Cary Magazine October 2023

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Music

If music is your thing, the Arts Center is the place to be—from the country’s hottest Queen tribute (The Kings of Queen), the Bach to Rock trio Take 3, or the ever popular Embers, you’re sure to be humming and tapping your toes!

Arts

The Arts Center is pleased to present Inclusive Theatre, a class and performance open to all members of our community. No matter your skill, your ability or your dream, you will have your moment in the spotlight on October 18, 2023! Call the Arts Center for more info.

Theatre

Independent films take center stage November 10 & 11 when the Fuquay Film Fest opens its doors. Packed with films, workshops and lectures, this day and a half event is dedicated to the joys of movie making.

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

fvarts.org

in this issue

27 Ready, Set, Glow

34 Growing Community and Good Vibes: The Chronicles of Stoney Acres Farm

60 Unleashing Comfort Healing Hearts and Minds One Tail Wag at a Time

68 Pets on Parade

84 Worth the Drive: Lexington

94 Asali’s Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse

96 Urban Angeethi

inspiration

Design

can be found around every corner at Werking Design & Décor in Apex, story page 46. Photo by Jonathan Fredin.

ON THE COVER: Emily Tischer, clad in overalls, cradles a basket filled with fresh eggs, accompanied by her faithful goat. Read more on page 34.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Lauren Morris, Managing Editor & Creative Director

Dena Daw, Staff Writer

Jaime Nolan, Staff Writer

Tara Shiver, Copy Editor

CONTRIBUTORS

Erica DeLong

L.A. Jackson

Jessica Mattison

David McCreary

Emily Uhland

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer

Jennifer Casey, Graphic Designer

Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer

Beth Harris, Graphic Designer

Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO

Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer

Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING

Jill Newbold, Senior Account Manager

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Manager

Aleida Montufar, Account Executive

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications

Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager

Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator and Distribution Manager

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith

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

CARY MAGAZINE

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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.

Cary Magazine is a proud member and supporter of all five chambers in Western Wake County: the Cary Chamber of Commerce, Apex Chamber of Commerce, Morrisville Chamber of Commerce, Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and Garner Chamber of Commerce. All real estate advertised herein is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All dwellings advertised are available on an equal-opportunity basis.

Happy.

When it comes to the health of the ones you love, WakeMed Cary Hospital is one of the family. From 24/7 emergency services, imaging and advanced diagnostics to routine procedures, sophisticated surgeries and physicians specializing in orthopaedics, heart and vascular, obstetrics and gynecology, advanced gastrointestinal conditions, urology and more, everything you need to keep everyone healthy is right here. And when you’re responsible for managing your family’s care, there’s just no substitute for that kind of peace of mind. Learn more at wakemed.org/cary-hospital.

AS YOU READ THIS LETTER, picture me settled in my new home, cozy by the fire with a cup of coffee in hand. My dogs, Harley and Bella, contentedly play in their new fenced-in backyard while I prepare to decorate my house for Halloween.

Now allow me to burst my own bubble. Yes, I’ll be moved into my new home by the time you read this — but it’s still much too warm for fires, and Harley is 100% eating his way through a mountain of cardboard boxes while I chug Monster Energy drinks and pray for the strength to unpack.

Conveniently, my dogs and I are moving just in time for Cary Magazine’s “homes and pets” issue. As many of you know, moving is not for the faint of heart — and neither is learning how to tame (I mean raise) Harley, my golden retriever puppy/ velociraptor. Honestly, I’m not sure which has been more challenging, navigating the desert of a real estate market or trying to keep a big dog happy in a tiny townhome (thanks to both, I’m now in my grey hair era). Harley turns 1 at the end of October, and I’m told we have just one more year until he grows out of his dinosaur phase. Remember, letters to the editor may include tips, tricks, thoughts, prayers, and good vibes.

One of our favorite features in this issue is the Pet Parade, for both staff and readers, alike. With over 50 entries this year, there is no shortage of cute and furry faces starting on page 68. Remember, all dogs are therapy dogs — some are just freelancing! But if you want to read all about actual therapy dogs, check out page 60.

In this issue you will also meet the Tischer family, who have opened their hearts and home to a menagerie of animals — and in Cary, no less! When we heard their inspirational story, we immediately knew it was one worth telling.

Ready to relax? Kick up your feet, a coffee in hand, and enjoy our October issue — in between your visits to Spirit Halloween and the hardware store. That 12-foot skeleton is calling your name!

Thanks for reading. Happy fall, y’all!

Managing Editor & Creative Director

Jonathan Fredin

Why go anywhere else?

“Oh my God, this is beautiful! I just smiled so hard and sent this to my mom like a little kid! Thank you so much, and the photos are beautiful.”

Shemecka McNeil, re. “Nonprofit Spotlight: Slice 325,” August

“All these jewelry pieces are really amazing. Without them, outfits are incomplete. Thanks for sharing budget ideas.”

Lisa Hill, re. “On Trend: Permanent Jewelry,” May

“Thank you for the beautiful article in the magazine. Appreciate it very much!”

Adilah Shabazz, owner of Spreadable Delights, re.“For Peach Sake,” August

Rustic Roots, August

“Wow! What a beautifully written article. The way you described the food was amazing. And those pictures!!! Holy cow!”

— Ross Vollmer, owner of Rustic Roots, re. “Worth the Drive: Rustic Roots,” August

“Y’all have so many great recipes in this issue!”

— @nolant_b, re. August issue

“It was an amazing night! So many incredible winners making a huge impact! The food from @citybbq is always yummy. Thanks for hosting another fabulous event!” — @thrivingwomensconference, re. Cary Magazine’s Movers & Shakers Event, July

“Thank you, Cary Magazine, for sharing our Toast to Six Years, co-hosted with Visit Raleigh.”

Doctor Cucchi took me in for an emergency visit (broken tooth) and installed a permanent crown the same day! Jennifer did a fantastic job assisting. They are the best!

– Jeff F.

DISCOVER MAGNETS.

WONDER CONNECT GROW

The Wake County Public School System has been a leader in the magnet school movement for 40 years. We now host more than 20 programs in 56 schools. Our schools are consistently recognized with national awards, grant awards, certifications for standards of excellence, as well as teacher and principal of the year awards. Visit wcpss.net/magnet and explore these innovative magnet programs.

IMPORTANT DATES

Magnet & Early College Fair

November 4, 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Garner Magnet High School 2101 Spring Drive, Garner

Virtual Magnet Information Sessions

10 - 11 a.m.

October 19, November 16

December 14, January 18

Visit wcpss.net/magnet to access virtual events.

In-Person Magnet Information Sessions

10 - 11 a.m.

October 5, November 2

December 7, January 4

Crossroads Building 1 5625 Dillard Drive, Cary

Early College Application Period

October 16 - December 14

Magnet Schools Application Period

October 16 - January 25

Questions? (919) 533-7289

magnetcenter@wcpss.net

5 THINGS TO DO

3The NC State Fair is coming back to town! This 11-day event has it all — rides and games, livestock shows, blue ribbon competitions, grandstand shows, live music, fair food, and many other family-friendly attractions. Oct. 12–22. NC State Fairgrounds. ncstatefair.org

1Cure what ales you at Triangle Oktoberfest, the largest and most authentic German festival in NC with something for everyone — live music, German food, a KinderPlatz zone (kids area), Schlagen-Hammer (hammer-striking) competitions, the Mr. and Mrs. Oktoberfest contest, and (or course) beer. Friday, Oct. 6, and Saturday, Oct. 7. Koka Booth Amphitheatre. triangleoktoberfest.org

2

The Diwali Celebration, India’s most widely celebrated religious and cultural event, is returning to Cary, featuring music, dance, performances, a handicraft bazaar, Indian food vendors, art and cultural exhibits, children’s activities, and much more! Saturday, Oct. 14, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Koka Booth Amphitheatre. carync.gov/diwali

4Sip back and relax at the North Carolina Wine Festival, featuring local North Carolina wineries, artisans, music, food, and fun! Taste more than 100 different varieties of NC wines, from sweet to dry. Saturday, Oct. 28. Koka Booth Amphitheatre. ncwinefestival.org

5Celebrate spooky season at Cary Theater’s Eighth Annual Zombiepalooza, a Zombie short film competition open to North Carolina filmmakers and residents of all ages and skill levels. Costumes are encouraged!

Sunday, Oct. 20. The Cary Theater. thecarytheater.com

Triangle Oktoberfest

NC State Fair

Diwali Celebration

Jonathan Fredin

Jonathan Fredin

North Carolina Wine Festival

YOUR NC FALL BUCKET LIST

WE ARE SO LUCKY (I can’t say this enough) to live in North Carolina, and fall is incredible all across our great state. So here are my recommendations for must-do items to add to your fall bucket list — from the mountains to the coast, and everywhere in between.

BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY:

This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of fall foliage in the Appalachians. The parkway spans 469 miles from North Carolina to Virginia, dotted with hiking trails, overlooks, and picnic spots.

ASHEVILLE:

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this vibrant city is a hot spot for outdoor

activities, art galleries, breweries, and farmto-table dining. A personal favorite is watching a sunset at the Omni Grove Park Inn. It’s worth a stop to dine and check out the scene, even if you aren’t a hotel guest.

LINVILLE GORGE WILDERNESS:

Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this section of the Pisgah National Forest offers stunning fall foliage, challenging hikes, and beautiful waterfalls. Not big on hiking? Several roadside waterfalls let you enjoy the sights without the sweat.

TWEETSIE RAILROAD:

I’ve visited this Wild West theme park since I was a young girl. October is one of the best months to visit, as the Halloween Celebration takes over when the sun goes down. Check out the Ghost Train or take a walk through the Freaky Forest. Blowing Rock and Boone offer lots to do before you head home.

OUTER BANKS:

Visitors can explore historic lighthouses, enjoy beach walks, and indulge in fresh seafood with fewer crowds than peak season. You will feel like you have the beach all to yourself!

OKTOBERFEST: Triangle Oktoberfest will be at Koka Booth Amphitheatre October 6–7, and

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY ERICA DELONG

several breweries and beer gardens in the Raleigh-Durham area hold independent Oktoberfest celebrations as well. Pick your favorite and celebrate the season with traditional German beer, food, live music, and games.

THE NORTH CAROLINA STATE FAIR:

You absolutely can’t miss the iconic State Fair, running October 12–22, with agricultural exhibits, rides, live music, food vendors, and tons of entertainment and people watching. Even when I lived out of state, I flew home every year for the fair. What’s your must-have fair food indulgence? I need Al’s Fries.

HILL RIDGE FARMS FALL FESTIVAL:

Located in Youngsville, this familyfriendly farm offers corn mazes, hayrides, pumpkin patches, a petting zoo, and fun for the whole family. Plus, receive a free pumpkin with every admission.

PHILLIPS FARMS OF CARY:

Fall festival by day, haunted farm by night — and lots of fun for the whole family. With wagon rides, a cow train, corn maze, sunflower field, apple cannon, plus food vendors on-site every weekend, you’ll never want to leave.

GHOST WALKS:

Take a guided ghost tour in downtown Raleigh or Durham to learn about the haunted history and spooky legends of our area. If you’re traveling, check for a walking tour at your destination to get into the spooky spirit while you learn about the area.

Twinning! Ella matches the pumpkins — and her brother, Easton — at Phillips Farms.

CAROLINA BALLOONFEST:

An annual tradition since 1974, the BalloonFest runs October 20–22 in Statesville. Hot air balloon flights launch twice a day, with entertainment and food throughout the day. Festival visitors can book a hot air balloon ride or simply enjoy the colorful sights from the ground. Tethered balloon rides let you get a taste of the experience without the expense and commitment of a full ride.

RALEIGH:

The state capital offers a mix of urban and nature experiences to savor the season. Check out the North Carolina Museum of Art and the JC Raulston Arboretum, or take a stroll through the historic neighborhoods for charming autumn views that are definitely Instagram worthy.

CHILDRESS VINEYARDS:

Owned by NASCAR team owner Richard Childress, check out the scenic views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside in Lexington. They have a variety of wines to taste and often host events and live music during the fall.

DUPLIN WINERY:

Known as the largest winery in the South, Duplin Winery in Rose Hill is famous for its sweet muscadine wines. They offer tastings, tours, and have an awesome gift shop.

APPLE PICKING:

Millstone Creek Orchards in Ramseur, approximately 90 minutes away, offers multiple apple varieties and provides a family-friendly atmosphere with activities like wagon rides and a corn maze. Another option is Vollmer Farm in Bunn, about 45 minutes from Cary. They have a large apple orchard where visitors can pick their own

apples and enjoy a range of other fall activities, including hayrides and pumpkin patches.

I know, that’s a long list! Try to conquer them all this fall, or just mark off a few that appeal to your family. You just might find a new annual tradition. Let autumn be all about memory-making moments for the whole family. Stay connected @EricaDeLong. t

Erica never misses the NC State Fair!

Erica welcomes fall with friends at Phillips Farms of Cary.

Hop on a tethered lift or fly sky high at BalloonFest.

Ready, set, glow

WHEN IT COMES TO OUTDOOR

LIGHTING , the quality of your lights can affect the quality of your life. Nothing spoils the holidays like climbing up a rickety ladder with a string of lights that may or may not go out more than you do. Avoid shouting matches, broken bulbs, and broken ankles by hiring an expert to teach you everything you need to know about exterior illumination — and keep your beautiful displays free from stress, seasonally or year round.

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Wonderly Lights

As the name suggests, Wonderly Lights is here to put a little wonder and sparkle in your life — particularly if you love Christmas watts and watts. Although part of a franchise, the company is locally owned by longtime Cary residents Stacey Schaeffer and Tiffiny Consoli — who thoroughly enjoy bringing a little holiday spirit to their community.

“Bringing joy to our customers is really what this is all about,” said Schaeffer, who retired from SAS in 2021. “This business is very visual, so it’s not just for your own heart — it’s bringing joy to many other people in your neighborhood, too.”

Both Schaeffer and her wife, Consoli, have professional backgrounds that give them a distinct advantage in running a quality business. The couple has owned Pool Scouts, a seasonal business providing residential swimming pool services, for the past seven years.

“That’s one of the things that we like to think differentiates us,” said Schaeffer. “You can count on us to make it right. You can count on us to be trustworthy, honest, fair, and do a quality job.”

Schaeffer describes Wonderly Lights as the “Hallmarks, not the Griswolds” of the holiday lighting world. In other words, no one will be climbing up on your roof with a ball of tangled lights and a staple gun! With corporate training and backing, Wonderly Lights is a well-oiled machine.

“We have two dedicated office personnel, not including myself and Tiffiny, and we have multiple trailers. Each trailer has three team members assigned, so one is the captain, one is the roof person, and one is the ground person. They each have specific roles and they work together to get the job done,” said Schaeffer.

Hanging the lights is just the beginning. Schaeffer describes the service as “hassle free, from start to finish.”

TOP: Technician Scott Vollgrebe is a designated "roof guy" at Wonderly Lights.

ABOVE: All zip lines go into one plug, complete with a timer.

“We install; we store; we ensure that your lights are going to be working throughout the holiday season. We keep you off the ladder, so we’re keeping you safe. If anything goes wrong, we’re going to come out and fix it,” said Schaeffer.

Wonderly Lights offers customers a complimentary design consultation, during which team members work with the client to create whatever look they desire.

“There’s a lot of collaboration. We want the customer to get joy every time they drive into their property at night,” said Schaeffer. “We want people to really feel like they’re treated professionally and in a premium way.”

Wonderly Lights offers commercialgrade lights in multicolor or white, and all of their garland is lighted. If you’re worried about your electric bill skyrocketing, don’t be — commercial-grade LED lights barely pull any amperage from your home.

“You can put up hundreds and hundreds of lights and it’ll barely pull 4 amps from your electric bill,” reassured Schaeffer. “It’s not exorbitant; these are low-energy-sucking systems. Your toaster requires 15 amps!”

2022 was Wonderly’s first year serving the residential community. This year, the business will service both homes and businesses, with hopes of expanding into yearround lighting over time.

“As we kind of get traction and become the experts in holiday lighting, there’s all kinds of opportunities for growth in years to come,” said Schaeffer. “It could be landscape lighting. It could be yearlong lighting, like a string of lights on the roofline of their business. It could be weddings. It could be special events. So that’s the opportunity with our business: We want to make sure that we grow incrementally.”

For those who are interested in shining bright this year, Wonderly gets the jump on holiday lighting starting in October, with installations typically ending in mid-December. Take-towns typically begin the first week in January, and all lights and garland are labeled and stored in a climate-controlled environment until it’s time to get your glow on once again.

“We’re fully insured and bonded. You don’t have to worry about pushing your significant other to do something they’re uncomfortable with,” said Schaeffer. “There’s no contract or anything like that, but we do hope that our service and quality of lights suggests that we’re a good company to go with.”

wonderlylights.com

TOP: At Wonderly Lights, homeowners have the option of standard, premium, or grand packages.

ABOVE: Wonderly Lights technicians are professionally trained and fully insured and bonded.

contributed photo

contributed photo

Bolt Outdoor Lighting provides customized lighting options to celebrate holidays, birthdays, and more.

Bolt brings the wow factor to any of your outdoor living spaces.

Bolt Outdoor Lighting

For those who need to lighten up yearround, Bolt Outdoor Lighting is a high-end, family-owned lighting and audio company that can help you find the perfect outdoor lighting system for your property.

“Our clients seek the wow factor, with custom-designed lighting tailored to their site and spaces,” said owner Kevin Bolt Fontaine. “We provide modern solutions made in the USA which integrate seamlessly into the surroundings with smaller LED and highly efficient integrated products. We also provide permanent year-round color options, where clients can change the colors via an app and preprogram automated scenes throughout the year to celebrate all holidays.”

Fontaine started getting serious about outdoor lighting in 2018, following a mishap on his own property.

“I had a relative stumble on my own walkway that had some path lights,” said Fontaine. “I had been installing lighting for many years through my landscape company, but neglected to obtain formal lighting training or certification, so I was just an installer not knowing the proper safety and design elements of professional outdoor lighting. I dove head first into learning — worked for free at a prestigious outdoor lighting company in Katy, Texas, attended the prestigious International Landscape Lighting Institute conference in late 2018, and became a member of the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals. I eventually obtained my design certification in 2022.”

All his hard work paid off — Fontaine now combines his lighting design education to blend sight and sound into a creative art

form that brings continuous joy to his clients throughout the year. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor sound system or autoprogrammed, customized lighting options to celebrate birthdays, the holidays, or breast cancer awareness, Bolt has you covered.

For businesses, branding services are provided in the form of outdoor projections to highlight any grand opening or event. Words and logo projections can be up to 40 feet large — great for retail spaces, open houses, and more.

“We have an initial 100% covered bumper to bumper warranty period as well

as ongoing maintenance plans,” said Fontaine. “While we provide complimentary initial phone calls, we charge a small nominal fee for all on-site consultations. This is credited back to the job should they hire us to implement. Lighting designs start from $650+ with 50% credited back to initiating the job.”

Bolt covers all areas of the Triangle, but it doesn’t stop there — design services are offered nationwide. To pull up videos covering Bolt’s lighting and landscaping, visit @outdoorinspirations on YouTube! t boltoutdoorlighting.com

contributed photo

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Year-round lighting can add elegance and curb appeal to your home.

Bolt's efficient, dependable systems and formal design training will help create the look you're dreaming of.

North Carolina’s Research Triangle is a one-of-a-kind area to call home. Right in the heart of Cary, fascinating folks from all walks of life are coming to Searstone to create a retirement living experience like nowhere else in the world.

Renovations to our beautiful Winston Clubhouse will reshape gathering spaces and introduce innovative design to our wide range of existing amenities. Plus, The Highview at Searstone — our upcoming four-story expansion featuring many new amenities, including three unique dining venues — is 100% reserved and scheduled to open in 2024.

By placing a refundable deposit, along with an application fee, you’ll secure your spot on our single Wait List should a residence become available either in The Highview or across our campus.

Ready for the best decision you’ll make all day?

Schedule your personal appointment. To learn more, call 919.897.7471 or visit searstone.com.

Growing Community and Good Vibes

The Chronicles of Stoney Acres Farm

WRITTEN BY JAIME NOLAN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

WHAT DO YOU DO when an enchanting 4.2-acre farm discreetly tucked in the back of your current neighborhood suddenly becomes available for purchase? Without hesitation, you seize the opportunity and figure out your farming journey later. Then you name the farm after the resident goat, Stoney!

It’s hard to imagine a better life than this: a quaint farm, a playful goat named Stoney, and Allie on swing nestled in the barn.

The Tischer family's goals are to provide an opportunity for people to learn about food sources, offer an experience of life on a small farm, and create a gathering place for their neighbors and friends.

The adventurous Tischer family who has sprinkled lots of love in Stoney Acres Farm includes Emily, a former teacher turned real estate agent; Jason, a medical professional and well-known ultramarathon enthusiast; Cade, a college junior who ditches textbooks for farm life in the summer; and Allie, a high schooler with a magnetic love for animals. Even Cade’s buddies turn the farm into a buzzing summer hangout where farm chores and laughter thrive in equal measure. Together, family and friends are the driving force behind this unexpected passion project.

With farming as a foreign concept to the Tischer family, they ventured into a world of agriculture, guided by the generosity and mentorship of the former owners, who swiftly became cherished friends, as well as the dynamic duo Joe and Ronda, who were bundled with the property and have been lending their magic touch ever since. Over time, they evolved from helpers to an indispensable part of the extended family.

“WE WISHED THE FARM WOULD GO FOR SALE. WHAT ONCE GAVE THE FAMILY A GOOD LAUGH TURNED INTO A THRILLING ADVENTURE AND A MEANS TO UNITE THE NEIGHBORHOOD.”

THE TISCHER FAMILY

Signage from the original owners hangs on the barn door.

ABOVE: Every day is bustling with roaming chickens and goats, overseen by their vigilant dogs who act as guardians.

LEFT: Goats are highly intelligent and curious creatures, always eager to explore and interact, especially with people.

“MORNING CHORES START AROUND 7 A.M. WE FEED THE ANIMALS, MAKE SURE THEY HAVE CLEAN WATER FOR THE DAY, AND TIDY UP THE BARN A BIT. OUR EVENING CHORES ARE AROUND 7 P.M. WE COLLECT EGGS, FEED ALL OF THE ANIMALS AGAIN, AND PUT THE GOATS AND CHICKENS AWAY FOR THE NIGHT. MOST EVENINGS, I HARVEST PRODUCE FROM THE GARDEN AS WELL. SOME DAYS ON THE FARM ARE HOT, AND SOME DAYS ARE COLD. BUT FARM CHORES NEED TO GET DONE REGARDLESS.”

EMILY TISCHER

The inaugural year was a crash course in farming — education via videos, podcasts, and connections with fellow farmers became their compass. The family dug right in and started tackling projects to make the farm their own, from installing a greenhouse to getting dirty in the garden, planting everything from garlic to watermelon and zucchini, and tending to the animals. They revitalized the weathered barn, mended charming fences, and tenderly rejuvenated the cozy chicken coops, crafting a serene haven that exudes rustic charm and warmth.

Over the year, the family's menagerie grew to include 10 goats, a burgeoning population of around 80 chickens, four dogs, barn cats, three thriving beehives, and a greenhouse with a plethora of fresh harvest.

Throughout the transformation and many nighttime porch talks, they envisioned the future of their farm and how they wanted to use their new home as a means of education and connecting their neighborhood community. Thus the Stoney Acres Farm Stand was born!

The Tischers raise various chicken breeds, including the soft and fluffy Silkies.

Neighbors Addie and Sydney Geary, ages 5 and 3, collect eggs during a farm visit.

Chores are plentiful at Stoney Acres. Jace and Cade move feed that is stored in the barn loft. Hungry goats gather for breakfast.

“One of our favorite sayings is, ‘Learn as you grow.’ We decided to share our harvest with neighbors by building a little neighborhood farm stand. The farmstead is open to neighbors each week in hopes of creating a common time and place for neighbors to visit, spend time with the farm animals, and enjoy our fresh produce! It’s been great to see families meet one another and to see kids running around with the animals. We also have a little library in the farm stand so kids can exchange books during weekly visits.” Emily Tischer said.

Sustainability and local sourcing form the backbone of Stoney Acres Farm Stand. From their own delicious produce to partnerships with Crabtree Farm Goods and beyond, Emily and Jason want to offer the freshest local goodness just a stone’s throw away from their neighbors.

“We lived in the neighborhood for eight years and we always knew there was a farm somewhere in the back, but we had never seen it. We heard through a neighbor that the farm was going up for sale in a private sale. Through a series of (very fortunate) events, we decided to put an offer on the farm. We NEVER thought we’d get it! Welp … we did. We had absolutely no idea how to raise a goat or chicken or how to grow anything! The former owners were so sweet and let us come to the farm almost every night to learn how to do farm chores.”

They’ve also sponsored a Future Farmers of America student and collaborated with a local veterinarian college. Additional alliances have facilitated “meat-ups,” enhancing the accessibility of local meat for the community. They even source their lumber at Myrick Diversified in Selma, striving to procure everything locally, supporting nearby sources for all their needs.

“Every local partnership nurtured by this farm becomes an immediate success, enriching all involved.” To follow the adventures of Stoney Acres Farm and see their adorable farm animals, check out their Instagram @stoneyacresnc. To learn more about the farm, contact Emily and Jason at StoneyAcresFarmNC@gmail.com. t

The community consistently empowers the Tischers to explore new endeavors, like taking up beekeeping.

There's nothing quite like gathering freshly laid eggs and plucking delectable vegetables like Candyland tomatoes and cucamelon.

Emily enjoys growing fun things that kids like to eat right off the vine!

Arlem Mora

Peak Charter Academy’s successes are rooted in its commitment to engaging all scholars through its unique blend of di erentiated, tiered, and workshopbased instruction, a model that has received state and national recognition. Peak o ers its scholars the individualized levels of challenge or support they need to be successful, and our educators build a positive culture that supports their scholars’ social, emotional, and academic wellness. It is truly a model for success!

Any scholar who resides in NC is eligible to attend Peak Charter Academy, a public school that never reassigns its students to other schools. Please visit peakcharteracademy.org to apply and complete your enrollment application before the deadline of 5:00 PM on November 30, 2023!

• 2x “A-Rated” school that exceeded growth expectations

• 2x National Model School (2020, 2021)

• NCDPI’s Inaugural Charter School Principal of the Year

• 5x Maggy Award Winners for Best Public School

• National School of Excellence

|

Apply Now!

Werking Design & Décor

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

DOES THE STATE OF YOUR HOME really reflect the state of your mind? That’s a question for the experts, but the space that we live in does seem to have the ability to affect our mood. Walking into a clean, well-designed space can bring a sense of peace and contentment to both owners and visitors alike — and Heather Werking, owner and lead designer for Werking Design & Décor, says her clients’ happiness is her measure of success.

“I believe it is important to work closely with each client to understand their lifestyle needs and personal style, and I pride myself on the ability to integrate those unique client needs into a complete design aesthetic,” said Werking, who has

been working in interior design for nearly a decade.

If the name Werking Décor seems familiar, you may have seen it — Werking’s retail store sits in the heart of downtown Apex, offering an eclectic mix of vintage, new, and found home furnishings. The recent launch of werkingdecor.com is the latest business expansion to grow the brand and offer these unique products on a national level.

When she’s not designing functional, aesthetic spaces, Werking can often be found hunting for vintage treasures in Apex and beyond. We recently caught up with her to learn more about the business of interior design, her creative process, and how it all werks for her clients across the Triangle.

When did Werking Design & Décor open, and what was the inspiration behind its opening?

My passion for design and décor started in childhood and grew into a vocational pursuit in my teens. After high

Werking Design and Décor in downtown Apex offers a variety of vintage, new, and found home furnishings and accessories.

Spotted in the mirror: Heather Werking, owner and lead designer for Werking Design and Décor.

school, I followed that passion to design school in Pittsburgh, PA. After schooling, like many young adults, life steered me in a direction that had nothing to do with my intended career. After being a stay-athome mom and subsequently establishing a successful career as a director of sales for a software company, I finally had the opportunity to revisit my passion for design and décor and pursue my dream of being my own boss. In 2015, with the support of my husband and two children, I began my amazing adventure.

What interior design services do you offer your residential and commercial customers?

I offer residential and commercial design services in the Triangle and beyond. The process begins with an in-home design consultation to discuss the scope of the project and learn more about the client. I provide a proposal, and if the client wants to move forward, we schedule a project start date and we get to work. I take care of everything from design presentation, ordering furniture and décor, to installation and staging of the items.

ABOVE: Owner and designer Heather Werking holds up vintage Indian saris used as throws.

LEFT: In store, Werking has added one-ofa-kind pieces crafted by artisans and makers.

Werking’s storefront began with the simple idea of bringing the best curated finds to the admirers of old, well-loved, and often forgotten.

TOP LEFT: Come to browse or find inspiration!

TOP RIGHT: Add the perfect touch to a mantel or built-ins with Werking’s unique finds.

ABOVE: Custom-made pillow, anyone?

RIGHT: Pick a color scheme and discover your style!

Tell us more about your retail store in downtown Apex!

Werking Décor is my retail flagship store in downtown Apex. It opened in July of 2020. We offer a unique variety of vintage, new, and found home furnishings and accessories. It began with the simple idea of bringing the best curated finds to the admirers of old, well-loved, and often forgotten. I added pieces from the modern era, crafted by artisans and makers. What I found was an appreciation for a style that stood out from the rest, all on its own.

What is your creative process?

My creative process begins with understanding the needs and wants of a particular client, then evolves into bringing that vision to life with mood boards and renderings that depict colors, textures, and an overall vibe for

a space. Mood boards and renderings are the most tedious parts of the process, yet the most enjoyable aspect of the design process for me.

Where do you find inspiration?

My inspiration for a specific design can come from a special piece of art that the client wants to incorporate. It can come from a rug, a wallpaper, or even a pillow. It’s really about what speaks to the client, and then infusing all the design details that complete a space.

What is currently trending in the design world?

Trends? Never mind trends! Make it yours. Use colors, textures, and styles that YOU love, not what is trending. Trends come and go, but a space that reflects YOU will never go out of style.

What previous design projects are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of a project in Raleigh where the clients trusted the process. They trusted me to execute the design based on their likes and dislikes, then let me move forward with no hesitation. The process is much more efficient with the trust from a client, and without too many opinions along the way. In the end, I was hired back to help with more spaces in their home, and I have been working with them for three years.

What do you love about your job?

What I love most about my job is the ability to use my creative outlet every single day. I am constantly shopping for old things, sourcing new vendors, and dreaming up new spaces. Doing what I love for a living is a blessing! t werkingdesign.com

At Werking Design and Décor, every display is a work of art.

You are cordially invited to the Triangle’s most exciting new home furnishings destination: family-owned Blake Interiors. The upscale home furniture store, accent decor store, and design studio keep inventory and ideas fresh, rotating new items constantly. Not only can you see, touch, and experience items in our store, you can take them home that day!

Blake Interiors believes that what separates a house from a home is a space’s ability to reflect the inhabitants’ style, unique functional offerings, and personality. So whether you’re looking for a small accent piece, a new sofa, or a full-on complete home design, Kelsey and Travis Thomas’ team is here to help you find something that so uniquely represents YOU. Stop by, have a cup of coffee, and let’s create something beautiful together. Your HOME.

Hours:

Monday - Saturday | 11am-7pm

Sunday | By appointment only

3020 Village Market Pl, Morrisville, NC 27560 | 919-377-2268

blakeinteriors.co | blakeinteriors.co

WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

Tulips! Don’t Fear the Deer!

TO PLANT OR NOT to plant? That is the Shakespearean quandary many area gardeners find themselves in now because late October is the time to begin filling flower beds with fall-planted/spring-blooming bulbs. And when it comes to tulips, such a question gets even tougher to answer.

Nobody is going to argue tulips don’t have drop-dead gorgeous flowers that add a ton of color to early spring gardens, but many are typically grown as one-hit wonders, lasting but a single spring in the sunny South — and turning pricier selections into expensive ephemerals.

And then there is the problem with deer. Deer dearly love to munch on tulips,

meaning a gardener’s blissful anticipation of an enjoyable springtime blooming event cratering instead into an extended exercise in excessive cussing is real.

So, what’s a gardener to do? The simplest answer is, if deer frequent your area, just don’t plant tulips. This doesn’t mean your spring landscape has to come down with a case of visual blahs because there are many other bulbous beauties you can plant this fall sporting bright, cheerful flowers that deer would rather not like to have on their menu.

Need examples? Daffodils (Narcissus sp.) are probably the best-known deer-resistant springtime-flowering bulbs, but they have some

rather attractive company with glory-of-thesnow (Chionodoxa sp.), hyacinths (Hyacinthus orientalis), snowdrops (Galanthus nivalis), Siberian squills (Scilla siberica), fritillarias (Fritillaria sp.), and grape hyacinths (Muscari armeniacum). And by the way, none of these blooming beauties are big faves of rabbits, either.

I do need to mention that “deer-resistant” is a broad term meaning these critters don’t like the taste of such plants and flowers, but if hungry enough, they just might take a nibble. It’s sort of like you having a mighty midnight munchy attack and only finding leftover sardine-liver quiche in the refrigerator. Think about it.

Interplanting grape hyacinths with tulips can help deter deer.

For gardeners who just won’t stand for spring in a tulip-less garden, there is hope. Liquid deer repellents are not hard to find in garden centers, and they do work reasonably well — my hostas remaining unchewed over the long growing season has been proof enough for me.

There is also a prettier way to deter deer. Simply interplant your favorite Dutch delights with any of the bulbs mentioned above that deer don’t like. Such a mix can confuse — even assault — their taste buds, often to the point they take their dinner reservations elsewhere. t

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

To Do in the GARDEN

• Although planting season in the veggie patch is winding down, if your green thumb still has an itch, give it a scratch at the beginning of this month, when you still have time to slip in more spinach, onions (bulbs), garlic (bulbs), and Chinese cabbage.

• If you plan to use a pumpkin as a snappy seasonal decoration, remember it will keep better if not located in bright sunlight most of the day and with a few inches of its stem still attached. Also, an uncarved pumpkin will have a longer show-off life.

TIMELY TIP

This year, were your hollyhocks’ leaves besmirched (yes, I said besmirched) with yellow or brown patches dotted by orange spots? The culprit was rust, a common fungal problem with hollyhocks. Fungicides applied during the growing season will help control this disease, but since it can overwinter in the plants, break up the life cycle of rust-causing spores by cutting back your hollyhocks to the ground now, bagging up the debris, and giving it a one-way ticket to the dump. In addition, this easy, effective cultural practice works well against botrytis blight, which can also afflict pretty hollyhocks with a bad case of the uglies.

October

• Get into the spirit of Halloween and “haunt” local nurseries for end-of-growing-season sales on leftover perennials and woody ornamentals.

• Herbaceous perennials are long-lasting plants that die back or are cut down after the first frosts bite. They are also plants that you might forget where they are next spring unless you put markers beside them now before their late autumn disappearing act.

Cut back hollyhock plants now to help prevent rust next growing season.

ADORN HOME FUNISHINGS

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.

Ready to break bread with your neighbors? Chef Michael Pierce, with Metz Market and Catering, takes the residents of NOVEL Cary on a culinary journey twice a week.

Curated Living

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

NOT LONG AGO , if you saw one apartment complex, you’d seen them all. Communal amenities typically included a pool, barbecue areas, a clubhouse, and a fitness center — if you were lucky, you might score a dog park and a firepit or two. Yes, there were differences depending on price point, but common spaces were just that: common. The interests and passions of residents were not typically reflected in the development or design of the property.

But as the world evolves, so do our living preferences. NOVEL Cary — a luxury apartment community grounded in shared culinary experiences — is a perfect example of this evolution.

“Curated living spaces, like NOVEL Cary, are on the rise because they offer residents a chance to immerse themselves in a lifestyle that aligns with their individuality,” said Ashelynn Burt-Jones, property manager at NOVEL Cary. “We believe that everyone deserves a place to call home that resonates with their heart and soul.”

NOVEL Cary opened its doors in January 2023 with the intention of creating something truly special. Foodies who call NOVEL home enjoy weekly visits from a private chef, breaking bread together over lunch or dinner.

The community garden and pantry allow residents to explore different culinary endeavors without having to leave home.

“We bring chefs from all culinary backgrounds to cook for residents in our critically acclaimed kitchen,” said Burt-Jones. “Our community garden provides residents with the space and resources to explore their culinary passions right at home. The garden and pantry serve as a platform for residents to experiment, create, and connect through the joy of cooking. Moreover, we take pride in our hyper-local approach, forging strong partnerships with nearby farms and artisans. By incorporating local goods and produce into our culinary experiences, we celebrate the diversity of the region and deepen our connection to the community.”

An emphasis on culinary culture is only one example of curated living in our area. Vine North Hills is a haven for pet lovers, complete with a luxury pet spa and on-demand pet sitting services. Bradford Cary caters to those who are interested in the “country club lifestyle,” featuring a full-sized golf simulator, indoor putting green, and other high-end amenities. If you have a specific passion or an interest, there is likely a likeminded community waiting in the wings all you need to do is find it! t

A volunteer works with Great Dane Phoebee.

Unleashing Comfort

HEALING HEARTS AND MINDS ONE TAIL WAG AT A TIME

WRITTEN BY JESSICA MATTISON  | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

YOU AND YOUR DOG walk into a room, and sitting center stage is half of a Big Mac, a pile of toys, and an open jar of peanut butter. What does your dog do? Mine would probably go for the meat first, followed by the peanut butter for dessert. He would then grab a toy for a quick game of fetch consisting of him running, me chasing, and not much retriev -

ing. This behavior does not make my dog bad, just typical. A certified therapy dog, on the other hand, would be able to simply walk past these temptations without a second glance. These exceptional canines are trained this way to allow them to visit different facilities, providing their unique services to those needing a little extra support and companionship.

Certified paw-some!

All therapy dogs must pass the Certified Therapy Dog Test to become certified. This assessment consists of a set of skill tests designed to demonstrate the obedience of the dog and how well the owner and dog work together as a team. Many of these tests are designed to recreate real-world situations a team might encounter on the job.

From left, Beau, Tuffy, and Rusty wait their turn to visit a volunteer patient while in training.

CALLING ALL POTENTIAL THERAPY DOGS!

Dogs with a Purpose, a nonprofit organization in Cary, offers not only the Certified Therapy Dog Test, but also a practice and pre-test, prior to the certification. They pride themselves on going above and beyond to ensure the happiness, safety, and success of their therapy teams.

All teams are evaluated upon arrival at the testing facility — including the seemingly simple task of getting out of the car and to the front door.

During testing, dogs are assessed on how they enter a space and how they settle down in various situations. They are not allowed to approach another person until the owner says “look at me” followed by “go say hi.” The “leave it” command is especially important to protect both the people being visited and the dogs serving. All therapy dogs must be completely desensitized to things like wheelchairs, walkers, IV poles, crutches, loud noises, large groups, other dogs, or even a table full of food.

Dogs with a Purpose has an immediate need for therapy dogs. Contact them if you would like to learn more about their programs.

Whopper and his handler practice stopping, waiting, and recall.

Beau gets some positive reinforcement from his owner. Handlers work to desensitize their canine partners Dalton, Whopper, Clarabell, and Kitt to medical equipment.

Jackie Kelly‘s dog Sophie, a golden retriever, jumps over a rail.

It is key that owners are willing to fully commit to the therapy team lifestyle — and it is truly a lifestyle that must remain consistent both outside and inside the home. “You have to have a passion for it,” said Karen Callaghan, director of operations of Dogs with a Purpose. For her, volunteering is worth the price. “You have to feed your soul,” she said.

Temperament is

paws-itively paramount

So, can any dog become a therapy pup? “It all comes down to temperament,” said Jackie Kelly, owner of Jackie’s Basics and Beyond Training and founder of Dogs with a Purpose. “If a dog has the right temperament, they can be trained to do just about anything.” From tiny Yorkies to giant Great Danes, rescue or purebred, even three-legged or one-eyed dogs — they all have the capacity to become therapy dogs.

An ideal therapy pooch should be friendly, engaged, gentle, affectionate, calm, and enjoy being touched. In addition to an

even temperament, dogs must be otherwise healthy and at least one year old to be eligible for certification.

Therapy teams work with hospitals, assisted and independent living facilities, schools for students of all ages, special needs facilities, homeless shelters, funeral homes, and anywhere else their support is needed. Their services benefit military members, veterans, first responders, and beyond.

Dogs with a Purpose works especially hard to match therapy teams with groups that will have a shared bond. For example, a recent recruit is a three-legged dog undergoing training with the goal of visiting veterans at local VA hospitals. Another dog with an underdeveloped cerebellum visits patients with traumatic brain injuries. Matching disabilities helps create an instant connection between human and dog that many patients may struggle to find with other people.

Man’s best friend

The mere sight of a wagging tail can in-

stantly lift spirits and create a sense of calm and comfort. There is not a more comforting shoulder to cry on or sympathetic ear than that of man’s best friend.

Karen Callaghan holds her French bulldog, Lily, posing next to Jackie Kelly and her golden retriever, Sophie.

2023/24 SEASON

Halloween Weekend

Halloween

Spooktacular

SAT, OCT 28 | 1PM & 4PM

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Young People’s Concert Series Sponsor: WakeMed Children’s

Thanksgiving Weekend

Holidays at Hogwarts

WED, NOV 22 | 4PM

FRI, NOV 24 | 3PM

SAT, NOV 25 | 3PM

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Concert Sponsors: Highwoods, Publix Super Markets Charities, Residence Inn Raleigh Downtown

Mozart’s

Magnificent Voyage

SAT, JAN 6 | 1PM & 4PM

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Classical Kids LIVE!

Young People’s Concert Series Sponsor: WakeMed Children’s

Peter and the Wolf

SAT, APR 6 | 1PM & 4PM

Michelle Di Russo, conductor

Young People’s Concert Series Sponsor: WakeMed Children’s

Come S Why We’ #1!

same time, next year

Oct 1 & 8 / 3pm Oct 6 & 7 / 7:30pm

Tickets: $10-$18 +tax

This plays plot follows a love affair between two people who rendezvous once a year Twenty-five years of manners and morals are hilariously and touchingly played out by the actors

Christmas

Play/Musical Auditions

Oct 10 / 6:30pm-8:30pm Oct 11 / 6:30pm-8:30pm Callbacks: Oct 16 / 6:30pm-8:30pm Ages 10+ are eligible to audition. Come celebrate the holidays with us and be a part of our big show!

FREE EVENTS

Daily

Oct 14 / 9:30am-12:30pm

Tickets: $86 +tax

Oct 18 for FREE family-friendly movies on the big Halle screen! 10am

EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Makers Market

Makers Market

MARCH 11 | 12-4 PM

Makers Market by Art-n-Soul

APRIL 8 | 12-4 PM

OCTOBER 21 | 12-4PM

Makers Market

`

Join us with NCMA Artist, Monica Linares, as she leads you through her unique process of daily painting. At the end of this workshop you will leave with a finished 6x6” painting and great experience!

Goblins groove

Oct 28 / 5:00pm-7:00pm

Tickets for events available at The Halle box office, over the phone, or on etix.com

MARCH 11 | 12-4 PM

Makers Market MARCH 11 | 12-4 PM

NOVEMBER 18 | 12-4PM

APRIL 8 | 12-4 PM

DECEMBER 16 | 12-4PM

Pups, Pints & Play

MARCH 18 | 12-4 PM

APRIL 8 | 12-4 PM Pups, Pints & Play

Pups, Pints & Play

MARCH 18 | 12-4 PM

OCTOBER 7 | 12-4PM

Wine & Brew Walk

Wine & Brew Walk

Wine Walk

MARCH 30 | 5-8 PM

MARCH 30 | 5-8 PM

APRIL 27 | 5-8 PM

OCTOBER 26 | 5-8PM

APRIL 27 | 5-8 PM

For details visit:

For details visit:

www.WaverlyCary.com

www.WaverlyCary.com

NOTE: Wine will be available for purchase on-site. Coolers and outside alcohol are not permitted.

Brought to you in cooperation with our sponsor:

PETS ON parade

We at Cary Magazine love our pets, and from all the amazing photos we received for this year’s Pet Parade, we can tell you do, too! Thank you to all of our readers for taking the time to go online and submit your furry family members. Pets are so special, and we loved shining a light on each and every one of them!

Legend

Legend is simply legendary in our home. A small dog with a big personality! He’s a “protector,” but loves to be cuddled, scratched, rubbed, and even carried. He hates to get his feet wet, simply must sit on something soft, and can play fetch or tug of war with his favorite bone for hours. He’s also pretty addicted to chewing ice.

— Siti Lowery

Birdie

Birdie is a happy rescued furbaby and “foster fail” from Saving Grace. He is always smiling.

— Nancy A. Pendleton

Coffee

As a rescued Chihuahua after being surrendered to the shelter, Coffee is living his best life. While highly inquisitive and protective of family, he is so loving to anyone who will give him the time of day.

— Elizabeth Amsheyus

Charlie

Charlie is our 11-year-old Shih Tzu. I refer to Charlie as my “love affair.” He has the sweetest personality, and can often be seen living his best life while being pushed in his stroller on weekends. With the Town of Cary being as dog-friendly as it is, Charlie loves being out at the many patio establishments with his humans. Charlie loves to wear this scarf around the house. I think he likes the coziness of it around his neck.

— Janice Manning

Drew

Drew is a toy havanese. He turned 1 year old Aug. 5. He loves all pets, and we would love to do the parade!

— Donna Kusko

Mojo

Mojo is a 12-year-old lab/hound mix. He and his littermates were taken in by Best Friend Pet Adoption when they learned that a backyard breeder had an unwanted mixedbreed litter. Mojo was the first of well over 100 fosters that have come through our house, and our first foster failure. Mojo is a gentle giant who loves everyone and everything. He’s the best boy ever!

— Amy Felkins

Posey

Posey, a Saving Grace rescue, loves to camp with us! Pictured at Jordan Lake campground!

— Sharon Ambrose

Chase

Leo is a rescue from Freedom Ride Rescue! We fostered him and quickly “foster failed” because we knew he belonged in our family! He is so funny, sweet, and playful. He puts up with us dressing him up for Halloween! He’s our best friend!

— Jordan Saukaitis

Chase was 6 months old when we rescued him. During his first few days at home, he was very shy, but little by little he learned that this is his forever home. At 2 years and 3 months old, he now owns the home! He is the sweetest dog you can wish for, and he brings so much joy into our lives. When we get home, he looks at us with those beautiful eyes and does these crazy wiggles showing how happy he is that we are back. He is sure to melt anyone’s heart. We are thankful and blessed he is part of our lives.

—

Giselle and James

KitKat never misses a party.

— Nancy A. Pendleton

Moose

Moose is the sweetest, friendliest pup! His favorite activities include snuggling, chasing lizards, shredding toilet paper, and agility training. If you see him around town, please make his day by stopping to say hello!

— Robin Anne Barham

Bandit

Bandit is a fun loving husky who is about to turn 4! He loves playing outside at the park or running around the backyard. He loves to cuddle and get his belly rubbed.

— Emily Wilkins

Dash and Patch

Dash and Patch joined our family in April. Our oldest son has asked for a guinea pig since he was 2 years old. After 7 years of patient persuasion, his dream came true when we surprised him and his little brother with these two sweet guinea pigs. Dash and Patch love getting treats, going for walks in a baby stroller, and riding in toy trucks. They squeak with excitement when they see us. We can’t imagine life without them!

— Jaime Ramsbottom

Taz

Taz is a 15-year-old rat terrier. More than anything in the world, he loves to be in a lap. Taz is a sweet little old man who loves everyone he meets. He has shared his family and home with over 100 fosters.

— Amy Felkins

Bentley, Bugatti, Cougar and Jaguar

Coal

Coal is our spectacular and perfect boy. He is a 5-year-old black lab who loves treats, water sports, and food. He is 99 pounds of pure chill and love. He makes our life and family whole.

— Julie Ann Lowery

This is our full Shih Tzu mama (Bugatti), the Shih-poo dad (Bentley), and two of their pups, Cougar and Jaguar. They love playing with their chew toys, eating snacks, and doing their “zoomies” together in the evenings. Always entertaining us with some kind of antics. They love traveling with us to the lake and hanging out on their float or swimming.

— Sharon Croteau

Xochi Jade

Xochi is a 2-year-old coated Xoloitzquintli from Pennsylvania. She is a very loving girl who rarely leaves my side. She loves attention, gives kisses frequently, and will hug my arm with her front paws. Xochi is a mischievous little girl and will take anything she can get her mouth on. She will parade around with her prize and proudly bring it to you so you can see that she has something. As soon as you show interest, she will prance off with her head held high.

— Amy Felkins

Jade is a sweet but salty 7-year-old shephard. She likes to protect us from the squirrels outside and then get her treats. She is photogenic as well!

— Jennifer Wentworth

Cous

Cous is a gentle and patient

SPCA rescue. He’s the chief box inspector, bag swatter, and window watcher of the house. In addition, he’s patient with his kitten brother, Fishy (named after Aho). And his loud, loving, and baritone purr sounds like an old diesel engine. Together, we’re all humming along.

— Graham Duncan

Sally

Sally and her brother, Harry, were feral and very skittish when I adopted them last spring. They’re definitely warming up to their new home, and apparently Sally now feels she can pose as a decoration! #whenharrymetsally

— Amy Patton

Caroline Lily

Caroline joined our family this past April when we adopted her from Freedom Ride Rescue! She visited us several times to get socialized with other dogs, and on the final visit, we couldn’t let her leave. Caroline is a Great Pyrenees. Despite her 80 pounds, she is a big lover. She loves hugs and treats. We absolutely love her and are so grateful to Freedom Ride Rescue for saving her.

— Jennifer Browne

Lily came to us at three days old, orphaned with her siblings. Her chance of survival was less than 10%. I “was not a dog person,” but I decided to foster during Covid for my boys to have the love. After many sleepless nights, emergency tube feeding, and bottle feeding, she is our forever princess. We continue to foster bottle feeders.

— Laura Irvin

Lexie and Trixie

Lexie and Trixie are tabby kitties who look alike — one skinny, one chunky. They are sisters, though not biological sisters. Lexie is 16 and Trixie is 11. Lexie got scared of a hammer on a bed she was under and flew down the stairs — she’s the flying cat. Trixie — scratch her tickle spot on her back and she gives you kisses. She also lets me know when it’s dinner time if I’m late from work.

— Robin Anne Barham

Charlie girl was on her own for three years, rescued in critical condition and nursed back to health. Happy healer. Full of energy. Loving and good girl.

— Gwenn Glotnis

Charlie Stout Rocky

Stout is a lovable lab mix adopted from Perfectly Imperfect Pups! He is 8 months old, full of food-loving, zoomie-chasing, tugof-war fun!

— Nicole Muniz

Cary

We adopted Cary 14 years ago from Almost Home Animal Shelter. She was at a kill shelter in NC and was brought up to NJ where we met her, and it was love at first sight. Her name was Cary when we met her — fitting, as we relocated from NJ to beautiful Cary. Cary loves to sun bathe, nap, go on walks, loves babies, belly rubs, the mountains, and car rides. She is a picky eater and hates the rain and thunder. She is our first fur baby and makes our family whole. We love our sweet and beautiful Cary.

— Lisa Kropilak

Rocky is a spoiled rotten English bulldog. His favorite things include car rides, tennis balls, his own chaise lounge, and treats. His least favorite thing is definitely exercise, unless there are birds or squirrels to chase.

— Johanna Wilson

Mel

Can a dog be a baby after they are no longer a puppy? This one is. Mel is definitely the biggest “baby” ever seen, doubling in size in a very short time. And with those gams, no one puts this baby in a corner. That is, unless it’s the corner of the furniture — her favorite spot.

— MG

Khalessi

Our Maltipoo Khaleesi is a world traveler. We got her when we were living in Italy and brought her with us when we moved back to Cary. She has been with us on all our adventures through Europe and now enjoys her new home here in the US.

— Stephanie Sosa

Cam

Cam is a 2-year-old mixed breed that we call a “Himalayan Barker,” because he loves to bark! Cam was found as a stray at only 4 months old, but was saved by Freedom Ride Rescue. It was love at first paw for us, and we are so grateful for Freedom Ride Rescue for saving him. We love him to pieces and can’t imagine our family without him.

Clyde

Clyde is an 8-year-old domestic shorthair. He and his sister, Bonnie, were found at about three days of age and brought to the Wake County shelter. We took in both as bottle feeding fosters. Sadly, Bonnie did not make it, but Clyde thrived and stole our hearts. He became our third foster failure. Having been raised by four dogs, Clyde is very dog-like. He greets everyone who comes to the house and loves to be petted.

—Amy Felkins

Suna

This is Suna, also known as Suna Bee because she is sweet as honey! Suna was rescued in 2016 and will be 7 years old in October. She loves to go on walks, give kisses, chase balls, and snuggle like nobody’s business. And like so many dog owners say, Suna rescued me!

— Marie Callahan

— Jennifer Browne

Khan

This little cutie came to Freedom Ride Rescue at just a few weeks old with his two sisters. They took such good care of him, and eventually he came home with us. We couldn’t help but fall in love with his beautiful blue eyes and quirky personality. He is a big goofball, full of energy, and loves to play, play, play. He will also lick you to death, so be careful. He’s a boxer, pit, Staffordshire mix with a little husky and Rottweiler in the mix, too. Gotta love mutts and rescues!

— Tiffany Allen

Missy

Missy was a young stray who was fostered by my daughter. She arrived with five newborn kittens! My daughter and son-in-law fostered Missy for several months, until her kittens were old enough to be weaned. I then took Missy to be spayed and adopted her through Meow House Cat Rescue. She had been with me almost a year and is adjusting to indoor life quite well!

— Christy Hanson

Molly and Daisy

Molly is a Maltizhu. She is a fun and loving big sister to Daisy. Daisy is a Maltipoo. She loves everyone! She is always the center of attention and loves to play with Molly.

— Brenda Hill

Max

Adorable little scruffy. Found on a walkabout on Hwy. 40 at six months old. Rescued from Feedom Ride Rescue. Happy, affectionate, full of energy, love bug.

— Gwenn Glotnis

Smiley

Smiley is a sweet, lovable, and evercurious 5-year-old goldendoodle from Cary. He loves to play ball outside, enjoys belly rubs, and indulges in an occasional Puppuccino or some watermelon slices. At home, he’s known as the kitchen helper for always being around to steal extra food. Overall, he has a happy-go-lucky personality and is fun to be around.

— Sri Pillutla

Cooper “The Good Boy“

Cooper is the most loveable, snuggliest good boy! He is obsessed with the tennis ball, and we often call him the MVP due to his impeccable skills of catching the tennis ball right out of the air. Cooper is a rescue who went from the streets to the sheets — he literally naps in the guest bed all day when he’s not chasing tennis balls. His adorable mask as we call it brings so much character to his outgoing personality!

— Anna Sonday

GoosePippa

I have wanted a cat for forever. For 3 years of her existence, GoosePippa wanted me too, I am sure. My mom says that her personality matches mine 100%, and she wonders how it is even possible. I did not choose her — the chance presented itself, and there I was with the cat, taking her home. GoosePippa is quiet, chill, and tranquil, laid back and very gentle. Appreciative of vintage quality. I cannot read her mind, but I feel that we share the vibes that unite and calm us.

— Rafik Khismatov

Dino is the most loving dog ever! He is our furry bambino! He loves carrots, lettuce, and Ben & Jerry’s pumpkin doggie ice cream!! He does some tricks which include giving paw and high fives. We are super blessed, and Dino is a great addition to our family!

— Tanya Occhipinti

Otis

This is my beautiful and very loving ginger, Otis. He is a big boy. He stands 36 inches tall.

— Joyce D’Alessio

Brownie

Brownie is a 13-year-old Boykin Spaniel who is a real gentleman. He is a loving pet who greets everyone who visits our house with joy and happiness. His whole body wags, not just his tail! He is a happy fellow. Brownie loves to go for long walks early in the morning and enjoys sleeping on hot summer days. He is always ready for a car ride and eager for new adventures and meeting new people. His favorite toy is his ball, which he loves to retrieve as well as chew on.

— Barbara Johnson

Georgia

Surrendered to the shelter because she is an escape artist — she can scale a chain-link fence like Spider Man. Rescued and living her best life. Georgia can amazingly smell a mole and scoop it out. She prefers to be on her back, getting her belly rubbed all day long. Her soft, velvety head, and sweet, gentle demeanor will make a person want to do just that!

— Anthony Amsheyus

Dino

Jackson

Woody is quirky, loving, and very protective. He loves when his mom has foster puppies! He makes the best big brother, knowing to play with the little ones gently, get on their level, and teach them the ropes about being a good dog. He loves giving kisses, and he keeps his older sister and brother active with all of his energy! Photo cred @fivefreedomsphotography

— Jennifer Browne

This is my Willie trying out for the Flying Wallendas. I really think he does this to give me a heart attack. He goes up into the loft and looks down at me and meows so I will definitely look at him.

— Joyce D’Alessio

Gigi

Don’t let this adorable face fool you! My name is Gigi and I’m a handful. Toy poodle is my breed, and black and white is my color. I’m going on 5 years old and keeping my owner, who loves me, very busy. We are best friends!

Woody Willie Luna

Luna is our quarantine pup! We adopted her from Peak Lab Rescue during Covid. She is a big love, who just wants to be around her people. She loves running in the backyard, special treats, and belly rubs!

Q-Ball

Q-Ball is a 3-year-old hairless Xoloitzquintli from Ohio. He is the uncle of my coated Xolo, Xochi. Q’s personality is very typical of the breed. He is shy and standoffish with people he doesn’t know, but is very closely bonded with his family. Q-Ball and Xochi are best buddies and will wrestle and play all day long.

— Diane Heinze

— Lauri Van Oostrum-Reed

— Amy Felkins

He’s an angel!

—Kathi Carlson

Are bladder leaks disrupting you from living a normal life?

Do you get sudden, strong urges to urinate and are unable to control it? Do you go to the restroom eight or more times a day? Do you have accidental leakage before you make it to the restroom? If you answered “Yes” to any of these questions, you may suffer from overactive bladder or urinary incontinence.

What causes bladder leaks and incontinence?

Bladder leakage, urinary incontinence or overactive bladder symptoms are not a normal part of aging. Millions of people worldwide suffer from these life-altering symptoms.1,2 These symptoms may occur because of abnormal communication between the brain and the bladder. This may lead to the feeling of an urgent need to urinate and an unwanted bladder contraction. You may also experience a need to rush to the restroom and leak or lose urine before you make it in time.

The good news: there are treatment options available to help regain control of your bladder. The doctors at Associated Urologists of North Carolina are now offering Axonics® Therapy, a long-lasting solution that is clinically proven to regain bladder control and deliver clinically meaningful improvements in quality of life*.

What is Axonics Therapy?

Axonics Therapy is an advanced treatment option that is clinically proven for treating symptoms of overactive bladder (including urinary urgency incontinence), fecal incontinence and urinary retention.1

Axonics Therapy works by providing gentle stimulation to the nerves that control the bladder and bowel, which can restore normal control and result in symptom improvement.

Important

If you and your doctor believe you are a candidate for Axonics Therapy, you will first try the therapy for a brief test period that allows you and your doctor to see if the therapy provides satisfactory reduction of your symptoms. If it is determined that the therapy is right for you, you will have an outpatient procedure where a miniaturized Axonics implant is placed just beneath the skin in the upper part of your buttock.

What are the benefits of Axonics Therapy?

Axonics Therapy provides the possibility of saying goodbye to bladder leaks! Long-lasting symptom relief: Designed to provide a long-term solution for your symptoms.

Clinically proven results:

• 93% of treated patients achieved clinically significant improvements* at 2 years3

• 94% of patients were satisfied with their therapy3

*50% or greater reduction in symptoms

References:

1. Coyne KS, Sexton CC, Thompson CL, et al. The prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the USA, the UK and Sweden: results from the Epidemiology of LUTS (EpiLUTS) study. BJU Int. 2009;104(3):352-360.

2. Census Reporter website. https://censusreporter.org/ profiles/01000us-united-states/. Accessed July 19, 2019.

3. Pezzella A, et al. Neurourol and Urodyn. 2021

Safety Information: Implantation and use of the Axonics System incurs risk beyond those normally associated with surgery, some of which may necessitate surgical intervention. Results and experiences may vary and are unique to each patient. No promise or guarantee is made about specific results or experiences. For more information about safety and potential risks, go to: www.axonics.com/isi. Caution: Federal law (USA) restricts this device to sale and use by, or on the order of, a physician.

COROLLA

DREAM LIMITLESSLY

This fall is the perfect time to see the Corolla wild horses that roam free on the spacious beaches of Corolla Outer Banks. Visit CorollaNC.com

WRITTEN BY DENA DAW PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Cat Angels Pet Adoptions

A HELPING HAND can be a ray of sunshine on a stormy day — and over 25 years ago, Deborah Fox, founder of Cat Angels Pet Adoptions, was exactly that.

“I went to the Cary PetSmart. It was raining hard, and I was parked at the furthest spot from the building,” recalled Fox. “This lady in front of me had two big shopping carts with cat carriers. The cats were meowing, and she was trying to push them all by herself into the PetSmart. I ran up to her and asked if I could help and she said, ‘Oh god, yes.’”

While it might be easy to find someone willing to push a cart into a building, Fox’s willingness to lend a hand didn’t end there. After helping the kitties out of the carriers, Fox noticed that the woman — a volunteer for Second Chance Pet Adoptions — was all on her own.

“There wasn’t anyone there to help her at this adoption event, and there were people waiting to adopt,” said Fox. “I said, ‘I don’t mind helping you; tell me what I need to do.”

What followed was hours of unplanned volunteering — Fox had left for PetSmart at noon that day and didn’t make it home until 8 p.m. While her offer to help a stranger cost her nothing but time, it would make a priceless impact on her own life and the lives of countless cats over the years.

“One thing led to another, and just about every weekend, mostly Saturdays, this lady asked for help, and I would meet her at the PetSmart and I would help her do what needed to be done,” said Fox. “At that point I became very engaged and learned a lot about cat rescue in particular. For years I took one of the two weeks of my vacation — I worked for IBM

A room full of kittens investigate Glenna McMenamin, one of 75 active volunteers at Cat Angels Pet Adoptions.

Cat Angels Pet Adoptions is located in Cary’s Northwoods Shopping Center.

for 26 years as a programmer — and used it at the PetSmarts, installing and setting up Luv-aPet centers. In return I got our cats in there a couple of times a month for adoption events.”

After 10-plus years of volunteering with Second Chance, Fox decided it was time to step out on her own and create an all cat and kitten shelter.

“It is so easy to get your shelter or your foster organization set up with cats quickly, because there’s so many that need help right away,” said Fox. “It is virtually like snapping your fingers and you can fill up the spots that you have.”

After making Cat Angels a nonprofit in 2005, Fox found a place to rent as a shelter, providing the cats with a place to live and receive medical care.

“So from 2005 to 2012, I was in that first location,” said Fox. “In 2012, I moved into our current location on Harrison Avenue. Our doctors come here, so it’s quiet and soothing and as stressless for the cats as I can possibly make it. Anywhere from 60 to 80 cats are housed there, depending on litters of kittens, et cetera.”

In the current space, previously a doctor’s office, Fox converted exam rooms into brightly colored living spaces for housing and quarantine.

“I had a Key West theme in mind because I never thought that I was going to do this,” said Fox. “I thought that when I retired from IBM I was going to go live in Key West, but I never made it there. So each room has a bright, Key Westy kind of color. The yellow room is where the kittens are. I have pink, purple, green, and teal rooms. A blue quarantine, a red quarantine, and now I have a room that I call assisted living, which is for our elderly cats that are pretty mobile. It’s not fancy, but we’ve adopted out well over 2,000 cats, and for us that is a miracle.”

Fox, who has long since given up her office for kitties in need, runs her organization at a plastic table up front, surrounded by sleepy, elderly cats.

“I give my space up to them, and I’m very happy with that. It is just kind of how I make it happen,” said Fox.

Dr. Johnson Russell at Western Wake Veterinary, Fox’s personal vet, has come to treat the kitties at the shelter once a week since 2005. Cat Angels’ adoption fee is $150 and includes a microchip, rabies vaccine, feline FVRCP, leukemia and bordetella vaccines, FeLV/FIV test, deworming, flea treatment, a ringworm culture, and additional medical treatment if needed.

For spay and neuters, Pet Angels prefers using surgical vans, like SNAP-NC.

“I love the vans because we can get in and out faster,” said Fox. “It’s kind of the way things are going now.”

Elizabeth Towns — now the volunteer coordinator, lead adoption counselor, and head of fundraising — began volunteering with Cat Angels 13 years ago.

“I know other shelters do a fabulous job, but I am most proud of how we treat EVERY cat at Cat Angels as if they are our own,” said Towns. “We spare no expense for any veterinary treatment, which can be really hard on the purse strings, but we would

In addition to shelter, food, and medical attention, cats at Cat Angels get plenty of playtime.

Volunteer Glenna McMenamin holds a purring rescue named Beethoven, who arrived at the shelter battered and bleeding. Since then he has had eyelid surgery.

any other way. They are Cat Angels cats, which means we love every one of them with all our hearts.”

The shelter always needs help scooping litter boxes, filling bowls with food and wa-

ter, cleaning the community cat rooms, and assisting with other duties around the facility. Looking for another way to help? Do a little shopping (or donating) at Cat Angels Thrift Store, located on Cary Parkway. Every sale helps homeless, abandoned, and/or abused cats and kittens find safe, loving, permanent homes.

“The thrift store is a godsend to us,” said Fox. “It really helps us financially stay afloat. People donate their gently used things, whatever they are, and we price them, display them, and sell them. It’s in the Parkway Pointe shopping center, and has been open 11

years. The more volunteers, the better.”

Another way to support Cat Angels is by making one-time or monthly donations via their website. Their biggest matching fundraiser of the year is currently in full swing and will continue through December.

“Our long-term goal is to raise the funds to own our own facility and create a real, lasting legacy for the organization,” said Towns. “We have very exciting plans to create a space to help even more cats from abandonment, abuse, and neglect, but also to offer educational programs, pet resources for victims of domestic abuse and natural disasters, and hopefully one day even provide low-cost spay/neuter services. We have big goals but very small coffers, so we need a lot of help to make these important goals come true. I just need a few cat-loving millionaires to make it all possible!” t

catangelsnc.org

catangelsthriftstore.com

A poster hanging on the wall shows photos of the thousands of cats that Cat Angels Pet Adoptions has saved. never do it

For some of the older rescues, Cat Angels supplies soft beds, lots of love, and plenty of cat TV.

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The town of Lexington, NC, is well known for its hickorysmoked chopped barbecue, boasting 12 restaurants in the town of 20,000 residents, including Bar-B-Q Center on Main Street.

OPPOSITE PAGE: In between barbecue plates, consider stops at Sophie’s Cork and Ale, Bull City Ciderworks, or Childress Vineyards.

Lexington Barbecue is just the beginning

WRITTEN BY EMILY UHLAND | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IF YOU’RE FAMILIAR with the North Carolina town of Lexington, you probably know it for the signature style of barbecue, revered statewide in the ongoing Eastern- versus Western-style showdown.

And for good reason — a dozen barbecue restaurants dot the town of 20,000 residents. The smell of hickory smoke practically infuses the air on Main Street.

Barbecue culture runs so deep that historic smoking pits were discovered in the walls of city hall during a recent building renovation.

“Lexington was originally a town of furniture mills and factories. When furniture left, folks turned to barbecue. Barbecue is now the main industry,” said Morgan Brinkle, executive director of the Lexington Tourism Authority & Visitor Center.

“There are a dozen barbecue restaurants in the area. Each has its own nuances, but the style remains mostly the same,” Brinkle said.

Pork shoulders are seasoned simply, then hand turned over hickory coals and chopped — “There’s no pulled pork here.”

Each restaurant serves a signature “dip” — a sauce made from vinegar, ketchup, sugar, and spices — on the side.

“There’s a couple of extra i’s in ‘dip,’” noted Brinkle with a smile, elongating the vowel sound in a characteristic Southern drawl.

Barbecue may form the town’s backbone and draw countless visitors each year, but Lexington’s small-town charm goes far beyond a delicious sandwich and hushpuppies on the side.

Follow our path through Lexington for a weekend getaway full of food and fun.

Eat

Bar-B-Q

Center

One of Lexington’s best-known barbecue joints began as an ice cream shop, and their massive 4-pound banana split continues that heritage, commemorating special occasions townwide.

Bar-B-Q Center’s pork shoulders are cooked up to 10 hours over hickory coals and served sliced, chopped, or coarse chopped in 1-inch chunks, showcasing traditional Lexington style.

“With electric or gas cooking, you don’t get that hickory flavor,” said Owner Michael Conrad.

Must-try sides include red coleslaw (sauced with dip instead of mayonnaise), fried okra, and housemade hushpuppies.

“There’s a legacy involved in the barbecue business, something to be proud of,” said Conrad, whose family has owned the restaurant for more than 50 years. barbecuecenter.net

Lexington Barbecue

A full parking lot in a barbecue-lovin’ town is a good sign, and at 12:30 p.m. on a Wednesday at Lexington Barbecue, it’s as packed as it gets.

In a typical week, the third-generation family-owned restaurant smokes 10,000 pounds of pork shoulder.

Regulars favor “coarse chopped with brown,” or tender chunks of pork with the golden brown outside bits that get crisp over the coals.

Other specialties include crispy pork skins and the best smoked turkey sandwich you can find. lexbbq.com

Sophie’s Cork and Ale

Warm twinkle lights, shelves of books, eclectic furniture, and a welcoming bar create a cozy ambiance at this chef-owned restaurant and bar.

Focused on locally sourced seasonal ingredients, Chef John Wilson rotates the menu frequently, crafting sophisticated small plates and daily specials, including a hummus of the day. sophiescorkandale.com

Bar-B-Q Center’s 4-pound banana split

Trio of small plates at Sophie’s Cork and Ale

Sophie’s Cork and Ale

Pour Folk Provisions Co.

Located inside Goose and the Monkey, Lexington’s only craft brewery, Pour Folk Provisions Co., locally known as PoFoProCo, evolved from a beloved food truck to a permanent location serving signature woodfired pizzas, shareable apps, bowls, and salads. pourfolkprovisions.com

Perfect Blend

Before a day of exploring Main Street, pop into the centrally located Perfect Blend coffee roastery and cafe, which offers locally roasted coffee and wholesome breakfast and lunch items, such as avocado toast, a yogurt and fruit bowl, and salads.

Seating may be limited as groups of patrons “as regular as these chairs” gather to visit, work, and relax in the uptown setting. perfectblendbistro.com

SHOP

Conrad & Hinkle

A Lexington fixture for more than 100 years, this specialty foods and grocery market in the heart of Lexington offers local produce, a full-service meat department, and their famous homemade pimento cheese.

“It’s my grandmother’s recipe,” said Owner Lee Hinkle, grandson of one of the shop’s founders.

Conrad & Hinkle makes up to 3,000 pounds of the creamy spread per week, sold in-house and at other small businesses around the state, hand delivered by Lee himself. conrad-hinkle.com

Perfect Blend Breakfast

Conrad & Hinkle Meat Department

Peach Cobbler with ice cream at Lexington Barbecue

Coarse chopped “with brown” is a Lexington Barbecue delicacy.

The Candy Factory

At one of Main Street’s sweetest spots, it’s hard to have a bad day.

“The worst day at The Candy Factory is still a good day,” said Owner Annette Conrad.

Annette and her husband, Wynn, own the decades-old shop, offering fudge (homemade by Wynn), artisan chocolates, and vintage candy by the bucket full.

Take a moment to check out the collection of antique candy boxes and decor adorning the walls. lexingtoncandyfactory.com

Missions Pottery

The beautiful mugs, vessels, and dishware available at Missions Pottery are all handmade in the studio directly above the Main Street gallery. Potter Tommy Davis and his team can produce up to 200 of their bestselling coffee mugs in one day.

The studio donates a portion of their earnings to Christian mission projects locally and nationally. missionspotteryandmore.com

PLAY

Bull City Ciderworks

Within Lexington’s historic Depot District, Bull City Ciderworks welcomes guests to their family-friendly outdoor lawn complete with fire pits and picnic tables, and inside their spacious tasting room and production facility, recently relocated from Durham.

Each of Bull City’s unique cider flavors (strawberry and habanero, tart cherry, blueberry and lemon, and ginger and tahini, to name a few) starts with the same base cider recipe, free from artificial flavors and colors, sweetened naturally by apples.

“You can mix any flavors together because the base is all the same,” said Manager Tish Smith, who recommends combining Sweet Carolina (infused with local honey) and Cardinal Cin (infused with cinnamon), when available, to create a Snickerdoodle cookie-esque flavor.

“We have our own honeybees and make our own honey for flavoring,” said Smith.

Weekly events such as karaoke, live music, and food trucks draw frequent crowds. bullcityciderworks.com

Conrad & Hinkle grocery and specialty store.

The Candy Factory

The Candy Factory

The gallery at Missions Pottery also showcases local artists.

Overheard

Can’t-Miss Event

THE BARBECUE FESTIVAL

October 28

Celebrate Lexington-style barbecue with an annual street festival welcoming 150,000 participants to uptown Lexington. Enjoy live music, vendors, sand sculptures, an antique car cruise-in, and many more attractions throughout the day, not to mention three barbecue tents showcasing world-famous Lexington-style ’cue.

Thirsty? Sip Childress Vineyards’ Fine Swine Wine, specially crafted to pair with pork and served at the festival.

On festival day only, Amtrak makes a special stop in Lexington, providing easy transportation from the Triangle.

Follow @barbecuefestival for details.

“ I never realized how sweet a small town is. ”

“

It’s as much about the people as it is the candy. ” “ You can’t go out without seeing someone you know. ”

– Joyce Davis, Missions Pottery

– Annette Conrad, The Candy Factory

– Michelle Moore, Lexington Tourism Authority & Visitor

Center

Visit the Davidson County Historical Museum inside the Davidson courthouse.

Goose and the Monkey Brewhouse

Take a short stroll from Bull City Ciderworks to another popular Depot District destination, Goose and the Monkey Brewhouse, which offers a 3-for-1 punch on local collaborations — serving Perfect Blend Cafe coffee, roasted in-house, brick oven fired pizzas from Pour Folk Provisions Co., local wines, and their own inventive craft beer (Cheerwine Lime Lager, anyone?). gooseandthemonkeybrewhouse.com

Childress Vineyards

For an expected taste of Italy, visit the Tuscan-style buildings and grounds at Childress Vineyards, framed by gorgeous rolling hills lined with grape vines.

Owned by Richard Childress of NASCAR’s Richard Childress Racing, Childress Vineyards focuses primarily on European grapes and produces 80,000 cases of wine per year, which is likely to increase with the opening of a new production facility this fall.

Enjoy the on-site restaurant, a wine flight, and frequent live music under the gazebo.

“It’s everybody’s happy place,” said Chelsea Manring, communications manager.

Experience the best that Childress has to offer through the Signature Wine & Food Tasting Experience, which pairs six courses of sophisticated small plates with the winery’s elite wines. childressvineyards.com

Elevated Wake Park

“It’s a great way to get into the sport (of wakeboarding),” said Clark Davis, instructor and jack-of-all-trades at Elevated Wake Park. “And easier than a boat.”

A suspended cable pulls up to seven riders at a time through a circular course, which Davis describes as a floating skate park, on a small lake — the only one of its kind in North Carolina.

Bull City Ciderworks

Bull City Ciderworks

Childress Vineyards

Childress Vineyards Tasting Room

Childress Vineyards

Ramps, rails, flips, and spins await experienced boarders, but beginners can cruise the lake attempting only the obstacles they choose, or none at all.

“Every time you go around, you get better at it and have more fun,” said Davis.

There’s also an inflatable Aqua Park with climbing and balance obstacles — a floating playground fit for ages 5 and up.

Elevated Wake Park encourages guests to stay and chill on the family- and dog-friendly grounds, enjoying the fun and relaxed atmosphere with frequent bonfires, movie premieres, and special events.

There’s even a cabin on the grounds available for overnight rentals.

“Show up with a bathing suit, and you are good to go,” Davis said — lifejackets, helmets, and basic instruction are provided. elevatedwakepark.com t

TOP: Expert boarders, like instructor Benjamin Togdon, and novices enjoy the challenge of cable-pulled wakeboarding.

ABOVE LEFT: Helmets and boards are provided — all you need is a swimsuit and sense of adventure.

ABOVE: A cable pulls wake boarders through a “floating skate park” course at Elevated Wake Park.

homes bost

Signature luxury is achieved with careful procurement, an art that has earned us recognizable distinction. We believe your desired home is deeply personal and your experience in achieving it should be too.

The fall favorite treat features a moist spice cake base topped with pumpkin-imbued cheesecake mousse.

Asali’s Pumpkin Cheesecake Mousse

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

If you’re looking for a reliable sweet spot for scratch-made seasonal desserts, Asali in Cary sets the artisanal gold standard.

Among the cosmopolitan eatery’s most highly regarded autumn treats is the sublime pumpkin cheesecake mousse. The individually sized delicacy comprises two layers of goodness: a moist spice cake base crowned with chocolate-covered pumpkin-infused cheesecake mousse.

“The spice cake balances the pumpkin mousse, and the dark chocolate really complements it,” co-proprietor Hanadi Asad said.

Topped with a fondant mini pumpkin and dusted with crushed graham crackers, the dessert has become a fall favorite with Asali’s regular patrons.

“The fondant pumpkin is made with almond paste,” revealed Asad, who opened the café with her husband, Jamaal Ali, in 2019. On the day we visited, every table was filled with guests savoring gourmet items like pistachio baklava, macarons, and almond tarts.

Pair the pumpkin cheesecake mousse with a classic latte or a cup of sahlab, a distinctive Middle Eastern milk-based drink.

“Your smiles and enjoyment will burn off all the calories you consume,” Asad said with a laugh.

Urban Angeethi

WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

JUST ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF CARY near Morrisville, an Indian oasis awaits.

Urban Angeethi, a full-service restaurant that opened in 2021, embodies the fulfillment of a vision for the owners, two families who determined a need for a spot that offers its patrons a first-rate culinary journey.

“There are many Indian restaurants in the area, but we found a vacuum when it came to providing quality food, excellent customer service, and upscale ambiance all in the same place,” said co-proprietor Srinivas Mummidi, who hails from southern India. “We want our guests to enjoy a great overall dining experience.”

Mummidi’s business partner Chakshu Singh Agrawal agrees.

“We do our best to present the authentic tastes and experiences of India but with our own unique flair,” northern India native Agrawal said with a smile. “This is why when people come in, they often tell us we have the best Indian food and nicest atmosphere in the area.”

In case you are wondering, the word “angeethi” refers to a traditional brazier used for cooking in South Asia.

As you enter the restaurant, a warm and comforting setting beckons you to relax and immerse yourself in the essence of Indian culture. The stylish dining room melds traditional Indian accoutrements with decidedly modern fixtures. Vintage brass teapots and wooden huts juxtapose with chic orange and cream-colored leather chairs, charcoal gray walls, and pendant dome lights that provide soft illumination.

Banquettes enclosed by the aforementioned huts are popular with regular patrons.

“We get requests for what people call our ‘special booths,’” said Agrawal. “These are cozier than our other seats.”

Consider Urban Angeethi a pictureperfect setting for serving elevated cuisine.

Chef Paras Singh’s inspiring creations reflect the rich flavor profile of his northern Indian upbringing. He developed a passion for cooking from his mother, which ultimately led him to restaurant stints in his

Enjoy the creative selection of craft cocktails and mocktails.

The restaurant offers assorted sizzling kabob platters.

TOP: Urban Angeethi’s stylish dining room provides a welcoming setting for guests.

LEFT: A vertical greenery wall adds just the right touch of tranquility.

native subcontinent and here in the United States. Now part owner of the eatery in Cary, Singh finesses ingredients with aplomb, yielding a fusion of traditional and modern Indian fare.

Whether it’s curry or paneer, dal or kabob, plates that emerge from the kitchen arrive filled with aromatic spices and bursting with flavor. Vegetarian and non-vegetarian selections are equally represented as well as gluten-free and vegan options.

Start your meal with a tandoori salad or a bowl of sweet corn soup brimming with scallions, herbs, and spices.

House specialty appetizers like spinachinfused karara palak chaat and mint-tinged cilantro shrimp are surefire winners. But no matter what else you choose, don’t miss the transcendent Gobi Manchurian, which involves lightly fried cauliflower florets laden in a piquant Indo-Chinese sauce.

Standout vegetarian entrees include paneer Pasanda cooked in almond paste and cashews and finished with creamy sauce; mildly sweet Navratan korma, a rich curry dish with mixed vegetables and nuts; and baingan bharta, which comprises fresh eggplant smoked in a tandoor oven and cooked with garlic-and-onion tomato sauce.

As for non-vegetarian mains, order the boneless chicken biryani served with basmati rice, raita (classic yogurt sauce), and salan, a curry-based gravy. Or dive into a seafood selection such as the pomfret fish fry with a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Prefer more intense heat? Brave the Goanstyle lamb vindaloo with fiery red curry sauce.

Intriguingly, Urban Angeethi also serves several Indo-Chinese offerings like fried rice with mixed vegetables and chili garlic hakka noodles.

“This addition to the menu was based on customer demand,” Mummidi said. “Since our chef has the expertise to cook Indo-Chinese cuisine, we are happy to make it available.”

Sweet fennel seeds serve as a natural Indian breath freshener.

Paneer Pasanda is a popular vegetarian dish featuring Indian cheese cooked in cashew and almond paste.

Six varieties of flavorful Indian breads give cause for deliberation. Whether you pick garlic naan, onion kulcha, or tandoori roti, you won’t be dissatisfied.

If you manage to save room for dessert, we suggest savoring the gajar halwa, a carrotcentric sweet pudding. Or go for the scratchmade kulfi, an Indian ice cream made using only full-fat milk.

Urban Angeethi’s extensive beverage program features beer, assorted bottles of wine, Indian whisky, craft cocktails, mocktails, and more.

The refreshing mangorita contains tequila, triple sec, mango pulp, jalapeno and lime juice, while the strawberry turmeric fizz encompasses vodka, strawberry puree, turmeric, lemon, and house-made basil syrup.

On the mocktail side of the drink menu, the blueberry mojito and masala soda should not be ignored. Be sure to try a nonalcoholic shot of distinctive jamun fruit juice, also known as java plum or Indian blackberry.

“This comes from a berry that is native to our home country,” Mummidi explained. “Whenever our Indian customers come in, it has been an instant hit with them.”

“Whether you drink alcohol or not, we want to cater to everyone,” Agrawal added.

Service at Urban Angeethi is gracious and efficient. Even more notable, welltrained waitpersons are keen to answer questions and provide helpful guidance to guests.

The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner and accepts reservations. A covered patio affords guests the option to dine outside. Catering services ranging from “basic to exquisite” also are available. t Urban

Boneless chicken biryani and naan bread make for a satisfying combination.

The sublime Gobi Manchurian Indo-Chinese appetizer

Paranormal Travel Pulls People and Profits

Written by Wonder Guides

If you enjoy a sudden sense of not quite right or an urban legend that ends in unfinished business for a deceased soul, you’re not alone. Paranormal travel is on the rise as visitors flock to locations where they can brush shoulders with ghosts in the spaces where they lived, the stories that outlived them, or the phantom shadows they emit to give us a hint of their presence.

Hauntings and history go hand-in-hand in Washington, North Carolina. This small town on the banks of the Pamlico River has been around since 1776 and boasts paranormal activity to prove it. Walking through its lovely downtown filled with markets, boutiques and restaurants, the historic buildings and even the river itself simmer with stories of those who came before.

“Everybody wants to tell you a good ghost story and I get to hear a lot because of what I do,” says Terry Rollins, leader of the Washington Haunts tour

for more than a decade. “The most famous Washington ghost story is of Reverend George Washington Carawan who haunts the old Beaufort County Courthouse where he went on trial for murdering a school teacher.”

The murdering minister made a famous last stand after being declared guilty in 1853. He caused mayhem in the courtroom when he pulled out two concealed pistols and shot into the room. Though others were injured, the only life he took was his own, determined not to hang for his crimes. Some 170 years later, workers in the old Beaufort County Courthouse can sometimes hear the melee of broken glass, shrieking, and gunshots as Reverend Carawan’s ghost relives his final moments. When they investigate the sounds coming from the courtroom, there’s not a chair out of place.

Haunted attractions and experiences are found all over the United States and generate approximately $300 million in

ticket sales annually, according to industry group American Haunts. Depending on the location, this can mean more profits for the community hosting the experience. Visitors come for the ghost tour and stay to experience the hotels, restaurants, shops, and more during their visit. For states like North Carolina, where Washington resides, tourism is reaching record levels. In 2022, trips within the state amounted to $33.3 million in tourism.

Those in the business of drawing visitors would do well to discover a few lost souls and get in on the rise in paranormal tourism. This supernatural trend is taking friendly frights to new places, and bringing a willing audience with it.

WASHINGTON, NC

liquid assets

The Eleventh Hour

CONTRIBUTED BY SIDEBAR | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

INGREDIENTS

1 ounce rye whiskey

1 ounce apple brandy

¾ ounce sweet vermouth

¼ ounce Benedictine

2 dashes orange bitters

2 dashes Angostura bitters

INSTRUCTIONS

Combine all ingredients into a mixing glass and top with ice. Stir approximately 25 seconds, and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lemon expression and a cherry.

The cocktail is a spin-off of a classic cocktail known as a Vieux Carre; this version has a slight autumn twist with the substitution of apple brandy, or in our case, Calvados, instead of the usual cognac. It has richer, slightly fruity notes to it to help usher in the fall season.

Treat Yourself

Ella’s is a superior collection of artisan popcorn. The mix-ins are real indulgent ingredients and each layer is folded in by hand in custom small batches. Ella’s Popcorn is popped fresh daily right here in Raleigh.

Ella’s is a superior collection of artisan popcorn. The mix-ins are real indulgent ingredients and each layer is folded in by hand in custom small batches. Ella’s Popcorn is popped fresh daily right here in Raleigh.

Try Ella’s Spooky Celebration 2 gallon 3 Flavor Tin. Tiger (chocolate sandwich cookies drizzled with orange chocolate), Campfire (graham cracker cereal, Belgian chocolate and mini marshmallows) and our seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte (warm spices and ivory chocolate). The perfect blend of Halloween holiday flavors.

Try Ella’s Spooky Celebration Trio Box. Chocolate Peanut Butter (chocolatey, crunchy, peanutbuttery), Campfire (graham cracker cereal, Belgian chocolate and mini marshmallows) and our seasonal Pumpkin Spice Latte (warm spices and ivory chocolate). The perfect blend of fall flavors.

Use the Wake Living Promotional Code: SPOOKY when ordering and SAVE an additional 20%.

Use the Cary Magazine Promotional Code: SPOOKY when ordering and SAVE an additional 20%

Monk’s Mar liquid assets

CONTRIBUTED BY K o MANA BREWING COMPANY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

OKTOBERFEST is not complete without a Märzen: a full-bodied lager style that’s malty with an amber color and rich, sweet taste. Saaz and Hersbrucker hops provide a pleasant aroma with a balanced, fruity, spicy, and floral character. Monk’s Mär“Zen” holds a higher gravity than a typical Märzen, so this monk will help you find enlightenment. Cheers!

KōMANA Brewing Company, located in Cary, specializes in fresh kombucha and craft beer, offering an evolving menu of innovative, mouthwatering alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages. With the popularity of health-minded products on the rise, KōMANA seeks to elevate the mindful drinking movement and offer a destination like no other!

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

Ashworth Drugs

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

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

Awaze Ethiopian Cuisine

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

A’Verde Cocina and Tequila Library

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

BB’s Crispy Chicken

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

Big Dom’s Bagel Shop

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

The Big Easy Oven + Tap

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

Big Mikes BBQ

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

Bonefish Grill

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

Bosphorus Restaurant

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

BottleDog Bites & Brews

A casual place for unconventional food and craft beer.

8306 Chapel Hill Road (919) 390-1617

bottledogcary.com

Bravo’s Mexican Grill

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

Brecotea Baking Studio

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

brecotea.com

Brewster’s Pub

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

brewsterspubcary.com

Brigs

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

brigs.com

Buldaegi BBQ House

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

buldaegi.com

Bumble Brews

Play space for kids with a café serving coffee, beer, wine, and more. 2464 SW Cary Parkway (984) 465-0537

bumblebrews.fun

Burrito Shak

Quality fresh-Mex cuisine. 2982 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 267-6772

burritoshak.com

Cha House

Asian-inspired craft tea house. 1319 Kildaire Farm Road (984) 465-0498

chahouseusa.com

Chanticleer Café & Bakery

Family-owned restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and specialty coffees.

6490 Tryon Road; (919) 781-4810 chanticleercafe.com

Chef’s Palette

Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.

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

chefspalette.net

Chelsea Café

Fresh, local American fare for breakfast and lunch (inside Raleigh Brewing).

2036 Renaissance Park Place; (919) 474-8698 chelseacafe-rtp.com

Chicken Salad Chick

Gourmet chicken salad, called “the best in America.”

302 Colonades Way, Suite 202 (984) 207-5516 chickensaladchick.com/cary-nc/

Cilantro Indian Café

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

cilantroindia.com

CinéBistro

Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience.

525 New Waverly Place, Suite 203 (919) 987-3500

cmxcinemas.com/locationdetail/ cinebistro-waverly

Cinnaholic

Plant-based bakery with create-your-own cinnamon rolls.

1209 Parkside Main St.; (919) 650-1407 cinnaholiccary.com

City Barbeque

Barbeque in its truest form.

1305 Kildaire Farm Road; (919) 439-5191 citybbq.com

Coffee & Crepes

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

Colletta Italian Food & Wine

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

collettarestaurant.com/cary1/

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

Creative burgers and hot dogs with diverse bottled soda selection.

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

Craft Public House

Sociable neighborhood public house.

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

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery

Family-owned and operated bakery and espresso bar.

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

Crosstown Pub & Grill

A 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

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

Dining Guide

JuiceVibes

Made-to-order juices from locally sourced produce.

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

Kababish Café

A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.

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

ko•än

Upscale, contemporary Southeast Asian dishes.

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

La Farm Bakery

Handcrafted daily with only the freshest ingredients. 4248 NW Cary Parkway (919) 657-0657

220 W. Chatham St. (919) 650-3117

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

La Grassa Pastificio

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

La Victoria Mexican Food

Celebrating Mexican heritage.

2025 Renaissance Park Place; (919) 234-1276 lavictoriamex.com

LemonShark Poke

The finest poke ingredients and local brews on tap.

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

Los Tres Magueyes

We prepare our food fresh daily.

110 SW Maynard Road; (919) 460-8757 lostresmagueyescary.com

10120 Green Level Church Road, Suite 202 lostresmagueyesgreenlevel.com

Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen

Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.

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

Lucky Chicken

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

Lugano Ristorante

Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere.

1060 Darrington Drive (919) 468-7229

luganocary.com

Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar

Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

8314 Chapel Hill Road; (919) 465-2455 maximilliansgrill.com

MC Modern Asian Cuisine

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

Meeple’s Brew

850+ board games between two locations. 821 Bass Pro Lane meeplesbrew.com 1060 Darrington Drive, Cary (919) 468-7229 www.luganocary.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.

Mellow Mushroom

Beer, calzones, and creative stone-baked pizzas.

4300 NW Cary Parkway; (919) 463-7779 mellowmushroom.com

Mithai Indian Café

Bengali-style sweet and savory selections free of preservatives and artificial flavors.

744-F E. Chatham St. (919) 469-9651 mithaius.com

Mixed Desserts

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

MOD Pizza

Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast. 316 Colonades Way, Suite 206-C (919) 241-7200

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

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

Dining Guide

Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café

Gourmet market, café, and wine bar. 211 E. Chatham St. (919) 377-1788 prosepicurean.com

Pure Juicery Bar

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

RallyPoint Sport Grill

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

Red Bowl Asian Bistro

Each distinctive dish is handcrafted. 2020 Boulderstone Way (919) 388-9977 redbowlcary.com

Ricci’s Trattoria

Keeping true to tradition. 10110 Green Level Church Road (919) 380-8410 riccistrattoria.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

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

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

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

Sassool

Homemade Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine. 1347 Kildaire Farm Road; (919) 300-5586 sassool.com

Seoul Garden

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

Serendipity Gourmet Deli

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

Seol Grille

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

So Hot

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

Sophie’s Grill & Bar

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

Spirits Pub & Grub

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

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

Totopos Street Food & Tequila

A walk through Mexico City.

1388 Kildaire Farm Road (919) 678-3449

totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Tribeca Tavern

Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer. 500 Ledgestone Way (919) 465-3055

tribecatavernnc.com

Udupi Café

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

udupicafenc.com

V Pizza

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

vpizza.com

vomFASS Vinegar, Oil & Spice Shop

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

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

vomfassusa.com

2201 Iron Works Drive, Suite 129, Raleigh, NC 27604

Come visit us at one of our three locations!

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

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

El Cantarito Bar & Grill

The full spectrum of Mexican cuisine. 155 S. Main St. (919) 285-3781

elcantaritobarandgrill.com

Dining Guide

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

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

Thai Thai Cuisine

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

Vieni Ristobar

Laid-back Italian fare.

242 S. Main St. (984) 225-1134

vieniristobar.com

MORRISVILLE

Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken

Unforgettable rotisserie chicken. 9575 Chapel Hill Road; (919) 378-9259

alpacachicken.com

Another Broken Egg Café

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

Babymoon Café

Pizzas, pastas, seafood, steaks, salads, and more. 100 Jerusalem Drive, Suite 106 (919) 465-9006

babymooncafe.com

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar

Outrageous burgers and beers. 3300 Village Market Place (919) 297-0953

baddaddysburgerbar.com

Dining Guide

Capital City Chop House

The best steaks, seafood, and chops we can find.

151 Airgate Drive; (919) 484-7721 chophousesofnc.com

Clean Juice

Organic juices, smoothies, and more.

3035 Village Market Place; (919) 468-8286 cleanjuice.com

Crumbl Cookies

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

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

Desy’s Grill & Bar

Straightforward pub grub at a relaxed sports bar.

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

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill

Steaks, seafood, chicken, and ribs seared over local hickory, oak, and pecan wood.

3200 Village Market Place; (919) 653-0111 firebirdsrestaurants.com/morrisville/

Fount Coffee + Kitchen

Coffee bar with 100% gluten-free food.

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

Full Moon Oyster Bar and Seafood Kitchen

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

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

G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine

A contemporary approach to traditional Chinese cuisine.

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

Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant

Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes. 3536 Davis Drive; (919) 388-3820 georginasrestaurantnc.com

HiPoke

Fresh fun poké.

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

Meeple’s Brew

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

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Mexican with a modern twist.

9605 Chapel Hill Road; (919) 481-9002 1106 Grace Park Drive; (919) 650-1718 micancunmx.com

Neomonde

Contemporary and traditional Lebanese and Middle Eastern dishes.

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

Nothing Bundt Cakes

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

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

Piada Italian Street Food Fast-casual Italian. 2016 Market Center Drive; (919) 371-0787 mypiada.com

Rise

Southern biscuits, righteous chicken, and donuts.

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

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits

Great food always, with a side of good times.

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

Taste Vietnamese Cuisine

Authentic noodles and more. 152 Morrisville Square Way; (919) 234-6385 tastevietnamesetogo.com

Village Deli & Grill

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

Woody’s Sports Tavern & Grill

Award-winning food in a non-conformist 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

Annelore’s German Bakery Authentic. Traditional. Exceptional. 1249 Farmers Market Drive (919) 267-6846 xiy.bwf.mybluehost.me

The Big Easy Restaurant & Bar Southern favorites. Cajun inspiration. 222 Fayetteville St. (919) 832-6082 bigeasync.com

Lechon Latin BBQ & Bar

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

Mon Macaron 75+ flavors of American-style macarons. 111 Seaboard Ave. #118 (984) 200-1387

monmacaron.us

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

Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival

IN AUGUST, the Lazy Daze Arts & Crafts Festival brought together nearly 300 artists in downtown Cary for two days’ worth of art, entertainment, and sweltering temperatures. Never one to miss a photo opportunity, Chief Photographer Jonathan Fredin brought the HEAT, capturing locals enjoying (and cooling down at) one of the the top-rated contemporary crafts festivals in the nation.

happenings

Go lights out through Nov. 30! Cary is teaming with the Audubon Society on the Lights Out Project, aimed at reducing bird deaths during the peak fall migratory season. The project recommends turning off unnecessary lighting at night (both indoor and outdoor), removing plants from windowsills, and keeping blinds and curtains closed at night. Migratory birds prefer to fly at night, but confusion from artificial light can cause them to run into windows, a leading cause of bird death.

Morrisville Restaurant

Week runs through Oct. 8. Restaurants across town offer prix fixe menus and specials throughout the week to celebrate the diversity of local food offerings. Register on the Morrisville Restaurant Week website and use #MSVRestaurantWeek on social media for the chance to win a $25 gift card from a participating restaurant. morrisvillerestaurantweek.com

THE NORTH CAROLINA COURAGE defeated Racing Louisville FC to earn their second straight UKG NWSL Challenge Cup Championship title in early September. The Courage became the first team to win multiple Challenge Cups with the 2-0 win at WakeMed Soccer Park.

RUSH HOUR KARTING held a grand opening celebration at its RTP location in Morrisville Aug. 28. All sales for the day benefited Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Triangle and the Garner Mid-Day Rotary Back Pack Buddies program. The Morrisville, Cary, and Garner Chambers of Commerce attended a ribbon cutting. The location features North Carolina’s first multilevel indoor track.

“We are all about serious adult fun when it comes to philanthropy here at Rush Hour Karting,” said Rush Hour co-owner Adam Saad.

The Cary Chamber of Commerce will host a First Responders

Breakfast at Prestonwood Country Club Dec. 6 from 7:30–9:30 a.m., featuring special guest Scott Kartvedt. A professional pilot, Kartvedt sits on the board of directors for the Blue Angels Foundation and was a stunt pilot in Top Gun: Maverick. The event will honor members of the Cary Fire Department, Cary Area EMS, Cary Police Department, Wake County Sheriff’s Office, and US military. carychamber.com

Local singles age 40+ with a sense of adventure will meet at BRÜEPRINT BREWING COMPANY Oct. 14 for a Costumed Speed Dating event. Break out your best costume and mingle with others looking for friendship and romance. Registration required by Oct. 10. brueprint.com.

CARY BIOMEDICAL PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS COMPANY

BIOMOJO, LLC presented its Trauma Resiliency Immersive Adaptive Gaming Environment (TRIAGE) project at the Department of Defense’s annual medical research conference, the Military Health System Research Symposium (MHSRS), in August.

“The DoD-funded TRIAGE project enables medical care providers to engage in realistic training exercises using controllable, dynamic, and immersive scenarios,” said BioMojo Chief Design Officer Jerry Heneghan.

“TRIAGE’s overarching goal is to provide an innovative, modular, data-driven, and open standards medical-skills training and resiliency enhancement system to improve the performance, adaptability, and agility of military medical care providers.”

BioMojo creates integrated software and hardware solutions to improve human performance, decision-making, knowledge management, resilience, and mission-critical task execution. biomojo.com

CARY STUDENT ASHLEY

The Apex Chamber of Commerce held a Sporting Clay Tournament

Sept. 15 at Drake Landing in Fuquay-Varina. Participants enjoyed lunch and tournament play through the scenic 2-mile course, followed by a recognition and awards ceremony.

The Concert Singers of Cary announced the concert schedule for their 33rd season, running fall 2023 to spring 2024. Some performances feature guest conductors and artists.

Nov. 7: Our Star Will Not Wane: Celebrating Black Composers of the Americas

Dec. 9: Holiday Pops

Jan. 27: Seasons and Affections

April 8: The Fifth Annual Cary Big Sing

April 27: Mozart’s Requiem

For more information on the Concert Singers of Cary and the performances, visit concertsingers.org.

KAZMER won first place in the Junior Pro Division of the Wakeboard World Championships, held in Portugal Aug. 31 to Sept. 3. Kazmer, an 18-year-old senior at Cardinal Gibbons High School, began waterskiing at age 3 and wakeboarding at 7. She trains on Jordan Lake locally, as well as Smith Mountain Lake in Virginia. Congratulations, Ashley!

BIERMAN AUTISM

CENTERS OF CARY hosted a sensory-friendly fall carnival in late September. The free event was open to all community members and included face painting, pumpkin painting, a bounce house, and other fall-themed activities. Bierman Autism Centers will host a Trunkor-Treat Oct. 27 and Sensory Santa event Dec. 14. biermanautism.com

The Searstone Retirement Community will hold a resident art and craft show Saturday, October 21, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Resident works in a variety of media will be available for purchase. The show is open to the public. Cash and checks accepted. searstone.com

CHRIST THE KING LUTHERAN CHURCH installed 77 solar panels on the roof of Nagle Hall and hosted a public dedication celebration Sept. 10. “It’s a giant step forward in our efforts to make our campus greener,” said Senior Pastor Wolfgang D. Herz-Lane. The panels are expected to offset 17% of the church’s energy use. A second phase with more than 100 panels will be installed on the traditional sanctuary next year.

“It’s only the latest in a long line of improvements we’ve made to become a greener campus, such as installing compost bins and a rain garden, or discontinuing the use of Styrofoam coffee cups and plastic water bottles,” said Facilities Manager Ulrich Dietrich. The church’s Vision 2025 plan listed creation care and stewardship of national resources as priorities.

CREECH CHIROPRACTIC celebrated its 20th anniversary with a ribbon cutting and tours of its new office space at 800 W. Williams St. in Apex on Aug. 25. The celebration featured a video game truck, face painting, bounce house, raffles, and food and drink from local providers.

emphasizing personalized strategies for individual investors. Edward Jones employs almost 19,000 financial advisors across 15,000 branches.

The Cary High School Athletics Hall of Fame

inducted its 2023 class at a halftime ceremony during its game against Green Level High School on Sept. 15. Inductees included Tommy Lloyd, 1975; Mohamed Abushouk, 2010; Anthony Dunbar, 1998; Cory Gensler, 2016; Bryan Booth. 2006; and Cory Harrilchak, 2005. Congrats to all honorees!

November

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

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

Lake Benson & White Deer Parks, Garner freedom-ride.org

HHave you recently made a move?

Whether you’ve moved across the country, across the state, or across town, we want to meet you to say hello & to help you with tips as you get settled. Our basket is loaded with useful gifts, information & cards you can redeem for more gifts at local businesses.

GOOD HOPE FARM, a community-supported urban farm aimed to connect Cary’s agricultural past with future innovations, held its first Harvest Fest of the year Sept. 16. The events provide information about gardening and environmental education along with live music, food, craft vendors, kids’ activities, and farm tours. Future Harvest Fests will take place Oct. 21 and Nov. 18 from noon to 4 p.m. at the farm. A 3-mile guided trail walk on the Carpenter Area Greenway departs at 2 p.m. and includes information on future Cary greenway plans, pollinator gardens, native trees, and more. goodhopefarm.org

ANN BATCHELOR

919-414-8820

BETH HOPPMANN

919-302-6111

Home Instead Raleigh hosted a brain health workshop at Jordan Oaks in Cary in September, World Alzheimer’s Month. Community Education Representative Nancy Foss provided information on recognizing signs and reducing risk of the disease among caregivers, who face an increased risk of developing the disease themselves. 80% of Alzheimer’s care occurs in the home, and caregivers can take steps to reduce the risk of developing dementias due to the strain of caregiving.

Tips include maintaining social interaction, engaging the brain by seeking new skills and activities, prioritizing restful sleep, minimizing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet and cardiovascular exercise routine. homeinstead.com

UPCOMING EVENTS

Downtown StreetFest & Fireworks

October 14th

Boo & Brew Ghost Tour

October 12-14; 19-21; 26-28

Baskerville - A Sherlock Holmes

Mystery at Temple Theatre

October 12-14; 19-21; 26-28

Downtown Trick-or-Treating

October 28th

Night Market - 'Twas the night before market...

November 4

Annual Downtown Holiday Open House

November 5

Holiday Artisan Fair

November 11

Small Business

Saturday with Santa

November 25

Sanford Christmas Parade

December 4

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Fright night

IN A SCENE right out of a scary movie, trick-or-treaters venture into a foggy abyss on a recent Halloween night. Originally a pagan festival celebrating the end of summer and the crossing of spirits over into another world, Halloween today is just an excuse to step into costume, gorge on sweets, and let imaginations wander in the night.