Cary Magazine June/July 2024

SPLASH INTO SUMMER

TAKE AN

E-BIKE ADVENTURE

DAMPF GOOD BBQ

A Cut Above

MOVERS & SHAKERS + NOTABLE TEENS MAKE THEIR MARK

HUNKY DORY VINYL SHOP

At Wake Radiology, every one of our radiologists has undergone advanced fellowship training to become an expert in their field. When a precise diagnosis counts, we’re the outpatient imaging practice the Triangle calls on.

Cary Vision Therapy and Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation

Logan Lineberry, O.D.

Logan Lineberry, O.D.

Do you experience any of the following? Cary Vision Therapy is located in West Cary and strives to provide vision therapy for patients across the Triangle area. We offer individualized programs for patients of all ages, specifically tailored to improve quality of life through the visual, vestibular, and proprioceptive systems.

Headaches

Skipping lines/words when reading

Eye strain and fatigue

Double vision

Poor reading comprehension

Poor depth perception

Car or motion-sickness

Difficulty with left vs. right

If so, vision therapy can benefit you! Brought

BOGOs every day.

With plenty of BOGO deals every week, you’ll find amazing savings on your favorite brands.

LIVE BRILLIANTLY

Vibrant new apartments coming to Hub RTP.

ON THE COVER:

Meet Chef Katsuji Tanabe and the rest of the 2024 Movers & Shakers on page 63.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

CORRECTIONS:

The performers were misidentified in the lead photograph for the Nonprofit Spotlight on the Cary Players Community Theatre Company in our May issue. Our apologies to actors Madeline Ormond and Ben Gibson and the Cary Players.

We inadvertently omitted the Best Asian Restaurant category from the list of Maggy Award winners in our April issue. Winner: Sushi-Thai Honorable Mentions: Taipei 101 and MC Modern Asian Cuisine. Congratulations to the winners!

The Food

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Lauren Morris, Managing Editor and Creative Director

Erin McKnight, Staff Writer

Jaime Nolan, Staff Writer

Tara Shiver, Digital and Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

L.A. Jackson

David McCreary

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

Annie Kimura

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

Cheryl Nelson, Senior Account Executive

Jill Newbold, Senior Account Executive

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Executive

Aleida Montufar, Account Executive

April White, Senior Account Executive

SOCIAL MEDIA

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications, Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator and Distribution Manager

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

Corey Roberts, Distribution Technician

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.

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.

editor’s letter

IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE we are already so far into 2024! I guess it’s true that time flies when you’re having fun — at least it does when your life revolves around constant magazine deadlines.

Speaking of fun, this issue brings you family- (or friend-) friendly activities to liven up your summer. Triangle Adventures offers a host of e-bike tours in Clayton and Raleigh, ranging from Burgers, Brews, and History to The Raleigh Experience: Ghosts, Mystery, and Unique History. The guides are quite knowledgeable on local facts, so you are guaranteed to leave with some interesting tidbits!

Another excursion we think you may enjoy is a trip to downtown Cary to visit Hunky Dory Record Shop. Stop by in the evening for the coziest vibe, and you’ll be treated to the crackle of vintage vinyl and on-tap brews.

Last, but certainly not least, this issue brings you accomplishment! From our 2024 Movers & Shakers to three tenacious teens, these achievers are sure to inspire. Pictured with me at right is Alexis Proulx, a 30-yearold United Airlines pilot who urges you to never wait to follow a dream. Learn more about Alexis and pick up more pearls of wisdom starting on page 63.

Whether this issue motivates you to follow a dream or just go out for some summer fun, enjoy!

Thanks for reading,

Lauren Morris Managing Editor and Creative Director

LEFT: BEHIND THE SCENES! NO, SHE ISN’T PUTTING ON DEODORANT LAUREN TESTS OUT ‘FOG IN A CAN’ TO CREATE THE COVER PHOTO.

photos by Jonathan Fredin

ABOVE: LAUREN MORRIS WITH UNITED AIRLINES PILOT ALEXIS PROULX, ONE OF THE 2024 MOVERS & SHAKERS.

SUMMERFEST

CARY’S KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE

Save with Lawn Flex Passes starting at $26 per ticket!

Plus, kids 12 and under are always admitted FREE on the lawn!

Light Classics

FRI, JUN 7 | 8PM

Concert Sponsor: William Peace University

Steep Canyon Rangers

SAT, JUN 8 | 8PM

Classical Favorites

SAT, JUN 15 | 8PM

Concert Sponsor: CEI – The Digital Office

Swan Lake

FRI, JUN 21 | 8PM

Cirque Under the Stars

SAT, JUN 22 | 8PM

Concert Sponsor: Galloway Ridge at Fearrington

The Music of the Rolling Stones

SAT, JUN 29 | 8PM

letters from readers

“We have amazing art galleries, music festivals, free music at the bandstand, and the Woodrow Wilson (Presidential Library and) Museum … not to forget the weekend outdoor dining on Beverley Street from April till the end of October. Staunton is amazing!”

— Angela Higgs, RE. “Staunton: The Gem of the Shenandoah Valley,” March

“Thank you so much! We are so excited and so honored! Couldn’t have been possible without our incredible staff, dancers, and families.”

— Cary Dance Productions, RE. “Small Business Spotlight: Cary Dance Productions,” April

“Wonderful article about Sophie’s from the wonderful writer David McCreary! We loved the pictures as well!”

— Desislava, RE. “Restaurant Spotlight: Sophie’s Grill & Bar,” May

“David: I am appreciative that you and your photographer took such great interest in Sophie’s Grill & Bar. This wonderful article and photos are the highlight of my career!”

— Nikolova, RE. “Restaurant Spotlight: Sophie’s Grill & Bar,” May

“Your team did an outstanding job capturing the essence of our company and highlighting the work we’re passionate about. It was such an honor to be included, and I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to share our story with your readers.”

— Ashleigh Kiser, RE. “Small Business Spotlight: Sewrella Yarn,” May

“The article looks great —

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU!

thank you!”

— Debra Grannan, RE. “Nonprofit Spotlight: Cary Players Community Theatre Company,” May

“So much fun! Thank you for putting on such a great party!”

— Sassool Cafe, RE. The 2024 Maggy Party, Instagram

“What an amazing night! Thank you, Cary Magazine.”

— Linda Trevor, Linda Trevor & Co, Real Estate Agents - Compass, RE. The 2024 Maggy Party, Facebook

“Without a doubt the most epic Maggy Party ever. The level of incredible food and services from all the winners was absolutely amazing. A huge thanks to all the folks for voting in Cary Magazine and Main & Broad.”

— Stray Volts Band, RE. The 2024 Maggy Party, Facebook

“Such a wonderful celebration!”

— Asali Desserts & Café, RE. The 2024 Maggy Party, Facebook

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

Jean Guevarra You, DDS

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Jean Guevarra You, DDS

Jean Guevarra You, DDS

Cyelee Kulkarni,DDS

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Jean

Now Accepting New Patients

Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Friday Appointments Available.

Now Accepting New Patients

Now Accepting New Patients

In-Network with Most Insurance Carriers.

In-House Membership Plan Available

Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Friday Appointments Available.

Early Morning, Late Afternoon & Friday Appointments Available.

In-Network with Most Insurance Carriers.

with

In-House Membership Plan Available

Video Games, T.V.s, Photo Booth, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging Station, Coffee Bar & More

Phone Charging Station, Coffee Bar & More

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

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

Video Games, T.V.s, Photo Booth, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging Station, Coffee Bar & More 919-303-2873 www.littletoothco.com info@littletoothco.com 504 W. Williams Street, Apex, NC 27502

“...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!”

have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

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

have found such a warm, welcoming practice and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!”

“...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!”

...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 place and we look forward to being patients for many years to come!

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

loved by

- Brendan S.

kids. trusted

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

by

“Professional and caring, I would highly recommend Little Tooth Co. Dr. Kulkarni takes the time to explain what is going on & what needs to be done.”

“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!”

“...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!”

parents

“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!”

- Divyesh B.

“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 patient of this practice!”

“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 areso 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!”

“...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!”

“...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!”

-Brendan S.

-Erin D.

-Erin D.

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

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

“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 patient of this practice!”

-Ayub A.

-Brendan S.

- Erin D.

-Erin D.

“...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!”

-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!”

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

“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!”

“Dr. Kulkarni was so gentle, my kid looked at me with side eye when I asked if she was in pain and she said “That didn’t hurt at all, what are you talking about?”

-Erin D.

-Brendan S.

- Jen J.

-Erin D.

-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.

“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. Tel 919-303-2873 www.littletoothco.com

Jean Guevarra You Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

Video Games, T.V.s, Photo Booth, Wi-Fi, Phone Charging Station,

Glorious 4th – July 4

Come celebrate Independence Day at North Carolina’s first colonial capitol! Hear a reading of the Declaration of Independence as the crowd cheers, followed by cannon and musket firings. Enjoy the tunes of the Fife & Drum Corps as they parade across the grounds. Engage with the militia and the 1st Regiment NC Continent Line at their encampment and visit with a Sutler family. Following the reading and festivities, there will be programming on When Did We Become Us? at the NC History Center. 9:00 am to 12 noon. FREE EVENT

Rev War Day - July 13

Here Comes the 250th! Join the NC Continental Line, Fife & Drum Corps, SAR, DAR, and others as they parade onto the Palace grounds. Engage with soldiers at the military encampment and watch drillings, bullet making and cooking over a campfire. Hear musket and cannon firing. Participate in lawn games, drilling, and drum games for children. Learn about the Harlowe Patriots, the Marquis de Lafayette, apothecary, spinning and weaving, and more at the NC History Center. A day for all to experience the 1770s and the coming of the American Revolution! 9:45 am to 3:00 pm. TICKETED ($10).

250th Anniversary of New Bern Resolves Celebration – August 24

In August 1774, the Provincial Congress met in New Bern in open defiance of royal authority. It was the first in America to do so! The 28 resolutions that were drawn focused on “the rights of British American subjects,” and adopted “economic sanctions against Great Britain.” Celebrations include a parade of the NC Continental Line, Fife & Drum Corps, SAR, DAR, and other Rev War reenactors, patriotic and civic groups to the Palace, a keynote address by Chief Justice Paul Newby, a rendering of Honors to the 71 Delegates and Resolves of the 1st NC Provincial Congress, and conclude with cannon and musket firings. 9:30 am to 3:00 pm. FREE EVENT

10 THINGS TO DO

1

With 20,000 people attending last year’s Raleigh International Food Festival, it’s a good thing there’s plenty to eat! More than 30 food and dessert trucks representing countries from across the globe meet beers and bazaars and a free downtown block party. Culture, cuisine, and nonstop performances make for a satisfying summer day out. Saturday, June 1, noon to 10 p.m. City Plaza, Raleigh. downtownraleigh.org/do/raleighsinternational-food-festival-1

2

Promising to be more than just a walk/run, and coinciding with National Cancer Survivors Day, the first annual Celebration of Life 5K Walk/ Run will transform the E. Joyner Carroll Park into Survivorville — a place where survivors, caregivers, health care providers, and friends and family can gather and celebrate one another. Offering a survivors’ parade and closing awards ceremony, and with Survivorville open throughout, the race will trample cancer while celebrating life. Sunday, June 2, 7:30 a.m. $30 and up. 701 Harris Road, Wake Forest. runsignup.com

3

Come out to the Apex Pride Festival! With live music and entertainment, a kids’ zone filled with inflatables and games, food truck rodeo, and lots of local vendors, this day of diversity and inclusion will paint the town in rainbow colors — so head out and show the LGBTQ+ community some love! Saturday, June 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free admission. Apex Town Hall campus. apexnc.org/1605/Pride-Festival

5

The BrickUniverse is hitting Raleigh. As part of the Build It! Tour, this industry-leading LEGO® fan extravaganza will present celebrated contemporary artists’ miniscule to mammoth creations, all built by hand. At the expo’s 10th anniversary, explore exhibits and meet creators and other fans, enjoy presentations, or get hands on in building zones — it’s all possible in the BrickUniverse. Saturday, June 29, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, June 30, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2–5 p.m. $14.99 and up. Raleigh Convention Center. brickuniverseusa.com

4

Commemorate the end of slavery in the US at Morrisville’s Juneteenth event. This celebration of the longest-running African American holiday will feature music, games, entertainment, historical presentations, and the unveiling of a new mural at Shiloh Park — and, of course, plenty of food trucks and a fish fry by Morrisville Education & Community Services Enterprise. It doesn’t need to be June 19 to honor Juneteenth! Saturday, June 8, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Shiloh Park, Morrisville. morrisvillenc.gov/juneteenth

Jonathan Fredin

June/July 2024

6

Find your Fourth of July festivity of choice: Apex – Fireworks Frenzy. Wednesday, July 3, 5–10 p.m. Hunter Street Park. Olde Fashioned Fourth of July. Thursday, July 4, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Downtown Apex. Cary – Independence Day Celebration. Event details TBD. Raleigh – Fireworks Celebration. Thursday, July 4, 5 p.m. Dix Park. Fuquay-Varina – Independence Day Celebration. Monday, July 1, 6–9:30 p.m. South Park. Holly Springs – Annual fireworks show. Friday, July 5, 6–10 p.m. Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park.

7

Get creative with chalk! Draw your own work of art at Chalk the Walk, a community event for artists of all ages. Sections of the path at Hunter Street Park will be sectioned off for participants to design and decorate with chalk — and try for a People’s Choice Award, voted on after the event. Whether you have your own chalk handy or grab some there, get your art into the park! Thursday, July 13, 6–7:30 p.m. Hunter Street Park, Apex.

8

Two of the UK’s biggest soccer teams will be taking to the field in our own Kenan Stadium this summer. Clash at Carolina will feature elite clubs Manchester City and Scotland’s FC for a friendly match meetup in the 2024 FC Series, which showcases the top global soccer teams. This will be the third meeting between Manchester City and Celtic, with both teams looking to clinch a first series victory. Soccer fans won’t want to miss seeing these champions on home turf. Tuesday, July 23. Time TBD. Kenan Stadium, Chapel Hill.

9

It’s more than a comic convention: It’s a celebration of comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, gaming, and cosplay. The galaxy is gathering at GalaxyCon Raleigh, so rub shoulders — costumed or not — with celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors, cosplayers, entertainers, creators, wrestlers, fan groups, panelists, exhibitors, and fellow fans in this ultimate four-day festival of fandom. Thursday, July 25, 2 p.m. to midnight. Friday, July 26, 10–12:30 a.m. Saturday, July 27, 10–1:30 a.m. Sunday, July 28, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. $40 and up. Raleigh Convention Center. galaxycon.com/ pages/galaxycon-raleigh

10

The Amazing Pollinators Exhibit may just change the way you see the life that buzzes around us. Bats, bees, beetles, and butterflies will all become larger than life through survival missions, immersive environments, and classic parlor games with a winged twist at this familyfriendly exhibition intended to educate and entertain on the vital role of pollinators in our lives. June 15 to July 31 (closed Mondays). $8 and up. naturalsciences.org

Jonathan Fredin

Shop to support Cat Angels Pet Adoptions

NEW

Upcoming Events

Wednesday Night Flicks

Rhythm & reels

Apex Nature Park Amphitheatre

June 22 and 29

July 13 and 20

Join us for a free night of music or a movie under the stars Including “Barbie” and a Jimmy Buffet Tribute, The Island Time Band!

SuperFun

Saturday!

Join us every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month for "super" fun with FREE arts and crafts! Ages 4-12 10:30am-12:30pm Wednesday

PRIDE Group Exhibit

June 7 / 6pm-8pm Wave Behaviors July 5 / 6pm-8pm

Join us June 12 for a FREE pollinator week themed family movie! 10am

Juneteenth June 15 / 11am-5pm Fireworks Frenzy July 3 / 5pm-10pm Olde Fashioned Fourth of July July 4 / 9am-1pm

“ At Raleigh Radiology we are focused on you.”

11 Convenient Locations Including Cary to serve you

When you’re a patient at Raleigh Radiology, we are going to make sure you are cared for with compassion and skill. The doctors, the technologists, the records team...everyone...will make you feel like you’re part of a family.

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY! 919.781.1437

Shawn, Breast Navigator

Dr. Taber, Diagnostic Radiologist

Barbara, Technologist, BS, RT Kelly, Technologist, RT

on trend

Olympic Games, Home Edition

WRITTEN BY JAIME NOLAN

WITH THE EXCITEMENT

BUILDING for the Summer Olympics in Paris, create your own at-home edition to immerse your family in the thrill of competition. Let’s unite in cheering on Team USA!

Parade of Nations: Line up and unleash your dance grooves and wildest moves, from cartwheels to karate kicks. Wave those imaginary flags high, and let the backyard be your stage.

Pool Noodle Javelin: Grab those pool noodles, and snip ’em in half to make a tossable (and safe) javelin! Launch the noodles for max distance, or aim for Hula-Hoop targets or a bull’s-eye bowl.

Leapin’ Long Jump: Measure your hops from a marked spot on the ground to see who can soar the farthest! No sand pits are required, just a lot of jumpin’ spirit.

Hoops Showdown: It’s time to ball! Whether you’ve got a hoop or a bucket, sink as many shots as you can in 30 seconds flat.

Flying Saucer: Grab your Frisbees and prepare to fling them across the backyard in this epic discus throw challenge to see who can launch their disc the farthest!

Blade and Bout: Equip yourself with a trusty sword (aka pool noodle). Gracefully glide across the battlefield, dodging attacks and seeking out the perfect opportunity to strike your opponent.

Triathlon Trifecta: Wrap football, basketball, and soccer into one epic event. Toss footballs through hoops, slam-dunk balls into laundry baskets, and kick goals through standing Hula-Hoops in a whirlwind of athletic prowess.

For the closing ceremony, bid farewell with flair. Make medals from cardboard painted in gold, silver, and bronze, then add ribbons. Head to the podium (aka stairs) and cement your place in the Hall of Fun!

North Carolina summers are often sweltering, and there is no better way to beat the heat than in the water. Our state has no shortage of beautiful and unique ways to enjoy the water — and I’m not talking about your average neighborhood pool. I’m talking stunning waterfalls, crystal-clear blue springs perfect for swimming and diving, kayaking adventures, floating water parks, and more! Did I mention swimming in old quarries?

Grab your swimsuit, sunscreen, and a towel and prepare for an adventure with family and friends at one of these ultimate water hangout spots. What are you waiting for? Get going already!

SPLASH INTO SUMMER

WRITTEN BY JESSICA MATTISON

Cape Fear River Adventures

Lillington

ILIA AND MEGAN SMIRNOV purchased Cape Fear River Adventures in June of 2012. At that time, it was a small operation of just eight kayaks and nine canoes. As their family began to grow, so did Ilia’s desire to expand the business. Megan credits her “entrepreneurial mastermind” of a husband in developing the park into what it is today: one of the largest river outfitters in central North Carolina. They have been known to host some 30,000 visitors in just one season!

As the name suggests, Cape Fear River Adventures offers a new adventure at nearly every turn. With river tubing, kayaking,

canoeing, paddle boarding, whitewater rafting, and even glamping on the long list of activities, they serve up something for everyone. All river activities are seasonal and open from March through November, but glamping is year-round.

“Our goal is to get as many people outside as possible,” Megan says, “and to introduce them to the wonderful Cape Fear River and its many possibilities for fun times.”

Cape Fear River Adventures takes glamping to a whole new level. The Cozy Heron Glamping experience is ideal for those who enjoy nature but not primitive camping. Visitors have the unique opportunity to stay in hand-hewn wooden Conestoga wagons. You’ll feel like you have traveled back in time — albeit with many of the modern luxuries of today (the wagons have air conditioning and Wi-Fi).

Whether you stay overnight or just stop in for a day trip, river tubing is a must. Added to the park in 2016, it quickly established itself as one of the most popular attractions to date. Depending on river levels, Lazy River Tubing can last anywhere from one to five hours. For a more abbreviated experience, Tubing Express lasts about an hour. Either way, plan to relax in the serene environment of the gently rippling water of the Cape Fear River. You might even catch a glimpse of some wildlife along the way. There may not be a better way to spend a hot summer day or weekend.

capefearadventures.com

Jonathan Fredin

Jonathan Fredin

fantasy lake adventure park

wake forest

HAVE YOU EVER dreamt of diving deep into the blue depths? How about walking on water? You can experience both at Fantasy Lake Adventure Park in Wake Forest.

A former stone quarry constructed in the 1800s, the 90-footdeep mine is now filled with clear spring water. In 1950, the 52-acre quarry flooded when an enormous spring filled the mine so quickly that a large rock-crushing machine was trapped inside. That machine still sits at the bottom of the quarry today. Doye Sherrill purchased the 100-acre property including the quarry in 1980 and converted it into a unique scuba diving recreational and training park.

For safety reasons, the quarry lake is sectioned off into multiple areas for designated activities including scuba diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, and an inflatable water park.

Yes, you read that correctly, an inflatable water park. Remember what I said about walking on water? This is your chance! Imagine an obstacle course reminiscent of the television show Wipe Out

“The inflatable water park itself is the attraction for kids and

families,” said owner Daniel Cox. “Last year we only allowed 6 years of age and older on the inflatable water park, but this season we are adding a kid section to allow 3- to 5-year-olds to have their own section.”

Scuba divers can swim in any of three holes ranging in depths from 60 to 80 feet. To partake you must be a certified scuba driver or a scuba student accompanied by your instructor. While visiting, there are plenty of underwater attractions to enjoy, each conveniently marked by a surface buoy. Such attractions include the aforementioned rock-crushing machine, two airplanes, one car, two 21-foot boats, and a sailboat.

The water park is open Memorial Day weekend through September 29, while scuba diving is open year-round. Given that the quarry is fed from a natural spring, the water stays cooler even in warmer months. Water and air temperatures are most ideal in the summer months.

This is one adventure you’ll want to add to your bucket list.

gofantasylake.com

carrigan farms mooresville

LOCATED IN Mooresville, Carrigan Farms is a fifth-generation family-owned farm with a 25-foot-deep waterhole on the property. The 275-acre farm contains what used to be a working granite mine. Many years ago, during standard excavation practices, several springs were hit, and the quarry flooded. Mining became impossible, but from it sprung a swimming experience like no other. Capitalizing on this “accident,” the Carrigan family converted the flooded quarry into a swimming feature in the 1980s, and it has been a hit with families ever since.

The main event at the farm, Open Swim, is accessible from Memorial Day through Labor Day each year. Jumps range from 4 feet to a towering 16 feet above the splash zone. The swimming area is truly picturesque, surrounded by sheer granite cliffs rising some 70 feet above the water.

“Our rope swing is one of our bigger attractions,” said Marketing Manager Terrell Chestnutt. “It tends to be one of the more popular social media things that we have.” If you want to join in the fun and take the plunge, you must be at least 54 inches tall and able to perform a pull-up.

Safety is paramount. All visiting swimmers are required to wear a life jacket when in the water and are supervised by experienced lifeguards. Because of this attention to safety, no boats or other watercraft are allowed during Open Swim. Don’t let that dissuade you from bringing your own small floats, though! Anything you can take to a local pool is welcome.

When you need a break from swimming, be sure to check out their onsite farm-to-table restaurant featuring produce grown right on the property. And when the swimming season ends, you can pick strawberries in April and apples and pumpkins from October through November. No matter what time of year, you will be guaranteed to have a splashing good time!

carriganfarms.com

Adventures

WRITTEN BY JAIME NOLAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

EMBARKING on a Triangle Adventures e-bike tour makes uncovering hidden gems and local charm an absolute breeze.

Owners David and Marlo Harrington kick-started the new business — which observed its grand opening May 18 after a soft open in early March — to “highlight some of the lesser-known hotspots” in town and “share our passion of biking, nature, local history, local food, and local drinks with everyone.”

The duo “had very different backgrounds,” according to David — him from New York, her from Southern California — but soon found common ground. “We met in Raleigh through a mutual friend and bonded through a passion for biking and hiking out in nature.”

They now share that passion with the local community through a range of guided e-bike tours departing from Deep River Brewing in Clayton and other areas of the Triangle. What is an e-bike, you ask? I

strapped on a helmet to give you the scoop.

Options Abound

Having never ridden an e-bike before, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised at the flexibility they offer in choosing your own exertion level.

“We have state-of-the-art e-bikes, and they make it easy. You don’t even have to pedal if you choose not to,” David said. “These bikes have a throttle, like an electric moped, so you can choose to pedal and get some exercise, or you can let the battery do all the work. It makes it effortless for anyone at any fitness level. Sit back and enjoy the ride!”

I loved turbo mode — the highest level of pedal assist — which allowed me to enjoy the views without breaking a sweat.

As for the tour selection, I had a tough time choosing between Burgers, Brews, and History Too; Tacos, Taps, and Local Facts;

and the Scenery Tour. A new option, The Raleigh Experience: Ghosts, Mystery, and Unique History, will debut June 22, starting and ending at the NC Museum of Art and taking riders through Dorothea Dix Park, the NC State Campus, and beyond — learning mysterious and creepy facts along the way.

Ultimately, my love for tacos and margaritas guided my choice: Tacos, Taps, and Local Facts. I met David and Marlo, who served as my fearless guides, in Clayton and set off on a journey filled with stunning views and delicious Mexican cuisine, all while sharpening my street smarts.

Hitting the Trail

We set out on a leisurely bike ride through the quaint historic town nestled along the banks of the Neuse River, winding through picturesque scenery and greeted

EVERY GRAVESTONE IN CLAYTON CEMETERY WHISPERS TALES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE.

MARLO HARRINGTON IS THE FACTS GURU.

OUR ADVENTEROUS GUIDE, DAVID HARRINGTON, LEADS US ALONG THE MOUNTAINS-TO-SEA STATE TRAIL.

by the soothing sounds of chirping birds and the invigorating scent of fresh air. The expedition left me feeling one with nature and piqued my interest in local history.

David and Marlo are walking (and pedaling) encyclopedias of historical knowledge, providing fascinating tidbits throughout the approximately 13-mile tour.

For example, we learned that North Carolina became a dry state years before the Prohibition era started in 1920, making it the state with the longest absence from alcohol. But fear not! After your enlightening journey, you’ll receive a ticket to enjoy a refreshing beer at Deep River. Cheers to history and hops!

“Clayton has some fascinating history, and few people know about it,” David said. “Some key moments of the Civil War happened right here in our backyard, among

many other things, and we thought it would be fun to throw some fun facts in with the food and drinks.”

In addition to historical facts, the tour highlights signs of growth and development, hinting at Clayton’s exciting future.

“Although Clayton is growing, it often gets overshadowed by Raleigh, and people overlook it,” David said. “Clayton has a lot of new elements to it, but you can feel it is a bit of an ‘old soul,’ and we love that — gives it a unique charm that you can only appreciate by visiting and immersing yourself in the local hot spots.”

Taco Time

Halfway through our ride, it was time to refuel with a stop at El Patron 323. Manager Simon Sanchez served up a fun atmosphere and excellent service!

“We include a margarita and a big fat taco of their choice,” David explained. “Substitutions can always be made if needed (especially for vegetarians and non-drinkers).” Want more? You’re welcome to purchase additonal food and beverages during your stop.

I opted for a delicious tinga taco. Paired with a refreshing margarita, it provided the perfect combination that energized me for the rest of the journey.

Incorporating food and drink stops into the tours came naturally to the Harringtons. They have an impeccable knack for selecting delicious and fun spots, and of course they know all the best restaurants in town like the backs of their hands!

“To be honest, we love burgers and tacos, so we wanted to do something we love,” David said. “We knew of some really great restaurants we wanted to highlight

ZIP ALONG EFFORTLESSLY OR PEDAL FOR A WORKOUT – THE CHOICE IS YOURS!

and partner with, so we began building the tours around those partnerships.”

As Johnston County’s oldest legal brewery. Deep River Brewing “was a natural stop as well,” according to David. “They have been an amazing partner, and we can’t thank them enough for their support.”

Ready to Try?

E-bike tours are perfect for bonding with friends, family, or colleagues as teambuilding exercises. Plus, with each pedal and pit stop, there’s always something new to learn, making every moment on the ebike entertaining and enriching.

“Marlo and I have worked hard to put together these engaging tours and show everyone a great time,” David said. “The tours are a great way to spend an afternoon outdoors, learn new things, laugh with friends, and meet new people while enjoying amazing food and drink. We want to encourage everyone to come try something new and exciting!”

Most tours last between 3 and 4 hours, and food and drinks are included in the price of the tour. Group rates are available.

Whether you’re zooming through trails or coasting along scenic routes, Triangle Adventures delivers a dose of joy that’s hard to beat. Hop on, hold tight, and get ready for the ride of your life. t

triangle-adventures.com

ABOVE: WITH A COMPLIMENTARY BEER TICKET, CAP OFF THE EXPERIENCE WITH A BREW.

SIMILAR TO A CAR'S DASHBOARD, THE E-BIKE'S SCREEN DISPLAYS YOUR CURRENT SPEED, ODOMETER, BATTERY LIFE, AND PEDAL ASSIST LEVEL.

Hunky Dory RECORD SHOP

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY

“FILL YOUR HEART WITH LOVE

TODAY” sings a twee David Bowie on the seventh track to his fourth studio album, Hunky Dory. For the customers of Hunky Dory Cary, that love comes in the form of vinyl records and craft brews.

Store owner and Bowie fan Michael Bell considers Hunky Dory his favorite of Bowie’s albums. As he explained, “I wanted to expand on that old slang” of everything being hunky dory — a sentiment that naturally extends to records. “Aesthetically,” Bell said about vinyl, “it’s just pleasing.”

While spinning vinyl and slinging beer isn’t new to the Triangle — as the Durham Hunky Dory opened in 2010, followed by the Raleigh location in 2020 — Hunky Dory Cary has only been playing records since the end of 2023.

“I never imagined that we would have the reception that we’ve had,” Bell said.

Thanks to Hunky Dory, the Cary community is discovering that vinyl sounds better and is warmer. As Bell also acknowledged, it “forces you to slow down … forces you to listen to something from start to finish.” In a fast-paced and “everything-at yourfingertips society,” as he described it, “there is something really cool and nostalgic and peaceful, if you will, about that crackle, that hiss” when you play a record.

Here, Bell drops the needle on Hunky Dory.

There are three area Hunky Dory stores. What makes the Cary location unique?

I like the vibe in there. It’s markedly

ANNIE KIMURA

IN HUNKY DORY, CUSTOMERS ENJOY CRAFT BREWS AND CONVERSATION WHILE THEY SHOP.

“There is something really cool and nostalgic and peaceful ... about that crackle, that hiss.”

Michael Bell, owner, Hunky Dory Record Shop

smaller than the rest. I’m just really stoked about this one because we did a lot in such a small space. I’ve collected a lot of really cool lamps and some mid-century furniture, and it’s a very inviting, cozy place. I’m very proud of that.

Who is your typical customer, if there is one, and what are some of your most popular acquisitions?

You’ll get some collectors in who are after some higher-end jazz. You’ll get some metalheads in who are after first presses of Metallica. You’ll get a younger audience in who are looking for Taylor Swift. I don’t turn my nose up — I try to get a huge variety. The used stuff is basically what people in Cary have brought in and we’ve purchased; we try to keep what people bring in in Cary in Cary. What’s really cool about Cary is that we’ve gotten more hard rock and metal — we’ve been open since December 1 — than I’ve probably gotten in years at the other stores combined. I don’t know why, but I find it fascinating, and we’ve kept it in Cary.

FOR OWNER MICHAEL BELL, THE CARY LOCATION — THE THIRD HUNKY DORY IN THE TRIANGLE — HAS A DISTINCTIVE AMBIENCE, WHERE KICKING BACK AND STAYING AWHILE IS EASY, AND ALBUM REQUESTS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME.

Why local craft brews, and what does this feature add to the customer experience?

You support the local breweries; you bring in their stuff. A lot of people like craft beer. A lot of people like to sip a beer while they listen to records. We hope to have 10 taps in Cary soon. The other stores have proven that this model works. You have a beer, you enjoy the person sitting next to you, you have stories, you imbibe, and you get out on the floor and look for something cool. It brings you in, and we hope to keep you there and enjoy stories and have fun.

What’s next for Hunky Dory Cary?

I’m just going to keep listening to people telling me what they want to see in the bins, getting that in for them. Being really active on social media, letting them tell me on there what they want to see, and just keep getting it out there and reaching more people … keep expanding and getting better and better.

When it comes to spinning vinyl in Cary, everything is indeed hunky dory. t hunkydoryvinyl.com/cary

TOP: FOR FORMER JOURNALIST BELL, SPINNING VINYL AND SHARING STORIES GOES HAND IN HAND.

BOTTOM: SOME OF HUNKY DORY’S ECLECTIC OFFERINGS

PERSONALIZED CARE

Tailored

SCIENCE-DRIVEN

Grounded

HOLISTIC APPROACH

Addresses body as a unified system, tackling nutrient, gut and hormone imbalances as well as hidden toxicities and sensitivites.

THE IMPORTANCE OF FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE

CONTRIBUTED BY SUSAN D. DENNY, MD, MPH

WHAT IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?

Functional medicine is a new model of medicine that evaluates the body as a whole with special attention to the relationship of one body system to another. Specific dysfunctions in body systems are, for each of us, the result of lifelong interactions among our environment, our lifestyle, and our genetic predispositions. Nutrient, hormone, or microbiome imbalances, environmental toxicities, stress, and food sensitivities can adversely affect the relationships between body systems.

With a functional medicine approach, illness is evaluated through detailed, indepth evaluation and cutting-edge scientific testing, allowing physicians to better assess, prevent, and treat complex chronic disease.

WHY DO WE NEED FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE?

The vast majority of modern-day illness is not from acute factors that can be easily diagnosed and treated. Most illness is chronic and almost always preceded by a lengthy period of declining function in one or more of the body’s systems. Mainstream medical practice does not focus on finding the root cause of illness. The usual medical tests do not look for food sensitivities, hidden infections, environmental toxins, mold exposures, nutritional deficiencies, or metabolic imbalances.

Functional medicine replaces outdated and ineffective acute-care models of health care and attempts to return patients to wellness.

IS FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE RIGHT FOR YOU?

If you suffer from a chronic medical condition; if you are frequently ill, tired, or in chronic pain; or if you simply seek to optimize your health, functional medicine may be able to help.

At Carolina Total Wellness, functional medicine physicians are highly skilled in evaluating, assessing, and treating chronic problems such as autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal illness, inflammatory disorders, mood disorders, chronic fatigue, pain disorders, memory problems, and other chronic, complex conditions. They also focus on the prevention and treatment of heart disease, diabetes, cognitive impairment, hormonal imbalances, and digestive disorders.

Susan D. Denny, MD, MPH is the founder and medical director of Carolina Total Wellness in Raleigh. She is a board-certified internist with certification in Functional Medicine through the Institute for Functional Medicine. For over 12 years she has led a team of highly trained and dedicated physicians and health coaches in serving the functional medicine needs of people in the Triangle.. For more information on functional medicine , call (919) 999-0831 or visit carolinatotalwellness.com

NOTABLE TEENS

PATCH WALTERS

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

PATRICK “PATCH” WALTERS is a planner. So, when he was running the biggest race of his athletic career and found himself in what he described as “too much pain,” he and his parents knew it was time for his “plan B shoes.” Thankfully, the shoe change did the trick over the long stretch of flat he was facing, as Walters was not only able to finish the race — but finish as its youngest runner.

The race in question? The JFK 50 Mile, an annual ultramarathon that takes place in Maryland and brings out elite runners to test their mettle. As America’s oldest ultramarathon, the race started in 1963 as part of President John F. Kennedy’s challenge to improve the physical fitness of the nation. The JFK 50 was founded by a North Carolina native, and while the initiative included multiple race locations at the outset, the Maryland course — which gains 1,172 feet in elevation within the first 5.5 miles alone, spans rocky sections of the Appalachian Trail, and drops over 1,000 feet in a series of steep and treacherous switchbacks — is the only original event that continues to be held every year.

Among the runners for the 61st iteration in November 2023 was 16-year-old Walters, who considers the race a stepping stone toward the goal he voiced while in ninth grade: “I want to run a 100-miler by the end of high school.”

And as far as his parents Elizabeth and Chad are concerned, there is no reason he won’t accomplish his goal. “Walters has definitely got grit,” Elizabeth shared. “He’s determined and perseveres through difficulties.”

For Walters, those difficulties came in the form of a cystic fibrosis diagnosis at 5 years old.

Being born before North Carolina instituted heel prick testing that would have detected the rare genetic disease that affects the lungs and digestive system meant that it would be an allergist who’d suggest the otherwise healthy and energetic Walters be tested for CF to see if it could account for his symptoms.

Walters’ parents attribute some of his endurance to the diagnosis, as at 5 he knew that his routine included lengthy daily treatments and long quarterly hospital appointments that his older brother and other kids didn’t have.

Despite CF historically being a disease with a life expectancy of only five years, Walters is now on just one oral medication and

thriving physically. When covid hit at the end of sixth grade, soccer player Walters and his dad started running to “get out of the house.” Despite being novices — wearing basketball shoes for their early runs — Chad was “thrilled that Walters wanted to start running and encouraged him to pursue running for the aerobic exercise and the benefits it would have for clearing his lungs.”

But then Walters began to run longer distances after starting track in the seventh grade and cross-country in the eighth. After placing well in races and winning the Most Improved and Track Coach’s Awards at GRACE Christian School, it became clear that the planner had even bigger plans.

When it comes to having CF and running long distances, Walters knew the expectation of others would be that he “won’t be as fast and his lungs won’t keep up.” But Patch likes to prove others wrong.

Katie Horton, Walters’ cross-country and track and field coach, met him “on the track before I even had a chance to coach him. He was a seventh-grade boy fearlessly running hurdles, and I immediately spotted that he had a talent.”

contributed photo

THE JFK 50 MILE REMAINS THE ONLY OF THE ORIGINAL 1963 ULTRAMARATHONS TO BE HELD ANNUALLY.

WILLIAM B. UMSTEAD STATE PARK IS HOME TO SOME OF WALTERS’ FAVORITE RUNNING TRAILS.

AVA GRIVALSKI NOTABLE TEENS

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY ANNIE KIMURA

RECENT

CARDINAL GIBBONS HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATE Ava Grivalski knows that with every blood donation you make, you are helping to save three lives. What she couldn’t have anticipated was that one of those lives may well have been her mother’s.

Grivalski and her mom, Leslie Moore-Martinez, have what they consider an “unusual story” when it comes to Grivalski’s charity commitment. In 2021, she was introduced to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund when the two stopped at the Apex Chick-filA and saw a hot-pink boat being being raffled off in support of the Fund. Intrigued, Grivalski took to social media to learn more about the Fund, which has raised $8 million since Coach Yow — the North Carolina State University Hall of Fame basketball coach who battled breast cancer for the last 22 years of her career — established it in 2007.

A conversation started when Moore-Martinez shared with Grivalski that two of her aunts, whom Grivalski had never met, had passed away from cancer. To honor these family members, the mother-daughter pair purchased raffle tickets. After they won the raffle — and the one-of-a-kind pink Savannah boat — they spent a lot of time boating on Jordan Lake and in the Wilmington area. The joke was that because they shared their story with everyone they met, they were the unofficial ambassadors of the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.

What they could never have predicted was that the next year Moore-Martinez would be diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer.

Part of her treatment included chemotherapy, and Grivalski learned that a blood transfusion may be necessary. She was surprised to discover that cancer patients are the greatest recipients of blood transfusions.

So, out of compassion for her mom, Grivalski decided to donate blood. “I have to admit I was scared to donate,” she acknowledged, “but the process was so easy, and it didn’t hurt at all.” After making several donations to the blood bank, Grivalski was eager to make a bigger impact.

Enter the Kay Yow Cancer Fund.

It wasn’t until Grivalski started donating regularly to The Blood Connection — her first donation made at a drive held at her school shortly after her mom’s diagnosis — that she discovered there was a charity giveback option available. “I immediately knew I wanted to donate to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund,” Grivalski acknowledged. “I love that their mission is to support women with all cancers and that

they help the underserved with mobile mammograms.”

Not only could Grivalski support the blood bank, but she could donate to a cancer-specific organization. “I was able to make twice the impact,” she said.

With her first blood drive, and after finding the process of organizing a drive “very easy” thanks to The Blood Connection’s coordinator and a venue in the form of the Cary preschool her mom owns, Grivalski was able to engage families and staff and facilitate 38 donations — which could save 114 lives — and raise $1,000 in honor of cancer patients.

Considering it a “full-circle moment” to handdeliver the donation to the Fund alongside her mom, Grivalski met with CEO Jenny Palmateer, who offered her an opportunity she considers “truly life-changing.”

In a “first for the Fund,” Grivalski and Moore-Martinez were invited to be cochairs — the first ever mother-daughter duo — of one of the Fund’s biggest events, the Celebration Run/Walk held at WakeMed Soccer Park and hosted by NC Courage. Grivalski knew she had the chance to help support women with cancer in a “meaningful” way.

contributed photo EVERY DONATION OF BLOOD SAVES SEVERAL LIVES.

TO SIGNIFY HER LIFESAVING ACT, AT GRADUATION AVA WORE THE RED HONOR CORD SHE EARNED FROM THE BLOOD CONNECTION.

HARSHIL GARG NOTABLE TEENS

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

HARSHIL GARG hopes to become a third-generation MBA. Yet, unlike his grandfather and his father, Madhur — who expressed that his son “sees things differently” — Garg wants to use his education to explore how the world of investing can be opened to the disadvantaged.

The rising senior at Green Level High, who plans to major in Business Studies at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School, already has the necessary savvy to recognize that he must earn money for himself, as he explained, if he wants to “have enough to share with others in a meaningful way.”

And sharing with others seems to be what compelled Garg to launch Project Aqua-Survivors — an initiative aimed at teaching water awareness to the area’s underprivileged children.

Already concerned about the National Safety Council statistic that recognizes drowning as the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for children under the age of 15, Garg drew inspiration from Swim Tayka, an organization that provides free swimming lessons to the underprivileged children of the world living along open waters.

And when it comes to swimming — a sport Garg started at age 5 when he moved from India to New Hampshire and continued with the Triangle Aquatic Center when his family relocated to Cary at 8 — his thinking about water safety took a similarly different approach.

“I didn’t really know where to start,” Garg admitted, after realizing that the YMCA where he worked out already had its own program and required children to be onsite for lessons. “One thing led to another,” Garg said, and “I finally found Project PHOENIX after talking to the school resource officer.”

Project PHOENIX (Promoting Healthy Occupancy through Education, Networking, and Information eXchange) is an alliance between the Cary Police Department and Town that partners officers with apartment neighborhoods to maintain safety and foster a sense of community.

When Garg met with Sergeant Dustin Wright, his contact at Project PHOENIX, the officer asked him a critical question: For someone to not drown, is it important that they know how to swim?

“When I started discussing my ideas and what I wanted to do with Sgt. Wright,” Garg explained, “he helped evolve it. He volunteered manpower; he volunteered publicity and outreach in the communities that he already worked with as part of Project PHOE-

NIX. Essentially, I got the platform on top of which I could then build my program.”

And after his thinking shifted to “how not to drown” from the conventional “how to swim,” and under the aegis of Project PHOENIX, Garg knew he could accomplish something impactful for a wider audience in a shorter duration.

The first step was to raise funds. While charitable donations were an option, Garg decided to rely on his swimming skills. Knowing that he connects well with kids, throughout the summer of 2022 Garg offered swim coaching to kids who could afford to pay. The mother of two boys described her sons’ time with Garg as “a fun and fruitful experience for my family,” with her younger son becoming comfortable enough to put his face in the water and the older learning “a whole deal about breath control and pushing through the length of the pool.” Coaching 10 kids that summer earned Garg $1,200 — enough money to kick off Project Aqua-Survivors.

contributed photo

GARG'S COMFORT IN THE WATER PROPELS HIM TO HELP OTHERS DECREASE THEIR FEAR.

But Walters isn’t reckless. He doesn’t simply see goals — he wants to understand them. Whether it’s changing up the kinds of runs he does, scrutinizing his nutrients, or training for an ultramarathon without music because the race bans AirPods, Walters approaches every goal with the logic and meticulousness that will serve him well should he study mechanical engineering in college as he plans.

“Patch is still the same brave kid that I saw jumping hurdles on the track,” Horton explained, “but what I’ve grown to learn about Walters is that he doesn’t tackle the hard tasks without fear. In fact, most of the time he’s terribly intimidated by the challenge, but what makes him so brave is that he still pursues his goals despite his fear.”

Indeed, Walters isn’t immune to the worry that comes from dips in his lung function, so he hopes that his achievements raise awareness of the need for

continued medical advancements and an eventual cure for CF.

Elana O’Connell, founder of the Joey O Bocce Classic, which has raised $600,00 for CF, has no doubts in that regard. After first meeting Walters at the event when he was 8, O’Connell went to see him run his first marathon years later. “I saw the future of a cure!” O’Connell explained. “Patch was our hope that a cure for CF was imminent.”

Despite describing Walters as modest and humble — traits that align with his desire to schedule his longest training runs on weekends to keep his weekdays free for runs with friends — O’Connell is clear about his influence: “Patch is a hero in my eyes. I don’t believe kids with CF had someone like Patch to look up to. They see him and think to themselves, Why not me? I can do that!”

In the meantime, Walters continues to cover the miles in search of his next opportunity. t

WALTERS, continued from page 44

contributed photo

IF THE SHOE FITS AND IS FASHIONABLE -- EVEN DIFFERENT PAIRS WALTERS WILL LACE THEM UP FOR HIS LONG RUNS AT UMSTEAD PARK.

AS THE YOUNGEST RACE FINISHER, WALTERS PROVED CYSTIC FIBROSIS CAN’T SLOW HIM DOWN.

“I think I will remember that day forever,” Grivalski said about the event, which took place February 3. At the “celebration of cancer survivors, thrivers, caregivers, and those in the fight to end all cancers affecting women,” $150,000 was raised and a record attendance achieved. Grivalski was also asked to give a speech. As the Presidential Academic and Communications Fellows scholarship recipient from Elon University and with plans to double major in Strategic Communications and International Business this fall — and having wanted to speak publicly since middle school — Grivalski feels “incredibly proud” to have helped build awareness in such a visible way.

With college drawing near, Grivalski hopes to find ways to engage students not only with blood drives but as a part of the education process in support of cancer patients and research. She also plans to intern for the Kay Yow team, and every blood drive she hosts will continue to support the Fund. Grivalski’s advice to other teens is therefore fitting: “Focus on something that is important to you. When you connect with an organization or a charity, giving truly comes from the heart.”

About her legacy of helping women, Coach Yow once said: “I normally shun the spotlight, but I don’t mind being the platform.” For her part, Grivalski is “so

proud to have been a part of what [Yow] created” and is grateful for the constant support and inspiration of her mom, who has achieved remission. t

In his sophomore year, Garg finalized the execution details of Project Aqua-Survivors, which would run during the summer of 2023. Two underprivileged Cary apartment communities — Merriwood and Williamsburg Manor — were shortlisted, and Garg settled on the competencies required to help anticipate, avoid, and survive common drowning situations.

Thanks to Project PHOENIX’s continued support in the form of community advertising and the provision of a lifeguard at the three hourlong sessions conducted in the apartment pools — along with the money Garg raised the previous summer, which was used to buy coaching equipment, swim goggles, and US Coast Guard-approved life vests — the program saw high participation. A total of 18 children attended one or more session. Perhaps recognizing Garg’s desire

for participants to reduce their fear of water, several parents expressed an interest in taking part in adult-level classes should they become available.

For Sgt. Wright, who was immediately supportive of Garg’s idea to bring water awareness to the doorstep of an underserved population, and who was already familiar with the number of deaths in Cary alone due to drowning, Project Aqua-Survivors was a resounding success.

On Garg’s part, and after being named The Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center’s 2024 Key Volunteer of the Year, the hope is to create a “pipeline of compassionate coaches from the high schools in the area,” who will ensure that the summer program continues after he graduates.

Garg’s ongoing concern for water safety among those who can’t swim has never abated; if anything, making an actionable differ-

ence has strengthened his desire to prevent everyday deaths from drowning.

“I know that there are many other swimmers like me who would like to give back to society in a meaningful way using their skills,” he affirmed, “but not everyone is fortunate to find the means to do so. I want to be able to provide them with that opportunity.” t

GRIVALSKI, continued from

GARG, continued from page 48

contributed photo

contributed photo

GRIVALSKI IS HONORED TO CONTINUE SUPPORTING THE KAY YOW CANCER FUND.

ANU ANTONY

MD, MPH, MBA, FACS

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

A Board-Certified, Harvard and Stanford trained Plastic Surgeon specializing in cosmetic surgery for over 15 years. Dr Antony is sought out for her artistic eye and meticulous surgical technique in facial, breast, and body procedures.

She is excited to be back home in North Carolina from Chicago with her husband and two kids. Dr. Antony uses art and science to empower her patients to look and feel their best and achieve their personal beauty goals.

Now Booking Appointments

Nationally recognized. Award winning.

nonprofit spotlight

Kids Together Playground

WRITTEN BY ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

“SMALL IDEAS REAP GREAT rewards when those ideas are shared by many,” reads a sign in Cary’s Kids Together Playground, the legacy of Helen Rittelmeyer and Kristen Holcombe, 8-year-olds who dreamed of a place where their younger siblings with disabilities could safely play. Skip ahead more than 20 years and the playground — nestled in the Marla Dorrel Park — continues to allow kids of all ages and abilities to play together.

Thanks to the enduring effort of a team of volunteers, KT Playground provides opportunities for children to under -

stand the concept emblazoned in bronze in the Misting Garden: “Different is Normal, Love is Universal.”

Here, park namesake and Kids Together President Marla Dorrel explains how dreams can become reality when individuals join their efforts and work hard … then play hard!

The playground is a suburban Cary fixture. Can you share how the space has grown along with the community?

In the early years, Kids Together added shade structures in the School-Age

Sensory Play area. Today, given the trees’ growth, we wouldn’t need those!

During the initial design stage, budgetary concerns caused us to delay adding a water feature. However, in partnership with the Town of Cary, in 2018 we added the Misting Garden — complete with whimsical chimera statues created by Pittsboro artist Todd Frahm.

Over the years, we’ve been asked to include a wheelchair-accessible swing. We didn’t find the right one until, in 2022, we discovered the We-Go-Swing, which allows a child in a wheelchair to swing without

THE SWAY FUN IS A WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE GLIDER FOR INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND FUN.

transferring and includes both a wheelchairaccessible and standard bench bay, allowing a child in a wheelchair to swing along with a non-disabled sibling, caregiver, or other friend. With funding from KT and the Town of Cary, the We-Go-Swing was installed in December 2023.

We are fortunate that the Town of Cary continues to maintain the playground, keeping it safe and exciting.

Does the playground continue to be used as imagined and intended?

Yes. There is rarely a time that the playground isn’t in use, and it’s a joy to see families flock there, especially on weekends. Our visitors speak many languages and reflect the area’s diversity. The picnic shelter is a popular place for birthday parties and other gatherings. Groups from the YMCA and area day care centers bring busloads of children for a few hours of fun, and playgroups meet in the Preschool Play area.

Can you share an experience that epitomizes the playground’s mission?

For the past two years, the Town’s Specialized Recreation program has chosen Kids Together Playground as the site of its annual Easter Eggstravaganza, an egg hunt designed for those with disabilities, their families, and caregivers. The event is open to everyone, including nondisabled children who just happen to be at the playground. Seeing everyone together, crafting paper crowns and hunting eggs, demonstrates what our organization values most: accessibility and inclusivity for those of all abilities.

KT is active when it comes to events, this spring’s Safety Day being just one example. What’s planned and how can the community show its support?

As an all-volunteer organization, Kids Together runs on a shoestring budget de-

spite still having annual expenses and those related to the free community activities we offer. Our membership program is designed to cover those expenses — the more we receive, the more fun experiences we can offer. We also welcome donations, and our engraved brick program is a special way to honor someone.

While we hold at least four free events — including pop-ups — at the playground each year, our sole fundraiser, Walk, Run & Roll for Inclusive Play, is taking place on October 5. We’re seeking sponsors and vendors; those interested can contact me at kt@kidstogethercary.org, and event information is available on our website.t kidstogether.org

•

Introducing Cary Magazine’s 2024

COMPILED

BY

ERIN MCKNIGHT | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

With so many entrepreneurs joining the ranks of this year’s Movers & Shakers, it’s perhaps unsurprising that several among them would seek inspiration — or, at times, solace — in the same Mike Tyson quotation. Yet, for the ambitious achievers of 2024, their inroads to success are just as unique as their professions and industries ... and the eclectic wisdom they share about their personal and professional lives. So read on to discover what happens when preparation and chance collide.

Joshua Almond Lieutenant, Morrisville Police Department

Origin story:

I got my interest in law enforcement while volunteering at a rescue squad; working wrecks sparked an interest that led to me wanting to learn how these collisions happened. Once I started in law enforcement, I knew this was what I wanted to do for the rest of my career. It also led to me becoming a crash reconstructionist while working for the police department.

Favorite accomplishments:

My proudest accomplishment is undoubtedly my marriage to my incredible wife and raising two remarkable children. Without them by my side, I would not be able to accomplish the other great accomplishments throughout life.

A proud moment:

Recently I was able to see an officer I’ve mentored over the years achieve a promotion to corporal as well as receive Officer of the Year. It displays the importance of investing in the growth of team members and the positive impact it can have on the agency.

On continuing to grow as a leader:

I’ve come to recognize that in the realm of leadership, the moment you think you’ve learned it all is the moment you should reconsider your role. Every day presents opportunities for growth, and I actively seek out chances to expand my understanding and skills as a leader.

Libby Azzarello

Co-Owner, Bumble Brews Raleigh Realtor, At Home with Libby and Choice Residential Real Estate

Origin story:

I began my career working for Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings & Honeymoons and continued my trajectory through roles in event planning, social media, relationship management, and professional education. When my husband and I got married, we each picked a place off a map to try and convince the other person to move to our choice. After visiting Raleigh — my choice! — there was nowhere that could compare.

Our Bumble Brews venture was born out of a desire for my husband to leave the corporate world and become more ingrained in the community we had grown to love. He explored many franchise options; all along I told him: “If you pick something fun, I’m in. If you pick something boring, you’re on your own.”

Core values:

Creativity and authenticity. My creativity comes into play when I’m negotiating for my real estate clients, planning events at Bumble Brews, coming up with strategic ways to help our staff grow, and encouraging my 2-year-old daughter to put on pants. Authenticity is a rare value in today’s world where social media has created a highlight reel of people’s accomplishments.

Favorite quote:

One part stands out from The Sound of Music’s “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” — “Climb ev’ry mountain, ford ev’ry stream, follow ev’ry rainbow, till you find your dream. A dream that will need all the love you can give, ev’ry day of your life for as long as you live.” Entrepreneurship emphasizes hard work and hustle, but the perspective shifts when you think about pouring love into what you do — waking up daily and continuing to love it is no easy feat!

Motivation:

My daughter, Nell. I want her to understand the benefits of entrepreneurship and relying on her community and developing and practicing her unique skills. I hope she understands that “work” can look however she chooses but that it’s not the end goal. I want her to understand that living a great life with loved ones and practicing self-care are the ultimate desired outcomes of hard work.

Kerrin Cox Communications Coordinator, Town of Apex

Origin story:

During a college internship in my hometown of Asheboro, North Carolina, I saw how — unlike federal or state governments — local, municipal governments have an opportunity to truly know the people they serve. After graduating from UNC-Chapel Hill, my goal was to find employment with a municipality. In 2015, I began my career with the Town of Apex. Knowing that my work contributes to community members feeling proud to call Apex home, understanding the important work of our town staff, and engaging with various programs and initiatives means everything to me and keeps me going … even on the tough days.

Favorite accomplishments:

Leading an amazing group of staff in planning and executing the Town of Apex’s sesquicentennial. Our 150th anniversary was a yearlong celebration that kicked off in February 2023 and unified community members, created common understanding, and challenged everyone to go “all in” by participating in over 150 ways to celebrate throughout the year. A highlight of the celebration year was the What Makes Apex Home video series that showcased more than 100 community stories — many previously untold — from various ages and backgrounds.

Motivation:

Working in communications, I have a lens into every department within our town government. While I am no expert on any department, I do have the opportunity to get to know many important pieces so that I can better communicate to the community. My motivation is always twofold: to help our community members know what is going on in their local government, and to tell the stories and accomplishments of our staff. Internal and external communications are at the forefront of my mind — I love when I get to bring the two together to tell the stories of our community.

Biggest challenge:

A challenge local government communications staff face is balancing creating fun and engaging content and getting important information out quickly. Maintaining transparency and accountability often leaves us to figure out how to communicate a project in a way that engages the community for the least amount of tax dollars. As we strategize and develop the tactics, graphics, and messaging surrounding a new project, we often face the challenge of knowing how to reach our audience effectively.

Nathaniel (Nate) John Branscomb

Co-Founder, BCombs

Favorite accomplishments:

Being able to live vicariously through my children’s accomplishments. Parenthood has been both phenomenal and trying, but it’s all worthwhile when I see my children apply some of the lessons and insight my wife and I have tried to instill in them.

Selfishly, BCombs won two NC IDEA entrepreneurial grants, I have been named one of the 10 to Watch nonprofit leaders by the United Way of the Greater Triangle, I have the opportunity to serve our youth, and now I’m a Mover & Shaker.

Origin story:

As the oldest child growing up on the South Side of Chicago, I was accustomed to telling my siblings and cousins what to do. I mean lead by example. Fast forward, and I have been able to combine my love for helping others, leadership qualities, and years in nonprofit leadership into BCombs, a CRM software to help nonprofits and youth-serving organizations save time, reduce costs, automate processes, increase engagement, and better track and utilize data.

Favorite quote:

“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face” was Mike Tyson’s response when asked whether he was worried about Evander Holyfield and his fight plan. Life, parenthood, and entrepreneurship are all about facing the unknown. The unknown can be an opportunity — and getting punched in the face may sometimes be the wakeup call we need to do something different.

On success:

It’s funny how our definition of success changes. Entering Miami University (Ohio), success was obtaining a role that would serve as the building block for a successful corporate career. Now living in Cary, looking forward to celebrating 20 years of marriage, raising children in an environment that is almost the polar opposite of where I was raised, I view success through prisms related to my enjoyment of life, whether I’m living up to my purpose, if I’m testing my limitations, and whether I contribute to the lives of others. So, here’s to new challenges and getting punched in the face.

Cortney Duncan Founder and President, CADCO Construction Co.

Favorite accomplishments:

1) Marrying my wife, Ashley, almost 20 years ago. She motivates me to be the best version of myself and a better person every day.

2) Becoming a dad to my triplets, two sons and a daughter. Being a triplet parent has its challenges, but it is also one of the greatest blessings of my life.

3) Starting CADCO. I always wanted to be a general contractor, having started in the field at 16 years old. I graduated from Appalachian State University with a degree in Construction Technology and after working for a construction company for five years, I took a leap of faith and started my own company.

4) Giving back to our community through CADCO’s Annual Autism Awareness Golf Tournament, which benefits the Autism Society of NC. My wife and I, with the help of numerous volunteers and supporters, hold this tournament to raise funds in support of ASNC’s mission to improve the lives of individuals with autism, support their families, and educate communities.

5) Coaching my sons’ football teams and serving as a coach for Cary High football. As a former football player and avid sports fan, I enjoy using my passion for sports to make a difference in the lives of young athletes.

Core values:

Just as CADCO’s core values are loyalty, dependability, and integrity, these are the values I try to live my life by. As an entrepreneur, I also value creativity, hard work, and the effort it takes to be successful in business and in life.

Mentor:

I am fortunate to have had several great mentors in my life — coaches, teachers, family members, friends, and colleagues. My most influential mentor is my dad. He taught me to work hard and do everything with purpose and integrity while keeping faith and family first. His leadership and selflessness gave me an example of the kind of man I continue to try to be.

Favorite quote:

As a lifelong Notre Dame football fan, I love this quote by Lou Holtz: “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it.”

Mike Forman Chief Marketing Officer, Carolina Hurricanes

Proud moment:

In February 2023, we had the opportunity to host the NHL Stadium Series game in Carter-Finley Stadium. With the passion of our fan base, we knew this market would shine nationally and globally; we wanted to put a full week’s events together to make it a true celebration of our region. The Stadium Series game ended up being the fastest sellout in NHL outdoor game history, with nearly 57,000 people filling CarterFinley on a perfect Saturday evening. That week’s events had a $20.1+ million economic impact on the region.

Leadership style:

I think everyone needs to find their unique leadership style. The principles I’ve tried to live by include hiring the best possible people with the right attitudes, empowering them to make autonomous decisions, and making sure they have the resources they need to be successful at elevating our brand.

On fostering a positive work environment:

The more I’ve advanced in my career, the more I’ve learned how fostering a positive work environment is as important, if not more so, than any other job duty as a leader. It’s not easy to balance every personality, so if you create a culture where people treat each other with respect, communicate with each other, and are solutions based, it becomes much easier to get buy-in from every individual — as they know these are nonnegotiable as team members.

On maintaining work/life balance:

This is probably the most challenging aspect for anyone who works in sports, as you’re going to work long, nontraditional hours, holidays, and weekends. For many, it also often becomes a personal identifier — people associate you with the team or school you work for. Where I’ve grown is in understanding that working in sports is what I do and not necessarily who I am. Being more present at home, on vacation, or while watching my kids play sports themselves has helped with the mental fatigue caused by always being “on” or thinking about work. It’s not easy and something I still need to improve, but I’ve come a long way.

Damón Gray II

Employment Attorney, Jackson Lewis P.C.

Origin story:

As the child of a United States Marine, I was nurtured by the steadfast support of both my parents and raised in 12 different cities across the globe. From Japan to Hawaii, I was exposed to many corners of the world. My educational path led me to graduate from Cornell University. However, it was during my tenure at Wake Forest Law School that I developed a deep connection to North Carolina, which prompted my decision to establish firm roots here.

Favorite quote:

“Chance favors only the prepared mind” is a quote by Louis Pasteur that has always resonated with me and reinforced the notion that success stems from diligent preparation. This principle highlights the significance of continual learning, planning, and constant attentiveness and aligns with my conviction that being well prepared enhances our ability to make the most of unexpected opportunities.

On company culture:

I am privileged to be a part of Jackson Lewis P.C., a nationwide employment law firm that excels in fostering diverse, inclusive, and high-performing teams. Beyond legal services, the firm deeply values its culture and focuses on personal growth, diversity, equity, and leadership development, and provides ample mentorship opportunities. There is also a commitment to community involvement in local initiatives such as the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Triangle, Salvation Army Angel Tree Adoption, and NC Legal Feeding Frenzy. I have contributed to the firm’s culture by helping to plan office events, participating in community service events, and assisting with mentoring our yearly legal interns.

Fun fact:

In high school, I had the unique opportunity to be interviewed by Oprah Winfrey and featured on her daily talk show. In 2006, Oprah ran a series discussing ways to enhance America’s school systems. One proposed solution was to adopt a new model of school, which had been developed and funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. As a student representative, I had the honor of being interviewed not only by Oprah but also by both Melinda French Gates and Bill Gates.

Brittany Johnson Planner II, Town of Morrisville

Favorite accomplishments:

Helping to establish the Town of Morrisville’s inaugural mural program, a component of our evolving public art program. Developing the program — a labor of love I am appreciative to have coordinated — allowed me to combine my passion for art and my love of planning.

As the summer installation of the first murals draws near, I can now take a moment to reflect on the people and steps it took to see this plan through to fruition. The program’s goal is to activate and enhance the cultural connectivity and vitality of Morrisville through engaging artwork and creative placemaking. We aim to honor the town’s natural beauty, add to the collection of public art, and provide opportunities for community engagement. We want murals to be colorful and inspiring for residents and visitors, and to reflect the unique characteristics of Morrisville!

Fun fact:

I have an identical twin, which has informed much of who I am and made me hyperaware of the impact I can have on others daily. I also believe that being a twin uniquely prepared me to work collaboratively. Because of this, I strive to bring positive energy to all situations.

On fostering a positive work environment:

I have the wonderful and unique chance to have a true impact on the Town. I take that opportunity seriously and understand what a privilege it is to serve in this role, guiding residents through understanding the intricacies of the Unified Development Ordinance and helping them to understand local and state provisions. I am also privileged to see projects from inception to development. As a student of architecture and a visual artist, I see the beauty in all structures. Being able to share that beauty with my coworkers and the community contributes to my positivity.

Favorite quote:

My grandfather had a motto I have adopted as my own and choose to live by: “Rather the task be great or small, do it well or not at all.” My parents further instilled in me the importance of doing my best in all situations and were great examples to follow.

Jill Santa Lucia President, Catering Works Culinary Director and Popcorn Visionary, Ella’s Popcorn

On fostering a positive work environment:

Having a great leadership team to teach, train, and hold accountable is the first step — sharing the company vision and having your team understand how they are a part of it. When you foster a team to care and they see that the leadership cares, it creates a positive workplace.

On success:

When you own a business, you measure success using different metrics. The team’s happiness, sales, profits, and reputation in our industry can make you feel like you are on top of the world or at the bottom of the well. Success is fluid. Consistency, hard work, resilience, and even fear are things that I think make you successful.

Biggest risk:

I have taken many, from starting a business at 22 years old, to launching Ella’s Popcorn during the pandemic, to opening a retail store in 2003. The food industry is one of the riskiest. When I first started out, I couldn’t get a loan without a co-signatory. I was told by a banker that I wouldn’t last five years in the restaurant business. I had to correct him that I was starting a catering business. At the time, catering wasn’t recognized as a separate industry.

The risk of feeling like I wasn’t going to make it was both a curse and a blessing — it motivated me to keep going. Everything we do outside of our comfort level is a risk. Owning a business is always one.

Biggest challenge:

By far, getting through the pandemic. As a single mother, I was terrified of what it could mean for my girls and our future goals. As a business owner, I had to let many people go and estimate how long we could go on without business. My sister and I had to dig deep to figure out a plan. We started by making personal family meals for our employees and customers. We made masks, and we started doing Zoom cooking classes.

In October of 2020 we launched Ella’s Popcorn, named after my daughter, using a longtime recipe from our catering menu. We started shipping all over the country, and are forever grateful for all our customers, employees, families, friends, and neighbors who supported us through this time.

John Lugo

Head Trainer and Owner, FluidK9 Dog Training

Mentors:

One person who really impacted my life as both a dog trainer and a person is Kostas Koilias, from Greece. Kostas taught me about the real values of dog training: to be fair and to train each dog according to what they individually need to succeed — and that at the end of the day, it is all about the dog.

Favorite quote:

“You should be grateful to the dog who’s willing to show you his teeth. At least he is being honest.” — Kostas Koilias

Impactful lessons:

One of the challenges in life is finding out what you’re good at. Once you find that gift — that purpose — you have to figure out a way to use it to help people.

Recent challenge:

For about a decade before covid, I mostly trained sport and working dogs, along with an occasional pet dog. This type of work took me all over the country and the world. The travel came to a sudden stop during covid, and I had to reevaluate my work. This was when I refocused on working mostly with pet dogs, and I put down roots in the Cary area. It has been an adjustment that has been made easier by the wonderful clients and community that have welcomed me with open arms.

Fun fact:

I am a huge jazz guy and lover of all music. Before becoming a dog trainer, I went to music school, graduating from Conservatorio de Música de Puerto Rico. I still play the upright bass. Music and playing is a big part of my life, and I feel like it always will be.

Morgan Mansa

Deputy Director of Housing, Wake County

Favorite accomplishment: In Cary, it is helping to transform the landscape of affordable housing. I authored Cary’s first housing plan, which intentionally integrated other Cary priorities such as the environment, transportation, and economic development. The journey to create this holistic document and have authentic support from Town Council and other leaders was a labor of love and something

I’m incredibly proud of. We went beyond traditional housing documents and published a plan that speaks to the true essence of Cary. It’s this milestone in Cary that gives me excitement about my new chapter at Wake County — an opportunity to broaden my geographic impact and support even more residents needing access to high-quality housing.

Impactful lessons you have learned:

The power of the pivot. Like most people, there were experiences in my career and life that didn’t go according to plan. In the moment it felt uncomfortable, and I didn’t know how I was going to overcome what I perceived to be adversity. Now, instead of allowing myself to feel defeated, I immediately say to myself: There’s probably something better waiting for me.

I’m from Chicago, and when my husband relocated us to Nashville, it was difficult to leave my family, friends, and professional network. In hindsight, our move to Nashville was critical for giving us the geographic proximity to do a road trip to this region and learn about the high quality of life and opportunities. Today, I can’t imagine living anywhere else or having a career that does not serve the people of this community.

Motivation:

It changes depending on the season, but my son is without a doubt my biggest motivation to do this incredible work and take care of myself — to leave a legacy he’s proud of and be here with him as long as possible.

Favorite quote:

“We have the ability to be the heroes of our families, our community, and our lives. It’s important to remind people of that truth: You have what it takes to make an impact.”

— Kerry Washington

Dr. Christopher McGowan

Founder

and

Medical

Guiding philosophy:

Director,

True You Weight Loss

The philosophy that drives me and my team is that obesity is a disease — and not a matter of willpower. As a practitioner and advocate, my goal is to reduce the stigma associated with obesity and encourage patients to seek medical treatment for it just as they would any other disease state. For decades, patients struggling with obesity have had minimal treatment options, but we are fortunate that the emerging field of medicine I specialize in provides novel, safe, and highly effective treatments that offer sustainable weight loss.

Origin story:

After completing medical school and finishing my Gastroenterology subspecialty training at UNC, the entire field of endoscopic bariatrics was first coming online. Practicing GI, I saw many patients battling obesity-related issues. Apart from bariatric surgery, treatment options for obesity were almost nonexistent. With the advent of endoscopic tools, an entire world of options became available. As an early pioneer in the field, I immediately experienced the impact of these procedures. In 2020 I founded the first dedicated endoscopic bariatric practice in the country, and I continue to focus on improving the health of my patients and advancing and innovating within this rapidly evolving field.

Motivation:

My patients. While their individual struggles are unique, their stories are often similar. These patients have put in the work to lose weight but just haven’t been given the tools to succeed. Once we provide the tools, guidance, and accountability, it is a joy and privilege to witness their renewed commitment to living a healthy life. And while losing 50 or 100 pounds is great, it’s the “nonscale victories” that really make me proud. We provide the tools, but my patients must put in the work.

Fun fact:

Contrary to popular belief, diet and exercise aren’t that effective for long-term weight loss. While both are critical to good health, when it comes to losing weight, they don’t do much to move the scale. The human body is skilled at maintaining weight and will fight every effort we make to lose it. That’s why we sometimes need weight loss tools to disrupt those innate mechanisms — so the work can finally work

Terry Parker II Vice President, Relationship Manager, Bank of America

On maintaining work/life balance:

Work/life balance is essential for overall well-being and productivity. Maintaining this balance is like finding the perfect harmony between your professional responsibilities and personal life. I have accepted that work/life balance will not always balance; instead, work and life will likely coexist. There will be times when work will outweigh my personal life and vice versa. I try to set boundaries, prioritize tasks, and establish routines. I think the healthiest way to manage positive work/life balance is learning when it’s time to unplug and reset.

On continuing to grow as a leader:

Growing as a leader is an ongoing mission. Our best leaders recognize learning never stops. As a “young professional,” I am doing more learning than I am leading in this phase of my career. I take mental notes of the leaders in our community and identify the characteristics I would like to reflect. Lastly, I frequently seek advice from my mentors. I try not to seek the answers I want; I try to accept the feedback I need. I must admit, I am still a work in progress in that regard.

On success:

Success is in the eye of the beholder. I also believe success looks different in different phases of life. Currently, success is about setting the stage for the next chapter of my life — being a communityfocused leader while being available for my family and friends. From a career perspective, my success is contingent on making a positive impact within the business community. I am fortunate to be in a profession that affords me that opportunity. My personal success is simple: showing up for my support system. Balancing the two can be challenging but is well worth the effort.

Favorite quote:

“To whom much is given, much will be required.”

— Luke 12:48

Dr. Dwijesh (DJ) B. Patel

Interventional Cardiologist, Rex Hospital

Mentors:

Kusum Patel, my mother, and Sweta Patel RPH, my sister, were instrumental in my early life, instilling in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and compassion. Their unwavering support and guidance provided the foundation upon which I built my aspirations and pursued my dreams. As I navigated the complexities of growing up, their wisdom and encouragement served as beacons of light — shaping my character and fostering my determination.

Throughout my journey as a cardiologist, I have been profoundly guided and supported by my mentors, Drs. George Stouffer, Joel Schneider, William Newman, Ravish Sachar, and countless others.

Origin story:

I moved from India to the United States after high school with my mother and sister and supported by my uncle, Piyush Patel, and his wonderful family. Determined to pursue a career in medicine, I completed my undergraduate studies at UNC at Chapel Hill. Following this, I earned my medical degree and solidified my passion for cardiology. My journey continued at UNC, where I completed my residency and specialized training in general cardiology. Further honing my skills, I undertook advanced training in interventional cardiology. Now, I take pride in being a member of the North Carolina Heart and Vascular at UNC Rex Hospital. Additionally, I have the privilege of caring for patients at Wayne Memorial Hospital in Goldsboro, where I serve as the Cath Lab Director.

Leadership style:

My leadership style is a blend that defies firm categorization and draws elements from servant and identity leadership. I believe in serving others with empathy and humility, prioritizing their needs and growth. Simultaneously, I empower individuals to embrace their identities and strengths, which fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment.

Favorite quote:

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill

Alexis Proulx Pilot, United Airlines

Biggest risk:

At 23 years old and after graduating from NC State and flight attending for a year, I quit my job, took out a very large loan, and had my first flight lesson. Becoming a pilot was not something I’d “always dreamed of” like most people. In fact, I didn’t even think it was possible — not for me, anyway. Until one day when a pilot around my age started telling me about his journey, and it just clicked: If he can do it, I can do it. Seven years after that first flight lesson, I’m now flying Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft internationally at the major airline I once flight attended for.

Fun fact:

95% of airline pilots are male. Only 5% of airline pilots are female.

Favorite quote:

“If you wait until you’re ready, you’ll never be ready.” — Jen Proulx

Impactful lessons you have learned:

At any moment, you can make a decision to change your life. It is never too early, too late, or too wild to do anything. If someone else has done it before you, then ask yourself: Why not me? Never be the person who stands in your own way.

Katsuji Tanabe

Culinary Innovator, a’Verde Cocina + Tequila Library and LM Restaurants

Favorite accomplishments:

When I moved to the US from Mexico in 1999 — with no money or immigration papers and knowing no English — to opening my own restaurant in Beverly Hills 10 years later and without the need for any investors. I had told myself if I couldn’t make it within 10 years, I was mediocre. The first time I was on Top Chef was another proud moment — especially because by that point I had applied for the show 11 times and been denied!

Overcoming adversity:

My wife says I never take no for an answer, but I think that luck has something to do with it. I also never complained. I had a goal, and since I couldn’t leave the country because of my immigration status, I saved every penny I made from the three jobs I worked — at the best restaurants, to give me the best experience and education — and I learned fast.

Core values:

The most important thing to me is to never lie. Attention to detail is also critical in this industry.

Current goals:

Thanks to traveling a lot and having a great team, I’m opening a vegan hot dog place in the Hamptons. Also, Flour & Barrel Kitchen + Bar in downtown Raleigh and a secret project: the coolest Japanese-oriented speakeasy. Several bakeries and a kosher steakhouse are coming soon to Chicago, and I’m continuing my work with LM Restaurants in Raleigh — a city that has welcomed me and my family unlike any other place. I love living here, and I plan to die here. Raleigh just needs better food … and I’m working on it!

Dr. Brad Waffa

Co-Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Truss Vet - Veterinary Urgent Care

Fun fact:

I was a dinosaur kid who never grew up. I spent much of my life keeping and breeding rare reptiles. I co-founded the Honey Bee Veterinary Consortium. I ride bikes long distances, enjoy photographing the many random things I collect, and like watches and ceramics. My creative outlet is bonsai.

On maintaining work/life balance:

This has been my greatest challenge since starting a family and business. I benefit from a range of interests that offer balance and diversion, but I battle a constant tendency toward overcommitment. But here’s a secret: Your life will not make time for you. Ride your bike. Call your friend. Sign up for the class. Your greatest regrets will be forgoing opportunities because you thought there would be enough time.

Impactful lessons you have learned:

Starting a business quickly teaches you humility. Entrepreneurs are inspired by a desire to solve problems, and then operating a business is the slow, painful exercise through which you learn you’re wrong about most things. I’m increasingly convinced that the most successful people in business are not necessarily brilliant or even that smart, but simply adaptable and willing to listen to those closer to the problems than themselves.

Biggest risk:

I’d be lying if I cited anything other than launching Truss Vet. My partners and I didn’t dive into this with the backing of some venture capital group — just some modest startup capital and a big idea. My wife and I were also getting her small business (Art by Shalimar in downtown Cary) off the ground. Additionally, she was pregnant with our 3-year-old, and we were in a once-in-a-generation global health crisis. We went from enjoying an easy and free-spirited time to having to quickly get serious about our futures. Maybe it was just the motivation we needed.

I’m probably over credited for being brave or ambitious when I’m just idealistic and naive. My partner and I have our families’ futures wholly staked on the success of Truss Vet. We like to joke that no matter what happens, we will somehow end up in the Bahamas. (Our lenders don’t like this joke.)

Favorite quote:

“Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth.”

— Mike Tyson

Paul Wasmund

Owner, The Albatross Golf Pub

Origin story:

Born in Wilmington to a brilliant engineer and a creative artist, I inherited opposing strengths and pursued paths that harmonize them. Beginning in brewing, I fused technical precision with inventive flavors and earned national acclaim for my beer. With impending fatherhood came a shift to corporate America, where I leveraged my knack for creative problem-solving to excel. Driven by a quest for excellence and a yearning to create significance in a world often lacking authenticity, I founded The Albatross Golf Pub. Utilizing state-of-the-art simulator technology and a scientific approach to our food and cocktail program, The Albatross is a unique experience that I’m thrilled to offer in our downtown Cary flagship location.

On maintaining work/life balance:

Achieving balance means recognizing my limits and taking steps to address them. Juggling a demanding corporate job with raising two young kids and managing a new business leaves little time to spare. When burnout looms, I prioritize self-reflection and communication. Embracing the mantra “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” I carve out time each week for activities that replenish my energy beyond my professional and parental duties.

Core values:

Establishing our core values was a priority when launching The Albatross. These values serve as our guiding principles, informing our decisions and fostering clear communication within our team. They are innovation, excellence, fun and enjoyment, customer centricity, community, and respect. Having a professional set of core beliefs isn’t often seen in small operations like The Albatross, but a personal core belief is that you must set your goals high. By treating The Albatross as if it already has the potential to become a large enterprise, I have set us up to embrace future opportunities when they arise.

Favorite quote:

“Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your inner voice.” — Steve Jobs

Tiffany Welton

Owner, RBF, Your Authentic Champagne Bar

Leadership style:

When I started my business, my 20 years in corporate America taught me exactly how I wanted to lead: with transparency and authenticity. As we have grown and changed, I have invited my staff for input and feedback. Our guests are amazing and vital to being a successful business, but the safety and well-being of my staff has and will always come first.

Guiding philosophy:

In this divisive world, we must shift, grow, and understand one another more deeply than we have before. We are no longer just adding chairs to the table — we need to build a brand-new table and bring in many more chairs, voices, ideas, and experiences. In every detail of RBF, I purposefully created a safe and diverse space that in turn has brought thousands of women together to connect in a beautiful and authentic way.

Biggest risk:

I grew up being told not to trust my own voice or instincts. I spent a significant part of my adult life under the assumption that my deep inner knowing was wrong. Starting a business, I had to let go of fear and rely on my gut, past experiences, and the passion in my purpose and the brand I was building. Many people challenged parts of my living-wage model, business plan, décor, bar name, etc. For the first time, I stood strong in my vision, research, and knowledge — even when it didn’t make sense to others. I would rather make a mistake and learn from it than risk not listening to my mind, heart, and soul.

Advice to offer:

Be selfish. Love your alone time. Dig deep to know who you are. Drink the good bottle of bubbles. Get the massage. Build strong relationships with your friends — talk money, how to break toxic family cycles, and how to smash the patriarchy together … Golden Girls style. Be raw. Be real. And remember: There is no timeline. You are not behind. You’re only getting started.

Jennifer Zewe

Owner, Artful Libations and RallyPoint Sport Grill

Proud moment:

When we hit 50 weddings in a year. Now we are four times that size, but I remember clearly hitting 50 weddings and knowing the business was going to work. The confirmation that we did it.

Inspiration:

I am inspired by my husband. As a State Farm agency owner, he made entrepreneurship feel normal. When it was time to hire, have tough conversations, and scale the business, I had inspiration as a constant in my life. (Muchos, babeee!)

Core value:

Do the right thing and be a good person. No matter the situation, this core value has led to my success. Be kind and a ray of sunshine to people — always!

Overcoming fear:

As a young adult, I was very insecure and never fathomed I could own my own business — let alone two! Anything is possible with blood, sweat, and tears … and an extra strong work ethic! With every step of business growth, there is a fear of failure. The more times you succeed and see a positive outcome, the more confidence you grow. I used to stress over two weddings in one weekend.

Now, 8 to 10 is typical. The opportunities are endless when it comes to creating new thresholds. You can always stretch your limits, which reduces your fear.

Cary Magazine is rolling out the red carpet to honor the young leaders making waves in Western Wake!

Whether they’re entrepreneurs, educators, artists, or advocates, these Movers & Shakers have made a difference through their personal accomplishments or their professional careers. Don’t miss this incredible evening of inspiration and celebration!

> July 25 > 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. > Chatham Station, Downtown Cary

Learn more about the honorees and get your ticket now at movers-shakers.com

Amy Allen Photography

In His Image

F8 Photo Studios

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Tell us about your agency mission.

Our agency has built our 89-year reputation on simple common sense mixed with just plain decency. I believe in a personal approach when it comes to working with our clients, face-to-face and hands-on. I take pride in building relationships on trust, which is how all business should be done. I am here to provide advice on how to protect you and your family’s greatest assets.

What makes you different from other insurance agencies?

Insurance should not be a “set it and forget it” purchase. I enjoy visiting with my clients and helping them understand their coverages and what those coverages mean to them. Oftentimes, your insurance policy isn’t something you think about until the day you need it, and on that day I want my clients to not only have confidence in their insurance policy, but in me.

What services do you provide?

We are an independent insurance agency, free to choose the best carrier for your personal and commercial insurance needs. We work for the families and businesses in the Triangle to offer the best coverage at the most competitive price. Offering Home, Auto, Business, and Life insurance, Harris & Company Insurance represents a carefully selected group of financially strong, reputable insurance companies, including Erie Insurance.

Elliott Bisplinghoff Harris & Company Insurance

Embark on a seamless journey through life’s milestones with McCollum Law, PC, your trusted legal ally nestled in the heart of Cary. We specialize in a wide spectrum of services, including business incorporations and contracts, wills, trusts, and estate planning, along with the intricacies of real estate transactions, including purchases, refinances, and home equity loans. Our firm stands as a beacon of comprehensive support for every stage of your life.

With an unwavering dedication to excellence, we approach every transaction with thoroughness and attention to detail. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, we remain agile in the face of marketplace evolution, ensuring that our clients navigate the ever-changing landscape with confidence and ease. Founded on the principles of personalized service and integrity, McCollum Law, PC, sets the standard for client-centric representation. Whether advocating for homebuyers, sellers, agents, builders, developers, or lenders, our mission remains singular: to deliver unparalleled care and expertise, transforming every closing transaction into a seamless, hassle-free experience where your success is our number-one priority.

Bill Derks: Shaping Skylines, Communities, and Legacies at McAdams

BILL DERKS JOINS MCADAMS FOUNDER JOHN MCADAMS AND TEAMMATES ON A BIKE RIDE TO CELEBRATE MCADAMS’ 45-YEAR ANNIVERSARY.

BILL DERKS’ NAME HAS become synonymous with innovation, excellence, and unwavering dedication to civil engineering within the Raleigh-Durham community and beyond. His retirement on June 1, 2024 from Vice President of Land Development at McAdams, the Raleigh-based multidisciplinary planning, design and engineering firm, signals the end of a remarkable 27-year tenure that shaped the skyline while forging unwavering relationships and mentorships that will outlast his storied career.

Bill, a Cary resident who started with the firm in August 1996, has been instrumental in advancing some of the most significant development projects in the area. No stranger to challenges, his career highlights include leading the engineering side of one of his first projects, The Streets at Southpoint, which includes nods to his children, who posed for the statues placed across the property. Bill also played a fundamental role in the Fenton project in Cary, one of his last projects, where he oversaw its multifaceted construction and innovative design and effec-

tively bookended his career with monumental achievements in development.

Bill carved a legacy not just through his professional achievements but also through the profound personal connections he fostered within McAdams. Colleagues and clients alike have come to admire his competitive spirit, a trait that harkens back to his days as a collegiate swim champion at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio. Bill will remain available as a part-time advisor to the McAdams Land Development team, who looks forward to the coming year of projects.

SPONSORED CONTENT

BILL DERKS ENJOYS A HOLIDAY CELEBRATION WITH MCADAMS TEAMMATES.

BILL AND COLLEEN DERKS ARE CROWNED PROM KING AND QUEEN AT BILL’S LAST ANNUAL MCADAMS COMPANY PARTY.

BILL AND COLLEEN DERKS IN HIS EARLY CAREER DAYS AT MCADAMS.

Photos: FMasonMedia

Photos: FMasonMedia

Photos: Richard Barlow Photography

Photos: Nancy Granados

DAMPF GOOD BBQ

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

GOOD NEWS, FRIEND:

You don’t have to leave Cary to find first-rate beef brisket and other delectable smoked goodness. That’s because three days each week, brothers Nick and Bryce Dampf sling Texas-style provisions from a 32-foot trailer situated in family-friendly Phillips Farms. They’re cooking onsite the proper way: low and slow at 250 degrees for 14 hours.

You’d be hard-pressed to find two guys more down to earth than the Dampf brothers, who grew up in Missouri but also lived in Texas for several years. Although they were young at the time, Bryce and Nick developed an affinity for brisket and other beloved fare from the Lone Star State.

Years later, once Nick was married, his wife bought him an inexpensive offset cooker at Home Depot.

“Bryce and I started experimenting in the backyard,” Nick said. “After smoking our first brisket and having it turn out well, we caught the barbecue bug.”

Eventually both brothers moved to North Carolina and started doing “random pop-ups” in 2021 to develop a following. Word spread quickly about their slow-smoking prowess, ultimately landing their cleverly named outpost long-term residency at Phillips Farm.

“Barbecue brings people together and makes them happy,” Bryce said with a smile following a recent Friday afternoon lunch service. “Our mission involves glorifying God and giving people the best experience possible.”

“We want to be sure we treat people right and make them feel at home here,” Nick added. “We also want to share our faith with people in the community.”

The best-selling brisket is as flavorful as you’ll find anywhere. Need proof? Just ask barbecue enthusiast Heath Clayton, a Cary native who visited Dampf Good BBQ for lunch with longtime friend Mark Zimmerman. The two men travel around the state enjoying all the best haunts.

“The brisket is tender and juicy, and the dry rub they pre-season with is spot-on,” Clayton said with authority.

“Whenever I come somewhere like this, I don’t get any sides because that’s just filler to me,” Zimmerman added while noshing on a mound of mixed proteins.

“THE BRISKET IS TENDER AND JUICY, AND THE DRY RUB THEY PRE-SEASON WITH IS SPOT-ON.”

HEATH CLAYTON, BARBECUE ENTHUSIAST

“WE WANT TO BE SURE WE TREAT PEOPLE RIGHT AND MAKE THEM FEEL AT HOME HERE.”

NICK DAMPF

In addition to brisket, the Dampf brothers and their hardworking crew serve up succulent beef and pork spareribs, pulled pork, turkey breast, house-made sausage, and bacon brisket, which is essentially sliced pork belly.

“The turkey is a sleeper on the menu,” Bryce revealed. “It’s subtle and juicy.”

A zesty, all-beef Texas Jack sausage contains ghost pepper and habanero cheese, while a jalapeño-imbued version involves a pork and beef blend filled with Muenster cheese.

According to Nick and Bryce, the secret to the flavor and moistness of the meats is simply salt, pepper, and smoke. Of course, the high-capacity Primitive Pit and CenTex offset smokers fueled by mostly white (and some red) oak add to the eatery’s bona fide credentials.

“Attention to detail is important to us, and we work hard to put out consistently good food,” said Nick, who formerly worked in the tech sector with Cisco. “Everything we do has intentionality behind it.”

BROTHERS NICK (LEFT) AND BRYCE DAMPF

In the mood for a sandwich that veers off the path from the rest of the menu? Try the extraordinary Chicago Italian beef served au jus on an Italian roll. Nick explained that he spent much of his life in the Windy City, so this sandwich is a nod to the classic delicacy found there.

All the scratch-made side items are worthy of consideration. Choose from loaded mashed potato salad and smoked bacon Brussels sprouts to butcher block beans and creamy coleslaw. Fire-roasted vegetables and smoked mac & cheese also are on point.

“All the sides are popular, but the two that are taking the lead nowadays are the Brussels and the mashed potato salad,” said Bryce, a commercial electrician in his previous vocation. “We recently added elote (Mexican street corn), which has a sweet tanginess and crisp freshness.”

ABOVE: PERRY WARD ENSURES THE MEATY PROVISIONS ARE ON POINT.

FAR RIGHT: OAK WOOD PROVIDES THE PERFECT FUEL SOURCE FOR THE FIRE.

Even ancillary items like pickled onions and bread-and-butter pickles don’t disappoint. And don’t miss the perfectly sweet and tangy specialty sauce served with your meal.

Daily specials include a pastrami Reuben on Thursdays, a halfpound brisket burger on Fridays, and brisket tacos on scratch-made tortillas on Saturdays.

A family-style feast comprises all meats plus four pints of sides and feeds six to eight people.

Be sure to wash everything down with a fire-brewed Sprecher root beer infused with raw Wisconsin honey.

“We believe craft sodas pair well with our food,” Bryce said. “We also have cream soda, cherry cola, and sweet tea.”

Dampf Good BBQ is open Thursday and Friday from 11 a.m. until sold out and Saturday from 10:45 a.m. until the food is gone. Service is fast-casual (just line up and order at the left window), and al fresco seating takes place on wooden picnic tables. Online ordering and catering services are available.

Whenever you go, you’re sure to see Nick or Bryce making the rounds and asking guests how they are enjoying the food.

Don’t hesitate to request a pit tour to see where all the magic happens.

“A lot of love and commitment goes into what we do,” Bryce said. t

dampfgoodbbq.com

“ATTENTION TO DETAIL IS IMPORTANT TO US, AND WE WORK HARD TO PUT OUT CONSISTENTLY GOOD FOOD. EVERYTHING WE DO HAS INTENTIONALITY BEHIND IT.”

NICK DAMPF

ABOVE: BRYCE DAMPF ENGAGES WITH A GUEST.

RIGHT: ELOTE, COMMONLY CALLED MEXICAN CORN, IS AMONG THE MOST POPULAR SIDE ITEMS.

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Summer Camps

Paint like a pro, dance like there’s no tomorrow, or take centerstage — however you like to spend your summer days, the Arts Center has got the camp you need — there’s no limit to your creativity! A wide variety of camps are available, all designed to be fun while building skills and techniques. Camps are available from 9 -1 p.m. and 1-5 p.m. Monday through Friday throughout the summer.

Summer Classes

If camps are not your thing, the Arts Center has plenty of summer classes available to choose from for all ages! Join the Fuquay-Varina Arts Center for opportunities to create, explore, and learn. New classes will continue to be added so check the website for more information! FVarts.org.

ArtisTree Project

ArtisTree is a FREE year-long exploration of the wonder and beauty of trees and meets one Saturday each month. Leading the project, Charlene Bowling creates a series of monthly art experiences designed to be accessible to artists of all ages and skill levels. While increasing tree knowledge and environmental awareness, ArtisTree also invites family and community involvement. The next two meetups will be held on June 8 and July 13 from 1-4 p.m.

Where’s My Floatie

FROM HANK’S DOWNTOWN DIVE

WRITTEN BY JAIME NOLAN

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

INGREDIENTS

1¼ ounces Rhum Barbancourt

¼ ounce Fernet Branca

1 ounce pineapple juice

½ ounce fresh lemon juice

½ ounce simple syrup

1 dash Crude Tiki Bitters

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine ingredients in a tin without ice and dry shake. Pour into a glass and add a large scoop of crushed ice. Add a dash of Peychaud’s Bitters, garnish with fresh mint, and enjoy!

GRAB YOUR SHADES, find your pool toys, and let John Reynolds’ cocktail creation whisk you away to a tropical paradise. Where’s My Floatie features a vibrant flavor profile starting with a burst of tangy pineapple complemented by the zest of lemon juice and the exotic twist of Rhum Barbancourt. The addition of Fernet Branca infuses dry herbal and minty notes that perfectly balance the sweetness, yielding a drink as refreshing as it is pretty. Pair it with spicy, saucy, and salty flavors, like Hank’s Tunda Crudo, Crispy Cauliflower, or NC Shrimp.

About Hank’s Downtown Dive

Located in downtown Cary, Hank’s isn’t your typical dive. The food is both interesting and satisfying (think scallops & grits or steak with bone marrow mashed potatoes) and beverages are enticing. Whether you stop by for a quick drink or spend hours celebrating life’s greatest moments, the laidback atmosphere, ambience, and hospitality will make you feel right at home. The drink menu is a product of the entire bar staff, some of whom have likewise called Hank’s their home for years.

hanksdowntowndive.com

Lunch Break: Peanut Butter and Grape Jelly FROM PEAKWAY TAPS liquid assets

WRITTEN BY JAIME NOLAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

About Peakway Taps

CRAFTED RIGHT HERE in North Carolina by Corporate Ladder Brewing Company, this gluten-free beer is a playful nod to everyone’s beloved childhood sandwich: the classic PB&J! Bursting with flavor, this inspired sour conditioned with concord grape and peanut butter isn’t just a novelty — it’s downright delicious! With an ABV of 6.5% and no IBUs, it provides a smooth, lipsmacking experience.

Founded in September 2022 by Paul Peterson, Peakway Taps in Apex embodies a commitment to community and craft. Their motto? “Come for the beer, stay for the people!” Boasting 18 rotating taps and a diverse selection of over 400 canned beers, Peakway prioritizes variety and service. The taproom is a nexus for breweries and consumers, offering events like tap takeovers and a Lunch with a Brewery series with free pizza for guests. Additionally, they actively engage with the community through events like pet adoptions and food drives. Stop in to discover your new favorite brew and forge lasting connections. @peakwaytaps

Dining Guide

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

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

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 Bakery & Café

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 straightforward menu covers all the bases. 154 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

Dining Guide

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

Dining Guide

Kababish Café

A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.

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

Kabuki Japanese Steak House & Sushi Contemporary teppanyaki. 220 Nottingham Drive (919)-380-8081 kabuki-japanese.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

La Victoria Mexican Food

Celebrating Mexican heritage. 2025 Renaissance Park Place (919) 234-1276; lavictoriamex.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

of Indian cuisine at its

Book your table now!

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) 241-7200

336 Sembler Lane, Suite 4001 (984) 208-7015; modpizza.com

Mon Macaron

75+ flavors of American-style macarons. 312 W. Chatham St. #104 (919) 377-0079; monmacaron.us

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

Dining Guide

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

Q Noodles

Noodle shop with famous soup dumplings. 1026 Ryan Road (919) 468-9958 qnoodlenc.kwickmenu.com

Dining Guide

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

SAAP

Laotian street food.

370 S. Walker St., Suite 100 (919) 377-0160 saapcary.com

Saffron Indian Cuisine

Indian flavors like never before. 2048 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 917-7473 saffroncary.com

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

Discover 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

Sports & Social

Big eats, even bigger screens. 301 Fenton Gateway Drive (919) 363-8888 sportsandsocial.com/cary

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

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

Thai Spices & Sushi

Freshest, most-authentic Thai cuisine and sushi. 986 High House Road; (919) 319-1818 thaispicesandsushi.com

The Agency Bar and Social Modern, rustic NC cuisine and cocktails. 21 Fenton Main St.; (919) 473-9676 agencybarandsocial.com

Tribeca Tavern

Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.

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

Dining Guide

Udupi Café

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

Urban Angeethi

Authentic Indian tastes and experiences. 5033 Arco St. (919) 234-5555 urbanangeethi.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

Dining Guide

Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill

Award-winning food in a non-conformist atmosphere.

8322 Chapel Hill Road (919) 380-7737; woodysportstavern.com

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

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

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

Dining Guide

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

Dining Guide

El Cantarito Bar & Grill

The full spectrum of Mexican cuisine.

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

Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza Pasta

French-inspired Italian cuisine.

900 N. Main St. (919) 552-8868 garbalditrattoria.com

The Gyro Spot

Authentic Greek food.

1005 E. Broad St. (919) 285-3608 thegyrospotnc.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

Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine

Creative Mediterranean delights. 513 E. Broad St. (919) 762-6609 nilscafefuquayvarina.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) 762-0962 winginitbarandgrille.com

Zaxby’s

Indescribably good chicken. 1341 N. Main St.; (919) 552-3981 zaxbys.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

Bellini Italian Cuisine

Handcrafted food and specialty drinks. 7256 GB Alford Highway; (919) 552-0303 bellinitaliancuisinehollysprings.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

111 E. Chatham St., Downtown Cary (919) 678-5300

difarapizzatavern.com

JT’s Creamery

Ice cream handcrafted daily.

300 S. Main St. Suite 112 (984) 268-6321; jtscreamery.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

Mamma Mia Italian Bistro

A taste of Italy in every bite.

300 S. Main St. Suite 200 (919) 766-8000; mammamianc.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 S. Main St., Suite 100; (984) 538-6742 oshathaikitchennc.com

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

Smashed Burgers & Cocktails

Global flavors.

232 S. Main St. Suite 118 (919) 390-2274 smashednc.com

Dining Guide

Spazio Vino & Cucina

Traditional Italian with a contemporary twist. 128 Bass Lake Road (919) 285-3596 spazioromana.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

SAVOR THE MOMENT

Dining Guide

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

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

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary (919) 468-7229

www.luganocary.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

Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill Award-winning food in a nonconformist atmosphere. 3107 Grace Park Drive (919) 650-3177 woodysportstavern.com

RALEIGH

Angus Barn Steakhouse with world-renowned service. 9401 Glenwood Ave. (919) 781-2444; angusbarn.com

Bida Manda

Laotian fare and exotic cocktails. 222 S. Blount St. (919) 829-9999 bidamanda.com

David’s Dumpling and Noodle Bar Pan-Asian dishes with flare. 1900 Hillsbourgh St. (919) 239-4536; ddandnb.com

Lechon Latin BBQ & Bar

Upscale street food with a Latin vibe. 5959 Triangle Town Blvd. (919) 793-9913; lechonlatinbbq.com

Little Blue Bakehouse Coffee, treats & baked goods. 2116-H New Bern Ave. (919) 239-4256 littlebluebakehouse.com

The Pit Authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue. 328 W. Davie St. (919) 890-4500; thepit-raleigh.com

Rey’s

Fine dining with a French Quarter flair. 1130 Buck Jones Road (919) 380-0122 reysrestaurant.com

Slice Pie Company

State Fair blue ribbon pie, whole or by the slice. 1400 S. Saunders St. (919) 349-8499 slicepiecompany.com

OF

“EVERYONE THAT COMES IN HERE IS LIKE, ‘WOW, I DIDN’T KNOW THIS STRETCHED BACK SO FAR OR HAD AN UPSTAIRS!’ IT’S SUCH AN UNASSUMING LOCATION,” SAYS SAMANTHA RADMARD.

Adorn Home Furnishings

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

NOT-SO GRAND OPENING: We opened way before we were ready (in November 2021). We still had renovations going on. We had plastic up (in the windows), but it was non-stop knocking. Why are we not just letting people browse around, as long as they were OK with a half store? Everyone was like, “We don’t care; we just want furniture.”

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

ON STYLE: We don’t focus on one particular style, wanting to appeal to the variety of customers who live in Southern Wake. This area is becoming such a melting pot of personalities and cultures.

ON QUALITY: We offer furniture that is custom, that you normally would have to wait six months for. We just put very popular items, nice classic styles, on order in neutral fabrics. Much of it is built in North Carolina, eight-way hand-tied, water repellent, in durable fabrics. You can actually sit down on something and try it out, not order from a catalog.

SMALL-TOWN OBSESSED: Going to a smaller town, I (Ben) was skeptical. Now that we are here, I love the people and sense of community. I couldn’t imagine going back to Charlotte.

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

Ben & Samantha Radmard

BEN AND SAMANTHA MOVED TO FUQUAY-VARINA FOR ITS SMALL-TOWN ATMOSPHERE, IDEAL FOR RAISING THEIR TWINS, REZA AND CARMELA. FURNITURE IS A FAMILY BUSINESS FOR THE RADMARDS — BEN’S FAMILY OWNS A TO-THE-TRADE FURNITURE STORE IN CHARLOTTE.

garden adventurer

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

Cuban Oregano 101

RARELY HAVE I GROWN a plant with so much geographical baggage as Cuban oregano ( Plectranthus amboinicus ). Why? Because it also goes by many other worldly names, such as French thyme, Indian borage, Mexican mint, Caribbean oregano, and Spanish thyme.

Confused yet? And here’s the kicker: It originates from southern Africa!

So many names from so many places should give you a hint as to how popular this plant is, and rightly so. Cuban oregano (which isn’t related to true oregano) is an edible herb that can add extra zip to stews,

steamed vegetables, marinades, soups, and salads. However, the flavor is strong, so it is typically used in moderation.

Like its flavor, Cuban oregano’s scent is also strong. Stroking the fuzzy, thick green leaves of the straight species will release a distinct oregano-like smell that has a hint of citrus with a dash of menthol.

There is a variegated form that, to me, smells less medicinal and more mouthwatering. Heck, every time I do a scratch-n-sniff, I crave pizza. Usually tagged either ‘Variegata’ or ‘Variegatus,’ this fancier Cuban oregano sports handsome green leaves with edges splashed in white to off-white coloration.

Because of its looks, variegated Cuban oregano is an eye-appealing option for ornamental gardens. Garden gurus say it will top out at about 15 to 20 inches, but that doesn’t always happen because this plant can be a flopper, especially in shady locations. Partially sunny sites make for stronger, more upright plants, and staking them up is certainly an option if they insist on drooping.

Cuban oregano can be garden grown in nutrient-rich and well-draining soil, but I plant it in pots for two reasons: (1) I don’t have to get down on all fours to sniff the aromatic leaves; and (2) it is a very tender perennial that won’t survive outside here in even mild winters.

But before freezing weather bites, I am already starting anew with Cuban oregano. In the fall, I take multiple cuttings from the existing plant and plunk them down in bottles of water.

New roots soon sprout from the clippings, and when they border on being

To Do in the GARDEN

June & July

JUNE

• If you enjoy starting summer flowers from seeds in the garden, soil temps are warm enough now to sow such pretties as sunflowers, zinnias, marigolds, cleome, gomphrena, blanket flowers, cosmos, nasturtiums, amaranth, and moonvine.

• Don’t think blossom end rot is just a tomatocentric disorder. Watermelons, squash, and peppers can come down with this ugliness, too. Since it is caused by stress related to wide fluctuations of soil temperature and moisture content, maintain at least a 3-inch mulch layer around these delectable edibles and keep them on a regular watering schedule.

JULY

• The herb garden should be maturing nicely now, but if plants such as savory, oregano, mint, thyme, or basil are starting to bully beyond their allotted space, cut them back. This early summer pruning will also help any lanky plants develop a bushier appearance.

• Continue filling the bird bath with water at least once or twice a week. To keep this fly-in refreshment stand clean, also give it a good wiping every two weeks. In addition, check the bird feeder after hard rains, and if any soggy yuck has accumulated in the basin, clean it out and refill with fresh, dry seed.

TIMELY TIP

For better performances from planters and hanging baskets this summer, keep these tips in mind: (1) Unglazed clay pots leach moisture through their sides, meaning plants in them normally have to be watered more often; (2) the smaller the pot, the quicker it will dry out; (3) the more you irrigate, the more plant nutrients are washed away, so water with a diluted liquid fertilizer at least once a month through the growing season; and (4) trailing plants such as million bells, vinca, petunias, creeping Jenny, and ornamental sweet potatoes can shade pot sides to help keep root zones cooler. 12 3 9 6

full-blown fuzzy, each plantlet is set in a small container of quality potting soil in a sunny window. I spritz them occasionally with a spray bottle, keep the dirt moist but not soggy, and then wait for the new spring to enjoy even more of these scent-sational plants in the garden!

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.

TRAILING VINCA CAN HELP KEEP ROOTS COOL IN A CONTAINER.

Making Memories 60years

Since 1964, the Blockade Runner Beach Resort has been Wrightsville Beach’s cornerstone for cherished memories. Join us to celebrate our diamond anniversary amid modern amenities, oceanfront dining, family activities, and pristine gardens in a stunning location that offers beach access to both ocean and sound. Experience a legacy of hospitality and craft your own unforgettable stay.

happenings

Cary Magazine and Main & Broad celebrated their 2024 Maggy Award winners at the annual Maggy Party, hosted outside at Fenton. Photographer Jonathan Fredin captured every award-winning moment, from tasty bites and drinks to music by Stray Volts and much more. Thanks to everyone for a great night!

happenings

A group of local teens won The Earth Prize competition, the world’s largest environmental sustainability competition for teenagers. Inspired by the increased incidence of flooding in North Carolina, the FLOODGATE TEAM CREATED A FLOOD PREDICTION AND WARNING TECHNOLOGY to address the flooding that threatens 240 million people across the globe each year. Their interactive 3D flood model helps governments and individuals plan with advanced warning to reduce damages and increase efficiency of rescue operations.

The FloodGate team consisted of George, Shubhan, Sumedh, and Reichen, from Cary, Apex, Raleigh, and Sanford. The students attend the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in Durham.

“The things that people our age are creating across the globe is just wonderful,” said 17-year-old Sumedh Kotrannava. “Seeing other people pursue these types of ideas are also changing the way we think about our project, pushing us to make edits and make our project even better. I think our generation is starting to really spark change and innovate new solutions, and I’m really excited to see in the next 20 years or so what we are going to do.”

Runners-up included team CocoMellow from Vietnam, who created banana-based diapers to fight single-use product waste; team Ceres from Türkiye, working to protect crops from climate events; and team Pebble from the UK, pooling computer power to reduce energy use. More than 10,000 students from 154 countries have competed in The Earth Prize in its first three years.

After four years in Morrisville, Spherion Staffing & Recruiting will hold a ribbon cutting at the Morrisville Chamber on June 11. The company opted to celebrate their presence in the community after opening during the height of the covid pandemic. Networking and refreshments will be available from 4 to 5:30 p.m. with the ribbon cutting at 4:15, plus a raffle. spherion.com

During BIKE MONTH CARY

in May, the Town of Cary encouraged residents to get out and see the community on two wheels through a collection of more than a dozen bike-friendly events. For the second year, the Spring Daze festival offered a bike valet service, giving riders a way to safely secure their bikes at the White Oak Creek Greenway entrance. As part of a pilot project, two bike corrals were installed downtown — one on Academy Street and one on Chatham Street — for secure bicycle parking. A Bike to the Park event in the Downtown Cary Park offered information on safe biking and repairs.

The Templeton of Cary created an ARTIST

IN RESIDENCE PROGRAM

to decorate the Nancy Jones Room, a gathering space opened in 2023 within the luxury senior community. Residents’ works are displayed in the room on a quarterly rotating basis, with an opening reception for each group of artists. The Templeton has a number of programs aimed to foster creativity, including a drop-in painting program and a photo club.

From left, Camilla Huffman, who started painting when she retired at 56 years old and specializes in acrylic still lifes and landscapes; Jon Green, who took up photography at a young age, inspired by his father working at Polaroid; and Anne Haynes Jenkins, who started painting as an elementary teacher and went on to teach watercolor classes for the City of Raleigh for years.

Huffman says art helps her stay mentally sharp. “I think it teaches you how to look at things, how to see things, and you have to use your brain to decide how to put that on paper,” she said. thetempletonofcary.com

The Simple Gifts Community Garden held a grand opening

May 18. Located on YMCA of the Triangle land in Apex, the half-acre garden will grow organic produce for local food banks and serves as a Certified Wildlife Habitat and Butterfly Highway Pitstop. The garden includes 48 30-foot rows of crops and two 200-foot rows of pollinatorsupporting plants and herbs. The South Wake Conservationists installed two bluebird houses and a purple martin housing array on the property. simplegiftsgarden.org

Adventures in Bloom craft space and gift shop hosted a PEEK-A-BLOOM GRAND REOPENING EVENT at its new location, 110 N. Salem Street in Apex, on May 1. The first 20 guests received a free gift, and all attendees enjoyed snacks, bubbly, and 20% off the entire store. Adventures in Bloom offers craft workshops, permanent jewelry, metal stamping, a book club, and other activities, along with handmade boutique gifts from North Carolina and national small businesses. adventuresinbloom.com

The Morrisville Fire/Rescue Department used May 4, aka “Star Wars Day,” as a safety reminder for residents.

“Even in a galaxy far, far away, fire safety matters!” the department posted on social media. “On this Star Wars Day, the force reminds us to stay vigilant. Make sure your smoke detectors are operational, practice fire drills with your family, and may the 4th be with you as you stay safe!”

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Who’s

the fairest of them all?

A bluebird mistakes its reflection in a car window for an intruder and attacks, determined to drive it away.

Michael Law MD, Voted Best Plastic Surgeon in the Triangle every year since 2018, owns and operates Blue Water Spa.