Cary Magazine January/February 2026

January/February 2026

DADS IN STEP

From East

TREAT YOUR FEET

to West

SAVOR THE SYCAMORE

LIGHT YOUR WAY THE TRAVEL ISSUE

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6 CARY MAGAZINE

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in this issue

18

Dix Park Trolls

46

Mountain Air

32 Escape to Edenton 63 Special Section: Great Escapes

The Call to Disconnect 72

84 92

The Heart of Hospitality The Sycamore at Chatham Mills

Visitors enjoy postcard-perfect mountain vistas during a trip to Old Barn Winery in West Jefferson. Read the story on page 46.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

8 CARY MAGAZINE

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in every issue January/February 2026 • Volume 23, Number 1

20 Things to Do

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher

24 Pay It Forward: Raleigh Stroll Club

CREATIVE

58 Small Business Spotlight: Fleet Feet Raleigh- Morrisville 78 Garden Adventurer: Better Witches

101 Liquid Assets: Rosemary Riviera

Lauren Morris, Production Manager EDITORIAL

Erin McKnight, Editor Tara Shiver, Digital and Copy Editor Emily Uhland, Senior Editor CONTRIBUTORS

L.A. Jackson David McCreary

103 Recipes from Readers: Harira

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer Jennifer Casey, Graphic Designer Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer Beth Harris, Graphic Designer Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

departments

12 Editor’s Letter

ADVERTISING

108 Happenings 114 Write Light

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Executive SOCIAL MEDIA

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

ON THE COVER: Its history is storied, but the Roanoke River Lighthouse keeps a silent watch over Edenton Bay. Discover more of Edenton’s wonders on page 32. Photo by

in the next issue

Jonathan Fredin

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications, Chuck Norman, APR ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator and Distribution Manager Valerie Renard, Human Resources PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith Cary Magazine © is published nine times annually by Cherokee Media Group. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Subscriptions are $18/year.

CARY MAGAZINE

Westview at Weston 701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.carymagazine.com This publication does not endorse, either directly or implicitly, the people, activities, products or advertising published herein Information in the magazine is deemed credible to the best of our knowledge.

We reveal your 2026 winners!

10 CARY MAGAZINE

Cherokee Media Group is a proud member of Cary Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and FuquayVarina Chamber of Commerce.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised are available on an equal-opportunity basis.

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editor’s letter

It’s a new year, and this one is sure to take us places! In the spirit of filling 2026 with adventure and discovery, we invite you to explore this travel and outdoor adventure issue. Every new year brings with it the promise of fresh beginnings, so what better way to embrace than by embarking on some new journeys in Erin McKnight takes in the sights — and near hypnotizing sounds — of Edenton Bay at the Western Wake and beyond?

Penelope Barker House.

Our state has so much to offer that the Cary Magazine team had difficulty settling on a single destination to visit: the mountains or the beach. So we decided to see both and let you choose your own adventure! Whether it’s east with Edenton or west with West Jefferson, each is a very worthy destination — together, they’re a reminder of how good we’ve got it in North Carolina.

One of the strongest advocates for the NC hospitality industry is Lynn Minges, whom we profile after she retired from leading the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association and was honored with the Women of Western Wake Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Forum, held in September 2025 at the Umstead Hotel & Spa. With “A Call to Disconnect,” we consider the unplugged travel trend and discover that although there are myriad benefits to going offline when stepping beyond our (virtual) doorsteps, taking such a trip isn’t as simple as ‘forgetting’ to pack the phone battery.

The Sycamore at Chatham Mills is a restaurant destination well worth the drive, with David McCreary making the case for fine dining and historic architecture in Pittsboro.

Feet are the focus in Pay It Forward and the Small Business Spotlight, as Jonathan Arellano’s Raleigh Stroll Club is offering parenting support for fathers through playfilled meetups, and Fleet Feet Raleigh-Morrisville is going the extra mile to match you with your perfect running shoe.

As we step into a brand-new year, a palpable sense of excitement in the air, let’s embrace the opportunities that lie Jonathan Fredin, Erin McKnight, ahead in our community and beyond. and Arlem Mora, usually behind Here’s to making this year one that’s filled with the scenes, become the subjects adventure and discovery. for Patrick Dablow's photograph.

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Whimsical Wonders

THE DIX PARK TROLLS WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

If you need a reminder of the magic that surrounds us, look no further than Dix Park. There, the Trolls wait to tell their tales. Reclined against, sitting among, peeking out from, resting between, and running through trees that are enchanted by their fanciful presence, these five oversize wooden sculptures were created by Danish recycle artist and activist Thomas Dambo and required a team of volunteers to work nearly 300 hours using recycled materials to install.

These hidden Troll treasures tell unique stories and encourage visitors to wander through the park and discover them — inviting exploration, engaging the imagination, and sparking conversation about conservation and environmental activism. The playful giants will remain in situ for 25 to 30 years, and in the meantime will welcome families, friends, and art enthusiasts — more than 900,000 people visited the park in the latter half of 2025 — to converge and consider creativity, connection, and the joy of outdoor adventure in Raleigh.

18 CARY MAGAZINE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 19

THINGS TO DO Under the Silver Moon Lantern Parade

Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival

January 10, 6 p.m.

Downtown Cary Park carync.gov/lanternparade

January 10,12:30 & 6 p.m.

Kerr Scott Building, Raleigh chocolatewinewhiskey.com

Add light and joy to the darkest days of winter with a community lantern parade.

Bring your own lanterns (no fire is allowed) and join a 15-minute community walk through the park, accompanied by live music, entertainment, and onsite food trucks. The parade kicks off Cary’s GLOW 2026, a temporary outdoor display of technology and light art installations during the darkest months of the year. The six installations include projections, murals, and light sculptures that will be on display until March.

Indulgences of all kinds unite at the NC State Fairgrounds — from handrolled truffles to luxurious fondue to an amazing selection of bean-to-bar artisan chocolates. And that’s just the chocolate.

Tickets include unlimited samples of all the goodness available, including wine, whiskey, cocktails, and sweet and savory food items. Must be 21 to attend Raleigh’s sweetest event. $63.28 and up (VIP options available).

Dream and Create January 12, 6:30–8 p.m.

Cedar Fork Community Center, Morrisville Award-winning inspirational speaker Willa Brigham will share interactive stories and uplifting songs to honor the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Plus, make a craft to take home.

MLK Dreamfest Cultural Celebration January 17, 5–8:30 p.m.

Cary Arts Center carync.gov/dreamfest Part of Cary’s four-day Dreamfest programming, this year’s cultural celebration is themed The Beloved Community: Honoring Dignity, Uplifting Humanity. Hear from keynote speaker Rev. Jerome Gay Jr., Senior Pastor of Vision Church RDU, and enjoy performances from gospel artist CoCo McMillan, The Deep River Singers, Ruby Strings, the Enloe Dance Ensemble, and more.

20 CARY MAGAZINE

Bad Momz of Comedy January 28 & 29, 8 p.m.

The Halle Cultural Arts Center, Apex Take a break from parenting! This nationally touring group presents not-safe-forplaydate comedy to venues nationwide.

Last year’s show sold out two back-to-back performances, and this year brings a whole new lineup of Bad Mommas. $30 plus tax.

Gold Medal Games February 7, 1–5 p.m.

Downtown Cary Park Go for the gold! Watch live action from the Olympic Winter Games on big screens, cheer on Team USA, and test your skills with interactive challenges.

Sole Mates Race February 14, 8:45 a.m.

WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary runsignup.com/Race/NC/Cary/SoleMates Join Fit & Able Productions for your choice of race experience! Choose a 5K, 6.5-mile, or Fun Mile course. Compete individually or as a doubles team where you and your “sole mate” (partner, neighbor, friend, sibling — all are welcome!) can place by combined finish time. Virtual race options are also available. $25 and up.

Valentine’s Date Night in the Park February 14, 5–9 p.m.

Downtown Cary Park Bring your special someone for a night of laughter, connection, and fun under the stars. Open to ages 16 and up, this date night features free arts and crafts activities in the park (first come, first served) with live music to set the mood.

Round out the evening with fare from an onsite food truck.

Apex Community Dance

Cupid’s Undie Run

February 20, 7–9 p.m.

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February 21, noon to 4 p.m.

Motorco Music Hall, Durham cupids.org

No experience necessary! Local callers lead easy dances including Southern American square dancing, English country, and New England contra dance. All ages are welcome. $2 plus tax per person.

Freeze your buns off for a good cause!

Leave your pants at home and set out for a mile(ish) fun run followed by a dance party to raise funds for those affected by NF, a group of genetic conditions that cause tumors to grow on nerves. Fundraising initiatives include a T-shirt, MeUndies mystery box, open bar at the event, travel bottle, hoodie, and more. $40.

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pay it forward

Raleigh Stroll Club WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

The parents of Raleigh Stroll Club are walking together. This sense of belonging is what the club’s founder Jonathan Arellano aims to create: a social network where friendships flourish.

Born from his desire to forge connections and establish support, as Jonathan is both a new and first-time father to Enzo and a recently relocated Cary employee and Raleigh resident, within just months the stroll club community is thriving and providing an inclusive environment where families can bond and share their parenting journeys.

After taking his wife, Brooke, to a mom club event that had over 40 mothers in attendance(!), Jonathan observed that moms often have more established support networks. AJ Johnson, Jonathan’s friend and fellow RSC member, shared one afternoon at North Raleigh’s Lafayette Village, where Enzo and AJ’s 9-year-old daughter Rei spent time together, that there weren’t that many fathers at Apple, where both he and Jonathan work on the MetLife Campus as instructors.

“We came to Raleigh at the same time,” AJ says about how he got to know Jonathan and the club. “Honestly, we hit it off as friends. When Jay pitched the idea of a stroller club, I thought it was pretty cool.”

24 CARY MAGAZINE

“There are so many dads here,” Jonathan chimes in, “and many of us are away from family” — his sentiment reflecting the heart of Raleigh Stroll Club: building a local family where there may be none.

“My closest family is in Florida,” AJ explains. “So Jay and Enzo have become like family to me. I call them my little brother and nephew.”

“He doesn’t have family here. I don’t have family here,” AJ continues, describing the need for a group like RSC. “So it was kind of like, let’s build our family.”

After Jonathan had to return home to Los Angeles last summer for an emergency, he decided to take the recommendation of starting a club to give dads their own space to navigate the joys and challenges

of fatherhood — a suggestion that came from Amy Hartle of Raleigh Family Adventure and Survive Motherhood after they met at the mom event.

While the club primarily focuses on fathers, it warmly welcomes mothers into its fold. “We try to include moms all the time,” AJ explains. “They’re curious and often want to join the events. It’s a great way for everyone to connect.”

The club meets regularly, typically one weekend a month, with plans to expand to weekday events in the future. “We show up at the playground,” Jonathan says. “The kids are going to do what they do.” Parks are also popular venues, and thanks to social media, sponsors like Unhinged Coffee Co. and Timber Pizza have provided treats.

“It’s about more than just kids. We talk about getting back in shape, video games, and life in general. It’s a moment to connect as individuals, not just as parents.”

— AJ Johnson

AJ Johnson and his daughter Rei have become Jonathan Arellano and son Enzo’s chosen family thanks to Raleigh Stroll Club.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 25

Jonathan personally covers all costs related to the club. “Our son getting to connect with other kids and have fun is enough pay for me,” he says.

26 CARY MAGAZINE

But the goal remains simple: to “hang out” with other parents.

“I’m sure somebody else has already cracked the code,” AJ explains about a parenting challenge someone might be facing. “You just need to talk to that person.”

Regular meetups provide opportunities for dads to discuss everything from fatherhood to personal interests like fitness and hobbies. “It’s about more than just kids,” AJ says. “We talk about getting back in shape, video games, and life in general. It’s a moment to connect as individuals, not just as parents.”

That’s because Raleigh Stroll Club isn’t only about play dates; it’s about creating a safe support system that extends beyond gatherings. “I can count on AJ to drop me off at the airport,” Jonathan says — even if it’s at 5 a.m. — highlighting the deep trust and

friendship that has developed within the group. “That’s the kind of connection we have.”

As the Raleigh Stroll Club continues to grow, its members are committed to fostering a welcoming environment. “Relocating can be scary, especially when you don’t know anyone,” Jonathan says. Parenting children of any age can certainly be scary. “We want to change that.”

“We want to make sure everyone has a chance to participate,” AJ agrees. “Kids need positive experiences, and so do parents. Making connections is what it’s all about.”

Together, Raleigh Stroll Club isn’t just building a community.

It’s nurturing a growing family. t @raleighstrollclub Facebook & LinkedIn: Raleigh Stroll Club

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 27

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New River State Park, Elk Shoals Access, West Jefferson

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 33

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

Escape to Edenton

Coastal Charm on the Inner Banks “Edenton’s waking up,” says Inner Banks Inn proprietor Susan Martin Cyr about the scenic town tucked into the Albermarle Sound and surrounded by water on three sides in the state’s northeastern region.

While it has long been considered a historical gem, Edenton has also been what Susan “would call a sleeper.” But now, she says, “it’s waking up.”

Recently recognized as one of North Carolina’s best small towns by Travel + Leisure, among the prettiest small towns in the

34 CARY MAGAZINE

South by Forbes, and one of Expedia’s most beautiful towns in America, there’s good reason travelers are awakening to the wonders of Edenton.

Despite being just an hour and 15 minutes from the Norfolk area and a straight shot on I-440 from the Triangle, Susan says that many people still haven’t heard of Edenton.

“It’s had this small-town sort of unknown for a long time,” she explains, despite the town of 5,000 boasting a historical status that rivals far larger and more prominent American cities.

The first colonial capital of the state for over 20 years, Edenton is steeped in historical and cultural significance. Named after the first governor of North Carolina, the former port town is home to three signers of the Constitution and continues to boast its influence in numerous historical sites and what Lorrie Dablow, who owns the Edenton Tea Company with her husband, Patrick, refers to as a sense of “stewardship” that continues to exist in the town’s younger generations.

Hayes Farm, first owned by the state’s fourth governor, represents centuries of North Carolina heritage.

The Chowan County Courthouse, circa 1767, is still in use today.

After moving to Edenton several years ago, Lorrie and Patrick recognized that visitors were looking to buy replicas of the teapot that appears throughout the town and started a business that blends worldrenowned artist Patrick’s devotion to painting with Lorrie’s love of tea. After all, it was in Edenton in 1774 that the earliest organized women’s political action in the country’s history occurred, with 51 women signing a statement in support of a boycott of British goods. Sending this resolution to King George was a bold revolutionary statement in a male-dominated era, a protest that later became known as the Edenton Tea Party.

The brave expression of colonial spirit, led by Penelope Barker, whose 1782 house serves today as the first touchpoint for visitors as Edenton and Chowan County’s welcome center, and is home to the Edenton Historical Commission, hasn’t watered down in a town whose population has barely changed since the 1880s.

But just because the past is so pervasive in Edenton doesn’t mean that progress isn’t palpable. As Susan says, “Preservation has been at the heart of everything that has driven business in the town for decades and decades and decades.”

The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center is a cultural and historical treasure trove.

There’s barely a structure in Edenton that isn’t designated historic. Even when fire razes a building to the ground, as was the case with the triple-story Josephine Leary property, rebuilding was never in question.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 35

Patrick Dablow, who co-owns the Edenton Tea Company with his wife, Lorrie, is an artist who hand-paints every miniature teapot sold in the likeness of the 400-pound bronze teapot, at right, installed symbolically atop an abandoned British cannon.

The Cupola House and Gardens is a Southern gem of Georgian architecture.

36 CARY MAGAZINE

Among the notable restoration efforts underway is the Hayes Farm Project, which Susan declares “is going to be to North Carolina what Mount Vernon was to Virginia.” After being sold to the state in 2023 following more than 300 years of private ownership — originally by the state’s fourth governor, Samuel Johnston — the 194-acre property with 28 structures, including a carriage house and six enslaved workers’ cottages, recently revealed one of its many treasures in the form of a rare copy of the Constitution discovered in a filing cabinet that later sold for $11 million. An important part of the state’s heritage rests in this single remarkable property, and its preservation will only strengthen Edenton’s historical standing and provide public access to educational and recreational resources.

Also being restored to its former status as a cultural center is the Kadesh A. M. E. Zion Church, one of the most important African American places of worship in the South. Built in 1897, in a rare Victorian adaptation of gothic revival style by a formerly enslaved carpenter who became Edenton’s most prominent architect, the church sustained hurricane damage in 2003 and fell into a state of disrepair that lasted for over 20 years while the congregation worked tirelessly to secure funding for restoration. With the original Tiffany stained-glass windows recently reinstalled, the future of the church is once again dazzling.

Such is the commitment to preservation in Edenton: The community will band together to conserve what would otherwise be lost or forgotten.

Sometimes, preservation involves cutting a building in half and moving it on two flatbed trucks, as is the case with the Inner Banks Inn’s Pack House, originally a tobacco barn and the property’s newest building … at 110 years old. The entire campus encompasses 2.75 acres and spans approximately

The historical trolley tour is a good first stop for visitors to Edenton.

Golden hour on Edenton Bay

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 37

In Edenton, historical markers abound.

250 years of history with its four homes and converted carriage house restaurant that serves three-course breakfasts daily for guests and is open to the public for five-course dinners on the weekend.

About restoring the lovely Inner Banks Inn, which remains the only B&B that started in Edenton, Susan says, “It has been a labor of love” — a fitting representation of how the preservation and restoration movement continues to rouse the greater town.

And make no mistake: The past is Edenton’s main draw. But even if you’re not a history buff, there’s plenty of natural polish to make your visit worthwhile.

From the panoramas to the people, the beauty of Edenton is very much contemporary. This is the kind of small town where you’re trusted to purchase your vintage trolley tour tickets after you take the comprehensive 50-minute historical overview of the town; when confronted by “a walker and traffic” (which comprises a couple cars), driver Clayton takes the opportunity to impart nuggets of wisdom unearthed from his personal history in Edenton.

The Inner Banks Inn is situated on almost 3 acres of land, covers 250 years of history with its four historical homes and converted carriage house, and still manages to offer all the amenities — and luxuries, like a daily multi-course breakfast — visitors could hope to experience.

38 CARY MAGAZINE

Above: Edenton Coffee House is a gathering place for locals, but that doesn’t mean visitors aren’t welcomed warmly.

Left: Matt Lively, a Richmond-based artist, is responsible for this mural that highlights Edenton’s flora and fauna ... and of course its teapot and lighthouse.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 39

Abandoned British cannons and cannonballs — the Penelope Barker House in the background — still serve as a warning.

See

Historic Trolley Tour (ehcnc.org/836-2/trolley/)

The Taylor Theater, which was built in 1925 as an opera house and retains its classic décor and fittings, shows the newest movie releases. (taylortheater.com) Hayes Farm (townofedenton.com/public-works/park/hayes-farm) If you prefer a DIY tour of the richest historical assets Edenton has to offer, walk the Edenton Museum Trail — a self-guided, mobile-friendly walking tour throughout the Historic District that includes sites such as the Edenton Teapot. (visitedenton.com/edentonmuseum-trail-2) Kadesh A. M. E. Zion Church (kadeshedentonrestoration.org) The Cupola House and Gardens is one of the state’s most important structures, but the home’s last owner was forced to sell its elaborate interior Georgian woodwork to an antiques dealer, who then sold it to the Brooklyn Museum. The town was without the woodwork for one of the South’s finest colonial homes for almost a century until, in 2024, the Museum announced it would start returning the original 18th-century carved woodwork to Edenton, where it is currently being reinstalled. (cupolahouse.org)

40 CARY MAGAZINE

If the trolley tour leaves you longing for more time in the mill village, Edenton Cotton Mill Historic District — comprising 57 mill houses, a brick office building, industrial building, and the First Christian Church — also houses the Edenton Cotton Mill Museum of History. (millvillagemuseum.org) The Penelope Barker House Welcome Center (ehcnc.org) Circa 1767, the Chowan County Courthouse is the oldest government building in the state. This National Historic Landmark is also the oldest colonial courthouse still in use in the country. (nccourts.gov/locations/chowan-county/chowan-county-courthouse) Roanoke River Lighthouse and Maritime Museum (historicsites.nc.gov/all-sites/historic-edenton) Note: Although the town caters to guests year-round, check opening times prior to any visit for a seamless experience.

Newly reinstalled Tiffany stained-glass windows in the under-renovation Kadesh A. M. E. Zion Church

One of the enslaved workers’ cottages on Hayes Farm due to be restored as part of the Hayes Farm Project

Broad Street offers multiple dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

The Corner Baking Company serves pastries and desserts made onsite in historic downtown.

It’s also the kind of place where, over breakfast, Terric, who is on staff at the Inner Banks Inn, refills locally roasted coffee and says, “My two great joys are to pour and drink coffee.” And, given his enthusiasm, you believe him.

If it is apparent on Broad Street — which serves as the town’s main street and boasts surprisingly varied dining, shopping, and nightlife options — that residents know each other’s business, their shared business unmistakenly involves welcoming tourists to the town. “It’s Southern hospitality personified here,” Susan describes.

And, as if a mind reader, because people here are that considerate, she adds, “And it really is genuine. Everyone here is vested in people coming to Edenton and having a wonderful, authentic experience.”

“Prettiest small town of the South” Edenton is picturesque in ways that could be expected — glorious sunsets and sunrises over Little Creek at Queen Anne Park; trees, whose individual roots are the width of most trunks, which settled several centuries ago in dirt that still produces cotton and soybeans — but there’s also a dreamlike quality that distinguishes Edenton from other coastal towns.

The illuminated Taylor Theater marquee welcomes moviegoers to the latest showings, plus simulated golf on the rooftop, but the original opera house, built in 1925, still maintains its rich history in a restored interior.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 41

Stay Bed & Breakfasts

Captain’s Quarters Inn (thecarolinaexperience.com) Take it from us, the Inner Banks Inn is a very deserving Diamond Collection Inn and top-rated Bed and Breakfast and Dining Experience in Tripadvisor’s NC Coast Region.

With knowledgeable staff and all sorts of special touches (think charcuterie boards at check-in, king-size beds throughout, and The Inner Banks Inn bicycles on loan), this historic inn’s 20 rooms and suites located within five restored homes (the Reagans, Walter Cronkite, and Dolly Parton were all guests in The Lords Proprietor’s, the elegant 19th-century Victorian mansion) all boast modern amenities and a proprietor who goes above and beyond to ensure that her guests enjoy “a very customized, Shout-out to the smashcurated experience in a beautiful town with a prolific waterfront.” burger Chief Photographer (innerbanksinn.com) Jonathan Fredin enjoyed at Broad Street Diner.

Granville Queen Inn (facebook.com/broadstreetdineredenton) (thecarolinaexperience.com)

Savor

Boat Slips

Edenton Town Harbor offers a complimentary two-night stay to boaters and cruisers with luxury amenities or easy access to all that Edenton has to offer. (townofedenton.com/edenton-harbor)

Shop

Broad Street Bazaar, Edenton’s only twostory shopping experience, includes Coastal Threads: casual coastal men’s and women’s apparel, accessories, and locally made goods. (facebook.com/ BroadStreetBazaar; coastalthreadsnc.com)

Coastal Threads

The contractor responsible for the preservation of many of Edenton’s homes and buildings, to include the Kadesh Church, Down East Preservation showcases a design studio and retail space for home décor and furniture. (downeastpreservation.com) Byrum Hardware and Gifts has been owned by the same family for over 100 years and has every home and garden project, as well as every giftgiving occasion, covered. (byrumhardwareco.com) Edenton Tea Company sells looseleaf teas, hand-painted Edenton teapot replicas, and other high-quality accessories; it also serves as a showroom for Patrick Dablow’s artwork. (edentontea)

42 CARY MAGAZINE

Edenton Coffee House is the kind of brew shop where you’ll get to experience a true crosssection of the town’s population. From seniors gathered at a round table to Gen Zers on MacBooks, hearty and homemade — and Roanoke Roasting coffee — are on the extensive menu. (edentoncoffeehouse.com) Huckleberry’s Ice Cream Parlor (@huckleberrysicecreamparlor) The Herringbone on the Waterfront was built in 1898 and was originally a herring icehouse. One of the town’s old trolleys was commissioned to sit in front of the white building and sometimes functions as a snack bar. Inside, the cuisine is upscale casual, and the facility features a full bar and event space. (Decorative The Herringbone vases of cotton on tables and an unmatched view of the bay are perks.) (theherringboneedenton.com) Old Colony Smokehouse (oldcolonysmokehouse.com)

The fully restored Roanoke River Lighthouse, decommissioned more than 80 years ago but still watching vigilant over the water. Cannons that stay aimed at any ship which might dare an approach.

Houses, architectural marvels from the late 17th century to the present that can choose whether they want to display their historical status or not, but which cannot possibly hide their rich pedigree. All are emblematic of the specialness — and public spirit, solicitude, and sense of humor of Edenton as an evergreen destination for romantic weekends, girls’ trips, family vacations, corporate retreats, and more.

While you may come to Edenton for the past, you’ll stay for the present.

This unforgettable town is what dreams are made of. t visitedenton.com

“It’s Southern hospitality personified here.

And it really is genuine.”

Access to Hayes Farm comes in the form of a one-lane wooden bridge.

— Susan Martin Cyr, Inner Banks Inn proprietor

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 43

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44 CARY MAGAZINE

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Seen from Mount Jefferson, West Jefferson is aglow with autumn colors.

OH Restaurant’s Rooftop Bar

46 CARY WAKELIVING MAGAZINE

Mountain Air West Jefferson strikes the perfect balance between relaxed charm and outdoor adventure WRITTEN BY EMILY UHLAND

Vibrant towns, mountain landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and outdoor exploration — you can find it all in the North Carolina High Country. Destinations such as Asheville, Boone, and Blowing Rock often headline a visit to the Blue Ridge Mountains, but there’s a quieter alternative overflowing with small-town charm that deserves a place in the spotlight.

The town of West Jefferson is “a breath of fresh air,” says Mark Beck. “You come up here, and it doesn’t move fast, but that doesn’t mean it’s slow. It’s a getaway.”

“It’s a really beautiful area. The people are old Appalachian people. They are local to the area going back several generations, and they are friendly, fun people.”

Mark serves on the West Jefferson Tourism Development Authority board and owns the West Jefferson Hotel, recently reopened after a five-year renovation.

Mark isn’t an NC native, but he fell for West Jefferson’s quaint downtown full of local shops, rolling green hills fit for gardening (he’s an avid hobbyist), and rich High Country history.

“The hotel started as a railroad hotel. West Jefferson is a railroad town,” he explains.

From its beginnings in 1917, the West Jefferson Hotel was a “marvel” for the area, featuring hot and cold running water, electric lights, and a bathtub in every room. Quite grand for a remote mountain area harvested for timber.

After decades as the town’s hub, waning railroad trade and changing leadership forced a period of decline, until Mark purchased the hotel in 2019 to restore the landmark property to its original grandeur.

Salvaging and repurposing as much as possible, Mark celebrated the hotel’s history, while recreating it as a modern, luxury getaway.

“The whole building is full of old-growth timber. The original doors have been repurposed as the bathroom doors.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 47

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

The central hallway at the West Jefferson Hotel showcases original works by local artists.

The hotel reopened last year after a five-year renovation.

48 WAKELIVING

Sculptures at Ashe County Cheese

Furniture from the original hotel remains, reupholstered in blue or green fabrics.

Early electric lighting, circa the early 1900s, overhangs the hallways, and a restored antique grand piano anchors the parlor.

Furniture, porcelain china, and antique décor gifted by area families add to the hotel’s local lore.

“They have all these beautiful pieces of furniture, often if a parent is moving out of a house or something. It’s furniture that’s too nice to give to Goodwill, but (the owners) want its legacy to continue on somewhere else with a little bit of meaning.”

Despite the attention to history, the hotel feels entirely new, with shimmery gold wallpaper, warm wood tones, and original artwork on every wall — a style Mark calls maximalism.

“It uses aggressive colors and patterns that you don’t think should work, but when you put it together, somehow, it’s thrilling, but not overwhelming.”

Works by well-known local artists such as Tony Griffin, Richard Fennell, Stephen Shoemaker, and Florence Thomas line the

parlor and central hallway, from which all 17 guest rooms stem.

“The hotel is highly social,” Mark says.

“Hotels are becoming less personal all the time. We decided that we’re a small hotel, and to be distinct, we’re going to be high touch, meaning highly social. Anything a guest wants, we get it for them.”

There are fresh-baked cookies at reception, truffles to welcome guests in their rooms, and baskets of blankets for cool evenings on the two-story porch.

“The High Country is known for twostory porches. If you drive around, you’ll see old farmhouses; they often feature a two-story porch up here. And this particular porch is probably the best of the whole bunch.”

Centrally located in the middle of downtown, the West Jefferson Hotel supplies the perfect home base for exploring the area’s charms. Restaurants, shops, and a park are mere steps from the hotel’s front door, with even more to explore a short drive away. t westjeffersonhotel.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 49

“It’s quieter and a little slower up here.

You can actually relax. Doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do, but you might be doing nothing.”

— Jasper Brannan

50 WAKELIVING

Luther Rock overlook at Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 51

Third Day Kitchen

Eat &

OH Restaurant

Havana Café

Drink

OH Restaurant & Bar

On the ground floor of the West Jefferson Hotel, the OH Restaurant & Bar dishes up casual and fine dining Appalachian-centric menus with a focus on local “soul food” traditions, says executive chef Trent Pruitt, a native of the area.

“My menu is kind of different than the other restaurants around here. I wanted to make it unique in some way.”

The Oh, Good Gravy entrée, a riff on country fried steak, stands out as one of Trent’s favorites.

“It’s like country fried chicken, basically, but we make our own chicken gravy; we make our own stock. And then we use a local chestnut mushroom.”

Be sure to make a reservation to enjoy the fine-dining menu, a fusion of local inspiration and global creativity dreamed up

by Trent. westjeffersonhotel.com/oh-restaurant

52 WAKELIVING

Situated on “the Backstreet,” which runs parallel to the downtown district’s main thoroughfare, Jefferson Ave, Havana Café remains a favorite lunch destination among locals and visitors for its authentic and fresh Cuban cuisine.

Traditional classics such as a Cuban sandwich, or daily specials like Ropa Vieja, come with fries, rice and beans, or caramelized plantains.

and tasty brunch, sandwich, salad, and soup offerings. Sweet treats include coffee, smoothies, and ice cream. On sunny days, patio dining shows off a beautiful view of West Jefferson’s signature rolling mountain landscape.

Be sure to include a visit to the adjacent Third Day Market to browse home décor, jewelry, clothing, gifts, Amish furniture, and seasonal greenhouses. thirddaymarket.com

New River Brewing Smokehouse & Eatery

Wings, burgers, mac & cheese bowls, and one of the best soft pretzels around pair perfectly with New River’s own craft beers, including Farmhouse Belgian Ale, which won a NC Brewers Cup Medal in 2018.

Down the street, a second taproom features a beer garden with a limited food menu and a chill, dog-friendly atmosphere. newriverbrewing.beer Third Day Kitchen

For breakfast and lunch with a view that’s well worth the short trip outside downtown, venture to Third Day Kitchen (previously Oldhouse Goods) and be rewarded with hearty Havana Café

Old Barn Winery

Shop Ashe County Cheese

Three sculptural cows herald your arrival at Ashe County Cheese, North Carolina’s oldest cheese plant and one of West Jefferson’s top attractions. Watch cheesemaking in progress from the viewing area, then cross the street to the retail shop filled with gourmet goodies.

Browse cheese bricks — favorites include Hickory Smoked Mountain Cheddar, Jack & Dill Monterey Jack, and 7-Year-Old Super Sharp Cheddar — spreads, and curds aplenty, plus jams, jellies, salsas, pickled vegetables, bulk candy, and fresh-made fudge.

When the cravings hit, order from the Ashe County Cheese food truck. Fried cheese curds, grilled bologna and cheese sandwiches, and loaded pork belly fries represent only a few of the cheesy offerings. ashecountycheese.com Bull’s Boots and Western Wear

A downtown mainstay since 2021, Bull’s Boots lives up to its name. Western-

style boots — embroidered, embellished, colorful, and classic — line the shop’s walls from floor to ceiling. You’ll also find apparel, outerwear, hats, and accessories for outdoor adventures. Upstairs, a custom hat bar awaits your creative whim.

“You can add ribbon or branding. We can reshape hats,” says Jasper Brannan, an employee at Bull’s Boots and West Jefferson native. “It’s a typical hat bar, but there are not many on the East Coast.”

“We get a lot of people from different rodeos all over the state and into Tennessee.

And some people just want to get a hat made for their trip to Ashe County.” bullsboots.com

Ashe County Cheese

The Marketplace at Curiosity

Explore a variety of stalls with locally made goods, boutique clothing, original art, and home décor, supporting West Jefferson small business owners along the way.

The hunt is on to find vintage treasures and unique gifts.

Facebook: @curiositync Instagram: @the_marketplace_at_curiosity

Bull’s Boots and Western Wear

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 53

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Explore

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Old Barn Winery Trolley

Take in gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountain vistas, from lookout points accessible by car to hiking trails that wind through the park’s terrain. The 1.1-mile Rhododendron Trail rewards hikers with great views at the Luther Rock outcropping. A picnic shelter near the parking area offers a respite for refueling. Not a hiker? Stop at the Jefferson Overlook along the park’s main road for views of downtown and the surrounding mountains. ncparks.gov/state-parks/mount-jeffersonstate-natural-area St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

From the outside, this quaint, unassuming house of worship gives few indications that it is one of the most-visited attractions in Ashe County. Inside, the chancel is

54 WAKELIVING

adorned with a series of three fresco paintings by renowned artist Ben Long: Mary Great with Child, John the Baptist and The Mystery of Faith. Ben learned the technique — the same one used by Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel — as an apprentice in Florence. The church’s doors remain unlocked around the clock for visitors to witness the remarkable works. Long also painted The Last Supper fresco inside Holy Trinity Church in nearby Glendale Springs. holycommunionashe.org Old Barn Winery

Spend a relaxing afternoon in the green meadows of Old Barn Winery sampling Blue Ridge Mountain–grown wines produced by the Sexton family. Try each variety (white, red, sweet, and seasonal specialties) with a wine tasting flight. Light snacks, including Ashe County cheeses, can be purchased, or

Ashe County Farmers Market

bring your own picnic. Plan to stay awhile listening to live music, playing cards or games, and savoring the views of the Frosty’s Choose & Cut Christmas tree farm on the property.

On Fridays and Saturdays, hop on the free trolley that runs between downtown West Jefferson and the Old Barn Winery. oldbarnwinery.com

Ashe County Farmers Market

Christmas Tree Farms

On Saturdays from April through October, visit the farmers market on Backstreet to shop farm-fresh plants and produce, handmade wares, and mountain-town charm. The market operates from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Special holiday markets occur in November and early December. ashefarmersmarket.com

The New River

Ashe County Corn Maze

Fields of Fraser fir trees blanket the landscape in and around West Jefferson, making the town a popular destination for choose-and-cut outings during November and December. Consider Frosty’s Choose and Cut, Long’s Tree Farm, or Cardinal Tree Farms and begin a new holiday tradition.t gofrostys.com longstreefarm.com cardinaltreefarm.com

Make sure a float down the New River tops your itinerary for a visit during the summer months. Zaloo’s Canoes in Jefferson offers tubing, kayaking, and canoeing trips with shuttle service and gear rental. The float season typically begins in early May and lasts through mid-September. The river’s gentle flow welcomes many ages and abilities — pets too! zaloos.com

Fall fun, pumpkins galore, tractor hayrides, and a 4-acre corn maze delight families during weekends in September and October at the Ashe County Corn Maze. At dusk, ghouls and thrills take over as the maze transforms into the Scarecrows Nightmare Haunted Corn Field — visit if you dare. ashecornmaze.com

Seasonal Fun

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 55

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small business spotlight

fleet feet raleigh-morrisville WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

If you’re lacing up for your first 5K or training intensely for yet another marathon, Fleet Feet keeps pace with you. While the business was founded nationally in 1976, there are four locations across the Triangle — in Raleigh, Durham, and Cary — and local franchise owners who are committed to getting, and keeping, our community moving.

Whether you’re a runner, walker, fitness enthusiast, or are embarking on a more active lifestyle in this new year, this specialty running store prides itself on being at your side every step of the way. Walk into any Fleet Feet location and you’ll find impressive retail options: shoes, of course, and high-quality gear to include clothing and accessories that invite anyone to look, feel, and function like an athlete.

You’ll also be greeted by friendly and knowledgeable staff equipped with leading-edge technology that supports a commitment to personalized service. With a database of over 5 million foot

58 CARY MAGAZINE

scans, Fleet Feet knows something about bodies and how they move.

The shoe outfitting process allows team members to use 3D fit id® foot scanning technology to gather information about feet and the support they need. Precise measurement data is gathered, and in concert with an assessment of the foot’s path of motion and stride, team members can find the perfect shoe for you. (For any runners out there, the importance of wearing the right shoe cannot be overstated, as injuries like shin splints, plantar fasciitis, and runner’s knee are all a result of wearing the wrong shoe.) “We don’t work on commission,” explains

Fit specialist Sebastian Garcia finds the right fit for a customer.

Fleet Feet’s 3D scanner profiles a customer’s foot length, width, volume, and arch height to help find properly supportive shoes and insoles.

59

60 CARY MAGAZINE

Fleet Feet marketing director Sharon Kyner, “so we’re able to spend the amount of time necessary to ensure that each customer leaves happy and heard.”

But Fleet Feet isn’t just a store: it’s a community. And since 2006 it has been motivating and mentoring runners. The goal is to get people moving, and there are partnerships in place with organizations such as Girls on the Run of the Triangle, Black Girls Run, Raleigh Distance Project, and Raleigh Galloway to inspire healthy movement. Fleet Feet sponsors numerous charity races every year, as well as pub runs where people can enjoy fun and camaraderie with like-minded individuals.

Recently available is the 2026 Running in the Triangle Calendar, which can be picked up at any location and features a comprehensive collection of local races and weekly run clubs. A volunteer effort from local runners and photographers, whose work captures some of the Triangle’s finest running destinations, the proceeds go to local charities.

Fleet Feet’s training program includes groups like Breakfast Club, No Boundaries Beginner 5K, 10K Training, Half Marathon, Marathon, and specialized offerings such as PR Squad, Speed Demons, and a summer Trail Program. Experienced runners serve as mentors and have been responsible for coaching hundreds of walkers and runners to compete in races of various distances.

The Fleet Feet website includes a current calendar of local events, and while it is recommended that every athlete make an appointment for an expert shoe fitting, the results of that assessment are saved so runners can replace their shoes by shopping online if they prefer. A blog offers shoe reviews, nutri-

photo courtesy of Fleet Feet Raleigh-Morrisville

Fleet Feet’s official mascot “Oakleigh” the acorn joins runners and walkers local event.

tion and performance tips, and information about any other running-related issue you can possibly imagine. Visitors are invited to sign up for the Fleet Feet milestones program, which allows you to earn points with every purchase and other perks.

While running can often feel like a solitary endeavor, the pursuit of health and well-being is ultimately a collective journey, and Fleet Feet serves as a community hub. Everyone from seasoned marathoners to newcomers taking their first steps will find encouragement and

support in an atmosphere that celebrates the joy of running and the bonds formed through shared experiences.

With its personalized service, community engagement, and commitment to helping every runner find their stride, perhaps it’s time for you to lace up some new shoes. (Did you know that you should replace your shoes every 300 to 500 miles?)

Whether you’re looking to conquer your next milestone race or simply enjoy a leisurely jog, Fleet Feet has the support you need. t fleetfeet.com/s/raleigh/ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 61

NORTH CAROLINA

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Kinston n o r t h c a r o l i n a BBQ FEST ON THE NEUSE

It’s early on the first Saturday morning in May, and the breeze from downtown Kinston carries smoke and a hint of the mouthwatering aroma of pork that has cooked low and slow over enormous grills all night. Welcome to the BBQ Fest on the Neuse: “the largest wholehog cookoff- in the world.”

More than 95 cook teams from across the United States gather each year on the banks of the Neuse River in Kinston, grilling whole hogs through the night in preparation for judging the next morning. Tender, flavorful pigs with crisp golden brown skin splayed on giant grates of custom cookers waft a sweet aroma through downtown

Kinston. Winners of the competition will go home with bragging rights, cash awards, and a custom-made chopping board.

For more than 44 years, this popular festival has kicked off the spring-summer season Down East with two days of cooking, live music and events, and a classic car and motorcycle show.

IN 2026, THE BBQ FEST ON THE NEUSE CELEBRATES BECOMING AN OFFICIAL GUINNESS WORLD RECORD HOLDER IN 2025. HIGHLIGHTS WILL INCLUDE:

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Truck Show and Bikers for Christ Coastal Plains Motorcycle Show • Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden featuring Kinston’s own Mother Earth Brewing and Social House Vodka • Activities for children of all ages with Flimsy the Clown and The FUN Zone And of course, • The “Chop Tent” where you can follow the continuous chopping sound to taste Eastern North Carolina’s finest barbecue, prepared by award winning cooks fresh and served up freshly chopped and seasoned. Come early — barbecue goes on sale at 11 a.m. Saturday and always sells out fast!

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Great Escapes 20 26

Wilkes County vineyard hillsides, afternoons invite scenic hikes and river Wilkes County sits where walks, and evenings linger the Blue Ridge Mountains over locally crafted wines, live soften into rolling foothills, offering an easy escape that feels music, and meals made with Appalachian heart. worlds away. Here, mornings Winter brings its own begin with mist lifting off kind of magic. Cozy cabins tucked into the woods. Fireside tastings at award-winning wineries. Empty trails that invite reflection, fresh air, and space to breathe. Whether you’re looking to reset, reconnect, or simply slow your pace, Wilkes County offers a season designed for it.

Outdoor lovers will find miles of trails, waterfalls, and overlooks — many just minutes from town.

Culture seekers can explore the birthplace of NASCAR, the Moonshine & Motorsports THE GREAT STATE OF WILKES

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Trail, vibrant downtowns, and a music heritage that still echoes through local venues. Food and wine enthusiasts will discover one of North Carolina’s most celebrated wine regions, paired with farm-to-table dining and welcoming hospitality.

Wilkes County is authentic, unhurried, and refreshingly real. It’s a place where you can trade crowded itineraries for open space, noise for nature, and busy schedules for meaningful moments.

This winter, choose a getaway that feels both restorative and inspiring.

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The Northern Outer Banks n o r t h c a r o l i n a The Northern Outer Banks is known for its maritime history, remote pristine beaches, Corolla Wild Horses, a 150-year-old lighthouse, and its beautiful natural setting. But did you

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Choose from a multitude Grab a parking permit of vacation rental homes and you can drive, park, or one of our quaint hotels and stay all day with or inns offering an array of everything you need in amenities. Choose a location your 4x4 vehicle. oceanside, soundside, or somewhere in between.

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72 CARY MAGAZINE

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

With a constant barrage of digital distractions in our everyday lives that overshadow the beauty of our surroundings, dull the richness of our experiences, and decrease the depth of our interpersonal connections, is it any surprise that going unplugged is taking hold in how we choose to travel? Taking a break from technology while traveling allows people to immerse fully in their destination, foster deeper connections with others, and better appreciate the environments they explore.

But effective unplugged travel hinges on thoughtful planning and preparation, according to Elaine Smith, Virtuoso Travel Advisor and Owner of E-destinations, an Affiliate of Travel Experts, a Virtuoso Agency. “If you’re going to be totally unplugged,” Elaine says, highlighting the need for travelers to realistically define their intended level of disconnection, “you’ve got to figure out what that looks like for you.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 73

While she advises setting up out-ofoffice messages and ensuring that someone can manage any urgent matters that may arise back home, professionals like Elaine use the AXUS travel app to provide clients with all their necessary trip information.

She describes the app as having “eliminated the need for traveling with a booklet or a binder,” but relying on AXUS also means that all vital documents and support are only available to travelers in electronic form — making it an ironic example of the inherent barriers to purposeful disconnectedness in our hyper-connected world.

Balancing connectivity and disconnection is a challenge for travelers seeking to unplug while continuing to manage their typical responsibilities. Elaine reflects on this tension by sharing that while many people want to disconnect from work, they often feel compelled to maintain some level of connectivity while they travel, especially on social media or through sharing vacation photos.

“A lot of clients are like, ‘What about the internet?’” she says, acknowledging that the expectation or desire to remain connected can lead to anxiety while traveling and create a pressing demand to catch up when they return. “It becomes a little bit more stressful if you haven’t kept up in some small way,” she says about the burden to stay online.

The influence of destination on the unplugged travel experience is also significant, as certain locations naturally encourage disconnection. Elaine references Bhutan and other emerging destinations, such as those found in Africa, as examples of places that naturally offer fewer technological distractions. This lack of connectivity can provide travelers with the opportunity

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contributed photo

Elaine Smith

authentic exchanges that might otherwise be missed in a digitally distracted state.

Personalized travel experiences are essential for creating meaningful unplugged journeys that cater to individual preferences and needs. Elaine emphasizes the importance of understanding her clients, as it helps her identify what type of experience would be most suitable, even if it’s not fundamentally an unplugged trip but more of a wellness retreat or adventure in a remote locale with spotty (but existent) Wi-Fi. The future of unplugged travel appears promising as more people recognize the benefits of disconnecting in an increasingly digital world. Coinciding is the growing interest in wellness and mindfulness retreats — the broader cultural movement that prioritizes mental well-being and authentic connections over constant connectivity —

with Elaine sharing, “The spa-type vacation would be inclusive of unplugging.”

As travelers increasingly seek out destinations and experiences that promote digital disconnection, the travel industry will likely adapt to meet this demand by offering more opportunities and incentives for mindful engagement with nature and local cultures, even if the trip isn’t entirely offline.

Unplugged travel represents a vital counterbalance to our fast-paced, techdriven lives. By stepping away from screens, travelers can embrace the opportunity to reconnect with themselves, their surroundings, and the people they meet along the way. After all, a digital detox isn’t confined to our daily lives! t e-destinations.us travel-xperts.com/elaine-smith virtuoso.com/advisor/elainesmith/travel/

to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings without having to take steps — such as checking their phone at designated times — or make decisions regarding technological connectivity. She also notes that some hotels foster environments conducive to unplugging with “device-free” zones that serve as a courtesy to other guests.

Unplugged travel fosters meaningful social connections by allowing travelers to engage more deeply with the people they encounter without the limiting presence of a screen between them. Elaine emphasizes the advantage of disconnecting: “If you take the opportunity to unplug, I think you will have a richer experience.”

She also says being present can lead to spontaneous interactions, sharing, “You might be sitting next to someone just waiting for your plane and strike up a conversation.”

This sentiment underscores the idea that unplugging can break down barriers, inviting JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 75

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garden adventurer WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

Better Witches

The good witch ‘Jelena’ can chase away the winter blues.

When winter has area gardens in its chilled grip, it is tough to imagine the glory that will be the coming spring. So why not summon a witch to help cheat the consuming cold and create comforting thoughts that, yes, a new, balmy growing season is on the way?

That’s right, I said a witch.

Well, not a real witch, but rather witch hazel — a patient plant that waits for the chilliest times of the year to put on a delightfully unexpected show of floppy, ribbon-like flowers

78 CARY MAGAZINE

with the added bonus of being fragrant, which is a big plus in any winter garden.

There are native witch hazels, with American witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) being commonly found in the wilds of our region. Its yellow flowers typically begin their bloom-fest in the fall and can extend into the winter. While the straight species is an option for home landscapes, plant breeders have been busy conjuring up better witches, including the compact, 5-foot-tall ‘Little Suzie’ and the variegated ‘Green Thumb.’

Breeding wizards have also had success combining the desirable attributes of Chinese witch hazel (H. mollis), a small tree (15 to 18 feet tall) flaunting fragrant yellow flower ribbons, with Japanese witch hazel (H. japonica), a dazzler sporting yellow blooms and flashy fall foliage that can range in color from yellow to red to purple. This resulted in Hamamelis x intermedia, which has many popular cultivars that usually begin their flower shows during the winter to provide welcomed ocular and olfactory relief for spring-starved gardeners.

To Do in the

GARDEN JANUARY

• Keep the colors (and memories) of Christmas bright during the sullen gray months of winter by properly watering leftover Yuletide lovelies such as poinsettias, Christmas cacti, and Christmas cherries, meaning only when the upper half-inch of soil in the pots feels dry to the touch.

• Pamper such smooth-leaf houseplants as dracaena, rubber plant, croton, philodendron, and fiddleleaf fig by wiping the leaves with a soft, moist cloth every few weeks. And while cleaning your pretties, also look for signs of bad bug activity, with common culprits being whiteflies, mealy bugs, and spider mites.

FEBRUARY • If your green thumb is itching to start the veggie patch, give it a good scratch around the middle of this month by planting such cool-season edibles as mustard greens, onions (bulbs), Irish potatoes, vining peas, kale, lettuce, cabbage, broccoli, collards, asparagus, or cauliflower.

• Did rampant vines try to eat your landscape last year? If so, now is a good time to tame them before excessive foliage, pesky bugs, and rising temperatures make this less a chore and more a misery. Feel free to whack back such nuisance crawlers and climbers as Japanese honeysuckle, wisteria, kudzu, Virginia creeper, poison ivy (don’t forget to wear gloves), bittersweet, and wild grape.

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African violets need to be watered, of course, but the chlorine typically found in city systems can cause leaf spots. An obvious remedy is to water the dirt, not the foliage. As another preventative, simply leave a bottle of tap water out overnight to allow the chlorine to dissipate.

Using rainwater or bottled distilled water is another option. Both, by the way, are equally handy if you happen to have hard (alkaline) tap water, which is also not good for African violets because it can raise the pH of the potting soil these acid-loving pretties call home.

For better bloom displays, water your African violets properly.

‘Arnold’s Promise’ is perhaps the most popular (meaning easiest to find at garden shops and online) of these hybrid witch hazels. A late bloomer, it flaunts 1 to 1 ½-inch-long stringy, fragrant yellow blooms and rich reddish-orange autumn leaf coloration. Mellow for more yellow? The flowers of ‘Pallida’ show off in a buttery hue, too.

Another commonly found H. x intermedia contender for gardeners’ attention in winter is ‘Jelena,’ sporting dainty and delightfully scented copper-red dangles. Although tinged a tad more in red, the blooms of ‘Diane’ have a similar tantalizing look and sweet smell as well.

Usually topping out at about 10 to 20 feet tall and wide, H. x intermedia cultivars won’t particularly become landscape space hogs. While being tough plants, they perform better in well-drained, slightly acidic soil in sunny to partially shaded locations.t L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine.

Want to ask L.A. a question about your garden? Contact him by email at lajackson1@gmail.com.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 79

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The Heart of Hospitality LYNN MINGES REFLECTS ON A LIFETIME OF ACHIEVEMENT WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

“I am sleeping really well at night,” says Lynn Minges about the state’s largest and most influential trade associations, Lynn’s the peace she’s found since retiring from her role as CEO of the self-described passion for the hospitality industry remains intact.

North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association (NCRLA) “The thing that has always inspired me,” she says, “is that people in October of 2025. “I wake up in who work in restaurants and hotels, the mornings, and I don’t have a people who own restaurants and long list of things that I have to hotels, or who work in the tourism get done that day,” she says about industry are some of the most dedistepping away after 13 years leadcated, resilient, and creative people ing the NCRLA and 35 in the hosI know. They wake up every mornI wake up in the pitality industry. ing in service to others.”

It was in 2023 that Lynn Throughout all her working mornings, and I notified the NCRLA executive years, Lynn was always an employee don’t have a long list committee of her intention to and never self-employed; it isn’t step away, some six years after money or personal success that has of things that I have her husband retired (and then motivated or bolstered her. Instead, proceeded to wait patiently for she explains, it’s waking up every to get done that day. his wife to join him). So, with day trying to make the world better intention, the woman who had for other people” and the feeling of spent decades giving everything “going home and knowing that I’ve — Lynn Minges she had every day to her career done the very best I could do.” and to North Carolina’s premier When the 2013 Women of hospitality association started to Western Wake honoree received the pull back and adjust mentally so Women of Western Wake Lifetime that when she retired in 2025, she Achievement Award in September could, as she describes it, “be successful in my personal life.”

2025, Lynn reassured young leaders that there is no quick pathway Lynn is also a firm believer in going out when you’re on top. to success — no elevator to the penthouse. “Literally, there is no The association is currently the strongest it has been in its 75-year elevator,” she again insisted when speaking with Cary Magazine a history, and the NC hospitality industry is thriving. “I think that’s month later. “You have to take life one step at a time. Your profesa good time to hand over the reins to the next generation of lead- sional career, my professional career, has just been one step at a ers,” she says, adding, “I feel really good about both leaders who are time.” inside the association and leaders around the state who can help Reflecting on her professional journey, Lynn also expressed gratiensure that our industry continues to grow and thrive.” tude for the opportunities she was given and for the people who encourIndeed, even after more than a decade at the helm of one of aged and supported her. She shared that as her retirement drew closer,

84 CARY MAGAZINE

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 85

her friends asked what she was planning to do with her time. Lynn’s response? “I’m going to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries on their real day.” She explains that although her husband and family members learned to celebrate in other ways, they grew accustomed to spending important days apart because of her travel and work.

Lynn admitted that she’d been so driven by accomplishments every single day, by get-

ting things done, by moving the needle, and by setting goals to encourage, nurture, and develop teams that she found the prospect of retirement “a little scary.” But she also believed herself to be “ready for this next phase of life,” saying, “I think I’m well prepared. I’ve accomplished a lot both professionally, financially, personally. … I’ve raised a family. And so now, as a good friend told me, ‘This is your time.’”

When it comes to filling that time,

Back in May of 2008, Lynn Minges graced the cover of NC Magazine.

86 CARY MAGAZINE

Lynn says, “I’m sure I’ll develop some new hobbies and new friendships and new opportunities to do new things.” As a grandmother, she looks forward to assisting her two daughters with their children. Also, and true to Lynn’s spirit and abiding love for this state, “being able to just get in the car and explore some of the places close by” which, despite her extensive travel, she’d “never been able to visit at a leisurely pace.”

State and national parks are also on the itinerary for the North Carolina native who has long believed that “we’re blessed in North Carolina” and fortunate to benefit from “an industry that creates amazing experiences from the mountains to the coast, beautiful places to visit, extraordinary dining experiences.”

Lynn believes the pandemic illustrated the resilience of the industry. “Life happens, and life happens for a reason,” she

says. “It would have been nice not to have had to suffer through all of that … but we did, and I think we’re stronger and better for it.”

Although covid, as she described it, “tested every leadership skill, every personal skill I’ve ever developed in life,” the NCRLA “went to bat for our industry. We told their story.” By working hand in glove with policymakers at all levels on both sides of the aisle, a lot of restaurants in the state continue

to exist — “They tell me that,” Lynn shares.

“And I’m really proud that we did come together in meaningful ways.”

As far as her personal legacy is concerned, Lynn’s hope is for people to “know I gave 100 percent every day … that I didn’t leave anything on the table. There’s nothing else I could have done. And I’ve done the best I could do every single day. And then cumulatively, that it has led to a successful, rewarding career of public service and giving back to an industry that I love.”t

Lynn received the 2025 Women of Western Wake Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Forum, held in September at the Umstead Hotel & Spa.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 87

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Ostrich meatballs with sweet-and-spicy red pepper coulis

worth the drive

The Sycamore

at Chatham Mills WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Greg Lewis opened upscale restaurant The Sycamore at Chatham Mills in Pittsboro because his wife wanted a nice place for people to eat steak.

While prime beef certainly gets top billing, it’s not the only star of the show. Diners also can savor duck, ostrich, seafood, and more in a circa 1920s building that formerly housed a textile manufacturing plant.

“The Sycamore provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere for guests to relax and enjoy a seasonal menu filled with creative food,” says Greg, an easygoing New Jersey native who also owns 39 West Catering and special-event venue Forest Hall at Chatham Mills.

A 1986 alumnus of New York’s renowned Culinary Institute of America, Greg

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has worked in restaurants since he was a young teenager. He’s now 62.

“I’m a classically trained chef who’s been given the opportunity to do a lot of things over the years,” he says.

Greg and his wife, Maria Parker-Lewis, came to North Carolina in 2000, choosing to settle in Cary. He owned and ran the now defunct Italian eatery Errico’s and then founded Catering by Design, an award-winning business that still thrives today under new proprietorship.

“We moved to Chatham County in 2007 because we preferred to live in a more rural area,” Greg explains.

The Lewises bought Pittsboro Roadhouse in 2012, which enjoyed a successful run until the covid pandemic wreaked havoc on the

business, ultimately forcing its closure. But in June of 2021, the resilient couple reemerged and opened The Sycamore, which provides refined cuisine in a revitalized setting.

The main dining room features an elevated ceiling with vintage chandeliers, antique hardwood flooring, and exposed brick walls awash with character. A cast-iron fire door provides a striking vestige from the historic mill, which once served as the world’s largest maker of woven cloth labels for everything from clothing to mattresses to parachutes.

Additional flourishes like peacock-themed wallpaper and custom upholstered chairs were envisioned by Maria, who collaborated with Ashlie Campbell and Shana O’Leary of interior design business An Acquired Style in Pittsboro to pull everything together.

The stunning copper-covered bar

The Sycamore’s main dining room offers elegant dining in a historic setting. An eclectic peacock theme pervades the main dining room.

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Top left: A seasonal salad with locally sourced produce Top right: Proprietor Greg Lewis Right: The Sycamore's lounge provides a laid-back vibe.

Below: Alligator-stuffed airline chicken

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A retro-vibed lounge features a fireplace, billiards table, and comfortable furniture that’s perfect for unwinding. On Thursdays, small plates are available in the lounge for just $10, including items such as an Angus burger, burrata, and beef tartare.

On any given night in the main dining room, an instrumentalist plays a baby grand piano during dinner service. Live jazz music is available each Wednesday from 6–9 p.m.

“We have five different jazz musicians or groups that we rotate through each week,” Greg says.

Greg realizes that running a successful restaurant involves treating people well, starting with his staff. To see him in action is like watching a father doting over his beloved children.

“We’re all family here, and every member of the team knows if there’s ever anything I can do for them, I will,” he asserts.

Bar Manager Tabitha Mattson agrees.

“Greg has been the best boss I’ve ever worked with, so this is the only place I want to be.”

Delfiscio Herring II, the restaurant’s general manager, appreciates the camaraderie of the staff and the way Greg regards them.

“I’ve been here since March of 2021, which was before the restaurant opened for business, and Greg has always shown respect to me and others,” he says.

In addition to valuing his front-ofhouse staff, Greg gives Executive Chef Ernest Fisher free reign in the kitchen. Consider it one chef trusting another to consistently churn out first-rate gastronomy.

Ernest, who hails from Connecticut, serves up well-composed dishes with aplomb. Many of the artfully presented dishes arrive tableside on handmade stoneware from Seagrove, NC. Executive Chef Ernest Fisher

North Carolina tilefish with crab and purple potatoes.

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Top: The distinctive orange olive oil cake Right: Bar manager Tabitha Mattson makes a craft cocktail.

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Inventive small plates include offerings like ostrich meatballs paired with sweet-andspicy red pepper coulis and stuffed quail with cranberry wild rice and a cherry reduction.

Notable entrées available during our visit encompassed pan-seared duck breast with whipped parsnips, fondant potatoes, and lemongrass pesto; slow-cooked boneless pork tenderloin accompanied by braised collards and cranberry-apple chutney; and an alligator-stuffed airline chicken with goat cheese, kale, shallots, and a creole butter sauce.

“Ribeye, New York strip, and filet mignon are always on the menu,” Greg says with a smile, adding that the ribeye is his favorite among all the main-dish selections.

Fresh fish ranging from amberjack and black drum to cobia and tile is sourced from Locals Seafood.

Side dishes should not be an afterthought. You can’t go wrong with crispy delicata squash with hot honey or buttered broccolini and cauliflower. But if you don’t try any other shareable side dish, order the resplendent mac and cheese. (Confession: We couldn’t stop relishing it during and after the photo shoot.)

“It’s a signature side that contains Gruyère, white cheddar, Brie, and fontina and is made with cavatappi pasta,” says Chef Ernest.

Desserts run the gamut from orange olive oil cake and ricotta cheesecake to chocolate-laden indulgences like pot de crème and a pecan tart with huckleberry compote.

The menu at The Sycamore is adaptable for gluten-free or vegan purposes.

“We can also accommodate people with alpha-gal,” says Greg, adding that his wife suffers from alpha-gal syndrome, a tickborne illness that causes some people to become allergic to red meat.

Don't miss the standout mac and cheese made with cavatappi pasta.

The eatery’s beverage team curates a wine list that balances approachability with sophistication, combining thoughtful bythe-glass selections with reserve-level bottles from celebrated regions across the globe.

Distinctive craft cocktails include choices like the ginger-infused Apple of my Chai and the house Old Fashioned with Elijah Craig bourbon, demerara syrup, bitters, an orange peel, and a cherry.

Service is polished, gracious, and attentive.

“When people come through the door, we let them know we’re going to take good care of them and guide them through their dining experience,” Greg says.

The Sycamore at Chatham Mills is open Tuesday through Saturday from 5–9 p.m.

Reservations are strongly recommended for the main dining room. t thesycamoreatchathammills.com @TheSycamoreatChathamMills

MORE SPOTS TO VISIT IN PITTSBORO While it’s certainly worth taking the short drive just for dinner at The Sycamore, consider making it a day trip and exploring some other rewarding stops.

Aromatic Roasters: A coffee trailer in the parking lot at the Pittsboro Feed store serves robust cups of java made from single-origin beans. aromaticroasters.com Carolina Tiger Rescue: This 55-acre nonprofit wildcat sanctuary provides a haven for tigers, lions, cougars, and more.

Visits require an advance ticket purchase or reservation. carolinatigerrescue.org

Chatham County Historic Courthouse: Standing at the center of downtown since 1891, the Victorian-style building was refurbished following a devasting fire in 2010.

An attractive museum features interactive displays, while upstairs showcases a fully restored courtroom. Admission is free, but hours are limited. chathamhistory.org Deep River Mercantile: Shop from carefully curated items ranging from rugs and homewares to clothing and handcrafted jewelry. You’ll also find a full-service interior design studio specializing in painted cabinets and furniture. deeprivermerc.com

Fearrington Village: There’s so much to discover at this bucolic oasis — from Belted Galloway cows and an independent bookstore to a full-service spa and gourmet food. fearrington.com

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liquid assets

Rosemary Riviera FROM ARTFUL LIBATIONS | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Have the best of both worlds, in more ways than one. Rosemary provides wintry depth, while citrus reminds us that warm days lie ahead. Enjoy as a zero-proof option or add spirits to spice it up.

4 ounces fresh squeezed grapefruit juice ½ ounce fresh lime juice 1 ounce rosemary syrup optional: 1 ¼ ounces vodka

Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake for 20 seconds, and strain into your favorite glass (we LOVE a coupe!). Garnish with a fresh or dehydrated grapefruit slice and a rosemary sprig.

Artful Libations specializes in custom cocktails for weddings and other events across the Triangle. It was founded out of sister company RallyPoint Sport Grill in Cary. artfullibations.com rallypointsportgrill.com

For rosemary syrup: Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, stir, and add a fresh rosemary sprig. Steep for 30 minutes. Strain.

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GOOD FOOD makes for GOOD TIMES. Whether the day’s plans include a picnic for two in a kayak, an oyster roast on the side porch, or a potluck cookout on the beach, we’re here to help you break bread with family and friends.

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cary magazine cooks!

Harira

Moroccan Ramadan Stew FROM GRETCHEN ELHASSANI

This hearty vegan stew is traditional for breaking the fast during Ramadan, which begins February 17. ¼ cup brown lentils, uncooked

2 tablespoons fresh

1 teaspoon olive oil

chopped cilantro

1 medium onion, diced

7 cups water

1 tablespoon turmeric

2 stalks celery, chopped

½ teaspoon ginger

3 medium tomatoes

2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

3 tablespoons tomato paste

send us Your Recipe For the March issue, we're looking for your best brunch recipes. Submit at carymagazine.com/ recipe-submissions for a chance to win a $100 GIFT CARD to Rey's Restaurant.

1 tablespoon flour 1 serving spaghetti, broken into little pieces ¼ cup rice, uncooked

1. Soak lentils in a small bowl of water.

2. Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sweat for 1–2 minutes. Add turmeric, ginger, parsley, and cilantro.

3. Add water, bring to a boil, and lower to a simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add celery and simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Add the tomatoes, whole, to the soup pot. Allow to cook for 1 minute or less. Fish them out and remove and discard the peels. Place tomatoes in a blender with tomato paste, 1 cup of hot soup water, and flour. Vent top, cover with a tea towel, and blend until smooth. Pour blended liquid back into the soup pot. Skim off foam.

6. Add lentils. Simmer for 15 minutes.

7. Add rice. Simmer for 15 minutes.

8. Add spaghetti. Cook 5–10 minutes until spaghetti is done. Serve with lemon and homemade bread.

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happenings

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Cary Magazine, sister publications Wake Living and Main & Broad, and parent company S&A Communications hosted the debut Wake GPS: Growth + Prosperity Summit at Cary’s Embassy Suites on Dec. 4. The event kicked off with networking and a luncheon recognizing the 2025 Cary Magazine Movers & Shakers honorees.

Thought-provoking sequential panel discussions included Blueprints for Growth: Real Estate Strategies for a Booming Wake County; Healthy Growth: Scaling Care for a Thriving Wake County; Future-Proof Finance: Navigating Risk, Regulation & Innovation in 2026; and Destination Wake: How Hospitality & Tourism Fuel Economic Momentum.

Following the panels, Cherokee Media Group President Bill Zadeits presented Rufty Homes owner and president Jon Rufty and Ralph Ashworth with ICON Awards and facilitated a conversation about iconic moments in their careers. Attendees enjoyed an evening reception sponsored by NC Wine. wakegps.com

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happenings

The Team Apex Awards were expanded for 2025 to recognize winners in seven categories. Compliance Supervisor Jessica Sloan earned the MVP Award; Plans & Permits Supervisor Samantha Ewens was named Coach of the Year; Team Services Lifelong Cary resident CARLA MICHAELS received the 2025 Town of Cary Hometown Spirit Award, presented by Mayor Harold Weinbrecht at a reception in November. Carla serves as a board member of the Friends of the Page-Walker and a volunteer with the Upchurch and Allied Families, and works to document and share stories about the town’s early citizens, landmarks, and cemeteries.

“Whether leading walking tours dressed as an early 1900s schoolteacher, presenting at lectures, or contributing to local media and town projects like CARY at 150, Michaels brings Cary’s past to life for all ages. Her advocacy for historic preservation has been instrumental in efforts to protect landmarks such as the Nancy Jones House and the Ivey-Ellington House, as well as in honoring veterans and forgotten historical figures,” details a press release from the Town of Cary.

Specialist Marlene Alvarez was named Rookie of the Year; Public Works Data Operations Analyst Melissa Stuart earned the Team Captain Award; Volunteer Coordinator Ellison Lambert was named Community All-Star; Electric Programs & Tech Coordinator Emily Woody was named The Closer; and Employee Olympics Planning Team members Customer Experience Coordinator Kendall Hart, GIS Analyst Jenny Jessen, and Marketing and Programs Coordinator Julia Blonshine were named the All-Star Team.

THE TOWN OF CARY AND THE SOCCER TOURNAMENT (TST) have reached a long-term agreement for the premier soccer festival to take place at WakeMed Soccer Park through 2029. The 2025 event brought 31,657 spectators from outside Wake County, including attendees from all 50 states, Canada, and the United Kingdom. According to the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, TST has generated $23.9 million in total economic impact for Cary and Wake County since 2024.

“The Town of Cary and its residents have played a major role in TST becoming the preeminent small-sided soccer festival in the world,” says TST CEO Jon Mugar. “Our numberone goal is to deliver an unforgettable experience to fans and participants, further cementing TST as a worldwide destination. This support will go a long way toward ensuring we are able to continue to deliver on that.” tst7v7.com

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The third-annual BIKES FOR

HOPE DRIVE distributed 150 bikes and helmets to area children through the United Church Christmas Store and the Polar Express Christmas Experience.

Community members joined Bikes for Hope volunteers at a Bike Build event Dec. 7 to assemble donated bikes and share in the positive holiday spirit.

“There are kids who have nothing that’s gonna be under a Christmas tree,” says Tim Overton, founder and organizer of Bikes for Hope. “Nobody deserves that. No kid

Altitude Trampoline Park held a ribbon cutting for its new location in Cary’s Harrison Pointe Mall on Dec. 5. Owned by Terrence Taylor and Montrezl Harrell,

deserves that.”

The CARY BALLET COMPANY

the park offers interactive games, a climbing wall, arcade, soft play area, and more. Opening

PLIÉ ALL DAY! community outreach

weekend offered an array of special offers, including a $99 annual membership, birthday

program gives free beginner ballet classes

party package discounts, and $15 1-hour jump passes.

to children living in shelters or participating

“This park is more than just a business — it’s about creating a place where families

in The Carying Place program each

can laugh, move, and grow together,” says former NBA star Montrezl Harrell. “I wanted

month. The lessons are aimed at building

to bring something positive to the community that combines fun and fitness while

confidence, discipline, and joy while making

giving kids a safe space to be active. Cary felt like the perfect home for that vision.”

classical ballet accessible to every child.

altitudetrampolinepark.com

The company plans to partner with more community organizations in the future.

Explore trails and parks throughout Wake County with the free WANDER WAKE

“Working with The Carying Place

COUNTY APP, launched last October. The app consolidates data from the Greater

through our Plié All Day! outreach program

Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, Triangle Trails Initiative, and municipal parks

has been an honor,” says instructor Beth

departments into an integrated trail map that helps users enjoy public green spaces

Costigan. “While parents gain tools for

alongside local businesses and other community amenities. Key app features include:

stability and success, their children gain

ability to filter results by location and activity, park and trail descriptions with nearby

improvement, discipline, and creativity

points of interest, route planning, and integration with Visit Raleigh’s restaurants and

through dance. It’s a program that truly

things to do.

strengthens the whole family.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 113

write light

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Sunlit autumn tapestry Sunshine breaks through an overcast sky and transforms the muted environment into a radiant landscape of red, orange, and yellow foliage. Such brilliant vistas await in West Jefferson, NC.

114 CARY MAGAZINE

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Ring in the New Year with some sparkle!

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