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Mark Lane's avatar

Loved the spotlight on a town I knew nothing about. However; while I like Wegman's work, due to my sister's insistence on holiday tradition I had to endure Faye's 12 Days of Christmas many times. One viewing would have been sufficient.

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Bryan Padrick's avatar

On my way to Wilmington (when I dared to do I-40), I drove past the road sign pointing to Fuquay-Varina many, many times. I never stopped, but I think I should have - like so many places, it's got its 'thing'. Might just check it out if we're driving that way this summer ... though the kids might think it's too much of a diversion!

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Amanda Clark's avatar

I do love me some sweet potatoes! NC is a long way from us, but it sounds like it’d be a fun place to tack onto a trip schedule during festival time.

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Teresa Souther Murphy's avatar

The town name would definitely sound bluer if the “quay” part was pronounced correctly. Ooof!

My daughter recently commented on the unusual place names while driving back from NC. Fuquay-Varina didn’t even make the list!

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Bryan Padrick's avatar

To be honest, I have no idea why Fuquay-Varina came into my mind ... But once it did, I kept having images of the road sign pass by me. Seriously, though - the next time I'm in that area, I will definitely stop and check the place out!

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Mark Dykeman's avatar

This is interesting, I thought I'd read that the sweet potato originated in Central or South America, so I wonder how the Lumbee got them. Another great read!

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Bryan Padrick's avatar

Thanks - and very glad you liked it! The whole Lumbee/sweet potato connection has gotten me interested - how did that tuber get introduced into North America?! Perhaps a topic for a future Stop ...

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C.L. Steiner's avatar

It’s a long drive from Huntersville to Fuquay-Varina, but I yam tempted!

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Bryan Padrick's avatar

I spent four years at Davidson College, so I'm very familiar with a late 80s Huntersville - the launch-pad to central NC! At the time, my friends and I drove all over the place - exploring the towns, lakes, woodlands, restaurants (have you been to Gary's BBQ in China Grove? Is it even still there?) - all because we had to see what was out there. And that's what I love about NC - long drives, short drives ... there's just so much to see.

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C.L. Steiner's avatar

I’m a newcomer - only been in the area for three years. I love Davidson though, especially getting my hair cut at Raeford’s Barber Shop - home of the never ending basketball discussion and the best haircut I’ve ever had.

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