As the days grow shorter, the Triangle area comes alive with a variety of events and holiday celebrations that keep the season bright. We’ve gathered a selection of activities for you, your family, and friends. From spooky trails to joyful festivals, there’s something for everyone to create lasting memories.
Festivals & Fairs
Where: Fuquay-Varina
When: October 5th
In Downtown FuquayVarina, this festive event features live entertainment, a variety of food trucks, arts and crafts vendors, and numerous activities for all ages to enjoy.
Celebrate Fuquay-Varina
Where: Raleigh
When: October 17th - 27th
For generations, the NC State Fair has been a can’t-miss event, offering eleven days of thrilling rides, deep-fried foods, live music, and various exhibits honoring our state’s agricultural strength.
NC State Fair
Where: Holly Springs
When: October 26th
Located at Sugg Farm at Bass Lake Park, this annual family-friendly event celebrates Holly Springs with local artists, businesses, food vendors, children’s activities, and entertainment.
HollyFest
Arts & Crafts
Where: Cary
When: October 9th
At Downtown Cary Park, there is a pumpkin carving workshop for adults where pumpkins and supplies are provided, and attendees bring their creativity to carve unique designs together.
Pumpkin Carving
Where: Raleigh
When: December 14th
At the NC Museum of Art, create a paper lantern and join the a paper lantern and join the procession through the Museum Park with your homemade, flame-free lantern.
Winter Lantern Walk
Where: Hilsborough
When: December 21st
The Hillsborough Arts Council’s annual Solstice Lantern Walk is a winter-themed event celebrating creativity and community with handmade lanterns.
Where: Durham
When: December 24th
Tickets are now on sale for Christmas Eve performances of the Nutcracker at the Durham Performing Arts Center, where you can enjoy a magical performance of the classic holiday ballet.
Nutcracker Magical Christmas Ballet
Solstice Lantern Walk
Seasonal Events in the Triangle Continued
Sporting Events
Where: Raleigh When: October 5th
Celebrate homecoming with a thrilling football game and show your Tar Heel pride with UNC vs. Pitt.
UNC Homecoming Game
Where: Raleigh When: October 11th
The Canes will open their 27th season in Raleigh against the Tampa Bay Lightning. Don’t miss the excitement!
Carolina Hurricanes Season Opener
Where: Raleigh When: November 2nd
Show your Wolfpack spirit and enjoy a day of football and festivities as NC State takes on Stanford.
NC State Homecoming Game
Nature & Outdoor
Where: Raleigh When: Mid-November
Starting in the middle of November, enjoy peak fall foliage with a walk at Yates Mill, an operable grist mill, or hike one of the trails surrounding Lake Johnson.
Fall
Foliage Walks
Where: Cary When: October 27th
Get the whole family together for a costumed 5K at Wake Med Soccer complex. Walking is also encouraged at this race. Every participant receives a free bag of Halloween candy at the finish line.
Trick or Trot 5k
Where: Chapel Hill When: November 20th
Annually anticipated as the biggest college football game in North Carolina, the NC State vs. UNC match-up brings together fans from across the state for an intense and thrilling event.
NC State vs UNC Chapel Hill
Where: Holly Springs When: Now through Dec.
The Family Farm on Avent Ferry has been in the same family for six generations! The farm is open to the public for the fall and Christmas seasons to share farm traditions with you and your family.
The Family Farm on Avent Ferry
SECTION TITLE
Seasonal Events in the Triangle Continued
Holiday & Culture
Cary: October 12th
Morrisville: October 19th
Also known as the Festival of Lights, Diwali is the most widely celebrated event in India and encourages artistic expression through vibrantuniqueperformances, exhibits, and colorful decorations.
Diwali Celebrations
Where: Garner
When: October 31st
Come trick-or-treat at White Deer Park’s one-mile loop trail, enjoy treats from local businesses, explore the creepy crawlies exhibit in the Nature Center, and get dinner from the food trucks on site.
Trick-or-Treat the Trail
Where: Raleigh
When: November 22nd
The tree lighting takes place outside of the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts, featuring live music, Santa, a holiday market, and, of course, the tree lighting ceremony.
Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting
Where: Cary When: November 16th - January 12th
The beloved North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival returns to Cary’s Koka Booth Amphitheatre for its ninth year, featuring over 20 new glowing displays, nightly performances, food and beverages.
Where: Morrisville
NC LanternChineseFestival
When: December 27th
Celebrate the last night of Hanukkah and enjoy hot cider, Hanukkah donuts, and live music with the community at Morrisville’s Menorah lighting.
Menorah Lighting
As you embrace the fourth quarter, we extend our thanks for your incredible dedication this year with PGB and for the magical moments you create for our clients. They, too, get to celebrate the season, assured of PGB’s steadfast guidance and support. Wishing you joy and success in the New Year!
Written by McKenzie Peterson
McKenzie is the Production Specialist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for developing user-friendly, client-centric marketing resources, such as Benefits Guides, Benefits Briefing presentations, and custom Microsites. She is a graduate of the University of Georgia and enjoys painting in her free time.
Managing Holiday Stress and Reducing Winter SAD
The holiday season can be filled with joy and special moments, but it can also be incredibly stressful. From gift giving to hosting to traveling, it can be difficult to enjoy this time with so many things to do. Here are some of our top tips for managing holiday stress.
1. Plan Ahead: As we enter this holiday season, it is important to keep yourself organized. From events hosted by family and friends to events that you are hosting, it can all become a blur. Keep track of what events you have committed to, as well as what you need as you host your own events, to keep yourself organized and on track for a stress-free season.
2. Don’t Overcommit: The holidays are a time of celebration and getting together. But endless parties and gatherings can drain your social battery and you can end up attending events out of obligation rather than genuine interest. Take time for yourself and identify what you genuinely want to do.
3. Gift Responsibly: Many holiday celebrations include the tradition of gift-giving. While this can be a wonderful tradition that can be rewarding for both the giver and receiver, it can also cause increased stress over finances. Set a budget for yourself and do your best to stay within those limits. Even small tokens can show how much you care.
4. Set Healthy Boundaries: It’s great to spend time with loved ones this season, but for many, visits from family can be stressful. Don’t feel guilty if you need to take some time for yourself. If you are getting overwhelmed, consider taking a walk to get some fresh air or calling a friend to ground yourself.
5. Spread the Load: There often seems to be a never-ending list of things to do during the holidays. Things to prepare, things to wrap, things to buy – it’s a lot for one person to handle. You don’t have to tackle every problem yourself – it’s okay to ask for help.
6. Avoid Travel Troubles: Getting yourself, your family, and especially kids from point A to point B (or even point C) can be a struggle but is sometimes unavoidable. The best way to reduce holiday travel chaos is to plan ahead and prepare in advance. For those who are flying, aim to book the earliest flight so there are backup flights available in case of delays. Try to avoid checking a bag and score your seats early, especially if traveling with multiple fliers. For those who are driving, double-check your car battery, engine, fluids, and tires before hitting the road. Be sure to pack water, snacks, and blankets in case of any car trouble.
Managing Holiday Stress and Reducing Winter SAD
The transition from summer to fall brings cooler temperatures, excitement for the holiday season, and of course pumpkin spice. But these transitions bring shorter days and longer nights which for some can be a challenge. Those who experience “fatigue, loneliness, and hopelessness” with the change of the season may be experiencing Winter Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). While we can’t stop the seasons from changing, there are still steps you can take to help reduce the effects of Winter Seasonal Affective Disorder.
1. Brighten Up Your Environment: Natural light is a key component in fighting SAD. It’s important to add as much natural light to your routine as you can. Open the blinds or sit close to bright windows when at work or at home. If you’re having trouble waking up in the mornings, a sunrise alarm clock may be the way to go as it mimics the rising sun and helps wake you up more naturally.
2. Get Outside: While it may be cold and cloudy, getting outside can still help reduce the impact of SAD. Take a walk, eat your lunch outside or just sit on a bench and catch some rays. This method has been shown to be extra effective if you can get outside within the first 2 hours of getting up in the morning.
3. Get the Heart Pumping: Exercise and physical activity have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety and help alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD.
4. Create Healthy Sleep Habits: Scheduling consistent times to wake up and go to sleep can help manage SAD symptoms. Try to avoid napping and oversleeping as they can sap your energy and make it harder to stay energized and focused throughout the day.
5. Get Your Vitamins: While vitamin deficiencies have not been proven responsible for SAD, many of those who experience winter-pattern SAD have a vitamin D deficiency and taking supplements may help improve symptoms, although studies have provided mixed results.
6. Talk to Your Doctor: Lifestyle adjustments can only do so much. If you’re experiencing symptoms of SAD or mental distress, please reach out to your doctor or healthcare provider. It’s important to take care of yourself, no matter the season.
Although there is no magic trick for completely erasing SAD or holiday stress, we hope that some of these tips and tricks may help you have a more relaxed and enjoyable season. Wishing you and your family happy and safe holidays!
Written by Rachael Davis
Rachael is the Marketing Assistant for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for a variety of tasks. Rachael joined the team in June 2024, bringing property & casualty insurance experience and a degree in marketing with a minor in communications from Elon University.
THE CULINARY CHRONICLES
Latte Lineup
In this issue, we’re featuring the ultimate Latte Lineup for the fall season. We’re exploring a variety of local latte creations in the Triangle, from bold innovative flavors to timeless favorites. Here’s a review of some fall brews:
Cultivate Coffee Roasters - Fuquay-Varina, NC
Brown Sugar Cardamom Latte: Cardamom, a spice derived from the seeds of a plant in the ginger family, combined with brown sugar, creates a warm and aromatic beverage perfect for those crisp fall mornings.
Thanks A Latte - Holly Springs & Angier, NC
Pumpkin Spice White Chocolate Mocha: The famous fall flavor of pumpkin spice, paired with the rich taste of white chocolate, makes this mocha an essential indulgence for the season.
42 & Lawrence - Raleigh, NC
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Latte: This nostalgic latte, crafted with maple syrup, vanilla, and a dash of cinnamon, is reminiscent of the classic cereal.
PRESS Coffee - Durham & Raleigh, NC
Spiced Pear Chai Latte: A unique blend of chai concentrate and spiced pear syrup, enhanced with a shot of espresso, offers a harmonious mix and twist on the traditional chai.
We hope you enjoy this curated selection of fall lattes. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or looking to try something new, there are ‘a latte’ options in the Triangle.
Written by Kaleb Johnson
Kaleb is the Marketing Strategist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for developing and analyzing content to optimize the company’s marketing initiatives across multiple platforms. Kaleb joined the team in May 2023, bringing with him insurance experience, as well as a degree in marketing and an MBA.
Pierce Group Benefits Blog Roundup BLOG ROUNDUP
Welcome to the PGB blog roundup! In this curated selection of insightful articles, we cover a range of topics impacting the employee benefits landscape. Whether you’re seeking information on updated insurance regulations or strategies to support the well-being of your clients’ employees, this roundup offers valuable insights and practical tools.
Planning for the Future with Long-Term Care Insurance
Exploring the benefits and considerations of long-term care insurance to ensure financial stability and access to necessary care in the future.
Read Now
Important Changes for Employers Offering Prescription Drug Coverage: Medicare Part D in 2025
Offering essential guidance for employers on determining and communicating the creditable status of their group health plan’s prescription drug coverage, especially considering upcoming changes to Medicare Part D in 2025.
Read Now
Employee Benefits Strategy: Trends and Considerations for the Upcoming Year
Highlighting the strategic importance of enhancing employee benefits to attract and retain talent, focusing on emerging trends like pet insurance, long-term care, student loan assistance, and flexible, employee-centric benefit offerings.
Read Now
BLOG ROUNDUP
How to Use Your HSA in Retirement
Outlining strategies for retirees to maximize their Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), emphasizing the tax advantages, investment options, and the importance of using HSA funds for qualified medical expenses and longterm care.
How Voluntary Benefits Can Enhance Employee Retention
Emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive benefits package, including voluntary benefits, in enhancing employee retention by providing financial security, improving health and well-being, increasing job satisfaction, and boosting morale and engagement.
Personalizing Your Employee Benefits Offerings
Focusing on the importance of personalizing employee benefits to meet the diverse needs of a multi-generational workforce, and highlighting strategies such as flexible benefits plans, financial wellness programs, and ongoing employee feedback to enhance satisfaction with the organization’s employee benefits package.
Written by Kaleb Johnson
Kaleb is the Marketing Strategist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for developing and analyzing content to optimize the company’s marketing initiatives across multiple platforms. Kaleb joined the team in May 2023, bringing with him insurance experience, as well as a degree in marketing and an MBA.
PGB HOLIDAY EVENTS
As the holiday season approaches, we are excited to share some upcoming events that will bring our office together in celebration and joy.
Halloween Spirit Week
Get ready to show off your Halloween spirit from Monday, October 28 to Thursday, October 31. Join us for a week filled with fun activities and costumes!
Thanksgiving Potluck
Mark your calendars for our Thanksgiving Potluck on Thursday, November 14, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Bring your favorite dish to share and enjoy a delicious meal with colleagues.
Holiday Luncheon
Save the date for our Holiday Luncheon, tentatively scheduled for Friday, December 13. More details will be provided as the date approaches, so stay tuned!
We look forward to celebrating these festive occasions with you. Happy Holidays!
Created by Rachael Davis
Rachael is the Marketing Assistant for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for a variety of tasks. Rachael joined the team in June 2024, bringing property & casualty insurance experience and a degree in marketing with a minor in communications from Elon University.
PIERCE GROUP
NEW YEAR’S DAY
WEDNESDAY, JAN. 1ST
MLK JR. DAY
MONDAY, JAN. 20TH
PRESIDENTS’ DAY
MONDAY, FEB. 17TH
JUNETEENTH
THURSDAY, JUNE 19TH
MEMORIAL DAY
MONDAY, MAY 26TH
INDEPENDENCE DAY
FRIDAY, JULY 4TH
LABOR DAY
MONDAY, SEPT. 1ST
THANKSGIVING DAY
THURSDAY, NOV. 27TH
THANKSGIVING
FRIDAY, NOV. 28TH DAY AFTER
CHRISTMAS DAY
THURSDAY, DEC. 25TH
In addition to the above, don’t forget that every employee also receives two (2) floating holidays that can be used any time throughout the calendar year. Floating holidays may only be used if scheduled and approved in advance by your supervisor/manager. They are not available to cash out or roll-over into the following year.
PIERCE GROUP PERSPECTIVES
Pierce Group Perspectives: Monica Nixon, Reg. Client Services Manager
Welcome to the first episode of Pierce Group Perspectives, where we bring you insights from leaders in employee benefits. Our special guest this quarter is Monica Nixon, a Client Services Manager at PGB with over 17 years of experience. Join us as Monica shares her journey and valuable perspectives on the industry.
Sign Up
If you’re interested in being a special guest on our quarterly podcast, Pierce Group Perspectives, click the sign-up button.
Written by Kaleb Johnson
Kaleb is the Marketing Strategist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for developing and analyzing content to optimize the company’s marketing initiatives across multiple platforms. Kaleb joined the team in May 2023, bringing with him insurance experience, as well as a degree in marketing and an MBA.
Created by Andrew Marnielli
Andrew is the Video/Audio Specialist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for capturing, creating and finalizing Marketing Materials for educational and informational purposes. Andrew brings with him years of freelance Videography experience and a degree in Mass Communications.
HOLIDAY MOVIE ROUND-UP
2024 Holiday Movie Roundup
Get some hot cocoa and enjoy the magic of the season with our ultimate Holiday Movie Roundup, featuring timeless favorites that are sure to bring festive cheer to your home.
RELEASE: 2003 RATING: PG
Buddy (Will Ferrell) was accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York City, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father.
In the 1940s, a young boy named Ralphie Parker attempts to convince his parents, teacher, and Santa Claus that a Red Ryder Range 200 Shot BB gun is the perfect Christmas gift.
CHRISTMAS STORY
1. Elf
2. A Christmas Story
HOLIDAY STREAMING ROUNDUP
2024 Holiday Movie Roundup
4. The Nightmare Before Christmas
When Kevin McCallister is accidentally left home alone during Christmas, he must defend his house from two bumbling burglars using clever traps. In the sequel, Kevin gets separated from his family in New York City, where he encounters the same crooks and uses his quick thinking to thwart their latest scheme.
Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, stumbles upon the enchanting world of Christmas Town. Fascinated by the holiday’s joy and wonder, he decides to bring Christmas back to Halloween Town, leading to unexpected chaos and confusion.
FROZEN
Nightmare Before Christmas
5. Frozen
When the newly crowned Queen Elsa accidentally uses her power to turn things into ice, cursing her home with an infinite winter, her sister Anna teams up with a mountain man, his playful reindeer, and a snowman to change the weather.
When a man (Tim Allen) inadvertently makes Santa fall off his roof on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place. It’s one of my all-time favorite holiday movies!
Written by Andrew Marnielli
Andrew is the Video/Audio Specialist for Pierce Group Benefits, responsible for capturing, creating and finalizing Marketing Materials for educational and informational purposes. Andrew brings with him years of freelance Videography experience and a degree in Mass Communications.
3. Home Alone & Home Alone 2
THE SANTA CLAUSE
6. The Santa Clause
PIERCE GROUP
PIERCE GROUP
NEW EMPLOYEE WELCOME
Please join us in extending a very warm welcome to our newest team member — congratulations and welcome, we look forward to working with and getting to know you!
Kady Knight Account Executive
Pierce Group Benefits is dedicated to the professional development of our employees through our Creating Career Paths Program, helping you identify and achieve long-term career goals. We encourage you to explore opportunities within PGB that match your interests and goals by checking the Careers page on our website for available positions. Additionally, referring a job listing is now easier than ever with a button on the post that allows you to email a position to someone in your network. Ensure the referred person specifies your name on their application for you to qualify for a referral bonus.
BIRTHDAYS
Carla Carr - October 3rd
Monserat Hernandez - October 6th
Becky McKee - October 10th
Keishia McLendon - October 12th
Cathy Maxfield - October 13th
Sean Harbert - October 15th
Nancy Sodano - October 16th
Emily Kesead - October 22nd
Jordan Lee - October 24th
Abbie Whitlock - November 1st
Regina Bartechko - November 4th
Valeria Favero - November 8th
Lexy Messina- November 9th
Patrick Newman - November 15th
Kaleb Johnson - November 16th
John Price - November 19th
Christopher Giannell - November 20th
Dave Welker - November 20th
Adam Main - November 20th
Mary Helen Fennell-Morgan - November 28th
Gray Hooker - December 9th
Lori Kozlowski-McNamara - December 14th
Michelle Gunter - December 22nd
Crystal Wilkins - December 26th
David Charland - December 27th
WORKAVERSARIES
Be it your first year or your twenty-fifth year, THANK YOU for the work you do for Pierce Group Benefits and our clients, and their employees and families!
CELEBRATING 1 YEAR!
Jim Dubovec, Producer - Congratulations on 1 year!
CELEBRATING 2-5 YEARS!
Vikki Tollefsen, Administrative Assistant - Congratulations on 2 years!
Roennia Williams, Account Executive - Congratulations on 3 years!
Amanda Keim, Enrollment Technician - Congratulations on 4 years!
Gail Tiffany, Service Specialist - Congratulations on 5 years!
CELEBRATING 6-10 YEARS!
Kayla Stam, Account Executive - Congratulations on 7 years!
Rosia Carranza, Service Specialist - Congratulations on 7 years!
Gray Spivey, Business Development Manager- Congratulations on 9 years!
Patrick Newman, Senior EDI Analyst - Congratulations on 9 years!
Cathy Maxfield, Senior Account Executive - Congratulations on 10 years!
CELEBRATING 10+ YEARS!
Cori Rozentāls, Data Management Manager- Congratulations on 11 years!
Janice Wagstaff, Service Center Manager - Congratulations on 14 years!
Raquel Bootes, Vice President of Operations - Congratulations on 16 years!
“Be thankful for what you have; you’ll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don’t have, you will never, ever have enough.”
- OPRAH WINFREY
FORMATTING
& DESIGN: RACHAEL DAVIS & MARY HELEN FENNELL-MORGAN EDITING & REVIEW: KALEB JOHNSON
