The Measure of a Community: Holly Springs Food Cupboard
It’s an unassuming ranch-style building on Holly Springs Road, the kind you might drive past without noticing. Inside, though, the place is alive with purpose. When I arrived at the Holly Springs Food Cupboard, I expected to find a few volunteers sorting shelves. Instead, every hallway was busy with people moving crates, weighing donations, and getting ready for something big.
It’s an unassuming ranch-style building on Holly Springs Road, the kind you might drive past without noticing. Inside, though, the place is alive with purpose. When I arrived at the Holly Springs Food Cupboard, I expected to find a few volunteers sorting shelves. Instead, every hallway was busy with people moving crates, weighing donations, and getting ready for something big.
Down one of those hallways, I met Sara Haggar, the executive director. She smiled and said, “You picked a good day.” A major community food drive was about to arrive, and the whole building was preparing for it.
Within minutes, the parking lot filled with cars. Trunks opened to reveal rows of blue Food Lion bags packed with canned goods and dry food. Volunteers worked in rhythm, unloading, weighing, and moving items inside.
At first it looks like chaos, but it isn’t. Each volunteer knows exactly where to stand and what to do. Bags move from car to scale in one smooth motion. By the time the next car pulls in, the last load is already being shelved.
Watching it happen, you understand why this place matters. Generosity here isn’t a one-time event. It’s a habit the whole town shares.
The Local Heart in a National Network
To really understand what goes into this effort, it is helpful to clarify what a "food cupboard" means in the larger fight against hunger:
Feeding America is the largest hunger-relief organization in the United States, supporting a nationwide network of over 200 food banks.
The Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina (FBCENC) serves as our region’s main supplier.
Holly Springs Food Cupboard (HSFC), is the local distribution center that provides groceries directly to families in need. The HSFC operates on the front line, ensuring the community's donations immediately reach their neighbors. The entire operation is run by a 100% volunteer staff who coordinate everything from outreach to sorting to distribution.
Local support of the HSFC comes in many forms. From food drives coordinated by neighborhoods, schools, churches, local businesses and civic groups, to marquee fundraising events such as Grape, Grains and Giving hosted by the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce. These events provide the resources needed to ensure that the HSFC can continue to provide essential services to our community.
Neighborhoods wishing to coordinate recurring food drives can now partner with the HSFC through the PORCH program. PORCH organizes reliable, monthly neighborhood food drives where residents leave food donations on their porches, and volunteers collect the donations and deliver them directly to the HSFC.
Growing Goodness
Step behind the main building and you’ll find the Cupboard’s garden. Rows of winter crops—turnips, peppers, greens—fill the beds. Even on a chilly day, volunteers are out there trimming, planting, and harvesting.
The garden is more than symbolic. In 2024 it produced 2,192 pounds of fresh food. Every tomato and pepper is counted and distributed along with canned goods. “We get a couple thousand pounds a year out of that,” one volunteer said, grinning with well-earned pride.
Winter crops such as turnips and peppers filled the well-tended garden while the volunteers used a break in the weather to work quickly.
Throughout 2025, more than 500 people will volunteer at the Food Cupboard either was trained volunteers running day-to-day operations or as garden volunteers who may only visit once but whose efforts make an impact.
In addition to the broader community, there are leaders who form the foundation of the Food Cupboard operations. On the day I was able to visit I was fortunate to have the opportunity to meet several of those folks whose dedication to our community is unmatched.
Feeding the Future
One of the Cupboard’s most thoughtful programs is the Student Bag initiative. Volunteers assemble kid-friendly meals—simple breakfasts and lunches that can be prepared without an adult’s help.
A Constant Need met With Constant Care
By late afternoon, the weigh station had recorded several thousand pounds of food. It’s a number worth celebrating, but everyone here knows the need continues week after week.
In 2024, volunteers gave more than 18,800 hours of their time. That kind of commitment doesn’t just happen—it’s built on care, trust, and a shared sense of responsibility.
The most direct ways to support this vital work are available through the Cupboard:
Monetary Donations: Financial gifts allow the HSFC flexibility to purchase specific needed items and cover operating costs.
Volunteer Your Time: Your time is valuable. From gardening to sorting to distribution, you can join the 100% volunteer team.
Organize a Drive: Community groups and neighborhoods can organize local drives to help sustain the cupboards throughout the year.
HollyFest 2025
HollyFest is an annual event put on by the Town of Holly Springs and for many it is a highlight of the fall season. Local business, artisans, community organizations, politicians, and the town itself are all represented.
HollyFest is an annual event put on by the Town of Holly Springs and for many it is a highlight of the fall season. Local business, artisans, community organizations, politicians, and the town itself are all represented. Having some live music, food trucks, and a beer garden is a great bonus.
HollyFest is one of the key events where the town is able to connect directly with the residents to share updates on current and future projects, highlight accomplishments, and make sure that anyone with questions is able to connect with the right person to get answers.
HollyFest provides a forum for local organizations to spread awareness. Pride of Holly Springs, the Holly Springs MLK Committee, the Holly Springs SkyHawks Radio Control Group, and Hawktimus Prime Robotics were just a few of the community organizations out raising awareness.
Our own Holly Springs Salamanders were on-site getting everyone hyped up for the 2026 season.
One of the true highlights for me was visiting the new Zen Tent hosted by the Holly Springs Accessible and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) program. This tent provided a quiet place for children (or anyone) who needed a moment away from the crowds and noise. Filled with toys and activities designed for children with unique sensory needs, this location was used throughout the day by many families (including my own). I’m proud to live in a community that recognizes the importance of providing opportunities for everyone to experience the joy of community recreation.
“The Town of Holly Springs is committed to offering Accessible and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) programs to meet the unique needs of youth and adults of all abilities. These programs provide opportunities for individuals with or without disabilities to come together for recreational, social, and educational activities in a safe and accepting environment.”
It’s an election year so it was no surprise to see the candidates for Town Council and Mayor in attendance. I enjoyed having an opportunity to speak with each candidate. I encourage everyone to use the opportunity to vote early or to vote in person - our community can only get better when it’s residents are represented.
The order the images appear on this page matches the order the tents were lined up.
Local businesses, artisans, and food trucks made filled Sugg Farm. From hot yoga to hot dogs, our community has a vibrant and diverse range of businesses and it was great to be able to chat with some many business owners to learn about what they have going on. Hopefully a few of them will be featured on HS150 soon!
Frankie Frankk’s: Big City Flavor, Small Town Soul
If you've walked down Main Street in Holly Springs around lunchtime, you might have caught the smell of grilled onions in the air. Maybe you heard the friendly voice calling out orders or saw a small crowd gathered around a shiny hot dog cart. That’s Frank, the man behind Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart.
Meet Frank: The Man Behind the Cart
If you've walked down Main Street in Holly Springs around lunchtime, you might have caught the smell of grilled onions in the air. Maybe you heard the friendly voice calling out orders or saw a crowd gathered around a shiny hot dog cart. That’s Frank McGoldrick, the man behind Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart.
Frank is more than a vendor. He’s a part of the rhythm of downtown. With a steady hand on the grill and a quick smile for every customer, he’s created something that feels personal in a way fast food rarely does. He doesn’t just remember orders. He remembers people.
A Slice of the City in the Heart of Holly Springs
Originally from New York, Frank brought with him the street cart spirit you’d expect to find in New York City. What started as a passion for real, quality hot dogs turned into a business that feels right at home here. He’s not just passing through. Frank lives here, shops here, and shows up for this town every week.
There’s no franchise behind him, no corporate marketing. Just a man, a cart, and a dedication to getting the little things right. His setup might be simple, but the experience speaks for itself. When you stop by, you’re not just getting a hot dog. You’re getting a piece of local character, served with a side of good conversation.
Rooted in the Community
Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart isn’t just about quick bites and classic street food. It’s become part of the rhythm of Holly Springs—showing up at celebrations, milestones, and small business moments that make this town feel like home.
Take Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce’s SpringsFest, for example. It was more than just a busy day for the cart. It was the site of the First Annual Hot Dog Eating Contest, an event that brought out the laughs, the crowds, and the appetite. Frank didn’t just provide the hot dogs for the contest—his family got involved too. You can frequently find his family working the cart with him - especially at events - and his brother, the owner of Lucky 31 Studios, designed and hand-crafted the hot dog–themed trophy awarded at SpringsFest.
You’ll also find Frankie supporting fellow local businesses - showing up at grand openings and anniversaries. Helping them celebrate with his signature food and friendly energy. Events like these don’t just draw a crowd. They show the kind of mutual support that helps small businesses thrive together.
Whether he’s parked on Main Street for weekday lunches or popping up at neighborhood events, Frank isn’t just running a business—he’s building connections. His cart might roll in and out, but his presence leaves a lasting impression.
The Holly Springs 2025 SpringsFest Hot Dog Eating Contest trophy created by Lucky 31 Studios.
When, Where & How to Catch Him
If you made it this far - you probably could use a Lou Dog.
You can usually find Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart set up at 109 N Main Street in downtown Holly Springs. He’s there during the lunch hours (11:00AM - 3:00PM [or until he sells out]), serving up hot dogs and conversation three days a week.
And you can always find him on Instagram as @frankiefrankks, on Facebook, and at their website: https://www.frankks.com/.
Frankie Frankk’s is also available for private events, festivals, and catering, so don’t be surprised if you see the cart at a birthday party, community celebration, or local business grand opening. If you’ve got an event and want to bring some fun (and really good hot dogs) to the table, Frank’s your guy.
Aaron Wenzel - #Rucking4Dad
After the tragic death of his own father, a Vietnam veteran, Aaron has channeled his personal commitment to this issue into a project that goes beyond just raising money and awareness, but also helping others in their own struggles with mental health and PTSD.
If you’ve been driving around Holly Springs in May, there is a good chance you have seen Aaron Wenzel rucking with a Mission 22 flag and a group of supporters. What you might not know is that Aaron is raising funds for Stop Soldier Suicide to help combat veteran suicide which occurs at a rate of 22 individuals per day.
After the tragic death of his own father, a Vietnam veteran, Aaron has channeled his personal commitment to this issue into a project that goes beyond just raising money and awareness, but also helping others in their own struggles with mental health and PTSD.
If you would like to support Aaron either through a donation of money or time, you can find more at these locations:
Donate at The 70.4 Mile Ruck Challenge Page (Facebook)
Join The Rucking Schedule (Facebook)
Follow #rucking4dad (Facebook)
Other organizations working to end soldier suicide and support veterans with their mental health and other issues include:
Stop Soldier Suicide (https://stopsoldiersuicide.org)
Mission 22 (https://mission22.com)
The Travis Manion Foundation (https://www.travismanion.org/)
SpringsFest 2025
SpringsFest is an annual celebration of Holly Springs sponsored by the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and featuring live music, local businesses and organizations, a car show, hot dog eating contest, the new social district, and more!
SpringsFest is an annual celebration of Holly Springs sponsored by the Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce and featuring live music, local businesses and organizations, a car show, hot dog eating contest, the new social district, and more!
The day began with performances by some of the talented musicians from School of Rock in Holly Springs. One musician channeled his Inner Jimi Hendrix and performed The National Anthem followed by several songs with the entire band.
Frankie Frankk’s Hot Dog Cart held the SpringsFest Hot Dog Contest.
For me this was the highlight of the day. The cars are cool, the music was great … but watching 4 folks battle it out in America’s real past time - grilling dogs - was the main event.
The contestants lined up at noon - it was clear they were prepared.
As it began, I’m not sure they all knew what they were getting into.
There were a few moments of concern
Eventually the 5-minute timer ran down and the winner was clear!
It wasn’t just hot dogs and rock-n-roll, though. In true Holly Springs fashion, there was also plenty of beer with Bombshell, Carolina Brewing Company, and Local Time all pouring quality brews for the locals enjoying the new social district.
If hot dogs aren’t your thing, there was a food truck rodeo with plenty of options from around the Triangle.
The main event, though, was the vendors. Local businesses and organizations were setup throughout downtown showcasing their services and connecting with locals. As a long-time resident of Holly Springs I am constantly surprised by the wide variety of talented people we have who serve the community. Everything was represented from humans to pets, health and wellness to home improvement, vinyl windows to vinyl records - these small businesses are the lifeblood of Holly Springs and the surrounding area, and it was great to be able to talk with and photograph many of them!
Pro Tip: if you’re a small business and want to be featured on HS150, click on that “Help Needed!” link above!
The car show was definitely a fan favorite. With everything from classic to modern, mini to massive - who doesn’t love appreciating the beauty of clean lines and vintage design?
See you at SpringsFest 2026!
Local Flavor, Global Impact: Remedy's Recipe
Remedy Cocktail Company was started in the Fall of 2021 by the “Mad Scientist of Flavor,” Ariana Nester, and her husband Rob. Over the last three years they have shown a commitment and passion for great flavor, bringing over 30 different flavors of cocktail bitters to market.
Remedy Cocktail Company was started in the Fall of 2021 by the “Mad Scientist of Flavor,” Ariana Nester, and her husband Rob. Over the last three years they have shown a commitment and passion for great flavor, bringing over 30 different flavors of cocktail bitters to market. You can find them bi-weekly at the Holly Springs Farmers market selling their products and catching up with customers and community, as well as throughout the Triangle at various vendor fairs.
All of Remedy’s products are handcrafted with high quality ingredients in small batches. As a “Got To Be NC” certified company Remedy Cocktail Company prides itself on sourcing as much of its raw ingredients locally as possible.
Remedy Cocktail Company is active in the community, often raising money for the HS Food Cupboard and collaborating with other North Carolina brands. As a second generation Ukrainian American, Ariana has also developed Ukrainian inspired flavors, for which proceeds are donated to World Central Kitchen to help with humanitarian aid.
Ariana is also a board member of We Power Food, a group dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs in the food industry. She is also a proud member of the Pink Boots Society — which aims to assist, inspire, and encourage women and individuals in the fermented/alcoholic beverage industry.
Remedy Cocktail Company won Indy Week’s Best of the Triangle, — “Best New Business” in 2022 and in 2024 won a Bizzy Award from Wake Tech and a “Best in Taste” award from the North Carolina Specialty Food Association.
“Mad Scientist of Flavor,” Ariana Nester
Set Your Clock to Local Time
Founded in 2022 by Chris and Kelly Gallagher, in conjunction with Master Brewer Devin Singley, Local Time’s relaxed, welcoming, environment combined with award winning beers, has made it a cornerstone of the Holly Springs downtown.
My original plan for featuring Local Time was to create a J. Peterman Catalog-style post that told a fantastical story behind each of photos.
Stories of Devin climbing over bags of grain to close a valve before the catastrophic loss of glorious ales. Or Chris exploring the world looking for the next great inspiration. Walking through the Saharan desert finding the perfect spices or the slashing his way through the jungles of Thailand to find the original recipe for the Phuket Sunset Thai Rice Lager.
Because when I think of Local Time Brewing, that’s what I think of: excellent craft beer created through a love of history. Each beer’s name shares a hint of the story behind it and gives some insight into how the ingredients were chosen and what processes were used.
That is something unique about Local Time that goes beyond the beer and the taproom - it speaks to the passion and vision of everyone involved and gets me excited about coming back over and over.
Founded in 2022 by Chris and Kelly Gallagher, in conjunction with Master Brewer Devin Singley, Local Time Brewing’s relaxed, welcoming, environment combined with award winning beers, has quickly made it a cornerstone of the Holly Springs downtown.
Local Time is an active member of the Holly Springs community and beyond. They have served as a drop-off site for the Holly Springs Food Cupboard, participated in charitable events such as Hops for Hope, and organized a large supply drop for WNC after Hurricane Helene.
Master Brewer Devin Singley preparing a batch of their West Coast IPA
Local Time Brewing was the NC Craft Brewer’s Guild New Brewery of the Year (2023) and Holly Springs Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year (2024).
