis, it’s easy to envision a stereotype of an older person in pain. The truth is, there are many different kinds, and the disease doesn’t discriminate. It can affect a 60-year old, a 30-year old or a 15-month old. And the symptoms can be far more debilitating than you think. Take Addison Jones. At age 15 months, Addison’s mother and father noticed her fingers were swollen and in the mornings, she would cry if she had to stand or walk. “When her blood work indicated she may have an autoimmune disorder, her pediatrician referred her to Duke Pediatric Rheumatology, where Addison was diagnosed with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis,” says her mother, Kelly Jones. In Addison’s case, her fingers, wrist, knees, ankles and toes were affected. Treatments, including injections given by Addison’s parent, began immediately, “After a combination of two different drugs with ibuprofen, Addison started walking again without being in pain,” says Jones. Unfortunately, the medications that help Addison move without pain also increase her risk for lymphoma and lower her immune system, which causes her to get sick more than the average three year old. “Arthritis is the number one doctor diagnosed disability in the country,” says Jill McCabe, Event Chairperson. The Jingle Bell 5K raises funds for research that make the difference between people being in a wheelchair at this run, or being able to participate – a fact not lost on Addison’s mother. “Watching Addison reminds me of how we take the simplest tasks, such as getting out of bed or putting on clothes, for granted,” says Jones. “The every day things that we all do can sometimes be a chore for Addison, and all of the other people that have arthritis.” St. Michael Jolly Elf Trail Run / Saturday, December 12th Benefiting St. Michael School / http://school.stmcary.org If you’re looking for an original way to finish the Grand Prix Series, look no further than the St. Michael Jolly Elf Trail Run. While the majority of 5Ks in the area are road courses, this 5K has started a new tradition as it takes runners on a trail run through Bond Park. The most seasoned runner will feel challenged and invigorated by the course, which is a combination of hard-packed dirt, grass, and wood chips. And because the course is a loop through the park, it’s a fun race for spectators, who can see the entire race.
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Left: Children as young as Addison Jones benefit from research done by the Arthritis Foundation. Below: The 6th grade elves are a tradition at the St. Michael Jolly Elf Trail Run. son, attributes the appeal to the perfect blend of an original setting and rich Christmas tradition. The race draws a crowd, and you can expect to find generations running along side generations. Debbie Grieb, the grandmother of two St. Michael students, fifth grader Emily and first grader Ben, has competed in the Jolly Elf Trail Run for the past two years. Grieb, who lives in Baltimore and runs 25 miles a week, looks forward to coming to town for this event. "What makes this run exciting for me is that I used to run with my son, Ron, before he had children,” says Grieb. “Now, I have added running with my grandchildren to the mix.”
The race, started four years ago by St. Michael School, was initially targeted to church parishioners and school families as a fun, family
event, but the allure of the off-road course quickly spread and has gained the interest of many in the running community. Jennifer Clark, race chairper-
Run for a Reason Whether it’s funding research to find a cure or making the holiday season more festive for you and your family, each race within the Grand Prix Series has a story. And when you choose to participate by either running or volunteering, you become a part of an area tradition. To find out more about any of the races involved in the Grand Prix series, visit www.secondempireraceraleigh.com, where you’ll find a link to each event.
OPEN HOUSE FOR PROSPECTIVE FAMILIES SATURDAY, JANUARY 23RD ~ 2-4PM
A Ministry of the Catholic Community of St Francis of Assisi
The Franciscan School Rooted in FAITH, Educated in MIND, Compassionate in HEART
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919.847.8205 x255 10000 St. Francis Drive, Raleigh NC 27613 www.franciscanschool.org • Grades K-8 • Advanced Math Classes • Preschool for Ages 2-4 • Before & After School Care • Traditional Calendar • Spanish, Music, Art, • Fully Accredited Physical Education, • State-of-the-Art Technology Writing & Science Labs
• Competitive Athletics Grades 6-8 • Tours Available Upon Request
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI PRESCHOOL FOR AGES 2-4 For information on the St. Francis of Assisi Preschool Program (ages 2-4) please contact Director Nancy Bourke at 847-8205 x240 www.midtownmag.com – 125
126-127 Scott Free
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he Scott-Free Scholarship Foundation held its second annual event on September 26th. The country-western themed event raised funds that will allow the local nonprofit to send children to summer camps next year. This year, the need-based scholarship paired 46 local children with 22 different summer camps that matched their unique abilities and interests. The event was held at the Woodbine Equestrian Center and featured a wide array of musical performances, a Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament, an art auction and multiple raffle giveaways. Supporters braved rainy conditions to ensure that local at risk children will continue to experience the fun, freedom and camaraderie of a summer camp in 2010. Scott-Free would like to extend a special thanks to Bob Brantley of Buckhead Beef in Atlanta and the talented team from The Umstead Hotel & Spa, led by Executive Chef Scott Crawford and longtime Scott-Free supporter Banquet Chef Bill Harrison. Working tirelessly under tents in the rainy weather, they prepared an amazing meal that set
T
An Evening to Remember
SCOTT-FREE EVENT BENEFITS LOCAL KIDS by Michael Osborne
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CAFE TIRAMISU | NORTHERN ITALIAN | 6196.120 FALLS OF NEUSE ROAD | RALEIGH | 981.0305 | WWW.CAFETIRAMISU.NET CAMERON BAR & GRILL | 2018 CLARK AVENUE | RALEIGH | 755.2231 | WWW.CAMERONBARANDGRILL.COM NORTH RIDGE PUB | PUB RESTAURANT & BAR | 6196-116 FALLS OF NEUSE ROAD | RALEIGH | 981.6005 | WWW.NORTHRIDGEPUB.COM 126 – Midtown Magazine
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the tone for an incredible evening. The Scott-Free Foundation would not exist without such an amazing base of support. Children from the Hayes Barton School of Music began the evening with a multi-piece performance, followed by Scott-Free campers Wyatt and Carter, ages 16, who performed pieces on the violin that they fine-tuned at the Green Mountain Music Festival this summer. Local country band 40 North got the crowd dancing and Brooklyn’s own DJ 100 dBs swept in with a collection of soulful music. A local gospel choir “The Voices” rounded off the event’s musical lineup with a short but powerful acapella performance. There was also the excitement of a Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament with 30 guests participating in the multi-table tournament. The top three finishers were awarded prizes of a Topsail Island beach house for a week, U2 concert tickets, and a box suite at the RBC Center for an NCSU basketball game.
The event concluded with an art auction that featured a wide array of art donated from all over the US. Between the auction and the numerous raffle giveaways, no one went home empty handed. Scott-Free’s success is realized thanks to the support of an enthusiastic and generous community. Together, it provides children with an opportunity to explore the possibilities of their own abilities, dreams and desires by exposing them to life outside their own surroundings. Many more children will get this opportunity next year thanks to supporters and the 2009 Scott-Free Event. Learn more and get involved at www.Scott-Free.org.
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H E A LT H Y YO U
Playing It
Safe Helping protect child athletes from injury is the name of the game
by Page Leggett
10/27/09
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here are the boo-boos that moms can kiss away, and they’re all but forgotten. Then, there are the bigger boo-boos…the kind that could send children to the doctor or ER. Dr. Andre Grant, an orthopaedic surgeon at Duke Raleigh Hospital, specializes in the latter kind. As a sports medicine specialist, he has a particular interest in child athletes. And, he’s seeing athletic injuries in younger and younger children these days. That’s part of a nationwide trend, he says. Estimates indicate that 40 million kids from age five and up participate in organized sports in the United States. Children face different risks than adults from sports-related injuries. Dr. Grant explains, “Kids are not little adults. They are still developing mentally and physiologically. Their bones have inherent weaknesses on the parts that will grow. In adults, our ligaments are our weak link. But, in children, their bones are their weak link.” And, X-rays don’t always tell the story. “I had a five-year-old patient recently who had an ankle injury,” Dr. Grant says. “Nothing showed up on the X-ray, but he was having pain over the growth plate of the bone. It had to be treated.” (The growth plate is a layered structure responsible for bone growth.) In his case – and others like it – a cast or splint had to be used for three to four weeks. For the youngest children, especially, parents must be hyper-vigilant about keeping them away from rough activity if they’re in a cast. “It’s a challenge to curb the activity level of a 5-year-old, but we try to educate parents about how important it is to let the injury heal.” It’s particularly important for any potentially serious injury – a sprain or fracture, for instance – in a child to be seen by a medical professional. “An injury can harm the growth area of the bone,” Dr. Grant says. “That could lead to premature growth arrest or angular deformities.”
Stay active, but stay safe While Dr. Grant wants people to be aware of the risks involved in kids’ sports, he doesn’t advocate keeping children inside and locked away from athletic fields and playgrounds. “I’d never discourage any activity,” he says. “Parents just need to be aware of the inherent risks in any activities their children participate in.” Injuries are more likely to go unnoticed or untreated during an unsupervised pick-up game of basketball or tackle football than an organized activity where coaches and trainers are present. Again, parents need to be aware. And, the younger the child, the more vigilant parents need to be. Wearing protective equipment during sports is vital. Helmets and knee pads are de rigueur in organized sports, as Dr. Grant well knows from his days as assistant team doctor for the Baltimore Ravens and Washington Nationals. But, not so for informal pick-up games. Again, Dr. Grant prescribes caution and common sense. “X games and extreme sports have become what kids today want to do. And, as long as they wear protective equipment, there’s virtually nothing that’s off limits.” If an injury occurs, it’s time to investigate and possibly seek treatment. Knowing when to go to your pediatrician versus when to go straight to the ER isn’t always obvious. “If you suspect a fracture, it’s best to go to an urgent care center or ER,” says Dr. Grant. When trying to detect a fracture, parents should look for an injury with a lot of swelling, bruising and an inability to bear weight. Where does it hurt? The most common injuries Dr. Grant sees in his practice are those that affect the lower extremities. “Most sports, by nature, require speed and locomotion – in other words, the use of legs.” So, injuries impacting the ankle and knee are very common. Hamstring injuries are common, too. (Hamstrings are the large group of three muscles on the back of the thigh.) A violent contraction
“Kids are not little adults. They are still developing mentally and physiologically. Their bones have inherent weaknesses on the parts that will grow.” — Dr. Andre Grant, Duke Raleigh Hospital
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in a growing child can cause the muscle to pull directly off the bone and pull a piece of bone along with it. The course of treatment generally involves rest, ice and pain medication. “Little Leaguers’ Shoulder” is another common ailment. It’s an injury to the upper growth plate of the arm usually caused by repetitive activity – throwing, in this case. Symptoms include shoulder pain during and after throwing, a decrease in velocity and control and swelling and tenderness around the shoulder. Treatment involves rest and limiting activity – and possibly physical therapy for increased strength to avoid future injury. Several studies have indicated high pitch count as the cause of shoulder problems in children. Limiting the number of pitches in a given day and then getting adequate rest from pitching afterwards may make this a less painful activity. Keep your head in the game While Dr. Grant is a trained orthopaedic surgeon, his specialty is sports medicine. So, it’s his business to know about the brain and head injuries. He says research on brain injuries has, until recently, focused on adults. Doctors extrapolated from that and thought the same would be true in children. That’s not the case, and the guidelines are now being revised to be more child-centric. Post-concussion recovery, for example, takes longer in children than in adults. A concussion can be defined as a mild traumatic brain injury caused by an impact or jolt to the head. The duration of symptoms can vary from a few minutes to several days, weeks, months or sometimes longer. Dr. Grant says second impact syndrome is something parents – and coaches – need to be aware of. Let’s say a child is playing foot-
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ball and suffers a concussion. He may appear to be fine and get sent back into the game. Another impact could disrupt the blood flow to the brain and result in cerebral swelling, increased intracranial pressure, brain herniation, and possibly, coma and death. Dr. Grant is clear about what to do in this case. “No child should return to play on the same day he or she has had a concussion. And, after having a concussion, a child should be evaluated by a primary care physician, orthopaedist or neurologist.” The scientific thinking on concussions has also been revised. “We used to think a concussion required a loss of consciousness,” says Dr. Grant. “But that’s not the case.” Football is the sport that presents the greatest likelihood for concussions, says Dr. Grant. Athletes may say they feel fine, but parents and coaches need to watch closely. “If an athlete isn’t following instructions, is combative or is running in the wrong direction, he may have a concussion.” “If you suspect a concussion, ask some questions to see if the child is oriented to himself, to time and place,” advises Dr. Grant. “Can the child remember his name? Does he know what quarter the game is in? Does he know what field he’s on?” Dr. Grant looks at keeping kids injury-free during sports from the perspective of a parent, too. His own 3-year-old son recently joined a soccer league. And, he’s on the sidelines at every game and practice – making sure his son and the other kids are playing it safe. With precautions and protective gear, kids should be able to enjoy any sport they want to play – and parents should be able to relax and cheer them on.
www.midtownmag.com – 131
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HEALTHY YOU
HOW TO
spice up your look for the holidays… from ROI Salon
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Holiday cheer often means too much drinking and too little sleeping which can lead to under eye puffiness and dark circles. Use damp green tea bags or cool cucumber slices as eye compresses before going out. Also apply an eye cream that is rich in vitamins like Dermalogica’s Multivitamin Power Firm that contains protective silicones and red seaweed extract. You can also book a professional treatment like the Revitalizing Eye Rescue.
Who doesn’t want to show up to a Holiday party looking like they just got back from the Bahamas? Airbrush Tanning is what all the Hollywood starlets are doing to achieve this look. It gives you a beautiful natural-looking tan without the long term skin damage associated with UV exposure or adding years to the appearance of your skin.
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2 To get your skin holiday party ready exfoliation is absolutely necessary for a glowing face. Combining a professional exfoliating treatment with an at-home exfoliating treatment is the quickest way to see results. I love Dermalogica’s Daily Microfoliant because it contains very gentle abrasive ingredients such as corn cob meal, rice bran, and oatmeal. A perfect compliment to the Daily Microfoliant is Dermalogica’s Daily Resurfacer.
Pimples will happen, even during the Holidays. Try not to stress about them, and instead reach for a spot treatment product containing salicylic acid or sulfur. Most acne treatment masks can be used one to three times per week. Dermalogica’s MediBac Clearing line has lots of great products that address adult breakout. My favorite is the Concealing Spot Treatment that is an intense treatment with a natural looking tint.
3
Easy Updos: For a classic look secure your hair into a high ponytail then wrap the ends into a low knot or the no fail bun using bobbi pins or jeweled bobbi pins that will make your hair sparkle. Another tip..pull hair into a high or low ponytail and pick pieces of hair and pin into or around the ponytail to give it more edge.
5
6 Party Blowouts: Make sure you make your appointment as soon as your have your party schedule. Holidays are crazy for everyone. You can get a blow-out the day of your party or a day or two before. This way your hair is the last thing you have to worry about and you can relax and have fun at your party!
Get your hair winterized: Make sure you talk to your stylist about using the correct shampoo and conditioner for winter. The air is dry and less humid so you may need something different than other times of the year. Winter is the time to do a deep conditioning treatment and get your hair party ready.
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8 The right products: The key essentials to having great party hair is using the right products. The best advice is to talk to your stylist. Some suggestions would be to have a great hairspray with some hold and a mousse or gel to tame the frizzies. Try using Lanza’s Dramatic F/X hairspray and Art Elements Spray Gel to get that perfect look Your stylist will be able to choose what works for you. Remember have fun and enjoy your party hair!
9 To finish your look you want to have polished nails. Try out new colors for winter. Instead of the usual red try the golds, grays or browns. These are neutral and will go with any hot party dress!
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10 Treat yourself and get a professional manicure and pedicure. The winter can be harsh on your hands and feet so you need a great exfoliation and moisturizing treatment. It’s a great idea to buy polish in the same color so that you can do touch ups at home.
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HEALTHY YOU
Is permanent
birth the right
Every day, people make choices about their health. One of the most important choices, for both men and women, is family planning. Nearly half of pregnancies (49%) are unintended, and half of those unintended pregnancies occur during a month that a form of birth control was used. Unfortunately, there are still many misconceptions about the different contraception options and health risks available. “For women who are done with child-bearing, there is no need for them to take a pill every day or continue to worry about unplanned pregnancy,” says Dr. Alan Holton, OB/GYN. “A permanent birth control procedure, called Essure, is a great option for women who have completed their families.” Essure is a permanent birth control procedure that can be done in the comfort of a physician’s office in about 13 minutes – without hormones, cutting, burning or the risks associated with general anesthesia and tubal ligation. During the procedure, small, flexible micro-inserts are placed in the women’s fallopian tubes through the vagina and cervix. Within three months, the body forms a natural barrier around the micro-inserts that prevents the sprem from reaching the egg. A woman must continue to use another form of birth control during this time. Three months after the Essure procedure, a doctor will perform an Essure Confirmation Test to confirm that the tubes are fully blocked and that the woman can rely on Essure for permanent birth control. Having confirmation that the proce-
134 – Midtown Magazine
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dure is successful frees a woman from the fear of an unplanned pregnancy and the routine of temporary birth control, so she can relax and enjoy life’s pleasures. “Every woman must make the decision about whether permanent birth control is the right solution for her and her family. For many women, the ability to take control over their fertility and know that they are permanently protected from future pregnancies is very empowering and liberating,” continues Dr. Holton. “Permanent birth control allows them to be more spontaneous with their partners and allows them to focus on their families and their relationships.”
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WWW.MURANORTHHILLS.COM www.midtownmag.com – 135
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10/29/09
TALK of the
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Raleigh on Ice
TOWN
5k
Raleigh residents and visitors looking to create a new holiday tradition will have a great option when outdoor ice skating comes to the area’s premier shopping centers. Raleigh on Ice will offer families and visitors the opportunity to enjoy Raleigh’s newest holiday tradition at Brier Creek Commons, North Hills and Triangle Town Center November 14 through January 3.
northhills
MIDTOWN WRITER RECEIVES AWARD Midtown Magazine writer Christa Gala recently received an Honorable Mention in Writer's Digest's 78th national writing competition in the Magazine Feature Article category. The piece, ‘Tales of a Crazy Lady’, originally ran in Midtown Magazine and is currently featured on her website, christagala.com.
North Hills 5k – A huge thank you goes out to the lead team of the North Hills 5k for a job well done. Their leadership helped make this year the biggest year ever with 417 race participants. We were able to raise an amazing $8,228 for North Raleigh Ministries this year. Great job everyone!!!
St. Timothy’s School presented WakeMed Pediatric Diabetes and Endocrinology Center with a check for $17,342.47 from funds raised with their Spring Sprint in April.
Redemption Series Art Show Eleatta Diver’s “Redemption Series” integrates the story of The African Children’s Choir and the amazing tale of “redemption” that AIDS orphans undergo through the love and care offered through Music for Life. Proceeds from sales of this series go directly to help fund the Mirembe House in Chatham County which cares for the choir during their tour of the US “Redemption Series” will be on display at Vintage 21, 117 S West Street in downtown Raleigh during the First Friday Art Walk on February 5th, 2010.
midtown columnist accepts award PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY M. NEWBERN
136 – Midtown Magazine
Earlier this year, Dan Bain won first place for his Midtown column, Bain’s Beat, in the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW) 2009 Communications Contest (Humorous Columns category). Here, Dan receives his award from NFPW President Marsha Shuler during the NFPW Conference in San Antonio, Texas, on September 12.
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STRIDES OF FASHION
a red carpet event
On Thursday, October 1st, a runway walk took place with couture fashions from Vermillion and Scout & Molly’s to benefit breast cancer research and The American Cancer Society. Live music was performed by Ed Stephenson. The event was presented by The Spectacle and Vivace. Make-up by Luxe Apothecary. Hair by Von Kekel and eyewear by The Spectacle. The event was created and organized by Wick Morgan of The Spectacle.
in the next issue: Midtown Magazine’s Diamond Award Winners… Your votes have been cast and the results are in! We’ll announce the winners and introduce you to reader favorites for everything from where to get your caffeine fix to the best place for a power lunch and lots more…
Paint vs. Wallpaper The choices are limitless when decorating the walls of your home. We talk with interior designers, builders, painters and artists about how to make the best choice for your walls.
One-of-a-Kind Fashion! Ever wonder how boutiques manage to find and carry such unique styles and brands? We’ll show you the one-of-a-kind items you can only find in Midtown boutiques, as well as the story behind the shops’ private labels; what are they and why have them? Fashionistas get ready!
Bucket List Is there anything you've ever wanted to do before your 40th birthday, 50th...Before you die? We've been getting tons of letters describing your bucket lists and have had two great stories! Keep your lists coming and we'll keep helping you check things off!
take
note
Our favorite chef, Chef Mario, will be competing again at the Great Chefs Competition on November 15th at Brier Creek Counrty Club. He will be defending his title from last year – you won’t want to miss this event!
IN EVERY ISSUE
READING LIST / CALENDAR CHEF MARIO / SHADES OF GREEN MIDTOWN MINGLES / HEALTHY YOU
www.midtownmag.com – 137
138 Trade Ads
10/22/09
3:44 PM
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138 – Midtown Magazine
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139-142 North Hills Newsletter
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NORTH HILLS NEWS ~ A Lifestyle Update from Kane Realty Corporation ~ November /December 2009
CHRISTMAS AT NORTH HILLS
Events at North Hills — FARMERS’ MARKET —
6:30 TO 8:00PM | THE COMMONS AT NORTH HILLS
Saturdays through November 14th, 8am-12pm The Commons at North Hills The freshest fall vegetables, fruits, breads, cheeses, jams, meats, eggs, herbs, NC seafood and handmade goods. Many vendors are certified organic farmers. Live music from 10am-noon. Sponsored by Duke Raleigh Hospital.
— HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE —
You’re invited to join us for snowy skies and Christmas at North Hills on Saturday, November 21st. • Tree Lighting at 6pm • Horse-drawn carriage rides • Festivities from 3pm-7pm • Trackless train rides • Visits with Santa in his sleigh • Miniature horse rides • Live music & caroling • Snow! Join us all season long for complimentary hot chocolate and cider, strolling carolers and characters, visits with Santa, ice skating and more. Visit www.northhillsevents.com for a complete schedule.
RALEIGH ON ICE: A NEW CHRISTMAS TRADITION We have a new Christmas tradition in the Capital City! Raleigh on Ice brings an outdoor ice skating rink to North Hills for the Christmas season. Not only will the rink provide nostalgic entertainment and fun for all ages, but a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Raleigh Rescue Mission. Enjoy skating from November 21st through January 3rd at North Hills while supporting a worthy cause this Christmas season!
Thursday, November 19th, 6-8pm Shop your favorite stores until 8pm to kick off North Hills’ extended hours for the holiday season and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cider at the North Hills Hospitality Tents. For more information, visit NorthHillsRaleigh.com.
— RALEIGH ON ICE — November 21st-January 3rd | The Commons at North Hills Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 1pm-9pm A new Raleigh tradition benefitting the Raleigh Rescue Mission. $5 kids 10 and under; $7 adults. Skates are provided. Closed Christmas Day.
— TREE LIGHTING — Saturday, November 21st | The Commons at North Hills Tree Lighting: 6pm | Festivities: 3pm-7pm Experience the magic of Christmas at North Hills’ annual tree lighting event. Join us for sing-along carols, trackless train rides, horse and carriage rides, Frosty and Rudolf, helpful elves, pictures with Santa Claus, ice skating on the Commons, strolling Victorian carolers and snowy North Hills skies!The tree will light at 6pm, and the outdoor activity will continue until 7pm.
—HOLIDAY GREENS MARKET — Saturdays: November 28, December 5, 12 & 19 | 12-3pm Tents in Front of Vivace Restaurant & The Commons at North Hills Saturdays leading up to Christmas, select vendors from the Midtown Farmers’ market will be selling Christmas wreaths, garlands, homemade goodies, hand-tied bows and more.
—SANTA CLAUS —
NOW OPEN at the corner of Park and Market Streets in the new North Hills expansion, the luxury rental residences of Park & Market redefine convenience with an IN-BUILDING HARRIS TEETER! Imagine riding an elevator to the grocery store – it’s urbanism at its best. Finely finished studio, one and two bedroom apartments in two interior design schemes. Residents enjoy access to a private solar-panel heated pool, clubroom, fitness room and the award-winning shopping, dining and entertainment options at North Hills. Visit our new leasing office today and tour our furnished models! 919.420.0565 ParkandMarket.com or text NHAPTS to 41513 for more info.
Saturday & Sundays Beginning November 21st, 12-3pm Santa’s Workshop Ho Ho Ho! Santa Claus is coming to Midtown, so bring your wish lists and your camera and come visit Santa Claus at North Hills on Saturdays and Sundays leading up to Christmas.
www.NorthHillsEvents.com
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INTRODUCING THE NEW CITY COTTAGES AT RAMBLEWOOD. The ease of townhome living with the privacy and appearance of a single-family residence.
HOLIDAY PARTY MENU
• Welcoming, covered front porches • 2400 square feet • Open floor plan designs • First Floor Master Suite Option • Rear alley-served parking • Expected pricing at $425,000
Let the chefs of North Hills help you prepare a successful holiday party for your friends, family or office. With everything from Asian to French, in-restaurant space for private parties and meetings to á la carte or full-service catering at your home, the restaurants at North Hills are ready to serve your guests:
AMERICAN Chick-Fil-A (919) 510-0100 Five Guys (919) 787-7772 Fox & Hound (919) 781-4495 Hot Point Café (919) 788-8240 Panera Bread (919) 781-1112 Pharoah’s (919) 420-0840
ITALIAN Cinelli’s (919) 788-9640 Vivace (919) 787-7747
BARBECUE The Q Shack (919) 786-4381 FRENCH Coquette Brasserie (919) 789-0606
STEAKS & SEAFOOD Bonefish Grill (919) 782-5127 Firebirds (919) 788-8778 Midtown & Bar 115 (919) 782-9463 Ruth’s Chris (919) 791-1103
DELICATESSEN McAlister’s Deli (919) 787-9543 Harris Teeter (919) 786-4895
ASIAN Mura (919) 781-7887 YoHo Asian Diner (919) 783-8833
Phase One Release Coming Soon – JOIN OUR PRIORITY LIST TODAY! Visit RamblewoodatNorthHills.com or contact Anne Simons and Ihrie O'Bryant at 919.833.5263.
MIDTOWN FACES Get To Know: Steve Brown KANE REALTY CORP VICE PRESIDENT & DIRECTOR OF RETAIL
MEXICAN Moe’s (919) 781-3446
BEVERAGES Find your menu’s match at Total Wine & More (919) 232-2580
RETIREMENT COMMUNITY BREAKING NEW GROUND
There is no other retirement community like The Cardinal at North Hills! Developers John Kane and David Falk share a passion for creating a place seniors want to go and where children and grandkids enjoy visiting. The Cardinal’s incredible value converts your present home into one that comes with a chef, a driver, a concierge, an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site medical team in partnership with Duke University Health System.
WWW.
You may know Steve Brown as one of Raleigh’s most decorated commercial brokers. We at Kane know the real Steve – foodie, musician, ECU enthusiast, family man and thoughtful colleague. A true “foodie” – inspired by farm to kitchen to table – Steve tempts our palates by bringing top restaurants to North Hills. His colleague, Wendi Howell attests that Steve’s favorite job is “auditioning” new restaurants. “The standing joke is ‘how does Steve stay so slim?’ knowing how much he loves to eat!” Steve’s taste in music is also very eclectic. You’ll hear anything from Grand Funk Railroad to Flatt & Scruggs to Barry White on his IPod. A graduate and Board of Visitors member of East Carolina University, Steve is also a fervent Pirates fan evidenced by his understated purple and gold ties and occasional Pirate lapel pins. Raleigh residents since 1980, Steve and his wife Joanne have two daughters, Jordan and Mallory, to whom he has passed along his love of music and the Pirates. Although Steve doesn’t keep a list of his awards (he has won just about every local real estate award), he does keep a birthday list and sees that everyone is celebrated. People who haven’t seen Steve for years are amazed to receive his annual greeting. Have any ideas for new stores or restaurants at North Hills? Tell Steve: sbrown@kanerealtycorp.com.
LIVEATNORTHHILLS.COM
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top picks for november and december
Hunter, formally known as the Northern British Rubber Company, has been supplying boots since 1856 -- for WWI and II, and many of the British Royalty. In 1981, engagement photos of Lady Diana Spencer wearing a pair of green Hunter Originals took the fashion world by surprise and made Hunter a household name. Get your pair of Hunter history in grey, navy, chocolate, purple, canvas or green at Monkee’s of Raleigh. Hunter ‘Original’ Rain Boots $115.00.
On Nov. 10th, Infinity Ward is set to release its newest edition, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2. Fans of the popular and best-selling first Modern Warfare game, a first person action game which was the best-selling and most played game of all time, can preorder Modern Warfare 2 for multiple gaming platforms at the GameStop, located next to Chick-Fil-A.
WHAT’S NEW AT NORTH HILLS?
Holiday shopping stop: Pharaoh’s locally-owned deli-style sandwich and hot dog shop at North Hills, famous for burgers, chicken and tuna salad –all homemade with the freshest ingredients. And, if you’re getting the sniffles be sure to try one of Pharaoh’s famous fresh squeezed orangeades. One of these is sure to fight off those cold germs.
Plan ahead for a night out at North Hills and reserve your tickets for the 16th Annual Taste of Hope Gala hosted by The Renaissance Hotel and the Chefs of North Hills on January 17, 2010 at 6pm. Enjoy cocktail hour, a six-course dinner with wine pairings, silent auction and live auction with master of ceremonies, Greg Fishel – all to benefit the Raleigh Inter-Faith Food Shuttle. Limited seating! For tickets or info contact Maxine Solomon foodiemax@nc.rr.com.
Dress up your dishes! Now you can have a serving platter for every occasion with interchangeable dinnerware available at Haven. All pieces are dishwasher and microwave safe and you can dress them up with dozens of ceramic “minis” for a personalized look. Platters $45-$60. Minis $12.50 each.
NORTH HILLS SPOTLIGHT:
CAPTRUST Tower Soaring 17 stories high, the 300,000 square foot building is the first mixed-use office tower at North Hills and the tallest structure on the 1-440 Beltline. CAPTRUST Tower is a “green” building designed to meet LEED Silver certification by the USGBC. The amenities today's workers value most – covered parking, restaurants, shopping and convenience services -are just outside the front door, plus an office at CAPTRUST Tower delivers Midtown's best views. CAPTRUST Tower is more than a premier office location, its Raleigh’s fastest growing destination. Office space is still available for lease, so contact Tish Turner at 919.719.5431 or Alban Barrus at 919.461.8052 or visit www.WorkatNorthHills.com for more information.
north hills, etc. ABOVE: The 17-story CAPTRUST Tower soars over the Commons – a “green” and urban addition to the North Hills skyline. The opening of this office tower is the first phase of the expansion of North Hills across Six Forks Road. RIGHT: North Hills’ expansion also includes the addition of 409-unit Park & Market Apartments (now open!), an in-building Harris Teeter, Henry’s Gelato, Zoës Kitchen, Salon Blu, Lee Spa Nails and Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery, all expected to open over the next several months.
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RESTAURANT ON THE 1ST FLOOR OF THE CAPTRUST TOWER
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43Ice Skate
ON THE RINK ON THE COMMONS
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Making a list/checking it twice Kick off your Christmas shopping with some unique gift ideas from The North Hills elves
PERFECT STOCKING STUFFERS
HAVEN HOSTS CHILDREN’S CHRISTMAS BOOK SIGNINGS NC author Timothy Penland, and his granddaughter/ illustrator Savannah Joy Adams, will be at Haven to personally sign copies of their delightful new book, “The True Night Before Christmas” at two exclusive signing events. Don’t miss this special opportunity!
Who wouldn’t want to wake up Christmas morning to a luxury like Vermillion’s Cashmere Lela Rose long gloves? Available in lapis, lime and charcoal, $130. (919) 787-9780.
FOOTZYROLLS™ rollable shoes are your new best friend. Grab your clutch – throw in your cell, lip gloss and a beautiful pair of ballet flats! Only $25 at Vanity/Bijuju. (919) 571-4991.
Thursday, November 5th Haven's Holiday Open House (next to Firebirds) 6pm-8pm Saturday, December 12th Greens Market on the Commons (look for Haven tent) 8am-Noon Haven 1pm-6pm
For the person who has everything, North Hills Gift Cards are always a favorite stocking surprise and can be purchased at the North Hills Information Center. (919) 881-1146.
Frances King Stationery carries a large selection of Lilly Pulitzer stationary & gifts. Lilly is now making everything from coffee mugs to wrapping paper & mouse pads. (919) 781-0351.
Choose from over 400 types of candy, retro toys and novelties at The Lollipop Shop. (919) 782-7788.
The Toy Smith Bins at Learning Express offer Santa a selection of over 100 toys to choose from. Some of the most popular products are toy cars, stretchy centipedes, bouncing balls, bath toys & slap bracelets. Prices range from $.99 - $8.99. (919) 881-4141.
UNIQUE GIFTS
The Big Chill Retro Refrigerator in red from Kitchen & Bath Galleries. Get the vintage look with all the modern functionality, efficiency & dependability. Just ask Rachael Ray, she has a blue one on her talk show. (919) 600-6200.
Leave a smaller ecological footprint with these terrific collapsible totes, insulated lunch bags, trolleys, duffel bags & cosmetics bags, shown in Queen of the Jungle Pattern. Other patterns available from Elaine Miller Collection. (919) 571-8888.
The fall fashion must-have is a great pair of tall boots! Gena Chandler knows all the women on your list will love these KORS by Michael Kors boots available in black and coffee for $395. (919) 881-9480.
For the new mom on your list, Cravings, A Maternity Boutique recommends maternity/ nursing pajama sets with coordinating baby onesie from Olian Maternity & Belabumbum. Available in a variety of prints & colors.(919) 510-8773.
Locally made Bordeaux Design Studio’s perfect martini & olive picks are hand-created using Swarovski crystals & other semi-precious stones. Gold & silver plated over brass, lead & nickel free. Sets can be found at ArtSource Fine Art & Framing from $40-$240. (919) 787-9533.
The perfect tote for the Midtown Farmers’ Market, teacher gifts or the grocery store. Market Totes are great for keeping anyone at any age organized and are available at Charlotte’s in a variety of colors for $29. Monogramming available. (919) 787-7113.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING EVENTS NORTH HILLS HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 19TH 6PM – 8PM Shop your favorite stores until 8pm as North Hills shops begin extended hours for the holiday season & enjoy complimentary hot chocolate & cider at the North Hills Hospitality Tents. For more information, visit NorthHillsRaleigh.com. MIDTOWN’S NORTH HILLS SHOPPING CARD Pick up a copy of Midtown Magazine or visit North Hills Guest Services to get your Shopping Card. Register your card at midtownmag.com for access to amazing discounts from North Hills’ shops & boutiques. November 1st-December 31st.
Text NHCHRISTMAS to 41513 to receive more information, specials & coupons from North Hills shops and restaurants.
North Hills, a mixed-use multi-block district known as Raleigh’s Midtown, is the recipient of numerous awards and accolades for its pedestrian-friendly and sustainable design which has made it one of America’s premier in-fill developments.Centrally located at the corner of one of Raleigh’s main thoroughfares and the I-440 Beltline,North Hills is a one-hundred acre destination of sophisticated living,luxury hotel rooms,class A office space,a continuing care retirement community,green space,a 14-screen movie complex and entertainment venues, premier dining, salons and day spas, high-end boutiques, national retail, and a state-of-the-art 60,000 square foot athletic club.
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MIDTOWN MINGLES
CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL WRAPS UP 100TH YEAR CELEBRATION Cardinal Gibbons High School, a Roman Catholic, coeducational, college preparatory school in Raleigh, concluded its yearlong Centennial Celebration in late September with two days of special events that drew hundreds of alumni students, parents and community members to the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Edwards Mill Road campus. Key among the events was the homecoming football game, which featured the induction during halftime of the All-Century Football Team, comprising 118 members, representing classes from 1936 to the present. The Alumni Homecoming Dance welcomed back alumni, some traveling from as far away as Hawaii, Texas, Florida and the Grand Cayman Islands.
www.midtownmag.com â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 143
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MIDTOWN MINGLES
SAINT MARY’S SCHOOL HOLDS DAY OF DANCING
AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF HEALTHCARE & FITNESS
For the 11th year, Saint Mary’s School greeted over 100 enthusiastic middle school dancers to campus to enjoy a full day of dance. The ambassadors for the day were Orchesis Dance Theatre, Saint Mary’s resident dance company. The day was guided by the energy of Lisa Yount, Kathryn Merino, and amazing guest instructors. Dancers participated in contemporary ballet, modern and the always popular African dance classes.
On August 19th, the American Institute of Healthcare & Fitness held an open house for guests to receive general recommendations for prevention and improvement of their overall health. Guests received samples of products and information regarding services offered. The American Institute of Healthcare & Fitness provides state-of-the-art medical carealong with a wide variety of services dedicated to assisting individuals achieve optimum lifelong health.
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NC THEATRE HOLDS FIFTH ANNUAL DINNER ON STAGE EVENT
SILENT AUCTION & BIKE RIDE RAISE $42K FOR MS
Dinner on Stage is an intimate, donor appreciation event held on the stage of Raleigh Memorial Auditorium. In its fifth year, Broadway veterans Ray Walker and Lauren Kennedy, and Broadway newcomer John Arthur Greene dazzled North Carolina Theatre’s donors with an amazing performance.
On August 27th, Lisa Disbrow, owner of Scout & Molly's in North Hills, held a benefit at The Pavillion at The Angus Barn to raise money for the National MS Society. The silent auction and the 150 Bike Ride combined raised over $42,000 for the organization. If you would like to learn more about the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, please visit www.nationalmssociety.org.
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Tip-In Booklet
10/29/09
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M I D T O W N
M A G A Z I N E ’ S
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— Hurry! You Have Until December 1st To Get Your Vote In! — SECOND ANNUAL
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The Diamond Awards M I DTO W N M A G A Z I N E
WE WANT YOUR OPINION! IN THE JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2010 MIDTOWN MAGAZINE, WE WILL HONOR OUR READERS’ FAVORITE MIDTOWN PLACES AND THINGS WITH THE “DIAMOND AWARDS”. YOU CAN EMAIL US, SNAIL MAIL US , VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FAX US YOUR FAVORITES!
M FOOD: BEST PLACE FOR A ROMANTIC DINNER __________________________ BEST SPOT FOR A POWER LUNCH _________________________ BEST POSH PATIO DINING _________________________ BEST PLACE TO GRAB A BEER _________________________ BEST PLACE TO GET YOUR CAFFEINE FIX _________________________ BEST STEAK _________________________ BEST PLACE TO SATISFY A SWEET TOOTH _________________________
BEST GUYS /GIRLS OUTING _________________________
BEST PLACE FOR A FINISHING TOUCH TO AN OUTFIT _________________________
BEST PLACE TO WATCH THE BIG GAME _________________________
BEST ALTERATIONS _________________________
BEST PLACE TO WIND-DOWN AFTER WORK _________________________
BEST PLACE TO DE-AGE _________________________
BEST PLACE TO SWEAT _________________________
BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS _________________________
BEST WAY TO ENTERTAIN THE KIDS ON A RAINY DAY. _________________________
BEST OVERALL PAMPERING _________________________
BEST LATE NIGHT SPOT _________________________ BEST PLACE TO IMPRESS A DATE _________________________
BEST TAKE OUT _________________________
BEST PLACE TO SEE A SHOW OR FLICK _________________________
BEST WAIT STAFF _________________________
BEST PLACE TO GO OUTSIDE OF MIDTOWN OR ON A WEEKEND GET-AWAY _________________________
WINNING WINE LIST _________________________
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FAVORITE PLACE FOR A BLOW OUT _________________________ MOST UNIQUE SPA TREATMENT _________________________ BEST RELAXATION/WAITING ROOM _________________________ BEST PLACE TO GET A NEW COIFFE _________________________ BEST PLACE TO LENGTHEN, FLATTEN OR WEAVE YOUR “DO” _________________________ BEST PLACE TO SPLURGE _________________________
BEST MOJITO _________________________
SHOPPING/BEAUTY:
BEST PLACE TO BUY CHOCOLATE _________________________
FRIENDLIEST CUSTOMER SERVICE _________________________
LIVING:
MOST KID-FRIENDLY DINING _________________________
BEST PLACE TO FIND UNIQUE BRANDS OF CLOTHING _________________________
BEST ADDRESS (TO LIVE) _________________________
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BEST SHOES _________________________
BEST PLACE TO GO IN YOUR RUNNING SHOES _________________________
BEST PLACE FOR LIVE MUSIC _________________________
BEST PLACE TO GET YOUR “BLING” (REAL OR COSTUME) _________________________
FAVORITE PEOPLE WATCHING SPOT _________________________
BEST SPOT FOR WI-FI _________________________
BEST PLACE TO BUY HIM/HER A GIFT _________________________
BEST PLACE TO WALK THE DOG _________________________
BEST PLACE TO READ MIDTOWN MAGAZINE _________________________
BEST PLACE TO BUY FLOWERS _________________________
BEST PLACE TO DONATE YOUR TIME _________________________
(MEN’S & WOMEN’S)
ENTERTAINMENT:
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MIDTOWN MAGAZINE 4818 Six Forks Road • Suite 204 • Raleigh NC 27609 | Fax 919.782.4763 | Email diamonds@midtownmag.com
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g{|á [ÉÄ|wtç? The Best Selection, The Best Value, The Best Service
It’s All In The Bag At…
EXCITING NEW DESIGNER AND ONE-OF-A-KIND ESTATE JEWELRY Diamonds, Pearls and Fashion Jewelry Exceptional Quality – Extraordinary Value The Lassiter at North Hills 919.571.8888
4421-109A Six Forks Road www.ElaineMillerJewelryCollection.com
Raleigh, NC 27609 Mon-Sat 10:00 am-6:00 pm
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SHOPPING
HOLIDAY
GUIDE ‘09 by Dan Bain Season’s greetings, Midtown! But what sort of a season is it going to be this year? While it’s true that some of us have tightened our budgets, it doesn’t have to put a damper on holiday gift giving. To help out in that regard, we’ve researched the latest gift trends nationally, as well as the latest merchandise locally. As you shop this year, keep four trends in mind: Retro; Local; Specific; and Green. Everything old is new again, as nostalgia is making a comeback in clothing, food and toys. A paisley weekend bag, a collection of old-fashioned candies or an 80s bomber jacket could be just the thing for that retro recipient on your list. Going back another 20 years, remember the Beatles? They made a comeback in September, thanks to the re-release of their entire catalog on CD – digitally remastered, embedded with “Making Of” documentaries and including expanded booklets with new liner notes and rare photos. For those who’d rather “perform” than listen, there’s “The Beatles Rock Band” – a video game for Playstation 3, Wii and Xbox 360, available with or without instruments. Shoppers are supporting small, independent, local businesses that can provide something unique and/or personalized. Plenty of local artisans offer their artwork, bedding, toys, housewares, candles and other decor, chocolates, clothing, jewelry and other gifts that will allow you to find something unique while supporting the local economy.
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Such gifts also tie into the trend of specificity. Consumers are trying to make sure their purchases are just right, and that each gift matches the recipient’s personality and interests. Gift givers will forego lastminute purchases and random, expensive gifts for items that are specific and maybe a little unusual or obscure. Try offering dance lessons or a photography class – something that nurtures the recipient’s interest. Know an exercise enthusiast or runner? Check out the Vibram FiveFingers, a form-fitting “shoe” that resembles a toe sock and gives the wearer the feeling of being barefoot while still being protected. For tweens, try iPopperz – five different collections of high-quality, customizable earbuds that feature three plug sizes and unique, stylistic looks. As a bonus, a portion of their proceeds go to VH1 Save the Music Foundation, an organization aiming to restore instrumental music education in public schools. Pets are another consideration in matching gifts to personalities. Owners will appreciate gifts for their pets’ use – grooming products, clothing or treats – as well as gifts that celebrate or feature their pets, such as animal artwork and décor. Green is still a big consideration this year. More and more consumers are looking for items that are eco-friendly as well as naturally safe. Look for organic clothing or make-up, rechargeable batteries and windup appliances such as flashlights and radios. Lastly, keep your gifts simple and sincere, remember to shop for items good for use in the home (in light of the recent “nesting” trend) and be sure to check ut the next few pages for gifts available right here in Midtown. Happy shopping and happy holidays!
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M I DTO W N H O L I DAY S H O P P I N G G U I D E ‘ 0 9
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1 MIXED METAL FENESTRA PENDANT from our large selection of retired Slane and Slane jewelry at 40% off. The Elaine Miller Collection.
2 THEPURE AND COMPANY HANDKNIT WRAP offers warmth and beauty and is a perfect fit for any body. The PURE HANDKNIT Company is truly passionate aboutknitwear. Designed in Canada and crafted in 100% Cotton. Possibilities.
3 WISE OWL BOOKENDS Organize your books or decorate your shelf with these wise owl bookends. Hand-
carved from palewa soapstone. $38/pair. Ten Thousand Villages.
4 CASHMERE SCARVES These irrestibily soft cashmere scarves with frayed hems can be tied or draped. They are available in a variety of solids, plaids and beautiful patterns. Carolina Silver.
5 ‘TIS THE SEASON! Tis’ the Season! Agadir Argan Argan Oil conditions to protect from split ends, eradicates frizz, and is humidity resistant. Visit Lux Salon of Raleigh to purchase this Moroccan indulgence! Lux Salon.
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THIS HOLIDAY SEASON allow Synergy Spa to customize a gift basket or spa gift certificate for all those special people in your life. A personalized gift that can be designed to fit any budget makes gift giving stress free. Synergy.
able mirrors, napkin rings, a selection of frames and other wonderful, fun, delightful gifts. Affordable Chic Shops.
7 PLAID PIZAZZ! A perfect accent for
GLASS GLITTER FEATHER TAIL BIRDSThese sparkly birdies are the perfect accent on chandeliers, trees, packages & cakes! Available in many custom glitter colors & styles.$12.95 as shown. Handcrafted in Raleigh, NC by Goldbug Studio, www.goldbugstudio.com. Goldbug Studio.
any outfit this holiday season. Red and yellow plaid handbags to be used as a clutch or shoulder (with chain). $148/$165. Kristen’s Shoe Boutique.
8 GIFTS FOR YOUR PLEASURE include elegant plateaus with remov-
9 CULTURED FRESH WATER PEARL EARRINGS with either white, black or bronze pearls. Available in yellow or white gold. $279. Elaine Miller Collection.
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11 GREAT GIFTS AND STOCKING STUFFERS for the holidays! Exclusive hair and skincare products. Dermalogica, Lanza, Pureology, Amber Sun and OPI. ROI Salon.
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RONDEL PURA RAZA BRUT NV Cava, Spain- "More fruity than dry, this "extreme brut" is filled with soft peach and nut flavors, their fragrance lifted by white pepper and floral tones of white lilies. Briny and fresh,
the flavors last." Wine & Spirits 90 pts. $7.99. Total Wine & More.
Foundation®. A gift that changes lives. Skin Sense.
DIAMANTE CHARM NECKLACE WITH RHINESTONES from Subversive jewelry by Justin Giunta, work that sits on the continuum of fine art and commercial design. Vermillion.
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FROM HIS HAND CARVED LUCITE COLLECTION inlay hoop earrings and bangle bracelet in dark teal. Starting At $69.. Elaine Miller Collection.
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PAULA LISHMAN’S AUDREY CAPE in rose beige makes a great holiday gift for her. This hand knit-
MAKE THIS SEASON BRIGHT! White tea & ginger soy candle: 60% of proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish
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ted fur is lightweight, breathable and noted as the perfect Southern fur. Jbat Boutique.
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SLEEK STAINLESS WATCHES Oversize faces in red, orange, purple, green and yellow. A stunning gift for the holidays. C.T. Weekends.
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FESTIVE Hand painted holiday frames to display your favorite memories. dilly dally at Oh Baby!
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M I DTO W N H O L I DAY S H O P P I N G G U I D E ‘ 0 9
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19 A VERY SPECIAL SELECTION OF SOCKS from V. K. Nagrani, colorful and luxurious, true Luxe Neccesities. A pleasure, a memory and a smile for every day. Liles Clothing Studio.
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THE WARM, MODERN GIFT SHOP at The Umstead Hotel and Spa for a jewelbox of artful items perfect for the holidays. Gift baskets/wrapping available. The Umstead Hotel and Spa.
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THISTLE AND BEE 18k white gold rings set with diamonds and blue topaz or diamonds and
amethyst. Stones are also available in citrine and yellow quartz. Johnson’s Jewelers.
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FLAVIO CASTELLANI black cashmere with fox fur trim is the ultimate coat to enjoy forever! Flattering fit and beautiful shape, this coat will not be here long. Quantities limited. $998. gena chandler.
23 MICHELE WATCH The musthave watch of the year! Two-tone metal watch with diamonds is perfect to match anyone’s jewelry col-
lection! Michele watches are known for their versatility – the straps are easy to change and perfect to match any outfit! Charlotte’s.
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BEAUTIFUL HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS! Fun. Creative. Affordable. Flowers & Gifts from the English Garden. The English Garden.
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VGI GRIFFIN AND LION EARRINGS with aquamarine by Elizabeth Locke Jewel.s. Hand hammered in 19K gold. $2,975. The Elaine Miller Collection.
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JPK PARIS DOUBLE ZIP WALLET From the makers of the original Bucket bag, this nylon wallet keeps you well organized and stylish! Available in great colors at $98.00! Tyler House.
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KEEP THE TASTE & LOSE THE FAT this holiday season with great tasting Max Protein. 22g protein, 118 cal., 1g sugar and fortified with vitamins. A quick and easy, lowfat, lowcarb meal replacement or snack. Come sample a flavor today! GNC at North Hills.
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STUN HER WITH FABULOUS EARRINGS, accessories and clothing she’s sure to love. Nativa.
29 SWEET CHARLESTON DESIGNS sterling silver and 18k gold jewelry inspired by the beautiful handwoven sweetgrass baskets of Charleston, SC. Available exclusively in the Triangle at Jolly's Jewelers in North Hills. Jolly’s Jewelers & Silversmith.
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MARTINI PITCHER & PLATTER Kick up your holiday season with our handcrafted red and gold dot-
ted martini pitcher, stem and 12” x 18” platter. Zest Cafe & Home Art.
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IF A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS, this Chrome Hearts would then be the "War and Peace" of the sunglass world. For this holiday season, consider giving a gift as unique as the person you’re shopping for. Happy Holidays, from Gregor and Wick of The Spectacle. The Spectacle.
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LATISSE EYELASH GROWTH SOLUTION creates longer, darker and thicker lashes and Vivite Lip
Plumper makes lips smoother and fuller. Purchase perfect lips-andlashes at Youthology. Youthology.
33 TRANSFORM YOUR KID’S ROOM from builder beige to “totally awesome” with a digitally printed mural. It’s easy and quick! Point Concepts Design.
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LEAVE A SMALLER ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRINT with these terrific collapsible totes, insulated lunch bags, trolleys, duffel bags and cosmetics bags shown in Queen of the Jungle pattern. Other
patterns available, starting at $6.95. Elaine Miller Collection.
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DOORS & DESTINATIONS CANDLES, new by Niven Morgan. Open the door and capture the scents from the world's most magical cities. $31. Lavender and Lace.
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BLACK WEDGE SHEARED BEAVER FUR JACKET by Paula Lishman. This adorned coat is available for immediate purchase or may be special ordered at JBat Boutique. Jbat Boutique.
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37 MARY GREEN CHEMISE Slip into
39 FOR A BIG NIGHT OUT OR CAR
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the luxurious yet comfy chemise from Mary Green. Silk with a little spandex, available in fun colors. J. Alane’s.
POOLS AND SOCCER GAMES Elaine Miller Collection has a great fashion watch for you. Prices starting at $49. Elaine Miller Collection.
($695) by Burberry, available at Uniquities, is the perfect gift for any lady on your list. The trench features Burberry’s classic trademark check in a beautiful shade of blue. Uniquities.
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LESLIE GREENE'S AWARD WINNING JEWELRY has been a favorite choice of Hollywood celebrities. Her pieces will undoubtedly become family heirlooms, passed on for generations. Bailey’s Fine Jewelry.
40 FOR A SWEET HOLIDAY GIFT, fill any hand-painted collegiate or holiday themed wine glass with bulk candy for just $19.99. The Lollipop Shop of Raleigh.
42 BOND NO. 9 ASTOR PLACE EAU DE PARFUM Luxe Apothecary stocks a wide selection of Bond no. 9 perfumes, lotions and candles.
The ultimate gift for those in the know. Available in store or shop online at www.luxeapothecary.com. Luxe Apothecary.
43 GIVE THE GIFT OF VOLUPTUOUS HAIR! Bumble and Bumble products and Toppik build amazing volume. Giftset comes ready to give to someone special. Modern Enhancement Salon & Spa.
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Holiday Open House
Santa Claus Comes to Midtown
North North Hills Hills merchants merchants kick kick off off extended extended holiday holiday hours hours with with complimentary complimentary refreshments. refreshments.
Good Good boys boys and and girls girls may may bring bring their their wish wish lists lists to to Santa Santa Claus Claus in in his his workshop workshop across across from from Ben Ben & & Jerry’s. Jerry’s.
Tree Lighting Celebration
Holiday Greens Market
Thu, November 19, 6pm–8pm
Sat, November 21, 3pm–7pm, Tree Lit at 6pm
Sat & Sun in December, 12pm–3pm
Sat until December 19, 11am–4pm In front of Vivace & in the Commons
Victorian Victorian carolers, carolers, train train rides, rides, Santa Santa Claus, Claus, ice ice skating skating on on the the Commons, Commons, horse horse and and carriage carriage rides, rides, and and the the most most magnificent magnificent tree tree in in the the Triangle. Triangle.
Special Special holiday holiday market market featuring featuring goodies, goodies, garlands, garlands, wreaths, wreaths, and and decorations decorations for for Christmas. Christmas.
Ice Skating on the Commons
Holiday Hospitality Tents
November 21 until January Mon–Thu 10am–8pm, Fri & Sat 10am–9pm, Sun 1pm–6pm Sponsored Sponsored by by Raleigh Raleigh on on Ice, Ice, this this ice ice skating skating rink rink benefits benefits the the Raleigh Raleigh Rescue Rescue Mission. Mission.The The Hurricanes Hurricanes mascot, mascot, Stormy, Stormy, and and figure figure skaters skaters will will skate skate with with you you during during the the holiday holiday season. season.
Holiday Cheer at North Hills Frosty Frosty the the Snowman Snowman and and Rudolph Rudolph the the Red-Nosed Red-Nosed Reindeer Reindeer visit visit all all season. season. Santa’s Santa’s Elves Elves are are happy happy to to help help you you find find the the perfect perfect gift gift while while strolling strollingVictorian Victorian carolers carolers sing sing your your favorite favorite holiday holiday songs. songs.
Fri, Sat & Sun, November 27 until December 20 North North Hills Hills and and Starbuck’s Starbuck’s keep keep you you warm warm with with complimentary complimentary hot hot chocolate chocolate and and cider cider from from our our Holiday Holiday Hospitality Hospitality Tents, Tents, located located in in front front of of McAlister‘s McAlister‘s Deli Deli and and Uniquities. Uniquities.
Visit NorthHillsEvents.com for more information. SPONSOR ED BY:
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GAZING BALLS are a unique gift for any gardener. They add interest and color to the home and garden. Light up your holidays! $31.99-$69.00. Logan Trading Co.
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THIS BEAUTIFUL CHOCOLATE PONCHO is our best selling look for this simply elegant accessory. Color: Ombre Cognac by Paula Lishman; available only at JBat boutique in Sutton Square. Jbat Boutique.
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PANDORA offers a universe of beautiful jewelry – charm bracelets, stackable rings, necklaces, earrings and much more! Visit Bailey's or the New Pandora Store at Crabtree. Bailey’s Fine Jewelry.
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THE HOLIDAYS ARE SWEETER WITH CUPCAKES! Now taking orders for gifts & holiday parties! Pumpkin, eggnog, peppermint, & gingerbread with adorable custom
embellishments. $3 & up. The Cupcake Shoppe.
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FROM HIS ELEMENTS COLLECTION Wood and gold collar and earrings. Elaine Miller Collection.
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GALLERY A has many beautiful and imaginative gift items, including this 36x36 oil on canvas by renowned Raleigh artist, Dianne Rodwell. $2400. Gallery A.
50 WHITE PHALEANOPSIS ORCHID adorned with greenery, red berries and a holiday bow. Custom arrangements and local delivery available. Affordably priced starting at $50. Atlantic Avenue Orchid & Garden.
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PERSONALIZED NECKLACE WORN BY LAUREN CONRAD Gold or silver necklace with one or three initials made popular by Lauren Conrad. Prices starting at $175. Charlotte’s.
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52 PROVANCE OCCASIONAL TABLE The South of France is renowned for some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, along with some of the finest wines and cheeses. This area is called Provence. By any name, our Provance is a work of art. Copyrighted double latticework design in never rust cast aluminum. $213. Summer Classics.
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FOXGLOW UNITES THEIR DEEP LOVE OF CHAPEL HILL with luxury candles to create
"scents of place,” perfectly matched to a treasured scene, tradition, and memory. Quintessentials.
and nurture the soul. The gorgeous packaging makes the perfect holiday or hostess gift! Blue Water Spa.
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HALEY SHOULDER BAG From the Linea Pelle collection, the Haley shoulder bag in gold. $567. Scout & Molly’s / WALK.
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THE MOR COLLECTION FOR BODY AND HOME MOR Cosmetics from Australia brings you an exquisite range of products to pamper the body
GOLD EARRINGS designed by Spark Creations containing pear-shaped pink sapphires weighing 2.51 carats total weight and pear-shaped aquamarines weighing 9.68 carats total weight surrounded by 184 round brilliant cut diamonds weighing a total weight of 1.95 carats. Diamonds Direct Crabtree.
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CHARMINGLY FEMININE bra and panty set in pale pink with smokey grey design featuring Austrian embroidery. Available in sizes 32-40, C-GG cups. The Bra Patch.
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LOOK GREAT AND FEEL COMFORTABLE in our Beyond Yoga Pant. Wear it to the movies, the grocery store, on an airplane or to the gym! Size x-small to x-large, regular length 72, x-long length 74. CoolSweats.
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RITUAL OF RELIEF A soothing tradition for hands and feet. Von Kekel Aveda Salon Spa.
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incredible softness. The shirt is flannel with a hidden button-down collar. McKenzie Tribe.
with the amenities of contemporary appliances. $2,695. Kitchen & Bath Galleries.
60 ESTATE EUROPEAN BROOCH
62 T-BOX SCARVES Great gift for
CUSTOM GIFT BASKETS BY LATHER HAIR SALON We can create the perfect basket of products and tools, designed specifically for the texture and style of anyone’s hair. Lather Hair Salon.
CIRCA 1960 18k yellow gold, total diamond weight 1.00 carat. $2,295. Elaine Miller Collection.
women of all ages and lifestyles. One size, six different colors. $30. Certain Things.
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ORIGINAL SIZE RETRO REFRIGERATOR FROM BIG CHILL Combines the iconic look of a 1950’s style vintage refrigerator
MCKENZIE TRIBE LEATHER JACKET Four button, fully lined inside with two pockets,leather trimmed collar. This jacket has an
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with German Glass Glitter & French Antique Gold Lace. Handcrafted in Raleigh, NC by Goldbug Studio. $36 each, www.goldbugstudio.com. Goldbug Studio.
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STORYTIME, THE TALKING CHRISTMAS TEDDY BEAR by Gund, reads “Twas the Night Before Christmas” as his head and mouth move to the words. $38.95. Invitatation Box.
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Gift Certificates ARTHUR MURRAY DANCE STUDIO Give the gift that lasts a lifetime! Share the excitement of world famous Arthur Murray Dance Studios. Call today for YOUR personalized Gift Certificate.
MIDTOWN & BAR 115 Take 15% off the face value of any gift certificate purchase through December 31, 2009. Call 782-WINE. MURA
BODYLASE SKIN SPA Pamper your loved ones this holiday with a gift certificate from BodyLase Skin Spa,with locations in Raleigh and Cary. Visit www.getbodylase.com for more information.
Great for sushi lovers! Perfect for romantic dinners or private parties. Pick up a Mura gift card today for your favorite Asian cuisine aficionado.
NORTH CAROLINA THEATRE BROADWAY SERIES SOUTH
Give the gift of theatre! For tickets or information, contact our Box Office at 919.831.6060, www.broadwayseriessouth.com.
Give the gift of theatre this holiday season! NC Theatre offers holiday gift certificates in any amount – personalized for that special someone!
THE OXFORD CAFÉ TIRAMSU
Crowd-pleasing favorite. The Oxford gastropub is great for lunch, dinner or late night dining and drinking. Give the gift of an Oxford experience this holiday season!
CHEF MARIO’S PERSONAL CHEF SERVICES
POOL PROFESSIONALS Take advantage of our Winter Installation Special! All contracts signed by December 31st, 2009 will receive a 5% discount – up to $5,000 off!
Need a gift idea for the holidays? Make it simple! A gift card to Cafe Tiramisu, North Ridge Pub, or Cameron Bar and Grill!
Chef Mario’s award-winning personal chef delivery service provides fully cooked chef-prepared meals DELIVERED Packages start at $185 for dinner for two for five days.
DAVIS PLASTIC SURGERY
Surprise that special someone with a gift of rejuvenation! We offer Botox®, Restylane®, Juvederm®, Radiesse®, Fraxel® laser and the fabulous new Latisse for longer, darker eyelashes.
RALEIGH HAIR CONCEPTS
Do you know of someone or maybe yourself that suffers from hair loss and/or thinning? You can give the gift of a lifetime.
SAINT-JACQUES FRENCH CUISINE
Saint-Jacques gift certificates for cooking classes for 2 ($100) or wine dinners for 2 ($140) are the perfect gift for the foodie on your list!
DPAC
Durham Performing Arts Center, offers gift certificates for the holidays! Purchase Phantom of the Opera, Mamma Mia, or let them pick. Call 919-680-2787 or visit the DPAC Ticket Center!
GALLERY A (DR. ANDREAUS, DDS)
Dr. Steven Andreaus' office has holiday gift certificates for ZOOM! Whitening, Invisalign Braces, and Sonicare Products. Available at $25 and up. 919-546-9011.
SECOND EMPIRE Give a gift for the Ultimate Dining Experience at Second Empire. Gift certificates available. SONO JAPENESE RESTAURANT Urban, elegant restaurant with great Pan Asian menu choices on Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street. A Sono gift card is the ideal present for any sushi enthusiast!
GLO DE VIE
TRIANGLE SEGWAY Give a Segway Tour gift card this holiday season! Segway tours are fun, unique, and full of local history. $35/$45/$60
KIM CATALANO
WARREN SCOTT SALON The ideal gift for the fashionable woman in your life, pamper her with an outstanding cut and hair coloring from the master designer Warren Scott.
Tight skin in a new light! Without surgery, recovery time, or injections, Titan skin tightening system is an ideal solution for tighter, brighter, firmer skin. Great for the holidays! Gift certificates for any hair treatment!
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Shopping Directory AFFORDABLE CHIC SHOPS 2315 Lynn Rd, Raleigh (919) 846-0676
LILES CLOTHING STUDIO 4350 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 510-5556
ARTHUR MURRAY DANCE STUDIO 2733 Capital Blvd, Raleigh (919) 872-8900
LOGAN TRADING CO. 707 Semart Dr, Raleigh (919) 828-5337
ATLANTIC AVENUE ORCHID & GARDEN 5217 Atlantic Ave, Raleigh (919) 878-8877
THE LOLLIPOP SHOP OF RALEIGH 4120-120 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh (919) 782-7788
BAILEY’S FINE JEWELRY 415 Daniels St, Raleigh (919) 829-7337*
LUX SALON 910-109 Spring Forest Rd, Raleigh (919) 790-7011
BLUEWATER SPA 10941 Raven Ridge Rd, Raleigh (919) 870-6066
LUXE APOTHECARY 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 881-7828
BODYLASE SKIN SPA 6531 Creedmoor Rd Ste 102, Raleigh (919) 954-2288*
MCKENZIE TRIBE 4361 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 510-5467
THE BRA PATCH 1603 N Market Dr, Raleigh (919) 876-8677
MIDTOWN & BAR 115 4421-115 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 782-9463
BROADWAY SERIES SOUTH 2 East South St, Raleigh (919) 831-6060
MODERN ENHANCEMENT SALON AND SPA 8320 Litchford Rd, Raleigh (919) 875-8668
CAFÉ TIRAMSU 6196 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 981-0305
MURA 4121 Main at North Hills St, Raleigh (919) 781-7887
CAMERON BAR & GRILL 2018 Clark Ave, Raleigh (919) 755-2231
NATIVA BOUTIQUE 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 781-5888*
CAROLINA SILVER 6637 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 845-9917*
NORTH CAROLINA THEATRE 1 E South St, Raleigh (919) 831-6941
CERTAIN THINGS 4350 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 786-6104*
NORTH RIDGE PUB 6196 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 981-6005
CHARLOTTE’S 4350 Lassiter at North Hills Mall, Raleigh (919) 787-7113*
THE OXFORD 319 Fayetteville Street Mall, Raleigh (919) 832-6622
CHEF MARIO’S PERSONAL CHEF SERVICES 2610 Wycliff Rd, Raleigh (919) 781-3073
PANDORA JEWELRY Crabtree Valley Mall, Raleigh (919) 571-2646
COOLSWEATS 4421-110 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 782-0012*
POINT CONCEPTS DESIGN 8204 Brownleigh Dr, Raleigh (919) 787-3677
C.T. WEEKENDS 2603-141 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh (919) 787-9073*
POOL PROFESSIONALS 6201 Westgate Rd, Raleigh (919) 787-7878
CUPCAKE SHOPPE BAKERY 104 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh (919) 821-4223
POSSIBILITES 4380 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 787-8500*
DAVIS PLASTIC SURGERY 2304 Wesvill Ct, Raleigh (919) 785-1220
QUINTESSENTIALS 4421 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 785-0787
DIAMONDS DIRECT CRABTREE 4401 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh (919) 571-2881*
RALEIGH HAIR CONCEPTS 128 Mine Lake Ct, Raleigh (919) 841-0336
DILLY DALLY AT OHBABY! 4209-108 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 844-7557
ROI SALON 617 Oberlin Rd, Raleigh (919) 833-2577
DPAC 123 Vivian St, Durham (919) 688-3722
SAINT-JACQUES FRENCH CUISINE 6112 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 862-2770
THE ELAINE MILLER COLLECTION 4421-109A Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 571-8888
SCOUT & MOLLY’S 4421-103B Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 881-0303*
THE ENGLISH GARDEN 10310 Moncreiffe Rd, Raleigh (919) 341-8080
SECOND EMPIRE 330 Hillsborough St, Raleigh (919) 829-3663
GALLERY A (DR. ANDREAUS, DDS) 1637 Glenwood Ave, Raleigh (919) 546-9011
SKIN SENSE 6801 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 870-0700*
GENA CHANDLER 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 881-9480
SONO JAPENESE RESTAURANT 319 Fayetteville Street Mall, Raleigh (919) 341-7971
GLO DE VIE 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 510-5919
THE SPECTACLE 4209-110 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 783-5863
GNC AT NORTH HILLS 4421 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 787-0462
SUMMER CLASSICS 6125 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 847-5070
GOLDBUG STUDIO 518 Pershing Rd, Raleigh (919) 834-1523
TEN THOUSAND VILLAGES 435 Woodburn Rd, Raleigh (919) 821-1100
INVITATION BOX www.invitationbox.com (866) 862-7382
TOTAL WINE & MORE 4216-115 The Circle at North Hills, Raleigh (919) 232-2580*
J. ALANES 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 881-8058
TRIANGLE SEGWAY 327 Blake St, Raleigh (919) 828-1988
JBAT BOUTIQUE 6325 Falls of Neuse Rd, Raleigh (919) 876-1981
TYLER HOUSE 4421 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 781-9210
JOHNSON'S JEWELERS OF RALEIGH 3201 John Humphries Wynd, Raleigh (919) 783-9504
THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA 100 Woodland Pond, Cary (919) 447-4000
JOLLY’S JEWELERS & SILVERSMITH 4321 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 832-5571
UNIQUITIES 4209-127 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 785-3385
KIM CATALANO HAIR DESIGN 10320 Durant Rd, Raleigh (919) 271-5102
VERMILLION 4321-102 Lassiter at North Hills Ave, Raleigh (919) 787-9780
KITCHEN & BATH GALLERIES 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 600-6200
VON KEKEL AVEDA SALON SPA 4209 Lassiter Mill Rd, Raleigh (919) 782-0808*
KRISTEN’S SHOE BOUTIQUE 2045 Renaissance Park Pl, Cary (919) 678-1234
WARREN SCOTT SALON 7901 Strickland Rd Ste 105, Raleigh (919) 870-0120
LATHER HAIR SALON 8521 Cantilever Way Ste. 109, Raleigh (919) 792-0715
YOUTHOLOGY 10940 Raven Ridge Rd, Raleigh (919) 847-1495
LAVENDER AND LACE 2031 Cameron St, Raleigh (919) 828-6007
ZEST CAFÉ & HOME ART 8831 Six Forks Rd, Raleigh (919) 848-4792
*denotes additional Triangle locations