5 West Magazine – May/June 2024

EDITOR’S LETTER

Welcome to our May/June issue!

In this issue, we focus on pets and travel. Add in a little hiking (which we did; there’s a fascinating article on William B. Umstead State Park) and you have three of my favorite subjects, so I have thoroughly enjoyed putting this issue together. I also have a soft spot for this one because I was at the cover photo shoot, and it was, as my dad would say, a hoot! The dogs all belong to staff members (mine is the yellow lab). The pug kept losing his cap, and a lot of treats were expended getting everyone to stand still, but it was a ton of fun.

You may have noticed that the dog on the cover is welcoming people to The Mayton in Cary. That’s because our travel article for this issue covers boutique hotels of North Carolina, including The Mayton. The article inspired my husband and me to book a room at The Lighthouse at Kure Beach for our 20th anniversary in May. (Side note: Being editor of a culture magazine means I see way more amazing travel and entertainment opportunities than are good for me.)

Our pet content also includes an interview with Margot Bennett, a Cary resident who has made training service dogs her personal mission. You may have seen Margot’s books about the dogs she has trained in small businesses around Cary. I guarantee you will feel better about the world after learning about Margot’s work with these dogs that can be trained to provide substantial help—for free!—to people struggling with some of life’s toughest challenges.

For more on both North Carolina travel and animals, check out our article on the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City, where you can learn how volunteers protect sea turtles and watch as caretakers work to restore injured turtles to health. A visit to Cape Fear Distillery near Elizabethtown, meanwhile, offers a different kind of North Carolina travel experience. Where else could you look at works of art by Salvador Dali and Dr. Seuss, learn about both liquor and wine production in North Carolina, feed goats and get a spa treatment—all in the same place? (Seriously. If you find another place like that, I want to know about it.)

Another adventure we discuss can be found closer to home. Whenever I hike through Umstead, I’ve always been curious about the remnants of its history I have seen along the trails. Eric Medlin, who writes many of our history articles, talked to the Umstead Coalition about the park’s ruins, and what he found out about them is fascinating. I won’t give you spoilers except to say that Umstead’s history has more to it than meets the eye—and that history reveals more than you would think about how the Triangle area fits into the history of North Carolina.

Finally, I want to let you know briefly about some changes that will be coming soon. The format of 5 West will be very different for the next issue. We want to orient the magazine more specifically around the five communities at its center: Apex, Cary, Holly Springs, Fuquay-Varina and Morrisville, so we will offer sections specifically devoted to each town. Also, we want to discuss events that take place between our bimonthly issues while they are still on people’s radar, so we will be increasing our online-only content by a lot. We hope you enjoy the new, hybrid experience we are building between our print magazines and our online content.

Elizabeth Brignac, Editor

Photo by Jenn McKinney Photography

Ronny Stephens

Kent Braswell

MANAGING

Brignac

Sean Byrne

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Dathan Kazsuk

COPY EDITOR

Cindy Huntley

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Kyle Marie McMahon

Melissa Wistehuff

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Sherry Braswell

Paige Gunter

Stefanie McClary

DISTRIBUTION

Joe Lizana, Manager DistribuTech.net

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Elliot Acosta, Mario Boucher, Lauren Doyle, Dave Droschak, Kurt Dusterberg, Katie Dixon, Marilyn Jones, Janice Lewine, Sofia Lujan, Eric Medlin, Charlotte Russell, Katelyn Rutt, Caitlin Wheeler, Melissa Wistehuff

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jessica Bratton, Leah Marie Photography, Jenn McKinney, New Depth Creations

6

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Ian

The perfect beginning to a night out with friends is a charcuterie board and truffle cheese fondue— plus an assortment of crisp wine—at Crú Food & Wine Bar at Fenton in Cary.

March showers made way for an exquisite double rainbow over soccer games at Middle Creek Park in Apex.

T.G.I.F. at W.E.L.D.! Wine & Beer kicked off the weekend with a cold one while chatting with

Johnson, a.k.a. endr—the artist responsible for the Cary wine and beer spot’s multiple murals. Photo by Jason Wistehuff.

Chef Jaime Lawing won the coveted award for Best Pimento Cheese at the 2024 Pimento Cheese Festival in Cary. Thousands of cheese fans flocked the downtown area, made even more festive with the recent addition of Downtown Cary Park Photo courtesy of Downtown Cary Park

The Town of Apex’s 10th annual Peak City Pig Fest was held on a pig-ture perfect weekend in April. Photo by Janice Lewine .

T R AVEL IN STYLE

BY SOFIA LUJAN AND LAUREN DOYLE | PHOTOS BY JESSICA BRATTON

A ll clothing items available at Villa 19 Boutique. Shop in-store or online at villanineteen.com.

In keeping with this issue’s travel theme, Sofia, our stylist, teamed up with travel agent Lauren Doyle of The Travel Mechanic in Apex, to create some outfits perfect for travel to popular locations from RDU Airport.

L auren’s Packing Tips

1. Pack light! Plan your outfits ahead of time based on the destination. Limit yourself to three pairs of shoes and wear bulky apparel like sneakers on the airplane.

2 Make sure you have a multicompartment toiletry bag. Purchase travel-size items that take up less space.

3 Packing cubes are a must! They can help you organize socks in one, shirts in another and so forth.

4 Keep a printable packing list inside your suitcase so that when you are ready to go, you can check items off the list.

5 Invest in good luggage. You don’t have to spend a ton, but make sure it’s in good condition and consider selecting a bright color so it’s easy to spot at the airport.

6 Choose clothes in the same color palette so you can interchange shoes and bags with many outfits.

B onus Tip: A clutch is a MUST! Utilize your clutch as jewelry storage and put fun accessories inside. (We don’t recommend bringing fine jewelry when you travel.)

A direct flight from RDU means you can leave in the evening and be in Paris the next morning!

– C annes T-shirt , $42

– S asha denim jacket , $62

– A va mini skort , $72

– C ara vegan bag , $89

Th is outfit is perfect for a girls’ w eekend in Miami

– N ora neon knit tank , $65

– Cortez wrap midi skirt, $68

– Krystal crossbody , $78

– Caravan raffia sandals, $120

T his outfit is ideal for travel to Italy—a destination that never goes out of fashion.

– S antorini dress , $84

– H ali sandals , $58

– Victoria vegan tote, $110

Sunny Tulum, Mexico, just opened a new airport. With great flight schedules out of RDU, it’s easier to access than ever before.

– S ovanna b ikini t op , $49

– L a guna t ie -f ront t op , $56

– B ali c rop p ants , $68

– C asey b each t ote , $62

– S am Edelman Reina s andals , $140

Fresh Energy

As the weather gets warmer, our lives take on a different energy. We refresh our homes with lighter colors and living things, and we return to a more active, on-the-go lifestyle. No matter what you have planned for the new season, here are a few items that will give your surroundings a fresh, organic look.

APEX FRIENDSHIP HIGH SCHOOL PERFORMING ARTS SHINES IN “THE ADDAMS FAMILY”

The Apex Friendship High School Performing Arts department welcomed over 2,000 theatergoers to four performances of “The Addams Family” March 14–16. The production featured 118 talented students onstage, backstage and in the student pit orchestra. The entirely grayscale set evoked memories of the classic TV show, while the modern song and dance numbers appealed to all ages. The efforts of the students and directors shone through every aspect of the performance, from the lush singing and impeccable comedic timing to the technical feat of flying Uncle Fester to the moon. The iconic characters of Gomez and Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, Grandma, Fester and Lurch came to life along with a rich ensemble of Addams ancestors, each with their own character and backstory.

BREAK THE SILENCE 5K RUN/WALK NETS $12,000 FOR MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

The Sigma Pi Fraternity Rho Chapter raised $12,000 at the Break the Silence 5K Run/Walk March 23 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. Seventy-five percent of the proceeds from the event will be donated to Foundation of Hope, a local initiative dedicated to enhancing mental health support in the Triangle community. The remaining portion will be contributed to the Sigma Pi national organization’s Bonds of Brotherhood initiative, which promotes mental health awareness within the fraternity community. Fifteen companies sponsored the Break the Silence 5K Run/ Walk and 120 attendees took part in the event.

FARMERS SPRING FESTIVAL BRINGS THOUSANDS TO DOWNTOWN CARY

The Cary Downtown Farmers Market enjoyed a huge turnout of attendees March 23 for its Farmers Spring Festival on S. Academy Street. The festival, which normally takes place in the fall, was postponed due to a tropical storm last October. The spring event featured live music on the main stage, arts and crafts for kids, interactive exhibits, local food and craft beer, a pie-eating contest and more than 90 vendor booths. The Cary Downtown Farmers Market is open Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon April through October, and 9 a.m.–noon November through March, and is located at 160 E. Park Street next to Downtown Cary Park.

LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS RAISE OVER $90,000 FOR THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

Race-perfect weather added to the feel-good vibe of the 12th annual Running Over Cancer 5K March 24 at WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary. Nearly 500 people ran, donated and cheered at the event, which benefitted the American Cancer Society and was made possible by a team of 12 local high schoolers. This year’s ROC5K raised more than $90,000, bringing the 12-year total to $1.1 million for the American Cancer Society. “For our ROC5K Team, it’s incredibly important not only to raise awareness, but also funds for the ACS, because the work they do locally is so impactful and beneficial, as I know it was for my grandmother,” said junior co-captain Chris Speranza.

Photo courtesy of Running Over Cancer.

Photo courtesy of Jennifer Webb.

Photo courtesy of Sigma Pi Fraternity Rho Chapter.

Photo by Janice Lewine.

BOXYARD RTP WELCOMES NEW POP-UP SHOPS

The Research Triangle Foundation of North Carolina recently unveiled its third cohort of PopBox grant recipients—a group of rotating pop-up style shops inside Boxyard RTP, a dining and entertainment venue comprised of former shipping containers in Research Triangle Park. PopBox gives small businesses exposure to the brick-and-mortar environment and provides them with the tools to succeed. The new shops include Gold Clover Company, which handcrafts 14-karat gold jewelry; 1 Blossom 2 Bloom Floral Design, a florist that sources the freshest blooms, wildflowers and seasonal greenery from local farmers; and Disco Differences, a secondhand clothing shop committed to fostering education, advocacy and community integration for individuals with disabilities.

900 Park Offices Drive, Research Triangle Park 919.433.2001

boxyard.rtp.org

Photo courtesy of Largemouth Communications.

ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS WITH SIGNATURE POSTAL IN FUQUAY-VARINA

Signature Postal opened in February at 726 N. Main Street in Fuquay-Varina to offer packing, shipping and printing services for residents and businesses. The store also provides mailbox rentals, passport photos, notary public services and promotional products. It recently launched a dedicated platform focused on high-end printing solutions at print.signaturepostal.com to streamline clients’ projects. The business is owned by Jerry and Angela Davis.

726 N. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina 919.244.2790

signaturepostal.com

Photo courtesy of Signature Postal via Facebook.

CURATE STUDIO OFFERS CUSTOMIZABLE EVENT SPACE IN APEX

Curate Studio, a 2,800-square-foot rental venue, recently opened at 3651 Green Level W. Road in Apex. Boasting an open floorplan and industrial-chic design, the studio can accommodate a maximum of 106 people for birthdays, graduations, workshops, photo shoots, rehearsals, performances and more. Hourly rental rates are $125–$225, depending on the day of the week.

3651 Green Level W. Road, Apex 919.589.3436

curatestudioevents.com

Photo by Janice Lewine.

THE PEACH COBBLER FACTORY SWEETENS APEX

The Peach Cobbler Factory, home to a unique offering of desserts under one roof, opened March 16 at 1071 Pine Plaza Drive in Apex. Satisfy your sweet tooth with 12 flavors of cobbler, banana pudding, cobbler cookies and Pudd-N Shakes. Cinnamon rolls, churro sticks, Belgian waffles and sweet peach tea round out the menu. The Peach Cobbler Factory is open daily, 11 a.m.–midnight. 1071 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex 919.267.4014

peachcobblerfactory.com

Photo by Paige Gunter.

TOP: The exterior patio of The Mayton in Cary looks out over Cary’s Downtown Park.The Mayton has built a strong relationship with the much-celebrated new park, which is already a Cary community centerpiece. BOTTOM: Peck & Plume, The Mayton’s restaurant, has incorporated birds and plants from Cary Downtown Park into its wallpaper and bar design elements. Photo s courtesy of Anna R outh Barzin.

FROM SNUG TO SUMPTIOUS

It’s the details that set apart these North Carolina boutique hotel experiences

BY KU R T DUSTE R BE R G

Not all hotel experiences are created equal.

Most of us are familiar with the national hotel brands, whether we’re booking business travel or choosing a home base for a family vacation. But when it comes time to splurge, it’s nice to seek out elevated accommodations once in a while. Boutique hotels—trendy accommodations that offer refined personal touches—are perfect for such occasions.

The typical boutique property has a limited number of rooms and offers unique touches that make the experience a bit more intimate. Some are located in repurposed buildings that honor architecture from another era. Others tie into the local culture or build a reputation for attracting a particular clientele. And while many of the venues cater to corporate clients, there’s nothing like making personal memories, whether it’s a wedding weekend, a romantic getaway or a milestone celebration.

North Carolina is brimming with options in a variety of settings, ready to add some sophistication to your destination.

THE MAYTON, CA RY

Craig Spitzer, The Mayton’s operating partner, views the inn as an extension of the Cary downtown community experience. “In our vision and efforts at the property we work to create a community gathering space—a real hub for downtown Cary,” he says. Locals are invited to enjoy meals at Peck & Plume and drinks at its bar, or on the all-weather patio overlooking Downtown Cary Park. The restaurant offers modern American dining for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as Saturday and Sunday brunch. Local businesses hold corporate events at The Mayton— the meeting and event spaces are a good size for that kind of activity—and the hotel often hosts staycationers and local wedding parties.

Out-of-town visitors are invited to join the community experience The Mayton has built. “Given that we only have 44 rooms, the team here can really connect with our guests and really welcome them into our place and into our home,” says Spitzer.

“It’s a great gateway—we see ourselves as ambassadors for all of what downtown Cary is. and an amenity to the rest of what the community has to offer.” Downtown Cary offers many options for visitors—breweries, ice cream, cocktails, boutiques, art galleries, parks and public art works, among other attractions—and The Mayton sits at the center of that activity.

One important aspect of The Mayton community experience is the beautiful Downtown Cary Park, of which The Mayton views itself as almost an extension. “It’s our backyard. And what better backyard could we ask for than that?” says Spitzer. Many design aspects of Peck

& Plume, in particular, emphasize the special relationship The Mayton has with the park. (To learn about Peck & Plume’s design connections with Downtown Cary Park—down to its customized wallpaper—check out our online-only piece “Peck and Plume’s Unique Design Celebrates Its Connection to Downtown Cary Park” at midtownmag.com.)

The Mayton offers 44 rooms and suites, each unique in layout and character, nineteen of which have been renovated in 2024. Each room includes high-quality linens and amenities. The hotel has flexible spaces suited to birthday celebrations, cocktail parties, professional retreats and more. The Park Room and Peck

& Plume together can host up to 140 guests. The Mayton also offers specials such as the Night Out Package, which includes a food and drink credit, and the Breakfast Included Special.

BEAUFORT HOTEL, CARTERET COUNTY

The Beaufort Hotel offers 133 rooms in a resort-style setting on the banks of Taylor’s Creek. The hotel benefits from the popularity of the small Carteret County town, where there is no shortage of local attractions.

Guest accommodations focus on seaside North Carolina decor in a variety of room styles, along with upgraded linens and bath amenities. Reclaimed wood and brick give the hotel a lodge feel.

“One thing we get a lot of comments on is the quality of the rooms,” says digital marketing manager David Cartier. “They’re really designed with that coastal North Carolina feel. We’re one of the few hotels where you walk in the bathroom and there’s a chandelier. We have some nice amenities, like blackout drapes so people can get a great night’s rest.”

While the hotel entices guests with its luxuries, much of the appeal is the town itself. Visitors can take guided tours that touch on 300 years of history and view the historic homes that once belonged to the town’s earliest sea captains and merchants. The town is known for its many annual events, including a wooden

boat show, a music festival and historic homes tour.

“We’re not a resort,” Cartier says. “We don’t have a spa or a golf course. So our amenities are what’s in the local community,” Cartier says. “We’re right across from the Rachel Carson Reserve, which has more than 25 wild horses. You can see them from the hotel, and you can get over by boat or take a kayak.”

The Beaufort Hotel offers waterfront dining at 34° North Restaurant & Bar, which features fresh local seafood, steak and seasonal menu items. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and an upscale dinner, along with weekend brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.

The Beaufort Hotel was named the best boutique hotel in the country for the second year in a row in USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2023.

THE EVER ETT HOTEL, B RYSON CITY

Few places take the “boutique” description more seriously than The Everett Boutique Hotel & Bistro in Bryson City. The 10-room property is located on the southern edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, so it serves guests who are looking for outdoor getaways. But the hotel’s cozy size and upscale offerings attract a variety of guests.

“We do a lot of family reunions, people who rent the whole hotel,”

OPPOSITE PAGE: The Beautfort Hotel looks out over Taylor’s Creek. Guests can sometimes see wild horses on the opposite shore or dolphins in the creek. At the end of the day, visitors can relax with a glass of wine or a cocktail from the bar and look out at the sun setting over the water. Photo courtesy of The Beaufort Hotel.

ABOVE, LEFT: Exterior of The Everett Hotel in Bryson City. This building was originally the Bryson City Bank, one of the few small banks in North Carolina that survived the Wall Street Crash of 1929. It was renovated as The Everett Hotel in 2015. RIGHT: The Everett pairs luxury accommodations with a rustic aesthetic, in keeping with its location near the mountains. BOTTOM: Visitors can enjoy views of the mountains and of Bryson City from The Everett’s rooftop terrace. Photos courtesy of The Everett Hotel.

says co-owner Ron LaRocque. “We’ve done several weddings and a lot of girls’ weekends. We get a lot of fishing groups. We also get a lot of motorcycle groups, because they love riding through the mountains.”

The Everett opened in 2015 in the old Bryson City Bank building, built in 1908. Each room has a unique layout and features luxury bedding and rustic furnishings. With limited accommodations, the staff puts a premium on customer service. Guests enjoy priority at the full-service restaurant and exclusive access to a rooftop terrace that features both city and mountain views.

“We do a full off-the-menu breakfast for all guests, included with their stay,” LaRocque says. “They seem to really love that. We also bake fresh cookies and brownie bites and put them in our concierge area. Our guests keep coming back, and usually the first thing out of their mouth is, ‘Are you still doing the fresh cookies?’”

The Everett is in demand every season. Spring break is popular with families, summer is the busiest time of year, and fall offers the well-known mountain foliage. Then in November and December, the hotel and town fill with guests who come for the Polar Express experience at the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

“We’re very four-seasoned,” LaRocque says. “But from the first week of November through December, the Polar Express is a huge end-of-the-year for the whole town.”

The Everett was named the third best boutique hotel in the country in USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2023.

GR AYLYN ESTATE, WINSTON-SALEM

If you’re looking for a getaway that harkens to another era, the Graylyn Estate in Winston-Salem is a good place to start. Completed in 1932, the Norman Revival–style Manor House was the country estate of Bowman Gray, the president of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. At the time, only Biltmore was a larger residence in North Carolina.

The property features 85 guest rooms on a 55-acre property. Guests can choose from well-appointed rooms in a variety of buildings, each boasting some of the original features. The Manor House has 34 guest rooms, 13 of which served as the

original bedrooms and sitting rooms for the Gray family. The public areas are full of historic touches, including Egyptian tapestries, ornate paneling from a French chateau and carved wood panels from Damascus.

“Guests are drawn to the Graylyn Estate for the ‘stay-like-a-Gray’ luxury experience, exploring history at the touch of their fingertips and feeling at home on our historic property,” says Carrie DuPre, the marketing manager at Graylyn.

With an expansive property, Graylyn is a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor weddings, but also caters to smaller groups and more informal occasions.

“Graylyn is the ultimate getaway for ‘staycations,’ romantic weekends

THIS PAGE, CLOCKWISE FR OM TOP R IGHT: The I vey’s Hotel in Charlotte prides itself on the details—providing embroidered robes and slippers, for example, and high-end bath products. In Sophia’s Lounge, The I vey’s cocktail bar, guests can enjoy drinks and desserts in front of an elegant fireplace. The I vey’s Suite bedroom boasts a king-sized bed and centuries-old reclaimed French oak wood flooring.

Photos courtesy of The I vey’s Hotel.

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Graylyn Estate exterior. BOTTOM: Spiral staircase from the Graylyn Estate Manor House. Built in the 1920s, the Manor House showcases artwork from across the world procured by the estate’s original owners, Bowman and Nathalie Gray, who were enthusiastic travelers.

Photos courtesy of The Graylyn Estate.

and history lovers,” DuPre says. “Our romantic getaway package includes champagne, chocolatecovered strawberries, early check-in, late check-out, roses in the room, a keepsake print of Graylyn, and breakfast for two the next day.”

Dining at the estate is equally upscale. Chef Mark Fortino oversees an exquisite dinner menu, including prime filet mignon with butter poached lobster, served in the Manor House dining room or on the elegant outdoor patio that overlooks the estate.

Graylyn Estate was named the fifth best boutique hotel in the country in USA Today’s Readers’ Choice Awards for 2023.

THE IVEY’S HOTEL, CHARLOTTE

The Ivey’s Hotel in uptown Charlotte focuses on high design, modern comfort and timeless art. The 47 well-appointed hotel rooms blend Parisian style with modern luxury. Guest rooms provide elegance at every turn. Custom furnishings and lighting fixtures complement 400-year-old French oak floors. Visitors can enjoy Frette Italian bedding, Nespresso coffee machines and locally curated snacks.

Sofia’s Lounge offers daily breakfast and dinner Wednesday through Sunday, along with a complimentary daily wine social. Concierge booking services are available for dining reservations around Charlotte, along with tickets to sporting events. The intimate Library Lounge is suited for birthday parties, baby showers and bachelor parties.

Forbes Travel Guide listed The Ivey’s as the only four-star hotel in Charlotte, and U.S. News and World Report listed it as the number one hotel in Charlotte and the number four hotel in North Carolina.

HEIGHTS HOUSE HOTEL, RALEIGH

The Heights House mansion in the Boylan Heights neighborhood in Raleigh is steeped in local history. Sarah Shepherd and her husband Jeff, co-owners of Heights House Hotel, have married its historic nature with contemporary design and amenities. “This is a very old,

nearly 170-year-old house,” says Sarah, “but it was extremely wellmade. We made it fresh and brought in modern touches while letting the architecture shine through … I’m really proud of how we fuse the old and the new.”

Originally known as Montford Hall, the Italianate-style mansion was completed in 1860 and is one of the few Raleigh buildings remaining from before the Civil War. The mansion’s architect, William Percival, directed the renovation of the North Carolina State Capitol’s rotunda, a project that inspired his work on the beautiful Heights House cupola.

The home has nine en suite guest rooms with a full capacity of 20. With 10,000 square feet, it

boasts plenty of common spaces—a library, lounge and drawing room indoors, and a parlor where people can enjoy wine and beer, or cocktails put together by the hotel’s mixologist. Outdoors, guests can gather at the fire pit or on one of the two front terraces.

Sarah emphasizes the attention to detail that Heights House offers. The small number of rooms means the staff can offer personalized attention to each guest, who are offered prosecco upon check-in and local treats in their rooms. “I picked everything in our hotel,” says Sarah, “from the shampoo you use to the sheets, the robes … things that I love and products I would love to use.”

Heights House emphasizes reaching out to its neighbors and bringing the Raleigh community into the hotel experience. “I passed by this house every day on my way to work,” says Sarah in regards to what inspired her to open Heights House, “and I was like, ‘Wow, this need to be saved, and it should be open to the community—local community and visitors—to show them how awesome Raleigh is.” The hotel offers locally sourced amenities, and free bikes so visitors can wander the city easily. They also welcome community members into their space to enjoy drinks at the parlor, picnics and live music on the lawn, afternoon teas and monthly supper clubs. (To learn more about Heights House’s afternoon teas, check out our recent, online-only piece “Three Places to Take Your Mother for Afternoon Tea” at midtownmag.com.)

THE LIGHTHOUSE, KU R E BEACH

If you’re looking for a beach getaway far removed from the hustle and bustle, The Lighthouse is your answer. The family - owned boutique hotel offers nine recently renovated apartment suites, all with ocean views and bright, modern interiors. Each room includes a small kitchenette and a private patio or balcony overlooking the ocean.

Guests can enjoy beach access in front of the property as well as from their rooms. Take a stroll along the boardwalk to the Kure Beach Pier and cap off your day by relaxing in the comfortable lounge chairs around the hotel’s fire pit.

There is no shortage of activities near the hotel. Guests can explore the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Old Wilmington City Market and Fort Fisher State Historic Site. Casual dining, an arts center and bars provide other options.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Each book, work of art and decorative item in the Heights House library and throughout the hotel was hand-selected by co-owner Sarah Shepherd Photo courtesy of Monica Slaney/photographie:fourseven

ABOVE, TOP: Each bedroom at The Lighthouse has a balcony or patio with a view overlooking Kure Beach. BOTTOM: The newly-renovated Lighthouse bedrooms let in light and fresh ocean air. Photos courtesy of The Lighthouse.

THE LOST COMMUNITY OF CRABTREE CREEK

Umstead Park’s ruins tell a story of North Carolina’s rural history

BY ERIC MEDLIN | PHOTOS COURTESY OF ERIC MEDLIN UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

William B. Umstead

State Park is one of the most-visited state parks in North Carolina. According to the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, the park had over a million visitors in 2021. A large percentage of these visitors park at the Reedy Creek entrance off I-40 and head down the Loblolly or Company Mill trails. Old stone walls and graveyards visible along these trails may pique visitors’ curiosity, but few realize that they are walking through two centuries of European and American history and past the remains of a small, once-vibrant community. The history of this area is both a story of rural life in North Carolina and a testament to the way that a park built to preserve nature can also help to protect historical artifacts.

In the mid-18th century, English settlers, following the defeat of the Tuscarora Native American tribe in 1713, began to move west onto land once occupied by other Native American groups like the Eno and Saponi tribes. They fanned out across eastern and central North Carolina in search of fertile land and places to accommodate trade. They traveled along the state’s major rivers—most notably the Cape Fear, Neuse and Tar. Settlers would arrive in an area, clear land, plant corn, and build mills on local waterways to grind corn into meal. They used water for transportation and built roads to connect disparate settlements and facilitate mail delivery. From the rivers, the English spread down creeks and settled on modest plots of land, dividing much of central North Carolina into small farms.

COMPANY MILL AND CRABTREE CREEK

Settlers reached the Crabtree Creek area in the late 18th century. In 1779, William Warren received one of the first land grants in the area and established a homestead. He was soon joined by the King, Edwards, Page and Blake families. Early settler Lewis Page’s son, Anderson, established a grist mill on Crabtree Creek in the early 19th century. Known as Company Mill, the ruins of this structure still stand today, most notably the massive stone wall of the mill dam located just off Company Mill Trail. The Page family gained fame in the late 1800s and early 1900s when three Page brothers— Walter Hines, Robert and Frank— all rose to positions of statewide and national importance. Walter Hines Page served as ambassador to Great Britain and wrote a novel, The Southerner, partially set at Company Mill.

These families and a few others remained in the Crabtree Creek area for several decades. They built two schools and at least a dozen homes, and they conducted business in adjoining Adams Crossroads. Early residents told their descendants stories of planting corn, raising livestock and occasionally growing cotton or tobacco. Maps from 1887 and 1911 show Page’s Millpond (the pond for Company Mill) as well as an Adams Store at the location

of what is today called Adams Crossroads. Directories from the time appear to mention the store at Adams Crossroads as well.

In general, however, the land was too poor to attract attention from substantial businessmen or railroad concerns—and still less at the level of nearby Morrisville or Cary. There were no economic opportunities to bring in new residents and no jobs or fertile farmland to induce the children of local families to stay. The Crabtree Creek area was almost entirely forgotten. By 1933, the few remaining residents of the area were on government relief and in need of help.

CRABTREE CREEK BECOMES PARK LAND

In the 1930s, the National Park Service bought over 6,000 acres of land around Crabtree Creek and built a lake and a campground. This purchase was part of the federal government’s National Recreational Area project, the basis for several other parks across the country including Acadia National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The government sought to provide land for new state and national parks while also giving cash to poor farmers, often near urban areas. In the Henderson Daily Dispatch in 1935, James Gray, one of the project’s directors, said when the purchase was announced, “Crabtree Creek provides an excellent example of

how poor land can be utilized for the benefit of the community.”

The newly purchased land became Crabtree Creek Recreational Demonstration Area.

In 1950, North Carolina took over the land from the federal government to build state parks. The area, therefore, remained protected from the rush of development that has defined Wake County for the past six decades.

WHAT REMAINS TODAY

The park still holds evidence of its 19th-century residents. Wooden structures are mostly gone, but a number of stone buildings, foundations and monuments remain. A 2012 North Carolina State University study documented the ruins of five mills in the current landscape of William B. Umstead State Park. Foundation stones and chimneys, as well as old wells, exist throughout the park. The Umstead Coalition published Tom Weber’s book about the park’s history, Stories in Stone, which notes that

PAGES 24–25:

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: A plaque installed on one of the old millstones from Company Mill next to Company Mill Trail explains the mill's historical importance to the community.

OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM: This wall is one of the largest remnants of the historical community in William B. Umstead State Park. It is part of what used to be Company Mill and can be accessed about a mile down the Company Mill Trail.

Photo of Crabtree Creek in William B. Umstead State Park. Photo by Stock.Adobe.com - Eifel Kreutz.

clearings and ornamental plants such as magnolias mark where homes used to be. Park planners transformed centuries-old roads into trails like the Reedy Creek Trail (which was once called Old Middle Hillsboro Road). Cemeteries of at least a half-adozen families can be found on or near the park’s major trails. Some of the oldest graves in these cemeteries date back to the 19th century.

Many of the ruins that remain are located near the Reedy Creek entrance to the park. This entrance is a legacy of the period between 1950 and 1964, when the park was segregated. In 1950, North Carolina turned the former federal recreation area into two state parks, one for White residents and one for Black. The south side, Reedy Creek State Park, was the site of the Company Mill ruins, while the north side, Crabtree Creek State Park, contained graves, a homesite and a ruined tobacco barn. A 1962 article praised Reedy Creek State Park for employing some of the only Black rangers and naturalists to work in any state park in the nation. The parks were segregated for over 15 years before being integrated

in 1966, adding Reedy Creek to the land that had formerly been called Crabtree Creek State Park and had recently been renamed William B. Umstead State Park.

WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK TODAY

Today, William B. Umstead State Park is a natural oasis in one of North Carolina’s most urban counties. Wake County has nearly tripled in population in the past 30 years. It has grown outward in all directions, with new developments being built at the expense of Piedmont forests. Amid all of this hustle and bustle, the park offers thousands of acres of natural beauty with only the occasional recreational facility or pile of stones to remind the visitor of its human history.

The homesteads, mills and cemeteries of the park add to its grandeur. They preserve in Umstead Park relics of the way life in much of the Old North State used to be.

ON R IGHT: Trail in William B. Umstead State Park.Photo by Stock.Adobe.com - skott

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP : A Company Mill millstone.

OPPOSITE PAGE, BOTTOM: Families often buried members who died in cemeteries near their homesites. This photo depicts the King family cemetery near Graylyn Trail.

ROCK STAR CHEF

You name it and James Beard Award–Nominated Chef Cheetie Kumar has probably done it

BY ELLIOT ACOSTA

Between her time as an critically acclaimed chef, a restaurant owner, an entrepreneur, an independent restaurant advocate and a musician, Chef Cheetie Kumar has become celebrated throughout the City of Oaks as a multifaceted tour de force. But before she became the versatile virtuoso she is today, she was a struggling guitarist looking for ways to make ends meet in an unfamiliar city.

Born in the suburbs of Pittsburgh, Kumar left the U.S. when her family returned to their native country of India shortly after her birth. She lived in India for a few years before returning stateside and settling in the Bronx. Weary of life in New York

City, adult Kumar was ready to find life away from the harsh weather of the Northeast. ”Honestly, I was just so sick of northeastern winters,” Kumar admits as she reflects on her journey to North Carolina.

Kumar’s exploration of the Triangle started in the early ’90s, when she was inspired by bands like Caraboro’s Flat Duo Jets, underground Raleigh rock band Finger and Raleigh pop rock outfit The Connells to adventure to the capital city on a roadtrip with a friend. “I had this romantic notion [of Raleigh],” she says. “It felt like home. It felt like a place that I could marinate for a little bit. A good place to be rather than scramble and race to survive.”

Although Kumar had a parttime management job lined up when she arrived in the City of Oaks, her other means of survival weren’t quite as concrete. Despite the uncertainty, she was willing to “throw caution to the wind and just see what happen[ed],” as she describes it, in relocating south.

Contemplating those earlier years of her Raleigh residency, during which she founded her own management company, operated a side catering business, and even worked as what she describes as a less-thanstellar server at restaurants, Kumar maintains that “when you are forced to make it, you make it.”

Once Kumar started to tour nationally as guitarist—first for rock band The Cherry Valance and then for Birds of Avalon—she came to depend on jobs in Raleigh’s bars and restaurants to keep herself afloat. She found herself bartending at local watering holes and even working a stint in the kitchen at legendary Glenwood classic The Rockford. “Restaurant jobs were always part of me making ends meet,” notes Kumar.

GARLAND

Eventually, Kumar decided to move on from her touringmusician life. “I knew I couldn’t do both [be a touring musician and work in a kitchen] because they are both labors of creative love, and neither of them allow you to make a decent living for a long time,” she says. She started planning to open her own restaurant. Paul Siler, Kumar’s partner and husband, and his friends opened the

iconic downtown Raleigh music venue Kings. However, when the landlords of Kings’ original location sold the property for redevelopment, Siler sought a new property to house Kings.

“When we were looking for a second [Kings] location, we were going to have some food. That was going to be my portion of the business. We were looking for a real small footprint. but we ended up only finding [the three-story property on E. Martin Street]. We ended up getting the lease to the E. Martin building and it was like, ‘well now I have a 3500-squarefoot restaurant, so I better figure this out,’” says Kumar. They leased the building in 2010.

The ground level of 14 E. Martin Street may not have been the kind of location Kumar had in mind for her first restaurant, but as she had done before, when she was forced to make it—she made it. Originally operating solely out of the restaurant’s takeout window, Kumar impressed Garland’s late-night crowd with her take on Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine. When the doors to Garland’s dining room opened in December of 2013, the restaurant stunned diners and critics alike to the tune of five James Beard nominations. Nevertheless, Kumar realized that the reality of “operating three interdependent yet independent concepts in one building wasn’t viable anymore,” which led to the conclusion to close Garland and sell the other E. Martin businesses in late 2022.

AJJA

The origins of Kumar’s second restaurant, Ajja, began when Jason and Nicole Evans Groth, owners of the community bakery Anisette, approached Kumar and Siler with a proposal to co-own the building that housed their business. In the midst of the frightening prospects of the pandemic, the stability of owning a piece of real estate to truly steward as their own was an obvious decision. Kumar has long cherished both the building and the block of Bickett Boulevard that houses Ajja. “That particular street has always had a soft spot for us,” she says. “We had the first and last Garland staff parties there. There’s been a whole lot of coincidences about this building and the building next door—we’ve always loved those spots. We felt like [the building’s] view and that patio really spoke to us.”

When conceptualizing her new restaurant, Kumar felt the building was meant to be a Middle Eastern restaurant. Middle Eastern cuisine, while having some similar flavor and spice profiles to Indian cuisine, was new to her, and she felt called to explore it further. Vegetables are an anchor at Ajja, as Kumar sought to craft a menu that was both ecologically friendlier and healthier than much of the food generally available in restaurants. “I think respecting something as simple as a carrot, potato, eggplant or legume and bringing out the best array of flavors that can support a vegetable is very inspiring,” she says. This respect and dedication to her

ingredients led Ajja to become a 2024 James Beard Award Best New Restaurant in the U.S. semifinalist.

Kumar stresses that Ajja’s instant accolades are a result of the team who works with her. Gaëlle Laforest and Linsday Ogden, two Garland alums, were partners in the conceptualization of Ajja. Knowing that the heartbeat of Ajja would be its outdoor patio bar, the team tirelessly worked on a drink menu that is approachable, yet creative and complex. Because Laforest and Ogden are both wine professionals, they aimed to craft a wine menu that highlighted lesser-known grapes, regions and wine producers. Ajja’s cocktail menu is based on Ogden’s passion for vermouth and focuses on ingredients that can be seamlessly utilized by both the kitchen and the bar.

RALEIGH’S CULINARY SCENE

Throughout her decades-long residency in Raleigh, Kumar has had a front-row seat to the local culinary scene’s coming-of-age. When Kumar first arrived in the capital city, she admits she found Raleigh’s restaurants lacking in character and focus. In Chef Kumar’s mind, it wasn’t until the opening of the classic Warehouse District haunt, Humble Pie, that Raleigh had an eatery that produced honest cooking.

Years later Kumar reflects on—and marvels at—having become a part of a Raleigh dining landscape that featured such a diverse collection of women and immigrant chefs and

owners. “There was a sweet spot when someone like me, Ashley Christensen [of AC Restaurants], Angela Salamanca [of Centro and Gallo Pelon], Kim Hammer [of Bittersweet] and Caroline Morrison [of Fiction Kitchen] were able to get a lease on a space where we could try something different,” she says.

For Kumar, it’s important that Raleigh’s restaurant community continues to strive to keep a sense of comradery. “Raleigh has gotten a lot of regional and national recognition, but I think it’s more important that the Raleigh [restaurant scene] feels like a community and feels supportive— that people who own restaurants talk to each other and share ups and downs. That is way more important than awards,” she says. “There is so much more strength if we deal with things as a collective than if we’re isolated.”

PAGES 32–33

Chef Cheetie Kumar.

Photo courtesy of Joe Payne.

ON LEFT, TOP: Ajja’s toor whip: blistered cherry tomatoes, lemony lentil puree, ricotta salata, almonds and crispy bread.

MIDDLE: Ajja’s concept team includes two wine professionals, so wine is a restaurant focus. The wine menu highlights lesser-known grapes and wineries, and Ajja’s craft cocktail menu focuses heavily on vermouth.

BOTTOM: Ajja offers an outdoor patio bar perfect for relaxing and enjoying drinks and shared plates with friends.

Photos courtesy of Baxter Miller.

CAPE FEAR DISTILLERY: A Little Bit of Everything

From an art and memorabilia collection to a winery, a mini spa and a petting zoo—to, yes, a distillery—

Cape Fear Distillery offers visitors an eclectic, multifaceted experience

BY DAVE DROSCHAK

An affinity for collecting autographs, unique art and Hollywood memorabilia began innocently for Alex Munroe with a challenge from his older brothers.

Six years old at the time, the young Munroe was on a flight to New York with his father and two siblings when University of North Carolina Hall of Fame basketball coach Dean Smith boarded and took his seat.

“I didn’t know who he was, but my brothers were oohing and aahing over him,” Munroe recalls. “And they dared me to go up and get his autograph. I didn’t know any better, and he was really nice to me. I went back and showed the autograph to my brothers and they thought I was the coolest guy in the world. If you could impress your older brothers like that, it was great.

Photo courtesy of Cape Fear Distillery.

“So then I just went on autograph hunts. Whoever’s autograph I could get, I’d bring it and show it to my brothers. That is kind of what started my collection,” Munroe adds.

Over the years Munroe built up his fair share of collectibles, but he didn’t stop with just autographs. Munroe’s vast collection of more than 300 pieces, which is on display at Cape Fear Distillery in Elizabethtown, includes fine pieces from the likes of Picasso and Salvador Dali, along with a stunning collection of Dr. Seuss art in what is called the Gallery Ballroom.

When the 57-year-old Munroe opened his Cape Fear Vineyard & Winery in 2015, and then Cape Fear Distillery a few years later, he thought it would be an opportunity to dust off his iconic collection and display for all to enjoy.

“I didn’t know how well it would be received,” Munroe says of his art and memorabilia collection. “I loved it, of course, but now it has kind of become a signature of the property, almost museum-like, for the guests. You’d have to go to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland or the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville to see some of the pieces, or a collection like this.”

In addition to autographs and rare art from such stars as Michael Jackson, Ringo Starr, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Janice Joplin, John Lennon and Burt Reynolds, Munroe also has Hollywood clothing from Frank Sinatra, Greta Garbo, Robin Williams, Lauren Bacall and others on display.

“There are some really cool pieces that are one of ones,” he says. “I’ve managed to accumulate one of the larger collections in the southeastern United States. It’s pretty unique. We have a Picasso that’s sitting beside a David Lee Roth that is sitting beside a Frank Sinatra. Where else can you go and see that type of artwork in one place? So it’s really an eclectic thing, and a collection that appeals to a lot of people.”

Some of Munroe’s favorite pieces are rare photographs of James Taylor, the Eagles, Crosby, Stills & Nash, and The Doors.

Munroe’s art is scattered throughout the property, which includes his award-winning restaurant, gift shop and distillery. Most people take an hour or more to view the pieces. A few pieces are for sale, but most items Munroe would be hard - pressed to part with.

“Get a glass of wine or two, or a mixed drink and just stroll around,” Munroe says of the unguided tour of the art and memorabilia. “It has been proven lately that when you look at art, it releases endorphins in your brain. Those same endorphins have been proven to elicit warmth and security in people, and some kind of compare it to a little baby looking up at their mother. Think about it—after 9/11 in New York, the next day the whole city was shut down, but where did people go? The art galleries were filled. That’s the power of art, to me.”

But art isn’t the only attraction at Cape Fear Distillery, which is

less than a two-hour drive from most Triangle locations. Munroe’s vineyard operation now produces nine different wines, and his distillery also has nine awardwinning craft spirits, thanks to his recent launch of two cream rums and two tequila products within the last 18 months.

“Cape Fear Distillery is our brand, so all of our products kind of pay tribute to the North Carolina coast and the Cape Fear region,” says Munroe, pointing to such names as Frying Pan Shoals Bourbon and Maritime Gin.

Samplings of the wines and spirits are available for a nominal fee, as well as tours of the distillery. You can also enjoy wine or a mixed drink in the Cork Room restaurant, along with its featured bourbonbraised ribeye steak.

Most of Munroe’s spirits are also sold at Wake County ABC stores, each with its own unique charm attached to the neck of the bottle.

No other distillery in North Carolina has such a wide-ranging wine and spirits portfolio. “I’ve been driven by the market,” Munroe says of his different alcohol offerings. “I’ve been in manufacturing and product development since my 20s, and I always loved creating new products, developing them … patenting and trademarks, and stuff like that. So it has been something that has always gotten my juices going.”

Munroe even opened a mini spa less than two years ago, equipped with a float tank that some people call a “sensory reduction chamber.” “It’s filled with 1,000

pounds of salt water,” he says. “We can cut the lights off, and it’s the closest thing to floating on a cloud that I know of.” The cost is just $50 for 55 minutes.

Visitors can also stay on the Cape Fear Distillery grounds. Brandnew boutique cottages with 19 different room options available border a 10-acre lake, with an additional seven cottages now under construction that should be open by June. Price ranges from $150–$200 per night.

“We get a lot of people going on their way to the beach,” says Munroe, noting that the property is about one hour from Wilmington and 90 minutes from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

“People are starting their vacation a day early by coming here the night before they go, and then just get up from here and go check in at the beach. So it is convenient.”

Walkers can enjoy a 1.3-mile trail around the lake, and kids can partake in the property’s petting zoo, which features miniature llamas, donkeys, horses and a kangaroo, along with swans and peacocks.

And while visiting, don’t miss out on sampling Munroe’s two White Dog BBQ sauces that include a dash of moonshine (Eastern N.C.) or bourbon (Western N.C.).

“A lot of people say it’s like being on a cruise ship out here,” Munroe said. “You go and have some drinks and dinner, and it’s time to go back to your cottage and relax.”

For more information or to make reservations, go to capefeardistillery.com .

ABOVE: Alex Munroe in front of two works of art by Salvador Dali. Photo courtesy of Dave Droschak

LEFT: Alex Munroe in front of a work of art by Theodore Geisel (Dr. Seuss). Photo courtesy of Dave Droschak

BELOW: A bottle of Cape Fear’s 80 proof rum. Image courtesy of Cape Fear Distillery.

IF YOU BUILD IT, THEY WILL COME

North Carolina plays a leading role in film and television content production

BY MARIO BOUCHER

North Carolina may not be Hollywood East, but film and television production here contributes significantly to the state’s economy. With productions using diverse landscapes and architectural styles for movies, television series and reality shows, locations across the state have been featured in the media—from Biltmore Estate in Asheville to Cinespace Studios and Dark Horse Studios based in Wilmington.

“We certainly have unique architectural features and landscapes, “ says Guy Gaster, director of the North Carolina Film Office, which is part of Visit North Carolina and The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. “We also can have a lot of non-descriptive areas, and that—particularly in the last ten years—has really played into our favor. Productions can come here, and it can be Anywhere, USA. Being able to portray a lot of different places has certainly worked in our favor.”

ECONOMIC BENEFITS FROM PRODUCTIONS

Since 2015, production companies have spent an average of $156 million annually in North Carolina for projects, including feature-length films and television/streaming series. Gaster says the hope is that once things return to normal (after the Covid pandemic and a couple of Hollywood strikes), those numbers will inch closer to $300 million annually per year.

“That relates easily to 10 or so major projects, whether these are TV or streaming series, madefor-TV movies or feature-length films,” says Gaster. “That’s where I see us heading and where we can be realistic. We would love to see those numbers grow.”

The North Carolina Film and Entertainment Grant provides financial assistance to productions by providing 25% rebates. A production must meet direct in-state spending requirements to qualify for grant funds. It must spend a minimum of:

• $1.5M for a feature-length film

• $500,000 for a made-for-TV/streaming movie

• $500,000 per episode average for a TV/streaming series

• $250,000 for a commercial

“Part of the reason that the state has gotten involved in these projects or sees the value in the amount of money is that the productions will spend in a local community, which is an asset,” says Gaster. “There’s more to it than the product people see on the screen. There is certainly a business side that includes jobs and spending at local vendors.”

Visitors spend money in local communities visiting places featured in their favorite movies or TV series. In the west side of the state this includes the Biltmore Estate in Asheville; the Blue Ridge Mountains, seen in “The Last of the Mohicans” (1992); and the Cheoah Dam near Robbinsville, which was featured in “The Fugitive” (1993). In the Triangle area, the North

Carolina State Capitol building has been used frequently as a stand-in for Washington DC, such as in the TV series “Homeland” (2011–2020), and the classic comedy “Bull Durham” (1988) was filmed at the Durham Athletic Park and at Mitch’s Tavern in downtown Raleigh.

“There’s certainly room to grow, and as more productions come into the state, I do think it makes an attractive industry for people to get into and find regular work within it,” says Gaster.

WORKING AND LIVING IN NORTH CAROLINA

Eric Johnson, Senior Vice President of Sound and Engagement at Trailblazer Studios based in Raleigh, has helped grow the production company from a local shop into an industry player, helping to make North Carolina a major production hub. Trailblazer Studios offers many services, including postproduction (color grading/finishing, editorial, and motion graphics/visual effects), music and sound (audio post, music supervision and licensing, and original music), and production (stage rental and various services).

“The main attraction to working in North Carolina for us is living in North Carolina,” says Johnson. “Most of our staff lived here prior to joining Trailblazer, and the rest of the team made the choice to move to North Carolina from LA, New York, Miami and other places—for the work opportunity, but

equally for the quality of life North Carolina provides for them and their families.” He adds, “The majority of our clients are not here in North Carolina, and early on we had to do a bit of convincing to get them to work with us over the years. The quality of our work and positive word of mouth about the experience of working with us has made the fact that we’re not in New York or LA a non-issue.”

Since the pandemic, Trailblazer Studios’ ability to collaborate remotely with clients and artists, along with their acceptance of remote work, has allowed the production company to work with even more clients. And being located near RDU “makes it easy for us to jump on a plane to New York, LA or anywhere else for in-person sessions,” Johnson adds.

Trailblazer Studios is currently working with Figure 8 Films on new episodes of “Sister Wives” and “7 Little Johnstons” and recently helped on “James Brown: Say It Loud,” which premiered on A&E. “We’re currently finishing up a series for ABC News Studios and working on an animated film with an LA–based director,” says Johnson.

THE FUTURE OF ENTERTAINMENT

PRODUCTIONS IN NORTH CAROLINA

Wilmington has become a major production center: Cinespace Studios provides 10 stages and 152,000 square feet of production space, while Dark Horse offers nearly 80,000 square feet of stage and office space with flexible warehouses. It was in the 1980s that major producer Dino De Laurentiis decided North Carolina was an ideal location for his projects.

“Dino decided to move his operations to Wilmington, and from there he trained a workforce from scratch and built what is now the space occupied by Cinespace Studios Wilmington,” says Gaster.

The list of productions filmed in the city by the ocean are numerous, dating back to the late 1990s when the TV series “Dawson’s Creek” began production. Between 1998 and 2012, “Dawson’s Creek” and its sister show, “One Tree Hill,” were filmed in Wilmington, highlighting life amongst teenagers living in North Carolina as part of their stories.

“Those two shows really served as an anchor for the industry in that part of the state,” says Gaster. “There was steady work on each series annually, but it also attracted additional projects there while these [productions] were taking place.”

Could a similar facility be set up in the Triangle area? Some investors have expressed interest, but there is nothing concrete yet. “We have no objection to that [expansion] at all, and it would certainly help with our recruitment efforts,” Gaster says.

Experienced crew and a proper infrastructure are needed to set up a soundstage facility in the Triangle area, not unlike how Dino De Laurentiis set up his studio in Wilmington.

“If you build it, will they come?” asks Gaster. “Are you able to attract productions that make up for the shortcomings here, or find an investor to build a studio the way Dino did in Wilmington?”

Johnson says North Carolina’s television and film industry is poised to take a leading role in content creation for productions in the next few years. “The convergence of technology and film/ TV production could lead to amazing career opportunities for students coming out of North Carolina colleges, universities and community colleges in areas such as virtual production, AI-assisted production, and a number of other lesser-known roles in the industry for engineers, accountants and lawyers,” says Gaster.

OPPOSITE PAGE: Chris Hall, a colorist at Trailblazer Studios, uses color and light details to enhance screen images. Photo courtesy of Trailblazer Studios.

PAGE 41: Photo by Stock.Adobe.com - stas111. Filmstrip image by Stock.Adobe.com - serhii.

ON LEF T AND BELOW: The classic movie comedy “Bull Durham” (1988) was filmed in various locations in the Triangle area, including Mitch's Tavern in downtown R aleigh. Photos by Mario Boucher.

BOTTOM LEFT: Eric Johnson is Senior Vice President of Sound and Engagement at Trailblazer Studios in Raleigh. Photo courtesy of Trailblazer Studios.

BOTTOM R IGHT: Guy Gaster is director of the North Carolina Film Office, which is part of Visit North Carolina and The Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina. Photo courtesy of North Carolina Film Office.

SHELLACIOUS ACTIVITIES

A coastal conservation center protects, researches and educates the public about NC sea turtles

BY MARILYN JONES

Men, women and children are sitting around a porch waiting for the tour to begin when I arrive at the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center in Surf City on Topsail Island

The doors open shortly after I check in with the tour leader, and we follow volunteer Cindy Kay past the massive Ocean of Memories wall mural and into the world of sea turtles.

At the first station of the tour, we watch a film as Cindy narrates what we are viewing. We learn that from May 1 through August 31, volunteers walk the 26 miles of Topsail Beach looking for turtle nests. In addition to monitoring the nests, volunteers care for injured and sick turtles at the facility with the ultimate goal of returning them to the ocean.

Jean Beasley, the center’s founder,

bought a home in Surf City with her husband in 1970. On the first night they lived there a sea turtle laid its eggs on the beach in front of her home, and the turtle and its eggs fascinated Beasely’s daughter Karen.

Jean and Karen Beasley eventually created the Topsail Turtle Project, the first program established in North Carolina to preserve sea turtles. The program’s volunteers cared for the injured sea turtles while monitoring the beach for nests each morning and ensuring that baby sea turtles made the dangerous journey from their nests safely to the water each night.

In 1991, after a long battle with leukemia, Karen passed away. Jean Beasley committed herself to carrying on her daughter’s legacy through sea turtle conservation.“Karen told me before she died that if she didn’t make it, she wanted me to use her life insurance money to help sea turtles,” says Beasley.

Summer interns release Tiger's Eye, a juvenile loggerhead turtle. Photo by Doug Payne/KBSTRRC.

In 1997, Beasley used the money Karen left to create the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center. The original center was a 900-square-foot space located in the town of Topsail Beach.

In just a decade, the facility became too small for the scale of work the rehabilitation center was doing, so in 2013 a new, 14,000-square-foot facility was opened in Surf City.

In addition to caring for sea turtles, the Surf City space allows for tours and other means by which the center can educate the public. "Guests visiting the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center get a first-hand view of a working sea turtle hospital. All proceeds from ticket sales, gift shop sales and symbolic adoptions go toward our sea turtle conservation, rehabilitation and education programs,” says Kathy Zagzebski, the center’s executive director. The building of the Surf City facility was made possible by fundraising, donations, and support from local businesses.

At each point along the center’s educational trail, visitors learn about the turtles living and nesting along Topsail Island—including loggerhead turtles; green turtles and Kemp’s ridley turtles, both of which are endangered; and leatherback turtles and hawksbill turtles (another critically

THIS PAGE, TOP: Tour guide Cindy Kay explains the condition of each turtle being treated. Photo by Marilyn Jones. MIDDLE: Lennie, an adult female, is permanently blind in both eyes and cannot be released back into the ocean. Photo by Doug Payne/KBSTRRC. BOTTOM: A volunteer examines Pixie Dust, a juvenile green turtle. Photo by Doug Payne/KBSTRRC.

endangered species), which are occasional residents of the region.

Further along the tour, visitors enter a large room where the facility cares for injured turtles in a series of saltwater pools. The center “combines state-of-the-art facilities, expert medical care and dedicated turtle care teams that help sick and injured sea turtles recover so they may be released back into the ocean,” says Zagzebski. She adds, “We treat various illnesses and injuries, including coldstunning, hypothermia, debilitated turtle syndrome, entanglement, plastic ingestion, plastic entanglement, fish hook injuries, boat strikes, and shark and predator bites. In our 25-year history we have cared for over 1,300 sea turtles.”

The tour discusses each turtle and its medical situation. The facility’s patients most often sustain injuries from boat propellers, debris from the shoreline, predator attacks, changing water temperatures and guild nets from commercial fishermen.

When they can, volunteers return sea turtles to the wild. If life in the ocean is no longer possible for the turtle, the facility finds it a suitable home in an accredited zoo or aquarium.

The facility depends on the help of veterinarians from North Carolina State University’s Veterinary Hospital. Veterinarians and volunteers ensure that each turtle receives personal physical therapy, medicine, and specially formulated diets administered through hands-free feeding in order to make certain that turtles will not depend on humans upon release.

Visitors also learn about the perils facing the turtles, including litter and plastics. We learn that the marine ecosystem depends upon the health of its sea turtles.

Turtles maintain seagrass beds and coral reefs, control jellyfish and sponge populations, and transport nutrients to other parts of the ocean and the beach. By helping sea turtles, we can help keep oceans healthy for the benefit of animals and people.

The center emphasizes that individual actions do make a difference. “Whether or not you live near the coast, there is a lot you can do to help sea turtles,” says Zagzebski. “Replace single-use plastic with more sustainable alternatives, recycle everything possible and dispose of trash responsibly.

"Remember—all drains lead to the ocean.” She adds, “Use your voice and advocate for sea turtles and healthy oceans! Vote for candidates that support these goals. Vote with your wallet and choose to purchase sustainable products. And support sea turtle conservation organizations.”

VISITING THE KAREN BEASLEY SEA TURTLE RESCUE AND REHABILITATION CENTER

The center is located at 302 Tortuga Lane in Surf City, about 45 minutes north of Wilmington. Admission is $5 for children, $6 for military and seniors and $7 for everyone else. The timed tours last about 45 minutes. For more information, visit seaturtlehospital.org.

Visitor Ainsley Moore listens as a volunteer talks to her about Snooki, the turtle in the nearby tank. Photo by Marilyn Jones.

ThankyoutoJennMcKinneyPhotography, LeahMariePhotography,JessicaBrattonPhotography andNewDepthCreationsfortakingthesephotos.

2024 FACES OF WESTERN WAKE

Welcome to our annual Faces of Western Wake, a portfolio of inspiring leaders and community influencers who want to personally introduce themselves to you. In every issue, 5West magazine tells the stories of incredible individuals, entrepreneurs and leaders who are helping to make Raleigh one of the South’s best places to live, work and play. We can’t begin to share all the stories that deserve to be told, so once a year we invite our key business partners to participate in this special section—and to help you put a face with the name of their business, practice or nonprofit organization. Take a minute to get acquainted. Better yet, stop in and tell them you saw their face in 5West.

48 The Face of THE BEST PARTS OF LIFE, ALL IN ONE PLACE Fenton

50 The Face of ACTIVE ADULT LIVING

The Aspens of Holly Springs

51 The Face of THE CAROLINA HURRICANES’ OFFICIAL TEAM DENTIST

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry

52 The Face of COMPREHENSIVE PRIMARY CARE SERVICES

Avance Care Cary

53 The Face of CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY New Depth Creations

54 The Face of CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS, BLINDS AND SHADES

Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds

55 The Face of HOME SERVICES Neighborly.com

56 The Face of LUXURY REAL ESTATE Luxury Home Marketing Group

57 The Face of PUPPY PARADISE Pupsi Inc.

58 The Face of SLEEP HEALTH Parkway SleepHealth Centers

59 The Face of STRAIGHT SMILES Bovenizer and Baker Orthodontics

Note:Two-pageadvertisersappearfirstinalphabeticalorder,followedbyfull-pageadvertisers inalphabeticalorder,exceptwhencompetingbusinesseswouldendupnexttoeachother.

THE FACE OF THE BEST PARTS OF LIFE, ALL IN ONE PLACE FENTON

Meet Fenton, where exquisitely curated retail unites with unforgettable experiences. Indulge in culinary masterpieces by the Triangle’s finest chefs at M Sushi, Colletta and Superica. Anticipate the arrival of Brewery Bhavana and Crawford Brothers Steakhouse alongside refined office spaces and residential living at The Allison.

General Manager Rob Canepa’s relocation from San Francisco to the Fenton project underscores its allure: “We’ve built the Triangle’s premier destination for upscale retail, tantalizing dining and captivating events. What’s coming next in Phase II will delight our guests and exceed their expectations for luxury.”

201 Fenton Gateway Drive, Cary | fentonnc.com | @fentonnc

THE FACE OF ACTIVE ADULT LIVING

THE ASPENS AT HOLLY SPRINGS

The Aspens at Holly Springs is a luxurious apartment community tailored to the active 55+ adult. The mission is clear—offer new experiences, unexpected friendships and limitless opportunities to those who are ready to leave the challenges of home ownership behind. Convenience and comfort, paired with uncompromising service and unparalleled amenities, all lie within one unique, reimagined senior living community.

Stop by. Play a round of pickleball, enjoy our catered daily lunch, mingle with residents or simply take a peek. You’ll be pleasantly and unexpectedly surprised by all The Aspens has to offer. Contact executive director Heather Rook to learn more about life at The Aspens.

1024 S. Main Street, Holly Springs | 919.737.7545 aspensathollysprings.com

THE FACE OF THE CAROLINA HURRICANES’ OFFICIAL TEAM DENTISTS

LANE & ASSOCIATES FAMILY DENTISTRY

Meet the official team dentists of the Carolina Hurricanes. Drs. Don Lane, Raleigh Wright and Don Bailey are excited to protect and create the best smiles in the history of hockey. “Being the team dentists of the Carolina Hurricanes is a great privilege, a great honor and a great responsibility,” Dr. Lane says.

You can expect to see these familiar faces, excited and eager to provide high-quality dental care, on-site at every game, ready to triage and treat any player, both at home and away. On and off the ice, Lane & Associates Family Dentistry loves to make you smile!

Multiple Triangle Locations | 877.LANE.DDS | lanedds.com

THE FACE OF COMPREHENSIVE PRIMARY CARE SERVICES AVANCE CARE CARY

Avance Care Cary welcomes three new providers to their team: Corey Musselman, MD; Joseph Bruckert, MD and Kim Cakerice, PA-C. The newly expanded team cares for children, adults and seniors in the Cary community with services ranging from annual wellness checks and preventive care to acute and chronic illnesses such as diabetes and hypertension. Avance Care, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive care, also offers a behavioral health therapist and a registered dietitian on-site.

With extended office hours, same/next-day appointments and online appointment requests, Avance Care makes it easy and convenient to get the care you need in Cary.

115 Crescent Commons #100, Cary | 919.803.3707 | avancecare.com

THE FACE OF CORPORATE PHOTOGRAPHY NEW DEPTH CREATIONS

New Depth Creations is a Raleigh-based production company that loves discovering and sharing the story of brands and professionals to create connection and understanding. Owned by Jared Caldwell, our services include headshots and branding and event photography as well as commercial and promotional videography. We enjoy digging to the root of a brand’s story, capturing the moments and experiences that make them who they are, and creating high-quality content that connects people to their journeys.

919.673.7982 | newdepthcreations.com

THE FACE OF CUSTOM PLANTATION SHUTTERS, BLINDS AND SHADES

SOUTHERN ACCENT SHUTTERS AND BLINDS

For Triangle residents in-the-know, Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds, a local purveyor of custom plantation shutters, is no secret. Now in its 24th year, the company has sold and installed plantation shutters in practically every neighborhood and subdivision in the Triangle. Molly, Russ and their crew cut no corners when producing these room-changing products, which are made with the finest finishes available, a lifetime warranty and green production and materials. Southern Accent Shutters and Blinds also specializes in U.S.–made blinds, shades and motorization and offers commercial sales and install as well. See for yourself!

Visit their showroom or call for a complimentary in-home consultation.

113 Lee Court, Clayton | Call or text 919.934.4050 | southernaccentshutters.com

THE FACE OF HOME SERVICES

NEIGHBORLY.COM

Meet the owners of MR. HANDYMAN®, MR. ELECTRIC®, MOLLY MAID®, REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT EXCELLENCE®, GLASS DOCTOR®, WINDOW GENIE®, MOSQUITO JOE® AND FIVE STAR PAINTING®, all brands within Neighborly.com , your hub for home services. Homeowners will find all the services needed to give their home a fix-me-up, remodel and/or provide maintenance care to keep the home looking fresh and updated throughout the year. Each home service brand is individually owned, operated and insured. For trusted home repairs go to mrhandyman.com, mrelectric.com, glassdoctor.com/raleigh, mollymaid.com, rpmexcellence.com, windowgenie.com, mosquitojoe.com, fivestarpainting.com, or any of the 19 local home service brands included in Neighborly. Give us a call! We look forward to working with you!

Mr. Handyman – 919.424.3780 | Mr. Electric – 984.234.6140 | Glass Doctor – 919.831.2302 | Molly Maid – 919.387.3899 Real Property Managment – 919.827.1107 | Window Genie – 919.629.7327 | Mosquito Joe – 919.371.4522 | Five Star Painting – 919.395.6511 neighborly.com

THE FACE OF LUXURY REAL ESTATE

LUXURY HOME MARKETING GROUP

The Luxury Home Marketing Group is a coalition of realtors from highly respected real estate firms with unsurpassed knowledge of the Triangle housing market. For over 20 years, this network of professionals has provided expert guidance and market exposure for their respective clients. Contact a member to successfully guide you through the luxury home buying and selling experience. luxuryhomemarketinggroup.com

Front row, left to right: Leslie Young, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury | Kimberly Conroy, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury | Ann Matteson, Berkshire Hathaway YSU | Jill Rekuc, Olde Raleigh Real Estate | Sheri Hagerty, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty | Margaret Sophie, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury | Cara Pierce, Compass

Back Row, left to right: Shawn Britt, Realty World–Triangle Living | Margaret Struble, Compass | Debbie Van Horn, Compass | Kathy Beacham, Coldwell Banker HPW Global Luxury | Jonay Zies, Compass | Linda Trevor, Compass | Mollie Owen, Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty

THE FACE OF PUPPY PARADISE PUPSI INC.

Pupsi Inc. has been serving the Triangle for 30 years. Established in 1993 by Mary Foster and her family as a training facility for clients and their pups, it has grown to be the premier spot for training, grooming, boarding and dog day care in the area. With more than 15,000 square feet of outdoor play yards that are equipped with K9 AstroTurf, the dogs in Pupsi’s care can spend most of the day outside running, chasing or sunbathing. Pupsi’s commitment to cleanliness and quality for clients— whether in training, grooming, boarding or day care— has been a hallmark of the company’s history.

8260 Chapel Hill Road, Cary | 919.460.9909 pupsiinc.com

THE FACE OF SLEEP HEALTH PARKWAY SLEEPHEALTH CENTERS

If you have problems with daytime sleepiness or with falling asleep at night, you are not alone—sleep disorders affect 35–40% of the U.S. adult population, and are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality.

Founded in 2004, Parkway SleepHealth Centers, celebrating 20 years in the Triangle, is locally owned and operated by Brandon and Meghan Giegling. As proud members of our community, we care about Triangle families because we are a Triangle family. We offer a physician’s office and sleep studies, and we are North Carolina’s No. 1 source for CPAP machines and equipment. Call us to start your journey toward a good night’s sleep!

130 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 103, Cary | 919.462.8081 | parkwaysleep.com

THE FACE OF STRAIGHT SMILES

BOVENIZER & BAKER ORTHODONTICS

Providing an amazing patient experience and giving back to and being involved in our community is at the core of Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics. From the moment you walk in the door, their staff is focused on you and making sure you have the best orthodontic patient experience in the Triangle. From fresh-baked cookies and coffee to umbrellas when it is raining, free swag, texting, a fun staff and genuine connections, their office should feel like your second home. They aim to create fun, enjoy their work, make people laugh, earn the trust of others and deliver wow through service.

Drs. Todd Bovenizer, Chris Baker and Keri Kenning, along with the rest of the Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics team, also focus on making a positive impact in people’s lives. Giving back to the community is an integral part of their practice. They sponsor local organizations, sports teams and schools and give back in whatever way they are able, whether that is donating school supplies or running a charitable drive in the office. Their “A Chance to Smile” program provides free orthodontic treatment for 10 children per year in foster care in the Triangle. 2625 Green Level West Road, Cary | 919.303.4557 | bovbakerortho.com

Unleash the

FUN

Western Wake's premier doggie daycares

BY KATELYN RUTT

From dog-friendly breweries to the vast expanse of parks, it’s evident that the Tar Heel State cherishes its four-legged residents. And at the heart of it all: top-tier doggie daycares. But don’t be fooled—these facilities offer more than a game of fetch. They’re lively hubs that celebrate the unique quirks and charms of every pup, offering safe spaces for mental stimulation, socialization and snuggles. We’ve narrowed the search to four of Western Wake’s premier doggie daycares, catering to all shapes, sizes and temperaments

PUPSI INC.

Ideal for a Homebody, Senior or Sensitive Breed

Looking for a home-away-from-home where your pup is treated like part of the family? Your daycare search ends with Pupsi Inc.! Established in 1993 as Raleigh’s original training facility and one of the nation’s first doggie daycares, Pupsi has earned a stellar reputation for structuring every aspect of their care and daily routines around every kind of dog’s behavior and needs. With a one to ten staffto-pet ratio, you can trust that your pups will receive the attention they deserve as they explore the 15,000-square-foot turfed playground, complete with a spacious canopy for shade and shelter. During the sweltering summer months, Pupsi pals beat the heat in the pool, with weather-related consideration given to senior, black-coated, snow-loving and pug breeds. And when winter arrives, the team is ready with cozy sweaters and extra love for short-haired, hairless and senior companions. From maintaining a pristine, scent-free facility to fostering a positive atmosphere, Pupsi is dedicated to ensuring that your dog feels right at home.

CAMP BOW WOW

Ideal for an Activity-Loving Canine

Camp Bow Wow brings the excitement of a real-life camp experience to your furry friend! For pet parents seeking extra enrichment for their companions, themed activities are offered for a small additional fee. Your dog can star in a Most Wanted cowboy photoshoot, for example, or bob for ducks during a month of carnival activities. From paw painting to foam machine fun, there’s something for every dog. Bow Wow’s day camp provides all-day play in both indoor and outdoor yards, along with plenty of love from counselors who are equipped with first aid and CPR training—just like counselors at a children’s camp. Plus, with live web cameras accessible from a computer or mobile device, you can be confident that your pups are always having a blast during their time at camp. As an added perk, the loving team at Camp Bow Wow never imposes extra charges for administering

medication, accommodating special requests or providing bonus attention to your furry friend throughout the day.

CAMP CANINE

Ideal for a Stress-Free Experience

Welcome to Camp Canine, Inc., where anxious pups and nervous owners can leave worries at the door! Run by the dynamic Suzanne Keeys, who previously owned the only animal emergency transport in the Cary/ Raleigh area, this daycare prioritizes cuddles. Camp Canine’s caring team ensures that the stress of being away from home is met with warmth and understanding—never with tough love or isolation. At the affectionately known “day camp,” the excitement is palpable from the moment your dog arrives. With over one and a half acres of play areas, an indoor gym and a community room for socializing, there’s never a dull moment. Campers are carefully grouped based on size, personality and play style, resulting in adorable mixand-match friendships. Whether it’s a pint-sized pup romping with the big

WINNER

dogs or a gentle giant enjoying playtime with the little ones, each camper is paired with a partner who’s ready for fun! But it’s not just about physical activity here—the team takes your dog’s mental well-being seriously too! Treats, belly rubs and positive affirmation abound, adding an extra dash of joy to their stay.

K9 RESORTS APEX

Ideal for a Pampered Pup

Ranked as the nation’s top spot for deluxe dog boarding and daycare by the International Boarding & Pet Services Association, K9 Resorts sets the standard for luxury pet hospitality, promising an unforgettable five-star experience for your furry friend. From its grand archway entrance to its lavish interior decor, this facility boasts cutting-edge amenities alongside an exceptional approach to canine care. With ample soundproofing ensuring tranquility, dogs can nap, unwind or play without stress. Cutting-edge air-filtration systems with UV technology purify the air, while frequent air exchanges effectively eliminate airborne particles

JUNEAU

I’m a six-year-old Husky/Swiss Shepherd mix, and I love hiking in all the parks around Raleigh.

OPPOSITE PAGE, TOP: Dogs enjoy the outdoors under a caretaker's supervision at Pupsi Inc.. Photo courtesy of Pupsi Inc. CENTER: Fun in the ball pit at Camp Bow Wow. Photo courtesy of Camp Bow Wow.

BOTTOM: A Camp Canine pup is ready for love. Photo courtesy of Camp Canine.

THIS PAGE: A K9 Resorts caretaker is overwhelmed with doggie affection. Photo courtesy of K9 Resorts.

and odors. Additionally, hospitalgrade disinfectants and synthetic turf specifically designed for canine use upholds the highest hygiene standards. K9 Resorts prioritizes outdoor spaces, recognizing the positive impact that fresh air has on pet well-being. The dedicated team ensures your pet is wellrested, showered with love and eagerly anticipating your return—although perhaps not quite ready to leave!

In celebration of our annual pet issue, The Allison at Fenton is thrilled to collaborate with 5 West in hosting a contest spotlighting The Allison’s most delightful and cuddly dogs. This exciting partnership has ignited enthusiasm among our teams, reflecting our shared passion for fostering community engagement and celebrating the beloved pets who bring joy to our residents’ lives. After an extensive process of evaluation and deliberation, we are delighted to present the winners of this heartwarming competition, a testament to the remarkable bond between humans and their furry companions.

SECOND THIRD RUNNER-UP

FRANKIE

My name is Fenway Frank, but my friends call me Frankie. My favorite place EVER is Carolina Beach!

PARKER

I love to share my toys, but only if you play fetch or tug with me!

JACK

I am 11 years old and my favorite sport is cornhole!

BEYOND COMPANIONSHIP

How 4,000 hours of training can transform a cute puppy into a lifesaving service animal

BY CAITLIN WHEELER

Everyone knows that dogs can be some of the best friends and companions out there. But Margot Bennett knows that a special dog, with the right training and temperament, can be pure magic when matched with the right person.

B ennett, who trains puppies with the local branch of Canine Companions, a national service dog training organization, recognized the power of this magical connection years ago when she brought her own dog, Brisco, to a classroom to read with kindergarteners. She had trained Brisco as an AKC-certified therapy dog and had been volunteering with him throughout the Triangle, helping North Carolina State University students de-stress during finals,

cuddling with residents at senior centers and cheering up patients in hospitals. That morning, after Brisco had patiently listened to child after child read to him, Bennett noticed that the dog was sitting particularly close to a little girl who was whispering, her face right up against his ear. Bennett was startled to see the child’s teacher watching with tears running down her cheeks. The girl, she told Bennett, was selectively mute: It was the first time she had ever spoken in the classroom.

T hat, says Bennett, was an “aha moment.” She wanted to know what else a puppy with the right training could accomplish if its job perfectly suited its personality. That’s when she found Canine Companions.

C anine Companions relies on

volunteers to raise its carefully bred puppies from age 8 weeks to 18 months. It’s a big job. In addition to providing the usual love and support pets need, volunteers also commit to teaching the puppies a list of 30 commands, attending two training sessions per month and writing monthly reports describing the dog’s progress and personality. All that, and then they must say good-bye as the puppy embarks on a 6-month period of intense training at the Canine Companions training center before being matched.

O nly certain people are cut out to be service puppy raisers, and Bennett is one of them.“It’s always a gut punch,” she says, of watching a beloved puppy move on. “But seeing the outcome,

and the difference these animals make turns it into a celebration.” She’s raised more than 11 puppies over the last 25 years. “Every dog has a different personality,” she says, “and somehow Canine Companions always matches them with the perfect person.” Ely, her puppy who loved to cuddle, was matched with a woman who had a joint disorder. Barley, a patient peoplelover, is now a facility courthouse dog who sits beside kids in the courtroom and helps them find their voices.

Just as not every person is cut out to be a puppy raiser, not every puppy is cut out to be a service dog. “Only 50% of the puppies make it through the special training period,” says Danielle Boggs, a trainer and Canine Companions area representative. She explains that once an 18-monthold is checked into the training center, qualities show up that might have been overlooked during their puppyhood—low impulse control, for example, or anxiety. “The best service dogs are absolutely even-keeled, have a good work ethic, enjoy the work and really love people,” says Boggs.

Among the people with whom Canine Companions has successfully matched service animals is Debra Johnson of Raleigh, a long-time exec at companies like Nortel and Selectron. She had to put her career aside a decade ago when her mobility and balance were affected by a genetic disorder. She started relying on a wheelchair and applied for a Canine Companion service dog in 2019. She finally made it to the top of the wait list in 2021.

Johnson spent ten days at Canine Companions’ Florida training center learning commands and working with various dogs before being matched. The organization prides itself on providing its dogs free of charge to applicants, including accommodations for the week spent at the training center. “By day five or six, I started to see the same couple of dogs over and over,” says Johnson, “and then it was just me and Storm.” She needed a dog who would be strong enough to open doors and cabinets for her using a “tug strap,” so she wasn’t surprised that Storm, a hefty golden lab, got the job. “We graduated together,” she says.

Now Storm is with her 24 hours a day, helping with everything from maneuverability and managing belongings to bridging social gaps. “Being in a wheelchair is very different,” says Johnson. “People avoid meeting your eye. They often assume that because your body is damaged, your brain is damaged too. Now, when I’m out with Storm, people will stop and ask me about him or compliment him. He makes people curious and puts them at ease.” She pauses, and then adds: “He has absolutely changed my life.”

Sadly, these dogs are not immune from the same accidents and illnesses any dog might experience. Last November, Apex, Bennett’s 5-month-old puppy-intraining, came down with a virus and passed away. “He was only 5 months, but you could tell he was going to be a gem,” says Bennett, still very emotional about the loss. In Apex’s honor, she has started a fund, hoping to raise enough to help Canine Companions cover the cost of training a service dog.

W hen asked if she’s now taking a break from puppies after her experience with Apex, she laughs. “Within a week of Apex’s passing, I told them I was ready for a new puppy,” she says. The Canine Companions community responded right away, creating a cross-country network to transport her new puppy, Tupelo, from the breeder in Santa Rosa, California, to Cary.

B ennett believes the stories of dogs like Storm and Apex and the people they love is worth sharing, so starting with the story of Brisco, Bennett has written a series of children’s books, “Tails of Dogs Who Help.”

“ I want to show these are real dogs, so the books are illustrated with actual photographs,” says Bennett. “And I’ve got the dog narrating the story so you get the dog’s point of view.” Each book focuses on a different kind of working dog—a guide dog, a therapy dog, a service dog—and Bennett includes answers to some frequently asked questions, including the perennial favorite: How does a person with a guide dog clean up after the dog?

For that answer, and more, check out Bennett’s book series. Bennett donates all proceeds from these self-published books to dog training organizations, including Canine Companions.

OPPOSITE PAGE: A Canine Companions service dog bonds with his human. Photo courtesy of Canine Companions. ABOVE: Puppy raiser extraordinaire Margot Bennett gives service dog Felix a congratulatory hug at his graduation/matching ceremony in February. Photo courtesy of Margot Bennett.

SHARING LOVE, BLENDING CULTURES

BY KATIE DIXON | PHOTOS COURTESY OF WITEK MARKETING

For the team at Gonza Tacos y Tequila, the work centers on love. This is made evident by the family environment fostered in the kitchen, leading to long tenures for team members—chef Andy Maldonado and kitchen manager Tony Aldama have so far clocked eight and nine years, respectively, with the company.

I t’s also evident in the way the restaurant’s staff shows up for the community. When the eastern coast of North Carolina was impacted by heavy flooding, the team took the

restaurant’s food truck—Gonza on Wheels—to a church to help feed people who had sought shelter. And the team has a Thanksgiving tradition of bringing Gonza on Wheels to A Place at the Table, Raleigh’s first pay-whatyou-can cafe. All morning long, they dole out breakfast tacos and Colombian hot chocolate, giving the team at A Place at the Table a chance to take the holiday off and simultaneously feed the local community. “It feels good to spread the love around when we can,” Maldonado says.

C ULTURAL COMBINATIONS

G onza’s kitchen showcases its creativity through its rotating Taco del Chef selections. Each dish is influenced by multiple cultures, leading to interesting flavor profiles; Maldonado brings a background in Tex-Mex, Aldama’s expertise is in traditional Mexican flavors and Gonza Salamanca ensures his Colombian heritage is represented in the dishes.

T he result is a combination that is perfectly balanced, with both the spicy flavors from the Mexican side and the

sweeter notes from the Colombian side. “Everyone has a broad knowledge about food, and everyone can bring ideas to the table,” Aldama says. “We make up ideas, we do test trials of them, we make sure all the flavor profiles are hitting correctly,” adds Maldonado. This highly collaborative process has produced Peruvian tacos, cheesesteak tacos, Cuban tacos and more.

One favorite item from the appetizers menu is the ceviche de leche tigre, which translates to “ceviche with tiger’s milk.” Ceviche specials change frequently, but this one is popular and reappears often at the restaurant’s North Raleigh location. The shrimp that comprises the base of the ceviche is pre-poache d and then added to the “leche tigre” sauce—coconut milk, coconut cream, cilantro, lime juice and serrano chiles. This combination is then topped with fresh vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers and more fresh serranos. The dish is bright and fresh, and the leche tigre adds a standout flavor among traditional ceviches that rely primarily on acid.

Owner and namesake Gonza Salamanca says that each menu item begins with a brainstorming session and ideas. “We think about what’s popular [in Mexico or] Colombia, and what were our favorite dishes our moms used to make for us,” he says. The dessert menu includes one of his favorites from childhood, which has now become a fan favorite for the restaurant’s clientele—the talega, a pastry with guava, banana and cheese.

A nother Colombian favorite that Gonza has helped to popularize is the plantain, which Salamanca says Colombians eat for breakfast, lunch

OPPOSITE PAGE:

THIS PAGE,

BOTTOM:

The interior of Gonza Tacos y Tequila on Lead Mine Road.

TOP: Gonza'a armadillo eggs appetizer.

Owner Gonza Salamanca and Tony Aldama, Gonza's kitchen manager.

and dinner. When the doors to the first Gonza location opened in 2011, not many were familiar with this banana-adjacent delicacy. But now, they have become more common— not just on Gonza’s menu, but also with other restaurants in the area.

Much has changed since Salamanca opened the first location. Gonza Tacos y Tequila now boasts four locations, including two in Raleigh— the flagship location and a location on Hillsborough Street in the Aloft Hotel—plus one in Cary and one in Wake Forest. The restaurant has received numerous accolades over the years, including “Best Guacamole in the Triangle” and “Best Latin American Food in Wake County.”

Although Salamanca could not have dreamed of this wide expansion 12 years ago, he says they have been fortunate. “When we opened the doors, we were busy right away and word of mouth kept people coming in,” he says. “And then new opportunities keep coming to us.”

D espite all of this change over the years, there is one thing that has and will continue to stay the same. “We were just looking to open a restaurant, do something different, and have a place to work and have fun,” Salamanca says.

Gonza Tacos y Tequila's Pescado Tacos.

GONZA TACOS y TEQUILA PESCADO TACOS

Serves 4

For the salmon:

Ingredients:

1 pound salmon, diced or sliced into small pieces

4 tablespoons fajita seasoning

2–3 tablespoons canola or vegetable oil

12 small tortillas

3 ounces shredded red cabbage (optional garnish)

Directions:

Using a mixing bowl, coat salmon with fajita seasoning to create a blackened-salmon flavor. Add oil to a medium-sized skillet. Once heated, add the seasoned salmon. Let the salmon pan sear until it has a good, solid blackened-salmon appearance, then add passion fruit glaze (recipe follows). Quickly stir, and immediately remove from heat.

For the passion fruit glaze:

Ingredients:

10 ounces passion fruit purée

(available in any Latino grocery store)

2 ounces brown sugar

1.5 ounces habañero sauce

Directions:

Add the passion fruit and brown sugar to a preheated pan and bring to boil, dissolving the sugar. Add habañero sauce, stir, remove from heat, and set aside to cool. This glaze will create a crisp, sweet-but-spicy flavor to the blackened salmon.

For the pineapple pico de gallo:

Ingredients:

� green bell pepper, diced

� red bell pepper, diced

� bunch of cilantro, chopped

Half of a pineapple, diced

Juice of 1 lime

1 teaspoon table salt

Directions:

Mix all ingredients and set aside for taco preparation.

Taco Assembly:

Place about 4 ounces of salmon on top of each tortilla. Top with pineapple pico de gallo. Add red cabbage for garnish. And voila! Your tacos are ready to be enjoyed.

1. SAAP, CARY

Baked kabocha squash with ginger-infused custard, coconut whipped cream and toasted coconut. Photo by Baxter Miller.

2. ASALI, CARY

Colorful macarons in assorted flavors like vanilla and birthday cake. Photo courtesy of Asali.

3. IL FALO, RALEIGH

The “G” pizza with crushed tomato sauce, hot soppressata, king trumpets, roasted onions, banana peppers and fresh mozzarella. Photo by Anna Routh Barzin.

4. TORERO’S, RALEIGH AND CARY

Seafood Molcajete. Shrimp and scallops in mildly spicy sauce with mushrooms, onions and tomatoes. Photo by Kurt Dusterberg.

OUT + ABOUT | THE FOODIE

News for Western Wake foodies compiled by the 5 West staff, with contributions from TriangleFoodGuy Sean Leonard, who blogs at trianglefoodblog.com

1 ShinMai Shokudo is open in Cary at 1904 NW Maynard Road. The restaurant began as Shinmai in Oakland, California. Shinmai translates to ‘novice’ or ‘newbie,’ representing the restaurant’s new start in Cary.

2 The Peach Cobbler Factory is serving its signature desserts at its newest location in Apex at 1071 Pine Plaza Drive. The Peach Cobbler Factory also has a location at 8105 Fayetteville Road in Fuquay-Varina.

3 Nautical Bowls has opened in Cary at 1205 Parkside Main Street in Parkside Town Commons. They feature superfood bowls, açaí and more.

4 MilkShake Factory will open its first North Carolina location this summer in the American Tobacco Campus in Durham at 359 Blackwell Street, Suite 120 The Pittsburgh-based franchise is known for its housemade ice cream, handspun milkshakes and premium chocolates.

Diners enjoying games at Hops & Berry Taproom. Photo courtesy of Hops & Berry Taproom.

5 Hops & Berry Taproom has opened in Pittsboro at 120 Mosaic Boulevard, Suite 100. The taproom has 80 self-pour taps that are pay-by-the-ounce. Guests can watch the big games on a 34-foot TV screen, along with a dozen 70-inch screens. The preliminary menu includes bar appetizers, fresh chicken wings, gourmet beer bratwursts and hot dogs.

Before you head out, be sure to check the websites for the events listed here to ensure they are still taking place.

BANDS, BITES AND BOATS

First Friday of the month through October 4; visit the website for hours

Fred G. Bond Metro Park

801 High House Road, Cary

Bond Park Boathouse hosts musicians, food trucks and cold brews. Rent a boat to float in Bond Lake as the sun sets. Take a blanket or chair if you want to stay on land. carync.gov

HOLLY SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL FOOD FESTIVAL

May 3, 5–9 p.m.

Holly Springs Cultural Center

300 W. Ballentine Street, Holly Springs

Sample cuisine from six different continents and 12 unique countries. Take a blanket or chair to watch cultural performances on the lawn. hollyspringsnc.gov/2377/holly-springsinternational-food-festival

CARY DOG DAZE AND PET EXPO

May 4, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.

120 Wilkinson Avenue, Cary

Take your four-legged friend to enjoy tail-wagging excitement, doggy demonstrations, agility courses and a vendor village on the campus of the Cary Police Department. carync.gov

PEAKFEST

May 4, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Downtown Apex

Celebrate the Peak of Good Living with arts and crafts vendors, festival food, live entertainment and a Kids Zone with inflatables.

apexpeakfest.com

HERBFEST

May 5, noon–4 p.m.

Page-Walker Arts & History Center

119 Ambassador Loop, Cary Shop for garden-related items, learn to grow an herb garden and watch a butterfly release at 2:30 p.m. Kids can enjoy crafts and face painting. carync.gov

Taste the season’s best flavors at the Farm to Fork Picnic June 2 at Fearrington Village. Photo courtesy of Center for Environmental Farming Systems (CEFS).

CARY NIGHT MARKET

May 17, 5–9 p.m.

Downtown Cary Park 327 S. Academy Street, Cary

Discover a vibrant collection of locally crafted treasures while enjoying an evening of music and entertainment. downtowncarypark.com

RUN THE QUAY

June 1, 7–10:30 a.m.

Downtown Fuquay

Compete in either a 5K or 10K race in celebration of Run the Quay’s 20th anniversary. Kids can take part in

a 100-yard dash or a 1-mile fun run at 9:30 a.m.

fuquay-varina.com/run-the-quay

FARM TO FORK PICNIC

June 2, 4–7 p.m.

2000 Fearrington Village Center, Pittsboro North Carolina chefs, artisans and farmers are paired together at Fearrington Village to create sips and nibbles of the region’s best flavors and seasonal ingredients. Purchase tickets online.

cefs.ncsu.edu/farmtofork

WHEELS ON ACADEMY

May 18, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.

N. Academy Street,

Downtown Cary

See the cars of yesteryear alongside some of today’s modern hot rods and exotic cars. Kids can climb aboard favorite trucks and heavy machinery in the Touch-ATruck area and watch a 1917 Model T being taken apart and put back together.

carync.gov

Photo by Alyson Boyer.

B LUEBERRIES AND BLACK WALNUTS

Fruits of the earth and bygone eras are honored in Burgaw and Bethania

BURGAW

When the Wilmington & Raleigh Railroad company routed its tracks across Burgaw Creek in Pender County in the mid-1800s, it laid the foundation of a small town that would become big in history. Burgaw’s pride centers on the 19th- and 20th-century architecture of its downtown district, which entered the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. The Burgaw Train Depot, Macedonia African Methodist Episcopal Church, M.M. Moore House and several Colonial Revival–style homes offer a captivating glimpse of yesteryear.

Time has not changed Burgaw, which is why the film and television industry continues to be lured by it. Scenes from iconic movies such as “I Know What You Did Last Summer,” “Freedom Song,” “Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood,” and television series “Revolution” and “Under the Dome” were captured here. Download the PocketSights app to take a self-guided tour of familiar sites and buildings used as backdrops.

Blueberries have grown wild in the region for centuries. Today, they flourish on farms that welcome guests to sample their sweetness from late May until mid-June. Burgaw’s annual NC Blueberry Festival pays homage to this beloved fruit June 14 and 15 with pie-eating contests, artisanal foods, a recipe contest and kids activities—and all the freshpicked blueberries you can imagine. Learn more at burgawnc.gov and ncblueberryfestival.com

BETHANIA

Just 10 miles from Winston-Salem lies Bethania, established by the Moravians in 1759 as a farming community. The town plan borrowed designs from medieval Europe, with residential homes, tradesman shops, a school and a church centrally located within its 500-acre historic district. Forty-one sites, from traditional houses and log structures to a chapel and a parsonage, date back as early as 1770, earning Bethania the designation of National Historic Landmark. View these timeless structures on a self-directed tour with a map from the visitor center.

The Moravians chose this area, known as the Black Walnut Bottoms, because of its fertile soil. The indigenous black walnut tree produces nuts that the settlers used to make herbal medicines, dye linen cloth and bake desserts. Today, chefs create savory dishes with black walnuts, which have a bolder flavor than traditional English walnuts. Black walnut wood is highly prized for making furniture and musical instruments because of its beauty, strength and durability.

Bethania’s annual Black Walnut Festival, September 21, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., celebrates the community’s connection to the landscape and features Moravian-inspired crafts, local artisans, food vendors and live music throughout the day. Learn more at historicbethania.org

Photos courtesy of Pender County Tourism, The North Carolina Blueberry Festival and Janice Lewine.

PAUL HRUSOVSKY

SAILS, 2023

ACRYLIC ON CANVAS 24 X 24

IN THE COLLECTION OF PEG AND STEVE BACHENHEIMER, CARRBORO.

“There is a lot of energy in this work. When painting it, I thought of the wind and sailing.”

- Paul Hrusovsky

ARTISTIC TECHNIQUE IN “SAILS”

For Chapel Hill–based painter Paul Hrusovsky, each new work poses a fresh challenge. Laying out the composition in his mind, he intuitively applies acrylic paint to the canvas. Acrylic paint is his preferred medium because it dries quickly and allows him to move swiftly, grasping the subject’s energy, as in paintings like “Sails,” 2023.

“Sails” is a composition filled with quick brush strokes in bright blues and greens juxtaposed with abstract shapes. The viewer’s eye travels around the explosion of color and line, capturing the feeling of a sailor managing the whims of the wind.

View more of Hrusovsky’s work on Instagram (@midcenturych), where he also hosts two auctions a year, with the proceeds going to CORA Food Pantry, a food bank in Pittsboro.