Best Realtor

Scott Korbin, Coldwell Banker, Howard Perry and Walston

Scott Korbin. Contributed photo by Scott Korbin.

Happy homeowners utter endless praise for the work of Scott Korbin, who closed the deal in yet another new Maggy category, Best Realtor. In their words: “Attention to detail.” “Patient.” “True blue.” “Knowledgeable.”

Best Attorney

Jackie Bedard, Carolina Family Estate Planning

Jackie Bedard

Stealing the show? Jackie Bedard is guilty as charged, claiming the No. 1 spot as Best Attorney for the first time, following an honorable mention last year.
What’s the best part of her job?

“The people,” said Bedard, who was also a CM Mover & Shaker in 2015. “We have a great team in our office and we’re all passionate about doing good work. We’re really blessed to have great clients, and I enjoy hearing their stories and learning about their families.”

Bedard is passionate about bringing peace of mind to her clients, whether it’s simply knowing they’ve taken steps to protect their families, or relieving a wife’s fear that her financial security will be jeopardized by the costs of her husband’s long-term care.

Outside the office, Bedard negotiates her own peace of mind through reading, cooking, CrossFit, learning new things, and spending time with her family and dogs.

Best Insurance Agent

Teri Larocca, State Farm

When we created this new Maggy category, who knew we’d find an agent who’s been asked to insure a World War II cannon, a card game, dogs and wrecked cars?

Teri LaRocca, a State Farm agent since 2001 and longtime Cary resident, says a day in her life is never dull, but underscores the serious side of her business:

“Insurance is truly meant to protect you and the assets you have worked so hard for,” she said. “It’s not something you want to skimp on because when — not if but when — you have a claim, you want to be 100 percent sure that you, your family and your assets are protected appropriately. We make sure our clients understand how they should be protecting themselves through our coverage and product recommendations.”

As for landing the Maggy vote, LaRocca credits her staff: “We truly care. We have very detailed conversations with every client about their individual situation and how we can help protect them. We always try to go the extra mile by accommodating schedules, calling with reminders and being sure we are offering top customer service.”

Best Eye Doctor

Ken Rousselo, Preston Optometry Center

Dr. Ken Rousselo and the staff at Preston Optometry Center. Contributed photo by Ken Rousselo.

CM readers have their eyes on Dr. Ken Rousselo, making his third appearance on the Maggy list after a 2012 win and an honorable mention in 2016.

Known for his eye care and his local and international volunteer work, Rousselo also has a sense of humor: “Looking like I do, I realized that being a fashion model was not going to be an option for me!” he joked.

“I always loved healthcare; my three older sisters all went into different fields of healthcare also. I chose to have a single doctor practice so I can develop relationships with my patients. They know every time they come in, they will see me. Over the 21 years of my business, I’ve had the pleasure of watching my patients grow up, get married, have families, and now I am seeing their children.”

His focus, Rousselo says, is to always do what’s best for his patients.

Best Chiropractor

Todd Staker, Staker Chiropractic Center

Readers requested this new Maggy category, so here it is. But note: While winner Todd Staker is new to the Maggy Awards, he’s quite the experienced practitioner.

Staker’s days as a college basketball player sparked his interest in chiropractic care, and today he’s a “proud provider of services for the Carolina Hurricanes,” and the Carolina Railhawks. He’s certified in Active Release Technique, a specialized form of deep tissue massage, and offers free spinal care classes at Staker Chiropractic Center.

“We’ve been in business in Cary since 1997,” Staker said of his practice. “We provide an atmosphere of care and healing and have a focus built around a family chiropractic center for the sports-minded patient. We want our patients active, exercising and getting the most out of life.”

Best Spa

The Umstead Spa

Organic Body Glow. Cherry Blossom Ritual. Swedish Massage — you’ll feel more relaxed just reading the spa menu!

Topping the Maggy list since 2010 as the best place to pamper yourself, The Umstead Spa offers treatments and experiences to soothe the body, mind and spirit.

And sure, you can even get a classic mani-pedi.

More to love: The Umstead Hotel and Spa was also voted Best Hotel or Resort in North Carolina by CM readers for a second consecutive year.

Best Hair Salon

Twisted Scizzors Salon Spa

You’ve voted them Best Hair Salon for five consecutive years. You’ve seen their work in CM’s pages, and taken part in their charity cut-a-thons. Simply put, the Twisted Scizzors team rocks.

“We’re passionate about helping others, not because it’s what we have to do as our job, but because it’s what we love to do,” said owner Amanda Kimball.

“We truly have a team that is 100 percent dedicated to making sure our clients are happy. And we’re passionate about our fundraising and helping out in the community. It’s what we stand for.”

Fun fact: Kimball originally planned to open the salon as Twisted Sisters, with her cousin Jenna.

News to know: Chunky highlights are making a comeback in 2017, Kimball says, a la Kelly Clarkson. “Placement of them is more organic than the back-to-back foils.”

More From Our Jan 2017 Issue

• A New & Improved You
• Secrets of the Cast Iron Plant
• Easy as Pie
• Oven-Roasted Cauliflower from Tazza Kitchen
• Not a Moment to Lose: The V Foundation
• 2017 Maggy Awards: Lifestyle
• Presenting the 2017 Maggy Awards!
• 2017 Maggy Awards: Restaurants
• 2017 Maggy Awards: Services
• 2017 Maggy Awards: Shopping
• Still Raising a Ruckus
• Back to Work
• A Taste of Sweet Potato Pie