QC Exclusive - No. 37 - 2017 Issue 1 - The Renewal Issue by QC Exclusive Magazine

The Quintessential Charlotte Magazine

Vol. 6 | No. 1

The Wellness Issue

RENEWAL Bold Charlotte women are redefining strength, local nonprofits are rekindling community, and our athletes are doing the impossible. In 2017, we’re all simply improving. Jan/Feb 2017

Strong is beautiful.

Emily Breeze of Stax Bootcamp | p. 126

Kent Youngstrom’s Art / Coco and the Director / Discovery Place’s Ghengis Khan / O-Ku Sushi / Isabella Carolina Spas / Graylyn / Dream Center / Haberdish’s Ice Spheres / A Gerrard Builders Home / Hilton Head

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Sprints at Charlotte’s popular STAX bootcamp. Photo taken during our Strong is Beautiful photo shoot. (p.126). Photo by Jamey Price

FEATURES

126

STRONG IS BEAUTIFUL 7 women that are dominating their fields while integrating a real passion for wellness within the community

134

NOBLE PURSUITS Jim Noble, Bo Frowine, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Dream Center pull an ailing Charlotte back together

138

LIMITLESS VISION North Carolina native Tucker Dupree’s story of resilience

142

ALL ABOUT CONNECTION Yoga teacher and trainer Grace Morales’ life journey is full of ups-and-downs

Note

Contributors

Eventist

Spec

THE DEPA RTMEN TS

42 The CULTURE FINE

ART

PERFORMING

CROSSFIT + CANVAS Kent Youngstrom s new CrossFit art series

ARTS

STYLE

WIND RIVER A haven in the foothills of Western North Carolina

GENGHIS KHAN CREATE YOUR OWN Don Lessem s exhibit invades questions with Charlotte Discovery Place Science stylist Stacee Michelle IN SHAPE Meet Charlotte Ballet’s only local dancer Ben Ingel

The SPREAD RESTAURANTS

CHEFS

O u K The new sushi spot leaving its mark on the Charlotte food scene

RECIPES

COCKTAILS

TO TOUCH Boutique beauty at Caci Di Russo’s Toccare Day Spa

COCO AND THE DIRECTOR Uptown’s newest coffee shop

LENNY BOY KOMBUCHA Townes Mozer, the vanguard of Charlotte’s kombucha movement

RAW Sea Level’s world-class oysters NIWA A healthy bowl from Futo Buta

SPHERICAL The colorful and creative ice balls in Haberdish s delicious cocktails

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THE DEPA RTMEN TS

96 The FOLIO DESIGN

DECOR

ABSENCE OF CLUTTER A thoughtful design by Laura Casey embraces art

SPACES

FEATURE

DINING DRAMA Textures prints and colors add elegance and drama to a Lucy Co space

ISABELLA Five questions with talentedIndigo Sanctuary curator Erin Dougherty Traci Zeller’s crisp indigo powder room captures the 94 spirit of renewal CURATED Favorite design and decor selections for the new year A GERRARD HOME Gerrard Builders and Kim 96 Mauney Interiors combine MOUNTAIN MAJESTY to create ultimate elegance Bossard Design’s take on a ski-town living room

The EXPLORED RESORTS

TOWNS

DESTINATIONS

SPORTING

118

ADVENTURE

GRAYLYN The expansive Winston Salem estate is a perfect weekend escape

114

HILTON HEAD Experience the ultimate Carolina coastal winter getaway

118

DOUBLE THE TRAILS Skiing Beech and Sugar Mountains in the High Country

122

orF The best Southern resort spas, day spas, and total retreat centers

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THE NOTE

RENEWAL

QC Exclusive’s JP Grice and Brett Barter walk to their office at The Foundry.

In 2017, we’re all simply improving.

The first issue of the year was never a favoryou ll agree that the proof is in the pudding ite of mine Stories of exercise - diet Our cover inspi story, Strong is Beautiful, highration, and motivation always seemed a bit lights seven Charlotte women who are chalcontrived Images of happy healthy lenging people the status quo and bringing new always felt a bit fraudulent The thought meaningof to the word strength We also typing “A New Year, A New You” was always tell the inspiring story of North Carolina cringe inducing native Tucker Dupree, introduce readers to Oh how things change Right nowrespected as I Charlotte sit yogi Grace Morales, and here typing this I’m eating a Raw Rhino — explore the positive impact of the Charlotte a vegetarian sandwich from our friends at Mecklenburg Dream Center We taste Lenny Rhino Market — thinking about when I’m goBoy’s kombucha, discover how Ben Ingel of ing to make time today for the gym the Charlotte I haven Ballet t stays healthy, praise had a cigarette in four months And the I me smil orts of Wind River and share many ing ear to ear Go gure other stories that we hope will encourage This new outlook definitely made curatyou and renew your spirit in ing and designing our wellness issue an enBest, tirely di erent and enjoyable process I Jon-Paul think Grice, Editor

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EST. 2011

our team PUBLISHER

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Brett Barter EDITOR Jon-Paul Grice SALES Kathleen Hands Fern Howerin EDITORIAL Corey Miller Sunny Hubler EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Shelavon Bradley Leslie Brooks Ashley Carlini Margo Jacobs Jordan Lax Eleanor Merrell CREATIVE Stephen Philpott PHOTOGRAPHY Jamey Price PHOTOGRAPHY CONTRIBUTORS Sarah Collier Emily Dnistran Thien La Lunahzon Emby Taylor Joe Purvis

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FEEDBACK We welcome your feedback — both positive and negative — and believe it is very valuable in our constant pursuit to be better as a publication. We encourage all of our readers to contact us with any critiques, compliments, or questions by email at info@qcexclusive.com. EDITORIAL Contact JP Grice by phone at 828-773-4922 or email at jp@qcexclusive.com. ADVERTISING Contact Brett Barter by phone at 704-219-9088 or email at brett@qcexclusive.com. INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Please contact us by email at corey@qcexclusive.com. EVENTS & PARTNERSHIPS Post an event in QCExclusive or inquire about partnering with us for an upcoming event by email at info@qcexclusive.com.

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THE TA LEN T

JAMEY PRICE Charlotte native Jamey Price is a professional motorsport photographer who has been published by Autosport, Road & Track, MAXIM, ESPN and Sports Illustrated. Follow Jamey on Instagram at @jameypricephoto.

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STEPHEN PHILPOTT The Philpott proudly hails from the Queen City. After graduating from SCAD, Stephen founded The Philpott Creative Co., a creative design and branding consultancy studio. Visit him online at thephilpott.com.

COREY MILLER

SUNNY HUBLER

A graduate of Appalachian State University and alleged film and literature snob, Corey Miller left a sizable chunk of his soul in Berlin. He’s just here for the QC beer.

Sunny is a transplant to Charlotte by way of Maine. She is a writer, researcher, and adjunct professor. Her latest work looks at environmental advocacy and nutrition-related health communication.

SARAH AND BEN COLLIER

JUSTIN DRISCOLL

This husband and wife team photographs weddings and editorials with a love for timeless, artful photography using film to bring your vision to life. Visit them online at takenbysarah.com.

The world-traveled Charlotte photographer has had his work featured in magazines and national advertising campaigns. His striking photos have also adorned the walls of many popular spots in North Carolina. Visit him at thejustdesign.com.

JOE PURVIS

EMBY TAYLOR

Joe recently relocated to Charlotte from Austin, TX. Combining art with business; his photography is focused on helping businesses market with more impact. See Joe’s portfolio online at joepurvis.com.

This husband-and-wife pair, Mary Beth and Colin, have a passion for photojournalism and portraiture. Living outside of the U.S. during the early part of their relationship has given them a different perspective to tell stories in a unique way. Visit them online at embytaylorphotography.com.

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WINTER 2017 Events THE EDITOR’S PICK

Innovative Works

1/27/17 - 2/18/17 - Passion, intensity, movement… Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux created Innovative Works to present contemporary ballet in an intimate venue. The first Innovative Works performance was in 1997, just after Jean-Pierre took over as artistic director. Twenty years later, it is one of Charlotte Ballet’s most popular performances, now housed in the 200-seat theater at the Patricia McBride & JeanPierre Bonnefoux Center for Dance. Choreographer Mark Diamond, a member of Jean Pierre’s first-ever Innovative Works performance, will be joined by Resident Choreographer Sasha Janes and former company member David Ingram for this season’s Innovative Works, now in its twentieth year. The performance includes a dessert reception with the dancers and artistic staff following the show, so stick around for your chance to tell Jean-Pierre about your favorite Innovative Works moments. www.charlotteballet.org

THE EV ENTIST -Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux

“Over the past 20 years, Innovative Works has become one of our audience and dancers’ favorite performances. I’m excited about this year’s performance because it will feature new ballets by choreographers Mark Diamond and Sasha Janes, and former company dancer David Ingram.”

THE EV EN TIST

Jan/Feb 2017

SET LIST

Hypnotic Brass Ensemble 1/26/17

Going-ons in music, film, comedy and more in the Queen City Greensky Bluegrass January 19, 2017 For more than a decade and a half, Greensky has created their own version of bluegrass by mixing the acoustic stomp of a stringband with the rule-breaking spirit of rock and roll. fillmorecharlottenc.com Modernism + Film January 19, 2017

A Move To Default Native

1/23/17 - Tom Earnhardt, host of the UNCTV program “Exploring North Carolina,” will kick-off 2017 with his lecture A Move to Default Native: Selecting Native Flora Whenever Possible in Private Developments and on Public Lands. mintmuseum.org The Year Of The Woman

1/25/17 - Join Columbian author Kurma Murrain via Skype from Ningbo, China for a heartfelt bilingual poetry anthology full of love and passion. mintmuseum.org

Computer (1997). Can two works produced a century apart be mashed into something new and interesting? We think so. charlottesymphony.org THE WONDERFUL WIZARD OF OZ

1/27/17 - 2/5/17 - Click your heels together and join Scarecrow, Tin Man, Lion, Dorothy and her little dog Toto on their journey through the magical land of Oz to meet the Wizard and obtain their hearts’ desires. Rediscover the classic story of Oz in this fantastic play for the whole family. davidsoncommunityplayers.org Charlotte Does Aretha

Hypnotic Brass Ensemble

1/26/17 - Hypnotic Brass Ensemble is seven brothers from Chicago who come from an extraordinary musical family. The band freely mixes brass with generous doses of hip-hop, soul, and funk, creating an intoxicating and boisterous blend that is just barely contained on their newest release Fly: The Customs Prelude. charlotteballet.org Brahms V. Radiohead

1/27/17 - A symphonic mashup of Brahms’s first symphony (1887) and Radiohead’s OK

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1/28/17 - Charlotte Music Heroes presents its fourth installment of Charlotte Does musical concerts. For this installment, regional musicians take on the music catalog of Aretha Franklin at the Stage Door Theater. blumenthalarts.org On Tap

1/31/17 - The Charlotte Symphony ensemble will play selections from Bach and Copland to Jimi Hendrix while NoDa Brewing creates a specialty beer for the event. charlottesymphony.org

The Bechtler will screen Silence of Mark Rothko a film that explores Mark Rothko’s mission to create environments and provoke emotions through the juxtaposition of his paintings. bechtler.org Improv Comedy All-Play January 27, 2017 Charlotte Comedy Theater presents an allplay improv show where any of the performers can play together to decide the style of improv they would like to perform. charlottecomedytheater.com

Rumours January 27, 2017 This Fleetwood Mac tribute band puts on a a show that spares no detail with costumes and characterizations during their musical performances. rumourstributeshow.com CineMint February 1, 2017 The Mint will bring the best of Latin film to Charlotte along with authentic food, drinks, and a panel discussion. mintmuseum.org

THE EV EN TIST

Jan/Feb 2017

SET LIST Going-ons in music, film, comedy and more in the Queen City Atmosphere February 3, 2017 The popular American hip-hop duo from Minneapolis, Minnesota has released eight studio albums and ten extended plays. Atmosphere will be at The Underground for a can’t-miss good time, beginning at 8 pm. fillmorecharlottenc.com The Breakfast Club February 4, 2017

Brahms - Symphony No. 1 2/10/17 - 2/11/17 SCIENCE AFTER HOURS

2/2/17 - Join the Schiele Museum for an evening for adults where you can test your mind with trivia. The museum will also provide refreshments and interesting speakers so you can experience a show in our new Science Theater. schielemuseum.org STRIKE A MATCH TO HEAR MY SOUND

2/3/17 - 4/8/17 - Latin American Contemporary Art (LaCa) Projects is presenting Strike a Match to Hear My Sound, Cristina Toro’s second solo exhibition with the gallery. This new body of work addresses natural and supernatural phenomena related to fire and light. The inspiration for these works began in Toro’s kitchen, where she experienced “the phenomenon of luminous plasma causing ionization of air particles and creating a glowing light.” lacaprojects.com Queen City Brewers festival

2/4/17 - ACEing Autism-Charlotte invites you to the Queen City Brewers Festival at The Fillmore. This event brings together Charlotte-area breweries, craftbeer-focused restaurants, sponsors and

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enthusiasts to support ACEing Autism’s mission to serve more families in the Charlotte community affected by Autism Spectrum Disorders. qcbrewfest.com AFTERNOON WITH THE WINEMAKER

2/4/17 - Join owner and winemaker Jay Raffaldini and assistant winemaker Katy Kidd as they guide you on a behind-thescenes tour of the Raffaldini Winery. Learn how the award-winning winemakers craft their locally produced wines and go step-by-step through the winemaking process with the team. raffaldini.com FEATHERY FRIENDS

2/4/17 - Celebrate National Bird Feeding Month by spending time with the bobwhite quail. Learn about bird enrichment, examine quail feathers and eggs, and even make your own bird feeder to attract birds to your backyard. schielemuseum.org Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine

2/8/17 - Formed in November of 1918, the National Symphony Orchestra of Ukraine is considered to be one of the finest symphony

The most recognized ’80’s tribute band in the United States comes to Amos’ Southend for the last time to perform live ‘80’s pop “better than the original artists.” amossouthend.com John Pizzarelli February 10, 2017 For one night only, at Wingate University, world-renowned musician John Pizzarelli will perform songs by Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Tom Waits, Antônio Carlos Jobim, Lennon-McCartney, and many more. johnpizzarelli.com Marc Maron February 18, 2017 Marc Maron, TV personality and podcaster, comes to Knight Theater to perform his hilarious stand-up show. blumenthalarts.org The Piano Guys February 22, 2017 The Piano Guys will play a night of classically influenced instrumental music at Ovens Auditorium. ovensauditorium.com

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THE EV EN TIST

Jan/Feb 2017

orchestras in the world. The NSOU visits Knight Theater to perform works from composers like Sergei Prokofiev, Dmitri Shostakovich, and Aram Khatchaturian. blumenthalarts.org BREATHEINK YouTH Poetry Slam

2/10/17 - breatheINK is a performance-based poetry organization that seeks to expose all Mecklenburg area youth to the knowledge and power of spoken word. February’s Youth Poetry Slam is open to 13-19 year olds. blumenthalarts.org INTO THE WOODS

2/10/17 - 2/12/17 - This witty and wildly theatrical reinvention includes dazzling songs like “Children Will Listen” and “No One Is Alone.” This clever new version

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made Ben Brantley of The New York Times fall “head over heels.” Mind the wolf, heed the witch, and honor the giant in the sky at this extraordinary musical about the power of wishes and what really happens after they come true. blumenthalarts.org Brahms - Symphony No.1

2/10/17 - 2/11/17 - Christopher Warren-Green conducts with Calin Lupanu on violin and Benjamin Geller on viola as the symphony performs Vaughan Williams’s The Lark Ascending, Mozart’s Sinfonia Concertante K. 364, and Brahms’s Symphony No.1. charlottesymphony.org TRUMPET SUMMIT

2/17/17 - This exciting show at the Stage Door Theater will feature

your favorite jazz classics performed by a collection of the Charlotte region’s top jazz trumpeters in this special Jazz Room Trumpet Summit. thejazzarts.org CHEF ALYSSA’S TRY THAI CLASS

2/17/17 - One of Alyssa’s most popular classes, the menu this night will be an aromatic, balanced and rich traditional Thai meal that you will learn to prepare using local seasonal ingredients. chefalyssaskitchen.com FOSSIL FAIR

2/18/17 - Fossil Fair spotlights all sorts of natural treasures from the earth including fossils, rocks, minerals, and the ancient stories these items tell. schielemuseum.org

THE EV EN TIST

Jan/Feb 2017

SHOWCASE OF WOODCARVINGS

2/18/17 - 2/19/17 - The Charlotte Woodcarvers Club presents the largest woodcarving show and competition in the Southeast, featuring over 800 carvings entered by over 120 carvers from 15 states. charlottewoodcarvers.com CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG

715 Providence Rd., Ste. G4 | Charlotte, NC 28207 | 704-900-5667 www.tinyclt.com | @tiny4children

Until 2/19/2017 - In this play, fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain; he is exceptionally intelligent but illequipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing his neighbor’s dog, he sets out to identify the true culprit, which leads to an earth-shattering discovery and a journey that will change his life forever. blumenthalarts.org BLURRING THE LINES BETWEEN NATURE & MAN

2/20/17 - Join the Charlotte Garden Club for a conversation with Patrick McMillan—host, cocreator and writer of the Emmyaward winning ETV nature program Expeditions with Patrick McMillan—about the relationship between nature and man. mintmuseum.org ANNA DICKINSON

2/22/17 - Anna Dickinson is an internationally known artist with work included in many museums and private collections throughout the world, including Fired Up: Contemporary Glass by Women Artists from the Toledo Museum of Art. Her research has led her to combine various other materials within her pieces. Join her for an engaging lecture about her materials, process, and perspective within the studio glass movement. mintmuseum.org

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THE EV EN TIST

Jan/Feb 2017

JOE BONAMASSA

2/26/17 - Hailed worldwide as one of the greatest guitar players of his generation, Grammy-nominated icon Joe Bonamassa has almost single-handedly redefined the blues-rock genre. Bonamassa brings his tour in support of his recent studio solo album to Charlotte’s Belk Theater. blumenthalarts.org FIRED UP

Until 2/26/17 - Co-curated by Senior Curator of Craft, Design & Fashion, Annie Carlano, and Toledo’s Senior Curator of Decorative Arts and Glass, Jutta Page, Fired Up is the first American art museum exhibition to look at the many achievements of women working with glass. mintmusuem.org FORGING AHEAD

2/27/17 - In this living history program, you can see blacksmiths at work, talk to trained docents as they portray the people who actually lived and worked at Rosedale Plantation. historicrosedale.org PEOPLE, PLACES, AND PRIDE

2/28/17 - Levine Museum of the New South and the Charlotte Museum of History exhibit will explore the places and people of Charlotte’s historic black neighborhood. Panels from the Charlotte Museum of History’s Charlotte Neighborhoods exhibit, featuring Brooklyn and Biddleville, will be on display, along with a map and “streetscape” of Brookyln. museumofthenewsouth.org

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CROSSFIT + CANVAS Charlotte artist Kent Youngstromâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new series is human movement channeled through art. by ASHLEY CARLINI photos by JAMEY PRICE

THE CULTUR E

Musings

“It’s a caffeine-laden, highintensity sampling of the jarring collision between art and repetitive movement.”

When you meet Kent Youngstrom, he usually introduces himself as “an artist, but not the tortured kind.” It’s easy to see why; he takes care of himself, eats right, works out, and is never afraid to get out and go play. His new series, CrossFit + Canvas, is an extension of his way of life: it embodies the hard work and dedication of the CrossFit workout by capturing the movements of the exercise with acrylic paints. Painting a light layer on his tennis shoes, slam balls and kettlebells, he

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throws the weights down and does his burpees over large canvases. The finished product manifests both the struggle and the joy of the human drive. “I call it an Art Workout or an Artwork Out,” Kent explains. “Either way, it really is just art made while performing various exercises, using workout equipment as a paint brush.” The idea for CrossFit + Canvas came to Kent, oddly enough, when he found himself comparing beads of exercise-induced sweat to paint. Kent works out of his

THE CULTUR E

Musings

studio in Matthews, and to date he has been featured in several publications and media outlets nationally, including People magazine and HGTV. Kent’s CrossFit + Canvas series is almost uniformly black and white—simple but stark—which he accredits to being just as impressive as an early-morning muscle-up. His technique is intriguing, due to how vital the physicality of movement is to his art. Kent describes his style of painting as almost rhythmical, “I tend to jump around, throw paint, fling brushes and generally make a mess,” explains Kent. “It’s a caffeine-laden, high-intensity sampling of the jarring collision between art and repetitive movement.” Kent has received a lot of local support for his artwork, which you can see showcased in places like Charlotte Athletic Club, Coco and the Director, and Marriott City Center, to name a few. For a bit more info: www.kentyoungstrom.com

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“I tend to jump around, throw paint, fling brushes, and generally make a mess.”

THE CULTUR E

Exhibit

“He wasn’t who we think he was.”

Genghis Khan Don Lessem’s Genghis Khan exhibit invades Discovery Place Science. by COREY MILLER photos by JAMEY PRICE

portrait provided by DON LESSEM

Don Lessem, journalist and Ghengis Khan collector, in Mongolia with a bird of prey

Unlike one in 200 of the world’s men, Don Lessem isn’t descended from Genghis Khan. But he may as well be. Author of over 50 hugely popular science books and curator of the most extensive collection of 13th-century Mongolian artifacts ever assembled, ex-Boston Globe journalist Lessem is a learned man, and would have fit right in at the legendary Mongolian’s court. The truth is, the man who conquered the world’s largest continent may have just wanted to share what he’d learned. That’s the primary takeaway from Genghis Khan, Lessem’s sprawling journey through 13th-century Mongolia, which recently invaded Charlotte’s Discovery Place Science. “Genghis Khan wasn’t the man we think he was,” the curator insists. “For the most part, he actually didn’t like to go to war.” He was a conqueror, yes, but his dominion over the largest land empire in history was maintained by tendencies toward progress and prosperity—qualities rarely mentioned in Western textbooks. An outcast of a small mountain tribe, the man who would become the Great Khan eventually ruled over a land four times the size of the Roman Empire. His far reach, from the fringes of Europe to the nomadic tribes in the east, allowed him to both discover pockets of innovation and share these novelties with the rest of his subjects. He created one of the first international postal systems, popularized paper money, and even created a written language for his subjects. “Once all the battles had been fought, there were tax breaks for educators,” Lessem expounds, “and people from all walks of life filled

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By The Numbers

1162

The year Genghis Khan was born as Temujin in the Khentii Mountains of Mongolia

The Mongol Empire was four times the size of the Roman Empire

4/30

Lessem’s Genghis Khan collection is on display at Discovery Place until April 30, 2017

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THE CULTUR E

Exhibit

500

The number of Genghis Khan’s girlfriends

1 in 200

.5% of the world’s men are descended from Genghis Khan

33 Million

The number of kilometers the Mongol Empire stretched across

400

Artifacts in Lessem’s Genghis Khan collection at Discovery Place

1227

The year of Genghis Khan’s death during the fall of Yinchuan

129,000 Number of men in Genghis Khan’s army when he died

OPENINGS Trip & Laura Park January 20, 2017

Raul Diaz January 21 - March 18, 2017

Romare Bearden February 2017

Shain Gallery presents works from the widely popular husband and wife duo Trip and Laura Park.

LaCa proudly presents Strike a Match to Hear My Sound, a new body of work that explores natural and supernatural aspects of fire and light.

Jerald Melberg is excited to be exhibiting the Argentine artist Raul Diaz, who is internationally acclaimed. As a child, his father would take him fishing and the image of the boats dotting the water or stacked on the beach have remained with him and play prominently in his paintings and sculptures—which he also sees as a metaphor for life’s journey.

Charlotte Fine Art Gallery is proud to present Works of Romare Bearden. The 20th century contemporary artist and native Charlottean Romare Bearden found a special place in his heart for Mecklenburg County. The gallery is honored to showcase over 45 of his most significant works including Morning, Piano Lesson, Mecklenburg Autumn, and The Train.

lacaprojects.com

jeraldmelberg.com

charlottefineart.com

shaingallery.com Cristina Toro January 27 - April 8, 2017

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executive positions in the empire—a pure meritocracy.” Genghis welcomed any modes of thought that might improve his own life or his subjects’. He also promoted freedom of religion, and tolerance for all cultures incorporated into his domain. Genghis Khan, while a brutally inventive commander on the battlefield, seems to have been a peaceful modernizer on the homefront. “In the West,” Lessem says, “our textbook Genghis Khan is decidedly more vulgar, more barbaric than he was in reality.” Lessem’s exhibit, which has now been housed in ten different museums, aims to correct this misperception. With an arsenal of over 400 artifacts, the exhibit charts a course from Genghis Khan’s rise to power through his grandson Kublai’s reign, highlighting everything from the most ruthless skirmishes to the most forward-thinking policies. It’s an unabashedly unbiased look at one of world history’s most famous figures— an event to to be cherished, if only because of how ridiculously rare such a thing is. Don Lessem’s Genghis Khan embraces an obscured culture and shares it, illuminating every complex facet of a man we thought we knew. In the entrance to the exhibit sits the man himself, a replica of the 50-foot statue in the Mongolian capitol of Ulaanbaatar, to either side of him his dichotomous tugs (circular horsetail hair banners). One is black, and one is white, one used in war, and the other in peacetime. They flank an unreadable but proud face, reminding us that every story has at least two sides. With the explicit purpose of informing the uninformed, every corner of Discovery Place’s expansive new exhibit educates. The Khan would approve. For a bit more info: discoveryplace.org

THE CULTUR E

Marquee

On The Town What to do on your night out for Charlotte Ballet’s Innovative Works

IN SHAPE

Before the performance dine and drink at: Stoke is conveniently located near the ballet and a great place to sit down to some of the best food in town with Stoke’s salt-roasted oysters or the sticky pork shank.

by COREY MILLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

Like every dancer—seriously, everyone—at Charlotte Ballet, Ben Ingel looks like he’s never been out of shape. And he probably hasn’t: With the career he’s chosen, he can’t be. For ballet dancers, form is everything. “Line”—the outline of a dancer’s complete body in steps and poses—defines Ben Ingel’s everyday. In his best moments, he’s both statuesque and fluid. A special kind of flexibility and strength is needed to maintain this dichotomy of perfect pose and liquid motion. It takes extensive practice, sure, but it also necessitates an abundantly healthy lifestyle. Ben Ingel’s diet consists of lots of health food. “It’s actually hard for me to eat as much as I need to keep up with how many calories I’m burning,” he jokes. His workout regimen changes based on upcoming performances, but it’s always geared toward strength-building exercise: Four to five hours per week in the gym is just the tip of the sweaty iceberg. He also dances daily from nine until six. Some ballets are hours long: Cardio works, it seems. But the physicality of it all isn’t just for aesthetics. Ben is the only local dancer at Charlotte Ballet, and his colleagues come from all over the world. Dance is where Ben finds common ground with his diverse peers. “Dance is this universal language that connects everyone from all over the world.” For a bit more info: www.charlotteballet.org

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“Dance is this universal language that connects everyone from all over the world.”

Sneak out during intermission: Break up the performance with a quick cocktail from Essex Bar & Bistro, right next to the theater. Go with the sage martini or the Essex Gingerberry. Don’t miss the end of this show: The performance wraps up with a dessert reception that includes the dancers and artistic staff, and even artistic director Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux. Cap off the ballet at: After the show, pop in to The Cellar at Duckworth’s for a nightcap and a late bite to eat. Try the hand-cut truffle fries.

THE CULTUR E

Philanthropy

Wind RIVER by SUNNY HUBLER photo provided by WIND RIVER

This shouldn’t be happening. That was one of Shannon’s very first thoughts when she was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer nearly 15 years ago. At the time, Shannon Carney was a highShannon Carney (left) and Dave Pschirer (right) of Wind River. powered attorney with Wachovia and was living in Charlotte with her husband Dave Pschirer, an engineer at Duke Energy. She was young, healthy, active, and career-focused—not at all what she thought someone receiving a a life-threatening disease diagnosis would look like. Initially, like most, she had no idea what the diagnosis would really mean for her Donate your time and lifestyle. The journey she was about to embark on would be grueling: physically and money to one of these emotionally draining as she endured weeks and weeks spent in the hospital with three Charlotte charities. eight rounds of chemotherapy and thirty-plus rounds of radiation. It was spirituThe Heartest Yard ally taxing as well, as she reckoned with her own mortality, asking herself what When Greg Olson’s child was this would all mean. born with a severe congenital The lessons Shannon learned from her breast cancer diagnosis took a few years heart defect, Greg joined with to solidify, but ultimately she and Dave picked up and left the high-powered jobs the Levine Children’s Hospital and the city for the expanse of the mountains. There, they were able to find a betto launch this family service program intended to provide a ter pace of life and reconnect with what multitude of services from inmattered to them both. In the mountains, home, to private nursing care, she found peace and restfulness amongst and both physical therapy and speech therapy. nature and began to integrate wellness receptionsforresearch.org in all areas of her life. Though Shannon initially set out to The Dream Center primarily take better care of herself, she Restaurateur Jim Noble and his staff and volunteers felt called to care for others, too. Who launched The Dream Center knew better than her how much a cancer in 1994 as an answer to the diagnosis could upend everything? far-reaching problems of What grew out of Shannon’s move to the mountains was what is now Wind the homeless and hungry in the city. The Dream Center River Cancer Wellness Retreat in Tryon, NC. With the wellness center nestled in partners with businesses, the foothills of western North Carolina, about 90 minutes from Charlotte, Shannon-profits, and churches to non and Dave offer a myriad of support to cancer patients along with workshops provide care year round. and cancer coaching. As her life partner and now career partner, Shannon credits cltdc.org Dave as her biggest champion and support system. When the work gets too heavy, Thompson Child the two will take off, traveling far and wide. And when they’re recharged, they And Family Focus return together to throw themselves back in the mix. Anyone with a cancer diagThompson Child And nosis in need of support, fellowship, or just a little fun in their lives can apply to Family Focus is a non-profit attend a Wind River retreat. organization operating across the Carolinas whose Now, ten years after its start, the center, with seven acres of rolling, wooded mission is to serve children land, a fifteen-foot waterfall, lush gardens and a variety of walking trails, exists and families through healing, to connect, empower, and support retreat members during one of the most difteaching, worship, and play. ficult and frightening times in their lives. thompsoncff.org

Get Your Checkbooks Out

“I love the power of laughter. I have learned to live with the heavy, but you must also immerse yourself in the light.”

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THE CULTUR E

Philanthropy

Two-thirds of the people Shannon says she sees either chosen to distance her life from cancer as much as posare people facing down a terminal diagnosis or are those sible. This year alone, Shannon lost twenty people who experiencing a recurrence of their cancer. They are peoshe knew from Wind River. Yet, she says, the work has ple, Shannon says, who need that extra amount of human not drained her nor left her feeling like cancer once again touch perhaps more than anyone. runs her life. Instead, Wind River has brought her no There is no charge to attend the shortage of beauty. She is immersed retreat Shannon and Dave carefully in the work, talking about patholplanned. Instead, groups of eight to ogy reports, cutting-edge research, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say ten applicants gather for four days and cancer examinations on a daily why but I am to share stories and spend time with basis. She knows scores of cancer completely one another while cooking up healthy doctors in the area, is connected food, having bonfires, dancing, playwith Levine, and regularly hosts comfortable ing music, doing yoga and learning fundraisers in Charlotte to support talking about about nutrition. They also discuss her missions. both dying the heavy stuff, and about 20 perIn addition to being a lawyer cent of what Shannon says she does (though she no longer practices), and living.â&#x20AC;? is assist with the preparation for the Shannon is a yoga therapist and an final transition of terminal illness. All-Faith ministerâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;â&#x20AC;&#x153;and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m Irish, Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a way, Shannon explains, for so Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a beer too,â&#x20AC;? she quips. people to go to a place of calmness, away from hospitals, Her sense of humor shines through our entire conversafamily, doctors, and the stress of their diagnosis. People tion, as does her plain, unabashed appreciation of life. describe the expansive property as a sanctuary. Shannon, after facing down the disease herself, could have easily For a bit more info: windriverservices.org

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THE CULTUR E

Style

CREATE YOUR OWN 5 questions with Charlotte wardrobe stylist Stacee Michelle interview by SUNNY HUBLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

With an ingrained love of clothing and an expert’s eye for couture, Stacee Michelle kickstarted her own business as a wardrobe stylist and fashion insider nearly eight years ago. Since then, she has grown into a force to be reckoned with, bringing her work ethic and multifaceted talents to all aspects of the fashion industry. As she puts it, “sometimes to achieve success, you have to create your own opportunities.” WHEN DID YOU GET INTERESTED IN STYLE?

Before I was old enough to buy my own clothes I was into fashion. As the youngest, I often received hand-me-downs from my older sister. In order to make them look new, I had to be creative so I developed a distinctive personal style. I was constantly in awe of fashion magazines. I even covered my entire bedroom wall with fashion editorial clippings not knowing that soon I would be creating editorials of my own. WHAT IS YOUR DAY-TO-DAY WORK LIKE?

In most cases, my mornings begin with checking emails and responding to clients, PR offices, brands, networks, editors and producers. Usually, I’m out shopping the stores, looking for the latest styles and what might work for my next client or project. Every day is different though, which is what I love about working in the fashion industry.

“Confidence is the best accessory.” 58 • qcexclusive.com • JAN/FEB 2017

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THE CULTUR E

Style WHAT HAS BEEN THE BIGGEST MILESTONE FOR YOU IN YOUR WORK?

The biggest reward for me was recently being selected from over 300 submissions to be the next E! News Style Contributor. Working with E! News has always been one of my goals and to seeing it manifest so quickly made me realize that this was only the beginning of my fashion journey.

“Every day is different which is what I love about working in the fashion industry.”

WHAT’S IN STYLE RIGHT NOW?

There are so many trends to try this season, but please don’t wear them all at once. Velvet is on everything, and you can wear a bomber jacket in a sporty letterman style or with embroidery and sequins. Finally, everyone needs at least one statement choker. It’s the ‘cherry on top’ complimenting any look. WHO HAS INSPIRED YOU?

My biggest inspiration in fashion is Diane Von Furstenberg. She has been a trailblazer in the industry, empowering women of all ages to be strong, embrace their individuality, and understand that confidence is the best accessory. Even though she isn’t a stylist or a fashion correspondent, she is a great example of the type of business woman I aspire to be. For a bit more info: stacee-michelle.com

STYLINGS

B. May Crossbody Amina Rubinacci

Fossil Passport Wallet Fossil

Maurice Lacroix Aikon Diamonds Direct

Hava Snake Bag Proenza Schouler

Fragrances Ford, Varvatos, & Zegna

“Barbara May is an incredibly talented designer who knows what a woman wants in a bag. We love this natural whipsnake because it’s so versatile.”

“This is the wallet for the traveler. It’s the perfect accessory when you’re on-the-go and need room for cards, cash, and your passport. It even comes with a convenient pen.”

“The sleek and simple Maurice Lacroix Aikon men’s watch is the perfect introduction into luxury watches at just under $1,000 and can be worn every day.”

“The silver Hava Snake patchwork chain shoulder bag makes for a great winter staple, but is also a classic accessory you can wear year round.”

Taylor Richards & Conger’s collection of fragrances for men includes Tom Ford Black Orchid, Lenel, John Varvatos, and Zegna Forte.

Jeannie DeMarco aminarubinaccinc.com

Chad Whittington @chadisrad

Noah Williams @noahwilliamsstyle

Kristin Heinrich @kristin_heinrich_style

Dick Pattison trcstyle.com

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THE CULTUR E

Renewal

T To u c h

Caci DiRusso stands proudly inside her Myers Park day spa Toccare.

Caci Di Russo’s Toccare Day Spa brings boutique beauty to the Queen City. by SUNNY HUBLER photos by JAMEY PRICE

“People should embrace the skin they were given.”

After extensive experience with some of the top-rated spas and skin care lines on the market, Caci Di Russo made the leap to open Toccare Day Spa in the heart of Myers Park nearly four years ago. Toccare is a hidden gem in the Queen City: The small beauty boutique focuses on creating personalized treatments and curating the very best at home skin care products for each and every client. Caci settled on the name Toccare, the Italian word meaning “to touch,” as the best embodiment of her work’s mission. “Besides the obvious reason of physical touch in our treatments, the name Toccare signifies the process of choosing a skin care routine by feeling the texture of a product to determine if it is right for you,” she says. “But most importantly, Toccare is a tribute to the many clients who have stayed supportive to us throughout our time in the industry, making Toccare possible and touching our hearts with their loyalty and generosity.”

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Trained at the Aveda Institute for Esthetics and Southeastern School of Massage, Caci comes to the spa business as one of the most experienced estheticians the Queen City has to offer. As Toccare has flourished since 2013, Caci has been able to build a team that she credits as the most vital part of her business. Janiese Slyman, Toccare’s lead

THE CULTUR E

Renewal

esthetician, also brings a wealth of education, experience Group to assure a safe and non-toxic product. Most of the and specialties such as Berodin Hard Wax and Micro-curlines are from small boutique companies that are owned rent facials. Raluca Mihai is Toccare’s latest addition to by the creator and crafted in small batches. According to the esthetic team. Powered by this small, highly-trained Caci, this insures a level of quality and integrity in their team, Toccare is able to consistently extend the personalproducts that is hard to find elsewhere. ized care that makes the spa unique. “Our industry focuses too highly on trying to change One of the main focuses at Toccare is the personalizaour appearance and we should be weary of claims of what tion aspect of service—plenty of spas offer a menu that a product should do topically,” Caci explains. “People stays the same client-to-client, but Caci and her team go should focus on hydration, a healthy diet, and embrace to great lengths to find what each unique individual can “Our industry focuses too highly on benefit from most. trying to change our appearance.” Toccare offers up everything from microdermabrasion to enzyme peels, hydro facial treatments, sugaring, the skin they were given. It is important to realize that and threading. In addition to customized skin care premost issues of the skin have started on the inside from scriptions, Caci ensures her team also regularly particiimbalances or sensitivities. The most important piece of pates in the latest industry education, actively searching information we can share with a person is to not focus on for the latest, most effective trends available in beauty. the negatives you see in your skin, but to nurture and be Unlike some of the mega-sized beauty companies, Tocgood to what you have.” care can take the time to carefully research every item they bring in for integrity and effectiveness. They run For a bit more info: www.toccare.net each and every line through the Environmental Working

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O-KU With the freshest fish from all over the world, a killer sushi chef, and a carefully curated culture that pushes culinary boundaries, O-Ku is already leaving its mark on the Charlotte food scene.

by SUNNY HUBLER photos by JAMEY PRICE

With its softly-lit, intimate interior, large gnarled manzanita branches twisting through the entryway, and seasoned sushi chef on display in the restaurant’s center, the newly opened O-Ku has made a dramatic statement in Charlotte’s South End. If the name rings familiar, it’s because the spot is originally a Charleston mainstay, one which Charlotteans have been frequenting on their weekenders to the Holy City

for the past seven years. The Japanese name, O-Ku, translates to “oak,” a way to pay homage to the Indigo Road Restaurant Group’s first restaurant, Oak Steakhouse. The restaurant has garnered press attention from everyone from the New York Post to Esquire and Travel + Leisure. The Charlotte location, in its first few months of opening, is already a packed house nearly every night of the week.

THE SPR E AD

This Page: O-Ku’s Chef Chanthavong prepares some nigiri.

Opposite Page: Fat smokes on the toban-yaki as guests prepare to cook their own wagyu.

THE SPR E AD

Restaurant

It’s the aesthetic of Charlotte’s newest sushi eatery that greets you first: The upscalemeets-comfortable sushi eatery manages to eschew the trappings of the overly trendy sushi spot. The open-space concept with the sushi counter at the front and the bar located to the left matches the guiding force behind the food, described as “traditional techniques with a modern palate” and a little Southern flair. The classic Southern elements—exposed brick, historic windows and high ceilings— mix with modern details like plush lavender chair cushions and oversized lampshades. The building, which used to be the Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery, is a location the owners say they couldn’t be happier with: nestled in the buzzing South End area around other unique purveyors and restaurants who are all adding to the fabric of the city. But of course, looks aside, it’s the food that matters most. With the demand for traditional Japanese food growing over the past decade in the U.S., the sushi market can seem saturated. There’s everything from super sleek and trendy lounges to dive-y lunch spots with diner booths and tiled floors. O-Ku manages to stand out amongst its competition in that singular way you hope a new local eatery will: The aesthetic actually ceases to matter because the first bite gives you that “this might be the best sushi I’ve ever had” pause. O-Ku is clearly popular for good reason.

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Clockwise from top left: O-Ku’s intimate interior. Yellowfin along with an assortment of other delicious nigiri. Chanthavong brushing sauce on nigiri. O-Ku’s spicy pork belly.

“If you love what you are doing, it is not work anymore.”

The menu, put together by executive chef Michael Chanthavong, features classic options like a California roll and Crunchy Tuna roll, along with a traditional list of sashimi and nigiri. The twists on the expected sushi options are many: a brightly flavored Salmon and Lemon roll and a box-style Lobster roll featuring black squid ink rice instead of the traditional white. Chanthavong, cousin to executive chef Kazu Murakami in Charleston, has worked at a variety of different restaurants and also honed his technique working in the other O-Ku locations. His enthusiasm shows as he displays each dish, describing in careful detail each element, from the tiny mango cubes on his carpaccio to the flavors in his miso-marinated cod. “You must be passionate about this or it will be just a job,” he says. “If you love what you are doing, it is not work anymore. To get to the next level, I believe you should be openminded and have a good palate.”

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Restaurant

“You must be passionate or it will be just a job.” And to be a good chef? “Value your network of people,” Chathavong says plainly. It’s a sentiment managing partner Kimball Brienza echoes, as he tells us O-Ku’s culture is built around the tight-knit family they’ve carefully curated in each restaurant. While many of O-Ku’s standard menu go-tos have been included, Chanthavong put his own spin on Charlotte’s eatery, bringing a variety of specialties particular to the Queen City location. Sushi is only one piece of the standout menu—other highlights include a fresh yellowtail carpaccio dressed with cilantro, a single thinly-sliced serrano pepper, mango, and truffle ponzu. There is also an excellent spicy sesame pork belly and memorable butter-poached lobster hand rolls. The seafood all comes to your plate fresh— nothing older than 48 hours—and is brought to O-Ku from all over the world. Meat and fish also come from Meat & Fish Co. in Charlotte. “We use Big Eye Hawaiian Tuna from the pacific, unique stuff out of Chile, New England and California, Sea Urchin Roe from Japan… it just depends where the freshest stuff is and then that is what we get,” Brienza says. O-Ku will also utilize Charotte’s Nova Bakery for desserts and incorporate local farmers to supply produce. There is an extensive list of specialty cocktails, like the Sugar & Spice martini with habaneropepper-infused vodka, along with premium sake, wines and a unique beer selection. “Really what we provide is elevated service in a comfortable setting—it’s upscale but you can also come three times a week,” Brienza says. “O-Ku brings another element of fun and good food to the culinary community here. There’s some really good places in Charlotte and if we can be part of that, bringing another individual operator here just adds one more style to the food scene.” For a bit more info: www.o-kusushi.com

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The Great Sushi Debate The office got a little heated about this topic, but eventually our staff settled on ten must-eat rolls in Charlotte. Green Dragon Roll at O-Ku Tempura, eel, asparagus, cucumber, avocado Crunch Roll Max at New Zealand Cafe Deep-fried salmon, sea bass, tuna, avocado Queen Charlotte Roll at Soul Gastrolounge Tempura shrimp, cucumber, capelin roe

Misoyaki cod on glass noodles. O-Ku’s managing partner Kimball Brienza. Photo of Brienza provided by O-Ku.

Two Time Roll at Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar Yellowfin tuna, avocado, kani, asparagus, cucumber, blackened tuna, spicy mayo, tobiko Sexy Salmon Roll at Nikko Shiromi tempura, cucumber, spicy salmon Sweet Potato Sushi at Living Kitchen Avocado, red pepper, cucumber, arugula, sweet potato cashew rice, nori leaf, Thai chili sauce Red Hot Roll at Yama Seared tuna, salmon, avocado, spicy sauce Salmon Belly Nigiri at Futo Buta Yuzu mayo, tobiko, maple soy, micro chive E.T. at 18 Asian Sushi Bar Eel, tuna, avocado, masago, spicy mayo, tempura flakes Spider Roll at Pisces Soft shell crab, cucumber, avocado, eel sauce

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Tastemaker

Coco

and the Director by JORDAN L AX photos by JAMEY PRICE

C “Why not use our power for good and support the local guy who’s starting his coffee roasting company.” 72 • qcexclusive.com • JAN/FEB 2017

Charlotte’s newest coffee shop in Uptown is drawing attention for its eccentric style and delicious coffee—and its name. CoCo and the Director evokes a newer wave in Charlotte’s coffee scene, one that feels more in line with New York City or Philadelphia, maybe. Located at the intersection of Trade and Tryon, it boasts vaulted ceilings and a vendor’s market vibe. There’s coffee here, of course, but this space—the first independent coffee house in Marriott’s re-branding series—promotes connection, community, and collaboration. Jordan Spaller, who manages CoCo and the Director, describes the shop as “a gathering place for locals, out-of-towners, and entrepreneurs for both social and business purposes [where] all who participate benefit through shared learning.” This leaves you as the director. You set the scene. Sean Potter, Director of Food and Beverage, explains that “when you’re

in our space, you take the direction that you want to take and the creativity that you want to take.” The scene at CoCo and the Director falls in line with a broader shift in workplace design. It is a dynamic, fluid, and modern workspace. The theory behind this trend connects engaging, energetic spaces with increased motivation and communication. Quite simply, people think better, work faster, and feel happier when they’re in an exciting and open environment. At CoCo, a banquette with individual tables lines the street-facing window while a community table acts as the centerpiece of the floor. The stadium seating, accented by plush lamb-print pillows, adds to the coffee shop’s quirky ethos. Chalk art races along the walls. But CoCo’s best surprise is a collaborative meeting room available to all. CoCo and the Director works with Forte Legato Coffee, a roasting company

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THE SPR E A D

Tastemaker COLUMN

The PORE OVER by Corey Miller @mylenweard

You need these 3 cups of coffee. Central Cold Brew

Coco and the Director’s delicious sandwiches include their smoked Heritage pork sammy, salmon BLT, smoked brisket, ribeye roast with brussel sprouts (shown) and more.

out of Fort Mill, SC. Forte Legato’s founder, Nick Peñaloza, began the company six years ago while living in San Francisco. Though he drank coffee every day, he despaired over the burnt quality of many national chains’ coffee. At the behest of his wife, Nick researched home roasting methods, jerry-rigged a popcorn maker, and discovered a new passion. “That first roast was a Brazilian Cerrado, and I could taste caramel notes in there, a little bit of vanilla, and I was sold,” he recalls. “The whole thing about Forte Legato is ‘forte,’ loud or strong, and ‘legato,’ smooth and connected.” Sean underscores the importance of connecting with local businesses in and around Charlotte. Rather than partner with national chains, Marriott used its “powers for good [to] support the local guy who’s starting his coffee roasting company.” In addition to coffee, CoCo and the Director carries pastries like flaky chocolate croissants and danishes from Renaissance Patisserie; the beverage display features every variety of water you could need; and Stoke Restaurant’s culinary team creates daily sandwiches for a delicious lunch option. Prints, greeting cards, and leather goods fill shelves and carts.

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“One of the major aspects of CoCo is the retail piece,” Jordan notes. “We traveled all over Charlotte and the surrounding areas to find even more product for the shop. We visited local gift shops and even antique yards!” CoCo and the Director hosts Wine and Color Wednesdays, where people can enjoy a glass of wine while they sketch masterpieces, and Final-e Fridays, which kick off the weekends with evening acoustic sets and tall boys. Jordan plans to facilitate more events and partnerships. “We are currently working with several vendors around town to drive community involvement,” he says. “In the future, we hope to offer health and wellness sessions by partnering with a local personal trainer.” Jordan also mentioned a tentative pop-up market in front of the shop and Marriott’s recent partnership with TED Talks, which would lead to more creative events in Charlotte. The future for CoCo and the Director looks excitingly bright.

For a bit more info: cocoandthedirector.com

It’s not possible (or fair) to choose a favorite Charlotte cold brew. It’s far from a cinch to make, so everyone who serves it is entitled to some coverage. Central Coffee Co’s tap of the stuff is reliably frothy and refreshing, though, and it remains my go-to for a break from the drip and Americano cycle. Not Just Coffee Vanilla Sugar Latte The richness of espresso clouded with a surplus of too much sugar (or milk, for that matter) is an insult to the beverage, but this cup of coffee art strikes just the right balance of bitter and creamysweet. Vanilla beans and cane sugar, y’all: You’ll never drink a plain latte again. HEX Americano The coffee chemists behind HEX understand the fine grind of espresso better than anyone you know, and their Americano is just one of many concoctions they’ve perfected. Try that, or their mysterious coffee shot, as soon as possible. For science.

THE SPR E A D

Artisanal

Liquid Health Three To Try Clean Juice “The Intense One is my favorite because it has exactly what I want without having to modify.“ Chef Alyssa @chefalyssaclt Living Kitchen “We love the 4-pack of Power Shots from Living Kitchen of lemon, ginger, wheatgrass and turmeric. These little guys give us all the power we need to get through a busy day.” Liz and Clary @hilliardstudiomethod

L e n n y

B o y

K o m b u c h a

Lenny Boy Brewing’s Townes Mozer and his flagship flavors are the vanguard of Charlotte’s kombucha movement. by SUNNY HUBLER photos by JAMEY PRICE

All of these locally-brewed and bottled flagship flavors from Townes Mozer of Lenny Boy can be found in local retailers like Whole Foods, Earth Fare, Harris Teeter and Charlotte’s finest independent grocers. However, we prefer to partake at Lenny Boy’s new location at 3000 S. Tryon Street, an absolutely gorgeous space built for sampling Mozer’s classic beer and kombucha flavors like the Strawberry, Elite Beet, Lost Rose, and Sweet Potato Pie (pictured above from left to right). The Strawberry is the gateway kombucha for those new to the beverage and to Lenny Boy. It’s a sweet, refreshing blend that tastes like the first bite of that finally fresh berry come spring. With its rich, mineral-packed color, the Elite Beet has the earthiness of the root vegetable balanced with a zing of crisp ginger. The Lost Rose was Mozer’s answer to the heat of the Southern summer, and the natural cooling property of rose petals makes for a refreshing beverage any time of year. It’s a light flavor balanced by the crispness of the fermentation. If the Lost Rose is bottled-up summer, the Sweet Potato Pie is autumn in a bottle. It’s a southern seasonal flavor Lenny Boy serves up through the holidays and into the new year. For a bit more info: www.discoverlennyboy.com

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Rico’s Açai “I always order the Small Brazil Bowl and add extra granola, strawberries, and nutella! This is the perfect post-workout pick-me-up.” Emily Breeze @emilybreeze

Townes Mozer serves us a flight of his best kombucha at Lenny Boy’s new location on Tryon Street.

THE SPR E A D

Plated

RAW by COREY MILLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

It’s one of our favorite new spots, and we really can’t stress enough how much we love that catfish reuben. Sea Level is many things, but it’s a raw bar first and foremost. And boy, does this place do right by the bivalves! Straight from the tiny Core Sound town of Sea Level, North Carolina, these salty molluscs are among

Where are your favorite bivalves?

your best seafood options in Uptown. Cozy up to the restaurant’s Friendship Table or the bar itself for shellfish bliss and some good, diverse company—these things were put on this earth (and on this ice-bed) to be shared. For a bit more info: www.sealevelnc.com

The Cellar at Duckworth’s Chargrilled Oysters

Pearlz Oyster Bar BeauSoleil

Growlers Pourhouse Raw Oysters

Sea Level Raw Oysters

“I had them a year ago and I still think about them.”

“A nice amount of natural salt to bring out the flavor.”

“They always have the salty, briny ones I love.”

“There are incredible oysters coming out of Duxbury Bay.”

Stephen Philpott thephilpott.com

Daniel Siragusa pizzeriaomaggio.com

Conor Merrigan theplaidpenguin.com

Jeff Tonidandel haberdish.com

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THE SPR E A D

Niwa

Plated

by COREY MILLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

It means garden in Japanese, and that’s pretty fitting. This amalgam of roasted organic mushroom, cool cabbage, fresh-sliced leek, arugula, and sesame is a little garden in a bowl. You can never have too much pork belly-infused ramen at Futo Buta, but the vegan Niwa bowl is a delectable substitute if you you’re crazy enough to take a pig fat hiatus.

Each ingredient in this soupy goodness has been carefully selected to intermingle with the others, for a cohesive, vegetable-forward freshness that rivals the flavor of every other of Chef Michael Shortino’s offerings. For a bit more info: www.futobuta.com Get the recipe: www.qcexclusive.com

“The extreme level of integrity that is required for Japanese cuisine has always resonated with me since I was a child.” - CHEF SHORTINO

oysters. Uptown.

10+ varieties

129 E. 5th St. | Charlotte, NC 28202 704 • 412 • 2616 | SeaLevelNC.com Free Parking | Reservations | Call Ahead Seating

JAN/FEB 2017 • @qcexclusive • 81

THE SPR E A D

Poured

SPHERICAL by COREY MILLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

We don’t know how they’re made, we don’t really know everything that goes into a single one, and we damn sure don’t know how they’re kept so cloudless and transparent. So far, it’s a well-kept secret. Thanks to a little Cold-War-era trench-coat espionage, though, we do know that you can now find Jeff Tonidandel’s crystalline balls of ice at Haberdish in NoDa.

What’s more—every flower and herb inside them is edible. They’re some of the coolest garnishes we’ve seen in the Queen City, and—if the Colleen Hughes concoctions we’ve already tried are any indication—the drinks they’ll be garnishing are sure to do them justice. For a bit more info: www.haberdish.com

“Sorry to disappoint, but I would be happy to fix you a drink to help soothe the pain.” - COLLEEN HUGHES — on keeping the method secret

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COLUMN

The COMMON PINT by Stephen Philpott @the_philpott

A Brief Queen City Beer History As Charlotte’s brewing culture aims for the stratosphere, growing by leaps and bounds each year, it’s time we take a look back on the city’s beer history and who got us here. Before the start of The Olde Mecklenburg Brewery in 2009, Charlotte had a small but fairly consistent brewing history dating all the way back to the good old 80’s. Dilworth Brewing Company launched in the heart of Dilworth, in March of 1989, in the building that now houses Bakersfield. Dilworth was an early staple to Charlotte’s burgeoning social scene and the first Brewpub in the city, but was challenged in a couple of years by more breweries. In 1995, Johnson Beer Company arrived in South End, and immediately found its way into Harris Teeter and Charlotteans’ hearts. That same year, the granddaddy of the Charlotte social beer scene opened. Southend Brewery and Smokehouse at Atherton Mill quickly expanded into a brand that was represented with brewpubs across the Southeast. The only beer left from this glorious infancy of Charlotte beer is Carolina Blonde, originally brewed by Southend and now part of Foothills Brewing’s standard lineup.

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“In a modern home, there’s no single piece that’s more important to the overall aesthetic than the rest of the pieces.” -Laura Casey

Absence of Clutter This Laura Casey interior is full of thoughtful design, contemporary furniture, and eye-catching pops of abstract art.

by COREY MILLER

photos by LAURA CASEY

Laura Casey likes clean interiors. For her—and for the clients who moved into this new build in Charlotte—the absence of clutter is good design. When her clients moved to Charlotte, they were insistent on “starting fresh.” Fortunately for these homeowners, they enlisted a designer whose general philosophy melded easily with their envisioned home. “A streamlined interior is important to me in my designs,” Casey says, “and a useful, functional living space was extremely important to my clients.” And this home is anything if not streamlined and functional. In this design, Laura Casey’s acute concern with proportion meets her penchant for modern aesthetics.

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THE FOLIO

Inspiration

In A Few Words with Laura Casey

What’s your favorite color used in this interior? The dining room’s aubergine Where would you spend the most time in this space? On the piano bench Who is your biggest design inspiration? Bunny Williams What is your favorite feature to play with in your designs? The ceiling, or the “6th plane” What’s the most important thing in interior design? Dimensions and proportions

Eyecatching abstract art, patterned accents and accessories, and beautiful rugs inject pops of life to the interior while unifying this Laura Casey-designed space.

The crisp cool of natural light is key: It gives a contemporary space like this one much of its vitality, all the while accentuating the pure cleanliness of the home. The other pops of life are injected into the home’s living areas by the art, of course, which is all precisely placed to wake up certain areas. “In a modern home, there’s no single piece that’s more important to the overall aesthetic

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than the rest of the pieces,” Casey stresses. “I really have to look at all the features together, to ensure a visual balance—each piece has to complement everything around it.” Every locally upholstered furniture item and every neutral surface fits with the others in a carefully-planned array: It’s imminently displayable, but also incredibly walkable, and that’s the innate beauty of these interiors.

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THE FOLIO

Inspiration

Our Favorite Feature

The newness here is attractive, sure, but the design notably works for the homeowners. Functionality is what truly makes a space feel clean and free of life’s clutter. “The homeowners wanted to just bring their clothes and their kitchenware,” Laura jokes. It seems they came to the right designer. For more info: lauracaseyinteriors.com

HAND-KNOTTED AND CUSTOM RUGS • 316 East Boulevard (980) 207-3287 | www.rug-culture.com Hours: Monday-Friday 10:30-5:30 Saturday 10:30-3:30 Evening and Sundays by appointment

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The Klismos chair is a Greek piece, depicted in ancient paintings and reliefs straight from antiquity. The Made Goods chair next to this space’s piano is what Laura Casey calls a “reference” to the classic chair. Its T-shape is more angular than curvy, but just as comfortable as the original.

THE FOLIO

Foundations

Isabella interview by SUNNY HUBLER photo by JAMEY PRICE

Erin Dougherty is the interior designer and business owner behind Isabella, a boutique that’s been classing up Providence Road for more than a decade. The UNC graduate started her career here by working at the shop she now owns. She bought the business in 2004 after a few years of managing, laying the groundwork for an all-new brand. She’s since curated all the shop’s goods, injecting her classic-witha-modern-twist aesthetic into Charlotte’s design scene. It’s quite a career path, and one that’s surely provided her with a ton of design wisdom. We (ever so politely) asked her to share it.

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Five questions with the talented owner and curator Erin Dougherty of Isabella.

What are a few design elements the homeowner can add to their space?

They can lighten up a room with a fresh coat of paint, replace dated lighting with something more fresh and modern, update the throw pillows on your sofa or bed, introduce something vintage into the mix. What are YOUR GO-TO COLORS, PATTERNS, AND TEXTURES?

If you visit the shop, you’ll notice mainly neutrals in the fabrics and bedding. We love mixing linens, velvets, and other

textures. Start with a neutral base and add pops of color and interest with pillows, throws, lamps, wallpaper, and artwork. What INSPIRES YOUR DESIGN?

Design magazines, design blogs, Pinterest and Instagram are great resources for me. I am pretty passionate about finding the latest textile designers, and other unique finds. Going on buying trips to New York and Atlanta always inspires me and gets me excited about the next season.

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THE FOLIO

Foundations

“It is always rewarding when a customer walks in and comments on the peaceful vibe and the way the shop is curated.” WHAT IS YOUR DAY-TO-DAY WORK LIKE?

Each day involves assisting our retail clients, placing orders, following up with vendors and merchandising the shop. On the design side, we are typically pulling fabric schemes, meeting with reps, researching products, and preparing for meetings and installations. Each day is a little different, but always busy. WHAT IS THE HIGHLIGHT OF YOUR WORK?

It is always rewarding when a customer walks in and comments on the peaceful vibe and the way the shop is curated. We are also rewarded with having loyal repeat customers and referrals from our design clients. For a bit more info: isabellastyle.com

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THE FOLIO

Decor

Curated Two of Charlotte’s most talented design studios share their favorite decor selections for the new year. products selected by L AUREN NICOLE DESIGNS and

THEORY DESIGN STUDIO

Vintage Inspired Mirror laurennicoleinc.com

Darcie Side Table by Uttermost theory-designstudio.com

Buddha Heads by Import Collection theory-designstudio.com A Furry Stool laurennicoleinc.com

Ming Style Jar byImport Collection theory-designstudio.com

Golden Chandelier laurennicoleinc.com

Dance of the Moons laurennicoleinc.com

Risto Candelholder by Uttermost theory-designstudio.com Gorgeous Lighting laurennicoleinc.com

Unexpected Chest laurennicoleinc.com

Pears in a Basket by Uttermost theory-designstudio.com

Make A Statement Chair laurennicoleinc.com

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Pucker Up Lip Artwork laurennicoleinc.com

THE FOLIO

Vignettes

DETAILS Mirrors by Mrs.Howard. Banquettes at fireplace by Regal Furniture in Hines fabric Custom designed coffee tables by Benchcraft

Mountain Majesty Bossard Design’s take on a ski-town living room combines luxury with livability. by SUNNY HUBLER

Drapery Sheer panels in J Robert Scott fabric Chandeliers by Jonathan Browning

photo by BRENT MOSS

John Bossard of Bossard Design in Charlotte has over two decades of experience in the industry. His signature style is to combine essential elements of color, texture and dimension in a way that results in living spaces that are beautiful and relevant. This Aspen, Colorado project was a full-house renovation done in tandem with Rowland + Broughton Architecture. The home was purchased by an international client to serve as a vacation home for entertaining family and friends. As a result, Bossard’s primary objective was to create a livable, clean, and modern environment from a space that was previously an outdated 1990’s Western-style home.

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Small hex tables by Kravet

Because the living room was intended for family gatherings and entertaining, Bossard implemented a clean new space that could provide multiple seating areas and accommodate traffic flow. To pull together his vision in keeping with the clients’ tastes, Bossard created an airy, light backdrop with accentuating dark woods and rich textural fabrics. The unique lighting also adds an open, modern atmosphere in keeping with the Aspen, Colorado aesthetic. For a bit more info: bossarddesign.com

THE FOLIO

Vignettes

Dining Drama

Textures, prints, and colors add drama to a classic living space. by SUNNY HUBLER photo by MEKENZIE LOLI

Charlotte-based interior designer Beth Keim has a true artist’s eye that she’s honed over the past 15 years spent in her field. Her designs are whimsical, colorful, and always striking. Her design firm, Lucy and Company, is responsible for this eclectic dining room. Beth points out that dining rooms are often located right as you enter a home, so she often designs the space first as a way to set a tone for the entire house. “I tend to pull my colors from the dining room and pop them throughout. What I love about any dining space is a sense of ease; it’s casual, yet somewhat adventurous.”

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DETAILS Rug by Surya. Grass Cloth

She made this particular dinby Phillip Jeffries. ing space dramatic: the textures, Chandeliers by Arteriors prints, and colors add depth and detail to a classic gathering space. To mix it up, the room hosts a double chandelier and a casual bench to visually open the space (as opposed to seeing all chair backs). By incorporating the grass cloth and the luxe rug, Keim kept a simple two color scheme interesting. For a bit more info: lucyandcompany.com

THE FOLIO

Vignettes

Indigo Sanctuary Traci Zeller’s crisp indigo powder room captures the spirit of renewal in the New Year.

DETAILS Wallpaper by Thibaut. Vanity by Kohler “Memoirs.” Faucet by Kohler “Artifacts” Mirror by Pottery Barn Turkish Towel from Isabella Sconces from Savoy House

by SUNNY HUBLER photo by DUSTIN PECK

Traci Zeller, who started Traci Zeller Designs in Charlotte in 2010, has made her focus in the industry on pursuing beautiful interiors that are also ultra-functional. Using her multi-faceted approach, Zeller is able to carefully tailor to each client. In the spirit of renewal for the New Year, she designed this clean, crisp powder room. “When I think of renewal, I think of bathrooms,” Zeller says. “They are sanctuary spaces: soft, rejuvenating and perfect for relaxing and refreshing.” This indigo and white powder room pops; it’s a bright, fresh space. Powder rooms, Zeller explains, are the perfect way to add pattern and drama in a home. They are small rooms in which the homeowner spends a short amount of time, and therefore are a perfect area to play around with in terms of color and design. The navy and white wallpaper is crisp, classic and modern, but the curviness of the pattern keeps the overall effect from being too contemporary. The abstract art chosen here, original work by Kerry Steele, is the perfect foil to the fixed pattern and also brings depth to the overall look. For more info: tracizeller.com

“Bathrooms are sanctuary spaces: soft, rejuvenating, and perfect for relaxing and refreshing.” 100 • qcexclusive.com • JAN/FEB 2017

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JAN/FEB 2017 • @qcexclusive • 101

THE FOLIO

Blueprint

BRINGING DESIGN HOME Interior designer Kim Mauney’s renovated home by Gerrard Builders is a testament to some of Charlotte’s best artistry in building and design. by SUNNY HUBLER photos by CHRIS EDWARDS provided by KIM MAUNEY

THE FOLIO

Blueprint

When Kim Mauney, the founder of Kim Mauney Interiors, decided it was time to design and renovate her own home, she surprisingly didn’t already have a particular style in mind; instead, Mauney followed her instincts, room by room, piece by piece. The result is a striking house where each of the spaces embody varying eras and aesthetics – modern touches, classic elements, and pops of detail. Nonetheless, the overall effect has a coherence that could only result from an artist’s natural knack for design. To complete her home, Mauney teamed up with some of Charlotte’s best. Renowned architectural designer and engineer Frank Smith and custom home builder Bryan Gerrard helped Mauney to design an open floor layout that’s inviting for all sorts of gathering

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and entertainment – the overarching concept she wanted to implement throughout. This is the fifth project Mauney and Gerrard have teamed up to execute, and their shared history shows through the easy rapport they take on while discussing their combined tastes and styles in the finished project that has become Mauney’s personal retreat. Together, they redid 90% of the entire home, originally a Georgian style house built in the 1930’s. The construction to perfect Mauney’s space and achieve her vision took roughly 10 months. With their combined expertise, it stands as a testament to some of the best home building and design in the Queen City area. The patterns throughout the house evoke a country feel balanced by the California-

THE FOLIO

Blueprint

“The overall result communicates an understated, easy elegance that’s perfectly livable and accessible.” cool influence throughout that makes for a less fussy aesthetic than it could be otherwise. One of the most striking rooms in Mauney’s home is the expansive 13foot by 9-foot kitchen, made to feel even larger by the bright color scheme. Mauney collaborated on the kitchen with designer Emily Bourgeois of Catbird Collection. It is, Mauney notes, often the first room people notice, in part because she designed a kitchen that doesn’t contain any of the “standard” things typically found in that room of a house. In this kitchen, the eye is pulled almost immediately to the classic La Cornue range and the state-of-the-art hood. From there, the room is filled with gold trimmings, unlacquered brass, crisp cabinetry, and an antique mirror used to juxtapose waterfall stone. The painted existing wood and the marble combined evoke the elements of old and new that are all throughout Mauney’s home. Then there’s the absence of upper cabinets, replaced by bowed cabinets beneath an oval island by Interior Concepts Unlimited, to add further space and dimension. When, inevitably, guests congregate in the kitchen before dinner parties, Mauney has the option of retreating to the scullery, which shares a wall and window with the kitchen and is replete with all of the same appliances, with the exception of the stovetop. All throughout Mauney’s house are small details, from reclaimed roofing tile to brass accents to the fabric on the dining room walls. Mauney, who says she finds too much color in a space “fatiguing,” used a clean color scheme decorated with everything from antiques to modern art, illustrations, and taxidermy to add interest. The home is also full of neutrals - 90% of the home, Bryan says, is one color. The overall result communicates an understated, easy elegance that’s perfectly livable and accessible – the exact ambiance Mauney has played with so often in her clients’ projects, she has now brought home to herself. For a bit more info: gerrardbuilders.com kimmauney@me.com

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GRAYLYN The expansive Winston-Salem estate is a perfect weekend escape with its charming historical setting and modern-luxury facilities by SUNNY HUBLER photos provided by GRAYLYN ESTATE

THE EXPLOR ED Textures, prints, and colors add drama to a classic living space. by SUNNY HUBLER photo by MEKENZIE LOLI

108 | Graylyn 114 | Hilton Head Island 118 | Double The Trails 122 | 17 Spas For 2017

Dining Drama

THE EXPLOR ED

Weekender

The Graylyn estate in Winston-Salem, NC is a destination rich with history. The property has been renowned for its reputation of old world charm for over a century now. Today, it remains at once a modern, luxurious conference facility and an enchantingly historic residence. The original Graylyn was the home of Bowman Gray Sr. in the late 1800s. With nearly 60 rooms at 46,000 square feet, Graylyn was one of the largest private homes in North Carolina. The Gray family invited in artisans and craftsman to make the home a masterpiece. Amenities like the gold-plated fixtures, solid marble tubs, heated towel racks, built-in scales and shower with 17 shower heads set the Graylyn apart. The Grays moved into the completed house in 1932 but by 1946, his wife and her sons gave the estate to Wake Forest University’s medical school. By ‘93 the Graylyn officially became an International Conference Center that hosts individuals and organizations from all over the world, including diplomats, dignitaries and former

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THE EXPLOR ED

Weekender presidents Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, and George Bush Sr. It continues to be owned and operated as a non-profit organization by Wake Forest University. Graylyn’s primary mission is to support the University by funding student scholarships. Today, the storied Graylyn offers guests a private estate of their very own for their stay. Just minutes from downtown Winston-Salem, the 55-acre property allows visitors to experience a world away from the bustle of the city. Today, the historic property features 86 private guestrooms and is 15 meeting rooms. It is one of the finest conference centers in the U.S. In addition to the luxury accommodations, The Graylyn also provides a variety of dining options. Overnight guests of Graylyn enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast buffet featuring local fresh fare every day. Chef Gregory Rollins is devoted to using North Carolina and local products and has his own chef’s garden on property. Estate dining has a menu where guests can “choose their own experience,” whether it be a classic three course meal or a sampling of platters amongst the group. Served in elegant dining rooms, the dining experience is part of the total package—created to embrace both the past and present of the historic Graylyn Estate. For a bit more info: graylyn.com

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JAN/FEB 2017 • @qcexclusive • 113

THE EXPLOR ED

Carolina Towns

HILTON HEAD The Ultimate Coastal Winter Getaway by MARGO JACOBS photo by SEAN PAVONE

If you were stranded on an island... Five ways to pass the time on Hilton Head ZipLine Hilton Head & Aerial Adventure Hilton Head Zipline Hilton Head at Broad Creek Marina Adventures features two-hour tours over the magnificent live oaks while looking out at beautiful Broad Creek, the boats, marshes and dolphins. Audubon-Newhall Preserve Located just off Palmetto Bay Road, this Hilton Head nature preserve covers about 50 acres on the southern end of Hilton Head Island. There are several walking trails and a wetlands bog to experience the Lowcountry. Coastal Discovery Museum Featuring programs, displays, tours, a KidsZone and activities year round, the Coastal Discovery Museum offers a comprehensive showcase of Hilton Head’s history and ecology. Hilton Head Island Golf

White sandy beaches, soft breezes, and the lapping tide of the beautiful Atlantic Ocean seem like a dream this time of year. Although one isn’t apt to head to the coast for fun and sun during this season, Hilton Head Island is a thoroughly wonderful getaway for a rejuvenating winter weekend. Refresh your mind, body, and soul on South Carolina’s premiere vacation island. What makes Hilton Head Island so special in winter? No one is here! As a popular vacation destination since the late 1950’s, the seasonal crowd on Hilton Head swells from about 37,000 year-round residents to over 150,000 in the warmer months. While the temperatures are a little more conducive to a Tommy Bahama sweatshirt dress than a two-piece bikini in the winter, it is by no means cold and almost all of the sought-after summer amenities are still available.

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If you are planning a golf getaway to South Carolina, Hilton Head golf is the perfect place. Many of Hilton Head’s public and private golf courses have been sculpted by legends like Robert Trent Jones Sr., Pete Dye and Jack Nicklaus. Arum Spa The luxe Arum Spa is among the newest spas in Hilton Head. They offer signature treatments so you can relax and rejuvenate while you’re on the island.

THE EXPLOR ED

Carolina Towns

Recharge your mind with a morning beach yoga class, an amenity provided by a majority of the resorts on the island. Or, if you’re up for a challenge try a SUP yoga class on the water. When you need to relax take advantage of one of the world-class spas available. Some even offer to have sessions available beachside, not something that would be necessarily recommended during the summer months. To reinvigorate your body, no trip to Hilton Head would be complete without getting some exercise. Hiking the 114 steps up to the top of the iconic Harbour Town Lighthouse is the perfect way. From there you can see a panoramic view of the island as well as its varied topography. The island’s twelve miles of hard-packed beaches are perfect for long walks and bike riding. The island also has fifty-plus miles of trails to hike, walk, bike, and run. While the temperatures may not be great for swimming in the ocean, there are plenty of other wa-

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ter activities to do: sailing, kayaking, fishing, and dolphin watching are just a few. If you are looking for a less outdoorsy adventure, revive your soul with a trip to the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina. Located in the heart of Hilton Head Island there are various theatrical and musical performances throughout the year. For the foodies out there, winter brings oyster season to the Carolina’s coasts. Try a waterside sunset dinner to accompany your oysters. While the days may be shorter than ideal, the sunrises and sunsets on Hilton Head are even more spectacular in winter than they are during the warmer months. Primarily known for its world-class golf and tennis, Hilton Head Island has so much more to offer if you choose to visit year-round. The island always makes for a refreshing winter getaway. For a bit more info: hiltonheadisland.org

South In Yo’ Mouth A day of eating on Hilton Head Breakfast: Wake up with one of Palmetto Bay Sunrise Cafe’s benedicts and a hot cup of coffee. 2nd Breakfast: Still hungry? Head to Harold’s Diner for classic hot cakes in a nostalgic diner setting. Lunch: Order Lowcountry Backyard Restaurant’s fried green tomato BLT. Supper: Head to The Jazz Corner, a perfect date night setting that offers up live jazz with great ambiance, oversized martinis and moderncontemporary Southern food. Order the Carolina crab cake. Dessert: Satisfy your sweet tooth over at Sweet Carolina Cupcakes with their hot chocolate cupcake or the chocolate chip cheesecake.

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Sporting

Beech Mountain Resort

Double The Trails by LESLIE BROOKS

photos provided by BEECH and SUGAR

If you are considering embarking on a ski trip to the With restaurants, such as Jackalope’s View and Vasaremountains of North Carolina before the season’s frost ly’s, Beech Mountain has a plethora of good eats. begins to thaw, there seems to be an obvious dilemma— Once you’ve enjoyed the hills and local fare, the QC Beech Mountain or Sugar Mountain? At just nine miles family highly suggests an adventure to the nearby town apart, the better choice may just be to visit them both. of Banner Elk. Conveniently, Banner Elk is only a little Deep in the North Carolina High Country, Beech Mountain Resort first opened its doors in 1967 and remains the highest ski area in the eastern United States. Since its inaugural first season, the resort offers its patrons some of the best slopes in the state for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, and ice skating. Great skiing isn’t the only thing to expect from this resort; the amenities Sugar Mountain Resort are as impressive as its staggering peak.

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THE EXPLOR ED

Sporting Beech Mountain Resort

BY THE NUMBERS Beech Mountain

SUGAR Mountain

5,506’ 1 Mile 17 95 8 $63

5,300’ 1 1/2 Miles 21 125 8 $68

Summit Elevation Longest Run Number of Trails Skiable Acres Lifts Ticket Cost

over three and a half miles from the Sugar Mountain Resort and makes a great stop along the way. As for the Sugar Mountain Resort, it began just two years after the Beech Mountain Resort, in 1969. While the mountain’s summit elevation might not be as lofty, the resort and surrounding area still has plenty for visitors to enjoy. With more trails and acres of skiable land, you won’t even notice the difference in elevations! After

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crushing it on the slopes, venture down to grab a bite to eat at Bella’s. Don’t limit yourself when it comes to exploring new destinations. Rather than picking one resort over the other, give both Beech and Sugar a visit. You’ll love shredding double the trails and you’ll have twice as much fun. For more info: beechmountainresort.com | skisugar.com

Privately owned and operated, Lucky Clays Farm embodies the rustic beauty of North Carolina’s Central Piedmont. Our spacious location of over 450 acres, with versatile indoor and outdoor settings, provides a unique destination for your next private business function or corporate retreat. For more information, or to book your next corporate event, please contact us at 1-855-858-LUCK (5825) or visit our website at

W h e r e B u s i n e s s & N at u r e M e e t

luckyclaysfarm.com

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Escapes

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Clockwise from top left: Primland spa. Umstead Hotel and Spa. The pool at Old Edwards Inn. Spa at Omni Grove Park Inn. The Spa at Pinehurst. Montage Palmetto Bluff spa.

17 FOR 2017 by SUNNY HUBLER photos provided by SPAS

Many of us use the New Year to set resolutions and, as we all by now know too well, health— mental, physical, emotional, spiritual—is always at the top of the list. The following list of spas and wellness retreats in and around the Carolinas hit on each of these points, by offering everything from salt therapy to acupuncture, nutrition consultation, meditation, and detoxification. There are resort spas, day spas, and total retreat centers. Depending on your particular needs in this New Year, we can almost guarantee one of these Southern escapes will be able to offer just the right sensibility and services.

The Spa at The Sanctuary Located on the beautiful island of Kiawah, the spa at The Sanctuary is not only set in an idyllic location but has also been inspired by the Southern hospitality that defines the area. The spa is full-service, offering clients everything from facials and body treatments to makeup, hair and nail care, private yoga or Pilates classes, and therapeutic massages. Using elements of the area, the spa incorporates botanical extracts, nourishing seaweed, mineral-rich mud and natural enzymes. To relax before the spa, there is a vitality mineral whirlpool, steam room and sauna, and afterwards, garden-inspired solariums to continue your rest. Spa at Chetola The Chetola Resort is an all-encompassing Blue Ridge experience, with quaint accommodations, a rich history, and extensive recreation. The Spa at Chetola Resort is one of the highlights: The spa opened in 2009, and offers five treatment rooms (one for couples), a relaxation room, nail treatment area, and women’s and men’s locker rooms. Adjoining the Spa is the resort’s heated indoor pool, Ja-

Spas Fit For A Queen Where to retreat in the Queen City The Ritz-Carlton Charlotte Day Spa Hidden away in the heart of Charlotte Uptown, the RitzCarlton penthouse’s multiple treatment rooms welcome both guests of the hotel and any lost Charlotteans who stumble in. Village Spa at Trump National Charlotte Coupling the Trump five-star experience with the scenic waters of Lake Norman, the Village Spa offers a true retreat of sense.

cuzzi, sauna and state-of-the-art fitness room. The relaxation room invokes an aura of calm to prepare you for your services. Spa at Pinehurst The spa at Pinehurst offers a full service menu that allows you to select a single treatment or a full day package. They offer everything from massages to hair, facials, and a gentleman’s menu. Sanderling Resort Spa The Four-Diamond Sanderling Resort, located in the peaceful Outer Banks of North Carolina, offers an award-winning spa and salon with stunning views of Currituck Sound. The spa treatments were crafted with unique elements of the natural coastal resources to elevate the spa experience. Sanderling offers everything from massage to skin restoration treatments, a steam room, and a variety of facials. 21c Museum Hotel Spa Named one of the Top 10 Best New Hotels by USA Today, this boutique hotel features an equally unique spa with massage, body treat-

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Escapes

ments, and aromatherapy. The spa sits adjacent to the sauna, steam room, and fitness facility so you can treat yourself head-to-toe. The massage therapists are also available to treat clients in the comfort and privacy of their guest rooms at the hotel, so you can relax even further. The Cottage Spa at The Montage Like the rest of the Montage at Palmetto Bluff, the Cottage Spa is an all-amenities-included, totally luxurious experience. The relaxation room, with soft lighting and a crackling fireplace, prepares you for your services. Once inside the spa, a marble white expanse, the many services are drawn from nature and the Palmetto Bluff environment to create an “indigenous spa experience.” They offer everything from a bio detox and anti-stress beauty treatment facial to warm river stone massage and a coastal Carolina body wrap. There is also a pool and sauna to relax in after your treatments. The Umstead Spa The Umstead Spa emphasizes elements of nature to bring you a superior spa experience. In addition to a full spa experience with products using the best ingredients available, the Umstead has a spa boutique, a full fitness center, and serves up healthy drinks and snacks while you relax. The Spa at Grandover Resort Grandover is known as one of the most luxurious day spas in NC. There is an extensive array of massage choices as well as facials, manicures, pedicures, and wax treatments. Each service offered at Grandover has been carefully tailored based on each clients’ particular needs, to help with relaxation, alleviating stress and pain, or treating your skin and muscles. Shoji Spa & Lodge Shoji Spa of Asheville is a luxury destination spa unlike any other in the Carolinas. Nestled in the mountains just minutes from downtown Asheville, Shoji offers traditional Japanese bathing and soaking, elegant slate showers, and private hot tubs in a natural wooded

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The spa at The Ritz- Carlton Charlotte

Spas Fit For A Queen The Spa at Ballantyne Conveniently located in South Charlotte, this spa is close enough to cater to your specific needs— and that means soothing massages and facials regularly. Toccare Day Spa The good folk at Toccare believe everyone’s unique skin deserves personalized attention, a fact immediately evident in every service the day spa offers.

setting. There is a dry cedar sauna and an invigorating cold plunge for contrast therapy. Twenty-five world class massage therapists offer treatments and massage styles from deep tissue, to hot stones, Thai, Shiatsu, hands, and prenatal. They also offer reflexology and herbal body treatments. Wild Dunes Resort Sand & Sea Spa The salon and spa services at the popular Wild Dunes Resort combine a relaxed island ambiance with featured seasonal and locally-inspired spa services, like the Sugar Magnolia Facial and the Warm Seashell Massage. They also offer mud wraps and specialty manicure and pedicures. To support overall wellness, in addition to the spa, Wild Dunes offers a diverse group of programs from yoga to fitness training and sports training, golf and tennis instruction, and even nutrition consultation.

Westglow Spa The luxurious Westglow, just outside Blowing Rock, emphasizes holistic health in an upscale environment. At the spa, they offer Vichy rain therapy, scrubs and mud wraps, lymphatic stimulation massage, acupuncture, and full salon services. In combination, they offer extensive wellness programs, from nutrition assessment and diet consultation to workshops and life-coaching. Trinity Wellness Spa This Beaufort, SC upscale wellness spa provides an extensive list of natural health, wellness and spa services, from detoxification and wellness programs to skin and body care services. The signature six-hour indulgent relaxation package features a Face Lift Facial, Aromatherapy Hot Stone Massage, reflexology, and a delicious spa cuisine lunch. Primland The Primland’s spa is a total destination, with an emphasis on natural and organic products. The various thoughtful details at this spa resort all work together to restore balance to body, soul and spirit. Primland’s services include soothing massages, body treatments, restorative facials, yoga and meditation. Asheville Salt Cave This unique place of healing is the only Salt Therapy center in the U.S. that has been made entirely out of natural materials, like salt, wood and water. As you relax in the softlylit micro-climate, breathing the salt air helps restore balance and creates healing from ailments that range from respiratory and skinrelated issues to depression, stress, and sleep problems. Omni Grove Park Inn The spa at the Grove Park offers all kinds of unique features, including numerous mineralbased pools, a subterranean spa, two therapeutic waterfall pools will soothe the soul and a lap pool. There are also inhalation rooms, saunas and eucalyptus-infused steam rooms and three fireplace lounges. It’s little surprise Grove Park was named one of Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Resort Spas in North America.

Spas Fit For A Queen Om Spa Situated in Myers Park, Om Spa boasts the first “Chirospa” in the Carolinas, as well as an abundance of wellness services that include Thai massages and salt room therapy. Oasis Day Spa Located in Historic Elizabeth, Oasis Day Spa offers facials, relaxing massage sessions, body waxing, exhilarating skin treatments, and free parking.

Ritz-Carlton Charlotte The penthouse Spa & Wellness Center at the Ritz is complete luxury. The Ritz offers a space for clients to receive fitness, healing and relaxation under the careful guidance of the expert therapists, trainers and technicians. The spa includes four treatment rooms, vitality lounges, a full fitness center, cycling studio, aqua lounge, and nail salon. Old Edwards Inn According to the team at Old Edwards, the Western North Carolina Mountains have a healing power of their own. Nestled in the mountains, The Spa at Old Edwards Inn is constructed perfectly to nourish mind, body, and spirit. They incorporate herbs and botanicals from around the world, and each of the restorative therapies is performed by the highly-trained therapist team.

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Strong is beautiful. by SUNNY HUBLER photos by JAMEY PRICE

s we set out to put together this photo spread, the goal was to find some of the toughest, strongest, most inspiring individuals in the Charlotte fitness field. With the New Year here, we wanted role models, trail-blazers, and goal-setters. What emerged from our hunt was a powerful list of, as you will see, all women. Inspired by the work, dedication, and self-actualization of these seven change-makers—yogis, trainers, instructors, business owners—we couldn’t help but highlight the role each of these women is playing in making Charlotte an even better place.

These mothers, daughters, and sisters are challenging the status quo and bringing new meaning to the word “strength”; demonstrating for all of us that it requires not only extraordinary physical ability, but mental and emotional toughness and a true strength of spirit, as well. What’s so inspiring to us about each of these individuals is what they share—and no, it’s not the most obvious shared characteristic of gender—but rather that each is totally dominating her respective field while successfully working to integrate a real passion for health, fitness, and wellness within the community.

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Emily “Breeze” Ross-Watson Stax Bootcamp Emily is a fitness legend in Charlotte who has taken on some of the toughest and most grueling physical challenges with her signature ease. Breeze’s credentials are extensive: she is a former Division I athlete, a certified and licensed Bodywork and Massage Therapist, and a CrossFit competitor. She combined her love of running, yoga, boot camp, and CrossFit into a booming career with her business, Moga Charlotte, and her position training at Stax CrossFit. She also runs a boot camp two nights a week that’s open and free to the public. Between 2015 and 2016, she gained national attention by continuing her grueling workouts during her pregnancy—lifting over 100lbs right up to her due date. Doing so didn’t come without criticism, but with her signature determination and drive, Emily kept right on going. Her physical feats are impressive, but her attitude is even more inspiring.

staxcharlotte.com

Lindsay Cunningham NC Yoga Bar Lindsay started NC Yoga Bar in 2013 after taking a huge leap of faith and quitting a successful, comfortable corporate advertising job to pursue her dreams: She wanted to share yoga with everyone. The mind-body practice was such a huge part of her own life and had transformed her health and well-being so significantly that she saw no other option than to make it her main focus. Lindsay’s mission was simple—“to open up a door to yoga’s incredible health benefits for people who may not otherwise have access.” For Lindsay, what inspires her is not just the physical benefits yoga offers, but how much it contributes to a happy life. At the end of the day, she says, her goal is just to remind people to leave their outside lives outside, and to have fun with yoga.

ncyogabar.com

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Liz HILLIARD and Clary Hilliard GRAY Hilliard Studio Method Liz and Clary are the mother-daughter duo behind the Hilliard Studio Method, a business and lifestyle program launched from the ground up by the two women nearly a decade ago. They make for a strikingly inspirational pair: HSM was born when Liz decided to chase down her desire to find the absolute best exercise method to meet her goals, Claryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals, and the needs of her dedicated physical training clients. At the same time, Clary found herself in a corporate career that left her wanting more, and she too began pouring her energy into the fitness industry. By testing and researching rigorously over the span of many years, the two developed what is now the signature core-centric, high-intensity, Pilates-based workout known as the Hilliard Studio Method. The passion behind the project is perhaps the thing that shines through the mostâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;the two spend every single day in the studio, and continue to innovate and dream while their business expands every single day.

hilliardstudiomethod.com

Beth Williams Burn Cornelius Beth Williams really loves training her clients. You can take one look at her leading a class and know that immediately. Her energy, passion, and excitement are beyond contagious. Her first love, however, was weight training. As she spent more time in the gym herself, her understanding of how lifting and cardio worked within the human body grew and grew. Beth realized quickly that she wanted to share her results with others. Today, Beth is one of the most dynamic, well-educated fitness professionals in the game. She is a personal trainer and boot camp instructor at Burn Cornelius, and owns a Burn location in Cary with dreams to reach even more peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;women especiallyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and help them to achieve their own goals and dreams for a healthier life.

burnbootcamp.com/cornelius-nc

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Katie Dixon Kadi Fit Katie took a huge risk in 2009 by leaving behind her steady career. She loved fitness and was dedicated to health, so she went big. The first step was renting out her home to downsize—this allowed her to pull together the resources to fulfill her childhood dream. With a clear vision, Katie opened her beloved dance and studio fitness center, Kadi Fit, with her husband Mike Dixon. The space is open, inviting, and meant to inspire and empower people who want a little something different out of their fitness regiment. There’s real soul and heart in Kadi Fit—the unique fitness regimen looks like no other as it infuses yoga, spirituality, hip-hop, and rock music to create an uplifting atmosphere for clients to make physical and mental health into a lifestyle.

kadifit.com

Morgan Kline Burn Boot Camp Morgan met her now-husband and business partner when they were just 12 years old. Both harbored a passion for fitness, so when they moved to Charlotte, they held their first ever training camp in a parking lot. The idea sparked quicklyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;today, the Klines are the hugely successful owners of Burn Boot Camp, a lifestyle fitness facility thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spreading rapidly across the country. The entire concept started as a way to inspire, empower, and transform the lives of busy women and their families. Morgan saw the need so many women had, and made sure Burn could meet every little detail: The fitness facility, as part of their program, includes nutritional consultation and free childcare so busy moms can carve out 45 minutes for themselves and for their health. With a new baby of her own, Morgan is at Burn nearly every single day, making sure her and her husbandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vision of a better life for women is actualized.

burnbootcamp.com

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Noble PURSUITS

Jim Noble, Bo Frowine, and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Dream Center pull an ailing city back together. by ELEANOR MERRELL photos by JAMEY PRICE and LUNAHZON

of chocolate chip cookies, landscape, or grill out. These Outside of Charlotte’s gleaming skyscrapers, days, its volunteers are welcomed like longtime friends in beyond Bank of America Stadium, and past the affluence J.T. Williams and Reed Park, but when they first arrived, of Plaza Midwood, there is a neighborhood, J.T. Williams, most residents refused to emerge from their houses or that sits within city limits, but is not often within view even open their doors, and the few who did demanded to of city residents. The median income in J.T. Williams, know what the volunteers were doing in their neighborwhich is 90% black, hovers around $20,000 and, until rehood. Older residents rarely left their dwellings, and most cently, crimes per week clocked in at an average of 5.6. residents had never even spoken to their neighbors. WithLemon cars, lacking hubcaps and fenders, trundle down in months of the Dream Center’s efforts, crime rates had pothole-pocked roads, faces peer from locked windows, dropped by about 80% in Reed Park, and, in both neighborand young boys toss around footballs in the unlined fields hoods, a sense of community developed, linking neighbors in front of Turning Point Academy, a K-12 learning instito each other and to the volunteers. “People are communitution for students with behavioral problems. cating, building relationships with us and with each other,” The Equality of Opportunity Project, a research venture says Jim Noble, pastor, chef, restaurateur, and founder of led by Stanford professor Raj Chetty and Harvard profesthe Charlotte Mecklenburg Dream Center. sor Nathaniel Hendren, published a study in January of Born and raised in High Point, North Carolina, Noble 2014 that ranked the Queen City dead last among the 50 came to cooking before he came to God, largest cities in the U.S. to according to its opening his first restaurant in 1983 and rate of upward mobility. It’s all too easy for his first ministry in 1998. He now owns Charlotteans to slip through the economic and operates five eateries, including The cracks and, once they do, it’s all too hard “We have to be for them to hoist themselves back up. King’s Kitchen, a not-for-profit restaurant intentional about It’s a broken system that’s not easand headquarters for Noble’s latest misbuilding trust with sionary efforts. In 2013, Noble founded ily fixed. Organizations like the Charlotte Restoration House of Charlotte, which Mecklenburg Dream Center are acutely the individuals we would later become an affiliate of the aware of this fact, but that doesn’t stop the serve in order to determined folk behind the CMDC from Dream Center Network, an international earn the right to faith-based organization that administers tackling the challenge. The Dream Center to the needs of the physically, emotioncan’t change the system, but it can and does minister to them.” ally, or spiritually starved. Noble’s Dream change lives. Center implements programs intended to Each Saturday, Dream Center volun- BO Frowine reach and support the homeless, hopeless, teers materialize in J.T. Williams and Reed and disadvantaged—a wide demographic Park, a demographically similar Charlotte by any standards. neighborhood, where they distribute boxes

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“When my wife and I were faced with a great challenge that seemed impossible and somebody brought hope to me, it so changed my life that I want to tell other people.” - JIM NObLE

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THE EXCLUSI V ES less guy who’ll jump in the fountain for a dollar.” One Its success boils down to a universal ingredient: the Friday evening, someone brought him a chili cheese dog. construction and maintenance of relationships. “We have That someone was a Dream Center volunteer participatto be intentional about building trust with the individuals ing in weekly street ministry. She came back every day we serve in order to earn the right to minister to them,” until Schram agreed to go into the King’s Kitchen and, Dream Center Executive Director Bo Frowine explains. from there, into a recovery program. “She didn’t give up “The most important thing we can offer someone is our on me,” Schram remembers. time. By listening to what they have going on in their life, After that, his road to recovery was anything but we can figure out the best way to really help that person.” smooth. He dropped in and out of rehab, flitted among Frowine speaks from personal experience. In his twenstates and street benches, but he always found his way ties, he struggled intensely with substance abuse, and back to King’s Kitchen and the Dream Center. Schram found himself existing on his mother’s couch in a perpethad, at long last, found a spiritual home. A physical home ual drunken stupor. His family eventually located a refollowed shortly thereafter. He is cognizant of the fact that covery center that would accept him without insurance, a change in attitude was a prerequisite for his rehabilitaand Frowine was able to get sober, but that was only half tion. He had to believe that life could be better. In other the battle; Frowine remained deeply depressed and tried words, he had to hope. to end his life shortly after leaving the recovery center. “When my wife and I were faced with After a prolonged stint in the hospital, a great challenge that seemed imposduring which it was unclear whether he sible and somebody brought hope to would live or die, Frowine was released. “It’s easy for us me, it so changed my life that I want to “I read the Bible for the first time in my tell other people,” explains Jim Noble. life and things started to change,” says to walk past the “There is always hope.” Frowine. “I thought God must have kept homeless and Hope is critical, because “homelessness me alive for a purpose.” think, ‘they made and substance abuse are the symptoms, Through the Dream Center, Frowine is not the issue,” reminds Frowine. Accordindeed living his life with purpose. In adbad choices,’ ing to Noble, underlying issues can’t be dition to performing weekly street minespecially to make fixed with brick and mortar, government istry to the homeless in Uptown and the us feel better assistance, or restricted access to a boteconomically troubled in Charlotte’s oftabout walking tle. The issue requires a healing process ignored neighborhoods, the Dream Center that won’t succeed without hope. also maintains a discipleship program. past them.” At a time when the seams of CharThe program supports those who have lotte’s social fabric are being torn asunbeen without work for extended periods - BO Frowine der by ever-widening economic stratifiof time, are recovering from substance cation, the Dream Center affiliates summon the bravery abuse, or are plagued by personal demons, as they comnecessary to go, not just into Charlotte’s most dangerous plete an intensive course in which they are exposed to acneighborhoods, but, more importantly, into Charlotte’s countability, structure, and Bible study, as well as job and bleakest psyches. financial training. At the end of the program, most gradu“It’s easy for us to walk past the homeless and think, ates emerge with a steady income and a tenacious faith. ‘they made bad choices,’ especially to make us feel better Alan Schram is one such graduate. Blurry, blue tattoos about walking past them,” explains Frowine. “But when mottle the majority of Schram’s skin; permanent, inky reI listen to their stories…I realize they’re doing pretty minders of his various prison sentences. He walks with well because if I had lived their life, I’d be in much worse a limp, the lingering result of a knife wound he suffered shape.” Noble, Frowine and the rest of the Dream Center at the hand of a former cellmate, and speaks with a thick team hope that others will be inspired to listen with an Southern accent, despite his nomadic, military upbringopen heart, to see with the grace of God, and to care with ing. In 1974, he started drinking and doing drugs. He was the full force of humanity, as they walk among their fellow nine years old. Within five years, he was addicted. Charlotte residents—their fellow humankind. For a decade, the benches near the corner of Trade and Tryon were Schram’s bedroom and living room. His neighbors knew him as “Turtle.” Banking professionals For a bit more info: www.cltdc.org who work on those streets knew him as “that mean home-

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LIMITLESS VISION North Carolina native Tucker Dupree’s story of resilience. by SHEL AVON BRADLEY photos by DOLFIN

A true champion has the heart of a lion, the determination to defeat odds, and an unwavering spirit. Paralympic medalist and professional athlete Tucker Dupree knows a thing or two about winning. Since 2006, the North Carolina native has spent his time traveling abroad setting swimming records, climbing to the top of world rankings, and overcoming a fight against his biggest competitor —a vision impairment. At 17, Dupree was diagnosed with Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy, a rare disease capable of impairing eyesight up to 100 percent. The diagnosis would’ve stopped plenty in their tracks, but Dupree took the news in stride. For him “winning is a mindset” and he firmly decided to continue striving to be the absolute best in his arena regardless of what might happen with this vision. Resiliency has since been the wind beneath the wings of Tucker’s long journey from the slowest swimmer on his high school team his freshman year to where he sits today: competing full-time as a professional athlete representing his country on international sports stages. Tucker Dupree currently holds a staggering 54 records and 81 medals, 49 of which are gold. Every single one of these accomplishments came after the day he realized his vision was permanently damaged, and he humbly accepted the fact that nothing was going to change that reality.

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“The biggest reward is having the ability to accomplish more without vision than I ever could have dreamed of doing with vision.”

“After losing sight in my right eye, I started to notice blurring in my vision on the left side a few months later. I remember driving home from school, I couldn’t see the stop signs. I pulled over to park, took the keys out of the ignition and stared down at my license. At that moment, I knew this was real and I would never be able to sit in a driver’s seat again.” Tucker lost 80% of his central vision in both eyes at a time when his main goal was college recruitment. While the path was unavoidably altered, his goal never changed and the fight of the champion was now driven by an even deeper purpose. “I was going to make sure I showed the world that I could be extraordinary, without having to own the limited identity that that everyone initially expected.” After seeking guidance at The Governor Morehead School for the blind in North Carolina, Tucker gained insight on being independent while living with Leber's. While his coaches adjusted training techniques for him, Tucker was busy adapting and creating new ways to advance his skill-sets in the pool. Equipped with only peripheral vision, he depended on line color changes and developed a system of counting strokes, pushing forward day after day. It was never easy, but he never gave up. Two years later, Dupree would find himself in Beijing, China, walking with his fellow Americans in the Opening Ceremony in front of 20,000 onlookers. The Paralympic Games is an international multi-sporting event where athletes with a range of disabilities showcase their talents. Competing on the second largest platform for sports in the world was the opportunity of a lifetime, and one that would set the stage for the next chapter of the young athlete’s life. “The Paralympics lit the fire for me. I’ve had the chance to swim around the world in 26 different countries and race amongst some of the greatest athletes out there. It’s an honor to say I was a part of that movement. I’ve been able to put on that Team USA uniform three times and been able to bring medals home. The biggest reward is

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“I think it’s important for people to know that If something traumatic happens and you acquire a disability, your life Is not over.”

having the ability to accomplish more without vision than I ever could have dreamed of doing with vision.” Today, Tucker brings his insight as a competitor to others with his public speaking campaigns. He tells his crowds to push to break the mold around how people with disabilities are perceived. Tucker has been named the Roger McCarville Male Athlete of the Year, joined The Hartford as an ath-

lete ambassador and returned to school to complete his degree, all while simultaneously chasing his next win in the pool. “I think it’s important for people to know that If something traumatic happens and you acquire a disability, your life’s not over. Anyone can become a part of that minority at any time. You have that choice to either let it define you or you can turn a tragedy into a triumph.”

Tucker is currently training for the 2017 World Championships. He is careful and reflective about the legacy he will leave behind for the next generation of athletes, both with and without disabilities. And whatever comes in his life after swimming, Tucker Dupree will continue to use his platform to empower and inspire others to dream with limitless vision. For a bit more info: www.tuckerdupree.com

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All About CONNECTION

Yoga teacher and trainer Grace Morales’ life journey is full of ups-anddowns, but her signature insight and hard-earned wisdom color the story of how she came to be one of the most respected yogis in the Queen City. by SUNNY HUBLER photos by JAMEY PRICE or provided by GRACE MORALES

Grace Morales often makes jokes about her height; at five-foot-something, she may indeed not always be the tallest person in the room, but “small” is the last thing you’d be caught associating with her. Her hard-won wisdom and larger-than-life presence are tied up in Morales’ story of how she made a life out of her yoga practice. Yoga is something you practice and not something you ‘do.’ The point is in the journey, not in reaching an instrumental end goal. Grace’s life mirrors this perfectly: The path to health, wellness, and balance that her life reflects has been full already, but she is as passionate about continuing to pave it as she was when she began. A well-known, multiply-certified yoga instructor and trainer, Grace, who started her yoga practice in her living room using VHS tapes, is responsible in large part for pioneering the Charlotte yoga scene two decades ago. She founded and owned Charlotte Yoga, the city’s first Power Yoga studio, after moving here in 1995.

“My intention,” she explains, “was to create a center for healing and transformation, to create a center that was beneficial to everyone in our city, a place to open hearts and minds.” While she headed that space, she steered Charlotte toward what is now a common, even trendy, approach in studios nationwide: hot power yoga. This form involves flowing in quick succession from one pose to the next in a room heated anywhere from around 82 to 104 degrees. Today, she teaches multiple certifications for yoga instructors, leads several workshops a year, and conducts her own classes across the Queen City area. With 30-years of fitness industry experience behind her, she has successfully made a name for herself not just in the Tar Heel State, but well beyond. When it comes to Grace as a person, she is really all about connection—one of those rare people who will at one moment make you feel seen and heard, as if she has

“Yoga has a way of bringing out the best in us. I am surrounded by the most kind, strong, generous people you could imagine.”

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THE EXCLUSI V ES So, Grace let Charlotte Yoga go, and kept moving forpeered inside and grasped something fundamental but ohward. From where she sits today, what could have been a so-simple about human nature. At the very next moment, setback only brought her to a better place. She now works she will have you cracking up at a slightly off-color joke. entirely on her own schedule, isn’t held back by needing to This is what makes her such an incredible teacher: as much manage a business, and has a family she adores. wisdom as she’s gained, she is totally relatable and neither Born in smalltown Plainview, Texas, Grace’s upbringing takes herself too seriously nor misses the important stuff. was not an easy one. With little money in a rural area, her This ability to balance the weightiness and the lightness family often struggled. Grace did not get to see her mother that goes well beyond just yoga makes her a powerful presnor grandmother live to 50, and the experience gave Grace ence. There’s a good reason why, if you know Charlotte even more reason to focus on health and well-being. Both yoga, you know Grace Morales. her grandmother and mother lived high-stress lives and One of the things that becomes most immediately clear weren’t afforded opportunities to optimize their health. when you speak with her is just how much her work is “I want to learn everything I can in entirely intertwined with her life. this great experiment I have going on. “I never dreamed I could love a career How can we take care of our joints, so much, but career is second compared cardiovascular system and deepen our to the things I have learned about my“It is said neurological connection to health? As self,” she says. “Yoga has a way of bringthat yoga I get older, brain health becomes more ing out the best in us. I am surrounded important. I am not trying to stay young by the most kind, strong, generous peois joining forever. I know there are things that are ple you could imagine. It is part of my body, mind out of our hands; however I believe there normal day to go to work and have someand spirit, I are choices we can make that will allow one say ‘I love you, thanks for teaching, us to do more than just exist as we get what you do makes a difference.’ Really, believe yoga older. We can use our hard-earned wishow many people can say that? Yes, yoga joins people. dom, creativity and curiosity to thrive.” gives you a stronger body, more flexWe are more Back in Texas as a young girl, it was ibility, improves balance, and calms the Grace’s interest in fitness that really mind. However, personally I found what alike than gave her something to hold on to; a way I let go of was even more powerful than not. I go to to get out energy, occupy open-ended what I gained; I let go of seeking so much work and time, and connect with herself. outside approval and the judgments I had I don’t see “As early as age 12, I loved learnabout people and life. I have been able to ing different workout moves and why forgive myself and others for things I clients, I see [each move] was good for me,” Grace thought would forever plague me.” the best of explains. “In the mid-seventies, there It’s a simple sentiment many people humanity.” weren’t health and fitness publications, struggle to accept forever. And though so I would flip straight to the little exershe presents it with a certain ease in her cise section in Cosmopolitan Magazine tone, Grace didn’t come to this place in and carefully read all the instructions. her life without struggle. She has, she I studied the photos to copy the moves the best I could. I says, all the same challenges as anyone: getting clear about never really liked playing sports, but I loved the workouts. who you are, understanding your strengths and weaknessI joined the basketball team just to run bleachers, do sites, grasping what and who you love in life. ups and sprint.” And as high-minded as the pursuit of yoga can seem, So, with characteristic determination, Grace continued one of her hardest learned lessons was a typical career to pursue fitness as she grew older and worked up the courlesson: acknowledging that her first business was failing age to leave behind her small town and its challenges. As financially. an 18-year-old, she herself moved to Dallas and quickly “I love teaching and research. I did not like running a tracked down the biggest, fanciest gym—run by the wife of business, accounting, keeping up with social media, the Dallas Cowboy’s strength coach, no less. She promptly managing people. I kept thinking if I only worked hardshowed up blind to an instructor tryout session, knowing er…Today, I salute all small business owners. It is hard no one and without a formal invite. work and profit margins are slim.”

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She was as surprised as anyone to have made the substitute list after tryouts, and proceeded to take on every undesirable class offered—early morning, late night, ones that involved a long commute at faraway sister studios. Yet before the year was out, Grace had her pick of the best classes, had befriended the owner, and even met and worked with fitness scene stars like Richard Simmons. Fitness and exercise had become her biggest motivator, but Grace still had yet to encounter what would become her life’s work. It was while training for a marathon with a friend that she started to practice yoga seriously. She injured an ankle, and began hot yoga to give her body a rest from the impact of running, as well as to prepare for the heat in Hawaii, where her upcoming marathon was to be held. While plenty of us incorporate yoga into existing fitness routines, Grace took it one step further - again, that characteristic determination that is practically bursting from her every fiber. She started pouring through books and texts and, before long, was tracking down retreats and toplevel teachers who would train her. Grace was not about to do this yoga thing halfway. She met her first teacher, Bryan Kest (the creator of Power Yoga), at the White Lotus Foundation in Santa Barbara. As terrified as she was to go alone, when she got there, she recalls a feeling of being instantly connected with everyone else and sensing that she’d found somewhere she belonged. She trained with other prominent yogis—Rod Stryker, Baron Baptiste, Rolf Gates, Sharon Gannon, and David Life to mention a few – and traveled far and wide. She also has been traveling each year, for the last 15 years, to Tulum, Mexico as part of a group of teachers from Hot Asana Studio in Southern Pines. They now lead a week-long retreat there. “Maya Tulum’s energy is what yoga retreats are made of,” Grace says. “The rooms are basic but located on the water, the food is healthy, and the yoga abundant. I love living in Charlotte, but when I get home [from Tulum] I have to readjust to not hearing water when I roll over in the middle of the night.”

“My favorite trip is always the same one, the one I happen to be enjoying now.” Interestingly, with all her travels and all the teachers’ whose paths she has crossed, it is Grace’s own sister, Mylinda Morales, who Grace calls “her favorite teacher.” Mylinda’s studio is Altamonte Springs Yoga in Orlando, and Mylinda also has her own yoga school. Together, the sisters support one another’s’ yoga queries and trainings. And as for Grace’s favorite place to travel when she has seen so much of the world? “My favorite trip is always the same one, the one I happen to be enjoying now,” she says. It’s that attitude that allows her to keep her flock close, look ahead, and stick to her signature—asking questions and refusing to settle. Change, she explains simply, is ongoing in life. “My mother said when I was a kid, I would drive them crazy with ‘Why? Why? Why?’ I guess I am still doing that,” she smiles. But no matter what does lie ahead, yoga is a career that has allowed Grace to connect with like-minded people and to build her family the way she wanted to. That, she says, is her biggest reward. It is also perhaps the one thing she was always seeking all along. Her daughter, Alexia, grew up in a strong community, surrounded by healthy, powerful women. And then there’s Grace’s life partner: “I go home to my biggest life highlight, my wife Ellen,” she smiles. And where did the two meet, after both having had their hearts broken in the past and their lives turned upside down more than once or twice? In a yoga class, of course. For a bit more info: www.gracemorales.com

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SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION

Pictured: Doctors Woodward, Perry, Silverman, Gazzuolo, and Lipton | Not pictured: Doctors Martin, Sinai, and Smith

SIGNATURE HEALTHCARE S

ignature Healthcare, the ﬁrst concierge medical provider in the region, has been providing the Charlotte area with its gold-standard of executive-level medical care for the last fourteen years. Signature’s concierge care allows for an extremely unique, personalized approach to treating patients, while offering their expertise in emergency medicine, family and internal medicine, and pediatrics. They feature same-day appointments either in their office or via telemedicine, as well as the convenience and peace of mind of twenty-four/seven access to the physician. They also have little-to-no wait time for an appointment, offering a patient as much time as he or she needs with the physician, amounting to a customized healthcare approach. The low patient-to-doctor

“I have been a member of Signature Healthcare since 2004 and can attest to the expert manner in which my healthcare needs have been met.” - Patient testimonial ratio provides patients with an extended appointment time and an unhurried approach, which focuses on the individual patient’s needs and wellness. Patients get to know their doctors and nurses, and are treated more like family than a number. They excel in prevention and wellness, and their doctors are adept at both emergency procedures and medical care. The doctors also maintain strong relationships with specialists, which allows for expedited care when necessary. With the opening of their Signature Pediatrics in June of 2016, now all ages—including both healthy and those with a chronic condition—can beneﬁt from their specialized concierge medicine. Signature Healthcare offers a complete suite of pediatric care and medical services for adults to ﬁt a patient’s individual needs.

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ADDRESS Signature Healthcare 6115 Park South Drive, Suite 100 200 South Tryon Street, Suite 1500 704-554-8787 SignatureHealthcare.org Signature Pediatrics 6115 Park South Drive, Suite 105 704-944-8388 SignaturePediatrics.org SUPPLEMENTARY SERVICES X-rays • Travel Medicine • IV Medications and Fluids • Xeomin Cosmetics • Massage Therapy • Nutrition and Lifestyle Counseling • Comprehensive Wellness Assessments

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INFINITY MEDSPA + WELLNESS A cutting-edge cosmetic medical spa and wellness center located in the heart of SouthPark. Co-Founder JoBrent Austin-Diehl and her team strive to make you look and feel younger. ADDRESS 2809 Coltsgate Rd. Suite 100 Charlotte, NC 28211 704-733-9202 InﬁnityMedSpaandWellness.com SPECIALIZING IN Aesthetics/Skin Care • Injectables • Laser Treatments • PRP/Vampire Facials & FaceLifts • SculpSure Body Shaping • IV Hydration Therapy • Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy

nﬁnity MedSpa + Wellness, located in the heart of South Park, applies the latest science and technology to cutting-edge beauty techniques. They offer the Queen City the best non-invasive options to prevent the appearance of aging, and lessen the symptoms of “feeling old.” JoBrent Austin-Diehl, the Managing Partner and Co-Founder, believes that with today’s science and technology, giving up and accepting getting older is a thing of the past. “The older I get,” explains JoBrent, “the more I understand the quote from the great southern diva Dolly Parton: ‘If I see it sagging, bagging, or dragging, I will get it nipped, tucked, or sucked!’” JoBrent smiles. “Who doesn’t want to look their best at every age?”

“When our clients come for their follow up, I love seeing how excited they are about their new look! In order to make both men and women not only look but feel their best, JoBrent has put together an extremely talented team. Led by Dr. Kathleen Russo of Carolina HealthSpan Institute and Nurse Practitioner/Injectionist Extraordinaire Alissa Davis, this team consists of senior level Registered Nurses and Medical Aestheticians. They offer more than just facials and basic injectables. Their specialties include the Vampire/PRP Facial and Facelift, PRP for Hair Restoration, IV Hydration Therapy, Fat Reduction through SculpSure, and the best laser technology on the market. To complement those services, they also feature the best skincare lines available. Through their partnership with Carolina HealthSpan, they also offer Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy and PRP for sexual health (O&P shots). Inﬁnity MedSpa + Wellness strives to occupy a special and unique place in the hearts and minds of their patients!

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HUNSTAD KORTESIS C

hoosing a plastic surgeon is an even more important decision than electing to have a procedure. Plastic surgery demands a balance of compassion, understanding, and technical skills, and Hunstad Kortesis values this above all else. To further ensure quality, every one of their doctors is board-certiﬁed by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and belongs to various professional organizations so they can contribute research, teaching, and training to the industry. They also maintain one of only a few Accredited Fellowship programs nationwide by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. This attention to detail and above-standard work is what sets Hunstad Kortesis apart.

“I’ve seen and consulted with other plastic surgeons, but as soon as you walk into Hunstad Kortesis, you know you’re in the right place.” -Kris Stevens, AKA BigKat, 96.9 Kat Country Radio Talent The three doctors behind HK, Dr. Joseph Hunstad, Dr. Bill Kortesis and Dr. Gaurav Bharti, have more than 50 years of combined experience between them that they have used successfully to create a practice known and sought after by clients all around the country. Dr. Hunstad, the center’s founder, has pioneered many of the surgical procedures that have advanced the ﬁeld of plastic surgery. He, Kortesis, and Bharti use their hard-earned expertise to train each of the fellows that HK brings in. Now operating a fully accredited advanced surgical facility in Huntersville—an operation on par with the best hospitals—as well as a separate South Park office, HK is able to provide a patient experience enhanced by luxurious appointments and attention to comfort. The practice offers non-invasive and surgical procedures all in the same location, including MedSpa services and skincare products.

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Hunstad Kortesis goes above and beyond to ensure all patients receive the very best care in the cosmetic plastic surgery ﬁeld. With two locations in the Charlotte area, Drs. Hunstad, Kortesis, and Bharti bring extensive talent and skill to every individual case. ADDRESS Huntersville Office: 11208 Statesville Road, Suite 300 Huntersville, NC 28078 SouthPark Office: 4625 Piedmont Row Drive, Suite 135B Charlotte, NC 28210 HKcenters.com 704-659-9000

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CAROLINA SCULPSURE C

In addition to SculpSure, the spa offers Pelleve wrinkle reduction, which stimulates your own collagen production, as well as PelleFirm skin tightening for lax body skin. ADDRESS 274 S. Sharon Amity Rd. Suite D Charlotte, NC 28211 704-778-2107 info@carolinasculpsure.com CarolinaSculpsure.com AMENITIES Sauna and Steamroom • Rain Head Showers • Organic Products • Spa Locker Room • Infused Waters • Hot Teas 12 months interest-free ﬁnancing.

arolina SculpSure offers a non-invasive, FDA-cleared laser treatment for getting rid of stubborn fat. SculpSure only takes twenty-five minutes and is far less expensive and uncomfortable than procedures such as plastic surgery and liposuction. After just one or two treatments, most clients see great results and can be back to their normal activities right away. Dr. David Lipsitz, MD, FACS has been working with lasers for over fifteen years in his capacity as a board certified physician, and was one of the first doctors to implement SculpSure in the Charlotte area. As a member of The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons, as well as other cosmetic laser societies, Dr. Lipsitz is committed to the non-invasive treatment of

“Hands down the best environment to have this procedure done.” -Patient testimonial various cosmetic issues. Alongside Dr. Lipsitz is Rajul Parekh, RN, MSN, NP, a highly-trained nurse practitioner with over fifteen years of experience in various procedures, and even further extensive training in performing the Sculpsure procedure. At Carolina SculpSure, patients will receive customized, professional, and private treatment by a licensed nurse practitioner in conjunction with Dr. Lipsitz, in a spa-like setting. A consultation is performed before the treatment to design the best configuration to treat you, and if you desire, they can proceed with the treatment during the same visit. There is no significant discomfort, only intervals of warmth: The technique loosens fat cells from the surrounding tissue, resulting in natural elimination by the body. SculpSure delivers long-lasting, non-surgical fat reduction results in just six to twelve weeks. Carolina SculpSure is located in the beautiful and relaxing Savasana Spa and Oasis in the Cotswold area.

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THE RITZ�CARLTON SPA T

he Ritz-Carlton, ranked one of the best hotels in the country, is renowned as one of Charlotte’s most luxurious escapes. The Ritz also provides some of the best rest and relaxation available: The penthouse Spa & Wellness Center exemplifies the hotel’s dedication to the best service in the industry. The 13,000-square-foot spa offers a place for clients to receive treatments, fitness classes, healing practices, and wellness under the careful guidance of the expert therapists, trainers, and technicians staffed at the Ritz-Carlton. The fully-outfitted spa includes four treatment rooms, vitality lounges, a complete fitness center, a

“A relaxing oasis in the heart of uptown that takes the stress away from your day.” cycling studio, an aqua lounge, and a full nail salon. Whether you’re looking for a day of pampering, a massage for sore muscles, or a quick beauty treatment, the Ritz’s spa has you covered. The relaxation lounge, with its draped walls in shimmering bronze and candlelight, is the perfect start to your day of restoration. Guests of the Charlotte hotel can enjoy complimentary access to the ﬁtness center and the aqua lounge, which presents a stunning ﬂoor-to-ceiling view of uptown and incldues a large swimming pool and adjoining whirlpool. Guests can also purchase access to the spa’s Vitality Lounge. The various services offered at the Ritz are some of the best available and have been designed to meet any type of clients’ needs. They provide the highest-quality product ingredients, and offer everything from a honeybased body detox treatment to prenatal massage, a natural eco-friendly body treatment, and a men’s organic customized facial.

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Located in the heart of Uptown Charlotte, The Ritz is a total urban retreat with luxe accommodations, ﬁne dining, a world-class bar, and a fullservice spa that will take your mind out of the city. ADDRESS 201 East Trade Street Charlotte, NC 28202 704-547-2244 ritzcarlton.com SPECIALIZING IN Honey Detox • Massage • Facial • Manicure/Pedicure Packages • Moroccan Oil Body Treatments • Gentleman’s Organic Facial

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IN DEX Amina Rubinacci................................... 22 Arcadia.................................................. 33 Blackhawk Hardware............................. 77 Bruce Julian ...........................................116 Cadenza ..................................................97 Carolina SculpSure .................................61 Charlotte Rug Gallery............................ 117 Chetola Resort .......................................113 Chiott Custom Homes .............................63 ClarkHallDoors......................................89 Clean Catch .............................................83 Cococo Home ..........................................93 Coffey & Thompson .................................36 Cosmetic Dentistry Of The Carolinas .....21 Cottingham Chalk Hayes ........................35 CoutureKnots.........................................87 Craft Growler Shop .................................83 David's LTD ...............................................2 Dewoolfson............................................101 DiamondsDirect.......................BackCover Drawing Room........................................ 75 Dwell Nova .............................................10 EmilyKristinePhotography..................113 Engel & Völkers .......................................55 Fahrenheit ..............................................73 Francois&Co...........................................12

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