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ublisher of 95 U.S. and 32 International Relocation Guides, NewMarket PServices, Inc., is proud to introduce our online version. Now you may easily access the same information you find in each one of our 127 Relocation Guides at

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Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 5 HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

he NewMarket Services Information Guide is designed as a valuable resource

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(866) 595-3792 Toll Free From everyone at NewMarket Services Welcome to Raleigh/Durham!

6 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide www.newmarketservices.com Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ Volume 11 [ Number 7

LOCAL INFORMATION The State of North Carolina 8 Area Codes, Important Phone Numbers 13 Travel Information 14 Weather 11 About Raleigh/Durham 9 Publisher:NewMarket Services, Inc. Historical Background 16 President: Patrick Morgan Where to Stay 17 Entertainment 18 Managing Editor: Rebecca Wallace Media 22 Executive Editor: Jason Gerali Recommended Tours 23 Contributing Writer: Amy Tennant MOVING Executive VP Sales & Marketing: Robert Fischer Smooth Transitions 25 Regional Sales Manager: Beth Hurley Choosing a Moving Company 25 Art Department: Sprague Design Packing Tips 25 Staying Organized 26 Graphic Designer: Dean Sprague Settling Into Your New Home 26 NewMarket On-Line: Total Web Design, Inc. What’s All the Talk About? 29 IT and Web Development: Larry Bongiovi Pre-Move Checklist 30

Research Assistant: Stephanie Cooper, Lora Price MOVING WITH CHILDREN & PETS Circulation: Little Drummer Boy Dist., Inc. Reinforce the Positives 33 Choosing a School 33 Phoenix Office: Selecting Child Care 35 PO Box 30534 Education 36 Phoenix, AZ 85046-0534 Relocating Your Pet 40 Phone: (602) 923-3415 Fax: (602) 923-0774 FITNESS & HEALTH Toll Free: (866) 595-3791 In the Kitchen 41 Physical and Mental Well Being 42 Chicago Office: Volunteering 45 902 North Ashland Chicago, IL 60622 HOUSING Phone: (312) 226-6288 Making the Right Choice 47 Fax: (312) 226-6290 Choosing the Right Home 49 Toll Free: (866) 595-3792 Housing Options For Growing Senior Demographics 50 Home Inspection Checklist 52 NewMarket currently publishes Information Guides for 95 North American and 32 Homecare Basics for New Homeowners 53 International Markets. To order your Security 54 NewMarket Information Guides for $3.50 Take Control of Your Energy Costs 55 each, please contact NewMarket Services Home Buyer’s Glossary 56 toll free at (866) 595-3792. Who’s Who in Building 58 In preparing this publication, every effort Selecting a Builder 59 has been made to assure the accuracy of Selecting a Contractor 60 the information contained herein, but Banking & Mortgage Information 61 authenticity cannot be guaranteed. Listings are subject to omission, error or change without notice. BUSINESS DIRECTORY Business Directory Listings 65 All material in this publication is copyright protected and can only be reprinted with permission of the publisher.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 7 THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ncinnati The information and biotechnology industries have been steadily

VA Richmond on the rise since the creation of the Research Triangle Park (RTP) in Hampton Roads the 1950s. Located between Raleigh and Durham, its proximity to local research universities has no doubt helped to fuel growth. KY Meanwhile, beginning in the 1980s, Charlotte's banking industry began a period of rapid growth, creating what is now the second Raleigh/Durham largest banking center in the United States (after New York). Piedmont Triad Charlotte is home to Wachovia and Bank of America and the metro

NC is home to 5 other Fortune 500 companies. TN Charlotte Only in North Carolina: On January 15, 1795, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was the first state university in the country to open its doors for students. SC Babe Ruth hit his first professional home run in Fayetteville on Columbia Atlantic Ocean March 7, 1914. Atlanta The Tar Heel State has more paved miles of road than any other GA Charleston state in the United States – over 78,000 miles. Blackbeard, America’s most famous pirate, established a orth Carolina is a state located in the Southeastern United residence and married his 14th wife in Bath, NC, in 1718. States along its Atlantic Seaboard. It was one of the original NThirteen Colonies, originally known as Carolina, and the home of the first English colony in the Americas. On 20 May 1861, Fast Facts it became the last of the Confederate states to secede from the POPULATION: 8,856,505 (est 2006) Union. STATE CAPITAL: Raleigh Due to its wide range of elevation, from sea level on the coast to over 6,500 feet in the mountains, North Carolina has the most STATE SALES TAX: 4.5% variation in climate of all the southeastern states. The climate of the LARGEST CITIES: Charlotte state ranges from a warm, humid subtropical climate near the coast MOTTO: To be, rather than to seem to a humid continental climate in the mountains. Most of the state NICKNAME: Tar Heel State falls in the humid subtropical zone. LAND AREA: 53,865 square miles North Carolina was originally inhabited by many different native peoples. North Carolina was the second American territory the COASTLINE: 187 miles of coastline British attempted to colonize. Sir Walter Raleigh, for whom the state HIGHEST POINT: Mt. Mitchell 6,684 ft capital is named, chartered two colonies on the North Carolina (then LOWEST POINT: Atlantic Ocean 0 ft Virginia) coast in the late 1580s, both ending in failure. The demise TIME ZONE: UTC-5 of one, the ”Lost Colony” of Roanoke Island, remains one of the great mysteries of American history. WEB SITE: www.nc.gov Over the past century, North Carolina has grown to become a national leader in agriculture, financial services, and manufacturing. The state's industrial output—mainly textiles, chemicals, electrical equipment, paper and pulp/paper products—ranked eighth in the nation in the early 1990s. The textile industry, which was once a mainstay of the state's economy, has been steadily losing jobs to producers in Latin America and Asia for the past 25 years, though the state remains the largest textile employer in the United States. Tourism is also important, with visitors spending more than $1 billion annually. Sports include year-round golfing, skiing at mountain resorts, both fresh- and salt-water fishing, and hunting.

8 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide ABOUT RALEIGH/DURHAM

OVERVIEW

aleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill are often referred to as the Triangle. Chapel Hill, Durham and Raleigh make up the three corners of the Research Triangle, so named Rin 1959 with the creation of the Research Triangle Park, a research park between Durham and Raleigh. This area is affectionately known as the land of tees, trees, and Ph D’s. The area continues to be voted one of the most desirable places to live in the nation and in 2003, Forbes has voted Raleigh-Durham the #2 of “The Best Cities to Start a Business— Or a Career.” This is a place that 1.2 million people are content to call home, and for so many good reasons. The area offers a great quality of life, a low crime rate, affordable housing, top-notch educational institutions, some of the best healthcare facilities in the world, a diverse industry base, and an environment in which it is ideal to raise a family. Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill has a thriving business sector. The area is anchored by one of the nation’s largest research parks and three nationally renowned research universities. Industry giants in pharmaceuticals, computer software, telecommunications, and biotechnology call the Triangle home. Having recently celebrated its 40th birthday, Research Triangle Park (RTP) is the premier address for relocating and expanding companies that want access to technology-transfer opportunities made possible by the Park’s close ties to Duke University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and North Carolina State University. The industry base here is quite diverse. Manufacturing, for instance, accounts for 12 percent of the industry base, employing approximately 80,000 people. Information technology has played a major role in the Triangle’s development and success since the early 1960s. Today, the Raleigh-Durham area is ranked 20th in the country for its concentration of high-tech personnel. Healthcare is extremely important to those who live and work in the Triangle. Two of the nation’s top teaching and research hospitals are located here. Known as the “City of DEMOGRAPHICS Medicine,” nearly one in three people in Durham’s work force is in a medical or healthcare- related field. Chapel Hill is also a strong center of medicine, with UNC hospitals, while Population: 1,187,941 Raleigh and Wake County offer several well-respected facilities, including Rex Healthcare Median Age: 33 and Wake Medical Center. Residents in the Triangle have many opportunities to enjoy the area’s beauty. Centrally Female 50.90% located between the Blue Ridge Mountains to the west and the Outer Banks and Atlantic Male 49.10% Coast to the east, the climate here is pleasant year-round. There is also plenty to see and Ethnic Makeup do: theater productions, art museums and great collegiate sporting events keep everyone Afro American 22.70% busy. Asian 2.90% The Triangle is within a couple hours of all of North Carolina’s natural and manmade Hispanic 6.10% playgrounds! The Blue Ridge Mountains, beautiful coastal beaches, fresh water lakes and Native American 0.40% rivers, state parks and trails for walking, biking and hiking support and encourage an active White/Caucasian 69.40% life style.

continued on page 10

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 9 ABOUT RALEIGH/DURHAM

Downtown Raleigh (Inside the Beltline) Shopping District and Northgate Mall will make even die-hard Raleigh, the largest city in the Triangle, offers the most variety. shoppers cry “uncle.” The downtown region, a colorful and historically significant part of Looking for something to do? Carolina Theatre, the Bull Durham the city, has grown to become a virtual Mecca of cultural activities. Blues Festival, the Durham Symphony Orchestra and Durham Bulls The BTI Center for the Performing Arts is home to the renowned baseball are just a few choices. Duke University Chapel and Sarah North Carolina Symphony and plays host to Broadway touring P. Duke Gardens are sights to behold, and the North Carolina shows, opera and ballet. Museum of Life and Science will delight the child in everyone. The State’s museums of History and Natural Sciences are both There is a wide range of dining experiences available, including free. Exploris, a children’s museum centered around global the nationally known Magnolia Grill and the fabulous Francesca’s awareness, is the first of its kind in the world. Dessert Caffe. Major historic sites include the State Capitol, Executive Mansion Chapel Hill and Historic Oakwood. A picturesque university town, Chapel Hill is probably the most Stroll down the original cobblestone streets of City Market, lined politically- and ecologically-minded city in the bunch. The University with enough unique shops and galleries to fill an afternoon. For a gift of North Carolina Chapel Hill and UNC Hospitals put it on the map that’s uniquely southern, browse through Sweet Tea & Grits. and the activities and attractions put it near the hearts of residents American Indian Company sells beautiful Native American Art and and visitors alike. accessories. Artspace and Raleigh Contemporary Gallery are just For a real taste of what Chapel Hill has to offer, start on Franklin two of the galleries that illustrate this city’s devotion to the creative Street. This is a district full of the character that makes this city arts. Shop for antiques, clothing, gifts and more at The Shops of unique, where coffeehouses line the walks and shops offer up Cameron Village, a short drive away. everything from exotic jewelry to sporting goods. Restaurant If all that shopping leaves you hungry, fear not. An impressive connoisseurs take note: there is a restaurant for every 280 people array of restaurants, pubs and cafes await, especially around Moore in Chapel Hill. Square. Try Big Ed’s, Greenshields or Yancey’s Jazz and Blues A visit to the Morehead Planetarium, the Ackland Art Museum or Café. And as for the nightlife, Raleigh is a sleepy little city no more. one of the many historic sites round out a trip to this fair city. And Check out Southend Brewery, The Office or one of a variety of other lest we forget, Carolina Tar Heels basketball games are a local late-night meeting places. phenomenon, spawning a following like no other. North Raleigh and Greater Raleigh Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina (919) 549-8181 More modern, practical and utilitarian than downtown, greater 2 Hanes Drive Raleigh has a lot to offer as well. The State Fairgrounds Flea Market P.O. Box 12255 and Raleigh Flea Market Mall are treasures waiting for discovery. RTP, NC 27709 Crabtree Valley Mall boasts more than 200 stores to choose from www.rtp.org and Olde Raleigh Village is a unique shopping experience. Research Triangle Park (RTP) is a public/private, planned Sports fans and concert lovers flock to the Raleigh Entertainment research park, created in 1959 by leaders from business, academia and Sports Arena, home to Carolina Hurricanes Hockey and N.C. and industry. It is one of the most prominent high-tech research and State Basketball. While people here are just starting to warm up to development centers in the United States and has been compared ice hockey, college basketball is a big part of local sports culture to Silicon Valley. It was created in 1959 by nearby universities and and the excitement reaches a fever pitch during the finals. enterprises. Stock up on local produce at the State Farmers Market, hike the The Park encompasses 7,000 acres of North Carolina pine forest trails of Umstead State Park or spend the day at Shelley Lake Park. and has approximately 1,100 acres for development. The Park also Raleigh is something different to each person that visits. features three major universities including Duke University in Durham, North Carolina State University in Raleigh and University of Durham North Carolina-Chapel Hill. It is home to more than 136 companies Durham, the “City of Medicine,” is home to almost a quarter which employ 37,600 workers in a variety of industries. The Park is million people and offers an eclectic mix of white and blue collar home to the largest IBM operation in the world; the company has workers, scholars and artists and ethnic populations. The around 11,000 employees in RTP. The combined annual salaries in prestigious Duke University Medical Center, as well as most of RTP, RTP amount to over $2.7 billion dollars. are all located within Durham’s borders, but it’s not all about business. There are plenty of ways to have fun here too. Cary An over-stuffed town full of upwardly mobile professionals, Cary Shop at historic Brightleaf Square, full of locally owned shops, has enough chain stores and restaurants to satisfy anyone. Cary restaurants and galleries. James Kennedy Antiques, Ltd., Simply Towne Center is a mall full of nationally known stores and the large Hip Boutique and Taverna Nikos Greek Restaurant are just a sample food court offers the chance to take a break from that shopping list. of what this shopping district has to offer. The Ninth Street In a word, Cary offers convenience.

10 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide ABOUT RALEIGH/DURHAM

A yearly diversion from the usual retail offerings is Cary Lazy Cream Shop and then browse the antiques and gift shops. While Daze. Held downtown at the end of August, this arts and crafts you’re in the area, check out the North Carolina Railroad Museum festival draws thousands. in New Hill. Take a ride on an old-fashioned steam train the first Apex Sunday of each month between May and November. Downtown Apex, a designated historic district, has buildings dating back to the 1800s. Stop in for a root beer float at the Ice

RALEIGH/DURHAM WEATHER

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Average High 48.9 52.6 62.1 78.6 78.6 85.0 88.0 86.8 81.1 716 62.6 52.7 Average Low 28.8 31.3 38.7 46.2 53.3 63.6 68.1 67.5 61.1 48.4 39.7 32.4 Average Precipitation 3.5 3.7 3.8 2.6 3.9 3.7 4.0 4.0 3.2 2.9 3.0 3.2

Temperature in degrees F, precipitation in inches

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 11 NATIONAL HEALTH ORGANIZATION PHONE NUMBERS

National Health Organization Mental Health Simply dial plus the number below 1-800-*… National Alliance for the Mentally Illness (NAMI) 950-6264 Allergy National Down Syndrome Society 244-4444 Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America (AFFA) 727-8462 National Mental Health Association Resource Ctr 969-6642 Cancer Neurology American Cancer Society 227-2345 National Alzheimer’s Association 272-3900 American Institute for Cancer Research. 843-8114 Christopher Reeve’s Paralysis Foundation 225-0292 Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of America 955-4572 American Parkinson Disease Association 223-2732 National Cancer Institute (CIS) 422-6237 Epilepsy Foundation of America. 332-1000 Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF) 754-6490 United Cerebral Palsy Associations (UCPA) 872-5827 Children’s Health Huntington’s Disease Society of America 345-4372 American SIDS Foundation 232-7437 Brain Injury Association of America Family Hotline 444-6443 Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) 344-4823 National Headache Foundation 843-2256 Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 223-1138 National Multiple Sclerosis Society 344-4867 Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Alliance 221-7437 National Stroke Association 787-6537 National Reye’s Syndrome Foundation, Inc. 233-7393 Patient Care Spina Bifida Association of American 621-3141 Medic Alert Foundation U.S. 863-3425 or 432-5378 Infectious Diseases National Hospice Organization 658-8898 AIDS Hotline, CDC National, National STD Hotline 342-AIDS Shriner’s Hospital Referral Line 237-5055 (Spanish) 344-7432 Visiting Nurse Association of America 426-2547 (Hearing Impaired) 243-7889 Physical Disabilities Internal Medicine American Council of the Blind. 424-8666 American Diabetes Association 232-3472 American Speech/Language/Hearing Association 638-8255 American Heart Association 242-8721 or 968-1793 National Easter Seals Society 221-6827 American Kidney Association 638-8299 Woman’s Health American Lung Association 586-4872 Endometriosis Association. 992-3636 Arthritis Foundation 283-7800 Y-ME National Breast Cancer Organization. 221-2141 Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America, Inc. 932-2423 *This is a Toll-Free Number! Lupus Foundation of America 558-0121 This is only a partial list of national health organizations. National Kidney Foundation 622-9010 Contact the National Health Information Center (NHIC) Spondylitis Association of American (SAA) 777-8189 at (800) 336-4797 for a more complete list.

NOTE: This general information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional as it relates to your specific situation.

12 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

Raleigh/Durham Area Code(s) Support Networks The area codes for Raleigh/Durham are 919 and 984. Crisis Pregnancy Center (800) 395-4357 Departement of Motor Vehicles Teen Link (Various Topics) (800) 235-9678 Chapel Hill 929-4161 Utilities Durham 560-6896 Water Service Raleigh 733-4540 Chapel Hill 968-4421 Emergencies Durham 560-4411 Chatham County 542-8270 Police, Fire and EMC 911 Hillsborough 732-2104 Financial Services Raleigh 890-3245 Automatic Teller Information Town of Pittsboro 542-4621 ATM Locator (800) 248-4286 Electrical Service MasterCrd ATM (800) 424-7787 Carolina Power & Light VISA Plus System (800) 843-7587 Chatham County 508-5400 Lost or Stolen Credit Cards Natural Gas (877) 776-2427 American Express (800) 233-5432 Raleigh 546-6111 AT&T Universal Card (800) 423-4343 Duke Power Diners Club (800) 234-6377 Chapel Hill 967-8231 Discover Card (800) 347-2683 Durham 382-3200 JCB (800) 736-8111 Piedmont Electric 732-2123 or (800) 222-3107 MasterCard (800) 826-2181 Telephone VISA (800) 336-8472 Bell South 780-2355 or (800) 767-2355 Lost or Stolen Travelers Checks GTE (Durham) (800) 483-1000 American Express (800) 221-7282 Cable Television Thomas Cook MasterCard (800) 223-7373 Chapel Hill 968-4631 Travelers Check Customer Service (800) 645-6556 Carrboro 967-7068 VISA (800) 227-6811 Durham 220-4481 Government Numbers Chatham County 467-2800 Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-1040 Raleigh 832-2225 Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213 Cellular Telephone Alltel 233-3000 Services Bellsouth Mobility 403-2590 Directory Assistance 411 GTE Wireless (800) 800-4GTE Shipping & Postal Service Airborne Express (800) 247-2676 Federal Express (800) 463-3339 UPS (800) 742-5877

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 13 TRAVEL INFORMATION

Airport El Al, elal.co.il (800) 223-6700 Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) (919) 840-2100 Eurofly, eurofly.it (800) 477-6492 1000 Trade Drive Eva Airways, evaair.com (800) 695-1188 Raleigh-Durham International Airport is governed by the Raleigh- Iberia, iberia.com (800) 772-4642 Durham Airport Authority, an eight-member board. The cities of Japan Airlines, jal.co.jp/en (800) 525-3663 Durham and Raleigh and the counties of Durham and Wake appoint KLM Airlines, klm.com (800) 374-7747 two members each to the Authority board of directors. The Airport Korean Air, koreanair.com (800) 438-5000 Authority is a governmental body responsible for the development, LACSA, centralamerica.com/cr/lacsa/lacsa.htm (800) 225-2272 operation and maintenance of the airport. Board meetings are held LOT Polish, lot.com (800) 223-0593 the third Thursday of every month. Lufthansa, lufthansa.com (800) 645-3880 Airlines - Domestic Mexicana, mexicana.com (800) 531-7821 Philippine Airlines, philippineairlines.com (800) 435-9725 AirTran Airlines, airtran.com* (800) 247-8726 Quantas, qantas.com (800) 227-4500 Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air, alaskaair.com (800) 252-7522 Singapore Airlines, singaporeair.com (800) 742-3333 Allegiant Air, allegiantair.com (800) 432-3810 Skyservice USA, skyserviceairlines.com (877) 485-6060 American Airlines, aa.com** (800) 433-7300 Swissair, swiss.com (800) 221-4750 Atlantic Southeast, flyasa.com (800) 282-3424 TACA, taca.com (800) 535-8780 Comair, comair.com (800) 221-1212 USA 3000 Y Airlines, usa3000.com (800) 872-3000 Continental Airlines, continental.com* (800) 525-0280 Delta Airlines, delta.com (800) 221-1212 *Located in Terminal A **Located in Terminal C Express Jet, continental.com (800) 523-3272 Cruises/Resorts Frontier Airlines, frontierairlines.com (800) 432-1359 Disney World Reservations (800) 227-1500 Hawaiian Airlines, hawaiianair.com (800) 367-5320 Holland America Cruises (800) 426-0327 JetBlue Airlines, JetBlue.com (800) 538-2583 Princess Cruises (800) 774-6237 Midwest Airlines, midwestairlines.com (800) 452-2022 Royal Caribbean International (800) 327-6700 Northwest Airlines, nwa.com* (800) 225-2525 SkywestAirlines, skywest.com (800) 453-9417 Ground Transportation Southwest Airlines, southwest.com* (800) 435-9792 RDU Airport Taxi Service (919) 840-7277 Spirit Airlines, spiritair.com (800) 772-7117 The Terminal A taxi dispatch booth is located on the curb near the SunCountry Airlines, suncountry.com (800) 359-6786 Air Tran Airlines drop off. The Terminal C dispatch booth is located United Airlines, ual.com** (800) 864-8331 on the curb on the terminal’s lower level. US Airways, usairways.com* (800) 428-4322 Meter Rates Virgin Atlantic, virgin-atlantic.com (800) 862-8621 Meter rates are charged for trips within the taxi service area of Durham, Wake and Orange counties. Fares outside the service area Airlines - International may be charged at the meter rate or negotiated between the Aer Lingus, aerlingus.ie (866) 886 8844 customer and driver. Aeroflot, aeroflot.aero/eng (650) 615-9278 $2.30 for first 1/6th mile or fraction thereof AeroMexico, AeroMexico.com (800) 237-6639 Aerolineas Argentina, aerolineas.com.ar (800) 333-0276 $ .30 for each additional 1/6th or fraction thereof Air Canada, aircanada.ca** (800) 247-2262 $ .50 for each piece of luggage over three pieces per person Air China, airchina.com (800) 986-1985 Hotels/Motels Air France, airfrance.com (800) 237-2747 Best Western (800) 528-1234 Air India, airindia.com Budgetel Inns (800) 428-3438 Air Jamaica, airjamaica.com (800) 523-5585 Clarion Hotels (800) 424-6423 Air New Zealand, airnewzealand.com (800) 262-1234 Comfort Inns (800) 424-6423 Alaska Airlines, alaskaair.com (800) 426-0333 Courtyard by Marriott (800) 321-2211 Alitalia, alitaliausa.com (800) 223-5730 Days Inn (800) 329-7466 Asiana, us.flyasiana.com (800) 227-9262 Doubletree Hotels (800) 222-8733 British Airways, british-airways.com (800) 247-9297 Econo Lodges (800) 446-4777 Cathay Pacific, cathaypacific.com (800) 233-2742 Embassy Suites (800) 362-2779 China Airlines, china-airlines.com (800) 227-5118 Fairmont Hotels (800) 527-4727 China Eastern, chinaeastern.co.uk (800) 200-5118 Four Seasons (800) 332-3442 Egypt Air, egyptair.com.eg (800) 334-6787

14 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide TRAVEL INFORMATION

Hilton Hotels (800) 445-8667 Rental Cars Holiday Inns (800) 465-4329 Below are the car rental agencies located at RDU and are a quick Howard Johnson Motor Lodges (800) 654-2000 shuttle bus ride from the terminals. Shuttles run approximately every Hyatt Hotels (800) 233-1234 15 minutes and stop on each terminal curb near the baggage claim La Quinta Motor Inn (800) 531-5900 areas. Please look for the green bus shelters marked Rental Car. Loews Hotels (800) 223-6397 Alamo, alamo.com (800) 462-5266 Marriott Hotels (800) 228-9290 Avis, avis.com (800) 331-1212 Meridien Hotels (800) 543-4390 Budget, budget.com (800) 527-0700 Omni International (800) 843-6664 Dollar, dollar.com (800) 800-4000 Quality Inns (800) 228-5151 Enterprise, enterprise.com (800) 736-8222 Radisson Hotels International (800) 333-3333 Hertz, hertz.com (800) 654-3131 Ramada Inns (800) 228-2828 National, nationalcar.com (800) 227-7368 Red Roof Inns (800) 843-7663 Thrifty, thrifty.com (800) 367-2277 Ritz Carlton Hotels (800) 241-3333 Thrifty Rental Car is located off airport premises and also offers Sheraton Hotels (800) 325-3535 shuttle service for customers. Stouffer Hotels (800) 468-3571 Super 8 Motels (800) 800-8000 TraveLodge Motels (800) 578-7878 Westin Hotels (800) 228-3000 Inter-City Transportation Amtrak (800) 872-7245 Greyhound Bus (800) 231-2222 Service from City to numerous locations throughout the United States.

Local Transportation Capital Area Transit (919) 828-7228 Administrative Office 1430 S. Blount Street Raleigh, NC 27603 Our Mission is to improve mobility for Raleigh residents and visitors by providing safe, affordable and customer-oriented transportation while pro-actively promoting economic opportunity, intermodal connection and sustainable regional development. Triangle Transit Authority (TTA) (919) 549-9999 P.O. Box 1378 RTP, NC 27709 The Triangle Transit Authority (TTA) is a regional public transportation provider, offering a wide variety of transit services to North Carolina’s greater Triangle area and outlying counties. The services include: a regional bus line with connector shuttles, vanpool service bringing commuters into the major work centers, rideshare matching service, and in the future, a regional rail system that will link the Triangle together.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 15 HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

An Auspicious Start settlements. Their cultural influence is still evident in local customs After the American Revolution, the former English colony and traditions found here today. “Carolina” became the state of North Carolina. The location of the And so They Came capital city was chosen, as so many things are, by the wealthiest In the early 1700s, European explorers took note of the beauty of and most prominent citizens of the state. It was in a central location the area, calling it “the flower of the Carolinas.” By the mid-1700s, and it was hoped that those in the thickly populated coastal region settlers from every part of Great Britain had made their way here, would migrate west. Named after Sir Walter Raleigh, one of the first building gristmills and working the land. In 1949, Dr. Bartlett Durham English settlers to arrive on America’s shores, the city of Raleigh provided land for a railroad station. The city was later named for Dr. was born in 1792. Durham. Large plantations were built, and by 1860 Stagville The dignitaries of North Carolina’s capital city set a standard of Plantation was the heart of one of the largest plantation holdings in excellence for building the State House and Governor’s Residence, the region. and residents followed suit. This resulted in lovely Victorian homes During this period, African-Americans, both slaves and free, and charming shops and churches, many of which are still enjoyed came to the area and became a major influence on southern today. culture. Local cuisine, music and dance are based on many Fortunately for all, the city’s founding fathers held a real creations that came to life in the slave quarters of early Durham. appreciation for the beautiful hardwoods that were prolific in the Like a House Afire area. They decided from the beginning that as many mighty oaks A cease-fire at the end of the Civil War erupted in revelry, and the would stay in place as possible, and they drew up a plan troops celebrated with Brightleaf tobacco. The taste caught fire, accordingly. They dubbed Raleigh the “City of Oaks” and amazingly, literally, and so the tobacco industry was born. The Washington despite remarkable growth, the original plan is still in force. In 1975, Duke family became one of the wealthiest in the states through the Raleigh was named the first “Green Survival City” in the nation. popularity of the golden leaf. The Blackwell Tobacco Company A Historic House named its product “Bull” Durham tobacco, and Bull Durham The State Capitol, a well-preserved example of Greek-Revival became the most famous trademark in the world. Baseball’s “bull style architecture, is a National Historic Landmark. The original pens” are named for the trademark that was painted behind the State House burned down in 1831, and the new Capitol was dugouts. finished in 1840. It is said that the ghost of a confederate soldier New businesses followed suit. The first mill to produce denim and roams the second floor, making strange noises and causing the largest hosiery manufacturer in the world were built. Today, unexplained occurrences. A focal point of the rotunda is a marble Durham is known as the City of Medicine and is home to Duke statue of George Washington and 14 grand monuments are on University Medical Center and most of RTP. display on Union Square. New Hope Chapel Hill To The Rescue In 1792, the hill where New Hope Chapel sat was chosen as the For more than 100 years, Raleigh remained an unassuming, quiet site for the University of North Carolina, the oldest state university in southern city. But by the late 1950s it became apparent to local America. As the buildings went up, residents dubbed the town New government and business people that the sagging economy, based Hope Chapel Hill, shortened to Chapel Hill not long after. The first on tobacco, textiles and furniture, needed a boost. students arrived in 1795 and the village began to grow. The Old The Research Triangle Park (RTP) was cut out of scrub pine Well, once the only source water for faculty and students, still forest and old farmland just west of Raleigh. Dignitaries set out to stands on the campus as a reminder of the University’s rich history. draw people to the area, hoping that having Duke University, North The city of Chapel Hill is still a university town, and UNC Hospitals Carolina State University and The University of North Carolina at are recognized and respected throughout the world. Franklin Street Chapel Hill nearby would lure big business. By the 1960s, a steady is the center of downtown and runs parallel to the UNC campus. flow began, and when IBM moved in, in 1969, the dam broke. The expected trendy college crowd can be found here, but the Growth has been the watchword since; Raleigh is one of the charming cobbled sidewalks and the variety of interesting shops fastest growing cities in the United States. The original one square draw people from all walks of life. mile has expanded to more than 100. The population increased by The Triangle has expanded to include many counties and 4.04 percent between 1980 and 1990, and more than 30 percent suburbs, most notably the towns of Apex, Cary and Wake Forest, between 1990 and 1999. and the area continues to grow. What started out as pine forest and The Natives farmland has evolved into a hotbed of biological and technological Long before the Europeans arrived on the scene, the area now research and development. It is a cultural and recreational known as Durham was filled with activity. Two Native American playground as well. tribes, the Eno and the Occoneechi, made their home there. They made their mark as well, setting down transportation paths, patterning the use of natural resources and establishing

16 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide WHERE TO STAY

Choosing to visit the Raleigh-Durham area is easy; deciding The Millennium Hotel Durham is a full-service hotel catering to the where you’ll stay is not. Accommodations here range from the business traveler. Meeting and banquet rooms, conference suites luxurious suites of posh hotels and the comfortable rooms of bed and an executive boardroom are all available on the premises. and breakfast inns to the no-nonsense basics of the businessman’s Wyndham Garden Hotel, located within RTP, has an all-day airport special. Whatever your pleasure, hotels, motels and inns are shuttle, large work areas in each room and plenty of recreational located in every nook and cranny of the Triangle, providing the activities to work off the effects of a stressful day. This hotel puts a convenience of letting visitors stay close to their intended special emphasis on female guests with its “Women on Their Way” destinations. program. Treat Yourself Business hotels in Greater Raleigh include the Four Points The Siena Hotel, an Italian boutique hotel, and the first of its kind Sheraton, North Raleigh Hilton and Embassy Suites Hotel Crabtree in the region, is perhaps the most luxurious choice in the Triangle. A Valley. Those who wish to be nearer to Chapel Hill can try the favorite destination for lovers looking for a romantic retreat, this Governors Club or Sheraton Chapel Hill Hotel. hotel is filled with plush Italian furniture and antiques and pampers Down Home Comfort its guests with valet parking, turn-down service and chocolates on For those who just can’t bear the thought of staying at one more the pillows. One of the biggest draws here is the complimentary full hotel, there are some wonderful bed and breakfast inns available in breakfast at Il Palio Ristorante, the AAA four-diamond rated the Triangle. restaurant located on the premises. Stay at Morehead Manor Bed & Breakfast and you’ll forget that If a historic downtown locale is more to your liking, the Velvet you’re just moments away from downtown Durham. This Colonial Cloak Inn (The) is a good choice. The understated elegance of the Revival style home was originally built for the CEO of the Liggett and Inn is enhanced by its convenient locale. Another historic hotel is the Meyers Tobacco Company, and now opens its doors as an elegant Carolina Inn. Circa 1924, it is listed on the National Register of retreat for road weary travelers. Historic Places and offers the chance to stay in a place reminiscent After a grueling day of work, relax at a traditional afternoon tea at of the antebellum south. the Oakwood Inn Bed & Breakfast. This beautiful Victorian home, Located near the Triangle is the Fearrington Country Inn. The built in 1871 and restored in 1984, is conveniently located in elegant surroundings of this English country inn are complemented downtown Raleigh. William Thomas House, also in downtown by the southern hospitality of the staff. Surrounded by lush gardens, Raleigh, offers the beauty, comfort and personalized attention of an it is set in Fearrington Village, a lovely place to shop and dine. inn with all the modern conveniences that any businessperson may Golf lovers with deep pockets will want to make reservations at require. the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club. Fashioned after an English If you find yourself in Chapel Hill, the Inn at Bingham School offers country inn, it offers the best amenities in regal surroundings southern hospitality in a setting of rolling hills dotted with pecan accented by antiques from the Duke family’s private collection. Its trees. Once the site of a prep school for young men, it is convenient highly rated golf course and award-winning restaurant make this a to UNC Chapel Hill and downtown. winner all around. Pearson Place Bed & Breakfast is a late Victorian English cottage Getting Down to Business in Apex, not far from Raleigh, Durham and RTP. It features The Research Triangle Park brings many visitors here with the beautifully landscaped grounds with a pond full of goldfish and an express purpose of attending to business, and the concentration of outdoor fireplace. hotels around RTP caters to them. On the Cheap The Sheraton Imperial Hotel & Convention Center offers easy If your travel philosophy is “get there, get done, get it cheap,” you access to RTP, local universities and major medical centers and won’t have to look too hard to find a place that fits the bill. The amenities aimed at business people. The meeting space is large Belvidere Motel in downtown Raleigh offers all the basics at a nice, enough to handle groups of all sizes, and there is a business center low rate. The Milner Inn is convenient to North Raleigh and includes on site. The Sheraton Club Level offers concierge service and a coupons for free breakfast at Dunkin Donuts, nearby. private lounge. The low rates at the Campus Arms Motel Apartments in Durham DoubleTree Guest Suites is a resort-like hotel in Durham, include a fully equipped kitchen, allowing guests to further convenient to RTP. Business facilities and amenities are a big economize by preparing their own meals. attraction, as is the array of recreational activities available. The popular Executive Suites are big enough to handle meetings of up to 10. After you close the deal, swim, play tennis or hop on one of the bikes available and explore a biking trail.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 17 ENTERTAINMENT

The Raleigh-Durham region has grown exponentially over the Tee Time years, due greatly to the explosive success of Research Triangle The mild climate allows Triangle golfers to enjoy their sport all Park (RTP). Thousands of acres devoted to biological and year, and there are many beautiful golf courses from which to technological research and development have spawned some big choose. The scenery at Crooked Creek golf course can drive a breakthroughs and gained the respect and admiration of cities the player to distraction, and Golfer’s Digest rated Devils Ridge a four- world over. This has taken some serious wherewithal and a lot of star course. For those who just can’t get enough, there’s Knights hard work, but if Triangle residents work hard, they play harder, and Play Golf Center in Apex, where players can swing way past dark. the entertainment industry has grown right along with area business. The Play’s the Thing Play Ball! Theatergoers will be pleased with the fine options available. The beauty of the Carolina Ballet, the drama of the National Opera The Triangle is nothing if not sports-minded, and there are Company and the elaborate sets and costumes of the Broadway choices to suit fans of any stripe. The RBC Center is the state-of- South Theatre Series are just a few of the options at the BTI Center the-art home to the NHL’s Carolina Hurricanes, Carolina Cobras for the Performing Arts in Raleigh. For tastes that run beyond the Arena Football and N.C. State Men’s Basketball. N.C. State mainstream, check the play list at Manbites Dog Theater or Wolfpack football, played at Carter-Finley Stadium, is a favorite of Playmakers Repertory Company. local fans. Wolfpack fever hits hard every fall and doesn’t let up until the end of the season. If you just want to laugh, Charlie Goodnight’s Restaurant and Comedy Club dishes up the best in stand-up and Comedy Sportz Baseball fans can catch a Mudcats game at Five County Stadium is improvisational comedy that encourages audience involvement. or see the Durham Bulls play at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park. Carolina Courage women’s soccer, UNC Chapel Hill’s Tar Heel BTI Center for the Performing Arts (919) 831-6011 Kennedy Theater sports and Duke University’s Blue Devil football, baseball and 2 W South soccer keep sports fans busy all year round. If none of these Raleigh, NC 27601 options appeal, maybe a stock car race at Wake County Speedway is the ticket. Music to Your Ears Carter-Finley Stadium (919) 834-4000 The South is commonly associated with the strumming sounds 4600 Trinity RD of country and bluegrass, but they’re far from the only choices in Raleigh, NC 27607 these parts. You’re just as likely to find a big-name rock band as a www.gopack.cstv.com country singer on the stages at the RBS and the Alltel Pavilion at NC State football team, the Wolfpack Walnut Creek. Charlotte Bobcats Arena (704) 688-9000 The North Carolina Symphony performs at Meymandi Concert 333 E. Trade Street Hall and a number of other venues across the Triangle. The Charlotte, NC 28202 Regency Park Amphitheatre, completed in 2001, is the site of www.nba.com/bobcats Summerfest, a series of outdoor concerts in June and July that NBA Charlotte Bobcats, WNBA Charlotte Sting invites listeners to pull up a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the Durham Bulls Athletic Park symphony under the stars. 409 Blackwell St Alltel Pavilion (919) 831-6400 Durham, NC 27701-3972 3801 Rock Quarry Road www.dbulls.com Raleigh, NC 27610 Durham Bulls, International Baseball Concert Line: (919) 831-6666 www.alltelpavilion.com Five County Stadium (919) 269-2287 Meymandi Concert Hall (919) 733-2750 1501 N.C. Hwy 39 2 E South St Zebulon, NC Raleigh, NC 27601 Carolina Mudcats Southern League Professional Baseball www.ncsymphony.org RBC Center (919) 861-2300 1400 Edwards Mill Road Raleigh, NC 27607 www.rbccenter.com Carolina Hurricanes, NHL, NCSU Men’s Basketball

18 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide ENTERTAINMENT

Play and Learn Let’s Party! Whether you’re a history buff, science fan or art lover, or you’re There is always something happening in the Capital City and just trying to find a place to take the kids on a rainy day, there is a surrounding areas. Celebrations, festivals and outdoor events begin museum for you in the Triangle. Learn about local history at the with First Night Raleigh and run straight through to the annual North Carolina Museum of History or the Chapel Hill Museum. holiday parades, celebrations and tree lightings. January also brings Investigate the world of science at the North Carolina Museum of The African American Dance Ensemble’s annual KwanzaaFest to Life and Science, the Museum of Life and Science in Durham, or the downtown Durham. Morehead Planetarium in Chapel Hill. The arrival of spring is cause for celebration, and Artsplosure in Celebrate art at the North Carolina Museum of Artor the downtown Raleigh’s Moore Square kicks it off. Peak Week Festival Contemporary Art Museum in Raleigh, the Ackland Art Museum at in Apex and Celebration of the Outdoors in Fuquay-Varina are UNC Chapel Hill or the Duke University Museum of Art. nearby fetes worth checking out. The younger set will especially enjoy Exploris, an interactive Independence Day is celebrated with a bang all across the museum that aims to increase global awareness. If fate finds you region, but for something unique head to the Festival for the Eno in out of town, Discovery Place in Charlotte is one of the top hands- Durham, featuring arts and crafts, exhibits, food and live music on science museums in the United States. along the banks of the Eno River. The Great Outdoors Autumn brings the Festifall Street Fair on Franklin Street, the Grecian Festival at the State Fairgrounds, and the Street Painting The Triangle enjoys a climate that permits outdoor activities Festival at City Market. throughout the year, and parks are a big part of the recreational scene. Pullen Park is a local favorite. The train ride, beautifully I Like the Nightlife, Baby restored carousel, playground and paddle boats keep the kids busy The Triangle comes to life at night. Learn a country line dance at while anyone will enjoy the lovely scenery and gardens. Laurel Hills The Longbranch, check out the latest in progressive music and Park/All Children’s Playground was built to accommodate the needs dance at Five-O Café, cruise the beer garden at Tobacco of children with limited physical capabilities, but, as the name Roadhouse, catch the latest underground band at Cat’s Cradle or implies, appeals to all. hear live jazz at Yancey’s Jazz & Blues Cafe. The ocean may be hours away, but the state recreational areas of Jordan Lake, Falls Lake and Lake Michie offer fishing, swimming, boating and maximum outdoor enjoyment. Take a road trip along the Blue Ridge Parkway in fall and revel in the beauty of the leaves turning on the mountainsides—the wash of brilliant colors is a work of art.

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Television FM Radio Ch 4 WUNC PBS 88.1 WKNC college/alt./metal/rap (North Carolina State) Ch 5 WRAL CBS www.wral.com 88.7 WXDU college/alternative (Duke Univ.) Ch 11 WTVD ABC www.abc11tv.com 88.9 WSHA college/jazz (Shaw Univ.) Ch17 WNCN NBC www.nbc17.com 89.3 WSOE college/alternative (Elon Coll.) Ch 22 WLFL CW 89.3 WXYC college/alternative (Univ.-NC-Chapel Hill) Ch 28 WRDC MyTv 89.7 WCPE classical/news (BBC) Ch 30 WRAY Shop-At-Home 90.1 WCCE college/soft ac/religious (Campbell Univ.) Ch 40 WUVC Univision 90.5 WDCC college (Central Carolina Coll.) Ch 47 WRPX i 90.7 WNCU NPR Ch 50 WRAZ FOX www.fox50.com 91.1 WRTP contemporary Christian 91.5 WUNC NPR AM Radio 92.5 WYFL religious 540 WETC regional Mexican 94.7 WQDR country 570 WDNZ news/talk 95.3 WRTP contemporary Christian 620 WDNC sports 96.1 WBBB rock 680 WPTF news/talk 96.7 WKRX country 750 WAUG college/black gospel (Saint Augustine’s Coll.) 97.5 WQOK urban 780 WCKB gospel 98.9 WRTP contemporary Christian 850 WRBZ ESPN 98.9 WRTP contemporary Christian 890 WHNC black gospel 99.1 WRTP contemporary Christian 1000 WRTG español 99.1 WRTP contemporary Christian 1030 WDRU religious 99.9 WAJC religious 1050 WWGP country 99.9 WCMC country 1060 WGSB español 100.7 WRVA adult alternative 1090 WTSB sports 101.5 WRAL mix 1130 WPYB country 102.5 WKXU country 1200 WSML news/talk 102.9 WWM oldies 1240 WPJL religious 103.9 WNNL black gospel 1270 WMPM country 104.3 WFXK urban ac 1290 WXKL black gospel 105.1 WDCG CHR-pop 1310 WTIK religious/gospel 105.5 WFJA oldies 1340 WCBQ black gospel 106.1 WRDU classic rock 1360 WCHL news/talk 107.1 WFXC urban ac 1370 WLLN español 107.7 WRTP contemporary Christian 1410 WSRC black gospel 107.9 WRTP contemporary Christian 1430 WRXO oldies 107.9 WDSG big band/oldies 1450 WIZS country 1460 WCRY black gospel 1480 WYRN country 1490 WDUR sports 1530 WLLQ español 1540 WYNC gospel 1550 WCLY black gospel 1570 WNCA ac/talk 1590 WHPY religious-Baptist

22 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide RECOMMENDED TOURS

Downtown and Greater Raleigh are jam packed with great The Duke Homestead State Historic Site and Tobacco Museum touring opportunities. Those who prefer an organized tour, may give gives a glimpse of the life and times of Durham’s leading tobacco the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau at call at (919) family. Stop in at Patterson’s Mill Country Store and see an 834- 5900 or (800) 849-8499. The Bureau can direct you to guided authentic late 1800’s country store and doctor’s office/pharmacy. walking tours of Historic Raleigh, trolley tours and even North Carolina Central University, founded in 1910, is located on “Shoppertainment” and “Solve a Murder” packages. Others might a 103-acre Georgian Revival campus and is the nation’s first prefer to customize tours based on their personal interests. The city politically supported liberal arts college for African-Americans. While is easy enough to tour on your own, so grab your walking shoes there, pay a visit to the art museum, which features the works of and let’s get going! various African-American artists. Downtown and Historic Raleigh Speaking of museums, the Museum of Life and Science is a Those who are not familiar with the area might want to start their wonderful stop on any visit. The many hands-on exhibits, as well as touring at the Capital Area Visitor Center to stock up on maps and Loblolly Park, Ellerbee Creek Railway and Magic Wings Butterfly brochures and catch the fifteen-minute slide show that outlines House make this a must-see for those with children. everything there is to do in Raleigh. While you’re there, tour the A visit to Duke University should include a walk to the top of Duke nearby Executive Mansion, built in 1861, and get an inside look at Chapel, a stroll through the breathtaking Sarah P. Duke Gardens how the governor lives. and a stop at The Primate Center, which houses the largest No visit to downtown is complete without a stop at the State collection of prosimians in the world. Art lovers will want to save Capitol Building, considered one of the best-preserved examples of time for the Duke University Museum of Art. Greek-Revival style architecture in the country. Legend has it that Chapel Hill Thrills the Capitol contains secret rooms used by Confederate spies This quiet university town is full of interesting places, from the during the Civil War. obvious historic and museum choices to some hidden treasures From there, a museum tour might include the North Carolina that are worth hunting for. Museum of History and the North Carolina Museum of Natural In spring and summer, a garden tour is a nice option. The Coker Sciences. Those with children can opt to visit Exploris, an interactive Arboretum covers five acres and displays more than 400 species of museum. The North Carolina Museum of Art is a short drive from plants. A highlight is the 200-foot Wisteria Arbor. Niche Gardens is downtown, and its Blue Ridge restaurant is a great choice for lunch. a serene setting in which to learn about seasonal gardening, native History buffs will want to head to Historic Oakwood. Plan to take plants and gardening for butterflies and birds. Choose a beautiful a walking tour so as to appreciate the restored Victorian homes and accent piece of garden art from their selection. beautiful gardens that line the street, shaded by soaring oaks and The grand finale to a Chapel Hill garden tour is the North Carolina lovely Carolina dogwoods. Walk through Oakwood Cemetery and Botanical Garden, the largest natural botanical garden in the see the final resting place of thousands of Confederate soldiers. Southeast. Its indigenous plant collections are arranged by habitat The Joel Lane Museum House and Gardens is Raleigh’s oldest and it features nature trails, carnivorous and aquatic plants, home, and Mordecai Historic Park/President Andrew Johnson’s revolving exhibits and sculpture. Birthplace is an antebellum house that features an heirloom garden. A museum tour should include the Ackland Art Museum, a Both offer guided tours for a few dollars. collection over 1,400 objects that puts a focus on Asian art. The For a tour with a focus on Raleigh’s African-American heritage, Chapel Hill Museum gives an overview of North Carolina’s history start at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Gardens where the with an emphasis on Chapel Hill. The North Carolina Collection centerpiece is a life-sized bronze statue of the civil rights leader. Gallery’s exhibits illustrate the history of the state and the university. Tour two of Raleigh’s historically black colleges, Shaw University Sports museums abound in Chapel Hill and fans can put in a full and Saint Augustine’s College, enjoy a free guided tour at the day visiting Blue Heaven, a Carolina Basketball museum, the Kenan African American Cultural Complex and walk through Mount Hope Football Center Hall of Honors, which includes football archives, Cemetery, Raleigh’s largest African-American cemetery, and one of displays of historical artifacts, videos and vintage photos, and The its oldest. Memorabilia Room, a collection of artifacts and highlight tapes of The Bull City the University of North Carolina’s sports history. A tour of Durham’s history starts at Historic Stagville, a site that Any tour of Chapel Hill should begin or end on Franklin Street. was once one of the largest plantations in the south. Devoted to Stop in at the Horace Williams House, headquarters of the Chapel preserving the essence of plantation life, the site features 18th- and Hill Preservation Society, for a brief tour. Afterward, stroll the tree- 19th-century buildings, including original slave quarters. lined cobblestone walks and window-shop the many antiques, Bennett Place marks the place where the Civil War ended in collectibles and gift shops. Have lunch or dinner at any one of a 1865. The downtown Durham Historic District is North Carolina’s number of first-rate restaurants and finish up with a trip to first commercial district on the National Register of Historic Places. Morehead Planetarium Brightleaf Square is a row of turn-of-the-century brick tobacco warehouses, renovated to house an interesting variety of shops and restaurants. Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 23 24 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide MOVING

SMOOTH TRANSITIONS

Choosing a Moving Company Have at least three movers come to your home and give estimates. Be sure to ask whether the estimates are binding, non-binding or guaranteed not to exceed a certain amount. Obtain each company’s assigned Motor Carrier number and call the USDOT at (202) 358-7000 to determine if they are registered and have the proper insurance on file. Ask your prospective moving company for a copy of the “Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move” booklet. Relocation to Your New City If you’re one of the 40 million Americans planning to move this year, you need a strategy. Starting early and staying organized is the key to a painless move. In general, follow the pre- move checklists provided. These lists will help you track the myriad details needed to facilitate your move. If you are selling your present home and/or buying a new one, refer to the home inspection checklist and the mortgage glossary. If you are planning to rent in your new city, read the article on rental tips. And, if you are undecided, we hope the article entitled “Buying vs. Renting” will help you assess the pros and cons of each. Whatever decisions you face based on your particular circumstances, stay positive, calm and organized. And, don’t forget to make some time just for yourself. It will probably save you a lot of time in the long run! Packing Tips • Sort your belongings. If you don’t use an item, dispose of it. • Label boxes indicating what they contain and in which room they should be placed. • Drain gas and oil from power tools so they will not leak; dispose of all volatile or corrosive chemicals. • After cleaning out the refrigerator and/or freezer, place pieces of charcoal in them to prevent mildew. • Pack important records in easily accessible place. Include medical, dental, school, insurance, credit card and tax records. • Use strong, clean containers with lids secured with twine or tape. • Put no more than 50 pounds in each container. • Place heavy items towards the bottom of the containers; lighter items on top. • Protect all finished surfaces from scratching by wrapping them in paper. • Use plenty of cushioning such as shredded or crumpled paper to protect belongings in boxes. Remember that newspaper ink can rub off and stain items packed with it. • Pack items tightly to avoid shifting during move. • Fragile items, like china, should be packed in reinforced boxes or in special boxes with compartments. • Individually wrap and cushion electrical appliances. • Make sure liquids and foodstuffs are placed in carefully sealed containers. Wrap and pack kitchenware tightly to prevent damage.

continued on page 24

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 25 SMOOTH TRANSITIONS

• Chests and dressers should not be overloaded since glued where these boxes go. This way, movers will be directed to the furniture joints could collapse. correct rooms if you’re not available to tell them where to put • Unusually shaped or valuable items should be crated or moved each box. by you and not the movers. Easily crushed items should be • Make a detailed floor plan for where you want things to go in your individually boxed and cushioned. new home. Photocopy it so you can tack up copies in every room • You should not remove home fixtures such as window treatment for the movers. hardware, towel racks and electrical fixtures. Unless your sales • Take snapshots of wall units and shelves, so you know how agreement specifically states otherwise, such items are usually things were arranged on them. considered legally part of your residence. Let the moving Settling Into Your New Home company pack furniture, mirrors and artwork to prevent damage. • Start by making the beds. Bedding tends to be bulky and Stay Organized eliminating lots of boxes quickly and easily will be encouraging. Here are some basic tips to help make moving less traumatic: • Unpack and organize children’s belonging’s next. Young children • Pack an “Immediate Box” or an overnight suitcase with the will quickly become restless without familiar things. Remember to necessities you’ll be needing right away. Don’t forget to include position storage hooks and shelves that children will be using medicines and a first aid kit, toilet paper, tissue, and paper within their reach. towels. • Next, tackle the kitchen. This job will go much faster if each box • Pack an “Immediate Kitchen” box including trash bags, the has been specifically labeled as to its contents. Simply labeling coffee pot or tea kettle, toaster, plastic silverware, paper plates, “Kitchen” doesn’t help you prioritize which box to unpack first. styrofoam cups and some non-perishable snacks, such as • Stay positive. Getting settled into your new home can seem crackers, peanut butter, dried fruit. This way, there will be some overwhelming unless you look at it as a series of small projects. instant sustenance while you get organized. • Affix colored labels to the moving boxes according to destination. • Congratulate yourself! You accomplished a lot today! Put the same-color labels or signs on the door of the rooms

26 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide "59./7"59.%7

s,OW0RICESAND s 9EAR7ARRANTY FISHERS Edgewood Trace – (317) 862-1296 Somerset – (317) 841-8346 Single-Family Homes from the Low $100’s )NTEREST2ATES Surrounded by the Area’s Best Shopping Malls, Restaurants sOF/UR Single-Family Homes from the Low $230’s and Acclaimed Franklin Township Schools. For information on ® Model Grand Opening! this community, visit our Information Center at Princeton Lakes. s%.%2'934!2 "UYERS7OULD Large, wooded and tree lined homesites. Community pool and close to highways and shopping! Take I-69 to 116th St. E. Turn Moeller Estates – (317) 862-1296 1UALIlEDTO3AVE 2ECOMMEND5S
left on Cumberland Rd,. then right on 126th St. Continue past Single-Family Homes from the Low $100’s Hoosier Rd. and the Somerset entrance is on the right. Dream Commutes, Dream Weekends. 5 Minutes from I-465, 5TILITY#OSTS 11614 Cannington Circle, Fishers, IN 46037 with Neighborhood Parks, Fishing Ponds and Pool. For information on this community, visit our Information Center at ZIONSVILLE JOHNSON COUNTY Hawks Landing at Gray Eagle – Princeton Lakes. (317) 397-5281 Willow Glen – (317) 733-3582 Timber Valley – (317) 535-0325 Princeton Lakes – (317) 862-1296 Single-Family Homes from the Low $240’s Single-Family Homes from the Low $100’s Grand Opening! Single-Family Homes from the Upper $160’s The Great Outdoors, The Great Indoors. With Acres of Open Single-Family Homes from the Low $170’s Grand Opening! Take I-69 to (exit 5) E. 116th St. Turn right onto 116th travel Grand Opening! Green Space, Trails and Playgrounds in Greenwood. To I-65 S. For information on this community, visit our website. Take Move Up in HomeSize and Style! Located within the Highly- East to Olio Rd. Turn left (N.) onto Olio Rd. Turn left onto Take exit 99 (Greenwood) and go right (Main St). Follow to US I-65 S. from I-465, to the Southport Rd. exit. Turn left onto Rated Zionsville School District! Silverstone Dr. Across from Hamilton South Eastern High 31 S. Take left onto US 31. Follow to 750 N. (Worthsville Rd.). Southport Rd. and continue for 2.5 mi. Pass Five Points Rd. and 3220 Autumn Ash Dr., Zionsville, IN 46077 School. Gray Eagle community entrance is on the right. Take right and stay on Worthsville Rd. Follow to Timber Valley the community entrance will be on the right. Information Center 12248 Hawks West Dr., Fishers, IN 46037 on left just past Stones Crossing Rd. Turn left into community. and model home is straight ahead. BROWNSBURG Take first right and model home is on left. 7050 Stones River Dr., Indianapolis IN, 46239 Branches – (317) 858-8778 3117 Underwood Dr., Whiteland, IN 46184 FRANKLIN TOWNSHIP Single-Family Homes from the Upper $120’s Homecoming at Harmony – (317) 862-1296 CAMBY It’s Time to Branch Out With More Space, More Style and More Single-Family Homes from the Upper $90’s Affordability in Brownsburg. Take I-465 to W. 56th St. Proceed University Park – (317) 888-8580 Surrounded by Forests, Ponds and Parks in Franklin Township, 5VY[OÄLSKH[/LHY[SHUK W. 3 mi. to Raceway Rd. Turn right and follow to East County Single-Family Homes from the Mid $110’s Minutes from Downtown Indianapolis. For information on this Crossing – (317) 856-8601 Rd./Rt. 650 N. Turn left. Turn right onto Eagle Crossing Blvd. A Resort-Style Masterpiece of Neighborhood Planning... No community, visit our Information Center at Princeton Lakes. Single-Family Homes from the Low $100’s and into neighborhood. Model will be on your immediate right. Wonder It’s the Best Selling Community in Greenwood. Take Room to Grow, Inside and Out! In Camby with Sport Courts, 6555 Eagle Crossing Blvd., Brownsburg, IN 46112 I-465 to I-65 S. of downtown. Take I-65 S. to exit 99/Main Play Areas and Community Pools. Take I-465 S.Take exit 8 for St. (Greenwood Exit). Head East (left) off the exit 1 mi. ahead Rt. 67 S./Kentucky Ave. Turn left onto Kentucky Ave. Sharp left NOBLESVILLE on the right hand side is community entrance. Model ahead atCamby Rd. Take second right onto Trotter Rd. Right at Gates (through the roundabout) and first home on the right. Corner Dr. Model ahead on the left. Horizons at Cumberland 256 Legacy Blvd., Greenwood, IN 46143 8327 Gates Corner Dr., Camby, IN 46113 Pointe – (317) 776-3755 Single-Family Homes from the Low $120’s The Reserve at Focus on Your Free Time! Amid 21 Acres of Park and Play Somerset – (317) 535-2439 Space, Minutes from Verizon Wireless Music Center and Single-Family Homes from the Upper $190’s Hamilton Town Center. Take I-465 to I-69 N. On I-69 take exit 5 (116th St. Exit). Bear left onto Rt. 37 N. Take a right onto 146th Model Grand Opening! St. left onto Cumberland Rd. Right onto Cumberland Pointe For information on this community, visit our website. From Blvd. Right onto Golden Dr. Turn right onto Harmon Place. Indianapolis, take I-65 S. to County Line Rd and head West. Harmon Place will veer left and turn into Fount St. Take a right Go S. on Rt. 135 (Meridian St.). Continue approx. 5 mi. to the onto Gallow Ln. Model is on your right. community entrance on the right. Model home and Information 15257 Gallow Ln., Noblesville, IN 46060 Center is straight ahead. 5538 Somerset Blvd., Bargersville, IN 46106 -ODEL(OURS-ON  4UESn4HURS  &RIn3UN  2YAN(OMES)2'COM Prices, offers and financing are subject to change without notice. See Sales Representative for details. 28 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide WHAT’S ALL THE TALK ABOUT. YOU PACK, THEY DRIVE MOVING?

Moving Decisions Save Time and Money Are you faced with an upcoming job relocation? With so many The “you pack, they drive” moving alternative saves you the options for moving your household items, it can be a difficult trouble of driving an unfamiliar vehicle as well as the stress and decision to determine which service best fits your moving needs. difficulty during a long-distance drive. Since the estimates provided Also, with a limited relocation budget from your employer to cover for this service are based on volume (space) and not weight, you will your moving costs, finding a service that complements your avoid unexpected higher moving costs and hidden fees associated pocketbook is important as well. While hiring a professional moving with other full-service moving companies. Unlike a rental truck, the company may be time-saving, the cost for full-service moving could normal moving expenses such as fuel, taxes, tolls, and unexpected be several thousand dollars. A recent trend in the moving industry costs such as flat tires and engine blowouts are covered by the is the do-it-yourself moving option. Most people associate do-it- service provider. yourself with the truck rental option; however, the “you pack, they Loading Service Options drive” moving alternative is becoming increasingly popular. The cost savings of using the “you pack, they drive” service New Moving Alternative largely result from packing and loading your trailer. Some customers With this type of service, you are expected to pack and load your may not have the physical ability or manpower to pack and load items in an adequately-sized commercial trailer. You are given up to their own trailer. This problem is relatively easy to solve—simply two business days to pack and load your goods. The cost of the check with one of the packing and loading companies suggested move is controlled by the customer because this service allows you by the “you pack, they drive” service provider. You can locate to pay for only the spaced used in the trailer. Once you have packing and loading assistance in both your origin and destination completed the packing and loading process, the trailer is picked up cities. By combining the “you pack, they drive” service with local by the local dispatch office. The trailer is then transported by a loading and unloading assistance, you can save money versus professional driver to your destination. You will receive an estimated using a full-service moving company. arrival time for delivery of your goods and will also have the ability to The Choice is Yours track your goods during the transit of your move. Upon arrival at During your search for the best moving option for your upcoming your new home, the trailer is delivered at the appointed time and job relocation, consider the “you pack, they drive” moving option you will unpack and unload your goods. The local dispatch office and know that you are in control of every aspect of your move. You will then come and remove the empty trailer. will not only save time and money, you will experience less stress and headache during an already stressful part of your life.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 29 PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST

One Month Before Two Weeks Before

 Take Inventory. Decide what to keep and what to get rid of.  Notify Phone Company: Your new local phone company should be notified of your move no sooner than 30 business  Reserve a rental truck or select a moving company. Look for days prior to move, and no later than 5 business days before rental trucks and moving companies in local brochures, yellow moving. The service representative will run a quick credit check pages, or through your rental agent/ real estate broker. and assign you a new telephone number.  Make a moving file for important documents, such as family  Notify Utilities: The electric and gas service companies should medical and dental records, school records, legal documents be contacted at least two weeks before your move. The old and titles, banking and financial statements, stock and bond service will need your move out date and you should request certificates, tax returns, birth certificates and insurance the return of any deposits at this time. The new service will documents. Include all receipts – many expenses are tax need your move in date to determine when service will be deductible. turned on or transferred to your name. You can inquire if they  Make any car rental, airline or hotel arrangements. have a billing plan to balance out of season differences by paying a set amount each month. If moving into an apartment,  Gather moving supplies such as boxes, tape, bubble wrap and check with the property manager to see if service was left on paper for wrapping. before you call the utility companies. Write down the emergency numbers to call in event of a problem or outage.  Post Office: A week before you move, you should stop by your local post office to fill out a change of address cards.  Banks: (checking accounts, investments, etc.): Before you Correspondence cards are also available to send to various move to your new city, make sure all existing accounts in your companies such as credit card companies, magazine old bank are closed. Find a new bank to fill your personal publishers and any other organizations that should be needs and open accounts, order checks and obtain direct informed of your move. The mail will be forwarded to your new deposit forms if applicable. home for a full year. After a year, the mail will be returned to the sender with your new address stamped on it. You can get an  Find a new doctor and dentist and have your family’s medical official change form at the local post office or on the Internet at records transferred to them. www.usps.gov/movernet.  Refill any prescription medications which must be taken  Credit Card Companies: Immediately notify all your credit card regularly and arrange to have those prescriptions transferred to companies of your move. Keeping an individual file on each your new city. one makes this process much easier. We suggest using the  Arrange to register your children in their new school(s). Contact correspondence cards offered at the post office in addition to their current school(s) to have their records forwarded. requesting in writing that they send you a letter of confirmation. It is also recommended to make a follow up call.

 Purchase Insurance: If you are moving from out of state and are insured by a fairly large company, they will most likely have an office in the city you are moving to. If you need to find a new company, it is important to get homeowners insurance at least one month before the move. Those moving to an apartment need to contact the insurance company two weeks before the move. If you have large amounts of jewelry and/or furs coats it’s important to contact the agency as soon as possible since you will be needing additional coverage.

 Remember to request the return of any security deposits.

30 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST

One Week Before Moving Day

 Confirm any travel plans or reservations.  Early on moving day, reserve a large place for the moving truck to park. Mark off an area with cones or chairs. If you need to  Finish packing and make sure all boxes are clearly labeled. obtain parking permission from your apartment complex  Subscribe to the local newspaper and visit the Chamber of manager or the city, do so in advance. Commerce in your new city for additional community  Before work starts, walk through the house with the movers information. and describe the loading order. Show them items you intend to  Change of Address Notification: You will need to notify the transport yourself. You should have these items grouped in an Postal Service that you are moving. It is now possible to do so area prior to the movers arriving. Remain on site to answer the without visiting the post office. Go to website listed above. For movers’ questions and to provide special instructions. the fee of $1.00 you may fill out the address change  Walk through your home and make sure that everything was information online and receive an email confirmation. Or you loaded. Make sure you have the keys to your new home. may choose to print the form and mail it to your local post office. US Postal Service, www.usps.com  Remember that professional movers expect to be paid in full before your goods are unloaded. Check for damage, as items  Notify IRS: You will also need to notify the IRS that you have are unloaded and report any problems right away. moved. This will ensure you receive your IRS refund and/or any other correspondence. To change your address with the IRS,  Unless the company’s policy prohibits the acceptance of complete a Form 8822 (PDF), Address Change Request. This gratuities, it is customary to tip each mover. $20 is a good is available on the IRS website. IRS, www.irs.gov amount; you may want to tip more or less based on the service you received. One Day Before  If you are moving yourself and getting help from friends, make  sure you create a task list. Be sure to have everything packed Pick up your rental truck or confirm your move with the moving before your help arrives. It is natural for people to work in pairs, company. but you should consider each person’s physical ability and  Make sure you and your movers have the directions to your health status. Plan to provide beverages and food for your new home. Plan your travel so that you will be there to greet volunteers. Load the truck according to the directions your them and unlock your home. Have a backup plan in case one truck rental agency gave you, and make sure that you of you gets delayed. understand how to operate and drive the rental truck before you leave the agency.  Obtain the driver’s cell phone number and give him/her yours so you can stay in touch in case one of you is delayed.

 Ask what form of payment the movers will accept (check, money order, certified check, travelers checks) and make necessary arrangements.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 31 32 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide MOVING WITH CHILDREN & PETS

REINFORCE THE POSITIVES

et family members focused on and involved in the process of moving. Hold a family meeting to discuss why, where, when and how the family will move. Encourage Geveryone to ask questions and express feelings. If possible, drive the family to see the new home and take a tour of the new neighborhood schools, shops and parks. Take photos or videotape the new house and neighborhood. Make lists for each older child of things to do to prepare for the move and assign them a special task or two. For example, they can read and inform other family members about the area history, landmarks, special events and amusements. Help children prepare for the move by having them assist with packing. Let them pack a box of special clothes, toys or books they would like readily accessible at their new home. Let each family member help plan how to set up his or her bedroom. Have them help select paint or wallpaper. Let them share ideas how to arrange the furniture. When the move takes place, set up the children’s rooms first. Choosing a School One of the most satisfying experiences a family can have is finding a school that fits its needs. That school will “feel right” because its administrators, teachers, and parents are part of a strong community that shares the family’s educational values. Children are eager to go there because the school program stimulates their curiosity and provides them with outlets for their interests. Parents will be pleased because their involvement in their children’s education will be welcomed and encouraged. In order to find the best school for your child, you should begin by observing your child’s learning habits. Even as preschoolers, children begin to develop different approaches to learning. These inclinations provide strong clues about what kind of school would serve them best. In her book Your Child’s First School, educational consultant Diana Townsend- Butterworth offers these suggestions of things to watch for in determining your child’s orientation to learning: • What does your child enjoy doing? • What excites your child and arouses his or her curiosity? • What seems to be frustrating? • Does your child thrive in a structured environment or seem to prefer one that offers more freedom? • Is your child quiet or rambunctious? • Does he or she prefer to work on projects alone or with other children? • Does he or she have any special interests or abilities?

Make a list of answers to these questions as well as taking note of any other characteristics you notice about your child. As you read more about individual schools, and when you visit the ones that interest you, you will be better able to choose a school that suits your child.

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Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 33 REINFORCE THE POSITIVE

For high school, parents often choose a new school for their Triangle Park, serving a community with one of the highest children. This is frequently because their current school goes only educated populations in America. The district operates two high through eight grade. As you look for a high school, consider your schools, four middle schools and nine elementary schools which child’s learning style as well as his or her interests when deciding serve more than 10,000 students. upon a school. Also keep in mind your own family goals, which may Durham Public Schools (919) 560–2000 involve preparing for college, in making this important choice. 511 Cleveland Street What about family expectations? In order to provide a good P.O Box 30002 match, a child’s school must also meet a family’s needs. Here again, Durham, NC 27702 www.dpsnc.net you may want to prepare a list of expectations and use it as a guide in the search for the best school for your child: Durham Public Schools offers numerous options for quality education for each and every child. Magnet, Montessori, early • What goal do you have for your child’s long-term education? Is college, specialized centers, year-round and other school choices college preparation a priority? exist in this school district. • How important to you is parental involvement in school activities? High-quality teachers and school leaders, a focus on student • Do you expect the school to have a role in developing a child’s achievement and a supportive community all make Durham Public character by encouraging respect for adults and peers as well as Schools the best choice for your child. Parents are encouraged to others in society, including the disadvantaged? read about our schools, talk to other parents about their • How important is it to you that you have a strong relationship and experiences with the schools and visit schools in which you and share a philosophy with other parents at the school? your child have an interest. Please register your child as soon as • How interested are you in providing a home setting that gives residence is established. For registrations details please visit the your child time for homework? website. • How important to you is a before-school and after-school Orange County Schools (919) 732-8126 program? 200 East King Street Hillsborough, NC 27278 Before beginning a search for a school, parents should reflect on www.orange.k12.nc.us these questions, and their expectations for schools. Parents who Orange County School District is one of two public school choose schools wisely are pleased after their children enroll systems in Orange County. Based on our commitment to academic because the family and the school work in harmony with a common excellence, Orange County Schools will provide safe and successful set of expectations for the youngsters. Admissions directors at educational opportunities. Our students will demonstrate the schools will gladly connect you with parents of current students so essential skills necessary to function as lifelong learners and you can make an informed choice for your child. productive citizens in an ever-changing world. Most schools believe parents should have a strong role in their children’s education. Being involved in a child’s education Wake County Public School System (919) 850-1600 3600 Wake Forest Road strengthens the whole family and sends a message to children that Raleigh, NC 27609 education is an important part of their lives. Schools know that the www.wcpss.net way in which parents choose to become active in their children’s The Wake County Public School System is made up of more than schools varies greatly. They provide many different opportunities for a hundred schools, some 13,000 teachers and staff, and thousands parental involvement. Most schools have strong parent associations of volunteers working together to educate our children. They tackle that organize social events, help coordinate volunteer activitied, and their problems and challenges with enthusiasm, determination, provide an organizes means of communication between parents heart and creativity. Superintendent Bill McNeal has been named and school. the 2004 National Superintendent of the Year by the American Each of these encounters strengthens the life of the schools and Association of School Administrators. McNeal has been creates a community of committed adults supporting the goals of superintendent of the Wake County Public School System since the schools and the students. This feeling of community, with adults 2000. and students working together for a common purpose, is one of the distinguishing strengths of a good schools.

Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools (919) 967-8211 750 S. Merritt Mill Road Chapel Hill, NC 27516 www.chccs.k12.nc.us The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools is one of two public school systems in Orange County. Located near the flagship campus of the University of North Carolina and the world renowned Research

34 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide SELECTING CHILD CARE

When you’re new to a community, locating a person or program background check, which is usually done by most placement to provide child care for you is not the easiest of tasks. Due to agencies. expanding demand, just finding an opening may be difficult. One key to good child care is whether the caregiver can adapt to Pinpointing a place that is not too far or too expensive and, most the needs of each child and family. Not all children of the same age importantly, a provider whom you trust, may take days or weeks of are at the same level of development; each child has unique persistent phoning and visits. character traits. A good caregiver understands these personal and As a parent, it is your responsibility to ensure that your child is developmental differences and creates a program to meet each safe and happy in a child care environment that is fun, educational, child’s needs. and nurturing. You will need to consider many questions. But you Center-Based Care are not alone — an increasing number of parents rely on quality The most popular type because there are so many options for child care so that they may work. About 70% of parents place their children of all ages. You take your child to a place that is organized young children in some type of daily care. Knowing in advance that and staffed specifically to care for a group or groups of children. this is not an overnight process makes it a bit less overwhelming. Some types include day care centers, preschool programs, before/after school programs. Types of Child Care Day Care Center You might like the home-like feel of a family child care home, or If you’re considering a day care center or another group setting, maybe you want your child to have opportunity to socialize with you should spend some time observing the center and talking to peers in a larger child care center. You might be looking for after parents with children in the center. You should also expect that your school care for your child, a summer camp experience or a program child will be assigned to the same caregiver to promote a sense of that can accommodate his or her special needs. It will help you in security and consistency. Inquire about the rate of staff resignations; your search to learn more about each type of child care setting. low staff turnover minimizes the need for young children to In home repeatedly adjust to new caregivers. Some parents may prefer the one-on-one contact an in-home Preschool Programs care provider can offer, especially for an infant. The International Preschool programs are offered through Head Start, child care Nanny Association (INA) recommends that you interview any centers or local public and private schools. They can be offered as prospective hire at least twice and that you conduct a criminal a half-day program for three or four days a week or they can be part of a full day program at a child care center. Before/After School Programs These programs give children additional time and opportunity to engage in hands-on enrichment activities in reading, science, math, art, drama, and specific “safety” topics that include conflict resolution and drug abuse. Most programs offer homework assistance and some offer tutoring. Most also provide supervised physical activity and healthy snacks, or even dinner. School age programs are often provided through local schools, child care centers, churches, or youth-oriented community organizations. Quality features include opportunities for children to make individual and group choices about activities, opportunity to improve academic skills, spaces for children to relax and rest, well supervised spaces where they can be active, nutritious snacks, and parental involvement. Choosing Child Care In addition to the forms of child care, you want to take into account the following factors: • Age and personality of your child. • Child care needs of all the children in your family. • Location of your workplace, home and child care facility. • Hours you need child care. • What you can afford.

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Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 35 SELECTING CHILD CARE

When you begin your search, start with the telephone. Plan to when you need child care for a short time. Visit the center or family spend a few minutes with each call. Describe your needs and ask child care home that you have chosen with your child before about the program, staff, location, other children in care, and what beginning care. Show your child that you like and trust the caregiver. is included in the cost. Make an appointment and visit the center, Some children like to carry a reminder of home when they go to school or home, and plan on spending at least an hour at each child care. A family photograph or small toy can be helpful. Talking place. Visit once to observe the children in care and at another time to your child about child care and the caregiver is helpful. Being outside of regular structured hours to spend time with provider or prepared makes any new experience easier for children. There also director. are storybooks about child care that you and your child can read In any group center, health, safety, and hygiene must be given together. (Check with your local library, another great outing for a priority in all settings. All children and staff members should have parent and child) current immunizations; staff should have clear criminal background After a child has been in child care, a sudden change in checks. The facility must be child-proof and all staff members caregivers may be upsetting. This can happen even if the new should wear disposable gloves when changing diapers. Toys should caregiver is kind and competent. If you are concerned about your be disinfected on a regular basis and frequent hand washing should child's feelings, you may want to arrange a meeting with the be promoted among the staff and children to minimize the spread caregiver or ask your pediatrician for advice. Parents need to help of infection. the caregivers and the child deal with any changes in the child's routine at home or child care. High-quality child care helps children Preparing Your Child for Child Care grow in every way and promotes their physical, social and mental Most young infants, up to seven months, adapt to caring adults development. It offers support to working parents. Your pediatrician and seldom have problems adjusting to good child care. Older wants your child to grow and develop with enjoyment in a setting infants may be upset when left with strangers. They may feel that supports you as a parent. separation anxiety, which is a normal part of development for some In the final analysis, locating a child care provider with whom you children. They will need extra time and your support to “get to are confident is well worth the searching. Why? Your child benefits know” the caregiver. Some children show changes in behavior greatly from such an arrangement, meeting and interacting with when they start child care. Toddlers may cry, pout, refuse to go to other children and adults. The child learns and grows from or act angry in other ways. Preschoolers may regress and behave experience, often times a major step in establishing independence like a younger child. They may be more wakeful at night. This and becoming his or her “own person.” And you feel more at ease behavior usually goes away after a few days or weeks in high-quality leaving them. child care, just be sure to monitor. For more information you may want to visit the following website: You may help your child adjust to a new child care arrangement. American Academy of Pediatrics, www.aap.org Arrange a visit with in-home caregivers while you are at home or

HIGHER EDUCATION - WHERE TO GO?

A List to Consider When Making Decisions About College 2. What happens to people who graduate from this school? Look Admissions experts from Baruch College, a senior college in the into what most of the graduates of the schools your child likes City University of New York, offer some tips to help parents cope wind up doing. If your child is interested in the fine arts, and the with the stress of guiding their child through that all-important majority of students at a particular school end up working in the question: Where should I go to college? financial industry, it should give you both pause. Academics 3. The downside of high school success. Sometimes, even a top- performing high school student is surprised by the rigorous 1. Remember why your child is going to college in the first place. demands of college courses and professors. Even if your child Now is the time for your child to reflect on what she truly wants. was accepted at the school of his dreams, he needs to Compare her preferences and ambitions to the resources that understand that he’s starting all over once he gets to college; his each school offers. Consider each school’s academics, study sterling SAT score won’t matter if he skips class or studying. abroad programs, student life, extracurricular activities, career Have an honest conversation with your child about the level of services, internship programs, etc., and ask how it will further commitment required at the schools he likes and make sure he’s your child’s educational and career goals. Reassure your child prepared for it. It’s (Almost) All About the Money that it’s okay to be uncertain about her career ambitions but, if she is, a college with flexible academic programs and multiple 4. Factor college tuition into family budgeting. Try plugging the options is probably a good bet. estimated cost of attendance (tuition, room and board, books,

36 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide HIGHER EDUCATION - WHERE TO GO?

transportation, student fees) for each school at which your child your child’s. Visit the campus again—or for the first time if you is accepted into your family’s budget. This will provide you with haven’t been yet! Encourage your child to attend an accepted a better long-term financial plan. And don’t forget about student reception; sit in on a class; go to a sporting event; and graduate school, if that is in your child’s plans; it’ll be upon you talk to current students—without you hovering in the both before you know it. background! Students will speak candidly to each other about 5. Explore all avenues of financing. Don’t count solely on the real-life college issues like the social scene, academic college’s financial aid award for help. Learn about scholarships pressures, and drinking on campus— all things your child being offered by local businesses, community organizations, and should be aware of in advance. employers; your family could qualify for additional aid monies. 9. Safety first. Let’s face it: sending your child off to college is scary 6. Get to know your school’s financial aid team. Most financial aid enough without worrying about crime. Take note of a school’s departments offer free workshops on how to plan for the cost of location and ask college officials about security: Is there a 24- attending college. Take advantage of such sessions, and don’t hour security team? What kind of campus alert systems are in be bashful; ask as many questions as occur to you. Now is the place? What are the crime statistics for the area? What security best time to consider all your options. precautions exist in the residence halls? While you’re asking questions, explore the college’s mental health and counseling Campus and Residential Life services—college can be stressful for kids as well as parents. 7. What’s new at school? It’s been several months since you and your child did all that college research. Go back on the colleges’ Coping websites and see what’s up! Schools may be offering new 10. Breathe deeply and stay calm. Make clear to your child that you programs, hosting unique events on campus, renovating are available to talk things through, weigh the pros and cons, ask facilities, or announcing new faculty appointments— any of questions, and visit campuses with her but that, ultimately, the which could affect your child’s decision. decision about where to go to college must be her’s. It’s hard to 8. Finding the right fit. Every school has a personality; you don’t hand over the keys to her future, but when you watch her receive want to spend thousands of dollars on one that clashes with her diploma, you’ll realize it was well worth it.

TYPES OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Community or Junior Colleges Online Learning Community colleges exist for two major purposes. The first is to Recent years have witnessed the rise of online degree programs, serve as a bridge from high school to college by providing courses to allow the busy professional a chance to work at their own pace for transfer toward a bachelor’s degree. Four out of 10 college- from the comfort of their home on the path to getting a degree. The bound high-school graduates start their college education this way. costs to students are typically the same as for traditional classes— The second function of community colleges is to prepare and financial aid is equally available—while the cost to the institution students for the job market by offering entry-level career training as can be much less. well as courses for adult students who want to upgrade their skills There are online universities ranging from legitimate distance for the workplace. They often offer programs that are not available learning systems to fly-by-night degree-mills. It’s important to at four-year schools, like fashion design. research a particular institution before deciding to enroll in their system. Generally, brick-and-mortar schools that also offer online Liberal Arts Colleges classes are the safest, though there are plenty of fully accredited Liberal arts colleges offer a broad base of courses in the online universities out there. humanities, social sciences, and sciences. Most are private and Nearly 3 million students are believed to be taking online classes focus mainly on undergraduate students. Classes tend to be small at institutions of higher education in the United States this year. That and personal attention is available. number has been growing about 25% a year. Now, virtually all public higher education institutions, as well as a vast majority of private, for-profit institutions, offer online classes. By contrast, only about half of private, nonprofit schools offer them.

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Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 37 TYPES OF HIGHER EDUCATION

Online schools offer everything from Associate’s degrees to North Carolina State University (919) 515-2011 Doctoral programs with available emphases in everything from Hillsborough Street Business Administration to Criminal Justice to Nursing. Some Raleigh, NC www.ncsu.com programs require students to attend some campus classes or With a student population of more than 30,000 the university has orientations, but many are delivered completely online. had a huge impact on its home state. The university is a recognized Online courses generally require a computer with a broadband leader in science, technology, agriculture and engineering. NCSU connection, and are now a serious option for the busy professional. offers bachelor’s degrees in 102 fields of study, master’s degrees in Public vs. Private 108 fields and doctoral degrees in 60 fields. Public colleges are usually less expensive, particularly for in-state University of North Carolina (919) 962-1630 250 E Franklin Street residents. They get most of their money from the state or local Chapel Hill, NC government. Private colleges rely on tuition, fees, endowments, and www.unc.edu other private sources. Private colleges are usually smaller and can More than 26,000 students from the U.S. and around the world offer more personalized attention and often more prestige. attend the university each year. The school offers degrees in a Universities variety of academic areas, including law, education, dentistry Generally, a university is bigger than a college and offers more business and more. UNC provides great educational and economic majors and research facilities. Class size often reflects institutional benefits for the Chapel Hill community, as well as the state of North size and some classes may be taught by graduate students. Carolina. Duke University (919) 684-8111 Upper Division Durham, NC 27708 Upper-division schools offer the last two years of undergraduate www.duke.edu study, usually in specialized programs leading to a bachelor’s Duke University was created in 1924 as a memorial to tobacco degree. You’d generally transfer to an upper-division college after magnate Washington Duke. There are about 6,000 undergraduates completing an associate degree or after finishing a second year of and as many graduate students attending the university. Duke has study at a four-year college. seven graduate and professional schools including: Divinity School, Fugua School of Business, School of Law, School of Medicine, Nicholas School of Environment & Earth Sciences, School of Nursing and Pratt School of Engineering.

DEGREES AND CERTIFICATES

Certificate or Diploma Combined Bachelor’s/Graduate Degree (or Joint Degree) These non-degree offerings generally lead to employment in an Complete a bachelor’s degree and a master’s or first-professional occupational field. For example, to enter fields such as computer degree in less than the usual amount of time. In most programs, science or teaching, you may first have to get a certificate or students apply to the graduate program during their first three years diploma. of undergraduate study, and begin the graduate program in their Associate Degree fourth year of college. Successful completion results in awarding of You receive an associate of arts (AA) or associate of science (AS) both bachelor’s and graduate degrees. These are sometimes degree after completing two years of study similar to the first two referred to as “4 +1” programs. years of a four-year college. After earning an AA or an AS, you may Masters Degree transfer to a four-year college to complete the requirements for a These signify more specialized training in a particular field. They bachelor’s degree. The associate of applied science (AAS) degree is are competed after the bachelor’s degree, usually over the course awarded on completion of technological or vocation programs of of 2 years for the full time student. study. Doctorates Bachelor’s or Baccalaureate Degree These generally signify some significant research in the field, and Complete a four- or five-year, full-time program of study (or its are an upper level degree. part-time equivalent) at a college. The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) are the most common.

38 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide PAYING FOR SCHOOL

FAFSA www.fafsa.gov Need-Based FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form Need-based financial aid is awarded on the basis of the financial that must be filled out annually by university to determine their need of the student. The amount of need based aid is generally eligibility for federal financial aid (including grants, loans, and work- based off the criteria on the FAFSA. study programs). In addition, most states and schools use Loans information from the FAFSA to award non-federal aid. While included in the term “financial aid” Higher Education Loans The FAFSA consists of numerous questions regarding the differ from scholarships and grants in that they must be paid back. student’s finances, as well as those of his or her family; these are They come in several varieties in the United States entered into a formula that determines the Expected Family • Federal Student Loans made to students directly: No payments Contribution. The amount of the EFC can vary widely, depending on until after graduation, but amounts are quite limited a number of factors; for example, one such factor is whether a • Federal Student Loans made to parents: Much higher limit, but student has siblings in college at the time. payments start immediately The best place to look for help before you start filling out your • Private Student Loans made to students or parents: Higher limits FAFSA is at your school’s financial aid office. and no payments until after graduation. Other Sources Getting Your MBA Part-time FAFSA only scratches the surface of the money available to Getting your MBA may be imperative to you and your career. students for school. There are many state and private scholarships More than 40% of all graduate students are working adults, so it is out there. The easiest way to find listings of what scholarships that possible to balance the rest of your life with your desire to continue you may qualify for is by going to a scholarship database online and your education. doing a search. Some handy sites for this are: You’ll generally spend three to four hours a week with the Lunch-money.com instructor in a 3-credit class. It’s generally recommended that you Finaid.org spend about 8 additional hours a week studying and preparing for Fastweb.com the next classroom session, so 12-15 hrs a week total. Collegeboard.com So where are you going to find an extra 15 hrs a week? It helps It’s not recommended that you participate in any website that to journal how you do spend your time during the week, and then asks you to pay a fee to search for a scholarship; there are many list priorities. Lower priority items, like watching TV, may take up wonderful free sites available. more time than you realize, and can be shelved so you can continue your education. Types of Financial Aid Re-prioritizing your time is the most crucial step in ensuring you’ll Financial aid may be classified into two types based on the have success on your path to your degree. Make sure you discuss criteria through which the financial aid is awarded: merit-based or your goals with your boss, friends, and family, so they know what to need-based. expect as you add this major commitment to your life. Merit-Based Merit-scholarships are typically awarded for outstanding academic achievements, although some merit scholarships can also be awarded for special talents, leadership potential and other personal characteristics. Merit scholarships are sometimes awarded without regard for the financial need of the applicant. Athletic scholarships are a form of merit aid that takes athletic talent into account.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 39 RELOCATING YOUR PET

Your coffee is finally brewing after what seemed like an endless Farfetched? Not really. Pets are probably most overlooked when search through the boxes left by the moving company. The disk it comes to relocating. Most people just expect their pets to wake jockey on the radio reads the weather forecast and you learn that it up completely adapted to their new surroundings as if nothing is 70 degrees outside and an expected high of 85 with 85% changed. Although this is true for many pets, just as many find humidity. Your company doesn’t even have have to give you a raise relocating to be traumatic. Furthermore, most people wait until their to move here. pet is ill before finding a new veterinarian. Just as you start thinking that everything is proceeding smoothly What should you do then for your pet when relocating? Actually and that your new city really does have a lot to offer, you realize the place to begin is in your hometown before you move. Speak to Prince, your four-year old Great Dane, isn’t acting right. Now what? your own veterinarian and tell him/her where you are moving and Is he really sick? Homesick? What’s worse is that you don’t know ask his/her advice. In most cases, this alone will be sufficient to find where the closest veterinarian is located and, of course, he or she out what is necessary to prepare your pet for transition. Further, can’t be as good as Dr. Morris…and Prince just loved Dr. Morris. people will be surprised how often their veterinarian can recommend someone in the area where they are moving. Whether or not this person will actually become your new veterinarian is not as important as the peace of mind that the recommendation is from someone you trust. Finally, don’t wait until your pet is ill before looking for a veterinarian. This is an extremely emotional time and nothing can be more traumatic than having to find a veterinarian in the midst of a crisis. It is obvious, then, that you should find a new veterinarian before that first crisis occurs so that when the need arises, you will be prepared. How do you go about finding a new veterinarian in a new city? The best place to begin is simply the NewMarket Services Information Guide. Location is an important factor, as many pets don’t travel well and, in the case of emergency, distance may be a factor in receiving timely treatment. After making a list of local veterinary clinics, take the time to go visit them. Talk to the staff. Ask about office hours, fees, whether appointments are required, and what services are available. Also, ask if it is possible to talk to the doctor so that you can introduce yourself and at least have a first impression to help you make your choice. Finally, ask your neighbors which veterinarians they take their pets to and why. Then, of course, it’s your decision, but at least you have gathered some information on which to base your decision. All dogs should be vaccinated for the possibly fatal disease Parvovirus. Remember to NEVER leave your pet in a car in hot weather, as heat conditions in cars can quickly become fatal to animals.

40 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide FITNESS AND HEALTH

IN THE KITCHEN

received this recipe in an email from one of my co-workers. Well actually since he will be reading this, I’d better be more precise. He’s my boss! But it’s a summer Friday Iafternoon, so we’re a little relaxed. Anyway, in spite of it being a Friday afternoon, it inspired me to write this article. The avocado (Persea Americana) is a tree native to Mexico. The oldest evidence of avocado use was found in a cave located in Coxcatlán, Puebla, Mexico, that dates to around 10,000 BC. About 95% of United States avocado production – is located in Southern California. Fallbrook, California, claims the title of “Avocado Capital of the World”, I’ve been there and it's amazing to see all those rows of trees filled with ripe avocados! The Hass avocado is today the most common. It produces fruit year-round and accounts for 80% of cultivated avocados in the world. Hass avocados have ovate fruit with a dark green or black, rough, pebbled skin. All Hass avocado trees are descended from a single “mother tree” raised by a mail carrier named Rudolph Hass, of La Habra Heights, California. Hass patented the productive tree in 1935. Spinks is another type you may be familiar with. Mostly grown in Florida, the fruit is larger Please visit our website, www.NewMarketServices for more recipes. www.NewMarketServices Please visit our website, and rounder, with a smooth, medium-green skin, and a less-fatty, firmer and fibrous flesh. Because it has less oil it often isn't as flavorful. A fun project is to grow your own plant indoors. This is done by removing the pit from a ripe, unrefrigerated avocado. Poke the pit with three or four tooth picks, about one third of the way up. Place the pit in a jar with tepid water. In four to six weeks, it should split and out should come roots and a sprout. (If there is no change by this time discard and try again.) Once the stem has grown a few inches, it is placed in a pot with soil. It should be watered every few days. Avocados have been known to grow large, so be ready to repot the plant several times. Enough about avocados. A small warning about the recipe. If you have been reading my recipes you will notice this one digresses from my normal format. I try to be very precise with my ingredients and directions, leaving nothing to chance. Patrick allows for you to be creative. Tonight Patrick, in Chicago, and I, in Scottsdale will be comparing our creations. I hope you enjoy yours. Patrick’s Authentic Irish Guacamole*

Ingredients Directions 4-6 ripe avocados, depending on how Cut, spoon out avocado into a bowl. Mash many you people you are serving. them up, we decided we both prefer left About 1/2 or so of a medium to large chunky but you may prefer creamy. white onion, depending on how much Dice onion, jalapeños, add to avocado you like Chop up the cilantro fine – few stems won’t Couple nice tomatoes – plum if you hurt, add Chop tomatoes into small squares, want, depending on what you prefer. add salt and olive oil. 2 jalapenos Cut and squeeze limes into mix Bunch of cilantro Mix all and enjoy with good tortilla chips & 2 limes some hot sauce on the side!!!! Sea Salt

*It’s green, therefore Irish. therefore green, *It’s Tablespoon or so of olive oil

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 41 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Choosing a Health Club • Does the club offer instruction in a sport or activity that you might Your move is filled with many new challenges. If your life style want to learn (tennis, squash, swimming, etc.)? includes working out a priority will be to find a club that meets your • Does the club offer a variety of leagues? If you want to compete needs. Or a new move may bring the perfect time to implement - is the club affiliated to the right leagues, and does it have teams those healthy lifestyle changes that were on your New Year’s of the right standard for your competencies? Resolution list for the past several years. • Does the club offer a variety of high-quality weight equipment? It Begin your search before you move. Ask your current club for should include free weights, such as barbells and dumbbells, and recommendations or perhaps they even have reciprocity with a club machine weights, you really need both to get a proper workout. in your new location. If you belong to a national chain, chances are • Does the club offer a sufficient number and variety of programs good that you will be able to transfer your membership. for you to achieve other goals (stress management, weight However if you do find yourself looking for a new club, use this management, smoking cessation, social activities, etc.)? check list to help you find the place that will work best for you. • Are there long lines at the equipment, or crowded aerobics When visiting a club use your own observations and question the classes, at the time that you would be using the club? staff and current members. Be sure your new club will be able to • What are the real costs? Make sure you understand all rates, meet your fitness, social, and safety needs. charges and fees because these can vary widely, and many clubs • Is the club clean and well maintained, especially the locker rooms require contracts ranging from a few weeks to a year or more. Be and the shower areas? sure you’re entitled to use all facilities, such as pools and spas at • Are staff members friendly and helpful? Make sure there is always no extra charge. someone available to answer your questions, to show you a new • Is child care available if you need it? exercise, or how to use a piece of equipment. • Is there adequate parking available if you need it? • Does the location for work for you? It’s best to select a club that’s One way to find out whether a club is right for you is to try it out near where you live or work. for a few days. Some clubs offer a special guest pass for • Do fitness staff members have appropriate educational prospective members. But even if you have to pay for a week to try backgrounds and/or certification from nationally recognized it out, it’s better to spend the money than to make a long-term certifying agencies? commitment to a club that doesn’t work out. Try the club during the • Are new members provided with a club orientation and hours you will normally be using it. It will give you a realistic idea of instruction on how to use equipment? what the club environment while you are there. • What age group do you see while visiting? If you are in your 50’s, It’s important to read health club contracts carefully. Don’t do you really want to work out with a group in their 20’s (and vice assume the club offers classes such as aerobics as part of the versa)? Be sure to visit club at the time you will be normally using membership. While some do, others charge extra. If the health club the facilities. requires a long-term commitment, find out whether you’ll be able to • Does the club have the cardiovascular resistance equipment you get a refund if you need to cancel your membership due to a job want and need to achieve your fitness goals? transfer, an injury or if you simply find that the club isn’t working for • Does the club offer sufficient number and variety of programs for you. you to achieve your fitness goals (aerobic, racquet sports, It’s a fact that of every three people who join a health club, only basketball, etc.)? If classes or group activities help to motivate one will work out there 100 days a year. Find a club that you are you and the health club doesn’t offer the classes you need, comfortable with and you will greatly increase your chances of sticking with your exercise program won’t be realistic. being the one of three people that are there more than 100 days a year. NewMarket Services wishes you good health.

NewMarket Services wishes you good health.

42 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Coping With Change where to go to make new friends can bring feelings of isolation and Did you know that your body and mind sense change as stress? loneliness. Whether you change the place you live or where you work, it all Creatures of Habit adds up to stress. The more changes that come at one time, the Psychologically, most of us are creatures of habit and quickly more stress you experience. develop repetitive patterns that make us feel comfortable and Self-Image secure. Ever notice that most people find the same seat or section Your attitudes towards change often depend on your self image of the commuter train or bus? Drivers usually take the same route and expectations of how difficult it may be. Your self image is the every day. We do this in order to reduce stress. inner vision of who you are. It is the basis of your every thought, The sameness of established behavior develops a sense of word and action. Moving, with the many changes it entails, offers control over ourselves and surroundings. By seeking repetitive an excellent opportunity to modify and/or improve your self image habits, we save our energy for new events that are either through the risks of taking positive action. unpredictable or uncontrollable. When change removes the Some people welcome change as a challenge or an exciting new sameness from our lives, we attempt to relieve the tension experience. Others may resent the inconvenience and extra effort produced by uncertainty and newness. We look for ways to develop they need to make to re-establish a comfortable routine. Still others other familiar patterns. feel overwhelmed by the unknown and are not sure where to go or to whom to turn. Often, stress causes old issues, defeats or concerns to resurface. Perhaps new worries and fears form unexpectedly, or you feel tired and fatigued most of the time. Decision making abilities are affected, and you seem to be having less fun and enjoyment. These are all telltale signs of stress brought on by change. When signs of stress affect you, it may be a time of emotional transition, indicating old behavior patterns are not as effective as they once were. This is often a good time for self-reflection-to look at what you like in yourself and what you do not like. Stress When you relocate to a new city, all categories of your life are changed. Along with the obvious changes listed above, moving to a new community requires finding new sources for familiar services. Finding a new hairdresser, barber, drugstore, food market, doctor, lawyer, cleaner and shoemaker are all necessary. You not only have to locate these services, but you need to determine if you are satisfied with the quality of the services provided. Forming a comfortable working relationship with the service provider adds more stress to the change itself. Perhaps your whole lifestyle changes if you are moving from a Management of Change smaller or larger community. With long-distance moves, you will To manage change effectively, several simple steps will help you have to make new friends and develop a different emotional support adjust to the newness and extra effort needed to establish different system. When these changes are not made through your own patterns in your life. choices, but are the decisions of a boss or someone in your family, then the stress is even greater. Children have to make changes • Organize your time so you can finish the tasks you have planned. because of their parents. They need special help and • Have realistic expectations. Do not plan to complete everything understanding getting settled in school and making new friends. within the first few weeks. Often, they will have difficulties as they adjust to the new • List your priorities and finish each one before you go on to the surroundings. next. Changes produce stress not only within yourself, but also with • Provide your body with recreational time and time to relax. the people with whom you are close. It may cause you to react • Trust your first impressions; they are most often right. differently from your usual behavior. If you are in a relationship or marriage, you may find more tension developing, with less patience Periods of change can offer you an opportunity for growth within or tolerance of the other person. If you live alone, not knowing yourself. Professional consultation may be useful during this period.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 43 PHYSICAL AND MENTAL WELL BEING

Choosing a Primary Care Provider Guidelines to Narrow Your Choices One of the most important decisions that you will make in your • Insurance – With the risings costs of health care, be sure your relocation process is choosing a Primary Care Provider for you and insurance will be accepted. your family. Don’t put off the decision until you get sick. Your PCP • Professional credentials - any provider you consider should have will be responsible for approximately 90% of your health care. The graduated from an accredited medical school, and be sure relationship you develop with this health professional can be the key they’re board certified. to keeping illness at bay, and it is your best connection into the rest • Professional affiliations - Your provider should be affiliated with a of the medical system. Your PCP can help you seek appropriate large, well-equipped hospital, either as a staff member or as an consultations with specialists if or when the medical problem is attending physician, a title that carries with it admitting privileges. beyond the realm of his expertise. • Practice arrangements - You may choose a solo practitioner or a A generation ago, people relied on General Practitioners (GPs) for group practice, in which two or more doctors in the same all their medical needs, from treating colds, and backaches to specialty or different specialties share the same office. setting broken arms and delivering babies. The competent GP • Location and office hours - If these aren’t convenient, you may knew the medical histories of every member of a patient’s family have a difficult time making an appointment. because he treated them all. Today, Primary Care Providers are bringing this tradition back with the addition of providing preventive Make a Consultation Visit and Consider the Following health measures. More emphasis is now placed on preventive • Office is clean and the staff is courteous and helpful. medicine. You are now responsible for the health of you and your • You are seen by the doctor within a reasonable time of your family by making informed decisions, improving your diet and appointment or you are given a good explanation for any delay. exercising. A primary care provider (PCP) is a general practitioner • You are not rushed through the visit. The provider listens to you, who sees people of all ages for common medical problems. Your does not interrupt you and encourages you to voice your PCP is often involved in your care for a long time, so it is important concerns about your health. to select someone with whom you will work well. You will want to • The doctor is well-informed about preventive health measures, choose someone that emphasizes wellness and self-care by giving such as nutrition, exercise and the widely recommended use of you the information needed to make healthy lifestyle choices and screening tests. He should be quick to inform you of healthy health care decisions. lifestyle choices. Below are some guidelines to help you make your decision. • You’re comfortable talking to the doctor and the doctor explains Begin by Gathering Some Choices. things so that you can understand. • Before you move ask your current health care provider for a Most importantly, don’t put off the decision until you get sick. If a referral. You can also ask other doctors you respect and see health care problem arises, and you have not yet chosen a provider, regularly. it is usually best to seek non-emergency care from an “urgent care • If you belong to a managed care plan, find out what doctors are center” rather than a hospital emergency room. This will often save affiliated with it. you time and money. However recent years, many emergency • Ask friends, relatives or business associates. Referrals from rooms have expanded their services to include reasonably priced people you know are usually based on trust and confidence in the urgent care within the emergency room itself or an adjoining area— provider. to find out, call the hospital first. • Hospitals usually offer a referral service that can provide you with the names of staff doctors who meet certain criteria you may be seeking, however they will not vouch for the quality of care.

44 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide VOLUNTEERING IN YOUR COMMUNITY

One of the best ways to become involved in your new community Many people are reminded of their wish to volunteer during is through volunteering. The benefits of volunteering are many, for holiday seasons, but this is when organizations might have an everyone involved. Ask your employer for advice. Many companies excess of help. If you want to volunteer during the holiday, give employees paid time off to volunteer and will often publicize remember to contact the organization in advance. Otherwise, time their employees’ community service. According to the research your work for the lean season. group Independent Sector, the U.S. volunteer sector is equivalent to Volunteering is fun, leads to learning new skills, meeting 9 million full-time workers. Whether you have an hour or a weekend, interesting people, making new friends, sharing your talents, and if you want to help kids or the environment, there are great keeping in touch with the community in which you live. Whether it is organizations that will excite your particular interest, broaden your important to you to solve a community problem, advance a worthy horizons and fit into your time schedule. cause or to develop as a person, volunteering offers many benefits Don’t forget to include your family. If your children are school age in appreciation for the gift of your time and expertise. chances are there are many opportunities to volunteer at their Once you have chosen an area of interest, how should you go school, or even in their classroom. That is a great way to meet other about involving yourself? See what the Web can do for you. 1-800- parents with children the same age. Clean up a neighborhood park Volunteer.org, a service of the Points of Light Foundation & with your children. Spend a morning at a homeless shelter with your Volunteer Center National Network provides listings of local and children. You’ll find that volunteering is not only a fun family-bonding virtual volunteering as well as contact information for Volunteer experience but a great way to teach children the importance of Centers across the nation. Open the classified section of your local giving back to the community. paper. Check out the bulletin boards in your office. Or just start How you get involved with your community depends on your calling the local agencies you’re interested in. interests, skills and time. Choose something that fits well in to your One of the best ways to make these contacts is to walk right into schedule and makes you excited about working together to help the organization—a library, a shelter, training facility, or a political make a difference. Every person has that capability. Each of us can office—and find out who organizes volunteers. You can tell a lot by right a wrong, fill a plate, visit a shut-in or clean up a park, and that meeting the volunteer coordinator and any volunteers who happen does make the world a better place. to be on duty. While you won’t earn a paycheck for volunteering, There are several things to consider when choosing in what to you will earn valuable experience, a sense of accomplishment, and involve yourself. First of all be selective, think about what matters to the satisfaction that only comes from personally making the world a you, and where you wish to spend your time. If you have certain better place to live. social issues that you feel passionate about, it’s a great place to put your energy. You may have particular skills that will steer you toward a certain organization. Are you willing to explore new opportunities? Volunteering can teach you valuable new skills that you may use in other parts of your life. "You make a living by what you get, but you make a life by what you give." - Winston Churchill

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 45 46 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide HOUSING

MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE…

Rent or Buy? The decision to rent or buy in your new location is dependent upon many considerations unique to your personal situation. Some of the potential factors involve the tax implications, down payment, other investment vehicles, the length of time you are anticipating being in your new location and whether or not your current home has sold. If you decide to buy, should you purchase an existing home or build a new one? Again, many factors have to be considered. Will an existing home need a lot of repair or remodeling to bring it to your standards? What about the difference in the cost of operation and maintenance between new and an existing structure? How should you finance a renovation? Which home will appreciate faster? Will it be difficult to get a construction loan? Is it better to rent for a while to become familiar with neighborhoods in your new city? What about capital gains tax if you don’t close in time? We suggest you seek the advice of a certified financial planner and a realtor to thoroughly clarify your options. These choices can become quite complex. Some Advantages to Renting Whether you’re in your first apartment or a longtime resident, there are many advantages you are afforded by choosing apartment living. Mobility: You enjoy the freedom to move, to accept that better job, to take the vacation you’ve dreamed of. No maintenance: Just relax and delight in the grounds and facilities maintenance technicians keeps attractive for you. Flexibility: You have the ability to increase or decrease your living space without the burden of sales pitches, closing costs, interest rates or the high cost of maintaining a home and property. Location: The choice is yours! Recreation: Chances are, you’ve chosen an apartment community with a swimming pool, tennis court, weight room or sauna. Apartments have the equipment and people to maintain them, which is no small task for the homeowner. No waiting: If you’re like most apartment residents, moving into your apartment was easy and fast. You settled into your new home without lengthy paperwork, a loan approval period or a large financial investment. Your Current Residence As you prepare to move, a big decision may include whether to sell or rent your current property. Ask yourself the following questions as you make this decision. You may also want to ask advice from a real estate agent. Market Is it a seller’s market? Signs include low interest rates and shortage of homes for sale. How long have similar homes been on the market and how long are you willing to let your home be on the market? Or is it a good rental market and do rental units have tenant waiting lists? Is your property in a trendy area? Desirable areas typically garner higher rents and seldom have vacancies. continued on page 48

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 47 MAKING THE RIGHT CHOICE

Financial Inspect the central air conditioning and heating systems. Ask Is this property good for rental income? Can you charge more for other tenants if there is enough heat in the winter. It can be costly if rent than you pay for mortgage, taxes and upkeep? How will selling you have to buy or rent window air conditioning units. affect your federal and state tax situation? Furthermore, if your Is there enough storage space? Do you have enough closets for property does not sell quickly, can you afford to keep the home clothes, linens and general items. Are there built-in shelves and vacant while it’s on the market? If not, do you feel you will be able bookcases for books and DVDs? Do you also get a storage space to find a renter on a short-term basis? Are you likely to want to move that is not adjacent to the unit? back into the home some day? Does the building have special amenities such as a swimming Rental Tips pool, game room, barbecue area, and exercise room or tennis Apartment experts say that some detective work is needed to courts? Keep in mind that recreational amenities generally will conduct a search that finds the most livable rental residence for the increase your rent. You should consider what features you will really money. After you have weeded out a good apartment complex from use. many rent signs and/or listings, scanned the neighborhood you like How is the noise level in the complex? Have neighbors been for the best rental possibilities, you will be ready to scrutinize each playing music louder than you prefer? Are you located by a major property and landlord for shortcomings. It is easy for a prospective airport, freeway or train tracks? tenant to gather quick clues about the general care, maintenance of Do you need an apartment that takes pets? If not, do you want the building, and cleanliness of the area overall. Try to talk to the to live in an area that does? Do tenants appear to be cleaning up tenant who is vacating the apartment you are planning to rent. He after their pets? What is the management policy for pet size and or she can tell you a great deal about the pluses and minuses of maintenance? living there. Here are some tips for inspecting the inside of the apartment: Rental experts suggest that tenants should tour several apartment complexes before placing a deposit on a unit. The Is it clean? Carpet should be cleaned and walls/ceilings should minimum deposit to hold a unit is usually $100. Prospective renters be freshly painted. Does the apartment have a bad odor? It could still need to fill out an application and pay an application fee. This be a tip that the prior tenant had a pet or cooked spicy foods. will hold your unit while your employment, credit and rental histories Check room sizes with a floor plan. Make sure the furniture that are being checked out. This process usually takes 7 to 10 days to you will be moving will fit. Is the bedroom near the bathroom? Does complete. the dining room adjoin the kitchen? Inspect kitchen appliances. Check the stove to see if all burners work. Does the range have a hood with a fan? Is the oven self- cleaning? Is the stove gas or electric? If it is gas, you may have an extra monthly charge for cooking gas. This would also be true if you had a gas clothes dryer in your unit. Check out the refrigerator/freezer for storage space. Is there enough counter and cabinet space? Don’t forget to keep an eye out for bugs, especially in a high-rise building.

48 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide CHOOSING THE RIGHT HOME

Making a final decision and determining which house to make an Schools offer on shouldn’t be taken lightly. The decision should be made If you have school-aged children and plan to send them to public rationally and not guided by emotion. You most likely won’t have the school, you definitely want to consider the reputation of the luxury of taking your time on deciding which house you’d like to neighborhood school. If you plan on sending your child to a private pursue. However, since it is such a major decision you would like to school, how long is the commute? You will likely spend a lot of time base it on factual information. Some broad categories to consider driving your child not only during the school day but for extra- are: curricular events outside the daily school schedule. Which ever Appreciation school you decide, you can usually find general district information Ask your real estate agent to retrieve sales of homes in the and state standardized test results online. Always plan a visit to the neighborhood over the past few years. If one neighborhood shows school and receive the information first-hand from school an annual average 8 percent increase and another is skyrocketing administrators. You should also talk to teachers and parents. at 15 percent, you may have your decision made. Sellers’ Situations Crime If you don’t know already, ask your real estate agent how long the Go to the local police or sheriff department and ask about crime house has been on the market. Usually the longer a house has been in your specific neighborhood. You might find theft or vandalism to listed, the better chance the seller will accept an offer lower than be more prevalent in one area than another. Also please visit the asking price. Conversely, if the house has been on the market for website, www.familywatchdog.us. When you visit this site you can just a couple days, the sellers will probably wait for a better offer if enter your address and a map will pop up with your house as the you offer less than the listed price. Your real estate agent might also small icon of a house and red, blue, green, dots surrounding your be able to dig up additional information about the sellers, like why entire neighborhood. When you click on these dots a picture of a they’re selling. If it’s a job-related move or a divorce, the sellers likely person will appear with an address and the description of the crime want to move as quickly as possible, meaning you have a better he or she had committed. shot at them accepting a lower price. Drawbacks Style and Substance Rarely will you be lucky enough to find a perfect place. Think The SUBSTANCE are things that cannot be changed such as the about the cons associated with each house and determine to location, view, size of lot, noise in the area, school district, and floor correct them or how much of a negative impact each will have. plan. The STYLE represents easily changed surface finishes like The House carpet, wallpaper, color, and window coverings. Buy the house with Make a list of the amenities and attributes you want your house good SUBSTANCE, because the STYLE can always be changed to to have. Be specific. Prioritize that list. Then, rate how each house match your tastes. measures up to each need on your list. Neighborhoods If you have kids or pets and being close to a park is important, you’ll want to consider that. How close are shopping, restaurants, churches, and other services? Are the streets maintained? How do your prospective neighbors keep up their property? How long will your commute to work be? Property Taxes Property taxes may vary from one neighborhood to another. This can sometimes affect whether you view a community as a desirable place to live. Higher property taxes often mean newer and more modern schools, well-maintained roads, and bountiful community services.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 49 HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING ACTIVE ADULT DEMOGRAPHIC

According to the Administration on Aging, there are nearly 52.4 once they've retired from their jobs. You have more freedom than million people age 60 or older in the United States. By 2030, one in those of us still tied to the world of employment. So should senior every five Americans will be age 60 or older. Individuals who are 85 citizens buy or rent a home or stay where you are currently living and over are the fastest growing group of seniors, with their after retirement? numbers expected to more than triple from 5.4 million to 19 million When comparing renting and owning a home in your retirement between 2008 and 2050. The demographic profile of America’s years, maintenance and renovations need to be taken into older adults will also be more diverse in the years to come. These consideration. You must be able to keep up your home if you want trends will produce challenges as well as great opportunities to to continue living in retirement safely and comfortably. As for renting, harness the talents and energies of older Americans. many renters receive reassurance and security because they are not the one in charge of making or paying for needed repairs and renovations. One downside to renting a home or apartment is cost increase. Your rent can increase at just about any point in time. In most states, unless your lease states otherwise, rent can be increased with 30 days notice. Even so, most leases are only for one year, meaning your landlord can then raise your rent. In fact, your rent may be raised to any amount that they want, even an amount that you cannot afford. A fixed mortgage is just that and you will always know the amount of your mortgage payments. Another factor to consider is your current lifestyle, and the lifestyle you intend to lead in the future. When deciding whether to rent or buy your home, it's important to remember that the sky is the limit. You might want to travel after retirement, seeing the world on your retirement funds, and a mortgage would only serve to strap you to a particular place. You may not be able to spend winters in the Caribbean if the mortgage payments on your new home are too high. The senior housing trend started with senior apartments where Developers and home builders are now listening to those residents were monitored on a daily basis and had access to numbers. Innovative designs and careful consideration of the needs emergency services. That was just the beginning of a now extensive of active adults are now being studied to construct communities list of developments that cater to senior citizens. Many senior that include many services needed by active adults. Retirement communities include access to pools, gyms and clubhouses and villages now come complete with clubhouses for socialization, meal are age restricted. The newest developments enable seniors to own deliveries and transportation options to just name a few. Seniors will a private residence, maintain their independent lifestyles while now have to do their homework to find out which development is having many services available to them when the needs arise. right for them. Before you make a decision about where to live in retirement you need to consider many factors—the daily lifestyle you want; proximity of children, grandchildren, or other relatives and friends; the type of climate you enjoy; and your health or medical needs. Ideally you should consider these personal and lifestyle factors first. Then you need to face reality. What can you afford? As usual, when it comes to financial issues, the Internal Revenue Service enters the picture. The tax impact can be crucial when you’re analyzing the pros and cons of where and how to live. (You may access tax information for this state in another part of the guide.) Once past this process, you will need to think about renting vs. owning. Senior citizens are in a unique position

50 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide HOUSING OPTIONS FOR GROWING ACTIVE ADULT DEMOGRAPHIC

For many a desirable solution is retirement communities. Called “active adult” or “age- restricted” communities, these developments are especially common in suburban cities and towns where land is more available. The residents often can choose among a few different home styles. There are normally recreational benefits, such as a swimming pool, tennis, golf and a social hall. Some of these 55-plus communities are apartment buildings, condominiums or townhouses. Since an independent living facility is one in which you may live in your own apartment while enjoying more social interaction, you can come and go as you please. This gives you the opportunity to still live like you would have at your previous house, going on vacations or visiting family as you please. At the same time, same general area as their housing needs change over time. There independent living facilities have security services that create a safe is normally the cost of buying a unit in the community as well as community and place to live so there's never a reason to feel like monthly fees that increase as you require higher levels of care. You your personal belongings will not be secure while you're away. may want to consider a CCRC if you’d like to stay in the same Many retired adults choose to move to an independent living facility general facility regardless of your care needs. It also can mean because they no longer desire to take care of that big house that spouses can still be very close to one another even if one requires once housed their larger family. All that space is no longer a higher level of care, a big plus. necessary. In addition to downscaling, many independent living A relatively new concept is the Village Solution. The Village facilities offer cleaning and dining services, on top of landscaping. Solution enables active seniors to remain in their own homes It’ll give you the opportunity to really take advantage of your free without having to rely on family and friends. Members of a “village” time as a retired adult, rather than keeping you chained to daunting can access specialized programs and services, such as household chores. transportation to the grocery store, home health care, or help with household chores, as well as a network of social activities with other village members. As of 2009, there were 50 village organizations across the United States, with many more communities planned worldwide. Each offers different services depending on the local needs of the individual communities. The cost of membership varies according to area and the level of services required, but is often in excess of $500 a year. Thinking about housing arrangements for the future can be a stressful, anxiety-provoking topic for both you and your family. It may seem easier to put off thinking about it until later, but the earlier you face your specific issues, the more choices and control you will have over your future. Even if you are completely independent at this time, circumstances can change. It pays to think a little about your current location and how things will differ if you move. For example, how far will your home be from These provide less privacy, which some people want due to shopping, medical facilities, or other services? If you can no longer safety reasons. Each of these communities also has its own list of drive, what kind of transportation access will you have? Does it regulations on what is and is not acceptable by the homeowners. have a lot of steps, stairs, or a steep hill to navigate? Read everything you can about the housing, talk with other Learn about the different types of senior housing, what choices residents and meet the officers, if there is a board that oversees the may be best for you, and how to navigate the emotional roadblocks facility. that come with choosing senior housing. But most importantly plan Continuing-Care Retirement Communities are a great option. to enjoy each day to the fullest and take advantage of every CCRCs are facilities that include independent living, assisted living, opportunity presented to you! and nursing home care in one location, so seniors can stay in the

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 51 HOME INSPECTION CHECKLIST

Finding faults in a home doesn’t necessarily mean you shouldn’t Interior buy it. But it will help you to know the type of repair costs that The kitchen and baths are the most expensive rooms to should be anticipated, and sellers often will make adjustments in renovate, so check their condition carefully. A newly-painted interior their asking price on the basis of problems discovered in an may look nice, but it could be hiding something. inspection. Plumbing Inspectors look for the following: Turn on the bathroom sink faucet and shower and then flush the Brick and Concrete toilet. When the toilet starts to refill, does the water pressure Check pavement, driveways and horizontal brick surfaces for diminish? Fill sinks and tub with three inches of water. Do they drain cracks. Is there damage from freezing? What is the condition of the properly? Do faucets leak? Lift up the carpeting. Are there any signs mortar between the bricks? Is any pavement buckling from of flooding or decay? spreading underground tree roots? Roof Electrical Are shingles curling and lifting? Find out how old the roof is, and Open the door on the fuse box or circuit-breaker panel. Is the you will have a pretty good idea of when you will have to replace it. electrical service adequate? The average house should have 100- Termites and Carpenter Ants amp service. Is it wired for 220 volts, which is necessary for electric Look for evidence of termites and carpenter ants on basement dryers and ranges? wood framing. Is there saw dust like wood or paper debris? Can Exterior you find evidence of termite tubes or tunnels? Termites live in earth, Is the house well maintained? Does the roof sag? Are the exterior so make sure that there are no places where earth is closer than six walls out of line? What is the condition of the paint, especially on the inches to wood. Like termites, carpenter ants like wood and wood south and west sides, where sun exposure is greatest? Is there products. adequate drainage away from the house? Water Damage Heating & Cooling Look in the basement for signs of leakage. This could be a result How old is the heating/cooling system? Has it been maintained? of poor drainage around the house. Water damage also is caused Ask to see the owner’s cooling bills for the previous year. This will by seepage through porous basement walls and condensation, give you an idea of its energy efficiency. which frequently is caused by inadequate ventilation. Basement Insulation walls painted a dark color may be an effort to disguise a past Check the attic and crawl space. Is the insulation adequate and problem. Beware of chalky white water stains on foundation walls complete? Has it been properly installed? Does the insulation or partitions; stains on wood and drywall; delamination of paneling obstruct the air vents, preventing the house from “breathing” and and lifting or buckling floor tiles; or a damp, mildew odor. possibly causing wood rot? Does the home have storm windows? Windows and Doors Has the glazing putty dried and shrunk, allowing water and air seepage? Is the wood decayed? Are the window and door frames caulked and weather-stripped?

52 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide HOME CARE BASICS FOR NEW HOMEOWNERS

You’ve finally done it—you’ve just moved into your brand new Appliances home. The smell of fresh paint still permeates the air. You’re likely Remember to read the instruction manual for every appliance in consumed with unpacking, setting up furnishings, rearranging, your new home. The manuals provide recommended cleaning and decorating—energized by the blank pallet you have to work with. maintenance schedules and sometimes your warranty will become But once you’ve signed the thick pile of closing documents, the void if you don’t follow these recommendations. moving trucks have left and everything is neatly in its place, what do Driveways you do next? It’s time to get a handle on the routine maintenance If you have an asphalt driveway, remove oil, gasoline and similar you’ll need to perform in order to ensure that you and your family substances immediately with soapy water. live comfortably in your new home for years to come. Here’s some To avoid holes in your asphalt driveway, refrain from resting patio advice to get you started and help save money while you’re at it: furniture or bicycle stands on it. Maintaining a clean home will ensures it will last longer and works Do not burn anything on your driveway. better. Dust and dirt, if allowed to accumulate, can harm the finishes When winter weather produces ice and snow, remove it promptly on blinds, cabinets, countertops, floors, sinks, tubs, toilets, walls, and avoid gouging your pavement while chipping away at ice. tiles and other items. If dirt does accumulate, make sure to clean it Use kitty litter or sand for traction on tough patches of ice. with a substance that does not scratch or damage the finishes. Thawing and freezing agents using salt and chemicals can damage On the outside of your home, make sure that gutters and concrete, brick, mortar and asphalt. Salt will kill grass, shrubs and downspouts do not get clogged with leaves or other objects. The trees as well—and wreaks havoc on leather—soled shoes. exterior of your house is built to withstand exposure to the Gutters and Downspouts elements, but a periodic cleaning will improve the appearance and, Clear away leaves, tree limbs and other debris from gutters and in many instances, prolong the life of siding and other exterior downspouts. products. Downspouts should be turned away from your home’s When you bought your home, you probably received a warranty foundation. from the builder on workmanship and materials. This warranty Every four to six years, paint gutters that are not are made of applies to problems related to the construction of the home, but it aluminum or vinyl to help prevent rust. does not apply to problems that arise because of failure to perform routine maintenance. For example, if your roof begins to leak after Heating and Cooling Systems six months because of faulty workmanship, your warranty would Late summer or early fall are the ideal time to do an annual cover that. If you develop a problem because water backed up in inspection and cleaning of these systems. clogged gutters that you should have cleaned, the builder is not Make sure you change the filters every three months. responsible for repairs. Also, some items, such as appliances, may Keeping your pilot light burning during the summer will help keep be covered by manufacturers’ warranties and are not the the furnace dry and prevent corrosion. responsibility of the builder. Registers help regulate the flow of air and maintain the desired You should fully familiarize yourself with the terms of your temperature in your home. Keeping registers closed in rooms you warranty soon after you move into your home. With all the don’t use will save on cooling/heating costs. excitement surrounding a move into a new home, most people have Using heat generating appliances in the evening and reducing the little desire to curl up in front of the fireplace and read a legal number of lights on will help keep the temperature down and save document. Nonetheless, you should not wait to read your warranty on costs during the summer. until a problem arises. Set aside an hour to learn what your rights Plumbing and responsibilities are from the outset. Every member of your family should know where the intake Here are some additional tips for properly maintaining specific valves are located. Label each one. systems in your new home. If any of your appliances develops a leak, inspect your drain trap. A partially clogged drain can cause overflow. Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to unclog the drain. If you need to, use boiling water to help unclog a partially opened drain. Call a plumber if these techniques don’t work. A worn washer, a loose part in a faucet or steam in a hot water pipe generally causes a noisy pipe. Do not hesitate to repair the noise because vibrations can follow the noise and lead to leaks.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 53 SECURITY

Each year more than six million residential burglaries occur Computer Security throughout the United States. That’s one every ten seconds! In Computer security is the process of preventing unauthorized use addition to the worry of home burglaries, we now also need to of your computer. concern ourselves with computer hackers and personal identity • Use of anti-virus software on all Internet-connected computers. theft. Listed below are some things that you can do to reduce your Be sure to keep your anti-virus software up-to-date. chances of becoming a victim. • Use of some type of firewall product, such as a network Home Security Checklist appliance or a personal firewall software package. • Have home security system professionally installed that offers a • Turn off your computer or disconnect its Ethernet interface when 24 hour monitoring system. Make sure to post the home system you are not using it. An intruder cannot attack your computer if it stickers and window decals–this should alert and deter would be is powered off or otherwise completely disconnected from the intruders. network. • Never stop mail or newspaper deliveries, it signals that you are • Use software backup tools if available, and store the backup away. Have a neighbor pick up all deliveries if possible. disks somewhere away from the computer. • When recording your answering machine message, do not state Identity Theft that you are not home or out of town. Identity theft occurs when someone uses your personal • When leaving for an extended period, put lights and stereo or information without your permission to commit fraud or other television on a timer to give the appearance that someone is crimes. While you can’t entirely control whether you will become a home. victim, there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Exterior/Interior Security • Shred financial documents and paperwork with personal • Replace all locks immediately upon moving into your new home information before you discard them. and install deadbolts on all outside doors. • Protect your Social Security number. Don’t carry your Social • Secure your sliding glass doors with pins to prevent all horizontal Security card in your wallet or write your Social Security number and vertical movement. Also install security film over the glass on a check. Give it out only if absolutely necessary or ask to use panes for additional protection. another identifier. • Remember to lock all doors and windows. • Don’t give out personal information on the phone, through the • Provide remote panic buttons for children and/or elderly mail, or over the Internet unless you know who you are dealing residents. with. • Never keep garage door openers in cars that are parked outside • Never click on links sent in unsolicited emails; instead, type in a of your home. web address you know. Keep Your Valuables Safe • Don’t use an obvious password like your birth date, your • Keep your important papers, heirloom jewelry and large amounts mother’s maiden name, or the last four digits of your Social of cash in a safe deposit box. Security number. • Engrave your valuables with your social security number or drivers license number. • Store jewelry, firearms, furs and like in a small closet with a non- hinged solid core door that has a deadbolt. • When purchasing new electronic equipment, breakdown cartons before discarding them. This way you avoid advertising your new purchase to the entire neighborhood and drive-by observers. TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ENERGY COSTS

The cost of cooling your house continues to rise. There are a • Close doors to rooms that are not being used. number of ways you can save a significant amount of money on • Run full loads in your washer and dryer, and use “solar drying” your energy bills. In fact, it’s possible to save up to 25 percent on (clotheslines). your power bill by using the following tips. While your results might • Use energy saver option on your dishwasher, allowing dishes to vary, you’re guaranteed to find at least a few ways to save money. air dry. The idea behind all our advice, and in fact our entire conservation • If you A/C unit is on the ground, keep the area around it clean and effort, is to give you the information you need to make the right free of obstructions to maintain air flow. decisions. • Unplug your televisions/VCR when you’re on vacation. Most new These simple steps don’t cost a thing, but can potentially save sets draw power even when they’re turned off. you 10-25% on your monthly energy bill. • Keep lights and lighting fixtures clean, especially if you’re • Turn off lights and appliances when not in use. Don’t forget your reducing the number of lights you use. Dirt absorbs light. Let computer - it can use as much energy as a refrigerator. Most new lights cool before cleaning them and never touch halogen bulbs computers have “sleep” settings. with your bare hands. The oil from your skin can greatly damage • In the cold months, set the thermostat to 68 degrees when the bulbs. Use a small piece of paper to hold the bulb. home, and then back to 58 degrees when sleeping or when you • If your dishwasher has a filter clean it. are not home more than four hours. • Clean the reflectors underneath the burners on stovetops. • In warm months, set the thermostat to 78-80 degrees when home and 5 to 10 degrees warmer at night or when you’re not There are plenty of low cost, easy to do projects or steps you can home. do to save another 10-25% on your energy bill. • Do not turn your air conditioning off in the hot months when • Use compact fluorescent bulbs instead of incandescent ones. you’re not home. Your house will store up the heat and you’re This will typically save $1 per bulb changed out (for bulbs running likely to make the air conditioning run for hours to feel 4-6 hours per day) and reduce heat in your home. Regular bulbs comfortable. use most of the electricity to generate heat so use care when • In the winter, open window coverings on the sunny side of your changing bulbs. home to take advantage of “free heat from the sun” Close the • Caulk windows and caulk and weather-strip doors. Keep the coverings on cloudy days or right after the sun sets. outside air out and the inside air in. • In the cooling season, close blinds and drapes during the day to • Install a hot water heater blanket but be careful not to cover vents keep heat out. or temperature settings. • Also, use your dishwasher, clothes washer and dryer, and cook • Install hot water pipe insulation. Do keep the insulation at least six as late in the evening as possible. inches away from the flue (exhaust pipe) of gas water heaters. • Barbecue outside if practical, keeping in mind the heat and effect • Plant trees and shrubs on the south and west side of your of sun on your body. By reducing the heat coming into your home residence. The vegetation acts as insulation and provides from any source, will reduce the load on your air conditioning. shading, reducing thermal gain in a building. • Use pool trippers to reduce the time your swimming pool pump • Fix leaky faucets Install low flow showerheads. runs on—eight to twelve hours a day is plenty in the summer • Use room fans to keep the air moving and reduce the feeling of months, less in the winter months. heat in your home. • Set your water heater to 120 degrees. • Replace furnace and air conditioner filters. Spray the filters with a • Vacuum your refrigerator coils (underneath and in the back) and light coating of lemon furniture polish or vegetable oil cooking don’t obstruct the coils. They need air space to work. spray to help trap dirt in the filter. • Keep the seals (gaskets) on refrigerators and freezers clean. • Check the seals on your refrigerator and freezer. • Keep your freezer as full as possible. You can place containers or • Replace normal thermostats with programmable thermostats. plastic bottles filled with water in the empty spaces. • Make sure food is cool and covered before it goes into the refrigerator.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 55 HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY

As you start shopping for a new home, you may encounter some Contingency Condition that must be met before a contract is unfamiliar words and terms. The following glossary will help get you binding. through the maze of buying a home. Convertibility Ability to change a loan from an adjustable rate Adjustable-Rate Mortgage (ARM) Loan with an interest rate schedule to a fixed-rate schedule. adjusted according to movements in the financial market. Many Covenant Agreement between seller and buyer on a piece of offer lower-than-market initial interest rates that rise only gradually property, restricting the use of that property. (Also called deed for the first few years. restriction.) Annual Percentage Rate (APR) Annual cost of credit over the life of Deed Legal document representing property ownership. a loan including interest, service charges, points, loan fees, Default When a borrower fails to make the required payments of mortgage insurance and other items. a mortgage contract. Appraisal Unbiased, professional opinion of a property’s value Density The number of homes built on a particular acre of land. based on its style and appearance, construction quality, usefulness Allowable densities are determined by local jurisdictions. and the value of comparable properties. Debt-To-Income Ratio Long-Term debt expenses as a percentage Assessment Tax levied on a property or a value placed on the of monthly income; used by lenders to qualify borrowers for worth of a property by a taxing authority. mortgage loans. Assumption Transaction allowing a buyer to assume responsibility Due-on-Sale Clause in a mortgage contract requiring the borrower for an existing loan instead of getting a new loan. to pay the entire outstanding balance upon sale or transfer of the Broker (Real Estate) Person who receives a commission or fee for property. bringing buyer and seller together and assisting in the negotiation of Earnest Money Sum paid to the seller to show that a potential contracts between them. A license is required in most states. purchaser is serious about buying. Building Code Local regulations controlling design, construction Easement Right-of-Way granted to a person or company and materials used in construction. Building Codes are based on authorizing access to the owner’s land. For example, a utility safety and health standards. company may be granted easement to install pipes or wires. An Buydown Subsidy, usually paid by a builder or developer, to reduce owner may voluntarily grant an easement or can be ordered to grant the monthly payments on a mortgage loan. one by a local jurisdiction. Buyer’s Agent A real estate agent who represents only the buyer Equity Difference between the value of a home and what is owed in a real estate transaction. on it. Callback Request by a homeowner for a builder to handle a service Escrow Handling of funds or documents by a third party on behalf request. of the buyer and/or seller. Cap Limit to the amount an interest rate or monthly payment can Escrow Amount Amount set up by a lender into which periodic, increase for an adjustable-rate loan either during an adjustment usually monthly, payments for taxes, hazard insurance, period or over the life of the loan. assessments and mortgage insurance premiums are made. Funds Certificate of Occupancy Document from an official agency stating are held in trust by the lender who pays the sums as they become the property meets the requirements of local codes, ordinances and due. regulations. Fair Market Value Price at which property is transferred between Chain of Title History of all documents transferring title to a parcel willing buyer and willing seller, each of whom has reasonable of real property, starting with the earliest existing document and knowledge of all pertinent facts and neither being under compulsion ending with the most recent. to buy or sell. Change Order Homebuyer’s written authorization to add, delete or Federal Housing Administration (FHA) Federal agency that insures change an item specified in a contract. mortgages with lower down payment requirements than Closing Meeting to sign documents that transfer from a seller to a conventional loans. buyer. (Also referred to as settlement.) Fixed-Rate Mortgage Mortgage with an interest rate that remains Closing Costs Charges paid at settlement for obtaining a mortgage constant over the life of the loan. loan and transferring a real estate title. Hazard Insurance Protection against damage caused by fire, wind Commission Agent’s fee for negotiating a real estate or loan storms or other common hazards. Many lenders require borrowers transaction, often expressed as the percentage of the sales price or to carry it in an amount at least to the mortgage. mortgage amount. HVAC Common building industry abbreviation for heating, Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions (CC and Rs) Standards that ventilation and air conditioning systems. define how a property may be used and the protections the Inex Interest rate or adjustment standard that determines the developer makes for the benefit of all owners in a subdivision. changes in monthly payments for an adjustable-rate loan.

56 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide HOMEBUYER’S GLOSSARY

Infrastructure Public facilities and services needed to support PITI Principal, interest, taxes and insurance: the four major residential development, including highways, bridges, schools and components of monthly housing payments. sewer and water systems. Point One-Time charge assessed by the lender at closing to Inspection Examination of work completed on a structure to increase the interest yield on a mortgage loan. determine compliance with building code and other code Presettlement Walk-Through Final inspection of house prior to requirements. closing, conducted by builder and buyer. Joint Tenancy Form of ownership in which the tenants own a Principal Amount borrowed, excluding interest and other charges. property equally. If one dies, the other automatically inherits the Property Survey Survey to determine the boundaries of a piece of entire property. property. Cost depends on the complexity of the survey. Loan Origination Fee Lender will charge a fee for the cost of Recording Fee Charge for recording the transfer of a property, paid processing the loan, usually calculated as a percentage of the loan to a city, county or other appropriate branch of government. amount. Specifications Contractual document describing in detail the work Loan-To-Value-Ratio Relationship between the amount of a home to be performed; method of construction; standards of loan and the total value of a property. workmanship; quality, type and manufacturer of materials and Lock-In Rate Commitment from a lender to make a loan at a pre- equipment for a particular project. set interest rate at some future date, usually for not more than 90 Tenancy in Common Form of ownership in which the tenants own days. A fee may be charged to “lock-in” a rate. separate but equal parts. To inherit the property, a surviving tenant Mortgage Commitment Formal written communication by a lender would either have to be mentioned in the will or, in the absence of agreeing to make a mortgage loan on a specific property, specifying a will, be eligible through state inheritance laws. the loan amount, length of time and conditions. Title Evidence, usually in the form of a certificate or deed, of a Mortgage Origination Fee Charge for the work involved in preparing person’s legal right to ownership of a property. and servicing a mortgage application. Title Insurance Insurance against any title defects that may exist Permit Document issued by a local government agency allowing prior to the time the title is passed from one owner to the next, and construction work to be performed in conformance with local which may come to light in a future transaction. codes. Work may not commence until permits have been obtained, Veterans Administration (VA) Federal agency that insures mortgage and each permit issuing agency must inspect the work at certain loans with very liberal down payment requirements for honorably specified points during construction. discharged veterans and their surviving spouses.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 57 WHO’S WHO IN BUILDING

Architect Lender Building design professional who has completed all required The financial institution that provides construction loan financing university training in architecture and passed state licensing exams; during construction and permanent financing for the home buyer initials A.I.A. and F.A.I.A. indicate membership in a professional after the home is built and there is a property settlement, referred to organization, but not licensed status. in our area as closing. Most lenders make what is referred to as Builder or General Contractor “end loans” which is the loan made to the buyer of a new home, and The buck stops with him or her in construction projects. The others make both the “end loan” and “construction loan financing” general contractor secures bids for all work and materials; hires, which provides funds to pay for costs incurred during construction. coordinates and oversees subcontractors; files for permits and Owner Builder arranges for inspections; and generally makes the final decisions in An individual or family who finances and manages a home all construction-related matters. building project (usually with the assistance of a builder or general Building Designer contractor who is hired to manage all or a particular phase of the Generally unlicensed professionals (license not required for construction of the home) with the intention of retaining ownership practice) who, by experience, are competent to design homes, and residing in the home after completion. prepare drawings and write specifications; they often work in Subcontractor association with licensed architects. A specialist who undertakes responsibility for one phase or trade within the project and reports to the general contractor. In a typical Building Inspector home building project, subcontractors generally include: an One or more local officials who oversee and regulate every phase excavation contractor who digs foundations and grades the site; a of residential construction. Regulations vary widely. In most states masonry contractor who handles all concrete, block, brickwork and area home construction meets standards contained in the Uniform paving; a framing contractor who constructs the shell and interior Building Code. In addition, applicable provisions of the Uniform Fire partitions; a roofing contractor; a heating, ventilation and air- & Plumbing/Mechanical & Electrical codes are enforced. Typically, conditioning (HVAC) contractor; a plumbing contractor; an electrical permits are issued and inspections are made at key stages of contractor; drywall installers; insulation contractors; finish construction by County and City building code enforcement carpenters who generally handle wood flooring, trim work, and departments. cabinet installation; and a painting contractor. Construction Manager/Foreman The general contractor’s right-hand man. A construction Surveyor manager can be on site when the general contractor is not. A professional with the training and equipment to establish or Design/Build Firms verify property lines. The surveyor also plots and marks the An organization that provides both architectural planning and topography of the site, which is crucial in preparing the site plan. He general contracting services, and offers a different approach to the or she may also be employed to stake out the building site, setting conventional arrangement in which the designer and builder are reference marks for foundation excavation, establishing grades for separate entities. roads or driveways and marking the locations for a septic system and water well, if necessary. Kitchen /Bath Designer Specialist in designing these rooms; initials C.K.D. and C.B.D. Title Insurance Company indicate certification by a professional association, for which training The entity that conducts a comprehensive search of the public and passing tests are required. License is not required for practice. records to make sure that the title received by a buyer of a new home is “free and clear of any liens and encumbrances”. This Interior Designer assures the issuance of a clear or “merchant able” title in favor of Specialist in decoration and furnishing; special training and the buyer of a new home at the closing of the sale of the property. licensing not required. Initials A.S.I.D. following individual’s name indicate membership in a professional association, for which training and passing tests are required. Landscape Architect Specialist in landscape and garden planning; primary concerns include site selection, grading, access, drainage and protection of existing plant material. License required for practice.

58 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide SELECTING A BUILDER

Are you shopping for a new home? Start by shopping for a Service After the Sale and Home Warranty professional builder first. Whether you are buying a townhouse, a While you are shopping, ask about the builder’s service after the detached home in a subdivision, or a custom-built house, the sale. Most builders offer some form of warranty. Many builders back construction quality of your new home will be determined by the their own warranties on workmanship and materials, typically for quality of your builder. one year. Other builders offer warranties backed by an insurance Start your builder-search process by calling your local home program. One of the most important criteria for selecting a builder builders association. They can give you the names of reputable is the warranty protection provided on the home. Ask for a copy of builders in your area. Ask friends and relatives about builders they the builder’s warranty. Read the document thoroughly and be sure have dealt with directly, or ask them for the names of acquaintances you understand what protection is provided. If you have any who have recently built a new home. questions about the coverage, talk to the builder prior to finalizing your purchase. The Interview Process Once you have developed a list of builders who are building the Be Thorough type and price range of home you are interested in, research their When selecting a builder, be thorough and ask a lot of questions. reputations and the quality of their work. The best way is to visit Get as many specifics as possible. If you receive the answers homes that they have built and talk to the owners. Ask the builders verbally, take notes. Never hesitate to ask a question because you on your list for the addresses of their recently completed houses, are afraid of sounding “stupid” or uninformed. What seems like a subdivisions, or townhouse communities. At the very least, drive by “stupid” question may yield a very important answer. and see if the homes are visually appealing. Buying a new home is probably the biggest and most important Look at homes that are the same style as you plan to buy. A good purchase you will make in your lifetime. By doing your new “home” time to visit is on a weekend morning when people are outside work to select a builder, you will instill in yourself and your family a doing chores. Introduce yourself and explain that you are sense of confidence and knowledge that you have made the right considering buying a home from the same builder who built their choice. home. If you have additional questions about selecting a builder, contact Ask about their satisfaction with the home and whether the your area’s Builders Association. Ask for a builder list that identifies builder delivered what was promised in a timely manner. Ask if they the price categories and subdivisions in which they build. Be sure to would buy another home from this builder. People will generally tell tour the Parade of Homes in the Fall and Spring. It is an excellent you if they are happy with their purchase. way to get familiar with the housing market in this area as well as individual builder’s products. Quality and Value When examining a home, look at the quality of the construction features: the cabinetry, carpeting, trim work, and paint. In viewing a home, you must determine whether it lends itself to the type of lifestyle you want to lead. Look at the amount of interior living space and how efficiently the space is used. Find out if the builder is incorporating state-of-the-art energy efficiency features, both in appliances and insulation.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 59 SELECTING A CONTRACTOR

Every year hundreds of families are taken advantage of by 8. Make sure all required permits are secured and inspections are disreputable individuals or companies who represent themselves to made.The contractor should be expected to secure all necessary be reliable, reputable contractors. If you are planning to hire permits. Beware of contractors who want you to secure the someone to repair or make improvements to your property there are permit as the property owner. It is permissible to do so, but it is safeguards you can take to assure the best selection of a contractor very unusual that a reputable contractor will ask you to do this. for you. 9. Make sure you have a written contract with the contractor that Consider the Following details: 1. Hire only licensed contractors. Contractors are required to be a. A full description of all work to be done. licensed to do certain types of work. When selecting a contractor b. A firm date of completion you should make sure the contractor holds a current, valid c. Total cost of the job. license either issued by your city. d. Contractors license number. 2. All contractors do not possess the same expertise.Ask for e. All warranty information. references and check those references to assure yourself that f. Quality of materials to be used. the contractor is qualified to do the type of work you are wanting g. How and on what basis payments are to be made. done. h. How changes and payment for changes will be handled. 3. Check business references. Ask the contractor for a list of 10. Make sure complete architectural drawings are done and business references that you can call and verify that the agreed upon if you are having a room addition added, or relationships with suppliers and subcontractors are good ones extensive remodeling done. Be certain that detailed material and that the contractor pays his bills. specifications are also provided and made a part of the contract 4. Call the Better Business Bureau to find out if there are any you sign. complaints or charges pending against the contractor. 11. Monitor the work being done in accordance with the 5. Call local trade associations for information about selecting a contractual agreement with the contractor. If you have contractor. questions about what is being done or problems with the 6. Ask for proof from the contractor that he has general liability contractor, either ask questions or confront the problem head insurance and workers compensation insurance in order to on when it occurs in order to minimize any conflict and reach a protect you, as the property owner, against any claim in the event satisfactory resolve as quickly as possible. the contractor, his employees, or someone else is injured as a 12. Final payment should not be made until you are satisfied that result of work being done on your property. the job has been completed in accordance with the terms of the 7. Make sure the contractor you are contracting with will be contractual agreement between you and the contractor. personally involved in coordinating the work to be done on your property. “A house is made of walls and beams; A home is built with love and dreams.” - Author unknown

60 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Is Your Bank Meeting Your Current Financial Needs? What Will You Do? This page offers a guide to choosing the right bank for your The fist question to ask yourself is what you want to do with your needs, and offers some ideas for starting your checklist. bank account. Do you want to put money in there periodically and With banks offering an increasing number of financial services at watch it grow? Will you move money in and out quickly? You need widely varying fees, choosing one to handle your particular financial to know what your banking behavior will be like in order to find the needs can seem like a difficult and confusing task. Although there right bank. is much to consider, it is best to select a bank the same way you Next, get an idea of how you prefer to do your banking. If your would choose any product or service—first evaluate your needs schedule doesn’t work with most bank schedules, the best bank and then compare costs. You should also consider what is most might just be the one that’s open at convenient times. important to you in a banking relationship. Do you want to develop Free checking accounts get a lot of hype. They get people in the a personal, long-term customer relationship with a bank? Do you door. However, free may not always be the best thing for you. If you travel frequently and need access to branch offices while you are value certain services or conveniences, you may be willing to pay for out of town? If you prefer to do your banking by telephone or online, them. Once you get ahold of fee schedules from competing banks, you'll want to explore the types of electronic services each bank has consider if it’s really going to bother you to pay a few bucks each to offer. Once you have identified your needs, evaluating and month for that “gotta have it” feature or service. Maybe it is, maybe comparing the services and fees is a much simpler task. it isn’t. But you have to do your research, because not all banks offer At first glance, fees might make you favor debit cards in the debit free checking, and if they do, they won’t always tell you about that vs credit competition. The worst fee you'll find in a typical debit card option unless you ask. is a POS fee — charged when you use your debit card at a retailer So go online or make a few phone calls. Find out if the bank has using PIN number. While the tide is shifting away from banks a lot of ATM locations. It doesn’t do you any good to have free charging these fees, they're still around. More importantly, there are checking if you have to spend $2 a pop to use another bank’s ATM more factors than fees to the debit vs credit debate. because you bank only has one branch and it is all the way across Hidden fees are becoming increasingly popular in the banking town. industry. If you're not careful, you might end up wasting significant You may be eligible because of where you live or what type of job amounts of money each year on things that can be easily avoided. you have to join a credit union. Many people like credit unions One place that's full of hidden fees is the ATM. While it is an easy because they offer a lot of free services (like maybe free Money way of obtaining your money quickly and efficiently, ATMs are Orders). But keep in mind that credit unions are often few and far notorious for their service charges. You can end up being charged between, so you may end up with the ATM surcharge problem. every time you use the ATM, if you're not careful. Some banks will charge extra fees if you do not meet certain requirements or do your banking with them. Banks can even charge you to check your balance at the ATM. It depends on the bank. You need to understand the terms of your bank and find the best plan for you. You can check balances, transfer funds and pay bills, all from the comfort and convenience of your home or office computer. Internet banking may also have a price. Depending on the bank, you may have to pay a service charge for this service. It also may not be available at all banks.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 61 BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

You may have a difficult time deciding which type of home feature was designed to provide housing and assistance for mortgage is the best for your needs. The world of home finance veterans and their families, and the dream of home ownership offers so many variables and options that it’s often hard to keep became a reality for millions of veterans. VA will guarantee a them straight. The following may help you better understand the maximum of 25 percent of a home loan amount up to $104,250, differences and find a home loan that’s right for you. which limits the maximum loan amount to $417,000. Generally, the Fixed-Rate Mortgages are very popular because the interest rate reasonable value of the property or the purchase price, whichever and monthly payments are constant. Fixed loans are generally is less, plus the funding fee may be borrowed. All veterans must amortized over ten, fifteen, twenty or thirty years. Property taxes qualify, for they are not automatically eligible for the program. and homeowners insurance may increase, but generally your Interest-Only Mortgage is really an interest-only option that works monthly payments will be very stable. During the early amortization with various mortgage types. This option has regular payments, period, a large percentage of the monthly payment is used for typically monthly, for a fixed period of time; however, payments paying the interest. As the loan is paid down, more of the monthly consist of one hundred percent interest. No principal is paid during payment is applied to principal. A typical 30 year fixed rate the interest-only period. When that period ends, the borrower is mortgage takes 22.5 years of level payments to pay half of the obligated to make payments of principal and interest. Because the original loan amount. You may also opt for “biweekly” mortgages, time remaining in the loan term to repay the principal is shorter than which shorten the loan by making a payment every two weeks. it would have been, payments will adjust upward, sometimes (Since there are 52 weeks in a year, you make 26 payments, or 13 substantially. The appeal of interest-only payments is savings. When “months” worth, every year.) principal is not being paid, monthly payments are dramatically Adjustable Rate Mortgage (ARM) is a loan which allows for the lower. On the risk side is potential for loss. If the need to sell arises adjustment of its interest rate according to the terms of the note and and the property value has stayed flat or declined, a borrower might as market interest rates change. With this type of mortgage loan be in a position where the mortgage loan balance is higher than the program the interest rate and payments may be adjusted as market value of the property. frequently as every month. The purpose of the program is to allow Balloon Mortgage Loan generally has a short term, commonly mortgage interest rates to fluctuate with market conditions. The anywhere from 3-7 years. During that term, borrowers make regular initial interest rate for an ARM is usually lower than that of a fixed equal payments of principal – the amount of money borrowed – plus rate mortgage, where the interest rate remains the same during the interest. At the end of the loan term, a “balloon” payment is due for life of the loan. A lower rate means lower payments, which might the entire loan balance. Options for handling the balloon payment help you qualify for a larger loan. Also if you do not plan to keep your include paying off the balance when due or refinancing before the home for more than a few years, the possibility of rate increases payment comes due. Balloon mortgages are usually offered at isn’t as much of a factor. But no one has a crystal ball to predict the lower interest rates than other fixed-rate loans. In addition, fluctuation of interest rates, so it is somewhat of a gamble. payments are calculated using a period longer than the term of the FHA Mortgage Loan is insured by the Federal Housing loan. As a result, balloon loans offer affordability for short-term Administration. FHA is part of the U.S. Department of Housing and circumstances. Borrowers do need to plan ahead so they are not Urban Development (HUD), one of its chief purposes is to help caught unprepared when the balloon payment is due. people obtain financing to buy their homes. The FHA doesn’t make Choosing a type of mortgage is not the only decision you must the loans, but insures loans made by banks, savings and loans, face. Several other criteria are listed below. mortgage companies, credit unions and other approved institutions. Hybrid Mortgage combines features of both fixed-rate and FHA does not originate loans. FHA insures the mortgage and pays adjustable-rate mortgages. A hybrid mortgage loan may start with the lender if the homebuyer defaults on the loan, or fails to repay the a rate that is fixed for a period of time. When that fixed-rate period loan. Almost anyone who has a satisfactory credit record, enough expires, the loan then converts to an ARM. The initial rate for a cash to close the loan, and sufficient steady income to make hybrid mortgage loan is typically lower than prevailing fixed rates. monthly mortgage payments can be approved for an FHA-insured The lower rate enables more buying power up front. On the risk side mortgage. There is no upper age limit and no certain income level is the uncertainty of how high interest rates will be when the fixed- required, although individual mortgage amounts are limited by law. rate period expires. VA Mortgage Loan is similar to the FHA mortgage. The U.S. Lending Institution are used When you’re looking for a home loan, Department of Veterans Affairs guarantees loans made by you might work with an officer at a bank or other lending institution, institutional lenders to eligible veterans. The guarantee helps protect or you might choose to work with a mortgage broker. The loan the lender in the event of the borrower’s default. The VA Loan was officers at a bank, credit union or other lending institution are initiated in 1944 through the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act, more employees who work to sell and process mortgages originated by commonly known as the GI Bill of Rights. The GI Bill was signed into their employer. They often have a wide variety of loans types to law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt and provided veterans with draw from, but all originate from that specific lender. a federally guaranteed home loan with no down payment. This

62 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Mortgage Brokers are professionals who are paid a fee to bring Appreciation is the increase in the property’s value, either by together lenders and borrowers. The mortgage broker working to improvement in the market or improvements made by the owner. secure your loan is earning a fee for that transaction—and the Balloon Mortgage is a loan that acts like a fixed rate but is due in better deal they achieve for a lender, the more they are paid. Don’t three, five or ten years. At that point you must pay the outstanding be too anxious to disclose the interest rate you would be willing to balance in one lump sum. accept, let them tell you what terms they can secure. Shop around Buydown is the process of buying a lower interest rate by paying to make sure the terms are reasonable. more points at closing. There should be little difference between obtaining a loan from a Conventional Mortgage is a loan that is under $ 240,000 and meets broker or a local lending institution. Maybe none, but you should be Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac standards, the largest purchasers of aware of the differences between the two positions. A mortgage home mortgages on the secondary market. broker may find you a lender in another part of the country. The loan Convertible Mortgage is an ARM with the option to convert to a office will likely be able to offer more personal service while your loan fixed rate mortgage as specified in the contract. is being processed and once you are an established customer. FHA Loans are issued by FHA approved lenders. The FHA insures Discount Points are fees paid to a lender at closing in order to its loans so that borrowers can get them with only 3 to 5% down lower your mortgage interest rate. While buying points is sometimes payment. The FHA has certain criteria to qualify for these loans. a good decision, many times the purchase costs you more than it Fixed-rate Mortgages are self amortizing loans with a constant rate saves. The cost of each point is equal to one percent of the loan of interest. These loans are commonly for 10, 15. 20 or 30 year amount. For instance, for a $100,000 loan one discount point periods. equals $1,000. Each discount point paid on a 30-year loan typically lowers the interest rate by 0.125 percent. That means a 5.5 percent Interest Rate is what the lender charges for the use of their money. rate would be lowered to 5.375 percent if you purchase one point. Expressed as an annual percentage of the amount borrowed before Paying for points lowers your interest rate, because the lender financing expenses. receives the income in a lump sum at closing rather than collecting Initial Interest Rate is what lenders charge on an ARM until the first the interest as you make payments on your loan. Whether or not adjustment is made. This rate is usually much lower than fixed rate paying points makes sense for you depends in part on how long mortgages. you plan to keep the loan. Jumbo Mortgages are loans greater than $ 227,150 with an interest rate that is a quarter percentage higher than conventional Helpful Mortgage Terms loans. Adjustable Rate Mortgage is a loan with a rate that adjusts to Lifetime Cap is the same as an annual cap except there is limit on market conditions. The rate of adjustment will be stated in the how high the interest rate can increase over the entire life of the contract. mortgage. Adjustment Index is a guide lenders use to change ARM interest Loan Commitment is a promise by the lender to provide the agreed rates during the life of a mortgage. The specific index to which your amount of money stated on the mortgage to close on a home. The ARM is tied to will be listed in the mortgage contract. commitment also states the interest rate, term of loan, and usually Annual Cap is a limit on how high the interest rate on an ARM can expires within 60 days. rise in a single year. Annual caps are specified in the better ARM Loan Servicing is the institution that handles the administrative programs. processing of your loan such as billing and collecting payments. Annual Percentage Rate Equals the true cost of a loan including Loan-to-Value Ratio is the proportional relationship of the financing charges and fees. mortgage loan to the value of a home, expressed as a percentage. Amortization is the process that reduces the amount owned in a loan. It can be made in a lump sum or periodic installments. Appraisal Value is estimating the property’s worth which is based on comparable properties. Appraisals that are completed by certified professionals, and are used by lenders to verify the home’s value and justify the mortgage commitment.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 63 BANKING & MORTGAGE INFORMATION

Mortgage Calculator You can obtain your property taxes from the local township office How much do you qualify for based on typical lender and you can contact your insurance agent for homeowner rates. requirements? Generally, the lender will require that your monthly Now, while shopping for your mortgage, you probably have payments not exceed 28% of your gross monthly income. Lets take discovered the current interest rate. Use the chart below; find the a look at how a lender would typically determine your ability to meet column, which applies to that rate. Follow the number down until monthly house payments. you find the number that is closest to your principal and interest First, determine your gross monthly income from all sources. payment. To the left of that you will find the loan amount for which Then multiply that amount by 28% to determine an approximate you probably qualify. If you intend to apply for a 90% loan, divide the allowable monthly payment. This payment includes principal, loan amount by .90 to calculate the price of the house that would interest, taxes and insurance. From this amount subtract taxes and require this monthly payment. insurance to arrive at your allowable principal and interest payment.

The example below illustrates this procedure: Gross Monthly Income $2,500 X 28% = $700 Less: Monthly Taxes & Insurance ($100) = $600 6% Interest Rate for 30 years for $600 = $30,000 $30,000/.90 (Loan to Value) = $33,333 = Estimated Maximum Home Price For Qualification

$ 3% 3.5% 4% 4.5% 5% 5.5% 6% 6.5% 7%

100,000 300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650 700

150,000 450 525 600 675 750 825 900 975 1050

200,000 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 1200 1300 1400

250,000 750 875 1000 1125 1250 1375 1500 1625 1750

300,000 900 1050 1200 1350 1500 1650 1800 1950 2100

350,000 1050 1225 1400 1575 1750 1925 2100 2275 2450

400,000 1200 1400 1600 1800 2000 2200 2400 2600 2800

450,000 1350 1575 1800 2025 2250 2475 2700 2925 3150

500,000 1500 1750 2000 2250 2500 2750 3000 3250 3500

550,000 1650 1925 2200 2475 2750 3025 3300 3575 3850

600,000 1800 2100 2400 2700 3000 3300 3600 3900 4200

650,000 1950 2275 2600 2925 3250 3575 3900 4225 4550

700,000 2100 2450 2800 3150 3500 3850 4200 4550 4900

750,000 2250 2625 3000 3375 3750 4125 4500 4875 5250

800,000 2400 2800 3200 3600 4000 4400 4800 5200 5600

850,000 2550 2975 3400 3825 4250 4675 5100 5525 5950

900,000 2700 3150 3600 4050 4500 4950 5400 5850 6300

950,000 2850 3325 3800 4275 4750 5225 5700 6175 6650

1,000,000 3000 3500 4000 4500 5000 5500 6000 6500 7000

64 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide AIRLINES BANKS/FINANCIAL SERVICE

Airlines Laurel Ridge Capital Bank 1100 West NC Highway 54 Bypass 4901 Glenwood Ave. American Airlines Chapel Hill, NC 27516 Raleigh, NC 27612 Reservations call (800) 433-7300 (919) 967-6918 (919) 645-6449 Flights at your fingertips. For passenger Come check out Laurel Ridge’s newly We are a full service community bank reservations and information call us or your renovated apartment homes! We have committed to bringing quality, personalized travel agent. beautifully redesigned kitchens and banking to all the markets we serve. Our Continental Airlines bathrooms you are sure to love! We are goal is to offer competitive products Reservations call (800) 523-3273 located in Chapel Hill approximately 1 mile characterized by responsive, friendly and Want to be treated with respect, fly the from the UNC campus. reliable service that exceeds our customers safe and courteous skies with Continental Willow Brook expectations. 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Nowhere else can you take open new offices, we will not let our growth 200 Edinborough Drive advantage of a national rent to own interrupt our commitment to superior Durham, NC 27703 program of this kind! service. (919) 941-9635 Woods of North Bend Capital Bank www.raleighrentals.net 400 A Woods of North Bend Dr. 915 N. Harrison Ave. Located in the heart of Research Triangle Raleigh, NC 27609 Cary, NC 27513 Park, Edinborough at the Park is the perfect (919) 847-8038 (919) 319-1049 choice for discerning professionals who RENT WITH EQUITY, Equity Residential’s We are a full service community bank enjoy a locationthat makes them part of the exclusive NATIONAL rent to own program committed to bringing quality, personalized Triangle’s dynamic business scene and also allows residents to earn equity toward a banking to all the markets we serve. Our appreciate their quiet moments. Come relax new home. Nowhere else can you take goal is to offer competitive products and enjoy the spectacularviews. Resort- advantage of a national rent to own characterized by responsive, friendly and reliable service that exceeds our customers style living at its finest! Don’t fight the program of this kind! traffic…sleep in and still be on time for expectations. Since opening in 1997, we work! Banks/Financial Services have continued to expand our presence in North Carolina. Although we will continue to Innesbrook Apartments Capital Bank open new offices, we will not let our growth 5800 Tattersall Drive 4400 Falls of Neuse Rd. Durham, NC 27713 interrupt our commitment to superior Raleigh, NC 27609 service. (919) 544-3977 (919) 878-3100 www.apartments.com/innesbrook We are a full service community bank Capital Bank The apartment homes at Innesbrook committed to bringing quality, personalized 1201 Kildaire Farm Rd. feature an array of modern amenities and banking to all the markets we serve. Our Cary, NC 27511 many extras for your convenience. You goal is to offer competitive products (919) 469-9400 make the choice! We offer a variety of living characterized by responsive, friendly and We are a full service community bank spaces designed to meet your every need, reliable service that exceeds our customers committed to bringing quality, personalized choose from a 1, 2 or 3 bedroom spacious expectations. Since opening in 1997, we banking to all the markets we serve. Our floor plan. You’ll be close to transportation, have continued to expand our presence in goal is to offer competitive products shopping, and great entertainment. Have it North Carolina. Although we will continue to characterized by responsive, friendly and all! Lifestyle and location, call today to make open new offices, we will not let our growth reliable service that exceeds our customers Innesbrook apartments your new home! interrupt our commitment to superior expectations. Since opening in 1997, we service. have continued to expand our presence in North Carolina. Although we will continue to

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 65 BANKS/FINANCIAL SERVICE EDUCATION open new offices, we will not let our Car/Truck Rental Duke School growth interrupt our commitment to Lower School Avis Rent a Car superior service. 1516 Hull Avenue Reservations call (800) 331-1212 Cardinal State Bank Durham, NC 27705 Offers low-mileage quality maintained (919) 286-1866 3710 University Drive Suite 100 GM and other cars. Computerized for fast Durham, NC 27707 Middle School service and low rates for day, week, or 3716 Old Erwin Road (919) 403-2833 long-term mini lease. Cardinal State Bank opened the doors Durham, NC 27705 Budget Rent a Car of our first branch on June 27, 2001 with (919) 493-2642 our commitment to be diligent in our Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 Our Mission is to help children become pursuit to serve our customers with sales Right now, Budget has some great rates confident, independent learners who solve and extraordinary customer service. We on some equally great cars and trucks. So real-life problems, work cooperatively with will strive to create and maintain an don’t let them pass you by. For your local others, and develop their personal talents, environment and reputation that enhances or one-way rental choose from Budget’s character and ambitions. Duke School the well being of our customers, World Class Fleet at the airport, or in your educators actively engage children in employees, shareholders, and neighborhood. developing concepts, skills and creativity, communities. Budget Rent a Truck emphasizing a child-centered, integrated and project-based approach to learning. Cardinal State Bank Worldwide Reservations (800) 527-0700 Right now, Budget has some great rates Duke School offers a developmentally 3400 Westgate Drive appropriate learning experience and Durham, NC 27707 on some equally great cars and trucks. So don’t let them pass you by. welcomes children from varied racial, (919) 403-2266 cultural, religious and economic Cardinal State Bank opened the doors Hertz Car Rental backgrounds. of our first branch on June 27, 2001 with Reservations call (800) 654-3131 our commitment to be diligent in our Still the biggest, still the best. We care Education PreK-12 about you. Customer service is the most pursuit to serve our customers with sales Durham Academy important thing we do. Biggest selection of and extraordinary customer service. We 3601 Ridge Road low-mileage cars. will strive to create and maintain an Durham, NC 27705-5599 environment and reputation that enhances Condo and Townhome Sales (919) 493-9595 the well being of our customers, Located in Durham, N.C., Durham employees, shareholders, and Miramonte Townes Academy is a coeducational, independent communities. 200 Presenteer Trail day school with 1,090 students in pre- Cardinal State Bank Apex, NC 27539 kindergarten through grade 12. Durham 115 East Carver Street (919) 303-9407 Academy provides a stimulating academic Durham, NC 27704 www.mccarhomes.com environment and broad, varied (919) 477-9921 Miramonte Townes is ideally located in opportunities for growth through arts, Cardinal State Bank opened the doors Apex and is convenient to Hwy 55 and athletics, outdoor education and of our first branch on June 27, 2001 with US1. Residents will enjoy spacious, community service. Durham Academy’s our commitment to be diligent in our affordable townhomes from the mission is to provide each student with pursuit to serve our customers with sales Westminster Collection with amenities and education that will enable him or her and extraordinary customer service. We including a tennis court, walking trail and to live a moral, happy and productive life. will strive to create and maintain an swimming pool. Visit today and tour our The development of intellect is central to environment and reputation that enhances newly decorated model! such a life and, thus, intellectual endeavor the well being of our customers, Education PreK-8 and growth are the primary work of the employees, shareholders, and school. communities. Blessed Sacrament School 515 Hillcrest Avenue Education K-12 Cardinal State Bank Burlington, NC 27215 5309 Highgate Drive Abundant Life Christian Academy (336) 570-0019 Durham, NC 27713 512 US 70 East It is the mission of Blessed Sacrament (919) 806-8881 Hillsborough, NC 27278 School to provide a Christian community of Cardinal State Bank opened the doors (919) 732-6460 faith and love in which students will be able of our first branch on June 27, 2001 with Abundant Life Christian Academy is to develop spiritually, intellectually, our commitment to be diligent in our committed to helping young men and emotionally and physically. It is our goal pursuit to serve our customers with sales women discover the purpose that God has that through our academic program, and extraordinary customer service. We ordained for their lives and equipping them students will recognize their individual value will strive to create and maintain an to fulfill that purpose. We will provide the and the responsibility they have to God, environment and reputation that enhances direction and guidance to help each Church, Family, Community and the World. the well being of our customers, student discover his or her unique gifts and employees, shareholders, and destiny, and then provide a safe, nurturing communities. environment in which they can develop spiritually, socially, physically and intellectually. Our curriculum is being

66 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide EDUCATION HOME BUILDERS/DEVELOPERS designed to make learning fun for each School is to share the Good News through PCS Homes student by identifying the optimum way in high-quality Roman Catholic education in 1516 Jabez Run which each student learns, and applying grades nine through twelve. We believe Millersville, MD 21108 teaching methods that support that that quality education calls us to integrate (410) 697-2070 learning style while being firmly grounded Gospel teaching with real life. We teach all www.pcshomes.com in Biblical truth. The ultimate goal is to secular subjects in light of these values. The Thomasson family has successfully produce world changers one student at a We enable students to reach their built thousands of homes located in time. individual potential, to think clearly, to form communities throughout the Mid-Atlantic strong convictions, and to act in their region. PCS Homes builds each home with Education 6-12 beliefs for the betterment of their own lives, one lasting principle - build genuine value Cary Academy their church, and society as a whole. into each home and in every community - and this philosophy prevails today. Owned 1500 N. Harrison Avenue Home Builders/Developers Cary, North Carolina 27513 and operated by the Thomasson family, (919) 677-3873 America’s Home Place PCS Homes continues its long-standing SINCE ITS OPENING in 1997, Cary Raleigh, NC 27604 commitment to deliver affordable, well-built Academy has been committed to providing (919) 862-0025 homes of outstanding quality. You will see a challenging curriculum that reflects the America’s Home Place, Inc. Free Floor these attributes during every stage of the schoolís mission of discovery, innovation, Plan Book from one of the nation’s largest homebuilding process, from our award- collaboration, and excellence. As an “on your lot homebuilders.” All our homes winning architectural design, to the careful independent, college-preparatory school, are built on your land or land you select selection of high-grade materials. PCS Cary Academy creates a secure and just prior to building. Choose from over 70 Homes also understands that discerning nurturing environment for students in customized plans. Virtual Tours. Your new buyers are as concerned about tomorrow’s grades 6-12 to discover new talents and home can be built within a 50 mile radius investment as they are about today’s interests and to develop academically, of any of our 43 locations in the Southeast. quality of life. That’s why you’ll find the physically, and emotionally. America’s Home Place...The Home you most comprehensive home warranty want...Where you want it. Visit us at program combined with preservation of Education 6-12 www.AmericasHomePlace.com open space and wooded areas in all of our communities. Whether you are considering Florida Air Academy McCar Homes a luxury single family home, a spacious 1950 South Academy Drive 15401 Weston Parkway, Suite 175 townhome or an exciting garden Melbourne, FL 32901 Cary, NC 27513 condominium home, you should expect 321 723-3211 (919) 678-0016 nothing short of excellence when it comes www.flair.com www.mccarhomes.com to the construction, the service and the At Florida Air Academy, Cadets at have At McCar, we are pleased to provide a natural amenities of your new home. At the opportunity to get a first-rate education variety of options in new homes in Raleigh, PCS Homes, that is precisely what we geared to the learning styles of young men including single family and townhome strive to do for each and every one of our and make friends from around the world. communities ideal for first-time, move-up customers. The school accepts young men in grades and move-down buyers. McCar’s new 6 through 12. The Academy boasts a 16- homes in Raleigh provide affordable Wayne Homes - Raleigh student average class size and college townhome and single family home living in Raleigh, NC 27615 prep curriculum taught by accredited staff, the best locations in Durham and Wake (919) 510-6913 x302 many with advanced degrees. Cadets at counties. With homes and townhomes for Since 1973, Wayne Homes has been Florida Air Academy receive leadership sale in popular Raleigh North Carolina building custom homes for families from training and an emphasis on community locations from the $170,000s, McCar is the West Coast to the East. We are proud service. Other programs include an affordable luxury. Every Raleigh, North to have recently been named the “Best excellent sports program, extensive Carolina new home by McCar Homes Builder in America” and to be part of computer curriculum and optional flight includes state-of-the-art features and Centex Homes, a 50 year home builder training and SCUBA certification. upgrades. Every one of our new home with the same reputation for quality and Florida Air Academy is located on communities and neighborhoods of reliability.The Wayne Homes design team Florida’s Space Coast and is fully townhomes for sale in Raleigh, North has a terrific selection of 42 home plans for accredited. Contact our Admissions Carolina promote a fun-filled lifestyle and you to consider. The plans include one- department for more information on Fall, fabulous amenities including cabanas, and two-story designs with three or four Spring, and Summer enrollments. For pools, tennis courts, playgrounds and bedrooms, great rooms, game rooms, and additional Information contact: Donna walking trails. Look no further in your eat-in kitchens. Our homes range from less Stratford Director of Communication search for a new home or townhome for than 1200 to over 3000 square feet. If you (321) 723-3211, Extension 30028 sale in Raleigh. Visit one of the most don’t have your own land right now, we affordable and quality new home builders can help you with your search. We offer a Education 9-12 in North Carolina today and experience free lot location service when you build Cardinal Gibbons firsthand the McCar Homes’ luxurious your home with us. 1401 Edwards Mill Road lifestyle. Raleigh, NC 27607 (919) 834-1625 The Mission of Cardinal Gibbons High

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 67 HOME BUILDERS/DEVELOPERS NATIONWIDE TRAVEL

Westminster Homes Fairmont Hotels New York-New York Cary, NC 27511 Toll Free (800)527-4727 3790 Las Vegas Blvd. South (919) 462-0070 www.Fairmont.com Las Vegas, NV 89109 A sense of arrival…a feeling that says Boston, Las Vegas, Dallas, New (702) 740-6969 you are home even before you reach the Orleans, New York, San Francisco & San The best of New York City meets the front door. A place where neighbors quickly Jose America’s Grand Hotels since 1907. best of Las Vegas in one exciting location. become friends. Because where our Hilton Hotels Be a part of it. homeowners live is as important as how Worldwide Reservations • ESPN ZONE sports-themed dining and they live, we offer the best possible home Toll Free (800) 845-8667 entertainment. with more. Our homes are specifically built www.Hilton.com • Live performances nightly from the and designed for today’s active families Hilton Hotels, Resorts, Suites, Hilton Award-winning comedy of Rita Rudner. and the way they want to live. We have Garden Inn, Conrad International Hotel. • The thrilling Manhattan Express Roller expanded our home designs to include Coaster. more space, more comfort and more true MGM Grand value. Whether it is the comfort of a multi 3799 Las Vegas Blvd. South • COYOTE UGLY Bar and Dance saloon level townhome or the drama and Las Vegas, NV 89109 and the Dueling Pianos at the Bar at excitement of a single family home, you will (702) 891-1111 Times Square. find in our many communities throughout Searching for non-stop action and • New York City’s original Gallaghers North Carolina, South Carolina and Texas pulse-pounding excitement? “The City of Steakhouse. why more and more families are choosing Entertainment” awaits your arrival. • Be the toast of the town in the Big apple the quality, style and functionality of • La Femme-the sensual French sensation Bar with live entertainment nightly in “The Westminster Homes. direct from the original Crazy Horse in Greatest City in Las Vegas.” Weston Estates Custom Builders Paris. • ZUMANITY, Another side of Cirque du Cary, NC 27513 • Tabu - The ultra hip lounge designed to Soleil, the creative climax of sexuality, (919) 481-3000 stimulate and arouse your senses. humanity and art. sm Come out and visit Weston Estates and • Live the nightclub lifestyle at studio 54 . Pan Pacific Resort Hotels you’ll discover an elite community featuring • Sixteen masterpiece restaurants including Worldwide Reservations the very best of everything: magnificent celebrated chef Tom Colicchio’s Toll Free (800) 327-8585 dream homes, oversized lots, gracious Craftsteak and Michelle Mina’s NOBHILL. Pan Pacific Hotels & Resorts. North amenities, plus a close proximity to all • The king of the jungle overlooks the Lion America, Japan, Southeast Asia. metropolitan conveniences. Home prices Habitat. start in the $430’s. Treasure Island • The Grand Garden Arena and Hollywood 3300 Las Vegas Blvd. South Moving Supplies Theatre feature top name entertainment. Las Vegas, NV 89109 (702) 792-5627 Dial-A-Box Mirage Hotel & Casino Enjoy the adventure and romance of this White Plains and The Bronx, NY 3400 Las Vegas Blvd South engaging resort filled with new-world TOLL FREE: (866) 4-DIAL-A-BOX / Las Vegas, NV 89109 amenities. (866) 434-2522 (702) 791-7111 ® www.dial-a-box.com Immerse yourself in this tropical South • AAA Four Diamond Award winning Sea oasis filled with luxury and excitement! resort. Nationwide Travel • Experience the elegance and • World-famous pyrotechnic sea battle Bellagio The Resort sophistication of our newly redesigned between the pirate ship, Hispaniola, and 3600 Las Vegas Blvd South guest rooms. the British frigate, H.M.S. Britania in the Las Vegas, NV 89109 • Dive into interconnected lagoon and middle of the Buccaneer Bay. (702) 693-7223 thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage • Mystere by Cirque du Soleil, a Experience a world unto itself at “the pool. mesmerizing mix of powerful acrobatics, most romantic hotel in the world.” • Ten international restaurants including circus skills and dance. • AAA Five Diamond Award winning resort. AAA Five-Diamond award winner Renoir. • Eight exciting dining options including • Nine world-renowned restaurants • Exotic White Tigers, Lions and a family of Kahunaville and Buccaneer Bay including Aqua, Prime, and AAA Five Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in Seigfried Restaurant-fine dining overlooking the Diamond Award-winner Picasso. and Roy’s Secret Garden and Dolphin explosive battle in Buccaneer Bay. • “O” by Cirque du Soleil, an extraordinary Habitat. • A beautifully appointed wedding chapel. fusion of water, dance and aerobics. • A fire-erupting volcano sparkling lagoons • A tropical pool area and lavish spa and • Via Bellagio- a collection of the worlds and tumbling waterfalls. salon. most sophisticated boutiques from • Dive into interconnected lagoon and Giorgio Armani, Chanel, Tiffany, and thundering waterfalls at the new Mirage Hermes. pool. • The Conservatory and Botanical Gardens charms guests with its natural beauty. • Dancing Fountains cavort on an eight acre lake.

68 ] Raleigh/Durham Information Guide NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS NEW HOME DEVELOPMENTS

New Home Developmets Park at Richland Hills 852 Stackhurst Way Ashton Hall Wake Forest, NC 4 Palmetto Circle (919) 453-0911 Durham, NC 27703 www.khov.com/parkatrichlandhills (919) 659-3508 The Park at Richland Hills is an www.mccarhomes.com outstanding community that offers Ashton Hall is a beautifully landscaped, wonderful wooded lots and gently rolling master-planned community featuring terrain in Franklin County, NC. Single family nostalgic single-family homes ranging from homes priced in the upper $100’s. four to six bedrooms and over 3,000 square feet. Ashton Hall is conveniently Stonegate located minutes from Research Triangle 3733 Coach Lantern Avenue Park, major highways and a multitude of Wake Forest, NC 27587 shopping and dining venues. (919) 266-4228 Neighborhood amenities include a www.mccarhomes.com swimming pool, cabana, playground and Stonegate is a beautiful master-plan tennis court. community located in Wake Forest. Ideally situated convenient to I-540, Triangle Town Overlook at Holly Glen Center, dining and entertainment venues 300 Capeside Avenue and with a large variety of home plans and Holly Springs, NC 27540 amenities including Resident’s Club, pool, (919) 659-3509 and tennis courts, Stonegate offers a great www.mccarhomes.com place for work and play. Overlook at Holly Glen offers traditional single-family homes from the Preserve Collection with up to six bedrooms and up to 3,000 square feet, as well as, breathtaking home site views. Located in a premier Holly Springs location, convenient to US 1 and an easy commute to RTP or downtown Raleigh.

Raleigh/Durham Information Guide [ 69 12/31/11.