Main & Broad September/October 2025

driven by mission cafe & gift shoppe

More Access. More Convenience.

What More Could You Ask For?

WakeMed is proud of our longstanding commitment to the Fuquay-Varina community. And now, we’re here with even more services, increased access, and quality care that goes right along with being the area’s leading health care provider.

From primary care and cardiology to orthopaedics, lab and imaging services, we’re growing right along with you, your family and the community.

WakeMed Fuquay-Varina Medical Park

2400 N. Main Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Visit us at wakemed.org/fuquayvarina-medical-park to view all of our services and to get connected with our care team today.

What You’ll Find Here:

• Heart & Vascular – Cardiology

• Heart & Vascular – Vascular Surgery

• Imaging Services by Raleigh Radiology

• Lab

• OB-GYN

• Pediatric Cardiology

• Pediatric Primary Care

• Primary Care

• Urology – Adult & Pediatric

• Wake Orthopaedics & Physical Therapy

Join us for a dynamic day of conversations with local leaders diving into key topics shaping Wake County’s future — including healthcare, commercial real estate, hospitality & tourism, and finance. Plus, a celebratory luncheon honoring Cary Magazine’s 2025 class of Movers & Shakers.

Driven by an inclusive culture, our team of aesthetic experts offer the very best in skin, body, and wellness treaments customized to meet your unique needs and goals.

We welcome you to schedule your personalized skin consultation today, and make this your time to THRIVE!

• Medical Weight Loss & B12 Injections

• Botox, Dysport & Jeuveau

• Dermal Fillers & Biostimulators

• PDO Threads

• PRF Injections

• Hair Restoration

• Microneedling & RF Microneedling

• Laser Hair Removal

• BBL & IPL Photofacials

• Moxi & Pixel Skin Resurfacing

• Sclerotherapy & Laser Vein

• Facials & Chemical Peels Call/Text:

“ I’m not glad it happened, but I’m glad that we know what to do and are able to help.”

– Madison Tart, firefighter

16

SEE & DO

Festivals and forums, (haunted) trails and tours provide plenty of opportunities to support the local community.

18

DIG IN & DRINK UP

Flavorful lattes from Lovegrass Kitchen 38

RESTORED MISSION SHOPPE

Support women in crisis situations through this cafe and gift shop in Fuquay-Varina.

RISE & DINE

Discover your new favorite restaurant in our Dining Guide. 62

FUN & MEMES

What’s in a name? Fuquay-Varina Memes spills the tea on the original Varina.

Community news and accolades

reader Letters

“Thank you so much. The article turned out great! We’ve already had customers who said they saw the social post and about a dozen who came from the magazine.” – HEATHER BADOUR, TINY HOUSE TREATS

“Great job on the Burger Bonanza feature. I’m so glad you included Corbett’s.” – DAVID MCCREARY

“I love the article so much! Thank you!”

– CAYLA MORRIS, POLLY’S PETAL PATCH

“ If you could have one superpower, what would you choose? ”

September/October 2025 • Volume 7, Number 5

EXECUTIVE

Bill Zadeits, Group Publisher

Kris Schultz, Publisher

EDITORIAL

Emily Uhland, Senior Editor

Erin McKnight, Staff Writer

Arlem Mora, Social Media Coordinator

Tara Shiver, Digital & Copy Editor

Megan Waters

Macy Zadeits

CONTRIBUTORS

Fuquay-Varina Memes

David McCreary

PHOTOGRAPHY

Jonathan Fredin, Chief Photographer

Annie Kimura

REALITY-BENDING & MEMORY MANIPULATION MY FAVORITE “UMBRELLA ACADEMY” HEROES HAVE THESE POWERS

WEATHER CONTROL FOR EVERYTHING FROM HELPING FOOD PRODUCTION TO HAVING GOOD WEATHER FOR A TRIP

ON THE COVER: FIREFIGHTERS IN HOLLY SPRINGS AGREE: THERE IS A PLACE FOR EVERYONE IN FIRE SERVICE. THE ALL-FEMALE CREW AT STATION 2 SETS A HIGH BAR. PHOTO BY JONATHAN FREDIN.

PRODUCTION

Atiya Batts, Graphic Designer

Jennifer Casey, Senior Graphic Designer

Dylan Gilroy, Web Designer

Beth Harris, Graphic Designer

Lauren Morris, Graphic Designer

Matt Rice, Webmaster/SEO

Rachel Sheffield, Web Designer

Lane Singletary, Graphic Designer

ADVERTISING

Cheryl Nelson, Senior Account Executive

Maureen Powell, Senior Account Executive

Aleida Montufar, Account Executive

PUBLIC RELATIONS

S&A Communications

Chuck Norman, APR

ADMINISTRATIVE

Kristin Black, Accounting

Cherise Klug, Traffic Manager

Lisa White, Senior Event Coordinator & Distribution Manager

Valerie Renard, Human Resources

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.

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.

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.

EPISODE 18

Poppin’

PODCAST? What’s on the

Host Melissa Wistehuff takes you beyond the pages of

Teen Entrepreneur Holden Bierman of Coastal Cool

Aarti Sequeira: From CNN Producer to Food Network Stardom

EPISODE 19

EPISODE 22

EPISODE 26

The Buzz on Beekeeping with Buddha Bee Apiary

A Place at the Table with Maggie Kane

Gabi and Mary Angelini: Entrepreneurship in the Special Needs Community

EPISODE 23

Festivals are in the air during September and October! Come to downtown Fuquay Varina for a taste of the world and a little bit of home—The International Festival at the Arts Center September 13, 1-4 and Celebrate! in downtown Fuquay Varina October 4, 10-4. Beatlesque is just the beginning of an exceptional season of music, comedy and community. Get your tickets and more info at FVArts.org

is the word! Whatever you do--Paint, stitch, draw, dance, improvise, work leather, crochet, throw clay—find the class that’s right for you! Info and registration: FVArts.org Festivals

I don’t conduct many group interviews for Main & Broad. Meeting one or two people at a time is the norm, but more than that and it gets tricky. Remembering names and who said what, keeping the conversation flowing organically while allowing everyone a chance to respond can be tough.

Editor’s Letter

For this issue, I had the opportunity to sit down with seven of the nine ladies who work as firefighters for the Holly Springs Fire Department. (Lucky for me, their uniforms all had name tapes). Five of these women serve together on one crew — the first of its kind in Wake County — and the others are spread across multiple shifts and stations. In a stroke of fortunate scheduling, we were able to spend about 40 minutes together discussing the experience of being a female in fire service.

As the interview wrapped up, a call came through and the team jumped into motion. Mere seconds passed before the truck pulled out of the station. Photographer Jonathan Fredin was able to follow behind the fire engine with Fire Chief LeRoy Smith to capture the action as it unfolded — check it all out on page 20.

There are many remarkable women featured in these pages: entrepreneurs, a nonprofit founder, a corporate leader, and more, all shaping the communities we love in unique ways. I am honored to share their stories with you.

Thanks for reading,

EMILY UHLAND SENIOR EDITOR

This issue BY THE Numbers

9

Female firefighters serve in the Holly Springs Fire Department

4

2 Local boutiques showcase fall styles

Specialty lattes with unique flavors from Lovegrass Kitchen

3 Hand of Hope Pregnancy Resource Centers, with locations in Fuquay-Varina, Raleigh, and Fayetteville, founded by Restored Mission Shoppe owner Tonya Baker Nelson

$3 billion

Investment in Holly Springs by FUJIFILM Biotechnologies to build their largest cell culture CDMO in North America. Woman to Watch Laurie Braxton oversees it all.

Jason Adamo Presents North Carolina Songwriters in the Round SEPT. 20

7 P.M.

HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

A unique musical experience where artists perform in an intimate “in the round” setting, sharing their songs and the stories behind them. This one-of-a-kind behind the music event features NC artists Jason Adamo, Clare Means, Chris Hendricks, Azul, and others. hollyspringsnc.gov

Disaster!

SEPT. 19–21, FUQUAY-VARINA ARTS CENTER

SEPT. 26–28, HOLLY SPRINGS CULTURAL CENTER

Southern Wake Players Community Theatre presents a chaotic night aboard a glamorous casino and disco boat wherein a series of unexpected events (earthquakes, tidal waves, piranhas!) threatens to sink the ship and its cast of humorous characters. Set to a soundtrack of disco hits from the ’70s, including “Knock on Wood,” “Hooked on a Feeling,” and “Sky High.”

See Do

Local

Events & Experiences to Enjoy Wicked Fur Good! Canine-Con

SEPT. 20

8–11 A.M.

SUGG FARM PARK

Four-legged friends and their humans will enjoy wicked good fun with dog-themed activities, professional demonstrations, local rescues, food trucks, and pet-friendly vendors. Spellbound attendees are encouraged to dress to match their canine companions in “Wicked” styles as they dance through the fields of Sugg Farm Park. hollyspringsnc.gov

Women of Western Wake Forum SEPT. 26

8:30 A.M. TO 3 P.M.

THE UMSTEAD HOTEL AND SPA

Cary Magazine’s signature event combines leadership, learning, and inspiration in a day of workshops, networking, and discussion to celebrate the achievement of women in the local community. Hear from this year’s Women of Western Wake in a motivating panel discussion full of real-life strategies and experiences. womenofwesternwake.com

Splitbelly Creek

Haunted Trail

FRIDAYS AND SATURDAYS, SEPT. 26

TO OCT. 31

7:30–11 P.M.

BROKEN PLOW FARMS, 1064 COTTON ROAD, FUQUAY-VARINA

Spooky season begins at Broken Plow Farms with the opening of the Splitbelly Creek Haunted Trail on Sept. 26. A $20 ticket delivers screams, chills, and heart-pounding fear as you navigate a corn maze and wooded trail full of jump scares and costumed characters. @brokenplowfarmsfv

See Do

Central Carolina Out of the Darkness Walk

SEPT. 27

10:30 A.M.

TING PARK

The Out of the Darkness Walk brings together hundreds of people to support those affected by suicide and fund vital research, education, advocacy, and survivor resources. Register as an individual or a team to participate in this community event that acknowledges the ways in which suicide and mental illness have affected the lives of our neighbors. Visit the Loss and Healing tent, photo booth, and resource tables. Look for the displays of Honor Beads to show your connection to the cause and identify others with shared experiences. afspwalks.donordrive.com/CentralCarolina

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

OCT. 4

10 A.M.

HALIFAX MALL, 300 N. SALISBURY ST., RALEIGH

Lace up your walking shoes for a 1- or 2-mile course and join the world’s largest fundraiser for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research in downtown Raleigh, one of 17 events in North Carolina. Registered participants who raise $100 or more receive a T-shirt.

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer’s with pinwheel flowers of various colors representing their personal connections to the disease. act.alz.org/TriangleNC

Triangle Oktoberfest

OCT. 3, 5–10 P.M.

OCT. 4, NOON TO 8 P.M.

KOKA BOOTH AMPHITHEATRE

Hosted by the Apex Sunrise and Cary MacGregor Rotary Clubs, Triangle Oktoberfest celebrates its 11th year of authentic German tradition and culture while raising money for the Miracle League of the Triangle. Highlights include the King Guys Oktoberfest Brass Band, Wiener Dog race, Kinder Platz with inflatables and face painting, Stein Hoist championships, classic German food, and ample beers. triangleoktoberfest.org

Celebrate Fuquay-Varina

OCT. 4

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

N. MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN FUQUAY

The vibrant downtown district in historic Fuquay comes alive every year with live music, kids’ activities, local vendors, a beer garden, and a BMX bike show. Festival parking is available at Centennial Square, Falcon Park, and the Fuquay-Varina Community Center. celebratefv.com

FV Ghosts Tours

OCT. 3–5, 10–12, 24–26

6:30–9:30 P.M.

DOWNTOWN FUQUAY

FV Ghosts Tours return for the third year to regale the citizens of Southern Wake with tales of “the most haunted small town in the South.” The walking tours visit spooky sites around South Main Street where thrills and chills abound. New this year: FV Ghosts will showcase haunts and history during two Accessibility Nights inside the FV Arts Center, Oct. 18 and 19. These events will feature ASL interpretation, audio description accommodations, comfortable seating, special thrills, and live performances by the Spookway Players. sisterhoodofspirits.com/fvghosts

HollyFest

OCT. 25

10 A.M. TO 4 P.M.

SUGG FARM PARK

A Holly Springs tradition — the annual free family-friendly festival celebrates all the people, places, and services that the community has to offer. Featuring local artists, businesses, food vendors, children’s activities, rides, and local entertainment. hollyspringsnc.gov/hollyfest

Dig in Drink up Specialty Lattes

From Lovegrass Kitchen

At Lovegrass Kitchen, wholesome nourishment has been a priority of founder Meron Afework Kassa since the café opened three years ago in The Block on Main in Holly Springs’ Village District. The Strawberry Matcha Latte and Turmeric Latte are no exception, both using organic ingredients rich in antioxidants.

“Matcha is like concentrated green tea. The tea leaves are processed to a powder, so it’s more dense and concentrated with antioxidants than the tea itself,” says Meron.

House-made organic strawberry syrup adds a refreshing sweetness to matcha, which is hand-whisked before combining with whole milk over ice in the colorful strawberry matcha latte.

“Matcha itself is not too sweet. It is kind of bitter but has a creaminess. It goes really well together with the strawberry syrup,” she says.

A warm Turmeric Latte, naturally caffeine free and full of immunity-boosting antioxidants, is a great choice as cold and flu season creep in with colder weather.

“We use a custom turmeric latte mix with warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger,” says Meron. “Some customers like to add honey or maple syrup to sweeten it.” lovegrasskitchen.com

Copper Creek Counseling

Blazing FORWARD

Holly Springs’ all-female fire crew

Written by Emily Uhland | Photographed by Jonathan Fredin

In January the Holly Springs Fire Department became the first department in Wake County with an all-female crew. Lieutenant Kendall Stinson, engineer Kayelei Carter, and firefighters Joy Hernandez, Allison Krause, and Olivia Kulinski serve together on Holly Springs Engine 2.

“I don’t look at it like having an all-female crew,”

says Fire Chief LeRoy Smith. “It’s a good crew. It just happens to be all female firefighters.”

“I want to say it’s new to us; it’s different than what we are used to, but it’s not at the same time,” says Kendall, a 10-year fire service veteran and mother of two. “We all know how to do our job. As long as we are doing the training and we are working together, I feel like we can do (this job) if not better, at least equal to any other truck.”

In addition to Kendall and her crew on Engine 2, four other female firefighters serve the Holly Springs Fire Department, spread throughout the other stations and shifts.

During her years as a firefighter, Kendall has seen access for women and minority groups increase, though she has never felt deterred as a woman in a male-dominated profession.

“Being a firefighter has become somewhat easier as far as access to class. Now they are offering (fire academy) in high school, so it’s open to a variety of people, including females. Before you had to know somebody, or it was your dad, or a family tradition growing up in volunteer service,” she says.

“When you think of a firefighter, you picture a 6-foot-5 big guy. There’s women, bigger guys, smaller guys — anyone can do the job; they just do the job differently,” says firefighter Allison Krause.

LeRoy says that the female firefighters can offer a different perspective than their male counterparts.

“Any type of diversity (helps us) see things through a different lens. I think they bring a different view of things, which makes us all better.”

“To us it’s just a job. We are still doing the same job every other firefighter is doing,” says Kendall.

A job that offers adrenaline, excitement, and physical challenges, as well as opportunities for compassion, caretaking, and serving the community.

“You see really tough moments, and you also see really nice moments,” says firefighter Brittany Dolloff. “Having that relationship (with the citizens of Holly Springs) and knowing you are there for them is very rewarding.”

“We’ve seen life leave the world, and we’ve seen life come into the world. It’s got some ugly moments, and it’s got some really beautiful moments, and we get to experience all of it,” says Kendall.

The fire department responds to a variety of calls — fires, of course, but also smoke alarms, falls, pet rescues, and medical situations.

“The fire truck can 9 out of 10 times show up before the ambulance, so we can provide some medical care prior to the ambulance getting there,” Kendall says. “Every firefighter maintains EMT-Basic certification. Wake County EMS is really busy, so I think it’s a big benefit to have the fire truck respond to certain calls.”

Firefighter Joy Hernandez describes a call that the Engine 2 crew recently responded to: “About a month ago, we had a cardiac arrest (call). We got a pulse back,

and that was really rewarding. There were so many things happening at once, and it could have gone left or right, but we were able to be there for someone on their worst day.”

“Being an officer on a call like that and reflecting on how everybody operated is a proud moment,” says Kendall. “Being able to watch (the crew) work, and watch our training go into effect — it makes me pretty proud.”

On July 19, lightning struck a home in Holly Springs, sparking a large fire. Brittany Dolloff was one of the responders on that call.

“Afterwards I walked the home with the family, because they were grabbing a few things. One of the things I was most excited about was we actually contained the fire completely to the attic, so

“they were able to recover most of their clothes. Their complete living level was still intact. For as much flame as there was, the outcome seemed really positive,” says Brittany. “By us knowing what to do in the right moments and following our training, it was all instinct. We probably were able to save a lot of things that mean a lot to (the homeowners). So that felt really good.”

On Mother’s Day, the Holly Springs Fire Department shined a spotlight on its female members, including mom Kendall, with a Facebook post celebrating the allfemale crew. The post received hundreds of comments, many containing messages of support — but not all.

“I learned a lot about social media when we did that post,” says LeRoy.

WE ARE ALL FIREFIGHTERS.

We don’t have any one up or disadvantages because we are women. We are all here to do the same job, and we all have the same end goal.”

– Madison Tart

“WE’RE THE ONLY (ALL-FEMALE CREW) IN WAKE COUNTY.

It is unique — definitely something new to the fire service as a whole. The attention is a lot. I don’t think any of us are here to be in the spotlight.”

–

Lieutenant Kendall Stinson

“There are men in the fire service that don’t agree with (the all-female crew). That’s just the way it is,” says Kendall, citing negative comments originating from outside of HSFD and even outside of the town of Holly Springs.

“All that matters is the Holly Springs Fire Department. We’re the ones that have to work with each other. … If everyone here is together on the same page, then that’s all

that matters. It does take support from our people and our peers. Our chief — all our chiefs — they have our back.”

“There was resounding support for (the crew) throughout our department,” says LeRoy.

The firefighters in Holly Springs — regardless of age and gender — take the same Candidate Physical Ability Test to get hired. The test includes elements like climbing stairs, dragging a hose, carrying equipment, searching confined areas, and breaching a locked door. Firefighters complete the test twice a year, ensuring they are fit and capable of performing the requirements of the job.

“There is a place for everybody in the fire service,” says Kendall. “Dolloff is small enough that she can fit into a confined space, when some of our bigger boys are going to hold down a line and be the anchor for her to go down. There is a place for everybody. You don’t necessarily have to be huge and strong.”

“It’s like a sports team,” adds Brittany. “When you have a basketball team, you don’t have five centers. You also have a couple of point guards and a shooting guard.”

Despite the naysayers lurking behind a computer keyboard, the firefighters in the HSFD feel excited by the challenges of the job and eager to encourage other girls and women to consider a career in fire service.

“Believe you can do it and do it. Don’t wait,” says firefighter Madison Tart. “There’s nothing worse than looking back and regretting not doing it.”

“At 18, I would not have thought I would be here. Now we all know that it’s possible, and we are setting examples for young girls around the world,” says Kendall.

“It’s not every day that you see an allfemale crew. There’s not many in the nation at all; it’s something new. As a total in Holly Springs, we are all pretty proud to be here.”

Stay Awhile

Celebrate meaningful moments with a piece of Fuquay history

Written by Emily Uhland

Photographed by Richard Barlow

The tree-lined gravel drive leading to The Ellie Inn, marked only with an understated black and white sign, is easy to miss. Residents on their way to Fuquay’s T.J. Maxx and pOpshelf pass easily by the entrance without realizing an oasis of Southern hospitality sits behind the trees.

For those that venture onto the 3-acre property, they’ll discover — mere feet from the bustle of Sexton Commons — a historic building lovingly restored as an event venue and four-bedroom inn.

“It’s like going away without having to go away,” says Amanda Cox, co-owner of The Ellie Inn and one half of the team behind the Greenhouse Picker Sisters.

Amanda and her sister Holly Barton run the successful Raleigh-based specialty rental and wedding decorating company, founded on their inherited love of “picking.”

“Our grandfather and his dad would always go to thrift stores and antique stores and rummage through trash cans; and he, our whole lives, was a collector,” says Amanda.

“Collecting and picking was really fun for us as kids. … We would go around to thrift stores, and we learned how to use what we have.

“We would be at the flea market, and we didn’t know that that’s not what everybody wants.

We would yard sale aggressively all the time, and we found the best stuff,” she continues.

Ten years into their business, the Greenhouse Picker Sisters maintain a 10,000-square-foot warehouse of rental furniture and decor — “We don’t need any more stuff,” insists Holly — and stage 500 weddings a year.

While grateful for their success, the sisters felt a calling toward more intimate events.

“We love curating. We love creating experiences. But when we think of our 50-year-old selves, we are not just doing weddings,” says Holly. “The 40th birthdays, 50th, 80th, the anniversaries — the milestones that happen after you get married, when real life happens — those milestone moments are the ones that we want to celebrate.”

And so began the search for a property the pair could transform into a small event venue and infuse with their signature style.

The search abruptly ended at a historic schoolhouse turned private residence they discovered in Fuquay-Varina.

“We were looking for different properties, and it was all over (Wake County). My husband (Reed) does not like anything old; all he sees is dollar signs. … But Reed was like, you need to come look at this,” says Holly.

“And when you walked in, it had the historical feel, but it felt like (the previous owners) just took such good care of the property. We had to do electricity, bathrooms. We had to do some other big projects, but we didn’t have to take it down to the bare bones.”

Originally built around 1900, the building served as a schoolhouse before Fuquay-

Varina Elementary was constructed. Renowned local teacher Ellie Nicholson inspired the inn’s name.

“We renovated it and opened in January. It’s been a really, really fun project that I feel like has brought us back to life. We’ve gotten to source stuff, put rooms together, and got back to picking, which is our original love,” says Amanda.

“Preserving the property was kind of a passion project of all of ours. We just feel like it’s so important. We’ve had so many people say thanks for investing in it, not just tearing it down and starting over. There is a feeling here and it makes you think, ‘What was it like? What did it smell like? How did they do school then?’” says Holly.

– Holly Barton

The Ellie Inn welcomes visitors with a spacious great room and connected kitchen, the centerpiece of every gathering, boasting high ceilings and natural light flooding in through tall windows. Four charming guest rooms, two full bathrooms, and a private office all display a collected, feminine style hand-selected by the Picker Sisters.

“It’s definitely chic, traditional, timeless. We really wanted to do the aesthetics of this time period. And we wanted it to reflect true Southern hospitality and make people want to slow down and linger,” says Holly.

The Inn, including the beautiful outdoor patio, lawn, and garden, can be booked for private events and overnight stays through Airbnb. If desired, guests can pay an additional fee for an event host, but many run their events — often family reunions, anniversary celebrations, baby

showers, and birthday parties — independently.

“A lot of times clients are coming in, renting it for three or four days, getting together as a family, and having an event during that weekend,” says Holly.

The sisters also plan to host their own small events, like a chef-catered supper club, at the Inn.

“With this property, we want to bring back experiences that promote having time to ask questions of each other and engage … where you’re coming together and just being intentional with your conversation,” says Holly.

The success of Greenhouse Picker Sisters, and the big-budget weddings it attracts, really pinpointed the pair’s desire to create slower, simpler experiences.

“We’re so grateful. I don’t want to

We needed the peace that this place brings, not just for us, but for our clients. It is so special, because it’s so simple.”

sound like we’re not grateful. It’s just getting further and further away from who we are as people, what we’ve come from, and how genuine we are. It’s sometimes hard to be in that environment when you’re immersed in the real life of raising kids,” says Amanda.

“We needed the peace that this place brings, not just for us, but for our clients. It is so special, because it’s so simple.”

theellieinn.com

WOMAN to WATCH WOMAN WATCH

Laurie Braxton

Senior Vice President, Head of North Carolina Operations at FUJIFILM Biotechnologies

Written by Emily Uhland

by

Jonathan Fredin

Laurie Braxton cultivated a 20-year career with pharmaceutical giant GSK, serving in roles encompassing external supply, business development, supply chain integration, and site management. The catalyst?

A cool pair of pants.

“The recruiter was wearing leather pants, and I was like, “North Carolina … pharmaceuticals … It looks like they have a pretty cool team. Yeah, I’m in,” Laurie recalls.

At that time Laurie was a recent graduate of Bowling Green State University with a degree in business.

“If I would have stayed in Ohio, I probably would have gone into automotive, but pharmaceutical was really interesting to me,” she says.

Laurie’s career took her to GSK facilities in RTP, Zebulon, Maryland, and the United Kingdom.

“I have been really fortunate in my career to have had so many different opportunities. I think one of the reasons that’s true is because I was always looking for where there’s opportunity in adversity,” she says

“At one point in my career I led external manufacturing, so I was the customer; I

was the one that would go out and look at CDMOs to say: Who could we work with; who would be a good partner?

“That’s what I was doing when I lived in the UK. (GSK) had a global network. I had teams in 40 different countries. It was amazing.

“I never thought I would go work for a CDMO, but I really enjoyed my time managing that space and thinking about how (CDMOs) could be more strategic and an advantage for pharmaceutical companies,” she says.

Plot twist: Laurie does end up working for a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), but there’s one more step before we get there.

Laurie and her family moved back to North Carolina from the UK in early 2020 so she could assume the role of site head at GSK’s facility in Zebulon — a supplier of respiratory medicines, like those used to treat asthma.

“I was coming in at a time when people were terrified about leaving their houses. I was new to leading there, new to

a lot of those people, but trying to convince them that I could keep them safe,” she says. “I learned so much about leadership and building relationships and trust, and that what comes before everything is people. That experience is what really defined and solidified my leadership style.”

Here comes the plot twist.

In 2021 FUJIFILM Biotechnologies announced a $2 billion investment in Holly Springs to build the company’s largest CDMO in North America.

“I had obviously seen (the announcement) in the newspapers, and it was this huge investment,” says Laurie. “But why would I leave GSK? I have a great career; I’ve been here forever.”

A Fujifilm recruiter — probably also in very cool pants — and company leadership approached Laurie with a valuecentric proposition.

“(Fujifilm) leadership truly believes that if you put the right people in the right jobs, if you take care of them in the right way and you let them flourish, we’ll be unstoppable. ... We hire for not only experience and capability, but we hire for values and beliefs,” she says.

“ We’re making life-changing medicine. My job is to make sure that we’re doing it to the highest level of quality and standards. … To do that, we’ve got to take care of the facility; we’ve got to take care of the people.

”

— Laurie Braxton

“This is through and through my beliefs and how I value people and leadership,” Laurie continues. “I joined a year ago, and I have never been happier in my entire career.”

“This is my home. I have two girls that watch me every single day. If I can have a lasting impact here on the community and be part of our future growth … why wouldn’t I do that?”

As FUJIFILM Biotechnologies head of North Carolina operations, Laurie oversees the company’s two Triangle-area facilities: an established 20-year product development site in RTP and a brand-new cell culture manufacturing site in Holly Springs. The first phase of the Holly Springs site will open later this year, with a second phase to follow in 2028.

“We’re making life-changing medicine. My job is to make sure that we’re doing it to the highest level of quality and standards, and that we’re doing it in the time frames we committed to doing it and delivering. … To do that, we’ve got to take care of the facility; we’ve got to take care of the people.”

Laurie likens her job to being mayor of a small community. She’s constantly interacting with team members and ensuring smooth operations throughout all areas of the organization, which employs more than a thousand people locally.

“The thing that is awesome about manufacturing is you have such a diverse number of backgrounds,” Laurie says, ticking off everything from warehouse and shipping management, to microbiologists, to engineers, to accounting and human resources.

“There are a crazy amount of talented people from all over who are so excited to be here,” she says.

“What I’m so impressed with about Laurie is you look at her calendar and she’s making time for people at all levels of the organization. She might have a 9 o’clock coffee chat with someone working on the shop floor, and by 9:30 she has an executive call with a client partner,” says Sarah Millsaps, a management consultant who works alongside Laurie to help implement her vision for Fujifilm Holly Springs.

“Laurie sets incredibly high standards for herself, for her people, but she matches that with just as much support.”

“People trust us to make sure that the products that they’re making are reliable and safe and do good. And so I’m spending a lot of time making sure that we have the right culture in place, we have the right protocols and the right oversight,” Laurie says.

“She’s very data driven, but also has a really strong instinct or gut. Laurie’s sense of people is rarely wrong,” says Sarah. “She figures out a way to be a strategic decision maker using both.”

Surrounding yourself with a supportive tribe is paramount, Laurie says, in the office and at home.

“I am so fortunate that I have a husband that has been in my corner from day one,” she says. “It allowed me to put my career ahead of his ... so I could go after everything I wanted to do.”

Outside of Fujifilm, you’ll find Laurie spending time with her family — husband John and daughters Sophia, 16, and Elin, 14 — at Lake Gaston, reading voraciously, or — like many parents of teenagers — driving her daughters and their friends around town.

“My favorite thing is being in the car with them, playing whatever music they want to listen to, but then just hearing the stories and conversation.”

“One of the things I really love about this job is that FUJIFILM Biotechnologies’ growth in this area also allows me to be part of the ecosystem in Wake County.”

“I think about my own family and what I want for my girls. Gosh, I don’t want them to move away. I want them to want to be here, and I want them to be able to afford to be,” Laurie says.

“Across my two sites, we’re very active on things like infrastructure discussions.

What’s it going to take to be able to make product — not just this year and next year, but 5 years, 10 years down the line? Where do we need to partner with the Town of Holly Springs?

“Holly Springs is now at four large pharma (companies) that have announced in this area. We have to not compete with each other for resources, but we have to think about how we create (infrastructure) together, because we’re all a pull on the town. That’s been fascinating and fun to get to be a part of.”

Participation in economic development discussions with Wake County and town officials has unlocked a new passion, Laurie says.

“Fujiflim gives me a really amazing platform to get to be part of — not just building and running two of the facilities in our network, but being part of what FUJIFILM Biotechnologies’ place is in North Carolina.”

Another passion: mentoring and advocating for other women in their careers.

“There’s so much value in having an advocate and having someone that you can talk to, work through things, and see things from a different perspective,” says

“Fujiflim gives me a really amazing platform to get to be part of — not just building and running two of the facilities in our network, but being part of what FUJIFILM

Biotechnologies’ place is in North Carolina.

”

— Laurie Braxton

Laurie. “I wish I would have started those conversations with women earlier on. I think that’s where I get the most pride out of what I’ve done. Yes, there’s the dayto-day stuff, but it’s actually the people that I’ve been able to help with their career and seeing where they’re going.”

The ability to embrace adversity and ask for help when needed has kept Laurie engaged and challenged her entire career.

“There’s always a little bit more I could do, or there’s something I could improve and do better next time,” she says.

Showing that vulnerability to her team makes Laurie an even more inspiring leader.

“I know that I probably am not adding as much value anymore the day that I don’t think I have to improve or to get better. I don’t know everything, and I’m not perfect. Nobody needs to be, and that’s okay.”

EDITOR’S

Nonprofit Spotlight RESTORED MISSION SHOPPE

Written by David McCreary

Photographed

by

Jonathan Fredin

Spend just five minutes with Tonya Baker Nelson, and you’ll quickly discover she has a heart for serving women in crisis who are looking for support, employment opportunities, and renewed hope. That’s why in 2024 she founded Restored Mission Shoppe, a not-forprofit coffee shop and gift boutique located at Sexton Commons shopping center in Fuquay-Varina.

“Our goal involves empowering single mothers and survivors of abuse by helping to meet their most basic needs,” Tonya says. “Proceeds from Restored help provide childcare and housing scholarships to women seeking assistance.”

No stranger to personal hardship, Tonya encountered an unplanned pregnancy at age 23 and struggled to make ends meet.

“I was a single mom trying to figure out where I was going to live and how I was going pay for childcare,” the Fuquay native recalls. “I worked three jobs, which was not easy in the least. But I had to pay rent and keep the lights on.”

Facing the challenge head on, Tonya

gave birth to her daughter, Sonny Joy, and ultimately founded Hand of Hope and Your Choice Pregnancy Centers, which now have locations in Fuquay-Varina, Raleigh, and Fayetteville. These havens exist to offer compassion and counsel to those dealing with an unexpected lifealtering situation.

“I remember what it was like being pregnant and alone and looking for practical help,” Tonya recalls. “I wanted to be there for other women who have experienced similar circumstances.”

Tonya hopes to open a Restored Mission Shoppe in every city where the affiliated pregnancy centers are located.

“That would give more people the opportunity to develop marketable skills that will help them now and in the future,” she

says. “We can train them in marketing, accounting, and hospitality.”

When it comes to day-to-day business at Restored, patrons visit often for baristaprepared coffee, tea, and other distinctive beverages. The shop sources its java from nearby Cultivate Coffee Roastery, which Tonya considers a trusted business partner.

Among the half dozen signature coffee drinks available are bestselling latte Lavender Fields featuring house-made lavender syrup and honey; the Hepburn with caramel and sea salt; and the Bogart, an iced concoction involving shaken brown sugar espresso.

Hot and iced tea offerings range from chai latte and jasmine green to turmeric ginger and berry cream matcha with blueberry or strawberry cold foam (yes, please!).

“

For a small upcharge, consider adding any of Restored’s 16 scratch-made syrups such as vanilla, hazelnut, peach, cinnamon, or cherry to your pick-me-up of choice.

If you prefer a smoothie made with a mixture of fresh and frozen fruit, choose Blue Mango comprising apple juice, blueberry, and mango; the yogurtinfused Red & Blue with strawberries and blueberries; or a Pink Banana composed of strawberries and bananas.

Refreshing iced and frosted lemonades round out the robust drink menu. House specialty orangeades pay homage to Elliotts Pharmacy, a Fuquay institution with a nostalgic soda fountain that anchored downtown for nearly a century until it closed in 2013.

A tempting variety of cookies, muffins, and pastries made in the statecertified Hand of Hope kitchen make a perfect midmorning treat.

Don’t miss the decadent chocolatestuffed pecan croissant. You can thank us later.

Drinks and edible delights are served by friendly and helpful staffers while tranquil music plays overhead.

Tonya’s husband, Robert, handcrafted a large farm table that provides seating for groups who want to gather for conversation and fellowship.

“If anyone is interested in buying a farm table like the one we have in the shop, he can custom make it for them,” Tonya says.

Near the front entrance, upholstered

Our goal involves empowering single mothers and survivors of abuse by helping to meet their most basic needs. Proceeds from Restored help provide childcare and housing scholarships to women seeking assistance.

”

—

chairs offer comfortable seating for guests. Several small tables just outside the shop provide an al fresco option.

Smartly curated artisan gift items include wall art, handmade jewelry, faith-fueled T-shirts, candles, journals, inspirational books, and more.

Restored also sells survivor-made handbags produced by Designed For Joy, a Raleigh-based nonprofit organization that provides women emerging from adversity with stable employment.

“We want people to know that when they shop small, it goes right back into helping individuals in our communities,” Tonya says.

Regular customer Jenni Keith lives close to the business and is grateful for it.

“I always find a little joy when shopping at Restored,” she says with a smile. “They have great coffee, really cute gift items you can’t find elsewhere in town, and I love knowing that the proceeds go to help young women in need.”

Tonya says eventually she wants to create a “village of hope” to provide free or reduced-cost transitional housing for those facing adversity.

“Anything we can do to enable women to keep their families together is what we want to do,” she adds.

Restored Mission Shoppe is open Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 1– 4 p.m. restoredmissionshoppe.com @restoredmissionshoppe

Unsure where to eat today? Look no further than this selection of local eateries & cafes.

FUQUAY-VARINA

Abbey Road Tavern and Grill

Signature Beatles burgers and live entertainment.

711 N Main St. (919) 762-7731 | abbeyroadnc.com

Anna’s Pizzeria

Piping-hot pizzas and mouthwatering Italian food.

138 S Main St. (919) 285-2497 | annaspizzeria.com

Assaggio’s Pizzeria Ristorante

Top-quality ingredients go into every dish. 941 E Broad St. (919) 557-9505 | assaggios-fuquay.com

Aviator Hangar Bar & Grill

Full kitchen and beer lineup anchor’s Aviator’s new brewery campus.

688 Brewing Dr. (919) 567-2337 | aviatorbrew.com

Aviator Pizzeria & BeerShop

Brick oven pizza & craft beer.

601 E Broad St. (919) 346-8206 | aviatorbrew.com

Aviator SmokeHouse

All of our food is made in-house. 525 E Broad St. (919) 557-7675 | aviatorbrew.com

NIGHTINGALE ROOFTOP IN HOLLY SPRINGS

Aviator TapHouse

Gastropub dining in the historic train depot.

600 E. Broad St. (919) 552-8826 | aviatorbrew.com

Bluegrass Bagels

Quality food, fast.

100 Dickens Road (919) 285-4980 | bluegrassbagels.com

BOLT Drinks and Coffee

Cold, carbonated, caffeinated & colorful energy.

400 Broad St. (919) 909-6687 | boltdrinksandcoffee.com

Brus on Main

Quaint café serving New York coffee, bakery treats & breakfast.

135 S Main St. (607) 745-2512 | @brusonmain

El Cantarito Bar & Grill

Experience the full spectrum that is Mexican food.

155 S Main St. (919) 285-3781 | elcantaritobarandgrill.com

Casa Amigos Cocina Mexican Bar

Authentic food and specialty drinks. 112 E. Vance St. (919) 557-0287 | @eatatcasaamigosfuquay

Cellar 55 Tasting Room

Chef specials Friday and Saturday nights.

1351 E Broad St. (919) 446-1156 | cellar55nc.com

Cleveland Draft House

Great food, great service, great price. 1420 E Broad St. (919) 659-5500 | clevelanddrafthouse.com

The Corner Biergarten

Bar & bottle shop.

1625 N Main St., Suite 133 (919) 246-6649 | tcbiergarten.com

Cultivate Coffee Roasters

Modern industrial twist on a small-town coffee shop.

128 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 285-4067 | cultivate.coffee

Culver’s of Fuquay-Varina

ButterBurgers and frozen custard made fresh. 1860 Cinema Drive (919) 285-2360 | culvers.com

Daddy D’s BBQ

Slow cooked with love.

1526 Broad St. (919) 552-6464 | daddydsbbqnc.com

Dan Sushi & Hibachi

Mixing chic and contemporary with traditional Japanese. 1313 N Main St. (919) 577-8000 | dansushihibachi.com

Eggs Up Grill

Breakfast favorites served all day. 1436 N Main St. (919) 285-4463 | eggsupgrill.com

El Dorado

Enjoy the most delicious Mexican food among family.

112 E Vance St. (919) 557-0287 eldoradomexicanrestaurant.com

Famous Toastery

Breakfast, lunch, brunch ... all at once. 612 Lakestone Commons Ave. (919) 285-2250 | famoustoastery.com

by

Fat Cat Homemade Ice Cream

Unique flavors and dairy-free options. 400 Broad St. fatcathomemadeicecream.com

Fiesta Time Bar & Grill

Colorful cocktails and Mexican cuisine. 1063 E Broad St. (919) 285-3393 | fiestatimenc.com

Fiiz Drinks

Drink-it-your-way soda and snack shop. 7401 Sunset Lake Road (919) 278-7350 | fiizdrinks.com

Garibaldi Trattoria Pizza & Pasta

Authentic Italian cuisine and quality service. 900 N Main St. (919) 552-8868 fuquay.garibalditrattorias.com

The Gyro Spot

Beloved recipes from Greece. 1005 E Broad St. (919) 285-3608 | thegyrospotnc.com

The Healthy Spot

Meal replacement smoothies and energizing teas. 961 E Broad St. (919) 552-5373 | @healthyspotfuquay

HWY 55 Burgers Shakes & Fries

All-American diner experience. 3419 N Main St. (919) 567-3007 | hwy55.com

J&S New York Pizza

Family-owned and operated Italian restaurant. 500 Broad St. (919) 557-6921 | jandsnypizza.com

Johnnys Pizza

An amazing array of different NY-style pizzas. 722 N Judd Parkway NE (919) 552-6322 | johnnyspizzafuquay.com

Joyce & Family Restaurant

Home-cooked Southern favorites. 129 N Main St. (919) 567-1717 | @joyceandfamily

JT’s Creamery

Hand-crafted ice cream. 2128 Gathering Square Court (919) 624-7867 | jtscreamery.com

Khao Sen Thai & Tea

Vibrant tastes of homemade Thai dishes. 2100 Gathering Square Court khaosen.com

Dine

Kumo Sushi Hibachi

Traditional Japanese menu in a chic setting. 2916 N Main St. (919) 986-0983 | kumosushi401hwy.com

The Library Steakhouse

Upscale steakhouse located in the old town library.

133 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 642-2030 | thelibrarysteakhouse.com

Little Portugal NC

Traditional Portuguese dishes plus a market. 736 N Main St. (919) 586-7144 | littleportugalnc.com

Los Tres Magueyes

We prepare our food fresh daily. 401 Wake Chapel Road (919) 552-3957 | lostresmagueyes.com

Lucci Blue’s Social Cafe

A gathering place for good food, drink, and friends.

209 Fayetteville St. (919) 960-7111 | lucciblues.com

Mahana Fresh

Vibrant, chef-inspired, build-your-own bowls. 2120 Gathering Square Court mahanafresh.com

The Mason Jar Tavern

The comforts of Southern hospitality with a modern twist.

305 S Main St. (919) 762-5555 | themasonjartavern.com

Mei Wei Asian Diner

A wide array of authentic Chinese and Thai food. 1424 N Main St. (919) 762-7128 | meiweinc.com

The Mill

Coffee. Beer. Wine. Community. 146 S Main St. (919) 557-2123 | themillfuquay.com

The Morning Hangar

Beer, coffee, and Southern breakfast favorites the Aviator way.

688 Brewing Dr. (919) 567-2337 | aviatorbrew.com

New Rainbow Chinese

Classic and popular Chinese favorites. 3427 N Main St. (919) 567-8272 newrainbowchinesefood.com

Nil’s Mediterranean Cuisine

Mediterranean cuisine and a creative menu. 513 Broad St. (984) 223-2928 nilsmediterraneancuisine.com

The Peach Cobbler Factory

Delightful desserts that feel like grandma’s kitchen. 8105 Fayetteville Road (919) 307-8137 | peachcobblerfactory.com

Pelican’s SnoBalls

Smooth, fluffy ice combined with bold flavors. 712 N Main St. (919) 662-3979 | pelicanssnoballs.com

Pints Ice Cream & Beer

Homemade ice cream and craft beers. 512 Broad St. | @pintsicecream

Stick Boy Bread Co.

Handcrafted baked goods from scratch. 127 S Main St. (919) 557-2237 | stickboyfuquay.com

SupaBowlz Cafe

Your healthy fast-casual restaurant. 411 Broad St. (984) 800-7854 | supabowlzcafe.com

Tacos Oaxaca

Made-from-scratch tacos and more. 1324 N Main St. (919) 762-0826

Taqueria La Costena

Authentic and affordable Mexican tacos. 101 Dickens Road (919) 285-3060

Tiny House Treats

Drive-thru frozen custard and dessert shop. 1013 E. Broad St. @tinyhousetreatsfv

Tio’s

Pizza. Empanadas. Wings. 2916 N Main St. (919) 762-0095 | tiosnc.com

Triple Barrel Tavern

Restaurant, sports bar & billiards. 2221 N Grassland Drive (919) 762-0940 | triplebarreltavern.com

Vicious Fishes Tap & Kitchen

Eclectic twists on comfortable bar food. 132 S Fuquay Ave. (919) 762-7876 viciousfishes.com/fuquay-nc

Wingin’ It Taphouse and Grille

Family-friendly neighborhood pub. 1625 N Main St. (919) 762-0962 | winginitbarandgrille.com

Wing It On

Chicken like a champ. 1061 E Broad St. (984) 225-2141 | wingiton.com

Zaxby’s

Indescribably good. 1341 N Main St. (919) 552-3981 | zaxbys.com

Zeera Indian Restaurant

Authentic goodness in traditional Indian food. 1311 E Broad St. (919) 762-6215 | zeeranc.com

HOLLY SPRINGS

Acme Pizza Co.

Chicago-style deep dish pizza. 204 Village Walk Drive (919) 552-8800 | acmepizzaco.com

Asia’s Cakes

We design delicious. 113 N Main St. (919) 285-3588 | asiascakes.com

Aye! Toro Tacos & Tequila

Recipes passed down through generations. 303 Mathews Drive (919) 367-6233 | ayetoronc.com

Bass Lake Draft House

34 beers on tap. 124 Bass Lake Road (919) 567-3251 | basslakedrafthouse.com

Bellini Italian Cuisine

A real taste of Italy through authentic Italian Cuisine. 7256 GB Alford Highway (919) 552-0303 bellinitaliancuisinehollysprings.com

BEP Vietnamese Kitchen

Traditional Vietnamese cuisine and boba teas.

300 S Main St. (919) 285-2477 | bepnc.com

Bestow Baked Goods

Life is too short for grocery store desserts. 4208 Lassiter Road (919) 473-9225 | bestowbakedgoods.com

Blaze Pizza

Fast fired, perfectly crisp perfection. 316 Grand Hill Place (919) 261-5950 | blazepizza.com

The Blind Pelican

Creative seafood and boat drinks. 120 Bass Lake Road (984) 225-2471 | blindpelicanseafood.com

The Butcher’s Market

Premium meats and specialty grocery. 4200 Lassiter Road (919) 267-9191 | thebutchersmarkets.com

Chaska Indian Cuisine

Vibrant and diverse tastes of India. 7244 GB Alford Highway (919) 762-0091 | chaskaindiancuisine.com

Corbett’s Burgers & Soda Bar

Flame-grilled burgers with house made secret sauces.

7224 GB Alford Highway corbettsburgers.com

Cristo’s Bistro

Hand-tossed NY-style pizza. 5217 Sunset Lake Road (919) 363-8852 | cristosbistro.com

Dave’s Hot Chicken

Juicy, hand-breaded chicken spiced to order. 114 Grand Hill Place (984) 600-3093 | daveshotchicken.com

Diced Salads, Wraps & Bowls

Fresh obsessed and made-to-order. 321 N. Main St. (919) 285-2814 | dicedsalads.com

Eggs Up Grill

Breakfast favorites served all day. 4216 Lassiter Road (919) 495-4530 | eggsupgrill.com

Fera’wyn’s Chocolate Cafe

Forget love — I’d rather fall in chocolate. 652 Holly Springs Road (415) 758-3296 | ferawyns.com

Fiesta Mexicana

Authentic. Hot. Fresh. 428 Village Walk Drive (919) 346-1330 fiestamexicananc-hollysprings.com

First Watch

Traditional and innovative breakfast, brunch, and lunch.

304 Grand Hill Place (919) 808-4603 | firstwatch.com

Freddy’s

Frozen custard and steakburgers

221 Grand Hill Place (919) 557-3475 | freddysusa.com

FRESH. Local Ice Cream

Hand-crafted flavors with local ingredients.

205 S Main St. (919) 285-4078 | freshlocalicecream.com

Greek Basma

Fresh, healthy, delicious.

7272 GB Alford Highway (919) 285-080 | greekbasma.com

Hickory Tavern

Something for every appetite.

401 Village Walk Drive (919) 557-2064 | thehickorytavern.com

Homegrown Pizza

Pizza, calzones, and sandwiches. 4928 Linksland Drive (919) 577-5575 | homegrownpizza.com

JT’s Creamery

Hand-crafted ice cream.

300 S Main St., Suite 112 (984) 268-6321 | jtscreamery.com

Kobe Hibachi & Sushi

Japanese classics. 515 N Main St. (919) 557-1437 kobehibachihollysprings.com

Mama Bird’s Ice Cream

A unique spin on a timeless dessert. 304 N Main St. (919) 762-7808 | mamabirdsicecream.com

Mamma Mia! Italian Bistro Pasta runs in our family.

300 S Main St., Suite 200 (919) 766-8000 | mammamianc.com

Mi Cancun Mexican Restaurant

Mexican cuisine with a modern twist.

324 Grand Hill Place (919) 552-9979 | micancunmx.com

OFFERING COOKING CLASSES AND WINE DINNERS! OF ITALY

Chef Paolo Gavazza crafts authentic Italian cuisine that will immerse you in a culinary journey that celebrates tradition and sophistication.

128 Bass Lake Road | Holly Springs spazioromana.com | 919-285-3596 D@Spazioromana.com

Michelangelos Pizza

Pizza buffet for lunch and dinner.

7280 GB Alford Highway (919) 557-4992 | michelangelospizza.com

My Way Tavern

Freshly made all-American foods.

301 W Center St. (919) 285-2412 mywaytavern.com

Niche Wine Lounge

Tranquility by the glass. 109 Main St. (919) 552-2300 | nichewinelounge.com

Nightingale Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

Small plates and big views.

300 S Main St., Suite 312 (919) 299-2004 | nightingalerooftop.com

The Nutrition Fix

Healthy fast-food alternatives.

424 Village Walk Drive (919) 341-5554 | @thenutritionfixnc

The Original N.Y. Pizza

Bringing a taste of New York to North Carolina.

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

Dine

Osha Thai Kitchen & Sushi

Authentic well-balanced dishes bursting with flavor.

242 S Main St. (984) 538-6742 | oshathaikitchennc.com

Pimiento Tea Room

Not your mama’s tea room. 200 N Main St. (984) 225-4213 | pimientotearoom.com

Rise

The best dang Southern biscuits and chicken 169 Grand Hill Place (919) 586-7343 | risebiscuitsdonuts.com

Smashed Burgers & Cocktails

Burger day is every day.

242 S Main St. (919) 390-2274 | smashednc.com

Spazio Vino & Cucina

Authentic Italian flavors with a modern flair. 128 Bass Lake Road (919) 500-6481 | spazioromana.com

SupaBowlz Cafe

Beautiful and delicious bowls, wraps & salads. 150 W Holly Springs Road (984) 225-2656 | supabowlzcafe.com

Taziki’s Mediterranean Cafe

A fresh celebration of the Mediterranean. 108 Grand Hill Place (984) 266-1226 | tazikis.com

Thai Thai Cuisine

Home-cooked Thai food. 108 Osterville Drive (919) 303-5700 | thaithaicuisinenc.com

Thanks A Latte

Coffee and gift boutique. 1118 Kentworth Drive (919) 577-0070 | thanksalattegiftsnc.com

Town Hall Burger & Beer

Neighborhood beer and burger joint. 301 Matthews Drive (919) 335-5388 townhallburgerandbeer.com

Tours Les Jours

French-Asian inspired bakery. 300 Village Walk Dr. tljus.com

Vieni Ristobar

Handmade pasta, pizza & sauces. 242 S Main St. (984) 225-1134 | vieniristobar.com

Zaxby’s

Indescribably good. 101 Grand Hill Place (919) 762-0432 | zaxbys.com

ARE YOU ON TRACK FOR RETIREMENT? HERE’S WHAT TO DO NEXT

Saving for retirement can feel overwhelming, but clear financial goals can help you stay on track. Setting retirement savings benchmarks by age gives you a roadmap so that when the time comes, you will have enough money to enjoy financial freedom.1

In Your 20s: Get Started Early

The earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. By your late 20s, aim to have at least half to a full year’s salary saved.

Key Steps:

• Start investing now.

• Take advantage of employer-sponsored plans, like a 401(k), especially if there is a match.

• Consider opening an IRA (Traditional or Roth)

• Set up automatic contributions to make saving effortless.

In Your 30s: Build Momentum

By your mid-30s, aim to have at least your annual salary saved, and by 40, work toward having two to three times your yearly earnings.

Smart Strategies to Stay on Track

Set Clear Retirement Goals

Define what retirement looks like for you. Will you downsize? Travel? Understanding your future lifestyle helps you set the right target.

Automate Contributions

Set up automatic contributions to a 401(k), IRA, or high-yield savings account to keep savings consistent.

Boost Your Savings Rate Over Time

Increase contributions as income grows. A good goal is to save 15% of your salary for retirement.

Key Steps:

• Increase contributions as your salary grows.

• Avoid cashing out retirement accounts when changing jobs.

• Diversify investments to balance risk and growth.

• Reduce high-interest debt to free up money for savings.

In Your 40s: Focus on Growth

By your mid-40s, aim for at least three to four times your salary saved, reaching four to five times by age 50. Consider working with a financial advisor for a personalized strategy.

Key Steps:

• Max out retirement accounts (401(k), IRAs) when possible.

• Take advantage of catch-up contributions once you hit 50.

• Adjust your investment strategy to align with your timeline.

• Plan for major expenses without sacrificing retirement savings.

In Your 50s and Beyond: Maximize Savings

With retirement on the horizon, now is the time to strengthen your savings and fine-tune your financial strategy. By 55, aim for six times your salary saved, eight to nine times by 60, and 10 times by retirement.

Key Steps:

• Max out IRA and 401(k) contributions while earning peak income.

• Consider delaying Social Security to increase monthly benefits.

• Assess healthcare and long-term care needs.

• Adjust investment risk levels to protect your savings while allowing for some growth.

Final Thoughts: Boost Your Retirement Savings

with Coastal IRAs

No matter where you are in your retirement journey, consistent saving and smart investing can help you reach your goals. One of the best ways to build retirement savings is by using an IRA (Individual Retirement Account).2

At Coastal Credit Union, we offer Traditional and Roth IRAs to help you grow your money for the future:

• A Traditional IRA lets you defer taxes now and pay them in retirement.

• A Roth IRA allows for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, providing flexibility and tax advantages later.

Ready to take the next step? Contact Coastal Credit Union today at (800) 868-4262, or visit COASTAL24.com to explore your IRA options and get expert guidance. Your future self will thank you.

1.

2.

100 YEARS OF FIREFIGHTING IN FUQUAY-VARINA

For 100 years, the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department has served as a vital part of our community, evolving from a volunteer force to a modern, highly trained professional sta operating out of four stations.

Established around 1925, the department initially provided re protection within the town limits of Fuquay Springs. e rst re station was located within the rst Municipal Building at 134 S. Fuquay Avenue, now home to the History Museum and NCDMV.

In 1954, the Fuquay-Varina Rural Fire Department was formed under the sponsorship of the Farm Bureau of Fuquay-Varina, expanding coverage to surrounding areas. For 11 years, equipment was stored in various locations until 1965, when a dedicated two-bay re station was completed at 128 S. Fuquay Avenue — currently the location of Cultivate Co ee Roasters.

For years, the Town and Rural departments operated independently, despite being located near each other. As Fire Chief Jim Jones explains, “ e Town and Rural buildings were located across the street from each other, but one served properties within the town limits and the other served the rural areas. e same people basically sta ed both stations, so it made sense to have them located close together.”

Operations began merging between the municipal and rural departments in 1972, culminating in a shared facility at Station 1, locat-

ed at 301 S. Fuquay Avenue, in 1978. Further expansion occurred with the opening of Station 2 at 5617 Hilltop Road in 1990 and Station 3 at 2474 Bud Lipscomb Road in 2002.

In 1999, the Fuquay-Varina Rural Fire Department formally merged with the Town of Fuquay-Varina, streamlining re services. Today, Wake County contracts with the Town to provide re protection coverage for rural areas. e most recent addition, Station 4, opened at 4821 Wade Nash Road in 2024, enhancing coverage and response capabilities.

“ e heart of Fuquay-Varina re service has always been its people,” re ects Chief Jones as the department celebrates its centennial. “We stand on the shoulders of those who served before us, honoring their dedication while forging ahead, committed to another 100 years of dedicated service.”

CENTENNIAL EVENT INFO: Join the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department as we celebrate a century of service on November 15 at Station 1, 301 S. Fuquay Avenue, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. See historical photos and displays, hear incredible stories, meet our firefighters, and learn about the fire service then and now!

ANIMAL PRINT makes a bold return this fall as a standout trend that works like a neutral. Whether layered with denim, paired with solid tones, or mixed with other prints, it adds effortless edge to your look.

Top, $36

Pants, $149 Bag, $188 Sneakers, $90

From Rose & Lee Collective

CHOCOLATE BROWN is the new black, taking center stage this season as the must-have neutral. Pair with creamy whites for a luxe contrast or mix with black for a chic tonal look.

Top, $44

Jeans, $129

Clutch, $98

Sandals, $110

From Rose & Lee Collective

DENIM remains relaxed and wide

this season. Try a barrel leg option with a loose, tapered leg that narrows at the ankle. A cropsleeved sweater and embellished sneakers in similar tones balance the look.

Jeans, $98

Top, $44

Sneakers, $155

From Cousin Couture

TRADITIONAL CAMO is reimagined with various patterns and hues this season. This matching set in an elevated, silky-soft material delivers extra comfort during errands, school carpool, or lounging at home.

Top, $39.95

Shorts, $31.95

Sneakers, $79.95

Bag, $32.95

From Southern Dash

CONTRAST STITCHING highlights all the trending details — a corset top, deep pockets, and barrel legs — on this black denim jumpsuit. Layer on tonal accessories like a silk pendant scarf and Western-style boots for modern-day cowgirl vibes.

Jumpsuit, $98

Boot, $89

Bag, $46

Scarf, $22

From Cousin Couture

COLORFUL THROW-ANDGO DRESSES transition into fall with long sleeves and a high-contrast collar. As the weather cools, add tights and boots.

Dress, $46

Earrings, $22.50

Clutch, $27

From The Wardrobe Boutique

A ROMANTIC PALETTE — but make it daring — with doses of fall’s rich, moody tones in the sheer abstract sleeves and wine-colored pants. That chunky gold chain? Bold metallic jewelry stands up to fall’s darker tones

Top, $54

Pants, $46

From Selvaggio Style

CROCHET KNIT SETS combat North Carolina’s cool mornings and warm afternoons. Top with a denim jacket when the chill hits.

Top, $39.99

Skirt, $49.99

Earrings, $15

Bracelet, $30

Necklace, $28

From The Wardrobe Boutique

FLORALS aren’t just for spring, especially in earthy shades and cozy fabrics. Plush corduroy nods to the 1970s. Make this look full-on feminine with embellished accessories.

Top, $40

Pants, $50

From Selvaggio Style

Headband, $25 Necklace, $45 Necklace, $55

WE KNOW WESTERN WAKE

Just like Main & Broad knows Wake County, these individuals and companies are experts in their fields. Whether you’re looking for a medical professional or a place for thoughtful gifts, these local businesses can provide the top-notch services you need.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

WE KNOW

At Little Tooth Co, we cultivate children who are motivated to maintain healthy smiles. We provide exceptional care at every visit by catering to each developmental stage, and building a dynamic bond with children and their families. We listen to families’ concerns and place value on patience, prevention and education. We understand that every child has a different comfort level in the dental setting and will adapt with knowledge, creativity, positivity and resourcefulness.

WESTERN WAKE

Dr. Jean You is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist who specializes in the growing smile. In her expertise, she also focuses on behavioral dentistry and working with children who have medical and special needs. She provides a comprehensive and nurturing dental home including infant lip and tongue ties, sleep dentistry and minimally invasive dentistry. Her goal is to broaden the early dental experience in every way from the infant’s first exam to the young adult’s transition.

The secret to Rescued WOOD Rehab: “It’s More thanWOOD;It’sanExperience!”

Owner Marty Woodward, Amber the Shop Dog, and Master Craftsman Keith Veronesi headline an amazing team ready to create your custom woodworking projects.

We can custom build anything with WOOD, from your new table, bar, fireplace mantel, or even a simple shelf. We won’t just show what we have, we will create what you want!

If you have a project in mind, we would love to create a plan with you!

Just looking? That’s OK! Watch us work, get inspired, have some fun, and maybe spend some time with our Shop Dog, Amber!

We always strive for our customers to have an outstanding experience and be part of the creative process. Whatever your needs, Rescued WOOD Rehab is a destination experience.

TRIANGLE AREA TRADING CARDS

WE KNOW TRADING CARDS.

Triangle Area Trading Cards was established to fill a unique niche in the market — a place where collectors and players can fully immerse themselves in their passion. Our mission is centered around providing a customer-focused experience in a transparent, fair, and welcoming environment. We believe that by adhering to these principles, we can foster a thriving community centered around the hobby you love.

As the premier destination in Raleigh for sports cards and TCG, we stand out as the only local shop that regularly buys, sells, and trades. We offer a large selection of sports cards, supplies, Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, Star Wars: Unlimited, Lorcana, One Piece, and more.

Bring your friends and family, and experience a shopping environment that enhances both the hobby and the sense of community. 2865 Jones Franklin Road, Raleigh (919) 614-0914 triangleatc.com

By Fuquay-Varina Memes

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.

fuquaymemes thefvmemes

fun memes

The Untold Story of Varina (...

Liberties Were Taken)

It was brought to my attention that the Sept/Oct issue of Main & Broad is the women’s issue, and given that I’m a woman, I thought I’d contribute in a meaningful way.

The story of how Fuquay-Varina got its name is a Hallmark movie come to life. Before it was the beloved hyphenated mouthful we know today, Fuquay-Varina was two separate towns: Fuquay Springs (known for its healing waters) and Varina (named for the main character in one of the most underrated Southern love stories of all time).

How much of it is true? No idea, but I’m here to fill in some gaps and tap into your penchant for trashy novels. As always, you’re welcome. Enjoy this girl-powered history lesson that they don’t teach in Wake County schools.

THE YEAR WAS ... A LONG TIME AGO

Back in 1805, a dude named William Fuquay, a French veteran of the Revolutionary

War, purchased 1,000 acres of local land that used to be called Piney Woods. In the mid-1800s, his grandson, Stephen Fuquay (let’s call him Steve), discovered a mineral spring on his family’s land. This spring was believed to have healing powers (according to Steve, the Billy Mays of his time) and quickly became a popular attraction. Gullible people in frocks and such would travel from all over to drink the water and heal their gout, diabeetus, you name it. Steve’s son, John Fuquay, eventually helped develop the area further. Thus was born Fuquay Springs.

During Civil War times, a local soldier named Ballentine was off doing war stuff and God knows what else. During his free time, he started corresponding with a woman who mysteriously went by the pen name Varina.

How did he meet her? I don’t know, google it. Honestly, she could have been catfishing him the whole time, but he was into it. Varina rizzed him up somehow, probably by knowing the exact

“ How much of it is true? No idea, but I’m here to fill in some gaps and tap into your penchant for trashy novels. ”

ratio of sugar to vinegar in a deviled egg or something. I really don’t know what people were into back then.

Regardless, he was so smitten that after the war he returned to the area, wifed her up, and built a post office in her honor (perfect example of “if he wanted to, he would”). The surrounding area then became known as Varina, centered around the general store and post office.

Apparently, Varina was originally from Fayetteville, which is a red flag, but we’ll ignore that. Ballentine continued to call her by her pen name, which is weird, but maybe her real name was Eunice or something. Regardless, when two timber rail lines eventually crossed, Varina Station was born. In other words, Aviator. Think

about this the next time you’re getting drunk with your friends.

Eventually, Varina would grace half the town’s signage, school mascots, and meme pages. The point is, a woman wrote some letters and got a whole town named after her. Which seems significant, given this is the women’s issue.

Considering she didn’t live in a time when women broke glass ceilings, I’m proud of her for getting exactly what she wanted by thirst-trapping with a pen and paper. Bravo, Varina, Southern Wake’s original influencer. She walked, probably in a petticoat, just so we could run. Not that I’m running ... I don’t do that. But you get what I mean.

May we all be as iconic, mysterious, and geographically influential as Varina.

Seen Heard

Buckhorn Creek Elementary School, led by principal Daniel Simmons, received the first EL Education Credential in North Carolina. EL Education, formerly known as expeditionary learning, is a way to ensure a well-rounded education for every student by providing a specialized curriculum that combines academic excellence and character development. Buckhorn Creek prioritizes academic excellence, social-emotional learning, leadership skills, character building, and student engagement.

“One thing we knew we had to do, looking at data, is that we had to do school differently,” Daniel says. “We could not leave the academics separate from the character. And so EL has really been a good support in how we blend those things together.”

J. Dwayne Garnett,

founder of Love is a Parable, released a poetry collection titled Can I Just Write in July. The book explores fatherhood, grief, abuse, and healing through 30 reflective poems. Garnett gives a voice to powerful emotions that are often silenced by cultural expectations. Along with the book, Garnett released a video reading for the poem “Black and Blue,” filmed at the historic Kirk of Holly Springs Presbyterian Church.

Toll Brothers home builder announced the opening of the clubhouse at Regency at Holly Springs, a 55+ active-adult community. The clubhouse features a fitness center, pool, pickleball and bocce courts, plus a social membership to 12 Oaks Country Club including use of the golf course and restaurant.

WakeMed plans to build a $38 million outpatient facility on Main Street in Fuquay Varina. The project, WakeMed Fuquay-Varina Healthplex, will include an emergency department, X-ray and lab services, a pharmacy, and 12 treatment rooms. It could open as early as the fall of 2026.

The facility will expand emergency offerings within the WakeMed system, which has seen a 9.2% increase in usage between 2022 and 2024, and serve the growing 65 and older population in Southern Wake and Harnett counties.

“Black & Blue” speaks to the emotional bruises left by loving something or someone that hurts, and the video brings this intimate poem to life.

McWally’s entertainment center in Fuquay-Varina held a 10-day hiring event in anticipation of its grand opening in August. The family entertainment complex will feature bowling, laser tag, food and drink, private party rooms, and the world’s first mixed-reality playground. Owner Bryden McCormick, longtime Fuquay-Varina resident and leader of Fuquay Family Dentistry, aimed to fill more than 100 full- and part-time jobs to ensure an exceptional guest experience.

Betty & Jane boutique,

an Angier-based women’s clothing store, announced a new location in Holly Springs at Peterson Station, set to open this fall. Betty & Jane is known for classic fashion and event attire to “elevate the everyday.”

Harris Lake County

Park will soon receive major upgrades thanks to money allocated in the 2018 Parks, Greenways, Recreation and Open Space bond. Planned improvements will focus on non-motorized boat access, public art installations, renovations to the park office building, a nine-hole junior disc golf course, picnic shelter, and new restroom facilities. Construction is expected to begin this fall and take about one year to complete. Total investment for Harris Lake park is around $5.2 million.

Seen Heard

Coastal Credit Union

debuted a reimagined company headquarters in Raleigh in July designed to foster flexibility and employee well-being, as well as accommodate hybrid work environments. The 2 ½-year project has added new life to the sixstory, 135,000-square-foot building. New features and amenities include a two-story outdoor social and collaborative space, an onsite coffee bar, electric vehicle charging stations, and inclusive restrooms.

Bless Your Heart Boutique

opened a second location in Apex at Sweetwater Town Center in July. This familyowned boutique is known for its colorful collection of women’s clothing, jewelry, home items, and gifts.

In Focus

S is for Ssssnake!

By Jonathan Fredin

An eastern copperhead slithers dangerously close to an intrepid (or stupid!) photographer in Fuquay-Varina. Recent heavy rainfall has led to increased venomous snake sightings as the displaced reptiles seek higher ground due to flooding.