As we turn the page on another year, it’s time to reflect on the content that shaped our conversations and captivated our readers. Sparking joy, inspiration, and engagement, these are the conversations of our Western Wake community. We invite you to revisit the highlights of what resonated most with you — and delve deeper to discover what made these stories so unforgettable!
#1 New Rules from the Town of Cary
The winner in online engagement by a landslide, Digital and Copy Editor Tara Shiver’s enactment of a series of fictional (and funny) community rules — including a nonresident entry tax, quirky requirements for new residents, and absurd regulations on dog breeds and building colors — celebrated April Fools’ Day in hilarious style.
“Love it. One of the many reasons I love living in Cary!” — Candy Robinson
#2 Restaurant Profile: Fratelli’s Delicatessen
Food is always our readers’ fave, and this new family-owned eatery in Apex offers a delightful selection of New York– and Chicago-style breakfast items, sandwiches, and salads, all inspired by the owners’ love of delis and the family matriarch who emphasized the importance of togetherness.
Fratelli’s Delicatessen was voted runner-up in the 2025 Maggy Awards for Best New Restaurant
#3 Movers & Shakers Class of 2025
Every year, Cary Magazine recognizes the young people making waves in Western Wake. This year’s 12 changemakers include innovative entrepreneurs, visionary leaders, passionate activists, and talented artists, whose achievements and aspirations are making a significant impact on the community.
The 2025 Movers & Shakers were honored at the December 4 inaugural Wake GPS: Growth + Prosperity Summit
#4 Garden Adventurer: The Edible Oddity: Patty Pan Squash
Veteran vegetable gardeners often debate the best type of summer squash to grow, but patty pan squash stands out as a unique and versatile choice, known for its distinctive shape and slightly sweeter flavor, making it a delightful addition to any garden.
L.A. Jackson is the former editor of Carolina Gardener Magazine. He answers your questions about your garden at lajackson1@gmail.com.
#5 New Year Tech Resolutions
Jen McFarland invites us to embark on a tech spring cleaning (though any time is a good time) to declutter overflowing inboxes and chaotic digital files by deleting unnecessary emails, unsubscribing from unwanted lists, and organizing chat histories, ultimately improving online efficiency and saving energy.
Did you know that according to All About Cookies the average person has over 1,000 unread emails?
A Personal Pick: Meet Our Canine Cover Star: Baloo
In 2025, the Cary Magazine team decided for the first time to make a Pet Parade entrant the furry face of our October issue. Spending an afternoon getting to know foster pup Baloo during a photo shoot that included balancing a surfboard on a picnic table and many dog treats was a fun one that is hopefully apparent in the finished product.
“What a handsome dude!” — @dogguard_nc
