Cary Magazine January/February 2023

At Searstone, we’re always looking for people who are looking forward. Those who have a plan for every purpose quickly find that this is the place for them. That’s because this is a place that combines a cosmopolitan lifestyle with convenient access to all the cultural, recreational, medical and natural attractions of Cary, NC, a region renowned for its quality of life.

And the best part is, it’s only getting better. Renovations to our beautiful Winston Clubhouse will reimagine gathering spaces and bring new amenities like a movie theater to our campus. Plus, The Highview at Searstone — our upcoming four-story expansion with three exciting new dining venues — is on the horizon. Here, you’ll find everything you’d expect from a next-level retirement living destination, down to the last detail.

Treasure Legends in Corolla.

Ready To Explore Corolla,

NC

With families reserving 2023 accommodations earlier than ever, there’s never been a better time to find the perfect place for your spring or summer getaway. It is nice to know that awe-inspiring remote beaches, legendary wild horses and iconic historical sites are here for you to treasure on the Corolla Outer Banks. Call 877.287.7488 for information or for your free visitor’s guide | Visit us online at CorollaNC.com

Bryan Regan

Every woman. Every life stage. Your babies. Your family. Your transitions. Your health. We’re here – for you.

WakeMed Cary Hospital

From gynecological procedures, breast imaging, advanced diagnostics and delivering little bundles of joy to delivering care that is both comprehensive and compassionate, WakeMed Cary Hospital is here for you and those you love. With 24/7 emergency and OB emergency care. Outpatient specialty rehab services. Medical weight loss and bariatric surgery. Heart and vascular care. Orthopaedics and more. The highest quality, personalized care for women of all ages. Because when it comes to you, your health and the health of your family, you’re the decision maker. And the decision is clearly WakeMed Cary Hospital. To learn more, visit us at wakemed.org/cary-hospital.

WakeMed Cary Hospital | 1900 Kildaire Farm Road | Cary, NC 27518 | 919.350.8000 | wakemed.org/cary-hospital

ON THE COVER:

A purple orchid welcomes customers into Spa by Jing’s relaxing and restorative space. Read more on page 68. Photo by Bryan Regan

CA

January/February 2023 • Volume 20, Number 1

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Lauren Morris, Managing Editor & Creative Director

Erica Hinton, Associate Editor

Dena Daw, Staff Writer

Tara Shiver, Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

Jes Averhart

Erica DeLong

L.A. Jackson

Matthew Lardie

David McCreary

Emily Uhland

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

Bryan Regan

Dave Davies, Contributing Photographer

PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer

Jennifer Casey, Graphic Designer

Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer

Beth Harris, Graphic Designer

Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING

Jill Newbold, Senior Account Manager

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Manager

Aleida Montufar, Account Executive

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications

Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager

Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith

Cary Magazine © is published nine times annually by Cherokee Media Group. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited. Subscriptions are $18/year.

CARY MAGAZINE

Westview at Weston 701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.carymagazine.com This publication does not endorse, either directly or implicitly, the people, activities, products or advertising published herein Information in the magazine is deemed credible to the best of our knowledge.

Magazine is a proud member and supporter of all five chambers in Western Wake County: the Cary Chamber of Commerce, Apex Chamber of Commerce, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and Garner Chamber of Commerce.

NEW BEGINNINGS.

A new year brings new resolutions. Maybe you don’t believe in making resolutions, because — let’s face it — most fade away by mid-March, if we’re lucky. The gym membership starts collecting dust, as does that self-help book on ‘how to be a better me’ sitting on your coffee table, bookmarked at chapter two. If the latter sounds more your style, I am right there with you. I quit making resolutions long ago. Nowadays, I prefer to think of every day as a new chance to start over. In fact, I think you can start your day over at any time. Whatever puts a negative spin on your day, whether it’s frustrations at work or simply waking up on the wrong side of the bed, it just takes some deep breathing to refocus and start anew. Try it with me this year!

In this issue, we decided to look beyond physical well-being and delve a little deeper into what brings us a sense of serenity, whether it’s healing trauma and/or anxiety via out-of-thebox therapies, volunteering within our community, or continuing our education beyond the classroom. May 2023 be the year of mindfulness, so that we are fully present at every moment. The new year is often seen as a new opportunity to hustle and fight for what we want — but do not lose sight of the importance of slowing down and really taking notice of the world (and the people) around you. Find your peace, find your healing ... and maybe find a little inspiration within these pages.

Thanks for reading,

Lauren Morris Managing Editor & Creative Director

Jonathan Fredin

Ella’s Popcorn will go straight to your Valentine’s heart! Our Valentine’s Day Trio gift box includes irresistible flavors like Chocolate Peanut Butter, Strawberry Hibiscus and Cocoa Berry.

The strawberry is a symbol of Venus, the goddess of love, and has found its soulmate of Cocoa, the food of Gods. Delectable, tart berry bits coupled with a kiss of sweet, luscious dark chocolate; Cocoa Berry is a match made on Mount Olympus.

letters from readers

“Thank you so much! Awesome job!”

— Scott Ferris, Executive Director of FPWC, re. “Nonprofit Spotlight: Family Promise of Wake County,” November/December

M ini&Brigh t

“Thank you so much for publishing the article about Hanukkah in the November/ December issue of Cary Magazine

The entire issue is extremely well done, and I commend you on an outstanding local publication.

And I loved your article on ‘A Lesson in Thankfulness!’”

— Michael Stevens, re. “In Honor of Hanukkah,” November/December

“This is SUCH a GREAT list! Thank you for taking time to compile a list like this and send it out! What a wonderful area we live in with so many fun things to do! Thank you!”

— Becca Smith, re. “Things to Do: November/December 2022”

“It’s lovely! Thank you so much — you did a great job on the article!”

— Joy Ennis, Downtown Cary Park General Manager, re. “A Lesson in Thankfulness,” November/December

“Thank you! It looks great.”

— Paul Peterson, owner of Peakway Taps, re. “On Trend: Beer Advent Calendars,” November/December

“Loving the cover and creative use of cover lines!”

— Lisa Thornberry Drake, re. November/December issue

“It looks wonderful! Great job and thank you so much for including us!”

— Lily Reed, owner of Once in a Blue Moon Bakery, re. “Small Bites, Big Taste,” November/December

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

Email letters to the editor to editor@carymagazine.com

Editor’s note: Submitted comments may be edited for length or clarity, and become the property of Cary Magazine

Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

Jean Guevarra You, DDS Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Now Accepting New Patients

Dr. Jean You with the team at Little Tooth Co. are pleased to announce that Dr. Cyelee Kulkarni is joining our practice

Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Friday Appointments Available. In-Network with Most Insurance Carriers. In-House Membership Plan Available

“...Dr. You was amazing. She was so kind,

“Dr. You is so knowledgeable, kind and patient...Highly recommend!”

“Dr. You is so knowledgeable, kind and patient...Highly recommend!”

and

put

but me as well. We’re thrilled to have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

Video Games, T.V.s, Photo Booth, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging Station, Coffee Bar & More “...Dr. You was amazing. She was so kind, patient and down-to-earth, and that not only put my son at ease, but me as well. We’re thrilled to have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

“I can not say enough good things about Dr. Jean You! She and her staff were extremely welcoming to my son and me at our recent visit. Dr. Jean was amazing with my son - very calm and comforting. She explained everything she was going to do before doing anything. You can tell that Dr. Jean has a true passion for this profession and loves what she does. We had an awesome experience at Little Tooth Co. and are so appreciative of the care that we received. If you are looking for a wonderful dentist to take your child to, you definitely need to become a

“I can not say enough good things about Dr. Jean You! She and her staff were extremely welcoming to my son and me at our recent visit. Dr. Jean was amazing with my son - very calm and comforting. She explained everything she was going to do before doing anything. You can tell that Dr. Jean has a true passion for this profession and loves what she does. We had an awesome experience at Little Tooth Co. and are so appreciative of the care that we received. If you are looking for a wonderful dentist to take your child to, you definitely need to become a

son at

-Brendan S.

-Erin D. Tel 919-303-2873 www.littletoothco.com info@littletoothco.com 504 W. Williams Street, Apex, NC 27502

Dr. Cyelee comes to us with a strong background in academia and plenty of experience both as a specialty clinician and as a mother of two. She is Board Certified, has years of private practice experience and a vast knowledge of pediatric dentistry. Most importantly, Dr. Cyelee is approachable, has a gentle calming demeanor and believes in working hand-in-hand with parents to achieve optimal dental health for their kids. She values putting the patient first and becoming an integral part of the community. Her compassion and dedication to her profession compliment our practice’s guiding philosophy to provide a nurturing dental home for children of all ages. We hope that you will help us welcome Dr. Cyelee and allow her the opportunity to win over the hearts of your little ones!

-Ayub A.

“I can not say enough good things about Dr. Jean You! She and her staff were extremely welcoming to my son and me at our recent visit. Dr. Jean was amazing with my son - very calm and comforting. She explained everything she was going to do before doing anything. You can tell that Dr. Jean has a true passion for this profession and loves what she does. We had an awesome experience at Little Tooth Co. and are so appreciative of the care that we received. If you are looking for a wonderful dentist to take your child to, you definitely need to become a patient of this practice!”

-Erin D.

Cameron ompson Photography

where dreams come true and cherished memories made

A beautiful new spacious venue with stunning courtyard overlooking lush green horse pastures and scenic pond.

Always and Forever 280 CLUBHOUSE LANE, APEX NC 27523 919-646-4020

10 THINGS TO DO

1There’s still time to see the NC Chinese Lantern Festival, returning to Koka Booth Amphitheatre for its eighth year! This year’s event features 40 all-new largerthan-life lanterns on display. In addition to the magic of lights, cultural arts performances will take place every night. 6–10 p.m. through Jan. 8. boothamphitheatre.com

2Celebrate the life, work, and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Town of Cary’s Dreamfest 2023. Events include inspiring tales of the civil rights movement, a storytelling children’s event, an interfaith service, and an opportunity for community service. Jan. 13–16; townofcary.org, search Dreamfest 2023.

3The winter months can seem a little bleak, but an evening of laughs with Jim Gaffigan is sure to lift your spirits! A six-time Grammy-nominated comedian, writer, producer, best-selling author, and Emmy-winning performer, Gaffigan brings his Dark Pale Tour to the Durham Performing Arts Center. Friday and Saturday, Jan. 27-28, 7–11 p.m. jimgaffigan.com

4Enjoy music for a cause at The Cary Theater’s Backseat Revival Benefit Concert. Backseat Revival is a Raleigh-based alt country/rockabilly duo, and 100% of the net proceeds of this concert will go to support the Police Benevolent Foundation. thecarytheater.com/event/ backseat-revival-benefit-concert/

Dreamfest

NC Chinese Lantern Festival

Dark Pale Tour

Jonathan Fredin

512 doughnuts. 5 miles. 1 hour. That’s what you have to look forward to at the 19th Annual Krispy Kreme Challenge, a studentrun, charity-based race dedicated to supporting the mission of the North Carolina Children’s Hospital. Saturday, Feb. 4, 8 a.m.; NC State Belltower, Raleigh. krispykremechallenge.com

6Prepare your spring “honey-do” list at the Downtown Raleigh Home Show and find the latest products and services for your home: builders, remodelers, contractors, storage solutions, kitchenware, and much more! Friday, Feb. 17, 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturday–Sunday, Feb. 18–19, 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Raleigh Convention Center. raleighspringshow.com

7Don’t miss the Southern Farm Show, the largest annual agricultural exposition in the Carolinas and Virginia. Hosted at the NC State Fairgrounds, the show hosts over 400 exhibitors, agricultural meetings, workshops and training, and everything farmers (and aspiring farmers) need to know for the upcoming growing season. Feb. 1–3, 9 a.m.–4 p.m. southernshows.com/sfs

8Experience photographer Charles Ruffin’s Prayer Walk for Social Justice 2020 Exhibit showcasing powerful images from Raleigh’s 6/6/20 prayer walk to promote prayer, social justice, and unity. Jan. 5 to Feb. 4, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Page Walker Arts & History Center. townofcary.org, search the calendar.

9Triangle Restaurant Week, a celebration of culinary excellence, is the perfect opportunity for local foodies to visit participating restaurants for special two- and three-course menu options. No reservations or tickets required! Jan. 23–29. trirestaurantweek.com

10Jurassic Quest is roaring into Raleigh, featuring life-size, sky-scraping dinosaur exhibits, walking dinosaur rides, a life-size T-rex skull, real fossils, and more! Friday, Jan. 20, 3–8 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 21, 9 a.m.–8 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 22, 9 a.m.–7 p.m.; Raleigh Convention Center. jurassicquest.shop/raleigh-nc

Krispy Kreme Challenge

Downtown Raleigh Home Show

Triangle Restaurant Week

Jurassic Quest

2 22 IN PICTURES

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Bond Park Ropes Course, March

Snow Day, January

Susu Hauser, August Spring Photo Essay, May

Fall Soups, October

Friends of Hemlock Bluffs, April

Pineapple Sol, May

Lazy Daze, August

Write Light, October

Spring Photo Essay, May

Big Mikes BBQ,

Sushi Suyu, September

Sushi Suyu, September

Pickleball, January/February

Write Light, March

Tea Cozy, January/February Colletta, October

Naked and Afraid’s Wes Harper, October

Lazy Daze, August

A’verde Cocina + Tequila Library, June/July

Spring Photo Essay, May

Sylvan Heights Bird Park, September

Local Celebrity Pets, August

Family Volunteerism, June/July

Write Light, September

B’s Barbecue, October

Maggy Party, April

Science Safari, March

Jackie Ferguson, September

Liquid Assets, November/December

Swagger, April

Spring Photo Essay, May

Pineapple Sol, May

Monticello, March

Glam Soldier, September Glam Soldier, September

Triangle Model Yacht Club, June/July

Big Mikes BBQ, April

Isaac Lund, Notable Teen, June/July

Spring Photo Essay, May

La Grassa Pastificio, January/February

4 Corners Diner, October

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Rachel Manetti, C-IAYT, MA, right, owner of Pure Resilience Yoga Therapy, works with client Anna Ernst of Cary. Ernst was Manetti’s first client in 2014.

Differently

Yoga Therapy

CARY RESIDENT and certified yoga therapist Rachel Manetti knows a thing or two about pain. The mother of three has broken both feet and her shoulder in three places, experienced migraines as a child that continued into adulthood, and suffered tragic loss in her personal life.

“All these different types of pain — the migraine, the bone breaks, the grief — have exposed me to all these different levels that we have to experience as a human, and in every one of those, whether I knew it or not, I used the toolkit of yoga therapy to heal,” said Manetti.

Manetti’s journey into the world of yoga therapy was unexpected, to say the least. A year after being laid off from her job during her pregnancy, her friend suggested that she get trained as a yoga instructor.

“At that point, I was staying at home and doing some contract work for my old company, and I said, ‘I think that sounds interesting,’” said Manetti. “I did a threeweek base-level yoga teacher intensive, which is the minimum amount

of training you need to do to teach in a studio or a gym in a mindful and safe way.”

After a few years of teaching fitness-oriented yoga, Manetti became interested in how bodies were moving (and how some bodies weren’t moving). During that time, she was introduced to the teachings of a yoga therapist based in Calgary whose focus was on helping people facing chronic pain through the tools of yoga. What followed was years of intensive training, hundreds of case studies, and many trips between Cary and Calgary — all while juggling three young kids.

“At the end of that training, you have actually set yourself up to be a bridge between this world of yoga and health care,” said Manetti. “As a certified yoga therapist, I am certified by the International Association of Yoga Therapists. I am trained in biomechanics and anatomy at a certain expected level, and then I have additional training in so many areas of yoga that aren’t addressed in depth in a studio or gym — like in-depth breathwork, mindfulness, and meditation. A huge part of my work is the philosophy and the framework of yoga, and how do I help people see their lives and their pain differently using that framework.”

The majority of Manetti’s clients experience chronic pain — which is defined as pain lasting for longer than three

TOP: “The people that I see have experienced pain in their lives and have found their way toward more relief by way of primary providers, specialty providers, complementary providers ... but they’re looking for more,” said Manetti.

ABOVE: As a certified yoga therapist, Manetti has many tools in her “yoga toolkit” to help her patients. Here, Anna Ernst uses a block for “closed chain movement,” or exercise that occurs when the hand or foot is fixed and cannot move.

Yoga Therapy Fun Facts:

• 70% of Manetti’s new clients have no prior yoga experience.

• Yoga can be small movements or no movements at all.

• Yoga therapy focuses on lifestyle choices and skillful decision-making.

• The point of meditation is to build attention, not necessarily to quiet or calm the mind.

What to Expect:

• 3-5 initial sessions, typically once a week.

• A personalized whole-health. whole-body approach.

• A “yoga toolkit” to take with you and integrate into your life.

months — whether that pain is physical, mental, or emotional.

“I think that chronic pain is more ubiquitous than we necessarily want to give it credit for,” said Manetti. “I think that the people who come to me, many of them do have true chronic pain clinically. They have multiple providers, but they can’t quite find enough relief. They’re looking for more.”

One such client is Jerry Lyn, who reached out to Manetti via her website and set up an initial consultation due to chronic stress and pain.

“This has been an amazing and unexpected experience for me,” said Lyn. “I would say that this practice is bringing everything all together for me. It has helped me look at my whole experience — mind, body, spirit — and to look deeply and experience my body in a new way.”

Many clients, like Chrissy (last name omitted for privacy), are referred to Manetti by other health practitioners.

“I was introduced to Rachel via my physical therapist,” said Chrissy. “I think that my yoga therapy experience has been different from many other clients, but the beauty of yoga therapy is that there are so many different ways to work with Rachel. Rachel has absolutely provided me with yoga poses and flows to work through physical pain, and the suggestions and modifications she provides are always exceptional. But where I've gained the most is through her sup-

port in other areas — meditation, Ayurvedic eating, intuitive movement, and really just better understanding what my body needs.”

To learn more about Rachel Manetti and Pure Resilience Yoga Therapy, visit pureresilienceyoga.com . For information on group classes or workshops, visit her blog (located on her website) and sign up for her newsletter.

Yoga can involve small movements or no movements at all. "Yoga is not just these fancy looking poses on the front of a magazine or on Instagram," said Manetti.

“This has been an amazing and unexpected experience for me. It has helped me look at my whole experience — mind, body, spirit — and to look deeply and experience my body in a new way.”

— Jerry Lyn, client, Pure Resilience Yoga Therapy

Safe and Sound Protocol

Dr. Amelia Kelley, owner of Kelley Counseling & Wellness, has worked in schools, outdoor therapy camps, day treatment programs, and an outpatient methadone clinic treating addiction and mental illness. With over two decades of experience under her belt, she understands the importance of an integrated approach to health care.

“I realized, probably because of being an art therapist and then just growing up as a dancer, just how much the body plays a role,” said Dr. Kelley. “Eventually I started to become more interested in trauma and stumbled upon the Polyvagal Theory, which is the basis for the Safe and Sound Protocol — the listening therapy that we offer.”

“My very good friend from years and years ago was a fellow under Dr. Stephen Porges, who is the godfather of this theory. He created a measurement device that assessed whether or not the therapy was working, and lo and behold, it’s helpful for regulating your nervous system, for regulating sleep, ADHD symptoms, tinnitus, appetite, or anything that the vagus nerve is responsible for.”

Safe and Sound Protocol is a passive listening therapy, meaning that you don’t have to do anything other than receive it. As a certified provider, Dr. Kelley delivers the

therapy virtually to clients over five sessions for one hour a day, five days in a row.

“It’s music that we’ve all heard, but has been altered to increase the higher pitched sounds that we tune into when we’re assessing if something is safe,” said Dr. Kelley. “A very good example would be the way that we speak to babies and young children — we kind of go into this lilt, and that is to help regulate the vagus nerve to know that everything is OK,” said Dr. Kelley.

“When we hear low frequencies more often, it sends danger signals to your vagus nerve. So you can think that you’re stressed or should be on high alert when that’s not necessarily the case. A sign that someone really could benefit from this is if they get very easily agitated by loud noises, crowds, or people chewing or talking too loudly. Those are all good signs that your vagus nerve is dysregulated

therapy

As a passive listening therapy, Safe and Sound Protocol can help with regulating sleep, ADHD symptoms, tinnitus, and much more.

and that this

will help.”

“A sign that someone really could benefit from this is if they get very easily agitated by loud noises, crowds, or people chewing or talking too loudly.”

— Dr. Amelia Kelley, owner, Kelley Counseling & Wellness

Dr. Amelia Kelley, owner of Kelley Counseling & Wellness, offers traditional "talk therapy" as well as a variety of other alternative options, including Safe and Sound Protocol and hypnotherapy.

Hypnotherapy

Another out-of-the-box therapy that Dr. Kelley provides is hypnotherapy — a way to bypass the constant chatter that blocks us from being connected to our subconscious mind.

“The subconscious mind is the underlying parts that are always there, that we don’t really realize are dictating a lot of our behaviors,” said Dr. Kelley. “A good way to explain it is that your subconscious mind is actually what drives you home from work — you’re not sitting there consciously thinking that you need to take a left turn to get on I-40. So this can be really helpful for knowing how to drive home from work or remembering to brush your teeth or saying god bless you when

Hypnotherapy Facts:

• The subconscious can “call” you to unhealthy, habitual behaviors.

someone sneezes, but it can also become highly problematic when that part of the brain dictates unhealthy behaviors.”

Hypnotherapy assists with unhealthy habits by putting the patient into a relaxed state where they’re more open to suggestions and new ways of trying something. It has been used to treat anger management, obsessive compulsive disorder, pain control, panic attacks, depression, weight loss, smoking cessation, phobias, and much more.

“I used hypnotherapy to help with chronic pain issues I was having after childbirth,” said one of Dr. Kelley’s clients (named omitted for privacy). “I was able to record the session that I did with Dr. Kelley on my phone so that I could listen to my personalized hypnosis session whenever I needed it.”

• Many phobias stem from irregular blood sugar because we associate the heightened nervous system state with something we should fear.

For those who are interested in hypnotherapy alone, Dr. Kelley provides a preliminary survey in lieu of a full clinical assessment. Patients should expect at least a 45-minute session, with at least 15 minutes dedicated to some psychoeducation about what they are going to experience.

“I really want people to realize that talk therapy can be creative, too, and not to be fearful or turned off by finding a really well-versed, integrative mental health therapist who has a bag of tricks in their toolbox,” said Dr. Kelley. “I think that the importance of having a stable relationship and someone who really knows you can help these alternative therapies be even more powerful.” t

kelley-counseling.com

• Hypnosis should NOT be used as treatment for chronic ongoing eating disorders or substance abuse issues.

Chapel Hill resident Sarah Hoffman wears headphones during a Safe and Sound Protocol therapy session.

BeyondBurnout

WE CAN’T TURN AROUND these days without hearing about burnout. Even the World Health Organization designated burnout an occupational phenomenon negatively impacting the workplace. And as a leadership development specialist and corporate culture consultant, I’m hearing about burnout at all levels. The good news is burnout doesn’t have to have us in a death grip. This year we can break free of the chokehold.

What’s happening?

First, let’s lay out what this occupational phenomenon feels like so we can better understand what we're up against. Imagine you’re running a marathon. You’ve trained for months, and you’ve made it through arduous hours of running. And then, just as you approach the 26.2 mile marker, just as you think relief and a glorious shower are ahead, you discover … oh, God no … it can’t be …

Somebody has moved the finish line.

You went into this thing knowing 26.2 miles was going to require everything in you, and now you have to keep running — with no end in sight. You want to collapse into a puddle of tears. That, my friend, is what burnout feels like.

The thing is, nobody can run forever. Even if you’ve trained well. Even if you’re wearing top-notch shoes and drinking your water. Even if you’ve been slurping down those gross gooey energy gels and you’ve got cheerleaders holding up signs at every mile marker … you still can’t run indefinitely.

Because you’re not supposed to.

What stopped me in my tracks?

Last spring, I literally collapsed in that puddle of

COACH

tears. At the time, I didn’t realize how little margin I had and how emotionally depleted I had become. It all came to a head when a friend called one afternoon and I didn’t want to answer the phone. I knew this call would be one sided and require me to draw from an emotional well of support that was dry. Despite this, I answered the phone. She talked and I teared up. The straw. The camel. I didn’t have it in me to care — as awful as that is to admit.

That feeling is called compassion fatigue, and it’s one of the first signs of burnout. So I did what any self-respecting human who makes a career out of personal development would do: I finished crying and bought a slice of salted caramel cake from Nantucket.

When I finally pulled myself together, I realized this was less about her and way more about me, my lack of emotional boundaries, and my season of overcommitment.

This realization put me square in the ring with burnout. I was determined to win the battle and regain control of my life. So, I got busy (in all the right ways) trying to better understand the cause and impact of burnout. I interviewed local execs, experimented with burnout recovery tactics, and researched ways to burnout-proof my life.

One consistent theme in all my research was self-awareness. We know that at least 80% of people say they are or have been crispy crunchy burned out, and most are trying to course correct. But the long-term solution to burnout is deeper than a bubble bath or a walk in the park.

At this point you may be saying, “Great … where’s the offramp, Jes? Tell me how I can get out of this never-ending race.” Yes, these are the right questions to ask. But to really dig deep, I need to ask you a question first.

CONTRIBUTED BY JES AVERHART, PERSONAL EMPOWERMENT

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

Jes Averhart, Personal Empowerment Coach

Who’s moving your finish line?

Think deeply before you answer. Sure, in some instances, it is you. It’s normal these days to take pride in our world-record pace, wearing it like a badge of honor. But in most cases, it’s not. Often, we see the leaders in our workplace adjusting the race ribbon with unrealistic deadlines or increased responsibility because they are also running at a record pace or understaffed. And society at large rewards high achievers by saying we are only worthy if we have sacrificed to the point of exhaustion.

But the truth is, if you don’t want to burn out, you have to stop living like you’re on fire.

My recent bout with burnout and research on the topic has led me to write a book and create a program addressing how to recover from and prevent burnout. While the results are too layered to share in a single article, you can make significant changes just by doing the following five things:

1. Schedule time for rest — daily. Working from a place

Jes Averhart

of rest versus earning the right to rest will change your life. And because we’re all unique, you’ll need to experiment with different types of rest to determine what truly refreshes your soul. For example, one of our staff members finds swimming laps to be restorative; another prefers coloring or going for long drives without a destination. Whatever restores you, make time to do it every day.

“You went into this thing knowing 26.2 miles was going to require everything in you, and now you have to keep running — with no end in sight. You want to collapse into a puddle of tears. That, my friend, is what burnout feels like.”

2. Break the stress cycle — daily. I highly recommend Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle by Dr. Emily Nagoski and Dr. Amelia Nagoski. In this book, the Nagoski sisters recommend taking actions to break the stress cycle each and every day. That means things like hugging someone for 20 seconds, moving your body, or getting creative.

3. Use filters to prioritize where you invest energy. When you don’t filter your obligations, everything seems equally important and urgent. Everything sounds like a fire alarm, demanding your immediate attention. When you apply a filter, you’ll see that only a fraction of those obligations are actually real. To cut through the noise, I like to ask myself the following three questions:

o Does this thing NEED to be done?

o Does it need to be done NOW?

o Does it need to be done BY ME?

4. Find your wave and get up on your board . Like a surfer who stands up at just the right time to harness the energy of a beautiful and life-giving wave, find an activity that energizes you — an emotional wave, if you will. Celebrate it. Enjoy the moment.

5. Flip the script on what makes you feel worthy. Instead

of exalting burnout cul ture, let’s actively resist. When someone asks how you’re doing, tell them how rested you are. Talk about how happy you are when you have mar gin in your schedule. Resist the urge to cel ebrate exhaustion and overwork.

Applying even one of these prin ciples this year may help you identify the finish line and do it on your terms. With that in mind, let 2023 be the year where you take your agency back and design a life that’s BEYOND BURNOUT.

One where you lead, parent, love, and live replenished — full of margin, fulfillment, and rest at its core. At the end of the day, that’s the good stuff. And I promise, it’s within reach. t

Better Together.

At Windsor Point, we know everything’s better when you’re close to those you love. New residents relocating to Southern Wake want their family and friends to move close and enjoy all the area has to o er.

Conveniently located in the heart of Fuquay-Varina, Windsor Point residents enjoy living close to shopping, recreational and cultural opportunities, as well as major medical centers.

Our community is custom-made for its residents who choose from a selection of cottages and apartments, exible dining plans and tness options. Housekeeping, maintenance, and transportation worries become a thing of the past.

Windsor Point is a Life Plan Community with Continuing Care providing Independent and Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing. Even if health needs keep couples apart, at Windsor Point our levels of care allow loved ones to remain close to one another.

For more information about joining us, call our Marketing Department at 919-552-4580 or visit us online at windsorpoint.com.

Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing

PREMIER PRACTICES

To find the best medical care for your family, look no further. From the top of your head to the tips of your toes, these local professionals cover it all.

Ashworth Drugs is celebrating 65 years of community pharmacy on the corner in downtown Cary. Pharmacists Cori Strickland and Paul Ashworth have been practicing together at Ashworth’s for more than 30 years, making them the most experienced pharmacist team in the Cary area.

Cori and Paul each received their pharmacy degrees from The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, the #1 ranked pharmacy school in the United States. Their mission is to help you understand your medicines; how they work to help you, how to take them appropriately, and how to manage side effects. Proper use of medicines is one of the most important things you can do to keep yourself alive and out of the hospital. Put Cori’s and Paul’s expertise to work for you to help you get the most benefit out of your drug therapy.

Ashworth’s works with most private

insurance and Medicare Part D companies and are preferred providers with many carriers to ensure you get the lowest co-pays possible. In addition, non-covered medicines are heavily discounted, to give you the best value for your dollars spent. The pharmacy also provides free home delivery of prescriptions to Cary zip codes 27511 and 27513.

In addition to helping you with prescriptions, Ashworath Drugs also has a wide selection of other specialty pharmacy products. They offer medical equipment for sales and rentals, such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and crutches. They also stock bathroom equipment like bedside commodes, raised toilet seats, and shower chairs. Other items include bathroom safety rails and grab bars.

Other unique pharmacy products include specialized wound care dressings, Mueller sports medicine braces and supports, and Therafirm compression hosiery.

PREMIER PRACTICES

YOU. RENEWED.

That’s the mantra at Cary’s Azura Skin Care Center led by 14-year aesthetics industry veteran Jennie Kowaleski, PA-C. In a practice where one of the most common client concerns heard is, “I don’t want to look unnatural,” Azura’s goal for any aesthetic treatment is to enhance your unique, natural beauty and never to overdo it or make you look like someone else. With an experienced provider, a plan can be created to ensure you’re comfortable with your treatments and happy with the outcome.

2022 marked Azura’s sixth year in the Cary community providing medical aesthetics, spa services, and professional-grade skin care products. But what exactly is included under the umbrella of “medical aesthetics”? Injectable treatments like BOTOX®, JUVÉDERM, and KYBELLA® are, of course, client favorites. In addition to injectables, clients

can reduce the appearance of fine lines and maintain a healthy glow with facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, lasers such as Halo™, photofacials such as BBL – BroadBand Light™, and laser hair reduction.

Azura has also expanded in recent years to include cosmetic procedures like liposuction, lipotransfer, scarless breast reduction, and skin tightening under direction of Dr. Angelo Tellis, Azura’s medical director.

In March of 2021, Azura proudly moved to 1149 Kildaire Farm Road, offering the growing practice room to offer even more procedures and appointments to clients visiting from across the Triangle area—and beyond! Consultations and appointments are offered Monday through Saturday and can be requested online at azuraskin.com/contact/request-an-appointment/ or by calling 919-307-8033.

AZURA SKIN CARE

1149 KILDAIRE FARM ROAD CARY, NC 27511 (919) 307-8033 azuraskin.com

INTRODUCING DR. KERI KENNING

At Bovenizer and Baker Orthodontics, two of our core values are Deliver Wow Through Service and Push the Envelope of Excellence. Our doctors and team work with these values in mind every day and strive to provide the best customer service possible while creating beautiful smile transformations. Dr. Bovenizer and Dr. Baker’s passion for excellent smiles and outstanding customer service led them to bring another doctor to the practice in October of 2022.

Dr. Keri Kenning is a Board-Certified Orthodontist and a board member and advisor for Invisalign who has previously practiced in both Asheville and Charlotte. She completed her B.A. at the University of Kansas, D.D.S. from Creighton University School of Dentistry, and Certificate in Orthodontics from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Prior to

becoming an orthodontist, she worked as a marine biologist, writer, and speaker for a marine conservation nonprofit in Key Largo, Florida. Her favorite pastimes include scuba diving, exploring America’s national parks, playing tennis and pickleball, and cheering on the Kansas Jayhawks.

After meeting with several doctors from around the nation, Drs. Bo and Baker knew Dr. Keri was the perfect fit for the office. There are now three qualified doctors to care for each patient and make sure everyone gets the high level of care Bovenizer and Baker Orthodontics has always stood for.

“It is an honor to join Dr. Bo and Dr. Baker, and I look forward to being a part of your smile transformations. To those of you I have met, thank you for the warm welcome. To those of you I haven’t met yet, I look forward to seeing you soon!” says Dr. Keri.

Putting patient safety, satisfaction and beautiful outcomes first has been the herald of CARE Plastic Surgery. Dr. Brian S. Coan, Founder of CARE, is an award-winning, nationally renowned, board certified plastic surgeon.

Recently voted Best Plastic Surgeon again in Cary, Dr. Coan and CARE are no strangers to awards for safety and beautiful aesthetic results. After being featured on the Emmy award winning television program “The Doctors,” and winning Best Plastic Surgeon in Durham, N.C., for seven consecutive years, CARE moved to a larger facility to meet increasing patient demand. Located in Cary, the CARE office offers two state-of-the-art operating facilities in a contemporary setting. As a destination location for plastic surgery patients, the Cary location offers the convenience of a five-minute drive to the RDU airport and a variety of international restaurants and hotels for out-of-town guests.

Dr. Coan is an MIT graduate who brings his enthusiasm for technology in aesthetics and plastic surgery to CARE by incorporating virtual imaging to help patients visualize potential post-surgical results. CARE’s popular slogan, “Results so natural we hate calling our surgery plastic,” was coined by a former patient who still raves about her CARE experience.

CARE’s most popular treatments include the lunchtime facelift, Botox & filler injectables, laser treatments, body contouring, liposuction, and plastic surgery of the breast, body and face.

Dr. Coan is also passionate about supporting local education and is active in non-profit and philanthropic endeavors.

When not consulting with patients or in the operating room, Dr. Coan enjoys spending time with his wife and two young daughters.

With over 15 years of experience, Carolina Retina Institute (CRI) has proudly served patients across the Triangle area for their comprehensive ophthalmology needs.

Dr. Amit Kumar focuses on holistic eye care instead of only treating current onset symptoms. This has been particularly critical in this environment where multiple doctor office visits can prolong patient care and the patient's financial burden. “Our patients don’t have to go to multiple doctors for diabetes evaluation, glaucoma, retina diseases, or cataracts,” states Dr. Kumar. Instead, Dr. Kumar is able to medically and surgically treat most eye conditions including, but not limited to: diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, retinal detachments, cataracts, and dry eyes at CRI. Such comprehensive care allows patients to reduce the number of visits and financial strain, while providing greater emotional security for care.

In addition to his experience and credentials, Dr. Kumar is often

acknowledged for his level of care. His attention to detail and compassion are cornerstones of patient care; his calm and non-rushed demeanor allows him to fully address patients’ concerns and explain the prognosis and treatment plan. This puts patients at ease and allows them to feel confident about what’s to come regarding their eye care needs.

Dr. Kumar and CRI are humbled to receive accolades from the community and health care organizations, including the Best Eye Doctor Maggy Award in 2018 & 2022 from Cary Magazine, a BCBS Blue Distinction designation for being efficient and providing value to our patients, and fivestar Google reviews for our patient-centered practice. We are a WakeMed High Value Specialist committed to enhancing quality and reducing unnecessary cost to ensure the delivery of value-based care. We participate in the Clear Pricing Project, resulting in lower specialist co-pay for patients.

INDEPENDENT EYE CARE IN CARY

Cary Family Eye Care has been a leader in eye care in the Triangle since 2008. Owned by husband-and-wife optometrists, Dr. Dwight Barnes and Dr. Kelly Barnes, Cary Family Eye Care is dedicated to understanding their patients’ needs and providing personalized care. Over the past decade or so there has been a tremendous amount of consolidation in eye care, and today most eye care clinics are owned by large corporate entities. Cary Family Eye Care is and always has been fiercely independent. They realize that their patients are unique and require individualized solutions.

One way they provide this care is by focusing on independent brands in their optical gallery. These unique frame collections allow their patients to express their personality and avoid having glasses that look like everyone else. Being a small business, they try to partner with other small businesses that put quality and style first. Their optical team is experienced and can help find just the right look for you.

Eye exams are more than just determining your glasses or contact lens prescription. They assess your eye health and detect conditions that can lead to vision loss. Cary Family Eye Care focuses on preventive care and utilizes advanced technology to thoroughly evaluate your eyes. The Optomap retinal exam allows visualization of over 80% of the retina without dilating drops. The iWellness exam can view the individual layers of the retina to detect issues before they are visible by traditional means. The Quantifeye macular pigment test can detect an important modifiable risk factor for macular degeneration and help lower your risk for vision loss.

Perhaps the most important way that Cary Family Eye Care provides personalized care is their friendly and professional staff. The team at Cary Family Eye Care consistently goes the extra mile to ensure a comfortable experience and thorough care for each patient. You can trust the doctors and staff at Cary Family Eye Care for all your eye care needs.

BEAUTY AND CONFIDENCE RESTORED TO YOUR SMILE

Cary Prosthodontics is proud to be an innovated leader in the replacement of missing and broken down teeth in Cary and nationwide.

Both Dr. Brandon Kofford and Dr. Kevin Lim have been involved in developing and educating other providers about a patentpending process that has transformed the patient experience for the “Teeth-in-a-DayTM” treatment concept. The process allows patients to have a better esthetic outcome, while reducing the postsurgical discomfort. All this is achieved without compromising the integrity of the temporary fixed bridge during the healing period. Most patients can have their teeth removed, implants placed, and an interim prosthesis attached to the implants in the same appointment.

Cary Prosthodontics keeps the patient’s experience and satisfaction at the forefront of every procedure, customizing your smile to make sure your teeth not only look and feel great, but also function well. During

the entire process of smile design, they will evaluate the jaw for adequate bone availability with a 3D x-ray. They then use a digital smile design process to fabricate teeth that can be used to replace your existing teeth.

Dr. Lim and Dr. Kofford received their master’s degrees in Prosthodontics, specializing in the most complex dental problems. Their advanced training includes full mouth rehabilitation, dental implants, dentures, cosmetic dentistry, jaw joint issues, bridges, crowns, and veneers. Their interest lies in the utilization of digital workflows to meet the complex needs of their patients whether it be a digital denture or in planning and executing digital implants.

Dr. Kofford and Dr. Lim find fulfillment in witnessing the positive impact that restoring someone's smile can make in their life. Cary Prosthodontics keeps a welcoming and relaxing environment for all of their patients so that they enjoy coming to their dental office.

EXPECT TO BE TREATED LIKE FAMILY

Taking care of your body pays dividends. Yet, such a simple concept can still feel out of reach. Bridging this gap is where Dr. Dent has excelled sine beginning his private practice over 11 years ago. Working with his patients to understand the nature of their injury first, only then can they work as a team to develop a strategy and solution to meet patient goals. At Doc’s Spine & Sports Medicine, educating patients on the nature of their injury and informing them on ways to help their body heal is key. Another objective is to helping patients take ownership of their health and lives independently without pain. Minor injuries can have significant consequences and when you’re in pain, your daily life suffers. Dr. Dent understands that and focuses on keeping you in the game for as long as you want to be in it. Everyone that

enters his office can expect to be treated like family. His patient testimonials reflect an environment where Dr. Dent focuses on learning about a patient’s injury history, current condition, and future goals. There is no better satisfaction and joy than the success of seeing his client’s health improve. Dr. Dent originally opened a private practice in Texas, interned at the Dallas VA hospital, was the onsite Chiropractor at Heavenly Hands Birthing Center, and was the Chiropractor for the Collin County Rattlers semi-pro football team. Dr. Dent and his family relocated to the Raleigh area in 2017 upon opening his practice at the Arboretum in Cary. He is boardcertified, specializing in chiropractic and physiotherapy. He resides in New Hill, NC, with his wife Kristi and their three sons, Jack, Carter, and Davis.

KEEPING CARY HEALTHY & HYDRATED

Hydrate Medical is a lifestyle IV hydration company focused on health, wellness, and recovery to help people boost their energy and speed up recovery. Hydrate Medical provides clients with researched IV hydration treatments delivered by qualified medical professionals and licensed nurses. Co-owners Dr. Jonathan Leake and Keith Parris ACNP had been fighting diseases in the ER for years but wanted to help people live healthier and happier lives. One of the most popular drips, the Myers

Cocktail, is used to treat conditions from chronic fatigue to migraines. This drip includes Super B, vitamin C, and B12 as well as other vitamins. Another popular drip is the Hydrate Super Immune Boost, which is packed with vitamin C and zinc. In addition to IV hydration treatments, Hydrate Medical offers B12 shots, weight loss, Ketamine, and NAD therapy treatments. You can sit-back, relax, and unwind in Hydrate Medical’s spa-like atmosphere. Feel Great. Hydrate.

CULTIVATING A NEW GENERATION OF HEALTHY SMILES

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears or no later than their first birthday in order to prevent dental problems. Board-certified pediatric dentists Dr. Jean You and Dr. Cyelee Kulkarni are experts in treating the unique dental needs of children and babies. Taking your child to see a pediatric dentist is similar to taking them to see a pediatrician. Dr. Jean and Dr. Cyelee are not just tooth doctors! As pediatric dentists, they are also trained in child psychology, behavior modification, child pharmacology, and the pediatric airway. Did you know that Dr. Cyelee is a recognized professor and clinician in her field? Before joining our practice, she served as program director of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania. Both Dr. Jean and Dr. Cyelee understand that they play a key role as a resource of pediatric dental

knowledge in the community. Being mothers themselves, they bring a gentle and calming approach to their patient care and believe in working hand-in-hand with parents to achieve optimal dental health for their kids.

At Little Tooth Co., we place great importance on prevention and education. Our team takes the time to explain preventative care, hygiene, and treatment needs at every visit. Our office is geared towards the comfort of your child, with specially designed equipment in a fun and safe atmosphere for them to enjoy! We offer a wide range of treatment options, as well as expertise and training to care for your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. When your pediatrician suggests that your child receive a dental exam, you can rest assured that our team will provide the best possible care. If you haven’t done so already, don’t forget to schedule your child’s first dental check-up with our doctors!

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SMILES WITH STYLE

Smiles are always in Style! Lowery Smiles is a dental practice devoted to restoring and enhancing the natural beauty of your smile, using conservative, stateof-the-art procedures that will result in beautiful, long lasting smiles! Led by Dr. Siti A. Lowery, they are proud to be an active part of the Cary community. A standard of excellence in personalized dental care enables the Lowery Smiles dental team to provide the quality dental services that patients deserve. This is what sets them apart. Lowery Smiles strives to build a firm foundation of trust by treating their patients as special individuals. This is vital to success! The team at Lowery Smiles will do their utmost to create a relaxing and positive experience for you. They understand how uneasy some patients may feel about their dental visits. The entire team is dedicated to providing you with excellent, personalized

care and service to make your visits as comfortable and pleasant as possible. Dr. Lowery (who has practiced in the field 25 years) completed her Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) at the University of Maryland, after receiving a Bachelor of Science from Spelman College. In addition, she completed a two-year General Practice Residency at Wake Forest University. Her repertoire includes cosmetic dentistry, advanced training in implant dentistry, Clear Aligners, and sleep apnea/snoring oral appliance therapy. Her team attends dental conventions, dental lectures, and meetings to stay informed of new techniques, the latest products, and the newest equipment that a modern dental office can utilize to provide state-of-the-art dental care. Dr. Lowery and her team would like to extend an invitation for you to enhance your Smile.

Lowery Smiles, Dentistry with Style!

AN ORTHODONTIST WHO IS CLEARLY HELPING PATIENTS SMILE.

When Dr. Robert B. Nay opened NAY orthodontics in 2013, it was to realize his dream of helping patients improve their smiles. “Moving teeth can transform not just one’s esthetics but overall self-confidence,” he says. “When the patients are finished, all of their hard work is rewarded in their smile, which says it all, and that’s what I love the most.”

For Dr. Nay, it is the relationship he builds with patients that are paramount to his practice.

“We tend to schedule fewer patients per day so we can focus on not only the treatment but also on building rapport with patients. Patients can expect to come in and feel like they’re part of our family.”

Lately, many of Dr. Nay’s patients have been opting for Invisalign clear aligners over clear braces. “The research and design has refined Invisalign’s ability to better move teeth with more precision and control.” Among many of the advantages is the ability to improve one’s smile with a clear and practically invisible tray that is removable while eating, brushing, and flossing. Invisalign is less invasive on oral tissues, and patients benefit from longer monthly intervals between appointments.

Dr. Nay welcomes you to come in for a complimentary smile evaluation to see if Invisalign or other orthodontic treatment can improve your smile.

For patients with sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, coordinating care between several practices can be, well, a nightmare. Patients may find themselves needing a sleep doctor, a sleep lab or hospital, and a durable medical equipment provider. Enter Parkway SleepHealth Centers, a comprehensive sleep center designed to give patients with sleep problems a one-stop shop for all their sleep needs.

Founded in Cary in 2004, Parkway SleepHealth Centers is locally owned and operated by Brian June and his daughter and son-in-law, Meghan and Brandon Giegling. They understand the importance of high-quality sleep and the health issues that can arise from untreated sleep disorders.

Parkway offers consultations and follow ups with their board-certified sleep physicians and knowledgeable physician assistants, sleep studies in their comfortable and homey sleep lab, and provides CPAP machines and supplies, as well. Patients of Parkway often find that the cost of sleep studies and CPAP equipment is much lower at Parkway than other area providers—for the exact same services and supplies.

Parkway is accredited with the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and is committed to providing quality, comprehensive care to its community.

CREATING A FUN DENTAL EXPERIENCE FOR CHILDREN

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry has a state-of-the-art facility just for kids conveniently located in Cary, NC, just down the hall from the Cary Family office. Walk across the drawbridge and into the lobby where patients will be transported into a magical world of castles and dragons.

Seeing patients from their first tooth to age 13, Dr. Leslie Gazdeck and Dr. Jackie Garner provide gentle, comprehensive care specifically for children. The brand new office space allows Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry to put a greater emphasis on pediatric dental care, including complete dental exams, routine teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, dental procedures, restorations and more.

For children nervous about visiting the dentist, the Cary Kids office offers

behavior management with nitrous oxide and sedation.

Dr. Garner has had a passion for working with children since she began practicing over 10 years ago. She is proficient in numerous areas of dentistry including fillings, extractions, crowns and utilizing nitrous oxide. Dr. Garner’s goal is to provide a fun, educational visit for every patient.

Dr. Yuan Gazdeck is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist who grew up in Cary, NC! Her goal is to create positive dental experiences for her patients so they can become adults who enjoy going to the dentist. She believes in the large role of diet causing cavities, and the importance of treating primary teeth in ways that are predictable and successful. Dr. Gazdeck and Dr. Garner are excited to serve the children of the Triangle.

Leslie Yuan Gazdek, DDS, MSD, left Jacqueline Garner, DDS, right

PATIENT-FOCUSED DENTAL CARE

FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry has proudly served families across the Triangle for over 20 years with comprehensive, patient-focused dental care. Through the use of state-of-the-art technology, the highly trained team works to educate patients and provide them with the information they need to make the best decisions about their dental health.

In May of 2000, Dr. Michael Riccobene opened his doors with the goal of bringing affordable, quality dental care to the Triangle. He founded Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry on the principles that his parents instilled him, “do the right thing, treat people well and always take care of family.”

Since then, his first practice has grown to over 40 offices across North Carolina. Riccobene Associates has been voted “Best Dentist” in Wake and Johnston counties for

more than 10 years and was recently named a Fast 50 Company by Triangle Business Journal.

Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry delivers both general and specialty care with a team of general dentists, orthodontists, pediatric dentists, prosthodontists, periodontists, oral surgeons and endodontists.

Dr. Leena Rao and Dr. Evita McAdoo help lead the care team at the Cary Family office. Dr. Rao has practiced for over 20 years and her holistic approach to dentistry helps patients overcome their dental anxiety while empowering them to make informed decisions about their health. Dr. McAdoo prides herself on establishing meaningful relationships with her patients while providing personalized treatment plans that cater to their specific needs. Riccobene Associates Family Dentistry looks forward to brightening your smile!

Leena Rao BDS, DMD, AEGD, left Evita McAdoo, DDS, right

There is never a dull moment for local family dentists Drs. Robert and Bobbi Stanley. The Cary-based practice owners are parents of four and proud partners of Stanley Dentistry, a comprehensive practice near Preston. They are founders and lead instructors at Stanley Institute for Comprehensive Dentistry, a dental continuing education organization, and have been providing world-class dental care in central Cary since 1995.

Initially, Dr. Robert Stanley was a partner in business, and Dr. Bobbi was the only dentist. However, in 2008, Dr. Robert joined the clinical side as a full-time dentist. “It just made sense for Rob to join me in practicing dentistry,” said Dr. Bobbi. “It is rare to go back to school for an entirely new career when you’re already a successful engineer. But he saw how much I truly enjoyed my work, and he had been interested in dentistry since spending time in his grandfather’s Chicago dental practice as a child.”

In the practice, Dr. Rob enjoys procedures like dental implants, oral surgery, and sedation dentistry, while Dr. Bobbi focuses on cosmetics and Invisalign. In addition, Dr. David Baranowski and Dr. Monica Wheeler joined the practice to focus on general, restorative, and pediatric dentistry. The result is a practice that serves the dental needs of the entire family under one roof.

PREMIER PRACTICES

www.stanleysmiles.com

Triangle Physicians for Women is a fullservice practice offering appointments with physicians as well as midwives. Our physicians and midwives work together on a daily basis in the same office making the process for consulting and referral seamless, allowing you to get the complete care that you need.

The healthcare providers at our practice have the training to address the obstetric and gynecological needs of women throughout their lives placing particular emphasis on wellness and prevention in order to educate women to care for and respect their bodies. Come experience the difference.

THE EXCEPTIONAL IS NOT UNCOMMON

At TrueCare Dentistry, our entire staff is passionate about offering the best in patient care and dental services. Dr. Patrick Lawrence and Dr. Nicole Cucchi provide patients with unsurpassed preventative, restorative, and cosmetic dental services for the entire family.

Maintaining your dental health starts right here at TrueCare Dentistry. Our services include general dentistry, same-day crowns, Invisalign, Zoom

teeth whitening, implant restoration, pediatric dentistry, and more. We utilize all the latest technology and superior materials with numerous amenities for your comfort.

Schedule a new patient exam today and receive a complimentary take-home tooth-whitening kit or an Oral B electric toothbrush as our gift to you.

To learn more about our practice, visit TrueCareDentistryNC.com.

Spa by Jing

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRYAN REGAN

SPA BY JING, the 2022 Maggy Award winner for Best Spa, offers the perfect fusion of Eastern and Western techniques for a unique and high-end spa experience. Owned by Jing Lin-Macleod, who has over 20 years of expertise providing facial and massage services, and staffed by a team of fully licensed, experienced professionals, this local gem offers Asian-style deep-tissue massage, anti-aging acupressure facials, and a variety of other services that are tailored to meet the needs of every client who walks through the door.

Meet the owner!

I was born in South China and moved to the US about 20 years ago — I was the last of my family to immigrate

here. I graduated number one in my class from the CMM Monita Beauty Academy in Hong Kong, the most prestigious beauty college in China. I was trained by Cheng Ming Ming, who invented permanent makeup. I studied in the US to blend Asian and Western techniques. Currently, I live in Cary with my husband, daughters (ages 9 and 10), and giant Great Pyrenees.

When did Spa by Jing open?

After many years of experience in aesthetics and semi-permanent makeup, I opened a spa location in 2016 near Cary Crossroads, then expanded to our current location at 570 New Waverly Place in Cary in 2019 for more space.

What inspired you to open your business?

The inspiration came from the clients. It really stemmed from a desire to take the best care of my clients as possible. Many of my clients have become friends, and we’ve been together for over 15 years. How could I give them the best treatments possible? On my own, I could cater to them and give them a more luxurious service experience combining techniques from the East and West.

What do you love about owning a business in Cary?

Staying connected to the community and being able to have great relationships with so many interesting and successful indi-

Hot stone massage therapy at Spa by Jing promotes deeper muscle relaxation through the placement of smooth, water-heated stones at key points on the body.

After many years of experience in aesthetics and semi-permanent makeup, owner Jing Lin-Macleod first opened her spa in 2016.

Cupping therapy is an alternative therapeutic method that has been popular in China since before 1000 B.C.

viduals in the surrounding area. It has been my only home outside of China and has been a quiet, peaceful place to raise a family.

What services do you offer?

Specialized skin care, semi-permanent makeup, eyelash extensions, body treatments, and massage.

What is the most popular service?

Both the Ultimate Hydra-Max Facial

with AQUAGOLD treatment and Hybrid Massage, as well as many other services that are unique to Spa by Jing and created by Jing.

What sets your business apart?

We cater to clients that expect the best service and quality for themselves in more of a boutique environment. We are careful not to be compared to franchise-type spas or independent pop-ups that tend to be temporary.

What is the most challenging aspect of owning a business?

Staffing and space. We are constantly booked out and think often about expansion and/or larger locations. We also have strict hiring standards that tend to constrict our applicant pool. It is the most challenging aspect, since our quality of service is our top priority and why we have such a loyal client base.

Don’t be shy — share your accolades!

• 2016 International Permanent Makeup Competition in Shanghai, China Judge Official

• Certified Esthetician of International CIDESCO Association

• 2008, 2009 Best Spa Services Award Winner, RDU 100 Points Club

• 2022 Best Spa Maggy Award winner for Cary Magazine

Anything else we should know?

As an immigrant, I am proud to combine two different techniques from the East and West to give the best experience to our clients. A big thank-you to this country and all the friendly guests who helped me find my worth and my dreams in this business. Because the community has given me so much, I try to give back when we can. Over the years, we have been sponsoring the North Carolina professional cricket team, the NC ZR team for BJJ, CAFA (Chinese and American Friendship Association of NC), CUSA (a club at NCSU with the goal of promoting Chinese culture at the university), the Raleigh Ballet School, and more. t spabyjing.com

Spa by Jing is equipped with six treatment rooms. Two private suites are available for couple massages and triple massages.

Ashiatsu, also known as a “back walking massage,” is performed with the therapist’s feet while using overhead bars to provide support and balance. This improves flexibility, reduces stress, and has longer lasting effects.

To add to its list of accolades, Spa by Jing was voted the Cary Magazine 2022 Maggy Award Winner for Best Spa.

“As an immigrant, I am proud to combine two different techniques from the East and West to give the best experience to our clients.”

— Jing Lin-Macleod, Owner

The Ultimate Hydra-Max Facial includes the added benefit of a cooling oxygen mist and LED treatment light. This targets not only the skin on your face, but also your neck, décolletage, and scalp for improved hair growth and density.

nonprofit spotlight

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY BRYAN REGAN

Small Hands Big Hearts United

“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve. You don’t have to have a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and your verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace, a soul generated by love.”

— Martin Luther King Jr.

IT’S EASY TO volunteer, but as many parents will tell you, it’s not always easy to volunteer with kids. Small Hands Big Hearts United (SHBHU), a nonprofit dedicated to nurturing compassion in children by providing accessible volunteer opportunities to all, is here to change that.

“It doesn’t really matter your age; your voice will be heard in this organization,” said Salim Alvi, a junior at Cary Academy and one of several teen ambassadors in the organization. “When I was younger, I remember feeling really involved, even though I was smaller than the other kids there. I still felt that I was contributing.”

Executive Director Anita Pease started SHBHU following the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan in 2013 after her oldest daughter, Isabella, asked one simple question: “Mom and Dad, what are we doing to help those kids in the Philippines?”

“It wasn’t in the cards to go there financially, but we put the question back on her and asked her what she thought we should do,” said Pease. “She started brainstorming and said she could make bracelets, and the whole time my husband and I are just looking at each other and thinking we need to encourage whatever comes out of her mouth. So we went and got the stuff and she made the bracelets, and it started off really small, just like that.”

This simple exchange sparked SHBHU’s first “compassion mission” to help the victims of Typhoon Haiyan. Families across

Green Hope High School juniors and Teen Ambassadors Krish Patel, left, and Prithu Bapu prepare to stuff breakfast bags for senior citizens in need.

— Will Bartley, Teen Ambassador

the Triangle helped sell dozens of hats and bracelets, raising over $600. Before they knew it, a nonprofit was born.

SHBHU holds monthly meetings so kids of all ages can brainstorm, plan initiatives, discuss fundraisers, and more. By partnering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity, the Ronald McDonald House, and Oak City Cares (to name a few), and by giving children the freedom to pave the way forward, SHBHU breaks down any age restrictive, logistical, or financial barriers that could hinder a child’s desire to make a difference.

Wyatt Davis, a junior at Apex High School, has been involved in SHBHU since it was founded. Although he has participated in many compassion missions over the years, his favorite is Flip Out for Skylar, a year-round initiative pitched by another teenage participant, Mia Pease, who makes custom flip-flops to raise funds to find a cure for cystic fibrosis.

“My sister has cystic fibrosis, and the doctors told her she wouldn’t be able to do a lot of physical activity like running, sports, and whatnot, but Skylar’s a cheerleader,” said Davis. “I think it kind of surprised Mia when Skylar was doing flips in the air, because she was a flyer. So that’s the reason behind the name Flip Out for Skylar.”

“Hate is learned, but kindness can be learned very easily by helping out and volunteering . It’s really important for people to go out and do something nice for someone else .

I think it helps you, too.”

Made with love: Small Hands Big Hearts United volunteers decorated Thanksgiving-themed breakfast bags for their Sunrise for Seniors Breakfast Bags of Love compassion mission.

From left: Teen Ambassadors Sami Tiernan, Isabella Pease, Will Bartley, Wyatt Davis, and Salim Alvi

In addition to local volunteer opportunities, SHBHU has extended its compassion efforts to Haiti, Thailand, the Dominican Republic, and Syria.

“One child proposed the compassion mission Socks for Syria because she had learned about the refugees in Syria,” said Pease. “She was like, ‘They’re walking around barefoot and need socks!’ So she started a collection drive for socks and ended up collecting 2,000 pairs. It was simple, but it exposed the issue to other children and made them more aware of what was going on in the world.”

If Pease has learned anything over the years, it’s that when given the opportunity, kids will surprise you with their ingenuity, compassion, and willingness to lead.

“I’m sure that some people who aren’t really familiar with our organization are like, where are the adults?” said Pease, laughing. “It’s run by the kids — every meeting, even every

fundraiser we have. We purposely stay back. They want to be more involved when they’re leading. Even the small handers will have ideas, and then the older ambassador teens will help them. I think that’s what makes it unique, even though there are so many amazing nonprofits that do similar missions. Kids, especially teens, want to feel empowered. They talk about all the details, the operation costs, how they’re going to recruit members. It’s cute to see them with a plan at such an early age.”

SHBHU members are divided into age groups: small handers, ages 3-9; tween ambassadors, ages 10-12; and teen ambassadors, ages 13-17. Adults 18 and up are welcome as mentorship members. Each group holds regular monthly meetings.

Domestic opportunities fall under five categories: Hearts to Tables, Hearts to Smiles, Hearts to Homes, Hearts to Others, and the Ambassador “Passing the Torch” Commit-

tee. Hearts to Tables, for example, helps fight hunger throughout the Triangle by participating in community food drives, volunteer days for the Interfaith Food Shuttle Field Gleaning Days, awareness campaigns, and serving food at Oak City Cares.

“At Oak City Cares, we serve the homeless,” said Sami Tiernan, a junior at Apex High School and teen ambassador co-president. “They do hot meals, and we started doing take-home meals with fruit cups, a bar, and maybe a sandwich in a brown paper bag with an inspirational saying on it. We do this every fourth Sunday of every month. I love interacting with new people and seeing the smile on their faces when I hand them the food, and just getting to talk to them about their day and their lives. It’s impactful to me because I’m helping them out in such a big way, and it helps me realize that I take so much for granted in my own life.”

Monthly meetings are typically held at the Apex Community Center.

Executive Director Anita Pease is responsible for the growth and vision of SHBHU, but allows the kids to lead each and every meeting.

Small Hander Gabriella Hester, aged 4, summons her inner artist while decorating a breakfast bag.

While monthly meetings are typically held at the Apex Community Center, accessibility is the name of the game at SHBHU.

“The beauty of Small Hands is you’re able to do this whenever you want, so if you are trying to volunteer, you can do it from your house,” said Isabella Pease, teen ambassador co-president. “We don’t need to have a big meeting for people to volunteer.”

In some cases, students can volunteer directly at their school. Will Bartley is the copresident of Green Hope Small Hands Big Hearts United at Green Hope High School.

“We average probably 20 to 30 people per meeting, but there’s probably about 50

to 60 in the actual club,” said Bartley. “We advertise a ton of stuff that the bigger organization does, but also a lot of the club is doing smaller things during short meetings or during lunch at school. We’ve done things like creating cards for seniors or doing something for people who are in the military.”

“For the club, the meetings are always open for anyone to join; you don’t have to be a member of the broader organization to come to a meeting and help out. You can sign up for the emails that me or my co-president, Krish Patel, send out and get more informed about what we’re doing.”

SHBHU is always looking for help

within the organization, as well, whether it be with social media, fundraising, the newsletter, presenting, or other needs that may arise. For more information on volunteering opportunities, or to donate to the cause, visit shbhu.org.

“Giving children accessible resources where they can volunteer gives them hope and empowers them to continue volunteering,” said Pease. “Once they see that one little spark makes a difference — whether it’s giving a hungry person food, putting a smile on someone’s face, cheering up a senior citizen, whatever it is — it’s contagious and makes them want to do more.” t

“One of my favorite things is packing shoeboxes for kids in the Dominican Republic for Christmas,” said Teen Ambassador Isabella Pease. “We give them little toys and hygiene products and wrap them in Christmas paper and send them over so they can have the same experience that we have when we open Christmas presents.”

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW AND MATTHEW LARDIE PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

on trend Drinking Vinegars

WHEN IT COMES TO trending drinking vinegars, we’re not talking about those noseplugging shots of Bragg apple cider vinegar. Lucky for all of us, there’s a much more palatable option available that can help promote weight loss, a healthy gut, improve cholesterol levels, and more.

For those of you who have tried (or been tempted to try) #healthycoke, as seen on TikTok — a concoction involving balsamic vinegar and sparkling water — be aware that there’s something much better that’s available right down the road.

In Cary, The Umstead Hotel and Spa and its restaurant, Herons, offer one of the Triangle’s most luxurious drinking and dining experiences — and Bar and Lounge Manager Lori Grow is adamant about providing the same elevated touch when it comes to the nonalcoholic options. Drinking vinegars, also known as shrubs, have been available on a rotating menu for years.

“The drinking vinegars have been very popular,” said Grow. “We have carried them for over eight years. We started out getting ones made from Oregon, but now we have an amazing culinary team that provides us with some unique flavors.”

The flavors include carrot-ginger, apple, and butternut-lemongrass. When mixed with club soda, they create a refreshing, seasonal drink that can be paired with food or enjoyed on its own. For those looking for a healthy, nonalcoholic alternative to soda, these tangy tinctures are definitely worth a try!

theumstead.com

A house-made Muscadine Sichnon Peppercorn drinking vinegar is topped with club soda and garnished with a dehydrated orange slice and a Bachelor Button.

Is 2023 the Year You Start to Live Your Authentic Life?

HAVE YOU GOTTEN TO THE POINT where you’ve said, “I’m done people-pleasing; I want to be me”? Or do you feel stuck in a world of trying to be perfect for others? You keep up with everyone except yourself. Let this be the year you live authentically and find your true joy. Start saying “no” more to the things you don’t want to do.

I learned something long ago from my dear friend and life coach Laura Reichert, CEO at Triangle Life Coaching: People care A LOT LESS than you think. We live in a world where we are all self-consumed, so stop wasting energy on what others think; they aren’t paying that much attention. And if they are, that’s an internal self-belief they’re dealing with.

Being authentic is showing your true personality and character, and showing the world who you really are. This is scary, I get it! But it’s 2023, and it’s time for you to free yourself of what others think. Just be you! This goes for all ages. Especially our young minds who are truly discovering themselves. Honestly, self-discovery is ongoing regardless of your age.

WRITTEN BY ERICA DELONG

I’ve had people tell me I was living my best life, and I am. A lot of that comes from not being scared to be myself (being silly), expressing gratitude daily (this is important), and accepting not everyone is going to like you (this one was hard for me). Like all of us, I’m still a work in progress. Honestly, some days I fail miserably by overcommitting my schedule trying to people-please or because of the fear of missing out. But today, let’s promise to make living authentically a priority in our lives. Some days you may miss the mark, but never stop making authenticity your priority.

I reached out to Life Coach Laura, who often joins The Erica Show, for tangible tips on how we can start showing the world the real you, starting today:

1. KNOW YOUR VALUES. What’s important to you? Make a list of every quality you think is important for a person to have. Now, put that list in order. What are your five top values? When you know your values, the authentic choice in any situation is more obvious.

2. STOP DOING THINGS YOU DON’T WANT TO DO. You still need to pay your bills and the basics of life. However, you don’t have to sign your kids up for every sport to prove you’re a good parent, drive your neighbor to the airport, or take care of your co-worker’s dog. If something is too disagreeable for you, just say “no.”

3. DO WHAT YOU WANT TO DO. You can spend your time how you please. You don’t need a grand excuse or proof that you’re doing something noble on a cosmic level. The fact that you want to do it is a good enough reason. It’s important not to hurt anyone, including yourself, but feel free to dance in your front yard, or wear white after Labor Day.

4. KEEP AN OPEN MIND. When your thinking is very rigid, you limit yourself and prevent your true self from shining through. Preconceived notions are prisons that block you from being authentic. Learn how to experience the world from a variety of perspectives.

5. TRUST YOUR INTUITION. When you ignore your hunches, you feel out of sorts. Trust your instincts. They’ll let you know when you’re not being genuine.

6. BE SELF-AWARE. You can’t be authentic if you lack self-awareness. Notice how you feel. Ask yourself, “What do I need at this moment? How can I meet that need?” If you ignore your emotions, you can’t be self-aware.

7. PRACTICE BOLDNESS. The biggest reason for a lack of authenticity is timidity. We want to say and do certain things, but we’re uncomfortable standing out. We feel vulnerable and exposed. A little discomfort never killed anyone, and there’s so much to be gained by being bold. Give it a try.

8. OPENLY SHARE YOUR OPINION. Tell others what you think or how you feel about something. Of course, you’ll want to be tactful so you remain considerate of the feelings of those around you.

9. AVOID PERFECTIONISM. Trying to be perfect hugely limits your natural personality and expression. Avoiding mistakes and imperfection is a recipe for inauthenticity.

Y’all, life is short! It doesn’t make sense to pretend to be someone else. Authenticity requires courage and dealing with discomfort. But if you want to live your life to the fullest, authenticity is a must! I would love to connect with you to hear how the progress is going, or if you’re finally making the commitment to live life as YOU! Reach out anytime @EricaDeLong t

You can also always reach out to Life Coach Laura at trianglelifecoaching.com.

Erica DeLong with Laura Reichert, founder of Triangle Life Coaching

A Long-Term Legacy of Love

ANNE SCHICK

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

SEARSTONE RESIDENT Anne Schick’s life has been a love letter to seniors ever since she was a little girl.

“I’ve just always been attracted to older people, ever since I was a Girl Scout. I don’t do very well with a bunch of children; they scare me,” Schick said with a laugh. “Maybe it was my grandparents. I don’t know what it was, but I have always loved to listen to stories and hear their wisdom and life experiences.”

After living in Raleigh for 50 years, Schick moved with her husband, Tom, to Cary’s Searstone Retirement Community nine years ago and jumped into the social scene with both feet.

“Anne has always been very active on our health care committee,” said Allie Ligay, sales and marketing director at Searstone. “The health care committee visits residents in our health care center, assists with finding healthrelated speakers, and plans the Searstone Health Fair. She was instrumental in creating the Good Neighbor Program, which alerts another Searstone resident when someone is sent out to the hospital so things like newspapers, pets, watering plants can be taken care of while the ‘good neighbor’ is out of the community.”

Schick’s can-do attitude and caring heart have driven her volunteer efforts for years. Following retirement, Schick even took it upon herself to deliver framed art to nursing homes.

“I would visit residents and ask what they would like to look at for the next month,” said Schick. “That was great fun, but I was by myself and I had no credibility, so I struggled with that for a while. Then I got a dog, Divot, who

Anne Schick prepares to make her first post-Covid visit as a volunteer with the Wake County Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee.

was a therapy dog, and it gave me the excuse to visit. She was cute. She could get on their beds. She could snuggle. It’s nice to have something with you that can elicit conversation.”

Almost a decade ago, Schick saw an ad in the newspaper looking for volunteers for the Wake County Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee — a community-led effort to improve the quality of care for nursing home residents.

There’s no doubt that nursing home residents are a particularly vulnerable population, often too sick or frail to self-advocate. In the 1970s and '80s, national legislation improved the rights of nursing home residents, establishing a Bill of Rights and requiring a Long-Term Care Ombudsman in every state. The NC General Assembly followed suit, enacting a comprehensive Bill of Rights and establishing the Nursing Home Community Advisory Committee, which empowers community volunteers as advocates for senior welfare. Schick is proud to be a part of the community group.

“We are actually patient advocates, and we look to make sure the residents are being well cared for and that their rights are being met,” said Schick. “We visit four different nursing homes in the area quarterly with a partner … and we report on the wellness of the residents and if it’s clean and if they’re liking what their surroundings are. If we see a call bell go off, we kind of stand quietly and observe how long it takes to be answered. We talk to the residents and find out what’s making them tick, what’s good and what’s bad about where they are, and then we report back to the administration. If there is a problem, we give a card to the resident explaining some of their rights and letting them call the Ombudsman personally.”

Unlike the Ombudsman, who assists residents in exercising their rights and resolving grievances, volunteers on the committee have no regulatory power. They are simply there to be the eyes and ears in the Ombudsman’s absence and obtain firsthand knowledge of nursing home conditions. Their published reports are publicly accessible.

the residents and presents our findings to the administrators in a calm, nonjudgmental manner. Anne remembers small details about some of our long-term residents and will make a point of searching them out.”

When discussing her work as a volunteer, Schick doesn’t refer to the people she visits as nursing home residents — they are simply her friends.

“There’s a couple of ladies who shared a room at one facility, and they really get along and watch out for each other. They’re fun because they joke and tell stories about each other, so we often visit them and look forward to seeing them,” said Schick. “There’s one lady who collects hats and is always wearing a fancy hat, and she’s in a wheelchair and she loves to sing. So every time we go, I’ll hold her hand and she’ll sing me a hymn, and she has a wonderful, deep, mellow voice. Every once in a while, I’ll run into somebody that I know in a rehab situation and make sure that they’re doing OK.”

A proud grandmother of four, Schick’s compassion seems to be inherited — she even took a photo of her oldest granddaughter volunteering at the women’s shelter where she helps serve food once a quarter.

Megan Douglas, a retired occupational therapist, met Schick in 2016 when she first joined the committee.

“We were paired together initially so she could mentor me, as I was a ‘newbie’ in this role,” said Douglas. “She and I really enjoyed working together and have been a team ever since. Anne is a passionate advocate for senior citizens. She is able to ask appropriate, insightful questions when we are talking with

“I think she was four, and she was helping to serve these homeless women, and they were delighted,” said Schick. “Children are always welcome. Two of my grandchildren are here, and although I don’t bring them on my work assignments, they often visit my friends here at Searstone who are in a nursing home. And they are volunteering as well, singing Christmas carols and making things.”

Anne’s love for the older generation never stops — whether she’s working on behalf of the committee or visiting the residents

For years, Schick visited nursing homes with her therapy dog, Divot, in tow.

contributed photo

Anne Schick (left) makes her quarterly visit with her volunteer partner, Megan Douglas, at Cary Health and Rehabilitation.

at Searstone’s assisted living neighborhood, Brittany Place.

“I encourage the committee to write notes to the residents [at Brittany Place]. I visit my friends and call them often, arrange for special treats to be prepared for special occasions, and encourage others to volunteer. They are still a part of Searstone, and I want them to feel that way,” said Schick.

There are dozens of nursing homes in Wake County that are divided up among the volunteers, with Schick and Douglas covering homes in Cary, Apex, and Garner. More than anything, Schick hopes that this article can be used to recruit more volunteers to the committee who can be a voice for those in the sunset of their lives.

“It’s wonderfully worthwhile, and we need more volunteers all the time. It’s nice to get a relationship with a facility and watch it thrive,” said Schick. “I love seeing the smiles on faces — because they become your friends over time — and making sure that everything is going well and that everyone is active and participating and as happy as they can be. It’s often not a happy situation, because they’re not well or they wouldn’t be there. But we make sure they have the best quality of life they can have.” t

“It’s wonderfully worthwhile, and we need more volunteers all the time. It’s nice to get a relationship with a facility and watch it thrive.”

Anne Schick

The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree! Schick’s granddaughter, Amelie, volunteers at a shelter.

Schick’s volunteerism was inspired by her mother, Sally Sheehan, who was a nursing home resident herself.

contributed photo

contributed photo

NC Oysters GO WILD with

Visit the NC Oyster Trail to tour a working shellfish farm, savor the coast’s distinct flavors and discover local oyster lore.

NCOysterTrail.org

nc-seafood.org

The Moving Truck is Leaving!

Are you ready to learn about your new community?

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

For your complimentary call 919.809.0220. Or, visit our website, www.nnws.org

welcome visit, or to include a gift for newcomers,

A Class on Its Own Continuing Education for Seniors

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

WHEN ASKED WHY seniors should continue their pursuit of knowledge following retirement, Michelle Guy, a member of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at NC State, doesn’t pull any punches.

“Well, first of all, if you want to keep your brain, you’re supposed to use it,” said Guy, laughing. “I’m not any less interested in the world because I’m 73 than I was at 23.”

NC State’s OLLI, formerly the Encore Program for Lifelong Enrichment, has been

an important part of the community for the past 30 years.

“We eventually became part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute network because we received an endowment from the Bernard Osher Foundation,” said Eliza Kiser, director of NC State’s OLLI program. “So we’re one of 125 OLLIs across the United States, all affiliated with different colleges. We all operate differently, but we share the same mission — to support curiosity in older adults.”

OLLI at NC State offers non-credit short courses, study trips, and special events to members aged 50+. From one-time lectures to six-week courses, participants have the opportunity to explore their interests in arts and architecture, science and technology, literature, business economics and politics, and much more.

“OLLI is not expensive,” said Guy. “It’s a really easy way to walk through the door and sit down and be taught by experts and learn things that I frankly didn’t know,

Seniors attend a class on the battles of the American Revolution, which is one of several non-credit courses offered for adults aged 50-plus by The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at NC State.

even in history as a history major. I love to learn, and this is a great format to be able to do that.”

All OLLI instructors, whether they’re professors at NC State, retired faculty, or experts within the community, volunteer their time — as well as the members themselves.

“The thing that’s really exciting about OLLI is that we are very much member-led. We have a really strong volunteer program with over 200 volunteers, and many of them serve on our program committee. So basically what those folks do is they help create the OLLI that they want to participate in,” said Kiser.

A yearly membership fee of $50 covers enrollment for fall, spring, and summer semesters. Membership cycles begin August 1, and as the year moves forward, the membership price is prorated. Members purchase classes a la carte, with a typical class ranging anywhere from $15 to $55. Registration for OLLI offerings is ongoing. The majority of classes are held at the McKimmon Conference and Training Center, with free and plentiful parking. Post Covid, study trips have been limited to drivable distances and include destinations such as historic sites, gardens, and museums.

“One of the delightful things about the membership here is these are a bunch of intellectually curious people who tend to be very widely traveled,” said Guy. “There is never homework; there are never tests. They love to tell us that we’re going to have a quiz, but we never do. If there’s reading, it’s suggested.”

Social opportunities include holiday parties, picnics, coffee meet-and-greets, volunteer opportunities, and special interest groups.

“When several members identify a common interest and one of them is willing

to be the leader, they can form a special interest group,” said Sherrill Stanley, chair of the membership development and marketing committee. “Current ones range from a family history group to a paddling group. There are opportunities to volunteer both inside OLLI (on committees, as class hosts) and outside (Note in the Pocket and other community projects selected by our volunteer coordinators).”

Guy, who serves on the hospitality committee and has participated in OLLIs at

other universities, says the one thing that really sets NC State’s OLLI apart is its emphasis on social interaction.

“What’s different here — and everyone’s heard me say this — is that this is a much more social OLLI. They put a high value on recognizing that older people need to still maintain connections and to be out meeting other people and doing things.”

Interested in membership? Visit mckimmoncenter.ncsu.edu/olli/ for more information. t

ABOVE: Class participant Wendy Elliott attends a non-credit course offered for adults aged 50-plus by The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at NC State.

LEFT: Dave Milidonis teaches Battles of the American Revolution 1781 to a group of OLLI students.

Retire in

Whether you’re looking to downsize your home or upsize your quality of life, these area communities have a variety of housing solutions to fit your needs. From senior communities that are close to parks, pools and other amenities to continuing care facilities that place a premium on independent living, there is a place for everyone.

Retire in Style

ATRIA CARY SUPPORTS OLDER ADULTS TO LIVE THEIR BEST LIVES Independent Living Community Offers All-Inclusive Amenities

THE NEWEST INDEPENDENT living community is now open at 7000 Regency Parkway. Atria Cary offers onsite physical therapy and features purposefully designed amenities for a lifestyle resembling condominium living.

On 13-acres across from Symphony Lake, Koka Booth Amphitheatre and the greenway system, the four-story building features one- and two-bedroom apartments each with a full kitchen, stainless steel appliances, and quartz countertops.

Amenities to Live Well & Vibrantly

“From beautiful amenities to engaging social events, Atria Cary is designed for older adults with active and vibrant lives,” said Matthew Towler, Executive Director.

Amenities include an indoor pool, salon and spa, fitness center, wine bar/lounge, bistro, theater, business center, art studio, library, and physical therapy center. Other conveniences include housekeeping, concierge service, and scheduled transportation. Outdoor amenities offer a courtyard pavilion with performance stage, putting green and walking paths surrounded by tall pines. Residents enjoy chef-prepared meals at three dining venues: Page’s Wine Bar, 1871 Bistro and Bradford’s Restaurant.

Intentionally Designed Programs

Through Atria’s Engage Life® events program, residents enjoy daily opportunities for fitness, connection, personal growth and fulfillment. Events include music, art classes, and fitness activities from yoga, tai chi, upper body conditioning and strength and balance. Families and older adults can access events, dining menus and important announcements through the Atria’s proprietary mobile app.

“My philosophy on getting older is to keep living every day to the fullest. The walking paths, indoor pool or around the dinner table is where my friends can find me here. I like to stay active, I like being surrounded by friendly people,” Bob Cox, who was among the first to move to Atria Cary, said.

Contact Executive Director Matthew Towler at 919.342.8200 or visit AtriaCary.com to schedule a tour today.

SEARSTONE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

It Takes All Kinds to Make Life Full

Experience a Community Like No Other

FASCINATING FOLKS from all over are coming to Searstone to create a retirement living experience like nowhere else in the world. Here in Cary, NC, at the heart of the Research Triangle, our Life Plan Community is home to sensationally designed apartments, gourmet dining options, easy walkability and pedestrian access to each of our community’s amenities. And it’s only getting better.

A Bold New Vision for Retirement in Cary

Renovations to our beautiful Winston Clubhouse will reshape gathering spaces and introduce innovative design to our wide range of existing amenities. Plus, The Highview at Searstone - our upcoming fourstory expansion featuring a variety of new amenities, including three unique dining venues - is 100% reserved and scheduled to open in 2024. That means there’s now just one Wait List at Searstone for future residency. By placing a refundable deposit, along with an application fee, you’ll secure your spot should a residence become available either in The Highview or across our campus.

Come See Why People Love Searstone

Schedule an individual appointment to view floor plans, level plans and a scale model of The Highview. A knowledgeable team member will be available to answer any questions you may have.

To learn more, call 919.897.7471 or visit searstone.com.

17001 Searstone Drive Cary, NC 27513

Retire in Style

The Templeton of Cary

LIFE IS RICH and full when you feel balanced in all areas of wellness; at The Templeton, we believe that optimal living encompasses the physical, social, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, occupational and environmental facets of your livelihood. As a sought-after local retirement community, we know that staying well – body, mind and spirit – offers tremendous benefits for people of all ages.

Staying Active

The National Institute on Aging reports that exercise in older adults “reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, colon cancer and breast cancer.“ What more, they found that exercise lowers the risk of falls and fallrelated inquiries. Physical activity is also linked to benefits in mental health; a recent article in U.S. News & World Report highlights 14 mind-boosting benefits of exercise, including lowering stress levels, reducing symptoms of depression and improving learning.

Tending to All Areas of Wellness

At The Templeton, we believe that wellness extends way beyond just exercise. Your friendships and social connections, spiritual life, environment, and so much more impact your quality of life. Our Inspire wellness program is designed to help boost our residents’ overall well-being. Our Wellness and Life Enrichment Directors work hard to keep the calendar brimming with activities so that our residents have plenty to choose from in their quest for better health. From outdoor walking groups, to chair and standing yoga, circuit strength, tai chi, water exercise and so much more, you will feel inspired to get moving and dig deeper in your search for health.

Why INSPIRE?

• Inspirational: INSPIRE is designed to help residents reach higher levels of well-being and self-efficacy across the board.

• Nutritional: Dining is good nutrition and much more – it’s a time to spend in community with friends and neighbors.

• Spiritual: We recognize attending to our spiritual health is just as important as taking care of our through physical activity.

• Personal and ongoing goal setting: New community members receive an in-home visit and a welcome packet with a program overview. We schedule Wellness Assessments at the residents’ convenience.

• Integrative: Programs cover the social, spiritual and intellectual aspects of resident’s wellness.

• Rehabilitative: We work closely with the inpatient and outpatient therapy department to continue the plans of care for residents in the Wellness Center upon discharge from therapy services.

New to the Fitness Scene?

Many residents are just beginning their exercise journey and we always recommend that you speak with your physician before you do. These conversations can help you understand clearly the guidelines you need to follow to safely begin a program. Our goal is to help our residents remain at their highest functional abilities, and even to improve their fitness and wellness once they move in. With the support of our Physical and Occupational Therapy departments, our residents are up and moving more and living better lives.

Enjoy exceptional senior living, including optimal health and wellness at The Templeton. Call today, 984-200-3688, and schedule a personal tour and then indulge your current passions and discover new ones as you embrace all life has to offer at The Templeton – where life meets living.

• Educational: Our community often partners with local colleges and training centers to provide residents with opportunities to continue learning.

restaurant profile

BB’s “shatteringly crispy” chicken sandwiches are served on locally made brioche buns.

BB’s Crispy Chicken

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IT’S NOT EVERY DAY a James Beard Award-winning chef helps create a fast-casual fried chicken restaurant. But leave it to the ever-inventive Ashley Christensen to pull off the unexpected.

As a highly regarded restaurateur and proprietor of AC Restaurants, a hospitality group that operates Poole’s Diner, Beasley’s Chicken + Honey, Death & Taxes, Poole’side Pies, and more, Christensen now adds BB’s Crispy Chicken to her portfolio.

BB’s serves elevated chicken sandwiches, wraps, salads, seasoned fries, and handspun milkshakes. The first location debuted in Raleigh, then Durham, and, most recently, at the emergent Parkside Town Commons in Cary.

“It’s really neat to focus on a singular concept that can be shared with many communities,” said Christensen, adding that the eatery was founded on her “love for the humble ingredient of chicken” and people’s “increased excitement for the crispy chicken sandwich.”

When it comes to BB’s primary menu offering, humanely harvested, antibioticfree chicken is sourced from Bell & Evans, a family-run company founded in 1894. The poultry is air-chilled during processing to lock in natural juices, tenderize the meat, and reduce human handling.

Without question, what sets the cooked chicken apart most is its “shatteringly crispy” crust that holds its crunch long after guests receive their orders. It’s also as moist and tender as you’ll find anywhere.

Christensen was approached with the idea by entrepreneur Michael Olander Jr., founder of Raleigh-based investment and management firm MDO Holdings, giving her the opportunity to develop the menu’s

“My work with AC Restaurants will remain focused in downtown Raleigh, butchael's projects, expanding its offerings to -

“We consider our diners and supporters to be part of our process and community. We are listening and learning from them every day.”

- Ashley Christensen

According to Christensen, the bird is brined and then dipped in a buttermilktinged batter. “(It) then sees a two-part frying process at two different temperatures,” she explained. “Honing this technique was the most labor-intensive part of the development of the menu.”

Sandwiches are encapsulated by toasted locally made brioche buns with toppings like

thick-cut dill pickles, red onions, fresh lettuce, and gold-standard Duke’s mayo.

Among the five signature sandwich options — from the simple BB’s Pick to the more involved BBQ Cheddar — we were most impressed with the Pimento Please topped with a heaping portion of scratchmade pimento cheese.

If you lean toward a spicier selection,

go for the Tabasco-tinged Hot Honey, which captures the essence of sweet-and-savory virtuousness, or the five-alarm-hot Scorpion Red Fire.

Wraps such as the Chicken Caesar Salad and the Pimento Toasty are served in lowcarb wheat tortillas.

Notable side items include sea saltbrined French fries, sweet potato waffle fries,

A spacious patio provides ample outdoor seating.

Markie Gallik feeds a BB’s crispy dunker to Daisy Mae, her miniature goldendoodle.

and pickled cabbage slaw. For a multifaceted alternative, choose a BB’s Triple Play featuring both varieties of fries plus crispy cheese curds made with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Whatever you do, don’t ignore the baker’s dozen house-made sauces that rise above what you’d expect to find in a quickservice joint.

Whether you try the honey mustard, mango sweet + sour, or the Texas smoky BBQ, you can’t go wrong. We strongly recommend the chipotle pepper-infused Southwestern ranch (among Christensen’s personal favorites) and the brown sugar-imbued honey mustard. For more intense heat, try the Green Jalapeno or White Hot Buffalo.

Prefer a salad? Consider a house or Caesar variety with your choice of five available dressings. If you want to add protein, top with crispy or grilled dunkers, which are essentially boneless chicken strips.

Pair your meal with fountain or glass-bottled soda like Coke or Cheerwine. Or take the caloric splurge and get a creamy chocolate, vanilla, or birthday cake milkshake.

Décor at BB’s is modern and approachable. Be sure to check out the vibrant wall murals crafted by Paint By S, a womenowned creative enterprise.

Friendly, helpful staffers make the dining experience pleasant for guests. Christensen said BB’s is committed to creating a welcoming and safe work environment that is always evolving and refining.

“We consider our diners and supporters to be part of our process and community,” she said. “We are listening and learning from them every day.”

BB’s is open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. A spacious covered patio is available. In addition, a mobile rewards app is accessible for download. t

BB’s Crispy Chicken

1147 Parkside Main St.

Parkside Town Commons, Cary (984) 272-3500 | bbscrispychicken.com

ABOVE: The Pimento Please sandwich features a generous portion of scratch-made pimento cheese.

LEFT: A smiling BB’s staff member greets a guest at lunchtime.

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Be Safe – Keep Building – Stay Positive

liquid assets The Stipe

Handful of blackberries

Several sprigs fresh rosemary Juice of one lemon 1 tablespoon simple syrup ¼ cup ginger beer 1 cup sparkling water

Muddle the blackberries, leaves from one rosemary sprig, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Strain into a glass. Top with ginger beer and sparkling water. Garnish with a sprig of rosemary. Note: Feel free to swap the sparkling water with a crisp brut sparkling wine as you see fit!

About

RBF is passionate about bringing connection, safety, and inclusivity to the community, just like this drink’s namesake, Holly Springs resident Jennifer Stipe. RBF offers amazing champagnes and sparkling wines from around the world, as well as an array of zero-alcohol options. Located on the first floor of the Williams House in downtown Cary below Bull City Ciderworks and a&bé Bridal, follow them on Instagram @showmeyourRBF or at rbf.wine.

CONTRIBUTED BY RBF, YOUR AUTHENTIC CHAMPAGNE BAR | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

RBF, Your Authentic Champagne Bar

Cherry Flavor Patterns

by Bond Brothers Beer Company

THIS BEER is the second in Bond Brothers’ fruited mixed fermentation sour series. They blended their aged hop Foederbier with 1,000 pounds of cherries to make a funky and fruity beer that evokes Old World sour beers with its flavor profile. The beer is carbonated naturally with honey from Cary’s Garden Supply Company. They change the fruit, but there’s always a pattern to the flavors. Look for it on draft and in bottles soon at Bond Brothers and around the Triangle.

Dining Guide

A SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES, BISTROS, AND CAF E S IN CARY, APEX, FUQUAY-VARINA, HOLLY SPRINGS, AND MORRISVILLE

CARY

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Great food. Outstanding live music. 1195 W. Chatham St. (919) 481-4434 abbeyroadnc.com

Academy Street Bistro

New American cuisine with a French flair. 200 S. Academy St. (919) 377-0509 academystreetbistro.com

Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream

Premium quality ice cream and sorbet. 10120 Green Level Church Road #208 (919) 901-8560 1008 Ryan Road (919) 234-0037 andiasicecream.com

Annelore’s German Bakery

Authentic German pastries, breads, and pretzels. 308 W. Chatham St. (919) 267-6846 anneloresbakery.com

Asali Desserts & Café

Gourmet sweet shop crossed with a refined coffeehouse. 107 Edinburgh Drive, Suite 106-A (919) 362-7882 asalicafe.com

Ashworth Drugs

Quintessential place for fresh-squeezed lemonade, old-fashioned milkshakes, and hot dogs.

105 W. Chatham St. (919) 467-1877 ashworthdrugs.com

Awaze Ethiopian Cuisine

East African eatery showcasing vegetarian and vegan options. 904 NE Maynard Road (919) 377-2599 awazecuisine.com

A’Verde

Cocina and Tequila Library

Not your traditional Mexican food. 2300 Walnut St. (984) 200-3469 averdecary.com

BB’s Crispy Chicken

Shatteringly crispy chicken. 1147 Parkside Main St. (984) 272-3500 bbscrispychicken.com

Big Dom’s Bagel Shop

Serving bagels, B’donuts, and sandwiches. 203 E Chatham St. (919) 377-1143 bigdomsbagelshop.com

The Big Easy Oven + Tap

Modern Southern-inspired kitchen with New Orleans roots. 231 Grande Heights Drive (919) 468-6007 thebigeasyovenandtap.com

Big Mikes BBQ

Beers on tap to complement locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ. 1222 NW Maynard Road (919) 799-2023 brewnquenc.com

Bonefish Grill

Fresh is our signature. 2060 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-1347 bonefishgrill.com

Bosphorus Restaurant

Traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. 329-A N. Harrison Ave. (919) 460-1300 bosphorus-nc.com

BottleDog Bites & Brews

A casual place for unconventional food and craft beer. 8306 Chapel Hill Road (919) 390-1617 bottledogcary.com

Bravo’s Mexican Grill

Extensive menu raises the ante considerably above the typical Tex-Mex. 208 Grande Heights Drive (919) 481-3811 bravosmexicangrill.net

Brecotea Baking Studio

Abundant sweet and savory selections. 1144 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 234-1555 brecotea.com

Brewster’s Pub

Open late, serving a full food and drink menu. 1885 Lake Pine Drive (919) 650-1270 brewsterspubcary.com

Brigs

Breakfast creations, cool salads, and hot sandwich platters. 1225 NW Maynard Road (919) 481-9300 brigs.com

Buldaegi BBQ House

Contemporary Korean BBQ. 2470 Walnut St. (919) 703-0400 buldaegi.com

Bumble Brews

Play space for kids with a café serving coffee, beer, wine, and more.

2464 SW Cary Parkway (984) 465-0537 bumblebrews.fun

Burrito Shak

Quality fresh-Mex cuisine.

2982 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 267-6772 burritoshak.com

Cha House

Asian-inspired craft tea house.

1319 Kildaire Farm Road (984) 465-0498 chahouseusa.com

Chanticleer Café & Bakery

Family-owned restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffees. 6490 Tryon Road (919) 781-4810 chanticleercafe.com

Chef’s Palette

Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.

3460 Ten Ten Road, Suite 118 (919) 267-6011 chefspalette.net

Chelsea Café

Fresh, local American fare for breakfast and lunch (inside Raleigh Brewing). 2036 Renaissance Park Place (919) 474-8698 chelseacafe-rtp.com

Chicken Salad Chick

Gourmet chicken salad, called “the best in America.” 302 Colonades Way, Suite 202 (984) 207-5516 chickensaladchick.com/cary-nc/

Cilantro Indian Café

Northeast Indian cuisine with fresh ingredients. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive , Suite 107 (919) 234-1264 cilantroindia.com

CinéBistro

Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience. 525 New Waverly Place, Suite 203 (919) 987-3500 cmxcinemas.com/locationdetail/ cinebistro-waverly

Cinnaholic

Plant-based bakery with create-your-own cinnamon rolls. 1209 Parkside Main St. (919) 650-1407 cinnaholiccary.com

City Barbeque

Barbeque in its truest form. 1305 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 439-5191 citybbq.com

Coffee & Crepes

Freshly prepared sweet and savory crepes. 315 Crossroads Boulevard (919) 233-0288 coffeeandcrepes.com

Colletta Italian Food & Wine

Celebrating the best Italian American dishes. 1 Fenton Main St., Suite 170 (919) 766-0062 collettarestaurant.com/cary1/

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

Creative burgers and hot dogs with diverse bottled soda selection. 126 Kilmayne Drive (919) 466-0055 corbettsburgers.com

Craft Public House

Sociable neighborhood public house. 1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 601 (919) 851-9173 craftpublichouse.com

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery

Family-owned and operated bakery and espresso bar.

1983 High House Road (919) 380-1840 cremacoffeeroaster.com

Crosstown Pub & Grill

A straight-forward menu covers all the bases. 140 E. Chatham St. (919) 650-2853 crosstowndowntown.com

Custom Confections

Custom cheesecakes made locally. 1187 W. Chatham St. customconfections.net

Danny’s Bar-B-Que

Slow-cooked on an open pit with hickory wood. 311 Ashville Ave. G (919) 851-5541 dannysbarbque.com

Di Fara Pizza Tavern

We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients.

111 E. Chatham St. (919) 678-5300; difarapizzatavern.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

Catch the game or listen to live music. 1979 High House Road (919) 388-9930 dohertysirishpubnc.com

Duck Donuts

Warm, delicious, and just the way you like them.

100 Wrenn Drive, Suite 101 (919) 468-8722 duckdonuts.com/cary/

Enrigo Italian Bistro

Fresh food made from pure ingredients. 575 New Waverly, Suite 106 (919) 854-7731 dineenrigo.com

Esteamed Coffee

Building esteem and employment for adults with differing abilities.

114 S. Academy St. (919) 650-3470 esteamedcoffee.com

Famous Toastery

Top-notch service for breakfast, brunch, and lunch. 316 Colonades Way, Suite 201C (919) 655-1971 famoustoastery.com

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Made-to-order burgers and more. 1121 Parkside Main St. (919) 380-0450 fiveguys.com

Gamers Geekery & Tavern

Cary’s first board game café. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive #213 (919) 650-2366 carygametavern.com

Geluna Gelato

Traditional methods, modern flavors.

111 E. Chatham St. (919) 234-1216 gelunagelato.com

Goodberry’s Frozen Custard

Made fresh hourly since 1988.

1146 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 467-2386 2325 Davis Drive (919) 469-3350 goodberrys.com

Great Harvest Bread Co.

Real food that tastes great. 1220 NW Maynard Road (919) 460-8158 greatharvestcary.com

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine. 525-105 New Waverly Place (919) 653-7310 cary.gonzatacosytequila.com

Hank’s Downtown Dive

Your neighborhood bohemian dive. 111 E. Chatham St. (984) 464-2524 hanksdowntowndive.com

Herons

The signature restaurant of The Umstead Hotel and Spa. 100 Woodland Pond Drive (919) 447-4200 theumstead.com/dining/herons

Honey Pig

Authentic Korean BBQ. 1065 Darrington Drive (919) 234-0088 honeypignc.com

Honeysuckle Gelato

Creating delicious gelato and joyful experiences. 7 Fenton Main St. (919) 377-2029 honeysucklegelato.com

JuiceVibes

Made-to-order juices from locally sourced produce.

1369 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 377-8923 juicevibes.com

Kababish Café

A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.

201 W. Chatham St., Suite 103 (919) 377-8794 kababishcafe.com

ko•än

Upscale, contemporary Southeast Asian dishes.

2800 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-9229; koancary.com

La Farm Bakery

Handcrafted daily with only the freshest ingredients.

4248 NW Cary Parkway (919) 657-0657 220 W. Chatham St. (919) 650-3117

5055 Arco St. (in Whole Foods) (984) 228-0300 lafarmbakery.com

La Grassa Pastificio

Hand-crafted Italian cuisine. 908 NE Maynard Road (984) 465-0594 lagrassaitaliano.com

LemonShark Poke

The finest poke ingredients and local brews on tap.

2000 Boulderstone Way (919) 333-0066 lemonsharkpoke.com

Los Tres Magueyes

We prepare our food fresh daily. 110 SW Maynard Road (919) 460-8757 lostresmagueyescary.com 10120 Green Level Church Road, Suite 202 lostresmagueyesgreenlevel.com

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen

Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.

7307 Tryon Road (919) 233-1632 lucky32.com/cary

Lucky Chicken

All of our beautiful Peru, with every dish. 1851 N. Harrison Ave. (919) 678-3153

Lugano Ristorante

Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere. 1060 Darrington Drive (919) 468-7229 luganocary.com

Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar

Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. 8314 Chapel Hill Road (919) 465-2455 maximilliansgrill.com

MC Modern Asian Cuisine

Bringing upscale Asian flair to downtown Cary. 324 S. Academy St. (919) 650-1738 mccuisines.com

Meeple’s Brew

850+ board games between two locations. 821 Bass Pro Lane meeplesbrew.com

Mellow Mushroom

Beer, calzones, and creative stone-baked pizzas. 4300 NW Cary Parkway (919) 463-7779 mellowmushroom.com

Mithai Indian Café

Bengali-style sweet and savory selections free of preservatives and artificial flavors. 744-F E. Chatham St. (919) 469-9651 mithaius.com

Mixed Desserts

Edible cookie dough, cookies, soft serve ice cream, and family-friendly treats. 107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 115 (919) 377-0058 mixeddesserts.com

MOD Pizza

Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast.

316 Colonades Way, Suite 206-C (919) 241-72001 336 Sembler Lane, Suite 4001 (984) 208-7015

Dining Guide

Mookie’s New York Deli

A bona fide, no-frills sandwich spot.

1010 Tryon Village Drive (919) 900-7770 mookiesnydeli.com

M Sushi

Purposeful seasonal seafood.

4 Fenton Main St., Suite 120 (919) 729-5662 m-restaurants.com

Noodle Boulevard

Ten variations on the ramen theme, covering a pan-Asian spectrum. 1718 Walnut St. (984) 222-3003 noodleblvd.com

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café

The fast track to sweet tooth satisfaction.

115-G W. Chatham St. (919) 319-6554 bluemoonbakery.com

The Original N.Y. Pizza

Consistent every visit. 831 Bass Pro Lane (919) 677-8484 6458 Tryon Road (919) 852-2242 theoriginalnypizza.com

Peck & Plume

Modern American dining in downtown Cary. 301 S. Academy St. (919) 804-1400 peckandplume.com

Pineapple Sol

Offering picnics, charcuterie, high tea, and more.

302 Colonades Way, Suite 109 (919) 803-8533 pineapplesol.com

Pizzeria Faulisi

Simple foods from a simple way of cooking: a wood-burning oven. 215 E. Chatham St., Suite 101 (919) 377-8244 pizzeriafaulisi.com

Prohibitive

Weekday hideaway cocktail bar.

317 W Chatham St. (919) 808-1788 prohibitivecary.com

Pro’s

Epicurean Market & Café

Gourmet market, café, and wine bar.

211 E. Chatham St. (919) 377-1788 prosepicurean.com

Pure Juicery Bar

Vegan eatery and juice bar. 716 Slash Pine Drive (919) 234-1572 purejuicerybar.com

RallyPoint Sport Grill

Lunch and dinner food in a pub atmosphere. 837 Bass Pro Lane (919) 678-1088 rallypointsportgrill.com

Red Bowl Asian Bistro

Each distinctive dish is handcrafted.

2020 Boulderstone Way (919) 388-9977 redbowlcary.com

Ricci’s Trattoria

Keeping true to tradition.

10110 Green Level Church Road (919) 380-8410 riccistrattoria.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times. 8111-208 Tryon Woods Drive (919) 851-3999 ruckuspizza.com

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

Cooked to perfection.

2010 Renaissance Park Place (919) 677-0033 ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/cary

Sassool

Homemade Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.

1347 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 300-5586 sassool.com

Seoul Garden

A wide-ranging menu provides plenty of bona fide Korean options. 815 W. Chatham St. (919) 234-6002 seoulgardennc.com

Serendipity Gourmet Deli

Discovering the unusual, valuable or pleasantly surprising. 118 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 469-1655

Seol Grille

Scratch-made steamed beef and pork dumplings practically melt in your mouth. 2310 Walnut St. (984) 241-9112 seolgrille.com

So Hot

All-you-can-eat hot pot cooked at your table. 937 High House Road (919) 694-5510 sohotcary.com

Sophie’s Grill & Bar

Traditional pub fare along with Old-World cuisine. 2734 NC-55 (919) 355-2377 sophiesgrillandbar.com

Spirits Pub & Grub

Wide variety of menu items, all prepared in a scratch kitchen. 701 E. Chatham St. (919) 462-7001 spiritscary.com

Superica

Tex-Mex, straight from Texas. 25 Fenton Main St., Suite 110 (919) 443-0746 superica.com/cary/

Sugar Koi

Koiyaki fish waffle cones with Asian-inspired ice cream. 116 Kilmayne Drive (919) 757-2399 sugarkoi.com

Dining Guide

Szechuan Mansion Hotpot

A cook-it-yourself meal using a cauldron of flavored broth and fresh ingredients.

1353 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 800-1802 szechuanmansion.com

Taco Addicts

West Coast-inspired tacos. 131 Crossroads Boulevard (919) 896-8043 taco-addicts.com

Taipei 101

Specializing in Szechuan, Zhejiang, and Taiwanese styles of cooking.

121 E. Chatham St. (919) 388-5885 carytaipei101nc.com

Taste of Jamaica

Family-owned, authentic dine-in and take-out Jamaican restaurant. 600 E. Chatham St. (919) 461-0045 tasteofjamaicanc.com

Tazza Kitchen

Wood-fired cooking and craft beverages.

600 Ledgestone Way (919) 651-8281 tazzakitchen.com/location/stonecreekvillage

Teresa’s Italian Cuisine

The place to feel at home. 941 N. Harrison Ave. (919) 377-0742 teresasitaliancuisine.com

Terra Bonum Salad Cafe

Salads, wraps, and other healthy lunch options.

821 Bass Pro Lane (984) 664-3030

Thai Spices & Sushi

Freshest, most-authentic Thai cuisine and sushi.

986 High House Road (919) 319-1818 thaispicesandsushi.com

Totopos Street Food & Tequila

A walk through Mexico City. 1388 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 678-3449 totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Tribeca Tavern

Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.

500 Ledgestone Way (919) 465-3055 tribecatavernnc.com

Udupi Café

Authentic South Indian vegetarian cuisine. 590 E. Chatham St. (919) 465-0898 udupicafenc.com

V Pizza

True Neapolitan pizza, made with the absolute best ingredients. 1389 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 650-1821 vpizza.com

vomFASS Vinegar, Oil & Spice Shop

Taste our premium olive oils and specialty vinegars before you buy.

302 Colonades Way, Suite 203 (919) 977-6745 vomfassusa.com

Ashworth

919-319-6554

Yuri Japanese Restaurant

For sushi fans and connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine.

1361 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 481-0068 yurijapaneserestaurant.com

APEX

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Great food. Outstanding live music. 1700 Center St. (919) 372-5383 | abbeyroadnc.com

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food. 100 N. Salem St. (919) 267-6237 | annaspizzeria.com

Apex Wings Restaurant & Pub

Fresh, crisp wings with sauces made in house. 518 E. Williams St. (919) 387-0082 apexwings.com

A Taste of Brooklyn

Petite bakery with a cheery vibe. 101 N. Salem St. (919) 362-8408 | atasteofbrooklynnc.com

Bonafide Bakeshop & Cafe

Scratch-made Northern classics and Southern comforts. 1232 W. Williams St. (919) 372-5000 | bonafidebakeshop.com

Big Mike’s BBQ

Beers on tap to complement locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ. 2045 Creekside Landing Drive (919) 338-2591 | brewnquenc.com

Common Grounds Coffee House & Desserts

The highest-quality locally roasted coffee. 219 N. Salem St., Suite 101 (919) 387-0873 | commongroundsapex.com

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering

Pasta dishes, hand-stretched pizzas, and scratch-made desserts. 1430 W. Williams St. (919) 303-1006 danielsapex.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub

Catch the game or listen to live music. 5490 Apex Peakway (919) 387-4100 | dohertysirishpubnc.com

Five Guys Burgers & Fries

Made-to-order burgers and more. 1075 Pine Plaza Drive (919) 616-0011 fiveguys.com

J&S Pizza

Authentic Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza since 1995. 804 Perry Road (919) 363-0071 jandsnypizza.com

Mamma Mia Italian Bistro

A taste of Italy in every bite. 708 Laura Duncan Road (919) 363-2228 | mammamianc.com

The Mission Market

A casual hangout to drink, eat, and shop. 124 N. Salem St. (919) 629-4064 | shopthemission.com

Osteria G

Traditional Italian fare featuring housemade pasta. 5160 Sunset Lake Road (984) 229-7480 osteriag.com

We are an Italian dining ristorante with a comfortable and casual atmosphere. We strive to provide each guest with an experience they will remember.

Dining Guide

The Peak on Salem

Seasonal contemporary Southern cuisine.

126 N. Salem St. (919) 446-6060 | thepeakonsalem.com

The Provincial Fresh. Simple. 119 Salem St. (919) 372-5921 | theprovincialapex.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times. 1055 Pine Plaza Drive (919) 446-6333 | ruckuspizza.com

Rudy’s Pub & Grill

Comfortable and familiar, just like home. 780 W. Williams St. (919) 303-5061 | rudysofapex.com

Salem Street Pub

Burgers, brews, and moonshine. 113 N. Salem St. (919) 387-9992 | salemstreetpub.com

Scratch Kitchen and Taproom

It’s better from scratch. 225 N. Salem St. (919) 372-5370 scratchkitchenandtaproom.com

Skippers Seafood & Smokehouse

The freshest seafood and BBQ available. 1001 E. Williams St. (919) 303-2400 | skippersfish.com

SodaBox

Craft fountain drinks and tasty treats. 817 E. Williams St. (919) 267-6914 | sodabox.love

Sushi SUYU

Japanese cuisine with Korean-inspired flair. 301 N. Salem St. (919) 367-6419 | sushisuyu.com

TapStation

Service station turned brewpub with an elevated menu. 320 S. Salem St. tapstationapex.com

Vegan Community Kitchen

Wholesome multicultural vegan food. 803 E. Williams St. (919) 372-5027 | vegancommunitykitchen.com

Wake Oasis Coffee

Delivering cups of joy. 6108 Old Jenks Road (919) 267-4622 | wakeoasiscoffee.com

FUQUAY-VARINA

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.

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

Aviator SmokeHouse

Wood-smoked food and local beer. 525 E. Broad St. (919) 557-7675 | aviatorbrew.com/smokehouse

Cultivate Coffee Roasters

Roastery supporting addiction recovery. 128 S. Fuquay Ave. (919) 285-4067 | cultivate.coffee

Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza Pasta

French-inspired Italian cuisine. 900 N. Main St. (919) 552-8868 | garbalditrattoria.com

J&S New York Pizza

Authentic Italian cuisine and New York-style pizza since 1995. 500 Broad St. (919) 557-6921 jandsnypizza.com

Little Portugal

Authentic Portuguese cuisine including churrasco char-grilled chicken.

736 N. Main St. (919) 586-7144 | littleportugalnc.com

Los Tres Magueyes

A little taste of Mexico.

401 Wake Chapel Road (919) 552-3957 | lostresmagueyes.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

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

Stick Boy Bread Co.

Handcrafted baked goods from scratch with all-natural ingredients. 127 S. Main St. (919) 557-2237 stickboyfuquay.com

Wingin’ It Bar and Grille

Hearty fare and tasty treats.

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109 (919) 762-096 winginitbarandgrille.com

Zeera Indian

Traditional Indian cuisine adapted to the local palate. 1311 E. Broad St. (919) 762-6215 zeeranc.com

HOLLY SPRINGS

ACME Pizza Co.

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

The Blind Pelican

First-rate fish, shrimp, lobster, crab, oysters, and other ocean-centric delights. 120 Bass Lake Road (984) 225-2471 | blindpelicanseafood.com

The Butcher’s Market

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

Los Tres Magueyes

A little taste of Mexico. 325 N. Main St. (919) 552-6272 | lostresmagueyes.com

Lovegrass Kitchen

Gluten-free whole foods and packaged mixes.

300 S. Main St., Suite 108 (919) 205-8426 | lovegrasskitchen.com

Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream

A unique spin on a timeless dessert.

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

The Mason Jar Tavern

All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

114 Grand Hill Place (919) 964-5060 | themasonjartavern.com

My Way Tavern

Freshly made all-American foods.

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

Osha

Thai Kitchen & Sushi

Authentic Thai cuisine, fresh sushi, and crafted cocktails. 242 South Main St., Suite 100 (984) 538-6742 oshathaikitchennc.com

111 E. Chatham Street, Cary, NC 27511

Authentic Gelato in Downtown Cary. Made with local ingredients and modern avors. Nothing arti cial. | gelunagelato.com geluna_gelato

Pimiento Tea Room

Eclectic café with a rotating menu of small plates.

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

Rise

Southern biscuits, righteous chicken, and donuts.

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

Thai Thai Cuisine

Fresh authentic Thai food. 108 Osterville Drive (919) 303-5700 thaithaicuisinenc.com

Vieni Ristobar

Laid-back Italian fare.

242 S. Main St. (984) 225-1134 | vieniristobar.com

MORRISVILLE

Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken

Unforgettable rotisserie chicken. 9575 Chapel Hill Road (919) 378-9259 | alpacachicken.com

Another Broken Egg Café

A totally egg-ceptional experience. 1121 Market Center Drive, (919) 465-1079 | anotherbrokenegg.com

Babymoon Café

Pizzas, pastas, seafood, steaks, salads, and more.

100 Jerusalem Drive, Suite 106 (919) 465 9006 babymooncafe.com

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Outrageous burgers and beers.

3300 Village Market Place (919) 297-0953 baddaddysburgerbar.com

Capital City Chop House

The best steaks, seafood, and chops we can find. 151 Airgate Drive (919) 484-7721 | chophousesofnc.com

Clean Juice

Organic juices, smoothies, and more. 3035 Village Market Place (919) 468-8286 cleanjuice.com

Crumbl Cookies

Super-sized treats with a rotating menu of classic and unusual flavors.

1105 Market Center Drive (919) 364-1100 crumblcookies.com

Desy’s Grill & Bar

Straightforward pub grub at a relaxed sports bar.

10255 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 200 (919) 380-1617 desysbar.com

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Steaks, seafood, chicken, and ribs seared over local hickory, oak, and pecan wood. 3200 Village Market Place (919) 653-0111 firebirdsrestaurants.com/morrisville/

Fount Coffee + Kitchen

Coffee bar with 100% gluten-free food.

10954 Chapel Hill Road (984) 888-5454 fountcoffee.com

Full Moon Oyster Bar and Seafood Kitchen

Fresh seafood raw, steamed, grilled, baked, or fried.

1600 Village Market Place (919) 378-9524 | fullmoonoysterbar.com

G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine

A contemporary approach to traditional Chinese cuisine.

10958 Chapel Hill Road (919) 466-8858 g58cuisine.com

Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes.

3536 Davis Drive (919) 388-3820 georginasrestaurantnc.com

HiPoke

Fresh fun poké.

9573 Chapel Hill Road (919) 650-3398 hipokes.com

Meeple’s Brew

850+ board games between two locations. 9545 Chapel Hill Road meeplesbrew.com

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Mexican with a modern twist.

9605 Chapel Hill Road (919) 481-9002

1106 Grace Park Drive (919) 650-1718 micancunmx.com

Neomonde

Contemporary and traditional Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes.

10235 Chapel Hill Road #400 (919) 466-8100 neomonde.com

Nothing Bundt Cakes

Cakes are baked fresh daily in a variety of flavors and sizes.

2008 Market Center Drive, Unit 17130 (919) 694-5300 nothingbundtcakes.com

Piada Italian Street Food

Fast-casual Italian.

2016 Market Center Drive (919) 371-0787 mypiada.com

Rise

Southern biscuits, righteous chicken, and donuts.

1100 Market Center Drive, (919) 377-0385 risebiscuitschicken.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times.

1101 Market Center Drive (919) 388-3500 ruckuspizza.com

Taste Vietnamese Cuisine

Authentic noodles and more.

152 Morrisville Square Way (919) 234-6385 | tastevietnamesetogo.com

Village Deli & Grill

Hearty homemade foods. 909 Aviation Parkway, #100 (919) 462-6191 | villagedeli.net

ZenFish Poké Bar

Guilt-free, healthy fast-casual dining. 9924 Chapel Hill Road (919) 234-0914 | zenfishpokebar.com

garden adventurer

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

Agalonema Aglow

AS WINTER WEATHER chills the desire to work outside in the yard, many gardeners turn their attentions to the pleasures of houseplants. And one particular pretty that always catches my eye at this time of year is agalonema (Agalonema sp.), which is often referred to as Chinese evergreen.

I prefer to use “agalonema” rather than “Chinese evergreen,” not because it sounds more snooty, but rather because green is just one of the many colors paraded by this snazzy plant with, depending on the cultivar, pinks, reds, or whites also being delightfully added in swipes, sweeps, swirls, splashes, or dashes on glossy, oblong leaves.

Agalonema has become a popular houseplant thanks to its good looks, but it also receives bonus points for air quality. Check any “Top 10” list for plants that are effective at filtering indoor pollutants, and you will probably find this beauty.

In addition, agalonema is one tough plant. It is easy to grow and will do well in low-lit areas — actually, the only place not to put it is in direct sunlight. For the best color and fuller shape, however, a room awash in natural light is ideal. This attention-getter will also do well in strong artificial light, such as is typical in an office setting.

Although this tropical Far East native will tolerate dry indoor air, occasionally misting will make it happier. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, meaning when the top half inch of dirt feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. Adding a diluted fertilizer solution about every two months during the spring and summer is another good maintenance practice. Pruning requirements are simple — see a spent leaf, snip it. Finally, this slow-growing plant only needs to be repotted every two to three years.

A colorful gathering of agalonema plants at Garden Supply Company in Cary

To Do in the GARDEN January&February

JANUARY

• If you are looking to partake in some brisk exercise on a chilly morning, go out and turn over your compost pile to keep the decomposition process going strong. Also, enlist the able assistance of the sun to add extra heat to the heap — which will speed up organic matter breakdown — by covering the pile with a sheet of clear plastic.

• In spite of their name, spring-blooming camellias should begin showing off this month, but, while admiring their beauty, tame a potential beast by raking up any spent blossoms to help prevent the soil-borne disease known as petal blight from turning future flowers an ugly brown.

FEBRUARY

• Think you have to wait until spring to start up your veggie patch? Nope. February is a good time to begin planting such gardengrown delectables as onions, carrots, turnips, radishes, lettuce, cabbage, and edible-pod peas.

• Make sure your garden tools are ready for the spring growing season. Sharpen any cutting implements, and change the oil and gas in your motorized garden helpers.

TIMELY TIP

12 3 9 6

Your winter garden doesn’t have to be a dull, barren place because there are plenty of ornamental plants that save their flower festivals for the coldest times of the year. Hellebores, pansies, winter daphne, sweetbox, edgeworthia, wintersweet, camellia, winter honeysuckle, and witch hazel are prime examples of hardy, beautiful bloomers that light up the chilled landscape. Since January into early spring is their usual time to shine, think about stopping by Sarah P. Duke Gardens, JC Raulston Arboretum, the NC Botanical Garden, or even area garden centers to catch some of these cold-season beauties in full flaunt.

Do keep in mind that agalonema is a feast for the eyes but toxic in a tummy, so place in a safe, out-of-reach location away from curious kids and pets. The fancy oxymoron called red Chinese evergreen is a common sight even at big-box nurseries. Usually deprived of a cultivar name on the tag, it is often either ‘Siam Aurora’ or ‘Crete.’ The shimmering ‘Silver Bay’ is also easy to find. Local garden shops with houseplant sections normally have even more variety when it comes to agalonema selections. Interesting picks can also be found on Amazon, but if you want a ton of cultivars to choose from online, Etsy is the e-place. t

L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. Want to ask L.A. a question about your garden? Contact him by email at lajackson1@gmail.com.

Hellebore blooms braving a snowy day

To create our 2023 list, Cary Magazine partnered with national survey company topDentists LLC, which sent ballots to dentists listed online with the American Dental Association and other local dental societies in Wake County, asking, “If you had a patient in need of a dentist, which dentist would you refer them to?”

Dentists and specialists are asked to take into consideration years of experience, continuing education, manner with patients, use of new techniques and technologies, and physical results. Respondents are asked to put aside any personal bias, to use only their knowledge of their peers’ work when evaluating the other nominees. Dentists are also given the opportunity to nominate other dentists who they feel should be included in this list.

QUESTIONS?

More information about topDentists’ survey process can be found at usatopdentists.com

Once the decisions have been finalized, the included dentists are vetted with the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners to make sure they have an active license and are in good standing with the board. Of course, there are many fine dentists who are not included in this representative list. It is intended as a sampling of the great body of talent in the field of dentistry in North Carolina. A dentist’s inclusion on our list is based on the subjective judgements of his or her fellow dentists.

ENDODONTICS

Steven W. Campbell

Cary Endo

1400 Crescent Green Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 233-8830 caryendo.com

Marcus Curry

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry

2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

William C. Windley III

Cary Endodontics

3637 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 468-1435 caryendodontics.com

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Allan M. Acton

Cary Family Dental

915 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary (919) 238-6014 carydental.com

Michael E. Bass

Bass & Watson Family Dental

1031 W. Williams St., Suite 101, Apex (919) 362-6789 bassfamilydentistryapex.com

Jonathan P. Beavers

Beavers Family Dentistry

619 W. Chatham St., Apex (919) 362-0967 beaversfamilydentistry.com

Jennifer S. Bell

Signature Family Dentistry

5245 Sunset Lake Road, Holly Springs (919) 355-1170 sfdsmiles.com

Michael K. Bielinski

101 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 60, Cary (919) 467-7360 bielinskidds.com

Vanessa M. Campbell

Campbell Family Dentistry

355 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 567-7484 hollyspringsdentist.com

Josiah B. Chen

Morrisville Family Dentistry

10290 Chapel Hill Road, Suite 600, Morrisville (919) 469-3669 morrisvillefamilydentistry.com

Nicole Cucchi

Truecare Family Dentistry

431 Keisler Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 859-1330 truecaredentistrync.com

Ben Davis

Blue Water Pediatric Dentistry

345 Earnie Lane, Holly Springs (919) 762-7013 bluewaterpediatricdentistry.com

Ashley DeSaix

Kildaire Family Dental 3420 Ten-Ten Road, Suite 310, Cary (919) 342-8509 kildairefamilydental.com

Mike P. Hamby

Hamby Family Dental Center 7628 Purfoy Road, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-2431 mikehambydds.com

Rylan J. Hansen

Hansen Dentistry

800 W. Williams St., Suite 240, Apex (919) 363-8444 hansendentistryapex.com

Ed Howard Lane & Associates Family Dentistry

2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

Mark A. Jones

Park West Dental 15200 Weston Parkway, Suite 1, Cary (919) 677-0995 parkwestsmiles.com

Darren G. Koch

100 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 859-6633 kochdds.com

Patrick A. Lawrence

Truecare Family Dentistry

431 Keisler Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 859-1330 truecaredentistrync.com

Siti A. Lowery

Lowery Smiles

110 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 104, Cary (919) 468-5501 lowerysmiles.com

Charles Ashley Mann

Charles Ashley Mann, DDS & Associates

315 E. Chatham St., Suite 100, Cary (919) 462-9338 smilemann.com

J. Gregory Mayes

Preston Dental Center 3761 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401 prestondentalcenter.com

Lisa H. Mayes

Preston Dental Center

3761 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 100, Cary (888) 779-6401 prestondentalcenter.com

Kelsey T. Meunier

401 Attain St., Suite 131, Fuquay Varina (919) 887-5030 fuquayfamilydentistry.com

Meenal H. Patel

Preston Dental Loft

1140 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 200, Cary (919) 467-6111 prestondentalloft.com

Michael Riccobene

Riccobene Associates

Family Dentistry

1000 Crescent Green Drive, Suite 202, Cary (919) 336-5338 brushandfloss.com

Matthew Schmitt

Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry

100 Ridgeview Drive, Suite 103, Cary (919) 467-2203 ssfamilydentistry.com

Sabine E. Schtakleff

Prime Family Dental

1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 120, Apex (919) 372-8352 primefamilydentalnc.com

Todd A. Sninski

Sninski & Schmitt Family Dentistry 100 Ridgeview Drive, Suite 103, Cary (919) 467-2203 ssfamilydentistry.com

Bobbi A. Stanley

Stanley Dentistry

3731 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 201, Cary (919) 371-4454 stanleysmiles.com

Meredith Taylor

Holly Springs Family Dentistry

190 Rosewood Centre Drive, Holly Springs (919) 290-2772 hollyspringsfamilydentistry.com

John Tomasheski

Dorion & Associates

1783 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 267-2457 ncimplantcenter.com

Robert Watson Bass & Watson Family Dental 1031 W. Williams St., Suite 101, Apex (919) 362-6789 myapexdentist.com

ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL

William T. Benzing

Nu Image Surgical & Dental Implant Center

3600 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 105, Cary (844) 624-6752 ncimplant.com

Francis J. Cusumano Cusumano Oral Surgery & Implant Center

103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 200, Cary (919) 661-1995 wisdomtoothcenter.com

Robert A. Englehardt

Cary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1010 High House Road, Suite 100, Cary (919) 461-0110 caryoralsurgery.com

Gabriel W. Fritz

Central Carolina Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

2081 Shepherds Vineyard Drive, Suite 100, Apex (919) 387-3388 centralcarolinaoralsurgery.com

Bruce A. Vande Berg

Cary Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery

1010 High House Road, Suite 100, Cary (919) 461-0110 caryoralsurgery.com

ORTHODONTICS

Jesse Arbon

Carolina Orthodontics & Children’s Dentistry

7535 Carpenter Fire Station Road, Suite 201-A, Cary (919) 846-7900 mycarolinasmile.com

Christopher L. Baker

Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics

2625 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 303-4557 bovbakerortho.com

Todd S. Bovenizer

Bovenizer & Baker Orthodontics

2625 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 303-4557 bovorthodontics.com

Reid H. Brogden

Brogden Orthodontics

103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 858-0078 brogdenbraces.com

Kristen Fritz

Fritz Orthodontics

363 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 285-4481 fritzorthodontics.com

Thomas J. Griffin

540 New Waverly Place, Suite 110, Cary (919) 233-0668 griffinbraces.com

Nathan J. Kryn

Lane & Associates Family Dentistry

2613 Green Level W. Road, Cary (919) 589-0270 lanedds.com/dentist-cary-nc

Matthew D. McNutt

McNutt Orthodontics

301 Ashville Ave., Suite 101, Cary (919) 887-6350 thetoothmover.com

Robert B. Nay Nay Orthodontics

6406 McCrimmon Parkway, Suite 240, Morrisville (919) 380-9922 nayortho.com

Joseph W. Pittman

Pittman Family Orthodontics

609 Attain St., Suite 151, Fuquay Varina (919) 762-3001 pittmanfamilyortho.com

Kelly W. Ritter

103 Parkway Office Court, Suite 204, Cary (919) 858-0078 kellyritterbraces.com

Alena R. Spielberg

Spielberg Orthodontics

1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 112, Apex (919) 363-6330 spielberg-ortho.com

Mary H. G. Walton

Walton, Maready & Goeckner

Orthodontics

1505 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 207, Cary (919) 249-4900 wmgortho.com

PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Richard F. Brooks

Boooks & Chandak

Pediatric Dentistry

120 Preston Executive Drive, Suite 100, Cary (919) 468-9775 pediatricdentistcarync.com

Robert D. Elliott

Cary Pediatric Dentistry

540 New Waverly Place, Suite 300, Cary (919) 852-1322 carypediatricdentistry.com

Jean Guevarra-You

Little Tooth Co. 504 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 303-2873 littletoothco.com

Daniel T. Howell

101 SW Cary Parkway, Suite 80, Cary (919) 467-0635 carypediatricdentist.com

Cyelee Kulkarni

504 W. Williams St., Apex (919) 303-2873 littletoothco.com

Boo Lee

Blue Water Pediatric Dentistry

2106 Werrington Drive, Holly Springs (919) 762-7013 bluewaterpediatricdentistry.com

Julie R. Molina

Cary Pediatric Dentistry

540 New Waverly Place, Suite 300, Cary (919) 852-1322 carypediatricdentistry.com

Raymond J. Tseng

High House Pediatric Dentistry

351 Wellesley Trade Lane, Suite 212, Cary (919) 267-4211 highhousepedo.com

PERIODONTICS

Michael J. Brenegan

Cary Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

1003 High House Road, Suite 102, Cary (919) 469-9986 caryperio.com

Samuel J. DeAngelo

1142 Executive Circle, Suite B, Cary (919) 467-3213 executiveperioofcary.com

Paul C. Kazmer Jr.

3550 NW Cary Parkway, Suite 106, Cary (919) 468-6410 kazmerperio.com

John D. Moriarty

Cary Periodontics and Implant Dentistry

1003 High House Road, Suite 102, Cary (919) 469-9986 caryperio.com

PROSTHODONTICS

Jeffrey S. Kearney

580 New Waverly Place, Suite 110, Cary (919) 859-4778 drjeffreykearney.com

Brandon D. Kofford

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 583-6445 caryprosthodontics.com

Kevin Lim

Cary Prosthodontics

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 583-6445 caryprosthodontics.com

Renata Camino Navarro

1400 Crescent Green, Suite 210, Cary (919) 858-8193 caryprosthodontics.com

happenings

ANEWGO, a Holly Springs-based real estate technology company, recently launched anewgo.com, a marketplace designed specifically for new construction, where home buyers can search across local builders for new homes with their desired features, design and compare homes, and eventually reserve them online. NC listings include 20 builders across 54 cities and 123 communities. anewgo.com

True REST Float Spa

offered free float therapy to 588 veterans on Veterans Day to honor those who have sacrificed so much while serving in the US military.

The White Oak Foundation, Inc. in Apex hosted a community-wide health and wellness event on Dec. 17 at White Oak Missionary Baptist Church, offering a variety of medical and dental screenings free of charge. wofnc.org

On Nov. 5, CONCERT SINGERS OF CARY kicked off their first concert of the season with American Triptych by Jake Runestad, an award-winning artist and 2020 Grammy nominee. The rest of the program featured American music, including favorite hymns and folk songs, and selected works by Black American composers. concertsingers.org

In December,

STATE EMPLOYEES’ CREDIT

UNION (SECU) held its first statewide Toy Drive to help spread good cheer to NC children and their families. SECU worked with charitable organizations across the state to ensure that all gifts were delivered to children in the communities where donated items were received. ncsecu.org

In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, CHRIST THE KING LUTHERAN CHURCH in Cary held a special worship service featuring a performance by the Triangle Alliance Chorus, a choir made up of adults with disabilities — their first performance since the start of the pandemic.

On Nov. 10–13, the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile rolled into the Triangle on a coast-to-coast “weenie roast” and collected $5,137 for the Alzheimer’s Association of Raleigh in exchange for limited-edition Wienermobile swag.

Staples in Cary partnered with the Cary Chamber of Commerce to host a National Chamber Event in October, inviting media and local officials to view refreshed locations and showcase their improved services, expanded product assortment, and new store amenities.

, held in Raleigh at the end of October, was attended by more than 1,500 people and raised over $378,000 to fund Alzheimer’s care, support, and research programs. alz.org/nc

THE WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

Internationally renowned visual teaching artist Gowri Savoor led a series of lanternmaking workshops starting in November in preparation for Cary’s second annual UNDER THE SILVER MOON LANTERN PARADE , scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 14. Don’t miss it!

ARTISANS AT APEX, a weekly outdoor market held on Thursday afternoons from 4–7 p.m. at Beaver Creek Crossings, officially launched in October!

happenings

THE CARYING PLACE held its inaugural Journey Home Gala at the end of October with special guest speaker Rennie Curran, former NFL draft participant and executive director of the Game Changers Foundation. The Carying Place teaches life skills to homeless, working families with children and provides short-term housing and support. thecaryingplace.org

ERYCKA ANDERSON, owner of TXV Studios, LLC, a video production company in Cary, held a private showing of her first short film, Duplicate, at Paragon Theatre Parkside Commons in Cary on Nov. 4. Produced in Raleigh, the film has won four film festivals and is streaming on UrbanFlix with submission into Sundance and Tribeca film festivals this winter.

LEBOWSKIFEST RALEIGH 2023, benefiting Note in the Pocket and celebrating all things The Big Lebowski, will be held on Saturday, March 4, at Penny Lanes in Cary. Note in the Pocket is a Triangle-area charity that believes no child should be limited in their educational and social development because they do not have appropriate clothes for school. noteinthepocket.org

Art for All

, a mobile and virtual nonprofit art studio, hosted its first All Art’s Welcome Art Auction on Dec. 11, featuring visual arts and crafts made locally in the Triangle. Art for All cultivates community through art by providing arts education and experience to all, regardless of means. artforall-nc.org

The largest Hindu temple in North America was unveiled in Cary during Diwali — Sri Venkateswara Temple of NC stands at 87 feet, with each tower telling a story of Indian mythology. YOUR SMILE IS IN STYLE!

• Same Day Crowns • Sleep Apnea and Snoring Treatments • Smile Correction and Tooth Replacement • A Warm Family Environment

WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS COSMETIC AND COMPREHENSIVE DENTISTRY WESTERN WAKE 2022

happenings

Credit: 621 Productions LLC

Rose & Lee Collective presented the first Apex Charity Fashion Show on Oct. 6, the first of its kind in Downtown Apex. Proceeds from the evening benefited Emi’s Enchanted Events, a local charity working to bring support and joy to children who are battling medical illness. roseandleeco.com

write light

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Mystical morning

Nature’s enchanting beauty is revealed at first light along a foggy Lake Crabtree shoreline, where herons, cormorants, and seagulls gather beneath a colorful backdrop of fall foliage.

Since 1953, Wake Radiology UNC REX has been the Triangle leader in outpatient medical imaging. Our legacy of leadership stems from an unwavering commitment to image quality, patient safety, advanced technology and compassionate care. That’s how we’ve earned and maintained the trust of area healthcare professionals and patients.

WAKE RADIOLOGY

WakeRad.com

UNC REX HEALTHCARE