A Guide to the Triangle’s Farmers’ Markets
Being in the heart of summer, it’s a perfect time to venture out to a local farmers’ market in North Carolina’s Triangle region. Shopping at these markets is beneficial for your health, taste buds, and local farmers’. You can pick up a local staple or discover a new treat to share. Remember, local vegetables will continue to grow late into the Fall, so you have plenty of time to visit a local farmers’ market!
Doctors recommend nearly 25-30 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each week, which can be a challenging regimen even for the most health-conscious consumer. Visiting farmers’ markets may introduce you to new vegetables to try. In contrast to grocery store staples, local producers bring only what is in season and ripe. Variety and flavor will bring a new spark to your health journey.
Joshua McFadden, in his book “Six Seasons: A New Way with Vegetables,” describes summer as the equivalent of three seasons due to the surplus of edible plants during this time. He recommends visiting farmers’ markets often and asking questions. If you don’t see what you are looking for, a farmer might be able to recommend a tasty alternative.
Purchasing from local markets spurs on the local economy. Vendors at farmers’ markets are often smaller-scale operations. They can be more capable of practicing sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices. However, these businesses depend on weekly sales and community-supported agriculture (CSA) partnerships.
On sunny days, many vegetables, like corn, are best when cooked as close to harvesting as possible –ideally, right on the field. Since not everyone has the luxury of waking up at sunrise like a farmer, North Carolinian farmers will bring the bounty to you every Saturday until Target puts out Christmas decorations (i.e., October).
On the next page are the remaining hours for local markets near PGB and a few incentives to start your weekend with a market stroll. Cont. »
WELLNESS CORNER
A Guide to the Triangle’s Farmers’ Markets Cont.
Holly Spring Farmers’ Market
Location:
300 W Ballentine St., Holly Springs Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm
Last Market Day: Oct 21, 2024
The baked goods section at this market is notable. Crafts, products, and plants are mixed in with produce, so there will likely be something for everyone at this market.
Downtown Durham Farmers’ Market
Location:
501 Foster St, Durham Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm Last Market Day: Year-round
This market is worth the trip with unique products and committed producers. Some distinctive vendors include a vegan bakery, a women-owned butchery, and an Asian-origin specific grower with produce like Bok Choy and Napa Cabbage.
Written by McKenzie Peterson
Fuquay-Varina
Farmers’ Market
Location:
121 N. Main St., Fuquay-Varina Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm Last Market Day: September 7. 2024
A quaint farmers’ market, featuring offerings like goat milk soap, local spices, fresh produce, and typically a food truck or two, provides easy access to a diverse array of local vendors.
South Durham Farmers’ Market
Location: NC-55, Durham, NC Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm Last Market Day: Year-round
This is a very convenient option for staples and familiar vegetables. If you’d like to avoid the crowds at the Downtown Durham Farmers Market, consider supporting this flourishing group.
Location:
220 N Salem St, Apex Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm Last Market Day: Year-round
If you prefer a smaller selection, then this market is for you. There are fewer vendors, which allows more time to get to know the regulars and ask questions about the produce.
Raleigh Farmers’ Market
Location:
220 N Salem St, Apex Main Season Hours: 8:00am – 12:00pm Last Market Day: Year-round
Boasting vendors from across the state, this market is the largest on the list, featuring both indoor and outdoor stalls. It presents a vibrant spectacle that’s perfect for family outings or showing around out-of-town guests.
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.
PIERCE GROUP
Active & Fit Direct KNOW YOUR BENEFITS
Find a flexible fitness lifestyle that will work out for you! With your AP Benefits, you can utilize Active & Fit Direct. This offers access to a network of over 12,500 gyms, a digital library of on-demand workout videos, well-being coaching, and no long-term contracts—all for one low cost.
Membership Choices
12,500+ Participating Fitness Centers
Program Benefits:
Digital Fitness Tools 12,000+ On-Demand Workout Videos
• No long-term or annual contracts
• Enrollment fees are waived
• You can switch gyms or cancel anytime
• Searchable fitness center directory
• Activity tracking syncs with 250+ wearable fitness devices, apps, and exercise equipment
Wellbeing Choices Live Lifestyle Coaching: Exercise, Nutrition, or other health goals
• Option to switch fitness centers to make sure you find the right fit
• Once enrolled, you can enroll your spouse or domestic partner
• Costs starting at $28/month for standard memberships
Mary Helen Fennell-Morgan is the Marketing Production Lead for Pierce Group Benefits. She assists in leading the Marketing Team in addition to working hands-on with a variety of projects, tasks, and enrollment request fulfillment. Mary Helen brings a range of experience from both the education and non-profit industries to PGB.
Curated by Mary Helen Fennell-Morgan
THE CULINARY CHRONICLES
Healthy Lunch Options Under $15, Within 15 Minutes from PGB
Looking for a healthy lunch near the office? We’ve got you covered! Here are some of the best options that are within a 15-minute distance from Pierce Group Benefits and cost under $15 before tax.
Homegrown Pizza - Holly Springs, NC
Antipasto - A colorful array of mixed greens, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, green peppers, black olives, banana peppers, pepperoncini, ham, salami, pepperoni & provolone. Available in small ($7.95) and large ($9.95) sizes.
The Mason Jar Tavern - Fuquay Varina, NC
Chicken Lettuce Wraps - A light and refreshing option at $12. Enjoy red cabbage, cucumber, carrots topped with sautéed chicken on lettuce leaves with a side of Sesame sauce.
Greek Basma - Holly Springs, NC
Kabob Platters - A hearty meal featuring Greek salad, cucumber sauce, and pita bread. All platters come with your choice of single or double kabob: chicken, steak and/or lamb. Single platter is priced at $12.49 and double at $14.49.
Lovegrass Kitchen - Holly Springs, NC
Very Berry Acai Bowl - A nutrient-packed bowl at $13. It includes organic acai, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, bananas, and almond milk. Topped with coconut, granola, and honey.
There are a variety of healthy lunch options near PGB’s office. Discover your new favorite spot today and enjoy meals that cater to your taste and health. Bon appétit!
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.
& TRICKS
3 Easy Steps to Give Your LinkedIn a Summer Refresh TIPS
Your photo here!
When was the last time you updated your LinkedIn? If it has been a while, then maybe you should consider a quick refresh! You don’t have to be a LinkedIn “influencer” to keep your profile up-to-date and accurate. For most people, an annual update is all that is needed. The social media platform is not just a job board. It is a way for people in your network to verify your identity and celebrate your achievements. Follow these three steps below to spruce up your presence on the platform.
1. Update Your Headshot
This is an opportunity to give people a face to go with your name. In the age of remote work, we spend most of our time engaging over email or on the phone. A recent headshot builds your credibility and creates empathy with your coworkers and clients. Ironically, you are actually “proving” you are not a robot or a scam, so do not use avatars or a photo not of you.
Instead, use a professional and recent headshot that is devoid of any distractions like a patterned shirt or confusing background. To change your profile photo, click “me” in the top right of LinkedIn, click on your profile photo, and select “add photo” to upload a photo from your computer.
TIPS & TRICKS
3 Easy Steps to Give Your LinkedIn a Summer Refresh Cont.
2. Personalize Your Headline and Add a PGB Banner
Instead of writing your exact job title in the headline section, consider including an active verb and object. Your current job title should be further down in the experience section, so interested parties will be able to find it. By concisely summarizing what you do or, even better, why you do it, you will set yourself apart and connect your personality to your career. For example, is your favorite part of your job customer satisfaction? Then use, “Generating Smiles at Pierce Group Benefits.” Have you recently completed an important certification? Write, “Utilizing ‘certification name’ to empower my clients.” The possibilities are endless and will communicate the value you add beyond your job description.
To change your headline, click on the edit icon in the top right of your profile and scroll down to the headline box. Keep in mind the first few words will be visible alongside your headshot with every post or comment you make on LinkedIn – even more incentive to make your headline unique!
Find a custom PGB banner in SharePoint under PGB Document Library > Marketing > Brand Folder > LinkedIn Banners or linked here.
3. Give and Ask for a Recommendation!
This last step is often forgotten but can be the most valuable addition to your profile. It can actually be pretty fun as well! Ask a former coworker, manager, or friend to write a recommendation on your profile. This blurb does not need to be long or elaborate, just a few kind words on why they liked working with you or the value you added to the team. Always offer to return the favor with a recommendation on their profile.
Cont. »
TIPS & TRICKS
3. Give and Ask for a Recommendation! Cont.
On LinkedIn, you can only exchange recommendations with 1stdegree connections. Go to their profile and look for the text that says “1st” next to their name and pronouns. Click “More” at the bottom of this box and go to either “Request a recommendation” or “Recommend.” After approval, these recommendations will appear at the bottom of your profile and provide a firsthand account of your work.
Of course, if you enjoyed giving or receiving online recommendations, remember to share some encouraging words IRL (in real life) as well!
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.
TRENDING NEWS
Understanding the New FTC and EEOC Rules: The Non-Compete Clause & The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) have finalized rules on the Non-Compete Clause Rule and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA). The FTC’s rule will nullify most existing and future non-compete agreements, except those with senior executives. The PWFA mandates reasonable accommodations for workers’ pregnancy-related limitations unless it causes the employer undue hardship. More details on these rules will be provided in the video.
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.
BLOG ROUNDUP
Pierce Group Benefits 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.
IRS Announces Updated HSA and HDHP Limits for 2025
The IRS announced HSA and HDHP updates effective January 1, 2025, including higher HSA contributions, adjusted HDHP limits, unchanged HSA catch-up rules, and HRAs inflation adjustments.
National Women’s Health Week
National Women’s Health Week focuses on addressing specific healthcare needs and challenges faced by women and promoting comprehensive healthcare solutions.
Understanding Critical Illness Benefits
Understanding critical illness benefits is key for employers to ensure employee well-being and financial protection during health crises.
A compact guide for HR professionals on effectively communicating the importance and details of voluntary benefits to employees.
BLOG ROUNDUP
How Preventive Care Benefits Employers
Preventive care in workplaces promotes health, reduces healthcare costs, and boosts productivity by early disease detection and lifestyle counseling.
The No Surprises Act and its Safeguards Against Unexpected Medical Bills
The No Surprises Act provides protections against unexpected medical bills for insured and uninsured individuals, promoting fair billing practices.
Read Now
How an Insurance Brokerage Empowers Solo HR Professionals
This blog is tailored for solo HR departments and outlines the advantages of collaborating with an insurance brokerage to manage benefits for small HR teams.
Recognizing Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month
June is recognized as Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month, an opportune time to focus on a critical aspect of men’s mental well-being
A Shopper’s Guide to the FSA and HSA Stores
Discover how to navigate your FSA and HSA spending with our concise shopping guide for the FSA Store and HSA Store.
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.
Pets of PGB
PIERCE GROUP
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Congratulations and THANK YOU for your commitment, determination, and contributions. Get to know our PGB All-Stars below!
JEFF LIPACK TECHNICAL SUPPORT SPECIALIST
Jeff Lipack, our Technical Support Specialist, began his journey in the IT and computer industry when he was just 17 years old. His impressive career has seen him work at prestigious institutions such as The Pentagon, America Online, Kennedy Space Center, and the Department of Homeland Security. His dedication was particularly evident in the days following 9/11, when he was dispatched to New York City to assist customers in the financial district with system restoration. Now, he enjoys assisting his colleagues at PGB, enhancing their efficiency, and indirectly benefiting our clients. Outside of work, Jeff cherishes family time, enjoys SimRacing, and attends college football games cheering on the Clemson Tigers. His ideal day off? Sleeping in late! Jeff’s dedication to both his work and personal life makes him an incredibly valued and respected member of our team.
Jeff is a dedicated IT professional that has contributed greatly to PGB over the years. He is always concerned about how technology might impact staff and customers. He has expended significant time, and energy during our various migrations including AP infrastructure, RingCentral, and Contact Center that is very much appreciated by all.
- Dave Welker II, Chief Financial Officer
Data Management greatly appreciates Jeff’s willingness to help our department, as we have a number of agency-specific applications. He has made sure our teams keep running smoothly and efficiently, from connecting us to the right AP members for Gemini to helping us update on a regular cadence. Thank you, Jeff, for all your help!!
- Emily Kesead, Data Management Manager
An organization may require a whole team to issue, setup, and manage the onboarding of 40 individual devices at once. Jeff is the whole team and made sure it was done and set up a line for support after the fact! Kudos to the guy that does it all!!
- Janna Smith, Director of Enrollment & Product Development
Jeff has been a huge asset to the service center team. He is always willing to assist with anything from minor issues to major issues. We truly appreciate his continuous support! Thank you, Jeff, for all you do!”
- Janice Wagstaff, Service Center Manager
Jeff is always very responsive and promptly addresses all the finance department’s IT related issues whether onsite or remotely, even when he’s on PTO, which is really appreciated!
- Nina Elghossain, Finance & Accounting Manager
Jeff’s positive attitude and wit are matched only by his dedication to helping us with our computer problems. He finds a way for us to share a laugh even when dealing with stressful situations.
- Chris Giannell, Director, Specialty
EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
CARLA CARR SERVICE SPECIALIST
Carla Carr, a dedicated Service Specialist in the Service Center, has been in the benefits sector of the insurance industry since 1994. She finds joy in helping people, ensuring they leave conversations happy. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications and a Lean 6-Sigma Green Belt Certification. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, crime shows, board games, and Caribbean travels. Her ideal day off involves watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean from a Caribbean Island, marveling at the beauty of God’s creation, or enjoying seafood at Elijah’s in Wilmington, NC. Carla’s dedication to her work and personal life makes her a valued team member. Her unwavering dedication to her professional responsibilities, coupled with her passion for her personal life and interests, makes her an incredibly valued and respected member of PGB whose contributions are highly appreciated.
Carla has been a part of the Service Center team for 6 years. She is knowledgeable and eager to assist. Her confident voice and helpfulness has been complimented by many who call her for assistance. She is a great asset to the Service Center team!
- Janice Wagstaff, Service Center Manager
DONATION DRIVE REMINDER
PGB is proud to host a clothing drive for Note in the Pocket, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality clothing to homeless and impoverished children and families. In addition, PGB Leadership will match employee donations with a financial contribution of $500! For donation recommendations, please check their wish lists and place your donations in the collection bins in the PGB Service Center (near the mailboxes) or at the Summer Meeting (at check-in).
PIERCE GROUP
NEW EMPLOYEE WELCOME
Please join us in extending a very warm welcome to our newest team members — congratulations and welcome, we look forward to working with and getting to know you!
Crystal Wilkins Enrollment Technician
Sahr Administrative Assistant
Delahanty EDI Analyst
Davis Marketing Assistant
Deb
Rachael
Michael
PIERCE GROUP
BIRTHDAYS
Wyndham Murray - July 9th
Justin VanWyck - July 14th
Lisa Bledsoe - July 14th
Veronica Lara - July 14th
Gail Tiffany - July 15th
Michael Delahanty - July 18th
Brittney Henry - July 24th
Janice Wagstaff - August 3rd
Diane Remes - August 7th
Kristi Brown - August 14th
Tyler Blackwell - August 15th
Karina Branch - August 17th
Sharon Borden - August 20th
Artina McKnight-Coard - August 23rd
Rosia Carranza - August 23rd
Deja Silver - August 27th
Roennia Williams - August 29th
Bekah Downing - September 4th
Kayla Stam - September 7th
Patti Kilpatrick - September 7th
Heywood Williams-Tracy - September 15th
Robin Craver - September 26th
Antonio Dinkins - September 26th
Sharla Gillespie - September 30th
PIERCE GROUP
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!
Ben Ceja, Enrollment Technician - Congratulations on 1 year!
Andrew Marinelli, Photo & Audio/Visual Specialist - Congratulations on 1 year!
Keishia McLendon, Enrollment Technician - Congratulations on 1 year!
Heywood Williams-Tracy, Benefit Analyst - Congratulations on 1 year!
Abbie Whitlock, Service Specialist - Congratulations on 1 year!
Nancy Truett, Administrative Assistant - Congratulations on 1 year!
Bekah Downing, Account Executive - Congratulations on 1 year!
Nina Elghossain, Finance & Accounting Manager - Congratulations on 1 year!
Kristi Brown, Benefits Counselor - Congratulations on 1 year!
CELEBRATING 2-5 YEARS!
Cindy Blackley, Account Executive - Congratulations on 2 years!
Wes Guzman, Producer - Congratulations on 2 years!
Nancy Sodano, Benefit Analyst - Congratulations on 2 years!
Arthur Meredith, Account Executive - Congratulations on 3 years!
Gray Hooker, Vice President of Consulting Services - Congratulations on 3 years!
Mary Helen Fennell-Morgan, Marketing Production Lead - Congratulations on 3 years!
Devin Draman, Employee Navigator Practice Lead & Project Manager - Congratulations on 4 years!
John Price, Project Manager - Congratulations on 5 years!
Brittany Turner, Benefit Analyst Manager - Congratulations on 5 years!
CELEBRATING 6-9 YEARS!
Patti Kilpatrick, Account Executive - Congratulations on 6 years!
Justin VanWyck, Project Manager - Congratulations on 6 years!
Shanisse Spencer, Service Specialist- Congratulations on 8 years!
Donna Ross, Service Specialist- Congratulations on 8 years!
Valeria Favero, Senior Service Specialist- Congratulations on 9 years!
Monica Nixon, Regional
CELEBRATING 10+ YEARS!
Client Services Manager - Congratulations on 16 years!
David Charland, President of Employee Benefits - Congratulations on 23 years!
“THE WAY TO GET STARTED IS TO QUIT TALKING AND BEGIN DOING.”
- WALT DISNEY
FORMATTING & DESIGN: MARY HELEN FENNELL-MORGAN
EDITING & REVIEW: KALEB JOHNSON