Main & Broad April/May 2022

osteria G

date night decided APRIL/MAY 2022

stay & play the cary way

inside the box

boxyard rtp beckons

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

Plus Pickleball pros, Playground adventures, and pumpkin the alpaca

Introducing the

MAGGY AWARDS

Your Favorite Restaurants, Lifestyle, Services and Shopping

Find Your Way to Corolla, NC A Land of Legendary Wild Horses The legendary wild horses of Corolla roam the beaches just north of where paved roads come to an end on the northern Outer Banks.

Descendants of Spanish Colonial Mustangs, these local icons were deposited here almost five centuries ago, and many visitors book a tour with one of several local guides to see them.

The Currituck Beach Lighthouse A beacon helping guide travelers for well over a century, the Currituck Beach Light towers over the Outer Banks landscape. Still serving to aid navigation its light can be seen for over 20 miles. For a small fee, visitors can climb the winding staircase for a wide-open view of both the Currituck Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Currituck Maritime Museum Located across the park from Whalehead, the new Currituck Maritime Museum tells the integral story of the history of wooden boats on the northern Outer Banks and those who crafted them, with interactive exhibits and artifacts illuminating their legacy.

With the arrival of spring, many families are simply planning to hit the road and find their way here. It is nice to know that the legendary Corolla Wild Horses, iconic sites like the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Whalehead and the new Currituck Maritime Museum await you and yours here, in Corolla, NC.

877.287.7488

CorollaNC.com

FOLLOW ME TO FUQUAY-VARINA CONCERT SERIES Centennial Square 102 N. Main Street Fuquay-Varina 6:30 - 9:30 PM

fuquay-varina.org/fm2fv

Chairmen of the Board April 7

The Embers April 21

Liquid Pleasure May 12

Relax. Chill.

You’ve got this.

If you live in Fuquay-Varina or Holly Springs, you’ve got primary care. Urgent care. Cardiovascular care.

General surgery. Breast and colorectal surgery. Bariatric surgery. Medical weight loss. Women’s care for every life stage. And, for everything and anything else, WakeMed Cary Hospital is close by and as full-service and sophisticated as it gets. Granted, life in The ‘Quay and Holly Springs is pretty chill as is. But a little extra convenience can bring a little extra balance to your life. Visit us at wakemed.org.

Fuquay-Varina URGENT CARE

231 North Judd Parkway 919-235-6560

PRIMARY CARE

231 North Judd Parkway 919-235-6410

Holly Springs SURGERY

601 Attain Street, Suite 101 919-350-9355

HEART & VASCULAR

231 North Judd Parkway 919-232-0322

OB-GYN

101 Cotten Lane 919-235-6456

PRIMARY CARE

101 Cotten Lane, Suite 2 919-235-6555

April/May 2022

CONTENTS

48

never “ I have seen people

get obsessed with a sport like this.

”

– Corrine Carr, professional pickleball athlete

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 SEE & DO

Special Edition: Enjoy the weather with our spring bucket list.

60

18 DIG IN & DRINK UP

Cocktails at The Blind Pelican are smokin’.

26 MEET & GREET

Tan Uckan, new owner of Nil’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine.

44 RISE & DINE

Discover your new favorite restaurant in our dining guide.

54 THERE & BACK

FEATURES

These Wake County parks and playgrounds are worth the drive.

21 THE MAGGY AWARDS RESTAURANTS LIFESTYLE SERVICES SHOPPING

40 ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT

Robust Indian spices and a dozen flavors of naan — need we say more?

6 April/MAY 2022

60 FUN & MEMES

54 48 WHAT A PICKLE

Pickleball entices professionals and noivces onto the courts.

Learn the basics from Holly Springs’ own pros.

It’s Pumpkin the Alpaca, y’all, Fuquay’s newest famous farm animal.

64 SEEN & HEARD

Community news and accolades.

66 IN FOCUS

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Announcing The Best of Main & Broad winners in our inaugural readers’ choice contest.

reader

“ ”

Something you look forward to every spring?

Letters “The article looks great! We love it, and it was such a pleasure to work with (Emily) and Jonathan.”

– ELIZABETH STACKHOUSE, D&H RV & MARINE, “RV THERE YET?”

“I really enjoyed the latest issue, especially the articles on the Boxyard and Osteria G. I’m new to NC and felt like I got an insider’s tour. Now, of course, I want to visit in person.”

April/May 2022 • Volume 4, Number 2 EXECUTIVE

ZYRTEC

EDITORIAL

THE EVENINGS THE SUN SETS LATER AND THE TEMPERATURE FEELS GREAT. MY WHOLE FAMILY LOVES TO BE OUTSIDE DURING THIS PART OF THE DAY.

I HAVE GARDEN FEVER I CAN’T WAIT FOR THAT SUN-RIPENED TOMATO SMELL!

EASTER INCLUDING BRUNCH AT LUCKY 32

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher Emily Uhland, Senior Editor Dena Daw Tara Shiver CONTRIBUTORS

DAY TRIPS AND FIRING UP THE GRILL

Fuquay-Varina Memes David McCreary PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer PRODUCTION

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

S&A Communications Chuck Norman, APR

– DEBRA KUFFNER, HOLLY SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator Valerie Renard, Human Resources

“Thanks so much. I love it.”

– ANDREA FERMANIS, ELEGANT ELEPHANT TRAVEL, “IT’S GO TIME”

“You literally listed three of my fav places in Cary! Love this.”

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith MORE DAYLIGHT!

– SARAH MADRAS, VIA INSTAGRAM, “A CLASSIC CARY STAYCATION”

MAIN & BROAD Westview at Weston 701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Suite 103, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.mainandbroadmag.com ON THE COVER: THE BEST PART ABOUT THE MAGGY AWARDS — THE CHANCE TO HIGHLIGHT LOCAL PEOPLE AND BUSINESSES MAKING AN IMPACT ON THE COMMUNITY.

LET’S BE

! s d n e i r F

@mbmagazinenc

8 April/MAY 2022

@mbmagazinenc

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.

SPECIAL THANKS TO THESE MAGGY AWARD WINNERS FOR HELPING US CELEBRATE. RANDI AND GIANNI CINELLI, VIENI RISTOBAR ANDREW STAFFORD, MY WAY TAVERN & THE BLIND PELICAN MARTY WOODWARD AND BUD, RESCUED WOOD REHAB JULIE OLSCHNER, SALON REVIVE LANDON AND AUBREY DIGH, 2DIGH4 KAREN SHORE, HOLLY SPRINGS DEEP DIVE PODCAST

@mbmagazinenc

PHOTO BY JONATHAN FREDIN CHALK ART BY JOHNA RITCHIE

This publication does not endorse, either directly or implicitly, the people, activities, products or advertising published herein.

Information in the magazine is deemed credible to the best of our knowledge.

Main & Broad is a proud member and supporter of all five chambers in Western Wake County: the Cary Chamber of Commerce, Apex Chamber of Commerce, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and Fuquay-Varina Chamber of Commerce.

All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

All dwellings advertised are available on an equalopportunity basis.

Editor’s

Letter

This issue

BY THE

Numbers

60

Categories included in The Maggy Awards: Best of Main & Broad

4

Jonathan Fredin

Divisions — restaurants, lifestyle, services and shopping

This issue has been four years in the making.

In the early days, circa 2018, when Main & Broad was just an idea, Publisher Kris Schultz was already anticipating the time when the magazine would publish its first class of Maggy Award winners.

See, Cary Magazine, Main & Broad’s sister publication, has been hosting The Maggy Awards for more than 15 years, celebrating the best restaurants, shops and service providers chosen, always, by the readers.

Before Main & Broad could partake in the fun, we needed your help. We needed community support and grassroots promotion and friendly competition.

And above all, we needed readers who love their community to vote in support of their favorite businesses.

Thank you to everyone who participated in Main & Broad’s inaugural Maggy Awards, and who encouraged others to do so as well. It is such a pleasure to celebrate with local business owners and witness their excitement when the winners are revealed.

In celebration of all The Best of Main & Broad winners, we are throwing a block party, and you are invited. Join us April 28 at 4:30 P.M. at The Fenton in Cary to mix and mingle with Main & Broad and Cary Magazine Maggy Award winners. Sip, sample and enjoy the fun with us — we couldn’t have done it without you!

EMILY UHLAND SENIOR EDITOR

10 April/MAY 2022

1,747 Votes

12

Pieces of original art

by Johna Ritchie of Peak City Chalk

1

Conflict of interest — MB columnist Fuquay-Varina Memes won Best Social Media Account.

Honestly, we aren’t surprised.

20 Pages of Maggy Award celebration

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL SALES | PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

We have been helping people in Fuquay-Varina for over 15 years. We understand the current market and can help you understand it too!

Give us a call at 919-355-SOLD! As an Air Force Veteran, I am proud to have rebated back over $140,000 to Veterans, First Responders, Teachers and Medical Personnel.

Krista Abshure

919-753-6518

BEST REALTOR® 2020

|

919-355-SOLD

agentkrista@gmail.com theabshurerealtygroup.com VETERAN OWNED BUSINESS

201 S Main St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

We Live Here. We Work Here. We Play Here. We Know This Market!

SPECIAL EDITION

Make the most of this

sensational season!

See Do Swing into Spring Bucket List Hunt for Easter Eggs APRIL 9 10 A.M. FLEMING LOOP PARK

TOWN OF FUQUAY-VARINA

The Easter Bunny will be on site to kick off the egg hunt with Mayor Blake Massengill. Don’t forget your baskets and cameras for pictures. The hunt starts promptly at 10 a.m. for ages 10 and under. Afterwards head to the Downtown Candy Hop.

Hop Around for Candy

APRIL 9 11 A.M. FUQUAY AND VARINA DOWNTOWN DISTRICTS

Hop from shop to shop and fill your Easter baskets with candy from downtown merchants at the annual Downtown Candy Hop sponsored by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association. Grab lunch or visit a new business while you’re at it.

Enjoy Beets & Jams at the Holly Springs Farmer’s Market

APRIL 30 9 A.M.–NOON HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

Kick off the market’s summer season with special activities all morning long. The Beets & Jams Music Series presents live music beginning at 9:30 a.m. Little Sprouts Activity Center will host lessons and crafts for kids. The local Farm-to-Table Chef Series presents tasty bites prepared using fresh items from the market.

12 April/MAY 2022

Join the Egg-cellent Park Adventure APRIL 1–14 ENTRIES DUE APRIL 14, 4 P.M. THROUGHOUT FUQUAY-VARINA

Join a town-wide scavenger hunt for 10 wooden eggs hidden throughout Fuquay-Varina parks and facilities.

Each egg has a unique pattern and number designed by the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center. Participate by completing a four- or 10-egg worksheet, drawing the pattern or labeling the number of each egg you find.

Download the worksheet at fuquay-varina.org/easter and submit it to the FV Community Center (820 S. Main St.) by Thursday, April 14 at 4 p.m. to receive a prize and enter a drawing for PARKS INCLUDE: Mineral Spring Park Carroll Howard Johnson a large Easter basket South Park Environmental Park filled with goodies.

Falcon Park James A. Campbell Park FV Arts Center Honeycutt Road Park Library Park

Fleming Loop Park Hilltop Needmore Town Park & Preserve

Chalk the Walk

APRIL 24 10 A.M.–4 P.M. HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

Show off your artistic talents for the whole town to witness. Artists ages 6 and up can reserve a space in front of the Holly Springs Cultural Center to transform with chalk. Photographs of completed artwork will be posted on Facebook for a public vote. Winners will be selected in three age groups: 6-12, 13-17 and 18 and over.

TOWN OF FUQUAY-VARINA

Follow Me to Fuquay-Varina Concerts APRIL 7 & 21, MAY 12 6:30–9:30 P.M. CENTENNIAL SQUARE, DOWNTOWN FUQUAY

The popular Follow Me to FuquayVarina concert series returns for the spring session. Gather lawn chairs, friends and neighbors and head to downtown Fuquay district. No pets or coolers allowed, but there are plenty of local restaurants, breweries and food trucks nearby.

UPCOMING CONCERTS:

April 7 Chairmen of the Board April 21 The Embers May 12 Liquid Pleasure

Holly Springs Community Band Concert

APRIL 9 7:30.–9 P.M. HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

An all-volunteer group of musicians whose performances showcase concert band music of many genres, including classical, Broadway musicals, movie soundtracks, pop, rock and marches.

Hike to the Chainsaw Art

EMILY UHLAND

LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC

WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK OPEN DAILY

In 2017, North Carolina-based artists Jerry Redi and Randy Boni transformed a fallen red oak tree in Umstead Park with chainsaws, carving an incredible woodland scene into both sides of the 25-foot-long trunk.

The tree lies along the Graylyn Trail, making it a unique spot for a water break and photo op while exploring Umstead’s many trails.

The shortest route to the chainsaw art begins at the Crabtree Creek park entrance. Park at the Sycamore Road parking lot, then proceed to the Graylyn multi-use trail and continue to the right. The fallen tree lies on the left of the trail, a little more than half a mile from the parking lot.

For a more challenging route, begin at the Reedy Creek entrance off N. Harrison Ave. in Cary. Connect to the Graylyn Trail via Reedy Creek Lake Trail and Reedy Creek Trail, totaling 3.2 miles one way to reach the sculpture.

Celebrate with the Maggy Award Winners APRIL 28 4:30–8 P.M. THE FENTON, CARY

CURIOUS ABOUT THE WINNERS? Turn to page 21 to see who won.

Join Main & Broad, and our sister publication Cary Magazine, to celebrate our first-ever reader’s choice award winners at the 2022 Maggy Party. Mix, mingle, eat and drink with the people and businesses named the Best of Main & Broad and the Best of Cary Magazine.

Bring the whole family to enjoy tasty sips and bites from local restaurants, games, photo ops and more. Plus, get a glimpse into Cary’s brand-new mixed-use development, the Fenton.

13

ATTEND A FOOD FESTIVAL Brewgaloo

APRIL 22, 6–10 P.M. APRIL 23, 2–10 P.M. DOWNTOWN RALEIGH

Explore the thriving NC craft beer scene during the two-day Brewgaloo festival in Raleigh. Friday night features a ticketed tasting event with unlimited 3-ounce pours. Saturday admission is free, and beer can be purchased in samples or pints. A hundred breweries, 50 food trucks, dozens of local vendors and live music span the length of Fayetteville Street.

MAY 6 5–9 P.M. HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

Nthew yeaisr

Bring blankets and chairs for lawn seating outside the Cultural Center to watch family-friendly and entertaining cultural performances and sample cuisine from local restaurants and food trucks representing more than 12 countries. Presented by the Town of Holly Springs in partnership with the HS Chamber of Commerce and the HS Interfaith Alliance.

Smithfield Ham & Yam Festival

MAY 7 9 A.M.–9 P.M. NEUSE RIVER AMPHITHEATRE, SMITHFIELD

Ham biscuits and sweet potatoes may star in this show, but there are many supporting characters: food and craft vendors, multi-stage entertainment, a rubber duck race, inflatables and not-to-be-missed pig races.

TAKE A SUNNY PHOTO Smile at the Shoppes on Main For about two years, Fuquay-resident and artist Rachel Cornett has been installing seasonal murals on the Shoppes on Main building in downtown Fuquay-Varina. A project she began to “give people some happy.”

The first mural went up in 2020, to honor high school graduates that had most of their graduation festivities canceled. Along with her teenage daughter and friend, Cornett painted a mortarboard and multi-colored tassel, so graduates from all schools could stop for celebratory photos.

Since then, the mural has changed a handful of times, rotating through a bold rainbow, snowy wonderland and, currently, a cheery smiley face. Look for the graduation mural to return mid-April for the newest glass of graduates to enjoy.

BBQ Fest on the Neuse MAY 6, 5–10 P.M. MAY 7, 10 A.M.–5 P.M. DOWNTOWN KINSTON

This whole hog cook-off in Kinston has barbecue in abundance, plus live music, vendor booths, a classic car show and fun for the whole family, encompassing several streets around downtown Kinston, between Pearson Park and Queen Street.

New this year, guests can purchase a Best of the Best BBQ Wristband to sample the winning teams’ cooked pork. Multiple winners are awarded in Professional and Backyard classes.

Barbecue plates can also be purchased, as well as food from local restaurants and vendors.

14 April/MAY 2022

Visit the Sunflower Field at Dorothea Dix Park Starting in July, a sea of sunflowers blooms at Dorothea Dix Park. A popular spot for nature and family photography, this summertime flower show is well on its way to becoming a Raleigh tradition. The field is located off Hunt Drive near the former soccer fields and the historic cemetery. Parking is available in gravel lots nearby.

PHOTOS: JONATHAN FREDIN, RACHEL CORNETT, BBQ FEST ON THE NEUSE

Holly Springs International Food Festival

MOTIVATED MOVERS A R E R E A DY TO C A LL TH E H I G H V I EW H O M E !

Treat Mom to Brunch Instead of breakfast in bed on Mother’s Day (May 8), venture out to Southern Wake’s cafes and eateries for a gourmet brunch with zero cleanup. Consider Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen — their decadent brunch menu includes Fruity French Toast (brioche dipped in Fruity Pebbles batter and stuffed with an apple chutney cream cheese), mimosa flights and their signature Vietnamese Iced Coffee.

Other unique offerings include popovers at Ashley’s Harvest Moon BakeryCafe and Sunday Sundaes at Pimiento Tea Room.

Reservations are essential on this busy brunch day. But we’d venture to say that most moms appreciate a brunch invitation on any of the other 51 weekends of the year, too.

Now that we’ve officially broken ground, The Highview at Searstone — our upcoming four-story residential expansion — is almost fully reserved, with 90% of available residences already secured!

Luckily, there’s still time to find the brand-new floorplan that will be right for you. Discover how exciting life’s next adventure can be in Cary, NC, and reserve your spot in a community where carefree living is the norm, not the exception.

We invite you to learn more about all the ways The Highview is enhancing our beautiful campus and encourage you to act fast before this opportunity passes you by.

PHOTOS: JONATHAN FREDIN

Call us today for more information: 919-897-7471.

RET IREMEN T LIV IN G with IN T EREST

searstone.com ASHLEY’S HARVEST MOON BAKERY-CAFE

17001 SEARSTONE DRIVE

|

CARY, NC

15

STRIKE UP FRIENDLY COMPETITION Live Trivia at Hickory Tavern

WEDNESDAYS 7–9 P.M. 401 VILLAGE WALK DRIVE, HOLLY SPRINGS

Invite your favorite know-it-all neighbor to share delicious pretzel bites, BBQ chicken nachos or Pow Pow Shrimp and put that wealth of knowledge to good use.

Music Bingo at The Mason Jar Lager Company

Have a Pinterest-worthy Picnic DATES & LOCATION ARE FLEXIBLE BOOK EARLY FOR BEST AVAILABILITY

For all the luxury, but none of the effort required to set up a glamorous picnic soiree, look to Sweet T Picnics, owned by Marcie Trivette. Trivette finds locations all over the greater Raleigh area and works with local artisans to provide delicious food and decor, such as Slice Pie Company and Something Blue Custom Charcuterie.

The turn-key experience is complete with blankets and pillows, a picnic basket, a decorated and set table, plus her signature sweet tea.

“I believe the year 2020 taught everyone a lot, myself included. Time is so precious, and you can’t get it back,” Trivette says. “I Unpredictable wanted to create a space where sweet memories could weather isn’t a be made with smiles, laughter and togetherness. It’s not problem inside just about having a picnic. It’s about having an incred- of Sweet T’s clear igloo tents. ible experience with those you cherish.”

THURSDAYS 7–9 P.M. 341 E. BROAD ST., FUQUAY-VARINA

Sip Mason Jar seasonal releases, nosh bites from local food trucks and test your musical knowledge.

Karaoke Friday at Brus on Main FRIDAYS 7–9 P.M. 135 S. MAIN ST., FUQUAY-VARINA

Familiar community faces host pitch-perfect karaoke in downtown Fuquay, enlivened by Brus on Main’s signature boozy specialty drinks.

Spend a Night in a Yurt

About 30 miles from Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a picturesque lake, trails, a gazebo, sauna and a comfortably appointed private yurt for a peaceful spring or summer escape.

Yurts are equipped with heating and air conditioning, a mini kitchenette, a fire pit, a picnic table, a charcoal grill and sleeping arrangements for at least two people.

“We were starting to get more and more families, so we started to give families more options,” says owner Tom Williamson. “With the exception of the 24-foot yurt, which has a king-sized bed, all the other 20-foot yurts have queen-sized beds, and some of them have bunk beds. If the kids want to camp in a tent, they can just pop up a tent right next to the yurt at no extra cost.”

16 April/MAY 2022

PHOTOS: JONATHAN FREDIN

LAKESIDE RETREATS 4521 MIAL PLANTATION ROAD, RALEIGH

Prime Barbecue

When it comes to barbecue, few places make as bold and delicious a statement as the Raleigh area. While influenced by two great North Carolina styles, we make room at the table for regional flavors of all kinds. Jump back into a lively culinary scene to give visiting friends and family a true taste of what’s cooking.

visitRaleigh.com/locals

Dig in

Drink up

Smoked Cocktails at The Blind Pelican

Maggy win

ner

best cocktails

Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin Dreamed up by the husband and wife bartending duo Josh and Devyn Self, Smoked Old Fashioneds and Smoked Manhattans are two of many top-shelf cocktails at The Blind Pelican, winner of Best Cocktails in The Best of Main & Broad Maggy Awards.

Premium liquors, including Woodford Reserve and Elijah Craigh Rye, mix with house-made cherries soaked in bourbon and molasses, seared orange zest and smallbatch bitters specially formulated just for The Blind Pelican by local company Remedy Cocktail Co.

To create the signature smokiness, cedar planks are burned with a kitchen torch, then the cocktail glass is inverted onto the plank to infuse with smoke.

The Smoked Manhattan presentation features a vape bubble, which is popped at the table to release scented vapor.

“People come in and order the drink just to video it,” says Josh Self. “It’s almost like you are on stage.”

Bartenders serve between 50 and 70 Smoked Old Fashioneds alone per night on the weekends.

“Our cocktails definitely set us apart,” says Self.

THE BLIND PELICAN 120 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs (984) 225-2471 blindpelicanseafood.com

18 April/MAY 2022

WHERE COLOR MEETS CRAFTSMANSHIP. Inside or out, the professionals at CertaPro Painters® deliver quality work, professional service, and an unmatched painting experience every time.

Contact us today to schedule your FREE estimate!

$200 OFF YOUR NEXT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PROJECT* *Offer applies to your residential painting project of $2,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current 6/31/19. estimates or proposals. Valid at CertaPro Painters® of Cary/Apex. Expires 5/31/2022.

800-GO-CERTA cary-apex.certapro.com Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated

We Do Painting. You Do Life.®

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

We Banjo 3 Fresh from their performance at MerleFest, We Banjo 3 ignites the Fuquay Varina Arts Center on Saturday, April 30!

Experience the fusion of Americana bluegrass with traditional Celtic songcraft. The Galway, Ireland, and Nashville-based quartet continually pushes musical boundaries while maintaining an unwavering devotion to the essential audience experience. Tickets available at FVArts.org.

Summer Camp Summer time is for .....CAMP!! Draw, paint, print, sculpt, explore and create in a summer camp.

Explore and create in these fun filled Camps.

Info and registration at FVArts.org.

Community Chorale Celebrate our community with the best our community has to offer – the Fuquay Varina Community Chorale performs May 5 & 6, and the Community Theatre performs May 19, 20 & 21. Tickets available at FVArts.org.

For more info, call the Arts Center at 919-567-3920 20 April/MAY 2022

fvarts.org

WE ASKED, YOU ANSWERED. During the month of January, Main & Broad released its first-ever readers’ choice survey to determine your favorite local busineses, restaurants, community servants and shops.

We are so excited to present the winners in this, our inagural Maggy Awards: The Best of Main & Broad.

Presenting

Original art by Johna ritchie about the artist page 65

Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

EDITOR’S NOTE: If you missed the 2022 survey, make sure to subscribe to our bimonthly email newsletter for updates about next year’s awards and the latest Main & Broad stories.

Subscribe online at mainandbroadmag.com.

21

Did you know?

The appetizer and dessert offerings are different, slightly, at the Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina locations of The Mason Jar Tavern? Fuquay offers a Fried Pretzel appetizer with beer cheese and ground mustard for dipping, while Holly Springs includes Chicken Lettuce Wraps.

Restaurants

Best FOOD TRUCKS PORTABLE PORTUGY

Known for classic Portuguese cuisine including favorites like bifana pork and grilled chourico sausage, freshly prepared by Chef Shawn Dagnall. You might catch them at The Mason Jar Lager Company, Century 21 Triangle Group Realty on Judd Parkway or Tapline Growler.

Follow @theportableportugy for updates.

Other favorites, at both locations, are Buffalo Chicken Egg Rolls, Fried Green Tomatoes, Corn Fritters and the signature S’More in a Jar.

WINNERS! BEST NEW RESTAURANT

VIENI RISTOBAR Little Portugal Pimiento Tea Room

BEST FOOD TRUCK

THE PORTABLE PORTUGY Buoy Bowls Rescue Dogs & Catering BEST APPETIZERS

THE MASON JAR TAVERN

Vicious Fishes Taproom & Kitchen Vieni Ristobar BEST COCKTAILS

THE BLIND PELICAN

The Mason Jar Tavern The Brickhouse Bar & Grill BEST BAKERY

RESCUE DOGS & CATERING

BEST TIZ APPE ERS

A percentage of the daily proceeds from this gourmet hotdog food truck supports local first responders’ mental health and awareness.

BEST DESSERT

STICK BOY BREAD CO. Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe Bestow Baked Goods BEST DESSERT

THE MASON JAR TAVERN Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe Stick Boy Bread Co. BEST BARBECUE

DADDY D’S BBQ

Big Mike’s BBQ Daddy Bob’s Barbeque

The Blind Pelican BEST COCKTAILS, BEST SEAFOOD

It’s always island time at The Blind Pelican, where drink specials are seriously fun and ever changing. With monthly margarita specials, smoked Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, tequila flights and their famous Ultimate Bloody Marys, complete with a build-your-own garnish menu (grilled cheese, crab legs and fried oysters, for example), there is always a reason to raise a glass, or two.

Read more about the cocktails at The Blind Pelican on page 18.

22 April/MAY 2022

BEST BREAKFAST

EGGS UP GRILL

First Watch Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen BEST BURGER AND FRIES

ABBEY ROAD TAVERN My Way Tavern The Mason Jar Tavern

BEST DATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT

GARIBALDI TRATTORIA Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi Osteria G BEST COFFEE HOUSE

CULTIVATE COFFEE ROASTERS Sir Walter Coffee & Kitchen The Mill

DADDY D’S BBQ BEST BARBECUE

VIENI RISTOBAR BEST NEW RESTAURANT

OSHA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

CULTIVATE COFFEE ROASTERS BEST COFFEE HOUSE 23

WINNERS! BEST SEAFOOD

THE BLIND PELICAN

Skrimp Shack Vicious Fishes Taproom & Kitchen

STICK BOY BREAD COMPANY

BEST PIZZERIA

J&S NEW YORK PIZZA

Assaggio’s Pizzeria Ristorante Anna’s Pizzeria BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

BEST BAKERY HONORABLE MENTION BEST DESSERT

OSHA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI

In addition to the amazing breads and pastries at Stick Boy Bread Company, owned by a local husband and wife team, order their scratch-made pizza dough and buttermilk biscuits to take-and-bake at home.

Mei Wei Chinese and Thai Restaurant Dan Sushi & Hibachi

BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

NIL’S CAFE MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE MediTerra Grill Greek Basma

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

GARIBALDI TRATTORIA Vieni Ristobar Osteria G

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT Cilantro Indian Cafe Bawarchi Grill & Spirits

BEST MEXICAN/LATIN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

BOMBSHELL BEER COMPANY BEST CRAFT BREWERY

A female-owned, awardwinning microbrewery that loves to engage with the community, through a weekly run club, seasonal spirit nights and special events, like the Valentine’s chocolate & beer pairing (yes, please!), and frequent local food trucks at their Holly Springs tap room and beer garden.

24 April/MAY 2022

My Way Tavern

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR HONORABLE MENTION BEST BURGER AND FRIES

MI CANCUN MEXICAN RESTAURANT Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila Los Tres Magueyes

BEST HEALTHY-DINING OPTIONS

It makes sense that the winner of Best Neighborhood Bar would have a really stunning bar. My Way Tavern’s horseshoe-style bar was built with reclaimed wood from a 160-year-old barn in eastern North Carolina by local craftsman Paul Morgan.

SWEETBERRY BOWLS

“The wood is beautiful tulip poplar that was cut into large planks,” explained Morgan, in an interview with Cary Magazine.

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

Sidle up and enjoy one of 18 beers on tap, 15 hailing from NC, or one of 80 varieties of bottled beer.

BEST CRAFT BREWERY

Juicehaus Nil’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

MY WAY TAVERN

The Brickhouse Bar & Grill Niche Wine Lounge

AVIATOR TAP HOUSE

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi Vicious Fishes Taproom & Kitchen

BOMBSHELL BEER CO. The Mason Jar Lager Co. Vicious Fishes Brewery

GARIBALDI TRATTORIA BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT BEST DATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT

SWEETBERRY BOWLS BEST HEALTHY-DINING OPTIONS

ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

read morea about zeer

Page 40

EGGS UP GRILL BEST BREAKFAST

Meet

Greet

Welcome the new proprietor of Nil’s Cafe 2022 Maggy Winner of Best of Mediterranean Restaurant

TAN UCKAN

Owner, Nil’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine and Medi Bites food truck Written by David McCreary | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin BACKGROUND: When I was growing up in Istanbul,

my mother worked, so I helped with cooking. After high school, I trained in culinary arts in Turkey.

OWNERSHIP OPPORTUNITY: My family knew

SPLURGEWORTHY: We have baklava, carrot cake,

peanut butter chocolate cake and our most popular dessert, a 10-layer honey cake (editor’s tip: get this in your life ASAP).

Mustafa and Sibel (recently retired owners of Nil’s) in Turkey. I call him Uncle Mustafa, and I’m grateful he sold the restaurant to me.

FUTURE PLANS: My goal is to offer affordable fine

NEW FOOD ITEMS: With the food truck, I wanted

FINE-TUNING: We adjusted to five days a week and

to create high-quality, modern Mediterranean food that can be featured in the restaurant.

The chicken salad recipe is the same. We added chef ’s choices like falafel with smoked eggplant, roasted cauliflower with goat cheese and red pepper vinaigrette, and a gyritto, which is a fusion burrito with beef, lamb, turco de gallo and a medi sauce based on my mom’s recipe.

26 April/MAY 2022

dining in a casual style. On Friday evenings, we plan for reservation-only four-course dinners.

are now closed Sunday and Monday. This gives us time to recharge and be with family. We want to be involved in the community however we can, because we plan to be here for a long time.

NIL’S CAFE MEDITERRANEAN CUISINE 513 BROAD ST., FUQUAY-VARINA (919) 567-0887 medibites.net

R E A LTO R ®

Veteran & Female Owned

L I V I N G

A N D

W O R K I N G

I N

F U Q U A Y - V A R I N A

Tracy Watson, Broker/Realtor

®

From breaking ground to closing day, every step of the way Commission rebate for teachers, nurses, active duty & prior military, and police & firefighters when buying, selling, or building.

919-761-0405 tracy@missionfirstrealty.com missionfirstrealty.com

OFFERING

Centering

PRENATAL CARE Meet Our Midwives Angie Blake, Jessica Trower, Sara Dowd, April Horner & Heather Helton A compassionate, experienced team of physicians & midwives serving the womenof the Triangle area for over 22 years, and now proud to serve HOLLY SPRINGS. SCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT TODAY!

919.678.6900 | www.tp4w.com

• Obstetrics • Gynecology

• Midwifery • Mammography

2116 Werrington Dr., Holly Springs, NC | 600 New Waverly Pl., Suite 310, Cary, NC 27

Inside 9Round Fitness BEST FITNESS PROGRAM

2Digh4 BEST LOCAL MUSIC GROUP Brothers Landon, left, and Aubrey Digh began developing their musical talents right here in Fuquay-Varina, taking lessons downtown and honing their craft at Fuquay-Varina High School. Now the four-person band travels around the Southeast, performing their signature country rock originals and popular cover songs.

“

We have worked hard to revamp the gym over the last year and a half. It’s huge for us to be recognized in a magazine that we have available right here in our location.

JAMI GUILLORY, MANAGER ANGELA MASKILL, OWNER LUKE DAMO, TRAINER

”

– Angela Maskill

When the former owners of 9Round Fitness in Holly Springs wanted to close the gym, Paul Maskill didn’t want to lose access to his workouts, so he decided to buy it.

In the 18 months that Paul and his wife Angela have owned the location on GB Alford Highway, the pair has updated the equipment and improved social media awareness, focusing on serving the residents of Southern Wake community with a flexible and fun workout.

28 April/MAY 2022

OWNER ANGELA MASKILL TAKES US INSIDE: It’s a total-body kickboxing circuit workout. There are nine stations, each lasting three minutes. A threeminute timer keeps the pace, so after nine rotations, your 30-minute workout is done.

70-80% of our members have zero kickboxing experience.

Everything is modifiable. There is a trainer on the floor, and together you can decide what works for you.

There are no set class times, no sign-ups. A new workout can be started every three minutes, so there is complete flexibility to suit each member.

The class changes every day, so you always feel challenged.

It’s a great stress relief to punch and kick things.

Frustrations get taken out on the bag.

Lifestyle

WINNERS! BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

HERBERT AKINS ROAD ELEMENTARY Holly Springs High School Willow Springs Elementary School BEST NONPROFIT

MILITARY MISSIONS IN ACTION Meg’s Smile Foundation Guardian Angel Thrift BEST PRESCHOOL

PRIMROSE SCHOOL

Johnson Pond Learning Center Little Dreamers Preschool BEST LOCAL EVENT OR FESTIVAL

Herbert Akins Road Elementary BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

OPEN SINCE: July 2009 CALENDAR: Year-round MASCOT: Hawks PRINCIPAL: Dr. James Douglas ENROLLMENT: nearly 1,000 HISTORY: Named for Herbert Akins, a veteran, businessman and community advocate, who lived in Fuquay-Varina from 1889 to 1965. Akins owned and farmed the land that the school was later built on, founded Varina Supply Company, and served as director and president of the Bank of Varina during his life.

BEERICANA

HollyFest Celebrate Fuquay-Varina BEST LOCAL MUSIC GROUP

2DIGH4

Bender Street The Rusted Rails BEST PLACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION

PARRISH WOMBLE PARK

Hilltop Needmore Town Park & Preserve Bass Lake Park BEST FITNESS PROGRAM

9ROUND FITNESS

Burn Boot Camp Original Strength Institute BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO

BRADLEY’S YOGA AND FITNESS

Primrose School BEST PRESCHOOL

13

There are Primrose School locations in the Triangle area, two in Southern Wake: Primrose School at West Lake, in Apex, and Primrose School at Holly Grove, in Holly Springs.

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER Rock Solid Warrior Hunt Center

BEST SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT

FUQUAY-VARINA MEMES Rescued Wood Rehab A Southern Wake Couple BEST LOCAL PODCAST

HOLLY SPRINGS DEEP DIVE PODCAST Girls Who Do Stuff 919 Beer

25 books per student available, nine more than the Wake County average.

Source: North Carolina School Report Cards

Military Missions in Action BEST NONPROFIT

Dedicated to assisting members of the armed forces, veteran and active duty, and their families through personal support and housing assistance.

$0.94

of every dollar donated goes to programs and services

58,000

Prana Yoga Breathing Space

BEST KIDS’ PROGRAM OR CAMP

Herbert Akins Road Elementary School has close to

Veterans served

Beericana

BEST LOCAL EVENT OR FESTIVAL

Southern Wake loves craft beer, and Beericana celebrates that love by bringing together dozens of NC breweries, live music and food trucks in a one-day festival at Sugg Farm Park. Look for this annual festival to return in the fall of 2022.

63,108

Care packages shipped

731

Building projects completed

533

Veterans’ homes furnished

1,918

Children of service members benefited

29

{CONT.}

LIFESTYLE

Meet

BEST OF

Greet

FOUNDER RANDI BRADLEY, PICTURED CENTER, HOLDING HOORAY SIGN, WITH HER SATURDAY MORNING YOGA CLASS

“

I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for this community believing in me.

”

- Randi Bradley, Bradley’s Yoga & Fitness

Randi Bradley

Founder, Bradley’s Yoga & Fitness BEST YOGA/PILATES STUDIO HONORABLE MENTION: BEST NEW BUSINESS

I taught free yoga online seven days a week, from the day the world shut down to July 1 (2020).

I opened the studio March 1, 2021. Since then, we’ve nearly tripled the number of classes and teachers.

My goal was to make people of any ability level feel successful in every single class, and feel better when they are done.

95 percent of our yogis are beginner level. We welcome yogis of all ages, sizes and flexibility.

We are more than just a studio. We’re a community of mostly women who are there for each other.

Bradley’s Yoga & Fitness offers free monthly events to members, like puppy yoga or partner yoga.

30 April/MAY 2022

Our busiest classes are usually the Yin classes, which are super slow, stretchy, calm and relaxing, and power flow, which is a yoga workout, with lots of movement and cardio.

The studio is heated to 90-95 degrees.

FUQUAY-VARINA MEMES BEST SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNT

With good-natured jabs at all Wake County towns, Fuquay-Varina Memes has amassed a following of more than 42,000 across Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Frequent targets are Cary’s public art, the odorous South Wake Landfill, shenanigans on the “Ladies of ” Facebook pages and farm animals in Fuquay. We’re big fans of the monthly column in Main & Broad, too (page 60).

Easily offended? Best to scroll on past this one.

FOLLOW ALONG @FUQUAYMEMES

KAREN SHORE HOLLY SPRINGS DEEP DIVE PODCAST

Holly Springs Deep Dive Podcast BEST LOCAL PODCAST

Karen Shore started the “Holly Springs Deep Dive Podcast” to create a dialogue with candidates for local office, understanding that local government officials have a huge impact on daily life, but details about campaign platforms and personal background can be hard for voters to find.

In her archive of 65 episodes, Shore interviews candidates, as well as local residents, entrepreneurs and community servants in a friendly, casual way.

“The best community is an informed and engaged community, and that’s what my goal was — to give the people an easier route to becoming informed and engaged,” Shore says.

Community Based Law Firm Focused in Real Estate, Business & Estate Planning Law

We are dedicated to providing a holistic approach to legal services. The need for legal services can arise in emotional and stressful times. Our goal is to help you through these times with an eye to the future.

No matter the legal issue, you are important to us.

920 Durham Street | Fuquay-Varina | 919-584-5293

morganperrylaw.com NOLAN R. PERRY

J. DAVID MORGAN

31

Services

WINNERS! BEST AUTO MECHANIC SHOP

GETZ AUTOMOTIVE

Fuquay Tire & Automotive Center 55 Auto Works BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

FIDELITY BANK

State Employees’ Credit Union Coastal Credit Union

JULIE OLSCHNER SALON REVIVE

Salon Revive BEST HAIR SALON

Open in Town Hall Commons for two and a half years, Salon Revive is owned by Holly Springs residents Julie and Keith Olschner.

“I wanted a salon with top-quality services that was still welcoming and casual,” says Julie.

Salon Revive hosts 11 stylists, with a range of specialties, including men’s and women’s haircuts, highlights, extensions, updos and even makeup.

“We aren’t all masters of everything, but we help each other and make sure all our clients’ needs are met. ”

BEST CUSTOM HOME BUILDER/ HOME RENOVATION SPECIALIST

BIG MONKEY RENOVATION & REPAIR Glasgow Design Build Massengill Design Build

BEST MORTGAGE OFFICER

DIANE KINLAW, FIRST FEDERAL MORTGAGE NC Sherry Riano, First Heritage Mortgage Bonnie O’Brien, GoPrime Mortgage BEST INSURANCE AGENT

CHRISTINE WALORZ, WALORZ INSURANCE

Trisha Schwartz, State Farm Insurance Michael Bendel, New York Life Insurance BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

TRACY WATSON, MISSION FIRST REALTY

Krista Abshure, The Abshure Realty Group Erica Anderson, Team Anderson Realty BEST DENTIST

Dr. Phil Vito, Holly Springs Eye Associates BEST EYE DOCTOR Dr. Phil Vito opened Holly Springs Eye Associates in 1999, when the population of the town was less than 10,000.

When not seeing patients, you might find Dr. Vito at the lake in his kayak, jetting across the water on WaveRunners or working on home improvement projects.

32 April/MAY 2022

Fidelity Bank

BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

Founded as the Bank of Fuquay in 1909, today there are Fidelity Bank locations across North Carolina and Virginia, with headquarters still in Fuquay-Varina.

56

DR. TARA WIGGINS-SMITH, MAIN STREET FAMILY DENTISTRY

Dr. Meredith Taylor, Holly Springs Family Dentistry Dr. Scott Butts, Avent Ferry Family Dentistry BEST ORTHODONTIST

DR. TONY KHARA, TONY KHARA ORTHODONTICS Dr. Kristen Fritz, Fritz Orthodontics Dr. Joe Pittman, Pittman Family Orthodontics

DR. WIGGINS-SMITH, PICTURED CENTER, HOLDING SIGN, WITH HER PARTNERS AND STAFF.

“

People don’t always understand the importance of oral health, how it can affect your body.

The mouth is the portal to the body.

Oral health plays a major role in heart disease. It’s important to us to help patients understand that.

”

- Dr. Tara Wiggins-Smith, Main Street Family Dentistry

Dr. Tara Wiggins-Smith, Main Street Family Dentistry BEST DENTIST

Dr. Tara Wiggins-Smith and her business partner, friend and dental school classmate, Dr. Jenine Giles, opened Main Street Family Dentistry in May 2010.

They weren’t sure what to expect, as women and minorities in small town Holly Springs, but 12 years later Wiggins-Smith says, “It’s been better than I ever expected.”

Each year growing and seeing more patients, the women strive to provide an individualized experience to their clients, helping them to feel relaxed and comfortable in the dental chair.

“I am very chill and laid back,” Wiggins-Smith says. “I want my patients to feel that. We not only want them to smile, but to smile on the inside when they are here.”

“I genuinely like to have fun. I like to sing with my patients,” Wiggins-Smith says. Sometimes they even join in.

“The fact that somebody voted for us makes me feel like what I do matters. I love dentistry. If I made a difference in one person’s life, it makes it feel worth it.”

33

BEST OF

SERVICES

WINNERS!

{CONT.}

BEST EYE DOCTOR

DR. PHIL VITO, HOLLY SPRINGS EYE ASSOCIATES Dr. Patrick O’Dowd, Fuquay Eye Care Dr. Kenneth Roach, Fuquay Ophthalmology & Glaucoma BEST CHIROPRACTOR

DR. BROOK WALLACE, CHIROPRACTIC PARTNERS Dr. Chad Anderson, Anderson Chiropractic Center Dr. Matt Arthur, 919 Spine BEST ATTORNEY

NOLAN PERRY, MORGAN & PERRY LAW

RYANNE JACKSON AND BRANDI MOORE OWNERS, POOCH PAD

Melissa Flanagan, Fuquay-Varina Family Law David Morgan, Morgan & Perry Law

Pooch Pad BEST PET SERVICES

BEST HAIR SALON

SALON REVIVE UP TO

Offering grooming, boarding, doggie daycare and training, Fuquay’s Pooch Pad is a “one-stop shop” for pet owners, says co-owner Ryanne Jackson.

It’s the “fun side” of pet care, she says.

SERVED Jackson, a former veterinary nurse, started PER DAY Pooch Pad with her business partner Brandi Moore in 2010 in a small house on Main Street. They’ve expanded and grown to more than 30 employees since, serving up to 150 dogs per day.

Several turf play yards entertain small-to-large pooches, and during the summer months a beach-entry pool keeps pups cool.

Dogs scheduled for grooming also enjoy free play with the daycare crowd before their bath. “The dogs are easier to work with on the table if they’ve been running around. They are not as stressed,” Jackson says.

Attending daycare helps dogs get exercise and social skills.

“It’s healthy for them physically and mentally,” says Moore. “These – Brandi Moore, dogs are part of the Pooch Pad family, Pooch Pad part of our pack.”

150 dogs

“

Some dogs are here four to five days a week. This is their home away from home.

”

34 April/MAY 2022

Bella on Broad Love is in the Hair BEST SPA

THE FLOAT SPA HOLLY SPRINGS Serasana Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa BEST PET SERVICES

POOCH PAD

Trinity Animal Hospital Paws Fur Grooming

Big Monkey Renovation and Repair

BEST HOME BUILDING SPECIALIST

Owned by Fuquay-Varina resident Jared Watson, Big Monkey Renovation and Repair offers discounts on their services to military, police, fire, emergency responders, teachers and nurses.

Watson and his team specalize in bathroom renovations, deck replacement, handyman services and renovations of all sizes.

Tracy Watson

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

Tracy Watson offers a commission rebate to active or retired military members, as well as police officers, firefighters, EMT personnel, teachers and nurses. (Sound similar to Big Monkey Renovation and Repair? Jared and Tracy are married, and they offer these discounts to thank these community members for their service.)

Watson also serves as a Fuquay-Varina town commissioner, elected in 2021.

Treat yourself and a loved one.

Voted BEST DAYSPA, best massage & BEST YOGA STUDIO in holly springs SERASANA.COM/HOLLYSPRINGS 919-762-7473 | 116 BASS LAKE RD.

R

yoga • acupuncture • massage • skincare • tea bar

35

MARTY WOODWARD AND BUD RESCUED WOOD REHAB

Shopping

WINNERS! BEST NEW BUSINESS (NON-RESTAURANT)

INNER BEAST HATCHET HOUSE Sweet T Picnics Bradley’s Yoga and Fitness

BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

BLESS YOUR HEART BOUTIQUE The Wardrobe Boutique Cousin Couture

BEST RESALE SHOPPING

SERENDIPITY CONSIGNMENT BOUTIQUE

Rescued Wood Rehab

Guardian Angel Thrift Pass It On Thrift Store BEST FLORIST SHOP

FLOWERS ON BROAD STREET

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS AND DECOR HONORABLE MENTION: BEST GIFT STORE

Betty Jean’s Flower Truck Expressions of Love Florist

Part woodworking studio, part gift shop, Rescued Wood Rehab offers custom-made decor items and assistance with tools, planning and building DIY projects. Owner Marty Woodward founded the shop with the help of shop dog Bud, also known as Director of Marketing, to save broken and outdated wood pieces from landfills.

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS AND DECOR

Join the staff of RWR on the second Wednesday of every month for Woodworker Wednesdays, a chance to share ideas and experiences with other local woodworkers of all skill levels.

RESCUED WOOD REHAB Adorn Home Furnishings Southern Attic BEST GARDEN CENTER

THE GARDEN HUT Fairview Garden Center Needmore Farms BEST GIFT STORE

BLESS YOUR HEART BOUTIQUE Carolina Monogram & Company Rescued Wood Rehab

Did you know?

Cellar 55 (Best Wine & Bottle Shop) offers 50 percent off growler fills every day and complimentary wine tastings on Fridays.

Plus, enjoy Cellar 55’s self-serve tasting room with both wine and beer stations at the ready for visitors to sample as they browse. Up to 16 different wines and 8 beers rotate regularly.

On Saturday nights, order chef-prepared light bites, like charcuterie boards and pimento cheese dip.

36 April/MAY 2022

BEST SHOPPING DISTRICT

DOWNTOWN FUQUAY-VARINA Downtown Holly Springs Downtown Apex

BEST WINE & BOTTLE SHOP

CELLAR 55

Black Dog Bottle Shop Triangle Wine Co.

DUSTIN KEMMERER, LEFT, AND JIM HARTMAN, OWNERS OF INNER BEAST HATCHET HOUSE

Inner Beast Hatchet House BEST NEW BUSINESS

“

People come in, and they are afraid of the ax. We want guests to feel their self-confidence and release that inner beast deep down.

At first they look terrified, but by the end of their time, they are whipping that (ax) like a champ.

”

– Jim Hartman

Jim Hartman, Fuquay-Varina resident nect 4, or tic tac toe, in addition to tradiof 30 years, claims the town was “desperate tional targets, which are all projected onto for something fun.” That was nine months the wall. ago, before Hartman and his nephew Dustin It’s a user-friendly system that adds vaKemmerer opened Inner Beast Hatchet riety to an already fun experience.

House in historic downtown Fuquay.

The owners outfitted the venue with Despite the risks of opening a business “weird crap,” such as unique taxidermy, clever in a pandemic economy, Hartman knew signage, Sasquatch references and ever-popthey were on to something good, and the ular Viking-style horned helmets, which are readers of Main & Broad clearly agree. guaranteed to improve throwing accuracy The ax-throwing outfit is a welcome zero percent but a lot of fun to wear. diversion for date nights, private events, Inner Beast started up their second parent-child outings (children age 13 ax-throwing league in March, with dozand older, please) and ens of members in a sevenleague competition. week competition leading Beverages Unique to Inner Beast to a double-elimination are available for purchase. is a digital targeting systournament.

Food trucks are tem, which allows guests “We expected maybe 20 frequently in the area, or guests to choose from a variety of in our first league and had 31 can bring in food throwing games, such as participants. It was a great from the nearby restaurants. duck hunt, zombie kill, conresponse,” Hartman says.

37

BEST OF

SHOPPING

{CONT.}

Flowers on Broad Street BEST FLORIST SHOP

JODI AND TODD STEVENS

Bless Your Heart Boutique BEST CLOTHING BOUTIQUE BEST GIFT STORE

Holly Springs resident Jodi Stevens started her retail journey with an Etsy shop, selling personalized children’s clothing. Now, her thriving downtown boutique sells colorful and lively clothing, gifts and accessories.

Customer service is the top priority for Stevens, and her loyal base of customers enjoys shopping in-store, online, through weekly Facebook Live sales, a proprietary app and a texting program.

“We are very customer driven. We ask a lot of questions — what people like, what they don’t — and we listen,” says Stevens.

Previously located in the Lowes Foods shopping center on Holly Springs Road, the move to Town Hall Commons helped the boutique grow even more.

“I always wanted to be in the heart of Holly Springs, where the pulse is. We have amazing neighbors downtown, all small businesses, family-owned. It’s been a game changer,” JODI’S FAVORITE she says.

PRODUCTS: Grace and Lace The boutique regularly hosts give-back events colclothing lecting supplies and donations for local organizations Kendra Scott Jewelry like the Holly Springs Food Cupboard and Interact Nora Fleming of Wake County. They raised $7,000 for Meg’s Smile serveware Judy Blue Denim Foundation in last year’s charity fashion show and hope to exceed that total this year.

38 April/MAY 2022

Flowers on Broad Street celebrated 25 years in business in March.

“There’s no doubt about it, you can’t work in a flower shop and not be emotional. We see when people are at their deepest despair and the very happiest day of their lives. That’s what I love about my business, our industry — we help with emotions in those kinds of times, good or bad. I think flowers make a difference.” says owner Donna Pittman.

Downtown Fuquay-Varina BEST SHOPPING DISTRICT

We love shopping in downtown Fuquay-Varina.

The thrill of the hunt through boutiques, antique shops and vendor markets is always rewarded with a range of treasures: clothing, gifts, decor, cosmetics, vintage finds and more.

Love to shop local? Purchase Downtown Dollars from the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association to spend at a variety of shops and eateries.

Welcome to downtown newcomer Adorn Home Furnishings, awarded Honorable Mention for Best Home Furnishings.

PIEDMONT POTTERY

Rescued WOOD Rehab Your local shop for all things WOOD! We specialize in custom woodworking of all shapes and sizes. Our team can provide DIY Support and Custom Ideas for FUN one-of-a-kind projects.

Check out our unique creations, live-edge slabs, barnwood, lumber, reclaimed wood, and hand-crafted items by local woodworkers.

Follow us on social media for ideas, classes, specials, and seasonal items.

Rescued WOOD Rehab “Guaranteed Imperfect” 718 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 285–2653 www.rwrnc.com Be Safe – Keep Building – Stay Positive

2022

AWARDS

BEST OF MAIN & BROAD

Taste · Explore · Enjoy · Repeat

Large selection of Fine Wine & Craft Beer Over 200 Cold Beers | Wine Club | Local Delivery Dinners | Classes | Private Parties Complimentary Wine Tasting Every Friday from 5 to 7 Half Price Draft Beer Every Saturday Half Price Growler Fills Every Day 1351 East Broad Street 919-446-1156 cellar55nc.com @cellar55

Check out our Events

39

SEVERAL VEGETARIAN AND VEGAN MAIN COURSES ARE AVAILABLE. ALL ENTREES ARE SERVED WITH BASMATI RICE.

40 April/MAY 2022

ner

Maggy win

best inurdaiantn resta

Restaurant Spotlight:

ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT Written by David McCreary Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

SIGNATURE ZEERA SPECIAL CHICKEN APPETIZER

Since opening in 2017, Zeera Indian Restaurant has steadily built a reputation for its quality cuisine, friendly service and serene locale. Fittingly, the family-run establishment recently earned a 2022 Best of Main & Broad Maggy Award.

“We are grateful that the community has responded to this concept, and we are passionate about what we believe in — authentic goodness,” says proprietor Avis Price, who hails from central India.

“Our guests have become part of the Zeera family, and we feel like we are serving them in our home dining room.”

Offering a variety of robust flavors based on family recipes, the full-service restaurant serves traditional Indian cuisine that has been adapted to suit the palates of local clientele. The distinctive dishes include spices like turmeric, ginger, carom seeds and cumin, which is synonymous with the word “zeera.”

The eatery specializes in Indian flat breads, including more than a dozen varieties of naan. Order the rosemary or the garlic cheese naan, both of which are baked in a clay oven.

Among the standout appetizers, the crispy samosa with potatoes and peas and pakora (chickpeabattered fritters) are particularly noteworthy. But don’t miss the Zeera Special Chicken, which features continued on page 42

41

continued from page 41

CRISPY SAMOSA STARTER COMES STUFFED WITH POTATOES AND PEAS.

ABOVE: THE MIXED PLATTER INCLUDES TWO TYPES OF CHICKEN, LAMB AND SHRIMP. THE TRANQUIL ATMOSPHERE AND EFFICIENT SERVICE HELPED ZEERA EARN THE BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT MAGGY AWARD. THE REFRESHING MANGO LASSI, A SIGNATURE INDIAN BEVERAGE, IS YOGURT-BASED AND TOPPED WITH WHIPPED CREAM. 42 April/MAY 2022

deep-fried chicken marinated in spices and served atop fresh naan bread.

“The Zeera Special Chicken is an all-time favorite for a lot of people,” Price says.

If you’re the mood for something decidedly different, try the savory Mulligatawny Soup. It is composed of a rich chicken broth, blended yellow lentils and spices.

When it comes to entrees, tikka masala is a winning option. Chicken is a solid protein choice, but the lamb is even better. Tandoori-roasted chicken also will not disappoint.

Biryani and tandoori specialties abound.

Consider splurging for the mixed platter, which includes a hearty portion of chicken and shrimp tandoori, lamb kabab and chicken Malai tandoori.

Fourteen vegetarian main courses are available, half of which can be offered as vegan dishes. All entrees are served with Basmati rice.

If you manage to save room for dessert, go for the carrot halwa with cashews and raisins or the mango custard with mixed fruit.

Be adventurous with your beverage selection. Consider the Masala Chai tea with cardamom, cloves and cinnamon or a refreshing yogurt-infused mango lassi with whipped cream.

Red and white wine is available by the glass and bottle. Indian bottled beer, domestic drafts and craft cocktails are all accessible.

Zeera is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner. Reservations are accepted and are strongly recommended on Friday and Saturday evenings. Online ordering and takeout also are available.

“We are driven to continue earnestly serving our guests in the coming years by providing an exceptional dining experience,” Price says. “For us, mealtime is about more than food. It’s about connecting and sharing love.”

ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT 1311 E. BROAD ST. FUQUAY CROSSING, FUQUAY-VARINA (919) 762-6215 ZEERANC.COM

BANISH UNWANTED SIGNS OF AGING Renew, refresh, and rejuvenate the appearance of your skin, nails, and body.

1611 Jones Franklin Road | Ste. 105 | Raleigh 984-200-1571

At Windsor Point, you’ll feel the difference the moment you walk in the door.

We’re fun. We’re friendly. And we offer you choices.

In addition to our beautiful cottages and apartments, our residents have access to Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing if the need ever arises.

Come now and show off your style when you customize one of our cottages or apartments.

We can’t wait to welcome you home.

A Life Plan Community with Continuing Care

Independendent Living - Cottages & Apartments • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing

1221 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC • 919-552-4580 • windsorpoint.com 43

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 Beatle burgers and live entertainment.”

711 N. Main St.; Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-7731; abbeyroadnc.com Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.” 138 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-2497; annaspizzeria.com Aviator Pizzeria & BeerShop “Brick oven pizza & craft beer.”

601 E. Broad St., Fuquay Varina (919) 346-8206; aviatorbrew.com Aviator SmokeHouse BBQ Restaurant “All of our food is made in-house.”

525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-7675; aviatorbrew.com Assaggio’s Pizzeria Ristorante “Top quality ingredients go into every dish.”

941 East Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-9505; assaggios-fuquay.com Bluegrass Bagels “Quality food, fast.”

100 Dickens Rd, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-4980; bluegrassbagels.com

Brus on Main “Quaint cafe serving New York coffee, bakery treats and breakfast.”

135 S. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina (607) 745-2512; @brusonmain Cleveland Draft House “Great food, great service, at a great price.”

1420 East Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 659-5500; clevelanddrafthouse.com The Corner Biergarten “Bar & bottle shop.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 133, Fuquay-Varina (919) 246-6649; tcbiergarten.com Cultivate Coffee Roasters “Modern industrial twist on a small town coffee shop.”

128 S. Fuquay Ave., Fuquay Varina (919) 285-4067; www.cultivate.coffee Daddy D’s BBQ “Slow cooked with love.”

1526 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6464; daddydsbbqnc.com Drive Bru “Drive thru coffee shop with N.Y. coffee & Carolina charm.”

1013 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (607) 745-2512; @drivebru

Eggs Up Grill “Breakfast favorites served all day.”

1436 N Main St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-4463; eggsupgrill.com El Dorado “Enjoy the most delicious Mexican food amongst family.”

112 E Vance St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-0287; eldoradomexicanrestaurant.com Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta “Authentic Italian cuisine and quality service.”

900 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-8868; garibalditrattoria.com The Healthy Spot “Meal replacement smoothies and energizing teas.”

961 East Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-5373; @healthyspotfuquay J&S New York Pizza “Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant.”

500 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-6921; jandsnypizza.com Johnny’s Pizza “An amazing array of different NY-style pizzas.”

722 N Judd Parkway N, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6322; johnnyspizzacary.com Joyce & Family Restaurant “Home cooked Southern favorites.”

129 N Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-1717; @joyceandfamily

MAC & CHEESE BURGER AT TOWN HALL BURGER & BEER.

Juicehaus “Made-to-order fresh, raw juice.”

509 North Broad St, Fuquay Varina (919) 396-5588; juicehaus.org

Little Portugal NC “Market and eatery celebrating traditional Portuguese dishes.”

736 N. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 586-7144; littleportugalnc.com

44 APRIL/MAY 2022

DENOTES ADVERTISER

Photos by Jonathan Fredin

Laurel Wine Bar at Cellar 55 “Mediterranean-inspired small plates with wine pairings.”

1351 East Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 446-1156; cellar55.com

Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

401 Wake Chapel Road, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-3957; lostresmagueyes.com The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

305 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-5555; themasonjartavern.com The Mill “Coffee. Beer. Wine. Community.”

146 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-2123; themillfuquay.com Nil’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine “Family-oriented Mediterranean cafe.”

513 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-0887; nilscafe-weebly.com Pints Ice Cream & Beer “Homemade ice cream and craft beers.”

512 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina @pintsicecream Stick Boy Bread Co. “Handcrafted baked goods from scratch … all natural ingredients.”

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

rise

Dine Wingin’ It Bar and Grille “Family-friendly neighborhood pub.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109, Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-0962; winginitbarandgrille.com Zeera Indian Restaurant “Authentic goodness in traditional Indian food.”

1311 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-6215; zeeranc.com Zaxby’s “Indescribably good.”

1341 N Main St, Fuquay Varina (919) 552-3981; zaxbys.com

HOLLY SPRINGS Acme Pizza Co. “Chicago-style deep dish pizza.”

204 Village Walk Dr, Holly Springs (919) 552-8800; acmepizzaco.com

Ashley’s Harvest Moon Bakery – Cafe “Breakfast and lunch cafe with scratch-made bakery and locally roasted coffee.”

128 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs (919) 586-7005; harvestmoonbakerycafe.com Aye! Toro “Crafted with love using traditional Mexican recipes passed down through generations.”

303 Mathews Dr, Holly Springs (919) 367-6233; ayetoronc.com Bass Lake Draft House “34 beers on tap.”

124 Bass Lake Rd, Holly Springs (919) 567-3251; basslakedrafthouse.com Bestow Baked Goods “Life is too short for grocery store desserts.”

4208 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs (919) 473-9225; bestowbakedgoods.com Blaze Pizza “Fast fire’d, perfectly crisp perfection.”

316 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 261-5950; blazepizza.com The Blind Pelican “Creative seafood and boat drinks.”

120 Bass Lake Road; Holly Springs (984) 225-2471; blindpelicanseafood.com

Triple Barrel Tavern “Restaurant, sports bar & billiards.”

2221 N Grassland Drive, Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-0940; @triplebarreltavernfuquayvarina Vicious Fishes Tap & Kitchen “Eclectic twists on comfortable bar food.”

132 South Fuquay Ave., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-7876; viciousfishes.com/fuquay-nc

BUFFALO OYSTERS AT VICIOUS FISHES TAP & KITCHEN IN FUQUAY-VARINA

FUQUAY-VARINA 1341 N. MAIN ST.

FB: @ZaxbysFuquayVarina IG/Twitter: @zaxbysfuquaync

DENOTES ADVERTISER

GARNER 4150 FAYETTEVILLE RD.

FB: @ZaxbysGarner IG/Twitter: @Zaxbys401Garner

45

The Butcher’s Market “Premium meats and specialty grocery.”

4200 Lassiter Rd, Holly Springs (919) 267-919); thebutchersmarkets.com Cristo’s Bistro “Hand tossed NY style pizza.”

5217 Sunset Lake Rd, Holly Springs (919) 363-8852, cristosbistro.com Eggs Up Grill “Breakfast favorites served all day.”

4216 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs (919) 495-4530; eggsupgrill.com Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe “Forget love, I’d rather fall in chocolate.”

652 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs (415) 758-3296; ferawyns.com Fiesta Mexicana “Authentic. Hot. Fresh.”

428 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 346-1330; fiestamexicananc-hollysprings.com First Watch “Traditional and innovative creations for breakfast, brunch and lunch.”

304 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 808-4603; firstwatch.com

rise

Dine Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers “Great food without a long wait.”

221 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 557-3475; freddysusa.com Greek Basma “Greek food that is fresh, healthy and delicious.”

7272 GB Alford Hwy, Holly Springs ((919) 285-080; greekbasma.com Hickory Tavern “Something for every appetite.”

401 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 557-2064; thehickorytavern.com Homegrown Pizza “Pizza, calzones and sandwiches.”

4928 Linksland Drive, ​Holly Springs (​919) 577-5575; homegrownpizza.com JT’s Creamery “Hand-crafted ice cream.”

300 S Main Street, Suite 112, Holly Springs (984) 268-6321; jtscreamery.com

COMING

SOON!

Kobe HIbachi and Sushi 515 North Main Street, Holly Springs (919) 557-1437; kobehollyspringsnc.com Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream “A unique spin on a timeless dessert.”

304 N. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 762-7808; mamabirdsicecream.com Mamma Mia Italian Bistro “Pasta runs in our family.”

300 S Main Street, Suite 200, Holly Springs (919) 766-8000; mammamianc.com The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

114 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 964-5060; themasonjartavern.com MediTerra Grill “Delicious ingredients. Old world recipes.”

108 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 762-7851; mediterranc.com Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant 324 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 552-9979; micancunmx.com Michelangelos Pizza “Pizza buffet for lunch and dinner.”

7280 GB Alford HWY, Holly Springs (919) 557-4992; michelangelospizza.com My Way Tavern “Freshly made all-American foods.”

301 W. Center St., Holly Springs (919) 285-2412; mywaytavern.com

BEERS ON TAP The best selection of German and craft beer in the area!

Niche Wine Lounge “Tranquility by the glass.”

109 Main St., Holly Springs (919) 552-2300; nichewinelounge.com

PIZZA AND BEER ON THE CAPE FEAR!

The Original N.Y. Pizza “Bringing a taste of New York to North Carolina.”

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

Check our Facebook page for weekly events @TCBiergarten

Dogs are Welcome!

1625 N. Main St. #133 Fuquay-Varina 919.246.6649 | tcbiergarten.com

46 APRIL/MAY 2022

The Nutrition Fix “Healthy fast food alternatives.”

424 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 341-5554; @thenutritionfixnc

100 S. Main St. | Lillington | 910-984-1411 facebook.com/LostPaddleTavern

lostpaddlepizza.com DENOTES ADVERTISER

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi “Authentic Thai cuisine: well-balanced dishes bursting with flavor.”

242 S Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 538-6742; oshathaikitchennc.com

rise

Pimiento Tea Room “Not your mama’s tea room.”

200 North Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 225-4213, pimientotearoom.com Rise Southern Biscuits & Chicken “The best dang biscuits.”

169 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 586-7343; risebiscuitsdonuts.com Sir Walter Coffee + Kitchen “Creative cafe by day. Full restaurant at night.”

242 S Main St. Suite 118, Holly Springs (919) 390-2150; sirwaltercoffeekitchen.com Skrimp Shack “Casual seafood cuisine.”

7244 Alford Hwy, Holly Springs (919) 335-3924; theskrimpshack.com Sweetberry Bowls “Beautiful and delicious bowls, wraps and salads.”

150 West Holly Springs Rd, Holly Springs (984) 225-2656; sweetberrybowls.com Sweet Southern SnoBalls “Shaved ice and Hershey’s Ice Cream.”

527 N. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 291-3355; @sweetsouthsnoballs

Dine CARY Chanticleer Café & Bakery “Family-owned restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and specialty coffees.”

6490 Tryon Road, Cary (919) 781-4810; chanticleercafe.com Chef’s Palette “Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.”

3460 Ten Ten Road, Cary (919) 267-6011; chefspalette.net Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar “Good old-fashioned burgers and bottled soda.”

126 Kilmayne Drive, Cary (919) 466-0055; corbettsburgers.com

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

100 Wrenn Drive #10, Cary (919) 468-8722; duckdonuts.com/location/cary-nc Gonza Tacos y Tequila “Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine.”

525-105 New Waverly Place, Cary (919) 653-7310; cary.gonzatacosytequila.com

PAD THAI TOPPED WITH FRIED EGG NETTING, FROM OSHA THAI KITCHEN & SUSHI IN HOLLY SPRINGS

Di Fara Pizza Tavern “We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients.”

111 East Chatham St., Cary; (919) 678-5300; difarapizzatavern.com

Thai Thai Cuisine “Home cooked Thai food.”

108 Osterville Drive, Holly Springs (919) 303-5700; thaithaicuisinenc.com Thanks A Latte “Coffee and gift boutique.”

1118 Kentworth Drive, Holly Springs (919) 577-0070; thanksalattegiftsnc.com

MAIN & BROAD

Town Hall Burger & Beer “Neighborhood beer and burger joint.”

301 Matthews Dr, Holly Springs (919) 335-5388; Townhallburgerandbeer.com Vieni Ristobar “The newest Italian restaurant from the Cinelli family.”

242 South Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 225-1134; vieniristobar.com Zaxby’s “Indescribably good.”

101 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 762-0432; zaxbys.com

From our family to yours.

9 0 0 N . M a i n S t r e e t | F u q u a y Va r i n a , N C | 9 1 9 - 5 5 2 - 8 8 6 8 | g a r i b a l d i t r a t t o r i a . c o m

DENOTES ADVERTISER

47

STEP ONTO THE COURT WITH HOLLY SPRINGS’ PRO PICKLEBALL PLAYERS

Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

What a

48 April/May 2022

In 1965, pickleball was played for the first time, invented among friends in a backyard outside of Seattle. After 55 years, only 1.4 percent of the US population has ever tried the niche sport that combines elements of badminton and table tennis.

Yet, Holly Springs includes among its residents two of the sport’s top-ranked players — Corrine Carr and Adam Stone.

In fact, if you’ve visited the courts and fields at Ting Park, you may have even seen Carr and Stone training for the national tournament circuit of a sport they both describe as “addicting.”

Think of pickleball as a mashup of tennis and ping pong — played with a paddle, on a court similar to tennis, but smaller, and with different boundary lines. The ball is perforated and made of hard plastic (similar to a Wiffle ball). The sport can be played in single or doubles configurations, but doubles is most common.

The rules of gameplay take a few minutes to learn; most people can pick it up in one afternoon.

“In pickleball, you can jump out there and have some real rallies and some real fun right off the bat,” says Stone.

“It’s an easyto-learn, hard-to-master game, and I think that’s what makes it so addicting.”

Stone, no stranger to racquet sports, played collegiate tennis at the University of Texas at Tyler. His transition to professional pickleball began at a community center, just like thousands of players in the country.

“My mom’s friends had started playing pickleball, and we went and checked it out at the rec center.

It was pretty fun,” Stone says.

Stone continued to play, improving consistently, winning matches, then tournaments, until he entered the top tier of pickleball athletes, currently ranked sixth in the World Pickleball Rankings for men’s doubles.

In 2021, Stone played in 25 tournaments, capping off the year winning one of, if not the biggest pro tournament of the year, the PPA Championships, with his doubles partner Dekel Bar. Think of it like winning the US Open, but for pickleball.

“I have good footwork and quick hands.

The main strength for me is defense — making a lot of shots, getting the aggressive, hard shots of the opponent and getting those back in play is where I stand out,” Stone says. continued on page 50

Pickle

49

PROFESSIONAL PICKLEBALL PLAYERS ADAM STONE AND CORRINE CARR LIVE IN HOLLY SPRINGS AND TRAIN AT TING PARK

“

continued from page 49

Even as one of the sport’s top athletes, Stone enjoys pickleball for its ease of entry and social aspects as well.

“You can go get your exercise, have a good time and play for two or three hours, and it seems like a snap of your fingers. … It will make you come back and do it more often.”

“I think everybody should try it,” says Corrine Carr. “It’s so much fun. It’s so social. For a lot of people, it becomes a healthy addiction.”

Carr first tried pickleball during graduate school in Michigan.

“I joined an athletic club to get back into tennis (a sport she played in her youth), and somebody asked me if I had ever heard of pickleball. … I decided to try it and got hooked.”

Carr recently debuted Carr, also a former college a signature shoe athlete (she played golf for the collaboration with Acacia Pickleball.

University of South Carolina), learned the new sport quickly and thrived.

“I really got hooked at the first tournament I went to. I’m thinking, ‘This is the greatest thing ever,’” she says. “I went away from that on a total high. I had not competed in so long; everybody was so friendly. I just loved the whole experience.”

50 April/MAY 2022

I think everybody should try it.

It’s so much fun. It’s so social.

Carr and her top-ranked doubles partner, Simone Jardim, won many major pickleball tournaments during Carr’s early career, from that first tournament in 2015 through 2021.

Currently ranked 14 in the World Pickleball Rankings for - Corrine Carr women’s doubles, Carr plans to play in about 20 tournaments this year, an impressive feat considering she is also a professor of finance at Campbell University.

The appeal of the game isn’t found only in tournament winnings and sponsorships, but in the way that pickleball was designed to serve as an “equalizer” for players of all skill levels, says Carr.

“You can get boys and girls playing together and it’s a fair and fun game. You can have grandparents and kids out there.

“For a lot of people, they grew up playing sports and then phased out. Sports are hard on your body. Pickleball is a smaller court, mostly doubles. Even with injuries, you can enjoy it.”

For a professional athlete, Carr is petite — only 5’6,” — but in pickleball, her size isn’t a hindrance.

”

continued on page 52

BY THE

Numbers

1965

Year pickleball was invented

9,524

Pickleball courts in the US at the end of 2021

Up 789

locations from the previous year

4.2 million players in the US in 2020

21.3%

increase from 2019 Among those, STRATEGY AND SOFTLY PLACED SHOTS ARE JUST AS IMPORTANT AS AGRESSIVE WINNERS IN PICKLEBALL, A GAME ADAM STONE DESCIRBES AS “EASY TO LEARN, HARD TO MASTER.”

PICKLEBALL COURTS ARE SMALLER THAN TENNIS COURTS, SEEN HERE MARKED IN LIGHT BLUE LINES.

1.4 million play 8 or more times a year

41

Average player age Largest areas of growth from 2019-2020 Players 6 to 17 years old —

up 50%

Players 35 to 44 years old —

up 31%

Source: Sports & Fitness Industry Association 2021 Topline Participation Report

51

continued from page 50

“It’s an interesting sport, because so much of it is about strategy, rather than being the fastest or the strongest. It’s more about where you hit the ball, rather than how hard you hit it. It’s reasonable for me to compete with somebody who is 6 feet tall and weighs 20 pounds more than I do,” Carr says.

“I’ve never seen people get obsessed with a sport like this.”

Pickleball has consistently been the most popular among adults and seniors, but interest in the sport is increasing across all age groups.

Kristen Denton, Hunt Center manager for the town of Holly Springs, witnessed the pickleball regulars in Holly Springs shift from a group of seniors to include 20-somethings and up.

“It really took off during Covid. People were drawn to the sport because they couldn’t do anything else, and it stuck,” Denton says.

Holly Springs has courts lined on the gym at the Hunt Center, and outdoor courts at Ting and Womble parks. There are also courts SOUTHERN WAKE inside of the Fuquay-Varina COURT LOCATIONS: Community Center.

Womble Park Ting Park Holly Springs Parks and Rec 12 Oaks does offer group pickleball inW.E. Hunt Community Center Fuquay-Varina Community Center struction, led by tennis instructor Brian Rosenthal, but open play Want to find a court?

USA Pickleball maintains tends to draw the biggest crowd. places2play.org with a database To create a welcoming expeof courts searchable by city or zip code. rience for its regular players, the town of Holly Springs installed signage and stairs on the pickleball courts at Ting, says Denton, in an effort to encourage continued open play.

Denton says Holly Springs will likely grow its pickleball facilities and programs as the sport grows, including two pickleball courts which are slated for the future Cass Holt Road Park. Plans for the park are currently under review by the town council.

“The pickleball community is extremely friendly and welcoming. If it’s something that someone is considering, they should just show up to the courts one day. People are normally excited to share the sport,” says Carr. MB 52 April/MAY 2022

A CAREER HIGHLIGHT: STONE WON THE 2021 MEN’S DOUBLES PPA CHAMPIONSHIPS WITH HIS DOUBLES PARTNER, DEKEL BAR.

THE NUMBER OF COURTS IN WAKE COUNTRY CONTINUES TO GROW. VISIT PLACES2PLAY.ORG FOR A COMPLETE LIST.

2022

PARTY

THE BEST OF

cary magazine

THE BEST OF

main & broad

Presented by

Welcome to the party!

Join us for food, drinks and fun with this year’s winners!

Don’t miss out! It’s so easy!

Just scan here for tickets and you’re in!

THURSDAY, APRIL 28 • 4:30-8:00 P.M. THE FENTON, CARY

Knightdale Station Park

As you stroll up to the play structures at Knightdale Station Park, don’t be confused by the grain silo and barn situated atop the grassy meadow. This unique agriculturalthemed playground was inspired by the farm and nursery that previously occupied the land, and offers a fun, unexpected setting for pretend play.

In addition to the unique play area, Knightdale Station Park has a large picnic shelter, walking trails, sports fields, dog park and splash pad that is free to the public (during the spring and summer months).

An amphitheater hosts concerts, community festivals and outdoor movies.

810 N. First Ave., Knightdale | knightdalenc.gov

IF YOU GO

Area favorite Prime Barbecue is conveniently across the street. Order online and pick up a delicious picnic to enjoy at the park.

54 April/MAY 2022

There

Back

Favorite Parks & Playgrounds in Wake County Pullen Park

North Carolina’s first public park continues to draw visitors to its unique amusements, including a historic carousel, train and kiddie boats.

A train car to explore, a variety of play structures, and a sand and water play area suit toddlers through school-age children.

Refuel at the on-site Pullen Place Cafe, which offers sandwiches, pizza, park snacks and treats.

Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

With parks like Fleming Loop in Fuquay-Varina and Parish Womble in Holly Springs, you never need to leave town for an afternoon of fun and fresh air.

But one of the benefits of Triangle living is that you can when you want.

Buckle the kids in the car and head to these amazing parks and playgrounds in Wake County for a special outdoor adventure.

520 Ashe Ave., Raleigh raleighnc.gov

Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

TICKETS TO RIDE PULLEN PARK AMUSEMENTS, SUCH AS THE HISTORIC CAROUSEL, ARE $1.50 EACH.

John Chavis Memorial Park

Recently completed renovations turned this park into a Raleigh must-see, melding history, innovation and fun. The park is home to the historic Allan Herschell Carousel, purchased in 1937, and the John Chavis Memorial Park: Past to Present outdoor exhibit, which showcases community stories about the park’s evolution.

The playground’s design includes features that may even entice teenagers and adults to join in, including exercise equipment, a skywalk climbing feature, nature play elements and an interactive water element.

Glass collage artwork by David Wilson, called “Chavis Reclaimed,” accents the community center, which boasts an outdoor balcony with views of the downtown Raleigh skyline and a youth lounge with gaming stations.

505 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Raleigh | raleighnc.gov

Jack Smith Park

Just outside of Holly Springs in southern Cary, Jack Smith Park’s impressive climbing boulder and sprayground add an extra level of fun to an already interesting playground.

Works of public art also add to the park’s appeal.

Three whirligigs, made from scrap machine parts and farm The park also equipment by Lucama, NC includes an artist Vollis Simpson, mark off-leash dog park, but Town of the playground area. Pittsboro Cary passes are artist William Moore created required for use.

A non-resident day a flock of nine Suffolk sheep pass is $10. sculptures in a nearby open play field. The Jack Smith Park occupies land formerly used as farmland, on which Suffolk sheep were raised, and these public art installations honor that heritage.

9725 Penny Road, Cary | townofcary.org

56 April/MAY 2022

Historic Yates Mill County Park

Step back in time with Wake County’s last operable waterpowered gristmill, illustrating the evolution of milling technology and early industries in Piedmont North Carolina.

Guided tours by costumed interpreters and corn-grinding demonstrations, though currently on hold due to Covid-19, bring the past to life. (Check the park’s website for tour updates.)

Nature enthusiasts enjoy fishing, hiking trails and exploring the park’s educational gardens. The 1-mile Millpond Trail passes through an old miller’s residence and pond boardwalk. Check out the Piedmont Prairie Garden, which preserves a native NC ecosystem that has become endangered due to development.

EcoExplore, a program developed by the North Carolina Arboretum, has a hotspot in Yates Mill Park. The initiative offers incentive-based science challenges for children in grades K-8.

4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh | wakegov.com

White Deer Park

Designed to enhance the natural areas and wildlife habitats adjacent to Lake Benson, White Deer Park was built with a strong focus on education. The park’s nature center, a 2,500-square-foot LEED Gold Certified facility, contains live and preserved animal exhibits and hosts many handson programs. Visitors to the center can meet Poppy the Enjoy White Deer corn snake or Naveen the tree frog, as well as explore the Park’s Storybook Trail, near the mounted specimen and skull collection. nature center. The Outside, 2 miles of paved trails, playgrounds, an trail features 10 panels depicting arboretum and picnic shelters offer opportunities for pages from a recreation and exploration. children’s book 2400 Aversboro Road, Garner | garnernc.gov

about nature.

Kids Together Playground at Marla Dorrel Park

Founded on the idea that no one should be excluded from play, the Kids Together Playground utilizes the principles of universal design to make equipment and facilities accessible for all ability levels. Think winding paths and ramps to accommodate wheelchairs, and chair swings and traditional-style swings paired together.

Art is incorporated into the playground through unique statues and sculptures that children can climb on and interact with. A perennial favorite is the dragon sculpture built into a grassy knoll.

111 Thurston Drive, Cary | kidstogethercary.org

Free Pickup & Delivery Dry Cleaning & Laundry

SIGN UP

PICKUP

CLEAN UP

SUIT UP Serving Fuquay-Varina • Holly Springs • Raleigh Cary • Apex • Angier • Willow Springs

919-552-8381 goodwinsglamorama.com

57

Sassafras All Children’s Playground at Laurel Hills Park

The beautifully renovated All Children’s Playground reopened in 2016, replacing the original wooden structure that formed Raleigh’s first accessible playground in the early 1990s. The structures at the 3.5-acre site welcomes children of all abilities. You’ll find swings, slides, climbing equipment with a woodland theme, a basketball court with adjustable hoop height, accessible elevated decking and a pair of 50-foot-long ziplines.

The surrounding Laurel Hills Park also features sports fields, walking trails and open play space.

3808 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh raleighnc.gov

Elevate Fitness Course at Apex Community Park

Inspired by obstacle course fitness, popularized by television shows like “American Ninja Warrior,” the Elevate Fitness Course challenges balance, strength and agility for kids of all ages.

The course, situated in the back of Apex Community Park, offers many unique climbing obstacles and is designed as a race course, in which climbers can race against the clock or against each other.

Apex Community Park encompasses 160 acres and offers a multitude of additional recreation options: tennis, sand volleyball and basketball courts, more than 3 miles of walking trails, classic playgrounds and a lake where fishing and nonmotorized watercraft are allowed.

2200 Laura Duncan Road, Apex | apexnc.org

58 April/MAY 2022

Thank you for voting us BEST! The Leader in Early Education and Care® Infants – Pre-Kindergarten Primrose School of Apex 919.339.3874

Primrose School of West Cary 919.363.2700

Primrose School at Holly Grove 919.567.1114

Primrose School at West Lake 919.662.1322

Primrose School at The Park 919.468.8880

Primrose School of Cary 919.481.3901

Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools® and Balanced Learning® are registered trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. ©2019 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.

fun

memes

Fuquay’s A-Lister Alpaca

Lil’ Pumpkin Written by Fuquay-Varina Memes | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

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. Check out her blog at fvmwrites.com. fuquaymemes thefvmemes

60 April/MAY 2022

As Fuquay Memes, I receive quite a lot of random things in my inbox — from pictures of missing teeth in the Jimmy John’s parking lot to pearl-clutching vanity license plates — but I was not fully prepared for what I showed up in my inbox on February 10.

An alpaca. On a leash. In Mason Jar. We couldn’t immediately ID the owner, but the minute I posted it on Facebook my comment section lit up like Blockbuster on a Friday night in 1995 (RIP, Blockbuster).

Over 2,000 “likes” later, people were demanding to know more. Who was this small brown alpaca strolling the town in a red bandana like he owned the place? Did he have his own Facebook page? The world around us was burning down faster than a dog turd getting reported in Holly Springs, so an adorable alpacalypse was just what the doctor ordered.

Everyone wanted to know where he’d show up next, but we all know that the Chuck Norris of Alpacas never reveals his next move. I reached

out to the owner, only to find out that his name is Pumpkin — not Alpacino, like I had hoped.

Regardless, he was already a local celebrity and within a matter of hours had already “booked” his first public appearance and created a fan page on Facebook.

The always-quirky Town of Fuquay-Varina (shout out to my girl, Susan Weis) never looks a gift horse in the mouth — an official meet-andgreet with Pumpkin the alpaca and Mayor Blake Massengill was scheduled for Feb. 17 at Fleming Loop Park.

Shameless.

I went, of course. So did half of the town, by the looks of it. Residents were practically selling their souls for a chance to throw their kids in front of a fluffy local celebrity for the ’gram. I asked Mayor Massengill, who lives right around the corner from Pumpkin, what a public meetand-greet with a farm animal says about his leadership style.

“I think it says that I have a fun, approach-

able leadership style and I want to be out in our community. I want the community to know that they can communicate with me and talk with me at any time. I’m just as friendly as an alpaca,” said Massengill.

Since the Town of Fuquay Varina’s meet-and-greet, Pumpkin has been climbing the fame ladder all the way to the top and making all of us look bad. He’s made appearances at local elementary schools, nursing homes and churches, visited the Holly Springs Police Department and Farmers Market (how dare the dump town capitalize on our alpaca), had a radio interview with 94.7 QDR, made the news on WRAL, and is currently slated to show up at the opening of the Fuquay-Varina Growers’ Market on April 16.

In celebration of our own version of Lil’ Sebastian, à la “Parks and Rec,” we caught up with Pumpkin’s owner, Sue, to learn a bit more about the Fuquay’s fashionable fluffalump (because none of us are rocking a Ph.D. in alpacology).

Enjoy!

OMG HOW DO I GET ONE WHERE DID YOU GET PUMPKIN? I got Pumpkin in Charlotte, and he was the first alpaca I had ever seen in person. I planned to get an all-female herd, but Pumpkin was irresistibly cute.

TELL ME MORE ABOUT THIS LEGEND — HOW OLD IS HE? Almost 6 months old now. I got two older boys to keep him company, and I’m getting the fourth boy soon. They are herd animals, so they like to be in a group.

Making the best dressed kids on The Block (919) 285-4854 | The Block on Main - 300 S Main St. Ste. 120, Holly Springs

The Moving Truck is Leaving!

Are you ready to learn about your new community?

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

For your complimentary welcome visit, or to include a gift for newcomers, call 919.809.0220 or visit our website, www.nnws.org.

WHAT IS PUMPKIN’S FAVORITE PLACE IN FUQUAY? He really doesn’t care where we are going as long as he is with his human. So far he hasn’t had any bad experiences with

CARY | APEX | MORRISVILLE | HOLLY SPRINGS FUQUAY-VARINA | GARNER | ANGIER WILLOW SPRING | CLAYTON | CLEVELAND

continued on page 62

61

TELL ME ABOUT PUMPKIN’S HOME LIFE!

“

I think it says that I have a fun, approachable leadership style and I want to be out in our community. I want the community to know that they can ... talk with me at any time.

I’m just as friendly as an alpaca.

”

– Blake Massengill, Mayor of Fuquay-Varina

62 April/MAY 2022

continued from page 61

people, which is interesting since it’s difficult to earn an alpaca’s trust. Unlike dogs, who hunger for touch and love, alpacas are prey animals and generally don’t like to be touched or petted. If they decide they like you, they will walk up to you, give you a nose kiss and walk away.

WHAT IS PUMPKIN’S FAVORITE FOOD SO I CAN LURE HIM TO MY HOUSE?

Pumpkin sleeps outside with his other two alpaca buddies. As soon as we open the door in the morning, he will run and rush the door to ask for breakfast.

Pumpkin spent his first few days inside the house before the other two alpacas arrived, but now he rarely comes inside the house. As far as animals goes, he is by far the best housemate — even better than our house-trained dogs, by a very large margin!

Pumpkin is a very quiet fellow, very chill. The two super-high-energy dogs don’t seem to bother him a bit. Our two emus like to check on Pumpkin a lot.

Somehow the alpacas and emus form a group; they hang out together. The swan will sometimes chase Pumpkin, because swans like to chase/bully everyone on the farm anyway.

HOW DOES PUMPKIN FEEL ABOUT BEING FUQUAY FAMOUS?

Grass and milk at the moment. Alpacas are supposed to like apples, broccoli stalks and carrots, but the other two alpacas don’t show any interest. In springtime, he likes young and tender leaves.

I will have to ask him if he wishes to share his thoughts! I try not to book too many events for him, and we let him be with his alpaca buddies on the farm most of the time.

DOES PUMPKIN EVER HAVE ACCIDENTS IN PUBLIC?

WHY DO YOU THINK PEOPLE LOVE PUMPKIN?

So far, no. We always plan to go inside a store between restroom breaks, and usually only in stores that allow pets. Pumpkin frequently visits the landscaped area in parking lots to do his business. Unlike other alpacas on the farm, Pumpkin will alert his human when he needs to “go potty,” even if he is inside the car or a building. He will either make a special noise or the tail starts to go up a little bit — a tell-tale sign he needs a restroom break.

I think he looks cute and sweet and he’s an unusual pet to see in public. With so much darkness in the last two years, a little fluffy, friendly Pumpkin instantly puts a smile on your face. We all need a dose of happiness and love from a living, breathing creature like Pumpkin.

It’s heartwarming to know there is an animal in Fuquay who brings smiles and joy to people. I feel blessed to be able to care for this precious animal named Pumpkin. MB

Did you know that 28.6% of Wake County High School youth reported vaping in the past 30 days?

2019 Youth Risk Behavior Survey

Parents

You are the most important protective factor for you child.

Learn More. Make a Difference.

FVCoalition.org

Proud partner of the Poe Center for Health Education

RON JONES A neighbor, someone you know, someone

SUE’S ALPACA FUN FACTS:

you can trust and respect. Call today and speak with a real person who cares about your family’s protection and security.

In Peru, alpacas are raised for fur just like sheep, and their fleece is twice as warm as sheep’s wool.

Alpaca waste is one of the best natural fertilizers and can be used directly in the garden.

“Where Satisfied Customers Refer Their Friends”

512 WEST WILLIAMS STREET | APEX Because they have pads on their feet, they are very gentle on landscaping.

919-362-8310 INFO@ROGERSINC.NET

Alpacas are very gentle, curious, alert, quiet, graceful and clean animals.

63

Seen

Heard

BLUSH COWORK

a female-focused coworking space with childcare, opened in Cary off Kildaire Farm Road. The office space includes private and semi-private offices, conference rooms, shared open space for events and conferences, an outdoor patio, a library full of women authors and a mother’s room.

Uniquely, Blush includes on-site childcare, offered through a partnership with PlatinumSitters. Parents can schedule childcare in four-hour increments and work steps away from their little ones.

Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce presented

their annual Business and Community Awards in February.

Congratulations to the winners —

TOWN OF HOLLY SPRINGS

Blush Cowork,

Biotechnology company Amgen broke ground in early March on a

new $550 million manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, which is expected to open in 2025.

Amgen’s biologics plant site sits on approximately 100 acres on the northwest side of Holly Springs, and will create more than 350 jobs with an average salary of $100,000.

“Amgen is one of the flagship companies around which the entire global biotechnology industry has been built, and their new presence in North Carolina is a milestone in our life science history,” says Bill Bullock, Senior VP of the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.

Amgen will bring a permanent Amgen Biotech Experience to Holly Springs High School later this year, giving students a unique opportunity to learn about biotechnology using researchgrade science equipment in the classroom.

Ambassador of the Year: Nash Atkins

Tune in to the

“LET’S CHAT” video series, hosted by Fuquay-Varina Mayor Blake Massengill, for updates on town projects, events and what’s happening in town government. The two-minute episodes are released monthly through the town’s Facebook, YouTube and website.

64 APRIL/MAY 2022

Volunteer of the Year: David Whittingham Business Leader of the Year: Chris Harol Business of the Year: Bombshell Beer Company Parrish “Ham” Womble Distinguished Service Award: Tonya Palumbo Heart of Holly Springs: Mayor Dick Sears

Dedication of Historic markers commemorating Fuquay Consolidated School and Fuquay Springs High School, which served the students of the area during segregation up until the 1970s, took place at a ceremony at the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center in February.

SHARE WITH US

Share business news, upcoming events and town gossip with editor@mainandbroadmag.com

Meet the

never miss an issue

Artist

ay! d o T e b i r c s b Su

warm up with

JONATHAN FREDIN

seasonal sips

the secret

Inside cellar 55

reasons to

rediscover wilson

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

Explore the Arts use Ca the

healing power of color

A passion

for business

On stage Now

Concerts, theater & more FEBRUARY/MARCH 2020

Peak City Chalk

springtime

at duke gardens

The Artist Behind The Maggys @peakcitychalk If you’ve got questions about the chalk-star behind the 2022 Maggy Awards, then we’ve got answers. Johna Ritchie, creator of Peak City Chalk, has garnered over 1,000 followers on Instagram thanks to her eye-catching chalk designs that she’s left all over town! In appreciation of her Maggy-inspired art, which can be seen on both the cover and throughout this month’s issue, we caught up with Ritchie to learn more about how Peak City Chalk got its start.

to market with Chickadee farms

Pop of color fresh fashion

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

Bottle

Plus

Service

A passport to southern wake

breweries

bottle shop Top picks

use Ca

A

We 've go t

Prowlin'

Beer!

T he Aviator Empire

good time

Eat this Apps, Burgers, Bacon

with your beer

APRIL/MAY 2020

THE ARTIST:

I’m Johna Ritchie, a stay-at-home mom who moonlights as a chalk artist (as time allows)! I started doing calligraphy about four years ago as a side hobby for an artistic release when my kids were very little. When Covid hit, I decided to combine being outside with my kids (who were always home) with continuing my lettering. It opened up a totally new world of chalk art! I did murals for friends’ kids and murals on my street for my neighborhood to enjoy on their walks, and voila — Peak City Chalk was born. I’m still enjoying the journey!

INSPIRATION:

I started with lettering about four years ago. It’s been a combo of self teaching and a few online courses. Spreading positive messages and energy is what it is about! I am inspired by so many things. I love studying all the different fonts and styles out there — it’s truly endless.

FAVORITE DESIGN:

My favorite design might be the “grateful” script lettering I did at the end of my road last fall. The setting and the space looked beautiful, and I really do feel grateful for Peak City Chalk and the new path it’s created for me!

Subscribe online at

mainandbroadmag.com/ subscribe Want Main & Broad delivered to your business?

Contact Kris@MainAndBroadMag.com to be added to our business distribution list.

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

@mbmagazinenc

65

In Focus

Pickle Perfect

By Jonathan Fredin Holly Springs resident Corrine Carr and her elongated shadow take shape on a pickleball court during a morning rally at Ting Park in Holly Springs.

66 April/MAY 2022

strength

There’s in connection

Enjoy buffer-free video calls, ultra HD TV and a smarter smart home with our fast and reliable internet.

Switch today and we’ll waive your standard installation fee, plus give you a free second month of service

Ting Fiber 1000 Gigabit Internet

$

89 /mo

Up to 1,000 Mbps upload and download speed Connect 20+ devices seamlessly Unlimited data

Order today at tinginternet.com/mb and mention promo code MAIN&BROAD

Take Care of You. For Them.

Schedule your annual screening mammogram with the local leader in 3D mammography + AI.

For you and for them, it’s time to return to care and schedule your mammogram.

With advanced equipment, safety protocols and quality standards that earned us the American College of Radiology’s designation as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence, no one sees you (or takes care of you) like we do.

13 Outpatient Offices Throughout The Triangle

919.232.4700 WAKERAD.COM/MAMMOGRAM

QUICK AND EASY We’ll have you in, out and on your way in 30 minutes or less. Plus, you can request an appointment online!

NO ORDER NEEDED You do not need a physician’s order to schedule your screening mammogram at Wake Radiology UNC REX. ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY We’re the only outpatient practice in the Triangle using artificial intelligence with all 3D mammograms.

CONVENIENT LOCATIONS With the most outpatient breast imaging centers in the Triangle, we’re located where you live and work.