A Letter From the Publisher…
“Here’s to the land of cotton blooms white,
Where scuppernong perfumes the breeze at night.”
— from the official toast to the state of North Carolina
While “cotton blooms” no longer dot the North Carolina landscape, vineyards are abounding in our rolling hills, rich soil and mild winters. In addition to the scuppernong, every major type of grape in the world is grown in our state. In this issue Mary Ann and Brian Guinn move from the Yadkin Valley to the Haw River Valley in their quest to visit every one of the more than 135 wineries in the state.
The North Carolina Museum of Art is mounting two exciting exhibits, beginning October 31: Da Vinci’s Notebook, titled The Codex Leicester, and The Worlds of M.C. Escher. The Codex, purchased by Bill Gates for $38,802,500, is probably the most famous of all of Da Vinci’s scientific writings. The Escher exhibit features 125 woodcuts, lithographs, wood engravings, and mezzotints.
As the number of Baby Boomers approaching seniorhood grows exponentially, the urge to record memories of the past has flourished as well. In this issue, Shelby Stephenson, North Carolina’s new Poet Laureate, encourages readers on “How to Start Writing NOW”.
“Should I move or should I stay?” is an important question for many as they approach their senior years. A Luxury Apartment, an Independent Living facility, or a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) are among the major choices. If home maintenance is a concern, check out some of the Triangle’s most attractive communities for 55+ Lifestyle and Active Adult Lifestyle.