Main & Broad October/November 2021

Garden of Plenty

bmx phenom

heads to Olympics

a new way to take your tea

Brotherly

Harmony on stage

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

Plus

Renovation realities fab finds for the home vieni ristobar Creative fashion comes back

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

The Home Issue

BEAUTIFUL HOMES & EXCITING AMENITIES With autumn in full swing, discover why Meadow Bluffs is Fuquay-Varina’s favorite new home community.

Our amenities are the perfect way to enjoy fun with family and friends including a sparkling pool with clubhouse, dog park, playground and more. Add in award-winning homes from Massengill Design-Build and it’s clear why Meadow Bluffs is the perfect place to live in “The Quay.”

F U Q U AY- VA R I N A , N C

SEA R C H NEW HO ME S AT ME A DOW B LU F F S.CO M

GRE AT LO C AT I O N | FA M I LY- FUN A M ENITIES | HOM ES FROM THE $400s

Spend a Day in the ‘Quay! - Tour our beautiful parade homes! © 2021 Massengill Design Build. Photos are representational.

Prices and features subject to change without notice.

MassengillDesignBuild.com • (919) 614-2911

OPENING FA L L 2021

FO R L I F E ’ S U N E X P EC T E D M O M E N T S, W E ’ L L B E H E R E .

We’re so excited to call Southern Wake County home and provide you and your family exceptional care with convenient access. With a state-of-the-art emergency department and maternity center, expert surgical services and more, you can have peace of mind knowing that when life happens, we’ll be just around the corner.

LEARN MORE AT: unchealth.org/hollysprings Women’s & Maternity | Surgery | Emergency Room | Orthopedic Care

Because Quality Does Matter

Don’t miss our After Market Sale Nov. 12-14th

Extended Shopping Hours

ISH AM

OAK & CHERRY

Solid Hardwood, American Made, Custom Furniture Designs at Outlet Prices.

2220 Hwy 70 SE | Hickory | North Carolina 28602 Hickory Furniture Mart | South Entrance Level 828.261.4776 | amishoakandcherry.com

ometown H YO U R

R E A LTO R ®

L I V I N G

A N D

W O R K I N G

I N

F U Q U A Y - V A R I N A

Veteran & Female Owned

Tracy Watson, Broker/Realtor

®

From breaking ground to closing day, every step of the way Commission rebate for teachers, nurses, active duty & prior military, and police & firefighters when buying, selling, or building.

919-761-0405 | tracy@missionfirstrealty.com | missionfirstrealty.com

husband) started “ (Mydoing auto detailing,

October/November 2021

CONTENTS 19

then was like, ‘I need your help.’

I’m thinking, ‘I know that.’

”

– Chanel Wilkins, Agents of Clean

IN EVERY ISSUE 12 SEE & DO

Football Fridays, fall festivals and farm fun.

14 DIG IN & DRINK UP

Hometown favorite: Fainting Goat Brewing Company's Belgian Tripel.

16 MEET & GREET

Chris Hinnant, inspections director for the town of Fuquay-Varina

52 RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT

30

Vieni Ristobar in Holly Springs’ Town Hall Commons

56 RISE & DINE

FEATURES Advice and inspiration for your fall planting from the Fuquay-Varina Garden Tour's gardening gurus.

52

30 RENOVATION REALITIES 42 AGENT OF CHANGE A brother/sister team take on a downtown Fuquay rebuild.

38 FALL FOR IT

Home decor, art and accessories to love.

6 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Work hard, love harder — Holly Springs advocate, Chanel Wilkins, does both for her community.

46 EXPRESS YOURSELF

Local lifestyle influencers coach us through a fall fashion comeback.

60 FUN & MEMES

House hunting in southern Wake?

Fuquay-Varina Memes pens a primer.

64 SEEN & HEARD

Community news and accolades

66 IN FOCUS

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

19 GARDEN OF PLENTY

Discover your new favorite restaurant in our dining guide.

“

reader

What’s something you love about your home?

Letters

”

October/November 2021 • Volume 3, Number 5 EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher Kris Schultz, Publisher

OUR SCREENED PORCH — WITH THE FIREPLACE IT'S USED ALMOST YEAR-ROUND

EDITORIAL

THE DECK

Emily Uhland, Senior Editor Conner Altman Amber Keister Shannon Hartsoe CONTRIBUTORS

OUR SMALL — BUT GROWING — COLLECTION OF PAINTINGS

BY LOCAL ARTISTS

Fuquay-Varina Memes L.A. Jackson David McCreary Lane Singletary PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

“Thank you all for the support! Excellent article, thank you Main & Broad magazine!”

– ILIA SMIRNOV, CAPE FEAR RIVER ADVENTURES

“Thanks again for the write up. It turned out great!”

– JOHN NEWBURY, GOPHER

PROXIMITY TO GREENWAY ACCESS FOR DAILY BIKE RIDES

“Good job on the story, and Jonathan’s photos are lovely.”

PUBLISHER EMERITUS

Ron Smith Main & Broad is published six 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.

IN THE AUGUST/SEPTEMBER ISSUE THERE WAS A MISSPELLING IN THE TITLE OF THE RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT ON LITTLE PORTUGAL. WE REGRET THE ERROR​.

MAIN & BROAD Westview at Weston 701 Cascade Pointe Lane, Suite 103, Cary, North Carolina 27513 (919) 674-6020 • (800) 608-7500 • Fax (919) 674-6027 www.mainandbroadmag.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.

LET’S BE

! s d n e i r F

ON THE COVER: THE GARDENS OF SOUTHERN WAKE OFFER COLORFUL AND VERDANT FAUNA. LEARN TIPS FROM THE GROWERS ON PAGE 19.

@mbmagazinenc

SPECIAL THANKS TO ALANA OLSEN OF SERENDIPITY DESIGNS FOR COVER STYLING. SERENDIPITYDESIGNSNC.COM PHOTO BY JONATHAN FREDIN

8 October/NOVEMBER 2021

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications Chuck Norman, APR Kristin Black, Accounting Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager Lisa White, Circulation Coordinator Valerie Renard, Human Resources

CORRECTIONS: STATISTICS ON THE GROWTH OF CAPE FEAR RIVER ADVENTURES WERE REPORTED INCORRECTLY. THE COMPANY HAS GROWN MORE THAN 3,000% SINCE 2012.

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Jennifer Casey, Senior Graphic Designer Lauren Earley, Graphic Designer Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer Beth Harris, Graphic Designer Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer

ADMINISTRATIVE

– ALAN WOLF, UNC HEALTH

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PRODUCTION

A LIFE-SIZED GOLDEN RETRIEVER SCULPTURE NAMED GOLDIE — HE'S THE MOST OBEDIENT MEMBER OF OUR FAMILY!

Main & Broad 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 Fuquay-Varina 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 equalopportunity basis.

WakeMed Cary Hospital Medical District

A New Community of Care, Caring and Compassion.

With the addition of two new medical office buildings in the Cary Hospital Medical District, WakeMed Physician Practices and support services continue to expand. Both the Medical Park of Cary and HealthPark at Kildaire have opened to rave reviews. Add to that our new 40-bed surgery nursing unit and WakeMed Cary Hospital’s care and treatment capabilities are now more comprehensive than ever. It all adds up to the highest quality care and caring, increased access and even greater convenience. Learn more at wakemed.org/medical-district.

Medical Park of Cary • 210 PET Imaging • Bariatric Surgery & Medical Weight Loss • Daily Dose Coffee & More • Heart & Vascular – Cardiology • Heart & Vascular – Thoracic Surgery • Heart & Vascular – Vascular Surgery • Maternal Fetal Medicine • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Outpatient Imaging Services • Outpatient Laboratory Services

• • • • •

Outpatient Pharmacy Physical Therapy – Pelvic Health Surgery Urogynecology Urology

HealthPark at Kildaire • Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehab • Healthworks Fitness & Wellness • Neuropsychology • Nutrition Services

• • • • • • • •

Outpatient Laboratory Services Outpatient Rehabilitation Primary Care Pulmonary Function Testing Pulmonology & Sleep Medicine Sleep Center Urgent Care Wake Orthopaedics, Urgent Care & Physical Therapy

WakeMed Cary Hospital 1900 Kildaire Farm Road | Medical Park of Cary 210 Ashville Avenue | HealthPark at Kildaire 110 Kildaire Park Drive | Cary, NC 27518

Editor’s

Letter

This issue

BY THE

Jonathan Fredin

Before now, I have always described myself as having a black thumb. I’m not convinced this year wasn’t a fluke, but a couple things happened recently that have me on the path toward green.

First, we completed a home renovation that included an open kitchen with large sliding doors onto an existing deck and new patio. The changes created a sightline from my front door directly into the back yard, so my husband and I wanted the outside areas to look as beautiful as the inside of our newly refreshed home. Our solution: container gardens.

I added plants in stages, and — amazingly — remembered to water them.

Ninety percent are currently still alive!

Around that same time, I toured four homes on the Fuquay-Varina Garden Tour last spring and was floored by the beautiful landscaping and lush, established gardens. Meeting each homeowner and hearing their advice was wonderful inspiration to pursue my own, small, garden enhancements.

As fall planting season approaches, I hope the lovely photos and thoughtful tips (starting on page 19) offer inspiration and excitement for creating your own outdoor oasis.

In this Home Issue, we’re also sharing locally made home decor items, insight into Fuquay’s building boom and the story of a Holly Springs hometown hero whose love for community starts in the home and explodes outward with unrivaled energy.

Thanks for reading,

EMILY UHLAND SENIOR EDITOR

10 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Numbers

4

Gorgeous gardens to tour

1

Wall saved in a downtown home renovation

29

Fun accessories and decor for a fall home refresh

4

Local lifestyle influencers offer fashion advice

2

Trips to the N.C. State Farmers Market to create the cover

1,013

new home building permits received by the town of Fuquay-Varina during the first half of 2021

FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Concerts, concerts and concerts!!

From Ireland to Spain to North Carolina--If you’re looking for a musical escape, the Arts Center is the place to be. Playing at the Arts Center in October and November: We Banjo 3, The Malpass Brothers, Noche Flamenca, and Christmas with the Embers.

Festivals!

The season for festivals is here—find arts and crafts at the annual Celebrate! festival, October 2; experience performances from around the world at the International Festival, October 16th; and help us welcome in the holiday season at the annual Tree Lighting on December 2!

Get Your Art On! There’s plenty of camps and classes for the kids, with new opportunities for pre-school students and after school art classes.

Track out camps and Teen art can be found on the schedule as well!

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

See Do Festivals and football and farms, oh my!

Destination Depot

FRIDAYS AT 5 P.M.-SUNDAYS AT 7 P.M. DEPOT STREET IN DOWNTOWN FUQUAY VARINA

Dine outdoors or meet friends for cornhole, Jenga and checkers at downtown Fuquay’s Destination Depot, happening every weekend except during select special events, such as Celebrate Fuquay. The street will be closed to cars. Tables and chairs will be set up for public use in an effort to encourage residents to visit downtown and support local businesses.

e Mason Jar Pick up take out from Th and dine on Depot Street!

Attend a Community Festival Celebrate Fuquay-Varina OCT 2 10 A.M.-4 P.M.

Fuquay’s fall festival is back, with live entertainment, local vendors, craft beer and a free kids zone. Don’t miss the Artist Village showcasing original work from local artisans and craftspeople.

Beericana

OCT 9 NOON-5 P.M. SUGG FARM PARK

Revel in a Friday night tradition — football under the stars with an exciting atmosphere, community support and Southern Wake’s best athletes.

Holly Springs Golden Hawks OCT 1, 7 P.M. OCT 15, 7 P.M.

Cheer on the Holly Springs High School varsity football team at home.

Fuuqay-Varina Bengals OCT 8, 7 P.M. OCT 15, 7 P.M.

At the beautiful new campus on Bengal Boulevard.

12 October/NOVEMBER 2021

A craft beer and music festival hosted in Holly Springs since 2014, Beericana showcases dozens of North Carolina breweries with unlimited samples. Food trucks and merchandise available for purchase. Designated drivers consider the "Music Only" ticket.

International Cultural Arts Festival OCT 15 – VIRTUAL OCT 16 – 11 A.M.-3 P.M. FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Hosted by the Cultural Arts Society of Fuquay-Varina, this two-day festival combines virtual and in-person experiences with a virtual Writer's Tea on Friday and live performances, vendors and food trucks on Saturday.

HollyFest

OCT 30 10 A.M.-4 P.M. SUGG FARM PARK

A Holly Springs favorite featuring local artists, small businesses, food trucks, children’s activities and local entertainment.

Photos by Jonathan Fredin

Friday Night Lights

Courtesy of Naylor Family Farm

Fall Farm Fun Naylor Family Farm

OPEN THROUGH NOVEMBER 7 DAILY HOURS VARY 6016 US 401 NORTH, FUQUAY-VARINA

Bring the family to a giant corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayride and petting zoo — complete with mama pig, Mabel, and her piglets in the new Pig Pavilion.

Making the best dressed kids on The Block (919) 285-4854 | The Block on Main - 300 S Main St. Ste. 120, Holly Springs

Willow Oak Farms of Fuquay-Varina

THROUGHOUT OCTOBER WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY 3-9:00 P.M. SATURDAY NOON-9 P.M. SUNDAY 1-9 P.M. 1530 LAFAYETTE ROAD, FUQUAY-VARINA

Visit The Scoop at Willow Oak Farm for fresh-made ice cream, and while you’re at it, pick a pumpkin, tour the farm and produce gardens and enjoy a hayride.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE EMBERS

NOV 24 7:30 P.M. FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

Welcome the Christmas season with the Embers, bringing their Sathveee dat signature sound to all your favorite holiday tunes. A great event for the whole family.

AMENITIES Cyber Café with Coffee Station Resort Style Salt Water Pool 24/7 State-of-the-Art Fitness Center with Wellness Studio Poolside Grilling Area Game Room with Billiards Table Dog Spa Walking Trails

APARTMENT AMENITIES Gourmet Kitchen with Island* Stainless Steel Appliance Package Wood Style Flooring Walk-in & Oversized Closets Granite Countertops in Kitchen & Bathrooms *In select apartments

1101 Club Exchange Drive | Holly Springs, NC 27540 | PH 919.552.8008 | ExchangeAtHollySprings.com

13

Dig in

Drink up

Stiff Leg Belgian Tripel

from Fainting Goat Brewing Company Written by Dave Tollefsen | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

HISTORY: Certain Belgian beer styles — singel, dubbel, tripel,

quadrupel — are reminiscent of a baseball diamond, but have absolutely nothing to do with the sport, brewed originally by Trappist monks at Christian monasteries throughout Belgium.

Of the four Trappist ales, the tripel tends to be the third-highest in alcohol content. One of the theories behind the name stems from markings that were added to the barrels to signify brew strength — a tripel would be marked with three X’s.

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.

FLAVOR: It is a strong golden ale that is

considered “yeast forward,” with Belgian Yeast that traditionally produces wonderful aroma and flavor notes of orange citrus, banana and cloves.

Stiff Leg Belgian Tripel is a beautifully dangerous beer, at 9% ABV — but you would never know it. The beer is sweet with a strong presence of yeast and little, if any, alcohol flavor.

Served in a tulip glass to concentrate the aroma for you to enjoy while you sip.

FAINTING GOAT BREWING COMPANY 330 S. MAIN ST., FUQUAY-VARINA (919) 346-7915 FAINTINGGOATBEER.COM

14 October/NOVEMBER 2021

FAINTING GOAT BREWING COMPANY IS VETERAN- AND WOMAN-OWNED, WITH LOCATIONS IN FUQUAYVARINA AND BENSON.

WHERE COLOR MEETS CRAFTSMANSHIP. Inside or out, the professionals at CertaPro Painters® deliver quality work, professional service, and an unmatched painting experience every time.

Contact us today to schedule your FREE estimate!

$200 OFF YOUR NEXT INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR PROJECT* *Offer applies to your residential painting project of $2,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current 10/31/2021.

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6/31/19. estimates or proposals. Valid at CertaPro Painters® of Cary/Apex. Expires

800-GO-CERTA cary-apex.certapro.com Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated

We Do Painting. You Do Life.®

Meet

Greet

Chris Hinnant

Inspections Director, Town of Fuquay-Varina BACKGROUND: Originally from Wendell. Moved to the Holly Springs area in 1989. Started working for the town of FuquayVarina in 1996. The inspections department had only three fulltime employees at that time.

DAY TO DAY: We handle all building permits for new

construction, additions or renovations to existing homes, along with commercial projects.

CAN’T STOP. WON’T STOP. We averaged 600 new building permits from 2015 to 2018. 2019 was the largest up to that point with 764 new single family home permits. We had a new record year in 2020 — 1,031 new single family home permits. Then January 1 to June 30 of 2021 had 1,013 single family home permits in six months.

INSURANCE POLICY: Residents often look at (inspections) as a hindrance, because we kinda slow the process down. Everything has to be inspected rather than move on quickly. But I try to tell people that we are the cheapest insurance policy you can buy for one of the largest investments you’re ever going to make.

THE DRAW OF THE ’QUAY: The quaintness of the town, the feeling of community. You have growth, but you still have that old town feel that brings people here.

There’s the quaint little town of Fuquay, and now it’s a busy little metropolis.

16 October/NOVEMBER 2021

“

I would encourage folks, if they are going to do a project to call us.

We’re here. We’ll walk you through the process.

”

JONATHAN FREDIN

BACKUP: We are currently hiring for employees No. 21 and 22. I’ve got a great staff helping me maintain this growth. They step up to the plate every day.

We know life can get expensive. If you’re looking for new ways to save money, meet Civic Federal Credit Union.

From affordable loan products to market-leading deposit rates, we’re working to make sure your hard-earned money stays where it belongs. With you.

Visit civicfcu.org/Cary to learn more.

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V isit us at CELEBRATE FUQUAY-VARINA OCT 2 • DOWNTOWN FUQUAY

HOLLYFEST OCT 30 • SUGG FARM PARK

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Connect with your community & Partner with small businesses

Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

How does your garden grow Polish your planting skills with lessons from the gardening gurus of the 2021 Fuquay-Varina Garden Tour.

The Heart + Soul of Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina

?

19

KIM, LEFT, AND LINDA ANDERSON

Earlier this year, the annual Fuquay-Varina Garden Tour, hosted by the Fuquay-Varina Garden Club, showcased eight homes to nearly 400 guests.

Main & Broad got an inside look at four of them.

S

Since moving into their downtown Fuquay-Varina home more than 15 years ago, sisters Linda and Kim Anderson have worked to eliminate their grassy lawn and replace it with winding pathways through dense vegetation and fun garden art.

“Gardening is addicting once you get started,” says Kim. “Plants are surprising,” Linda adds.

“They’ll disappear for two years, then come back.”

START WITH SOIL. A horticulturalist by trade, Linda emphasizes the importance of preparing soil with compost and goodquality mulch. Lay out bed lines with a hose or rope to gauge shape and size.

20 October/NOVEMBER 2021

FIND YOUR FORMULA. The majority of plantings should be native, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for experimentation.

Linda and Kim’s model is: 50% native species, 25% near-native and 25% exotic plants, including an eye-catching pineapple guava tree with edible petals (pictured on page 6).

SURPRISE AND DELIGHT. Alligator sculptures hide among the underbrush, handcrafted mushrooms and garden globes dot swaths of green, and there’s even a painting hung outdoors accenting a stoneware planter.

“All of our garden art is from local artists or we make it,” says Kim, who welds whimsical metal accents and creates mushroom sculptures with concrete.

21

T

The home of Randy and MaryAnn Bryant backs up to Hilltop Needmore Town Park & Preserve in Fuquay-Varina. The lush landscape frequently catches the eye of walkers passing by, as it did last spring when members of the Fuquay-Varina Garden Club stopped to spontaneously recruit the Bryants to participate in the 2021 Garden Tour — it worked.

During the nearly 20 years the Bryants have lived in their home, trees have been felled by hurricanes or disease, and replaced by a layered, shady oasis.

“What you do inside your home, you can do in your garden,” says Randy, a former art teacher. “The same principles of balance, of design, of symmetry are applicable in the garden.”

“

Like a home, (the garden) is never finished.

RANDY BRYANT

REPETITION IS KEY. Planting the same type of plant throughout the garden creates fullness and connects the landscape with a cohesive design.

22 October/NOVEMBER 2021

”

– Randy Bryant

INCLUDE ARCHITECTURAL ELEMENTS. Sculptural features like giant stone planters, a tiered fountain and a mirror break up the washes of foliage in the Bryant’s yard and create an interesting place for your eye to rest.

The mirror, opposite page, was carefully placed to hide the back of the garage, says Randy.

INSPIRATION PROVIDES DIRECTION. Studying French and English gardens helped shape the evolution of Randy’s landscape, as did inspiration from Williamsburg, V.A. “Include well-known gardens in your travel plans,” Randy suggests, to soak in the native plant life and get ideas to bring back home.

P

PAM AND KIRK BOOKER

Pam and Kirk Booker are no strangers to the FuquayVarina Garden Tour, making their fourth appearance on the tour in 2021. Their home’s surrounding landscape, lovingly called “Booker Botanical,” includes an array of hardscape features mixed into the verdant setting.

A wine bottle installation, collection of working lamp posts, 22 water features, garden bells, custom-built arbors and a unique hanging quartzite slab are all peppered throughout the grass pathways that snake through the Booker’s backyard.

“This is our happy place,” says Pam.

CREATE OUTDOOR “ROOMS.” Creative plantings and hardscaping create unique zones within the Booker’s backyard. Unique conifers accent the front of the home. An outdoor fireplace draws an evening crowd. The “perimeter patio,” near the property’s edge, borders a horse farm and provides occasional glimpses of the equine residents.

“By 4 p.m. it’s shaded and the temperature drops. It feels like a different ecosystem,” says Pam.

24 October/NOVEMBER 2021

YOU’RE GONNA NEED PATIENCE. Turning a basic lawn into a botanical oasis happened one tree at a time, Pam says, over the span of several years.

“It’s a labor of love,” she says. “You have to enjoy it.”

PLACEMENT MAKES PERFECT. Planting things in the right place can be the difference between success and failure in the garden. Shade versus sun, appropriate drainage, and nutrient-rich soil are key points to keep in mind.

Pam volunteers as a master gardener in Harnett County, helping others with just those types of garden issues. “We offer education. People call in, and we help identify problems,” she says.

25

H HAYLIE-JO WILTSHIRE

Haylie-Jo Wiltshire’s typical suburban home is located in a typical Fuquay-Varina subdivision on a typical neighborhood street. The drive in reveals little of the whimsical wonderland of flowers that awaits.

Wiltshire never had a garden before this one, but admits to liking “junky stuff ” — vintage and repurposed objects — which became the centerpiece of her backyard metamorphosis. Vintage toolboxes house container gardens, painted bicycle wheels form a focal sculpture and other found objects mix with colorful plants to create decorative vignettes throughout the yard.

An unexpected surprise looms at the edge of Wiltshire’s grassy lawn — she’s transformed a steeply sloping hill into a near-vertical garden, turning what would be a scraggly natural area into a lively refuge.

BEGIN ANYWHERE, ANYTIME. “I never planted a plant before I came here,” Wiltshire admits. Her home office window looks into her backyard, so she decided to make over the blank-slate new-construction yard with color and whimsy.

26 October/NOVEMBER 2021

POTS ARE TOPS. Container gardens make easy training wheels for gardening beginners.

Then, scatter those containers amongst in-ground beds for a layered look. Get creative when sourcing pots — Wiltshire uses old watering cans, galvanized tubs, tool boxes and rustic urns.

HAVE FUN. I haven’t got a clue what plants are called,” Wiltshire says. “I buy it and stick it in the yard.”

To emphasize her casual approach, Wiltshire displayed shovels with lighthearted messages such as, “No idea,” “Did I plant that,” and “Pretty,” in lieu of botanical labels during the garden tour.

Follow The Fuquay-Varina Garden Club on Facebook for updates about next year’s tour.

27

www.TheAbshureRealtyGroup.com BEST REALTOR® 2020 We have been helping people in Fuquay-Varina for over 15 years ~ we understand the current market and can help you understand it too!

Give us a call at 919-355-SOLD! We Live Here.

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Krista Abshure AgentKrista@gmail. com 919.355.SOLD

201 S Main Street Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

A Life Plan Community with Continuing Care

You Belong Here.

No matter what you enjoy, where you come from or how you feel, there's a place for you at Windsor Point!

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.

1221 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina

919-552-4580 • windsorpoint.com

JONATHAN FREDIN

Renovation Written by Emily Uhland Photographed by Cat Wilborne Photography Interiors styled by Melissa Cross

30 October/NOVEMBER 2021

FROM LEFT: HOMEOWNER DIANA KLAR AND HER BROTHER, BUILDER STEVEN EISENBERG. THE MASTER BATHROOM SHOWCASES CUSTOM VANITIES AND A BOLD TILE FLOOR. A PRIVATE HALLWAY LEADS TO AN INVITING MASTER SUITE.

Realities

A renovation turned rebuild in downtown Fuquay is a family affair 31

If these walls could talk,

they wouldn’t say anything because they are brand new — all except one.

When Diana Klar and her husband purchased a fixer-upper in downtown Fuquay, they intended to keep as much of the original structure as possible. Demolition uncovered problem after unexpected problem, including lots of rotted wood and even asbestos.

“Around every corner ended up being more money. Every time we’d open a wall, we were like, ‘Man, got to replace that too … and that too,’” says Klar.

The home’s foundation and one wall were salvable.

That’s it.

“Once we figured out it was much more of a teardown, we were able to transform (the home) a little bit more.”

The Klars, who lived in Boston at the time, intended to turn the property into vacation rental and a “home base” for when they came to the Triangle to visit family.

“It checked off a couple criteria, especially, easy walking distance from downtown (Fuquay),” she says.

“That’s what we like when we go somewhere, so we were like, ‘Let’s do this project.’”

Klar teamed up with Cary architect Dawn Christine to create the house plan and her brother, builder Steven Eisenberg, of Butler Homes, to bring the vision to life.

“I’m interested from a design standpoint, so it was fun to pick out everything I wanted. I started with Pinterest and Houzz and architecture magazines. … I would go to my brother and say, ‘I want it to look like this, how does that work,’ and he would explain it to me.”

That open communication was especially important since Klar wasn’t living in Fuquay-Varina during the renovation. Even so, Klar wanted to work with local craftsmen whenever possible.

“We used a local company for cabinets, Noles Cabinets, I was really excited to use a Fuquay business. … They were lovely to work with. They were so patient with me and my newness to design a functional kitchen and get all of what I wanted in such a small space.

“It feels like a huge kitchen, which I love.”

32 October/NOVEMBER 2021

The unique metal stair rail was fashioned by a local metalsmith, Chris Gitthens, owner of Iron Rod Welding Services.

“He custom built it in place,” said Eisenberg, the builder.

“It brings that modern element with a traditional vibe,” says Klar. “I showed Steven a picture and he found someone to replicate that for us.

“Because I was so far away, it was hard to be in-

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TOP TIPS

from Diana Klar, homeowner Plan ahead and know what your style is.

Budget more space for storage than you think you’ll need.

volved in some of the detail pieces. I had to let go, and trust that (Steven) would do the right thing.”

The home’s standout star is the screened porch. Sixteen-foot sliding glass doors connect the dining room to the porch, making it feel like an extension of the main living space.

“The whole reason why we wanted

to move here was the weather,” Klar says. “Everyone always ends up on the back porch.”

Another favorite is the master bath.

“I went outside my normal comfort zone and did the crazy tile on the floor. I wish I would have done that in more places,” Klar says.

And even though the home was al-

most totally rebuilt, Klar wanted to stay true to its origins.

“We wanted a carport because that’s what fit into our neighborhood, versus a garage. I wanted it to look like it had been here for a while,” she says. “I always wanted a big Southern front porch. It’s my favorite afternoon spot with the kids. We continued on page 34

33

EXPANSIVE SLIDING GLASS DOORS OPEN FROM THE MAIN LIVING SPACE ONTO A SCREENED-IN PORCH. A LOCALLY CRAFTED METAL STAIR RAIL ACCENTS THE HOME’S MODERNMEETS-TRADITIONAL STYLE.

TOP TIPS

from Steven Eisenberg, builder

continued from page 33

wave at neighbors while the kids play in the driveway.”

Just as the project was nearing completion, the coronavirus pandemic hit.

“We were in Boston; had no plans of leaving. As COVID-19 progressed, my husband was working from home … We had always toyed with the idea of moving down here, but could never quite do it.

During coronavirus, we had this opportunity to at least try it,” says Klar.

Now, as N.C. residents — “I am loving the house,” she says.

With a full-scale renovation behind her, Klar’s best advice is to “Plan more than you think. Really think about the little details that you live with on a day-to-day basis and the things that you need to function.”

Eisenberg’s company, Butler Homes, tackles construction projects of all types and sizes. During his three years as a licensed general contractor, Eisenberg wit34 October/NOVEMBER 2021

nessed the impact a cohesive building and design plan can have, which prompted a partnership with Durham-based designer Melissa Cross, to provide clients a fullservice approach to achieving the aesthetic and function they want.

“We now are teaming together to work with clients to give them, not just a contractor to build, but also a designer on the team that’s helping them make their design selections early on, so that when the construction starts we are providing a cohesive plan and strategy,” says Cross.

“Design choices are informing the construction, and construction is informing what’s possible design-wise, so homeowners aren’t in the position of falling in love with images on Pinterest then find out they can’t do that.”

Eisenberg adds, “It allows us to buy material when it needs to be bought, versus at the last minute, so there isn’t as much downtime. We’re able to do more accurate pricing for the project this way.”

Choosing the right contractor is super important. Trust your gut and investigate any red flags that surface during the interview process.

Renovations are not going to be easy. When the hammer starts swinging it won’t all be fun, so choose to work with a team you can trust.

Timing and availability of materials is more important than ever in the current building climate. Materials and labor prices have increased, and shipping and supply inconsistencies often force long lead times, making accurate orders crucial — and mistakes can be very costly to fix.

The sliding glass door for the Klar’s screened porch, for example, arrived damaged, and it took three months for the replacement to arrive.

“You’re at the mercy of everyone shipcontinued on page 36

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continued from page 34

ping (materials). There’s nothing you can do about it, because it’s outside of your control,” Eisenberg says.

The partnership between Butler Homes and Melissa Cross Interiors addresses a shift in the mindset and expectations of homeowners, says Cross.

“HGTV and Pinterest have certainly elevated what homeowners are expecting in their homes, in terms of both renos and interior decorating,” she says. “Your relationship with your home is reflecting who you are, instead of merely functional.”

“Homeowners are really looking for something that makes the space their own.

A unique element that makes the existing space fit their lifestyle and who they are as people, versus just cookie cutter builds,” says Eisenberg.

“Your home should be a place that brings you joy. That may mean it is your sanctuary and your place for respite, or it is exciting and inspiring. (Our homes) are more of an extension of ourselves than they’ve ever been,” Cross says.

“Personally, I think that is such a powerful tool in our life — for us to go out into the world from a place of balance and harmony and joy, when we are able to create that at home.” MB

TOP TIPS

from Melissa Cross, designer

THE HOMEOWNERS SELECTED BOLD PAINT COLORS AND GRAPHIC TILE COMBINATIONS THROUGHOUT. CLOCKWISE FROM TOP, MUDROOM, HALLWAY BATH, MASTER BATH.

36 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Understand where to splurge on quality materials and finishes, and where to pinch pennies.

Choosing what you love, rather than chasing a trend, ensures you’ll still love your project in 10 years.

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37

“Boo” rever se s to “Fall” This page: Tabletop pumpkin with reversible tag, $18.50 Handcrafted plaid pumpkins, $8 each Hanging leaf decor, $13.50 At KnB’s Marketplace

Falling For It Fabulous finds for your home Compiled by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

38 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Handmade macrame wall decor, $29.90, top, and car charm, $14.90 At Southern Attic

Plaid pIllow sewn from vintage blanket, by 12 Mockingbird Lane, $20 N.C. pennant pillow, by 12 Mockingbird Lane, $30 At Our Moments in Time

Handmade pine needle tray with red cedar center, by Debra Shea, $125 At Cocoon Gallery

Handmade wine stoppers

by Fuquay Woodworking, $29 each At Southern Attic

39

Measuring cup set, $21.25 At Southern Attic

Ceramic salt & pepper shaker, $4 each At KnB’s Marketplace

Feather wreath, $39.99 At KnB’s Marketplace

Chip and dip ceramic tray, by A Bit Off Center, $42 At Cocoon Gallery

Stone tile shelf art,

by Love It Again Furnishings, $22.95 At Our Moments in Time

FIND IT HERE Cocoon Gallery 221 N. Salem St., Apex (919) 267-4321 cocoongallerync.com Southern Attic 6021 S NC 55 Hwy, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-9300 @southernattic.org Our Moments in Time 205 S. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 473-6929 ourmomentsintime.net KnB’s Marketplace 120 Raleigh Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-8155 Knbmarketplace.com @knbsmarketplace

40 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Painted N.C. sign, by Simple Roots, $45 At Our Moments in Time

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41

WOMAN to WATCH A LOVE FOR PEOPLE FUELS ONE WOMAN'S DESIRE TO IMPACT THE COMMUNITY

HUNDREDS OF AREA RESIDENTS ATTENDED A BLACK LIVES MATTER MARCH AND DEMONSTRATION LAST SUMMER IN DOWNTOWN HOLLY SPRINGS. WILKINS, PICTURED CENTER, HELPED TO ORGANIZE THE EVENT.

Agent of Change

Y

ou’ll be hard pressed to find a stronger advocate for Holly Springs than Chanel Wilkins.

You may have already met Wilkins, offering a consultation at your home — she’s the co-owner of Agents of Clean professional cleaning company.

Or been encouraged by her at the Black Lives Matter march in Holly Springs last year, which she helped organize.

Or read her thoughtful questions in the IMPACT Holly Springs Facebook group, of which she is the creator and administrator.

Or sat next to her enjoying a meal at Vieni, one of her favorite local hangouts.

Or known her as a proud parent of Holly Springs High School students.

42 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Regardless of where you run into Wilkins, her cheerfulness and positivity is infectious, as is her drive to be an advocate for good in the community.

Wilkins has a natural inclination for caretaking, which comes from her great grandmother, who helped raise Wilkins during her childhood in a small town outside of Atlanta.

“She felt it was her obligation to take care of the people in her town,” Wilkins says. “Giving was a normal part of life.”

Moving to Holly Springs as an adult felt like an extension of her Georgia roots.

“I love that everything is new. I love that it was a fresh, clean start. It was familiar to me,” Wilkins says. “I had been in a

city that had done the same thing before.”

Wilkins’ affinity for caretaking merged into a career when she and her husband, Princeton, started Agents of Clean auto detailing and professional cleaning company.

At the outset, auto detailing was a side business for Princeton, until one of his clients inquired about house cleaning as well.

An unwavering “yes” meant the fledgling business spontaneously added residential cleaning to their services.

“I’m (cleaning) on a Saturday; not happy about being there.” Wilkins remembers of that first residential client. “And I get done and get ready to pack up, and I’m like, ‘I like this. I really like what just happened.’”

“In the corporate world, there’s just

INSET PHOTO BY DON FEELY PHOTOGRAPHY

Written by Emily Uhland

“

There are a lot of amazing people in Holly Springs that are crazy enough to believe that if we work hard enough ... we can create a community and an environment where everyone feels free to succeed.

”

JONATHAN FREDIN

– Chanel Wilkins

CHANEL WILKINS, CO-OWNER OF AGENTS OF CLEAN & FOUNDER OF IMPACT HOLLY SPRINGS

not that tangible effect. … You don’t see the smile on someone’s face. You don’t see the weight off their shoulders. You don’t see that,” she says.

The couple grew the business at breakneck speed, managing multiple jobs and their family.

“I was doing consultations during my lunch break. (Princeton) would clean from 3:00 p.m. until the evening then I would do inspections in the morning. We got so big that the only way to do more was to quit my job.”

Princeton and Chanel both left their previous employment within six months of starting Agents of Clean. During the first year the company served as many as 300 houses a month.

“Being in people’s homes and being in their personal space, making sure they understand you are there because you care, and they trust you — I probably know so much about so many families, because we can talk, and that I find that to be really humbling,” she says.

During the coronavirus pandemic, Agents of Clean lost more than half of their customer base and much of their staff.

That, coupled with a family illness prompted Wilkins to slow the company’s growth and focus its service area.

“Before, we were wherever anybody needed something: Wake Forest, Clayton, New Hill, Apex, Morrisville. I wanted us to shrink back. For just me, my heart is being

local. I just don’t feel right telling the person down the street, ‘Sorry, we can’t help you.’”

Now, productivity is higher and their staff is under less pressure.

“Doing a neighborhood in a day is much different than driving from Cary to Holly Springs to Wake Forest,” she says.

“In hiring, we wanted to find people that may have had a hard time, give them fantastic work environments, where we treated them well and paid them well, and helped change lives.”

MAKING AN IMPACT The opporunity to change even more lives came during a difficult period of time continued on page 44

43

PHOTOS BY JONATHAN FREDIN

AUTO DETAILING, RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL CLEANINGS ARE ALL HANDLED BY THE AGENTS OF CLEAN TEAM

Recently, the Wilkinses joined the leardership team for LAUNCH Holly Springs.

Princeton will serve as a board member and Chanel as the community coordinator.

HOLLY SPRINGS RESIDENTS CHANEL WILKINS WITH HUSBAND PRINCETON, AND CHILDREN ADRIAN AND AVA BRANCO

continued from page 43

last summer, after the murder of George Floyd sparked protests around the country.

Wilkins connected with local high school students Kennedy Mitchell, Milan Toomer and Amber Mitchell who wanted to organize a Black Lives Matter march in Holly Springs.

Leaning on her connections in the community, Wilkins gathered support for the march from organizations including the police department, town council and the Holly Springs Martin Luther King Jr. Committee.

“I started talking to people, and everyone was just on board,” she says.

“It was only three weeks from the time that we first met to the time that we had the march. There were about 500 people that showed up” — including Police Chief Mike Patterson and several police officers, Wilkins noted. The event highlighted 44 October/NOVEMBER 2021

speakers, performers and businesses in a peaceful show of support designed to lift up the black community.

“There are a lot of amazing people in Holly Springs that are crazy enough to believe that if we work hard enough, if we communicate, if we go all in, that we can create a community and an environment where everyone feels free to succeed,” Wilkins says.

“This is a white town. I understand what it was before 1990, currently this is a white town. If we’re gonna do anything, change anything, we have to do it together.”

And so, IMPACT Holly Springs Facebook group was born, focused on informing and engaging residents on social and political issues, and as a safe space to encourage dialogue.

Wilkins strongly believes that no matter how safe and high ranking a town is — and Holly Springs is among the best

— there are always opportunities to be better. After the march, IMPACT Holly Springs became a virtual gathering space for, “What’s next?”

The group has over 1,000 members and encourages discussions about social inequality and local politics, but also celebrates Holly Springs’ successes just as frequently.

Wilkins hopes that additional community service projects and charity outreach will be possible once people are gathering in groups again.

“I see the heart of the people of Holly Springs. There will always be outliers, but there’s also a huge majority that says, ‘I have faith in our ability as a community to be a beacon of light to other places in N.C. and nationally.’

“Mark my words, in the next 10 years, you’ll hear about the best place to live in the U.S. — it’s going to be Holly Springs, North Carolina.” MB

From artsy to bohemian, the locally owned and operated specialty shops, boutiques, and art galleries in downtown New Bern cater to all tastes and styles. Don’t wait to Try On something new.

www.VisitNewBern.com

ASHLEY HERNDON @Ashleyb17

ANNA CROLLMAN @mycancerchic

Express Yourself Again Compiled by Emily Uhland | Photography by Jonathan Fredin

46 October/NOVEMBER 2021

ALLISON VRHOVAC @allisonvrhovac

CHELSEA JENNETTE @afashionablebeliever

During the year of the sweatshirt, many of us forgot that fashion can be an outlet for self-expression, choosing comfort over creativity in our daily wardrobe. To ignite fall fashion inspiration, we called on Triangle influencers to remind us that personal style is about looking good, feeling great and having fun … and maybe slightly fewer pairs of sweatpants.

Browse your closet with new eyes this fall, revisiting old favorites in different combinations. These style bloggers show us how.

47

Ashley Herndon Instagram: @Ashleyb17 Followers: 4,150 Signature style: Combat boots & distressed denim Fashion connection: Nearly two years ago, Herndon and her husband made a “cold move” to Cary from Indianapolis. They didn’t know anyone, so she began sharing her love of clothes and connecting with North Carolina residents on Instagram. “I have met incredible people, and now I have a community in N.C.”

Hints from Herndon: MENTAL HEALTH IS WHOLE-BODY HEALTH. “When I’m feeling my best, I’ve taken a minute to put myself together,” Herndon said. “Dressing helps for self-care.”

As a marriage and family therapist, Herndon understands that looking good contributes to feeling good, which has a huge impact on how you present yourself to the outside world.

EMBRACE WHAT YOU HAVE, WHERE YOU ARE. “We have all gone through a lot,” Herndon said, and for many that means shifts in our bodies. Use fashion to feel comfortable and look good now, she says. Approach those changes — mental and physical — with compassion.

“

HERNDON’S FALL MUST HAVE: A COZY CARDIGAN — “I LIVE IN THEM.” CHOOSE A CHUNKY KNIT AND LONG LENGTH TO UPDATE THIS CLOSET STAPLE. RETURN TO BUSINESS ATTIRE WITH A CLASSIC SHIRTDRESS, DANCING BETWEEN CASUAL AND PROFESSIONAL.

If there is a color or fabric or style you are really drawn to, maximize that. …

Understand the things you reach for and lean into that.

”

Editor’s note: Unless otherwise noted, clothing and accessories are the models’ personal wardrobe.

WEEKENDS ARE EDGY, RELAXED AND READY FOR ANYTHING. EXPLORE FALL’S FESTIVALS, MARKETS AND FAIRS WITH AN EASY, HANDS-FREE CROSSBODY BAG.

Anna Crollman Instagram: @mycancerchic Followers: 14,700 Blog: mycancerchic.com Inspiring story: Diagnosed with breast cancer at 27, Crollman felt isolated and unsure of how to dress her now unfamiliar body. She founded her blog, My Cancer Chic, to connect with and inspire all women to thrive through adversity, sharing personal style as a cornerstone of her own self-confidence and joy.

Crollman’s Top Tips: DRESS FOR YOURSELF. “Fashion is not about how you look to other people, it’s about looking polished for you,” she said.

Fashion is an experiment. You don’t have to get it right every time.

GIVE YOURSELF GRACE. As we transition back to “outward fashion,” start small, with attainable looks that make you feel confident.

A SWEATER AND JEANS SOUNDS BASIC, BUT UNIQUE DETAILS — BALLOON SLEEVES, BRIGHT PINK AND SOPHISTICATED ACCESSORIES — ARE ANYTHING BUT.

“

Fashion can tell your story.

What’s on the outside complements what’s on the inside.

”

BACK IN THE OFFICE? IT’S TIME TO BRING THE HEAT! A LEATHER SKIRT BECOMES VERSATILE IN A NEUTRAL COLOR, AND THIS STATEMENT BLOUSE IS UNAPOLOGETICALLY FEMININE. LEFT: SHIMMERY FABRIC MAKES THIS DRESS A SHOWSTOPPER, AND THE TRENDY BABYDOLL SILHOUETTE IS FLATTERING AND FORGIVING.

Chelsea Jennette Instagram: @afashionablebeliever Followers: 20,700 Owner: CharleyMadelyn boutique in Raleigh (named after her twin daughters) Blog: afashionablebeliever.com Signature style: Anything pink, especially dresses and statement pieces

Jennette’s fashion advice: LET YOUR OUTFIT DO THE WORK FOR YOU. Choose statement pieces with interesting details, such as smocking, ruffles or a beautiful print. Add accessories and you’re done!

DRESSES ARE A MOM’S BEST FRIEND. As a business owner and mom of twin 2-yearolds, Jennette has limited time most mornings. A dress (plus accessories) is a one-and-done outfit that looks polished and feminine.

BE BOLD. “We have one walk — go boldly and confidently,” Jennette said. Find something you love that makes you feel your best.

A MAXI DRESS IS JENNETTE’S FAVORITE ONEAND-DONE OUTFIT. ADDING A BELT DEFINES THE WAIST AND TIES TOGETHER POPS OF GOLD ACCESSORIES. DRESS AVAILABLE AT CHARLEYMADELYN BOUTIQUE.

“

THIS STATEMENT BLOUSE BRINGS THE SPICE WITH METALLIC ANIMALPRINT FLARE SLEEVES. BLOUSE AVAILABLE AT CHARLEYMADELYN BOUTIQUE.

I encourage women to feel confident in who they are, whether that’s with a devotional or a belt.

”

TRANSITION TO FALL WITH AN EASY AND BREEZY BABYDOLL DRESS. DETAILS INCLUDE A SMOCKED BODICE AND GATHERING AT WRISTS. DRESS AVAILABLE AT CHARLEYMADELYN BOUTIQUE.

50 October/NOVEMBER 2021

Allison Vrhovac Instagram: @allisonvrhovac Followers: 13,400 TikTok: @allisonvrhovac Followers: 67,300 Modeling authenticity: “The internet can be so cruel,” said Vrhovac, “In my corner, I’m just being real.” As a mother of three, including two teenage daughters, Vrhovac strives to be a role model sharing kindness and positivity, knowing her audience includes her daughters and their friends.

Vrhovac’s style handbook: THE AGE-LIMIT DOES NOT EXIST. In the digital world of style blogging, finding representation over the age of 40 is tough. Vrhovac, 41, wants to break down barriers surrounding fashion and age.

“Wear what makes you feel good,” she said.

CASUAL IS STILL COOL. “We’ve all been wearing tie-dye pajamas for a year,” Vrhovac said. “Take parts of that casual style and kick it up with a bag, cute shoe or a jacket. Keep that casual feel, but dress it up.”

VRHOVAC ENCOURAGES WOMEN TO STOP SEEING AGE AS A LIMITATION ON THEIR STYLE. FALL’S FAVORITE ACCESSORIES — BOOTS AND A HAT — ARE CHIC AT EVERY AGE.

SEEK SOMETHING SPECIAL A pop of vibrant color, surprising material (like casual joggers in silk) or unique fabric elevates basic to statement. A dash of the unexpected acts like an exclamation point for your outfit, capping off the whole look with a bang.

“

I try to show women that just because you’re 40, nothing is off limits.

Special thanks to The Mayton in downtown Cary for location.

TRADING SWEATS FOR SILK JOGGERS PUMPS UP THE POLISH FOR A DAY OF CASUAL ERRANDS.

A STATEMENT SWEATER MADE FROM SUPERSOFT CHENILLE SURPRISES IN SHOCKING NEON YELLOW. AVAILABLE AT FABRIK.

”

51

Restaurant Spotlight:

Vieni Ristobar

THE HOUSE SPECIALTY PAPPARDELLE BOLOGNESE

Written by David McCreary | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin 52 October/NOVEMBER 2021

It’s

CHICKEN FRANCAISE WITH GREEN BEANS AND ROASTED POTATOES

usually a good sign that a restaurant is worth visiting when all the tables are filled with patrons. Since opening in mid 2020, business at Vieni Ristobar Italian eatery in downtown Holly Springs has been bustling.

So, why is Vieni so popular? For starters, virtually everything is made from scratch daily, including the pasta. What’s more, friendly, efficient service is executed by well-trained staff.

But make no mistake when it comes to what sets this restaurant apart from many others: It’s the presence of vivacious proprietor Randi Cinelli, a woman who makes every customer feel welcome and appreciated.

“The main reason we are here is to create a memorable experience for each guest,” says Cinelli, whose family is well-regarded in the Triangle’s Italian restaurant scene. “We want you to order something that we have created and know that it was made fresh to order.”

Vieni, which means “come eat with me” in Italian, has quickly become a popular spot for locals to frequent time and again.

“We want to be the restaurant in town people visit often and consider their go-to place,” Cinelli says. “We love Holly Springs and want to be a big part of the community for years to come.”

The moment you step inside the dining room, you can’t help but notice the striking 20-seat bar.

“This is an informal restaurant built around a bar,” Cinelli explains.

Witty, framed signs like “Feed Me Pizza and Tell Me I’m Pretty” and “Joey Doesn’t Share Food” (a nod to the TV sitcom “Friends”) hang on a long wall, further adding to the eatery’s unpretentious vibe.

Whether you go for the pizza, the entrees or even the appetizers, there’s plenty to like about Vieni’s mouthwatering menu.

Start your meal with a plate of long-stemmed artichokes involving mascarpone, mozzarella and goat cheese. Or consider the crispy, deep-fried Sicilian rice balls filled with black Angus beef, green peas and provolone.

If you have a hankering for pasta, order the spaghetti carbonara, lobster ravioli or the hearty house specialty Pappardelle Bolognese. It’s all generously portioned and meticulously plated.

Standout entrees include Salmon Positano with spinach, shallots and garlic cream sauce, a sherrycontinued on page 54

53

continued from page 53

laden Sorrentino (grilled eggplant) and the delectable pan-seared Chicken Francaise, which Cinelli calls “next-level good.”

As for the pizza, nearly a dozen specialty pies vie for consideration. If you’re feeling adventurous, choose the fig jam-topped prosciutto & arugula. Or, for a can’t-go-wrong option, there’s “Cinelli’s Famous” Grandma Margherita featuring Italian plum tomato sauce, fresh basil, garlic, mozzarella, oregano and grated parmesan cheese.

Eight of the pizzas are available in gluten-free varieties, including New York style, white and vegetarian. Pizza by the slice is available at lunchtime.

Three-cheese calzone and classic Stromboli stuffed with pepperoni, meatballs, sausage, onions, peppers and mozzarella are guaranteed to fill you up and will likely supply leftovers for lunch the next day.

First-rate ingredients elevate the cuisine. Even the grated parmesan in the shakers on each table comes from a cheese wheel.

“We use vine-ripened Alta Cucina tomatoes, an east coast blend of Grande Mozzarella and herbs like basil, rosemary and sage from our garden out back,” Cinelli says. “When you sit down, you’re getting real food made with attention to detail.”

If you manage to save room for dessert, choose from house-made tiramisu, lemon ricotta cheesecake, cannoli or chocolate-shelled tartufo featuring chocolate and vanilla gelato crowned with shaved almonds.

Creative craft cocktails like the vodka-tinged mango jalapeno, a Bulleit Old Fashioned and the signature sangria keep things lively.

“Our homemade sangria is my personal recipe,” Cinelli reveals. “It starts with a really good red-wine base and includes triple sec and muddled fresh fruit.

It’s always made to order and is really refreshing.”

A thoughtful selection of beer and white and red wines are also available.

Vieni is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week. Reservations are accepted for parties of six or more. Al fresco dining is available but be sure to arrive early to snag one of these choice tables.

VIENI RISTOBAR 242 South Main St. (Town Hall Commons), Holly Springs (984) 225-1134 vieniristobar.com 54 October/NOVEMBER 2021

SICILIAN RICE BALLS ARE STUFFED WITH ANGUS BEEF, PEAS AND PROVOLONE CHEESE.

“

We want you to order something that we have created and know that it was made fresh to order.

RANDI CINELLI

”

– Randi Cinelli, proprietor

WHETHER YOU PREFER NEW YORK-STYLE OR THE “FAMOUS” GRANDMA MARGHERITA PIZZA, YOU’LL LEAVE SATISFIED.

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rise

Dine Restaurant hours and service may be limited at this time. Check individual locations for most current information.

FUQUAY-VARINA Abbey Road Tavern and Grill “Signature Beatle burgers and live entertainment.”

711 N. Main St.; Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-7731; abbeyroadnc.com Anna’s Pizzeria “Piping hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.” 138 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-2497; annaspizzeria.com Aviator Pizzeria & BeerShop “Brick oven pizza & craft beer.”

601 E. Broad St., Fuquay Varina (919) 346-8206; aviatorbrew.com Aviator SmokeHouse BBQ Restaurant “All of our food is made in-house.”

525 E. Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-7675; aviatorbrew.com

Brus on Main “Quaint cafe serving New York coffee, bakery treats and breakfast.”

135 S. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina (607) 745-2512; @brusonmain The Corner Biergarten “Bar & bottle shop.”

1625 N. Main St., Suite 133, Fuquay-Varina (919) 246-6649; tcbiergarten.com Cultivate Coffee Roasters “Modern industrial twist on a small town coffee shop.”

128 S. Fuquay Ave., Fuquay Varina (919) 285-4067; www.cultivate.coffee Daddy D’s BBQ “Slow cooked with love.”

1526 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6464; daddydsbbqnc.com

Assaggio’s Pizzeria Ristorante “Top quality ingredients go into every dish.”

941 East Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-9505; assaggios-fuquay.com

Drive Bru “Drive thru coffee shop with N.Y. coffee & Carolina charm.”

1013 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (607) 745-2512; @drivebru

Bluegrass Bagels “Quality food, fast.”

100 Dickens Rd, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-4980; bluegrassbagels.com

Eggs Up Grill “Breakfast favorites served all day.”

1436 N Main St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-4463; eggsupgrill.com

El Dorado “Enjoy the most delicious Mexican food amongst family.”

112 E Vance St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-0287; eldoradomexicanrestaurant.com FuQuay Brus “Quaint coffee cafe with New York coffee, baked goods, beer, wine and keto.”

400 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (607) 745-2512; @fuquaybrus Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta “Authentic Italian cuisine and quality service.”

900 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-8868; garibalditrattoria.com The Healthy Spot “Meal replacement smoothies and energizing teas.”

961 East Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-5373; @healthyspotfuquay J&S New York Pizza “Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant.”

500 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-6921; jandsnypizza.com Johnny’s Pizza “An amazing array of different NY-style pizzas.”

722 N Judd Parkway N, Fuquay-Varina (919) 552-6322; johnnyspizzacary.com Joyce & Family Restaurant “Home cooked Southern favorites.”

129 N Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-1717; @joyceandfamily

INVENTIVE TEA SANDWICHES AT PIMIENTO TEA ROOM.

Juicehaus “Made-to-order fresh, raw juice.”

509 North Broad St, Fuquay Varina (919) 396-5588; juicehaus.org

Little Portugal NC “Market and eatery celebrating traditional Portuguese dishes.”

736 N. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 586-7144; littleportugalnc.com 56 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

DENOTES ADVERTISER

Photos by Jonathan Fredin

Laurel Wine Bar at Cellar 55 “Mediterranean-inspired small plates with wine pairings.”

1351 East Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 446-1156; cellar55.com

Los Tres Magueyes “We prepare our food fresh daily.”

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

rise

Dine

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

Vicious Fishes Tap & Kitchen “Eclectic twists on comfortable bar food.”

132 South Fuquay Ave., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-7876; viciousfishes.com/fuquay-nc

The Mill “Coffee. Beer. Wine. Community.”

146 S. Main St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 557-2123; themillfuquay.com

Wingin’ It Bar and Grille “Family-friendly neighborhood pub.”

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

Nil’s Cafe “Family-oriented Mediterranean cafe.”

513 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina (919) 567-0887; nilscafe-weebly.com Pints Ice Cream & Beer “Homemade ice cream and craft beers.”

512 Broad Street, Fuquay-Varina @pintsicecream Stick Boy Bread Co. “Handcrafted baked goods from scratch … all natural ingredients.”

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

Zeera Indian Restaurant “Authentic goodness in traditional Indian food.”

1311 E Broad St., Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-6215; zeeranc.com Zaxby’s “Indescribably good.”

1341 N Main St, Fuquay Varina (919) 552-3981; zaxbys.com

HOLLY SPRINGS Acme Pizza Co. “Chicago-style deep dish pizza.”

204 Village Walk Dr, Holly Springs (919) 552-8800; acmepizzaco.com Ashley’s Harvest Moon Bakery – Cafe “Breakfast and lunch cafe with scratch-made bakery and locally roasted coffee.”

128 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs (919) 586-7005; harvestmoonbakerycafe.com Aye! Toro “Crafted with love using traditional Mexican recipes passed down through generations.”

303 Mathews Dr, Holly Springs (919) 367-6233; ayetoronc.com Bass Lake Draft House “34 beers on tap.”

124 Bass Lake Rd, Holly Springs (919) 567-3251; basslakedrafthouse.com Bestow Baked Goods “Life is too short for grocery store desserts.”

4208 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs (919) 473-9225; bestowbakedgoods.com

Triple Barrel Tavern “Restaurant, sports bar & billiards.”

2221 N Grassland Drive, Fuquay-Varina (919) 762-0940; @triplebarreltavernfuquayvarina Tsuru Sweets & Coffee “Elegant-yet-sassy gourmet confectionery.”

411 Broad St, Fuquay-Varina (919) 285-2646; tsurusweets.com

BRISKET & SIDES FROM DADDY D’S BBQ.

FUQUAY-VARINA 1341 N. MAIN ST.

FB: @ZaxbysFuquayVarina IG/Twitter: @zaxbysfuquaync

DENOTES ADVERTISER

GARNER 4150 FAYETTEVILLE RD.

FB: @ZaxbysGarner IG/Twitter: @Zaxbys401Garner

57

Blaze Pizza “Fast fire’d, perfectly crisp perfection.”

316 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 261-5950; blazepizza.com The Blind Pelican “Creative seafood and boat drinks.”

120 Bass Lake Road; Holly Springs (984) 225-2471; blindpelicanseafood.com The Butcher’s Market “Premium meats and specialty grocery.”

4200 Lassiter Rd, Holly Springs (919) 267-919); thebutchersmarkets.com Cristo’s Bistro “Hand tossed NY style pizza.”

5217 Sunset Lake Rd, Holly Springs (919) 363-8852, cristosbistro.com Eggs Up Grill “Breakfast favorites served all day.”

4216 Lassiter Road, Holly Springs (919) 495-4530; eggsupgrill.com Greek Basma “Greek food that is fresh, healthy and delicious.”

7272 GB Alford Hwy, Holly Springs ((919) 285-080; greekbasma.com

rise

Dine Hickory Tavern “Something for every appetite.”

401 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 557-2064; thehickorytavern.com Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe “Forget love, I’d rather fall in chocolate.”

652 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs (415) 758-3296; ferawyns.com Fiesta Mexicana “Authentic. Hot. Fresh.”

428 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 346-1330; fiestamexicananc-hollysprings.com Freddy’s Frozen Custard & Steakburgers “Great food without a long wait.”

221 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 557-3475; freddysusa.com Homegrown Pizza “Pizza, calzones and sandwiches.”

4928 Linksland Drive, ​Holly Springs (​919) 577-5575; homegrownpizza.com

Kobe HIbachi and Sushi 515 North Main Street, Holly Springs (919) 557-1437; kobehollyspringsnc.com Mama Bird’s Cookies + Cream “A unique spin on a timeless dessert.”

304 N. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 762-7808; mamabirdsicecream.com Mamma Mia Italian Bistro “Pasta runs in our family.”

300 S Main Street, Suite 200, Holly Springs (919) 766-8000; mammamianc.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 MediTerra Grill “Delicious ingredients. Old world recipes.”

108 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 762-7851; mediterranc.com Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant 324 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 552-9979; micancunmx.com Michelangelos Pizza “Pizza buffet for lunch and dinner.”

7280 GB Alford HWY, Holly Springs (919) 557-4992; michelangelospizza.com My Way Tavern “Freshly made all-American foods.”

301 W. Center St., Holly Springs (919) 285-2412; mywaytavern.com Niche Wine Lounge “Tranquility by the glass.”

109 Main St., Holly Springs (919) 552-2300; nichewinelounge.com

BEERS ON TAP

The Nutrition Fix “Healthy fast food alternatives.”

424 Village Walk Drive, Holly Springs (919) 341-5554; @thenutritionfixnc

The best selection of German and craft beer in the area!

The Original N.Y. Pizza “Bringing a taste of New York to North Carolina.”

634 Holly Springs Road, Holly Springs (919) 567-0505; theoriginalnypizza.com

Check our Facebook page for weekly events @TCBiergarten

Dogs are Welcome!

C A R Y, N C

1625 N. Main St. #133 Fuquay-Varina 919.246.6649 | tcbiergarten.com

58 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

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

DENOTES ADVERTISER

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi “Authentic Thai cuisine: well-balanced dishes bursting with flavor.”

242 S Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 538-6742; oshathaikitchennc.com C A R Y, N C

Pimiento Tea Room “Not your mama’s tea room.”

200 North Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 225-4213, pimientotearoom.com Rise Southern Biscuits & Chicken “The best dang biscuits.”

169 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 586-7343; risebiscuitsdonuts.com Sir Walter Coffee + Kitchen “Creative cafe by day. Full restaurant at night.”

242 S Main St. Suite 118, Holly Springs (919) 390-2150; sirwaltercoffeekitchen.com Skrimp Shack “Casual seafood cuisine.”

7244 Alford Hwy, Holly Springs (919) 335-3924; theskrimpshack.com Sweetberry Bowls “Beautiful and delicious bowls, wraps and salads.”

150 West Holly Springs Rd, Holly Springs (984) 225-2656; sweetberrybowls.com Sweet Southern SnoBalls “Shaved ice and Hershey’s Ice Cream.”

527 N. Main St., Holly Springs (919) 291-3355; @sweetsouthsnoballs

rise

Dine Chef’s Palette “Creative flair and originality in every aspect of our service.”

3460 Ten Ten Road, Cary (919) 267-6011; chefspalette.net Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar “Good old-fashioned burgers and bottled soda.”

126 Kilmayne Drive, Cary (919) 466-0055; corbettsburgers.com Di Fara Pizza Tavern “We don’t cut any corners when it comes to ingredients.”

111 East Chatham St., Cary; (919) 678-5300; difarapizzatavern.com Duck Donuts “Warm, delicious and just the way you like them.”

100 Wrenn Drive #10, Cary (919) 468-8722; duckdonuts.com/location/cary-nc

Gonza Tacos y Tequila “Award-winning Colombian-Mexican cuisine.”

525-105 New Waverly Place, Cary (919) 653-7310; cary.gonzatacosytequila.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 Lucky 32 Southern Kitchen “Exceptional renderings of classic Southern dishes.”

7307 Tryon Road, Cary (919) 233-1632; lucky32.com/cary Lugano Ristorante “Italian dining in a comfortable and casual atmosphere.”

1060 Darrington Drive, Cary (919) 468-7229; luganocary.com Mellow Mushroom “Beer, calzones and creative stone-baked pizzas.”

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

Thai Thai Cuisine “Home cooked Thai food.”

108 Osterville Drive, Holly Springs (919) 303-5700; thaithaicuisinenc.com Thanks A Latte “Coffee and gift boutique.”

1118 Kentworth Drive, Holly Springs (919) 577-0070; thanksalattegiftsnc.com

2021

Town Hall Burger & Beer “Neighborhood beer and burger joint.”

301 Matthews Dr, Holly Springs (919) 335-5388; Townhallburgerandbeer.com Vieni Ristobar “The newest Italian restaurant from the Cinelli family.”

242 South Main Street, Holly Springs (984) 225-1134; vieniristobar.com Zaxby’s “Indescribably good.”

101 Grand Hill Place, Holly Springs (919) 762-0432; zaxbys.com

ALWAYS IN stop and smell the rosés

STYLE Over 1,000 wines to choose from!

Raleigh | Cary Southern Pines | Holly Springs

CARY

www.trianglewineco.com

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

6490 Tryon Road, Cary (919) 781-4810; chanticleercafe.com DENOTES ADVERTISER

59

fun

memes

House Hunting?

Here's What to Expect

Written by the Author of Fuquay-Varina Memes Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

FUQUAY-VARINA MEMES (also known as FVM) is a freelance writer, meme guru and an anonymous resident of Fuquay-Varina.

She is the creator and manager of the FuquayVarina Memes Facebook page and has a talent for making people laugh and always taking the joke too far. Check out her blog at fvmwrites.com. fuquaymemes thefvmemes

Are you looking to buy a house in Southern Wake County? If so, you need to know exactly what you’re signing up for.

Before I start dropping truth like some kind of South Wake whistleblower, we should probably hear from a professional.

I asked Krista Abshure from The Abshure Realty Group (in Fuquay-Varina) to give me ONE reason people would want to move to Southern Wake, and her answer was simple — the sheer amount of lifestyle options.

“We have so much to do!

Parks, breweries, hiking, golf, playgrounds and restaurants are all available near homes with a wide range of price points for everyone,” said Abshure.

Yes, she speaks the truth, but hear me out — we’ve also got beer versus coffee wars, an abundance of traffic cones, disgruntled locals, a reputation for stellar memes and much, much more.

I’ve lived in this clown town for more than 15 years, so listen up.

A RIPE SMELL Look, there’s no way around it — there’s a dump in Holly Springs and sometimes it smells like the love child of a Bradford pear and oneweek old roadkill. Many move to the “older part” of Holly Springs in an effort to avoid the stench, but when the wind really gets a hold of it, the smell of a hot fart on a summer’s day can span for miles. To avoid gagging during a cookout, I recommend moving south of the bright orange storage facility on 55 that seems to act as some sort of

60 October/NOVEMBER 2021

FROM HISTORIC MANSIONS TO CLEARCUT CONSTRUCTION — FEW ESCAPE THE SWEET SMELL OF HOME.

tacky, mystical barrier. All jokes aside, the presence of the landfill is required disclosure for realtors if buyers are looking within the “smell zone.”

U-TURNS AND MEDIANS If you move to Holly Springs, I hope you enjoy turning right. In the event that you need to turn left, I hope your car has a neat little turning radius, because a u-turn is your only option. You might not find as many u-turns in Fuquay, but we’re drowning in a sea of medians down here and it doesn’t even make sense. Yes, the Walgreens is on your left. No, you will not be able to turn in until you’ve gone through the worst traffic light in town and sold your soul to a demon outside of Cookout.

LOTS OF ALL SIZES Like many locations in Wake County (ahem, Cary and Apex), larger, wooded lots are becoming a thing of the past. The good news?

Willow Springs and Angier (and certain parts

of Fuquay-Varina) are still rocking that country vibe, and you might actually score a yard that’s worthy of a riding lawnmower. If mowing isn’t your thing, then new construction in both Holly Springs and Fuquay-Varina has your back with some sweet .12 acre lots. Just two pushes of the mower and you’re done! Put that toddler to work!

RON JONES A neighbor, someone you know, someone you can trust and respect. Call today and speak with a real person who cares about your family’s protection and security.

HOAs That swanky new neighborhood likely comes at an overbearing, Stepfordesque price — a homeowner’s association, or organization within a planned community that makes and enforces the rules for the properties and its residents. Love them or hate them, HOAs are the norm around here and anyone who purchases a property within an HOA’s jurisdiction will be required to pay dues. (Cash, venmo and first-born children frequently accepted.) Is there a pool to maintain? Is it a golf course community? Are there 16 miles of greenway, a doggie resort, a lot of fussy retirees and a “natural playscape?”

If so, you might be looking at more than $50 per month, so don’t say we didn’t warn you.

On the plus side, HOAs will prevent your neighbor from creating a tire mountain in their front yard. Though, you’ll likely receive a cryptic warning in the mail if your trashcan is visible from the road.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS Did you know that Wake County is growing by an average of 64 people each day and is projected to reach two million residents by 2054? Subdivisions are popping up faster than traffic cones on 55, and certain areas are now almost completely unrecognizable. Imagine if deer jerky was a road — that’s what Angier Road in Fuquay used to look like. Now it’s nothing but fancy new subdivisions called Geneva, Arlington Meadows, and (my favorite), Hidden Valley Ranch. The

“Where Satisfied Customers Refer Their Friends”

512 WEST WILLIAMS STREET | APEX 919-362-8310 INFO@ROGERSINC.NET

The Moving Truck is Leaving!

Are you ready to learn about your new community?

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

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

CARY | APEX | MORRISVILLE | HOLLY SPRINGS FUQUAY-VARINA | GARNER | ANGIER WILLOW SPRING | CLAYTON | CLEVELAND

continued on page 62

61

continued from page 61

2021

WINE WALK

good news? We might actually have a shot at getting a Trader Joe’s out here. The bad news? The local Lance Armstrongs of Holly Springs have lost their country back roads and may start biking down 55 out of desperation. Thoughts and prayers.

NEW SCHOOLS

LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH 5 PM - 8 PM

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62 October/NOVEMBER 2021

For a long time, the promise of new schools in Fuquay-Varina felt like a pipe dream. Holly Springs seemed to get the green light for a new school every year while the original FVHS continued to look like a seedy, rundown bowling alley or the back of a Carlie C’s. Despite rumors of students floating down halls of sewage in makeshift canoes, a brand spankin’ new school in Fuquay seemed to be pretty low on the town's list of priorities.

Thanks to an onslaught of new residents, that’s no longer the case. After the addition of Willow Springs High and South Lakes Elementary, FVHS got the best glamour shot mall-makeover a school could ask for (and FVMS is next)! Construction is now underway for Herbert Akins Middle School (set to open 202223), and there are already plans for a new elementary school off of Hilltop Needmore Road. It’s not over for Holly Springs, either — Woods Creek Elementary is coming soon and already crowdsourcing for mascot ideas. If you want your kid to learn in a new building, Southern Wake is SO hot right now.

RANDOM ANIMALS WALKING THE STREETS Yes, Southern Wake is transforming from country living to a yuppy paradise, but our animals never got the memo. We have a history of pigs chased all over town by the FVPD, random peacocks shooting the breeze in front of Citgo on Sunset Lake, chickens walking around Holly

“

On the plus side, HOAS will prevent your neighbor from creating a tire mountain in their front yard.

”

Springs like they own the place, and horses trotting down the street on the way to Aviator. TOTAL FARM CHAOS.

A NUCLEAR POWER PLANT If you’ve noticed a massive cooling tower rising like a phoenix over 12 Oaks Harris Lake, then let me clue you in — that’s Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant. Yes, there’s a test siren schedule available online. No, we don’t bother looking at it. Yes, every three months the entire community forgets that it’s Wednesday (test day) and waits to melt in their car while stuck in traffic à la Chernobyl. It

is what it is.

MEMES

Last but not least, Southern Wake has Fuquay-Varina Memes on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok (and Twitter if you think you’re better than everyone). Don’t be fooled by the name — Fuquay Memes is an equal opportunity meme page and we make fun of everyone. We’ve got T-shirts, memes and zero respect for ourselves (I think this shameless plug speaks for itself ).

Happy house hunting!

If you enjoyed these, there’s more where that came from! Follow me on: Facebook: @fuquaymemes Instagram: @thefvmemes Twitter: @thefvmemes

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Whalehead in Historic Corolla The Whalehead museum is a 1920s era Art Nouveau architectural masterpiece and is the centerpiece of Historic Corolla Park. Weekly and annual events are often held here, tours of the Whalehead museum offered daily.

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Seen

Heard Fuquay-Varina welcomes new economic development director .

McNeill will oversee efforts to attract new investment and industry, encourage the expansion of existing industry and align workforce education to support the FuquayVarina business community.

McNeill comes to Fuquay with extensive experience in economic development, previously working for Duke Energy, the City of Raleigh, the N.C. Department of Commerce, and the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina.

“I am honored for the opportunity to drive economic development in the Town of Fuquay-Varina, the town I called home as a young child.

I look forward to collaborating with our partners to create, grow and preserve the wealth of our community,” she says.

Tiffany McNeill

Coastal Credit Union

NIKITA DUCARROZ. PHOTO BY ROBERT SNOW.

has been named among the 2021 Best Credit Unions to Work For by American Banker. Coastal has won this award six times since 2015. The award takes into account employee surveys, benefits, workplace policies and practices.

SHARE WITH US

Congratulations

to the 2021 Olympic athletes who live and train in Holly Springs: Andrew Capobianco, Diver, silver medal Daniel Dhers, BMX rider, silver medal Hannah Roberts, BMX rider, silver medal Nikita Duccoroz, BMX rider, bronze medal

64 OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Share business news, upcoming events and town gossip with editor@ mainandbroadmag .com

Amgen, one

of the world’s leading biotechnology companies, will build a new manufacturing facility in Holly Springs. The $550 million investment is expected to bring 355 jobs to the area.

Amgen creates medications for people suffering from serious illnesses like cancer and heart disease, and has more than 24,000 employees worldwide. The new facility will be located in the Friendship Innovation Park on the northwest side of Holly Springs and begin operating in 2025.

Lincoln Heights Environmental Connections Magnet Elementary School won a NC GreenPower’s solar educational package grant, valued at about $42,000. In addition to a 5-kilowatt solar array, the schools will receive donated SunPower solar modules, a STEM curriculum, teacher training, environmental sensors, solar data monitoring and more.

Lee Stell,

The Lead Concierge at the Umstead Hotel & Spa, has been recognized with “Golden Keys” for exemplary service by Les Clefs d’Or USA, an international organization that represents the top three percent of the concierge industry worldwide.

Stell, who has worked at The Umstead since 2014, is one of two concierges within North Carolina that has received this recognition.

The work of Holly Springs writer was selected for publication in the current issue of Kaleidoscope: Exploring the Experience of Disability through Literature and the Fine Arts. Ward’s essay is titled “Lament for an Altered World.”

“I think it is more important than ever to highlight disabilities in writing and to share our experiences as part of the human spectrum,” says Ward.

Kaleidoscope magazine expresses the experiences of disability from the perspective of individuals, families, friends, caregivers, and healthcare professionals.

Dylan Ward

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has been named to Inc. magazine’s Inc. 5000 list, an annual tally of America’s fastest-growing private companies. Marking Lighthouse’s third appearance on the list, the company, of which Holly Springs resident Jon Harol, pictured left, is president, earned spot 1,156 after experiencing 421% growth throughout the past three years.

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Peck & Plume has opened as the

new restaurant at The Mayton, a boutique hotel in downtown Cary, recently under new ownership.

Peck & Plume — a nod to the restaurant’s view of the seven-acre downtown park, currently under construction, and its avian inhabitants — is a polished yet casual restaurant offering modern American classics taking inspiration from near and far.

Peck & Plume is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Menu highlights include: Indo chile shrimp with sambal, roasted cauliflower with harissa hummus, Karaage chicken, a grilled pork chop with tamarind baked field peas, creme brulee French toast and an English breakfast. Ingredients are sourced from Locals Seafood, Joyce Farms and Blue Sky Farms among others.

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65

In Focus

Paddling with a pug

By Jonathan Fredin Willow Spring couple John and Whitney Cress enjoy a canoe ride on Bass Lake with their Brindle pug Gus, who appears a little anxious about the whole adventure.

66 October/NOVEMBER 2021

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