CONTENTS JANUARY/ F E B RUARY 2 019 | VOL XLV I | NU M B E R 1 /2 28 54 42 45 MUST-DO'S IN THE 'NOKE NO BOREDOM HERE WHEN THERE'S SO MUCH TO DO! 28. From family-friendly to a fun date night, there's something for everyone to stay busy throughout the year. Written by Christina Nifong 42 48 EXPLORE PARK'S OUTDOOR RENAISSANCE A 21ST CENTURY PUBLIC HOUSE HOME FIT FOR A HOBBIT BELOVED BRAZILIAN IN EVERY ISSUE 12 EDITOR'S LETTER 14 STRANGE DAYS OF ROANOKE 16 THE GIST 20 #ROANOKELOVE 22 SOUTHERN SPOONFUL 24 EVENTS CALENDAR 64 THE DISH 66 THEN & NOW 42. This underground home renovation means no more mowing the roof. by Carol J. Alexander CHANGES ON THE HEALTH HORIZON 51. New opportunities in medical careers offer diversity for a professional's passion. by Erin Wolfe 54. 202 Social House provides delicious comfort food with a twist for downtown diners. by Shari Dragovich 57. Come for the incredible views and stay for the adventurous menu at Carlos Brazilian International Cuisine. by Shari Dragovich VALLEY LIFE: INSIDERS AND NEWCOMERS GUIDE 45 MUST-DO'S JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019 For 2019 MUST-DO #9: PLUS: REMARKABLE MEDICAL CAREERS Stay in a Yurt at Explore Park DINING: 202 SOCIAL HOUSE AND CARLOS BRAZILIAN FOR VOTE T OF BESPAGE 65 SEE FOR DETAILS ✪ FOODIE PROFILES 62. Learn more about these award-winning establishments. ON THE COVER: Jessica Sorensen of Bone and Sol Photography shot this image of Benjamin and Charlotte Woody enjoying one of Explore Park's newest family-friendly amenities: a yurt! SEE OUR BLOG FOR MORE GREAT CONTENT! From new business openings to tasty recipes, see more great content between issues at TheRoanoker.com. YOU COULD WIN Want a chance to win great prizes? Visit TheRoanoker.com/Contests for a list of current and upcoming contests for tickets to great local performances, festivals and more. Check out our new and improved website at TheRoanoker.com 6 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019 TheRoanoker.com PAGE 54: JOHN PARK / PAGE 42: BOB SOWDER 38. Expanding recreation activities is only one piece of the 20-year plan. by Dan Smith SPECIAL SECTIONS: VALLEY LIFE 2019 AFTER PAGE 50. The Insiders and Newcomers Guide showcases the best of the region, including business, education and more.http://www.TheRoanoker.com/Contests http://www.TheRoanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com http://www.TheRoanoker.com