Main & Broad October/November 2022

on the house extreme makeover Haunting in

inspiring design

Historic Edition

Holly Springs

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

BURGERS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

COCKTAILS CREATIVITY Fuquay-Varina Dive Bar Reimagined

We’re N UTS for Halloween

Available now in the produce section of your local grocery store.

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

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER Sugar Skull Musical Adventure Sugar Skull, a touring bilingual/bicultural musical for young audiences and families, performs at the Fuquay Varina Arts Center on November 4th, 7:30pm.

Using traditional regional music and dance from Mexico, Sugar Skull tells the story of twelve-year-old Vita Flores and her magical, musical journey to unravel the true meaning of Día de Muertos. More information at FVArts.org

Holiday Concerts The holiday season is alive with music at the Arts Center—join us for upcoming concerts from The Embers, The Fuquay Varina Chorale, and the Gerald Parker Jazz Orchestra. For more information and tickets, visit FVArts.org

Christmas Tree Lighting Artists’ Markets are the perfect place to find unique, holiday worthy gifts for everyone on your list. You can find Markets at two upcoming holiday events—the Fuquay Varina Christmas Tree Lighting on Thursday, December 1, and at Christmas in Varina on December 3. More information at FVArts.org

For more info, call the Arts Center at 919-567-3920 fvarts.org

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SCAN FOR MORE INFO

October/November 2022

CONTENTS

20

myself “ I consider to be almost a native at this point.

”

– Irena Krstanovic, Economic Development Director, Town of Holly Springs

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 SEE & DO

Mark your calendar for an abundance of family festivals and spooky soirees.

14 DIG IN & DRINK UP

The color-changing Butterfly Margarita transforms before your eyes.

40

20 LIVING IN HISTORY

A talented family restores Holly Springs’ oldest home.

Discover your new favorite restaurant in our dining guide.

Home building and design trends to awe and inspire.

60 FUN & MEMES

34 SKELETONS FOR HOPE

From NC’s false fall to Thanksgiving etiquette, FuquayVarina Memes curates the wittiest seasonal highlights.

Haunting Holly Springs for a cause.

Reinventing Fuquay-Varina’s dive bar.

46 TAPSTATION

A craft brewery and burger joint takes over Apex’s historic Holt & Sons service station.

56 WOMAN TO WATCH

Irena Krstanovic champions Holly Springs globally and here at home.

6 October/NOVEMBER 2022

Ben and Samantha Radmard from Adorn Home Furnishings.

52 RISE & DINE

28 ON THE HOUSE

40 THE BRICKHOUSE BAR & GRILL

16 MEET & GREET

34

64 SEEN & HEARD

Community news and accolades.

66 IN FOCUS

PHOTOS FROM TOP: JONATHAN FREDIN, JONATHAN FREDN, CONTRIBUTED BY THE ROBERTSON FAMILY

FEATURES

“

reader

Letters “Jonathan, I have no idea how you captured that epic three-dimensional cover shot. I also liked the ‘Winged Feet’ photo on page 66. Once again you’ve outdone yourself.

Perhaps my favorite piece of all, though, is the spotlight on the strawberry lemonade boba tea. Wow. I’m seriously tempted to drive over there after work and order one of those drinks.”

What is your favorite Halloween Candy?

”

October/November 2022 • Volume 4, Number 5 EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher EDITORIAL

Emily Uhland, Senior Editor Dena Daw Erica Hinton PEANUT M&M’S Arlem Mora Tara Shiver

THEY’RE ALL SO GHOULD!

CONTRIBUTORS

ALMOND JOY, MR. GOODBAR ... ANYTHING WITH NUTS AND CHOCOLATE

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

– DAVID MCCREARY

CANDY CORN AND ALL ITS VARIATIONS!

“​WOW. This is great. LOVE the sense of humor, wit and sarcasm. Sounds like something I would write. Thanks for this. Moving there next week.”

– ROB KAUFMAN, VIA MAINAND BROADMAG.COM

ADVERTISING

Jill Newbold

MINI SNICKERS BARS

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications Chuck Norman, APR FUN SIZE SNICKERS (BUT THAT’S ALL YEAR, LOL)

ADMINISTRATIVE

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

Ron Smith CARAMEL APPLES AND CARAMEL POPCORN BALLS

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.

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

LET’S BE

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.

! s d n e i r F

@mbmagazinenc

8 October/NOVEMBER 2022

@mbmagazinenc

@mbmagazinenc

ON THE COVER: DIVE INTO THE BILLY DA KID BURGER AT THE BRICKHOUSE IN FUQUAYVARINA, WHERE CHEF AND MANAGER EDDIE FORBIS ELEVATES THE BAR’S MENU WITH AN INFUSION OF FUN. STORY PAGE 40.

PHOTO BY JONATHAN FREDIN

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.

NATIONAL

MONTH

LOWEST PRICES OF THE SEASON

ASK ABOUT SPECIAL FINANCING

RALEIGH: 4600 Paragon Park Road 919-872-2775 brentwoodcarpetsraleigh.com CARY: 207 East Chatham Street 919-461-0441 brentwoodcarpetscary.com

Editor’s

Letter

This issue

BY THE

Numbers

2

Restaurant profiles: Double the restaurants, double the fun!

Jonathan Fredin

If I was pressed to pick a favorite month of the year, I’d pick October. Fall weather finally trickles into NC; outdoor events and festivals fill the calendar; plus backyard fires and football games and sweatshirts … oh, my!

Fuquay-Varina and Holly Springs both host annual community-wide festivals in October, Celebrate FuquayVarina and HollyFest. Main & Broad staff are looking forward to again passing out magazines and meeting many of you at these festivals.

Last year at HollyFest, I first met Nickie Reed. In our brief exchange, she told me about her family’s work to restore the oldest home in Holly Springs, the Norris-HollandHare House. They were far from finished, she said, but had made immense progress rebuilding the nearly 220-year-old dwelling.

Fast forward nearly a year later, I’m knocking on Nickie’s door, able to witness the home’s amazing transformation in person, eating tomatoes from the Reed family garden and eggs laid by their backyard chickens.

Thank you, Nickie and Corey, and the whoe Reed family, for welcoming me into your home, sharing your story, and for working to save a building rooted in Holly Springs history.

I am delighted to showcase your amazing efforts in our feature, Living in History, starting on page 20.

Making connections with the Southern Wake community is one of the best parts of my job as editor, and I look forward to making many more. Please stop by our tables at Celebrate Fuquay-Varina and HollyFest and say hi. We can’t wait to meet you.

217 years Estimated age of the original Norris-Holland-Hare House, the oldest home in Holly Springs.

3 years Time spent — so far — by the Reed family to restore it.

$176,703

Amount raised for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital

by Holly Springs-based fundraiser Skeletons for St. Jude, and counting.

10 Hilarious fall memes, curated by our very own Fuquay-Varina Memes.

EMILY UHLAND SENIOR EDITOR

10 October/NOVEMBER 2022

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See Do Local Events & Experiences to Enjoy

Celebrate Fuquay-Varina OCT. 1 10 A.M.–4 P.M.

Fuquay’s fall festival is back, with live entertainment, local vendors, craft beer, and a free kids zone. Don’t miss the Artist Village showcasing original work from local artisans and craftspeople.

Visit AT THE EVENT!

North Carolina State Fair

OCT. 13–23 NC STATE FAIRGROUNDS, RALEIGH

OCT. 1–2; 7–9; 14–16 NOON–5 P.M. THROUGHOUT THE TRIANGLE

Featuring 144 homes throughout Wake, Durham, Orange, and Chatham Counties, the 2022 Parade of Homes is the Triangle’s largest open house — a self-guided tour that showcases new home construction at a variety of price points. See unique designs, products, and the newest technology used in local homebuilding. Visit triangleparade.com for full details on home locations.

North Carolina International Festival

NOV. 5, 10 A.M.–10 P.M. NOV. 6, 11 A.M.–6 P.M. NC STATE FAIRGROUNDS EXPO BUILDING 4285 TRINITY ROAD, RALEIGH

HollyFest

OCT. 29 10 A.M.–4 P.M. SUGG FARM PARK

A Holly Springs tradition — the annual free family-friendly festival celebrates all the people, places, and services that the community has to offer. Featuring local artists, businesses, food vendors, children’s activities, and local entertainment.

Visit

12 October/NOVEMBER 2022

AT THE EVENT!

More than 30 cultures come together to celebrate holidays around the world with live music, performances, international food, a vendor bazaar, dance party and competition, and kids’ town. Immerse yourself in the cultures of the world that are all represented in our local community.

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Tour the Parade of Homes

Rides, music, entertainment, blue ribbon winners, livestock competitions, lots of food, and nightly fireworks — October isn’t the same without NC’s signature festival. Thrill seekers, consider purchasing a wristband for unlimited access to ride attractions.

THIS IS

HALL OWEEN Fuquay-Varina Haunted Trail OCT. 15 5 P.M. FAMILY TRAIL 7 P.M. FULL FRIGHT CARROLL HOWARD JOHNSON PARK

!

See Do

Pick your own poison at the Fuquay-Varina Haunted Trail: a sunlit, casual walk past costumed characters or a terrifying trek through dark woods with thrills at every turn (not recommended for children under 10). Parking is available at the Fuquay-Varina Community Center with a shuttle running to the Carroll Howard Johnson Park.

Halloween Spooktacular OCT. 21 4–7 P.M. SUGG FARM PARK

BBQ, Blues & Brews NOV. 12 NOON–4 P.M. 405 E. BROAD ST.

Calling all crafters and makers — The BBQ, Blues & Brews festival, hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Downtown Association, returns after a two-year break. Local artisans, musicians, and barbecue chefs put their best feet forward for the expected 3,000 visitors to downtown Varina. Don’t miss the return of one of Fuquay’s favorite events.

A free, family-friendly gathering featuring costume contests, a slimemaking tent, a mini corn maze, and lawn games. Make your own s'mores around the fire pit, and visit nature-themed candy stations — bring your trickor-treating bag for all that candy. Geared toward children ages 3 and up.

Haunted Trail at Sugg Farm OCT. 28 7–11 P.M. SUGG FARM PARK

Enter the haunted trail at your own risk — and be prepared for plenty of scares! Suitable for guests age 12 and older. Younger children may attend with an adult. Tickets required.

Grapes, Grains & Giving Gala NOV. 11 6:30–9:30 P.M. 12 OAKS

The Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce hosts a fundraiser benefitting the Holly Springs Food Cupboard.

Zombiepalooza

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

OCT. 28 THE CARY THEATER, 122 E. CHATHAM ST., CARY

The Town of Cary’s outdoor screening party showcases 1- to 5-minute zombie-themed short films by professional and rookie filmmakers alike. Each film must include the year’s secret signature prop (last year’s was hand sanitizer). View these locally created zombie short films on a huge outdoor screen in downtown Cary.

A Christmas Carol

NOV. 18–20 HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

A holiday tradition comes home to Holly Springs. See Charles Dickens’ classic story of Ebenezer Scrooge performed by a cast and crew of local residents. Produced by Carolina Children’s Theatre in partnership with Holly Springs Parks and Recreation.

13

Dig in

Drink up

Butterfly Margarita

From Totopos Street Food & Tequila Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

Totopos Street Food & Tequila aims to transport guests to the majestic streets of Mexico City, offering an impression of daily life filled with the flavors and textures the city has to offer.

The Butterfly Margarita represents transformation. The butterfly pea flower-infused tequila starts blue and becomes purple when reacting to acidic lemon juice. Manager Maria Bravo says: “It’s like a butterfly in its metamorphosis from the common, colorless caterpillar to the exquisite winged creature of delicate beauty.”

RECIPE: 1 oz. Lonerider Tequila Cask Finish Bourbon 1 oz. butterfly pea-infused tequila 1.5 oz. freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 oz. agave nectar In a shaker, mix bourbon, lemon juice, and agave nectar with ice cubes and shake for five seconds. Strain and pour onto new rocks in a short glass. Pour in the butterfly pea-infused tequila and watch the color transformation. Stir well for all flavors to come together and cheers!

.

TOTOPOS STREET FOOD & TEQUILA 1388 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 678-3449 totoposfoodandtequila.com

14 October/NOVEMBER 2022

OKTOBERFEST

FALL VACATION

HOPS & HARVEST

Join us on October 2nd for

Enjoy our Flavors of Fall Package!

Complete with a two night waterfront stay, three-course meal, daily breakfast in bed, and more!

A five course beer dinner with expertly paired beers from HiWire Brewing on November 3rd.

Dinner and Stay rates available!

authentic German beer, food, live music, and games! Tickets available online.

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•

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Meet

Greet

Benn & Samantha Radmard Owners, Adorn Home Furnishings

Ben and Samantha recently moved to Fuquay-Varina for its small-town atmosphere, ideal for raising their twin 3-year-olds, Reza and Carmela. Furniture is a family business for the Radmards — Ben’s family owns a to-the-trade furniture store in Charlotte.

BACKSTORY: There are tons

of antique stores, but not many furniture stores here. I (Samantha) grew up in Angier and remember riding around all over with my mom shopping for furniture, and it was a nightmare.

NOT-SO GRAND OPENING: We

opened way before we were ready (in November 2021). We still had renovations going on. We had plastic up (in the windows), but it was nonstop knocking. Why are we not just letting people browse around, as long as they were OK with a half store?

Everyone was like, “We don’t care; we just want furniture.” continued on page 18

16 October/NOVEMBER 2022

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ADORN HOME FURNISHINGS HAS 12,000 SQUARE FEET OF FURNITURE. “EVERYONE THAT COMES IN HERE IS LIKE, ‘WOW, I DIDN’T KNOW THIS STRETCHED BACK SO FAR OR HAD AN UPSTAIRS!’ IT’S SUCH AN UNASSUMING LOCATION,” SAYS SAMANTHA RADMARD.

“

We thrive in chaos.

We have twin toddlers and opened a business.

”

– Samantha Radmard, Adorn Home Furnishings

18 October/NOVEMBER 2022

continued from page 16

INSTANT GRATIFICATION: People’s style preferences and budgets are all over the place in this area, but one thing everyone has in common is they want stuff NOW. Our store can be a mess sometimes because we are selling off of our floor every single day.

ON QUALITY: We offer furniture that is custom, that you

normally would have to wait six months for. We just put very popular items, nice classic styles, on order in neutral fabrics.

Much of it is built in North Carolina, eight-way hand-tied, water repellent, in durable fabrics. You can actually sit down on something and try it out, not order from a catalog.

SMALL-TOWN OBSESSED: Going to a smaller town, I (Ben)

was skeptical. Now that we are here, I love the people and sense of community. I couldn’t imagine going back to Charlotte. I have never moved to a place where your neighbors brought you food. MB

FREE Pickup and Delivery Fuquay-Varina • Holly Springs Apex • Angier • Willow Spring

THE SHOWROOM AT ADORN HOME FURNISHINGS CHANGES DAILY WITH ADDITIONS OF NEW INVENTORY.

“I TELL EVERYONE WHEN THEY COME TO ME WITH A BUDGET, ‘INVEST IN YOUR UPHOLSTERY AND THE THINGS YOU ARE SITTING ON AND USING EVERY SINGLE DAY,’” SAYS SAMANTHA.

Visit

ADORN HOME FURNISHINGS 111 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-7176 @ncadorn

1290 N MAIN ST, FUQUAY-VARINA, NC 27526 THE RADMARDS DON’T FOCUS ON ONE PARTICULAR STYLE, WANTING TO APPEAL TO THE VARIETY OF CUSTOMERS WHO LIVE IN SOUTHERN WAKE. “THIS AREA IS BECOMING SUCH A MELTING POT OF PERSONALITIES AND CULTURES,” SAYS SAMANTHA.

(919) 552- 8381 goodwinsglamorama.com

19

20 October/NOVEMBER 2022

{

Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Jonathan Fredin Before photos contributed by The Reed Family

iving in L

History

Driving down Avent Ferry

Road, past the idyllic pastures of the Avent Family Farm and

around the next bend, a lovely vista

of a two-story home rises up on the horizon, surrounded by hundredyear-old pecan trees.

This home, the oldest in

Holly Springs, might have been

demolished, if not for the joint efforts of the Town of Holly

Springs purchasing the home to save it from development and the Reed family undertaking the monumental task of restoring it.

}

{

A BIT OF

History

}

The Norris-Holland-Hare House was built around 1805 by Needham Norris, the son of a Revolutionary War veteran. The home later passed to Norris’ nephew, Simpson Holland.

Near the close of the Civil War, the house was used as a field hospital for Union soldiers. Holland’s widow, Mary Ann, and their six children lived upstairs, while the soldiers occupied the rooms below, Mary Ann helping to treat the wounded.

The original Federal-style structure, which remains intact, is a hall and parlor layout with an enclosed staircase. The floor plan of the home expanded through several additions amidst more than 200 years of occupancy.

During the last several decades, the dwelling became a rental property and began to fall into disrepair.

COREY BUILT THE FAMILY’S FARMHOUSE TABLE. THE CHARMING FARMHOUSE KITCHEN IS STOCKED WITH TOMATOES FROM THE GARDEN AND GREEN APPLES AND PECANS FROM THE TREES IN THE BACKYARD.

22 October/NOVEMBER 2022

HOMEOWNERS NICKIE AND COREY REED, WITH THEIR CHILDREN BLAKE MCLAURIN, RILEY, JAXSON, AND RHETT REED.

THE FRONT FOUR ROOMS, INCLUDING THE MASTER BEDROOM, WERE BUILT AROUND 1805. LATER ADDITIONS INCLUDED THE CURRENT KITCHEN, BATHROOM, AND AN ADDITIONAL BEDROOM.

{

A TRANSFORMATION Begins

}

The beautiful photos of a lovingly restored farmhouse you see on these pages — they are a far cry from what the NorrisHolland-Hare House looked like when current owners Nickie and Corey Reed first laid eyes on it in 2019.

The Reeds heard the historic house was for sale thanks to a tip from Corey’s mother. Corey immediately put a bid on the house — sight unseen — which was listed at $25,000.

“Then we got the key and came and looked at it. I said, ‘Please go get our money back.’ It wasn’t even worth $25,000,” says Nickie.

The roof barely remained and was full of holes and slats; the chimneys and floors were crumbling; there was a strong pet odor; and the fixtures had been stripped. Worn-out aluminum siding covered the original wood exterior.

“You could tell it had not been taken care of,” Nickie says.

But there were some bright spots. The windows, doors, and door knobs were original, as well as the wood-burning fireplaces, mantles, and heart pine floors. Five hundred-year-old pecan trees dotted the property.

“I know we can make this something special,” Nickie says.

To purchase the home, Corey and Nickie needed the approval of the Holly Springs Town Council.

“We spoke about how we want to transform the house. …

We got turned down,” Nickie recalls of the first council meeting she and Corey attended.

Before the council would approve the purchase, the Reeds needed to meet with Capital Area Preservation, a nonprofit historic preservation organization that helped to date the house and would assist with directing the restoration. “(The council) wanted us to speak with CAP and make sure we knew what we were getting into.

Looking back now, I really understand that because (working with CAP) is a process. … We can’t just tear down walls. We can restore it, but can’t really change a lot,” Nickie says.

At the next council meeting, the Reeds gained approval to purchase the house. However, they had to endure a required 10-day waiting period for other potential bids to come forward.

“I was a nervous wreck,” says Nickie. “I didn’t realize how much I wanted the house until we did that.”

23

Ten days later, the Reeds were the proud new owners and began the arduous task of restoration.

“It seems like we tore out for weeks on end,” says Corey.

“Dumpster after dumpster — seven dumpsters later, we finally got everything out.”

Nickie, Corey, and their four children, Blake, Riley, Jaxson, and Rhett, lived in an apartment the entire first year, while the house was made livable again.

Apart from the new roof and masonry repairs to the chimney and foundation, Corey has done all the work himself, including new electrical and plumbing, building a kitchen, painting, sanding, refinishing, erecting a fence and chicken coop, and building their farmhouse table.

“I grew up working with my dad wiring houses, fixing things, plumbing. … I picked up (experience) for many years, soaking up what I could anywhere I could,” he says.

“I knew that he had the talent to do it,” Nickie says. “I had the vision and (he was) the hands.”

The Reeds have uncovered mementos of past residents during their work on the home and garden: tractor parts; horseshoes; a copper cup, called a rum tot, that served as the daily rum

MANTLES AND WOOD-BURNING FIREPLACES REMAIN FROM THE ORIGINAL HOME, BUILT AROUND 1805.

24 October/NOVEMBER 2022

A STEEP, ENCLOSED STAIRCASE IS ONE OF THE DEFINING FEATURES OF EARLY 19TH CENTURY CONSTRUCTION.

DURING THE FIRST YEAR OF RENOVATIONS, THE FAMILY LIVED IN AN APARTMENT IN APEX. PICTURED ABOVE, JAXSON REED WORKING ON HIS BEDROOM TRANSFORMATION.

ration for members of the British Royal Navy; and a keepsake necklace with a mustard seed inside, among others.

“All the walls are lined with newspapers from the 1800s,” says Corey.

Nickie has a knack for finding thrifted and antique furniture and decor to pull together a home that honors the historic roots.

{

THE BATHROOM VANITY WAS SALVAGED FROM A RALEIGH HOME SCHEDULED FOR DEMOLITION.

LOOKING

Forward

}

Even after three years of ownership, there’s still more to be done, Nickie says. They want to rebuild the front porch, add a barn or outbuilding for storage, and continue to work on exposing the wood floors.

“I still have a dream of a tin roof,” Nickie says.

Any updates the Reeds want to make must be approved by CAP to ensure that historic standards are maintained.

25

THE HOUSE IS LOCATED ON AVENT FERRY ROAD, JUST OUTSIDE OF THE MILLS AT AVENT FERRY NEIGHBORHOOD.

The process has been challenging, full of long hours and hard work (on top of Corey’s full-time job), but the Reeds cherish the opportunity to revive a piece of Holly Springs history.

“We get so many people (who) stop and come in and say, ‘Wow, we cannot believe what this house used to look like,’” says Nickie.

Corey adds, “We’ll be sitting on the back porch and people will walk up and say, “We used to live here.’”

“It feels like we did a good thing, saving the house from being torn down,” says Nickie. “We’re the lucky ones that got to do that.” MB Editor’s Note: Though the Reed family is proud to show off their home, it is a private residence and not currently open for tours.

26 October/NOVEMBER 2022

THE PROPERTY’S HUNDREDYEAR-OLD PECAN TREES SHADE THE CHICKEN COOP.

“

Nickie wanted the pecan trees, and the land and the house came with it.

”

– Corey Reed

See more of the Norris-Holland Hare-House transformation at mainandbroadmag.com

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TRENDING NOW: – Pocket, folding, and accordion-style doors – Phantom screen rollers and clear vinyl – Tile – Infinity pools – Quartz – Secondary suites with private entrance – Slate roofs

28

PHOTOS PAGE 28 AND 29 BY ABIGAIL JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

GOLD HARDWARE AND A WOOD ISLAND ADD WARMTH TO THIS DESIGNER KITCHEN BY HALCYON HOMES.

On the

HOUSE Top Home Design Trends, According to Builders Written by Dena Daw and Emily Uhland

“If you build it, they will come.”

This classic line from the 1989 blockbuster Field of Dreams is certainly true for developers in Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina, both towns currently undergoing record growth and housing booms.

Great design starts with great inspiration, so if a new build or home renovation project is in your future, consider these suggestions from local builders — from a continued focus on outdoor living spaces to an inclusion of work-from-home flex spaces.

GREEN IN ALL SHADES IS REPLACING NAVY AS A POPULAR ACCENT COLOR, SEEN HERE IN A HALCYON HOMES MUDROOM.

ATTENTION TO DETAIL THROUGHOUT CABINETRY AND MILLWORK IS A HALLMARK OF HOMEBUILDER HALCYON HOMES.

HALCYON HOMES Builder Halcyon Homes is known for timeless designs with historical references and superb attention to detail, especially in millwork, cabinetry, and finishes. Owners James Robertson and sons Austin and Wil have a combined 65 years of experience in the construction industry.

Halcyon designers Amy Huber and Lindsey Kinton help homeowners bring their dream homes to life.

“I love new builds, creating a home out of nothing. I love seeing a plot of land with a bunch of trees, then all of a sudden you’ve created this home, and it’s almost like artwork,” says Huber.

Halcyon builds both production and custom homes in Southern Wake County and works hard to ensure modern finishes and sophisticated details can be found in their 1,500-square-foot homes as well as the 4,000-square-foot estates.

29

FLEX SPACES, LIKE THIS STUDY

BY HALCYON HOMES THAT CAN BE USED FOR AS AN OFFICE, HOMEWORK ROOM, GYM, OR GUEST SPACE, ARE IMPORTANT TO NEW HOME BUYERS.

THE HUBER FAMILY BUILT THEIR FOREVER HOME, PICTURED THIS PAGE, WITH HALCYON A FEW YEARS AGO IN FUQUAYVARINA. AMY HUBER ENJOYED THE PROCESS SO MUCH THAT SHE BEGAN WORKING WITH HALCYON AS A DESIGNER, HELPING THEIR CLIENTS ACHIEVE THE HOMES OF THEIR DREAMS.

“(Halcyon) does a good job creating flex spaces in their floor plans. A lot of parents want a place for homework, or a home office, or just an area for paying bills and sending emails. Halcyon does a really good job of making sure they flow nicely in the home,” says Kinton.

Both Kinton and Huber have witnessed interior finishes shifting from cool to warm tones in paint colors, wood stains, and metals.

“We’re seeing navy as an accent color transitioning into green — jade green, sea green, olive green, really any shade,” says Kinton. “People are using green in islands, butler’s pantries, and even cabinets.”

“Gray is still in, but it’s transitioning to warmer tones. And a lot more warm wood tones are being added in, whether it’s in the island or in some trim work,” says Huber.

“Gold hardware has been trickling in for a few years, but most people wanted antique gold or brushed gold at first. Now homeowners want that bright and shiny gold, which is fun,” Kinton says.

Mixing finishes on hardware throughout a home, and even within one room, is becoming much more popular. For example, mixing hardware on upper and lower cabinets, or mixing metals on plumbing within one bathroom, says Huber.

Home styles are shifting, in part, due to the influx of new residents from out of state.

“We have so many buyers moving from larger cities in the Northeast and California. They want more modern touches and less rustic,” says Kinton.

Farmhouse touches remain, but with modern variations, such as turning shiplap siding vertical instead of horizontal.

“Or not using it at all and going for something more artsy with trim,” says Kinton.

With Jon Rufty at the helm, Rufty Homes has been in business for 33 years focusing on custom estate homes and remodeling luxury residences in Raleigh, Cary, and the rest of Wake County. Known for their client involvement and one-of-a-kind projects, Rufty is very familiar with the ever-evolving list of clients’ wants and needs, influenced by everything from the pandemic to the weather.

“It all comes down to creating an environment that you want your family to grow up in,” says Rufty. “It really has a lot to do with your personal lifestyle, how you want to live, entertain, and interact with your family as it grows.”

When it comes to the biggest design trends he’s seen, Rufty says it’s all trending toward lightness and brightness — more windows, 30 October/NOVEMBER 2022

PHOTOS BY ABIGAIL JACKSON PHOTOGRAPHY

RUFTY HOMES

PHOTOS CONTRIBUTED BY RUFTY HOMES

SEAMLESS TRANSITIONS BETWEEN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR SPACES ARE TOP PRIORITY FOR MANY RUFTY HOMES CLIENTS. HERE, AN ACCORDION-STYLE WINDOW OPENS UP TO A KITCHEN INSIDE.

higher ceilings, 3000K LED lighting (a crisp, brighter color), and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces.

“Indoor/outdoor living is tremendously important these days,” says Rufty.

“In the past, there have been a lot of homes built with basements, but now people don’t want to walk down 15 steps to get to a swimming pool or an entertainment area.

So we’ve seen a big demand for non-basement lots where you can walk out of your living area, step down one or two steps, and be at a large terrace with the pool, fireplace, gathering areas, outdoor cooking, etc. Or they are willing to go to the expense of raising the swimming pool up to the main level, despite having a basement lot.”

Covered cooking areas on the back porch have also become a huge trend due to upgrades in retractable screen technology. Push a button and — voila — porch screens lift and lower automatically.

“In addition to the screens, you can also have vinyl that comes down, and it’s a clear vinyl so our clients can completely avoid pollen season,” says Rufty. “You can have both of them on the same porch, so the space is usable year round for Christmas parties or Thanksgiving, regardless of what the weather is.”

Water features are no longer relegated to the outdoors — fountains and ponds have made their way inside, as well as plant walls, as big as 3 or 4 feet wide and 5 to 6 feet tall. Maintaining a live green wall requires its own type of water feature, says Rufty, who has installed indoor automatic watering systems to keep plants looking gorgeously green.

According to Rufty, luxury kitchens, including more bars for easy entertaining, multiple dishwashers, waterfall countertops, and built-in wine coolers in lieu of wine rooms remain a top priority for homeowners.

BEAUTIFUL ACCENTS LIKE WOOD SHELVING, GOLD HARDWARE, AND TILE BACKSPLASH ELEVATE THIS LUXURY WET BAR, BY RUFTY HOMES.

“WE’VE SEEN A BIG DEMAND FOR NON-BASEMENT LOTS WHERE YOU CAN WALK OUT OF YOUR LIVING AREA AND BE AT A LARGE TERRACE WITH THE FIREPLACE, THE GATHERING AREAS, THE OUTDOOR COOKING, ALL THOSE TYPES OF THINGS,” SAYS JON RUFTY, RUFTY HOMES.

31

MODERN POOLSIDE OASES INCLUDE ADJOINING OUTDOOR KITCHENS, DINING AND LOUNGING AREAS.

For more than three decades, Bost Custom Homes has been building luxury, customized homes in the Triangle area. As the director of sales and marketing at Bost Custom Homes, Evan Bost works with clients on the front end, from their first point of contact all the way through the planning and design stage.

“It’s a dynamic business where every project has a unique set of constraints and opportunities,” says Bost. “We help mold the entire scope of the project to fit the clients as best as possible.”

Contemporary, clean line aesthetics are one of the biggest trends that Bost has seen recently, with many clients expressing interest in minimalism — less interior trim, recessed baseboards, and no casing around doors.

“I would say as far as interior trends, we’re seeing a push more in the direction of geometric patterns and textures and more natural materials,” says Bost. “It’s kind of a blend of millwork and stone and grasscloth wallpaper. It’s all very organic.”

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AWARDS

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PHOTOS PAGE 32 AND 33 BY JONATHAN FREDIN

BOST CUSTOM HOMES

Like Rufty, Bost has also noticed a sweeping trend toward outdoor living. Almost every custom house now has an outdoor kitchen setup — a full grill, sink, refrigerator, trash pull out, you name it — all just a few steps away from the indoors.

“People are still interested in first-floor living, keeping as much essential daily living on the main level and minimizing steps,” says Bost. “We’re seeing more people trending toward smaller footprints, and they’ve got more budget for the pool and the outdoor living and the landscaping. So we see them shrinking the house down, but expanding the living space outside of the house.”

In the smaller plans that are trending, formal dining rooms and dedicated movie theaters are being replaced with a second study or den.

“A lot of people are working from home, so we’re definitely building at least one study in every house, which is kind of like a secluded office space, but we are doing some homes that have two offices,” says Bost.

“They tend to be separated — one upstairs, one downstairs, so they are completely isolated from each other.

A lot of floor plan design now is thinking through those types of living situations.” MB

“WITH THE PRODUCTS WE HAVE ON THE MARKET NOW, THE POSSIBILITIES FOR INDOOR/OUTDOOR LIVING ARE ENDLESS,” SAYS EVAN BOST, BOST CUSTOM HOMES.

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34 October/NOVEMBER 2022

Written by Emily Uhland

Haunting Holly Springs

JONATHAN FREDIN

JONATHAN FREDIN

Skeletons Raise Hope and Donations for a Cause

THE ROBERTSON FAMILY, OF HOLLY SPRINGS, CREATED SKELETONS FOR ST. JUDE, AN ANNUAL HOME HAUNTING FUNDRAISER. FROM LEFT, GAVIN, 13, STEPHENIE, LAUREN, 15, AND JEFF.

Jeff Robertson hopes to reach a quarter of a million dollars in fundraising for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital this year — only the third year of his grassroots fundraising effort, Skeletons for St. Jude.

“In 2020, during Covid when everybody was cooped up in their homes, we started decorating our home with skeletons,” says Robertson, a Holly Springs resident.

“ABC11 came and interviewed us about it. After (the segment) aired, our family got together and we asked, ‘How can we use this media coverage to do something good?’

“Let’s see if people would donate to St.

Jude if we put a sign in our front yard. We don’t know if we’ll make $0.50 or $5,000.

“The premise behind our effort was, if you like what you see in these Halloween displays, please consider donating some money so we can help get sick children out of the hospital. … After maybe 20, 25 days, we raised $8,000,” Robertson says.

And their Holly Springs home became a community destination, attracting guests from near and far to view the display.

The next year the Robertson family of four felt the need to go bigger — “So we did,” says Jeff.

35

Using social media, Robertson expanded the footprint of Skeletons for St. Jude nationwide, offering fundraiser signage that could be downloaded, printed, and then displayed at homes around the country.

“I was kind of skeptical that very few people would want to do that, but it exploded,” he says.

Four hundred homes joined the cause by the end of 2021, raising a total of $151,000, bringing the year-over-year total to $162,000.

“And the cool thing about it is, we did that — and when I say we, it really is a team effort — in less than 80 cumulative days.”

Thus making Skeletons for St. Jude the hospital’s largest DIY fundraiser — a term St. Jude uses to describe privately 36 October/NOVEMBER 2022

JONATHAN FREDIN

LOCAL TV STATION ABC11 REPORTED ON THE ROBERTSONS’ UNIQUE 2020 DISPLAY, SPURRING THE FAMILY TO CREATE AN ANNUAL FUNDRAISER.

ROBERTSON FAMILY

2021 DISPLAY DETAILS

led fundraisers. This year’s goal is to reach $250,000 raised and add 600 partner homes.

Though Robertson “never in a million years” imagined leading a skeleton decorating outfit, it has become a nearly yearround effort for him, with time divided amongst recruiting partner homes on social media, communicating with St. Jude’s team, maintaining the website, and taking ideas from his core supporters.

Let’s not forget the pranks he pulls on his own family.

“I make a new prop every year. My fun thing to do was to hide it somewhere in the house, in a closet or a bathroom, etc. And then I would set a camera up and film (my family) getting scared. We

“

if you like what you see in these Halloween displays, please consider donating some money so we can help get sick children out of the hospital.

”

– Jeff Robertson, Skeletons for St. Jude

ROBERTSON FAMILY

ROBERTSON KEEPS THE DISPLAYS SPOOKY, BUT NOT OVERLY GORY, SO MANY AGES CAN ENJOY THEM. VISIT DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS FOR A LOWER LEVEL OF FRIGHT.

SKELETONS IN THE CRAWL SPACE

As they await their annual ransacking of the Robertson home, the skeleton props are stored in the house’s crawl space.

In 2020, an unlucky Terminix technician came to do an annual treatment and inspection of the home.

“I forgot to tell him, and he opened the (crawl space) door and got a good scare at first. I felt horrible, but then we had a good laugh afterwards.”

called it the 30 Days of Scared, and I got a blast out of it. Now they kind of know the game, like, ‘OK, Dad’s going to put a skeleton sitting on my toilet,’” says Robertson.

More than 70 skeletons, amassed gradually over several years, plus ghouls and monsters galore round out the collection.

Careful observers may witness the ongoing storyline Robertson has created through his evolving displays.

“The first theme in 2020 was skeletons are attacking to get inside the house to get our Halloween candy.”

The second year, the skeleton infestation was so severe, they kicked the Robertson family out of their own home.

“We had an eviction notice in our front yard. I took pictures of my kids and

my wife bound and shackled, then had a mannequin of myself being pulled out of the house by the skeleton,” he says.

This year, look for marauding skeletons pitted against medieval creatures who have overtaken the house. Family-favorite Netflix show Stranger Things influenced new props and details as well.

Displays are kept family friendly — not too graphic or gory.

“I’ve got a team of advisers, and they range in age from 8 to 16. In the neighborhood and during carpool they give me ideas all the time” It takes about three weeks to erect the full display. Starting in early October, a steady stream of vehicles visit Skygrove Drive in the Sunset Oaks neighborhood.

37

undraising effort of Halloween/holiday home displays to raise money for St. Jude Children's heir families impacted by childhood cancer. Their help get sick children well and out of the hospital and holiday displays.

NC in 2020 with the Robertson family placing a St. cal TV station aired their skeleton Halloween hort weeks, and meeting several families impacted moved to turn the fundraiser into an annual event.

Skeletons for St. Jude

HOW TO GET INVOLVED:

ROBERTSON FAMILY

A SIGN IN THE FRONT YARD DETAILS THE CAUSE AND HOW VISITORS CAN CONTRIBUTE.

ROBERTSON FAMILY

“It’s exciting to see how excited the kids get. And it’s especially exciting to see the generosity from so many folks who donate,” he says.

The Robertson family has long supported the work of St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, so it was a clear choice during their early discussions about collecting donations. One of the very first families to visit the display made that decision even more meaningful.

A few days after the news broadcast — which aired before the Robertsons started the fundraiser — a Skeletons for St. Jude sign was on display in the yard when a young family visited the skeleton display.

“The daughter was going through treatment with St. Jude and was sitting in the back of the car. The parents got very, very emotional and were so appreciative of everybody’s efforts and raising money. I looked at (their) daughter, and she’s going through such a tough Skeletons for St. Jude time in her life, and she was just grinning like Jeff Robertson 919-607-2722 mattered. She was totally smiling and Email: nothing info@skeletonsforhope.org Website: https://skeletonsforhope.org/ happy and excited.”

August 7, 2022 “We decided that for as long as we can, de” raising tens of thousands in donations; likely to ed in less than 110 cumulative, fundraising days. to keep going with this effort.” MB we’re going

Skeletons for St. Jude

Jeff Robertson 919-607-2722 Email: info@skeletonsforhope.org Website: https://skeletonsforhope.org/

de, leveraging social media, expanded the effort in the effort (see Skeletons for St. Jude Facebook SSJ Halloween homes across the US (in every state heir yards. The campaign ended with over 2,000 n a staggering $152,000 (in onlySkeletons 39 days) a Save including Lives me Depot for $45,000.

VISIT the Robertson home during the month of October: 109 Skygrove Drive, Holly Springs

August 7, 2022

to break $250,000 raised in less than 110 days of Skeletons Save since 2020. Those wishing to join our team canLives – “Skeletons for St. Jude” raising tens of thousands in donations; likely to hit over a quarter of million dollars raised in less than 110 cumulative, fundraising days. joining at Facebook group through the QR code //www.facebook.com/groups/449848202989543.

Skeletons for St. Jude (SSJ) is a nationwide fundraising effort of Halloween/holiday home haunters that use their Halloween/holiday displays to raise money for St. Jude Children's through the QR code (right) Research Hospital to support children and their families impacted by childhood cancer. Their f the donations go directly to goal is raise as much money as possible to help get sick children well and out of the hospital rom St. Jude. so they too can enjoy these fun Halloween and holiday displays.

THE SKELETONS EVICTED THE ROBERTSON FAMILY IN 2021, DRAGGING THEM FROM THE FRONT DOOR BOUND AND BLINDFOLDED.

DONATE online: skeletonsforhope.org

The fundraiser originated in Holly Springs, NC in 2020 with the Robertson family placing a St. Jude fundraising sign in their yard after a local TV station aired their skeleton Halloween display. After generating $8,200, in a few short weeks, and meeting several families impacted by childhood cancer, the Robertsons were moved to turn the fundraiser into an annual event.

d=279830&fr_id=134327&pg=team&copy_link_share

Become a partner home: Download and display the fundraiser sign.

Instructions and files can be found at skeletonsforhope.org/signs

For the 2021 campaign, Skeletons for St. Jude, leveraging social media, expanded the effort across the nation recruiting thousands to join the effort (see Skeletons for St. Jude Facebook group). By Halloween, there were over 400 SSJ Halloween homes across the US (in every state but five) with the St. Jude donation sign in their yards. The campaign ended with over 2,000 generous donors providing funds resulting in a staggering $152,000 (in only 39 days) including a generous matching donation from The Home Depot for $45,000.

JOIN the Facebook group: “Skeletons for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital”

Donations can be made through the QR code (right) or link (below). 100% of the donations go directly to St. Jude. Tax-deductible receipts provided from St. Jude.

Donation link:

https://fundraising.stjude.org/site/TR?team_id=279830&fr_id=134327&pg=team&copy_link_share

38 October/NOVEMBER 2022

ROBERTSON FAMILY

This year SSJ is striving to break $250,000 raised in less than 110 days of cumulative fundraising since 2020. Those wishing to join our team can receive information by joining at Facebook group through the QR code (left) or this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/449848202989543.

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NOT YOUR GRANDMA’S CHEESE BALL — THIS ONE CONTAINS GOAT CHEESE, ROASTED RED PEPPER, FIG NEWTONS (YEP!) AND TOASTED WALNUTS.

40 October/NOVEMBER 2022

Restaurant Spotlight

The BrickHouse Bar & Grill Written by David McCreary | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

You might say a dive bar’s beauty rests in the eye of the imbiber. When it comes to The BrickHouse Bar & Grill in FuquayVarina, the beauty is also in the palate of the diner — and you should strongly consider paying a visit.

Situated on an accessible corner in the Varina business district, this watering hole checks all the boxes for a legit dive bar — low ceilings (painted black, of course), scuffed walls, timeworn pool tables, ragged stools, neon signs, and graffiti-laden bathrooms.

Along with its rough-and-tumble aesthetics, there’s no hint of pretense. What you will find, though, is a dedicated staff committed to delivering quality drinks, food, and service in an edgy setting with welcoming good vibes.

“We have a daytime crowd and a nighttime crowd, and we’ve upped our game with the craft cocktails,” says bartender Patrick Patterson. “I love how diverse it is. We have people of all ages and backgrounds who come in.”

Whether you’re looking for craft beer staples like Foothills, Red Oak, and Wicked Weed, or something more uptown creative such as a watermelon daiquiri or an espresso martini, you won’t be disappointed here.

Lest you think The BrickHouse is only a late-night drinking establishment, allow us to introduce you to emerging chef and general manager Eddie Forbis.

“We’re really trying to elevate what we do, and that includes what comes from 41

the kitchen,” Forbis says with a winsome, down-to-earth tone.

“We don’t want to be known just for chicken wings or fried pickle chips,” he says, adding that his approach to food is to “make it fun.”

“We’re not serving up frozen food that’s going into to the fryer,” he continues.

“What you’re getting is fresh, exciting food that shows we don’t just do hand-crafted cocktails here. We take pride from the front and back of the house.”

On the day we showed up for the Main & Broad photo shoot, Forbis finessed half a dozen mouthwatering appetizers and a trio of bangin’ smashburgers. And he would have served up even more menu items had time allowed.

If you’re wondering where to start, try the garlic parmesan fries or preserved lemon hummus (yes, you read that correctly).

“The kick in the hummus comes from the crispy chili oil,” Forbis says. “I wanted to switch it up a bit and give it some flair.”

Don’t miss the addictive pork belly bites.

“The pork is slow cooked for 10 hours and cooled overnight, then it’s sliced into bite-sized pieces,” Forbis explains. “I make

“

We’re really trying to elevate what we do, and that includes what comes from the kitchen.

”

– Eddie Forbis, Chef and manager, The BrickHouse

an Old Fashioned-style bourbon glaze with some crushed red pepper and serve the bites in a rocks glass with a cherry to mimic the drink.”

Among the appetizers, the shareable party cheese ball is the most ambitious. It contains goat cheese, parsley, scallions, and roasted red pepper rolled in a crumble with Fig Newtons and toasted walnuts. “(Chef ) Jake Wood and I came up with the recipe,” Forbis says. “He helped me learn to think outside the box.”

The two men worked together at the now-defunct 18 Seaboard in Raleigh, the

Capital City’s Plates Neighborhood Kitchen, and, most recently, Lawrence Barbecue in Durham.

Front and center on the grub menu are tempting, well-seasoned burgers.

Choose between the Classic with American cheese, onions, and pickles; the Cajun-style Voodoo involving pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapenos, voodoo chips, and special sauce; and the showstopper Billy Da Kid encompassing onion straws, barbecue sauce, smoked provolone cheese, and crispy bacon.

“The barbecue sauce is a mix of reduced Dr Pepper and Sweet Baby Ray’s, and the onion straws are soaked in buttermilk and Frank’s hot sauce,” Forbis reveals.

“The burgers are all very approachable.”

If you’re in the mood for something different, order the CBR sandwich, which features a fried chicken breast, bacon aioli, and crushed Cool Ranch Doritos.

Forbis sources beef from Fuquay Meat Market. Some of the fresh vegetables come from the State Farmer’s Market, and bread for the grill’s chicken salad sandwich is made by nearby Stick Boy Bread Co. Though he’s often a lone wolf in the kitchen, Forbis is quick to point out that

PORK BELLY BITES

ONE OF SEVERAL IMPRESSIVE BURGERS: BILLY DA KID, WITH ONION STRAWS, BARBECUE SAUCE, SMOKED PROVOLONE CHEESE, AND CRISPY BACON.

MANAGER EDDIE FORBIS’ MOTTO, “MAKE IT FUN,” EXTENDS TO THE FOOD AND HAND-CRAFTED COCKTAILS.

42 October/NOVEMBER 2022

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CHEF AND MANAGER EDDIE FORBIS

he relies heavily on girlfriend Chelsea Parks, who bartends at The BrickHouse once a week and assists him with prepping in the kitchen, special events, and more.

“In addition, she does a great job holding down things at home and taking care of Jamison, our son,” says Forbis.

Forbis also is grateful for the dedicated staff of bartenders, bouncers, and bar backs who ensure a good time is had by all.

“They are the backbone of the bar, and we all have each other’s backs,” Forbis says. “I’m also thankful to owner Tracey Ciliberto for trusting Chelsea and me to help run the business.”

The BrickHouse offers daily specials on drinks and weekly specials on food.

Hours of operation span from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. on weekdays and from noon to 2 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Be advised: The full kitchen is open Thursday through Saturday from 5–11 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. A limited menu is offered Monday through Wednesday. An outdoor patio is available.

THE BRICKHOUSE BAR & GRILL 213 Fayetteville St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 346-1204 @brickhouse_fuquay

44 October/NOVEMBER 2022

FORBIS WITH HIS SON JAMISON

APPETIZERS ARE A MIX OF FAMILIAR AND SOPHISTICATED, SUCH AS PRESERVED LEMON HUMMUS WITH CRISPY CHILI OIL, GARLIC PARMESAN FRIES, AND AS PORK BELLY BITES, PICTURED PREVIOUS PAGE.

MOONFLOWER PINOT NOIR & AUTUMN SALMON SQUASH BOWL INGREDIENTS: For the salad:

For the dressing & marinade:

1 cup 3 cups

Quinoa cooked Lacinato kale, washed and de-stemmed, roughly 2 bunches 2 tsp.

Olive oil 1 tsp.

Garlic powder 1 1/2 cup Roasted butternut squash 1 1/2 cup Roasted cauliflower 2 tbsp.

Avocado oil 1 Apple chopped 1/3 cup Crumbled feta cheese 1/3 Pomegranate seeds 1/4 cup Pumpkin seeds 1/4 cup Pecan pieces 2 Salmon fillets Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup 2 tbsp.

1 4 tsp.

Olive oil Apple cider vinegar Lemon juiced Dijon mustard Salt and pepper to taste

INSTRUCTIONS: 1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. 2. Cook quinoa according to package directions.

3. Toss cubed butternut squash and cauliflower florets with avocado oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for approximately 15 minutes until the squash is fork tender. Let cool.

4. In a small bowl combine all of the ingredients for the dressing/marinade and whisk together. Use half as a marinade for the salmon and the rest as salad dressing.

5. Pour the marinade on the salmon and let it rest for 10 minutes.

6. Bake at 400 degrees in the oven for about 10-12 minutes or until desired temperature. A cast iron or grill may also be used during this step.

7. Next, massage the washed and dried kale with olive oil and garlic powder for a few seconds.

8. Toss roasted veggies with kale, and add chopped apple, pomegranate seeds, pumpkin seeds, feta and pecans. Top your bowl with the salmon, drizzle with remaining dressing and enjoy!

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46 October/NOVEMBER 2022

Restaurant Spotlight

TapStation When it comes to running a business that depends on walk-in customers, location is paramount.

TapStation, a family-friendly restaurant and brewery that opened in May, might be the most perfectly positioned spot in Apex. Situated on the busy corner of West Williams and South Salem streets near downtown Apex, the two-story space includes a rooftop patio bar, a playground, and ample outdoor seating.

The building formerly housed Holt & Sons, a longtime automotive service station, and the new owners have gone to great lengths to preserve the nostalgic vibe.

“We wanted to maintain the essence and historic status of the building, so we designed the new concept around the service station theme,” explains Jonathan Pierce, founder and managing partner of TapStation, which he runs along with his wife, Maggie Pierce, and Jeff and Meredith Kromenhoek. The two couples also co-founded Scratch Kitchen & Taproom, which has locations in downtown Apex and downtown Cary. And the Pierces are also part owners of The Mason Jar Tavern restaurants.

About three years ago, Jeff Kromenhoek casually approached Jonathan Pierce with an intriguing proposition. “I remember Jeff saying, ‘Hey, what do you want to do with that old gas station on the corner?’” Pierce says. “He then started talking about the idea of a rooftop bar concept.”

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TAPSTATION IN APEX PAYS HOMAGE TO HOLT & SONS, A LONGTIME AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION.

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After purchasing the property, the new proprietors underwent an extensive process to renovate the building while maintaining its status on the historic registry. Architectural planning took eight months. The Town of Apex had to approve the construction of a second level, which is essentially floating atop the original building, albeit on reinforced steel and fortified concrete.

“We encountered a lot of hurdles, especially since a lot of the planning and construction happened during the pandemic,” Pierce says. “Ultimately, everything came together well.”

Endeavoring to stay true to the service station roots, the owners commissioned local artists Mark “Bash” Hill and his wife, Lola Hill, who specialize in repurposing authentic vintage cars, parts, and signs from the 1940s, ’50s and ’60s.

On the rooftop patio sits a prominently positioned 1957 Chevy 3000 series cabover truck converted into a booth. Elsewhere, Ford Model A axles have been custom fabricated into beer taps.

Antique oil cans now serve as light fixtures throughout TapStation. Timeworn signs fill the walls, while old-fashioned gas pump handles serve as faucets in the restrooms.

Hillsboroughbased artist

A CUSTOM FABRICATED MODEL A AXLE SERVES AS A MULTI-TAP BEER DISPENSER.

Max Dowdle painted eye-catching murals on the building’s walls.

“To be able to be part of such a wonderful project as TapStation was pleasing on an artistic, as well as a broadly aesthetic, level,” Dowdle says. “I was immensely pleased to add so much life and dynamic color through the use of paint.”

TapStation’s ultra-casual environment beckons guests to relax, hang out, and have a great time. And there’s plenty of room for a crowd.

“We have space for about 400 people,” says Meredith Kromenhoek. “We want to be a fun gathering place, and providing a rooftop dining experience is something new and different for Apex.”

Locals are finding much to like here, not the least of which is an impressive offering of craft beer and quality bourbon.

“Many of the beers are from Mason Jar Lager Company, but a lot are being made on-site,” Pierce said. “We also have at least 60 varieties of curated bourbons.”

As for the food, elevated shareable appetizers abound. We strongly suggest you select several for the table, especially if you have hungry kids in tow.

The wildly popular 2-pound pretzel arrives with kickin’ mustard and beer cheese dip. Order the bangbang tater tots tossed in a habit-forming spicy sauce and sprinkled with green onions and toasted tuxedo sesame seeds. Pimento cheese egg rolls come stuffed with veggie filling and are served alongside red pepper jam.

The “Clucking Good” section of the menu offers multiple mouth-watering takes on the classic chicken sandwich. Try the Nashville-inspired Hot, with dill pickles and coleslaw. Or go with Fancy, which

LOADED HOT DOGS, BRATS, BURGERS, AND CHICKEN SANDWICHES PAIR SURPRISINGLY WELL WITH CRAFT COCKTAILS AND GROWN-UP MILKSHAKES.

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involves Gouda cheese, lemon-kissed arugula, red onion, and truffle aioli.

There are half a dozen different smash-style burgers, including the top-selling All-American with cheese, pickles, lettuce, tomato, diced onions, and a signature comeback sauce. Consider the Rise and Shine with American cheese, fried egg, bacon jam, smashed tots, and kickin’ ketchup.

You’ll be glad for the roll of paper towels at the center of the table so you can wipe your chin often.

Oversized all-beef hotdogs also vie for consideration. For a straightforward option, choose the Carolina dog with kickin’ mustard, chili, and coleslaw or the Slum dog with bacon, beer cheese, onions, and chili. More adventurous possibilities include the Chicago dog with a fried pickle spear and sport peppers, or the jalapeño-stuffed Popper dog wrapped in applewood bacon and crowned with beer cheese sauce and ranch spread.

Bratwurst fans will appreciate the Korean slaw brat simmered in Holt & Hops beer and served with kimchi, Asian slaw, kickin’ mustard, and kickin’ ketchup. The Hawaiian brat features grilled pineapple-mango salsa, fresh jalapenos, avocado slices, kickin’ mustard, and cilantro.

For a first-rate artisanal grilled cheese sandwich, be sure to order the Figgy Piggy with Applewood-smoked bacon, goat and provolone cheese, arugula, and house-made fig jam on sourdough. Even the classic grilled cheese contains a twist: It’s made with cheddar cheese and cream cheese.

A PUTTING GREEN AND OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND KEEP KIDS ENTERTAINED.

50 October/NOVEMBER 2022

SOPHISTICATED SALADS WERE AN IMPORTANT ADDITION TO THE MENU, ACCORDING TO OWNER JONATHAN PIERCE. BELOW: DINERS ENJOY LUNCH INSIDE A CONVERTED ’57 CHEVY 3000 CABOVER TRUCK.

“

SanFOR d THRILLING

We wanted to maintain the essence and historic status of the building, so we designed the new concept around the service station theme.

good times

”

– Jonathan Pierce, TapStation co-owner

October 13-15 &

October 27-29

&

TAPSTATION 320 S. Salem St., Apex tapstationapex.com

October 8

October 20-22

In the mood for a salad? Available in “half tank” and “full tank” versions, you’ll get your fill with any of the five tempting selections. The Green Goddess Cobb features three types of greens topped with grilled chicken, grape tomatoes, bacon, boiled egg, feta, pickled onions, and Holt & Hops IPA-roasted spent grain.

It’s drizzled with a sublime scratch-made green goddess dressing.

And don’t ignore the simple goodness of the beet and goat cheese arugula salad with lemon-honey vinaigrette.

“We wanted our salads to stand out,” Pierce says. “People may be surprised to see that a burger place has such good salads.”

For dessert, lean toward an adult milkshake like the bourbon vanilla with salted bourbon caramel or a house root beer float. There’s also apple pie egg rolls or funnel cake with powdered sugar.

“Funnel cake just feels nostalgic,” says Meredith Kromenhoek. “It goes well with the gas station theme.”

When you go, don’t be surprised if the parking lot is completely full. Additional spaces are accessible on both sides of Salem Street. TapStation is open Tuesday through Sunday with continuous service for lunch and dinner. Seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

October 13t h - 30th O c t o b e r 2 7 - 2 9

visitsanfordnc.com/calendar

COMPREHENSIVE INSURANCE HEALTH • DENTAL • LIFE • GROUP • MEDICARE • ANCILLARY We represent you, not the insurance company. Finding the best insurance can be complicated. We’ll keep it simple and give you one less thing to worry about. Here are some of the carriers we offer:

• AETNA • BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD • UNITED HEALTHCARE • CIGNA

• HUMANA • MUTUAL OF OMAHA • NATIONAL GENERAL • AMERITAS

919-326-3678 Manz Ballesteros Agency Relations Manz@RUinsured.com Charlene Ballesteros Client Relations Charlene@RUinsured.com

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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

Daddy D’s BBQ “Slow cooked with love.”

1526 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6464; daddydsbbqnc.com

Cellar 55 Tasting Room “Chef specials Friday and Saturday nights.”

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

Drive Bru “Drive thru coffee shop with N.Y. coffee & Carolina charm.”

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

Cleveland Draft House “Great food, great service, at a great price.”

1420 East Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 659-5500; clevelanddrafthouse.com

Eggs Up Grill “Breakfast favorites served all day.”

1436 N Main St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-4463; eggsupgrill.com

The Corner Biergarten “Bar & bottle shop.”

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

El Dorado “Enjoy the most delicious Mexican food amongst family.”

112 E Vance St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-0287; eldoradomexicanrestaurant.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 Culver’s of Fuquay-Varina “ButterBurgers and frozen custard made fresh every day.”

1860 Cinema Dr., Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-2360; culvers.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 HWY 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries “All-American diner experience.”

3419 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-3007; hwy55.com

LATTE FLIGHT AT THANKS A LATTE IN HOLLY SPRINGS

J&S New York Pizza “Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant.”

500 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-6921; jandsnypizza.com

Joyce & Family Restaurant “Home cooked Southern favorites.”

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

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Photos by Jonathan Fredin

Johnny’s Pizza “An amazing array of different NY-style pizzas.”

722 N Judd Parkway N, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6322; johnnyspizzafuquay.com

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Kumo Sushi Hibachi “Traditional Japanese menu in a chic setting.”

2916 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 986-0983; kumosushi401hwy.com Little Portugal NC “Market and eatery celebrating traditional Portuguese dishes.”

736 N. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 586-7144; littleportugalnc.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 New Rainbow Chinese “Classic and popular Chinese favorites.”

3427 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-8272; newrainbowchinesefood.com

Dine 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 Tio’s “Pizza. Empanadas. Wings.”

2916 N Main St, Fuquay-Varina 919-762-0095; tiosnc.com Triple Barrel Tavern “Restaurant, sports bar & billiards.”

2221 N Grassland Drive, Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-0940; @triplebarreltavernfuquayvarina

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

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109, Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-0962; winginitbarandgrille.com Wing It On “Chicken like a champ.”

1061 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (984) 225-2141; wingiton.com Zaxby’s “Indescribably good.”

1341 N Main St, Fuquay Varina (919) 552-3981; zaxbys.com Zeera Indian Restaurant “Authentic goodness in traditional Indian food.”

1311 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-6215; zeeranc.com

Vicious Fishes Tap & Kitchen “Eclectic twists on comfortable bar food.”

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

Nil’s Cafe Mediterranean Cuisine “Mediterranean cuisine and a creative menu.”

513 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (984) 223-2928; nilscafefuquayvarina.com

SIGNATURE SPECIAL CHICKEN APPETIZER AT ZEERA INDIAN RESTAURANT

FUQUAY-VARINA 1341 N. MAIN ST.

FB: @ZaxbysFuquayVarina IG/Twitter: @zaxbysfuquaync

DENOTES ADVERTISER

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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 Tacos & Tequila “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 Bellini Italian Cuisine “A real taste of Italy through authentic Italian Cuisine.”

7256 GB Alford Hwy, Holly Springs (919) 552-0303; bellinitaliancuisinehollysprings.com

COMING

Dine BEP Vietnamese Kitchen “Traditional Vietnamese cuisine and boba teas.”

300 South Main St, Holly Springs (919) 285-2477; bepnc.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 The Butcher’s Market “Premium meats and specialty grocery.”

4200 Lassiter Rd, Holly Springs (919) 267-919); thebutchersmarkets.com

SOON!

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 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

PIZZA AND BEER ON THE CAPE FEAR!

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

Check our Facebook page for weekly events @TCBiergarten

Dogs are Welcome!

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

lostpaddlepizza.com 54 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

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

DENOTES ADVERTISER

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 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 Niche Wine Lounge “Tranquility by the glass.”

109 Main St., Holly Springs (919) 552-2300; nichewinelounge.com The Nutrition Fix “Healthy fast food alternatives.”

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

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Dine 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

Thanks A Latte “Coffee and gift boutique.”

1118 Kentworth Drive, Holly Springs (919) 577-0070; thanksalattegiftsnc.com 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 SMOKED COCKTAILS FROM THE BLIND PELICAN IN HOLLY SRINGS

Sweet Southern SnoBalls “Shaved ice and Hershey’s Ice Cream.”

527 N. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 291-3355; @sweetsouthsnoballs Thai Thai Cuisine “Home cooked Thai food.”

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

From our family to yours.

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

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

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

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WOMAN to WATCH

Irena Krstanovic Economic Development Director, Town of Holly Springs Written by Dena Daw | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

It’s hard to introduce Irena Krstanovic, the economic de- business focused, and yet always had time to listen to residents velopment director for the Town of Holly Springs, without im- and small-business owners who would just drop in the office and mediately touting her recent accomplishments. talk about the opportunities in Holly Springs.”

Under Krstanovic’s leadership, the Town of Holly Springs Following Mizelle’s retirement, Krstanovic stepped into landed two giant biotech companies within the same year: Fui- her current role of economic development director, but conjifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies and Amgen. The two com- tinues to credit much of her success to her predecessor’s hard panies will add a combined 1,000 jobs to the area over the work and foresight. next few years, solidifying the town’s reputation as a hub for “I would definitely say that Jenny Mizelle was my inbiotechnology and life sciences. spiration,” says Krstanovic. “We’ve done a lot of great things “These processes are extremely competitive and very con- in Holly Springs, like landing Seqirus, the largest flu manufidential,” says Krstanovic. “We are really competing globally. facturer in the world — that was Jenny’s project. We’ve done When these searches start, they’re looking at Denmark and a lot of other things, like a library and a cultural center, but Japan and multiple sites in the US. To be able to score these that’s not the kind of thing that makes the news. Jenny paved tremendous companies is truly transformational for the region the way with nothing, but I had something to work with. and the state, not just for Holly Springs. You can be in the Jenny is a visionary — she said she wanted to make Holly world of economic development your whole life and not work Springs a major life sciences hub for NC, and today that’s a deal of that magnitude.” what we are.”

Because of her unparalleled sucGiving credit where credit is due cess, Krstanovic was recently presented seems to come naturally to Krstawith the Economic Developer of the novic, who has nothing but wonderYear Award by the North Carolina ful things to say about her colleagues Economic Development Association. and the town that she’s called home Krstanovic started her career in since 1999. Born and raised in former economic development almost 22 years Yugoslavia, she earned her degree in ago with the Town of Holly Springs, international economic development joining former director Jenny Mizelle from the University of Banja Luka in a dynamic two-woman team. before moving to the US with her “I met Irena when she applied for husband 24 years ago. a position as the economic development “We bought a house in Holly coordinator,” says Mizelle. “As we deSprings in 1999, and I started to work veloped as a team, I came to rely on her for the town a few months later. I contoughness and strategic thinking, which sider myself to be almost a native at this are valuable qualities in an economic depoint,” Krstanovic says with a laugh.

– Irena Krstanovic velopment leader. Irena is intelligent and When asked what she is most

“

To be able to score these tremendous companies is truly transformational for the region and the state, not just for Holly Springs.

”

56 October/NOVEMBER 2022

57

by that she doesn’t think about her.

“She is truly my hero. She was old enough to go through quite a few wars in that part of Europe, so if anyone had a good perspective on how to seize the day and focus on the family and what’s important, then it was definitely her.”

When speaking KRSTANOVIC WAS NAMED THE 2022 ECONOMIC DEVELOPER OF THE YEAR BY THE NORTH CAROLINA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION. with Krstanovic and PICTURED HERE WITH TOWN OF HOLLY SPRINGS COLLEAGUES INCLUDING TOWN MANAGER RANDY HARRINGTON AND MAYOR SEAN MAYEFSKIE those who know her, it becomes very clear that to prepare a high-quality pipeline for the Irena is deeply committed to her job — and the success of a small workforce is really important to me,” says “mom and pop” business means just as Krstanovic. “If we can change some kids’ much to her as landing those multibillion- lives by giving them the chance to find a great job within their community, even dollar deals.

“I want to make our community more without a four-year degree, I think we sustainable. Providing jobs and working have succeeded.”

Ashley Cagle, the assistant execuwith our high schools and middle schools

85 years of serving you and your family est. 1937

58 October/NOVEMBER 2022

210 S. Main St. | downtown Fuquay-Varina 919-552-5201 | ashworthsclothing.com

CONTRIBUTED BY IRENA KRSTANOVIC

proud of, Krstanovic answers with no hesitation — her family.

“I love exposing our children to Serbian language and Serbian culture while also allowing them to be part of this great country and this great culture. I am proud that we were able to grow our family in that way,” says Krstanovic.

As the mother of two daughters, ages 18 and 15, Krstanovic hopes that both of her girls will see that the sky’s the limit for them in all of their future endeavors.

“I recently received the Glass Ceiling Award from the Holly Springs Chamber, as a woman who has made an impact in my community. I came to this country and was able to build my career with hard work, trust, and collaboration, and become successful in what I do. I just hope my girls can see and learn from that.”

Coupled with supportive parents who prepared her for “whatever life can throw at you,” Krstanovic is most inspired by her late grandmother, saying that not a week goes

“

I want to make our community more sustainable.

Providing jobs and working with our high schools and middle schools to prepare a highquality pipeline for the workforce is really important to me.

”

– Irena Krstanovic

tive director for Wake County economic development, met Krstanovic nine years ago.

Although they have worked on numerous projects together over the years, Cagle is most impressed with Krstanovic’s love for people.

“She comes from a background where taking care of your family and your friends is really important. She is interested in their lives, and it is really a joy to work with her,” says Cagle.

The ability to build and maintain healthy relationships with others is one of Krstanovic’s greatest strengths, which serves her well during the handling and negotiation of significant investments. Daniel Weeks, assistant town manager for Holly Springs, first met Krstanovic in 2006 and has since worked with her on many economic development projects. When asked to describe Krstanovic, Weeks says that, as well as being a determined and strategic thinker, Krstanovic is simply a positive person.

“Holly Springs was in the running for the largest biotechnology project the state had ever seen, and not once did she feel like we didn’t deserve it,” says Weeks. “She never

doubted our potential. Her confidence obviously resonated with company reps and site selectors. She never once believed that lightning couldn’t strike the same place twice.”

Despite all of her many (well-deserved) accolades, Krstanovic’s passion for economic development has never been about money or power — it’s always been about the people who call Holly Springs home. Krstanovic’s love for her community is palpable, and she insists that her professional success is only a reflection of how great the town is as a whole.

“Successes like FujiFilm and Amgen are what every economic developer lives and breathes for, but it’s just as exciting to work with a small business, because you can see how the transformation and success of the business affects a family,” says Krstanovic.

“You truly see the acceptance of the community and how it helps that small business grow and thrive. When you know that you are a part of that, and that you’re helping people live their dreams — and as someone who is truly living the American dream — it’s really special.” MB

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FVM’s Written by Fuquay-Varina Memes

Top 10 Fall Highlights

Fall is officially here (until it’s not), so I thought it was time to celebrate the cooler weather and upcoming holidays with a roundup of some of my favorite fall-themed memes over the years. Don’t get me wrong, picking favorites was like choosing which of my family members to save from a house fire — so yeah, it was pretty easy. We’ve got everything from pumpkin piarrhea to the legendary #HalloweenGate and NC SWEATer weather, so hold onto your butts (and the $1 fake spider web fluff that you bought from the dollar store).

1 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

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1. GIVE ’EM PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT I’m kicking this off with one of my latest fallinspired memes, posted on Oct. 10, 2021. What in the Holly Swings heck is going on in this cursed image and why is that bird getting involved? Sometimes it’s better to not ask questions, but it’s giving “scoot down a little … just a little more” vibes (the ladies will get it).

2. MANAGING EXPECTATIONS I posted this bad boy on Oct. 11, 2017, back when I still ran and was into physical fitness and the ’rona didn’t have me stress snacking. Regardless of your fitness level, I think we can all agree that “fall” means nothing in NC until at least the beginning of November, so if you’re dreaming of some Vermont-style Hallmark run in your Lululemons — don’t.

The chances that you’ll die are high, and no one wants to meet their maker covered in sweat.

RON JONES A neighbor, someone you know, someone

3. CALL JIM CANTORE Technically this isn’t my meme, it’s a tweet by Don Schwenneker that I reposted last year. Even so, it had to make the fall highlight list because this is the kind of quality content that everyone needs in their lives.

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4. HALLOWEEN HANGOVER If you’ve lived through the fall months in Southern Wake, then I’m sure you’ve seen the same question posted by new residents all over social media — ”when is Halloween celebrated?” Apparently, lesser towns across America will literally move trick-or-treating if it’s on a school night, but ’round here kids have to suck it up like we did. I don’t care if your kids are still hungover on Airheads, they still have to pack their lunch for school the next morning and get on the bus.

Think of it as training for college.

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5. AVOIDING DRAMA

8. THE DEVIL MADE ME DO IT

I posted this on Nov. 9, 2017, weeks before Thanksgiving — which just goes to show how much I was dreading a post-election year Turkey Day. I don’t know if you’ve ever had the chance to see the miniature horses near the corner of Bass Lake Road and James Slaughter Road in FuquayVarina, but if you haven’t (and you need a boost of serotonin), HEAD OVER THERE TODAY. Unlike your families, these guys are a) cute, b) unproblematic, and c) won’t judge how much you eat or ask about your love life.

Five years ago, the Town of Holly Springs posted a set of guidelines for Halloween, including age limits (under 13 only), location guidelines (stay in your neighborhood), and costume requirements (no masks for the older kids). There was more tomfoolery, but I won’t bore you with the details. As you can imagine, it didn’t go over well — but this meme sure did!

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6. BUFFET SLAYER Does this photo even need an explanation? If you’re lucky enough to go somewhere where folks can cook, Thanksgiving Day is nothing but a gluttonous free-for-all. PSA: Don’t eat outside in Holly Springs unless you’re prepared for that signature dumpsgiving smell.

If your realtor didn’t warn you, I’m coming in clutch.

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I honestly can’t remember who this local hero is, but I DO remember posting this gem on Nov. 24, 2017.

While most people were using this cute Thanksgiving frame to highlight their friends and families, this guy showed me what he was TRULY thankful for — and spoke for us all.

10. THE GIFT OF ACCURACY

7. PREPARE FOR SLAPSGIVING It’s not a presidential election year, but that doesn’t matter! Your crazy aunts and uncles are jonesing for a fight and just waiting for you to walk through that door with a green bean casserole. I recommend finding a happy place and noise canceling headphones. Godspeed.

9. THANKFUL FOR US

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This was posted in November 2017, and for the most part, it still holds true today. Fuquay-Varina has always been known for its large number of mattress stores, and although the amount of locations has decreased over time, everyone in town still agrees that they’re a front for something more sinister. As for every other town, I’m sorry for generalizing and being 100% accurate. It’s a gift, and I’m thankful for it. MB

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Seen

JONATHAN FREDIN

UNC Health Rex Holly Springs has achieved a five-star rating for Overall Hospital Quality from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Acme Pizza Company

Holly Springs-based opened a second Triangle-area location, on Grace Park Drive in Morrisville.

Acme specializes in Chicago-style deep dish pizza and chicken wings.

Wing It On!

opened on Broad Street in Fuquay-Varina offering an authentic Buffalo-inspired wing experience with 24 signature flavors, both sauced and dry. Wing It On! also serves handcrafted chicken sandwiches and fries that can be customized with six seasoning options. Get your chicken wing fix by dining in, taking out, curbside pickup, or delivery.

The Town of Fuquay-Varina released a new mobile app, FVMobile, available at the Apple Store and Google Play. Accessible to residents and visitors, the app provides convenient access to town calendars, facility information, upcoming events, and town departments.

Ivybrook Academy

half-day preschool opened in Holly Springs at the intersection of Holly Springs and Ten-Ten Roads.

Ivybrook Academy utilizes a multifaceted approach to early childhood education, combining elements of Montessori and Reggio Emilia educational approaches and nurturing children’s natural curiosity.

Serving children 18 months through 5 years of age.

64 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

Fuquay-Varina Police Officer Alexandra Rench

was awarded the NAMI Wake County 2021 Departmental Officer of the Year and 2021 Wake County Officer of the Year.

Late in 2021, Rench responded to a crisis intervention call and helped connect an at-risk individual with a therapist via a FaceTime call. The success of this interaction opened the door for an ongoing partnership between the police department and mental health counselors.

Lighthouse Lab Services

ranks No. 999 on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list, a ranking of the fastest-growing private companies in America. This marks the fourth appearance on the list, and second consecutive year for Lighthouse Lab Services, which experienced 653% revenue growth over the past three years. The company is headquartered in Charlotte, with offices in Holly Springs and Ohio.

Lighthouse also earned the distinction of being named the second fastestgrowing health care company in North Carolina and 59th fastest-growing health services company in the nation.

JONATHAN FREDIN

Heard

Calvert Ice Sports, a new ice-

COURTESY OF CALVERT ICE SPORTS

plex facility, is coming to the Carolina Springs development in northwest Holly Springs. The 320,000-squarefoot campus focuses on training and development of ice sports athletes, such as hockey, speed skating, and ice skating. The state-of-the-art facility will have multiple ice rinks, a strength and conditioning center, an indoor track, tutoring rooms, and a coffee and smoothie station.

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C O I N S • G O L D • S I LV E R D I A M O N D S • E S TAT E J E W E L R Y • F L AT WA R E

Allyson

COURTESY OF HOLLY SPRINGS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Coins and Precious Metals

Wallbridge

has joined the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce as Communications and Events Director. Wallbridge has previously held several positions in marketing and communications, working with hospitals, universities, and nonprofits, bringing varied experience to the chamber.

APPOINTMENTS ONLY 103 Kilmayne Dr., Suite A • Cary, NC 27511

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Coins Partner

Capitol Broadcasting Company will purchase and run

the Holly Springs-based Coastal Plain League, the summer collegiate baseball league that includes the Holly Springs Salamanders. The league joins CBC’s family along with WRAL-TV, The Durham Bulls Baseball Club, and other media and real estate ventures in North Carolina.

“The CPL has continued to grow in terms of the quality of the game on the field and the experience in the stands,” says Capitol Broadcasting Company Executive Vice President Michael Goodmon. “We cannot wait to help the league continue to grow in the future.”

513 E Broad St, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 Open Tuesday- Saturday 11AM-8PM Come on in or schedule your next event with us!

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In Focus

Golden Moments

By Jonathan Fredin A great egret fishes for breakfast while wading in the spillway at Bass Lake in Holly Springs.

66 October/NOVEMBER 2022

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