Cary Magazine January/February 2020

January/February 2020

Y AWARDS

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MAKE FRIENDS WHILE YOU WORK OUT

NO SLOWING DOWN FOR RETIRED JUDGE

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THE TRIANGLE LITERACY COUNCIL Cary Magazine, 301 Cascade Pointe Lane Cary, NC 27513

RUN, WALK, SOCIALIZE

ANN MARIE CALABRIA

“ We are pleased to provide an extraordinary banking experience in the Cary community.

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5000 Valleystone Drive #110 (919) 415-4377 Art by Jane Wolfgang / “The Downtown Park of Cary, NC”

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©2018 WSLD 12 Oaks, LLC. Equal Housing Opportunity. The amenities and features described and depicted herein are based upon current development plans, which are subject to change without notice. Actual development may not be as currently proposed. References to housing products, builders and prices are subject to change without notice as well.

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2 1 5 B R I G H T M O R E D R , C A RY, N C

T H E T E M P L E TO N O F C A RY. C O M

Where Priceless

Family Memories Are Made

THE MAGGY AWARDS

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A lantern depicting the phoenix-like Feng Huang, Emperor of Birds, appears to float on Symphony Lake at Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre. The annual North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival continues through Sunday, Jan. 12. For tickets and information, visit boothamphitheatre.com.

in this issue Off the Bench and in the Game: Ann Marie Calabria

31 The 2020 Maggy Awards Best Lifestyles Best Restaurants

Best Services

Best Shopping

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58

Strength

in Numbers Fitness groups are a great way to make friends and stay active

68 Find Beauty and Books at New Cary Library

94

Restaurant Profile: ko•än Public Table

Jonathan Fredin

20

PATRICK LAWRENCE, DDS | SHANUP GUNDECHA, DMD

The Exceptional Is Not Uncommon Helping families and individuals achieve a smile that lasts forever is the focus of TrueCare Dentistry, formerly Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. Drs. Patrick Lawrence and Shanup Gundecha have provided exceptional service for more than 20 years. Their experience covers the full spectrum of cosmetic, restorative and comprehensive dental health management.

Schedule an appointment today!

919.859.1330 | www.truecaredentistrync.com Patrick Lawrence, DDS & Shanup Gundecha, DMD | 431 Keisler Drive, Suite 200, Cary, NC 27518

in every issue C A R Y

18

Ten Things to Do

26 57 81 83

Nonprofit Spotlight: Triangle Literacy Council

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A P E X

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M O R R I S V I L L E

January/February 2020 • Volume 17, Number 1 EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher EDITORIAL

Amber Keister, Senior Editor Alexa Blazevich, Staff Writer Sarah Rubenoff, Copy Editor

On Trend: Adventures in Bloom Perfect Pairing: Wine for Irish Beef and Stout Stew Liquid Assets: Fisher’s Rye Whiskey and Moonlight Excursion Baltic Porter

CONTRIBUTORS

Lea Hart L.A. Jackson David McCreary Teresa Zarcone-Perez PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

100 103

Small Business Spotlight: The Closet Factory

DESIGN & LAYOUT

Lauren Earley, Creative Director

Garden Adventurer: The Dogwoods of Winter

departments

12

Editor’s Letter

14 86 106 114

Letters from Readers

ON THE COVER: Heather and BJ Creehan, who won the Maggy Award for Best Chiropractor, take time for a little fun before heading to their business — the Spine Care Chiropractic Center in Cary. To

Dining Guide Happenings

learn more about the Creehans and the other 2020 Maggy winners, flip to page 31.

Photo by Jonathan Fredin

Write Light

in the next issue

PRODUCTION

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

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Manager PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications Chuck Norman, APR ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting Marilu McQuilkin, Events Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator Valerie Renard, Advertising & Human Resources PUBLISHER EMERITUS

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

CARY MAGAZINE

Westview at Weston 301 Cascade Pointe Lane, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.carymagazine.com This publication does not endorse, either directly or implicitly, the people, activities, products or advertising published herein.

Information in the magazine is deemed credible to the best of our knowledge.

Lake Life With mountains and water, these vacation spots have it all.

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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.

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020 20 20

e d i t o r ’s l e t t e r

I MARRIED INTO a State Fair Family, and by the time I figured that out, it was too late.

We’d lived in Raleigh less than a year when my husband suggested an outing to the fair. He fondly recalled the family trips from Norfolk, Va., to the Kentucky State Fair in Louisville — and the giddy hours filled with rides, games and sticky treats.

Jonathan Fredin I had never been to a fair, but at eight months pregnant, I was up for anything that would entertain our three-year-old for an afternoon. I could not have guessed how much there would be to see, to do and to eat. By the end of our day at the fair, I was grumpy and my feet ached, but I was hooked.

We returned to the fair the following year, and we have gone nearly every year since. At some point, I became a Fair Person, too.

It could have been when I was riding the teeny roller coaster with my toddlers, cheering when my child popped the balloons to earn a stuffed prize, or seeing my daughters’ elementary-school artwork displayed in the Kerr Scott Building.

Now, we each have our favorites: the apple dumplings, the giant swings, the decorated cakes and the Village of Yesteryear. I’m oddly fascinated by the giant pumpkins, and there are few things more delicious than an ear of corn, fire-roasted and dipped in butter.

But no matter what else we decide to do, near the end of every day at the fair, footsore and slightly queasy, we head to the Ferris wheel. We sink gratefully into the swinging gondola and marvel at the view as we ride to the top. Gracefully rising above the clamor of the midway, we pick out distant landmarks and snap a few photos.

In October, we here at Cary Magazine were able to take a few photos of our own — highlighting the 2020 Maggy Award Winners. These outstanding individuals were good sports about the venue, and it’s clear they were having as much fun as we were.

I hope our “Blue-Ribbon Winners” bring a smile to your face — whether you’re a Fair Person or not.

Thanks for reading,

Senior Editor

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Dr. Jean’s Jump Start to a Healthy Smile Get it Done in Year One

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child see a pediatric dentist when their first tooth erupts, and no later than their first birthday to receive an exam and begin preventative care to start them on the road towards a life-long healthy smile.

Healthy Smile = Happy Child!

Anyone with teeth can get cavities – even babies! Left untreated, baby teeth with decay can cause pain, infection and serious complications. On average, baby teeth do not finish falling out until around 13 years old. Healthy baby teeth are important for proper form, development and function. They also save space for the proper permanent tooth to erupt into.

Sip Smart

Pro Tip for Preventing Baby Bottle Rot: Never let your little one fall asleep with anything in their bottle other than water. Drinks containing sugars such as chocolate-milk or juice should be limited to 4 ounces per day and given with a meal. Avoid putting juice in a bottle or sippy cup.

Brush Together, Brush Better

As soon as teeth erupt, they should be brushed twice a day with fluoride tooth-paste. Only a “smear” of toothpaste is recommended for babies, as they cannot spit on their own. Children should be assisted when brushing in order to develop proper technique and ensure all surfaces are cleaned. Toothbrush bristles cannot reach in between teeth, so teeth that are touching need to be flossed to clean out food and bacteria.

Teething Blues

Signs of teething can include difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite and increased drooling. You can relieve discomfort with frozen teething toys or by gently massaging the gums with a cold wet washcloth. The comfort of nursing can also reduce the pain of teething. Tylenol may help soothe tender gums before bedtime.

Jean Guevarra You, DDS Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

919.303.2873

504 W. Williams Street Apex littletoothco.com

Loved by kids... trusted by parents

letters from readers

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“I love the Asali piece in the magazine.

The gingerbread house is a ‘home run’ – great photography! You guys do such a good job.”

Missy Vatinet, Cary, re. “Asali Desserts and Café” “Thank you, Cary Magazine, for the feature and for pouring some local love into our ventures.”

Judit Beres, owner of Neomega Nutritionals, re. “Shop Around the Corner”

“A great article! Carla Michaels and Barb Wetmore did the Friends proud, as usual. Hillcrest is a special place, and its recent repair and renovation help preserve it for the future.

“P.S. I love the street sign that says ‘Hillcrest Cemetery — No outlet’!”

Brent Miller, Friends of Page Walker, re.

“Discover Hillcrest”

“This is a cool article. I am about any barbershop and supporting them. My dad ran South Hills Barbershop until he passed away in 2006. The Cary News did a few articles on him; this shop has been around since 1969 at the same location. Such a cool profession and a lost art.”

Kristie Messer, Cary, re. “A Cut Above”

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! Email letters to the editor to editor@carymagazine.com

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

CARY MAGAZINE 15

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Federally insured by NCUA CARY MAGAZINE 17

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If you own a home or just looking for ideas, head to the Downtown Raleigh Home Show, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet over 300 vendors at the Raleigh Convention Center. Jan. 24-26. 500 S. Salisbury St., Raleigh. raleighspringshow.com

Support the Wake County SPCA, and bring your furry friend to the Mutts & Marshmallows Doggie Dash 5K! Pick which race you want to attend, and invite your friends out for a good cause. 10 a.m., Jan. 11. $30. WakeMed Soccer Park, 201 Soccer Park Dr., Cary. muttsandmarshmallows.com

2 Celebrate the life, work and vision of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Town of Cary’s Dreamfest 2020. Be inspired by storytellers, two documentary films – including “DAR HE: The Lynching of Emmett Till” – and a day of service at Good Hope Farm. Jan. 18-20. townofcary.org, search Dreamfest 2020.

5 Get your dancing shoes ready for a night of music and fun for you and your special little girl. Cary’s annual Daddy-Daughter Dance is sure to be an event you won’t forget. 6 p.m., Jan. 31; 6 p.m., Feb. 1. $25 per person. Cary Senior Center, 120 Maury O'Dell Place, Cary. townofcary.org search Daddy-Daughter Dance.

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Lorraine Jordan & Carolina Road bring their worldclass bluegrass performance – tight vocals, scintillating instrumentation and a charismatic stage show – to the Cary Theater. 8 p.m., Jan. 25. $20-25.

122 E. Chatham St., Cary. sixstringpresents.com 18 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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shutterstock.com

Grab your best gal pals, and prepare to belt out “My Heart Will Go On” and other Celine Dion classics when she comes to Raleigh for her Courage World Tour. 7:30 p.m., Feb. 11. $55 and up. PNC Arena, 1400 Edwards Mill Road, Raleigh. pncarena.com, search Celine Dion.

todo

& FE BR U A RY RY

things

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Curtis Brown Photography

Come out to The Cary Theater for this annual event that honors the AfricanAmerican experience. The 24th African American Celebration will feature a panel discussion, live music and more along the theme, “A Legacy of Pride.” 11 a.m., Feb. 16. Free. 122 E. Chatham St., Cary. townofcary.org, search 24th African American Celebration.

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Join NC Theatre’s cast of “Kinky Boots” for a night of singing, dancing and all-out fun as this true-story-turnedmusical takes the stage. 7:30 p.m., Feb. 11-16. $30 and up. Raleigh Memorial Auditorium, 2 E. South St., Raleigh. nctheatre.com, search Kinky Boots.

Watch Applause! Cary Youth Theatre bring the classic tale of “The Velveteen Rabbit” to life – a story driven by magic and love that’s perfect for kids of all ages. 7:30 p.m., Feb. 28-29; 3 p.m., Mar. 1. The Cary Theater, 122 E. Chatham St., Cary. townofcary.org, search Applause! Youth Theatre.

Ring in the New Year with a new goal – to run a half marathon!

Start training today for the 2020 Raleigh Half Marathon, hosted by Sir Walter Running. 7:30 a.m., Feb. 22. $75. Gateway Plaza on Crabtree Blvd., Raleigh. raleighhalfmarathon.com

10 CARY MAGAZINE 19

WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

ANN MARIE CALABRIA is someone who gets things done.

Upon her retirement from the N.C. Court of Appeals in December 2018, she was honored by the North Carolina Bar Association and was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Gov. Roy Cooper. In October 2019, she received Cary Magazine’s Women of Western Wake Lifetime Achievement Award.

The laundry list of awards isn’t surprising to those who know Calabria well. A petite woman, she radiates energy, enthusiasm and a nearly palpable kindness. Her drive to help others and her impatience with laziness were instilled in her from childhood.

“From the time I was a little girl, she always told me I had to be busy,” Calabria said of her mother. “‘You can’t “play lady.” The nuns need you to go help them.’ So, I was just always used to helping whoever needed help, from the time I was a little kid.

“I don’t even know what the word ‘bored’ means. I said that to my children, too. I said, ‘If you’re bored, then you’re not helping someone, because there are people out there that need help.’”

A graduate of Campbell University’s law school, Calabria spent a decade in private practice before becoming a Wake County District Court judge in 1996. While in that post, she saw many people come through her courtroom who couldn’t speak or understand English. A desire to help these folks led her to the Triangle Literacy Council. In 2000, she began her long affiliation with the group by facilitating English as a Second Language classes for nonviolent defendants. continued on page 22 20

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Off the Bench and in the Game

For Judge Ann Marie Calabria, retirement means more time to help others

For the 50th anniversary of the N.C. Court of Appeals in 2017, Judge Ann Marie Calabria worked to find photos of every judge who had served on the court.

She enlisted her friend Britt Davis, who had set up similar donor walls at Campbell University, to help her display the nearly 80 portraits.

CARY MAGAZINE 21

At Cary Magazine’s Women of Western Forum, retired Judge Ann Marie Calabria was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Throughout her life, she says she has been guided by the principle: “Strive for excellence, not perfection.”

continued from page 20

“Describing her personal and professional impact on others is a big question. … She has had so much of a positive impact on the North Carolina legal community, the state Court of Appeals, the law school, and countless lawyers in Raleigh and across the region.”

— Britt Davis, Campbell University

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Calabria, who was elected to the N.C. Court of Appeals in 2002, partnered again with the Literacy Council in 2009 to establish a tutoring program for at-risk and courtinvolved juveniles.

Although a simple idea, there were several obstacles — from the confidentiality required by the courts, to office space and parking for the tutors. Calabria matter-of-factly describes how she and Laura Walters, president and CEO of the Literacy Council, toppled each one. Thanks to AmeriCorps staffers, Campbell law student volunteers and a donated office in the courthouse, the Juvenile Literacy Center opened.

Calabria says seeing the program’s impact energized her. She describes a teenager, a D-student in high school, who was referred for tutoring early on.

“After coming to the Literacy Council and being mentored one-on-one, she got into the AB honor roll. She was wonderful,” said Calabria, who now chairs the nonprofit’s board. “If we can do that with one person, then we can do this with lots of kids.

We have to give them hope, that they all can do this.”

Her former colleague Judge Valerie Zachary considers Calabria’s work with the literacy council one of her friend’s most influential accomplishments.

“She’s grown it from this small program into a multi-county effort. It’s spreading across the state now and has had tremendous success,” said Zachary, who has served on the N.C. Court of Appeals since being appointed by Gov. Pat McCrory in 2015.

“She was always there for me.

She’s one of those people that I know if I called her at three in the morning and told her I needed her to drive two hours in the middle of the night right then and come get me somewhere, she would do it.”

Calabria will focus on a problem with dogged intensity, her friends say, turning the issue one way and another until she figures out a solution.

“My assistant was a clerk for her, and we always laughed, if you want something done, you want Ann Marie on it, because she will not take ‘No’ for an answer. She’s not ugly at all, very pleasant, but she gets it done,” Zachary said.

“She epitomizes what I call a ‘can do’ spirit,” said Britt Davis, vice president for institutional advancement at Campbell University. “There is no mountain that cannot be climbed; there is no valley that cannot be crossed. Or, there’s no program that we can’t develop; there’s no person that we cannot gain the support from for a particular initiative.”

Davis has known Calabria since 2007, when he was working to raise money to relocate Campbell’s law school to downtown Raleigh.

“She is positive, upbeat, but tenacious

and focused,” he said. “I’ve never met someone who will look at a challenge quite like her.

She will simply say, ‘Why can’t we do it?’”

She has opened doors and found opportunities for law students, he says, and has served as a role model for countless young women seeking a career in law. Calabria and her husband, Bob, further support these students through a scholarship they established at Campbell.

“It gives me great pride to know that every year we have a Judge Ann Marie Calabria law scholar walking the halls of the Campbell University School of Law,” Davis said.

Ann Marie Calabria and her mother, Rose Comitta, attend the 50th anniversary of the N.C. Court of Appeals in 2017. Calabria credits her mother, who died in December 2018, for instilling in her a strong work ethic and a dedication for public service.

Judge Ann Marie Calabria, Chief Justice Mark Martin, Chief Judge Linda McGee and Judge Donna Stroud celebrate the N.C. Court of Appeals' 50th anniversary in 2017.

— Judge Valerie Zachary, N.C. Court of Appeals

Looking back on her career, Calabria is proud that in 22 years of being a judge, she was able to help people resolve their disputes peacefully in thousands of civil, criminal and juvenile cases. She is also proud that she was able to care for her family, raise her three children and teach them the value of serving others.

“They are all good friends, and they do things together as adults. We take family vacations; we celebrate all the birthdays,” said Calabria, who also has eight grandchildren. “I feel like that’s a personal accomplishment, too.” t

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nonprofit spotlight

Triangle Literacy Council WRITTEN BY TERESA ZARCONE-PEREZ | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

LEI “KEVIN” SHI had moved from China to Cary, and he was determined to learn English and to better understand American culture. Donald Hiller, a volunteer tutor with the Triangle Literacy Council, was waiting for his next student.

In February 2017, the two men met for their first English as a second language tutoring session. Three years later, Shi and Hiller continue to meet for one-on-one classes twice a week at Genesis United Methodist Church in Cary.

“I like living here, but I know if you want to have a better life with everything, you need to learn the language and culture, the laws and life skills,” said the 55-year-old Shi. “I enjoy learning English from Don and also about the American culture and history.

I have learned a lot, and I feel relaxed and comfortable during our classes to ask questions and speak.”

Shi is among the increasing number of people taking advantage of the Adult Basic Education and ESL classes offered by the Literacy Council. Most of those seeking ESL classes are from Asia and Latin America.

“It’s been very satisfying over the years.

I’ve had a wide variety of students,” said Hiller, who has been volunteering with TLC for 30 years and is also a member of the nonprofit’s board. “I feel good that I’m helping someone learn to appreciate where they live and become more of a citizen of this country with the responsibilities and the obligations.”

Since 1970, the TLC has been providing free tutoring for adults and youth to improve their reading, writing and speaking skills. Last year, the nonprofit served more 26

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

than 600 adults and 1,200 young people through its programs.

“This organization is doing so many good things,” said Laura Walters, TLC president and CEO. “It’s not just improving people’s lives on an individual level, but it improves the community because these people are learning how to be productive citizens.”

One of the group’s early efforts was

to establish ESL classes for immigrants. In 2009, the Literacy Council added a Juvenile Literacy Center to provide academic tutoring and life skills training for youths referred through the Department of Juvenile Justice or by a local agency. The nonprofit now also provides instruction to students at Polk Correctional Institution in Butner, and through its Education Advocacy

Lei “Kevin” Shi and Don Hiller, a volunteer with the Triangle Literacy Council, have been meeting for language tutoring sessions twice a week for three years. The two men have become friends, sharing interests in food and travel.

“I enjoy learning English from Don and also about the American culture and history.

I have learned a lot, and I feel relaxed and comfortable during our classes to ask questions and speak.”

— Lei “Kevin” Shi

Kevin Shi and his wife enjoy the outdoors and travel frequently throughout the United States. “I think Kevin and his wife are very fortunate that they get out and see things. They visit places, and they are both learning more about the culture,” says Don Hiller.

In February, the nonprofit will host the Triangle Esports Championship at the Herb Young Community Center in Cary. The fundraiser, a partnership with the Kramden Institute, is expected to attract 1,600 video-game playing participants and esports enthusiasts, and a fundraising goal is set at $100,000. Last year’s sold-out event raised $50,000.

“The Triangle Literacy Council and Kramden Institute are long-time partners providing digital and literacy resources to the community to improve educational, workforce and life-skills development,” said Walters, who has been with TLC for 18 years.

“The proceeds from this event will allow us to expand our services and provide more opportunities for adults, youth and children in our community to flourish.”

Hiller and Shi’s relationship is one of the nonprofit’s many transformative success stories.

Shi works as a handyman for a local property management company, and his wife, Lifang “Lisa” Xu, works as a nurse at UNC HosWorksheets and workbooks help Shi improve his reading and writing skills. Since 1970, the Triangle Literacy Council has pital in Chapel Hill. The couple are provided free English tutors for adults and youth. TLC is the outdoor enthusiasts, enjoying hikoldest literacy organization in North Carolina, and this year is the nonprofit’s 50th anniversary. ing, biking, camping, fishing and Project, academic tutors are matched with foster children in Wake County. Recently the nonprofit partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Durham on Bull City YouthBuild, which enables at-risk youth to earn their high school equivalency and learn onthe-job construction skills.

“It’s been really exciting to see the organization evolve and grow,” said Walters. “We want to help improve people’s lives — believe, read, achieve.”

boating at Jordan Lake. They also frequently travel throughout the United States.

“I think Kevin and his wife are very fortunate that they get out and see things.

They visit places, and they are both learning more about the culture. I’ve had students who don’t go anywhere and tend to socialize only among people who just speak their native language,” said Hiller, who is from Cary.

Hiller and Shi have not only developed a good teaching and learning relationship, but with many interests in common, they have also formed a lasting friendship.

“We are both learning from each other, and we enjoy sharing with each other our travel experiences and what we have done.

We are both interested in learning — and trying different food!” said Hiller. t

COMING SOON The Triangle Literacy Council and the Kramden Institute will host the Triangle Esports Championship, Feb. 7-9, at the Herb Young Community Center in Cary. Amateur and professional players are invited to compete for cash and prizes in tournaments including Fortnite, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Street Fighter. Tickets are $30 for a one-day pass, $55 for a two-day pass and $150 for a VIP pass. triangleesportschampionship.com.

For more information about the Triangle Literacy Council and its programs, visit triangleliteracy.org.

CARY MAGAZINE 27

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HONORABLE MENTION

2020 20 20

312 Gregson Dr. Cary, NC 27511 919.388.0077 • tmsacademy.org *Based on 2018-2019 NC Report Cards, Triangle Math and Science Academy ranked in the top 10% in North Carolina out of 183 charter schools.

28

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Dr. Nick Ashford Dr. Amanda Groulx Dr. Deana McNamer Dr. Matthew Merriman Dr. Christine Boyd

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2020

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER

201 20 17

WINNER

201 20 18

201 20 16

WINNER 201 20 15

WINNER 201 4

WINNER 201 20 13

WINNER 201 2

WINNER 2011

WINNER 2010

WINNER 2009

HONORABLE MENTION 2008

WINNER 2006

14 years!

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CARY MAGAZINE 29

A Life Plan Community with Continuing Care

You Belong Here.

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Independendent Living - Cottages & Apartments • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Skilled Nursing For more information on finding out how you belong at Windsor Point, contact the marketing department at 919-552-4580.

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THE MA GGY AW ARDS

BLUE RIBBON 202 0

wINNERS

The N.C. State Fair rolls into town just once a year, but these businesses, people and organizations are phenomenal all year long. Skeptical? Nearly 10,000 Cary Magazine readers voted this year, and it’s all fair and square.

WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN | PRODUCED BY LAUREN EARLEY CARY MAGAZINE 31

BEST KAREN SUMMERS,

GREEN LEVEL HIGH SCHOOL BEST HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL Karen Summers left Green Hope High School, which had been established in the 1920s, for Green Level High School, which welcomed its first students last August. From hiring 80 staff members to creating a master course schedule from scratch, the experience has been challenging, yet rewarding, she says.

It’s been gratifying to see the students, who came from middle school or

another high school, come together and become Green Level Gators.

“The identity piece of this school has been a journey. We’re looking at building a sense of community,” she said. “If I look at the beginning of the year, at how many kids would walk in with Panther Creek shirts on, or a Mills Park Middle shirt on, it’s definitely fewer today than in August or September.

We’re getting there.”

Throughout the process, Summers and her team have been focused on fostering relationships with students and to create a place where kids feel connected, with each other and to the world.

“This generation, they really are seeking to make the world a better place,” she said.

“This generation is going to really go places and make a difference. I really feel like it’s limitless.” wcpss.net/greenlevelhs

ROY COOPER,

APEX HIGH SCHOOL BEST HIGH SCHOOL COACH Roy Cooper is beloved by more than Maggy voters, having been named Coach of the Year in 2018 by The North Carolina High School Athletic Association. He was inducted into the Apex High School Hall of Fame in 2017.

Cooper has been at Apex High School since 1984, when he was hired as a teacher and athletic director. A year later, he became head coach of the cross country and track and field teams. In 36 years at Apex High, he has coached the Cougars to 51 conference championships. wcpss.net/apexhs

BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL

BEST PRESCHOOL

BEST LOCAL EVENT OR FESTIVAL

PEAK CHARTER ACADEMY

PRIMROSE SCHOOLS

LAZY DAZE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL

Green Hope High School Triangle Math and Science Academy

St. Michael Preschool Resurrection Lutheran School

BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL

BEST GOLF COURSE

CARY ACADEMY

PRESTONWOOD COUNTRY CLUB

Grace Christian School Resurrection Lutheran School BEST ACTIVE ADULT COMMUNITY

SEARSTONE

Glenaire Carolina Preserve at Amberly BEST NONPROFIT

DORCAS MINISTRIES The Carying Place Triangle YMCA

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

MacGregor Downs Country Club Lochmere Golf Club BEST INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM

LAUREN BURNS INTERIORS Southern Studio Interior Designs Aura Interiors

Peak City Peakfest Spring Daze Arts & Crafts Festival BEST ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

STEVEN POND, PEAK CHARTER ACADEMY Winston Pierce, Farmington Woods Magnet Elementary School Rebecca Draper, Cardinal Charter Academy

BEST MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL BEST MUSIC VENUE

KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE Red Hat Amphitheater Coastal Credit Union Music Park at Walnut Creek

H. TRENT EVANS, REEDY CREEK MAGNET MIDDLE SCHOOL

Rick Williams, Alston Ridge Middle School Thomas Kolb, Resurrection Lutheran School

BEST TRACK-OUT OR SUMMER CAMP

CODE NINJAS HONORABLE MENTION KID’S PROGRAM

At Code Ninjas, children aged 7 to 14 learn how to build their own video games, and along the way, they sharpen their math, logic and problem-solving skills. Because each activity is pressure-free and focused on fun, it’s no wonder the Morrisville business is popular with kids and their parents.

Alice Beatson and her husband Chris opened the child-centered coding studio in May 2018, offering after-school and weekend sessions, and a variety of day, track-out and summer camps. This year, campers can build robots, program a drone or design their own app.

“It’s humbling to know that a new business can make such an impact on the community in a positive way, with the kids,” said Beatson. “When the parents come to pick them up, they literally do not want to leave. And we have kids that are standing at the door before we open, because they are so excited to come back in for camp.”

ARDS THE MAGGY AW

An environment of collaboration, encouragement and teamwork promotes learning, she says. And a team of instructors, led by center director Taylor Sobha, is there to coach the kids along the way.

“Working with the kids is the whole reason that we do it, making those relationships and seeing them grow,” Sobha said. “We’ve heard a lot of stories from parents about how their kid has changed, not just at Code Ninjas, but in school and making more friends and being more confident in themselves.” codeninjas.com/locations/nc-cary

WINN0ER 202

Alice Beatson and Taylor Sobha

CARY MAGAZINE 33

Congratulations Peak Charter Academy BACK TO BACK MAGGY AWARD WINNERS TWO-TIME MAGGY THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

AWARD WINNER Best THE MAGGY AWARDS • Best Elementary Public School School Principal

Now is the time to schedule a

landscape consultation

to be ready for spring planting

Best Elementary • Best Public School WINNERSchool Principal WINNER WINNER 201 20 192019

2020 20 20

OPEN ENROLLMENT ENDS FEBRUARY 28 APPLY TODAY peakcharteracademy.org

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

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2020

BEST HIGH SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

KAREN SUMMERS, GREEN LEVEL HIGH SCHOOL Nolan Bryant, Cary High School Matt Wight, Apex Friendship High School BEST HIGH SCHOOL COACH

ROY COOPER, APEX HIGH SCHOOL

Brian Miller, Holly Springs High School Scott Walton, Cary High School BEST PLACE FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION

FRED G. BOND METRO PARK William B. Umstead State Park Jordan Lake State Recreation Area BEST PLACE FOR A FRIENDS’ NIGHT OUT

WHOLE BRAIN ESCAPE

Rudy’s Pub & Grill TIE: Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits / Bond Brothers Beer Company BEST FITNESS CLUB

YMCA Photo courtesy of Camille Kauer

Rex Wellness Center Hustle Fitness Studio BEST YOGA STUDIO

REPUBLIC OF YOGA Cary Flow Yoga Omni Yoga Camille Kauer

CAMILLE KAUER, WDNC-AM

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY Since June, Camille Kauer has been on the E-Spot every Thursday morning at 8:15 a.m. “E” stands for entertainment, and in the segment, the enthusiastic Kauer asks celebrity guests about their work, how they got started and for any advice they care to share.

The radio gig is one facet of the multitalented Kauer, who is also an actress and model. She landed on the E-Spot after cornering her former workout partner and Sports Shop creator Erroll Reese, and asking him to take a chance on her.

“I was at a meeting; he was there on the panel, and that’s when I approached him.

‘Hey, what about me — having me on?’”

Reese, who co-hosts the sports talk show on The Buzz radio station with Kevin “Kmac” McClendon, agreed to bring her on as a guest.

“I bring in a friend, a movie producer, who is doing this huge entertainment event here in North Carolina,” said Kauer. “And from then on out, he was like, ‘Everybody really liked the show. I got so many phone calls about, who’s Camille? Who’s Camille?’”

She’s been a regular on the show ever since.

If you’d like to find out “Who’s Camille?,” Kauer’s interviews can be found on YouTube, her Facebook page and in the Thursday episodes of “The Best of the Sports Shop with Reese & Kmac” podcast. facebook.com/therealCamilleKauer

BEST KIDS’ PROGRAM

CARY DANCE PRODUCTIONS Code Ninjas Premier School of Dance

BEST TRACK-OUT OR SUMMER CAMP

CODE NINJAS

YMCA TIE: Pura Vida Studio /Town of Cary BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY

DON “BIG WEATHER” SCHWENNEKER, ABC-11 Debra Morgan, WRAL Elizabeth Gardner, WRAL

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY

CAMILLE KAUER, WDNC-AM Erica DeLong, G105 KC O’Dea, WTKK-FM

BEST NORTH CAROLINA HOTEL OR RESORT

THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA

Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville The Mayton Inn CARY MAGAZINE 35

Heather Chandler

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020

BEST PLACE FOR A FRIENDS NIGHT OUT

WHOLE BRAIN ESCAPE 36

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

WHOLE BRAIN ESCAPE BEST PLACE FOR A FRIENDS’ NIGHT OUT

Heather Chandler and her husband, Rafael, are the masterminds behind Whole Brain Escape in Apex. With decades of experience in the video game industry, they turned their attention to real-life adventure games and opened their escape-room business in January 2019.

To crack a room’s code and escape, teams must work together to solve puzzles and riddles using clues, strategy and cooperation. Visitors can choose from four puzzling adventures: an ‘80s room, a supervillain room, a mysterious Indiana Jones-inspired room and a Mad Scientist room that’s groovy psychedelic.

“We really try to focus on creating rooms that are fun for families, friends and co-workers that have a high escape rate,” said Heather Chandler. “We want people to be able to come and get through the room and have a good time. Not everybody escapes, but we certainly tried to design experiences that are good for beginner escaperoom people.”

The business is also a great way for families and friends to leave their devices behind and connect face-to-face.

“The escape room is a great activity for people of all ages to enjoy. We frequently have families come in with their middle-schoolers or their high-schoolers.

They bring their grandparents,” she said.

“It’s really a great way to bring all generations of people together.” wholebrainescape.com

We’ve got the perfect date for Valentine’s!

LAUREN BURNS INTERIORS

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN FIRM

Catherine Nguyen Photography

Although Lauren Burns is familiar to Maggy voters, garnering four Honorable Mentions since she opened her business in 2011, this is her first win for Best Interior Design Firm. She likes using a mix of old and new pieces in a client’s home, in order to create timeless and comfortable spaces.

What is your creative philosophy?

Your home should tell the story of who you are; it should be a collection of what you love. I design spaces reflective of the people who live there and create cohesive personal havens that exude a comfortable, livable sense of luxury. To accomplish this, I believe every detail of a space should be well-thought-out with a masterful mix of the old and the new.

How about your personal style?

I love to source a great vintage or antique piece and pair it with a new design element, with clean lines and a modern feel.

I personally like to have a neutral palette,

THE MAGGY AWARDS

2020 20 20

Lauren Burns

layering textures in a space and then adding pops of unexpected color to create a timeless yet versatile space.

Can you describe a favorite piece of furniture in your house?

My favorite piece of furniture is a vintage Lucite and brass side table that I found at High Point recently. I use it as a side table currently, but it can double as a nightstand or a great corner piece in the future. laurenburnsinteriors.com

over 1,000 matches to choose from!

Morrisville | Cary | Southern Pines | Holly Springs

www.trianglewineco.com CARY MAGAZINE 37

BEST

RESTAURANTS

JOHNNY’S PIZZA BEST PIZZERIA

Since the first Johnny’s Pizza opened in 2005, the mini-chain has built a reputation for tasty pies, wings, pastas and subs. The real star of the menu is the Brooklyn-style pizza.

“You’ll be able to taste the quality,” said owner Johnny Pavlik. “It’s just really natural. There aren’t a lot of flavors, covering up flavors. People always say to me, ‘I can taste the crust. I can taste the sauce. I can taste the cheese. I can taste the meat.’”

The customer experience is as important as the food, he says. And if a customer has a bad experience, he will pester them

on social media until he can make it right – refunding their money or giving them a replacement meal.

“I don’t sleep well at night thinking that I’ve taken somebody’s hard-earned money for an experience that wasn’t anything less than stellar,” he said. “I am very good at putting my best foot forward on a person who had a bad experience and making them a loyal customer. I look at it as an opportunity.”

This personal approach and his company’s vigorous social media marketing have been key to his success, Pavlik says.

“Social media is really what I see as the future,” he said. “It has a viral effect to it, the more you post the more you get known.

You kind of snowball into this thing that loses control, but losing control is kind of a good thing.”

If you’d like to check out more good things at Johnny’s Pizza, there are locations in Apex, Cary, Wake Forest and — coming in 2020 — Fuquay-Varina. johnnyspizzacary.com, johnnysapex.com

YOU CAN SAY THAT AGAIN! “I always knew the restaurant business was where my heart was.”

— Johnny Pavlik, owner Johnny Pavlik

CROSSTOWN PUB & GRILL

BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR Crosstown Pub & Grill offers an approachable, come-as-you-are atmosphere.

Since it opened in 2015, the pub has steadily built a loyal following, winning honorable mentions in this category for two years before winning the top Maggy this year.

“The Cary Theater opened right before we did. We were one of the first ones to open,” said owner Sheila Ryan of the downtown Cary scene. As more businesses, restaurants and attractions have opened, she says more folks have discovered the Crosstown Pub. “The more you bring to downtown, the better. On the weekend, there were so many people walking around – even just in the Downtown Park – it was such an awesome thing to see,” said Ryan, who runs the business with her sons, Sean and Brendan Ryan.

In addition to the famous French onion soup, the pub menu includes favorites like hand-pattied burgers, grilled Reuben sandwiches, and beer-battered fish and chips.

Early this year, the Ryans expect to open Daybreak, a traditional breakfast spot with a Tex-Mex flavor, in the adjacent building. crosstowndowntown.com

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

BEST COCKTAILS

BEST BARBECUE

ALEX & TERESA’S PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA

SIDEBAR

CITY BARBEQUE

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi Der Biergarten BEST APPETIZERS

RUCKUS PIZZA, PASTA & SPIRITS Rudy’s Pub & Grill Tazza Kitchen 38

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Tazza Kitchen Rudy’s Pub & Grill BEST BAKERY

LA FARM BAKERY

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery Great Harvest Bread Company

(Big Mike’s) Brew N Que Danny’s Bar-B-Que BEST BREAKFAST

BRIGS RESTAURANTS First Watch La Farm Bakery

City Barbeque

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020

BEST PIZZERIA

JOHNNY’S PIZZA CARY MAGAZINE 39

ANDIA’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM BEST DESSERT

BOND BROTHERS BEER COMPANY BEST CRAFT BREWERY

2016 The year Bond Brothers Beer Company opened in downtown Cary

5,000+ The number of attendees at the Bond Brothers Grand opening

2017 The year Bond won USA Today’s Best New Brewery in the country

18 The number of beers on tap

9,000 Size in square feet of brewery, taproom and beer garden at Cedar Street location

3

Winner of Best New Business in 2018, Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream returns to the Maggys with a win for Best Dessert. George and Andia Xouris opened their Cary shop in the summer of 2017 and received a warm welcome from the community.

“We have such a loyal customer base, and George and I are so grateful for all of the community support that we have,” she said.

“It’s just incredible.”

This month, those customers will have more cold, creamy deliciousness to enjoy when the couple opens their second Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream, in southeast Cary.

The new shop, at 1008 Ryan Road, is conveniently located near Cary High School and will have plenty of inside seating.

“Because we are open year-round, we definitely want to have an environment where it’s comfortable to come enjoy a cold ice cream in the winter,” said Andia Xouris.

“Honestly, it’s funny to see how many people love ice cream even in the winter months.” andiasicecream.com

Nancy Thapa

Andia Xouris creates a new Monster Shake every other month. December’s dessert was the Crazy Cake Shake.

MAKE MINE A MONSTER Look for the bi-monthly Monster Shake, an outsized concoction served in an overflowing Mason jar. In December, Andia Xouris partnered with Morrisville baker Djamila Bakour of La Recette Patisserie to create the Crazy Cake Shake, topped with rainbow cake and cotton candy.

Number of locations (Cedar Street (original), Chatham Street (opening soon), RDU (opening January 2020)

2,878 Number of members in the Bond Brothers Run Club

233 Number of different beers produced since opening

$25,000 amount raised for charity at the 2019 Bond Brothers 5K

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BEST SEAFOOD

BAD DADDY’S BURGER BAR

BONEFISH GRILL

BEST DESSERT

BEST STEAK HOUSE

ANDIA’S HOMEMADE ICE CREAM

REY’S

Five Guys Abbey Road Tavern & Grill

Goodberry’s Frozen Custard FRESH. Local Ice Cream

BEST DATE-NIGHT RESTAURANT

REY’S

Lucky 32 Tazza Kitchen

Number of charities

BEST COFFEE HOUSE

donated to in 2019

THE WAKE ZONE ESPRESSO

bondbrothersbeer.com 40

BEST BURGER AND FRIES

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery BREW Coffee Bar

The Full Moon Oyster Bar Shuckin’ Shack Oyster Bar

Angus Barn Ruth’s Chris Steak House BEST PIZZERIA

JOHNNY’S PIZZA

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits Salvio’s Pizzeria MOST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT

RUCKUS PIZZA, PASTA & SPIRITS Chick-fil-A Rudy’s Pub & Grill

GREAT HAIR BECAUSE YOU ONLY GET ONE FIRST IMPRESSION

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WINNER 2011

HONORABLE MENTION 2012

WINNER 2013

WINNER 2014

WINNER 2015

WINNER 2016

HONORABLE MENTION 2017

HONORABLE MENTION 2019

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CARY MAGAZINE 41

BEST NEW RESTAURANT

ALEX & TERESA’S PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA 42

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

ALEX & TERESA’S PIZZERIA & TRATTORIA BEST NEW RESTAURANT

THE MAGG

Y AWARDS

WINNER 202 0

The owners of Alex & Teresa’s Pizzeria & Trattoria pride themselves on their authentic Neapolitan cuisine. Teresa Russo and her husband, Alex Greco, opened the restaurant in January 2019 with family friend Alberto Di Somma as the executive chef.

Greco says don’t miss the Linguini alla Scoglio, with clams, mussels, shrimp, calamari and cherry tomatoes — it’s his favorite dish. He offers a taste of what else makes the restaurant unique.

What makes your food and your restaurant unique?

All the employees are Italian— the chef is from Italy, I’m Italian, my wife is Italian, the servers are all Italian. We do the fresh homemade pasta: cavatelli, tagliatelle, ravioli, gnocchi. That makes a big difference from other Italian restaurants. All of our dishes are homemade — from our fresh bread baked daily and desserts like the Italian grandma cake, cannoli, tiramisu, babà, profitteroli to our fresh, hand-pulled mozzarella.

Have you owned other restaurants?

I ran my family's Trattoria and Pizzeria Da Pulcinella in Naples, Italy, for 15 years.

Then when we came to America seven years ago, I co-owned another trattoria-pizzeria in Red Bank, N.J. How did you land in Cary and decide to open a restaurant here?

Alex Greco, left, and Alberto Di Somma

My wife and I decided to relocate our family to Cary, because the quality of life is much better for our daughter here. We decided to open a restaurant, because we truly love and enjoy bringing our authentic Italian recipes to all of our clientele, who we consider part of our family. alexandteresastrattoria.com CARY MAGAZINE 43

BEST ASIAN RESTAURANT

SUSHI-THAI

Taipei 101 Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi

SIDEBAR

BEST COCKTAILS BEST MEDITERRANEAN RESTAURANT

SASSOOL

Neomonde Bosphorus Restaurant BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT

DANIEL’S RESTAURANT & CATERING Lugano Ristorante Ricci’s Trattoria

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

CILANTRO INDIAN CAFÉ Nazara Indian Bistro Kababish Café

BEST MEXICAN/LATIN AMERICAN RESTAURANT

MI CANCUN

Totopos Street Food & Tequila Gonza Tacos y Tequila

The cozy, neighborhood bar in downtown Cary is known for its stylish environment, knowledgeable bartenders and seasonal cocktails. It’s no wonder the watering hole found favor with Maggy voters.

“People identify — I know I do emotionally — to times of the year as well as flavors and smells, and the cocktail really wraps all that together,” said Matt Bettinger, Sidebar co-owner.

“I think seasonal drinking is really important. One of the common questions I get as a bartender is, ‘What's your favorite cocktail?’ And my answer is always — for a really long time it’s been the same — I think there’s a right drink for every occasion.” sidebarnc.com

Matthew Bettinger whips up a whiskey sour, with bourbon, lemon, sugar and a fresh egg white.

BEST SPECIALTY DIET

SASSOOL

Clean Juice TIE: B. Good / Core Life Eatery BEST HEALTHY DINING

DICED GOURMET SALADS & WRAPS

Sassool TIE: B. Good / Core Life Eatery BEST NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

CROSSTOWN PUB & GRILL

DICED

BEST HEALTHY EATING It’s no wonder this local salad emporium won top honors in this new category. With a menu packed full of ingredients like organic veggies, grass-fed filet, hormone-free chicken, and homemade dressings, DICED is the place to go for a meal that is good for you AND tastes good.

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits Doherty’s Irish Pub

RUCKUS PIZZA, PASTA & SPIRITS

Woodward was a top college cheerleader at the University of Louisville.

3

FROM THE MENU

Tazza Kitchen Lucky 32

BEST CRAFT BREWERY

BOND BROTHERS BEER COMPANY

Southern Peak Brewery Fortnight Brewing Company

The Southwest Crunch salad at DICED

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

FUN FACT 2

Number of Triangle locations, two in Cary and one in Raleigh. All are owned by the Woodward family.

BEST OUTDOOR DINING

44

FUN FACT 1 Founder Michelle Woodward worked as a physical therapist before opening the first DICED on Kildaire Farm Road in Cary.

More than just salads, DICED serves up wholesome wraps and grain bowls, too! One popular offering is the Harvest Crunch, with shaved Brussels sprouts, roasted beets, cucumber, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, mushrooms, broccoli and sunflower seeds. Yum! dicedsalads.com

2020

SAVE Date THE

MAGGY

PARTY sunday, march 1 from 2 until 6 p.m. embassy suites, cary

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CARY MAGAZINE 45

BEST

SERVICES

BRAD “BJ” CREEHAN, SPINE CARE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER BEST CHIROPRACTOR

“Being a family business, I think we take every patient as if they’re part of our own family,” said BJ Creehan, who launched the Cary business with his wife and fellow chiropractor, Heather, 15 years ago.

When they began, most of their patients were coming in with low back pain, but now the most common concern is pain caused by sitting at computers for long stretches.

BEST AUTO MECHANIC SHOP

ATLANTIC TIRE & SERVICE Frantz Automotive Cary Car Care

“From sitting at the computer all the time, we get a lot of neck pain, headaches, tingling in the arms, carpal tunnel issues and low back pain,” said Heather Creehan.

The couple added a massage therapist to their staff to help these concerns, but BJ Creehan says these repetitive stress injuries can be avoided.

“Everyone asks us, ‘What is the perfect chair?’ There isn’t one. You’ve got to get up and move. A standing desk is great, but you want to stand and sit. You want to just move,” he said. “Take a lot of breaks — every 20 minutes really — even if it's just for a few seconds to stretch.”

Over the years, the practice has grown, but one thing remains constant — the best part of the job is helping people.

“When someone comes in and in pain, and then when they start to feel better, everything about them is different, their attitude, their outlook,” said Heather Creehan.

“It’s great to know that you’re making a difference in someone’s life. spinecarecary.com

HEIDI HARRIS, HOME SWEET HEIDI REALTY

BEST CUSTOM HOME BUILDER/ HOME RENOVATION SPECIALIST

BEST INSURANCE AGENT

LOYD BUILDERS Glasgow Design Build Rufty Homes

Michael Carey, Fairway Insurance and Risk Management Lou Prosser, Eagle Strategies

BEST ATTORNEY

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT

BEST REAL ESTATE AGENT Heidi Harris and her top-notch team of real estate agents have had a busy year. Since winning a 2019 Maggy Award, Home Sweet Heidi Realty was voted one of the Top 100 Realtors in the U.S. on social media, and Harris appeared in an episode of HGTV’s “House Hunters.”

And in December, she was named to the Rethink Council, a group of 12 topproducing agents from Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices brokerages around the country.

Real estate is all about building relationships and creating trust with your clients, she says.

“People looking from the outside in, they see trust with us and that we have a lot of fun, because we really love what we do,” said Harris. homesweetheidi.com

TERI LAROCCA, STATE FARM

BEST FINANCIAL INSTITUTION

COASTAL CREDIT UNION State Employees Credit Union BB&T BEST FINANCIAL ADVISER

ETHAN CARR, AXA ADVISORS David Hellinger, Hellinger Financial Jason Jonczak, Edward Jones

JACKIE BEDARD, CAROLINA FAMILY ESTATE PLANNING Paul Yokabitus, Cary Estate Planning Lauren Maxie, LMB Law Group/N.C. Planning BEST MORTGAGE OFFICER

ANDREW MCCAULEY, SUNTRUST

46

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Sherry Riano, First Heritage Mortgage Kendra McCormick, Atlantic Bay Mortgage Group

HEIDI HARRIS, HOME SWEET HEIDI REALTY Colleen Blondell, Blondell Properties Scott Korbin, Fonville Morisey Realtors BEST DOCTOR

DR. MELANIE MINTZER, GENERATIONS FAMILY PRACTICE Dr. Justin Glodowski, Generations Family Practice Dr. Elizabeth Vandergriff, Preston Medical Associates

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

BRAD (B.J.) CREEHAN

SPINE CARE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER Heather and Brad “BJ” Creehan CARY MAGAZINE 47

ERIN BIRCHER, FOUNDATIONS 4 CHANGE BEST PSYCHOLOGIST/ THERAPIST

69

$

Introductory

1 hour massage session

Erin Bircher, founder of Foundations 4 Change, is a licensed professional counselor, a licensed clinical addictions specialist and a certified life coach. With more than a decade of career experience, Bircher relishes the personal connections she makes with her clients — some she’s known for many years.

What is unique about your practice?

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I’m probably not the typical therapist in terms of a white coat who just sits there and shakes her head up and down and not really give much feedback. I do share personal experiences. I think they make a difference. I’ve been through a lot of different things.

I think that really helps a lot of clients that I’m not just sitting there and listening. I am giving you a sense of direction to go to; just as if you went to a doctor or physical therapist, they tell you what to do and what not to do.

Are there some common concerns that you address?

I mostly work with people that are going through bigger life changes, whether it's breakups, relationship issues, setting boundaries, learning how to communicate — not just with their spouse, but maybe also with their kids, or setting adult boundaries with their parents — a lot of family stuff.

What do you find rewarding

WINNER 2020

48

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

about your work?

Helping inspire people to make the changes that they can make and them doing it on their own. I like seeing people change the direction and the course that they want for themselves, and knowing that they have the power to actually do it within them. foundations4change.com

BEST EYE DOCTOR

DR. KENNETH ROUSSELO, PRESTON OPTOMETRY CENTER Dr. Dwight Barnes, Cary Family Eye Care Dr. Uwe Canting, Canting Optometry BEST CHIROPRACTOR

DR. BRAD CREEHAN, SPINE CARE CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

Dr. Blake Livingood, Triangle Health Center Dr. Todd Staker, Staker Chiropractic Center

Dr. Todd Bovenizer, left, and Dr. Chris Baker

BEST PLASTIC SURGEON

DR. TODD BOVENIZER, BOVENIZER AND BAKER ORTHODONTICS BEST ORTHODONTIST

Maggy winner Dr. Todd Bovenizer and his partner, Dr. Chris Baker, believe in the power of a great smile. They also believe that giving back to the community helps spread smiles.

Every year the team at Bovenizer and Baker donates more than $75,000 to schools and local organizations. In November, they launched A Chance to Smile, a partnership with Friends of Wake County Guardian ad Litem to treat 15-20 foster children every year with free orthodontic treatment.

“From the beginning in 2006, the practice vision was to be embedded into the com-

DR. MELANIE MINTZER,

GENERATIONS FAMILY PRACTICE BEST DOCTOR

Generations Family Practice, which Dr. Melanie Mintzer founded in 2005, has some changes planned for 2020 — a new call center, a dedicated nurse to perform injections or tests, and two new nurse practitioners.

A new company, Generations Medical Management, recently assumed the business functions of the practice, freeing Mintzer to devote more time to patient care and training

munity and to be an integral part in giving back,” Bovenizer said. “We feel that rooting ourselves in our community is the best way to make an impact as we believe in leading with our hearts. One of our core values is to walk with a purpose and giving back to our community really guides this value, allowing us to create purpose in Cary, Apex and Morrisville.”

The mascot of the effort is Seymour the Llama, because “children in foster care want to be seen for more than their current situation,” according to a release. “Seymour the Llama reminds us all to ‘See More’ of the good in the people around us.”

Patients and members of the public can also donate to offset the costs, and for a gift of $25 or more, the donor gets to adopt a stuffed llama. All additional funds raised will be donated to the Friends of Wake GAL. bovbakerortho.com students. Generations also began providing primary care for residents at the SearStone Retirement Community.

“I will become the medical director for the three medical facilities — in independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing,” said Mintzer, a six-time Maggy winner.

Another part of the practice worth highlighting is The Mariam Clinic, a free clinic for indigent patients held every Sunday.

“It is a way for a private medical practice to give back to the greater Wake County community who do not have ANY access to healthcare,” said Mintzer. generationsfamilypractice.com

DR. BRIAN COAN, CARE PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. William T. Stoeckel, Wake Plastic Surgery Dr. Cynthia Gregg, Cynthia Gregg MD BEST PSYCHOLOGIST/THERAPIST

ERIN BIRCHER, FOUNDATIONS 4 CHANGE

Marsha McLean, Revive Therapeutic Services 3-WAY TIE: Dr. Lorraine Matthews, Triangle ACT Dr. Roger Moore, Center for Psychological Wellness Dr. Jennifer Siddle, Family Psychiatry & Psychology Associates BEST DENTIST

DR. BOBBI STANLEY, STANLEY DENTISTRY

Dr. Allan Acton, Cary Family Dental Dr. Lisa Mayes, Preston Dental Center BEST ORTHODONTIST

DR. TODD BOVENIZER, BOVENIZER & BAKER ORTHODONTICS

Dr. Kelly Ritter, Dr. Kelly Ritter Orthodontics Dr. Reid Brogden, Brogden Orthodontics BEST HAIR SALON

TWISTED SCIZZORS

Color Salon TIE: J&F Gemelli / Triniti Salon BEST SPA

THE UMSTEAD HOTEL & SPA La Therapie Spa Skin Sense

BEST PET SERVICES

TOWN & COUNTRY VETERINARY HOSPITAL Mayfair Animal Hospital Woof Gang Bakery & Grooming

CARY MAGAZINE 49

BEST PURA VIDA STUDIO

BEST NEW BUSINESS (NON-RESTAURANT), HONORABLE MENTION FOR BEST TRACK-OUT OR SUMMER CAMP Alicia Jurado has been teaching yoga and aerial yoga for six years and opened Pura Vida Studio at Parkside Town Commons in January 2019.

The name and the resolve to open the business came to her during a trip to Costa Rica. The studio where she had taught for years had abruptly closed, and she was unsure what to do next. Her fiance encouraged her to

take the leap into entrepreneurship, and when a tour guide wished them, “Pura vida!”, she knew that would be the name of her business.

The wish for a simple, happy life, seemed to sum up her goals for the studio.

Yoga practitioners of all ages and experience levels are welcome, and classes are focused on safety, wellness and mindfulness.

Not many yoga studios offer camps and classes for young students, but Jurado says she loves teaching kids, because they are so fearless and eager to learn. Last summer she led a five-week aerial yoga and mindfulness camp for roughly 50 children aged 6 to 14.

Celebrate Pura Vida’s “It was teachone-year anniversary ing them yoga and at an aerial dance mindfulness and performance — featuring helping them instructors and students showing off their skills learn how to be through partner acrobatics, mindful with trapeze, silks and more. their breathing, 5:30 and 6 p.m., Jan. 4; taking those tech2:30 and 3 p.m. Jan. 5. $10-$20. niques out into the world into their daily life,” she said. “It was probably one of the best things I can say I’ve ever done. It was so rewarding as a teacher, to help them with what they can do with mindfulness in life.” puravidastudionc.com

GARDEN SUPPLY COMPANY

Fans appreciate the friendly and knowledgeable gardeners, saying the shop’s customer service is what keeps them coming back every season.

Don’t miss “In the Garden with Keith Ramsey,” a new podcast which features the Garden Supply owner talking about topics related to gardening and landscaping. Find it on the website! gardensupplyco.com

BEST GARDEN CENTER

Keith Ramsey

More than two decades ago, Keith Ramsey started a landscape and design firm in Cary. Over the years, Garden Supply Company has become the place in Western Wake to find garden supplies, plants of every type, landscaping services, home décor and unique gifts.

BEST NEW BUSINESS (NON-RESTAURANT)

BEST RESALE SHOPPING

PURA VIDA STUDIO

Peterson’s Consign & Design The Perfect Piece

Rush Cycle TIE: Adventures in Bloom / Omni Yoga Studio BEST NEW CLOTHING

SWAGGER BOUTIQUE Holl & Main Pink Magnolia 50

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

DORCAS THRIFT SHOP

BEST HOME FURNISHINGS AND DÉCOR

THE PERFECT PIECE Coopers Furniture Ivy Cottage Collections

BEST FLORIST SHOP

PRESTON FLOWERS Flower Cupboard English Garden

BEST GARDEN CENTER

GARDEN SUPPLY COMPANY Fairview Garden Center Apex Nursery

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020

BEST NEW BUSINESS (NON-RESTAURANT)

PURA VIDA STUDIO HONORABLE MENTION BEST TRACK-OUT OR SUMMER CAMP Alicia Jurado

CARY MAGAZINE 51

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THE PERFECT PIECE BEST HOME FURNISHINGS AND DÉCOR, HONORABLE MENTION FOR BEST RESALE SHOPPING

Since it opened in 2012, The Perfect Piece has become the place to find a unique gift or a “perfect” room accessory.

Owners Betty Haskell and Rebecca Ennis stock their store with up-to-date home trends and upscale consignment pieces, creating a showroom in the center of the store.

Lining the walls of the 11,000-square-foot space are independent vendor booths featur-

PHARMACY BOTTLE + BEVERAGE

BEST BOTTLE SHOP Located in the former Mitchell’s Pharmacy building, this downtown Cary hangout has been a popular spot to enjoy a favorite beverage or taste something new since it opened in 2015.

Pharmacy Bottle + Beverage offers 16 mostly local craft beers and at least one cider on tap. The choices are all displayed on a large chalkboard. Wine is also available by the glass or by the bottle. Or, if you’re looking to take something home, peruse the shop’s huge selection of beer, cider and wine from all over the country.

BEST GIFT STORE

SWAGGER BOUTIQUE

ing vintage goods, jewelry and locally made products. Outside, in what was once a bank drive-through, outdoor furniture and décor are displayed.

FOLLOW THEM! The inventory changes frequently, so check out the latest offerings on Facebook or Instagram. @theperfectpiececary

“We are always rotating and don’t have any devoted handles,” said proprietor Tyler Watt, who also owns Postmaster Restaurant & Bar in downtown Cary.

“At any given moment, whatever is hot and seasonal is what we bring in.”

When the weather is nice, patrons can camp out at picnic tables in front of the building or grab a seat near the large sliding storefront windows. Or if you’d like something to do while you socialize, the shop hosts weekly events like craft nights and wine tastings. pharmacybottlebeverage.com BEST SPECIALTY FOODS STORE

THE BUTCHER’S MARKET

Ivy Cottage Collections Adventures in Bloom

Fresh Market Capri Flavors

BEST JEWELRY STORE

BEST WINE STORE

JOHNSON’S JEWELERS

TRIANGLE WINE COMPANY

Holland’s Jewelers J.M. Edwards Jewelry

Chatham Street Wine Market Great Grapes

BEST SHOPPING CENTER

BEST BOTTLE SHOP

PARK WEST VILLAGE Streets at Southpoint Waverly Place

PHARMACY BOTTLE & BEVERAGE Triangle Wine Company HighCraft Beer Market

DORCAS THRIFT SHOP BEST RESALE SHOPPING

1968 Year Dorcas Ministries was founded as Christian Community in Action

2008 Year Dorcas Plaza was purchased off of High House Road

36 Local partner churches

7 Types of services offered — emergency financial assistance, a food pantry, job training, childcare, camp scholarships, education support and affordable health care

600 Volunteers in 2018

93,000 Hours that volunteers worked in 2018

24,000+ Clients served in 2018

$1.5 million Amount distributed in client assistance and food in 2018

6 Maggy Awards for Best Nonprofit dorcascary.org

Special thanks to Sarah Ray, the N.C. State Fair and Marc Janas of Powers Great American Midways for hosting us and for their help in producing this section.

CARY MAGAZINE 53

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Finding an office is easier than you think. Get what you want, where you want it, in one of Towerview’s 4 prime Cary locations. Office solutions tailored to your business needs—with as much or as little space as you need. And we’re flexible when your needs change.

Fully furnished, professionally designed private office space with everything you want: 24/7/365 electronic access, ample parking, high-speed internet and no-hassle IT, media-enabled conference room, with maintenance and all utilities included.

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Lightweight acetate earrings with brass accents are the perfect accessory for any look. Each piece has a unique color, and no two are alike, with hypoallergenic, nickel-free backs and a 16k gold-plate chain on the necklace; $20 each.

Specializing in handmade items, Adventures in Bloom is a communal space for the creative adventurer. The boutique is warm and inviting with more than 30 local makers and a large family-style table for hosting parties at the Hammer-it-Yourself Metal Stamping Bar.

CARY MAGAZINE 57

Wayne Hui and Randy Wasserstrom, members of the For Fun: Tennis/Pickleball group, socialize before joining others on the court at Apex Community Park.

Elizabeth Lamsen, left, and Maggie Lockemer gear up for an evening run with the Bond Brothers Beer Company Run Club.

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WRITTEN BY LEA HART PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Strength IN

Numbers Fitness groups are a great way to make friends and stay active

Rain or shine, members of the Apex Fitness Walkers gather weekly to stride through Apex Community Park.

J

ay and Jeremy Bond of Bond Brothers Beer Company don’t just brew beer.

They’re both avid runners as well.

It’s part of the reason they launched a run club more than four years ago — before their Cary brewery was even completed. And as runners, there’s one thing they know for certain: When it comes to fitness, sometimes people need a little help from their friends.

“For me, group fitness means support and someone there to push you when you’re maybe not feeling it that day,” Jay Bond said.

“For others who aren’t as intense, it’s just having that support system that really helps.”

From running and walking to tennis and pickleball, fitness groups can be a motivator to keep up the healthy routine, organizers say. The social aspect is a reason to keep coming back, and, if a person has specific goals, finding an accountability buddy can help them work toward those goals.

For members of these local fitness groups, it’s more than just a workout. Both friends and fitness keep them coming back. continued on page 60 CARY MAGAZINE 59

Lance Tastet, left, and Mike Zvarich, right, prepare for a Tuesdayevening group run.

continued from page 59

Bond Brothers Beer Company Run Club

Before launching their own running group, the Bond brothers often ran with other clubs in the area. A club of their own was a way to introduce people to the brewery, which was then under development.

More than 3,000 people have come out to run in the four years since, and anywhere from 100 to 250 people show up each Tuesday for their regular run, depending on the season and the weather. The run kicks off at 6:30 p.m. from the brewery with the option of either a 3- or 5-mile route. Once the workout is done, runners come back to the brewery to socialize and have a beer.

The level of intensity and commitment varies for each runner – some are training for a race, some just want to chat with friends and get some exercise, Jeremy Bond says.

The company hosts a charity 5K each year and sponsors several other races.

“Run club can be a good way to meet others who have similar goals and ambitions,” he said.

Knowing that someone with the same goals is there looking for you each Tuesday can serve as a motivator to keep coming back and training, he says.

“There’s a lot of socializing, and people meet new people,” said Jay Bond. “Running is always a lot more fun with other people – it can be a little lonely to run by yourself.”

At the same time, Laura Eischen, fun coordinator for Bond Brothers, did run club before she worked for Bond Brothers, and came back each week for an entirely different reason – the social aspect.

“I am not a runner, but it was a social time for me and my friends to get together once a week,” she said. “It was not intimidating; there are all skill levels of runners and non-runners.”

Handheld maps detail the turns for a 5-mile and a 3-mile loop from the brewery and back.

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continued on page 63

Anywhere from 100 to 250 people show up at the brewery to run. It’s more fun to run in a group, and during dark winter evenings, it’s also safer.

After a run, Stephanie Harris raises a toast with Michael Watkins, as Frank Barnhart enjoys a slice of cake. "Run first, then beer and cake," Harris says. "We are all friends. This is an excuse to see each other; and if we get some exercise, then all the better."

Bond Brothers Run Club

On Facebook: facebook.com/groups/391144757756459/ (Or search “Bond Brothers Run Club” on Facebook) See scheduled runs, ask questions or join the Facebook group to get more information.

On the web: bondbrothersbeer.com/run-club CARY MAGAZINE 61

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continued from page 60

Apex Fitness Walkers

Pat Black knows a lot about the link between being social and keeping with a fitness routine. She began the Apex Fitness Walkers group in 2008 through meetup.com, which serves as a web platform for folks with similar interests to organize — from fitness groups, to writers who want to share ideas, to women programmers who want to network, and everything in between.

At the time, Black had what she calls “a change in her life plans,” and, seeking to make new friends, she started the group.

“It’s one of the best things I ever did,” said Black, who is now friends with numerous Apex Fitness Walkers.

The group keeps it simple, with 10-24 people meeting every Saturday morning at the same time at Apex Community Park.

They walk just over two miles at what they call a “moderate pace,” not too slow and not too fast. Afterward, they often head to a nearby McDonald’s for breakfast and end up talking for hours, Black says.

A core group of them have become such good friends that it keeps them coming back week after week and has led to the group

being not just fitness-oriented but sociallyoriented as well. They gather regularly to take in outdoor concerts, meet for dinner to celebrate members’ birthdays and even plan holiday seasonal events together.

New members join, and other members move on as they move in and out of the area, or have other commitments, Black says. Whether a group member needs someone to hold them accountable, or simply doesn’t want to miss out on seeing their friends, the group atmosphere can keep them coming back.

“I know that within our core group, if someone misses a week, others will say, ‘We missed you. Where were you?’” Black said.

“There are also people that come out to walk who probably hadn’t thought about walking, and then they like it and enjoy that they have others to talk to while they walk.”

Because their group has become as much a social group as a fitness group, Black added several other administrators to her meetup group who can also schedule events. She says they’re always open to suggestions and have done everything from playing dominoes, to hiking at Hanging Rock State Park. continued on page 64

The Apex Fitness Walkers & Social Club On Meetup: meetup.com/walkers-532/ Message the organizer through the website, or view upcoming walks and social meetups. This meetup group is public, meaning event locations and times can be viewed without becoming a member of the group.

Every Saturday morning, a group of walkers meets at Apex Community Park for a moderate 2-mile trip around the lake. After their walk, several of the group head to McDonald’s for breakfast

CARY MAGAZINE 63

Zachary Matteen serves during a tennis game at Apex Community Park.

continued from page 63

For Fun: Tennis/Pickleball

Like Black, Wayne Hui wanted to meet new people.

Hui moved to the area from Chicago in 2011, not knowing anyone locally. He joined an existing tennis group through meetup.com, and then took over the group when its original organizer stepped down. He’s run the group for more than three years now, adding pickleball meetups in addition to tennis after a friend introduced him to pickleball.

The group plays pickleball each Monday evening at Method Community Park in Raleigh and tennis on Wednesday evenings at Apex Community Park. More than 800 members have joined the group, though actual meetups range in size from eight to 12 members because of court availability for the 64

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

two sports, Hui says. Events are always full, so the group has added additional sessions to allow more members to join.

“A lot of people are transplants from other cities, so they’re here by themselves,” Hui said. “The group is friendly, and we’re more of a social group – so in addition to exercise, a lot of people feel they’re part of a friendly group. When they come out, it’s almost like coming out to see friends.”

Like Black’s group, this has led to friendships and plans to do social activities off the court. And for Hui, the group has provided an incentive to keep up a regular fitness routine.

“I always look forward on Monday and Wednesday to go out there and see all the members,” he said. t

Nelson Rha retrieves a tennis ball during a game at Apex Community Park. He plays regularly with fellow tennis enthusiasts he met through the For Fun: Tennis/ Pickleball group.

For Fun: Tennis/Pickleball On Meetup: meetup.com/ForFunTennisPickleball/ Message the organizer through the website, and view upcoming events. This meetup allows nonmembers to view events; however, the location is visible only to members who sign up for the group and join the event through meetup.com.

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Visit us for

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CARY MAGAZINE 67

PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Find Beauty and Books at New Cary Library READERS OF ALL AGES have an inviting new space to curl up with a good book.

The Cary Regional Library opened with a festive ceremony on Nov.3. More than 3,700 people visited on opening day and checked our nearly 4,000 books, according to event organizers.

“The new downtown Cary Library is a stunning setting and inspiring environment for learning and growing, and we are incredibly proud to have it in our community,” said Harold Weinbrecht, Cary mayor.

Located across from the Cary Arts Center and next to the Downtown Park, the new 23,450-square-foot space includes more than 90,000 books, 32 computers and free Wi-Fi. The first floor houses the children's collection and a large children's program room. The second floor houses the adult collection and features a community meeting room and quiet study spaces. The new building features a generous amount of daylight, and patrons will be able to look out over the town park that will be located northeast of the library.

The $23.7 million project, which also includes the 600-space parking deck, was a partnership between Wake County and the Town of Cary. The parking deck will serve library patrons and visitors to downtown attractions.

A calendar of library events — including reading with See Spot Read therapy dogs, preschool and toddler story time, and author book signings — is available at wakegov.com/libraries/locations/cry.

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CARY MAGAZINE 69

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the Loyd Builders family. You will find our relationship with our homeowners to be second to none. Our complete staff from administrative to the project manager is here to make the building process an enjoyable experience for our customers. Our homeowners will attest

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that our service continues long after the sale.

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CARY MAGAZINE 71

Octopus with cilantro chutney and mango salad.

72 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

restaurant profile

kō•än Public Table WRITTEN BY DAVID MCCREARY | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

UPON ENTERING kō•än, one of Cary’s most anticipated new restaurants in recent memory, guests see two words inscribed on the window: “Public Table.”

“This speaks to how our restaurant approaches hospitality right from the front door,” said proprietor Sean Degnan, who opened Southeast Asian-inspired kō•än in the former ān cuisines space in November.

When he was growing up, Degnan explains, his family always made room at their dinner table for an additional, unplanned guest. That reminiscence inspired Degnan to ensure that anyone who comes to kō•än feels welcomed and appreciated.

“No matter how busy we are, there’s always space at any one of our public tables for people to sit,” he said.

A seasoned restauranteur, Degnan also owns the Latin American eatery so•ca at Cameron Village. He formerly ran the popular but now defunct bu•ku in downtown Raleigh. The Wake Forest bu•ku is still open but under different ownership.

With kō•än, Degnan has unveiled an expansive, high-ceilinged structure with a Zen-like atmosphere, abundant greenery and modern lighting, all renovated by Courtney Evans of Raleigh’s Tactile architectural and design firm.

Degnan brought in Drew Smith as kō•än’s executive chef. Triangle foodies may recall Smith from his culinary exploits at the aforementioned bu•ku and so•ca.

Winner of 2019’s Cooking for a Classic dining competition, Smith has spent considerable time traveling in Southeast Asia. While there, he was humbled and inspired by the region’s intricate cuisine.

“I know I will never master cooking this food, but I look forward to sharing my interpretation of it,” said Smith. “Some of the dishes are reimagined.”

Despite his unpretentiousness, Smith adeptly finesses Chinese, Japanese and Thai cuisine, but also showcases food from Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines. His menu includes an assortment of small plates intended for sharing and large plates sure to satisfy the most discriminating palate.

Smith considers the food approachable. We consider it soul-warming.

“Our Vietnamese pho is moving like crazy,” Smith said. “I make 30 gallons at a time in the kettle, and it’s hard to keep up.”

continued on page 75 CARY MAGAZINE 73

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74 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

continued from page 73

Among the small plates, deliberate between the ginger-infused lobster gyoza or the Filipino-inspired octopus with cilantro chutney, fish sauce and mango salad.

Whatever you do, don’t miss out on the habit-forming cauliflower that will almost make you think you’re eating General Tso’s chicken.

Surefire entrees include Korean barbecue with wagyu short rib, green tea smoked duck, and pork-belly-suffused ramen with a 63-degree egg. If you can only choose one standout dish, order the Thai red curry with seared scallops, lobster claw, shrimp, roasted kabocha squash and shiitake mushrooms, served atop Japanese rice.

Smith and his team also take great care to accommodate any dietary restrictions guests may mention, he adds.

“Whatever food sensitivities someone has, we are completely committed to the safety of our guests,” he said. “We make sure there is no cross contamination, and we can prepare meals from scratch on the fly if necessary.”

The idea of eating together is front and center, with “Public Table” displayed as prominently as the name of the restaurant.

continued on page 77

CARY MAGAZINE 75

From the small plate menu, cauliflower is tossed in a sweet soy sauce.

76 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

For people seeking a truly upscale encounter, kō•än provides an omakase (Japanese for “entrust yourself to the chef ”) experience that will deliver 5- and 7-course tasting menus with wine pairings.

“It’s a 40-seat space that’s essentially like having a restaurant within a restaurant,” Smith said. “This gives us a chance to elevate the food and provide the best we have to offer.”

Speaking of elevating, Smith has assembled a first-rate kitchen staff, including a veteran sous chef and a former Korean cafe owner.

“Most of us have been friends for a long time,” he said, adding that he and Degnan have worked together for nearly a decade. “It’s a pleasure and a privilege to work with these people.”

One unassuming star in the back of the house is pastry chef Francisco Almaguer, who served in the same role during the ān cuisines era.

Save room for one of Almaguer’s creative concoctions such as a dark chocolate terrine with passionfruit or the Tropical, a refreshing fusion of mango semifreddo, coconut tapioca, fresh pineapple and togarashi meringue. continued on page 78

“

I know I will never master cooking this food, but I look forward to sharing my interpretation of it. Some of the dishes are reimagined.

- Drew Smith,

“

continued from page 75

executive chef, kō•än

At ko•än, chef Drew Smith, left, and owner Sean Degnan wished to celebrate dishes from throughout Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines.

CARY MAGAZINE 77

Top left: Simple décor in the dining room emphasizes the restaurant’s focus on “humble, tranquil, food for thought.”

Top right: Thai red curry with seared scallops, lobster, shrimp, shiitake mushrooms, roasted squash and Japanese rice.

Bottom right: Two private rooms are available for large gatherings.

Bottom left: The Tropical is a refreshing dessert of mango semifreddo, coconut tapioca, pineapple and meringue.

78 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

continued from page 77

An onsite beverage director or well-trained server will guide you toward any of the first-rate wines, beers and craft cocktails. Consider the Shacksbury Dry Cider, Ryujin “Dragon God” Ginjo sake or even a nonalcoholic strawberry-lime agua fresca.

Closed on Sundays, the restaurant is open six days a week for dinner with lunch service on weekdays. An airy patio has seating for approximately 100 people. Two private rooms are available for larger gatherings, and reservations are recommended.

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

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CARY MAGAZINE 79

The Triangle’s award-winning destination for cooks, foodies, chefs and gadget lovers.

irish beef

and stout stew

Serves 6-8 Ingredients 5 slices bacon, diced 1 1/2 pounds stew beef, cut in 1-inch cubes 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 large onion, diced 4 medium carrots, sliced 2 stalks celery, diced 1 clove garlic, minced 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup Guinness stout 3 cups beef broth 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 4 sprigs fresh thyme, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme 3 cups small red potatoes, quartered 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped Salt and pepper, to taste

Directions 1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. 2. Over medium-high heat in a large Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy. While bacon is cooking, season stew-beef cubes with salt and pepper. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon. Add the stew beef to the bacon fat, brown on all sides; remove from the pot.

3. Add the onion, carrots, celery and garlic to the pot, and cook until the onion is translucent. Add the bacon and beef back to the pot, and sprinkle with the flour.

Stir and cook for two minutes. Add the Guinness stout, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring the stew to a boil.

4. Add the potatoes, cover and bake for 2 hours.

5. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with fresh, crusty bread.

316 Colonades Way, Cary, NC Mon. – Sat. 10 – 6 | Sun. 12 – 5 www.whiskcarolina.com | (919) 322-2458 80 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

perfect pairing

irish beef and stout stew

WRITTEN BY BILL ALLEN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

2018 Chateau Saint-Nabor Cotes Du Rhone Tradition Red This medium- to full-bodied wine offers aromas and flavors dominated by ripe, red fruit reminiscent of strawberry and blackberry, and supported by notes of clove, licorice and a touch of leather. Given its tannins and crisp acidity, this wine is a perfect fit with the beef, pork, thyme, garlic, onion and pepper in the stew. The wine cuts through the fat component of the beef and bacon. $17.99

2016 Carpinus Deak Vineyard Tokaji Furmint Nestled in the Tokaji Wine Region in Hungary, Edit and IstvĂĄn Bai have concentrated their winemaking efforts solely on furmint, a white wine grape. This flagship Hungarian grape variety is traditionally used in Tokaji AszĂş dessert wines, but it is also available as a dry wine such as this one. Highly fragrant with aromas and flavors of lemon, honey and green apple, the wine is full-bodied with a luscious texture and wonderful acidity, which cuts through the richness and fat of the beef and bacon. $19.99

2018 Moser Maso Warth Teroldego, Campo Rotaliano DOC Located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region in northeast Italy, the Moser family winery was launched around 1950. This red, made from teroldego grapes, is medium-bodied with soft tannins and bright acidity.

It has bright fruit notes, blended in with blackberry and raspberry. There are also hints of spicy pepper, cinnamon and anise. The wine works well with the meaty stew ingredients, the herbs and the spiciness of the Worcestershire sauce. $29.99

Bill Allen holds a first-level certification with the Court of Master Sommeliers and a Specialist of Wine certification from the Society of Wine Educators.

He has worked as a wine educator with the Triangle Wine Company for five years.

CARY MAGAZINE 81

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liquid assets

Fisher’s Rye Whiskey

by Fainting Goat Spirits WRITTEN BY MELISSA KATRINCIC | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

IN THE WINTER MONTHS, my go-to warming cocktail is a Manhattan.

While many reach for bourbon when making this straightforward cocktail at home, it was created with rye whiskey in mind. I prefer rye in a Manhattan because it isn’t as sweet, and there is an extra layer of spice you get from a predominantly rye mash — versus corn for bourbon.

Rye whiskeys are not commonly distilled in the Southeast, a fact stemming from consumer preference for bourbon. However, it’s a category of whiskey with a lot of character. If you are a fan of complex whiskeys, especially scotch or Irish whiskey, I hope you’ll seek out the U.S.-distilled, small-batch rye whiskies.

Fisher’s Rye Whiskey, distilled by Fainting Goat Spirits in Greensboro, is a straight rye whiskey. Breathing in the whiskey, there is the upfront spiciness of the rye, and it is beautifully complemented by sweet caramel. The nose on this whiskey is long and smooth, especially for a rye whiskey. On the palate, the spice of the rye grain is immediate. However, there is significant complexity here including vanilla and maple notes, which add layers of flavor. This complexity is likely achieved from the length of time that the whiskey spent in the barrel and from sweet corn in the mash.

This rye isn’t too spice forward, and there isn’t any “funkiness” or rough edges. Selfishly, I hope that there are future releases with barrels that age longer than these initial two years. Quite simply, this is a gorgeous small-batch rye. It’s lovely neat and is a treat in a Manhattan.

Classic Rye Manhattan 1 ounce Fisher’s Rye ½ ounce sweet vermouth 3 dashes Angostura bitters Luxardo Maraschino cocktail cherries

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice cubes. Pour in the rye, vermouth and bitters. Shake until cold, and strain into a cocktail glass.

Garnish with 1-2 cherries.

Melissa Katrincic owns Durham Distillery, the No. 1 Craft Gin Distillery in the U.S. and home of the award-winning Conniption Gin, with her husband Lee. She is also the former vice president of the Distiller’s Association of North Carolina.

CARY MAGAZINE 83

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nc-seafood.org 84 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

liquid assets

Moonlight Excursion Baltic Porter from Mason Jar Lager Company WRITTEN BY DAVE TOLLEFSEN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

WINTER IS NOW upon us! Breweries have prepared for the onslaught of cold weather by introducing a slew of styles fitting for the arctic air — bigger, richer beers that are great for warming you from the inside out.

The Baltic porter is the sister beer of the standard porter, but a porter is an ale, where a Baltic porter is a lager. What does that mean?

A lager uses a lager yeast which is fermented in cooler temperatures and then stored or “lagered” at almost freezing temperatures for several weeks or months. This gives the beer a clean and crisp flavor.

Everyone’s familiar with lagers, the lighter beers for warmer days, which is

why the Baltic porter is a treat. Its rich malty flavors — caramel, toffee and molasses plus a smooth roastiness — make it perfect for the cooler weather.

Mason Jar Lager’s Midnight Excursion Baltic Porter delivers this style beautifully.

Coming in at a nice 8% ABV, the porter is dark and flavorful with just the right amount of roasty flavor. Definitely pause to enjoy the aroma of the beer. That’s not

beer snobbery; it’s what enhances the experience of drinking craft beer. As you smell it and take a sip, no matter where you are, the combination of aroma and flavors will put you right in front of a roaring fireplace. For a great flavor experience, pair this beer with a good burger or beef stew. It will knock your socks off!

While the beer comes in cans, the best place to enjoy it is the brewery itself. The Mason Jar Lager Company is located at 341 Broad St. in Fuquay-Varina. They have a big open taproom where you can enjoy a variety of the lagers they specialize in.

Dave Tollefsen is one of the NCBeerGuys – they have been promoting North Carolina craft beer and breweries on their website, ncbeerguys.com, since 2012. He is an avid homebrewer for more than 10 years and is also part of the North Carolina Craft Brewers Guild.

CARY MAGAZINE 85

Dining Guide A SELECTION OF RESTAURANTS, BAKERIES, BISTROS AND CAFÉS

IN CARY, APEX, FUQUAY-VARINA, HOLLY SPRINGS, MORRISVILLE AND RALEIGH Advertisers are highlighted in boxes

CARY

Big Dom’s Bagel Shop “Serving bagels, B’donuts and sandwiches” 203 E Chatham St., Cary; (919) 377-1143; bigdomsbagelshop.com

Abbey Road Tavern & Grill “Great food … outstanding live music.”

1195 W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 481-4434; abbeyroadnc.com

Big Mike’s Brew N Que “Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.” 1222 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 799-2023; brewnquenc.com

Alex & Teresa’s Italian Pizzeria & Trattoria “Authentic Italian recipes and homemade pasta.”

941 N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 377-0742; alexandteresastrattoria.com Andia’s Homemade Ice Cream “Premium quality ice cream and sorbet.”

10120 Green Level Church Road #208, Cary; (919) 901-8560; andiasicecream.com

Academy Street Bistro “A fresh take on Italian-American cuisine in the heart of Cary.” 200 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 377-0509; academystreetbistro.com Annelore’s German Bakery “Authentic German pastries, breads and pretzels” 308 W. Chatham St., Cary (919) 267-6846 anneloresbakery.com

Ashworth Drugs “Quintessential place for freshsqueezed lemonade, old-fashioned milkshakes and hot dogs.”

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

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Asali Desserts & Café A gourmet sweet shop crossed with a refined coffeehouse.

107 Edinburgh Dr., Suite 106-A, Cary (919) 362-7882 asalicafe.com Bellini Fine Italian Cuisine “Everything is made fresh from scratch in our kitchen.”

107 Edinburgh S. Drive, Suite 119, Cary; (919) 552-0303; bellinifineitaliancuisinecary.com

Bonefish Grill “Fresh is our signature.”

2060 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-1347; bonefishgrill.com Bosphorus Restaurant “Traditional Turkish and Mediterranean cuisine in an elegant atmosphere.”

329-A N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 460-1300; bosphorus-nc.com Bravo’s Mexican Grill “Extensive menu raises the ante considerably above the typical Tex-Mex.” 208 Grande Heights Drive, Cary (919) 481-3811; bravosmexicangrill.net Brewster’s Pub “Open late, serving a full food and drink menu.” ​ 1885 Lake Pine Drive, Cary (919) 650-1270; brewsterspubcary.com Brig’s “Breakfast creations, cool salads and hot sandwich platters.”

1225 NW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 481-9300; 1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 604, Cary; (919) 859-2151; brigs.com

Dining Guide Chanticleer Café & Bakery “Family-owned restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch and specialty coffees.”

6490 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 781-4810; chanticleercafe.com Chef’s Palette “Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.” 3460 Ten Ten Road, Cary; (919) 267-6011; chefspalette.net Cilantro Indian Café Northeast Indian cuisine with fresh ingredients and halal meats.

107 Edinburgh S. Drive , Suite 107, Cary; (919) 234-1264; cilantroindia.com

Doherty’s Irish Pub “Catch the game or listen to live music.”

1979 High House Road, Cary; (919) 388-9930; dohertysirishpubnc.com Enrigo Italian Bistro “Fresh food made from pure ingredients.”

575 New Waverly, Suite 106, Cary; (919) 854-7731; dineenrigo.com Five Guys Burgers and Fries 1121 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 380-0450; fiveguys.com

CinéBistro “Ultimate dinner-and-a-movie experience.”

525 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 987-3500; cinebistro.com/waverly

Fresca Café & Gelato “French-styled crepes … gelato made with ingredients directly from Italy.”

302 Colonades Way #109, Cary; (919) 581-8171; frescacafe.com

City Barbeque “Barbeque in its truest form.”

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

Goodberry’s Frozen Custard 1146 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 467-2386 2325 Davis Drive, Cary; (919) 469-3350; goodberrys.com

Coffee & Crepes “Freshly prepared sweet and savory crepes.”

315 Crossroads Blvd., Cary; (919) 233-0288; coffeeandcrepes.com Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar “Good old-fashioned burgers and bottled soda.”

126 Kilmayne Drive, Cary; (919) 466-0055; corbettsburgers.com Craft Public House “Casual family restaurant.”

1040 Tryon Village Drive, Suite 601, Cary; (919) 851-9173; craftpublichouse.com Crema Coffee Roaster & Bakery “Family-owned and operated.”

1983 High House Road, Cary; (919) 380-1840; cremacoffeebakery.com Danny’s Bar-B-Que “All slow-cooked on an open pit with hickory wood.”

311 Ashville Ave. G, Cary; (919) 851-5541; dannysbarbque.com Der Biergarten “American fare with Germaninspired dishes and beer.”

1080 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 459-5874; biergartencary.com

Great Harvest Bread Co. “Real food that tastes great.”

1220 NW Maynard Road, Cary (919) 460-8158; greatharvestcary.com Herons “The signature restaurant of The Umstead Hotel and Spa.” 100 Woodland Pond Drive, Cary; (919) 447-4200; theumstead.com/dining/restaurants-raleigh-nc JuiceVibes “Made-to-order juices from locally sourced produce.”

1369 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 377-8923; juicevibes.com Jimmy V’s Steakhouse & Tavern “Certified Angus Beef … fresh seafood, Italian specialties, homemade desserts.”

107 Edinburgh South, Suite 131, Cary; (919) 380-8210; jimmyvssteakhouse.com Kababish Café “A celebration of deliciousness and creativity.”

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

Crosstown Pub & Grill “A straightforward menu covers all the bases.”

140 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 650-2853; crosstowndowntown.com

Kale Me Crazy “Healthy, quick food options.”

302 Colonades Way, Suite 209, Cary (919) 200-2960 kalemecrazy.net ko•än “Upscale, contemporary Southeast Asian dishes.”

2800 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-9229; koancary.com La Farm Bakery “Handcrafted daily … only the freshest ingredients.”

4248 NW Cary Parkway, Cary; 220 W. Chatham St., Cary; 5055 Arco Street, Cary; (919) 657-0657; lafarmbakery.com LemonShark Poke “The finest poke ingredients and local brews on tap.”

2000 Boulderstone Way, Cary; (919) 333-0066; lemonsharkpoke.com Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

110 SW Maynard Road, Cary; (919) 460-8757; lostresmagueyes.com Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen “Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.”

7307 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 233-1632 lucky32.com/cary CARY MAGAZINE 87

Dining Guide Maximillians Grill & Wine Bar “Global cuisine using locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.”

8314 Chapel Hill Road, Cary; (919) 465-2455; maximilliansgrill.com MOD Pizza “Serving artisan style pizzas, superfast” 316 Colonades Way Suite 206-C, Cary (919) 241-72001; modpizza.com/locations/waverly

Duck Donuts “Warm, delicious and just the way you like them.”

100 Wrenn Drive #10, Cary; (919) 468-8722; duckdonuts.com/location/cary-nc Lucky Chicken “All of our beautiful Peru, with every dish.”

1851 N. Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 338-4325; luckychickennc.net

Tribeca Tavern “Local craft beers, gourmet burgers and American grub in a casual setting.”

500 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 465-3055; tribecatavernnc.com Marco Pollo “Peruvian rotisserie chicken.”

1871 Lake Pine Drive, Cary; (919) 694-5524; marcopollocary.com

Spirits

CARY | DURHAM | RALEIGH Open Daily 6AM – 7PM

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Once in a Blue Moon Bakery & Café “The fast track to sweet tooth satisfaction.”

115-G W. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 319-6554; bluemoonbakery.com Pizza La Stella “Authentic Neapolitan pizzas, unique cocktails and more.”

1389 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 333-0773; pizzalastella.com

featuring r ea l

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Noodle Boulevard “Ten variations on the ramen theme, covering a pan-Asian spectrum.”

919 N Harrison Ave., Cary; (919) 678-1199; noodleblvd.com

5320 MCFARLAND ROAD | DURHAM, N 8323 CREEDMOOR ROAD | RALEIGH, N 100 WRENN DRIVE | CARY, NC

Dining Guide Pizzeria Faulisi “Simple foods from a simple way of cooking: a wood-burning oven.”

215 E. Chatham St., Suite 101, Cary; pizzeriafaulisi.com Pro’s Epicurean Market & Café “Gourmet market, café and wine bar.”

211 East Chatham Street, Cary; (919) 377-1788; prosepicurean.com Pure Juicery Bar “The Triangle’s only all-vegan juice bar.”

716 Slash Pine Drive, Cary; (919) 234-1572; purejuicerybar.com Rally Point Sport Grill “Lunch and dinner food in a pub atmosphere.”

837 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 678-1088; rallypointsportgrill.com Red Bowl Asian Bistro “Each distinctive dish is handcrafted.”

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

More than just juice

Ricci’s Trattoria “Keeping true to tradition.”

10110 Green Level Church Road, Cary; (919) 380-8410; riccistrattoria.com Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

8111-208 Tryon Woods Drive, Cary; (919) 851-3999; ruckuspizza.com Ruth’s Chris Steak House “Cooked to perfection.”

2010 Renaissance Park Place, Cary; (919) 677-0033; ruthschris.com/restaurant-locations/cary Serendipity Gourmet Deli “Discovering the unusual, valuable or pleasantly surprising.” 118 S. Academy St., Cary; (919) 469-1655; serendipitygourmetdelinc.com Sophie’s Grill & Bar “Traditional pub fare along with Old-World cuisine.”

2734 NC-55, Cary; (919) 355-2377; sophiesgrillandbar.com

RISE & SHINE!

Gonza Tacos y Tequila “Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine.” 525-105 New Waverly Place, Cary; (919) 653-7310; gonzatacosytequila.com Spirits Pub & Grub “Wide variety of menu items, all prepared in a scratch kitchen.”

701 E. Chatham St., Cary (919) 462-7001; spiritscary.com

Brunch available at our Cary, Downtown Raleigh & Wake Forest locations only.

11:30-2pm Sundays

Clean Juice Park West 3035 Village Market Place 919-468-8286

gonzatacosytequila.com CARY MAGAZINE 89

Dining Guide

Mellow Mushroom “Beer, calzones and creative stonebaked pizzas.”

4300 NW Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 463-7779 mellowmushroom.com Stellino’s Italiano “Traditional Italian favorites with a modern twist.”

1150 Parkside Main St., Cary; (919) 694-5761; stellinositaliano.com

Sugar Buzz Bakery “Custom cakes … and more.”

1231 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 238-7224; sugarbuzzbakery.com

The Big Easy Oven & Tap “Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.” 231 Grande Heights Drive, Cary; (919) 468-6007; thebigeasyovenandtap.com

Taipei 101 “Chinese and Taiwanese. Serves lunch and dinner.” 121 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 388-5885; facebook.com/carytaipei101

The Original N.Y. Pizza “Consistent every visit.”

831 Bass Pro Lane, Cary; (919) 677-8484 2763 N.C. 55, Cary; (919) 363-1007 6458 Tryon Road, Cary; (919) 852-2242 theoriginalnypizza.com

Tangerine Café “From Thai to Vietnamese to Korean to Indonesian.”

2422 SW Cary Parkway, Cary; (919) 468-8688; tangerinecafecary.com

Totopos Street Food & Tequila “A walk through … Mexico City.”

1388 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 678-3449; totoposfoodandtequila.com/cary

Tazza Kitchen “Wood-fired cooking and craft beverages.”

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

Tribeca Tavern “Handcrafted burgers, homegrown beer.”

500 Ledgestone Way, Cary; (919) 465-3055; facebook.com/TribecaTavern

Thai Spices & Sushi “Freshest, most-authentic Thai cuisine and sushi.” 986 High House Road, Cary; (919) 319-1818; thaispicesandsushi.com

Udupi Café “Authentic south Indian vegetarian cuisine.”

590 E. Chatham St., Cary; (919) 465-0898; sriudupicafe.com

SHORT ON

DOUGH?

AMERICAN CUISINE MENU

Lunch Specials from 11am to 4pm Monday - Friday

2 One Topping Slices and a Soft Drink $6.99 Pick 2....House/Caesar/Hummus/Soup/Chicken Salad & drink $6.99

Tuesday

One Topping Small Pizza (dine-in only) $5.00

Thursday

Club Day! Choose from either of our delicious club sandwichs, chips & drink $8.99

Friday

Calzone Day! A Calzone with 2 Toppings $9.99

AMERICAN CUISINE MENU WITH A FRENCH FLAIR 200 S ACADEMY STREET

4300 NW Cary Parkway • Cary, NC 919-463-7779

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

|

CARY

919.377.0509 ACADEMYSTREETBISTRO.COM

Dining Guide The Urban Turban “A fusion of flavors.”

2757 N.C. 55, Cary; (919) 367-0888; urbanturbanbistro.com Verandah “Southern casual environment in a modern, boutique hotel.”

301 A. Academy St., Cary; (919) 670-5000; verandahcary.com

APEX Abbey Road Tavern & Grill 1700 Center St., Apex; (919) 372-5383; abbeyroadnc.com Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.”

100 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 267-6237; annaspizzeria.com Apex Wings Restaurant & Pub “Time-tested eatery serving up chicken wings and craft beers.”

518 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 387-0082;apexwings.com

Daniel’s

VomFass Vinegar, Oil & Spice Shop “Taste our premium olive oils and specialty vinegars before you buy.”

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

Big Mike’s Brew N Que “Beers on tap to compliment locally sourced, farm-to-table BBQ.” 2045 Creekside Landing Drive, Apex; (919) 338-2591; brewnquenc.com

Belgian Café “From Brussels to Apex.”

1232 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 372-5128; belgian-cafe.com

• Fresh Salads • Sandwiches • Kabobs

Catering Available For All Events!

Restaurant & Catering

Cooking the BEST New York Italian food in Western Wake since 1993!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020 20 20

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

Visit ruckuspizza.com for area locations.

s u m m u Y e h T

e t s a T #

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2020 20 20

1430 W. Williams Street | Apex, NC 919-303-1006 danielsapex.com

1347 Kildaire Farm Road • Cary • 919-300-5586 9650 Strickland Road • Raleigh • 919-847-2700 411 W. Morgan Street • Raleigh • 919-300-5064

CARY MAGAZINE 91

Dining Guide Common Grounds Coffee House & Desserts “The highest-quality, locally roasted coffee.”

219 N. Salem St., Suite 101, Apex; (919) 387-0873; commongroundsapex.com Doherty’s Irish Pub “Catch the game or listen to live music.” ​​5490 Apex Peakway, Apex; ​(919) 387-4100; dohertysirishpubnc.com

Daniel’s Restaurant & Catering “Pasta dishes, hand-stretched pizzas and scratch-made desserts.” 1430 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-1006; danielsapex.com Buttercream’s Bake Shop “Wholesome, scratch-baked.”

101 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 362-8408; buttercreamsbakeshop.com

Salem Street Pub “Friendly faces and extensive menu.”

113 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 387-9992; salemstreetpub.com Scratch Kitchen and Taproom “Asian-influenced American cuisine” 225 N. Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5370; scratchkitchenandtaproom.com

Five Guys Burgers & Fries 1075 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 616-0011; fiveguys.com

Skipper’s Fish Fry “Homemade from our own special recipes.”

1001 E. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-2400; skippersfish.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits “Great food always, with a side of good times.”

1055 Pine Plaza Drive, Apex; (919) 446-6333; ruckuspizza.com

The Provincial “Fresh. Simple.” 119 Salem St., Apex; (919) 372-5921; theprovincialapex.com

Rudy’s Pub & Grill “Comfortable and familiar, just like home.”

780 W. Williams St., Apex; (919) 303-5061; rudysofapex.com

The Wake Zone Espresso “Your special home away from home.”

6108 Old Jenks Road, Apex; (919) 267-4622; thewakezone.com

The place for Sushi enthusiasts and beginners of Japanese cuisine.

QUALITY IS OUR RECIPE

THE MAGGY AWARDS

HONORABLE MENTION

2020 20 20

HONORABLE MENTION 2017

1361 Kildaire Farm Road | Cary 919.481.0068

(In Shoppes of Kildaire Near Trader Joes) “Ahi Tower” our best seller, selected for the cover of Cary Magazine May/June 2011

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

www.YuriJapaneseRestaurant.com

We are an Italian dining ristorante with a comfortable and casual atmosphere.

We strive to provide each guest with an experience they will remember.

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary (919) 468-7229 www.luganocary.com

Dining Guide Vegan Community Kitchen “Meatless with a Turkish spin.”

803 E Williams St., Apex; (919) 372-5027 vegancommunitykitchen.com

FUQUAY-VARINA Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.”

138 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 285-2497; annaspizzeria.com Aviator SmokeHouse BBQ Restaurant “All of our food is made in-house.”

525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-7675; aviatorbrew.com Jus’ Enuff Home Cooking “Homemade everything.” 736 N Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 567-0587; facebook.com/JusEnuffHomeCookin Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

401 Wake Chapel Road, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 552-3957; lostresmagueyes.com

Sassool “Serving authentic Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine.”

1347 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 300-5586; sassool.com Stick Boy Bread Co. “Handcrafted baked goods from scratch … all natural ingredients.”

127 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 557-2237; stickboyfuquay.com

Clean Juice “Organic juices, smoothies and acai bowls.”

3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 468-8286; cleanjuice.com The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

305 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-5555; themasonjartavern.com

ASHWORTH DRUGS 105 W. Chatham St, Cary NC

WHERE YOUR GOOD HEALTH IS OUR BUSINESS Rx’s Filled Promptly & Professionally Old-Fashioned Soda Fountain Medical Equipment Sales & Rentals Therafirm Compression Hosiery FLA Orthopedic Supports Most Insurance & Med D Plans Accepted Rx Delivery Available

Paul Ashworth, R.Ph.

Cori Strickland, R.Ph.

919.467.1877 Mon.- Fri. 8:30 – 6:00 Sat. 8:30 – 3:30

A Healthy & Delicious Resolution Oils · Vinegars · Spices · Gourmet Foods New Location · 302 Colonades Way Ste. 203 · Cary, NC 27518 CARY MAGAZINE 93

Dining Guide HOLLY SPRINGS

The Original N.Y. Pizza 634 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs (919) 567-0505; theoriginalnypizza.com

Los Tres Magueyes 325 North Main Street, Holly Springs; (919) 552-6272; lostresmagueyes.com

Lugano Ristorante “Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere.”

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary; (919) 468-7229; luganocary.com Wingin’ It Bar and Grille “Serves lunch, dinner and drinks.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 109, Fuquay-Varina; (919) 762-0962; facebook.com/ winginitbarandgrille

MORRISVILLE

Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream “A unique spin on a timeless dessert.”

304 N. Main St., Holly Springs; (919) 762-7808; mamabirdsicecream.com

Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken “Unforgettable rotisserie chicken.”

9575 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 378-9259; alpacachicken.com

My Way Tavern “Freshly made all-American foods.”

301 W. Center St., Holly Springs; (919) 285-2412; mywaytavern.com

Another Broken Egg Café “A totally egg-ceptional experience.”

1121 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 465-1079; anotherbrokenegg.com

Rise Biscuits & Donuts 169 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 586-7343; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Babymoon Café “Pizzas, pastas, seafood, veal, steaks, sandwiches and gourmet salads.”

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

Thai Thai Cuisine “Fresh authentic Thai food.”

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

Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar “The quality of the beef and the toppings make our burgers stand apart.”

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

The Mason Jar Tavern “All the comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.”

114 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs; (919) 964-5060; themasonjartavern.com

Recognized by Cary Magazine Readers as Best Steak House and Date-Night Restaurant!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2006

Hours: Mon-Thurs: 5-10pm Fri-Sat: 5-11pm

94

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

HONORABLE MENTION 2007

HONORABLE MENTION 201 20 13

HON HO NORABLE MENTION 2015 20 15

HON HO NORABLE MENTION 2016 20 16

1130 Buck Jones Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27606 919.380.0122 \ ReysRestaurant.com

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER

WINNER

201 20 18

201 20 19

2020

5 private rooms seating 6-200 guests!

Contact: Christina Reeves at Christina@ReysRestaurant.com

Dining Guide B. Good “Health-conscious versions of fast-food favorites.”

1000 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 234-1937; bgood.com Cantina 18 “Southwestern fare with a southern drawl.”

3305 Village Market Place, Morrisville (919) 694-5618 18restaurantgroup.com/cantina-18-morrisville Capital City Chop House “Perfect place for a business lunch or dinner or a quick bite before catching a flight.”

151 Airgate Drive, Morrisville; (919) 484-7721; chophousesofnc.com Clean Juice “Organic juices, smoothies and acai bowls.”

3035 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 468-8286; cleanjuice.com Desy’s Grill & Bar “Straightforward pub grub at a relaxed sports bar.”

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

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill “Steaks, seafood, chicken and ribs, all seared over local hickory, oak and pecan wood.”

3200 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 653-0111; morrisville.firebirdsrestaurants.com Fount Coffee + Kitchen “Coffee and a menu that is 100 percent gluten-free.”

10954 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (984) 888-5454; fountcoffee.com The Full Moon Oyster Bar & Seafood Kitchen “Homemade recipes handed down over the years.”

1600 Village Market Place, Morrisville; (919) 378-9524; fullmoonoysterbar.com G. 58 Modern Chinese Cuisine “Master chefs from China create an unforgettable fine dining experience.”

10958 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 466-8858; g58cuisine.com Georgina’s Pizzeria & Restaurant “Mouthwatering homemade Italian dishes.”

3536 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3820; georginaspizzeriaandrestaurant.com

Yuri Japanese Restaurant “For sushi fans and connoisseurs of Japanese cuisine.” 1361 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary; (919) 481-0068; yurijapaneserestaurant.com HiPoke “Fresh Fun Poke.”

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

KIDS EAT FREE!

*

*MONDAY/TUESDAY IN JANUARY/FEBRUARY (WITH PAID ADULT MEAL)

MAGGY AWARD WINNING

MOST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT - 5 YEARS RUNNING BEST PIZZERIA BEST OUTDOOR DINING BEST APPETIZER

WWW.RUCKUSPIZZA.COM CARY MAGAZINE 95

Dining Guide Neomonde “A wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary Mediterranean menu items.”

10235 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (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, Morrisville; (919) 694-5300; nothingbundtcakes.com

Five Guys Burgers and Fries “Fresh ingredients, hand-prepared.”

Visit fiveguys.com for area locations.

Peppers Market and Sandwich Shop “Local baked breads, fresh in-house roasted meats.”

2107 Grace Park Drive, Morrisville; (919) 380-7002; peppersmrkt.com Rise Biscuits & Donuts “Old school, new school, and specialty donuts.”

1100 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 377-0385; risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Los Tres Magueyes 9605 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 481-9002; lostresmagueyes.com

Ruckus Pizza, Pasta & Spirits 1101 Market Center Drive, Morrisville; (919) 388-3500; ruckuspizza.com Saffron Restaurant & Lounge “Gourmet Indian dining experience.”

4121 Davis Drive, Morrisville; (919) 469-5774; saffronnc.com Smokey’s BBQ Shack “Meats are dry rubbed with love and slow smoked with hickory wood.”

10800 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville; (919) 469-1724; smokeysshack.com Taste Vietnamese “Prepared with passion and perfected through generations.”

152 Morrisville Square Way, Morrisville; (919) 234-6385; tastevietnamese.com Tra’Ii Irish Pub & Restaurant “An authentic and satisfying taste of Irish country cooking.”

3107 Grace Park Drive, Morrisville; (919) 651-9083; traliirishpub.com

“A twist on a traditional beer garden” With an indoor and outdoor beer garden, surrounded by games and activities for both kids and adults alike.

Thanks to all of our Customers for voting for Five Guys!

THE MAGGY AWARDS

HONORABLE MENTION

2020 20 20

1075 Pine Plaza Drive - APEX Next to COSTCO 919-616-0011

Parkside Town Commons Hwy. 55 & O’Kelly Chapel Rd. 919-380-0450

Find All Metro Area Locations at www.fiveguys.com

1080 Darrington Drive • Cary, NC 27513

919.459.5874 biergartencary.com

96

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Dining Guide Village Deli & Grill “Wholesome homemade foods.”

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

Anvil’s Cheesesteaks “Authentic Philadelphia experience.”

2893 Jones Franklin Road, Raleigh (919) 854-0558 facebook.com/AnvilsCheesesteaks

ZenFish Poké Bar “Guilt-free, healthy, fast-casual dining.”

9924 Chapel Hill Road, Morrisville (919) 234-0914; zenfishpokebar.com

Rey’s “Fine dining with a French Quarter flair.”

1130 Buck Jones Road, Raleigh (919) 380-0122; reysrestaurant.com

Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar “Consistent service and quality food to keep patrons happy.”

301 Market Center Drive, Morrisville (919) 467-1718; traviniaitaliankitchen.com

RALEIGH Angus Barn “World-renowned for its service.”

9401 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh; (919) 781-2444; angusbarn.com Annelore’s German Bakery “Pastries using the finest local ingredients.”

1249 Farmers Market Drive, Raleigh (919) 294-8040; facebook.com/AnneloresGermanBakery

Barry’s Café “A restaurant that honors firefighters.”

2851 Jones Franklin Road, Raleigh; (919) 859-3555; barryscafe.com The Big Easy Oven & Tap “Modern, Southern kitchen with New Orleans roots.”

222 Fayetteville St., Raleigh (919) 832-6082; thebigeasyovenandtap.com Mandolin “World class food, wine and spirits in a soulful, comforting atmosphere.”

2519 Fairview Road, Raleigh (919) 322-0365; mandolinraleigh.com The Pit “Authentic whole-hog, pit-cooked barbecue.”

328 W. Davie St., Raleigh; (919) 890-4500; thepit-raleigh.com

Authentic Italian and French Restaurant, Market and Wine Bar

Pro’s for all your dining, catering and Italian Market needs & cravings Serving lunch and dinner

211 East Chatham Street, Car y

•

919.377.1788

prosepicurean.com

Visit our website for our catering and dinner menu's

CARY MAGAZINE 97

R A L E I G H ’ S N E W E V E N T S PA C E F O R W E D D I N G S | R E C E P T I O N S | C O R O P O R AT E E V E N T S Beautifully renovated building in Five Points area Covered terrace with skyline view • Arched wood barrel ceiling • Intimate to 500+ guests 1125 Capital Blvd. • 919-833-7900 • thefairviewraleigh.com • Follow us @thefairviewraleigh.com • Managed by THEMEWORKS 98

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Honorable Mentions

Best Appetizers, Best Cocktails, Best Date Night Restaurant, Best Outdoor Dining

Most Kid-Friendly

Best Hair Salon

2020

Winners Johnny’s Pizza

Best Florist Shop

Best Pizzeria

Best Pet Services

$10 OFF Best Yoga Studio

ANY SINGLE ITEM AAA Carolinas • Anjappar Authentic Chettinaad • BB&T • Cary Gymnastics • Chick-Fil-A Clean Eatz • Cornerstone Pediatric • F45 Training • Flip Dry CleanerOVER • Harris $50 Teeter

- fragrance - accessories J&F Gemelli Salon • Jimmy John’s • Johnny’s Pizza • Kilwin’sapparel Chocolates & Ice Cream

yoga classes & workshops Lemon Shark Poke • Navi Nails Spa • Preston Flowers • Red Bowl Asian Bistro • Republic of Yoga (limit 1 Coupon - Expires 10/31/2018) Sport Clips • Tazza Kitchen The UPS Store • Tribeca Tavern • True Rest Float Spa (COMING SOON) Verizon • Walgreens • Woof Gang Bakery • Zebra Robotics

WWW. STONECREEKVILLAGECARY .COM

HIGH HOUSE & DAVIS | 919.467.8880

small business spotlight

The Closet Factory EDITED BY AMBER KEISTER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY JONATHAN FREDIN

FOR SUE AND MIKE PAIL, home organization is a yearround business, not a once-a-year resolution.

The couple, who are both trained as engineers, opened their Closet Factory franchise 14 years ago, and moved their factory and showroom to Apex a little more than a year ago. Now with more than 30 employees, the business has grown steadily, built on clients’ desires to use their space more efficiently.

While the company does install custom pantries, laundry rooms, home offices and garages, its core business is remodeling closets. Even in new homes, Sue Pail says, builders will often install only basic wire shelving.

Another constant has been customer service. With a company motto of “Build Around You,” Closet Factory’s design consultants question clients to better understand the issues they face — their inventory, their style and their budget. They will even measure a client’s shoes so that 4 or 5 pairs will fit on a closet shelf — not 4 pairs and a single shoe.

Creating solutions for clients is one of the highlights of the business, Sue Pail says. Recently she unpacked a few more details about the company.

What attracted you to the franchise?

Out of college, Mike and I worked in companies varying in size from a few employees to hundreds of thousands. One common theme was that we were doing work for others and not in control of our product. We did not have a lot of business experience, so the prospect of working with a franchise and having a support network of other owners across the country was appealing. Closet Factory, in particular, put a large value on solving problems for their customers, providing great quality and customer service.

What is your most common install?

We mostly do closets, because most homes don't come with much more than wire shelving or a cleat and rod solution. Even when a builtin closet is provided, it is not always functional for the homeowner.

Home offices are also popular due to the large number of people who work from home in this area. It is hard to find a desk unit off the shelf that fits your style and also works with your space. We take the time to make sure all of the outlets are accessible, there is enough work surface space, and there is the appropriate amount of drawers and cabinets.

The screen-to-machine design and manufacturing process allows for an efficient use of materials, because the closet components fit together like puzzle pieces. A giant vacuum collects the sawdust, which is donated to several local horse farms and repurposed as animal bedding.

100 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Any unique projects?

We had a client who wanted to customize their truck to become a mobile clothing store — like a food truck but for clothing. We created storage for hanging clothes and drawers that locked shut so they did not open when driving. It even had lighting incorporated into the design.

What makes Apex a good location?

Our current location is close to many of our clients, making it easy for them to visit our showroom and factory. We love to give tours! We also manufacture everything right here in Apex, so being so close to our customers makes it convenient for installing.

What’s been your biggest challenge as a business owner?

One of the biggest challenges as a business owner is making decisions on growth and investment in the business. When we began the business in 2006, we had to be careful about investing too much, because the economy was not very stable.

As the economy has improved and we have grown, we have continued to improve our processes, so the whole experience — from design to installation — goes as smoothly as possible. Sometimes that required large investments in tools like our state-of-the-art design software, which helps clients visualize the product they are considering purchasing.

“With a professionally installed system our clients will end up with a solution to how to use their space the way they need it,” says Sue Pail, demonstrating how clothes can be hung all the way to the top of a high ceiling.

Mike and Sue Pail worked with a franchise broker to find the right company for them. The deciding factor, she says, was the company’s commitment to customer service, the quality product and the network of franchise owners across the country.

What’s been the most surprising aspect of owning a business?

One of the most surprising aspects is how many different things you have to think about in a given day. From hiring, purchasing equipment, advertising, payroll, to what type of paper towels to use in the restrooms, there is never a shortage of decisions to be made.

The most important thing is to have the right people around you.

You want people who you trust to make the right decisions, so you don't have to do it all yourself. We have been very lucky at Closet Factory to have had so many great people to work with and to help provide the experience we want our clients to have. t 2031 Production Drive, Apex (919) 773-8990 closetfactory.com/locations/raleigh

Using a suction lift, production technician Adam McDade moves a heavy piece of plywood so it can be cut into closet components.

CARY MAGAZINE 101

H E ADING SOME WHERE Turn your blowout into an Uptini!

Book now at Drybar.com or on our app.

LocatedatatWaverly Waverly Place Located Place Midtown East store is now East open!

Coming soon to Midtown

Caring Vision Solutions that Enhance Peoples’ Lives Comprehensive vision & eye health examinations • Designer eyewear & premium sunglass gallery One-year frame & lens warranty • Overnight Sight - Corneal Reshaping for vision correction and myopia control

We accept most medical & vision insurance Family Owned and Operated by Dr. Dwight Barnes & Dr. Kelly Barnes

THE MAGGY AWARDS

HONORABLE MENTION

2020 20 20

10110 Green Level Church Road • Suite 102 • Cary, NC Conveniently Located at Cary Park Town Center (919) 465-7400 • CaryFamilyEyeCare.com 102 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

garden adventurer WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY L.A. JACKSON

The Dogwoods of Winter IF I TOLD YOU I will be enjoying dogwoods in full flower this winter, you might think: (1) I’m still gulping spiked eggnog leftover from the holidays; or (2) some mad plant breeder has been tinkering with dogwood genes.

Neither is the case. Instead, I have become acquainted with the Japanese cornel dogwood (Cornus officinalis), a non-GMO, real deal of a beauty from the Orient that shakes off the shivers of cold weather to grace barren winter landscapes with unexpected blooms.

Now, about the blooms. Take images you have of blushing white, rounded, four-petal flowers and tuck them away, because the cornel dogwood’s blossoms don’t even remotely resemble the spring displays of a typical southern dogwood (Cornus florida). Imagine branches heavily laced with bright yellow — not white — sprite-like flowers that look like stars bursting. That’s the delightful show this unusual dogwood puts on in mid-February during mild winters, or more typically, in early March. This display is followed by small, oblong red fruit, which are usually eagerly gobbled up by birds. continued on page 104

Spring Glow Dogwood

CARY MAGAZINE 103

continued from page 103

The cornel dogwood is a small, deciduous tree with a semi-open habit. It will top out at about 20 to 25 feet and about as wide. Want less? Try ‘Kintoki’, a compact cutie that restrains itself to around 15 feet tall and wide.

A site that has well-worked, organically enriched soil will help get this alt-dogwood off to a good start.

However, since the Triangle is on the southern end of its preferred planting zones, try to locate it where it will bask in morning sunlight but receive shady relief from summer afternoon heat.

Japanese cornel dogwood is not a one-off, eyecatching oddity. Its near-doppelganger is the cornelian cherry dogwood (Cornus mas) from southern Europe with similar displays of small yellow flowers and red berries. The J.C. Raulston introduction ‘Spring Glow’ is generally the most common cultivar to be found.

Speaking of finding, if you are interested in either of these seasonally strange dogwoods, get ready to do some searching. They aren’t common sights at local nurseries, so call your favorite garden centers for availability either from them or their wholesalers.

Online ordering is another option, but to make the search easier, include cultivar names (‘Kintoki’ or ‘Spring Glow’). I have found stocks vary seasonally, so if you don’t first succeed, keep trying — these beauties are worth the hunt!

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.

Winter Daphne

TIMELY TIP

12 9

3

While Japanese cornel dogwoods and cornelian cherry 6 dogwoods are visual feasts during the winter, they are not the only woody ornamentals capable of putting on unexpected shows in the garden during these chilly times. There are other hardy bushes and small trees that can grace late winter and early spring landscapes, with flowers that are a treat for the eyes and the nose.

Many witch hazels (Hamamelis sp.) conjure up their fragrant blooms on the coldest of days, as do the aptly named wintersweet (Chimonanthus praecox) and winter honeysuckle (Lonicera fragrantissima). Ditto for the perfumed blossoms of two small evergreens: sweetbox (Sarcococca sp.) and winter daphne (Daphne odora).

To Do in the GARDEN January

February

• On a day when it is sunny and semi-warm, turn over. No, not while napping, but rather turn over the organic ingredients in

• If you have swaths of monkey grass (Liriope sp.) snaking about your landscape, before new growth begins, tidy them up by

your compost pile to help keep the decomposition process going strong. Also, turn soil over in garden areas designated for annuals this spring to fluff up the dirt and, more importantly, expose overwintering bad bugs to freezing, killing temperatures.

• Trouble could be in store for your houseplants if you are watering them straight from the tap this winter. Such chilly water can shock sensitive plants, which could result in the dropping of leaves. Allow water to warm to room temperature in a container before giving any houseplant a refreshing drink.

• Have squirrels enjoyed digging in your bulb beds this winter?

Spread chicken wire as a deterrent over the ground and secure (as well as hide) it with an inch or two of mulch.

104 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

cutting old foliage back to about 3 to 4 inches above ground with a string trimmer or, for faster, more even results, a lawn mower.

• If you have swaths of fescue grass gracing your yard, the middle of this month is a good time to apply a pound of nitrogen fertilizer per 1000 feet of lawn to jump-start the spring growing season to come.

• Thinking about adding a birdbath to your landscape? To prevent predators such as cats and snakes from setting up stalking stands, don’t tuck it too close to bushy shrubs or small trees.

Proudly Serving the Triangle as your Local Auto Repair Shop

since 1998

39

$

95 + tax

WINTER CHECK

Oil change, tire rotation, brake and battery check, top off fluids, regulate air pressure. (most cars and light trucks, up to 5 quarts of synthetic oil blend) Coupon valid for any authorized service.

Not valid with any other offer. CM-WINTER-20. Expires 4/30/20.

THE MAGGY AWARDS

THE MAGGY AWARDS

WINNER 2019

2020 WINNER 2019

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CARY MAGAZINE 105

happenings

“Diego on My Mind,” by Frida Kahlo, 1943, left, and “Calla Lily Vendor,” 1943, by Diego Rivera, are both from the Jacques and Natasha Gelman Collection of 20th-Century Mexican Art. Copyright, 2018 Banco de México Diego Rivera Frida Kahlo Museums Trust, Mexico, D.F.

AN INTIMATE LOOK AT FRIDA KAHLO AND DIEGO RIVERA NCMA exhibit continues through Jan. 19 WRITTEN BY AMBER KEISTER

106 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

FEW ARTISTS HAVE captured the public's imagination like Mexican artists Frida Kahlo and her husband, Diego Rivera.

“Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, and Mexican Modernism,” at the N.C. Museum of Art through Jan. 19, presents the paintings of these two icons of the 20th century. Rather than a comprehensive survey of Kahlo and Rivera, the exhibit is a highly personal collection by the couple’s patrons and friends — Jacques and Natasha Gelman.

The couple first met Rivera to commission a portrait of Natasha Gelman, and soon got to know his wife, Frida Kahlo. Over the years, the Gelmans acquired works by both artists.

“They were really prescient, in a way, because Diego was a big star during his lifetime, not only in Mexico but also around the world,” said Jennifer Dasal, NCMA curator of modern and contemporary art. “His wife was known, mostly in art circles and mostly in Mexico and few other places for her art. She wasn't renowned as an artist the same way that she is today.”

At the time, Rivera was famous for his large-scale murals in Mexico and the United States, mostly depicting history, cultural revolution and the struggles of the common man. The NCMA exhibit is a chance to compare their careers, says Dasal, who admits that most visitors will be attracted by Kahlo’s work.

“Frida’s work is really more about her life and her experiences. One third of her artistic output was self-portraiture,” she said.

“She makes her life the center of her work, and so, we really believe we get to know her in that way. She opens up herself and her life in a way that very few artists do.”

In addition to paintings by Kahlo and Rivera, the exhibit includes candid photographs of the couple and the stylish Kahlo, whose personal charisma and flamboyant fashions attracted attention wherever she went.

For more information, including ticket prices and times, visit ncartmuseum.org.

White Oak Foundation Inc. of Apex, a nonprofit which aims to address hunger, promotes home ownership and establish economic independence, recently received a $40,000 GSK IMPACT Award. The awards, which went to 10 local nonprofits in recognition of their contributions to a healthier Triangle, were announced during a November ceremony at GSK’s RTP location. In the Triangle, the awards are presented in partnership with the Triangle Community Foundation. The other recipients are:

• Club Nova Community Inc., Carrboro

• Code the Dream, Durham

• GiGi’s Playhouse, Raleigh

• Learning Together, Raleigh

• Marian Cheek Jackson Center, Chapel Hill

• Passage Home Inc., Raleigh

• Refugee Community Partnership, Carrboro

• SEEDS, Durham

• TABLE, Carrboro Erin O’Loughlin, 3 Bluebirds founder

3 BLUEBIRDS FARM, a local nonprofit serving youth on the autism spectrum, raised more than $125,000 at its annual Bluebird Ball in November. The board of directors also announced the purchase of 28 acres of farmland in south Raleigh. The nonprofit will relocate to the new property, and staff expect to host camps there by spring 2020. 3bluebirdsfarm.org

CANDICE YAGMIN, founder of CY Design Studio, recently opened 919 Designs, a retail shop located at 955 N. Harrison Ave. in Cary.

The shop will showcase handcrafted goods from local and regional artisans, including home furnishings from Raleigh-based VP Wood Furnishings, creative compositions in wood from Jeremy Gould of Stains and Grains and skincare products from Maypop Soap Co. 919designs.com.

CARY MAGAZINE 107

happenings

Durham-based designer,

Zankhna Parekh launched her Fall/Winter Zaftan

collection in October with a fashion show at The Mayton Inn. A diverse group of models included Jessica McDonald, U.S. Women’s Soccer World Cup champion and N.C. Courage player. Proceeds from the event went to Hope Project Futbol, a nonprofit that organizes soccer programs for low-income children with intellectual and physical disabilities in the Triangle. zankhna.com

NIHAR THAKKAR, a student at Green Hope High School,

NATIONAL PAWN,

collected nearly 100 pounds of oral

a North Carolina pawn retailer,

health supplies and $1,000 for the North

donated more than 100 musical

Carolina Dental Society Foundation’s

instruments and $2,000 to Cary’s

annual Dental Supply Drive. In November,

Reedy Creek Middle School in

the foundation donated more than 1,300

October. The school received

pounds of oral health essentials to the

trumpets, saxophones, clarinets,

USO of North Carolina. Toothbrushes,

flutes, trombones, drums, guitars,

toothpaste, floss, mouthwash and sugar-

recorders and more. The gift is part

free gum were collected for military

of National Pawn’s efforts to support music education in North Carolina. Since 2010, the

service personnel to help troops maintain

company has donated more than 4,200 instruments and $74,000 in cash to 24 public

their oral health. ncdentalfoundation.org

performing arts programs in the state. nationalpawnshops.com.

Aurora DeLuca, who

Overflowing Hands, a Raleigh nonprofit that supports

specializes in newborn and

held at the Angus Barn in September. Overflowing Hands is best known for

childhood photography,

its Belarussian Outreach Spectacular Summer program, which has brought

recently joined My Friend

more than 350 Belarussian children to the United States over the past 14 years

Teresa Studios in Cary.

to get a respite from lingering radiation from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

myfriendteresa.com

overflowinghands.org

The recent sale of LORD

vulnerable children, raised more than $180,000 at a Casino Royale fundraiser

CORPORATION, a privately-held manufacturing company based in Cary, has led to the distribution

of more than $1 billion to four charitable foundations that support institutions seeking to advance education and research. Cleveland Clinic, Duke University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the University of Southern California will receive $261 million each. lord.com

108 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Coming Together in Faith.

Working Together in Service.

Helping Neighbors in Need for 50 years.

At Dorcas Ministries, we provide compassionate assistance to Cary and Morrisville residents in need through emergency financial assistance, training, scholarships, food assistance and an affordable thrift shop. Our main goal? To help people become stable and self-sufficient. It’s why in 2019 alone, we helped over 24,000 of our neighbors in need. To join our mission or learn more, visit dorcascary.org.

RDS Y AWA G G A EM

TH

ER N N I W 20 20

CARY MAGAZINE 109

happenings

CAROLINA LILY CHAPTER OF THE NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE met in November at the Members of the

Herb Young Community Center in Cary to fill more than 1,500 holiday stockings for three local nonprofits. Volunteers sewed and

Gymnasts from the

Grace Gymnastics

Academy in Cary placed second in their division at the World Cup of Aesthetic Group Gymnastics competition in Tallinn, Estonia, in October. The team, comprised of gymnasts ranging from ages 8-10, was led by Olga Bogdan, founder of Grace

decorated the stockings, which were stuffed with donated toiletries, toys, candy and other gifts. The stockings were distributed to Brown Bag Ministries, the USO of North Carolina and the Ronald McDonald House. nationalcharityleague.org

Gymnastics. Aesthetic group gymnastics, a relatively new sport

Susan G. Komen North Carolina Triangle to the Coast,

in the United States, combines elements of rhythmic gymnastics,

in partnership with Susan G. Komen Charlotte, has been awarded a

dance and acrobatics. grace-gymnastics-nc.com

$150,000 challenge grant in support of its From Action to Impact project by the SECU Foundation. From Action to Impact: Improving Breast Cancer Care in NC Through Navigation and Collaborative Partnerships

HIRE STRATEGIES

is a two-year initiative to collect data in support of a new communitybased model for breast cancer care. The SECU Foundation has invested

has been recognized by

$150,000 in

the Triangle Business

the project and

Journal as one of the

has challenged

50 fastest-growing private companies in

the Komen

the Triangle. Sonya

affiliates to raise

Hopson, HIRE Strategies CEO, founded the agency in 2013 after

an additional

spending many years as a successful recruiter at other firms.

$100,000.

hire-strategies.com

komennctc.org

In November, the LUCY

DANIELS CENTER was honored with the 2019 Anna Freud Educational Achievement Award,

presented by The American Psychoanalytic Association. The annual award is presented to a school that furthers psychoanalytically informed work in pre-K-12 education. Lucy Daniels Center is the largest nonprofit provider of mental and behavioral health services exclusively for children in the Triangle, serving more than 700 children and their families yearly. lucydanielscenter.org 110 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

17001 SEARSTONE DRIVE

GOGETTERS

CARY, NC

WE’RE LOOKING FOR A FEW

MADISON WALKER from Cary was crowned Miss Teen World America during a national competition held in Las Vegas in October. Her prize package, valued at $10,000, includes a scholarship, jewelry, clothing and a trip to Ireland. The 17-year-old is a senior at Cary Academy. missworldamerica.com

People who are ready to embrace the future and know a great opportunity when they see one.

Those are the people who have come to call Searstone home in retirement.

And now, as we set off on a program of exciting improvements to our six-year-old Cary campus, a few select residences are now available for those who are ready to take their place in our mix of fascinating folks.

Pepper Choplin is

To learn more about immediate opportunities at Searstone or our upcoming expansion, call us: 919.891.8678

the new music director for the Cary Community Choir, leading the ensemble THE MAGGY AWARDS

after David Mellnik’s retirement last year.

Choplin has conducted original cantatas at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and

RETIREMENT LIVING with INTEREST

WINNER 2020

Raleigh's Meymandi Auditorium. His published works include more than 300 anthems for church and school choirs.

SEARSTONE.COM

carycommunitychoir.org CARY MAGAZINE 111

happenings

For the History of the Harvest exhibit,

N.C. Museum of History and representatives from the

the N.C. Sweet Potato Commission gathered to harvest sweet potatoes in October. The exhibit featured a variety of crops vital to North Carolina’s economy, planted in an urban garden in downtown Raleigh. This year’s crop — more than 80 pounds of sweet potatoes — was donated to the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carolina. ncmuseumofhistory.org

Coastal Credit Union's newest branch is open at 7103 NC Highway 751 at the Hope Valley Commons shopping center in Durham.

The 2,800-square-foot branch replaces a storefront branch at Southpoint Crossing. coastal24.com 112 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

South State Bank has provided more than $50,000 in support to nonprofit organizations in the Raleigh area, including William Peace University, A Place at the Table, The Green Chair Project, the N.C. Symphony, A.E. Finley YMCA, Wake Smiles, Artsplosure, CASA, Habitat for Humanity and DHIC Home to Opportunity. “These donations are symbolic of our commitment to the Triangle,” said Ben Collier, above, Raleigh market president. southstatebank.com

LM RESTAURANTS, a family-owned hospitality management company headquartered in Raleigh, donated $13,050 to the American Cancer Society in November. Seven LM Restaurant locations offered a signature pink martini in October, and for each cocktail sold, $1 was donated to the nonprofit. Other funds were raised at the company’s Carolina Ale House locations, and a direct donation was made by Tito’s Handmade Vodka. LMRest.com

CARY MAGAZINE 113

write light

BY JONATHAN FREDIN

Fish, Out of water WATER LEVELS ARE LOW, and the birds are wading in. Ever since Wake County partially drained Cary’s Bond Lake to make renovations to the Bond Lake Dam, record numbers of great blue herons and great egrets have been flocking to the shallow waters to feed on a concentrated area of fish. Lake levels are expected to return to normal in March, after the dam is reinforced to prevent future erosion.

114

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2020

Your children. Your family.

Your health. Your well-being.

Your transitions. Your place.

WakeMed Cary Hospital From pregnancy and childbirth to everything and anything female, the care is both comprehensive and compassionate. Embracing you and your entire family with outpatient and inpatient surgery, specialty and subspecialty care, 24/7 emergency care, imaging rehab, and more. After all, when it comes to you, your health and the health of your family, you’re the decision maker. And the decision is clearly WakeMed Cary Hospital.

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

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