GRAVY OPENS DOWNTOWN DINING SIGN UP TO WIN! The next restaurant Dinner at the Raleigh Win free tickets, from Empire Eats: Times Bar and lunch gift certificates Italian-American at J. Betski’s READER and more REWARDS RALEIGHDOWNTOWNERmagaziNE—VOl. 5, issuE 5
features 3. invest in Downtown Raleigh’s summer Fun 11. hot summer Nights sizzles with a New Team West Jones Street | Raleigh, NC 203 www.RaleighDowntowner.com | www.raleigh2.com 14. local history—Batter up! a look at the history of Baseball in Raleigh 18. Raleigh Takes The Runway 99..9000 22. historic Downtown Neighborhoods—Five points Advertısıng ınquırıes: arts & entertainment [email protected] 8. artist profi le—The abstract World of gerry lynch General press releases: 11. spaRKcon ’09 is Coming! [email protected] 15. high school musical 2 hits Raleigh 20. The Deep south local music Review B-to-B press releases and bız sectıon ınfo: 30. Events Calendar [email protected]
General offıce ınquırıes: food & wine offi [email protected] 10. gravy Opens Downtown ———— 12. Downtown Dining—Raleigh Times Bar Publısher / Owner Crash Gregg 24. let’s Do lunch—J. Betski’s Founders Sig Hutchinson, Randall Gregg 26. uncorked—To Cork or Not to Cork Food Edıtor Fred Benton Assıstant Edıtor Chris Adams business Publısher’s Wrangler Melissa Lyon 27. Downtown snapshot—From the Downtown Raleigh alliance Copy Edıtor Melissa Santos 28. Biz 10 Questions—lisa grele Barrie Musıc Edıtor Dan Strobel 29. Business profi le—French | West | Vaughn Offıce Assıstant Lauren Wiley 31. Classifi eds—Real Estate Proofreader Dan Knoy Account Managers Chris Moutos Wrıters Brian Adornetto, Dave Rose, upcoming issue Peter Eichenberger, Joel Morgan, GoInG GREEn. Our 3rd annual green issue! send your ideas green@raleighdowntowner. Chris Moutos, Crash Gregg com on how we can be more environmentally responsible, save power and energy and recom- Fashıon Wrıter Kelly Hubbard mendations on companies in downtown who are doing their part to be more green. Photographer Kathryn Rathbun Desıgner Katie Severa ———— on the cover Rusted Root performs in front of a gener- ous crowd at this year’s Band Together charity event, helping Th e Downtowner is a local monthly print magazine dedicated to to raise over $125,000 for the lucy Daniels Center for Early coverage of downtown Raleigh. Our online publication encompasses Childhood. learn more about the event on their website www. downtown and the surrounding area. Th e current print issue, ad BandTogethernc.org. | photo courtesy John lynner peter- rates/media kit, rack locations and archived issues are available at son, global Village studio, 919-789-8450 www.globalvillag- estudio.com. www.RaleighDowntowner.com a great crowd showed up for Band Together on the left © Copyright 2005-200, Downtown Raleigh Publishing, LLC. Th e name, logo, and any to see bands Rusted Root, The Rosebuds, Chatham County logo iterations of the Raleigh Downtowner, Raleigh Downtowner Magazine and the line, and hobex. Downtowner D graphic are a TM of Downtown Raleigh Publishing LLC. No part of this publication may be reproduced without express written permission.
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These are just a few of the places palladium plaza Capital City Club lounge BB&T The Cupcake Bakery shoppe Third place Coffee poWERHoUSE dISTRICT where the Downtowner is avail- The hudson progress Energy Building Capital Bank primp salonBar lilly’s pizza Blue martini able each month. With our 98%+ commissary Cameron Village library Fly salon J. Edwin’s salon Napper Tandy’s pickup rate, many locations run doWnToWn Fins Village Draft house lee hansley gallery hayes Barton salon 42nd street out after just a few weeks. if Wake County Courthouse Crema york Companies Bliss salon RE/maX Capital Realty you can’t fi nd a copy, visit our Raleigh City Council Building Raleigh Visitors Center Village Deli Revolver Boutique WAREHoUSE dISTRICT website and read the current pDF Raleigh Chamber of Commerce great Outdoor provision Company SEABoARd STATIon Flying saucer Bar available online. you can catch Offi ce of the secretary of state HILLSBoRoUGH ST./nCSU Foster’s HISToRIC dISTRICT seaboard imports The pit Restaurant up on past issues too. North Carolina Theatre offi ce second Empire Restaurant legislative Building cafe seaboard Fitness Jibarra Restaurant if you have suggestions for Broadway series south box offi ce WRal-TV5 lobby GLEnWood SoUTH peace street pharmacy seaboard Wine Deep south—The Bar another location where you’d like Raleigh urban Design Center porter’s Restaurant (sidewalk) sullivan’s steakhouse NC museum of history 18 seaboard (sidewalk) stuff Consignment to see the Downtowner, email us at Empire properties irregardless Café 510 glenwood business foyer NC Dept. of labor ace hardware [email protected]. Raleigh City museum Char-grill (sidewalk) 510 glenwood (sidewalk) NC Dept. of agriculture galatea We love hearing from our readers! MIdToWn/n. RALEIGH Downtown Raleigh alliance goodnight’s Comedy Club mellow mushroom Barnes & Noble (Crabtree) Raleigh Times Bar Clarion hotel hibernian fIVE poInTS/HAYES BARTon MooRE SQUARE Borders Bookstore (Creekside) doWnToWn CondoS morning Times ymCa hillsborough street pourch/Bassment hayes Barton pharmacy artspace Carolina Ballet offi ce The Dawson French | West | Vaughn Theatre in the park Catch 22 hayes Barton Cafe and Dessertery Duck and Dumpling Capstrat advertising 510 glenwood landmark Tavern Beansprout Restaurant maximo salon Nofo @ the pig Tir Na Nog irish pub suntrust Bank (Creedmoor) park Devereux sheraton hotel info desk sushi Blues / zely & Ritz (sidewalk) Rialto moore square, by Big Ed’s The Cotton mill progress Energy building lobby CAMERon VILLAGE helios Coffee shop (sidewalk) Five points post Offi ce (sidewalk) The paramount Cooper’s BBQ suntrust Bank salon 21 Invest in Downtown Raleigh’s
Summer ———— by Elızabeth Shugg ———— Fun
t’s true: signs of the recession are everywhere. of years (we don’t count the three that took place off Grocery stores accept double coupons daily; Glenwood as being part of the original), with the families recycle cans for cash; and couples cel- radio station fi elding calls almost daily asking when Iebrate birthdays at home as the stock market the event will return. At the suggestion of WRAL goes up one day, then down the next. owner, Jim Goodmon, the Downtowner started But here’s something you can confi dently take making plans to make it happen. Th is year’s event stock in: downtown Raleigh’s summer fun value is will be better than ever, involving local charities and trending UP. Free outdoor concerts, educational merchants as well the art community to add a few museum exhibits and Independence Day celebra- twists to the unique event. More news and dates will tions represent just a few of the ways you can fi t be announced soon from the Downtowner. fun into your schedule—and budget—this summer. Here’s our list of things to do, so open your calendar Music for a Cause and start typing. Enjoy a night of classical music, champagne and chocolate July 2 from :30–0:30 p.m. at the Murh- Music to Your Wallet’s Ears phey School’s new Meymandi Th eatre at 22 Polk Experience Music on the Porch at Seaboard Station Street. Th at’s when the Brussels Chamber Orchestra every Friday night from –:30 p.m., June 5–August will perform the opening gala concert to benefi t the 2. Seaboard Station is located on the backside park- Cross Currents Chamber Music and Arts Festival. ing lot next to Peace China and the bands set up One of Europe’s most promising young orchestras, on the porch next to the restaurant. Peace China is Th e Brussels Chamber Orchestra will perform the sponsoring the music. Peace China has an on-prem- Vivaldi Four Seasons with Nana Kawamura as violin ise license, so customers can enjoy a cold beer during soloist. Tickets cost $50 and are available through the the show, and several businesses will remain open to Th e Summer in the Park Concert Series is a free Free Range Studio by calling .2.3 or email- allow restroom access. event held for over ten years in Fred Fletcher Park ing [email protected]. Make checks payable just off Glenwood Avenue near Peace Street. Con- to Friends of the Brussels Chamber Orchestra (a cert-goers are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs 50(c)(3) organization, so 50 percent of the ticket and picnic baskets to enjoy an evening in the park price is tax deductible). You can also use your ticket with concerts beginning at pm. Th e City of Raleigh stub for free entry to Music Day at Marbles July at Parks and Recreation Department Arts Program Marbles Kids Museum (one ticket per each entry). sponsors the series, which continues throughout Learn more at www.crosscurrentsfestival.com or Bud Light Downtown Live returns on Saturdays the summer every Sunday evening except July 5. A www.brusselschamberorchestra.com. June 2–August featuring classic bands from the partial listing of bands and more information can be 0s and 0s. Th e Tubes, known for their No. found on the city’s website at http://bit.ly/cnPv or Billboard hit “She’s A Beauty,” play June 2 with Th e by calling Th ea Fotiu, Arts Program Director for the Loners, Acella Vea and Zydecopious. Joan Jett & the Parks and Recreation Department at .3.5. Blackhearts headline the July show, accompanied Downtown music fans will be excited to hear that by Th e Ts, Violet Vector and Schooner. the Raleigh Downtowner Magazine is resurrecting Th e devil comes down to North Carolina July Raleigh’s favorite aft er-work music series, the origi- 25 when Th e Charlie Daniels Band arrives in town. nal Alive A er Five. Fayetteville Street will come Count on Daniels, a North Carolina native, to deliver alive later this summer with thousands of young to a down-home, knee-slapping performance with hit middle-aged fans enjoying music and socializing songs like “Th e Devil Went Down to Georgia.” Tonic on Th ursdays, transitioning from work to play on closes out Bud Light Live Downtown August with Raleigh’s main street. Licensing the name from the hits like “You Wanted More” and “If You Could Only original sponsor, WRAL, the new Alive Aft er Five Museum + Music + Movies See.” All concerts are free and take place from 2– will follow in the footsteps as the original downtown Th e summer concerts return to the North Caro- p.m. in Moore Square. Learn more at www.raleigh- event, complete with great bands, a local crowd and lina Museum of Art on Blue Ridge Road and are downtownlive.com. plenty of food and drink. Th e music series name is held in the Joseph M. Bryan Jr. Outdoor Th eatre on owned by WRAL and has been absent for a number >>>
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 3 Saturdays (with a couple of Friday shows). Featuring July shows include 3 with special guests Ziggy about watching the movie since 5 cents of every a lineup of great bands, the NCMA Summer Con- Marley and Th e Expendables July 5, Aerosmith with ticket sold is donated to the Just for Kids Kampaign certs are a popular destination each summer. Visi- ZZ Top July , Toby Keith with Trace Adkins July , at WakeMed. tors are welcome to bring their own picnics for the and Kid Rock with Lynyrd Skynyrd July 2. Movies this summer include Kung Fu Panda June events (sans alcohol), but great food is also available On August you can see Nickelback, Hinder, , Moonstruck June , Made of Honor June 25, Wait on site at Blue Ridge, the Museum restaurant. Ticket Papa Roach, and Saving Abel. Rascal Flatts and Until Dark July 2, He’s Just Not Th at Into You July , prices vary according to artist and Museum mem- Darius Rucker will perform the very next night, Twilight July , Blade of Glory July 30, Mama Mia bers receive a discount. August 2. Coldplay, one of today’s hottest bands, August , and Tales of Despereaux August 3. Shows this summer include the Toubab Krewe arrives in town August . And on August Def Lep- Dance Party June 20, Sisters of Soul Bettye Lavette and pard, Poison and Cheap Trick will put on a heavy An old-fashioned outdoor drive-In Marcia Ball July 0, Dan Zanes and Friends July , metal show in preparation for Crue Fest 2 on August Okay, it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s worth it to enjoy local bands Th e Annuals and Th e Old Ceremony July 23. Creed is in town September , and Th e Allman North Carolina’s oldest operating drive-in theatre, 25, Chicago Blues Tribute featuring Hubert Sumlin Brothers Band and Widespread Panic perform Th e Raleigh Road Outdoor Th eatre in Henderson and Bob Margolin (followed by October . Visit www.livenation. (333 Raleigh Road). In 200, the new owners reno- a screening of Cadillac Records) com for more information and to vated and restored the theatre so a new generation of on August , a blues/stringband order tickets. movie-goers can experience the old fashioned enjoy- extravaganza with Algia Mae ment of watching a drive-in movie. Movie listings Hinton, Willette Hinton, Light- next door in Cary and directions can be found at www.raleighroad- nin’ Wells, John Dee Holeman, Th e Koka Booth Amphitheatre drivein.com. Th eir movie line is 252.3.5. Phil Wiggins, and Wayne Martin in Cary is unlike any other venue and the Buggy Riders (followed in the area. Located among first friday downtown by a screen of Godfrey Cheshire’s acres of stately hardwoods and First Friday is one of Raleigh’s most popular eve- Moving Midway) August 2, pines and situated next to Sym- ning events. Enjoy a free self-guided tour of local art Paperhand Puppet Intervention phony Lake, the park has a capi- galleries, studios, museums, retail, restaurants, and on September and 2, Th ey tacity for ,000 with seating both alternative art venues. Music, beverages and fi nger Might Be Giants September , and Doc Watson/ on the spacious lawn and the specially-designed food are available at most locations. To get around, David Volt on September 2. Get a full description crescent deck. It’s one of our favorite destinations to drive, take a rickshaw, ride the free R-line circula- and ticket prices at www.ncartmuseum.org/events/ enjoy an outside show. tor bus, or join the Raleigh First Friday bicycle crew summerconcert.shtml. You can also pre-purchase Th is year’s impressive lineup includes Elvis Cos- (just show up at the NCSU Bell Tower at p.m. with tickets as well. tello June , the Summerfest Symphony series your bike). Look for the First Friday fl ags outside Th e Movies on the Lawn are also held at the where fl ip-fl ops are perfect attire for listening to the Museum of Art. General admission is just $3 and FREE NC Symphony outdoors: Movie Soundtracks Under to Museum members (yet another reason to join). Th is the Stars June 20; Cirque de la Symphonie June 2; summer’s movie lineup includes Frost/Nixon June 3, Independence Day Concert/Fireworks (FREE!) July Man on Wire June , Dhoom: 2 June 2, Slumdog ; Play-a-Video Game Symphony July ; and Rus- Millionaire June 2, Kung Fu Panda July , Milk July , sian Masterpieces July ; John Legend with India. Young at Heart July 2, Iron Man July 3, Kit Kittrege Arie July 2; Corey Smith July ; Robert Cray with August , Th e Class August , Th e Visitor August , Shemekia Copeland July 23; Jason Mraz with G. Th e Duchess August 2, Th e Sting with Paul Newman Love and Special Sauce July 2; Th e Soul Picnic with August 22, Gone with the Wind August 2. Mint Condition, Doug E. Fresh, Carl Th omas on August ; Beer, Bourbon and BBQ Festival August local businesses and pick up a free map, which can Music for the Masses 5; O.A.R. August 23; 2nd Annual Benefi t Concert be found at most locations. For a downloadable First Walnut Creek’s summer concert series kicked off at for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame September ; Friday map and location listing, visit www.Raleigh- the Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion June with Stryper, Pillar, Rush of Fools, Flight Patterns, Barlow- Downtowner.com/fi rstfriday. We’ll be adding new Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley and Jimmy Wayne. Addi- girl, Superchik and VOTA October ; and Bonnie photos of the First Friday venues, with a few new tional June shows include No Doubt and Paramore, Raitt October . locations each month. and Bad Company and Th e Doobie Brothers June 23. Get out for fun Take sports in a totally diff erent—and social—direc- tion with the TRI SPORTS Social Club. Th is orga- On Th ursday nights from June until August, the nization, also known as MEETandCOMPETE.com, Booth Amphitheatre also plays host to Movies by assembles Triangle professionals of all ages for a Moonlight. Movie buff s are invited to attend this myriad of sports such as basketball, beach volleyball, family-friendly event to watch movies under the fl ag football, kickball, and even broomball. All sports stars. Bring a chair or blanket and enjoy a movie are co-ed and full teams, groups of friends and indi- for $3 (kids under 2 are free). Gates open at p.m., viduals are encouraged to register for leagues. Th ey and movies start at dusk. You can feel even better also have an extensive social calendar of summer
4 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 historic demonstrators. Th e event takes place on the Raleigh’s most popular traditions, off ering partici- Capitol grounds from a.m.–3 p.m. Learn more at pants an opportunity to tour the city’s art, music and www.ncstatecapitol.org. dining scene from – p.m. the fi rst Friday of every Th e Triangle’s largest Independence Day celebra- month. Just look for First Friday fl ags to locate par- tion returns to the Koka Booth Amphitheatre at ticipating venues. Visit www.godowntownraleigh. Regency Park in Cary July . Th e North Carolina com/FirstFriday for additional information. Symphony will perform, lead by Assistant Conduc- tor Joan Landry and featuring Resident Conductor and Summerfest Artistic Director, William Henry Curry. Fireworks sponsored by the Town of Cary will follow the concert, which is free. Gates open at 5pm activities including an annual visit to Spain for the and the show starts at :30 p.m. Learn more at www. La Tomatina Tomato Fight. Find out more at www. ncsymphony.org and www.boothamphitheatre.com/ trissc.com. summerfest.htm. Gates for the N.C. State Fairgrounds’ free July American Celebrations Fourth Celebration open at 5:30 p.m., with games, Celebrate the North Carolina State Capitol’s th infl atables, music, and more lasting until about :30 birthday this year at a party serving up barbecue and p.m. Fireworks begin at :5 p.m. In the event of live music. Call .33. for more information. inclement weather, all indoor activities will remain as When July Fourth rolls around, you’ve got urban scheduled and the fi reworks display will be resched- Museum Musings and suburban options for where to celebrate. Th e uled for July 5 at p.m. Visit www.ncstatefair.org/ Th e N.C. Museum of Natural Sciences has opened its annual Independence Day celebration at the North events/-0.htm for details. doors to a delectable special exhibit through Septem- Carolina State Capitol will once again feature a patri- Start celebrating Independence Day July 3 during ber . “Chocolate” off ers a deliciously unforgettable otic concert and picnic, and “Old Fashioned Fourth” Raleigh’s First Friday Gallery Walk. Sponsored by the journey through the sumptuous treat’s history. Th e area depicting how North Carolinians celebrated the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and the City of Raleigh story begins in the rainforest with the unique cacao holiday long ago, musical performances, food, and Arts Commission, First Friday is one of downtown tree, whose seeds provide the foundation for making >>>
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 5 chocolate, which has served as gift s for the gods and a drivers and how to reserve one for your next outing symbol of wealth and luxury. It continues with a pre- at www.raleighrickshaw.com. sentation of how the ancient Mayans in Central Amer- ica used chocolate nearly ,500 years ago and how the Kid-Approved Aztec civilization of th-century Mexico valued cacao Kids have nearly as many—if not more—options seeds as though it were money. Upperclass European for how to spend their summer downtown as adults society’s discovery of chocolate helped transform do. Here are ways to entertain the troops as the chocolate into a mass-produced world commodity. mercury rises. Admission is $ for adults, $5 for seniors, $5 for • N.C. Museum of Art Outdoor Movies: “Kung Fu members of the military, $5 for students, $ for chil- Panda” on July and “Kit Kittredge: An Ameri- dren age 5-, and free for children under age 5 and can Girl” on August . museum members. Learn more at http://natural- • Marbles Kids Museum: www.marbleskidsmu- sciences.org. seum.org Kids will love the N.C. Museum of History’s • Moore Square Farmers Market: www.godown- “Knights of the Black Flag” exhibit which explores townraleigh.com/farmersmarket the legacy of the high seas’ most infamous rogues. • N.C. State Farmers Market: www.agr.state.nc.us/ View perfectly-preserved artifacts and learn about markets/facilities/markets/raleigh pirate legends and history. Admission is free for ages State Farmers Market just across the MLK Express- • N.C. Symphony’s Summer Concert Series: www. and under, $5 for ages and up, and $ for senior way on Lake Wheeler Road (exit 2 off I-0). Cov- ncsymphony.org citizens, active military personnel, and adult groups ering 5 acres, the modern facility has plenty of out- • Th e Magnifi cent Mile Race and Fun Run: www. of 0 or more. door covered produce and goods for sale as well as ncroadrunners.org/magmile/index.html Another exhibit at the N.C. Museum of His- up to 225,000 feet of climate-controlled, all-season • Parks and Hiking: visit www.triangletracks.com/ tory, “Elected to Serve: North Carolina’s Governors,” retail and wholesale spaces. Visit http://bit.ly/farm- notes/Outdoor_TRACKS for a complete list of explores how governors have helped shape North ersmarket or www.agr.state.nc.us/markets/facilities/ parks and hiking trails in Raleigh and throughout Carolina through contributions to agriculture, indus- markets/raleigh for hours and more details. the Triangle try, education, and other areas. You can even view • Raleigh Rickshaw Rides: www.raleighrickshaw.com Getting Around dresses the First Ladies and Gov. Beverly Purdue • Historic Raleigh Trolley: www.raleighnc.gov (type If you haven’t ridden an historic Raleigh Trolley, wore to inaugural balls over the years. For additional “trolley” in search window) information, visit http://ncmuseumofh istory.org. plan to take a tour this summer. Raleigh Trolleys operate every Saturday from am to 3 pm through A Healthy Market December and depart from Mordecai Historic Park Th e Moore Square Farmers Market off ers down- on the hour. Th e narrated tour lasts about an hour town residents fresh produce from local farms every with stops throughout downtown. Tickets are $ for Wednesday from 0:30 am–2 pm through August. adults and $ for ages –. Children and under Meet local growers and artisans; experience the chef can ride for free. For more information contact Mor- series, live music, and rotating craft ers on select dates; decai Historic Park at .5.3. and pick up a delicious lunch provided by a local Complete your outdoor experience this summer restaurant. Go to www. by hailing a Raleigh Rickshaw. Drivers ensure cus- godowntownraleigh. tomer comfort and some play music through iPods For a complete listing of children’s events being com/farmersmarket for connected to small speakers. All Raleigh Rickshaw held throughout the Triangle this summer, including more information. drivers have taken training classes through the FREE summer movies, click on www.triangletracks. For fresh produce Raleigh City Museum to learn more about the city’s com/events. and NC goodness seven history to share with customers as they ride through days a week, visit the town. Learn more about Raleigh Rickshaws, their Elizabeth Shugg is a writer in Apex.
6 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 Sign Up for Free Reader Rewards!
he Downtowner is proud to continue another Square. Take a memorable sightseeing adventure Tinstallment of Reader Rewards. Each month, of Raleigh’s historic landmarks on an eco-friendly we give away gifts and services to our devoted read- self-balancing Segway. www.trianglesegway.com ers, with this month’s Rewards worth over $900. • Four $25 gift certificates to The Mint Restaurant To sign up for Reader Rewards, just visit our located on Fayetteville Street, in the heart of website at www.RaleighDowntowner.com and click downtown. www.themintrestaurant.com on the SIGN UP NOW! button. You’ll be eligible to • Four $25 gift certificates to Solas. Dine, lounge, win Reader Rewards each month by signing up for roof. Raleigh’s all-inclusive three-floor restaurant, our online news magazine. The Downtowner will dance lounge and rooftop experience. help keep you informed about all the latest news and www.solasraleigh.com events happening in and around Raleigh. • Four $25 gift certificates to The Oxford. A Brit- ish gastropub in the heart of downtown Raleigh. This Month’s Reader Rewards www.oxfordraleigh.com • Four tickets to an upcoming Broadway Series • Four $25 gift certificates to Sono. Sleek. Sexy. South show. Broadway quality shows brought Sushi. Downtown. www.sonoraleigh.com directly to you. www.broadwayseriessouth.com • Four tickets to an upcoming Carolina Ballet per- We’d like to thank our readers and advertisers for formance. Experience world-class ballet here in making the Downtowner a huge success. Reader Raleigh. www.carolinaballet.com Rewards are our way of saying thanks and also to • Four $30 Segway Guided Tours from Triangle introduce you to some of our great advertisers. Be Segway, located in City Market next to Moore sure to sign up to win your share! www.RaleighDowntowner.com
Offi cial host of WRITERS Raleigh Downtowner AND PHOTOGRAPHERS WANTED The Raleigh Downtowner Magazine is searching for contributing writers and photographers for both our print and web editions. If you’re passionate about any of the topics below, or have a new idea you’d like to pitch, send us An Enterprise Class an email to [email protected]. Managed Hosting Provider Music Travel Books Events Sports Movies You can Trust. Fashion Investing Cooking Nightlife Government Real Estate Visual Arts Environment Photography Restaurants People Photos Creative Writing Performing Arts Health & Fitness Home & Garden Leverage the scalability and fl exibility of enterprise ready, high availability solutions to reduce capex and optimize your IT infrastructure. Visit HostedSolutions.com to learn how.
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RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 7 ARTISTpROFilE
The Abstract World of Gerry Lynch by Lee Hansley
rt is made in as many diverse environments as ambiguous subjects. Only occasionally do her titles Athe art itself—kitchen tables and countertops, provide a clue for what the artist may be trying to basements and bedrooms, makeshift backyard shacks evoke. But the subject that sets the artist off on her and even plush studio buildings designed for the journey doesn’t really matter. Th e viewer can come express purpose of making art. Some of the best art can to his own conclusion, relating on a visceral level. be made in the most unlikely spaces. A good exam- Gerry’s studio is itself a work in progress. Th ere are ple in downtown Raleigh is the work of Gerry Lynch racks and racks of fi nished panels and canvases, hun- which is created on the second fl oor of an old commer- dreds of tubes of paint in various stages of use, con- cial building in Boylan Heights. Th e tainers fi lled with brushes and other studio features an array of windows implements used in craft ing her overlooking a railroad track and just surfaces. Scraps of canvas, printed beyond and framed in razor wire, the images from post cards, books and bland and brutal landscape of maxi- magazines for inspiration and refer- mum security Central Prison. How- ence and bits and pieces of cut metal ever, Lynch’s work has no relation- that look like they’ve been through ship to what she sees through that the shredder surround her. All this expanse of windows. goes into the artmaking of Gerry Her work, rooted in modern- Lynch. Th is studio is a refl ection of ism pub:and specifi Downtowner cally in expression- her art and the nucleus of her own ism,size: embodies 10.127 the pathos x of6.25 her peculiar world.
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DOWNLOAD YOUR SEASON ORDER FORM AT www.broadwayseriessouth.com or visit the box office M-F 9am-5:30pm All shows at Raleigh Memorial Auditorium
8 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 Th e artist has a very open approach regarding use killed and kids are being blown up from these shiny of materials. Virtually anything and everything that objects that are really deadly, yet look appealing can be applied to canvas or panel are fodder for Gerry. and beautiful. I was never able to make the objects Lately her works have incorporated more metal than appear menacing,” she states. paint. Th ese works have a distinctly urban aesthetic; One cannot encounter the work of Gerry Lynch they reference the throwaway-attitude of the machine without feeling an Asian infl uence. Her brush work age with built-in obsolescence. She takes the soci- and her overall aesthetic are Asian. Th e sparseness ety’s jetsam, retools and manipulates it, twist and or negative space in her work reinforces and empha- folds it, bends and cuts it to create something new. sizes the areas where design elements are employed. Th e canvas or panel becomes the backdrop for the She had begun to explore the use of metal before She currently has a large polyptych (a work of art pieces that are applied and it establishes a parameter she relocated the studio, but she purposely focused composed of several connected panels) entitled “Six for viewing a carefully placed assemblage of objects. on metal in her art at the new light-fi lled studio on Days in May” on permanent display in the lobby of Something new is born. Lenoir Street. She began cutting up strips of metal and the Fletcher Opera Th eatre at the performing arts Gerry, who is surprisingly youthful for her using them in her work, adhering metal to canvas and center downtown and two large-scale paper pieces years, grew up in Boston and earned an education panel alike. Th ere were like collage elements in her on loan and displayed on the ballroom level of the degree at Boston State College (now Massachusetts work. From there she graduated to using metal as her new Raleigh Convention Center. University), and later a Master’s Degree in painting ground and she began etching into the metal surfaces. While she was in ArtSpace, Gerry Lynch was and textile design at Montclair University in . Unfortunately for Lynch, about the time she clearly one of the most consistent and inventive artists Gerry moved to Raleigh in 0 when her hus- moved her studio, metal skyrocketed in price. Th e housed there. Her studio was where you could always band Bill Lynch accepted a job off er at a semicon- price of metal forced her to think smaller. As a direct expect to experience something new and inventive, a ductor fi rm in Research Triangle Park. For the fi rst reaction to what was going on in Iraq, she began surprise even. Now that her studio is much more pri- time in her life, Gerry declared herself a full-time faceting small metal objects that hung in groups. vate, her work is now more creative and solid. artist and rented a studio at ArtSpace. While there She called these works IEDs (improvised explosive When asked what’s next for Gerry Lynch, she admits, she mainly made monoprints and small to midsize devices). She made over 200 of her IEDs from metal “I’d like for my work to be recognized by the museum.” paintings. She began to feel confi ned and wanted to and other found objects. Oddly, most are delicate Is anybody paying attention on Blue Ridge Road? burst forth with larger works. She moved about fi ve and alluringly beautiful as objects. years ago to her current studio where she is free to “Th ings aren’t always what they appear,” Lynch Lee Hansley is a former newspaper editor, museum cura- work in a much larger space. says of her Iraq-inspired pieces. “People are getting tor and now owns Lee Hansley Gallery on Glenwood South.
SUMMER OF SE7EN ALL LUNCH ENTREES $7 FOR THE SUMMER. TUESDAY - SATURDAY ONLY JUNE 16TH - SEPTEMBER 22ND
(919) 755 0556 327 W. DAVIE ST. SUITE 102 RALEIGH, NC 27601
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 9 Gravy Opens Downtown by Crash Gregg n its fi ft h establishment downtown, sauce, more or less, not Southern gravy. there’s a heavy Italian community infl u- the best and brightest from all over who Empire Eats—a sister company of When Greg and his wife, Samantha ence. We’re taking some of their staples want to work in our restaurants.” Empire Properties, owned by devel- Smith of the News & Observer fashion and then adding other chef-driven plates. Gravy will be open for lunch and I oper turned restaurateur/downtown column, began dating, they would ven- Th e restaurant will have its own chef, Roeh dinner six days a week, Monday through advocate Greg Hatem—has now added ture into North Raleigh to Bella Monica Lewit, and not just a kitchen manager. Saturday, opening at am daily, closing Italian-American to their list of restaurant where they could enjoy dinner outside Roeh is excited about this project and has at 0pm weekdays and midnight on the off erings with the recently-opened Gravy. the downtown “fi shbowl.” Samantha had put his own mark on it, which is what we weekend. Th e average lunch price will First, you might ask, what does the name previously met the owners, Corbett and wanted—something chef-driven. He was be around $0, with dinner in the $0- mean? We’ve had people ask if the restau- Julie Monica, while writing her retail beat able to take the vision of our partners and range. A full bar is available in addition rant will feature Southern fare, assum- for the N&O she got to know them. Fast put his particular spin on it.” to a food-friendly Italian wine list. ing that gravy meant one of the staples of forward a year or two years and Greg is Chef Roeh’s most recent from a stint Photo Gravy Chef Roeh Lewit with co- at Gjelina in Venice, California, and pre- trying to help them fi nd a space down- owners Greg Hatem, Trevor Chambers and town. Th e timing wasn’t right for Bella so viously at Riviera Resto, the space’s last Corbett Monica (being the proud new father nothing resulted from the search. When tenant. His thoughts on Gravy, “I would that he is, Greg wanted to make sure we one of Greg’s commercial tenants closed describe Gravy as having the familiarity noticed the baby bottle in his shirt pocket) up shop, Riviera Resto, it left a restaurant- and freshness of home-cooking, but done ready space opening. With no takers in with downtown attitude and style. Every- the slow economy, talks began again with thing will be done from scratch, in-house. the Monicas (plus Trevor Chambers, It’ll be like a having a great meal at home, Julie’s brother-in-law) and a partnership but with 00 other friends joining you. Jatie, was formed. With Empire Eats concen- previously at Vin, will be our Sous Chef, trating on its strong suit, running restau- and we’re working on some great ideas that rants downtown, it let Bella Monica and you’ll see on the menu here at Gravy.” its chef focus on the culinary aspects of Noting the quickness of the last proj- good-old fashioned cooking: brown gravy. the restaurant. ect’s completion, it’s apparent that Empire Not even close. Th e word gravy was used Speaking with Corbett and Greg while Eats restaurant know-how has grown since by early Italian-American immigrants to at a recent pre-opening dinner at Gravy, their fi rst venture in the Duck & Dump- describe pasta sauce used as a condiment. Corbett told us, “Gravy will be reminis- ling several years prior. Proud of their In Italy, there are two types of sauce, sugo cent of a village restaurant in Manhattan. accomplishments, Greg agreed, “We’re and salsa. Sugo comes from succo (mean- We’re taking some elements from Bella getting better and better at it. We have a ing juices) and refers to rich meat-based and contemporizing them. Many of our clearer vision about what we’re trying to sauces or a thick vegetable sauce. Salsa is original menu items will be there, but create at the beginning, and the team that a semi-liquid sauce used as a condiment with a twist. Our wine list will be all-Ital- we have now is absolutely amazing, from (like spaghetti sauce). Th e translation ian, with a lot of boutique wines rather the chefs all the way to the servers. One GRAVY from sugo/salsa to sauce/gravy may have than all large winery labels.” thing I think people understand now is 135 s. Wilmington street occurred when immigrating families fi rst “We’re really excited about this project what Empire Eats is. Th ey know the high www.gravyraleigh.com settled into new neighborhoods in Amer- because nothing exists like this in Raleigh,” caliber of food and service that our res- 919.896.8513 ica. Some families translated the Italian for Greg explained. “We’re not doing a Bella taurants provide. Th at’s why we work with ———— what they put on their pasta as gravy, while Monica II. Gravy will be an Italian-Amer- folks like David Mao (Th e Duck & Dump- see an exclusive preview of their lunch others translated it as sauce, and the expres- ican restaurant. We’re not pretending to ling), Ed Mitchell and Loren Th ompson and dinner menus here: sions have been passed down through the go back to Sicily, just great food like you’d (Th e Pit) and Corey Palakovich (Raleigh http://bit.ly/RDm_gravy generations ever since. So Gravy = pasta fi nd in New York or Philly or cities where Times). And that’s why we’re able to attract
10 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 Hot Summer nights Sizzles with a new Team
———— by Hılary Russo ————
itting Five Never Felt So Hot! Other changes are also in the HAs Hot Summer Nights at the works. Th e theatre is taking a Kennedy enters its fi ft h season, it “recession-friendly” approach will be under the direction of some- by not only lowering their ticket one new, someone who plans to go prices ($-$22), but also pro- full steam ahead—Raleigh native ducing four shows instead of the and Broadway actress Lauren Ken- usual six. “Sylvia” (June -2), nedy. Taking over a theatre company “I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now is no stretch for Lauren as acting is Change” (July -) and “Th e in her blood and her family’s name Turn of the Screw” (July 2–Au- is on the building, aft er all. gust ) will be shown at the “Th is kind of grassroots operation intimate 00-seat Kennedy Th e- has always been exciting for me. I atre, part of the Progress Energy love being surrounded by people who Center for the Performing Arts. just want to tell stories and entertain,” “Drift ” (September 2-20), a says Lauren. “Raleigh has been build- new musical by Lauren’s friend ing a wonderful arts community and and New York composer Jeremy I want to be a part of it.” Schoenfeld, will be performed Th is professional summer the- at the new Lauren Kennedy and atre company started in June 2005 Alan Campbell Th eatre at Barton when Lauren’s father, Raleigh business man K.D. Kennedy, College, Hot Summer Nights’ sister school in Wilson, NC. Jr., and her younger brother Michael had a vision: Th e Ken- Lauren and Alan believe that this partnership with Barton will nedy men wanted to help promote downtown Raleigh’s help keep the ideas and creativity fl owing. revitalization by keeping the arts alive during the summer “I want to continue to educate as well as entertain,” months, a time when most people leave for the beach. explains Lauren. “I want to off er workshops and master During the last four seasons, Hot Summer Nights has classes with professionals in addition to the concept that been called one of the best theatres in the Triangle, pulling seeing good theatre helps you recognize good theatre.” in the combined talents from both Broadway and North For more on Hot Summer Nights, visit: www.hotsum- Carolina. For Lauren, the combination sparked an even mernightsatthekennedy.org. better ensemble … a staff consisting of not only her hus- ———— band, Tony Award-nominated actor Alan Campbell, but Hilary Russo is a professional actor, on-air talent and publicist. She also local professional actors Adam Twiss, Andrea Twiss can be seen hosting the independent lm show “Second Cinema” and Hilary Russo. Everyone on staff this year has worked statewide on Time Warner Cable. She is also an award-winning with Hot Summer Nights in the past, so Th e Fab Five are broadcast journalist and writer. Visit www.hilaryrusso.com a perfect match in Lauren’s opinion. “We have collected an Photo e new Fab at HSN (L to R): Adam Twiss, Andrea incredible group of actors and creators. We love what we do Schulz Twiss, Alan Campbell, Lauren Kennedy, and Hilary and are passionate about keeping the theatre a vital place.” Russo. Photo by Katherine Kennedy.
SpARKcon ’09 is Coming!
hat is SPARKcon? It’s a four-day celebration of the Beginning on June , SPARKcon will be soliciting the creativity from around the Triangle community. latest and greatest of deepest natural resources—our own WTh is year on September -20, Raleigh’s Fayetteville Street, as creativity. Whether its fashion, poetry, dance, graffi ti, com- well as public spaces, clubs, and stages will be fi lled with art, munity ideas, or other modes of expression, we want to music, dance, fi lm, fashion, design and much more. showcase the best we all have to off er. SPARKcon celebrates local cultural richness through an Visit their website at sparkcon.com and check out the open-source approach to diversity, collaboration and cross entry forms for this year’s SPARK events. pollination. It’s not a city program, a non-profi t, or an eco- nomic development stunt. It’s completely grass-roots “by the e Raleigh Downtowner Magazine is a proud sponsor of people for the people.” Join as downtown Raleigh explores SPARKcon and active member in musicSPARK, storySPARK, and artSPARK. More volunteers and sponsors are needed, so visit and showcases the creative spirit of the Triangle. www.sparkcon.com for more information on how you can help.
calls for participants and other info at sparkcon.com SPARKcon is coming Sept 17–20
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 11 Downtown DınıNg Raleigh Times Bar by Brıan Adornetto
ocated in the completely restored 03- Smoking Times on the left which features Th ough we’ve previously done a Let’s Raleigh Times Bar (designed to look like a year-old Times building, Th e Raleigh another full bar (hand carved in 5 in Do Lunch article on the Times back in 2 edition of the namesake’s newspaper) L Times Bar is steeped in history. As Bayonne, NJ) as well as additional tables. October of 200, we felt obliged to revisit is a mix of gourmet sandwiches, salads, soon as you walk in you’ll see a 20-foot- Akin to the personality of the bar’s for dinner. Th e menu has changed quite a full plates, and upscale twists on tradi- long photo taken in 2 of paper boys feel, the staff is laid back and fun. It’s obvi- bit since our last profi le and the Times is tional bar food. From the sandwich sec- picking up their stack of newspapers in ous that they’re there not only to serve perfect for a casual dinner before heading tion, we sampled the French Dip (slices front of this same building, the old home but also to make sure you have a great to a show at the Progress Energy Center of house roasted prime rib and melted of the Raleigh Times newspaper. Lining time. And that’s exactly what our server, or discovering the ever-growing night- provolone topped with caramelized bal- the rest of the exposed brick and stripped Christmas, did. life options downtown. Th e menu at Th e samic onions and natural jus), the Buff alo plaster walls are photos, clippings and arti- Chicken, and the hulking Raleigh Times facts from important events and people Burger (made with a half pound of fresh that helped shape the city of Raleigh. Th e house-ground beef). All were perfectly idea behind the decor was to highlight the cooked and so well seasoned that we were local culture, and that it certainly does. unable to decide which we liked best. Even though the building was kept as We also had the entrée-sized Chop close to it’s original state as possible, it has Salad and Country French Salad. Th e modern industrial elements, a contem- Chop Salad was absolutely delicious with porary menu and an expansive beer list fresh bacon, creamy gorgonzola, and that includes the newest brews as well as crunchy fennel. It was simultaneously old favorites (like PBR). Th e space itself is smoky, tangy, sweet, and salty. Th e tex- broken into three sections: Th rough the turally-intriguing Country French Salad front door is the main bar area and tables was a huge hit with our table as well. Th is in front and back; on the right is a sepa- salad features fl avorful roasted beets, blue rated dining room. For smokers, there’s the cheese, fresh pears, and walnuts. Th e
12 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 Ed Mitchell’s famous barbeque) and the explains, “Our idea is to capture the most Fried Calamari. Th e nachos were every- stylistically correct brews. It doesn’t matter one’s choice as best overall dish. Th e com- if they come from small farms in Belgium RALEIGH TIMES BAR bination of house-fried chips, homemade or airport hangers in Fuquay-Varina. We 14 East hargett street pico de gallo (fresh Mexican salsa), queso want it to be all about the beer.” But beer 919.833.0999 | www.raleightimesbar.com fresco (a white, soft , moist, crumbly, mildly isn’t the only beverage of choice. Bartenders ———— fl avored Mexican cheese), fresh jalapenos, here whip up amazing cocktails featuring hOuRs: and BBQ pork is outrageous. Th e Times delicious homemade mixers made from monday through saturday 11:30 am–2 am GM David McCants and Bar’s calamari is not your run of the mill only the freshest ingredients. sunday 12 pm- 2 am Chef Corey Palakovich greasy marinara-laden pub fare—crisp, Th e Raleigh Times Bar is a great place accepts: all major Credit Cards ingredient that made this dish so memo- light and tossed with diced fresh tomatoes, for dinner, lunch, or a late-night snack parking: On the street or in nearby parking rable, though, was the Kriek vinaigrette feta cheese, olives, lemon juice, and a touch and drinks. It has a fun atmosphere, cre- decks smoking: in the smoking Times made with a Belgian lambic Oude Beer- of garlic—making it another impressive ative and tasty food, a remarkable beer list, Full Bar: yes sel Kriek Vieille, a wild-fermented wheat dish in Chef Corey’s repertoire, as well as and friendly, knowledgeable staff . It’s clear Vegetarian Options: yes beer. It added a fruity, slightly sour com- my personal favorite. We can’t go without why this place is such a popular down- private parties: yes plexity to the salad and was like no other mentioning the Chicken Fried Pickles just town destination seven days a week. Noise level: Can get loud private Dining: yes dressing we had ever tasted in town. because they’re pickles … that are fried. Not Outdoor seating: yes For a vegetarian dish, we found the a side for everyone, but we found them to Our favorite local foodie, Fred Benton, is taking some time o from his Food Editor Cannellini Bean Cakes crunchy and moist, be pretty tasty, especially with the roasted position at the Downtowner. and most importantly, extremely satisfy- garlic ranch dipping sauce. ing. Served on a bed of sautéed leeks and But the food isn’t the only reason to Brian Adornetto is a culinary instructor, sun dried tomatoes, this dish showcased visit. Th e Raleigh Times Bar is a beer-lover’s freelance food writer and personal chef. He Chef Corey Palakovich’s creativity and paradise. Its diverse inventory includes rare teaches regularly at A Southern Season in Chapel Hill and his business, Love at First boutique beers whose fl avor you might not understanding of complimentary fl avors. Bite, o ers private cooking classes and inti- Th e standouts among the bar fare even recognize as beer, as well as local micro- mate dinner parties. For more information, were the BBQ Pork nachos (made with brews. General Manager David McCants please visit him at www.loveat rstbite.net.
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 13 Local History Batter Up! A Look at the History of Baseball in Raleigh by Jenny Litzelman, Raleigh City Museum
aseball first made its way into the sold to Durham Life Insurance, becom- hearts of Raleigh citizens when the ing WPTF in 1929. B Union Army occupied Raleigh at As Raleigh moved into the 1900s, new the end of the Civil War in 1865. Raleigh baseball clubs such as the Capitals were did not experience any battles within born and the city began to see a wider the immediate area and to pass the time division between professional and ama- Union troops amused themselves with teur leagues. Many neighborhoods had a popular northern pastime, baseball. their own amateur team and often played Civil War soldiers played at Baptist Grove games for local charities. Local businesses (now Moore Square), Camp Russell, and competed against one another and wom- Nash Square. en’s teams were recorded as early as 1889. Raleigh citizens quickly fell in love On a professional level, the Capitals with baseball and the earliest baseball served as Raleigh’s minor league team for diamond, created in 1866, was built on several decades and played at Devereux a plateau overlooking the city near the Meadow Baseball Park. The Capitals Joel Lane home. Around this time, Wake enjoyed many exciting seasons, especially Forest students also created a baseball in 1959 when Carl Yastrzemski (he went diamond and played against nearby on to play for the Boston Red Sox) was communities. voted Most Valuable Player. Interest in Segregation dominated baseball’s minor league baseball tapered off in the first years in Raleigh. Early white teams 1960s, and by 1971, Raleigh was without a included the Athletics, Swiftfoots, and minor league team. In 1991, minor league Stars. African-American teams such as baseball returned to Raleigh in the form the Pastimes and Socials also adopted important means of collecting necessary of the Carolina Mudcats. Today Raleigh baseball early on, though it would be equipment. Protective gear, however, did citizens have their pick of two local teams, many years before teams integrated or not exist in the early years of baseball in the Carolina Mudcats and the Durham played against one another. The Nationals Raleigh. By 1885 several cities formed the Bulls, showing us that baseball is alive were the most popular African-American North Carolina Baseball Association and and well around our capital city. team and boasted higher attendance than the game became more organized. During their white counterparts. The Raleigh City Museum is located at 220 this time, professional players were hired Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh and to a small extent, though they were even- is open from 10am-4pm Tuesday through tually let go for economic reasons. Friday, and 1-4pm on Saturdays. Check out William Wynne is considered the first our newest exhibit, Portraits of Raleigh: Images of a City and Her North Carolinian to play for the major People, which opened to leagues. Born in 1869, he played for the the public March 6, 2009. Raleigh Amateurs in the 1880s. He later Part two of Portraits of went on to play for the Washington Sena- Raleigh, titled Series II, opened to the public tors of the National League in 1894. Wynne Friday, June 5, 2009 at once pitched seven games in six days with 6pm. If you have any an open gunshot wound in his right arm. questions, please call 919- Ever the character, Wynne was the first 832-3775 or check out our person recorded to ride a bicycle down website at www.raleighci- tymuseum.org. the Capitol steps and then attempted to ride down the steps of the Washington ———— Local teams took up collections to buy Monument only to have his bicycle seized Photos Left: 1949 St. Augustine’s College their uniforms. At games, winning teams by guards. Wynne also started the radio baseball team. Center:Raleigh High School received a ball and bat as their prize, an station, WRCO in 1924, which he later baseball players, circa 1950s.
14 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 High School Musical 2 Hits Raleigh by Krıstın Buıe
orth Carolina Th eatre announces the auditions, locally and in New York City, Hushion gives some insight on casting touches. We are so fortunate to have her Nregional premiere of Disney’s High 50 talented youngsters were chosen. and the local talent pool in Raleigh: “Usu- on our team!” School Musical , presented by Capital ally, this kind of production would be Tickets for Disney’s High School Musi- Bank. Round two with the East High Wild- Local Teacher part of the Cast done with professional adult actors play- cal are $ to $ and can be purchased cats runs June 3-2 at the Raleigh Memo- Broughton High band director Jeff rey ing high school kids. With the remarkable by calling Ticketmaster at 00-5-3000 rial Auditorium. Th e story picks up where Richardson, also known as “JR,” has been talent pool we have here, we were able to or online at www.nctheatre.com. Walk High School Musical left off ; only the setting cast as Mr. Fulton in the show. For the cast over 30 local high school-aged kids ups are also available at the NC Th eatre has changed. School’s out for the summer past 3 years, JR has grown the Brough- to be in the show. Th e auditions felt like as Troy, Gabriella, Sharpay, Ryan, and their ton program to include a marching band, an episode of American Idol, with each East High friends land cool summer jobs symphonic wind ensemble, concert better than the next. Th ey just blew me at Lava Springs Country Club. Th e club’s band, two jazz ensembles, and an indoor away. I set out to cast about kids and annual talent show is around the corner winter guard unit. He has received sev- ended up with a full cast of 50 because and Troy agrees to sing with Sharpay. Th e eral awards for his years of service as a the talent, energy and enthusiasm were drama unfolds between Troy and Gabriella teacher and is thrilled to be a part of the irresistible. Th ey understand the world of as they wonder if their love will survive the cast. “I live High School Musical every- being in high school enough to make it summer break. High School Musical is day!” says Richardson. real; they make the show more honest in packed with high-energy dance numbers a natural and eff ortless way. I feel if we are and the songs you know and love from the Local Teens Work With Broadway director able to focus all of their collective energy, movie—like “All for One,” “Fabulous” and No matter what part each cast member they are going to make something very “You Are the Music in Me.” plays, they all have the unique privilege special of this production and they could North Carolina Th eatre’s production of working with North Carolina Th eatre’s blow the roof off the place!” of Disney’s High School Musical in the artistic director and director of Disney’s Lisa Grele Barrie, Executive Director Box Offi ce located at One East South spring of 200 was one of the top gross- High School Musical , Casey Hushion. of North Carolina Th eatre says, “Casey is Street in downtown Raleigh. ing shows in the theatre’s history. When Hushion has directed shows for North a consummate theatre professional and Capital Bank, presenting sponsor for auditions for the second installment of Carolina Th eatre including Phantom, radiates an energy and enthusiasm for her High School Musical 2, has kindly under- the Disney franchise were held at Crab- Chess, e Wizard of Oz, e King and I craft that is contagious. She brings out the written 250 free show tickets for fami- tree Valley Mall earlier this year, over 0 starring Lou Diamond Phillips, and Jekyll best in everyone and the results are deliv- lies who have been impacted during the teens showed up. Aft er four rounds of and Hyde starring Sebastian Bach. ered on stage in each production that she economy.
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 15 From the Capital Awards (L to R): Brian Williams, Ray Walker, Tito Hernandez, Lisa Grele Barrie, and Donna Gregory
PK and friend at Solas Capital Bank CEO Grant Yarber and Clay Aiken with the winners of the Outstanding Musical category of the Capital Awards ceremony
Photos from the Contemporary Art Museum (CAM) future site preview meeting
aroundtownaroundtownaroundtown
Niall (center) and the boys at Solas
Taking a break downtown Mary-Ann Baldwin (r) and daughter Lauren on the R-line
Tripp Tracy and RPD Officer Palczak
Prakash and Kendra at Mosaic
Owner Brandon (and friends) at Cashmere’s grand opening
16 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 Photos from the Band Together benefit concert for the Lucy Daniels Center (photos courtesy Andy & Rick Cox)
aroundtownaroundtownaroundtown
Photos above from the Raleigh City Museum Time Warp Fundraiser
Leslie and friend out at the Mint Emcee Sharon Delaney at Strut 09
Raleigh Downtowner Magazine fashion writer Kelly Hubbard and assistant editor Chris Adams at Strut 09
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 17 Raleigh Takes The Runway
ree spring fashion shows bring local design and art to the catwalk by Kelly Hubbard
Raleigh fashion Week & Strut 09 Art to Wear New York and Milan have their own fashion weeks—it’s about Another annual fashion show took place April 23 on N.C. time Raleigh did, too. Th e inaugural Plaza Condominiums State’s campus in Reynolds Coliseum as a collaboration of the Raleigh Fashion Week played off of the success of the Strut0 College of Design and the College of Textiles students. Th e Art runway show and expanded it to a three-day event to celebrate to Wear Fashion Show is unlike a typical runway performance; fashion, beauty, music and dance. it gives students the opportunity to combine creativity with Founder Brian Williams believed Raleigh was ready to technical skills to develop innovative fashions that are beyond experience and host an extended fashion showcase to display day-to-day attire. the work of national designers with roots in the Triangle area, Close to 30 students auditioned to have their designs featured such as fashion icon Alexander Julian and Peter Milan luxury in the show and 5 were chosen by a panel of three industry judges: sportswear, as well as highlight the talents of local boutiques Myriah Zaytoun, a designer for Ralph Lauren from Raleigh, Nico and designers. Morrison, a Meredith College graduate who has an organic cloth- Held at the Raleigh Convention Center May -, an expo ing line in Los Angeles, and Kate Kretz, an artist from Burlington. was open to the public each aft ernoon where local businesses dis- Amy Quinn was this year’s student director as she worked to played their merchandise. Th ursday night’s show kicked off with complete her masters in textiles and apparel technology and “Emerging Artists Night” that featured the work of N.C. State management. Quinn met with faculty advisors Dr. Cindy Istook University’s School of Design and College of Textiles students. (Textiles) and Jan-Ru Wan (Design) and oversaw eight commit- Friday night highlighted women’s and men’s tees to supervise every aspect of the show formal wear, including the celebrity walk, from staging to the Web site. phOTO: hElENa pRiCE and the fi nale of Th e Plaza Condominiums “Art to Wear is just a neat show because Raleigh Fashion Week was on Saturday students really spearhead it with advice night with the Strut0 runway show. from faculty from both colleges and it’s so Th e N.C. Triangle Affi liate of Susan G. great to see the students work together,” Komen for the Cure of breast cancer was Quinn said. “Attendance for this show the benefi ting charity of Raleigh Fashion has grown over time from a few hundred Week. Th e special celebrity runway show people to almost 3,000 this year. It is a tes- featured local TV, radio and entertain- tament to the great designers.” ment personalities as models. Donna- Maria Harris of CW22, NBC ’s Sharon Threads Tazewell, WRAL-TV’s Valonda Callo- While some student designers were fea- way, WRAL-FM’s Lynda Loveland, Tripp tured in Raleigh Fashion Week shows and Tracey—the voice of the Carolina Hur- Art to Wear, an event called “Th reads: ricanes—were just a few that made their Senior Collection 200” specifi cally show- way down the catwalk. cased the work of 2 senior designers in Each aspect of the Raleigh Fashion N.C. State’s College of Textiles on Th urs- Week events and designs had a connection phOTO: KElly huBBaRD day, April . Th e student collections are a to North Carolina. Th e works of Meschantes Corsetry, which result of their time spent working in the senior studio class. has production and design studios in the area, could be spotted Kate Sykes was the student director for this year’s perfor- throughout the event; beautiful and sexy, the intricate designs mance; she is a fashion and textile management major with a phOTO: C. gREgg of the classic couture garments were a runway hit. Austin Jade concentration in fashion and product development. Accord- Murray is a Cary High School graduate and off ers a line of ing to Sykes, the seniors have had a chance to display their comfortable, feminine attire with bold, fl attering colors. A fash- work for the past few years but this was the fi rst year the stu- ion legend with roots in Chapel Hill, Alexander Julian off ered dents “gave the show an identity and really played it up.” attendees an exclusive showing of his spring line of men’s and As student director, Sykes was responsible for coordinat- women’s fashions. ing details with the senior class, the dean and various faculty N.C. State students and graduates received great responses members. Th e whole show was done on a very tight budget; for their pieces, as well. A breezy, orange dress from Alison Rus- Sykes and fellow students transformed the College of Tex- sell’s “Evolution of Form” earned a “wow” from the audience. tiles courtyard into a beautiful fashion show setting com- Katerina Kaplan’s “le Fleurs de Crème” creations were a dream plete with lighting, a DJ and a runway on the water—which with each outfi t made of lovely cream and orange fabrics. meant jumping into the frigid water to set up and break- Bailey’s Fine Jewelry added some bling to the event by drap- down the runway. ing models with diamonds and pearls. Even familiar commer- Th e fi rst Th reads show was a success with about 500-00 cial brands such as Banana Republic and Hudson Belk added students, family, faculty and industry professionals in atten- their touch to the runway. dance. “It was the best feeling looking out into the audience If you didn’t get a chance to grab tickets to this year’s runway at the beginning of the night and seeing how large the crowd shows you can watch a replay of the action when Th e CW22 was,” Sykes said. “It blew me away. It really made all of our and MyRDC air Strut0 TV specials in mid-June. hard work and dedication so worthwhile.” phOTO: C. gREgg
18 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 19 The
Local Music Review Airiel Down Swagger Schooner album: Shine album: Swagger album: Hold on Too Tight genre: alternative/progressive/Rock genre: pop/Rock/southern Rock genre: Folk/minimalist/soul www.myspace.com/airieldown www.myspace.com/swaggernc www.myspace.com/schooner ach month we look at three local ————— ————— ————— Ebands within a wide range of music types, from rock to reggae, I r s t saw Airiel Down’s singer Beaux Foy According to Swagger’s MySpace page, Th is Carrboro-based group originally country to classic. You won’t fi nd several years ago when he was randomly these Raleigh rockers use “loud guitars started as a -track project by Reid John- any negative or bad reviews here, pulled onstage at a Better Th an Ezra show and forearm-burning drum fi lls, yet also son in 2003. Today Schooner’s current just bands worth hearing in your and wound up playing guitar with them for endeavor to provide enough space in lineup includes brother and sister Reid favorite local music hangout. Enjoy a song. Now, years later, Airiel Down will [their] music to allow the catchy vocal/ and Kathryn Johnson, Billy Alphin (Th e the reviews, check out the bands be sharing the stage with Better Th an Ezra guitar melodies to cascade through.” But Ashley Stove, Th e Rosebuds) and Maria when they’re in town and be sure again at Downtown Live this summer. this is just a self-description; wait until Albani (Pleasant, Un Deux Trois). to mention you read about them in Since 2003, Raleigh’s Airiel Down you hear the real thing for yourself. Th e band has released two full-length the Raleigh Downtowner Deep South has played hundreds of shows across the Th ere’s no denying that adding up records and two limited-edition EPs, both Local Music Review. nation and has gotten radio airplay in Aaron Wiig (lead guitar), Brian “BT” Tor- of which earned them good reviews from North and South America, Europe, Aus- rence (rhythm guitar), David Arnnead publications such as CMJ, Harp, Salon. ————— tralia, and Asia. Th e band even incorpo- (bass), Dallas Perry (lead vocals), and Dal com, and Chrome Waves. And they’ve rated its own production company and Stephenson (drums) equals good music. also earned high praise for their perfor- e Deep South Local record label, Autumn Rain Records. But what we really love about these guys mances in music festivals like NXNE and Music Review is writ- ten by Dave Rose with Beaux Foy (vocals/rhythm guitar), is their dedication to creating tracks about Pop Montreal in Canada, and Holy City contributions by Eliza- Michel Barbachan (lead guitar/violin/ the good things in life. Sure, they have a Pop Fest in Columbia, SC. beth Barrett. Dave is mandolin/keys), Taylor Traversari (drums/ few music-industry standards—ballads Schooner is wrapping up sessions with the co-founder and co- percussion), Michael Abe (rhythm guitar/ about a lost love or a broken heart—but Jerry Kee at Duck Kee Studios (where owner of Deep South didjeridoo/keys), and Cade Edmundson the majority of this group’s songs will make Superchunk, Kingsbury Manx, Tift Entertainment. Formed in , Deep South Entertainment is a record label, (bass/background vocals/harmonica) all you feel anything but down and depressed Merrit, and the Carbines have all made artist management company and concert play an active part in the band. because according to these fi ve, life is too music) and is on schedule to release a event production company with o ces in Th eir newest album, Shine, was short to “wallow in the mire.” We agree. new album in late 200. Raleigh, North Carolina and Nashville, released last February. Like the band’s Swagger’s self-titled debut was released Raleigh Downtown Live: July with Tennessee. Deep South is best known locally as producer of the Bud Light debut Vision, released in July of 200, in early 200 to an eager audience. Gram- Joan Jett & Th e Blackhearts (featuring Downtown Live summer concert series, Shine was also recorded by John Plymale my-nominated producer John Custer Th e T’s, Violent Vector & Th e Lovely featuring national recording artists. eir (Squirrel Nut Zippers, Meat Puppets) at helped the band with the album, and the Lovelies, Th e Beast, Panyelo) latest addition to downtown Raleigh is Overdub Lane in Durham, NC. legendary Brent Lambert of Kitchen Mas- Deep South— e Bar. Elizabeth is a Raleigh Downtown Live: August 22 tering in Carrboro helped master it. UNC student working part time for Deep South and the Downtown Live concert with Better Th an Ezra (featuring Adam Raleigh Downtown Live: June 3 with series. She is also managing Lucid Talent Pitts, Th e Urban Sophisticates, rock Filter (featuring Charm City Devils, Bill Agency, a booking agency for local and Garage Band winner) West, Bright Young Th ings, Th e Fift h, regional talent. Swagger, Ethan Hanson)
What Gen Y & Z are listening to… by Elızabeth Barrett (Deep South Entertainment)
Wonder what music college and high school students are listening to and down- loading onto their iPods? Each month we’ll give you a quick look as to what you’re The Tallest Man on Earth Passion Pit Camera Obscura likely to hear blaring out of dorm room album: Shallow Grave album: Manners album: My Maudlin Career windows on college campuses and out of genre: acoustic/Blues/Folk genre: Big Beat/pop/soul genre: alternative/pop car windows throughout the Triangle. www.myspace.com/thetallestmanonearth www.myspace.com/passionpitjams www.myspace.com/cameraobscuraband
20 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 21 mORDECai | OaKWOOD | E. RalEigh / sOuTh paRK | BOylaN hEighTs CamERON / uNiVERsiTy paRK | FiVE pOiNTs | glENWOOD BROOKlyN Five Points Hıstorıc Downtown Neıghborhoods: part by Chrıs Moutos of aleigh is fortunate to have several downtown designed the Hayes Barton landscape with roads neighborhoods, each with its own distinct that hugged and followed the contours of the R character, and the Five Points area is no diff er- topography. Th is allowed for small areas of parks ent. As you approach downtown Raleigh on Glen- and greenways to be tucked into medians, street wood Avenue, you come across tree-lined medians corners and property niches. and streets that off er a special blend of housing, Th e architecture of the homes in the Five services and entertainment. And while it’s diffi cult Points area is a showcase of styles popular from to resist looking from side to side at the landscape 5 to 50 and includes a wide variety of styles: and structures, beware of cars parked in the street! Tudors, Spanish Colonials, Ranches, Bungalows, (Part of Five Points allows for street parking in the Foursquares, Colonial, and even Modern. right hand lane during certain hours). But for those of you looking to take in some- Th e area known to Raleighites as Five Points thing other than the area’s architecture, take a is a melting pot of smaller neighborhoods cen- stroll through the business district and enjoy tered around a quaint business district. What perusing the numerous antique shops or catch- creates the area’s “fi ve points” is the intersection ing a move at the historic Rialto, a landmark of Glenwood Avenue with Fairview and Whita- Raleigh theatre. You can enjoy a glass of wine or ker Mill Roads. It is loosely bound by Byrd and city’s core. State workers, businessmen and others dinner at NoFo at the Pig (which also doubles Oxford Streets to the north, Saint Mary’s Street enjoyed proximity to work as well as the streetcar as a specialty gift shop), or beer and a steak at to the west, the Norfolk-Southern Railway and services provided. With growth came these fi rst Th e Pointe Restaurant. If you’re in the mood for Wade Avenue to the south, and White Oak Road, planned communities, and following World War something more casual, you can have a slice of Reaves Drive and Carson Street to the east. I several neighborhoods emerged with that same pizza at Lilly’s or a cup of coff ee and conversa- downtown-centered philosophy. tion at Th ird Place. Th e Five Points neighborhoods include Van- But, whatever you do, remember to keep your guard Park, Bloomsbury, Hayes Barton, and Roa- eyes on the road! noke Park. During the 20s, more than 250 bun- galow and Colonial Revival units were built in the Bloomsbury area. Planning for Roanoke Park and Vanguard Park also began during this time. Th e platting of these neighborhoods was Five Points was established when the need for infl uenced by the work of Earle Sumner Draper, housing increased with the city of Raleigh’s con- a prominent and talented landscape architect tinued expansion in the early 20th century. Devel- who designed parts of Hayes Barton. He was a opers, architects and city planners at the time had pioneer of planning developments as “units” and Chris can be reached for comment (and sales inqui- interesting ideas for providing people with conve- integrating all types of housing along golf fair- ries!) at [email protected]. nient housing and effi cient transportation to the ways and other greenbelt-type buff ers. Draper Photos by Kathryn Rathbun
22 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | downtown raleigh’s premier monthly magazine | Volume 5, issue 5 23 let’s do lunch
J. Betski’s by Brıan Adornetto, Food Writer
Our favorite local foodie, Fred Benton, is taking delightful seasonal treat. On the other side of the dining some time o from his Food Editor position at the room is a chocolate-colored wooden bar complimented by Downtowner. Local chef, culinary instructor, and a long mirror etched with a coat of arms and garnished food writer, Brian Adornetto is helping out during Fred’s absence. with traditional German beer steins. Th e stellar service is led by General Manager Jeremy f you crave hearty food with very bold fl avors, look no Jennings who is not only hospitable, but also a beer con- Ifurther than J. Betski’s, Raleigh’s only Central European noisseur. He adeptly guided us through J. Betski’s impres- restaurant which specializes in German and Polish cuisine sive beer list (the fi rst I’ve seen off ering smoked beer) which while showcasing Austrian and Hungarian infl uences. consists exclusively of Central European brews, some of Recently adding a lunch schedule to their restaurant, J. which will not be found anywhere else in our state. Betski’s has the look and feel of a contemporary German In keeping with the focus on the beer selections, the Dining Hall. Its terra cotta tiled fl oor, exposed wooden menu is designed to pair well with the variety of beers. ceiling beams and wrought iron accents are tempered with While a few of the recipes come from owner John Korze- richly stained wooden tables and tall windows. Beyond the kwinski’s trusted family collection, Chef Todd Whitney windows is an inviting biergarten that seats 2. Th is covered has modernized them with a deft gourmet touch and sup- outdoor patio features iron lamps and tranquil, landscaped plements these off erings with inspired dishes of his own. trellises. Dining at one of the elevated wooden tables is a As soon as the fi rst plate comes to the table, we could see
BETTER LIVING
BEST OF THE BEST!! And now our new READER POLL!! (see below) Fred Benton knows the Triangle! Benton, long-time lifestyle journalist covering the Triangle for over 20 years, has definite ideas about businesses that he feels are partic- ularly consumer-friendly and offer superlative product and service. This list is the sole property and decision-making of Fred Benton and BetterlivingNC Productions and is not affiliated with the Raleigh Downtowner. This list is a companion information guide that Benton presents on WCKB radio and is heard throughout southeastern NC.
Angus Barn - Glenwood Avenue, close to Nina’s Ristorante - 801 Leadmine Road, RDU International Airport, 787-3505. The Harvest Plaza, 845-1122. BEST NY-style Italian! BEST steaks! Waraji Japanese Restaurant - Duraleigh 42nd Street Oyster Bar - 508 West Jones Road, corner of Duraleigh and Pleasant Valley Street, Raleigh, 831-2811. 42ndstoysterbar.com roads, 783-1883. “If you knew sushi like I know Get ready for Raleigh's most intriguing BEST Seafood Salad! sushi.” BEST sushi! warajirestaurant.com new nightspot...Noir! The Point at Glenwood - 1626 Glenwood larrysbeans.com - 828-1234. Your web site for Avenue at Five Points, Raleigh, 755-1007. BEST coffees. BEST Reuben Sandwich! The Lamplight Inn - Henderson 252-438-6311. Allow this European-inspired lounge to engulf you in an eclectic atmosphere of sparkling Lilly’s Pizza - Five Points, Raleigh, 833-0226. Pet-friendly; great breakfasts! www.lamplightbnb.net lillyspizza.com BEST pizza! BEST house side chandeliers, luxurious fabrics, and diverse drink offerings. salad! BEST beer selection! Springfield Inn - a bed and breakfast, 252-426-8471, [email protected]. Trish the Dish Catering - Raleigh, 852-0369. In Hertford, BEST breakfast! Farm-fresh everything! Slip inside to enjoy a sinfully-good drink and listen to everything from rock to funk, hip-hop Fabulous fun food for the budget-minded! to house and dance under crystal lighting or under the stars on our patio. Simpson’s Beef & Seafood - at Creedmoor Cafe Tiramisu - North Ridge Shpg Ctr, near and Millbrook roads, 783-8818. Ace Hardware, Falls of Neuse Road, 981-0305. BEST prime rib! BEST coconut shrimp! BEST stuffed pork chop! BEST fried cheese souffle! The wait is almost over. Noir on Glenwood South – only a few weeks away. Apex Chiropractic - Apex, 362-9066. I could William and Garland Motel - Hwy.58, Salter hardly walk. Acupuncture saved my life! Path, 252-247-3733. BEST budget-friendly family Nightly drink specials + Live music + Outdoor patio + Valet Parking accommodations on the Crystal Coast! Broadway Series South - Progress Energy Center for the Performing Arts, 831-6060. The Black Mountain Inn - 828-669-6528. BEST dramatic arts performances; stellar 09 Sign up for memberships. Best in Black Mountain! Pet-friendly! season that includes "Chorus Line" and www.blackmountaininn.com "Wizard." Opening early summer 2009...
READER EMAIL POLL: What is your favorite restaurant in Raleigh? Please send your vote to [email protected]. 425 Glenwood Avenue Raleigh, NC 27603 www.noirbarlounge.com
24 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 that the chefs at J. Betski take combination make it a hit with great pride in the food they make salmon lovers. and how they present it. With the Th e Crispy Spareribs with exception of a few condiments Cooked Sauerkraut and Apricot (mustards and jams mostly), Ginger Glaze are a must for lunch. everything is made in-house. Th e Th is dish was the unanimous sausages, breads, sauerkraut, sea- favorite at our table. Th e dueling sonally changing pierogies, quark textures of the crunchy exterior (a soft , fresh, white Central Euro- and lusciously tender meat were pean cheese), and desserts are all exceptional. Th e glaze and sauer- J. BETSKI’S homemade. kraut played off the ribs wonder- 10 West Franklin street (seaboard station) 919-833-7999 | www.jbetskis.com Th e delectable sausages at J. fully. Th e Cheese Spaetzle was a Betski’s are perfectly seasoned and melt in your mouth close second, though. Th e tiny dumplings were tossed with —— (aft er these, you’ll never go back to the “previously a variety of cheeses, baked until gooey, and then topped hOuRs frozen” supermarket variety). We also sampled the moist with caramelized onion. Yes, it’s as delicious as it sounds lunch: Tuesday–Friday 11:30am–2:00pm, sat 11:30am–2:30pm and velvety Beef and Spinach Pierogies which had a and truly would be a meal in itself. Dinner: monday–saturday 5:30pm–10:00pm hint of caraway as well as the classic creamy Potato and For lunch or dinner, J. Betski’s provides satisfying and late Nite menu: Friday and saturday 10pm–12am Cheese Pierogies. fl avorful food at an outstanding value. Th e Smoked Salmon and Frisee Salad features house- parking: parking lot smoking: On outside patio only Brian Adornetto is a culinary instructor, freelance food writer cured smoked salmon (aff ectionately called “bacon of the Bar: yes and personal chef. He teaches regularly at A Southern Season sea” by regulars), thin-sliced potato and avocado, vodka Vegetarian Options: limited in Chapel Hill and his business, Love at First Bite, o ers private dill crème fraiche (a fresh, soured cream), and a poached private Dining: No cooking classes and intimate dinner parties. For more informa- Outdoor seating: yes egg. Its brightly colored layers and interesting fl avor tion, please visit him at www.loveat rstbite.net.
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 25 Uncorked To Cork . . . or Not to Cork ————— by Joel Morgan —————
t their most primitive stage, wine simply smell like cork but a badly corked wine is how the popping sound is created.) Unlike the Awine containers were noth- may smell musty, like damp cardboard or old news- natural cork, the Zork can then be easily resealed. ing more than animal skins and a paper—or at its worst, wet dog. Although the wine Th e Zork is also 00 percent recyclable as it’s made simple plug. Around fi ft h century fl avors are destroyed by cork taint, it poses no health from food grade polymers. Because it is a relatively B.C., the Greeks developed the now danger. According to research done in 2005 by Wine new type of closure, the Zork is not yet used by iconic cork method for sealing their wine. During Spectator, seven percent of a sampling of 2,00 bottles many wineries. the Middle Ages, cork disappeared and was replaced of wine percent was tainted. Even with the problems with simple twists of cloth or leather, occasionally of cork taint, many wineries remain staunch in their Crown Me Another non-cork clo- topped off with sealing wax. Cork made its comeback use of natural cork. sure for wine is the crown cap. Crown in the 00s but . Th e predominant closure then was caps are simply larger versions of the glass “stopple,” with the luxury version made of Go Synthetic Th ere are of course other alternatives the same type of cap that is used on ground glass. Th e advent of the corkscrew in to natural cork. Synthetic corks are made from plas- bottled beer. Some Italian winemak- (or “steel worm” as it was called at the time) brought tic or synthetic polymer compounds. ers have been using the crown caps corks back into popularity, but stopples remained Th ey are designed to look and “pop” for their sparkling wines in the lower popular as late as 25. like a natural cork but there’s no risk tiered price range with marginal of TCA contamination. One producer success in public perception. Crown What the Cork Is It? Th e scientifi c name for the of synthetic wine corks is Noma- caps provide a seal which keeps cork tree is Quercus Suber and it’s a slow growing corc, whose world headquarters are oxygen out while keeping the evergreen oak that fl ourishes only in specifi c regions in Zebulon, North Carolina (www. bubbles in the bottle. of the Western Mediterranean World. While most nomacorc.com). Many wineries are trees will die if their bark is removed, the cork tree switching to synthetic closures because it retains Vino-Seal Finally there is the Vino-Seal, a glass has two layers of bark. Th e inner layer is alive and the look of traditional corks but none of the risks. stopper surrounded by a plastic o-ring used to grows in layers and the outer dead layer Synthetic corks don’t generally seal well enough for create an air-tight seal. So far it has been released in which can be removed without damage wines meant to age long-term, so they are used for Germany, Italy and the Pacifi c Northwest of the U.S, to the tree. Th e fi rst harvest of cork those meant to be drunk within a year or two. and is getting high marks from consumers. Roughly doesn’t take place until the tree is about 300 wineries are using this type of seal has been 25 years old but it isn’t until the third Screw It A second alternative to natural cork is popular with high-end harvest, at the ripe age of 52, that the the screwcap. For many years, New Zealand winer- wineries. Advantages are bark’s size and density are ready for use. ies have been exclusively using screwcaps for their that the stopper is quick An average cork tree can yield between wines. A screw cap is a metal cap that screws onto and easy to remove and 3- useful harvests in its lifetime. the grooved threads of the it can be used to reseal Th ere are basically six major neck of a bottle. Th e most the bottle. types of wine bottle enclosures: well known type of screw- Although natural cap closure is called a Stel- cork is the more widely- Say It Taint So While cork is vin, named for the original known closure method, it the preferred method of closure manufacturer. Th is is a is yet to be seen whether with the majority of winemakers screw-type aluminum capsule with a long skirt that or not any of the other throughout the world, it has its creates an airtight seal which keeps the freshness and options will replace the drawbacks, the main one being aroma of a wine for a longer time. Screwcaps, espe- cork in popularity. Of course there are always pref- cork taint. Cork taint is a condi- cially when used with a tin-foil liner, seem to show erences. For instance, eco-conscious winemakers tion where wine is tainted by the the most promise for long-term aging in the bottle. and consumers want a closure that is bio-degrad- presence of a chemical compound able or can be recycled and reused, while bartend- called TCA (or 2,,-Trichlo- Zork? A third type of closure is the Zork, which ers prefer screw-cap and crown cap closures for roanisole if you really want to was recently invented in Australia and expediency and effi ciency. As for myself? I just want know), which is the result of the features the conveniences of a screw a great glass of wine to enjoy. interaction of cork being exposed cap with the popping of a cork. It can to moisture, chlorine and mold be easily removed by hand by remov- Joel Morgan is a wine distributor for Epicure Wines, com- aft er the wine is bottled. A mild ing the spiral tear tab to break the mittee member for Triangle Wine Experience, and an case of cork taint can make the seal and pulling out the Zork (which avid wine geek.
26 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 RALEIGHBusiNEss
doWnToWn SnApSHoT from the downtown Raleigh Alliance
ear Reader, DAs another summer season unfolds, you will fi nd Downtown Raleigh is primed to host a myriad of exciting arts, cultural, and entertainment events. Th is edition provides a guide to many downtown opportunities whether you are seeking somewhere unique to explore with the family on a weekend or a concert to invite neighbors or co-workers to experience with you. Discover how downtown is evolving as a crossroads for people, regardless of age and whether one has lived here for decades or is a newcomer. Two free, on-going events we encourage you to check out are the Moore Square Farmers Market, held each Wednesday from :30am-2pm through August at Moore Square. Th e market features local growers and artisans, live music, and rotating craft - Davıd Dıaz ers as well as a variety of delectable items from local restaurants that prepare lunches on a rotating basis. President and CEO Downtown Raleigh Alliance Secondly, get out for the First Friday Gallery Walk, www.YouRHerecom held during evenings on the fi rst Friday every month. Th is is truly a fun-fi lled introduction to downtown’s ever-changing and exciting scene. Check out www.YouRHere.com for a cal- endar of exciting events happening downtown all Summer, parking locations, and details and maps for the programs listed above. Plan to get out this summer in downtown Raleigh! I hope you enjoy this issue of the Raleigh Downtowner Magazine.
new Businesses
Busy Bee Café The Mahler 225 Wilmington street 228 Fayetteville street 6 am–2 am (m-F), 7 am–2 am (sat, sun) Tuesday–saturday, 10 am–6 pm www.busybeeraleigh.com www.themahlerfi neart.com
Restaurant/bar opening in a historic location in First Fridays, 6–9 pm & by appointment downtown proper. Offering small plates, salads, sand- The mahler is a full-service gallery featuring abstract wiches, sides, and “other stuff” for breakfast, lunch, and representational artwork in all visual disciplines dinner, and late-night. live music/DJs, upstairs focusing on the needs of collectors at any level of outdoor seating, plenty of microbrews on tap. experience. We provide art consulting (residential and corporate), art appraisals, private re-sales, lectures and informational events on contemporary artists, art collecting, and the art market.
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 27 RALEIGHBusiNEss
1QUESTIonS Lisa Grele Barrie—Executive director for north Carolina Theatre
Artıcle and photo by Chrıs Adams
What is your vision for the nCT in the next do you have a favorite nC Theatre show or 1 fi ve years? Well, I like to use the phrase 6 musical? I like them all, but one of my favorites “we’re entering into our next era of excellence.” is Ragtime. It was a collision of cultures written by Th e theatre was founded 25 years ago and with a E.L. Doctorow and I think it really speaks to the solid foundation, this next fi ve years has a very human condition. It was the most amazing and clear mission which is to strengthen the cultural moving production, one that I thought was sensa- vitality of the region and cultivate musical theatre. tional. Miss Saigon and Dreamgirls were great too, We plan on doing this by producing outstanding so those would probably be my top three. Broadway musicals and developing the next gen- eration of artists through youth training perfor- do you have any hobbies? I love to garden. I mance and outreach. 7 really love being in nature. I also enjoy taking Yoga at Blue Lotus downtown. I fi nd that it helps How has the current economic situation me focus and balance and keeps me in a good 2 affected the theatre industry? Indeed there’s mental state. I love to walk, read and spend time no question the economy has aff ected our with my family. I used to travel all over the world industry, and it’s a nationwide issue. Art is con- with my husband, but now we’re more low-key so sidered a non-necessity. If someone is forced to we go to the mountains, the ocean or someplace decide between electricity, food and a theatre downtown. ticket, obviously they would choose the important necessities and not the latter. However, we know Th ere’s always something happening and there’s If you could choose a second career, what that even during the Depression, audience atten- never a dull moment. 8 might you do? Doctor. I have always had a dance actually rose. Art nourishes and sustains us fascination with medicine. I watched “Medical during the darkest hours; people want to escape How was life at Bucknell (University)? Th at Center,” “St. Elsewhere” and I was an “ER” junkie. reality. Movie attendance is at an all-time high, 4 was a long time ago but I had fun! I was a To me, someone who is able to open up a body so my quest is to educate our community that we sorority girl, Tri-Delta, and I think of some of the and fi x it with their hands is truly amazing. I was have very aff ordable ticket prices. I recognize the crazy things, but that’s another story. I was a psy- or will be a doctor in my next life and I can see fact that there are tough choices to be made, but chology major, which has helped a lot with what myself in scrubs. Th at would be an amazing con- art can uplift us and give us when we’re feeling I do now, dealing with people. Back then I was tribution to society to be able to heal. down. It’s a challenging time for the arts so our able to simply be on my own and there was no big job now is to increase our audience. We want to push to know what I wanted to do. do you email, text or engage in the facebook prevail this year, not just survive. 9 community? I am a big emailer and I use it a Tell us about your family? I have a great family. lot at work and at home, but I’m not on Facebook. What is a “normal” day for you? Th ere really 5 My husband, Tom Barrie, is director of the Because I spend a lot of my day in front of a 3 is no normal day. Th at’s what makes it fun School of Architecture at N.C. State. I have two computer screen, it’s the last thing I want to do because on any given day, I have plenty to manage, teenage boys, Ian and Simon and they are cool when I get home. I want to hang out in my garden, both here and at the conservatory. I try to get out individuals, very diff erent, and engaged in a little pet my cat, and see my kids’ faces; I want to be out in the community as much as I can, whether it is of everything: sports, music, etc. We have three in the real world. to do a lunch, speak at an event, or to meet with an cats at home and we all love living downtown. As investor or board member. Ultimately, a lot of what a working mother, proximity makes my life work What is your favorite food? I love any good I do is to engage and inspire my staff , investors and and it’s very important that I encourage my staff 10 food and especially any kind of diff erent community, and to ensure our brand is out there. to balance their work and personal life. Family exotic food. I do love Th ai food. I enjoy going to a Of course, during show time it’s entirely diff erent. comes fi rst. buff et because I’m able to choose everything.
28 RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 RALEIGHBusiNEss
french | West | Vaughn Business Profile by C.F. Evans
“You R Here.” Chances are you’ve seen the mes- users around the globe. “We got into it because work. “Look back 20 years to where Raleigh sages from the Raleigh Downtown Alliance’s we had counseled a couple of clients on how to was, and see where it is now.” says French. new branding campaign using this slogan. use it to extend their brand,” explains French. “It’s pretty exciting. In the next 20 years I see What you may not be aware of is that the cam- “Our client, Canada Post Borderfree, has done Raleigh emerging as a world-class city.” paign was created in the heart of downtown by very well with [Second Life]. Th ey’ve been able to Th at excitement is evident on FWV’s recent Raleigh’s French | West | Vaughan (FWV), one sell products and services online.” work on the Raleigh Downtown Alliance’s of the Southeast’s largest independent public Why build a large PR agency with national branding campaign (French also serves as the relations fi rm. reach in Raleigh? According to French, the vice chairman of the Raleigh Downtown Alli- Headquartered in downtown’s old Tucker Raleigh area off ers a strong, diverse economy ance). “Prior to the campaign, there was not a Furniture Warehouse on West Hargett, FWV that is great for building a business. “Th e cohesive branding strategy for the downtown was created in 200 when Raleigh public rela- economy here is not dependent on a particular area,” he says. “Why is downtown the place to tions fi rm Richard French & Associates merged industry sector,” he says. “[Raleigh’s] industries be? We felt our campaign assembled assets and with Tampa-based ad agency West & Vaughan. range from pharmaceuticals and bioscience to put cohesive positioning strategy in place. It “Both companies had such strong reputations hardware and soft ware development, plus all turned into a really smart campaign that will before the merger,” says Rick French, founder of the associated professional services. Th at likely be up for a lot of awards.” of Richard French & Associates and chairman diversity makes us a little less recession prone.” French’s biggest concern for the future of and CEO of FWV. “We combined the names In , although most of the city’s public downtown is that previously-announced proj- to build on those reputations.” And the fi rm’s relations fi rms were located in rapidly grow- ects will not get the funding needed to move reputation is continuing to grow. Among ing North Raleigh, FWV moved their offi ce forward. “It’s a very relevant concern right now FWV’s accolades are PR Week’s Multicultural to Raleigh’s downtown center. A far cry from with banks; the mentality of “if you build it they Marketer of the Year Award, 200; a Top 20 today’s bustling location of choice, downtown will come” is gone. Th e area is very dependent Creative Agency ranking every year since ; Raleigh at the time was home to vacant shops, on the economy turning around and develop- and the Bronze Anvil award for the Lee apparel very few restaurants and empty commercial ers getting funding.” brand “Riders: A Media Tea Party for Dolls of offi ces. “We were a pioneer when we opened the Despite economic concerns, French believes All Sizes” press event. agency downtown; it was really not the place to Raleigh is on its way to becoming one of Ameri- “We’ve had a nice run,” says French. Our full be,” says French. “But we thought it was impor- ca’s top cities, with downtown at the center. Once service public relations agency was ranked th tant to be in downtown. We believed there was the time when being downtown seemed an among the nation’s largest independent public would be a resurgence soon in downtown. As isolating experience. “Th ese days, the main thing relations fi rms by O’Dwyer’s Market Report with Raleigh has spread out, people are looking back anyone seems to complain about now is paying net fees of just under $2.5 million in 200. to the downtown. It’s the city’s creative hub.” for parking,” laughs French. In 200, the fi rm opened an offi ce in Man- Today French sees his own employees hattan, bringing the total number of offi ces to becoming a part of the in the energy generated Carolyn Evans is a freelance business writer. She three with 0 employees. Th eir client roster has in the downtown area. “Our employees walk to has managed communications, investor relations and nancial reporting for various corporate and nearly 0 companies, with 50 of the companies lunch or go out for drinks aft er work; there’s non-pro t clients, including the Council for Entre- being the fi rm serviced out of the Raleigh offi ce. a lot of activity.” Another trend French sees is preneurial Development, LIPSinc and Royal Bank Top companies like Wrangler, Bob Mackie, people choosing to live downtown to be near of Canada (RBC). She can be contacted at cfe- Pfizer, American Express [email protected]. Financial Services, CIAA tour- ————— nament and Campbell Univer- Photo Members of the manage- sity School of Law are just a few ment team of FWV: Front row, to retain FWV’s services. L to R: Adam Cohen, executive Where is French | West | creative director; Wendy McCa- rthy, VP; Chris Shigas, VP; Rick Vaughn’s latest offi ce location? French, chairman & CEO; Paige Cyberspace. Th e fi rm launched Parker, group account director; a virtual offi ce in Second Life, an Jessica O’Mahony, VP; and David interactive online community Gwyn, president. Back row L to R: Dana Walker, controller; Jon with more than three million Pritchett, vice chairman.
RALEIGHDOWNTOWNER | DOWNTOWN RalEigh’s pREmiER mONThly magaziNE | VOlumE 5, issuE 5 29 Events calendar June 12, 19 & 26 Music on the porch • seaboard station (located on the backside parking lot next to peace China and ace Brought to you by nd Street hardware) from 7-9:30 pm • a neighborhood/business Oyster Bar and its commitment to partnership brings back the fun with free music every the performing arts and artists in Raleigh. Friday night this spring and summer. The band will .. | West Jones Street, Raleigh setup on the porch next to peace China. please feel free to bring lawn chairs and take over the parking lot area. Enjoy a cold beer while you relax. several of the busi- nesses will remain open to allow access to restrooms. • June & July For more information, visit www.seaboardmusic.com Koka Booth amphitheatre Concerts • June 13: an Evening with Michael feinstein: The Sinatra project. $30+ • June 14: Elvis Costello and the June 13–21 SugarCanes. $39.50+ • June 20: NC Symphony: North Carolina Theatre, disney High School Musi- Soundtracks Under the Stars. $20+ • June 27: nC cal 2: on Stage! • music Director Edward g. Rob- Symphony: Cirque de la Symphonie. $25+ • July inson • Troy, gabriella and all your favorite friends at 12: John Legend with special guest india. aire. $41+ East high school land cool summer jobs at sharpay and Ryan’s family-owned country club. With the club’s Movies by Moonlight at Booth Amphitheatre annual talent show right around the corner, things begin • June 11: Kung Fu panda–pg • June 18: moon- to heat up as Troy agrees to sing with sharpay. Will Troy struck–pg • June 25: made of honor–pg 13 • For and gabriella realize that they’re meant to be? Or is it more information, visit www.boothamphitheatre.com. already too late for them to sing one last song together? • www.nctheatre.com. June 12–14 & 18–21 Theatre in the park, Charley’s Aunt, Directed by David June 17–28 henderson • Charley and Jack pressure fellow student hot summer Nights at the Kennedy, Sylvia • a 22-year Fancourt to pose as Charley’s Brazilian aunt Donna marriage is compromised by a dog who suddenly enters lucia. Their purpose is to have a chaperone for their the relationship. This hilarious, touching comedy shows amorous visits with amy and Kitty. Complications begin how far people will go to accommodate man’s best friend. www.SaucedPizza.com when Fancourt, in drag, becomes the love object of old general admission is $22.00 ($18 for students with valid spettigue and sir Francis Chesney, in this classic farce. iDs, seniors and military) • For tickets call 866.811.4111 • show and ticket info: www.theatreinthepark.com or visit www.hotsummernightsatthekennedy.org
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