Wake Living January/February 2026

january/february 2026

wakeliving BRINGING THE CAPITAL AND ITS COMMUNITIES TO LIFE

Serious Sandwiches

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contents

JANUARY/FEBRUARY

18

WONDROUS WHIMSY

26

ESCAPE TO EDENTON

38

26

MOUNTAIN AIR

56

THE CALL TO DISCONNECT

67 SPECIAL SECTION: GREAT ESCAPES

78

LEGENDARY LUNCHES 38 10 WAKELIVING

78

ON THE COVER: The giant Trolls at Dix Park are worth a peek. See story, page 18.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

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departments 14 LETTER FROM THE EDITOR 20 OUT & ABOUT IN WAKE COUNTY 50

PAY IT FORWARD RALEIGH STROLL CLUB

60

SMALL BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT FLEET FEET RALEIGH-MORRISVILLE

wakeliving JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026

GROUP PUBLISHER PUBLISHER PRODUCTION MANAGER EDITOR SENIOR EDITOR COPY & DIGITAL EDITOR SOCIAL MEDIA

Bill Zadeits Kris Schultz Lauren Morris Erin McKnight Emily Uhland Tara Shiver Arlem Mora

CONTRIBUTORS L.A. Jackson Andrea Richards

PHOTOGRAPHY Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

ADVENTURER 74 GARDEN BETTER WITCHES SPIRITS 87 CELEBRATED THE ETHAN 2.0

89 RECIPES FROM READERS

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

PUBLIC RELATIONS S&A Communications, Chuck Norman, APR

92 HAPPENINGS

ADMINISTRATIVE Kristin Black, Accounting Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator & Distribution Manager Valerie Renard, Human Resources

98 WRITE LIGHT

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Stuart Weiss

IN THE NEXT ISSUE

Wake Living © is published six 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.

The Wake Living Maggy Awards (formerly the

Westview at Weston 701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Suite 103

Readers’ Choice Awards)

Cary, North Carolina 27513

recognize the businesses,

www.wakeliving.com

people, and places that make our lives great in Raleigh, Wake Forest, and Knightdale.

12 WAKELIVING

WAKE LIVING

(919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500

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.

Performance The reviews are in, and they’re as positive as the outcomes.

In virtually every performance metric, we’re recognized as among the best in the nation. Research. Technology. Innovation. Diagnostics. Surgeries. Minimally invasive procedures. And, of course, outcomes. All of which combine to set the standard in cardiovascular care. Now performing to critical acclaim at wakemed.org/hearts.

Your heart. Your choice.

editor’s letter

Erin McKnight takes in the sights — and near hypnotizing sounds — of Edenton Bay at the Penelope Barker House.

It’s a new year, and this one is sure to take us places! In the spirit of filling 2026 with adventure and discovery, we invite you to explore this travel and outdoor adventure issue.

Every new year brings with it the promise of fresh beginnings, so what better way to embrace than by embarking on some new journeys in Wake County and beyond?

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

With “A Call to Disconnect,” we consider the unplugged travel trend and discover that although there are myriad benefits to going offline when stepping beyond our (virtual) doorsteps, taking such a trip isn’t as simple as ‘forgetting’ to pack the phone battery.

Sandwiches are serious business in our legendary lineup of lunches in the Triangle, making the case for making the drive to find “good things between bread.”

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

As we step into a brand-new year, a palpable sense of excitement in the air, let’s embrace the opportunities that lie ahead in our community and beyond.

Here’s to making this year one that’s filled with adventure and discovery.

Thanks for reading!

Erin McKnight, Editor

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 15

Host Melissa Wistehuff takes you beyond the pages of

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Wondrous Whimsy WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

If you need a reminder of the magic that surrounds us, look no further than Dix Park. There, the Trolls wait to tell their tales. Reclined against, sitting among, peeking out from, resting between, and running through trees that are enchanted by their fanciful presence, these five oversize wooden sculptures were created

by Danish recycle artist and activist Thomas Dambo and required a team of volunteers to work nearly 300 hours using recycled materials to install.

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

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 19

Under the Silver Moon Lantern Parade January 10, 6 p.m.

Downtown Cary Park carync.gov/lanternparade

Chocolate, Wine & Whiskey Festival

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

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

Kerr Scott Building, Raleigh chocolatewinewhiskey.com

Indulgences of all kinds unite at the NC State Fairgrounds — from hand-rolled truffles to luxurious fondue to an amazing selection of bean-to-bar artisan chocolates. And that’s just the chocolate. Tickets include unlimited samples of all the goodness available, including wine, whiskey, cocktails, and sweet and savory food items. Must be 21 to attend Raleigh’s sweetest event. $63.28 and up (VIP options available).

Artful Story Time: Ready for Ramadan

January 21, 10:30–11 a.m.

North Carolina Museum of Art ncartmuseum.org/events/artful-storytime-ready-for-ramadan/ Readers from Artist Ummah use children’s books and works of art from NCMA’s galleries to teach about Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, which begins February 17. The event aimed at children 18 months to 4 years incorporates movement and hands-on activities.

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january/february Sole Mates Race

February 14, 8:45 a.m.

WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary runsignup.com/Race/NC/Cary/SoleMates Join Fit & Able Productions for your choice of race experience! Choose a 5K, 6.5-mile, or Fun Mile course.

Compete individually or as a doubles team where you and your “sole mate” (partner, neighbor, friend, sibling — all are welcome!) can place by combined finish time. Virtual race options are also available. $25 and up.

Then and Now: A History of the Pullen Arts Community

Closing reception January 24, 2:30– 4:30 p.m., open daily except Fridays Pullen Arts Center, Raleigh Explore the history of the Pullen Arts Center from its opening in 1961 to today via artifacts, photos, and works of art that include pottery, painting, photography, drawing, and printmaking.

Intro to Gardening in the South

January 31, 9 a.m. to noon JC Raulston Arboretum, Raleigh Virtual option available jcra.ncsu.edu Prepare for the growing season ahead with a series of lectures from area experts. Topics include “When You Can’t Grow Lilacs (and Other Favorites): Garden Substitutes That Shine in the South,” “Common Garden Insects: Beneficials and Pests,” and an open “Ask the Experts” Q&A period.

Preregistration is required for in-person or online attendance.

Black History Month Walking Tours

February 6, 13, and 20, 1–2:30 p.m.

Taylor Street Park, Wake Forest bit.ly/BHMWalkingTours Visit the Olive Branch Baptist Church, Alston-Massenburg Center, the newly restored Ailey Young House, the African American Cemetery, and more on a free tour led by historic preservation and museum staff.

Registration required and limited to 15 attendees per tour.

Mardi Gras Masquerade Prom

February 7, 8–11 p.m.

The Chapel at Dix Park, Raleigh raleighnc.gov/parks-and-recreation/events/ mardi-gras-masquerade-prom-adults Masks, music, and magic are in store at this prom for adults 21+. Enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres, DJselected tunes, festive mocktails, and a cash bar. $40 per person, benefitting the Play It Forward Financial Assistance Program.

Cupid’s Undie Run February 21, noon to 4 p.m.

Motorco Music Hall, Durham cupids.org

Freeze your buns off for a good cause!

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

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The Roanoke River Lighthouse and Maritime Museum

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New River State Park, Elk Shoals Access, West Jefferson

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

With majestic mountains and serene shores, North Carolina has it all. Whether you seek fresh air and stunning vistas or sunsoaked coastal culture — or both — we invite you to chart your own course while planning your next getaway.

READ ABOUT WEST JEFFERSON ON PAGE 38.

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 25

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 27

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Golden hour on Edenton Bay

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 29

In Edenton, historical markers abound.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 31

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

See

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 33

Stay Bed & Breakfasts

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

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

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

Savor

Boat Slips

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

Shop

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

The contractor responsible for the preservation of many of Edenton’s homes and buildings, to include the Kadesh Church, Down East Preservation showcases a design studio and retail space for home décor and furniture. (downeastpreservation.com) Coastal Threads

Byrum Hardware and Gifts has been owned by the same family for over 100 years and has every home and garden project, as well as every giftgiving occasion, covered. (byrumhardwareco.com) Edenton Tea Company sells looseleaf teas, hand-painted Edenton teapot replicas, and other high-quality accessories; it also serves as a showroom for Patrick Dablow’s artwork. (edentontea)

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

“It’s Southern hospitality personified here.

And it really is genuine.”

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

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

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

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

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

— Susan Martin Cyr, Inner Banks Inn proprietor

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 35

DISCOVER THE

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APPLY NOW! DEADLINE 01/22/2026

Wake County’s award-winning magnet schools create well-rounded students by introducing them to new experiences and challenging them with programs tailored to their strengths.

We invite you to explore the WCPSS magnet themes to find those that best meet the interests of your child.

To learn more about WCPSS enrollment and the magnet application process, visit wcpss.net/magnet Questions? Email us at magnetcenter@wcpss.net.

Learn more: wcpss.net/magnet Questions? (919) 533-7289 magnetcenter@wcpss.net

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 37

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

OH Restaurant’s Rooftop Bar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 39

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

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

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

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Sculptures at Ashe County Cheese

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“The hotel is highly social,” Mark says.

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

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

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

Centrally located in the middle of downtown, the West Jefferson Hotel supplies the perfect home base for exploring the area’s charms. Restaurants, shops, and a park are mere steps from the hotel’s front door, with even more to explore a short drive away. t westjeffersonhotel.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 41

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

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

— Jasper Brannan

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Luther Rock overlook at Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 43

Third Day Kitchen

Eat &

OH Restaurant

Havana Café

Drink

OH Restaurant & Bar

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

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

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

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

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

by Trent. westjeffersonhotel.com/oh-restaurant

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

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

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

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

New River Brewing Smokehouse & Eatery

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

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

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

Old Barn Winery

Shop Ashe County Cheese

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ashe County Cheese

The Marketplace at Curiosity

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

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

Facebook: @curiositync Instagram: @the_marketplace_at_curiosity

Bull’s Boots and Western Wear

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St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Explore

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Old Barn Winery Trolley

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

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

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

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

Ashe County Farmers Market

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

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

Seasonal Fun

Ashe County Farmers Market

Christmas Tree Farms

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

Fields of Fraser fir trees blanket the landscape in and around West Jefferson, making the town a popular destination for choose-and-cut outings during November and December. Consider Frosty’s Choose and Cut, Long’s Tree Farm, or Cardinal Tree Farms and begin a new holiday tradition. gofrostys.com longstreefarm.com cardinaltreefarm.com

The New River

Ashe County Corn Maze

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

Fall fun, pumpkins galore, tractor hayrides, and a 4-acre corn maze delight families during weekends in September and October at the Ashe County Corn Maze. At dusk, ghouls and thrills take over as the maze transforms into the Scarecrows Nightmare Haunted Corn Field — visit if you dare. ashecornmaze.com JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 47

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pay it forward

Raleigh Stroll Club WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

— AJ Johnson

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 51

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 53

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WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

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

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

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 57

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

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

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

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

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

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contributed photo

Elaine Smith

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This sentiment underscores the idea that unplugging can break down barriers, inviting JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 59

small business spotlight

fleet feet raleigh-morrisville WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

photo courtesy of Fleet Feet Raleigh-Morrisville

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

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

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

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

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

Whether you’re looking to conquer your next milestone race or simply enjoy a leisurely jog, Fleet Feet has the support you need. t fleetfeet.com/s/raleigh/ JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 63

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Great Escapes 20 26

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

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

More than 95 cook teams from across the United States gather each year on the banks of the Neuse River in Kinston, grilling whole hogs through the night in preparation for judging the next morning.

Tender, flavorful pigs with crisp golden brown skin splayed on giant grates of custom cookers

waft a sweet aroma through downtown Kinston. Winners of the competition go home with bragging rights, cash awards, and a custom-made chopping board.

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

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

• A Nashville recording artist (to be announced March 2026; past performers include Runaway June, Joe Nichols, and Niko Moon) • Over 160 vendors covering food trucks, arts & crafts, home & garden, jewelry,

farmers market, and festival merchandise • Carolina Classic Car & Truck Show and Bikers for Christ Coastal Plains Motorcycle Show • Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden featuring Kinston’s own Mother Earth Brewing and Social House Vodka • Activities for children of all ages at The FUN Zone And of course, • The “Chop Tent” where you can taste Eastern North Carolina’s finest barbecue, prepared fresh and served onsite.

Come early — barbecue goes on sale at 11 a.m. Saturday and always sells out fast!

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 69

Great Escapes 20 26

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

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

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

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north carolina

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

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

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

Choose the Great State of Wilkes.

Plan your escape at WilkesCountyTourism.com

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Great Escapes 20 26

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

Sound separates Corolla and Carova from The Mainland.

The sound provides a great opportunity to experience BEACHES watersports on a different The beaches of Corolla body of water. Participate and Carova are just the in activities like kayak eco start. The pristine, wide, tours or stand-up paddle and natural beaches boarding, or get a 360-degree provide plenty of room view of the The Northern for playing games, boogie Outer Banks with a parasail boarding, surfing, or adventure above the water. simply relaxing with your family and friends. No ACCOMODATIONS cramped beaches here!

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

WATERSPORTS Whatever you choose, you’ll be On the west just a short walk from a body side, the Currituck of water. know that the The Northern Outer Banks is also known for laid-back family fun?

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garden adventurer

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

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

That’s right, I said a witch.

Well, not a real witch, but rather witch hazel — a patient plant that waits for the chilliest times of the year to put on a delightfully unexpected show of floppy, ribbon-like flowers with the added bonus of being fragrant, which is a big plus in any winter garden.

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

Breeding wizards have also had success combining the desirable attributes of Chinese witch hazel (H. mollis), a small tree (15 to 18 feet tall) flaunting fragrant

yellow flower ribbons, with Japanese witch hazel (H. japonica), a dazzler sporting yellow blooms and flashy fall foliage that can range in color from yellow to red to purple. This resulted in Hamamelis x intermedia, which has many popular cultivars that usually begin their flower shows during the winter to provide welcomed ocular and olfactory relief for spring-starved gardeners.

‘Arnold’s Promise’ is perhaps the most popular (meaning easiest to find at garden shops and online) of these hybrid witch hazels. A late bloomer, it flaunts 1 to 1 ½-inch-long stringy, fragrant yellow

Written and photographed by L.A. Jackson

blooms and rich reddish-orange autumn leaf coloration. Mellow for more yellow? The flowers of ‘Pallida’ show off in a buttery hue, too.

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

Usually topping out at about 10 to 20 feet tall and wide, H. x intermedia cultivars won’t particularly become landscape space hogs. While being tough plants, they perform better in well-drained, slightly acidic soil in sunny to partially shaded. t L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Want to ask L.A. a question about your garden? Contact him by email at lajackson1@gmail.com.

Timely Tip African violets need to be watered, of course, but the chlorine typically found in city systems can cause leaf spots.

An obvious remedy is to water the dirt, not the foliage. As another preventative, simply leave a bottle of tap water out overnight to allow the chlorine to dissipate. Using rainwater or bottled distilled water is another option. Both, by the way, are equally handy if you happen to have hard (alkaline) tap water, which is also not good for African violets because it can raise the pH of the potting soil these acid-loving pretties call home.

For better bloom displays, water your African violets properly.

To Do in the Garden JANUARY

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

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

FEBRUARY

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

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

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legendary lunches

Good Things Between Bread

WRITTEN BY ANDREA RICHARDS

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

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The BLT & Blue and Reuben from (ish) delicatessen

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Forrest Mason Forrest Mason

Union Special BLT

Union Special Grown Up Grilled Cheese

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Sandwiches seem simple, but even when they are, a sandwich is always more than the sum of its parts. As a concept, it’s clear: good things between bread. But there are seemingly infinite varieties, not just in ingredients, but also in style and form: hoagies, subs, open-face, tortas, bánh mì, sandos. Almost all are designed to be portable and quick — ideal for a meal on the run — with many possible places to procure one: delis, sub shops, gas stations, grocery stores, cafés, even some five-star restaurants, and of course, in the paper sack you packed from home.

A sandwich can be savory (most often) or sweet (think Nutella) or maybe both. It can be pricey or inexpensive, mind-blowing or mid. Is a hamburger a sandwich? What about a wrap or gyro? I don’t know, but I won’t entertain them here. Instead, we celebrate different takes on good things between bread — some homegrown Triangle restaurants where sandwiches transform a lunch break into something far from basic, bringing flavor and big feelings to the table.

It’s no surprise that for Andrew Ullom, a good sandwich starts with the bread. After all, he and his wife Jess own Union Special, a busy bakery and café known for its artisanal breads located in Raleigh’s buzzy Gateway Plaza shopping center. “It’s not just what holds the sandwich together; it’s an ingredient, and it needs great structure and taste,” Andrew says. “You can get the best ingredients together, but if you use bad bread, you’ve ruined the sandwich.”

Using breads made with locally milled flour, like the whole wheat and spelt sourdough Union Sour, or a soft and fluffy potato loaf, Andrew adds thoughtful elements to familiar staples. Instead of mayo the BLT has a chow chow aioli. A turkey melt, made richer with Gruyère cheese, includes a crunchy apple cabbage slaw. Served on a homemade brioche bun slathered with romesco, the Union Egg Sandwich — scrambled eggs and fontina cheese with a big, fat hash brown at its center — has achieved cult status and makes a glorious mess. If you want to lean even more into cheesy goodness, the Grown Up Grilled Cheese includes even more fontina, plus cheddar, kale pesto, and pepper jelly. Served on hearty Union Sour, the bread keeps this flavor bomb together.

“When I take my 9-year-old son out for burgers, he’s like, Dad, you should make the bread,” Andrew says, and I can certainly empathize. It must be hard to downgrade if you’re

Hope’s Best from Side Street Cafe

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Side Street Cafe’s California Gold

used to sandwiches like this. There are specials, too, but amid a booming wholesale business that supplies bread all over the region, Andrew keeps the regulars in mind: “We have folks who come in and get the same sandwich a couple of times a week, and I feel a lot of pride in that — consistency is really important.”

The certainty of a beloved sandwich offers comfort in an increasingly chaotic world — ordering the regular and knowing exactly what’s on it supplies a steadiness we sometimes crave. Sandwiches can be symbols, offering simpler times, or comfort foods, like how a PB&J always makes one feel like a kid, even if made with gourmet nut butter instead of Jif.

Mary Lu Wooten owner of Side Street Cafe

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For those looking for a side of nostalgia with their sandwich, try Side Street Restaurant, which has been operating on a quiet street in Raleigh’s Oakwood neighborhood for 46 years. Tucked away in a largely residential area, this historic restaurant feels like visiting someone’s home. The sandwiches are similarly homey, full of personality and a sense of place — think mama’s pimento cheese, homemade egg salad, and a slate of sandwiches that bear proper names: Hope’s Best (pimiento cheese, veggies, and bacon), Rob’s Barnyard Strut (chicken salad with pecans, apples, and sprouts), and Hank’s Brief (tuna salad in a pita).

BLT & Blue from (ish) delicatessen

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Side Street is charming and quaint and extremely thoughtful from the menu to the space and service. If you can’t choose between a “Strut” and a “Hank’s,” then order the Split Personality and have both. Because here you can have your bread pudding (or pie — don’t miss the desserts) and eat it, too.

Less than two miles away is Matt Fern’s (ish) delicatessen, a deli counter/café located inside Person Street Pharmacy. Both the location and the menu act like wormholes where one can rapidly travel through influences and time, making sandwiches that feel both

Beet-Ziki from (ish) delicatessen

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familiar and new — it’s a modern-day soda fountain-cum-bottle shop dreamt up by a sandwich visionary and wine connoisseur.

Like Andrew, Matt worked for Ashley Christensen’s company before striking out on his own — Andrew was the executive pastry chef of AC Restaurants, Matt the beverage director. “I had a really great job and decided to trade that in to focus my life on meat and cheese in between bread and get a little strange with it,” Matt says.

As he describes it, (ish) is “kind-ofsort-of Jewish, kind-of-sort-of Italian, sort

of from the South, and sort of a deli … it blends, borrows and steals from all these classic ideas.” The pastrami and corned beef (your choice) are smoked in house for the Reuben, and the bread is a rye specially made by Boulted Bread. The ends of that delicious pastrami get repurposed in a “burnt ends” potato salad that is so good, I didn’t flinch when my daughter ate a bowl of it for breakfast.

The potato salad, along with other housemade meats and salads, is available by the pound in the deli case, and breakfast is served all day alongside lunch. Like delis of yore, photos of local luminaries line the walls. The counter should lend a strong deli vibe to the spot, but the atmosphere, maybe because of the pharmacy, is decidedly more luncheonette.

Or maybe, like the menu, it’s a bit of both.

For Matt, what makes a good sandwich is “condiments. And cheese on both sides of the bread.” He brings that sense of maximalism and experimentation to the classics: the BLT & Blue changes with the seasons, featuring fresh heirloom tomatoes in the summer, fried green tomatoes in the shoulder months, and roasted red ones in the winter, but with a mainstay of blue cheese dressing slathered on both sides. His take on the tuna melt features fish directly from the NC coast via Locals Seafood, smoked in house, then wedged between two slices of sourdough coated

also check out...

You can’t talk about sandwiches in the Triangle and not hear about Durham’s Ideal’s Sandwich and Grocery, which boasts lines around the block for with a lemon dill mayo, plus melted Swiss cheese and braised Swiss chard.

“It’s as close to perfection as I think exists,” Matt says.

That Swiss chard shows up again as pickled stems that are deep fried and buried beneath layers of melted cheese on the Fried Pickle Grilled Cheese, which is an utterly unique offering. So, too, is my personal favorite, the Beet-Ziki, a grilled cheese with melted dill Havarti and beets that have been roasted and “tzatziki’d.”

Inspired by a salad he once had at the now-shuttered Sonoma restaurant SHED, Matt “put it inside of bread.”

Another of Matt’s irreverent moves is that the breakfast menu features the same sandwich under two different names. File this one under IYKYK, but it’s a New Jersey pork roll that inspires the same amount of conflict as a Duke/Carolina game. Still, for all the ruffled feathers, Matt has created a sandwich spot where everyone can feel comfortable — and find something they want to eat, discovering a

new take on an old classic or something entirely new (don’t miss the specials, where Matt’s originality certainly shines).

Sandwiches can be comforting, fun, and inspire hunger, wonder, and nostalgia on the same plate. Some of the sandwiches at Side Street, like a cream cheese and olive one, made me miss my mother-in-law, reminding me of longago lunches. The friendly service and community vibe at all three spots made me think about how great it is when someone makes a sandwich for you — especially one so good you couldn’t possibility make it for yourself.

“It’s lunch, not an intellectual endeavor,” says Matt, at the end of our conversation about his inspirations. His quote is a good reminder that the sandwich was made to fill a void in our stomach, not our hearts, but sometimes it’s hard to know the difference.t unionspecialbread.com sidestreetrestaurantraleigh.com ishdelicatessen.com

their classic deli sandwiches and is 100 percent worth the hype: Uncle Primo’s Chicken Cutlet on the house-made focaccia is my go-to. Another great spot for sandwiches is Raleigh’s first pay-what-you-can café, A Place at the Table, whose mission helps to combat hunger and food insecurity in our community.

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155 E. Chatham St. | 984-333-0150

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celebrated spirits

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

THE ETHAN 2.0

from Oak City Brewing Company Lesser-known Belma and Dolcita hops varieties lend strawberry, stone fruit, coconut, and citrus flavors to this session IPA that brewer Caleb Orr describes as “fruit punch meets piña colada.”

Named in memory of a regular, The Ethan 2.0 reimagines a recipe from Oak City’s archives in celebration of the brewery’s 10th anniversary.

In 2015, friends Blake Cone and Matt Keeler — whose wives both had babies on the way — quit their jobs to recognize their shared dream of opening a craft brewery. Located beside Knightdale Station Park, Oak City’s familyand dog-friendly tap room serves a rotating selection of 20 drafts and hosts a run club, music bingo, trivia, and other community events. oakcitybrewingcompany.com

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wake living cooks!

Harira

MOROCCAN RAMADAN STEW FROM GRETCHEN ELHASSANI

For March/April we’re looking for your best brunch recipes! Submit at wakeliving.com/recipe-submissions for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate to Rey’s Restaurant.

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

2 tablespoons fresh

1 teaspoon olive oil

chopped cilantro

1 medium onion, diced

7 cups water

1 tablespoon turmeric

2 stalks celery, chopped

½ teaspoon ginger

3 medium tomatoes

2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

3 tablespoons tomato paste

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

1. Soak lentils in a small bowl of water.

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

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

4. Add celery and simmer for 15 minutes.

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

6. Add lentils. Simmer for 15 minutes.

7. Add rice. Simmer for 15 minutes.

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

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! RALEIGH

IN PARTNERSHP WITH

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Start Your Year With a Smile That Shines DISCOVER THE TREATMENTS THAT CAN HELP YOU ACHIEVE THE RADIANT SMILE YOU’VE ALWAYS WANTED. CONTRIBUTED BY DR. EDMOND SUH, D.D.S.

A great smile is more than a facial expression — it’s a powerful asset that can boost confidence, enhance first impressions, and improve overall well-being. Today, advancements in cosmetic dentistry make it easier than ever to transform your smile into one that looks naturally bright, healthy, and beautifully aligned. Whether you want subtle improvements or a complete makeover, modern treatments such as veneers, teeth whitening, and Invisalign offer customizable solutions for virtually every concern.

Professional Teeth Whitening

One of the most popular ways to enhance a smile is professional teeth whitening.

Over time, enamel becomes stained from coffee, tea, wine, and everyday habits, leaving teeth looking dull or discolored. While over-the-counter options can help, professional whitening treatments offer far more noticeable and longer-lasting results.

Zoom! and KöR are two whitening treatments that can deliver optimal and customized results. Zoom! whitening employs advanced LED light technology and can brighten your teeth by up to eight shades in a one-hour visit to your dentist.

For even more elaborate transformations of up to 16 shades, KöR is a comprehensive, multistep deep bleaching treatment that produces permanent results with only periodic touch-ups.

Because veneers are designed to match the natural shade and contour of your teeth, they offer a flawless yet natural-looking finish. With a conservative procedure, only a tiny portion of the natural tooth must be removed for the veneer. Another added benefit of veneers is that they are not susceptible to staining.

Invisalign

For those who want to straighten their teeth without the look or inconvenience of traditional braces, Invisalign remains a favorite option. This system uses a series of clear, removable aligners to gently shift teeth into better alignment. Because the aligners are virtually invisible, adults and teens often prefer them for their discreet appearance. Beyond aesthetics, Invisalign also offers practical benefits: Patients can remove the aligners

when eating or brushing, making oral hygiene easier and more effective.

A beautiful smile isn’t just about aesthetics — it influences how you feel and how others perceive you. With today’s cosmetic dentistry options, achieving that smile is more accessible, comfortable, and personalized than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a complete smile makeover, modern treatments can help you look and feel your best every day.

Edmond W. Suh, D.D.S., is the owner of Supremia Dentistry in Wake Forest. He is an international lecturer on advanced esthetic dental procedures, and leads an award-winning team that has completed extensive training and continuing education to implement the latest technologies and techniques. For more information or to make an appointment, call (919) 556-6200 or visit supremiadentistry.com.

Veneers

For individuals seeking a more dramatic improvement, veneers provide a powerful solution. Veneers are thin, custom-crafted porcelain shells that bond to the surface of your teeth. They can instantly correct issues such as discoloration, small gaps, chips, uneven shaping, and even mild misalignment.

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happenings

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

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

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

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

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happenings A new coffee shop in the Theatre

Courtesy of NCModernist

Raleigh Arts Center designed to serve patrons, students, and the greater Raleigh community opened on Dec. 5.

The Green Room offers tables, lounge seating, and counter spots in a 1,700-square-foot arts-inspired café. Menu features include coffee from Carrboro’s Grey Squirrel Coffee Co., soft-serve ice cream, and grab-and-go lunch items from The Veggie Wagon.

“Our goal is to create a space that’s

NCModernist is hosting a monthly documentary series featuring films that celebrate modern architecture and design. Showings take place the first Tuesday of each month, through May, at The Rialto Theater in Raleigh.

to the community,” says Lauren Kennedy Brady, executive director of Theatre Raleigh.

“We also wanted to meet a need on our campus. Between classes, rehearsals, and

Feb. 3: Prickly Mountain

performances, our TR ACT families and

March 3: Google

patrons need a welcoming spot that’s quick,

April 7: Maslon House and Curating Modernism

affordable, and genuinely good. The Green

May 5: The Donn of Tiki

Room is that ‘third place’ — a cozy hub

“There’s nothing more fun for architecture fans than hanging out at the cherished Rialto Theater at Five Points — with the best popcorn in Raleigh,” says George Smart, founder of NCModernist. “We’ll have door prizes every night, and most films will feature remote Q&As with the producers beforehand.” ncmodernist.org/movies Residential garbage customers in Raleigh:

Recycle your Christmas tree! Remove all lights and decorations and place it on the ground on your yard waste collection day. Crews will transport the trees to the Raleigh Yard Waste Center, where they will be turned into mulch (natural trees only, please). Tree pickup runs through Feb. 1.

In-person drop-off sites at Blue Jay Point, Green Hills, Harris Lake, Lake Crabtree, and Beech Bluff county parks accept trees for recycling through Jan. 31.

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open, inviting, and genuinely connected

where students can refuel between sessions, parents can connect with each other while their child is in a class, and audiences can linger before and after a show.” theatreraleigh.com/the-green-room Instagram/TikTok @TheGreenRoomtr Megan Clark

happenings Explore trails and parks throughout Wake County with the free Wander

Wake County app, launched

last October. The app consolidates data from the Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau, Triangle Trails Initiative, and municipal parks departments into an integrated trail map that helps users

Jenee Alston has been promoted to Vice President of Consumer Lending and Matthew Swanner has been promoted to Vice President of Indirect Lending

enjoy public green spaces alongside local businesses and other community amenities. Key app features include: ability

in Coastal Credit Union’s lending division. Jenee brings 29 years of lending industry

to filter results by location and activity,

experience and will oversee the strategic growth, performance, and operational excellence

park and trail descriptions with nearby

of Coastal’s consumer and home equity lending portfolios. With 19 years of indirect

points of interest, route planning, and

auto lending and financial services experience, Matthew will oversee dealer relationships,

integration with Visit Raleigh’s restaurants

lending operations, and the strategic growth of Coastal’s indirect lending portfolio.

and things to do.

The estate of Virginia Lea Parker donated $105,000 to the Raleigh Police

Department in November. Her father, Benjamin Parker, served in the Raleigh-based hospitality company LM Restaurants opened Smash Social Club in mid-December in Raleigh’s Glenwood South. Located in the former Carolina Ale House at the corner of Tucker St. and Glenwood Ave., Smash offers table tennis, shuffleboard, and

department from 1951 to 1971. The funds will be used to purchase new K9s and support equipment for the K9 Unit.

“We are deeply grateful for this gift,”

electronic darts in a 9,600-square-foot space. Menu offerings focus on global flavors and

says Lt. David Davis, public affairs officer

modern comfort foods paired with craft cocktails, local beers, and more.

for the Raleigh Police Department. “Any

“People want more than a meal these days,” says Amber Moshakos, president of LM

funds dedicated to helping us better

Restaurants. “From electronic shuffleboard and darts to table tennis and beer pong, Smash

serve and protect the people of Raleigh

Social Club is all about bringing people together to play, connect, and have fun. Our company

represent a meaningful investment in

is evolving right alongside how people socialize to create dynamic experiences and spaces.”

public safety.”

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2026 97

write light

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Dappled in monochrome 98 WAKELIVING

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