With so much attention focused on the environment and on sustainability issues, it’s good to know that the Triangle region is creating and implementing programs that demonstrate a deep commitment to such matters. In fact, a three-pronged strategy ensures that, in combination with environmental and sustainability initiatives, both the citizens and local economy benefit.

About the Region’s Commitment

Along with reducing greenhouse gases, the initiative seeks to create plug-in stations for electric and hybrid vehicles. In addition, there’s an emphasis on recycling, reclaiming, and making buildings more energy efficient. There’s a strong impetus to create green jobs, improve infrastructure, including managing storm water, preserving green space and providing recreational facilities. In fact, Raleigh was named the #2 Fastest-Growing Clean (Green) Economy Job Growth region among the country’s 100 largest metropolitan areas. The report was issued by the prestigious Brookings Institution in July 2011.

More Green Accolades for Greater Raleigh

Raleigh was named one of three winners of the 2011 Sustainable Community Award given by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Business Civic Leadership Center, and received a prize of is $20,000 worth of trees. In addition, Raleigh was one of the first cities to endorse the US Mayors’ Climate Protection Agreement plan that seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The city has been recognized for its Project Get Ready, a program to install plug-in stations for electric and hybrid vehicles. Raleigh also has been recognized as the first LED city in the world, thanks to a program that helps save over 40% in energy costs by installing LED lights in municipal garages.

Raleigh’s LEED Involvement

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design, and is an initiative that seeks to redefine the way we think about our homes, workplaces, and schools. LEED provides building owners and operators with a cohesive framework that allows them to identify and implement measurable and practical designs for green buildings. LEED also seeks to influence the construction, operation and maintenance of such buildings in a sustainable and environmentally sound way. The greater Raleigh region has more than 20 LEED-certified projects, and the convention center holds USGBC Silver LEED certification.

Finally, greater Raleigh has over 152 miles of hiking and greenway trails for discovering and appreciating the region’s rich natural heritage.

Now that the weather is warming and the first day of spring is very close, many people look forward to participating in more outdoor activities. One of the best places to visit in the area is the beautiful Bass Lake Park and Retreat Center.

About Bass Lake Park

The site is open year-round from 8 AM to sunset, and has a visitor’s and environmental education center, a conference room, deck, floating dock, bank fishing, hiking trail, and wildlife observation platform. Canoes and jon boats are available to rent. Bass Lake is designated as a North Carolina environmental education center, and covers about 90 acres. Facilities are available to rent by those ages 16 years and up. Bass Lake is proud to be a NC Environmental Education Center, and features an extensive nature library with books and resources. Events and programs are held on a regular basis for people of all ages. The park offers beautifully landscaped gardens that provide a colorful backdrop for every season.

The Bass Lake Park Conference Center

The conference room measures 1200 square feet, and has plenty of elegance and atmosphere, thanks to glass French doors and a verandah that surrounds it on three sides. The room is finished in neutral colors, and is ideal for rehearsal dinners and weddings. With a tray ceiling, and a good variety of lighting options, it’s easy to create the perfect ambiance. The catering kitchen features a refrigerator, oven, range, microwave, dishwasher, small ice maker, and a coffee maker. There’s also an audio-video system with an online computer, CD, DVD, VCR, televisions, projector, microphone, and speakers. This makes the site a sought-after venue for business events. The 2000 square foot deck has a charming gazebo and white picket railing that extends over the water, creating a perfect locale for picture taking.

Park Facilities and Amenities

Established in 2004, the park is accessible to people with disabilities, and offers a great place to hold events, celebrations, and parties of all types. Bass Park carries liability insurance, and does charge a site fee. In addition, there is a damage deposit, along with an alcohol deposit. The site allows only beer and wine. Weekend bridal packages are available, as well as by-the-hour rental. Amplified music is not allowed on the deck after sunset, and must be kept at a low level at all other times. Maximum capacity is 150 people, and men’s and women’s rest rooms are provided.

For more information, phone 919.557.2496.

The real estate scene’s best kept-secret might just be the Raleigh-Durham NC Triangle region. Despite a size that’s much smaller than other metropolitan areas that have a similar profusion of cultural amenities, the Triangle thrives. Raleigh has attracted a number of celebrities who make their home there, including Olympic champion Kristi Yamaguchi, Dexter star Michael C. Hall and singer Clay Aiken, whose dog was even named Raleigh!

Here’s the Proof

A recent study looked at 100 of the country’s largest cities and ranked them based on 16 essential criteria that people consider when evaluating an area to which they might move. The criteria included typical categories like educational opportunities, per capita income, poverty level, school performance and even air quality. However, special attention was paid to recreational amenities, including parks, restaurants, bars, and cultural institutions like museums. In addition, the number of inhabitants with a bachelor’s degree or higher, public school performance was considered. Other factors included were unemployment rate, crime rate and foreclosure rate. The data for this compilation came from reliable sources like the US Census Bureau and the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, as well as from several respected private sources. The result? The Triangle region topped the list!

More Encouraging News

In addition, the Raleigh-Durham-Cary region enjoys exceptionally low crime rates. Cary, for example, had only 85 violent crimes per 100,000 people. There were just 25 robberies per 100.000 people, which is more than 10 times lower than the national average. Violent crime includes aggravated assault, forcible rape, non-negligent manslaughter and murder. After all this was considered, the Triangle region attained the top ranking. There couldn’t be a better time to buy a house here!

A Myriad of Positive Reasons to Live in the Region

The housing market in the Triangle, based on mortgage rates and other factors, indicates that home buying is exceptionally affordable at this time. In fact, the market is better than it has been in decades. Also, the ratio of house prices to yearly rents is highly favorable to home buyers. In addition, most buyers have little trouble finding affordable mortgage rates. When the cost of a home is compared to its projected growth in value over time, a lower ratio means that owning a home is more attractive and attainable than renting. This home-price-to-annual-rent ratio has declined by about 7% in recent years. Mortgage rates are important as well, and presently are exceptionally low, allowing buyers to get more house for their money. The latest 30-year rate is less than half the average since 1971.

So, when prices are low and loan rates are cheap, buyers are encouraged to jump in.

In recent years, the Triangle region has consistently placed high on a number of lists that track rapid population growth and other key factors that influence real estate markets. Data from diverse sources has shown that the US population will rise, which in turn will help housing markets to flourish. It’s expected that the country’s population will rise by nearly 10%, and by 2020 will reach a staggering 337 million. The good news is that many of those people will be actively searching for homes.

Triangle Region Tops the List

There are 10 US metropolitan areas with population growth that’s projected to range from 15% to 25%, and the Triangle region (Raleigh-Durham-Cary NC) tops the list, beating out Texas, Utah, Georgia, Idaho and Colorado. The Triangle’s population growth is expected to exceed 35%. In addition, other metrics, including available green space, quality of educational opportunities and cultural atmosphere show that the Triangle region is a highly desirable place to live. In fact, Businessweek.com has placed it at the top of its “Best Cities” ranking.

Factors to Consider

For those contemplating a move, there are many issues that influence their choice. For example most people want proximity to their jobs, affordability of food and housing, low crime statistics, presence of cultural and entertainment venues and activities, access to superior school systems and plenty of green space. Once all these factors are added to the mix, the results, as shown in the ranking, are surprising. Businessweek.com did an exhaustive study acquiring extensive data related to quality of life issues. In addition, they evaluated intangibles like the number of restaurants and the quality of sports teams. The surprising result? Raleigh NC was the winner.

A Few Specifics

Businessweek.com reported that the region supports 3 major institutions of higher education, North Carolina State University, Duke University, and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Triangle features about 900 restaurants, over 100 bars and 51 museums. The area has nearly 13,000 park acres, a number that’s equal to that found in the regions around both Los Angeles and New York City. There’s also a professional hockey team, the Carolina Hurricanes, and a good variety of college sports. In addtion, the region supports a 30,000 square foot farmer’s market. All this in an area with less than 500,000 inhabitants that spans less than 150 square miles!

If you’re looking for the best in affordable housing and quality of life, the Triangle region deserves a serious look.

Aretha Franklin, affectionately termed the “Queen of Soul,” is slated to perform at DPAC (Durham Performing Arts Center) on February 9, 2012. Franklin, long regarded as having a major influence on American soul, rhythm and blues and gospel music, is a talented singer, songwriter and pianist. Although best known for her achievements in the soul and rhythm and blues music genres, Franklin also is an accomplished performer in jazz, rock, blues, pop and gospel. Her wide-ranging talent elevated her to worldwide fame, thanks to an innate ability to perform all styles of music with elevating passion, stirring soulfulness and a distinctive, one-of-a-kind vocal style.

Early Life

Born in 1943, Aretha Franklin hails from Memphis, Tennessee. Her father was the influential pastor of the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit. Both her father and mother were nationally recognized gospel singers, but her mother unfortunately deserted the family when Franklin was just six years old. Franklin and her two sisters, Erma and Caroline, sang at their father’s church and her first recordings were made there when she was just fourteen years old. Although her family was one of Detroit’s most prominent African-American families, her father was reluctant to allow her to sign a contract with the just-emerging Motown record label.

Awards and Honors

Aretha Franklin is one of the most honored female singers in the history of the Grammy awards. A Grammy is highly sought-after award conferred by the prestigious National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for outstanding achievement in the music and recording industry. It’s equivalent to the Emmy awards for television and the Academy Awards for motion pictures. Franklin has won nineteen Grammys, eight of which were consecutive. Rolling Stone Magazine has ranked her number one in its Greatest Singers of All Time issue. She also holds the distinction of winning multiple Grammy Awards with 45 Billboard Hot 100 hits. Franklin performed in Washington, DC at the inauguration of US President Barack Obama.

Don’t miss what’s sure to be a rocking, one-of-a-kind performance. Contact the Durham Performing Arts Center (DAPC) at 919.688.3722. Find the Center at 123 Vivian Street, Durham 27701. Weekday hours are 10AM to 5PM.

On February 17, 2012, the North Carolina Symphony is slated to perform an always-popular opus commonly referred to at the “New World Symphony.” The performance venue is the Meymandi Concert Hall on East South Street in Raleigh. This is expected to be a unique and informative event in which the highly respected music scholar Joseph Horowitz will provide an innovative pre-concert talk about the work. Inspired by African-American and native American music, Dvorak’s masterpiece offers a fascinating glimpse into how the world regarded America in the 19th century.

About the New World Symphony

Formally known as the Symphony Number 9 in E Minor, “From the New World,” Opus 95, B 178, the work was composed by Antonin Dvorak in 1893 during an extended visit to the US. Dvorak was struck by the fledgling country’s expansiveness and forward-looking character. It’s Dvorak’s most popular work and stands as one that’s very well known in the modern repertoire. Influenced by the indigenous music he heard in the America, Dvorak often remarked on the “beautiful and varied themes” that he considered to be “the product of the soil,” and also on the “folk songs of America” that the country’s composers should turn to for inspiration.

About Dvorak’s Creative Process

Dvorak did not use American music directly in this work. Rather, he interpreted and embellished it in a way that allowed him to write “original themes embodying the peculiarities” of this unique genre. He also identified a number of important themes in American music and used them as a basis on which he “developed them with all the resources of modern rhythms, counterpoint, and orchestral colour.” One reviewer described the experience of hearing the symphony as a journey, more specifically, “Dvorak’s journey to America, getting to know its people. More importantly, it’s Dvorak’s own spiritual and emotional journey: from his intense longing for his beloved Bohemia to the thrill of this ‘new world’ and its varied peoples.”

For a unique and stirring tribute to the American spirit, don’t miss this remarkable performance.

The Upper Neuse River Greenway trail is a recent addition to the Triangle region’s network of nature trails. It officially opened in November 2011 and is a project led by the Raleigh Parks and Recreation department, whose mission it is to “to actively encourage, provide, promote and protect quality leisure, recreation and cultural opportunities, facilities and environments that are essential for the enhancement of the lives of our citizens” (Source: www.raleighnc.gov).

Greenway Details

The Upper Neuse River Greenway trail is a 10-foot-wide paved pathway that extends from Falls Lake dam to the WRAL soccer complex on Perry Creek Road. The greenway features seven bridges, along with seven boardwalk sections. The trail passes under Falls of Neuse Road, New Falls of Neuse Road and Capital Boulevard, so there are no road conflicts along the route. The greenway is the first segment of the larger Neuse River trail to be completed. The trail provides connection to the Falls canoe launch and the Falls Lake recreation area. In addition, the trail passes through the future Thornton Road park site. In addition, the Wake Forest greenway system is scheduled to be connected to the Neuse River trail.

History, Background and Funding

The Neuse River corridor forms the backbone of the Capital Area Greenway, a region designated in 1976. It has a number of important goals, such as the preservation of the flood plain along the river and the development of a trail system throughout the corridor, including one that runs its entire length. Another goal involves the creation of upland park areas that flank the corridor on either side at a distance of two to three miles. These are designed to provide additional recreational opportunities and access points. To that end, since the corridor’s master plan was adopted, over 2000 acres of land have been acquired. The area is funded by city of Raleigh bond as well as by nearly one million Federal dollars. In addition, financial support comes from AARA (American Reinvestment and Recovery Act) in the amount of 3.25 million dollars.

For a unique experience of the region’s remarkable natural beauty, be sure to visit the Upper Neuse Greenway trail.

From November 19, 2011, to January 16, 2012, the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh will be the site of a remarkable exhibition of treasures from the empire of Genghis Khan. The exhibit is on loan directly from Khan’s native Mongolia, thanks to the Mongolian Ministry of Education, Culture and Science and some private collectors as well.

Who was Genghis Khan?

Khan was a Mongol warlord who’s famous for conquering half of the known world in the years between 1162 and 1227 AD. His empire was four times the size of the Roman Empire and was roughly the size of the entire continent of Africa, an incredible 11,600,000 square miles. Khan is widely regarded as an innovative leader and enlightened statesman who brought stability, religious tolerance and unity to most of Asia and some parts of Europe.

Highlights of the Exhibition

The exhibit tells Khan’s amazing story by focusing on his life, his culture, his people, his land and his legacy that endures to this day. There’s a wide-ranging collection of objects from Khan’s time — weapons, jewelry, ornaments and even musical instruments. Also on display are working models of Khan’s deadly siege weapons, including a huge triple crossbow and a trebuchet, which is a type of powerful catapult. Both weapons contributed greatly to Khan’s success in conquering heavily fortified walled cities. Recently, the mummified body of a Mongol princess was added to the exhibition, including her wooden coffin, exquisite silk robes, pearl earrings and a variety of other treasures. The mummy was discovered by Mongolian archeologists in the Gobi Desert, where the dry climate and a sheltered cave naturally preserved it.

Ticket Information and Address

Tickets for the exhibition range from $5 to $14. Contact the museum at 919.733.7450 or toll-free 877.4NATSCI. The address is 11 West Jones Street, Raleigh, NC 27601. Normal opening hours are Monday through Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and Sunday, noon to 5 PM. On the first Friday of the month, the museum is open until 9 PM, but do call to verify the evening hours before visiting.

This is a rare opportunity to view a spectacular, one-of-a-kind collection. Highly recommended!

This holiday season, be sure to experience the unique historical atmosphere of the Bitmore Village Dickens festival. Held over a 3-day period in December, the festival is a celebration of the magic of the season, complete with music and over 300 performers who bring Dickens’ world to life. The main stage of the festival offers continuous entertainment, including the Montford Park Players drama group, singers, dancers, choral groups, musicians and much more.

Events at the Bitmore Village Dickens Festival

Charles Dickens was the 19th-century English author who penned the beloved tale “A Christmas Carol” and who created the remarkable character Ebenezer Scrooge. In the story, Scrooge is visited by a ghost who helps him overcome his miserly nature and become a true believer in the magic of the season. To celebrate his transformation, the Bitmore Village Dickens festival offers plenty of entertainment, both onstage and by strolling actors and musicians.

More about the Dickens Festival

Plan to come to the festival in the evening, when over 250,000 white lights illuminate the village with a wonderful, magical glow. Be sure to visit some of the shops, where you’ll find the shopkeepers dressed in traditional Dickensian costumes from the 19th century Victorian era. Enjoy a horse-drawn ride through the village’s tree-lined streets. To enhance the ambience, you’ll find real “chestnuts roasting by an open fire,” as the song goes, so don’t forget to sample them. The village is decked out with evergreen holiday wreaths on each picturesque streetlight and on many shop doors to enhance that holiday feeling.

The Bitmore Village Dickens festival is an event not to be missed!

Looking for something different to do this holiday season? Why not visit the Triangle region’s Scandinavian Christmas fair? The fair is a wonderful celebration of the authentic Christmas traditions in the countries of Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland and Iceland. At the fair, you’ll learn about holiday celebrations in Scandinavia. Called “Julmarknad” in Swedish, the event offers a unique opportunity to experience the holiday customs and traditions of these northern European countries, which, as we all know, are closer to the North Pole where Santa lives! So, what better way to celebrate the season?

What’s Happening at the Scandinavian Christmas Fair

The fair attracts people from Scandinavia, as well as those who are of Scandinavian descent, but all others are welcome as well. Soak up the ambience of this annual holiday tradition, including sampling delicious seasonal treats. In addition, a number of skilled artisans and vendors offer a unique choice of items from all over Scandinavia, including homemade indigenous foods, jewelry, crystal, decorations and much, much more. Immerse yourself in the old-world atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind holiday event.

Events and Performances at the Fair

Talented artisans and vendors offer unique crafts and gifts from all over Scandinavia. You will find everything from knives and quilts to crystal pieces, jewelry, homemade bread and Christmas decorations. One of the highlights of the event is the Lucia Procession where adults and children dressed in Scandinavian costumes perform traditional songs. It’s a great event for families — the kids will enjoy a visit with Santa, who’s known as Tomten in Scandinavia. There’s also dancing and storytelling, along with charming gnomes and other popular holiday characters.

Entertainment and Food Galore!

The stage at the fair is a center of activity and ongoing entertainment, including traditional Scandinavian folk dancing and music, along with plenty of singing. There’s even a fashion show that displays the beautiful folk costumes of this vibrant European region. Why not plan to attend this year to experience the wonderful culture, traditions and food of Scandinavia, including the ever-popular herring? Other culinary delights to experience are Swedish meatballs, salmon and pea soup. There’s also a “coffee corner” that serves delicious home-baked pastries. Adults also will enjoy sampling glogg, a wonderful spiced wine.

Find the Scandinavian Christmas fair at the Holshouser building on the state fairgrounds.

Here in the South, we’re all about tradition. We take our holiday meals quite seriously, so when we choose to dine out on Thanksgiving, the fare must be superb. At the Fearrington House, the chef and staff are well aware of this, and have put together a remarkable Thanksgiving menu. So, if you haven’t made your reservation yet, read on to learn why you should consider this wonderful restaurant for your 2011 holiday feast.

Thanksgiving at Fearrington House: First and Second Courses

The first course sets the stage for the rest of the meal, and this year Fearrington House offers a delicious and innovative celery root and vanilla soup with Southern fried chicken. The soup is served with pickled grapes and a hearty walnut pesto. The second offering is a cured North Carolina trout with a confit of butternut squash with candied pine nut creme fraiche. The dish is finished with a unique mustard gel and crispy horseradish tapioca. The second course is a choice of green bean casserole or seared scallops. The casserole is made with wild mushrooms, poached egg, sage, crispy onions and brioche. Sweet potato puree complements the scallops, along with a smoked pecan crumble, buttered Savoy cabbage and a luscious maple-cranberry cream.

Thanksgiving at Fearrington House: A Delicious Take on Tradition

For the main course, the inn is offering roasted turkey with a twist. It comes with a confit turkey leg and mustard pie, and a lemon and rosemary sausage stuffing. Accompaniments include roasted fingerling potatoes, gingerbread parsnips with baby carrots, root vegetable pava, cheddar mac and cheese, creamed maple and mustard collard greens and brussels sprouts with pancetta. Cranberry sauce, turkey gravy and bread sauce round out the entree menu. For dessert, there’s a spectacular napoleon made using a moist almond cake, pumpkin and nutmeg chiboust, sweet potato, mulled wine apples, and spiced bread ice cream. The entire meal is priced at $69 per person. The Fearrington House Inn has won a number of accolades, including a reader’s choice award from Conde Nast Traveler. Departure magazine ranks it as a “world’s best foodie destination.”

There’s no better holiday setting than this romantic white-columned farmhouse with extensive gardens that overlook rustic pastures.

Stepping out this year for a Thanksgiving feast? It’s good to know that the Raleigh, NC region has a wonderful variety of restaurants to choose from. For a holiday dinner, the setting is as important as the meal. One venue that’s a standout year after year is the elegant Four Square restaurant, located in the beautiful Bartlett Mangum House. Here’s a brief sampling of what to expect at the restaurant’s sumptuous meal.

First Courses: A Delightful Selection

Thanksgiving dinner at the Four Square is priced at $55 per person. Always popular is the hearts of romaine salad that features blood oranges, pears and a grilled scallion-basil-feta vinaigrette. There’s also a harvest pumpkin soup served with blue crab and rye croutons. For the more adventurous, the grilled pheasant sausage is a good choice. It’s served with grainy mustard potato salad and stewed tomatoes. The innovative lobster ravioli with creamed cabbage and truffle oil drizzle rounds out the selection of first courses.

Entrees: Traditional and More

Turkey with all the trimmings is the highlight of most Thanksgiving meals. The Four Square’s offering features turkey from the Little River Ranch, apple-cornbread dressing, collard greens, pickled okra, old- fashioned cranberry sauce and rich giblet gravy. For seafood lovers, there’s crispy red snapper served with creamed corn, spicy red chiles and spinach, and preserved persimmons. A salmon coulibiac is offered as well, with country ham and grainy mustard. It’s accompanied by a black truffle reduction and a roast pepper-broccoli salad with basil tarragon pesto. Pasta lovers will relish the pumpkin gnocchi in a roasted garlic-eggplant broth, accompanied by French onion green beans and fried parsnips. Finally, a wonderful grilled-to-order organic beef tenderloin with mushroom risotto, grilled asparagus and black truffle reduction, completes the restaurant’s Thanksgiving offerings.

About the Four Square Restaurant

The Four Square’s chef visits the Durham Farmer’s Market regularly in search of the freshest local ingredients. Relying heavily on the region’s farms and purveyors, the restaurant’s menu is full of the best the Triangle has to offer in vegetables, grains, seafood and meats. From beautiful purple asparagus to heirloom chicken and turkey, the pantry at the restaurant is just bursting with fresh vegetables and fruit. Lettuce and greens are delivered daily, along with field peas, beans, heirloom tomatoes, strawberries, blueberries and blackberries. Lamb and pork are sourced locally as well.

For the best in seasonal holiday fare, don’t miss Thanksgiving at the Four Square restaurant.

Did you know that North Carolina is home to over 100 wineries? Our climate is perfect for growing many varieties of grape, including those from which Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay and Viogner wines are made. The winery industry in NC grows European-style vinifera grapes and the native muscadine grapes that are planted in the state’s western and Piedmont regions. Wine grapes have been cultivated in North Carolina since the first settlers arrived from Europe in the 16th century era of Queen Elizabeth I of England.

North Carolina Wine: A Long and Storied History

The wine industry in North Carolina began in earnest with the founding of Medoc Vineyard in 1835. It was small by modern standards, and produced about 60 barrels of wine per year. Popular in the eastern regions of the US, the wine was highly regarded. The Medoc Vineyard also produced a champagne. By the time of the Civil War, there were about 25 thriving wineries in the state, but the war forced closure of many, whose vintners fled north. Winemaking returned, though, and wineries flourished Peachland, Murphy, Littleton, Tryon, Eagle Springs, Conover and many other places.

North Carolina Wine: Accolades Abound

Wines from this region won medals at the Paris Exposition in 1900. By 1904, Virginia Dare red and white wines were best sellers across the nation and won medals at the Louisiana Purchase Exhibition. North Carolina wines continued to win critical acclaim throughout the 20th century.

NC Wine and Prohibition

When Congress banned the production of alcohol on 1919, a number of undisclosed wineries sprung up in secret, little-known locations, many in the Piedmont hills. NC’s “moonshine” often was a clandestine wine rather than the more famililar distilled white lightning. Despite both Prohibition and a law declaring the state to be “dry” (alcohol-free) the wine industry in North Carolina survived and has re-established itself into a vibrant, world-class competitor. Today, the state ranks 7th in wine production in the US.

So, when you come to North Carolina, remember to sample our wonderful wines.

The Triangle Wine Experience is a remarkable charity event that features the region’s best wines and wineries. Wine in North Carolina? Absolutely! The Wine Experience is 18 years old, and always has attendance figures in the thousands. If you’re a lover of fine wine and want to contribute to the Frankie Lemon School and Developmental Center, the plan to attend the event which will be held on February 2 through February 4, 2012. The event is the primary funding source for the school, which is a non-profit entity dedicated to education children aged 3 to 6 who have developmental disabilities, impairments or delays.

More About the Triangle Wine Experience

On the event’s first night, the best vintners and wineries in the region host wine tastings and dinners at many of the best and most respected restaurants in the region. Imagine! A five-star meal accompanied by a five-star wine! In past years, attendees have had the choice of over 30 of the area’s most prestigious restaurants. During the second day, local wine merchants host tastings by many of the areas most respected winemakers and winery owners who offer samples of their wines to event participants. The same wines will be available by the bottle. In the past, many of the area’s best wineries have participated, including Honig Winery, Solena Estate, Vision Cellars and Blackbird Winery. So, expect a great selection of wines from North Carolina and beyond.

The Grand Gala and Auction

The weekend ends with a black-tie event that features live and silent auctions of premium wine groupings and collections and luxury packages that have been created exclusively for the event. After the auction, the Triangle Wine Experience continues with fine food, fine wine, music and dancing. Registrations will be accepted starting in November at 919-845-8880. For additional information about the event, contact the Frankie Lemmon Foundation at the same number.

For the best food and wine the Triangle has to offer, plan to attend this free event that’s presented by Nomacorc, a leading manufacturer of alternative wine closures.

It’s that time of year when there’s an eerie feeling in the air. Ghosts and goblins abound, and there always are more treats than tricks. Why not try something different this year and visit the Halloween Bash at Midtown Farmers Market at North Hills?

About the Halloween Bash

Even the littlest trick or treaters will enjoy an event full of family fun. There will be plenty of music and activities to keep everyone occupied, including pumpkin painting, a masquerade parade, crafts, children’s costume contest, delicious seasonal foods and wonderful hot cider. When the bash ends and the market closes at noon, traditional trick or treating throughout North Hills will begin. The event is free, and is great for children of all ages.

About Midtown Farmers’ Market

This is a growers only market, so you can expect to find high-quality farm products on sale. There’s an abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits, cheese, meat, baked goods, flowers, homemade desserts and much, much more. Is there any better way to support North Carolina’s farmers? The market is a community favorite, so it seems natural to hold a variety of live events there, including entertainment, workshops and demos. The Duke Raleigh Hospital also has a presence there, and conducts healthy living and wellness activities. For more information about the market, visit www.northhillsraleigh.com/news/3829/.The market is located on 4350 Lassiter and North Hills Avenue in Raleigh, and runs on Saturdays from 8 AM to 12 PM from April 16th to November 19th.

For an event that supports the NC agricultural community and provides great, safe fun for children, the Midtown Farmers’ Market Halloween Bash is not to be missed!

There’s nothing better than a haunted house to get you in the Halloween spirit. For a spooktacular evening of themed fun, including music, games, food, and crafts, plan to visit Mordecai Historic Park on October 29, 2011. Featuring scary lantern tours and haunted trolley rides, Halloween events at historic Mordecai House promise to be terrifying in the most fun way!

About Mordecai House

Mordecai House is one of Raleigh’s architectural treasures. It was built in the late 18th century, a few years after the American Revolution. At the time, it was one of Wake County’s largest and most prosperous plantations. Today, it still has the original furnishings, including portraits of the five generations of the Mordecai family who lived there. The house is rich in legends, and is said to be haunted by the ghost of Mary Willis Mordecai Turk, who seems to be watching over her home from the spirit world. More than a few visitors have reported disconcerting encounters with a female ghost who fits her description. The ghost is seen to descend the home’s main staircase gracefully and enter a room. What better setting for a Halloween event the whole family will enjoy?

About the Lantern Tour and Haunted Trolley

Want to see for yourself if Mary’s ghost still inhabits Mordecai House? Then take the late night lantern tour. The glow of the lanterns lends an otherworldly aura to the tour, which can be quite frightening for younger children, as well as some skittish adults!  There’s also a costume contest scheduled for kids under 12. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third place. Reputed to be a site where paranormal activity occurs, Mordecai House is the perfect venue for a spine-chilling Halloween experience.The haunted trolley ride is a must as well — perhaps you’ll see a ghost along the way — like that of a man with the scarred face who’s reputed to appear and disappear.

To be sure you’re included in this scary, yet fun-filled Halloween event, preregistration is strongly recommended. Contact Mordecai House at 919.857.4364, or visit the website for more information at www.raleighnc.gov/mordecai.

The economy may be bust, but that doesn’t mean that the American dream of homeownership is dead. Many in North Carolina still seek to purchase a house of their own; however, tighter lending guidelines have made it more difficult, if not impossible, for many to do so.

For the countless Americans struggling to secure financing, there are several government backed lending programs designed to make purchasing a home affordable. In addition to FHA, the government also offers the USDA home loan program which many are unaware of. In fact, of the 50 million who were eligible for the program last year, only 150,000 took advantage of it.

Isn’t a USDA Home Loan Just for Rural Areas?

While North Carolina may have its fair share of rural areas, not everyone is eager to live in them. Traditionally, the USDA home loan program was designed to help those wishing to purchase a home in a rural area. Today, however, the program covers a much larger area, and even homes on the outskirts of metro areas such as Raleigh/ Durham are eligible.

What are the Benefits of the Program?

The USDA Home Loan Program is backed 100 percent by the US Department of Agriculture. For borrowers, this means that they are eligible for benefits that they would normally be unable to obtain. Such benefits include:

• Zero or limited down payment required
• Regulated closing costs
• No mortgage insurance required
• Competitive interest rates

Who is Eligible for a USDA Loan?

To ensure potential borrowers have the strongest likelihood of approval, the USDA loan requirements are some of the most lenient eligibility requirements of any lending program. To become eligible for a USDA home loan, prospective borrowers must:

• Select to purchase a home within an eligible USDA area
• Have adequate income to support monthly mortgage payments
• Have an income within area’s median range

The USDA program caters to those with greater financial need; however, most lenders will still require potential borrowers to have a credit score of a least 620 to obtain financing. Although 620 is a mid-range credit score, if you feel that your income level or credit history may make you ineligible for this type of loan, you are still encouraged to speak with a USDA loan specialist and apply.

Guest Author: Kevin Pearia

Content Director at USDALoans.com

You don’t have to be a historian or architect to appreciate the remarkable design of the North Carolina state capitol in Raleigh. It’s a wonderful example of Greek revival architecture that once was the seat of the state’s government. The building features a spectacular marble statue of George Washington, and is one of the best-preserved and finest examples of a major civic building in the state.

The Capitol’s Early History

The Capitol is constructed from local stone, and was a replacement for the original brick and stucco building that was destroyed by fire in 1831. A Scotsman, David Paton, who also was the supervising architect, is believed to have designed much of the building’s interior. Alexander Jackson Davis and Ithiel Town served as the principal architects. The final cost of the building exceeded $500,000, which, in 1840, was six times North Carolina’s revenue. A unique railway with wooden tracks was used to haul stone for the project, with mules providing the power to pull the cars.

More about the Capitol’s Features

The building has a rough cruciform (cross-shaped) design that’s three stories in height. A spectacular copper dome is one of the Capitol’s most notable features. Inside, there’s a large central rotunda that’s open from the top of the dome to floor level, providing an expansive look and feel. Two other large rooms house the Senate and House of Representatives, and are a full two stories high. The building stands in the center of Capitol Square, which is one of the five squares specified in the original plan that dates back to 1792. Calculated to lend a sense of importance, permanence, and formality to the main building, the Capitol is surrounded by public monuments and large trees. Landscaped by the renowned Olmstead brothers in the 20th century, Capitol Square is designed to inspire civic pride.

The Capitol Today

The Capitol housed all branches of North Carolina state government until 1888, when the Supreme Court moved into a building dedicated to its exclusive use. The General Assembly met in the Capitol until 1963. That year, it relocated to a separate building. Today, the Capitol still houses the offices of the Governor and Secretary of State. Although there have been periodic clamors to remodel and renovate the building, few actual changes have occured, except for the restoration of the original House and Senate chambers. Today, the Capitol is designated a Raleigh historic landmark. Admission is free, and guided tours are available.

If you’re looking for a unique experience in the Raleigh-Durham region, then plan to spend a day at the spectacular JC Raulston arboretum, located on the North Carolina State University campus. The arboretum is part of the school’s department of horticultural services, covers 8 acres, and contains over 5,000 species and cultivars. Other features on the site include a spectacular rose garden, and another garden that’s a great example of English-style horticulture. The arboretum itself includes many native species, and its exhibits display boxwoods, magnolias, buckeyes, and bamboo. It’s also acclaimed for its extensive collection of plants that have been adapted specifically for landscape use in the southeast US. A wide variety of plants are collected, evaluated, and developed under the arboretum’s mandate to find the best plants to use in landscapes in the South.

The Ruby C. McSwain Education Center

This is an exceptional facility that’s dedicated to supporting and enhancing the educational activities at the arboretum. The center houses the headquarters of the Garden Club of North Carolina, an auditorium, staff offices, a volunteer office, and a membership office. Surrounded by spectacular research and teaching gardens, the McSwain Education Center is home to the Asian Valley garden, the Scree garden, the Xeric garden, and the Contemplation garden. There’s also a beautiful perennial border garden that connects to the arboretum’s unique rooftop terrace that features the first green roof at the university. The center has a sustainable design that uses efficient geothermal wells to heat and cool the facility. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), geothermal systems are capable of reducing energy consumption by as much as 72%, when compared to conventional systems.

Informative Classes for Home Gardeners

The arboretum offers ongoing educational programs for all ages. One that’s very popular is the year-long class entitled “The Year in Trees and Shrub, Etc.” This course examines trees and shrubs at the arboretum over a period of 12 months, and allows students to observe how these plants change with the seasons. The class emphasizes plants that are readily available to home gardeners, and demonstrates in detail how to use and care for them in everyday garden design.

Admission to the JC Raulston Arboretum is free, and the facility is open year-round. Parking also is free, and no-charge tours are available.