Main & Broad May/June 2025 by mainandbroadmag

sweet treats at Asia's cakes murder mystery but make it cozy

robots rule in holly springs

GRILLING SEASON

Fire = Flavor

Local butchers make seasonal grilling a snap

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

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SATURDAY,

BBQ pictured: Longleaf Swine

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Swingtime Canteen May 9 - 11

It’s 1944 London and ﬁlm star Marian Ames has brought her best girl friends from the Hollywood Canteen to put on the rip-roaringest canteen show of them all. Marian, Jo, Katie, Topeka and Lilly are ready to give the troops a memorable night with over 30 vintage classics from the war years. Laughs, tears, emotional ﬁreworks, air raids and a celebration of women during the war punctuate this hilarious and heartwarming story. May 9 and 10, 7:30PM, May 11, 2:00PM. Tickets at FVArts.org.

Free Art LAB Saturdays!

Join artist Charlene Bowling at the Arts Center lobby one Saturday a month to create art. Each month will be a different project theme. Explore drawing, bookmaking, printmaking, collage, painting, sculpture and more. Art LAB projects are designed to be accessible to artists of all ages and skill levels. Registration is FREE so let us know you are coming at FVArts.org. Supported by the United Arts Council Wake County.

Kids’ Summer Camps

Explore and create in these fun-ﬁlled Camps. Draw, paint, print, sculpt, dance, learn magic and more with our experienced instructors in the Arts Center Studios! All materials provided. Scholarships available through artscenterfriendsfv.org. Starting in June! Ages 6 to 14.

Imagination comes with 7 doors and its own section of town.

by Molly Darcy Age 36

Washington DC

I am an artist and university professor. Thomas Sayre is someone that intrigues me. I’ve seen his monumental sculptures tower over landscapes around the world. When I heard he raised a piece in Kinston, I knew this would be a stop on my artist bucket list.

There are artists who work on a canvas as tiny as a pinhead. There are artists who hide their creations, making the act of finding them part of the statement. But Thomas Sayre does neither of those. His artwork is monumental, towering. It’s meant to be seen and marveled at for generations. Thomas Sayre is a man intent on making history. That made him the perfect artist to commission for a new sculpture in downtown Kinston.

In 2015, Sayre was enlisted to create a sculpture to anchor the Kinston Art Trail. The work would honor the town’s tobacco heritage and demonstrate the city’s shift into a cultural arts center. It would be a piece symbolic of the town’s resilience, an icon to help funnel their movement upward. So, the idea for Flue was born.

constructed of earthcast concrete with cracks, holes, and empty bottles pierced throughout for local insects to come and go at will. Sayre had my attention. Since that moment, I have made a point to experience as many of his works as I can. Neil calls it my Sayre bucket list.

YOU CAN WALK UP TO IT, TOUCH IT,

Located in the coastal plains of North Carolina, Kinston is a city at the center of many historical moments. Be that moment a Civil War battle or surviving hurricanes or building back an entire economy after the collapse of tobacco. The people in Kinston are resilient and creative – taking what they have and figuring out how to move forward.

EXAMINE THE TEXTURES

I first encountered Sayre’s work on a visit to Phuket, Thailand. My husband, Neil and I were there on our honeymoon when we saw an ominous structure beckoning to us from the shoreline. Phuket Cheddi stands over five stories tall and is more than 16 feet around – a giant cone

Lucky for me, I don’t have to go far to experience Flue. Kinston is just a few hours south of our home in Washington, D.C. So, we decided to make our visit a long weekend.

As we pull into town, we pass a mural of a giant stork that encompasses an entire block. There are galleries popping up here and there featuring work of local artists. Standing amongst all this creativity and growth is Flue. Like Sayre’s other earthcasting work, Flue is stunning. It’s a sculpture in seven parts, with each piece crafted

to look like the facade of a tobacco barn. Standing over three stories tall and weighing in at 280 tons, Flue is designed to make a statement.

To form Flue, Sayre cast reinforced concrete directly into molds cut into the earth here in Lenoir County – earth that once grew cotton, then tobacco. In fact, Flue was erected on the block where the Brooks Tobacco Warehouse once stood. When the town was in its golden leaf heyday, the building was a giant barn where rods upon rods of tobacco leaves hung, dried, and awaited processing. Flue is both the embodiment of this town’s history and its burgeoning path forward.

Like many of Sayre’s other sculptures, Flue invites visitors to interact with it. You can walk up to it, touch it, examine the textures. So I do just that. I enter the first doorway and start to walk in a

straight line. There are seven doors before me and each offers a different view of the town. As I take a step forward, the vision of that town becomes a little bigger, a little clearer. Until I exit the last doorway and the point of Flue becomes obvious.

Since the sculpture was raised, the town has gone through a bit of a renaissance. There’s a motor lodge that has been renovated to look like it’s straight out of the 1960s. There’s a tap room and beer garden that are 100% solar powered. There’s even a community of artists that have come to live and create in Kinston through the smART Kinston program.

All of this is proof that public art, like Flue, brings people together. It gives a town like Kinston a sense of place and attracts visitors like us. Perhaps it’s that, and not mere size, that’s the most monumental thing about Sayre’s work.

and quirkiness (to Fuquay-Varina), and it just feels like a good, safe, cozy place to live.

– Simone Stier, author

Local

So many ways to enjoy the outdoors: concerts, a community road race, garden tours, gourmet picnic, and golf for a cause

Sweet and sour Mangonada at Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila

BrainSTEMology founder Alex Flowers

ASIA’S CAKES

Baking sweet treats is a family affair at this Holly Springs café

Discover your new favorite restaurant in our Dining Guide

Fuquay-Varina Memes recommends unexpected outdoor adventures

Community news and accolades

Fuquay-Varina

reader Letters

“We are in tears. You’ve highlighted us so well! I am at a loss for words! David, please know how humbled, and blessed, and beyond grateful we are for this opportunity! Our dreams are coming to life right before our eyes! You’ve done such an amazing job. We can’t thank you enough. We can’t stop looking at it.”

– ANNET DUPRE, DUPRE’S COFFEE & COMPANY

“Congrats on the What’s Up, Wake podcast! Listened to the debut episode this morning — impressive interview and enjoyed hearing Scott’s story. Video of studio space on Instagram looked great, too. Adding it to my regular listens.”

– JOE OVERBY

“ What is your favorite recent read? ”

May/June 2025 • Volume 7, Number 3

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Emily Uhland, Senior Editor

Erin McKnight, Staff Writer

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

Tara Shiver, Digital & Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

Fuquay-Varina Memes

David McCreary

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer

Jennifer Casey, Senior Graphic Designer

Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer

Beth Harris, Graphic Designer

Lauren Morris, Graphic Designer

Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO

Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer

Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING

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PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications

Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager

Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator & Distribution Manager

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

PUBLISHER EMERITUS Ron Smith

Main & Broad 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.

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What’s on the

PODCAST?

Editor’s Letter

After stumbling upon the posts about their book series, which is set in a fictional version of Fuquay-Varina, I could not wait to meet this husband and wife pair. And it turns out, the Stiers aren’t the only resident authors puzzling together cozy mystery novels in Southern Wake. As an enthusiastic reader myself, uncovering this story — Cozy up with a Good Mystery, page 34 — was a delight.

The title of Grilling Season, page 47, may be slightly misleading — in my household anyway. Nothing quite hits the spot like the smell of charcoal on a warm night under the lingering daylight (hence the timing of this feature). But we, the Uhlands, still grill in the rain, in the cold, and in the dark. When I say “we,” I really mean my husband, Mike. Open-fire cooking is his domain.

It only took 20 years of working in publishing, and his beloved Weber grill, to rope Mike into a photo shoot with me. That’s him pictured above, jovially ignoring my directions as we photograph a spread of food for the cover. Thanks for grilling me delicious meals, honey, and making this issue look great.

EMILY UHLAND SENIOR EDITOR

200 specialty cakes baked per month by Asia’s Cakes

cozy mystery series penned by local authors photo shoot, in nearly 20 years of publishing, that my husband participated in. Special thanks, Mike, for expertly manning our grill.

1 This issue BY THE Numbers

4 specialty butcher and grocery purveyors ready to fire up your summer grilling years running that Hawktimus Prime robotics team reached the statewide competition

JONATHAN

FREDIN

We live for once-in-a-lifetime moments. At UNC Health, we live for everyday moments. Some big and unforgettable. Some quiet and peaceful. Some that open the door to an exciting new stage of life. And we’re proud to offer the care that gets our North Carolina neighbors well and keeps them well–making each of these wonderful moments possible.

Apex PeakFest

MAY 3

9 A.M. TO 5 P.M. DOWNTOWN APEX

A day full of activities, music, and fun highlighting local artists, nonprofits, town departments, and community organizations spread throughout downtown Apex. Two stages keep the crowd entertained all day, starting with hip-hop cardio workout at 9 a.m. peakfest.org

Visit Beech Bluff

County Park

8 A.M. TO 8 P.M. 3321 NC HIGHWAY 42, WILLOW SPRING

Explore the gardens, hiking trails, playgrounds, and educational programs of Wake County’s newest park, Beech Bluff County Park, open since March. Selfguided activities include geocaching, StoryWalk, and Adventure Backpacks with themed activities to enhance your visit. The park is committed to welcoming visitors of all abilities and has ADAaccessible facilities. Audio and textbased tours are coming soon for visitors who are blind, partially sighted, or deaf. wake.gov/beechbluff

See Do

Local Events & Experiences to Enjoy

Fuquay-Varina Garden Tour

MAY 17, 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M. MAY 18, 1–5 P.M.

FUQUAY-VARINA

Nine beautiful residential gardens welcome visitors on a self-guided tour to experience lovely displays, ideas for garden entertaining, specimen gardens for plant collectors, art in the garden, and shopping opportunities by vendors. Hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Garden Club. fuquayvarinagardenclub.weebly.com

Live at the Springs with Everclear

MAY 10

6:30 P.M.

TING STADIUM

Grammy-nominated rock band Everclear will hit the stage in Holly Springs for a special live performance inside Ting Stadium. Sing along to their hit singles, including “Santa Monica,” “Father of Mine,” “I Will Buy You a New Life,” “Wonderful,” and “Everything to Everyone.”

Seating options include the ballpark seats or infield grass (lawn chairs welcome). hollyspringsnc.gov/1415/Live-at-the-Springs-Concerts

See Do

Follow Me to Fuquay-Varina Concerts

MAY 1 & 15

6:30–9:30 P.M.

CENTENNIAL SQUARE

102 N. MAIN ST., FUQUAY-VARINA

There’s still time to enjoy Fuquay’s signature outdoor concert series. Sip a local brew, feast on food truck fare, sing, dance, and relax with hundreds of your neighbors and friends. Bring kids and chairs; leave coolers and pets at home.

May 1: Crush

May 15: The Breakfast Club fuquay-varina.org/414/FM2FV-Concert-Series

Women Fore Women

MAY 19

7:30 A.M. CHECK IN

9 A.M. SHOTGUN START

BENTWINDS COUNTRY CLUB

Hit the links with your gal pals for a women’s-only golf tournament, hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Woman’s Club. Money raised through the tournament benefits more than 100 outreach and service programs supported by the FVWC in arts, education, civic engagement, and environmental causes. Participants are encouraged to wear purple to increase awareness for domestic violence prevention, dementia care research, and cancer prevention. Registration includes greens fee and cart, breakfast, lunch, course treats, golfer gift bag, and dessert after play. Golfers of all skill levels welcome. fuquayvarinawomansclub.org

Animazement

MAY 23–25

RALEIGH CONVENTION CENTER

Learn and celebrate Japanese language and culture through the world of animation and manga. At this three-day festival/convention, attendees, special guests, and panelists come together to share anime, manga, video games, J-pop/J-rock, martial arts, traditional arts and crafts, and more in a family-friendly, festival-like atmosphere. Enjoy the party and leave with a greater sense of cultural understanding and appreciation for Japanese culture. animazement.com

Run the Quay

JUNE 7

7 A.M. 10K START

8:30 A.M. 5K START

FUQUAY-VARINA PRESBYTERIAN

CHURCH, 308 N. ENNIS ST.

This popular community road race, produced by the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce, has something for everyone. Choose a 5K, 10K, or even combine the two for a 15K event. Sign up young athletes for the WakeMed Children’s Twinkle Dash 50-yard and 100-yard races. Enjoy an after party and rehydrate at Mason Jar Lager Company. Race proceeds support the Fuquay-Varina Growers Market. fuquay-varina.com/run-the-quay

Farm to Fork Picnic

JUNE 8

4–7 P.M.

DONOVAN MANOR

5733 HILLTOP ROAD, FUQUAY-VARINA

Grab your friends, family, and a blanket for a summer picnic pairing North Carolina chefs, artisans, and farmers together to create bite-sized samples of the region’s best flavors and seasonal ingredients. Participating restaurants and farms include Longleaf Swine, Strong Arm Baking, The Fearrington House, Fox Farm & Forage, Chapel Hill Creamery, Hilltop Farms, and many others. Enjoy live music and activities for all ages, but leave pets at home. farmtoforknc.com

Juneteenth Freedom Day

JUNE 21

5–8 P.M.

HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

Honor Juneteenth with a cultural celebration featuring live performances, local vendors, food trucks, and kids’ activities, in partnership with the Holly Springs MLK Jr. Committee. hsmlk.org

Dig in Drink up Mangonada

From Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila

The mangonada, a classic Mexican cocktail, marries sweet and tangy flavors for a twist on the more familiar margarita.

Blending mango (either frozen fruit or mango nectar) and chamoy sauce made from fruit, chiles, and lime creates a fusion of refreshingly sweet and savory flavors, presented with a beautiful two-tone swirl that is a feast for the eyes as well as the ’gram.

At Aye! Toro, a generous glass is rimmed with Tajin, then filled to the brim with the frozen blend of tequila, mango nectar, chamoy sauce, a hint of hot sauce, and garnished with a tamarind candy stick.

Manager Alfonso Llamas assures that the cocktail isn’t spicy, but guests can request to add spice if desired.

“We can make it with strawberry or other flavors as well,” says Alfonso.

Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila ayetoronc.com

Alex Flowers

Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

The list of accomplishments on Alex Flowers’ résumé is long and lauded: the first African American male selected for the University of Chicago’s Post-Baccalaureate Research Education Program at the National Institutes of Health, the first African American to earn an NIH Minority Health International Research Training Fellowship at the University of Cambridge, a master’s degree in biotechnology and chemical science from Roosevelt University, studying in the pharmacy school at UNC-Chapel Hill. (And this is only a partial list!)

However, Alex found true fulfillment by fusing the study of STEM subjects with hip-hop music through his Fuquay-based organization, BrainSTEMology.

ORIGIN: I developed BrainSTEMology when I was in pharmacy school, because I saw in my graduating class only about 10 (out of 120) of us who could be considered minorities. There was a lack of diversity in just my class, so I said, let me go back and teach more minority students how to accomplish their dreams in academia and towards biopharma, health sciences, and clinical research so we can diversify STEM. I thought, what way can I do this? Through hip-hop music.

LIGHT-BULB MOMENT: The light bulb went off for me when my anatomy and physiology teacher played a video of four guys rapping about neuroscience. I started laughing. They were rapping about different nerves in the brain. But the teacher said, this is a mnemonic to help you guys remember all the different pathways within the brainstem. I thought, now I remember why I got into STEM in the first place.

DEFINITION: This concept of brainstemology is really a definition: It’s the study of brilliant rhymes, academic in nature, incorporating science, technology, engi-

Women’s Healthcare During Perimenopause and Menopause as it Should Be

Peri & Pause is a dedicated midlife women’s health clinic in Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, specializing in expert care for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. This stage of life is often overlooked, yet the care provided during this transition can have a lasting impact on long-term health. We offer comprehensive perimenopause and menopause care to support your well-being at each stage. We see patients in person as well as virtually throughout North Carolina. Book Your Appointment In 4 Easy Steps! periandpause.com | admin@periandpause.com 1876 N. Broad St., Fuquay, NC | 984-265-2101

neering, and mathematics content. You’re starting to see hip-hop being implemented in academia at the collegiate level. I want to bring it for the middle and high schoolers to help them on their journey, and to use hiphop as a vehicle to overcome any challenges or barriers that happen in their life, because we all will face some.

PERFECT PLACE: Let me start BrainSTEMology in Fuquay-Varina. We’re in the middle of all these universities and Wake Tech. Biopharma companies are coming into the area. Students don’t have to leave the Fuquay area for opportunities in STEM. So let me help prepare (them) for these different career paths.

PROGRAMS: We have workshops, laboratories, and networking sessions. In our workshops, I want to take the most challenging concepts that I had to learn through my schooling and teach them to students while they’re in middle school and

high school. Now these concepts won’t be a barrier for them to consider pursuing college.

While I was in school, the lab was, for me, a joy. It’s a place you get to come, dress how I want to dress, get there early, stay as late as I want. As long as I got my work done, nobody bothered me. And I listen to my music.

In BrainSTEMology, we play off the idea that in hip-hop, I’m going to the lab to create music, but here, I’m literally going into the lab to actually design molecules.

The last part is professional network-

One History,

ing. Students learn from different panel groups. We can help educate kids on different career paths that they can take, letting them know that science and STEM is everywhere, but now let’s make it fun through the arts.

ABOUT M.A.N.IFEST: M.A.N.ifest is a music, art, and networking festival. It re -

ally is the brainchild of my wife, Qisoundra Flowers. We share with our community the heritage of Juneteenth, how it’s not just for African Americans, but it’s for everyone. It’s Americans’ history. And for me, having a STEM background, I want to utilize M.A.N.ifest as a vehicle to share that African Americans have made contributions to STEM before and after emancipation. Unfortunately, we don’t hear about these stories in our textbooks.

brainstem-ology.com

“

You’re starting to see hip-hop being implemented in academia at the collegiate level. I want to bring it for the middle and high schoolers to help them on their journey, and to use hip-hop as a vehicle to overcome any challenges or barriers that happen in their life, because we all will face some.

”

— Alex Flowers

BUILD ME UP

Holly Springs team builds confidence and life skills … oh, and robots

Written by Emily Uhland

Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

Kalyn Oltrogge described herself as a loner. When she started at Holly Springs High School, she says, she had a hard time “finding her people.”

That was until she “tried robotics and loved it.”

It’s hard to imagine a version of Kalyn who didn’t fit in. When I met her, she was confident, passionate, and surrounded by friends who looked to her for leadership.

Kalyn serves as co-president of Hawktimus Prime FIRST Robotics team, a group of around 30 students based at Holly Springs High School.

“This has been my high school, my family. These are the people who celebrate my victories and cry for my losses. It’s been a joy to spread that to others,” Kalyn says.

On the night of the team’s robot reveal in March, Kalyn spoke from an auditorium stage about her passion for sharing robotics in underserved communities and encouraging other girls to experience a field dominated by males.

“My first year, I was the only girl. My second year, I became build president. My third year, I stepped more into the outreach side, trying to reach out to other people. Now we have five girls,” she says.

“It’s been my goal to make sure that young girls and young people of color and underprivileged communities have access to robotics. There’s nothing more magical than seeing those little kids’ eyes light up with the possibilities of something they’ve never even thought possible.”

If you are wondering, what in the world is FIRST Robotics? I was in your shoes when this story initially came across my desk.

FIRST — which stands for For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology — is a global nonprofit that promotes STEM disciplines and life skills through robotics programs.

Every January, FIRST releases a new game scenario. The participating teams nationwide spend the next eight-ish

The Hawktimus Prime drive team controls the robot during the games.

From left, Jimmy Campbell, Randy Burns, Emma Swartzfager, Will McNabb, and Dillon Brogan.

weeks designing, building, and testing a robot to compete in an action-packed arena against other groups’ creations.

“We have to completely build our robot from scratch. You are not allowed to build anything beforehand,” says Kalyn. “It’s definitely a challenge to build this robot in six to eight weeks. We are working right up to the last second.”

“

We have to completely build our robot from scratch. It’s definitely a challenge to build this robot in six to eight weeks. We are working right up to the last second.

”

—

Kalyn Oltrogge

The competition season begins in March — the culmination of hours of work during afternoons and evenings after school, plus weekends. It starts with regional events, followed by statewide, then eventually the World Championships in mid-April. The 2023 Hawktimus Prime team earned a spot in the World Championships.

Cam Rasey, co-president and veteran team member, welcomes the new FIRST challenge every year and isn’t discouraged by the volume of work required.

“This looks like a game. Let me see what we can learn,” Cam describes. “There is a lot to do, but we break it down into small parts.”

The students learn CAD, computer programming, electrical wiring, and mechanical engineering in their pursuit of robotics glory.

“This club gave me a lot of confidence. I used to feel like I didn’t really know what I was doing, and I didn’t know how to do basic engineering stuff. Now I feel confident to go up and tell you how we built our entire robot and explain the competition to you,” says Mars Chen, one of the five girls on the 2025 team.

“Another really great thing I’ve enjoyed with the team is all the opportunities it gave me to learn new things. It’s really awesome to feel like I’m part of something bigger than myself, to feel like I’m part of a community that cares.”

“You get to be around like-minded people, people

Much like a NASCAR race, Hawktimus Prime teammates and coaches make adjustments to their robot in “the pit” during competitions.

The team of drivers controls the robot just outside of the game arena. Robots are programmed to operate autonomously for the first 15 seconds of each battle.

who are accepting and want to see you get better. Everyone is pushing each other forward,” says Chris Oseki, the team’s safety and operations captain.

“The competitions are always really fun. There are lots of other good teams. You can feel the air while you are in there — all these likeminded people and families are there, and everyone is super excited to see what the robots can do.”

“ This club gave me a lot of confidence. ... I feel confident to go up and tell you how we built our entire robot and explain the competition to you. ”

— Mars Chen

Thirty-two teams competed at this season’s opening competition, held at Rolesville High School in March. Hawktimus Prime’s robot, named Hammerstrike, battled other bots from neighboring towns, including the Slice robotics team from Fuquay-Varina and the Static team also from Holly Springs.

After two such district-level competitions, Hawktimus Prime advanced to the state championship, marking the fourth year in a row the team reached the statewide contest.

“When you are at those competitions, it is the coolest vibe,” says parent Jim Campbell. “It is so cool in there. Every kid gets to express themselves.”

Jim is one of several parent mentors and coaches who volunteer hours helping the team learn skills and disciplines needed to complete the robot.

“I help on the build side — knowing how to put things together, how to troubleshoot. It’s really fun watching the students use a tool for the first time. You show them once, and then, boom, the rest of their life they know how to run a drill press or a band saw,” says Jim.

Hawktimus Prime is coached by Neal Haggard and Steve Rasey, both parents of team members. Neal, a computer programmer at SAS, shared his professional expertise to help the team create the code that operates the robot.

“It helped them break down the problem and split it up into multiple people, to take that job and allow

After two district events, Hawktimus Prime advanced to the 2025 FIRST Robotics state championships in Greensboro in April.

Kalyn Oltrogge, Hawktimus Prime co-president, cheers alongside parents, mentors, and teammates at the FIRST Robotics compeition in Rolesville.

multiple programmers to work on it,” says Neal. “Before the robot was even built, they had written all the base code.”

The coaches and mentors give nearly as many hours to the cause as the students.

“The adults love to be there almost as much as the kids do. There is a lot of fun happening,” says Jim.

Students and parents also work hard to secure funding for the program through grants, sponsorships, and donations.

“Budgeting has been an issue in the past. Not having replacement parts to change out as things wear out was a huge deal last year,” says Kris Oltrogge, mom to Kalyn. “The money doesn’t buy you better design — that has to be the kids — but it definitely makes it possible to be more consistent performing in competitions. It still takes talent, but that funding takes you to the next level.”

Free and open sharing of knowledge is an undercurrent that unites the entire team, from the coaches to the first-year members. Parents offer their expertise, which the students expand on throughout the season,

then pass on to the underclassmen as new members join the group.

“The team has been around for 15 years. It is important to pass that knowledge on to the next generation. The team is constantly revolving,” says Neal.

Cory Oltrogge, Kalyn’s father and former coach, witnessed his daughter — and many other students — find their place at Holly Springs High School in Hawktimus Prime.

“

The competitions are always really fun. ... Everyone is super excited to see what the robots can do.

”

—

Chris Oseki

“There is the sense of family and community that we have here. We are a home for a lot of kids that don’t have a home in the school. When they come to robotics, they feel like they have a place.”

hawktimusprime.com

FIRST chose REEFSCAPE as the competition theme for 2025. Each team built their robot to harvest “algae” and place “coral” onto the reef at various heights.

Set for Success

Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce hosts young entrepreneur fair

“This is a passion project for me,” says Dustin Williams, Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce president. “When I started at the Chamber, I thought, we have got to have an entrepreneur day. These kids have talent that needs to be highlighted and given a platform.”

Two years into Dustin’s tenure, the Chamber parking lot is full of vendor tables manned by upand-coming entrepreneurs ages 7 to 17 at the NextGen Entrepreneur Day.

tracted 34 participants, many encouraged by parents, teachers, and other Chamber members.

“We wanted everybody to be out here. We reached out to different schools: public, private and home school,” says Dustin. “Thirty-four is our baseline now; every year we want to grow from there.”

By Emily Uhland

“This event is just a way for these guys and girls to get out there and promote themselves and give them that platform.”

The inaugural Next-Gen Entrepreneur Day at-

Crochet artist Madison Chai registered for the Next-Gen day on a recommendation from a teacher at Fuquay-Varina Middle School. Her display table featured plushies, key chains, and — the literal centerpiece — a bouquet of flowers, all created by her practiced hand.

“I wanted to pick up a new craft,” says Madison, an eighth grader who has been crocheting for three

Emma Baker, creator of Baker’s Banners, chats with Dustin Williams, president of the FuquayVarina Chamber of Commerce.

Madison Chai, Madison Crochets

years. “It was hard in the beginning but got easier over time. I started with the plushies, then started searching for patterns for other things. That’s how I saw the flowers. I thought, that’s really pretty; I bet I could do that.”

Next to Madison, sisters Saniya and Shea Woodard display custom T-shirts they designed for their brand Simply Me = Positive You.

“There was a period of time where I was experiencing a lot of drama with girls, a lot going on at school. (Designing shirts) was an outlet and a creative way to spread positivity to people, and to lift our spirits as well. Pouring into something that’s good, that can better the world, lifts the spirits,” says Saniya, a high school junior.

“We all design on our own, then bring it together to create a shirt,” says Shea, adding that their brother, Steven, is also part of the team.

One of the trio’s designs, entitled “Movement Is The Gas For Learning,” is inspired by their mother’s

own small business, Dropping Seeds in Motion.

“It teaches kids science through movement,” says Sesha Woodard, mom to Saniya, Shea, and Steven. “There’s so much research showing a direct link between physical activity and academic success. That’s what I do, and I train teachers to do the same.”

Sesha helped the girls channel those early negative school experiences into a positive result.

“ When I started at the Chamber, I thought, we have got to have an entrepreneur day. These kids have talent that needs to be highlighted and given a platform. ”

— Dustin Williams, Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce

“I’m a mom. I wanted to know what happened at school, but I hear a lot of negative. Do you think there is something you can do to circumvent that? So they started thinking about it and decided to make Tshirts,” she recalls.

Olivia Jordan, Lynne & Ink hand-drawn cards

Saniya and Shea Woodard, Simply Me = Positive You T-shirts

“ this is a great Opportunity to spread and share and learn some skills. I have a small business, so I love (Olivia) having those core skills, to be able to learn to make sure you count your money and pricing strategy. ”

Other budding businesses present included The Pet Palace, selling dog treats and toys, Baker’s Banners, offering custom hand-painted celebration banners, and Lynne & Ink, displaying hand-drawn greeting cards.

“I love to draw, and I love mushrooms,” says Olivia Jordan, the artist behind Lynne & Ink, showing off her oneof-a-kind cards. OIivia’s table also displays a picture book titled Watch the Birds with Me that she illustrated.

“My mom wrote the book to honor her grandmother,” says Olivia.

“It was great to work with her,” says Toshia Jordan, mom to Olivia. “She does the drawings so quickly. There’s so much skill there.”

share and learn some skills. I have a small business, so I love her having those core skills, to be able to learn to make sure you count your money and pricing strategy.”

“I coached them on relationships,” says Dustin of the young entrepreneurs. “You can be the smartest kid or teen at your school, but it doesn’t mean anything if you don’t know how to build relationships, if you don’t know how to talk to people.”

“These kids were interacting with (Chamber) board members, business owners, political figures, people that run companies — you will never get that at school.”

— Toshia Jordan

“Olivia draws for herself mostly, so this is a great opportunity to spread and

Follow the Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce on social media for information about other opportunities and next year’s event.

Crochet flowers by Madison Chai

Hand-drawn cards by Olivia Jordan

Cozy up with a Good Mystery

Local authors spin intrigue and investigations in small-town settings

Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

Southern Wake communities have been frequently lauded as safe places to live, often ranking among the safest towns in North Carolina.

But according to author Simone Stier, Fuquay-Varina is rife with murders.

“ I started writing cozy mysteries because I ran out of Agatha Christie to read. ”

— Ellen Edwards Kennedy

Okay, not Fuquay exactly — rather, its fictional counterpart, Magnolia Grove.

A small town in the foothills of North Carolina, inspired heavily by the Quay, Magnolia Grove serves as the setting for the Cafe Crimes series of cozy mystery books written by Simone and her husband, Peter.

“We set the whole series up in Fuquay-Varina, but we call it Magnolia Grove. A lot of the places in the books are inspired by Fuquay-Varina, as well as surrounding neighborhoods, towns, cities, and scenery,” Simone says.

A Fuquay resident since 2019, Simone always dreamed of living in a small town. She loves running into people she knows, loves working from local coffee shops, loves the calmer pace of life — especially compared to her former life in Los Angeles. So it was a natural setting for A Shot of Scandal and the five subsequent novels in the series.

“So the premise is — and it’s like a page out of real life for me — our heroine, Parker Hayes, is from the big city, and

“The essence of a cozy mystery is the puzzle,

she’s a true crime podcaster. She decides to get away from all the noise and crime, so she moves to a small town called Magnolia Grove and opens up a coffee shop. … And funny enough, this town ends up having tons of murders and crimes. Because she’s a true crime podcaster, everybody looks to her for her expertise.

“I wanted to write this series in this way because I love Fuquay-Varina, and I’ve always wanted to open up a little café/ bookstore,” Simone says.

Instead of borrowing millions of dollars to transform the former Elliotts Pharmacy building — Simone’s ideal location — into a café, she created one fictionally.

“The place the main character buys is Elliotts, basically, and she actually calls it that in the book. So people who know Fuquay, if they’re reading it, they’ll know that is the location.”

Life in Fuquay offers endless inspiration for the events in the Cafe Crimes series, says Peter. The town tree lighting, the Fuquay-Varina Police Department Polar Plunge, and even a park named Falcon Park turn up in the pages of the series.

For simplicity of branding, the pair chose to have only Simone’s name listed on the books’ covers, but they write, edit, and brainstorm as a team.

“It’s about the story, not my name. I’m

happy to be the guy behind the scenes,” says Peter.

Familiar places, small towns, and found friends are central to cozy mystery stories, which Simone likens to a comforting cup of tea, albeit one with twists and turns.

“We know we’re doing something right when readers tell us they couldn’t figure out who (the murderer) was. We love to throw a wrench into (the story). It keeps you guessing until the end,” she says.

“Cozy mystery is my favorite. It’s just so much fun and it’s challenging. … They’re really fun mysteries to solve, like Agatha Christie would be. She’s probably one of the first cozy mystery authors. (The genre is) really sweet

Simone and Peter Stier’s Cafe Crimes novels have all made Amazon’s Cozy Culinary Mysteries bestseller lists.

Peter and Simone Stier use real-life Fuquay-Varina as a muse for their fictional Magnolia Grove.

is giving people the clues and then solving it.”

and lighthearted and humorous. They’re like a group of friends that you would want to hang out with and solve mysteries with.”

Ellen Edwards Kennedy — another Fuquay-Varina resident and cozy mystery author — adds, “These are stories that are set in a small town or a familiar place, and the characters all pretty much know each other. It usually has minimal sex and violence. But to me, the essence of a cozy mystery is the puzzle, is giving people the clues and then solving it — and hopefully solving for yourself.”

Ellen’s four-part series is set in the Adirondack Mountains, near Lake Champlain, modeled after her hometown of Plattsburgh, New York.

“It’s the town of my memories, fond memories. I even picture the high school building (in the novels) as the original high school building where I went,” Ellen says.

Ellen’s heroine, Amelia Prentice, is a high school English teacher who quite literally trips into a murder scene at a public library. She then endeavors to solve the case with her best friend, Lily, providing comic relief at her side. The series, called the Miss Prentice Cozy Mysteries, contains four volumes currently with one more still evolving in Ellen’s mind — we can neither confirm nor deny if the villainous high school principal will prove central to that story.

“I’ve been told that people can iden-

tify with the stories because they all know people who are like the characters in the town. Amelia and Lily are not exactly like Lucy and Ethel (of I Love Lucy fame), but they have their moments. I have a lot of fun with these characters,” says Ellen.

Despite creating in the same genre, the Stiers and Ellen approach their work with nearly opposite methods.

“Before we even start writing, we do an outline, blurb, and synopsis, so we know what the overall story is about,” explains Simone. “We come up with our murder victim, and then we’ll come up with our suspects and their backstories. … We do our chapter outline, and we break down our

Mystery author Ellen Edwards Kennedy’s initials — fittingly — spell eek

The Miss Prentice Cozy Mysteries by Ellen Edwards Kennedy take place in the Adirondack Mountains.

“ I’m constantly looking around my own world and my experience for inspiration. It comes when I get quiet and just pay attention.

”

— Simone Stier

scenes per each chapter. Once a big picture is locked in, we’re able to figure out where the clues go and where the red herrings go. Sometimes our outlines are 30 pages before we even start writing.

“Once we get going, we might go away from the outline a little bit here and there, but that’s okay because that’s where real creativity comes in. As long as we have a roadmap, I feel comfortable going forward. I’m not a pantser.”

A pantser — yes, a legit industry term — “goes by the seat of their pants,” says Ellen. “I tend to be in that group.

“I tried my best to use those cards and outlines, and oh my goodness, it was

so overwhelming,” Ellen admits. “When I write about a character, I really need to know my main character’s background and how she thinks. And then the characters, when you start writing, they almost start taking on a life of their own.”

Simone, Peter, and Ellen all published their first works after careers in advertising, video editing, and copy writing, respectively — proof that you can turn to writing anytime, anywhere.

“If anybody wants to write, they must be a reader. I think it’s absolutely important to read in the genre that you love, and if you’re interested in writing, write in the genre you love,” says Ellen.

“My advice is always to just keep writing, no matter what. The hardest part is to sit down and do it,” Simone says. “Then get somebody in your life who can be your mentor, and be willing to learn a lot and take classes. I still take classes and read books on the craft. I am always trying to get better at it.”

“I’ve learned that the best stories come from our own experience. And also that there’s inspiration everywhere. We just have to keep our eyes open and our ears open.”

Cafe Crimes and Miss Prentice cozy mystery series are both available on Amazon and free on Kindle Unlimited.

The Chicken Coop

Author Ellen Edwards Kennedy founded a weekly writers’ circle called NC Scribes that critiques, coaches, and encourages its members in the work of writing.

“It’s a very affirming group. We support each other and we give suggestions,” says Ellen.

NC Scribes has been meeting weekly for around 12 years. In recent years, the meetings have been held virtually, drawing participants from around the country.

The group earned the nickname The Chicken Coop because collectively they have published 63 pieces in Chicken Soup for the Soul books, including a recent entry by Ellen titled “Kindling Friendship” in the volume Chicken Soup for the Soul: 101 Ways to Think Positive.

“That’s a good way for writers to get a start,” says Ellen. “It’s a fun thing to go after and get your toe in the door of writing and publishing.”

Fuquay’s old Elliotts Pharmacy building finds new life in the Cafe Crimes cozy mystery novels by Simone and Peter Stier as a coffee shop. In real life, the building will soon house FRESH. Local Ice Cream.

Upcoming Events

Senior

showcase

May 17 and 18 / 3pm

Audiences of all ages will enjoy a variety of scenes and songs while 55+ students showcase their skills and passion for the performing arts!

Tickets are FREE, but required, and are available at The Halle Cultural Arts Center, The John M. Brown Community Center, or The Apex Senior Center now!

RHYTHM & REELS

Come out this summer at the Apex Nature Park Amphitheatre for a FREE night of music or a movie under the stars! Our 2025 music lineup boasts a variety of genres from nu-funk to garage punk, and features several bands from Western North Carolina! So come groove with GRAMMY® Awardwinning band King Garbage, let loose with Asheville’s Impending Joy, and enjoy family favorites and new releases at #RRApex Concerts begin at 7:00pm, movies begin at dusk.

FREE Pickup and Delivery

Summer Reading Recommendations

From Simone:

FREIDA MCFADDEN

“I actually do love psychological thrillers, but I don’t think I want to write them because it really can get dark. Hers are great and quick reads.”

TAYLOR JENKINS REID

“She wrote Daisy Jones & the Six and The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. She has a new book coming out in June, and I’m really excited about that one.”

From Ellen:

CHARLES DICKENS

“When I was in grade school, we had to read a few chapters of Great Expectations, and when you’re in junior high, who cares? I started reading it again, and it was great. Then I started reading Oliver Twist and David Copperfield, and I just love them.”

MEL BROOKS’ AUTOBIOGRAPHY, ALL ABOUT ME!

“It was pretty hilarious, I gotta say. That was a lot of fun. I love to read biographies.”

Investing in Public Safety — Fuquay-Varina’s Commitment

Fuquay-Varina consistently ranks among the safest communities in North Carolina, reflecting the town’s commitment to public safety. Recent surveys demonstrate this, with residents overwhelmingly expressing feelings of safety and satisfaction with local police and fire services. But maintaining this reputation isn’t a sign of complacency; it’s a result of continuous investment and proactive planning.

Just last March, the town opened Fire Station 4, a state-of-the-art facility on Wade Nash Road, significantly expanding response capabilities in the northwest area. This award-winning station isn’t just in a convenient location; it’s designed with firefighter safety as a top priority, featuring a separate decontamination building to protect personnel from harmful combustion byproducts.

The town’s dedication extends beyond infrastructure. The Fuquay-Varina Police Department recently achieved CALEA (Commission on Accreditation for Law En-

forcement Agencies) accreditation, a prestigious recognition placing the department among just 1,310 agencies worldwide. This rigorous, voluntary process, earned through 18 months of work, shows a commitment to professional excellence and continuous improvement, and affirms that the Fuquay-Varina Police Department’s policies and practices meet the highest standards in policing.

“We constantly strive to be the best we can be for our community, and this accreditation highlights that dedication,” says Police Chief Tim Smith.

The department is also pursuing North Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation. Each of these accreditations involves periodic review of policies and procedures, a site assessment, and a hearing before the commission.

Looking to the future, the town has invested heavily in its fire fleet. In June 2023, four custom-built Spartan Emergency Response engines were ordered. They arrived in February 2024 and were officially placed in service with a celebratory “Push-In” ceremony in April. The $3.89 million investment, partially offset by $856,000 from the

NC General Assembly, represents the first time in the town’s history that four new engines have been added simultaneously.

These modern fire apparatus, carrying up to four firefighters and 1,000 gallons of water each, replace aging vehicles and prioritize firefighter safety through several unique features. They include a lower hose bed designed to minimize firefighter injuries during hose deployment, a dedicated compartment separated from the cab for transporting dirty turnout gear — reducing firefighter exposure to harmful carcinogens — and an automatic engine shutdown system. This system, coupled with a bank of batteries, reduces fuel expenses, vehicle wear and tear, and firefighter exposure to diesel exhaust fumes.

“The Town of Fuquay-Varina will continue to prioritize and invest in our police and fire departments, providing them with the resources they need to keep our community safe and thriving,” says Mayor Blake Massengill.

To learn more about public safety in Fuquay-Varina, visit fuquay-varina.org/fire or fuquay-varina.org/police.

SPONSORED CONTENT

THE TOWN OF FUQUAY-VARINA

LINED UP IN A ROW, THE FOUR SPARTAN TRUCKS ARE A BEAUTIFUL SIGHT.

Restaurant Spotlight ASIA’S CAKES

Written by David McCreary | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

You’d be hard-pressed to meet someone with a more effervescent personality than India Matlock, the founder and owner of Asia’s Cakes artisan bakery in downtown Holly Springs.

India greets each guest with a bright smile and a warm welcome. It doesn’t take long to figure out that everything at Asia’s is driven by passion and purpose.

As the second oldest of 12 children, India’s love for baking came from her father.

“He instilled that passion in me, and now my 11-year-old daughter, Asia, has picked up a love for baking as well,” the Baltimore native says, adding that she began selling custom cakes from her home several years ago and then birthed the retail shop in the hopes that one day her daughter would follow in her footsteps.

With full support from her husband, David, who runs a mobile detailing business in Holly Springs, and their young sons, Tyler and David, India opened the shop in May 2024. Talented bakers arrive

at 5 a.m. daily to create scratch-made indulgences. Commercial grade KitchenAid mixers steadily hum, and the pleasant aroma of cakes in the oven wafts well beyond the shop’s four walls.

“We’re here seven days a week rocking and rolling and doing our thing,” says India with an infectious laugh. “We encourage people to come in and say hi, grab some-

“ We’re here seven days a week rocking and rolling and doing our thing. ”

— India Matlock

thing sweet, and then sit down and hang out with us for a while.”

Whether you choose to sit inside or outside or get something to go, you’ll find the display case teeming with sweet treats like cupcakes, mini pies, éclairs, cookies, and more.

The menu changes daily to keep things interesting, but bestselling items like honey bun cake and banana pudding cheesecake keep patrons coming back time and again. You’ll also find tempting offerings such as fruit tarts, cannoli, brownies, and parfaits, plus a good selection of gluten- and dairyfree muffins, cupcakes, and cookies.

Pair your edible delight with an espresso, hot tea, or iced lemonade.

Asia’s is housed in a cozy repurposed cinderblock building that previously operated as an auto inspection shop. India wisely chose to keep the large garage doors intact, and these remain open virtually year-round to provide an inviting, all-arewelcome vibe for customers.

Asia’s Cakes owner India Matlock and her daughter, Asia, show off a selection of from-scratch treats available daily.

A centrally positioned vertical greenery wall adds just the right touch of serenity to the interior, and painted images including cupcakes add a touch of whimsy.

“One of our young employees named Claire is an artist, so I have given her free reign to paint on the walls,” India explains.

Just outside the bakery’s entrance, a synthetic grass area serves as the foundation for several benches along with a few tables with umbrellas. It’s all flanked by attractive wooden planters. Although positioned right by the street, the space still feels like a comfy oasis.

Asia’s is pet friendly and happy to serve its canine patrons a Pup Cup: a scoop of unsweetened whipped cream.

Not surprisingly, the primary product that continues to give Asia’s steady momentum is cake. What may astonish you, though, is just how many cakes the tiny bakery churns out.

“In any given month, we make more than 200 cakes,” India reveals. “A lot of those are custom cakes for special occasions like birthdays and weddings.”

The average price for an 8-inch cake is $67, and that will feed about 20 people.

“A lot of people think you should slice cake like pie,” says India, “but you’re supposed to slice it like a sheet cake — in squares instead of triangles.”

Basic birthday cakes can be ordered 24 to 48 hours in advance, but custom orders should be made several weeks — and ideally a full month — in advance. Cake designs vary, but India insists she can accommodate most requests. To place an order, call or send a direct message through Instagram.

Parking at the bakery is limited, with just two take-out spots offered at the shop. But public parking lots are available across and just down the street.

If you go on the weekend, you’re likely to see young Asia quietly assisting her mom in the kitchen or the prep area.

“She knows the recipes, so she’s not afraid to jump in and help with the baking,” India says.

When it comes to long-term aspirations, India hopes the bakery will be a place to provide a memorable measure of sweet joy for years to come.

“We have a saying here at Asia’s that small businesses are nothing without community, and communities are nothing without small businesses.”

asiascakes.com

@asiascakesllc MB

Asia’s Cakes bakes more than 200 custom special occasion cakes per month.

The bakery’s large garage doors open to a whimsical, welcoming interior.

Contributed by Coastal Credit Union

UNDERSTANDING THE CROSSROADS

Spring has sprung. It’s a magical season, synonymous with renewal and fresh beginnings. It’s the time of year when homeowners find themselves contemplating an important decision: Is it time to renovate or find a new home?

Coastal Credit Union understands this crossroads and offers tailored solutions to guide you, whether you're inclined to “Improve It" or “Move It.”

UNLOCK YOUR HOME’S POTENTIAL WITH HOME EQUITY SOLUTIONS

If you’re leaning towards enhancing your existing space, tapping into your home’s equity can be a smart move. Coastal offers flexible Home Equity options designed to finance renovations, consolidate debt, or support major projects. Here’s how you benefit:

Flexible Funds: Access capital to transform your home into a dream space or tackle other financial goals.

Competitive Rates: Enjoy low interest rates, which means manageable monthly payments.

Seamless Process: Apply online or visit a branch. The Coastal team is ready to assist you every step of the way.

By accessing your home’s equity, you can invest in upgrades that not only enrich your living experience but potentially increase your property’s value.

REFINANCE AND REAP

REWARDS

Another avenue is refinancing.

Coastal offers options that could lead to substantial savings while providing the funds for home improvements:

Lower Monthly Payments: Refinancing at a lower rate can reduce your monthly mortgage payment, freeing up funds for other priorities.

Tailored Terms: Select the duration of the loan that aligns with your objectives and timelines.

Cash-Out Option: This allows you to withdraw a portion of your home’s equity in cash, which can be reinvested into your property or used for other needs.

Refinancing not only offers immediate financial relief but positions you for long-term benefits, especially when rates are favorable.

EMBRACE NEW BEGINNINGS WITH DAYMARK REALTY

If moving is the right choice, Coastal Credit Union’s wholly owned subsidiary, Daymark Realty, is here to help with both sides of the equation, the sale and the purchase.

Maximize Your Sale: Daymark’s expert guidance can help you sell your home at an optimal price point.

Strategic Marketing: Professional staging advice and high-quality photography ensure your property stands out in the market.

Hassle-Free Transactions: Daymark Realty manages all facets of the selling process, allowing you to focus on your next chapter.

Local Expertise: Collaborate with seasoned agents who possess an in-depth understanding of your local market, ensuring personalized service.

Choosing to move opens the door to new opportunities and experiences, especially with a trusted partner like Daymark Realty.

MAKING THE CHOICE: IMPROVE OR MOVE?

Deciding between renovating your current home and purchasing a new one is a deeply personal choice and hinges on various factors.

Emotional Attachment: Consider the sentimental value and memories associated with your current home.

Financial Implications: Compare the costs of renovations versus purchasing a new property, including potential returns on investment.

Lifestyle Needs: Does your current home meet your evolving lifestyle requirements, or would a new location better serve your needs?

Market Conditions: Assess the real estate market to determine if it’s a favorable time to buy or sell.

With expert guidance and personalized solutions, Coastal Credit Union stands ready to support you, whichever path you choose.

EMBARK ON YOUR HOME IMPROVEMENT JOURNEY WITH COASTAL

Spring is a time for rejuvenation and growth. Whether you’re inclined to enhance your current house or explore new horizons, Coastal Credit Union provides the resources to make your journey rewarding. Embrace the season’s spirit of renewal and let Coastal help you create the home and future you’ve always envisioned.

Learn more at COASTAL24.com/Improve-It-Or-Move-It.

All loans subject to approval. Equal Housing Lender. Federally insured by NCUA.

NMLS #619449

Level up your backyard grilling with help from local butcher shops

Recipes courtesy of The Butcher’s Market GRILLING SEASON

SUMMER CLASSICS with The Butcher’s Market

Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

With five locations in Wake County, The Butcher’s Market has cultivated a long-standing reputation as the destination for premium beef, fresh fish, and exotic meats. Their signature marinated steak tips, handmade sausages, and house-cured bacon are a welcome sight at any summer barbecue. Members of the popular Steak of the Month club are treated to top-quality cuts like cowboy steak or Wagyu chuck eye steak once a month, with included “How-To” cooking videos.

But a stocked meat case isn’t the only thing customers can expect inside the various locations, including the Holly Springs shop on Lassiter Road.

“One of the things we specialize in here at The Butcher’s Market is our line of prepared foods: our pimento cheese, chicken salad, our grab-and-go entrees, our oven-ready entrees. When you think of the butcher shop, you usually just think of a meat case, but here at The Butcher’s Market, we’re trying to be so much more,” says owner Derek Wilkins.

“When you’re getting off work and you’re wondering what you are going to do for dinner, stop on by The Butcher’s Market. We’ve made it so easy for you. Come on in; you’re in and out with dinner in 10 to 15 minutes.”

Pick up refrigerated side dishes like mac & cheese, twice-baked potatoes, sau-

teed Brussels sprouts with bacon, and broccoli salad for easy accompaniments to a simple grilled protein.

You’ll also find lots of locally made bounty to enjoy: dips, spreads, sauces, jams, salsas, and even mini carrot cakes from the Carrot Cake Lady.

“We’re very proud to be kind of an incubator,” Derek says. “For people starting out with a Got to Be NC product, we are one of the first places to be able to carry it for them.”

Combining The Butcher’s Market fresh meat and seafood with quick graband-go sides means dinner is on the grill — and on the plate — in no time.

thebutchersmarkets.com

PLATING NOTE:

Roasted garlic has a sweet, earthy flavor. Smear the tender garlic, almost like a spread, into each bite. For even more flavor, drizzle the reserved oil from roasting the garlic over the chicken.

DRY-RUBBED CHICKEN BREAST with Bacon Brussels Sprouts, Mashed Potatoes, and Roasted Garlic

DRY-RUBBED CHICKEN

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, 8 ounces each Butcher’s Market seasoning of choice (recommended: Mesquite Blended Rub)

olive oil

• Remove chicken from packaging and pat dry with a paper towel. Coat both sides with a bit of olive oil. Rub the chicken with your favorite Butcher’s Market dry rub, coating evenly on all sides.

• Grill over medium-high heat, turning occasionally to prevent burning. Cook chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees, then set aside to rest.

BACON BRUSSELS SPROUTS

1 pound Bacon Brussels sprouts, a Butcher’s Market favorite, available at all Butchers Market locations

olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

• O ver a medium-high heat sauté the Brussels sprouts in olive oil until tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.

MASHED POTATOES

Sold in 14-ounce portions at any Butcher’s Market store, seasoned Yukon gold potatoes are whipped until creamy and packaged fully cooked and ready to be reheated.

• Reheat in the package for 5 to 6 minutes in the microwave, or warm in the oven or air fryer.

ROASTED GARLIC

12 whole garlic cloves, peeled

3 tablespoons olive oil

salt and pepper to taste

• Season peeled garlic with salt, pepper, and olive oil and enclose inside aluminum foil to make a nice, tight package. Roast the garlic in the oven at 350 degrees for about 30 minutes, or until the garlic is tender and bronze in color.

GRILLED FAROE ISLAND SALMON with

Cilantro-Lime Asparagus, Avocado and Roasted Corn Salsa, and Jasmine Rice

SALMON:

2 salmon fillets, 6 to 8 ounces each (Faroe Island salmon available at The Butcher’s Market)

salt and pepper

olive oil

AVOCADO AND ROASTED CORN SALSA:

2 large ripe avocados

2 ears of corn

1 large tomato

½ medium red onion

1 small yellow bell pepper

1 large jalapeno

¼ cup olive oil

1 tablespoon minced garlic

2 limes, juiced

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon coarse black pepper

1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin

1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander

1 teaspoon paprika

JASMINE RICE:

1 container cooked Jasmine Rice

CILANTRO-LIME ASPARAGUS:

1 pound Cilantro-Lime Asparagus

• Preheat grill to medium high heat (375-450 degrees).

• Remove salmon from fridge and allow to come up in temperature while you prep the salsa. Wait to season the salmon until right before you place it on the grill to prevent moisture from developing.

• For salsa, drizzle corn with a little olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place corn on grill and char evenly on all sides. Remove from the grill and set aside to cool. Carefully cut kernels off the cob and add to a bowl.

• Cut avocado in half and carefully remove the pit. Scoop out avocado meat, dice, and add to the bowl. Dice tomato, red onion, bell pepper, and jalapeno, and add to the bowl. Add olive oil, lime juice, and all spices and stir to combine.

Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Set aside to allow flavors to come together.

• Season salmon with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place salmon on the hottest part of the grill. (Tip: Make sure your grill is clean and seasoned well to prevent sticking. Allow the fish to cook undisturbed before trying to flip.) Cook for 5-6 minutes, then flip and continue cooking until done. Remove from the grill and allow to rest.

• Grill marinated asparagus next to salmon for 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally.

• Microwave rice for 3 minutes. Serve asparagus and salmon atop a bed of rice. Top with a generous portion of the fresh salsa.

Cilantro-lime asparagus, and other grab-and-go sides, available at The Butcher’s Market.

CHESHIRE FARMS PORK TENDERLOIN

with Charred Poblano Puree, Garlic Butter Green Beans, and Maple Bourbon Sweet Potatoes GRILLING

PORK TENDERLOIN:

2 (1.25–1.5-pound) Pork Tenderloins (Cheshire Farms Pork available at The Butcher’s Market) salt and pepper olive oil

CHARRED POBLANO PUREE:

2 medium to large poblanos

1 lime, juiced

1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon honey

2 tablespoons sour cream salt and pepper to taste

GARLIC BUTTER GREEN BEANS:

1 package (1 pound) Garlic Butter Grean Beans

MAPLE BOURBON SWEET POTATOES:

1 package (1 pound) Maple Bourbon Sweet Potatoes

• Preheat grill to medium high heat (375–450 degrees).

• Season pork tenderloin and poblano peppers with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

• Cut open Maple Bourbon Sweet Potatoes. Place into aluminum foil and create a pouch. Place onto grill for 25 to 30 minutes.

• P lace poblano peppers on grill. Turn them to char all sides. Transfer to a plastic bag or bowl covered with plastic wrap to steam for 10 minutes. Remove peppers and rinse under cool running water while removing the skins, stem, and seeds. Place peppers and remaining puree ingredients in a blender and blend on high until smooth.

• P lace seasoned pork tenderloin on the grill. Turn the tenderloin every 5 minutes to grill all sides. After a total of 15 minutes, check the internal temperature. When it reaches 140 degrees, remove tenderloin to a cutting board and cover with aluminum foil. Let rest for 10 minutes.

SEASON

• W hile pork is resting, preheat a sauté pan over medium heat. Add green beans to the hot pan and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season to taste.

• Check on the sweet potatoes. They should be tender to the touch. If done, remove from grill.

• Uncover the pork tenderloin and cut into ¼-inch slices.

• To serve, place 4 slices of pork on each plate. Place green beans and sweet potatoes beside pork. Spoon 2 tablespoons of poblano puree over the pork.

Select wine from The Butcher’s Market to pair with your entree.

The Meat House opened in December at Fuquay’s Bengal Towne Center.

GRILLING SEASON

FIND SOMETHING NEW-TO-YOU at The Meat House

Written by Emily Uhland

Photographed

Jonathan Fredin

“An eat, drink, and be merry culture is part of what we want to portray,” says Nathan Cousineau. “We want customers to have a few drinks, sample some food, and shop.”

You’ll regularly find Nathan standing at The Meat House’s in-store cooktop sautéing handmade sausage or crafting madeto-order sandwiches to offer guests just that experience.

Nathan leans on expertise as a chef and butcher in his role as general manager at the new Fuquay-Varina specialty shop. If he’s not cooking up samples, you’ll find him behind the meat counter making specialty sausage or answering questions from customers.

“Having a butcher onsite, so people can talk with him and ask for what they want — that one-on-one customer service is awesome,” says The Meat House owner Ani Walsh.

Ani has experience on her side, too, boasting 20 years working in the food industry. Her family hails from Spain, and she’s brought her love of European wines and charcuterie into the selections at The Meat House as well.

With many Southern Wake residents moving from the Northeast, Ani wants to recreate the feeling of a corner butcher with unique offerings and specialty cuts of beef and pork.

“Picanha is one of my favorites,” she says. “It’s a Latin cut that is hard to find.”

A fast favorite has emerged with customers: the house made Chevalatta, a pinwheel sausage with pork, parsley, parmesan, lemon zest, and white wine.

“It’s a classic Italian sausage characterized by its spiral shape. Chevalatta has a rich, meaty flavor with a blend of Italian seasonings,” Nathan says.

He recommends serving the sausage

Sausage

A rich combination of

General manager Nathan Cousineau recommends using a mix of lump charcoal and split pecan wood for the smoke. Cook at 195 degrees for around 1.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 150 degrees.

COOK IT AT HOME: Brisket & Aged Cheddar Beef

savory brisket and aged cheddar cheese, The Meat House’s beef and cheddar sausage is best enjoyed smoked.

with roasted red peppers and onions, or on a crusty roll.

“It also pairs well with grilled vegetables, pasta dishes, or even as part of a Sunday barbecue,” he says.

Another bestseller — “a favorite with our regulars,” according to Nathan — is the Brisket & Aged Cheddar Beef Sausage made with a custom blend of brisket point, chuck, smoked pork belly, and 17-year aged cheddar, resulting in a robust, hearty flavor that’s great on the grill.

“Think classic barbecue plate for additions and sides,” Nathan says. “Creamy slaw, spicy pickles, mac & cheese, and cornbread.”

“We are excited to announce that we will be offering a small selection of artisan sandwiches,” says Nathan. “These will feature a variety of cured meats and quality cheeses sliced to order.”

Customers won’t want to miss The Fuquay Fhilly, Nathan’s take on a gourmet Philly cheesesteak, featuring shaved ribeye, caramelized onions, and a house-made aged cheddar c heese sauce. Or the Meat House Italian, which stacks hot capicola, sweet soppr essata, aged provolone, a dressed salad, and sweet pepper relish. themeathousefuquay.com

COOK IT AT HOME:

Chevalatta

Chevalatta, classic Italian spiral sausage, is versatile to prepare and can be grilled, pan fried, or baked. Cook 4 to 5 minutes a side, using your preferred cooking technique over medium heat, until the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees.

“Four to five minutes gets you that perfect texture and juiciness. I usually pair it with an Italian wine at dinner. My favorite to use is Ercole Monferrato DOC Bianco 2023. Its harmonious blend of fruit flavors and crisp acidity makes it a great choice for everyday sipping.”

— Nathan Cousineau, general manager, The Meat House

Chevalatta, an Italian spiral sausage made by general manager Nathan Cousineau, is a customer favorite at The Meat House.

In addition to artisan food products and specialty butchery, The Meat House offers artisan sandwiches made to order.

rise Dine

Unsure where to eat today? Look no further than this selection of local eateries & cafes.

FUQUAY-VARINA

Abbey Road Tavern and Grill

Signature Beatles burgers and live entertainment.

711 N Main St. (919) 762-7731 | abbeyroadnc.com

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping-hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.

138 S Main St. (919) 285-2497 | annaspizzeria.com

Assaggio’s Pizzeria Ristorante

Top-quality ingredients go into every dish.

941 E Broad St. (919) 557-9505 | assaggios-fuquay.com

Aviator Pizzeria & BeerShop

Brick oven pizza & craft beer.

601 E Broad St. (919) 346-8206 | aviatorbrew.com

Aviator SmokeHouse

All of our food is made in-house.

525 E Broad St. (919) 557-7675 | aviatorbrew.com

Bluegrass Bagels

Quality food, fast.

100 Dickens Road (919) 285-4980 | bluegrassbagels.com

BOLT Drinks and Coffee

Cold, carbonated, caffeinated & colorful energy.

400 Broad St. (919) 909-6687 | boltdrinksandcoffee.com

Brus on Main

Quaint café serving New York coffee, bakery treats & breakfast.

135 S Main St. (607) 745-2512 | @brusonmain

El Cantarito Bar & Grill

Experience the full spectrum that is Mexican food.

155 S Main St. (919) 285-3781 | elcantaritobarandgrill.com

Cellar 55 Tasting Room

Chef specials Friday and Saturday nights. 1351 E Broad St. (919) 446-1156 | cellar55nc.com

Cleveland Draft House

Great food, great service, great price. 1420 E Broad St. (919) 659-5500 | clevelanddrafthouse.com

The Corner Biergarten

Bar & bottle shop.

1625 N Main St., Suite 133 (919) 246-6649 | tcbiergarten.com

Cultivate Coffee Roasters

Modern industrial twist on a small-town coffee shop.

128 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 285-4067 | cultivate.coffee

Culver’s of Fuquay-Varina

ButterBurgers and frozen custard made fresh. 1860 Cinema Drive (919) 285-2360 | culvers.com

Daddy D’s BBQ

Slow cooked with love. 1526 Broad St. (919) 552-6464 | daddydsbbqnc.com

Dan Sushi & Hibachi

Mixing chic and contemporary with traditional Japanese. 1313 N Main St. (919) 577-8000 | dansushihibachi.com

Eggs Up Grill

Breakfast favorites served all day. 1436 N Main St. (919) 285-4463 | eggsupgrill.com

El Dorado

Enjoy the most delicious Mexican food among family.

112 E Vance St. (919) 557-0287 eldoradomexicanrestaurant.com

Fat Cat Homemade Ice Cream

Unique flavors and dairy-free options.

400 Broad St. fatcathomemadeicecream.com

Fiesta Time Bar & Grill

Colorful cocktails and Mexican cuisine. 1063 E Broad St. (919) 285-3393 | fiestatimenc.com

Fiiz Drinks

Drink-it-your-way soda and snack shop. 7401 Sunset Lake Road (919) 278-7350 | fiizdrinks.com

Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta

Authentic Italian cuisine and quality service. 900 N Main St. (919) 552-8868 fuquay.garibalditrattorias.com

Photos by Jonathan Fredin

EL CANTARITO BAR & GRILL

The Gyro Spot

Beloved recipes from Greece. 1005 E Broad St. (919) 285-3608 | thegyrospotnc.com

The Healthy Spot

Meal replacement smoothies and energizing teas. 961 E Broad St. (919) 552-5373 | @healthyspotfuquay

HWY 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries

All-American diner experience. 3419 N Main St. (919) 567-3007 | hwy55.com

J&S New York Pizza

Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant. 500 Broad St. (919) 557-6921 | jandsnypizza.com

Johnnys Pizza

An amazing array of different NY-style pizzas. 722 N Judd Parkway NE (919) 552-6322 | johnnyspizzafuquay.com

Joyce & Family Restaurant

Home-cooked Southern favorites. 129 N Main St. (919) 567-1717 | @joyceandfamily

Khao Sen Thai & Tea

Vibrant tastes of homemade Thai dishes. 2100 Gathering Square Court khaosen.com

Kumo Sushi Hibachi

Traditional Japanese menu in a chic setting. 2916 N Main St. (919) 986-0983 | kumosushi401hwy.com

The Library Steakhouse

Upscale steakhouse located in the old town library.

133 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 642-2030 | thelibrarysteakhouse.com

Little Portugal NC

Traditional Portuguese dishes plus a market. 736 N Main St. (919) 586-7144 | littleportugalnc.com

Los Tres Magueyes

We prepare our food fresh daily. 401 Wake Chapel Road (919) 552-3957 | lostresmagueyes.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

The comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

305 S Main St. (919) 762-5555 | themasonjartavern.com

rise

Dine

Mei Wei Asian Diner

A wide array of authentic Chinese and Thai food. 1424 N Main St. (919) 762-7128 | meiweinc.com

The Mill

Coffee. Beer. Wine. Community. 146 S Main St. (919) 557-2123 | themillfuquay.com

New Rainbow Chinese

Classic and popular Chinese favorites. 3427 N Main St. (919) 567-8272 newrainbowchinesefood.com

Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine

Mediterranean cuisine and a creative menu. 513 Broad St. (984) 223-2928 nilsmediterraneancuisine.com

The Peach Cobbler Factory

Delightful desserts that feel like grandma’s kitchen. 8105 Fayetteville Road (919) 307-8137 | peachcobblerfactory.com

Pelican’s SnoBalls

Smooth, fluffy ice combined with bold flavors. 712 N Main St. (919) 662-3979 | pelicanssnoballs.com

Pints Ice Cream & Beer

Homemade ice cream and craft beers. 512 Broad St. | @pintsicecream

Stick Boy Bread Co.

Handcrafted baked goods from scratch. 127 S Main St. (919) 557-2237 | stickboyfuquay.com

SupaBowlz Cafe

Your healthy fast-casual restaurant. 411 Broad St. (984) 800-7854 | supabowlzcafe.com

Tacos Oaxaca

Made-from-scratch tacos and more. 1324 N Main St. (919) 762-0826

Taqueria La Costena

Authentic and affordable Mexican tacos. 101 Dickens Road (919) 285-3060

INDULGE IN THE FLAVORS

OFFERING COOKING CLASSES AND WINE DINNERS! OF ITALY

Chef Paolo Gavazza crafts authentic Italian cuisine that will immerse you in a culinary journey that celebrates tradition and sophistication.

128 Bass Lake Road | Holly Springs spazioromana.com | 919-285-3596 D@Spazioromana.com

Tiny House Treats

Drive-thru frozen custard and dessert shop. 1013 E. Broad St. @tinyhousetreatsfv

Tio’s

Pizza. Empanadas. Wings. 2916 N Main St. (919) 762-0095 | tiosnc.com

Triple Barrel Tavern

Restaurant, sports bar & billiards. 2221 N Grassland Drive (919) 762-0940 | triplebarreltavern.com

Vicious Fishes Tap & Kitchen

Eclectic twists on comfortable bar food. 132 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 762-7876 viciousfishes.com/fuquay-nc

Wingin’ It Taphouse and Grille

Family-friendly neighborhood pub. 1625 N Main St. (919) 762-0962 | winginitbarandgrille.com

Wing It On Chicken like a champ. 1061 E Broad St. (984) 225-2141 | wingiton.com

Zaxby’s Indescribably good. 1341 N Main St. (919) 552-3981 | zaxbys.com

Zeera Indian Restaurant

Authentic goodness in traditional Indian food. 1311 E Broad St. (919) 762-6215 | zeeranc.com

HOLLY SPRINGS

Acme Pizza Co.

Chicago-style deep dish pizza. 204 Village Walk Drive (919) 552-8800 | acmepizzaco.com

Asia’s Cakes

We design delicious. 113 N Main St. (919) 285-3588 | asiascakes.com

Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila Recipes passed down through generations. 303 Mathews Drive (919) 367-6233 | ayetoronc.com

Bass Lake Draft House

34 beers on tap.

124 Bass Lake Road (919) 567-3251 | basslakedrafthouse.com

Bellini Italian Cuisine

A real taste of Italy through authentic Italian Cuisine.

7256 GB Alford Highway (919) 552-0303 bellinitaliancuisinehollysprings.com

BEP Vietnamese Kitchen

Traditional Vietnamese cuisine and boba teas.

300 S Main St. (919) 285-2477 | bepnc.com

Bestow Baked Goods

Life is too short for grocery store desserts. 4208 Lassiter Road (919) 473-9225 | bestowbakedgoods.com

Blaze Pizza

Fast fired, perfectly crisp perfection. 316 Grand Hill Place (919) 261-5950 | blazepizza.com

The Blind Pelican

Creative seafood and boat drinks. 120 Bass Lake Road (984) 225-2471 | blindpelicanseafood.com

The Butcher’s Market

Premium meats and specialty grocery. 4200 Lassiter Road (919) 267-9191 | thebutchersmarkets.com

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

Flame-grilled burgers with house made secret sauces.

7224 GB Alford Highway corbettsburgers.com

Cristo’s Bistro

Hand-tossed NY-style pizza. 5217 Sunset Lake Road (919) 363-8852 | cristosbistro.com

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Juicy, hand-breaded chicken spiced to order. 114 Grand Hill Place (984) 600-3093 | daveshotchicken.com

Eggs Up Grill

Breakfast favorites served all day. 4216 Lassiter Road (919) 495-4530 | eggsupgrill.com

Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe Forget love — I’d rather fall in chocolate. 652 Holly Springs Road (415) 758-3296 | ferawyns.com

Fiesta Mexicana

Authentic. Hot. Fresh.

428 Village Walk Drive (919) 346-1330 fiestamexicananc-hollysprings.com

First Watch

Traditional and innovative breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

304 Grand Hill Place (919) 808-4603 | firstwatch.com

Freddy’s

Frozen custard and steakburgers 221 Grand Hill Place (919) 557-3475 | freddysusa.com

FRESH. Local Ice Cream

Hand-crafted flavors with local ingredients.

205 S Main St. (919) 285-4078 | freshlocalicecream.com

Greek Basma

Fresh, healthy, delicious. 7272 GB Alford Highway (919) 285-080 | greekbasma.com

Hickory Tavern

Something for every appetite.

401 Village Walk Drive (919) 557-2064 | thehickorytavern.com

Homegrown Pizza

Pizza, calzones, and sandwiches. 4928 Linksland Drive (919) 577-5575 | homegrownpizza.com

JT’s Creamery

Hand-crafted ice cream.

300 S Main St., Suite 112 (984) 268-6321 | jtscreamery.com

Kobe Hibachi & Sushi

Japanese classics. 515 N Main St. (919) 557-1437 kobehibachihollysprings.com

Mama Bird’s Ice Cream

A unique spin on a timeless dessert.

304 N Main St. (919) 762-7808 | mamabirdsicecream.com

Mamma Mia! Italian Bistro Pasta runs in our family.

300 S Main St., Suite 200 (919) 766-8000 | mammamianc.com

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

324 Grand Hill Place (919) 552-9979 | micancunmx.com

Dine

Michelangelos Pizza

Pizza buffet for lunch and dinner. 7280 GB Alford Highway (919) 557-4992 | michelangelospizza.com

My Way Tavern

Freshly made all-American foods.

301 W Center St. (919) 285-2412 mywaytavern.com

Niche Wine Lounge

Tranquility by the glass.

109 Main St. (919) 552-2300 | nichewinelounge.com

Nightingale Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Small plates and big views.

300 S Main St., Suite 312 (919) 299-2004 | nightingalerooftop.com

The Nutrition Fix

Healthy fast-food alternatives.

424 Village Walk Drive (919) 341-5554 | @thenutritionfixnc

The Original N.Y. Pizza

Bringing a taste of New York to North Carolina.

634 Holly Springs Road (919) 567-0505 | theoriginalnypizza.com

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi

Authentic well-balanced dishes bursting with flavor.

242 S Main St. (984) 538-6742 | oshathaikitchennc.com

Pimiento Tea Room

Not your mama’s tea room.

200 N Main St. (984) 225-4213 | pimientotearoom.com

Rise

The best dang Southern biscuits and chicken

169 Grand Hill Place (919) 586-7343 | risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Smashed Burgers & Cocktails

Burger day is every day.

242 S Main St. (919) 390-2274 | smashednc.com

Spazio Vino & Cucina

Authentic Italian flavors with a modern flair.

128 Bass Lake Road (919) 500-6481 | spazioromana.com

SupaBowlz Cafe

Beautiful and delicious bowls, wraps & salads. 150 W Holly Springs Road (984) 225-2656 | supabowlzcafe.com

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

A fresh celebration of the Mediterranean. 108 Grand Hill Place (984) 266-1226 | tazikis.com

Thai Thai Cuisine

Home-cooked Thai food. 108 Osterville Drive (919) 303-5700 | thaithaicuisinenc.com

Thanks A Latte

Coffee and gift boutique. 1118 Kentworth Drive (919) 577-0070 | thanksalattegiftsnc.com

Town Hall Burger & Beer

Neighborhood beer and burger joint. 301 Matthews Drive (919) 335-5388 townhallburgerandbeer.com

Vieni Ristobar

Handmade pasta, pizza & sauces. 242 S Main St. (984) 225-1134 | vieniristobar.com

By Fuquay-Varina Memes

FUQUAY-VARINA MEMES

(also known as FVM) is a freelance writer, meme guru, and an anonymous resident of Fuquay-Varina. She is the creator and manager of the FuquayVarina Memes Facebook page and has a talent for making people laugh and always taking the joke too far.

fuquaymemes thefvmemes

fun memes

Get Outside: A

Guide to Exploring the Great Mildly Impressive Outdoors of Southern Wake County

So, you’ve finally decided to connect with nature. You’re ready to get outside, embrace the fresh-ish air, and experience the wonder of the wild kudzu-infested wilderness.

Congratulations! You’ve chosen the perfect place to begin your outdoor odyssey: Southern Wake County, NC, where the trails are (not always) paved; the wildlife consists mostly of fat squirrels, copperheads, and topographically disoriented seagulls; and the nearest mountain is the South Wake Landfill. Whether you’re a suburban adventurer or just looking to get your steps in, here’s your expertly curated guide to the almost-great outdoors right in your backyard.

I’m not promising much, but let’s go!

1. THE FOOD LION LOOP

Length: 0.3 miles

Difficulty: Mentally uphill

Trailhead: Just past the Redbox kiosk (yes, those still exist)

You haven’t truly communed with nature until you’ve walked three loops around the Food Lion parking lot, dodging shopping carts and

angry women with boxed hair dye. Highlights include the faint smell of acetone from the strip mall nail salon and the occasional wild Bojangles box tumbling in the wind. Pro tip: If you walk fast enough, people will assume you’re being attacked and will most likely run with you.

2. THE “RED TRAIL OF PAIN” AT HILLTOP NEEDMORE TOWN PARK

Length: Depends on how brave you are Difficulty: Mostly downhill or flat, until it suddenly isn’t

Located conveniently near both civilization and a suspicious number of snakes and judgy turtles, this greenway is perfect for those who want to feel just outdoorsy enough. You’ll encounter joggers, cyclists, and the occasional track team kid throwing up in the woods (true story). Keep your eyes peeled for native flora like … poison ivy. Remember, the minute you start walking uphill and fighting for your life, some old dude will walk straight past you without even breaking a sweat. Whatever you do, never show weakness. Pass out when he’s no longer in sight.

3. THE SHEETZ-TO-TARGET TRAVERSE

Length: 1.2 miles (or 6,000 steps if you weave dramatically)

Difficulty: Must resist buying gum and $9 candles

This trail is ideal for suburban survivalists and people who don’t like to walk outside, ever. Begin your journey at Sheetz (fuel up on mozzarella sticks and a gas station burrito), cross the treacherous terrain of Highway 55 (don’t attempt a left turn keep going right, forever), and reward yourself at the end with an iced coffee and a deep sense of accomplishment regret.

4. SUGG FARM PARK: WHERE THE TRAILS ARE MADE OF VIBES

Length: Technically walkable forever if you just keep looping

Difficulty: Depends on your emotional baggage

Located in Holly Springs, Sugg Farm Park is a former farm/current mystery. It’s where you go when you want to say you “went hiking” without actually encountering any elevation or geology. You’ll find a vast, open field where dogs frolic, children run rampant, and one sad, lonely adult sits on that bench under the tree in the middle of the field. Deep thinker, or serial killer? Let’s not find out.

Wildlife: At least one overly confident goose, joggers who think they’re on the Appalachian Trail, and an overpriced kite that I had JUST paid for that flew into a tree (this is personal).

5. THE APEX COMMUNITY DOG PARK SAFARI (EVEN WITHOUT A DOG)

Length: 0.4 miles of awkward

Difficulty: Emotionally confusing

No dog? No problem! Just stroll the perimeter, avoid work, and find a happy place. Watch dogs live their best lives while you consider quitting your job to open

Group Tickets available ranging from $10-$26

Great for corporate events, social group gatherings, and family outings.

TICKETS AND MORE INFORMATION, VISIT

a canine meditation retreat. BONUS: Watch Karens in the wild arguing about what dogs are hypoallergenic, how their dog was bred to pull royalty into marketplaces back in ancient times, and how they supplement their expensive organic dog food with breast milk.

6. BACKYARD BIRD-WATCHING: NOW WITH MORE HOA RESTRICTIONS

Length: As far as the property line goes Difficulty: Dependent on neighbor tolerance

Settle into a camping chair with a LaCroix and observe the natural beauty of suburban aviary life: cardinals, blue jays, and one very aggressive mockingbird named Carl. If the birds don’t show, stare wistfully into the distance while secretly listening in on your neighbor’s conversation. Don’t do this in the front yard, or the HOA will notice and flag you as the neighborhood creep.

8. THE MYSTERIOUS TRAIL NEXT TO SOUTH PARK

Length: Unclear. Time becomes a concept here. Difficulty: Psychological thriller

Tucked beside the charming splash pad and baseball diamonds of South Park in Fuquay-Varina lies a trail that no one really talks about — but everyone’s seen. It starts off innocently enough: a shady path lined with unbridled kudzu and optimism. Then, somewhere around minute seven, things change. The birds stop chirping.

Your phone signal vanishes. An unleashed mystery dog, who might be friend or foe, appears 40 feet in front of you.

Highlights include: I got nothing, guys.

9. HARRIS LAKE: NATURE’S CRIME SCENE

Length: Many trails. Endless suspicion. Difficulty: Don’t veer off the path and you’ll be fine … probably.

Ah, Harris Lake County Park — the peaceful, piney oasis perfect for biking, fishing, picnicking, or, let’s be honest … hiding a body. With its wide-open woods, eerily quiet coves, and just the right number of unmarked side trails, Harris Lake has earned a special place in the hearts of both nature lovers and people who watch Dateline “for the scenery.” The entire area is probably featured in a crime podcast.

10. CONGRATULATIONS, YOU’VE DONE IT!

Well, you probably didn’t summit a mountain or wrestle a bear, but you did make it through this article so HUZZAH!

If you do tackle any of these suggestions, don’t blame me for the humidity, stiff joints, and general sense of “do I really need to be outside right now?” Because the answer is no. Get back on the couch to rewatch The White Lotus and start a Reddit thread about Parker Posey’s Southern accent. Reheat some french fries and stay in the AC. Stick with what you know.

Is Harris Lake a biker’s dream or nightmare?

Seen Heard

GoPlaySave Triangle hosted its first Sip. Shop. Save. event in March. Attendees enjoyed curated wine and food pairing from local merchants from the GoPlaySave savings guide, including Triangle Wine Company, Rise Southern Biscuits, The Butcher’s Market, Chicken Salad Chick, and more. A portion of the proceeds went to Emi’s Enchanted Events, a local nonprofit committed to supporting medically compromised children and their families.

Guardian Angel Thrift

donated $200,000 to Dementia Alliance of NC for the Lina Mae Edwards Young Investigator Research Grant in March. Guardian Angel Thrift funds the annual grant primarily for young scientists and researchers who have chosen to focus their work on the study and treatment of dementia. Since its founding in 1999, Guardian Angel Thrift has raised over $3 million for Alzheimer’s research.

The Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce recognized annual award winners at their banquet in February, honoring businesses and individuals making an impact in the community. Award recipients included:

Ambassador of the Year

Rachel Woods, Thrive Skin + Wellness

Director’s Choice Award

Diane Kinlaw, Revolution Mortgage

Volunteer of the Year

Amber Smith, Amber Foster Smith

Photography

Innovative Business of the Year

FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies

Business Leader of the Year

Dr. Phil Vito, Holly Springs Eye Associates

Nonprofit of the Year

Holly Springs Food Cupboard

Parrish “Ham” Womble Distinguished Service Award

Mark Campbell, Endurance Fence Solutions

Heart of Holly Springs Award

Chris & Marilyn Chappell, Holly Springs School of Dance

Business of the Year

Local Time Brewing

Several tenants have been announced for Oakview Commons, located at the corner of New Hill Road and Green Oaks Parkway in Holly Springs. Residents can look forward to Grain & Berry, a superfood café; Arita Ramen and Sushi; Oakview Public House; Switch Craft beverage and bottle shop; Golf Hour sports simulator; and Thanks A Latte, among other retail and service businesses.

Wake County Public Libraries

is partnering with Advance Community Health to bring healthcare resources directly to the community. Advance Community Health will provide free health screenings at 11 library locations across the county, including Fuquay-Varina Community Library and Holly Springs Community Library. Advance Community Health provides primary care, pediatric services, nutrition counseling, behavioral health support, and pharmacy access, as well as onsite A1C testing, glucose testing, blood pressure checks, and BMI screenings.

SCREENINGS IN SOUTHERN WAKE:

Monday, May 5, 9 a.m. to noon, FuquayVarina Community Library

Wednesday, July 2, 9 a.m. to noon, Middle Creek Community Library, Apex

Monday, July 28, 9 a.m. to noon, Holly Springs Community Library

Wednesday, Aug. 27, 9 a.m. to noon, Middle Creek Community Library, Apex

Holly Springs Parks &

Recreation debuted an e-newsletter called Senior Spotlight, designed to connect people ages 55+ with the recreational activities and volunteer opportunities available through town programs. After soliciting feedback via online surveys and community conversations, town officials recognized a growing community interest in expanded activities for seniors. The new monthly e-newsletter will help the senior population stay in the know about activities of interest, including weekly clubs such as Wii bowling, bridge, and mah-jongg; educational workshops; social gatherings; and group outings to regional destinations. Subscribe to the e-newsletter by visiting hollyspringsnc. gov/seniors.

Seen Heard

“The

Q” project

in downtown Fuquay-Varina received recognition as the Best Infill Project at the recent North Carolina Main Street Awards. The building, which houses El Cantarito and Happy’s Country Club, is Fuquay’s first multistory mixed-use development in the historic downtown area.

David Ball, a local CPA and downtown advocate who played a key role in the development of The Q, was recognized as a Main Street Champion for his significant contributions to downtown. Fuquay-Varina has been a participant in the North Carolina Main Street program since 2006.

On St. Patrick’s Day, the Town of Holly Springs celebrated the opening of Middle Creek Greenway, a 3-mile paved section connecting Sunset Lake Road and Holly Springs Road. The Holly Springs Middle Creek Greenway will soon connect with a Town of Apex greenway, providing pedestrians and bicyclists an even broader connection between communities.

In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, residents who attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony traveled the path in search of “pots of gold.”

In Focus

By Jonathan Fredin

A brood of ducklings waddle through the grass while exploring their new turf at Bass Lake in Holly Springs. Let’s get quacklin’

Dr. John Soderberg

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