Cary Magazine November/December 2019

November/December 2019

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THE 2019 GIFT GUIDE

Baking with Kids THROW A FUN COOKIE PARTY

UNIQUE ITEMS FROM RIGHT HERE

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Holidays to the

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Super Local Gifts

“ We are pleased to provide an extraordinary banking experience in the Cary community.

‘Above and beyond’ is how we do business.

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COVER 2

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Opening New Doors

We’re constantly working to make our vibrant community even more appealing and enjoyable. Now we’re throwing open new doors (literally and figuratively), adding three top builders to our team to create beautiful new homes.

Homes from the $300s to $1 million+.

2008 Green Oaks Parkway Holly Springs, NC 27540 919.557.6850 | 12oaksnc.com

Nine 12 Oaks model homes built by Lennar, Stanley Martin and Meritage Homes are ready and waiting for you to explore – along with tranquil nature trails, playgrounds, three resort-style pools, tennis and pickleball courts, and a Nicklaus-designed golf course.

Come take a tour and open the door to your new life at 12 Oaks.

©2019 WSLD 12 Oaks, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. The amenities and features described and depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. Actual development may not be as currently proposed. References to housing products, builders and prices are subject to change without notice as well.

FUTURE SITE of BRIGHTER FUTURES. UNC Children’s is opening a new, kid-friendly center closer to you.

Now, kids in Wake County will get the advanced care, doctors and technology they need in a unique space made just for them. With a new home coming soon, brighter futures are closer than ever.

LEARN MORE at UNCCHILDRENS.ORG/INSPIRE

strolling pet parents'

Now scheduling senior health visits! yard boss

church choir soloist

neighborhood bunco champion recreational golfer slip stitch master

gardening grandmom apple-pie rockstar

No matter the type of patient, Generations Family Practice is here to meet all of your health needs. From regular check-ups, flu and pneumonia vaccines to chronic condition care, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure and asthma, our Senior Health Physicians are committed to caring for the whole individual!

We're accepting new patients, from Pediatric to Geriatric Care. As a primary care medical office, our goal is to make it easy for busy families to visit one location for all their physical and mental care. Call us today to schedule your appointment!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

(919) 852-3999

6

WINNER 2019

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

1021 Darrington Drive, Suite 101 Cary, North Carolina 27513

www.GenerationsFamilyPractice.com

in this issue

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31

Shop Around the Corner Add unique gifts from local makers to your list The Gift Guide

45

Let the Good Times Roll

Host a kids’ cookie party and create sweet memories

54

The Holidays in a Glass

Seasonal cocktails for gathering or gift-giving

64

Restaurant Profile:

Asali Desserts & CafĂŠ

92

2019 in Pictures

100 Special Section:

Excellence in Education

The golden colors of a fall sunrise reflect on the greenway at Fred G. Bond Metro Park in Cary.

Jonathan Fredin

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Every woman. Every life stage.

Your babies. Your family. Your transitions. Your health. We’re here.

From gynecological procedures, breast imaging, advanced diagnostics and delivering little bundles of joy to the latest in weight loss options at our Bariatric Center of Excellence, WakeMed Cary Hospital is here for you and those you love. With the highest quality, personalized care for women of all ages, delivered with the compassion and understanding that could only come from the most experienced providers. All backed by the comprehensive resources of WakeMed Women’s. To learn more, visit us at wakemed.org/cary-hospital.

WakeMed Cary Hospital | 1900 Kildaire Farm Road | Cary, NC 27518 | 919.350.8000 | wakemed.org/cary-hospital

in every issue

C A R Y

A P E X

•

M O R R I S V I L L E

EXECUTIVE

18

Ten Things to Do

42 73 74

Small Business Spotlight: La Therapie Spa

•

November/December 2019 • Volume 16, Number 9 Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher

Perfect Pairing: Wines for Turkey Roulade Liquid Assets: North Carolina Holiday Spirits and Once You Go by Lynnwood Brewing Concern

EDITORIAL

Amber Keister, Senior Editor Sarah Rubenoff, Copy Editor Alexandra Blazevich, Social Media Manager CONTRIBUTORS

Mary Cornatzer Lea Hart L.A. Jackson David McCreary PHOTOGRAPHY

16 1 118

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

Nonprofit Spotlight: Diamante

PRODUCTION

Garden Adventurer: Forcing Tazetta Daffodils

departments

12 14 78 122 130

ADVERTISING

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Manager

ON THE COVER:

Editor’s Letter

Whip up some boozy eggnog at Thanksgiving and enjoy it

Letters from Readers

on Christmas Eve. The aging makes it delicious, says Matt Bettinger at Sidebar. See

Dining Guide

article, page 54.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

Happenings

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications Chuck Norman, APR ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting Alexandra Blazevich, Events & Marketing Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator Valerie Renard, Advertising & Human Resources PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith

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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.

in the next issue

2020 10

Lauren Earley, Lead Graphic Designer Jennifer Casey, Senior Graphic Designer Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer Beth Harris, Graphic Designer Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO Ena Sellers, Graphic Designer Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Drum roll, please, as we announce the winners of the 2020 Maggy Awards!

CARY MAGAZINE

Westview at Weston 301 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.

Cary Magazine is a proud member and supporter of all five chambers in Western Wake County: the Cary Chamber of Commerce, Apex Chamber of Commerce, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and Garner 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.

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2019

e d i t o r ’s l e t t e r

MY DAUGHTER NOELLE was not pleased that I planned to host a cookie-decorating party and write about it — without asking her first.

“I can’t believe you’re hijacking my holiday tradition to put in the magazine!”

Because her birthday falls between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we usually celebrate by decorating holiday cookies. At first it was a family activity, and eventually a changing roster of friends joined the annual flour fest.

She perked up once I explained that she could be the host and chief cookie baker – and that she could be in the photos. You can see her in “Let the Good Times Roll,” starting on page 45.

But the idea of “her tradition” lingered longer than her annoyance. I couldn’t stop wondering, when had it become “hers”? What if I’m not ready to give up “my” tradition?

Throughout my childhood, holiday gatherings meant cookie-baking with my cousins. With up to 10 grandchildren at her house, I’m sure my grandmother was grateful for a relatively calm activity that was appropriate for a range of ages.

When we had our own families, my cousins and I inherited the tradition and some of my grandmother’s cookie cutters. Shortly after Thanksgiving, each of us would mix up huge batches of dough and let the sprinkles fall where they may. For years, we have traded photos over Facebook of another generation laughing over lopsided snowmen and decapitated gingerbread boys.

And even though my children aren’t kids anymore, I love attacking several batches of dough with them, armed with rolling pins and icing bags. The cookies are beside the point, as we giggle over old jokes and new decorating techniques.

Somewhere in my brain, I know this annual activity will change, whether I like it or not. Noelle will head to college next fall, and this might be the last year we decorate cookies in the same way.

So, I’ll share my tradition, and I’ll box up a few cookie cutters for each of my two girls. But I’m not giving them all up. I’m betting that one day there will be another generation of bakers, clamoring to make gingerbread people.

Thanks for reading and happy holidays,

Senior Editor 12

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Painful, worn-out joints? When the time comes, turn to the experts in joint replacement.

At Cary Orthopaedics, our joint replacement surgeons perform hundreds of partial and total joint replacements each year to restore mobility and quality of life for patients who have seriously progressive arthritic and degenerative conditions.

We conduct thorough diagnostics and carefully explain the procedure to help patients understand the benefits versus risks involved. You can trust Cary Orthopaedics for your progressive bone and joint care.

Serving patients throughout the Triangle, we’re experts in motion, helping you live life to the fullest. www.caryortho.com Cary: 919.467.4992 Clayton: 919.297.0000 Holly Springs: 919.346.8651 Morrisville: 919.238.2440 Raleigh: 919.467.4992 Spine Center: 919.297.0000

letters from readers

One free day of doggie daycare for new customers!

See more photos on page 122.

K9 Resorts of Apex provides cage-free luxury boarding and daycare for your dog!

• Stress-Free environment • Trained and loving staff • Come tour our State of the art facility

“What an amazing honor to be on the stage with these incredible women. Thank you to Cary Magazine, my friends, family and so many town staff members that came out to support me and honor the work of all of these women. What an incredible day!”

Lori Bush, Cary town council member, re. 2019 Women of Western Wake Forum “Cheers to Cary Magazine, the beautiful ladies I sat with from Cary Women’s Giving Network and all those honored at the Women of Western Wake Forum, especially my gorgeous (and business savvy) friend Vicky Serany. It’s always such a special event.”

Patty Geiger, Apex

919-891-6747 k9resorts.com

K9 Resorts Luxury Pet Hotel is the ultimate place for ALL dogs to play and relax.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

“I saw the article online, and it looks great. Thank you so much for being willing to do a profile on me! I’m really happy with how it turned out. It was a great experience.”

Machael Klauke, Cary artist, re. “Going Through a Phrase” “Wonderful article about Mike Klauke. I’ve known him for years, and you captured ‘him.’ His work is very special and powerful. I find I get caught up in wanting to read the painting’s words — exhausting to say the least.”

Georgie Raulerson, Boynton Beach, Fla.

“Great article and pictures. Very well written. Thanks for highlighting our beloved On the Square.”

Stephen Ribustello, On the Square Restaurant

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Email letters to the editor to editor@carymagazine.com

Editor’s note: Submitted comments may be edited for length or clarity, and become the property of Cary Magazine.

Official Town of Cary

Santa’s Workshop

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Herbert C. Young Community Center

Town Hall 6 p.m.

10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. under 10 with adult

Cary Players Present

Victorian Christmas at the Page-Walker

Page-Walker Arts & History Center 3-6 p.m.

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Cary Arts Center 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

8th Annual Gifting Tree Project

9th Annual Downtown Gingerbread House Competition

Downtown Cary Dec. 7-Jan. 2

Downtown Cary All Day Dec. 7

Letters to Santa Downtown Park Nov. 18-Dec. 9

(919) 469-4061 | www.townofcary.org/joy CARY MAGAZINE 15

Come Enjoy the Holidays with Us! AAA Carolinas • Anjappar Authentic Chettinaad Restaurant • BB&T • Cary Gymnastics • Chick-Fil-A • Clean Eatz • Cornerstone Pediatric • F45 Training • Flip Dry Cleaners & Alterations • Harris Teeter • J&F Gemelli Salon • Jimmy John’s • Johnny’s Pizza • Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream • Lemon Shark Poke • Navi Nails Spa • Preston Flowers • Red Bowl Asian Bistro • Republic of Yoga • Sport Clips • Tazza Kitchen • The UPS Store • Tribeca Tavern • True Rest Float Spa (COMING SOON) • Verizon • Walgreens • Woof Gang Bakery • Zebra Robotics

WWW. STONECREEKVILLAGECARY .COM

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

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HPW.com *According to the Triangle Business Journal and Cartus Broker Network.

CARY MAGAZINE 17

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Who has the tastiest bowl of red in the Triangle? Find out at the Annual Triangle Chili Challenge! There will also be live music, cold beer and a peppereating contest. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics North Carolina. Nov. 10, noon-2 p.m. $2. Downtown Cary Park, 100 W. Chatham St. dtcfoodandflea.com

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Experience the beauty of nature, light and color during the annual Moonlight in the Garden exhibition at the JC Raulston Arboretum.

Adding to the fun will be food trucks, live music, marshmallows and fire pits.

Nov. 7-9 and Nov. 14-16, 5:30-9:30 p.m. $10-$20.

4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh. jcra.ncsu.edu

Jon Shain, winner of the 2019 International Blues Challenge, hosts some of the area’s finest singer-songwriters at his annual Pre-Turkey Day Benefit Jam. Proceeds from the show will go to The Interfaith Council for Social Services and the Play It Forward Scholarship Fund. Nov. 16, 8 p.m. $20-$25.

The Cary Theater, 122 E. Chatham St., Cary. sixstringpresents.com

Jonathan Fredin

The NC Chinese Lantern Festival at Koka Booth Amphitheatre is not to be missed. The annual light show includes more than 20 larger-than-life lanterns, including the spectacular dragon on Symphony Lake. TuesdaySunday, Nov. 22-Jan. 12, 2020; 6-10 p.m. $10-$20.

8003 Regency Parkway, Cary. boothamphitheatre.com

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Head to the restored Yates Mill for an up-close look at history. Costumed interpreters lead the tours and demonstrate how the mill grinds corn into meal. Saturday, Nov. 16, 10 a.m.noon, 1-4 p.m.; Sunday, Nov. 17, 1-4 p.m. $3$5. Historic Yates Mill County Park, 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh. wakegov.com/parks/yatesmill/ 18 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

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Chase out the old year at the Last Mile 5K, hosted by Fit & Able Productions. Proceeds help the nonprofit’s efforts to promote healthy lifestyles and its community partners. Dec. 29, 8:30-10:30 a.m. $35 and up. Lake Crabtree County Park, 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville. lastmilerace.com

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Shop for unique and sustainable gifts at the holiday Locally Made Market, featuring nearly 50 local artists and artisans. After your shopping is done, head to the Verandah for dinner and drinks. Dec. 15, noon-4 p.m. The Mayton Inn, 301 S. Academy St., Cary. locallymademarket.com

ER & DECE

todo

6

The Cary Players present “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” in which the six rowdy Herdman siblings take over the annual holiday show with hilarious results. Dec. 6-9, 3 and 7:30 p.m. Cary Arts Center, 101 Dry Ave., Cary. caryplayers.org

One Christmas play + two holiday musicals = Family fun. Kathleen Rudolph, from the Raleigh Little Theatre, and a talented cast and crew present “The Animals’ Christmas Tree,” “’Twas the Opening Night Before Christmas” and “Presents on Parade.” Dec. 13-15, 3 and 7:30 p.m. $8-$12. Halle Cultural Arts Center, 237 N. Salem St., Apex. thehalle.org/1090/ Christmas-Play-Musicals TREE LIGHTINGS

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Kick off the holiday season at the Morrisville Tree Lighting. It’s an evening of musical entertainment, seasonal crafts, trackless train rides, a visit from Santa, and hot chocolate and cookies. Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m. Indian Creek Trailhead, 101 Town Hall Drive. townofmorrisville.org, search Special Events

Christmas on Salem is Apex’s annual three-day launch of the holiday season.

Fun activities include a pancake breakfast, carols at the Depot, the lighting of the Christmas tree, carriage rides, and Santa and Mrs. Claus. Dec. 6-8, downtown Apex. apexdowntown.com Cary ushers in the season with the annual tree-lighting, Santa’s workshop, a gingerbread competition and other family activities during Heart of the Holidays.

Dec. 7, various locations. townofcary.org, search Heart of the Holidays.

CARY MAGAZINE 19

We saved a little summer for you in Corolla.

Corolla.

Reconnect with the ones you love on the Currituck Outer Banks, North Carolina.

The legendary wild horses of Corolla, unique historical sites, family friendly beaches and warm breezes are just a few of the reasons why fall is a great time to visit.

Call 877.287.7488 for a free visitor’s guide

www.VisitCorollaNC.com

Upcoming Events November 2 & 3 Infinity Ballet Presents “Peter & The Wolf” $8/Person

November 8 Square Dance $5/Person

November 9

JazzLive with pianist

Lenore Raphael & vibraphonist Steve Hobbs $12-$15/Person

November 17

interior and exterior plants

gifts and landscape design 266 W. Chatham, Cary, 27511 919.234.0933 | citygardendesign.com

Classical Concert:Russian Composers in Their 30’s with pianist Anatoly Larkin $6-$12/Person

December 6

12th Annual Christmas Tree & Wreath Auction Opening FREE

December 6-8

PEACE OUT GUNK.

Infinity Ballet Presents “Dances of the Nutcracker”

Digital impressions with our iTero scanner. No goop and uncomfortable traditional trays required.

December 13-15

Schedule your free consult today!

Text or call 919.303.4557

$8/Person

“The Animals’ Christmas Tree,” “’Twas The Opening Night Before Christmas,” & “Presents on Parade” Musicals & Play $8-$12/ Person

December 20 Family Dance $5/Family

Halle

the

Cultural Arts Center 237 N. Salem St. Apex, NC 27502 TheHalle.org (919) 249-1120 CARY MAGAZINE 21

WRITTEN BY LEA HART | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Shop Around the Corner Add unique gifts from local makers to your list

LYNN YANYO, Judit Beres, Jacquelyn Rodgers and Danielle Milner may have never met, but they have a few things in common.

They’ve poured their heart and their passion into being an entrepreneur. They’re driven to fill a consumer need that they’ve identified and to live their professional lives on their own terms.

A recent report by American Express, the “2018 State of Women-Owned Business Report,” notes that “since 2007, the number of women-owned businesses has increased by 58%,” and these women are part of that charge.

While all distinct in their own way, each of their businesses offers unique ideas as shoppers think about gift-giving this holiday season.

Elle Woods Co

When Danielle Milner launched Elle Woods Co, it wasn’t her first foray into entrepreneurship. Milner is the former owner of Paint Your Pot in Cary.

Woodworking began as a hobby, then a side business while she ran Paint Your Pot, and finally, her full-time job. She sold Paint Your Pot, and today she says she’s found her groove with Elle Woods Co. “My introverted soul is so much happier,” Milner said with a laugh.

Elle Woods Co sells handmade reclaimed wooden home décor. Behind her brand, Milner says she’s passionate about sustainability and a believer in reduce, reuse, recycle.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

In fact, that’s how Elle Woods Co began. Shipping deliveries left wood pallets at Paint Your Pot, and Milner began taking them home to work with the wood. Today, her products are made from reclaimed wood she finds locally. She then uses paint and stains that would be considered imperfect from Home Depot or the Habitat for Humanity Restore.

“I’m trying to eliminate as much as possible from ending up at the dump,” Milner said. “I’m giving all of that a new life and a way to appreciate it in a different form.”

Milner says her biggest hurdle was explaining why she abandoned her brickand-mortar store for the online world, since many people see a storefront as the ultimate goal. For Milner, however, running the shop

meant significant time spent with customers and staff and a demanding work schedule.

Elle Woods Co offered her the opportunity to work at home and set her own hours.

Today, Milner enjoys hearing from people who are gifting her items for a new baby, an engagement, a wedding or other milestone event.

“In a way, I’m welcomed into their lives for a little bit, and I always find that so interesting,” she said. continued on page 24

“My introverted soul is so much happier.”

— Danielle milner, founder, elle wodds co

Elle Woods Co: Handmade Reclaimed Wooden Home Decor • etsy.com/shop/ElleWoodsCo, local pick-up is available Danielle Milner fashions custom-made, personalized gifts from reclaimed wood.

The business allows her to work at her own pace and set her own hours.

• Villa 19, Apex • Retro Modern Furnishings, Raleigh • House of Swank, Raleigh For information about local pop-ups, follow her on Instagram, @ellewoodsco CARY MAGAZINE 23

continued from page 22

Greentop Gifts

Greentop Gifts began as a passion project for Jacquelyn Rodgers, who says many family and friends colored Santa brown on their wrapping paper because they couldn’t find an African-American Kris Kringle in stores.

“I love Christmas and all things holiday,” she said. “It was something I really wanted for my son – to see images that look like him.”

Now Clarence Claus is featured on wrapping paper, hats, sweatshirts and a number of other items. Gayle King, anchor of “CBS This Morning,” has even donned a Clarence Claus sweatshirt on Instagram, and featured Clarence on Oprah.com.

The business name, Greentop, comes from a restaurant and bar that her grandfather had in Hillsborough in the 1940s and ’50s.

“It just seemed like the right name,” Rodgers said. “It was my family’s first start in entrepreneurship.”

Jacquelyn Rodgers, from Apex, created her Clarence Claus line of gifts and wrapping paper, because she wanted her children to see a Santa that looked like them.

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Rodgers and her husband, Shaun, who is also involved in the business, both work full time and have two small children. Balancing everything means saying “No” sometimes and time management, she says.

The emails, messages and social media comments from customers who say, “I’ve been looking for items like this,” make it all worth it. Those notes come from parents of

color, people who have adopted children of color, and even parents who just want their children to see more diversity, Rodgers says.

“That part validates that there is a need – people are looking for these things,” she said.

At the same time, she’s proud to carry on her family’s history of entrepreneurship and to show her children that, “if you have an idea, you can do it.” continued on page 26

“That part validates that there is a need – people are looking for these things.”

— Jacquelyn rodgers, founder, greentop gifts

Greentop Gifts greentopgifts.com/store/ CARY MAGAZINE 25

continued from page 24

Neomega Nutritionals

“It’s a heart-healthy cooking oil, and you can use it for so many things.”

— judit beres, founder, neomega nutritionals

Judit Beres discovered avocado oil when she was searching for a lighter, healthy cooking oil. Now she sells several flavors of the versatile product.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Judit Beres had worked in clinical research for 10 years when she was laid off in 2015. Knowing she wanted more time to spend with her three daughters, she began thinking about what kind of opportunity she could create for herself.

Beres was always interested in clean eating and healthy food, and she was often on the hunt for a healthy, lighter cooking oil.

While olive and coconut oils are healthy, they tend to be heavier cooking oils, she said.

Avocado oil was growing in popularity at the time and fit the bill as a lighter oil with health benefits. With that in mind, Beres founded Neomega Nutritionals, which today sells a variety of avocado oils — from plain to ginger-turmeric-orange infusion.

Her other flavored infusions include rosemary, garlic and chili pepper — which she says offers a kick, but not too much of a kick.

She uses it exclusively in her own house – from salad dressing and grilling meat to frying french fries or chicken nuggets for her kids – and encourages others to do the same. The smoke point on avocado oil is 500 degrees, which is higher than many cooking oils and makes avocado oil more versatile, she says.

“It’s a heart-healthy cooking oil, and you can use it for so many things,” Beres said.

Although the first few years were a challenge as she recouped her start-up investment, she says she’s found something she loves to do.

“The first couple years – after you’ve come from a career with more security – it feels like you’re thrown in the deep sea with sharks, and you’re trying to swim,” Beres said. “But if you truly believe in the product and mission, and have market reassurance that the product is needed and used, that’s what keeps you going.”

Neomega neomega3.com amazon.com, search Neomega Oil

continued on page 28

CARY MAGAZINE 27

continued from page 27

SlatePlate

Lynn Yanyo, isn’t new to the business world, but her career now is distinctly different from the one she had for more than 30 years.

Yanyo, who has her PhD, worked with a company creating and patenting technology. She had the opportunity to travel the world in her job, but as she says, in the corporate world, “you’re working for somebody else, always, even if they pay you well.”

When the company restructured and was sold, Yanyo was let go. She had the means to retire, but that didn’t sound like fun.

“I wanted to work – but I wanted to do what I want, with who I want,” she said.

It began with investing in other people’s start-up ideas and progressed to a position with a venture capital group, doing mostly angel investment.

That group’s first acquisition was SlatePlate, which they ran for more than a year but didn’t really make money. Yanyo saw potential in the business and offered to buy it.

Today, SlatePlate creates hand-cut and finished deep-black natural slate boards in more than 70 sizes.

While most commonly known as cheeseboards, they’re also sold as coasters, trivets, placemats and more.

They’re customizable with dates, perhaps for a wedding gift, or a sketch of

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

a house for new homeowners. And customer service is always paramount, Yanyo says.

“When somebody says, ‘Can you do that?’ We’ll do it,” she said.

At the same time, Yanyo is passionate about encouraging other women in business, employing mostly women herself, and encouraging the women she works with to pursue their own goals.

“Women are the largest consumers, but make up a very small percentage of entrepreneurs,” she said. “I want to change that statistic.” t

“Women are the largest consumers, but make up a very small percentage of entrepreneurs.

I want to change that statistic.”

— Lynn yanyo, founder, slateplate

Lynn Yanyo was working with a venture capital group, and one of its first acquisitions was SlatePlate. She eventually bought the company, which makes customizable, slate boards in a variety of shapes and sizes.

SlatePlate slateplate.com, local pick-up is available Find SlatePlate in person at Cary Academy’s Holiday Shoppe, Nov. 6-9

CARY MAGAZINE 29

H E ADING SOME WHERE Turn your blowout into an Uptini!

Book now at Drybar.com or on our app.

LocatedatatWaverly Waverly Place Located Place Midtown East store is now East open!

Coming soon to Midtown

nothing says happy holidays like a gorgeous new mani.

Visit PAINTBASE Cary to feel chic for the holiday season!

PAINTBASE offers: Gift cards Monthly memberships Nail + Skincare items Service packages

PAINTBASE Cary 3019 Village Market Place Morrisville, NC 27560 919.694.5933 Hours: Monday – Saturday: 9:30am – 7:30pm Sunday: 12:00pm – 6:00pm

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Looking for the perfect present for that someone special?

Share the spirit of the season with gift ideas from these local Cary Magazine partners.

COMPILED BY AMBER KEISTER | STYLED BY LAUREN EARLEY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

CARY MAGAZINE 31

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Unicorn Magic Sea Salt, a sweet and salty topping combining sea salt and sprinkles, $16.99.

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12

Vom Fass Flavors of Italy gift set, two flavors of extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar in mini serving bottles. $29.99.

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Glass dipping dish, made by Holly Springs artist Sandra A. Wills, $38. vomfass.com 2

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The Butcher’s Market Create a basket with smoky treats: Two Brothers beef jerky, $9.99; Bertie County peanuts, $6.99; spice rubs, $6.99-9.99; maple bourbon grilling sauce, $8.99. thebutchersmarkets.com Triangle Wine Company Celebrate all year with sparkling wines and limited edition craft beers: Anna Blanc de Blancs cava, $14.99; Brewery Bhavana Puncheon, $12.99. trianglewineco.com

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Food & Drink 4

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Pro’s Epicurian Give meals a kick with specialty ingredients like white peach balsamic vinegar; large bottle, $17.95. prosepicurean.com

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Clean Juice Recharge during the holidays with organic cold-pressed juices, and pick up a gift card for your favorite health nut. cleanjuice.com/locations/park-west/

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Chapel Hill Toffee Hand-crafted in the Triangle, these gourmet toffees come in a range of sizes perfect for gifting or indulging. Available in traditional pecan and coffee flavors, $2.99-$14.99. chapelhilltoffee.com

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Great Harvest Bread Co. Spread seasonal cheer with breads and gift boxes: Honey wheat bread, pumpkin loaf; Seasonal gift box with seeded wheat loaf, pumpkin bread and whipped cranberry-orange honey, $25-75.00. greatharvestcary.com

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Whisk Give your gifts a personal touch: custom slate trays and wooden cutting boards, starting at $32.

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Durham Distillery Damn Fine Liqueurs have the rich taste you crave in a holiday tipple, $19.95. durhamdistillery.com

Mr. and Mrs. Corkcicle insulated coffee mugs, $29.99 each. whiskcarolina.com 10

Larry’s Coffee Larry’s slow-roasted coffee emphasizes sustainability, organic practices and farmer relationships. Larry’s House whole bean coffee, $13.99-$14.99; recyclable K-cups, $9.99 and a Larry’s Love Your Coffee mug, $7.95. larryscoffee.com

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Bond Brothers Celebrate with limited release brews, old-school classics and new-school originals from Bond Brothers Beer Company. bondbrothersbeer.com

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Preston Flowers Handcrafted wine glass with wooden stem, $29.95. prestonflowers.com

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Swagger Boutique Leopard-print pullover, $58; lightning bolt earrings, $22. swaggergifts.com

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Ivy Cottage This cashmere poncho comes in a rainbow of colors to suit any occasion, $156. ivycottagecollections.com

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Drybar All-inclusive gift sets will help maintain that holiday hair all year long. Pre-Party Pack, with blow-dryer, brush, shampoo, conditioner and five styling products, $199; At First Crush, with heated straightening brush, detangling brush, hair clips and three styling products, $145. thedrybar.com

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Azura Skin Care Zo Skin Health Anti-Aging Program includes exfoliating cleanser, exfoliating polish, complexion renewal pads, daily power defense and growth factor serum, $214. azuraskin.com

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Twisted Scizzors Sexy Hair holiday gift packs will improve hair health and keep your mane looking marvelous through the New Year, $37.92 each. twistedscizzorsonline.com

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Artisan Hair KĂŠrastase 8H Magic Night Serum deeply nourishes dry hair, leaving it soft, touchable and easy-to-style, $54. artisanhaircary.com

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CARE Plastic Surgery JuvĂŠderm Volbella XC, a hyaluronic-acidbased injectable, plumps lips and smooths lines; starting at $595. careplasticsurgery.com

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Endure Beauty lash care products keep lash extensions looking lovely for longer; $45. careplasticsurgery.com 8

Holistic Hair Organic Pure Care is an Italian hair-care line using natural ingredients from plants and flowers, $31-$79. holistichairsalon.com

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Home

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City Garden Design Elephant planter with succulents, $35.

Brighten your space with candles: Tall green pillar, $20; medium gold pillar, $16.50; red pear $7.50.

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citygardendesign.com 2

Garden Supply Company Unique holiday décor to deck your halls: small tabletop angel, $24; small copper leaf and berries trwee, $68; jeweled leaping reindeer, $16; chestnut angel with tea light, $44. gardensupplyco.com

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Butcher’s Market “Eat & Explore North Carolina,” a Cookbook and Travel Guide, by Christy Campbell, $18.95. thebutchersmarkets.com

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Swagger Boutique Lover of Cancelled Plans tote, $22.95.

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True South puzzles highlight the work of local artists while delivering images of beloved places; North Carolina jigsaw puzzle, $22.95. swaggergifts.com 5

Preston Flowers Carry your nap-sack with you: cozy pinecone pillow, blanket and carrying tote; $124.95.

Milk Bath in varieties like soothing vanilla lavender, $24.95.

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Show your state spirit with a ceramic cardinal, $19.95. prestonflowers.com 3

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Two Old Birds Annie Sloan paint supplies and a workshop will inspire that crafty someone: Chalk Paint workshops, $95; brushes, $13.95-$29.95; sanding pads, $10.95; and paint, $13.95$38.95. twooldbirds.com

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Preston Flowers Hand-crafted tools for the man who has everything: bottle opener, $21.95; and shaving brush, $29.95. prestonowers.com

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Ivy Cottage Bling Sting pepper spray in fashionable cannisters, $24. ivycottagecollections.com

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CARE Plastic Surgery Care for lash extensions with Endure Beauty lash care products; under-eye therapy and organic drying towel, $25-45. careplasticsurgery.com

Stocking Stuffers 3

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Paintbase Nails Pamper yourself with a better-foryou holiday manicure or pedicure with nail lacquers in 8-free and 5-free formulas, starting at $22. cary.paintbasenails.com

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Bond Brothers Support your local brewery with branded gear: hat, T-shirt and koosie, $5-25. bondbrothersbeer.com

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Butcher’s Market ThermoPop, rotating display instantread pocket thermometer, $35; Picante Chorizo, $9.49, koosies, $?? each. thebutchersmarkets.com

Drive Shack Get in the swing with lessons, clinics and camps for golfers of all ages and skill levels. Gift cards are available in any denomination and can be tucked into a branded beverage tumbler. driveshack.com/locations/raleigh

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Hollywood Feed For the pet lover or your favorite fur baby: Grounds and Hounds Coffee Co. donates 20 percent of proceeds to animal rescue efforts, $16.99; paws insulated tumbler, $19.99; Hugglehounds chenille koala dog toy, $16.99. hollywoodfeed.com

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Experiences are always the right size: Gift certificates from Twisted Scizzors, Elements Massage, Paintbase Nails, Butcher’s Market and Drive Shack.

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Where to Shop

Johnson’s Jewelers His watch is a Seiko Prospex Automatic Diver watch, $525; her Seiko solar-powered watch has a mother-of-pearl dial and Swarovski crystals, $325 johnsonsjewelerscary.com Diamonds Direct Jewelry is always a great gift, and it sparkles all year long; Tacori sterling silver, blue topaz earrings, $2,500; diamond pendant set in 14 karat white gold, $6,400. diamondsdirect.com/raleigh

Stonehaven Jewelry Whether a classic drop pendant or something more whimsical, each piece of Stonehaven jewelry is custom-designed and handcrafted with the finest materials. stonehavenjewelry.com

Artisan Hair 5039 Arco St., Cary (919) 694-5755 | artisanhaircary.com

Great Harvest Bread 1240 N.W. Maynard Road, Cary (919) 460-8158 | greatharvestcary.com

Azura Skin Care 135 Parkway Office Court, Suite 205, Cary (919) 307-8033 | azuraskin.com

Holistic Hair Salon 3671 S.W. Cary Parkway, Cary (919) 678-3134 | holistichairsalon.com

Bond Brothers Beer Company 202 E. Cedar St., Cary (919) 459-2670 | bondbrothersbeer.com

Hollywood Feed 575 New Waverly Place, Suite 103A, Cary (919) 720-4765 | hollywoodfeed.com

Butcher’s Market 1225 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 465-3082 4200 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs (919) 267-9191 thebutchersmarkets.com

Ivy Cottage Collections 2017 N.W. Cary Parkway, Morrisville (919) 462-3434 | ivycottagecollections.com

CARE Plastic Surgery 2001 Weston Parkway, Cary (919) 484-4884 careplasticsurgery.com Chapel Hill Toffee chapelhilltoffee.com City Garden Design 117 W. Chatham St., Cary (919) 538-4247 citygardendesign.com Clean Juice 3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville (919) 468-8286 cleanjuice.com/locations/park-west/ Diamonds Direct-Crabtree 4401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh (919)571-2881 diamondsdirect.com/Raleigh Durham Distillery 711 Washington St., Durham (919) 937-2121 durhamdistillery.com

Stonehaven Jewelry Christmas is one of most popular days to get engaged. Make the day even more special with a one-of-a-kind engagement ring from Stonehaven. stonehavenjewelry.com Diamonds Direct The diamond tennis bracelet will never go out of style, prices vary depending on total weight of stones. diamondsdirect.com/raleigh 40

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Drive Shack 6901 Play Golf Way, Raleigh (984) 329-8229 driveshack.com/locations/raleigh Drybar 302 Colonades Way, Suite 206, Cary (919) 238-7264 | thedrybar.com Elements Massage 5041 Arco St., Cary (919) 230-4821 elementsmassage.com/cary Garden Supply 1421 Old Apex Road, Cary (919) 460-7747 | gardensupplyco.com

Johnson’s Jewelers 136 E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 467-9431 | johnsonsjewelerscary.com Larry’s Coffee 1507 Gavin St., Raleigh (919) 828-1234 | larryscoffee.com Paintbase Nails 3019 Village Market Place, Morrisville (919) 694-5933 | cary.paintbasenails.com Preston Flowers 1848 Boulderstone Way, Cary (919) 460-4625 | prestonflowers.com Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café 211 E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 377-1788 | prosepicurean.com Stonehaven Jewelry 400 S. Harrison Ave., Cary (919) 462-8888 | stonehavenjewelry.com Swagger Boutique 2425 Kildaire Farm Road, Suite 503, Cary (919) 858-5884 | swaggergifts.com Triangle Wine Company Locations in Cary, Morrisville and Holly Springs trianglewineco.com Twisted Scizzors 950 High House Road, Suite 950, Cary (919) 303-7775 | twistedscizzorsonline.com Two Old Birds 223 N. Salem St., Apex (919) 632-1034 | twooldbirds.com Vom Fass 302 Colonades Way, Suite 203, Cary (919) 977-6745 | vomfass.com Whisk 316 Colonades Way, Cary (919) 322-2458 | whiskcarolina.com

GET $20 OFF

HOLIDAY GIFT CARDS

Give experiences not just things

Elements Massage 5041 Arco Street Cary, NC 27519 919.342.4722

©2019 Elements Therapeutic Massage, LLC. (“ETM”). Each Elements Massage® studio is independently owned and operated. Massage session rates and promotional offers vary; see participating studios for pricing and offer details. Gift cards valid only at identified studios(s). Massage sessions include time for consultation and dressing. Elements Massage + logo is a registered trademark owned by ETM. Services provided by NC Licensed Massage and Bodywork Therapists.

CARY MAGAZINE 41

small business spotlight Kristen Daniels, of Raleigh, and Leslie Rivera, of Cary, relax in the upstairs lounge at La Therapie Spa. Many clients book several services and spend an entire day getting pampered.

La Therapie Spa EDITED BY AMBER KEISTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IN 2002, Nina Milano launched La Therapie Spa in Cary with what she calls the basic spa services — facials, body treatments, massage and nails. Responding to customer requests, she has expanded her services to include medical esthetic services such as cool sculpting, laser treatments and Botox injections.

In the nearly 18 years she has been in business, Milano has built a reputation with clients who trust La Therapie staff to have the latest knowledge and most up-todate training. Perhaps best-known for its facials, the business is also popular with those who want – or need – a full day of relaxation and rejuvenation.

It’s important to make time to relax and take care of ourselves, says Milano, who also owns the Lorena Luca Spa in Raleigh’s Cameron Village.

“It is getting harder and harder to take 42 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

our eyes off of our phones, and we are bombarded with data all the time,” she said.

We asked Milano about her one-stop beauty and relaxation destination — and what stresses her out about the business.

Why did you want to open your own business?

I grew up in Croatia, and the progressive trends of European spas inspired me. I moved to New York City to become an esthetician.

After working with discerning clients in New York, I decided to move to North Carolina (where I have family) to open a luxury spa, which really didn’t exist in the Triangle 18 years ago. Initially, I opened a small space but quickly grew to need a much larger spa.

My vision has always been to create an unforgettable experience for our guests. Going to the spa is more than getting a massage

Trained as an esthetician, Nina Milano opened La Therapie Spa in 2002. She also owns the Lorena Luca Spa in Raleigh.

“My vision has always been to create an unforgettable experience for our guests.

Going to the spa is more than getting a massage or facial; it’s about helping our clients make time for themselves.” ­— Nina Milano, owner La Therapie Spa

Marissa Seawell massages a client’s hand during a manicure. In addition to spa services like facials, manicures and pedicures, a variety of products are available to keep clients looking and feeling their best.

or facial; it’s about helping our clients make time for themselves. For some it’s self-care, for others it’s wellness and relaxation, and for many guests, it involves a celebration such as a birthday or wedding (which we feel honored to be a part of ).

We also do not make any compromises when it comes to integrity. Our customers know that we are thoughtful in how we craft each spa service — using excellent technique and products in an effort to make each facial, massage or service remarkable.

Has your vision of the business changed

What’s been the biggest challenge

or evolved since you opened in 2002?

as an entrepreneur?

am thinking about things 24/7. Not only do I focus on the business, but I also try to make sure my employees can enjoy a worklife balance.

How about the best, or most surprising, aspect of owning a business?

While the spa business is continually evolving, I have never strayed from believing that consistency is the key to success. We are very in-tune with our clients and have expanded our spa services to meet their needs while also maintaining an unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional spa experience. That was my goal on the day I opened and continues to be the cornerstone of my approach today.

There are a lot of moving parts, so I

If you had to choose one thing, what is most important to look and feel your best?

I believe it is vital to carve out time to care for yourself. Relaxing and allowing yourself time to de-stress should not be reserved as an occasional treat. It is essential to your health! A massage or facial can help a person shift gears, take a deep breath and calm the mind, which will always help you look and feel your best. t

What are your guiding principles?

I firmly believe having the industry’s best and brightest as part of my team is essential. Our technicians have extensive experience and advanced training, allowing them to exceed our guests’ expectations.

We also have an unwavering commitment to customer service. Our goal is to make every client feel special, every time they visit the spa.

I am touched by the relationships I have built with my clients. Many of my customers are now friends. One of my favorite things is when one of my longtime clients brings her daughter to La Therapie for her first facial or spa day!

Leslie Rivera, of Cary, gets a massage.

La Therapie Spa 1000 Darrington Drive, Suite 100, Cary (919) 380-0041 latherapiespa.com

CARY MAGAZINE 43

Unique Gifts & Home Decor • Annie Sloan Chalk Paints • Workshops

The tree isn’t the only thing getting lit this year!

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919-467-9431

For a successful holiday baking party, experts say assemble lots of cookie cutters, mix up the dough in advance and try not to worry about the mess.

WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Let the Good Times Roll Host a kids’ cookie party, and create sweet memories

CARY MAGAZINE 45

Noelle Keister, 17, center, prepares cut-out cookies to head into the oven. The young bakers are, from left, Cameron Schuchman, 7, Charlotte Livingston, 8, Maddison Schuchman, 10, and Flora Tenney, 8.

B

aking decorated holiday cookies can seem overwhelming, especially when children are thrown into the mix.

While there’s no avoiding the noise and the mess, a little preparation and the right attitude can make the activity fun for the whole family.

“Sometimes you’ve just got to live in the chaos. You just have to accept it,” said Laura Gnewuch, who leads cooking classes for all ages at the Herb C. Young Community Center in Cary.

Don’t worry about the decibel level, she says. A noisy group is engaged with each other, participating and having fun. Music in the kitchen can also set a holiday mood or entertain the bakers as they wait for cookies to come out of the oven.

“I always have music playing, soft as I'm giving directions,” Gnewuch said. “But when they've got their heads down or something's cooking, I'll turn it up a little bit, so we have a dancing kitchen.”

Helen Tenney has been decorating holiday cookies with her family since her 16-year-old was tiny. She still dislikes the mess generated, but she’s found a good way to convince her three children to help clean up. Once the cookies are 46

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

decorated, they can’t be eaten until the kitchen is tidy again.

“They're really motivated by cookies,” she said.

“Call it bribery; call it what you want — posi“My husband is Jewish, and tive reinforcement. They my family is from a more know those cookies are there, and they will get Christian background. We bake two, three, whatever both Hanukkah and Christmas you feel like. They get cookies every year. We make them once everything's our own homemade sugar cookie cleaned up.” dough and make cut-out cookies Tenney and Gnewuch also say that it’s vital to for both holidays.” know your group, and be realistic about what they — Christina Schuchman, of Apex, can accomplish. Teens can mother of Maddison, 10, mix up batches of dough and Cameron, 7 and help younger siblings.

Some youngsters may dump entire bottles of sprinkles on one cookie, or others might prefer to eat all the decorations without the cookie.

And that’s OK. It’s all about making memories — not cookies. t

As Cameron Schuchman squeezes decorating icing out of a piping bag, a blob of icing comes out of the top of the bag onto her hand. Disposable piping bags are convenient for kids to use, but it’s important to seal the tops well.

CARY MAGAZINE 47

Cooking instructor Laura Gnewuch says most children don’t care to eat gingerbread, but enjoy making ginger people. Create a milder tasting cookie by decreasing the amount of spice and using honey in the recipe.

Gingerbread Cut-Out Cookies Yield: 4 dozen cookies While chilling this dough isn’t crucial, the flavors will develop more and the dough will be easier to handle if it rests in the fridge for a few hours.

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, slightly softened 1 cup dark brown sugar ¾ cup molasses or honey

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2 large eggs 5 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon ground ginger

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

Color Me Mine | Hollywood Feed

¼ teaspoon allspice or cloves

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1 teaspoon baking powder

Hand & Stone | Green4Life Gonza Tacos Y Tequila | Taziki’s

½ teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt

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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until smooth. Mix in molasses or honey; beat in eggs one at a time.

Sift together flour, ginger, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

Add to bowl a cup at a time, mixing after every addition. The dough will be very stiff, so you may need to mix in the last of the flour by hand.

Divide dough in half. On a floured surface, roll the dough 1/4-inch thick.

Cut out shapes with a floured cookie cutter. Transfer cookies to baking sheet and bake for 7-8 minutes, or until the top isn’t shiny anymore and the edges start to crisp up. Let cookies cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes and transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

SPRINKLES, ETC.

Spark young imaginations with these cookie toppers

Colored sugar and sprinkles

Crushed peppermints

Mini chocolate chips

M&M candies, plain

White chocolate chips

Almonds, slivered and sliced

Raisins and other dried fruits

Peanut butter chips Hunter Tenney, 10, right, samples a few M&M candies, as Kieran Sonbuchner, 11, left, and Cecilia Tenney, 16, decorate gingerbread people.

Noelle Keister helps Maddison Schuchman spread some green icing onto a cookie.

“Decorating cookies is something that I’ve done since I was really little,” Noelle says.

“You can laugh about it when you’re doing it, and you don’t have to be too precise.”

Soft Decorating Icing Yield: 6 cups Although royal icing is traditional, this soft, buttery icing is easy for kids to pipe and spread. If made ahead of time, allow icing to come to room temperature before using. ½ cup butter ½ cup shortening 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 pounds powdered sugar ½ cup milk, more or less to reach desired consistency Gel food coloring (optional)

Beat shortening and vanilla until creamy. Add powdered sugar a cup at a time. When the mixture starts to get dry, add milk a little at a time alternating with the powdered sugar.

Beat until creamy. Divide and add food coloring if desired.

Note: If cookies are to be stored or frozen instead of eaten immediately, substitute ½ cup shortening for the butter, and allow iced cookies to air dry for 2-3 hours. The icing will crisp up and hold its shape, even when cookies are stacked and packaged.

CARY MAGAZINE 49

Rolled Sugar Cookies 17001 SEARSTONE DRIVE

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Yield: 3 dozen cookies If made ahead of time and chilled, allow dough to come to room temperature before rolling and cutting.

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, slightly softened 1 cup sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 egg 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 3 cups all-purpose flour

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

In the bowl of your mixer cream butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in vanilla and egg.

In a separate bowl sift baking powder and salt with flour; add the dry ingredients a little at a time to the wet ingredients. The dough will be very stiff, so you may need to mix in the last of the flour by hand.

Divide dough in half. On a floured surface, roll the dough to a ¼-inch thickness.

Cut out shapes with a floured cutter. Transfer cookies to the baking sheets.

Bake for 6-7 minutes, or until the tops of the cookies aren’t shiny and the edges start to crisp up. These cookies won’t brown very much, and if they do brown, they will likely be overbaked. Let cool on the cookie sheet until firm enough to transfer to a cooling rack.

Note: For lemon sugar cookies, omit the almond extract and add ½ teaspoon finely grated lemon peel and ½ teaspoon lemon extract.

The finished kid-made holiday cookies are colorful and weighed down with icing, sprinkles and candies, but as Cameron Schuchman discovers, they still taste delicious.

TIPS Special thanks to all the parents who brought their children to our Cary Magazine cookie party: Lakshmi Swamy and Porter Bayne, from Apex, parents of Kieran Sonbuchner; Christina Schuchman, from Apex, mother of Maddison and Cameron Schuchman; Monica Livingston, from Raleigh, mother of Charlotte Livingston; Monica Kyeba, from Raleigh, mother of Issa Kyeba; and Helen Tenney, from Raleigh, mother of Cecilia, Hunter and Flora Tenney.

Make cookie dough and icing ahead of time. Starting with a clean kitchen will make tidying up easier, and you can concentrate on taking great photos instead of washing dishes.

Choose a no-chill cookie dough recipe. This dough is less sticky and easier for children to work with than dough that needs to be cold in order to roll out.

How much dough? A recipe that yields 3 dozen cookies should entertain three children, although younger children will make fewer cookies and use less dough.

Store ingredients properly.

Wrapped tightly, the dough can be stored up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage times, wrap tightly and stash in the freezer. The soft decorator icing (see recipe) can be made a week in advance. Allow icing and no-chill dough to come to room temperature before using.

Portion and color decorator icing. Use disposable decorator bags with piping tips or zip-top freezer bags with a small hole cut in one corner to hold a variety of colors. Use small amounts of icing in each bag, and seal the tops securely with rubber bands or clips. Children tend to squeeze from the center, and the icing can explode out of the top of the bag.

Wrangle lots of cookie cutters.

In addition to kitchen and craft shops, thrift stores are a good place to pick these up. It’s useful to have cutters of various sizes and multiple gingerbread men.

Label the baking pans. Ideally, each child should have their own cookie sheet. To keep track of the pans and cookies, write each child’s name on the parchment paper used to line the baking pans.

No squabbling over sprinkles.

Use muffin tins to portion out the decorations, so each child has their own palette of sprinkles. Or place decorations in small bowls with multiple spoons in the center of a large table.

Holiday Cooking With Kids Laura Gnewuch leads cooking and other recreational classes at Cary’s Herb C. Young Community Center. For more information on these holiday-themed classes, call (919) 460-4965.

Fabricakes Ages 6-10 Design an apron and make a holiday cake Dec. 4, 4-6 p.m.

Get Cooking with Laura Ages 7-10

Thanksgiving Pies Nov. 13, 5-7 p.m.

Holiday Cupcakes Dec. 18, 5-7 p.m.

Dec. 10, 4-5:30 p.m.

“How the Grinch Stole Christmas!”

Dec. 13, 4-5:30 p.m.

Cooking is FUN 11+ w/special needs Thanksgiving trimmings Nov. 18, 4-5:30 p.m.

Lil Cooks in the Kitchen Ages 3-5 Read a story, and cook what’s in the story “Tallulah’s Nutcracker”

Fun in the Kitchen Ages 11-14 Holiday Desserts Dec. 9, 5-7 p.m.

Holiday Cupcakes Dec. 16, 4-5:30 p.m.

CARY MAGAZINE 51

Preserving American History, One Watch at a Time Come and experience beautiful timepieces made with antique American pocket watches at Stonehaven Jewelry Gallery. This collection tells the story of authentic American craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology creating a truly luxury timepiece.

Limited amount of watches available this season.

400 S Harrison Avenue, Cary | 919-462-8888 | stonehavenjewelry.com

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clean • inviting • professional • fun • friendly

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See facebook for monthly news and coupons.

CARY MAGAZINE 53

The

in a glass

Create seasonal cocktails for gathering or gift-giving WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

WHEN YOU’RE PLANNING your next holiday party, forget the cartons of artificially flavored eggnog. Shove the jar of iridescent maraschino cherries to the back of the fridge.

Although convenient, these pre-packaged ingredients are hardly celebratory. Why not spend a little time and effort to create a delicious, homemade holiday tipple?

“Just like people prepare sweets, cakes and goodies during Christmas, I think cocktails fall right in line with that,” said Matthew Bettinger, co-owner of Sidebar in downtown Cary.

“It’s a chance to celebrate and share something special with your friends, your family or whoever you happen to come across.”

Whether you’re whipping them up to give as gifts or to pour in a punchbowl, these decadent drinks are sure to impress. You might find yourself making them year after year.

Aged eggnog

Eggnog has been a tradition for Bettinger for nearly a decade, but his recipe has a twist. The eggnog ages in the refrigerator for at least four weeks.

“It really starts around Thanksgiving 54

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

— whether it’s day of, a few days before, or a few days after,” he said. “We’ll make a fairly large batch, keep it a cool dark place, and then once the week of Christmas comes along, we crack it open.”

Aging the eggnog allows the flavors to mellow and creates a rounder and smoother taste, Bettinger says.

“It becomes more of a complete, wholeflavor profile,” he said. “That goes for a lot of beverages, whether you’re infusing something, or your creating something like an eggnog.

It’s always better once those flavors have had a chance to settle down and really melt together.”

And if consuming raw eggs is a concern, the three-week resting period allows the alcohol to kill any stray salmonella bacteria. This added benefit was demonstrated in a 2008 video by NPR’s “Science Friday”.

Bettinger has prepared and bottled the eggnog for gifts in the past, but these days, the festive beverage is consumed at his family’s Christmas celebration or at holiday parties.

“People identify — I know I do emotionally — to times of the year as well as flavors and smells, and the cocktail really wraps all that together,” he said. continued on page 56

As a bartender, Matt Bettinger came across an old recipe for aged eggnog and wanted to try it. “It’s more common than you might think,” he says.

“It's been a tradition, as far as I can tell, for a really long time. You just don't hear about it as often.”

CARY MAGAZINE 55

continued from page 54

Matt Bettinger’s Aged Eggnog

Yield: About a gallon “The quality of ingredients shows, so procure the best eggs and cream you can,” said Bettinger. “Feel free to play with the spirits. If it is too strong, you can back off the alcohol quantities by a few ounces.

You can also add more whipping cream when serving to help cut the proof.”

This large batch is plenty for a family gathering or two, but it can be scaled down, he says.

“People identify — I know I do emotionally — to times of the year as well as flavors and smells, and the cocktail really wraps all that together.”

— Matt Bettinger owner, Sidebar

24 eggs 1 750-milliliter bottle Old Grand-Dad bourbon whiskey, or other good-quality bourbon 1½ cups Plantation Original Dark Rum, or other aged rum 2 cups sugar

Working in batches, beat eggs thoroughly using a stand mixer.

Combine bourbon and rum. With the stand mixer on its lowest setting, add the alcohol slowly to the eggs. Take your time with this step, as adding the alcohol too quickly will curdle the eggs.

Lastly, add the sugar and mix until everything is well combined.

Put mixture in a large glass container, and keep in a cool dark place for at least three weeks. Leave the lid slightly open for a few days before fully closing it. You want air flow to help the ingredients combine and mellow.

To serve: 4-5 cups whipping cream 4 teaspoons vanilla 1 cup sugar

Whip cream into soft peaks; add vanilla and sugar. Continue whipping until cream forms stiff peaks.

In a large serving bowl, fold the whipped cream into the eggnog base.

Serve topped with freshly grated cinnamon or nutmeg.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Bourbon cherries

Wayne Childers, who is known for his bourbon-soaked cherries, loves to entertain and to tinker in the kitchen.

“I’ve been around food all my life,” said Childers, who owns Ah Ha!, a business consulting firm in Cary, with his wife, Susannah. “My father was an executive at WinnDixie, so I was in grocery stores and around food a lot.”

The cherries, which he’s been making and giving away for four years, began as an experiment. A bourbon-loving friend had invited Childers on several outings to learn more about the spirit. And while the bourbon was tasty, one cocktail ingredient was not.

“When we would go out, whether it was an old fashioned or a Manhattan, it just killed me with the super, sickly-sweet maraschino cherries,” he said. “I hated them.”

There’s got to be a better way, Childers thought.

He came across a recipe for bourbonsoaked cherries and whipped up a batch.

“It was off the hook — crazy good,” he said. “People were like, ‘Can I have more? Can I have a bigger jar? Can you refill it please?’”

He makes and bottles at least two batches of cherries around Thanksgiving.

They are tucked into gift baskets for close friends and neighbors, along with several varieties of homemade biscotti, baked by his wife. Childers also makes sure he has plenty of cherries on hand for last-minute gifts. continued on page 60

Wayne Childers has tweaked his recipe over the years, but never strays too far from the basic ingredients. “I’ve added a splash of vanilla, some orange peel to deepen the flavor a bit,” he says. “I try not to mess with it too much, because it’s so good already, and you don’t want to take away from the cherries and the bourbon.”

CARY MAGAZINE 57

Wayne Childers suggests using bourbon cherries in cocktails instead of maraschino cherries, or dropping them into a glass of prosecco. “They’re perfect for a party, a little hostess gift when you walk in the door,” he says.

Bourbon-Soaked Cherries

From Wayne Childers, adapted from marthastewart.com Yield: 1½ cups 1 cup bourbon whiskey 2 tablespoons sugar 4 ounces dried cherries (no oil added) Optional ingredients: A strip of orange peel or ½ teaspoon vanilla

Bring bourbon, sugar and orange peel, if using, to a gentle simmer in small saucepan until sugar dissolves. Watch pan closely as bourbon can ignite.

Take bourbon mixture off the heat and add vanilla, if using. Pour over cherries, and let cool. Place cherries and syrup into small glass bottles. Refrigerate cherries for at least 12 hours and up to two months.

Use the cherries in your favorite cocktail, or enjoy cherries and syrup poured over ice cream.

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

“It was off the hook — crazy good. People were like, ‘Can I have more? Can I have a bigger jar? Can you refill it please?’”

— Wayne Childers

Style, Comfort and Quality

ISH M A

OAK & CHERRY

8-11 CARY MAGAZINE 59

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continued from page 56

Coquito

As a child in Ohio, Edith Jachym remembers watching her mother make coquito, the traditional Puerto Rican holiday beverage. The labor-intensive process required cooking egg yolks slowly to thicken the boozy mixture of coconut cream, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk, spices and rum.

“When I was 12 or 13, she started letting me do the stirring,” Jachym said of her mother. “She would come over and look at it; she would quality-control it, making sure that egg didn’t cook.”

She started making it for herself in 1978, but it took a lot of experimenting, she says. Her mother had a written recipe, but many adjustments had been made over the years.

“I started making it as gifts,” she said.

“When I moved to North Carolina, the people I worked for, I took them a little bottle, and they were like, ‘Oh my God! What is this?’”

Coquito became a staple at her holiday parties, and many of her friends requested bottles of their own. Eventually, she was making around two dozen bottles to give away every year. She would start stocking up on the ingredients in September, so as not to have a huge grocery bill in November.

Jachym says she’s winding down now and makes the drink less frequently. Around the holidays, it’s her son who stands over the stove stirring the pot to make coquito for his friends.

“He continues the tradition of giving it to folks he knows who would appreciate it,” she said. t

Edith Jachym says the traditional way to make coquito involves cracking open a fresh coconut, grating the flesh and squeezing out the juice.

Canned ingredients make the process a lot easier.

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4 large egg yolks 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk 1 15-ounce can sweetened cream of coconut 1 14-ounce can coconut milk 1 14-ounce can sweetened condensed milk

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1 tablespoon vanilla 3 cups rum, white or gold, to taste

In a 2-quart saucepan, heat water, cinnamon sticks, cloves and anise to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to medium, and cook until liquid is reduced to one cup.

Allow to cool slightly and strain.

In a large heavy-bottomed stock pot, beat egg yolks and evaporated milk with a wire whisk until well-mixed. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until mixture thickens and coats a spoon, about 10 minutes (do not boil). Set aside to cool slightly.

Combine cooled cinnamon-flavored liquid, cream of coconut and coconut milk; add to egg-yolk mixture. Stir in sweetened condensed milk, vanilla and rum.

Funnel into clean glass bottles and refrigerate until ready to serve.

To serve, shake bottle vigorously to reincorporate coconut cream, pour in a small glass, and garnish with ground cinnamon. It can also be Coquito can be served on the rocks or in small cordial served on the rocks in a larger glass. glasses, says Jachym. It’s quite sweet and rich, so a little is satisfying.

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CARY MAGAZINE 63

A miniature gingerbread house is a seasonal garnish for lattes and other coffee drinks.

64

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restaurant profile

Asali

Desserts & Café WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE a place making a better first impression on its guests than Asali Desserts & Café.

Located in the heart of Cary’s revitalized MacGregor Village shopping center, the fledgling 39-seat eatery functions as a gourmet sweet shop, a refined coffeehouse and a picture-perfect gathering spot.

Asali represents the fulfilment of a longtime dream for proprietors and husband-wife duo Jamaal Ali and Hanadi Asad. What began as a dessert and special events catering business in 2001 has become a brick-and-mortar showplace featuring some of the most distinctive and delectable treats you’ll find in the area.

“To me, Asali is not just a dessert café,” said Asad, who was born in Kuwait but has lived in the United States most of her life.

“It’s representative of modern, simple elegance.”

Asad and Ali combined their last names to create the moniker “Asali,” which also happens to be the word for “sweets” and “honey” in Arabic and Persian. Ali hails from Raleigh but is quick to mention his Palestinian heritage. The couple has five children and lives in Apex.

When it comes to Asali’s featured treats, globe-spanning delicacies abound — baklava, ladyfingers, macarons and kunafa, a delightful sugar-soaked pastry. At any given time, at least half a dozen types of tantalizing cakes appear in the well-stocked display cases.

“Jamaal’s mother taught me how to bake,” Asad said. “Many of the recipes I use came from her.”

Order the wildly popular baklava cheesecake and prepare for a life-changing epicurean experience. During the holiday season, Asali can create everything from a classic yule log cake to a whimsi-

cal miniature gingerbread house. Be advised: Custom and specialty items should be ordered in advance.

Asad insists that proper presentation and attention to detail are paramount.

“I’m very involved with how things look, and consistency is important,” she said. “We want people to be impressed with the freshness and quality of our products.” continued on page 67

Asali co-owner Jamaal Ali, left, explains the shop’s various confections to Laura Tolbert, center, and Jill Canady. More than a dozen delicacies are featured every day, and they reflect the owners’ cosmopolitan influences.

CARY MAGAZINE 65

The spectacular family tradition returns to Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre with

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66

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Artfully decorated gingerbread people can be bought for a holiday gathering.

continued from page 65

Small plates with savory menu items include hummus and pita chips, spinach pie and tabouli salad with quinoa. Try the cheese pie with za’atar, an herb-and-spice mixture with sumac and sesame seeds.

A full-service coffee and tea bar provides plenty of tempting options. There are the requisite espressos, cappuccinos and lattes, but you may also enjoy sipping some robust Turkish coffee or a velvety smooth traditional Middle Eastern drink sahlab, topped with cinnamon, coconut and pistachio.

Asali sources its java from Durham’s Counter Culture Coffee.

Much of the tea is procured from Jeddah’s Tea, also located in the Bull City.

Guests are encouraged to find a seat, relax and stay as long as they want.

“I love for people to sit, talk and catch their breath,” Asad said with a smile. “We see all types of people coming in, even senior citizens, which is great.”

“To me, Asali is not just a dessert café. It’s representative of modern, simple elegance.”

- Hanadi asad, owner, asali

continued on page 69 CARY MAGAZINE 67

Savory offerings include hummus and pita chips, tabouli salad with quinoa and a cheese pie with za’atar, a spice mixture with sumac, herbs and sesame seeds.

68

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

continued from page 67

Asali’s transitional layout lends itself to providing various seating options for its guests. Upholstered sofas and chairs near the back offer comfort and a modicum of privacy. An elevated bar along the front window affords flexibility and access to abundant natural light. Assorted tables and transparent chairs work nicely for groups.

Granite countertops for the display cases and polished cement flooring give Asali an upscale-but-unfussy vibe. The café’s ceiling is painted black, and stylish light fixtures hang throughout the warm, inviting space.

“I like to think of Asali as modern but not sterile,” Asad said while pointing out a nearby accent wall featuring a traditional Palestinian geometric motif.

Courteous, helpful staff members are eager to answer questions and make recommendations to guests.

“We appreciate our team members and consider them like family,” said Asad. “Without them we could not be successful.”

From the looks of how many seats were filled during recent visits, all indications point toward bright future for Asali.

TOP LEFT: The kunafa cheesecake trades the typical graham cracker crust with a shredded phyllo dough crust and includes a shredded phyllo garnish, crushed pistachios and sweet syrup.

TOP RIGHT: Baklava, mini pecan tarts and nut-filled lady fingers can be ordered by the dozen or sampled singly in the café.

Asali Desserts & Café 107 Edinburgh Dr., Suite 106-A, Cary (919) 362-7882 asalicafe.com

CARY MAGAZINE 69

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Your local welcome team is ready to visit you with a basket full of maps, civic information, gifts, and gift certificates from local businesses. From doctors to dentists and restaurants to repairmen...we help newcomers feel right at home in their new community!

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THETEMPLETONOFCARY.COM 10/8/19 11:06 AM CARY MAGAZINE 71

turkey roulade

with a Bacon & Mushroom Filling and Marsala Gravy

The Triangle’s award-winning destination for cooks, foodies, chefs and gadget lovers.

Serves 8 A turkey roulade is an attractive alternative to roasting a whole turkey at Thanksgiving — or any time! Still great for serving a crowd, this recipe requires a fraction of the time to roast and is filled with deliciousness.

Make life easier by having your butcher debone and butterfly a turkey breast. Assembling the roulade takes a bit of patience but is easier than one might think.

Get ready to wow your family and friends with moist, flavorful turkey this year!

Bacon and Mushroom Filling 6 slices bacon 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, minced 1/4 cup shallots, minced 2 garlic cloves, minced 1½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced 1½ teaspoons fresh sage, minced 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup dry Marsala wine 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs Turkey Roulade 3 pounds boneless turkey breasts, skin on (either one 3-pound breast or two 1½-pound breasts) 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 2 cups chicken broth Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper

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72 NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Marsala Gravy 2 tablespoons butter 1 shallot, minced 2 tablespoons flour 1½ teaspoons fresh rosemary, minced 1½ teaspoons fresh sage, minced 1/4 cup dry Marsala wine 1-2 cups chicken broth (if needed) Prepare the filling 1. Fry the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Cool on a paper towel-lined plate; then crumble.

2. While bacon cools, remove any excess bacon grease from the skillet, then add the finely chopped mushrooms, shallot and garlic; sauté until softened.

Add the rosemary, sage, salt and pepper. Add the Marsala, and cook until reduced by half. Mix in the bread crumbs. Set aside and allow to cool. Stir in the crumbled bacon.

Prepare the turkey 1. Butterfly each breast, taking care to leave the skin on.

2. Place plastic wrap over the breast with the skin side down. Using a meat mallet or rolling pin, pound the meat until it becomes rectangular in shape and an even thickness.

3. Spread the cooled filling evenly over the butterflied breast. Roll the turkey and filling, leaving the skin on the outside of the roll. Tie the roll with baking twine about every 2 inches to keep the roll intact during roasting.

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4. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. 5. Rub 2 tablespoons of softened butter over the rolledup breast, and sprinkle with kosher salt and pepper.

Place the roulade in a roasting pan (no rack required), and add 2 cups chicken broth to the bottom of the pan.

Bake until the center of the breast reaches 165 degrees F, about 40-50 minutes, depending on the size of the turkey breast roll. Remove the turkey roll from the pan, and reserve the roasting juices. Allow the turkey to rest for 10 minutes while you make the gravy.

6. Before serving, remove the baking string, slice and top with the Marsala gravy.

Prepare the gravy 1. Pour the juices from the roasting pan into a gravy separator or large bowl. Skim away most of the fat, leaving the meat juices. Add additional chicken broth, if needed, to yield 2 cups of liquid. Set aside.

2. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet. Add the shallot, and sauté until translucent. Add the 2 tablespoons flour, and whisk and cook until the mixture, or roux, begins to turn a light brown. Add the rosemary, sage and Marsala wine, and simmer until the liquid reduces by half.

3. Add one cup of the roasting juices, whisk and simmer until the sauce starts to thicken. Continue to add a quarter cup of liquid at a time (up to an additional one cup) while continually whisking until the desired consistency is reached. Season with salt and pepper.

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perfect pairing WRITTEN BY BILL ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

2016 Diora La Petite Grace Pinot Noir Named for the golden hills of the Santa Lucia Mountain Range, Diora is the fruit of the familyowned San Bernabe vineyard in Monterey, Calif.

Impressions of the wine hit the senses: aromas of blackberries, a voluptuous and full-bodied mouthfeel, layers of intense red cherry, a delicate hint of blueberry (which is imparted by the Malbec), and a long, lingering finish. The acidity of the Diora Pinot Noir brings out the juiciness of the turkey, and the earthy tones of figs and truffles are a perfect match to the earthiness of the mushrooms, rosemary and sage in the filling and gravy. $29.99

Bodegas Alma Negra Brut Nature Sparkling RosĂŠ Ernesto Catena, a fourth-generation winemaker and the eldest son of Nicolas Catena, of Catena Zapata, started Ernesto Catena Vineyards in Mendoza Argentina in 2002. The sparkling rosĂŠ has frothy, exuberant bubbles in addition to strawberry, cranberry and fruit cocktail flavors.

The crisp acidity brings out the juiciness of the turkey. The Malbec and pinot noir components are perfect complements to the earthiness of the mushrooms, rosemary and sage in the filling and gravy. $24.99

Empire Estate Dry Riesling Empire Estate is a collaboration between Thomas Pastuszak, wine director of The Nomad Hotel in Manhattan, and winemaker Kelby James Russell of Red Newt Cellars. There are aromas of white flower, golden apple, peach and lemon oil. A focused burst of acidity is followed by flavors of fresh apricot, lime and grapefruit pith, all leading to a weighty, savory mineral finish. The wine is a wonderful accompaniment to the turkey, as well as the black pepper and shallots in the recipe. The light sweetness tempers the saltiness of the bacon in the filling. $19.99

Bill Allen holds a first-level certification with the Court of Master Sommeliers and a Specialist of Wine certification from the Society of Wine Educators. He has worked as a wine educator with the Triangle Wine Company for five years.

CARY MAGAZINE 73

liquid assets WRITTEN BY MELISSA KATRINCIC | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

North Carolina Holiday Spirits WITH THE HOLIDAYS quickly approaching, it’s always fun to think of special items for gift-giving and special cocktails. Instead of wrapping a bottle of Kentucky bourbon or California sparkling wine, let’s explore a few North Carolina liqueurs that are perfect as hostess gifts or for cocktails at your next holiday party.

Beatnik Liqueur, Brothers Vilgalys Spirits

A fun liqueur is made in Durham

by Brothers Vilgalys Spirits. One of four liqueur offerings by this distillery, the Beatnik is a phenomenal savory and sweet – ying and yang – of a spirit. Made from fresh beets, thyme, sage, rosemary, fennel seeds, orange zest and sweetened with raw sugar, it’s an unexpected combination for sure, but perfect for a warm, hot-toddy-style cocktail.

Melissa Katrincic owns Durham Distillery, the No. 1 Craft Gin Distillery in the U.S. and home of the awardwinning Conniption Gin, with her husband Lee. She is also the former vice president of the Distiller’s Association of North Carolina.

74 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

Appalachian Fernet, Eda Rhyne Distillery

Do you have a cocktail aficionado to gift this year for secret Santa? Then you must seek out a special locally made amaro. Produced by Eda Rhyne Distillery in Asheville, their Appalachian Fernet is a delicious herbal, bitter liqueur that is sourced from a combination of foraged, wild western North Carolina and globally sourced herbs. This is a truly fantastic example of how craft distilleries leverage historical recipes as a foundation and bring in the terroir of their local region.

Rum Au Café, Lassiter Distilling Company

While not technically a liqueur (as it contains no added sugar), this coffee-infused rum is made by Knightdale’s Lassiter Distilling Company. Their Rum Au Café uses coffee beans from Raleigh Coffee Company with the base of the distillery’s molasses-forward white rum. If you’re thinking about afterdinner drinks that aren’t too sweet, then try 1 ounce Rum Au Café with 3 ounces Irish Cream. Shake with ice, strain into a martini glass and top with fresh whipped cream.

Damn Fine Mocha Liqueur, Durham Distillery

Durham Distillery’s Damn Fine liqueur line has been a hit since its launch in 2015.

All natural, gluten-free and without any highfructose corn syrup, these liqueurs showcase traditional techniques when liqueurs were made at home by families, especially for the holidays. Damn Fine Mocha liqueur is the favorite of guests on our distillery tours and is a perfect balance of chocolate and coffee, featuring two other Triangle companies — Videri Chocolate and Slingshot Coffee.

For inspiration on cocktails using all of these products, the companies provide recipes on their website and social feeds.

Even better, all of these distilleries are small businesses, so you’re giving back directly to the community by seeking them out. Take a tour of one or more of these local distilleries. You can try most of these products with their distillery’s cocktail offerings, explore the gift shops and purchase these spirits directly. With the new state laws that went into effect in September, our North Carolina distilleries are excited to host you this holiday season. Cheers! t

CARY MAGAZINE 75

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liquid assets

Once You Go

by Lynnwood Brewing Concern WRITTEN BY DEVIN SINGLEY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

EVERYONE HAS AN ESCAPE. For some it’s music, for some it’s movies and for many it’s beer. I often think about the way we take these experiences in. Music can speak to something deep inside you, and movies can subvert your expectations and take you on a two-hour journey. But does that mean beer is just a sip?

Once You Go by Lynnwood Brewing Concern is more like a full-length feature movie than a short film. It has main characters, a beginning, middle and end. It is both malty and hoppy. It is creamy, with a smooth body but still has texture.

And like a good movie, it subverts expectations.

Devin Singley is the head brewer at Bombshell Beer Company in Holly Springs.

He has a certificate in brewing from the Institute of Brewing and Distilling and ten years of brewing experience in North Carolina. Singley is also on the board of the Triangle Craft Beer Alliance.

The beer in question is a Black India Pale Ale, and a black pale ale isn’t an oxymoron. Black IPAs play games with the senses. Eyes closed and you’ll swear it’s an IPA; peepers open, and it’s clearly a porter or stout.

Unprompted, many casual beer drinkers will say they hate IPAs. But this much-loved or completely disregarded style is the broadest. Not unlike ’90s hip-hop, there’s an East Coast and a West Coast style. There are milkshake IPAs, which share more in common with the classic stout than they do the original English IPA. There are New England-style IPAs, which are often joked as being hoppy wheat beers by brewers. I could tell you the exact style guides on Pilsners, stouts, porters, amber ales, Belgian singles though quads, but ask me what makes a beer an IPA, and I’d say that it all depends.

Once You Go is different. It’s full yet refreshing. It’s hop aromas grab you in the first act, but malts close the story in the third.

Bill Gerds is the mastermind behind Lynnwood’s fantastic brews. His career goes back to Michigan and has lasted longer than I’ve been able to drink. Is it any wonder that this Great American Beerfest Gold Medal-winning beer is a collaboration with two Michigan breweries —Redwood Brewing and 51 Brewing?

Give Once You Go a taste. I’m betting you’ll come back.

CARY MAGAZINE 77

Dining Guide A SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES, BISTROS AND CAFÉS

IN CARY, APEX, FUQUAY-VARINA, HOLLY SPRINGS, MORRISVILLE AND RALEIGH Advertisers are highlighted in boxes

CARY Abbey Road Tavern & Grill “Great food … outstanding live music.”

1195 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 481-4434; abbeyroadnc.com Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream “Premium quality ice cream and sorbet.”

10120 Green Level Church Road #208, Cary; (919) 901-8560; andiasicecream.com Annelore’s German Bakery “Authentic German pastries, breads and pretzels” 308 W. Chatham Street, Cary (919) 267-6846 www.anneloresbakery.com

Academy Street Bistro “A fresh take on Italian-American cuisine in the heart of Cary.” 200 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 377-0509; academystreetbistro.com Asali Desserts & Café A gourmet sweet shop crossed with a refined coffeehouse.

107 Edinburgh Dr., Suite 106-A, Cary (919) 362-7882 asalicafe.com

Ashworth Drugs “Quintessential place for freshsqueezed lemonade, old-fashioned milkshakes and hot dogs.”

105 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 467-1877; ashworthdrugs.com

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Bellini Fine Italian Cuisine “Everything is made fresh from scratch in our kitchen.”

107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 119, Cary; (919) 552-0303; bellinifineitaliancuisinecary.com Big Dom’s Bagel Shop “Serving bagels, B’donuts and sandwiches” 203 E Chatham St., Cary; (919) 377-1143; bigdomsbagelshop.com

Crosstown Pub & Grill “A straightforward menu covers all the bases.”

140 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 650-2853; crosstowndowntown.com Big Mike’s Brew N Que “Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.” 1222 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 799-2023; brewnquenc.com Bonefish Grill “Fresh is our signature.”

2060 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-1347; bonefishgrill.com Bosphorus Restaurant “Traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.”

329-A N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 460-1300; bosphorus-nc.com

Dining Guide Bravo’s Mexican Grill “Extensive menu raises the ante considerably above the typical Tex-Mex.” 208 Grande Heights Drive, Cary (919) 481-3811; bravosmexicangrill.net Brewster’s Pub “Open late, serving a full food and drink menu.” ​ 1885 Lake Pine Drive, Cary (919) 650-1270; brewsterspubcary.com Brig’s “Breakfast creations, cool salads and hot sandwich platters.”

1225 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 481-9300; 1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 604, Cary; (919) 859-2151; brigs.com Chanticleer Café & Bakery “Family-owned restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and specialty coffees.”

6490 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 781-4810; chanticleercafe.com Chef’s Palette “Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.” 3460 Ten Ten Road, Cary; (919) 267-6011; chefspalette.net Cilantro Indian Café Northeast Indian cuisine with fresh ingredients and halal meats.

107 Edinburgh S. Drive , Suite 107, Cary; (919) 234-1264; cilantroindia.com CinéBistro “Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience.”

525 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 987-3500; cinebistro.com/waverly City Barbeque “Barbeque in its truest form.”

1305 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 439-5191; citybbq.com Coffee & Crepes “Freshly prepared sweet and savory crepes.”

315 Crossroads Blvd., Cary; (919) 233-0288; coffeeandcrepes.com Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar “Good old-fashioned burgers and bottled soda.”

126 Kilmayne Drive, Cary; (919) 466-0055; corbettsburgers.com Craft Public House “Casual family restaurant.”

1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 601, Cary; (919) 851-9173; craftpublichouse.com

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery “Family-owned and operated.”

1983 High House Road, Cary; (919) 380-1840; cremacoffeebakery.com Danny’s Bar-B-Que “All slow-cooked on an open pit with hickory wood.”

311 Ashville Ave. G, Cary; (919) 851-5541; dannysbarbque.com Der Biergarten “American fare with Germaninspired dishes and beer.”

1080 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 459-5874; biergartencary.com Doherty’s Irish Pub “Catch the game or listen to live music.”

1979 High House Road, Cary; (919) 388-9930; dohertysirishpubnc.com Enrigo Italian Bistro “Fresh food made from pure ingredients.”

575 New Waverly, Suite 106, Cary; (919) 854-7731; dineenrigo.com Five Guys Burgers and Fries 1121 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 380-0450; fiveguys.com Fresca Café & Gelato “French-styled crepes … gelato made with ingredients directly from Italy.”

302 Colonades Way #109, Cary; (919) 581-8171; frescacafe.com Goodberry’s Frozen Custard 1146 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 467-2386 2325 Davis Drive, Cary; (919) 469-3350; goodberrys.com Great Harvest Bread Co. “Real food that tastes great.”

1220 NW Maynard Road, Cary (919) 460-8158; greatharvestcary.com Herons “The signature restaurant of The Umstead Hotel and Spa.” 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary; (919) 447-4200; theumstead.com/dining/restaurants-raleigh-nc

Der Biergarten “American fare with German-inspired dishes and beer.”

1080 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 459-5875; biergartencary.com Jimmy V’s Steakhouse & Tavern “Certified Angus Beef … fresh seafood, Italian specialties, homemade desserts.”

107 Edinburgh South, Suite 131, Cary; (919) 380-8210; jimmyvssteakhouse.com Kababish Café “A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.”

201 W. Chatham St., Suite 103, Cary; (919) 377-8794; kababishcafe.com La Farm Bakery “Handcrafted daily … only the freshest ingredients.”

4248 NW Cary Parkway, Cary; 220 W. Chatham St., Cary; 5055 Arco Street, Cary; (919) 657-0657; lafarmbakery.com LemonShark Poke “The finest poke ingredients and local brews on tap.”

2000 Boulderstone Way, Cary; (919) 333-0066; lemonsharkpoke.com Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

110 SW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 460-8757; lostresmagueyes.com Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen “Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.”

7307 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 233-1632 lucky32.com/cary

CARY MAGAZINE 79

Dining Guide Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar “Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.”

8314 Chapel Hill Road, Cary; (919) 465-2455; maximilliansgrill.com MOD Pizza “Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast” 316 Colonades Way Suite 206-C, Cary (919) 241-72001; modpizza.com/locations/waverly

Duck Donuts “Warm, delicious and just the way you like them.”

100 Wrenn Drive #10, Cary; (919) 468-8722; duckdonuts.com/location/cary-nc Lucky Chicken “All of our beautiful Peru, with every dish.”

1851 N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 338-4325; luckychickennc.net

Tribeca Tavern “Local craft beers, gourmet burgers and American grub in a casual setting.”

500 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 465-3055; tribecatavernnc.com Marco Pollo “Peruvian rotisserie chicken.”

1871 Lake Pine Drive, Cary; (919) 694-5524; marcopollocary.com

Noodle Boulevard “Ten variations on the ramen theme, covering a pan-Asian spectrum.”

919 N Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 678-1199; noodleblvd.com Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café “The fast track to sweet tooth satisfaction.”

115-G W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 319-6554; bluemoonbakery.com Pizza La Stella “Authentic Neapolitan pizzas, unique cocktails and more.”

1389 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 333-0773; pizzalastella.com

GREAT FOR PARTIES! AMERICAN CUISINE MENU

AMERICAN CUISINE MENU WITH A FRENCH FLAIR 200 S ACADEMY STREET

CARY | DURHAM | RALEIGH Open 6am–7pm daily 80

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|

CARY

919.377.0509 ACADEMYSTREETBISTRO.COM

Dining Guide Pizzeria Faulisi “Simple foods from a simple way of cooking: a wood-burning oven.”

215 E. Chatham St., Suite 101, Cary; pizzeriafaulisi.com Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café “Gourmet market, café and wine bar.”

211 East Chatham Street, Cary; (919) 377-1788; prosepicurean.com Rally Point Sport Grill “Lunch and dinner food in a pub atmosphere.”

837 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 678-1088; rallypointsportgrill.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

8111-208 Tryon Woods Drive, Cary; (919) 851-3999; 2025 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-3999; ruckuspizza.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House “Cooked to perfection.”

2010 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-0033; ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/cary Serendipity Gourmet Deli “Discovering the unusual, valuable or pleasantly surprising.” 118 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 469-1655; serendipitygourmetdelinc.com

Red Bowl Asian Bistro “Each distinctive dish is handcrafted.”

2020 Boulderstone Way, Cary; (919) 388-9977; redbowlcary.com

Spirits Pub & Grub “Wide variety of menu items, all prepared in a scratch kitchen.”

701 E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 462-7001; spiritscary.com

Ricci’s Trattoria “Keeping true to tradition.”

10110 Green Level Church Road, Cary; (919) 380-8410; riccistrattoria.com

Stellino’s Italiano “Traditional Italian favorites with a modern twist.”

1150 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 694-5761; stellinositaliano.com

Gonza Tacos y Tequila “Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine.” 525-105 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 653-7310; cary.gonzatacosytequila.com Sugar Buzz Bakery “Custom cakes … and more.”

1231 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 238-7224; sugarbuzzbakery.com

More than just juice Clean Juice Park West 3035 Village Market Place 919-468-8286

LET US HELP WITH ALL YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NEEDS! FOOD TRUCK, CATERING & PRIVATE ROOMS

CARY • DURHAM • RALEIGH • WAKE FOREST CARY MAGAZINE 81

Dining Guide Tazza Kitchen “Wood-fired cooking and craft beverages.”

600 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 651-8281; tazzakitchen.com/location/stonecreekvillage Thai Spices & Sushi “Freshest, most-authentic Thai cuisine and sushi.” 986 High House Road, Cary; (919) 319-1818; thaispicesandsushi.com

Mellow Mushroom “Beer, calzones and creative stonebaked pizzas.”

4300 NW Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 463-7779 mellowmushroom.com Taipei 101 “Chinese and Taiwanese. Serves lunch and dinner.” 121 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 388-5885; facebook.com/carytaipei101

Lugano Ristorante “Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere.”

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 468-7229; luganocary.com Tangerine Café “From Thai to Vietnamese to Korean to Indonesian.”

2422 SW Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 468-8688; tangerinecafecary.com

SHORT ON

DOUGH? Lunch Specials from 11am to 4pm Monday - Friday

2 One Topping Slices and a Soft Drink $6.99 Pick 2....House/Caesar/Hummus/Soup/Chicken Salad & drink $6.99

Tuesday

One Topping Small Pizza (dine-in only) $5.00

The Big Easy Oven & Tap “Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.” 231 Grande Heights Drive, Cary; (919) 468-6007; thebigeasyovenandtap.com The Original N.Y. Pizza “Consistent every visit.”

831 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 677-8484 2763 N.C. 55, Cary; (919) 363-1007 6458 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 852-2242 theoriginalnypizza.com Totopos Street Food & Tequila “A walk through … Mexico City.”

1388 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 678-3449; totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering

Cooking the BEST New York Italian food in Western Wake since 1993!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2019

Thursday

Club Day! Choose from either of our delicious club sandwichs, chips & drink $8.99

Friday

Calzone Day! A Calzone with 2 Toppings $9.99

4300 NW Cary Parkway • Cary, NC 919-463-7779

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1430 W. Williams Street | Apex, NC 919-303-1006 danielsapex.com

Dining Guide Tribeca Tavern “Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.”

500 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 465-3055; facebook.com/TribecaTavern Udupi Café “Authentic south Indian vegetarian cuisine.”

590 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 465-0898; sriudupicafe.com The Urban Turban “A fusion of flavors.”

2757 N.C. 55, Cary; (919) 367-0888; urbanturbanbistro.com Verandah “Southern casual environment in a modern, boutique hotel.”

301 A. Academy St., Cary; (919) 670-5000; verandahcary.com

APEX Abbey Road Tavern & Grill 1700 Center St., Apex; (919) 372-5383; abbeyroadnc.com

La Farm Bakery “Handcrafted daily … only the freshest ingredients.” Visit lafarmbakery.com for area locations.

Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.”

100 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 267-6237; annaspizzeria.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

Visit ruckuspizza.com for area locations.

Apex Wings Restaurant & Pub “Time-tested eatery serving up chicken wings and craft beers.”

518 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 387-0082;apexwings.com

#TasteTheYummus

• Fresh Salads • Sandwiches • Kabobs

Catering Available For All Events!

1347 Kildaire Farm Road // Cary // 919-300-5586 9650 Strickland Road // Raleigh // 919-847-2700 411 W. Morgan Street // Raleigh // 919-300-5064 CARY MAGAZINE 83

Dining Guide

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering “Pasta dishes, hand-stretched pizzas and scratch-made desserts.” 1430 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-1006; danielsapex.com Belgian Café “From Brussels to Apex.”

1232 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 372-5128; belgian-cafe.com

Tasu “Asian fusion cuisine, artfully mixing Chinese, Japanese and Thai Dishes” 525 New Waverly Place, Suite 103, Cary; (919) 544-8474; shikitasu.com/tasu-cary/home Big Mike’s Brew N Que “Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.” 2045 Creekside Landing Drive, Apex; (919) 338-2591; brewnquenc.com

Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café “Gourmet market, café and wine bar.”

211 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 377-1788; prosepicurean.com Buttercream’s Bake Shop “Wholesome, scratch-baked.”

101 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 362-8408; buttercreamsbakeshop.com

“A twist on a traditional beer garden” With an indoor and outdoor beer garden, surrounded by games and activities for both kids and adults alike.

12.31.19

1080 Darrington Drive • Cary, NC 27513

919.459.5874 biergartencary.com

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Dining Guide Common Grounds Coffee House & Desserts “The highest-quality, locally roasted coffee.”

219 N. Salem St., Suite 101, Apex; (919) 387-0873; commongroundsapex.com Doherty’s Irish Pub “Catch the game or listen to live music.” ​​5490 Apex Peakway, Apex; ​(919) 387-4100; dohertysirishpubnc.com Five Guys Burgers & Fries 1075 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 616-0011; fiveguys.com Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

1055 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 446-6333; ruckuspizza.com Rudy’s Pub & Grill “Comfortable and familiar, just like home.”

780 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-5061; rudysofapex.com

Sassool “Serving authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.”

1347 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 300-5586; sassool.com Salem Street Pub “Friendly faces and extensive menu.”

113 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 387-9992; salemstreetpub.com

Clean Juice “Organic juices, smoothies and acai bowls.”

3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 468-8286; cleanjuice.com Scratch Kitchen and Taproom “Asian-influenced American cuisine” 225 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5370; scratchkitchenandtaproom.com

ASHWORTH DRUGS 105 W. Chatham St, Cary NC

WHERE YOUR GOOD HEALTH IS OUR BUSINESS Rx’s Filled Promptly & Professionally Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain Medical Equipment Sales & Rentals Therafirm Compression Hosiery FLA Orthopedic Supports Most Insurance & Med D Plans Accepted Rx Delivery Available

Discover the Gifts of Good Taste Paul Ashworth, R.Ph.

Cori Strickland, R.Ph.

919.467.1877 Mon.- Fri. 8:30 – 6:00 Sat. 8:30 – 3:30

Culinary Oils Balsamic Vinegars

Exclusive Spices Gourmet Foods

New Location · 302 Colonades Way Ste. 203 · Cary, NC 27518 CARY MAGAZINE 85

Dining Guide Skipper’s Fish Fry “Homemade from our own special recipes.”

1001 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-2400; skippersfish.com

Aviator SmokeHouse BBQ Restaurant “All of our food is made in-house.”

525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-7675; aviatorbrew.com

The Provincial “Fresh. Simple.” 119 Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5921; theprovincialapex.com The Wake Zone Espresso “Your special home away from home.”

6108 Old Jenks Road, Apex; (919) 267-4622; thewakezone.com Vegan Community Kitchen “Meatless with a Turkish spin.”

803 E Williams St., Apex; (919) 372-5027 vegancommunitykitchen.com

Jus’ Enuff Home Cooking “Homemade everything.” 736 N Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 567-0587; facebook.com/JusEnuffHomeCookin Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

401 Wake Chapel Road, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 552-3957; lostresmagueyes.com Stick Boy Bread Co. “Handcrafted baked goods from scratch … all natural ingredients.”

127 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-2237; stickboyfuquay.com

FUQUAY-VARINA Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.”

138 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 285-2497; annaspizzeria.com

The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

305 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-5555; themasonjartavern.com

Wingin’ It Bar and Grille “Serves lunch, dinner and drinks.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-0962; facebook.com/ winginitbarandgrille

HOLLY SPRINGS Los Tres Magueyes 325 North Main Street, Holly Springs; (919) 552-6272; lostresmagueyes.com Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream “A unique spin on a timeless dessert.”

304 N. Main St., Holly Springs; (919) 762-7808; mamabirdsicecream.com My Way Tavern “Freshly made all-American foods.”

301 W. Center St., Holly Springs; (919) 285-2412; mywaytavern.com Rise Biscuits & Donuts 169 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 586-7343; risebiscuitsdonuts.com Thai Thai Cuisine “Fresh authentic Thai food.”

108 Osterville Drive, Holly Springs; (919) 303-5700; thaithaicuisinenc.com

Gourmet Catering

for all business, entertainment or holiday events.

THE MAGGY AWARDS

Authentic Italian and French Restaurant, Market and Wine Bar

Serving lunch and dinner

211 East Chatham Street, Car y

•

919.377.1788

prosepicurean.com

Visit our website for our catering and dinner menu's

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HONORABLE MENTION 2018

We are an Italian dining ristorante with a comfortable and casual atmosphere.

We strive to provide each guest with an experience they will remember.

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary (919) 468-7229 www.luganocary.com

Dining Guide The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

114 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 964-5060; themasonjartavern.com The Original N.Y. Pizza 634 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs (919) 567-0505; theoriginalnypizza.com

MORRISVILLE Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken “Unforgettable rotisserie chicken.”

9575 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 378-9259; alpacachicken.com Another Broken Egg Café “A totally egg-ceptional experience.”

1121 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 465-1079; anotherbrokenegg.com Babymoon Café “Pizzas, pastas, seafood, veal, steaks, sandwiches and gourmet salads.”

100 Jerusalem Drive, Suite 106, Morrisville; (919) 465 9006; babymooncafe.com

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar “The quality of the beef and the toppings make our burgers stand apart.”

3300 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 297-0953; baddaddysburgerbar.com B. Good “Health-conscious versions of fast-food favorites.”

1000 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 234-1937; bgood.com Cantina 18 “Southwestern fare with a southern drawl.”

3305 Village Market Place, Morrisville (919) 694-5618 18restaurantgroup.com/cantina-18-morrisville Capital City Chop House “Perfect place for a business lunch or dinner or a quick bite before catching a flight.”

151 Airgate Drive, Morrisville; (919) 484-7721; chophousesofnc.com Clean Juice “Organic juices, smoothies and acai bowls.”

3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 468-8286; cleanjuice.com

Yuri Japanese Restaurant “For sushi fans and connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine.” 1361 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 481-0068; yurijapaneserestaurant.com Firebirds Wood Fired Grill “Steaks, seafood, chicken and ribs, all seared over local hickory, oak and pecan wood.”

3200 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 653-0111; morrisville.firebirdsrestaurants.com

CARY MAGAZINE 87

Dining Guide Fount Coffee + Kitchen “Coffee and a menu that is 100 percent gluten-free.”

10954 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (984) 888-5454; fountcoffee.com

Los Tres Magueyes 9605 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 481-9002; lostresmagueyes.com

The Full Moon Oyster Bar & Seafood Kitchen “Homemade recipes handed down over the years.”

1600 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 378-9524; fullmoonoysterbar.com G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine “Master chefs from China create an unforgettable fine dining experience.”

10958 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 466-8858; g58cuisine.com Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant “Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes.”

3536 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3820; georginaspizzeriaandrestaurant.com HiPoke “Fresh Fun Poke.”

9573 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 650-3398; hipokes.com

Neomonde “A wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary Mediterranean menu items.”

10235 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 466-8100; neomonde.com

Saffron Restaurant & Lounge “Gourmet Indian dining experience.”

4121 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 469-5774; saffronnc.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes “Cakes are baked fresh daily, in a variety of flavors and sizes.”

2008 Market Center Drive, Unit 17130, Morrisville; (919) 694-5300; nothingbundtcakes.com

Smokey’s BBQ Shack “Meats are dry rubbed with love and slow smoked with hickory wood.”

10800 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 469-1724; smokeysshack.com

Peppers Market and Sandwich Shop “Local baked breads, fresh in-house roasted meats.”

2107 Grace Park Drive, Morrisville; (919) 380-7002; peppersmrkt.com

Taste Vietnamese “Prepared with passion and perfected through generations.”

152 Morrisville Square Way, Morrisville; (919) 234-6385; tastevietnamese.com

Rise Biscuits & Donuts “Old school, new school, and specialty donuts.”

1100 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 377-0385; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Tra’Ii Irish Pub & Restaurant “An authentic and satisfying taste of Irish country cooking.”

3107 Grace Park Drive, Morrisville; (919) 651-9083; traliirishpub.com

The place for Sushi enthusiasts and beginners of Japanese cuisine.

QUALITY IS OUR RECIPE

HONORABLE MENTION 2017

1361 Kildaire Farm Road | Cary 919.481.0068

(In Shoppes of Kildaire Near Trader Joes) “Ahi Tower” our best seller, selected for the cover of Cary Magazine May/June 2011

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Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits 1101 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3500; ruckuspizza.com

www.YuriJapaneseRestaurant.com

Dining Guide Village Deli & Grill “Wholesome homemade foods.”

909 Aviation Parkway #100, Morrisville; (919) 462-6191; villagedeli.net

Anvil’s Cheesesteaks “Authentic Philadelphia experience.”

2893 Jones Franklin Road, Raleigh (919) 854-0558 facebook.com/AnvilsCheesesteaks

ZenFish Poké Bar “Guilt-free, healthy, fast-casual dining.”

9924 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 234-0914; zenfishpokebar.com

Barry’s Café “A restaurant that honors firefighters.”

2851 Jones Franklin Road, Raleigh; (919) 859-3555; barryscafe.com The Big Easy Oven & Tap “Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.”

222 Fayetteville St., Raleigh (919) 832-6082; thebigeasyovenandtap.com

RALEIGH Rey’s “Fine dining with a French Quarter flair.”

1130 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh (919) 380-0122; reysrestaurant.com

Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar “Consistent service and quality food to keep patrons happy.”

301 Market Center Drive, Morrisville (919) 467-1718; traviniaitaliankitchen.com

Angus Barn “World-renowned for its service.”

9401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; (919) 781-2444; angusbarn.com

Mandolin “World class food, wine and spirits in a soulful, comforting atmosphere.”

2519 Fairview Road, Raleigh (919) 322-0365; mandolinraleigh.com

Annelore’s German Bakery “Pastries using the finest local ingredients.”

1249 Farmers Market Drive, Raleigh (919) 294-8040 facebook.com/AnneloresGermanBakery

The Pit “Authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue.”

328 W. Davie St., Raleigh; (919) 890-4500; thepit-raleigh.com

Recognized by Cary Magazine Readers as Best Steak House and Date-Night Restaurant!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2006

Hours: Mon-Thurs: 5-10pm Fri-Sat: 5-11pm

HONORABLE MENTION 2007

HONORABLE MENTION 2013

HONORABLE MENTION 2015

HONORABLE MENTION 2016

1130 Buck Jones Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27606 919.380.0122 \ ReysRestaurant.com

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER

WINNER

2018

2019

5 private rooms seating 6-200 guests!

Contact: Christina Reeves at Christina@ReysRestaurant.com

CARY MAGAZINE 89

Office made easy.

Rent just what youneed. Everything is included.

H ave you recently made a move?

Whether you’ve moved across the country, across the state, or across town, we want to meet you to say hello & to help you with tips as you get settled.

Our basket is loaded with useful gifts, information & cards you can redeem for more gifts at local businesses.

Finding an office is easier than you think. Get what you want, where you want it, in one of Towerview’s 4 prime Cary locations. Office solutions tailored to your business needs—with as much or as little space as you need. And we’re flexible when your needs change.

Fully furnished, professionally designed private office space with everything you want: 24/7/365 electronic access, ample parking, high-speed internet and no-hassle IT, media-enabled conference room, with maintenance and all utilities included.

The process is easier than you think too.

Visit towerviewoffice.com (or call 919-651-4460) to find out more and schedule a tour.

T

TOWERVIEW OFFICE SUITES

Cary’s oldest insurance agency!

215 East Chatham Street, Suite 120 Cary, NC 27511

ANN BATCHELOR 919-414-8820 John Miller

BETH HOPPMANN 919-302-6111

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Call us for your next insurance review.

CPCU, CIC, CBIA, CRIS jmiller@adcockagency.com

919-467-8126 • 919-467-8175 (fax)

Proudly representing

for over twenty five years

Chris Ham

CPCU, AAI cham@adcockagency.com

Service that goes

www.driveshack.com 6901 Play Golf Way, Raleigh, NC 27607

Drive Shack Raleigh

Drive Shack

HONORABLE MENTION 2019

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135 Parkway Office Court, Ste. 205, Cary, NC 27518 919-307-8033 | azuraskin.com

234 E Johnson St. Cary, NC 27513 919-380-0040 carycarcare.com CARY MAGAZINE 91

2 19 IN PICTURES PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Matthew Bettinger, January/February

Bryan Henry, March

Sophie’s Grill & Bar, September

Fount Coffee + Kitchen, March

92

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Donald Borzilleri, August

Janessa Core, April Hux Family Farm, April

Leslie-Alford-Mims House, May

Pupsi, May

B.A. Eagles, May

Eva Stikeleather, November/December

CARY MAGAZINE 93

2 19 IN PICTURES Double Rainbow, June

Cary’s Bond Lake, August

Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, November/December

Bond Park, LookWest

94

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Monograms, fabulous fashion, seriously awesome jewelry, and gifts to make you laugh!

Monday – Friday 10 am – 6 pm Saturday 10 am – 5 pm

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919-858-5884

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THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2019

ANGIE WRISLEY A neighbor, someone you know, someone you can trust and respect. Call today and speak with a real person who cares about your family’s protection and security.

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4240 NW Cary Pkwy.

919-469-1330 WineMerchantCary.com Visit Us On CARY MAGAZINE 95

2 19 IN PICTURES

Jenn Holland, April

Code Ninjas, June/July

The Glade Adult Day Center, May

Burning Man, May

Chatham Station, September

96

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Jeff Mullen, Conchita JimenezGonzales and Scott McKinney, August

The Crepe Cakerie, August

Gale Adcock, January/February

Town & Country Veterinary Hospital, May

Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival, October

Liz Layman, June/July

CARY MAGAZINE 97

2 19 IN PICTURES

Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse, March

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, April

Marz Josephson, August

Tom Van Scoyoc, April

The Mayton Inn, August 98

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Snoring keeping you up at night?

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2010 N. Salem Street Apex, NC 27523 Phone: 919.363.6363 townandcountryveterinaryservices.com townandcountryvet@nc.rr.com

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THE MAGGY AWARDS

Comprehensive Medical Care General & Orthopedic Surgery Digital X-ray Ultrasound Dentistry On-site Laboratory & Pharmacy Online Pharmacy Cat Grooming Purina & Royal Canin Prescription Diets Boarding & Grooming Facility Basic & Advanced Obedience Training Acupuncture Extended Evening Hours Weekend Hours S

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THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER

2017

WINNER

2018

2016

WINNER 2015

WINNER 2014

WINNER 2013

WINNER 2012

WINNER 2011

WINNER 2010

WINNER 2009

HONORABLE MENTION 2008

WINNER 2006

13 years!

WINNER 2019

1848 Boulderstone Way · Cary 919-460-4625 www.PrestonFlowers.com

CARY MAGAZINE 99

Excellence in

EDUCATION A LOOK INSIDE THE TOP SCHOOLS IN WAKE COUNTY

100

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

BRAIN BALANCE

8204 Tryon Woods Drive, STE 114 // Cary, NC 27518

Doug & Melissa’s story is not uncommon, but it is remarkable. “God is good” Melissa reflects as she describes how Brain Balance of Cary has changed the lives of their family through the unmatched improvements their 17-, 15- and 11-year-old children have made just over this past summer. It’s impossible to listen to the outcomes and not be overwhelmed with joy for them.

They talk about goals for their oldest: improving college readiness through better focus and comprehension, managing anxiety and enhancing relationships. “Mary Anne is now handling a full college prep workload and describes feeling ‘connected to herself and her emotions’ as her biggest change.” Melissa beams that “the most cherished benefit is family togetherness.”

Kimberley was blessed with tremendous athletic talent, but struggled academically, battled chronic fatigue and often experienced “brain fog.” “Brain Balance has really helped her with alertness and comprehension, ‘being there’ as a friend, and she is now able to analyze complex grade-level concepts.” Athletically, “she has gotten even better,” sighting her “improved energy, balance, body control and clarity in thinking.”

QUICK LOOK

CONTACT 919.851.2333 brainbalancecary.com

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

GRADES PK-College

Their youngest struggled regulating his impulsivity, responding properly in social situations and maintaining focus during school work.

Melissa now reports, “academically he is doing amazing, and God worked it out that on his last program day, he was invited for a weekend beach trip. We had the confidence to send him, and the hosting parents reported that Eli was a pleasure to be around.”

“The longer we waited the more severe the symptoms became,” Melissa warns. “The best approach to being made whole is seeking healing for our spirit through faith and for our soul and our body through exercise, nutrition and cognitive training.” They found a loving partner in these pursuits at Brain Balance of Cary ... and so can your family.

• Board Certified Cognitive Center • Non-medical and drug-free approach • Free consultation and screening • Over 1,000 children helped in Cary

ENROLLMENT 25-35

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 2:1

COST Individually customized program

CARY MAGAZINE 101

Excellence in

EDUCATION

CARY ACADEMY 1500 N. Harrison Avenue // Cary, NC 27513

We run on it. Curiosity, that is.

At Cary Academy, one question leads to another and another >> which leads to insights, epiphanies, and breakthroughs >> which leads to other countries, new friends, and great adventures >> where new questions lead to more questions and adventures and ideas, ad infinitum.

We challenge our students to be enthusiastically inquisitive: to seek adventure, revel in curiosity, follow passions, broaden worldviews, take risks, and try new things. Our students often talk about “owning” their education.

Design an independent study, or take one of 42 advanced courses. Immerse yourself in a different culture on the other side of the world (all tenth-graders do!). Create your own Discovery Term service-learning project. Participate in one of over 100 student clubs. Join one of our 48 sports teams. Find other innovative ways to match your interests to your studies. You’ll be guided along the

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CONTACT 919.677.3873 caryacademy.org

GRADES 6-12

way by world-class faculty, 77% of whom hold advanced degrees.

Community and collaboration are important here. We expect everyone to engage and contribute.

With a diverse and inclusive community, there is no shortage of different voices to collaborate with, share new ideas, or get a different perspective.

We have 65 acres for inquisitive minds to roam. Highlights include a modern athletic complex, including a best-in-class track and weight room; Center for Math and Science with a makerspace that includes 3D computers, a laser cutter, and waterjet; arts building with mainstage and black-box theaters, design lab, and multimedia discovery studio; a library with open, collaborative spaces that incorporate the school’s café; and an always green quad for throwing a ball, enjoying some sun, or kicking back in our hammock hangout (BYOH).

Curious? Learn more at caryacademy.org.

ENROLLMENT 773

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 8:1

COST $24,800 (financial aid available) BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

CARY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Classical Christian Education // 1330 Old Apex Road, Cary, NC 27513

Raising the Bar in Education – More Than College Prep, An Education for Life.

As a curly-haired kindergartener stands up in front of her class to say her memory verse for the first time, the process of the classical Christian education demonstrates itself. Standing up straight, speaking clearly, making eye contact, and projecting are the expectations that kindergarteners at Cary Christian School reach for when they present.

In a society where the amount of personal, human interactions is declining, replaced by technology, the need to teach students how to think, how to present, and how to write become increasingly more important.

From the time students walk through the doors of Cary Christian School they are engaged in questioning and dialogue, learning not just what to think, but how to think.

QUICK LOOK

CONTACT (919) 303-2560 carychristianschool.org

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

GRADES K-12

An alumnus, working as an engineer in RTP, puts the need for classical Christian education this way: “There is a lot more to engineering than just engineering. There is interacting with people, explaining concepts, giving presentations, speaking eloquently. I could, if it was just engineering, hide in a corner and code-monkey crank out software, but there is much more to what I do, especially if we are talking about career advancement. That is where the Liberal Arts education has helped.”

Calling students to a high academic standard, in which they are taught how to think and how to present their thoughts in winsome ways, prepares them for college, for their careers, and for their lives.

Do you want more for your student? Visit carychristianschool.org.

ENROLLMENT 805

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 10:1

AVG. COST (K) $5,352; (Gr. 1-12) $7,836

CARY MAGAZINE 103

Excellence in

EDUCATION

CODE NINJAS

3033 Village Market Place // Morrisville, NC 27560

Kids love technology, games, and having fun with friends. Parents want to give their kids the brightest future possible.

Code Ninjas provides a place where gaming is celebrated as kids gain confidence in coding, math, logic and problem-solving, all while having a blast.

Technology is advancing rapidly, and Code Ninjas believes that there has never been a more exciting time to advance our culture. Every kid deserves the chance to unlock their innate, unlimited capacity to learn.

Whether or not our Ninjas choose to code as a career, we want them to pursue their dreams, and we provide them with the necessary skills to use in today’s competitive digital world.

Our world-class curriculum encourages Ninjas to complete coding and robotics projects in order to advance from white to black belt! Our belt system takes the Ninjas from the basics and introduces more advanced concepts as they progress. Ninjas

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CONTACT codeninjas.com 919.694.7171 | carync@codeninjas.com

receive color-coded wristbands and special recognition along the way to mark their achievements!

Our curriculum is self-paced but not self-taught. Ninjas love the support and instruction they receive from our incredible team of Code Senseis. Collaboration, encouragement and teamwork are pillars of our program.

We also offer week-long Summer & Track-out camps with awesome themes such as Roblox, Minecraft, Coding Drones, Robotics and Game development in both Scratch and JavaScript!

We offer a monthly membership with NO contracts and NO set class schedules. Ninjas simply attend eight sessions per month at your convenience!

Is Code Ninjas right for you? Come tour our Dojo, and let your child enjoy a free video game building session with us! Book at bit.ly/codecary

ENROLLMENT Flexible Drop-In Learning

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

AGES 7-14

COST Varies per program

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

CHESTERBROOK ACADEMY 130 Towne Village Drive // Cary, NC 27513

Chesterbrook Academy Elementary School in Cary offers a challenging, wellrounded curriculum that helps children ages four through fifth grade master the core academics while developing important skills such as creativity, collaboration and communication. Students also enjoy a full array of specialty classes including art, music, physical education, foreign language and technology. The teachers create personalized learning plans for each child and work closely with parents and students to make learning fun, stimulating and meaningful. The school takes

QUICK LOOK

CONTACT (877) 959-4181 cbaelementarycary.com

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

GRADES 4 years 5th grade

advantage of the rich resources in the area to bring the curriculum to life through field trips, including the North Carolina Zoo, North Carolina Aquarium and Durham Museum of Life and Science. The four-acre campus, conveniently located off SW Cary Parkway, includes a soccer field, playground and newly renovated swimming pool. The school’s technology lab is outfitted with Promethean Boards, netbook laptops and iPad digital devices.

Chesterbrook Academy Elementary School is accredited by SACS CASI, and the preschool program has a 5-star rating.

ENROLLMENT 297

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 9:1

COST Varies per program

CARY MAGAZINE 105

Excellence in

EDUCATION

PEAK CHARTER ACADEMY 1601Orchard Villas Avenue // Apex, NC 27502

Although it only opened two school Heritage Academies partner schools located years ago, Cary Magazine readers named throughout the nation.

Peak Charter Academy 2019’s “Best Public Peak Charter Academy’s great successes School,” and its Principal, Steve Pond, “Best are rooted in its commitment to engaging all Elementary Principal!” Additionally, Peak scholars through differentiated, tiered, and Charter Academy earned an “A” on its 2019 workshop-based instruction, which offers school performance report card from the its students the challenge or support that THE MAGGY AWARDS North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, and they need to be successful. Additionally, Peak’s focus its students exceeded growth in regard to their learning on building a positive culture and a strong, supportive goals, ranking Peak Charter Academy in the top 5% of community, nurtures their scholars’ social, emotional, all public and charter schools across the state. and academic growth.

WINNER Peak Charter Academy is a no-cost, public school Besides residing in North Carolina, no other 2019 serving 750 scholars in grades K-8, and is guided residency limitations restrict parents and guardians by its commitment to academic excellence, parental from applying for their children to attend Peak, and partnership, student responsibility, and its Moral Focus virtues, which students are never reassigned to other schools. Enrollment applications are taught daily through engaging lessons, activities, and learning are available on their website and at the school, so be sure to apply experiences at school. As a public charter school, Peak is governed before the application deadline of February 28th! by a local, nonprofit Board of Directors, and is one of 89 National Visit www.peakcharteracademy.org to learn more and to apply today!

QUICK LOOK 106

CONTACT (919) 377-1552 peakcharteracademy.org

GRADES K-8

ENROLLMENT 752

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 20:1

AVG. COST $0

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS

Balanced Learning at Primrose Schools More parents are recognizing the importance of enrolling their children in preschool to help them develop the right foundation for success in elementary school and beyond. Studies show that from birth to age 5, growth in all areas of development is rapid. Children form strong neural connections during this time as a result of their experiences with everyone and everything they encounter.

The best programs go beyond helping children master basic academic skills by supporting their development into happy, confident, well-rounded individuals. “Informed parents look for preschool, preK and kindergarten programs that take a balanced approach to developing motor, social-emotional, creative and academic skills,” said Dr. Gloria Julius, VP of education and professional development for Primrose Schools. “It takes quality instruction, a well-rounded curriculum and a positive teacher relationship to prepare a child to suc-

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CONTACT 800.PRIMROSE primroseschools.com

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

GRADES Infants through Kindergarten

ceed.” Parents have heard the term STEAM in the news. STEAM is an educational approach to learning that uses Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics for guiding student inquiry, discussion, and critical thinking. The Primrose Balanced Learning® curriculum supports this and children’s innate desire to learn through investigation and experimentation. In the classroom, intentional experiences introduce children to new concepts and ideas in engaging ways. And the exploration doesn’t stop there. Children instinctively ask many questions and enjoy thinking and observing what surrounds them. Encouraging this curiosity helps nurture a love of learning in children and increases their ability to think critically and creatively. Primrose Schools is a national family of dedicated leaders serving children, families and communities in our premier accredited early education and care schools. For parenting tips, visit our Parenting blog at PrimroseSchools.com/360Parenting.

ENROLLMENT Open Registration

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO Varies by age

COST Varies by age

CARY MAGAZINE 107

Excellence in

EDUCATION

RALEIGH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2110 Trawick Road // Raleigh, NC 27604

Having completed 42 years of operation, Raleigh Christian Academy seeks to provide an exceptional Christian education for families in the greater Raleigh area. It is RCA’s desire to help parents produce students who are equipped to face the challenges of tomorrow and to do so with a Christian worldview.

Biblical principles are incorporated into every subject. Experienced and fully qualified teachers maintain high academic standards. Students are given opportunities to participate in award-winning and nationally recognized fine arts programs at Raleigh Christian Academy. A competitive athletic program is available for middle school and senior high school students.

Students at Raleigh Christian Academy receive a wholesome, well-rounded education designed to help them build strong character, to develop physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The longevity of faculty members at the school provides children with teachers who are experienced, yet loving in their approach.

Raleigh Christian Academy serves hundreds of students in preschool through grade twelve. Using a traditional approach to

QUICK LOOK 108

CONTACT (919) 872-2215 raleighchristian.com

GRADES PK-12 (coed)

education, RCA’s students excel in a structured, academic environment. Scoring one and a half to three years ahead of their public school peers, Raleigh Christian Academy students thrive in a program that is college-preparatory, yet geared for the average student. And better yet, tuition at Raleigh Christian Academy is affordable!

You can make a difference in your student’s life. Give your child a distinctively different Christian education available at Raleigh Christian Academy.

• • •

Daycare – 12th Grade College Preparatory State & Regional Accreditation • Certified Teachers • STEM Activities • Dual Credit Program • Fine Arts & Athletics • Online Course Availability

ENROLLMENT 275

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 18:1

Open House Dates: Friday, January 24 Friday, February 7 Friday, February 28 9 AM – Noon

AVG. COST $7,000 (2019-20)

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

RAVENSCROFT SCHOOL 7409 Falls of Neuse Road // Raleigh, NC 27615

Growth-minded. Communicative.

Strategic. Collaborative. Resourceful.

Resilient. Accountable. Adaptable. At Ravenscroft, we wondered: Why wait to teach leadership skills to children? Why not integrate leadership learning into the academic education and everyday classroom experiences of all children?

And then teach them to use those skills to be better students, artists, athletes and community members?

That’s what we do. We call it Lead From Here.

Through Ravenscroft’s innovative partnership with the Center for Creative Leadership, one of the world’s top-ranked executive education providers, we teach the leadership skills that hundreds of business, government, nonprofit and education leaders have

QUICK LOOK

CONTACT (919) 848-6470 admissions@ravenscroft.org

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

GRADES PK- Grade 12 (coed)

identified as crucial but frustratingly rare in today’s workforce.

As early as pre-kindergarten, students learn fundamental skills they can apply to academic, social, creative and athletic challenges. These leadership skills include being accountable, adaptive, growth-minded, empathetic, inclusive, communicative, strategic, resourceful and more.

The result? High-achieving students with a leg-up on academics and the real-world leadership skills needed to succeed in the 21st century.

At Ravenscroft, learning is a journey of wonder and joy.

How do we do it? The best way to understand how we teach it is to experience it yourself. We invite you to visit and learn more!

ENROLLMENT 1205

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 8:1

2019-20 COST $10,810 - $25,540 Financial aid available CARY MAGAZINE 109

Excellence in

EDUCATION

THE GODDARD SCHOOL 3701 Green Level West Road // Apex, NC 27523

Frank and Lisa Cariello, owners of The Goddard School located in Apex (Green Level West), have lived in the area for more than 15 years. They started as Goddard School parents, sending their three sons to a local Goddard School before deciding to open their own 15 years ago.

The Goddard School offers a unique play-based F.L.EX. Learning Program (Fun Learning Experience) that’s grounded in research on how children learn best: children experience the deepest, most genuine learning when they are having fun. The focus is on building each child’s emotional, academic, social, creative and physical skills to provide a well-rounded experience and ensure each one becomes confident, joyful and fully prepared in school and in life.

“We love our community,” Lisa Cariello said. “We want this School

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CONTACT

GoddardSchool.com/Apex-IINC

GRADES Infant - PreK

to be a part of where we live by providing opportunities that will bring families together. We want to provide a relaxed, home-like atmosphere where parents are content knowing that their children are safe, cared for and are learning.”

This is the second Goddard School in Apex, the 13th in the RaleighDurham area and among more than 500 locations in 36 states. The 10,592-square-foot building will serve about 140 children ages six weeks to six years old and employ 30 faculty members.

The preschool will be open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information about the newest The Goddard School in Apex (Green Level West), NC, visit www.GoddardSchool.com/Apex-IINC.

ENROLLMENT 150 (capacity)

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO Varies per age group

AVG. COST Varies per age group

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

Excellence in

EDUCATION

TRIANGLE MATH AND SCIENCE ACADEMY 312 Gregson Drive // Cary, NC 27511

At Triangle Math and Science Academy (TMSA), students and staff strive for excellence in everything they do. Students demonstrate high achievement and independent thinking as they model the core values of responsibility, respect, resilience, and courage. From kindergarten through 12th grade, Triangle Math and Science Academy emphasizes STEM-based learning, fosters essential interpersonal skills, values socialemotional learning to develop 21st-Century skills, and prepares students for life beyond graduation.

At TMSA, students can take part in student council to evoke change within our school, compete in academic teams like Science or Math Olympiad, innovate through Project Lead the Way (PLTW) with handson experience in engineering or biomedical sciences, or advance global citizenship through Model UN. Going above and beyond at TMSA might look like earning the highest score on an AP test, becoming an

QUICK LOOK BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

CONTACT (919) 388-0077

GRADES K- Grade 12 (coed)

AP scholar, participating in any of TMSA’s athletic teams, taking part in organizations like DECA or HOSA, or engineering and programming the latest technology in robotics. We firmly believe education extends beyond the four walls of a classroom.

The personal relationships between our teachers, students, and families are the catalysts that challenge our students to reach their goals and exceed what they never thought possible.

This is why TMSA is one of only 100 schools across the nation to offer an official pre-AP program for 9th-graders and consistently achieves the highest possible school performance grade in North Carolina year over year.

Triangle Math and Science Academy appreciates, values, and celebrates diversity; there is something for everyone at our school.

Your child will not be just another face in the crowd. To learn more, visit www.tmsacademy.org.

ENROLLMENT 900

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO 14:1

2019-20 COST Tuition-Free Public Charter School CARY MAGAZINE 111

Excellence in

EDUCATION

WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 5625 Dillard Drive // Cary, NC 27518

Since 1982, Magnet Programs have offered educational choice in the community through a variety of innovative learning experiences either through a menu of electives or school-wide instructional delivery model.

Magnets open doors of opportunity and spark the imagination of students, preparing them to become responsible citizens in a global society.

The Leadership and Technology Pathway’s common essentials include hands-on programs and project-based learning experiences, the use of emerging technologies, with real world incorporation of community resources.

The Gifted and Talented students explore a wide variety of topics through core subjects and an extensive menu of elective courses that develop strengths and interests. Students have the opportunity to customize their academic programs by choosing elective courses according to their academic needs and interests.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) students become

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CONTACT (919) 533-7289 wcpss.net/magnet

GRADES PK-12

increasingly knowledgeable and interested in international understandings, and actively work to effect positive change. Colleges and universities give special admissions consideration to students who take IB classes and earn an IB Diploma.

Early college high schools, including the single-gender Wake Leadership Academies, blend high school and college in a rigorous yet supportive program; students enroll in college classes that allow them to earn free transferrable college credit.

At Wake Leadership Academies, students complete their middle and high school academic program in single-gender — all boys or all girls — learning environments.

Language Immersion & Global Studies – Students are immersed in and learn in the target language (Spanish or Mandarin) all day. Beginning in 6th grade, two core courses are taught in the target language. All middle and high school students participate in the Global Studies program.

ENROLLMENT 163,000

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

STUDENT/TEACHER RATIO Varies by grade

COST $0

BRANDED CONTENT SECTION

We offer cupcakes cookies pastries & custom cakes.

Made fresh daily with local ingredients!

SHOP LOCAL AND HANDMADE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

Located in historic downtown Apex.

101 North Salem Street 919-362-8408 buttercreamsbakeshop.com

ho • lis • tic hair

AVEDA salon

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15 12 - 4 P.M. AT THE MAYTON INN 50 LOCAL ARTISAN VENDORS GIVEAWAY FOR THE FIRST 50 SHOPPERS EACH PURCHASE ENTERS SHOPPERS FOR MORE GIVEAWAYS*

We strive to provide a stress free and soothing atmosphere where you, our guest, can feel at ease and confident that your stylist will not only take care of your hair, but take care of you as well.

3671 SW Cary Parkway | 919-678-3134 | holistichairsalon.com

locallymademarket.com @locallymademarket * WINNERS WILL BE DRAWN AT THE END OF THE EVENT AT 4:00 IN THE LOBBY. MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN.

114

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019

Elevate your look.

PRECISION HAIRCUTS | KERATIN TREATMENTS | BALAYAGE | EXTENSIONS BRIDAL | AMERICAN WAVE | HAND CRAFTED COLOR

Alston Town Center 919-694-5755 • artisanhaircary.com Follow us ArtisanHairCary

nonprofit spotlight Diamante, which aims to spread knowledge and appreciation of Latino and Hispanic culture, began as an offshoot of the Latino Diamante Awards, says founder Lizette Cruz Watko. Now in their 24th year, the awards will be held Nov. 16 at the Cary Arts Center.

Diamante WRITTEN BY MARY CORNATZER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

ONCE OR TWICE A YEAR, about 25 lucky individuals in the Triangle get a chance to spend an evening immersed in another country’s food and culture — without hopping on a plane.

They may start with a little sangria or mamajuana (a rum cocktail). Later, they could dine on Argentine beef or Dominican sancocho, a meaty stew with rice and avocado, and finish the night watching flamenco dancers or listening to traditional Argentine music. The cuisine, the music, the art and the conversation depend on which country Diamante Arts and Cultural Center features at Sabor y Cultura. What never changes about the “flavor and culture” event, says Roberto Perez, Diamante's board chair, is this: People 116

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leave with a greater knowledge and appreciation for Latino or Hispanic culture.

This has been the mission of Diamante — which means diamond in Spanish — since it started in 1998. “The concept came from taking the community from a carbon to a diamond,” said Lizette Cruz Watko, the founder.

“Our vision is uniting communities through Latino culture and art, so Diamante’s work is dedicated to preserving, developing and promoting the culture and heritage and the artistic expression of the diverse Latino/ Hispanic community in our state,” Watko said.

One way Diamante does that is by showing Latinos are not one large homogenous group.

“People assume that just because you’re from Mexico you’re the same as a Columbian, but the cultures and the food and sometimes even the language can be different,” said Watko, whose mother was from the Dominican Republic and father from Puerto Rico.

Diamante grew out of Watko’s previous business, La Voz de Carolina, the state’s first Spanish-language newspaper. The paper gave out annual Latino Diamante awards, and when Watko sold the paper, the awards became a standalone event. Diamante’s other activities grew up around them.

Now in their 24th year, the awards honor people and organizations that make significant contributions to the state’s Latino

“Our vision is uniting communities through Latino culture and art, so Diamante’s work is dedicated to preserving, developing and promoting the culture and heritage and the artistic expression of the diverse Latino/ Hispanic community in our state.”

Diamante launches its annual Estrella Campaign the first week of December. Volunteers gather and sort donated food and toys, and the gifts are distributed at the Three Kings Day Parade in January. Last year, thousands came out to see the costumed marchers and celebrate the 12th Day of Christmas.

-— Lizette Cruz Watko, founder, Diamante and Hispanic communities. This year’s event — think red carpet, fancy dress and performances that rival a TV awards show — are Nov. 16 at the Cary Arts Center.

The organization’s other signature events — all in Cary — include the Ritmo Latino Festival each spring and the Estrella — or Star of Hope — Campaign in winter. Estrella starts the first week of December with a tree-lighting and Christmas carols from a volunteer band.

“We call it the ‘The Once-A-Year Band,’” Perez said, “because we get a member from most of the bands that we have around here, and with no practice, no nothing, we start jamming.”

Volunteers spend the month gathering and sorting food and toys donated by individuals and corporations and then give them out at the Three Kings Day Parade, which celebrates the 12th day of Christmas. All Diamante’s events are put on by a small army of volunteers, and more are always needed, Watko and Perez stress.

Over the years, Diamante’s events have grown in popularity. More than 12,000 people attended Ritmo Latino in May, more than

double the crowds from just five years ago, Perez says. In January, 3,400 people bundled up to watch the Three Kings Day Parade.

There are also annual art exhibitions, documentary films and photo exhibits. The Sabor y Cultura events, which are also Diamante fundraisers, proved so popular, Sabor y Cultura on the Lawn, a free event, was added. The first, featuring the music, food and dance of Puerto Rico, drew 500 people to the garden plaza of the Page-Walker Arts & History Center.

New this year is DALI, the Diamante Arts Leadership Institute, a year-long leadership development program for artists. The seven inaugural DALI fellows recently met for the first time in Cary for workshops and collaboration.

Georges Le Chevallier, a member of the class, says the DALI fellows will be able to show how art helps communities and how Latino artists can make a difference.

A professor at the Living Arts College in Raleigh, Chevallier’s work has been exhibited around the country and internationally.

He says the beauty of Diamante is that the organization shows support for Latino and Hispanic artists at every level.

“I know very few organizations that are so committed to Latino arts and community,” he said. “I believe they’re doing really, really important work because — and I don't want to get too political — the stereotypes that a lot of people think of Latinos, Diamante is fighting against that.

They’re showing a positive, creative, artistic image of Latinos.” t

Upcoming events • Latino Diamante Awards, 6-10 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 16, at the Cary Art Center, 101 Dry Ave. Tickets are $60. The event includes a tapas reception at 6 p.m., with awards and entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. diamanteinc.org/latino-diamante-awards/ • Estrella (Star of Hope) Campaign begins the first week of December.

• Three Kings Day Parade, Saturday, Jan. 4, in downtown Cary.

• Sabor y Cultura on the Lawn, focusing on Venezuela, is May 1, 2020, at the Page-Walker.

For more information, visit diamanteinc.org.

CARY MAGAZINE 117

garden adventurer WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

Early Spring: Forcing Tazetta Daffodils With the summer garden becoming a memory, many backyard growers have hung up their hoes and now turn to the comforts of tending indoor plants. But while there are houseplants that will flower during the coldest times of the year, few seem fast to grow and eager to show. One pretty exception is the tazetta daffodil (Narcissus tazetta).

Unlike most other daffodils, tazettas (also known as paperwhites) grow from bulbs that don’t need the extended, chill time of winter to stimulate blooming. This makes them excellent candidates for a nifty trick called forced flowering.

Forced flowering simply speeds up a plant’s maturity by simulating outdoor conditions indoors. In the easy-to-please tazetta daffodil’s case, this means tucking planted bulbs away in a cool, dimly lit backroom until young shoots and roots begin to sprout, usually in about two weeks. Then, bring the flowering bulbs-to-be into an area that receives sunlight. Lots of sunlight.

I have found tazettas that don’t bask at least five hours in the winter sun tend to be tall floppers and need staking.

Planting these bulbs in potting soil will certainly work, but the fun way to grow tazettas is in water — just so you can watch the roots wake up and wiggle their way to maturity. A clear vase with an opening that will comfortably seat the bottom of a single bulb will work, but for a cluster planting, consider a bowl about 3 inches deep filled with colorful pebbles.

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Bulbs should be set so just their bottom quarters are in water.

Maintain this level of contact through the tazettas’ growth period.

Since the bulbs have stored up all the energy they are going to need for the flower show to come, adding fertilizer to the water will not be necessary.

With its sun and water requirements met, a tazetta daffodil will bloom in just over a month.

The clusters of small, white to light cream blossoms will then beautifully linger for a week or even longer. If you like their looks, consider staggering plantings to have fresh indoor flowers through the cold, dreary winter months.

Descriptions online and in books often mention these pretty blossoms are fragrant, and they are, but to me, many of them smell off-sweet, bordering on industrial. My best comparison is the scent of carpet glue. Honest.

Tazetta bulbs can be easily spotted in garden stores at this time of year, with the thinking being they make nice Christmas Tazetta Daffodils gifts whether in bloom or still in the box. Some of the standard varieties to be found include ‘Ziva’, ‘Galilee’ and ‘Jerusalem’.

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.

12 9

3 6

TIMELY TIP Now is the prime time to plant spring-blooming bulbs outdoors, but if you are tired of voles, squirrels and deer claiming your garden beds as their personal diners, a simple solution would be to give ’em what they don’t like. There are many bulbous pretties that these furry freeloaders would rather not eat.

Daffodils definitely top the list, but expand your mind and the blooming beauty of your spring garden by adding other yucky-tasting (yet eyecatching) bulbs such as hyacinths (Hyacinth orientalis), Spanish bluebells (Hyacinthoides hispanica), squills (Scilla sp.), snowdrops (Galanthus sp.), summer snowflakes (Leucojum aestivum), grape hyacinths (Muscari armeniacum), alliums (Allium sp.) and fritillaries (Fritillaria sp.).

Hyacinth

To Do in the GARDEN

November & December

November

December

• Two African violet maintenance tips: (1) Wipe the pot rims at least once a month to prevent salt buildup that can burn leaves and cause them to curl; and (2), at the same time, give each container a quarter turn to prevent plants from becoming lopsided as they reach for the sun.

• When your Christmas cactus pops into bloom, place it in a bright, naturally lit room and reduce watering to prolong the flowering period.

• If Jack Frost pays an early visit to the fall veggie garden, when it comes to kale, Brussels sprouts and collards, that’s good news.

A light icy dusting actually improves their taste.

• Hollyhocks looked raggedy this year? Chances are good they could have been afflicted with a disease called rust. To help prevent this blight next summer, cut off the old stems — where rust likes to overwinter — and discard them. Do not compost.

• You will be wrapping lots of Christmas presents this holiday season, right? If not, I’m gonna tell Santa, and, in addition, you will miss out on a handy garden helper. Cut those wrapping paper tubes into 4-inch-long pieces, so they can be used as collars around newly planted annuals next spring to protect them from cutworms.

• If you have any gasoline left in motorized garden equipment, remove it before tucking such handy machinery away for the winter. Over months, gas can lose some of its “fizz” and gunk up carburetors.

CARY MAGAZINE 119

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Make this holiday season special with the Conniption gin of your choice: Conniption Navy Strength or Conniption American Dry Available at our downtown Durham distillery, ABC stores in North Carolina and on cocktail menus throughout the Triangle.

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CARY MAGAZINE 121

happenings

women of western wake PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

The annual Cary Magazine Women of Western Wake Forum on Oct. 4 at the Umstead Hotel and Spa was a day to celebrate female leaders in our community.

The day opened with the breakfast keynote by Sharon Delaney, who inspired listeners with her personal story of overcoming adversity. Attendees picked up practical tips at workshops on mentorship, branding and cybersecurity. During a lunch presentation, Ann Marie Calabria, retired N.C. Appeals Court judge, was presented with the Women of Western Wake Lifetime Achievement Award. And during the day’s signature event, a panel discussion with the five of this year’s honorees — Shelley Westman, Catherine Truitt, Vicky Serany, Ravila Gupta and Lori Bush — led by Deborah Holt Noel of WUNC-TV turned into a wide-ranging discussion on leadership and success. More photos from the event are at carymagazine.com.

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happenings

Heather Chandler, owner of Morrisville-based Whole Brain Escape, has been selected as one of 125 American Association for the Advancement of Science IF/THEN Ambassadors. IF/ THEN, a national initiative of Lyda Hill Philanthropies, seeks to further women in science, technology, engineering and math by empowering innovators and inspiring the next generation of pioneers. During Chandler’s 23-year career in video-game development, she’s led teams at Epic Games, Electronic Arts, Ubisoft and Activision. wholebrainescape.com

BOMBSHELL BEER COMPANY in Holly Springs and its head brewer Devin Singley brought home a bronze medal from the Great American Beer Fest, a national beer competition in Denver. The brewery’s Bourbon Barrel Aged Lady In Red placed third out of 66 entries in the Wood- and Barrel-Aged Beer category. bombshellbeer.com

Alexa Blazevich

Gamers Geekery & Tavern, a blend of board game cafe and event space, is now open in Cary’s MacGregor Village. Owner Lance Shrader

BOND BROTHERS BEER COMPANY hosted its annual charity 5K on Saturday, Sept. 28, to benefit CORRAL Riding Academy. Roughly 575 participants ran, walked and pushed strollers across the finish line, where their numbers were announced by Cary Mayor Harold Weinbrecht. The fastest male runner, John Crews, completed the USATF certified-race in 15 minutes and seven seconds; the winning woman, Nicky Miller, came in at 19 minutes, 45 seconds. After the race, participants enjoyed live music from ShadowGrass. bondbrothersbeer.com

says, “With gaming becoming so popular, we wanted to create a place for gaming fans of all ages. While we have a full menu and wide selection of local beers and wines, at our core we are a place where families and gamers are welcome to come and play games.” carygametavern.com

THE CARY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE held its 57th Annual Banquet Sept. 11 at Prestonwood Country Club.

The keynote speaker was N.C. Secretary of Commerce Tony Copeland, who highlighted the importance of promoting commerce in North Carolina. Several awards were given out including Business of the Year to LaFarm Bakery, Citizen of the Year to Tamara Barringer, and Ambassadors of the Year to Kenneth Bollinger and Liz Rossilli. carychamber.com

CARY MAGAZINE 125

happenings

The

Alzheimer’s Association of Eastern North Carolina hosted the Triangle Walk to End Alzheimer’s disease at the

North Carolina Museum of Art on Sept. 29. More than 2,900 participants raised more than $370,000 to fund Alzheimer's care, support and research programs. Doug Austin, with WKIX-FM, served as emcee for the day’s festivities, which included live music from the Squire Red Band, fun, games and refreshments. Walk participants honored those affected by Alzheimer's disease with Promise Flowers which represented their personal reasons for fighting the disease. alz.org

Glenaire and the Presbyterian Homes plan to build a new six-story building at the Cary retirement community which will include apartments, dining, a wellness center and other amenities; artist rendering, left. Expected to open in 2023, the structure will include 192 independent-living apartments and 37 assistedliving apartments, increasing the capacity of the community to accommodate approximately 800 residents. glenaire.org 126

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Technicians and owners from

MR. HANDYMAN OF WESTERN WAKE COUNTY volunteered to perform construction, repair and maintenance tasks at Horses for Hope on Sept. 11, the National Day of Service. The nonprofit, based in Raleigh, uses horses to help those with special needs. The team from Mr. Handyman, including owner Bruce Foster, made walking in the barn safer by laying a floor over an existing floor, built several sets of stairs so that volunteers can safely get down to the horse and rider after they have mounted, and built two viewing stands for spectators. mrhandyman.com CARY MAGAZINE 127

WALTONWOOD CARY PARKWAY celebrated National Grandparents Day on Sept. 7 with a

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1950s-themed party. The event featured grandparents’ favorite childhood games, as well as antique cars, a soda shop with snacks, Polaroid photos and other meaningful activities. The Grandparents Day celebration is one way Waltonwood Cary Parkway promotes intergenerational activities and a healthy lifestyle for its residents. “This is a great opportunity for the seniors and their grandchildren to share experiences and understand

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THE MAGGY AWARDS

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director. waltonwood.com

EXEC SOCKS, a Raleigh-based sock subscription service, now offers men’s accessory boxes. Five hand-picked items are delivered each month, ranging from professional attire like cufflinks, belts, watches and pocket squares, to accessories such as fountain pens, technology cases and sunglasses. For every sock or accessory box subscription, socks will be donated to Healing Transitions, a recovery center in Raleigh for homeless, uninsured and underserved individuals with alcoholism and other drug addictions. execsocks.com

Cotton House Craft held its inaugural Fall Fest in September to celebrate the season and the completion of its outdoor seating area. The event included a mobile ax-throwing range and live music. Entertainers included Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Gabriel Kelley and the Nashville-based Hogslop String Band, above. There were also local craft vendors and food from Cousins Maine Lobster, American Meltdown and Curry In A Hurry. cottonhousecraft.com

More than 30 employee volunteers from

Cornerstone Building Brands, based in Cary, helped make home ownership a reality for a local family through Ply Gem's Home for Good project. Working with Habitat for Humanity, the Home for Good project has built more than 500 homes in 90 communities in the United States, including the one in Raleigh’s Augusta Landing neighborhood. Country duo Maddie and Tae — Madison Marlow and Taylor Dye — joined Cornerstone Building Brands' chairman of the board and CEO, Jim Metcalf, during a private performance at the company's barbecue kick off of the volunteer season. plygem.com/home-for-good-project CARY MAGAZINE 129

write light

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Big lizard An American alligator lies in wait at the Shallotte River Swamp Park in Brunswick County, N.C. ¬ The outdoor amusement park offers an elevated ropes course with obstacles, zip lines, a walking trail through the swamp and boat tours.

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