Chatham Magazine Summer 2024

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PUBLISHER/VICE PRESIDENT Chris Elkins chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com

EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR

Amanda MacLaren

MANAGING EDITOR, CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Morgan Cartier Weston morgan.weston@chathammagazinenc.com

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Jessica Stringer

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Holland Bodner, Ryan Christiano, Izabella Counts, Celia Funderburk, Sinclair Holian, Avery Householder, Natalie McCormick, Lena Miano, Leah Paige, Lauren Rouse, Katie Scherner, Liza Smith, Lucy Thomas and Emma Unger

the great outdoors

The first time I visited Jordan Lake as a child, I left sunburnt, covered in mud and absolutely exhilarated. There were fish, bugs, lizards, squirrels and so many trees to climb! As I got older and began to camp and kayak with friends, I appreciated having such a peaceful opportunity for recreation so close to home. Learn more about fishing, paddling and hiking our lakes and rivers starting on page 52. Now, I spend a little less time in the sun and instead embrace the warm weather by mixing fresh veggies into cold salads and sipping rosé in my backyard. (I have a feeling the Greek watermelon salad on page 50 will pair well with any of Anna Lange’s wine recommendations, page 80.) And, be sure to take a look at our Out & About feature on page 8 for a snapshot of the festivals, concerts and outdoor events we’re excited for this year. However you choose to celebrate the season – on the water or off your feet – we’ve packed this issue with inspiration to help you plan your adventures. We hope you’ll pick it up again and again this summer! cm

Take good care,

 morgan.weston@chathammagazinenc.com

pencil us in Check out our Triangle-wide event calendar for even more ways to enjoy where you live.

P.S. I can’t help but share that I’ll be enjoying my backyard time with a new family member this summer. Meet Dani! Special thanks to Chatham Animal Rescue and Education (CARE) for all the important work they do and for helping us find this sweet girl.

The Cover By KEVIN

BROWN

home sweet home

Do your summer plans include relaxing poolside or hosting a picnic in your beautiful garden? Reach out!

’gram worthy For even more curated picks (and pics!) of what’s going on, follow Chatham Magazine on Instagram!

Photo by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

fire up your summer

48 Turn Up the Heat Spice up your next backyard barbecue with a savory spread

52 Hook, Line and Sinker Wade into a fishing state of mind

56 Diner Delights These eateries serve up good food – and even better company

64 Back to Nature Enjoy a few nights beneath the starry skies

68 The Chill Factor

This ice cream shop has the solution to beating the summer heat

70 All About the Animals Barn and wildlife encounters to explore

78 Berry Tasty

Spend a sunny day picking fresh berries –and try out a new recipe with your bounty!

80 By the Glass Expert wine recommendations to help you savor the season

Seasonally Chic Refresh your home and closet by shopping local this season

90 Oh, Those Summer Nights Dine alfresco on these charming patios

96 Catch Me if You Can Hit the trail with a homegrown race initiative

102 Hike. Paddle. Preserve. A brief update on the Haw River, the state’s newest hiking and paddling blueway aging &

126 Passion Projects Retirees keep their minds and bodies active with favorite hobbies

142 The 2024 Directory of Continuing Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living, 55+

106 Into the Woods A couple embraces tranquil sights and sounds in their empty nest

Letter from the Managing Editor

Out & About Events you won’t want to miss

Noted What we’ve heard around our towns … 42 Who’s Who in Town & County Government Franklin Gomez Flores, Chatham County Commissioner 156 Here We Grow Again

on developments, real estate and future projects

Chatham Chamber Annual Meeting

George Moses Horton Middle School Color Run

Chatham County Spring Ag Fest

Chatham Chamber Development

Show of Hands Gallery Grand Opening

Barham & Donaldson

Mosaic Event Series

Friday evenings

June – October

Grab your picnic blanket and head to Mosaic at Chatham Park every Friday for live music or movies on the lawn. Grab dinner and drinks on site from local favorites like Ta Contento, Havoc Brewing, Hops & Berry and Sanders Southern Seafood, or order takeout ahead of time from Cafe Root Cellar before the show. mosaicatchathampark.com/ events

out&about

Pittsboro Summer Fest

July 7 3:30 – 9 p.m.

The Pittsboro Business Association hosts its eighth annual seasonal celebration at the corner of Hanks and Hillsboro streets in downtown Pittsboro. Expect an afternoon full of family-friendly activities, food trucks, craft vendors, live music, a variety of contests and more! shoppittsboro.com

Juneteenth Black Arts Festival

June 15

11 a.m. –5 p.m.

Celebrate Black artists, entrepreneurs and community members at Community Organizing for Racial Equity’s 7th annual Juneteenth

events you won't want to miss

Black Arts Festival at Chatham County Fairgrounds. CORE organizes this event to build relationships and increase opportunities and exposure across communities, offering cultural experiences, educational and networking resources, plus the opportunity to explore history, art and food that highlights the heritage of Black Americans and American culture. corenc.org/juneteenth 

PHOTO BY D. LUCERO PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO COURTESY OF CORE

Compiled by IZABELLA COUNTS

The Big What?

Aug. 22-24

Camp out and jam on at Possum Holler Productions’ multi-night summer outdoor music festival at Shakori Hills Community Arts Center. Listen to local bands, regional favorites and national touring artists while camping in the lush North Carolina woods, rain or shine. Festival headliner, rock band Big Something, will perform nightly; the lineup also includes six-piece synthwave band Doom Flamingo, Pittsburgh-based electronic group Chalk Dinosaur, bluegrass band Shadowgrass, keyboardist and experimental musician Natalie Brooke and more. thebigwhat.com

Silk Hope Old Fashioned Farmers’ Day

Aug. 31 & Sept. 1 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Marvel at old-fashioned farm equipment and witness antique machinery in action at Farm Heritage Park during the Silk Hope Ruritan Club’s 49th annual event. Between demonstrations, listen to live music, enjoy bites from local food vendors and admire lively performances as organizers and guests come together to support and celebrate the Silk Hope community. silkhopenc.org cm

PHOTO BY ROB ROANE PHOTOGRAPHY

people &places

clydefest

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

The Chatham Arts Council hosted the 22nd annual ClydeFEST April 14 at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center. The event honors all things creative and is named for Bynum artist Clyde Jones, known for his fantastical wooden critter sculptures. Children of all ages enjoyed face painting, music and creating their own colorful critters, plus drum, music and dance performances. New this year was “The Locals” exhibit, which showcased nine commissioned works by local artists. Each piece was inspired by a fellow Chatham County resident, past or present; muses included enslaved poet George Moses Horton, ClydeFEST emcee Pam Smith, and of course, Clyde Jones himself. cm

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4 Geoffrey Neal.

5 Chatham Arts Council’s Mayme Boyd, Selbe Bartlett and Kristi Kerins.

6 Diali Keba Cissokho leads a drum circle.

Musician Dawn Landes.

Kids enjoy making giant bubbles.

Clyde Jones.

chatham chamber annual meeting

Photography by MELISSA CRANE

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual meeting at The Bradford on Feb. 9. Highlights included networking, dinner, the unveiling of a new logo and website, a CEO search update and special entertainment by author and journalist Scott Mason, otherwise known as the Tar Heel Traveler. cm

1 Vince Benedetto of Paragon Safety Group and SECU’s Courtney Cabe.

2 Dustin Miller and Katie Miller of 79 West and Bold Real Estate’s Desiree Goldman and Chela Tu.

3 Barbara Brothers and Rodriquis Stewart with Capital Area Workforce Development.

4 Haw River Animal Hospital’s Dr. Katie Sizer and Intrepid Build’s Kevin Sizer.

george moses horton middle school color run

On March 23, around 90 participants brought splashes of color to a gray morning at George Moses Horton Middle School. Funds from the third annual community event supported the school’s Parent Teacher Student Association to fuel academics, arts and athletics year-round. Rainbow-colored windmills lined the campus as runners and walkers made their way around a 0.8-mile loop. White T-shirts quickly turned vibrant as volunteers sprinkled passersby with colorful cornstarch. Participants were encouraged to complete as many laps as possible within 45 minutes, going at their own pace. After finishing one, three or five laps, attendees were eligible to win a variety of raffle prizes, including gift baskets from Chatham Outfitters, Red Moose Brewing Company, Pittsboro Toys and Fiddlehead Farm Carolina Cravings was also on-site selling coffee and treats throughout the race. cm

2 Dylan Drust, 9, Justin Drust, and Alice Drust,

3 Yeraldyn Martinez, owner of Carolina Cravings.

4 Easton Clair, 13, and Lia Hardin, 9.

5 Sarah Hill, 13.

6 Leo Drust, 13.

7 Dave Patterson, Ashley Patterson and Corbie Hill.

8 Janet Aiken.

1 Parker Maness, 14, Maddie Bolejack, 14, Taylor Maness, 10, Harper Vernon, 9, Maya Torres, 13, Emily Wellons, 13, and Morgan Snider, 13.

9.

Photography by LAUREN ROUSE

chatham county spring ag fest

Visitors gathered at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center March 23 for the fourth annual Spring Ag Fest, a celebration of Chatham’s agriculture, forestry and natural resources. Events at the Livestock Arena included parades of breeds, a calf scramble, a costume contest, barrel racing and pony rides. More than 60 local exhibitors and vendors highlighted farmers markets, beekeeping, native plants, conservation, wildlife and more. Guests also had the opportunity to meet Smokey Bear and learn from forest rangers. Between rain showers, attendees could grab a quick bite to eat from any of the 10 food trucks on-site, including some Chatham County favorites: Big Mikes BBQ, Food by H&V, Pete Da Heat BBQ, Tacos Paraiso and Maple View Mobile Ice Cream. cm

Photography by DEBBIE ROOS

1 Allison Sturgill with oxen Gabe and Liam.

2 Phil Uptmor with Chatham County Beekeepers’ Association.

3 Gale Brickhouse and Cristine Morgan manning the Seaforth High School’s Future Farmers of America table.

4 Rachael Blazzard and Emily Wyant manning the NC State Cooperative Extension 4-H table.

5 Claire Apple of Not Quite Right Farm.

(noun)

chatham chamber development briefing

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual development briefing at the Chatham County Agricultural & Conference Center April 25. Tyler Bryant, new president and CEO of the Chamber, was introduced, and Sera Cuni, chef and owner of Cafe Root Cellar, was awarded the Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award for her work establishing community fridge program Feed-Well Fridges. Leaders from across the county then provided updates on real estate and economic development; speakers included Michael Smith, president of the Chatham Economic Development Corporation; Karen Howard, vice chair of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners; Hank Raper, Siler City town manager; Jonathan Hensley, mayor of Goldston; and Colby Sawyer, public information officer for the Town of Pittsboro cm

1 Chatham Homes Realty’s Catherine Hobbs, Taylor Hobbs of Hobbs Architects and Cheryl Chamblee with Chatham Arts Council.

2 Chatham Magazine’s Ellen Shannon and Jill M. Martin of Primus Internal Medicine.

3 Chatham Magazine’s Chris Elkins and Tyler Bryant of the Chatham Chamber.

4 Sanford Chamber of Commerce’s Susan Gomez, Chatham YMCA’s Cole McLaughlin and Central Carolina Community College’s Lisa Chapman.

5 Sera Cuni, center, with Duke Energy’s Indira Everett, left, and Ray Trapp, right.

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Photo by Shana

show of hands gallery grand opening

Michele Zembow and Lee Kazanas are the new owners of Show of Hands Gallery, located at 80 Hillsboro St. in downtown Pittsboro (formerly Liquidambar Gallery). The grand opening for Show of Hands was held March 8, with many friends, family and art lovers in attendance. Michele and Lee, a professional potter himself, will continue the gallery’s tradition of featuring the work of many talented local artists and plan to host featured artist receptions from April to December as part of the Pittsboro Business Association’s First Sundays. cm

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Jamie Nunnelly, John Mecham, Kitty Meacham and Scott Nunnelly.

Michael Novak.

Lynn Goldhammer.

Show of Hands Gallery owners Lee Kazanas and Michele Zembow.

Karen Rose and Pat Hatcher.

Michele Zembow and her daughter, Kaydi Zembow.

Cathy Holt, Colleen BlackSemelka and Billy Cummings.

Photography by MICHELE ZEMBOW AND MELISSA CRANE

going coastal

Explore 85

miles of beaches,

historic charm and hidden treasures along the Southern shores of the Outer Banks

Words and

photography

by ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

weekend beach getaway is always a good idea, no matter the month or season. Traveling to the coast in the fall or winter when the crowds are gone and more shells are left to discover along the shoreline makes for an easy, relaxing, off-peak season vacation. Discover the special allure of rural waterfront communities east of Beaufort down to Cape Lookout National Seashore and Cape Carteret. These barrier island towns hold treasures for history buffs, seafood lovers and those who revel in the great outdoors. So, if you’re in desperate need of a break or just a slight change of pace, take our tips for a miniholiday along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast.

LEFT Footprints through some sea oats in the dunes at Fort Macon State Park beach.

ABOVE A breeze ripples across the water at the docks in downtown Beaufort.

RIGHT Late afternoon sunlight fills a room inside the Bask Hotel, which offers beautiful views of the waterfront in Morehead City.

Set off on the slightly more than three-hour drive east on Highway 70, and check into the Bask Hotel in Morehead City. Be sure to ask for a high-level center suite for the best panoramic views overlooking Bogue Sound and Sugarloaf Island. The waterfront hotel is located a block from the historic Big Rock Landing weigh station and a short walk from restaurants, coffee shops and boutiques. The hotel also features a nightly cocktail reception from 5:30-7 p.m. Alternatively, you can book a rustic fishing cabin at Cape Lookout, or pitch a tent at Hammocks Beach State Park. 

if fishing is your thing ...

Morehead City and Atlantic Beach are widely known for their fishing opportunities, including the annual Big Rock Blue Marlin Tournament, which broke records in 2023 with a fleet of 271 registered boats and a $5.8 million total purse. Marinas will fill up again June 7-16, 2024, to see which crew will land the prize-winning marlin using only a rod and reel. Mark your calendars now for other saltwater competitions beyond the summer months, like the Sixth Annual Emerald Isle Fall Fishing Tournament on Sept. 28 or the Atlantic Beach King Mackerel Fishing Tournament held Oct. 5-26.

But you don’t have to enter a competition to enjoy the rewards of the sport. Just grab your fishing license (anyone 16 or older must have a license to fish in North Carolina; you can purchase a license online at gooutdoorsnorthcarolina.com) and cast a line into the surf to hook bluefish, red drum, black drum, speckled trout or Spanish mackerel near the Fort Macon rock jetty, or by the Bogue Inlet Pier in Emerald Isle, or the Oceanana Pier in Atlantic Beach. Or charter a boat with fisheries biologist David Berrane of Hawk Charters, who knows the deeper waters well beyond the breakers, or with Jason Frivance, U.S. Coast Guard vet and owner of Back Sound Fishing Charters.

if you love searching for sea glass and shells

...

Plan a visit during the off-peak season when frequent storms stir up buried treasure. Experienced shellers know the best time to look for intact specimens is at low tide before rising waters reclaim these marvels. We found more lettered olive shells than we could hold

from Fort Macon State Park beach. We also collected a wide variety of Atlantic surf clams, sawtooth pens, banded tulips, whelks, augers, oyster drills, disk dosinia, shark’s eye and baby’s ear moon shells on this outing. After shelling, we explored the bookstore, exhibits and restored quarters inside Fort Macon, which was originally designed by Brig. Gen. Simon Bernard after fighting alongside Napoleon in 1815 at the Battle of Waterloo. More than 1 million visitors each year hike and bike the nature loops at the 389-acre state park and climb the fort’s ramparts overlooking the waters of Beaufort Inlet.

if you are like Aquaman

...

You’ll want to take a behind-the-scenes tour at the NC Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores, where a guide leads visitors through a maze of holding tanks, water filtration systems and marine labs. Say hello to the green or loggerhead turtles swimming in the rehabilitation unit.

In another part of the tour, you can watch jellyfish gracefully drift and propel themselves through their aquatic realm. The highlight was climbing to the top of the 115-foot Living Shipwreck exhibit, tossing portions of food into the 306,000-gallon ocean habitat and watching the frenzied feeding of fish and sharks. The saltwater exhibit features

a replica of the U-352 German submarine sunk by the U.S. Coast Guard off of North Carolina’s coast in 1942. Sport divers can visit actual submerged wrecks along the coast, including three U-boats, to see how large debris becomes unique habitats for aquatic wildlife. The aquarium provides visitors a dry opportunity to view how nature adapts itself to human-made structures. 

Sailboats moored in the harbor channel waters by Sugarloaf Island in Morehead City.

ABOVE Visitors can walk the ramparts of a pre-Civil War stronghold at Fort Macon.

BELOW Check out the North Carolina Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores and discover creatures like the mesmerizing sea nettle jellyfish, which can deliver a painful sting.

if you enjoy history and learning something new ...

Take your time exploring the educational exhibits at the NC Maritime Museum in Beaufort to discover the ecological past of the coast and learn about Black maritime history – one local story describes menhaden chanteymen, Black fishermen who sang rhythmic songs to aid their efforts in netting and hauling tons of shad from the ocean. Another unique museum feature is the working archaeological conservation lab inside, where artifacts recovered from the shipwreck of Queen Anne’s Revenge are treated and restored. You can see many items displayed on-site, like coins, pearl buttons, utensils and tableware.

At the Beaufort Historic Site, guides dress in period clothing to interpret the town’s history during its formation before the Revolutionary War and life through the Civil War era. Or embark on an adventure into the past with Port City Tours’ ghost walk, where daring history enthusiasts can delve into the architectural features of old homes while listening to tales – like the story about the heartbroken girl in the blue dress at Beaufort’s Langdon Bed & Breakfast – that still haunt residents to this day.

if you are a foodie ...

Reserve a table at the lively Circa 81 in Morehead City for tapas. Start with the biscuit crackers with pimento cheese or the charred Brussels sprouts before sampling the scallops special and the best Key lime pie you’ll taste in this lifetime. Enjoy the intimate ambience at the Blue Moon Bistro (formerly the historic Dill House, which was built in 1827), and order from a full menu of modern French cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients. The lobster bisque was delicious paired with courgette fries before diving into a bowl of wild-caught shrimp atop a fried grit cake covered in Cajun tasso sauce.

After working up an appetite trekking through Morehead City and Beaufort, we found ourselves at the Front Street Grill, where the strawberry goat cheese salad was a refreshing accompaniment to so many seafood

options at the waterfront restaurant. We had spectacular views of yachts, kayaks and sailboats right outside our window.

For breakfast or brunch, visit the friendly staff at The Banks Grill to sample grit fritters –cooked grits rolled in cheddar and Jack cheese, coated in breading and then fried to golden perfection. A fun option for coffee and a light breakfast of bagels or scrambled eggs is the Mug Shot, where the walls are covered with framed photos of notorious celebrities.

next time ...

A single weekend is not enough time to fully discover all the gems of the Crystal Coast. The next visit will include a visit to Bonehenge Whale Center to learn how to help in cases of mammal stranding on the beach. We might book a tour to watch dolphins or go on a photo safari in search of wild horses and estuarine wildlife at the Rachel Carson Reserve, which is only accessible by boat. Birdwatchers will enjoy the more than 200 species of birds found at the reserve, as it is along the Atlantic Migratory Flyway.

Back in Beaufort, there are some delightful little boutiques and antique stores … I want to browse Christina Cuningham’s shop, Beaufort Linen Co., to find the perfect summer coverlet or a blue and white ginger jar to add to my collection. And I want to look for jadeware amid all the goods inside The Marketplace Antiques and Collectibles. I’ll be back, and recommend you extend your own trip by a few days to fit in all the sights, meals and shopping you can, too. cm

ABOVE Enjoy a slice of sweet and tart Key lime pie at Circa 81 in Morehead City.

BELOW A visitor examines a photo of Johnny Cash at the Mug Shot coffee and cocktail lounge.

RIGHT Be sure to give yourself enough time to browse all the collections at Beaufort Linen Co. on Front Street in downtown Beaufort.

FOR MORE THAN 50 YEARS, the practice of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Associates has been trusted to provide specialized care in the Chapel Hill, Durham, and Sanford communities. Our four board certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons provide the highest quality of patient care with the latest diagnostic and treatment tools available to assure patient safety and comfort.

Drs. Sacco, Vandersea, Ruvo and Serlo practice a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery with expertise ranging from corrective jaw surgery to wisdom tooth removal.

DEBRA M. SACCO DMD, MD

BRIAN VANDERSEA DDS

ANDREW T. RUVO DMD, MD

ADAM D. SERLO DMD, MD

noted.

On the Move

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce voted unanimously to approve Tyler Bryant as the organization’s new president and CEO on March 21 and he began his term on May 1. Tyler was the former president and CEO of the HawkinsvillePulaski County Chamber of Commerce in Georgia and brings 14 years of experience in nonprofit and association management. “Chatham County boasts a dynamic business community, and I am committed to nurturing its growth and success by supporting all businesses, fostering job creation and cultivating a robust economy and quality of life,” Tyler says.

Perdomo Law Firm opened its doors at 131 S. Birch Ave in Siler City March 11. The firm, founded by Norma Jisselle Perdomo, specializes in immigration law and will now run operations from the Siler City office, its first brick-and-mortar location.

Fast-food chain Zaxby’s, known for its chicken fingers, wings and signature sauces, opened its first Chatham County location in Northwood Landing on March 25, complete with a dining room which seats 70 guests and a double drive-thru lane. The 3,000-square-foot Pittsboro restaurant is expected to bring 60 jobs to the area.

Art gallery and antique store Frye Studios held its grand opening celebration at 60 West St. in Pittsboro April 5-7, offering art, music, refreshments and antiques, plus a raffle to win a painting benefitting the Chatham Arts Council and a drawing for a studio gift card.

Gallery owners Charlie Frye and Susan Frye, both full-time artists themselves, closed down their original studio in Lenoir last January before opening back up in Chatham County.

what we've heard around our towns

Mosaic at Chatham Park welcomed Hops & Berry Taproom to Pittsboro. It is the town’s first self-serve bar. The taproom and cocktail bar celebrated its new location at 120 Mosaic Blvd. on March 15 with musical guest Jordan Pickett, an array of appetizers and American fare.

Rachel’s Native Plants began selling a variety of flora at the Carrboro, Chapel Hill and Hillsborough Weaver Street Market locations in March. The nursery, which provides plants, resources and landscaping services, aims to bring more pollinators to the county.

MedSpa 501, a holistic medicinal wellness facility created by 501 Pharmacy owner Han Su, held its grand opening on March 16 at 69 Knox Way. Guests enjoyed balloon art, a

Compiled by LENA MIANO

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

PHOTO COURTESY OF ZAXPITT, LLC

PHOTO BY THALLIEUS JORDAN 

McIntyre’s Books celebrated 35 years in business on April 27, also Independent Bookstore Day. The shop was opened in 1989 by Keebe Fitch, daughter of Fearrington’s creators R.B. Fitch and Jenny Fitch, who believed the village center needed an independent bookstore. The shop invited customers to celebrate the milestone with candy, bags of books and other merchandise, along with author readings, youth storytime and ukulele tunes.

performance by magician Shaun Jay, face painting, skincare raffles and refreshments from Red Moose Brewing Company

Siler City Police Chief Mike Wagner (pictured above right) retired April 1 and was honored for his service at the town’s Board of Commissioners meeting on March 18. Brian Regan

In Other News

Fearrington Village celebrated 50 years on April 27. The ’60s- and ’70s-themed anniversary event, which was hosted at The Gathering Place, featured barnyard time, a dance floor, karaoke, history exhibits, food trucks and a sidewalk chalk contest.

The Original Haw River Crawdaddies band kicked off the celebration while local vendors including Ta Contento, Alsies Ice Cream Truck and Red Moose Brewing Company offered refreshments.

(pictured below right) was selected as the city’s new police chief. Brian has worked in law enforcement for more than 30 years, served with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and as director of Randolph Community College’s Basic Law Enforcement Program. 

Chatham Arts Council, Orange County Arts Commission, Durham Arts Council and United Arts Council of Raleigh & Wake County came together in partnership with WRAL for the fourth annual Big Night In for the Arts fundraiser on March 7. The event launched during the COVID-19 pandemic to help raise money for the struggling arts industry; these organizations continue to support artists by showcasing their work and encouraging donations from the community.

The organizations raised $145,000 for the region’s arts this year, and have raised a total of $946,000 since the program began.

PHOTO BY ED LALLO PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY NATALIE MCCORMICK

PHOTO BY SHANA PERRY

PHOTO BY KRYSTAL KAST

Dr. Claire Repine and Roger Diaz began offering primary care services at FirstHealth Family Medicine – Chatham’s new location in Pittsboro on April 1. Both physicians joined the FirstHealth team in 2023. “We are thrilled to make the move to Northwood Landing and excited to see the continued growth of Pittsboro and surrounding communities,” says Dr. Dan Barnes, President of FirstHealth PhysicianGroup.

What an Honor

New Hope Valley Railway celebrated 40 years as a public attraction – its first train ride for visitors was in 1984 – and 120 years of operation on April 20 and 21. Known as the “Triangle’s Train,” the railroad was founded by the East Carolina Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society and is now operated by the North Carolina Railway Museum. The two-day event offered train rides, a look into local restoration projects, live music and more spanning the railway throughout New Hill.

Submit your noteworthy items – from award and scholarship winners to new book and album releases.

NC Main Street & Rural Planning Center honored the Town of Pittsboro with a 2023 Award of Merit for its improvement of SoCo Pittsboro, a new event, dining and nightlife destination across from the Historic Chatham County Courthouse Designers Grimsley Hobbs, Taylor Hobbs and Chevon Moore of Hobbs Architects led the restoration. The team was also honored by the organization as 2023 North Carolina Main Street Champions.

Barbara “Babs” Eesley received the Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for Chatham County from the Triangle Nonprofit & Volunteer Leadership Center. This share your news!

award honors Babs’ exceptional commitment to CORA, a nonprofit dedicated to fighting food insecurity in the county. Presented annually in partnership with the Governor’s office, the award recognizes individuals across counties for their remarkable community contributions, with Chatham County newly added to the list of eligible areas this year. Pictured left are Pittsboro mayor Kyle Shipp, Gary Eesley, Barbara Eesley, CORA executive director Melissa Driver Beard and Rep. Robert Reives.

Sharon A. Dickens, a financial advisor with Edward Jones, attained the prestigious Certified Financial Planner certification. The CFP designation demonstrates an expanded expertise in various aspects of financial planning, including financial management, retirement savings, insurance planning, education planning, tax-sensitive investment strategies and estate considerations.

Chatham County received more than $5 million to support treatment, recovery, harm reduction and other services related to the opioid crisis as part of the National Opioids Settlement. North Carolina became part of the settlement against drug companies’ involvement in the crisis in 2021, and the county began receiving funds in 2022. The Chatham County Public Health Department held meetings on throughout the month of May that encouraged community members to discuss the funding and plan for its use.

Chatham County Aging Services received a $100,000 grant from Meals on Wheels America and The Home Depot Foundation in March through their joint initiative, Helping Homebound Heroes, a program that provides critical home repairs and modifications for aging veterans. Since the program became available in the county, 64 veterans have been served through repair work completed by Rebuilding Together of the Triangle. “I can think of no greater honor than to be in this position to serve those who have selflessly given of themselves to serve our country,” says Ashlyn Martin, director of Chatham

PHOTO BY EDDIE HARRIS

County Aging Services. The home improvement projects range from making showers more accessible to repairing railings and adding wheelchair ramps to improve recipients' homes and lives.

In Our Schools

Central Carolina Community College’s Fire Academy held a graduation ceremony on March 13 at the Dennis A. Wicker Civic and Conference Center to honor ten cadets, pictured left to right below:

Logan Quinlan with North Chatham Volunteer Fire Department; Christopher Carter, Patrick Lammatteo, Shawn Sabato and Matthew Leo from Holly Springs Fire Department; Andrew Whitaker and William Whitaker from Carthage Fire Department; Thomas Stewart and Jose Garcia with Spout Springs Emergency Services; and Elijah Roth with Cypress Pointe Fire and Rescue. The graduates completed more than 1,000 hours of intensive training in firefighting, safety and survival, technical and vehicle rescue, emergency vehicle driving, hazardous materials response and EMS training.

Communities In Schools of Chatham County, a youth social services organization dedicated to providing support and resources for students ages 5 to 18, welcomed Lydia Miller as its community service and restitution program manager

in May. Lydia brings more than thirteen years of managerial experience and advocacy work to the role.

Chatham County high school seniors Chase Foushee and Ian McMillan each received $1,000 in scholarships from the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties for pursuing college degrees in

A WORKSPACE THAT WORKS FOR

PRIVATE OFFICES • CO-WORKING • EVENTS AND MEETING ROOMS

The 79°West Innovation Hub is a 22,000+ 8,500 square-foot workspace situated in MOSAIC, a 44-acre mixed-use community that’s part of the rapidly growing Live-WorkPlay-Learn Chatham Park community just north of historic downtown Pittsboro, NC.

At 79°West, coworking, innovation programming, and private offices converge with mentorship and community collaboration in this all-in-one hub that blends work with play, personal with professional, and passion with production.

construction-related fields. The scholarship funds were raised at the association’s annual auction event.

Central Carolina Community College and Methodist University signed an agreement in April to provide CCCC students with an assured-entry pathway into Methodist after graduating. The program, which will be void of application fees, enables students to take up to two

courses at Methodist while completing their degree at CCCC and allows students’ transfer credits to carry over. “Streamlining the transfer process, supporting student engagement in Methodist student activities prior to transfer and providing dollars toward educational expenses all enhance opportunity and success for CCCC graduates,” says Lisa Chapman, president of CCCC.

Northwood High School graduate

Dalton Brown returned to the school as head football coach in April. During a meet-and-greet session at the school on April 18, Dalton expressed that he will focus on communication, connection, fostering a playerled team and engaging with the broader community as he leads the Chargers. Dalton replaces Mitch Johnson, who joined the school last offseason and stepped down in March.

In Memoriam

Claxton Leonard Johnson, who owned and operated Johnson’s Drive-In in Siler City, died on March 9 at the age of 82. Claxton’s parents opened the burger restaurant in 1946, and Claxton remained a dedicated owner until his retirement. A funeral service was held at Loves Creek Baptist Church on March 12, where Claxton was a member throughout his life. Read more about Claxton’s lasting legacy on page 56. cm

This memoir shines a light on the anxiety, heartbreak and rage experienced by thousands of families seeking acceptance and normalcy for their difficult, quirky children. You’ll be cheering as readers are led to the twin miracles of love and hope.

Donna Miller has written an affecting, candid account about raising an enigmatically disabled child… It is an honest, heartbreaking and ultimately uplifting story… “

-From Kirkus Review of Books

the website for information about book signings and speaking engagements.

PHOTO BY GENE GALIN

"YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY THE MOST PROFESSIONAL AND COMPASSIONATE GROUP I HAVE EVER BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH." - CONNIE S.

“ YOU ALWAYS HIT IT OUT OF THE PARK! SO PROFESSIONAL AND EXACTING BUT SO CARING AND SO FRIENDLY. WE FEEL LIKE YOU ARE FAMILY AS WELL. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.” - DAVID D.

“THANK YOU FOR TAKING TIME TO LISTEN TO CONCERNS AND EXPLAIN INFORMATION AND FOR BEING SO KIND AND PATIENT WITH MY BABY!” - ASHLEY A.

“ALWAYS AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE. I AM SO GRATEFUL THAT YOU WORK TIRELESSLY TO MAKE SURE MY PUP GETS THE RIGHT CARE FOR THEIR NEEDS. SPECIAL NEEDS DOGS ARE HARD, AND YOU ALWAYS FIND A PATH. - AMY P.

Franklin Gomez Flores uses his education in biology, knowledge of health care systems and lifetime of experience living in Siler City to be a voice for his neighbors.

who's who

in town & county government

Franklin Gomez Flores, Chatham County Commissioner

By MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Photo by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Though he was born in Guatemala, Franklin Gomez Flores has called Siler City home since his family settled there in 1999. From a young age, he played a pivotal role in their adjustment to life in the United States, contributing to family responsibilities while excelling in academics and athletics. He graduated from Jordan-Matthews High School in 2012, where he was active in varsity soccer and track. Franklin then pursued a degree in biology at UNC. He was initially interested in medicine, but discovered a passion for policy and government while in college. He remains deeply engaged with the community, and in addition to his work as a commissioner, has volunteered with organizations like the Scholars Latino Initiative, coached for the Los Jets soccer team and served on the Chatham County Planning Board. He was elected at age 26 and is the youngest – and first Latino – member of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners

He currently serves as a liaison for various local and regional volunteer boards and committees, including Chatham Trades, the Juvenile Crime Prevention Council and the Board of Health, among others. 

What inspired you to run for county commissioner, especially at such a young age?

I’ve always been interested in public service since I was a kid. Growing up in Siler City during a tough time, I saw the need for positive change. I noticed job opportunities dwindling and, at the same time, more Latinos moving in, which got me thinking about how I could help. Running for office seemed like the perfect way to be a part of the solution.

How do you plan to represent the diverse interests of Chatham County residents, including those from Latino communities?

Chatham County’s diversity is one of its strengths. I aim

to represent everyone and encourage my community to be active in governance. It’s important to note that Latinos in our county came here for a better life, not necessarily to be politicians. So, my goal is to ensure everyone’s voice is heard and needs are met.

What specific issues do you hope to address during your tenure?

Chatham County is experiencing rapid growth, and we need to balance development with preserving our rural charm. That means we must prioritize essential services like health care and attract service providers and businesses while being environmentally conscious. I’m on the county’s board of

health and the board of trustees for Chatham Hospital. Through my involvement with both entities, I was part of the maternity care center task force. We were able to develop a strategic plan to ensure we retain the maternity care center. Being a rural area experiencing a lot of growth, this was a critical service to retain in the community.

As the youngest commissioner, how do you plan to bring a fresh perspective to local government?

My generation may have different lines of thought when it comes to problem-solving, but just I see it as taking different approaches to get to the same goal. In addition to being the youngest, I am also the only one of our five-person board who lives in western Chatham. A lot of residents ask me why taxes are increasing but the level of services isn’t improving. We have a large community, larger than the sum of our incorporated town populations. I want to ensure all voices are

considered. I have been proposing that we sit down and collaborate between the county and towns to deliver services more efficiently and fairly at each level.

What strategies do you have for increasing community engagement and involvement in local decision-making processes?

We have advisory committees where residents can voice their concerns and ideas. These committees provide a platform for engagement, and I encourage people to participate.

What do you see as the biggest challenges facing Chatham County, and how do you plan to tackle them?

Providing adequate services while managing growth is a key challenge. We need to ensure essential services are available to all residents while preserving our community’s character. For example, we’re seeing a lot of older folks come into Chatham, and then their children follow to care for them or live near them.

What do you think of this trend among new Chatham residents?

Living with, or near, family is an easier lifestyle, not just in terms of finances but in terms of being part of a community. When I was younger, I remember everyone couldn’t wait to turn 18 and move out. But my decisions as a young man were all around helping my dad work and tagging along, learning construction since I was very young. It allowed my family to be in a financial situation that allowed me as a young immigrant to run for office without financial pressures. Now that I’m here in this position I’m thankful for that sacrifice. I’m able to help my parents and they’re able to help me. It’s symbiotic.

How do you intend to bridge any divides or differences among constituents to promote unity and progress?

Collaboration between communities is crucial. By working together and understanding each other’s needs, we can promote unity and find solutions that benefit everyone.

In what ways do you plan to advocate for underrepresented communities within Chatham County?

I support initiatives that empower underrepresented communities and ensure their voices are heard in decision-making processes. Incorporating more towns could provide additional resources and opportunities for these communities and ensure funding is allocated equitably.

How do you plan to work collaboratively with other commissioners and local officials to achieve your goals?

I believe in open communication and collaboration. I will talk with anyone who is willing to talk to me to find solutions that benefit the entire county.

Tell me about what you do for fun. In my free time, I enjoy renovating homes and exploring the stock market. I also love spending time with my dog, Chiquita, and supporting local businesses like The Chatham Rabbit and Paraiso cm

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Swing by one of the four farmers markets in Chatham to check out seasonal produce harvested from local farms. Or, go straight to the source and pick up peppers from Heartsong Farm, summer squash from In Good Heart Farm or a bushel of sweet corn from Howard's Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack.

Turn Upthe Heat

By ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

Photography

by

JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Spice up your next backyard barbecue with a savory spread

Quench your thirst with locally harvested and malted small-batch brews, like BMC Brewing's Lime After Lime sour ale. Owners (and former lab scientists) Carmen Rice and John Rice use ultrapurified reverse osmosis water in their brewing process in Pittsboro.

Planning for a crowd? Fill up a growler at Thirsty Skull Brewing or Carolina Brewery.

Short on time? Stop by Chatham Marketplace at 480 Hillsboro St. and browse the grab-and-go cooler. It's stocked with delicious sides like potato salad, chicken salad and macaroni salad (pictured) plus party-ready dips like hummus, guacamole and pimento cheese.

Quality meats can make all the difference when it comes to grilling. Flame-kissed prime ribeye steaks and thick pork loin slathered in barbecue sauce, pictured above, are two of butcher Rodney O’Quinn's favorites; flip the page for more tips from O’Quinn’s Butcher Shop. 

hen it comes to grilling, fat is good, says Rodney O’Quinn. He owns O’Quinn’s Butcher Shop with his son, Patrick O’Quinn. Rodney, who is retired from the corporate world of meats, and Patrick, who has 17 years of grocery management experience, chose to open a business in Pittsboro for its smalltown charm. “We live in the Moncure area, and Pittsboro is a quaint little town,” Rodney says. “The locals here are very friendly, plus Pittsboro is growing.”

The team at O’Quinn’s, located at 193 Lowes Dr., Suite 103 in Pittsboro, is happy to help with meat selection. “If you’re looking for great grilling meats, ribeye is gonna be your No. 1 pick,” Rodney says. “That’s the top seller all the way around. It

has marbling in it, which is what creates fat and grease. It makes it more juicy.”

Tenderloin is another top seller. “They have marbling, too,” Rodney says. On the grill, he likes his steak medium rare. “That’s just my preference,” he says. “Some people like them well done, but for me, I turn the grill wide open – as hot as I can get it – and I throw it on there for about five minutes on each side. That would be around 125 degrees roughly, if you were checking it with a thermometer.”

Rodney keeps it simple when grilling pork chops. “I slather them with my favorite barbecue sauce, turn the grill down low and just kind of put it on there pretty heavy,” he says. “It makes the sauce tack up and kind of get thick.”

The father-son duo will celebrate the shop’s first anniversary on July 14. Inside, customers can browse open coolers stocked with pre-packaged cuts of beef, chicken and pork. Closed freezers house an array of seafood, including crab legs, shrimp and fish, while another freezer has a selection of specialty meats like alligator and goat. A cutting-edge machine tenderizes beef cuts on-

site over a period of 21 days by gradually drawing out moisture. Behind the service counter, Rodney skillfully slices custom meat cuts, and the shop even produces its own sausage.

The family supports other local businesses, too, carrying Pittsboro-based Cackalacky sauces, blended butters from Bennett and beef from Mystic Meadows Farm in Siler City. Rodney says they are always on the lookout for local produce farmers who can supply fresh grilling vegetables like zucchini, summer squash, corn, sweet potatoes and more. The shop pre-slices and packages veggies and appetizers, like baconwrapped stuffed peppers, that are grill-ready. 

fresh is best

Chatham Marketplace manager Evan Diamond recommends fresh fruits and vegetables for any summer picnic or backyard grilling party. He says the store provides seasonally available and locally grown organic produce year-round from local farms.

“We have partnerships with In Good Heart Farm, Stanley Hughes [of Pine Knot Farms in Hurdle Mills] and Granite Springs Farm, as well as a handful of small local vendors that provide specific items like figs and paw paw fruit,” Evan says. “We also source a lot of our local produce through Happy Dirt, which aggregates a number of farms in the area.”

Evan says the store installed a new produce cooler in May. Additionally, the shop offers a wide selection of prepared foods, cheeses and local and organic meat options perfect for building a charcuterie picnic. Or, grab some ingredients to make a bright summer salad. Here’s one of Evan’s favorite recipes:

Greek-Style Watermelon Salad

• 3 cups cubed watermelon

• 2 large ripe tomatoes, chopped

• 1 medium cucumber, peeled, seeded and chopped

• 1 small red onion, sliced

• ⅓ cup pitted Kalamata olives

• ⅓ cup crumbled feta

• Parsley and mint, chopped

• Olive oil and red wine vinegar, to taste

• Salt and pepper, to taste

In a large bowl, combine watermelon, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, olives, feta and herbs. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss and serve.

Hook, Line and Sinker

Wade into a fishing state of mind

By ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

anders “J.T.” Tate Jr. has been hooked on fishing since he was 5 years old. By the time he was a teenager, J.T.’s friends were convinced he would become a professional angler. Instead, he worked for 18 years as a teacher and behavior specialist with Durham Public Schools, but continues to find the hobby therapeutic and restorative.

“My secret was when I get off work, I’m gonna go fishing and have a cast,” he says. “I think about the students [who] need extra help in the community and leave [my troubles]

on the water so I could come back the next day and be ready to go again,” he says. “If I get a bite, that’s a bonus. Just being out there is enough for me.”

J.T. buys bait at Seagroves Supply Co. off Highway 751. The shop is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.. He frequents Jordan Lake, Harris Lake, Falls Lake, Kerr Lake and a handful of private ponds, creeks and rivers (with permission). Among his favorite fishing spots in Chatham County are Robeson Creek and the pier at Beaver Creek on Jordan Lake.

In 2016, J.T.’s grandmother passed away, leaving him to care for an ailing aunt. He left his job with Durham Public Schools and leaned on both fishing and prayers for solace and spiritual strength. By 2022, he felt an overwhelming

- Sanders 'J.T.' Tate Jr.

urge to organize his passion for fishing into a nonprofit. “I didn’t understand it, to be honest,” he says. J.T. was in church one day when he heard someone say, “cast your cares.” The phrase stuck with him. Today, he operates Casting Your Cares Fishing with a mission to encourage people to spend time on the water, build community and educate them about the sport.

He is grateful for donations he receives, especially to help youth participate in Casting Your Cares expeditions. The nonprofit regularly receives fishing supplies from companies like Bass Pro Shop, where he met and befriended professional angler Seth Ellis. “He came to a couple camps and made sure the youth were taken care of,” J.T. says. “We go out [fishing] a couple times a month.”

In addition to bank and pier fishing, J.T. offers fishing excursions on his pontoon boat for a different experience. “We provide everything,” he says. “You just come out with your snack and your beverage. We provide the rod and reels, the bait, buckets and a chair. We put the bait on the hook for you.”

Jordan Lake has at least seven species of game fish, including largemouth (black) bass, crappie, striper, bass hybrids, bream, catfish and white perch. Striper season typically runs from April through December with its peak in May. For anyone 16 or older, a state fishing license is required by law.

J.T. says another great thing about fishing is that it can be a relatively inexpensive hobby, which makes it accessible to all kinds of people – all you need is a fishing rod and reel, line and bait, like worms, minnows and crickets. Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen and appropriate clothing and shoes are important to consider as well. Above all, it is best to go in with relaxation as your goal – and catching a fish as a nice bonus. “Fishing provides peace no matter what is going on in life,” J.T. says. “There’s something about the water; it’s an unspeakable calmness that comes up. It’s like people who go to the beaches, walking the shorelines. It’s just rest. It’s peacefulness that you get – this great tranquility you can’t find anywhere else. That’s what it does for me.” 

J.T. chooses his lure according to the kind of fish he wants to hook. Bright colors, for example, will help attract crappie in darker waters. He says catching a fish is just an added bonus to his meditative experience communing with nature.

diner dElights

These eateries serve up good food – and even better company

By LEAH BERRY

by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ur region may be growing rapidly, but it is still home to an abundance of classic eateries that stand as monuments to tradition and comfort, where every booth holds a story, and every meal –from melty cheeseburgers and Reuben sandwiches to homemade meatloaf and chicken salad – is served with a side of nostalgia. Here are a few ideas on where to take a bite out of your summer (and be sure to grab extra napkins).

Johnson’s Drive-In regulars Tommy Beal, Gary Causey and Michael Hadley chat with Carolyn Johnson Routh while grabbing a quick bite for lunch.

Photography

A Lasting Legacy

A dozen well-loved barstools and booths, lively chatter, clinking coffee mugs and the aroma of sizzling burgers are a clear sign that Southern hospitality and good food await at Johnson’s Drive-In. The quaint restaurant is the epitome of a timeless American diner. In fact, not much has changed since it opened 77 years ago.

Leonard Johnson and Christine Johnson opened the business in 1946. “My grandad [Leonard] always had a dream of owning a restaurant,” Carolyn Johnson Routh says.

“It was the first business on Highway 54 between Raleigh and Charlotte, so that’s what kind of put it on the map,” says Daniel Routh, Carolyn’s husband. “Everyone came by here; [it’s] where everyone would stop, because there was nothing else.”

Carolyn’s dad, Claxton Johnson, was 5 years old when his parents opened the drive-in. He couldn’t yet read or write, but would “catch curb and take orders,” Carolyn says.As Claxton grew, so did his responsibilities. Claxton eventually took over the business, and lived and breathed Johnson’s Drive In. “He was never not here,” Carolyn says. He could be found at Johnson’s from sunrise to sunset (and often much later), and always came to do it all again the next day. 

A classic cheeseburger at Johnson’s comes with a beef patty, a healthy slice of melted cheese, mayo and house made slaw. A side of fries makes for a satisfying –and filling – lunch.

“He knew everybody in the community and what they did, and who their cousins were and who they got married to,” Daniel says. “Anytime you needed anything, Claxton knew someone … [the restaurant] was kind of the central hub of the community.”

“It always excited my dad to meet people,” Carolyn adds. “He was a simple man, but he loved the community and loved talking to people.”

Carolyn took over the restaurant after her father’s death in March 2024. “He was an only child and I’m an only child, so it just came on down the line,” she says. The restaurant will eventually belong to her sons, Tristan Stuart and Caemon Stuart – who both currently work at the restaurant.

Johnson’s garners recognition from folks near and far – it’s been a major stop for political candidates, athletes and actors alike. Clay Aiken and Ric Flair are some of the notable patrons that Daniel remembers. He and Carolyn, longtime members of bluegrass

Carolyn runs the diner with the help of her sons, Caemon Stuart, left, and Tristan Stuart.

While there’s no official burger of the state, Carolyn and Daniel believe Johnson’s takes the prize. The meat is ground fresh every morning and the juicy tomatoes come from Asheboro.

and country band Nu-Blu, have even spoken to fans while on tour in Canada who have heard of their Siler City diner.

The couple believes their signature burgers are what beckons customers from near and far.

“There is no secret, it’s just quality,” Carolyn says. “It’s just simple food, really.”

It's true that the menu is small: burgers, hot dogs, a grilled cheese and fries almost covers it. But that's the way the Johnson family likes it, and intend to keep it the same for the forseeable future. “We haven’t added a bunch of stuff to the menu to try and keep up with this restaurant or that restaurant,” Carolyn says. “It’s just been what it is.”

Johnson’s also prides itself on consistency. “We’ve had to raise prices, but we’ve never cut quantity or quality,” Carolyn says. They source high-grade meat and grind it fresh every morning.

The diner also uses Brookwood Farms chili, Carolina Pride hot dogs and is probably the “oldest customer that US Foods has,” Daniel says.

Future plans for the restaurant are to keep on keeping on. “My grandparents poured their heart and soul into this business, my dad poured his heart and soul into this business,” Carolyn says. “They worked hard every day of their lives to build this legacy, and I’m very proud of what they did.”

“We’re just going to keep it going as long as humanly possible, maintaining the high quality level and the atmosphere and the aesthetics as long as we can,” she adds. “And we’re pretty hard headed, so I expect we’ll be right here for a long, long time to come.”

Grab a Booth

Al’s Diner has served homecooked, country-style dishes in Pittsboro since 1997.

The carefully crafted breakfast and lunch menu, complete with both American favorites and regional specialties, is packed with home-cooked comfort and flavor.

Co-owner Chasidy Parker, who took over the restaurant with her husband Wes Parker in 2022, notes their most popular items as homemade meatloaf, steak tips with sauteed onions and mushrooms, and loaded hamburger steak. Must-try side items

“It’s really beneficial to have such a small menu,” Carolyn says, “because then you don't have as much waste. Everything starts out fresh.”

include the long-leaf Southern collard greens, broccoli salad and deviled eggs.

In addition to the “typical diner” menu, Al’s serves daily feature plates that include a meat and two vegetables. While specials can vary, there’s a standard weekly lineup (see below). The specials are also posted on Facebook, so patrons can find something that catches their eye ahead of time.

Chasidy believes first-timers can’t go wrong with any of their breakfast menu items. She also recommends the “Hobo” sandwich – complete with slowcooked pot roast, crispy lettuce and sliced tomatoes – or the homemade biscuits and gravy. All biscuits at Al’s are made fresh from scratch … and you can tell.

So next time you head toward West Street, look for the red and white square building, and you just might find your next favorite dish.

Tried and True

Weekly Specials:

Monday – Poppyseed chicken; chicken and dumplings

Tuesday – Grilled pork chops; fried chicken; country fried steak

Wednesday – Meatloaf; smothered chicken

Thursday – Steak and chicken tips

Friday – Hand-battered, wild-caught shrimp and flounder

Saturday – Breakfast from 7 a.m. to noon

No conversation concerning mainstay diner food is complete without mentioning Virlie’s Grill The eatery opened in 2010, and continues to serve up breakfast, lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon.

“We have a wide variety, from chicken salad to ribeyes to everything in between,” part-owner Kain Whitaker says. “We don’t try to be anyone we’re not, and above all we try to make everyone feel at home.” 

It’s easy to see why the Reuben sandwich is a Virlie’s Grill staple: local rye bread from The Bread Shop is piled high with corned beef sliced daily and topped with fresh sauerkraut.

If a Reuben isn’t your thing, Kain recommends new customers try out the chicken salad melt. “It’s kind of different … you don’t see people grilling chicken salad and putting cheese on it, but it makes it really good,” he says.

Kain’s go-to order is the patty melt – the dish features fresh-ground chuck, grilled onions and swiss on rye bread – or a secret

off-menu item: a grilled Philly cheesesteak wrap loaded with mushrooms, banana peppers and mozzarella cheese.

Steak nights at Virlie’s are another big hit; the diner serves Black Angus primegrade ribeyes, New York strip, salmon filets, shrimp, chicken, homemade crab cakes and more every Friday night.

“It’s a really big menu, especially as small as our kitchen is, but the team always knocks it out,” Kain says.

“Our biggest thing is consistency,” he adds. “Most of the staff has been here for 15 years, so even if you only come once every three months, the meatloaf should taste the same as it did the first time.” 

SERVING PITTSBORO SINCE 2021

“As far as everyday lunch, our Reuben is a staple,” Kain says. The sandwich features rye bread from The Bread Shop, corned beef and fresh sauerkraut.

PHOTO BY CORNELL WATSON

elcome to the high season of RVs and tents clustered around Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. Book one of the 1,050 campsites at the Crosswinds, New Hope Overlook, Parker’s Creek, Poplar Point and Vista Point campgrounds to enjoy the great outdoors – and explore the history of the communities hidden beneath the waters.

Park superintendent Fred Watkins says many campers reserve their campsites in advance online. “A majority of camping is done over the weekends,” Fred says. “This leaves the weekdays as a prime time to get a waterfront site and a less busy atmosphere.”

Camping is available all year except on Christmas Day. Rangers ask that visitors

back to nature

Enjoy a few nights beneath the starry skies

Words and photography by ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

Chatham Outfitters’ Jennie Harris and Tyler Harris unload their camping gear at Jordan Lake’s Poplar Point Campground. They make quick work of the Kelty Rumpus four-person tent, one of many new products at the shop this summer. Flip to page 103 for more gear tips.

familiarize themselves with the posted park rules and regulations, particularly campsite check-in and checkout times, and to remember that gates are locked nightly.

Fred recommends all visitors practice “Leave No Trace” principles and pack out what they pack in. “It keeps the park clean for others,” he says. “Be courteous and adhere to the quiet hours at night, and ensure pets are attended to and leashed at all times.”

Some campsites and sidewalk areas provide accommodation for guests with disabilities at swim beaches in the Ebenezer Church and Parker’s Creek access areas. Fred says North Carolina State Parks is looking at initiatives to offer more accessibility in the future.

A Bit of History

Before the formation of the Jordan Lake reservoir, communities like Seaforth, Pea Ridge, Friendship, Farrington and Lane were prone to flooding. In 1945, Hurricane No. 9 stalled over the state and caused millions of dollars in damage and crop loss in the area. By the mid-1960s, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers had proposed several options for improving flood control.

One of those solutions was creating a dam and reservoir in the Cape Fear River Basin where waters collect from the Haw River, New Hope Creek, Morgan Creek and Little Creek. The lake was originally intended to be called New Hope Lake for its geographic location in the New Hope Valley; however, the project was later renamed in honor of state senator Benjamin Everett Jordan, who was instrumental in securing its funding.

During the early years of excavation, archeologists documented hundreds of significant sites, particularly two locations where Native Americans lived as far back as 10,000 years ago. These digs remain the largest salvage archaeology programs ever conducted in the state. 

LEFT Jennie and Tyler attach an extra-large vestibule to the tent.

RIGHT Most campsites at Jordan Lake are equipped with fire pits and picnic tables, perfect for gathering for snacks, card games and meals.

BELOW Jennie and Tyler set up a compact dual burner camping stove system.

Modern Comforts

Megan Lynch was one of the first park rangers at Jordan Lake when the recreation area first opened in 1982. The Ebenezer Church beach access is ideal for bird-watching, she says, but Poplar Point campground is the most popular. It has the most electrical sites, perfect for RV travelers like her.

Megan retired in 2010 as park superintendent, and in 2023 began traveling with her brother and sister-in-law in their 31-foot RV to visit family and friends around the country. “Last year, we did an exploratory trip to see how living together would work,” Megan says. “It was wonderful. Our main destination was Mammoth Cave National Park [in Kentucky]. It took two weeks. This year, we headed to Texas for the eclipse; it was a long trip of 21 days. The goal is to eventually go West so I can see redwood and sequoia trees, then possibly Alaska.”

Still, Megan remembers the challenges of primitive camping when she was younger. “Camping has changed from when I was a child,” she says. “It used to be all just tent campers, and they didn’t need anything except a bathroom ... [For some,] the thrill of tents has passed.”

Learn more about camping out and visiting Jordan Lake at ncparks.gov. 

Josh Collins, Director of Tennis

Packing List

Here are some of Fred and Megan’s recommended essentials for camping at Jordan Lake:

Tent and sleeping bag

Sunscreen

Bug spray

Headlamp, flashlights or lanterns

Matches or a lighter

First aid kit and medications

Extra batteries

Water

Food and cooking

(including

Firewood

Weather-appropriate

Towels

Toilet paper

Trash bags

Cards or games

THE cHILL FACTOR

By KATIE SCHERNER

SIMPSON

t’s no secret that navigating North Carolina’s sweltering heat can be a challenge in the summer months, but Robin Richardson and Jerry Richardson have a refreshing solution.

The husband-and-wife duo behind the Maple View Mobile truck and former Maple View Ice Cream kiosk in University Place in Chapel Hill opened Circle City Ice Cream this past September at 21 W. Chatham St. in Pittsboro. The bright space offers a wide range of delectable treats and locally sourced flavors, and the downtown location makes it a perfect spot to beat the heat.

Owning a downtown business isn’t just about running a storefront for Jerry and Robin – it’s about serving and being part of a close-knit community.

“We have a pretty good following of folks here in Chatham,” says Jerry. “Probably the thing I enjoy [most] is meeting people, just talking to them and getting to know them better.”

There's a delicious treat for every palate – and a perfect summertime pick-me-up – whether customers crave a shake, sundae, banana split, float or simply a plain cone. Circle City Ice Cream proudly offers 16 flavors of hand-dipped ice cream sourced from both Blue Bell Creameries and Maple View Farm in Hillsborough.

“My overall favorite would be the cookies and cream from Maple View,” Jerry says. Whatever your flavor, we recommend trying it in a freshly made bubble waffle cone. 

ABOVE Robin Richardson and Jerry Richardson outside the bright pink and blue building that is home to Circle City Ice Cream.

BELOW Jerry prepares a fresh bubble waffle cone, one of the shop's most popular specialties.

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL

all about the animals

By NATALIE MCCORMICK

Celebrity Dairy

This animal haven in Siler City covers 340 sprawling acres and is home to approximately 75 goats and chickens. Guests seeking an immersive farm experience can stay on-site at the seven-room inn and become part of the farm’s daily rhythm for a few memorable days. Visitors are invited to participate in milking and feeding the goats, frolicking with the baby goats and enjoying the natural landscape.

Clare Reding, chef and barn manager at Celebrity Dairy, also hosts a dynamic twoweek cooking camp for kids over the summer. Young participants dive into a world of goat chores, leisurely strolls and hands-on cooking sessions where children whip up delicious meals alongside engaging arts and crafts.

Celebrity Dairy also offers private parties and dinners, as well as luncheon tours during the week. Every third Sunday of the month, the farm hosts a gastronomic delight known as Sunday Dinner, treating guests to a five-course meal followed by a barn tour. Additionally, open barn days welcome visitors to explore

Get up close with dairy goats and learn about farm life through Celebrity Dairy's many visitor programs, camps and dinners.

PHOTOS BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

the farm’s rustic charms at their leisure. “Kids can come here and run around,” Clare says. “We’re very family friendly with 300 acres that people can enjoy.”

Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm

Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm is nestled among rolling hills west of Pittsboro and offers an immersive agritourism experience for families. With a thriving herd of more than 30 alpacas, visitors can embark on a captivating “Paca Visit” either by pre-booking or on a walk-in basis. Tours delve into the heart of farm life and welcome visitors to an interactive area where they can pet the gentle giants and feed them hay.

Children are encouraged to explore the farm, interact with the friendly barn cats and enjoy the dedicated play area where games, drawing and other creative pursuits will help them remember their time with the animals.

Feed, pet and marvel at dozens of sweet, fluffy alpacas at Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm. The farm is home to both types of alpaca: huacaya, whose fleece grows in waves, and suri, whose fleece grows straight.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAROLINA SUNSHINE ALPACA FARM

“I love sharing these animals,” says Em Stecker, co-owner of the farm. “Our mission is to bring a little more joy and light into the world through happy alpaca encounters and warm alpaca products, and we measure our success through smiles.”

Carolina Sunshine is expecting two baby alpacas to join the herd in July, making visits this summer even more memorable.

New Beginnings Farm

This picturesque Pittsboro horse farm gallops onto the scene as a premier destination for equestrian enthusiasts of all levels. New Beginnings Farm boasts several lesson programs tailored to riders of diverse abilities and ages, taught under the guidance of dynamic mother-daughter pair Meredith Philipps and Dylan Philipps

For younger equestrians aged 8 and under, introductory sessions focus on instilling essential safety protocols and mastering the foundational principles of horseback riding. If you are ready to venture beyond the basics, longer lessons provide an immersive peek into the inner workings of the barn. Here, students not only refine their riding skills under the watchful eye of seasoned

BY

Austin Shanklin guides horse Thunder over a jump during a lesson with New Beginnings Farm owner and instructor Meredith Philipps.

PHOTO

JAIME SHANKLIN

instructors but also delve into the intricacies of equine care.

New Beginnings Farm also hosts energetic summer camps. From mastering a balanced position in the saddle to delving into the nuances of horsemanship, campers are immersed in a world of equine adventure that includes horse care, tacking up, stable management and grooming. Beyond the stables, participants can unwind through arts and crafts sessions and supervised swimming.

For the BIRDs

Farm animals aren’t the only way to enjoy the outdoors this season. Here are some tips from Audubon North Carolina for attracting wild birds to your yard:

• Keep birds coming back to your feeders by providing a variety of quality seed and fresh water for drinking and bathing.

• Rather than removing or burning yard debris, designate a brush pile – it is more environmentally friendly and will double as a shelter for birds and other small wildlife.

• Choose native plants in a range of sizes, colors and shapes to ensure natural cover for birds’ safety.

• Pull up invasive weeds that will deter native plants’ growth.

• Maintain and clean feeders and bird baths regularly.

Consult with local

Follow the White Rabbit to our 2024 Fundraising Gala!

Fundraising Gala

An evening of wonder, cheer, and delight

Saturday, August 10th

As the clock chimes 6 PM

Follow the white rabbit to our when where

815 Harold Hackney Rd Siler City, NC 27344

The Dorsett House

We cordially invite you to attend our 2024 Fundraising Gala, where we promise a night of wonder and enchantment. The theme for this year's event is "Alice in Wonderland" and we encourage all guests to embrace the whimsy and magic of this beloved story. The evening will be filled with delicious food, delightful entertainment, and most importantly, an opportunity to support a great cause. All proceeds from the gala will go towards funding our efforts to provide education and resources to our communities. So, don't be late for this very important date and join us as we embark on a journey down the rabbit hole.

experts, like Chapel Hill Wild Bird at 9515 Hwy. 15-501 N., to learn how to set up an ideal birdwatching spot in your own backyard.

Students at New Beginnings Farm interact with more than just horses. Above, Austin shares a snack with Miss Piggy.

We’re here for you!

Community. Purpose. Joy.

Do you want to make a difference in our community? Would you like an authentic relationship with God that brings new energy to your life and relationships? Your neighbors are experiencing all of that and more every week at Chatham Community Church. Join us at one of our two locations, in Pittsboro or North Chatham.

Come and see! -Alex, Lead Pastor at CCC

"We had to drag our son to our last church. Then we moved here and the kids program is so great he can't wait to come!"

Christine L.

“We love being a part of a church that makes such a huge difference in the community."

Josh S.

“Our family has never been a part of any church before. Now we're on this exciting and surprising spiritual journey together."

Maria K.

berry tasty

Spend a sunny summer day picking fresh berries with the family – and try out a new recipe with your bounty!

By AVERY HOUSEHOLDER

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

hef Chad Hardin has a bright, fruit-forward array of summer dishes planned for guests of the West End, from watermelon burrata panzanella salad to grilled peaches with blue cheese to black bass ceviche in a honeydew serrano broth. The restaurant, now open for both lunch and dinner service at 23 Rectory Street in Pittsboro, offers seasonal, ingredientdriven menus year-round. Use our list of area farms to collect blueberries, strawberries, blackberries, peaches and more, then get creative in the kitchen! Below, Chad shares his strawberry balsamic glazed salmon recipe, perfect for using up those buckets of berries.

Strawberry Balsamic-Glazed Coho Salmon

• 1 each 6 oz. filet coho salmon (this recipe uses skin-on fillets, but the results are the same if skinless is preferred)

• White pepper

• Blended oil

• 5 oz. shallots, sliced Kosher salt, to taste

1 lb. strawberries, rinsed, stems removed and sliced

• ½ cup honey

• ½ cup balsamic vinegar

• ½ cup red wine (Italian blend)

• 1 Tbsp. yellow mustard seeds

To prepare the glaze

In a small pot over medium high heat, add a tablespoon of blended oil and shallots. Stirring frequently, continue to cook the shallots until slightly soft with no color. Season the shallots with salt to taste.

Add your strawberries and cook to slightly break down the fruit, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.

Add all remaining ingredients and reduce by ⅓ in volume. Remove from heat.

Add sauce to a blender and buzz on high for 1 minute. Adjust seasoning if needed.

To prepare the salmon

Preheat the oven to 350 F.

Season the salmon to taste with kosher salt and white pepper.

In a medium sized nonstick pan (or cast-iron pan), add the blended oil and allow it to come up to a medium heat before adding your filet, skin-side down in the pan. Cook for 2 minutes over medium high heat, paying attention to the outer edges of the fish that will begin to brown. Adjust your heat down if it takes on color too quickly. After 2 minutes, remove from heat and add 3 tablespoons of the glaze to the fish, spreading it evenly over the surface. Cook in the oven for 5 minutes.

Depending on the thickness of the filet and preferred doneness, you may choose to cook it longer. Five minutes yielded a fish of medium doneness, which still had some slight pink.

Once you have removed the fish from the oven, allow it to rest for 3 minutes before enjoying it. 

Pick Your Own

*Contact farms before you visit to confirm picking hours; conditions can change daily based on weather and berry availability.

Blueberry U-Pick

418 Old Farrington Rd., Chapel Hill Look for signs along the road for availability

Busy Bee Farm 1092 Dewitt Smith Rd., Pittsboro 919-542-5890, chathamcountybeeman@yahoo.com

Monday, Tuesday, Friday thru Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Chatham Oaks Farm 573 Dewitt Smith Rd., Pittsboro 919-444-2635, chathamoaksfarm@gmail.com

Wednesday thru Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Weekends 1-6 p.m. or by appointment

Farrell’s Creek Farm

1970 Martha’s Chapel Rd., Apex 919-592-4981, farrellscreekfarm@gmail.com

Wednesday and Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon

Haw River Fruit Co. 3947 Russell Rd., Graham 919-704-6105, info@hawriverfruit.com

Hours posted on social media

Howard’s Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack

7393 U.S. Hwy 64 W, Pittsboro 919-656-6800, howardsfarm.memasfruitshack@aol.com

Monday thru Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Millstone Creek Orchards 506 Parks Crossroads Church Rd., Ramseur 336-824-5263, info@millstonecreekorchards.com

Wednesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 1-5 p.m.

Myra Halpin and John Halpin on Spider Web Lane

Look for signs along Highway 15-501 for availability

Oakley Farm 383 Oakley Farm Rd., Chapel Hill 919-360-2924

Call ahead for hours

Pack House Farm 1896 Marthas Chapel Rd, Apex 919-210-6574

Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.; other times posted to Facebook

Phillips Farms of Chatham

6581 U.S. Hwy 64 W., Pittsboro 919-337-3374; tphillips@phillipsfarmschatham.com

Check Facebook for updated hours

Powell’s Blueberry Farm 175 Bonsal Crossing Rd., New Hill 919-362-4398; pbfblueberries@gmail.com

PYO Peaches

91 Clark Self Rd., Pittsboro Look for roadside signs for availability

Thrifty Produce & Plants

185 Boggs Thrift Trail, Siler City thsgoats@gmail.com

Wild Abandon Farm

185 Roundtop Hill Rd., Pittsboro 919-533-7930; facebook.com/wildabandonfarm

While Vino!! sells wines at every price point, we will always have a good selection of reasonably priced options that are killer.

- Anna Lange

by THE Glass

Expert wine recommendations to help you savor the season

Compiled by LEAH BERRY

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ino!! Wine Shop has been in Pittsboro for 11 years, but recently it moved into a storefront on Hillsboro Street. “We are so excited to finally be in a first-floor space but remain in downtown Pittsboro,” owner Anna Lange says. “We love this place!” Anna says that the shop is largely the same after the move – it still offers a diverse selection of wines by the bottle and glass, hosts free wine tastings on Fridays from 5-7 p.m. and organizes special events like wine dinners

• Offering a Diverse Selection of Top Quality, USDA-Approved Meats

• Family-Owned and Operated Father and Son Team Bringing Over 50 Years Experience in the Food Industry to Your Table.

• Offering Farm-to-Table Seasonal Produce from Our Local Farmers

• Dedicated to Providing Knowledgeable and Excellent Customer Service

• Catering to Special Orders Tailoring Your Meat Selections to Perfection for Any Special Occasion. Plan Ahead for the Upcoming Holidays!

with neighbor Postal Fish Company. Its signature Wine Fest and Oyster Wine Social will also continue this year. While all events are listed on the website (vinowineshopnc.com), Anna recommends signing up to receive weekly emails to ensure you don’t miss out on any festivities.

Vino!! is now open later – specifically Tuesday through Friday from 3 to 9 p.m., Saturday from noon to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. – to allow more time to enjoy the shop’s full wine experience after work. The store also has more seating with a larger bar area, so patrons have ample room to unwind over a glass. 

Vino!! has the perfect pour to accompany every warm-weather moment, from crisp whites that dance on the palate to robust reds that encourage long, lazy evenings. Here are Anna’s top picks for summer wines:

2022 G.D. Vajra Langhe Rosso, Piedmont, Italy $16.99

“When it’s hot outside, always go with a lighter red that’s not too full or heavily oaked,” Anna advises. “This lovely red made from a blend of nebbiolo, dolcetto and barbera, with small quantities of albarossa and pinot noir, is a perfect option. It’s full of aromatics and flavor but not too weighty on the palate.” It has aromas of red cherries, cola and spice, plus delicate hints of roses.

2023 Santola Vinho Verde Rosé, Mealhada, Portugal $8.99

“Summertime screams for vinho verde,” Anna says. “Most people are familiar with this light, spritzy and low-alcohol wine but not many have had it as a rosé.” This dry rose is tasty, crisp and refreshing and gives off spicy raspberry and cherry aromas, lifted by a hint of orange zest. The drink is lively and sharply focused, offering spritzy red fruit flavors that show a refreshing minerality.

NV Stift Klosterneuburg Gruner Veltliner Brut Sekt, Klosterneuburg, Austria $16.99

This bubbly is made from 100% sustainably farmed gruner veltliner grown in the vineyards of the Stift Klosterneuburg Abbey, the oldest winery in Austria. The elegant sparkling wine has fruity-spicy aromas on the nose and fine yeast notes on the palate. “Gruner veltliner has always been my go-to white wine, and to also have it sparkling – talk about mixing pleasures!” Anna says.

2023 Beaumont Chenin Blanc, Bot River, South Africa $26.99

“Chenin blanc should be one of everyone’s go-to white wines,” Anna says. “It is so versatile no matter the style and will go down easy on a hot summer day.” This vibrant, unoaked chenin blanc has seductive hints of lemon, honeysuckle and white peaches, and the first sip offers a vivacious freshness, a light body and intense stone fruit and citrus flavors.

Grab a stool at Vino!!'s new spot on Hillsboro Street and enjoy a glass (or two) of something that's just arrived at the shop.

Seasonally chic

Dovecote + Nest

Refresh your home and closet by shopping local this season

Compiled by LAUREN ROUSE

by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Fearrington Village celebrates its 50th anniversary this year, and retail shops Dovecote Style and Nest have evolved with the times. Prints and color are very strong for this season and several of the store’s new lines highlight this, including accessories from Europe. Wide leg linen pants, flowy linen tops and fun colorful prints from California brand Frank & Eileen are among Dovecote’s must-have items. Nest’s theme this season is entertaining; pick up a rechargeable lamp to help extend evening gatherings, or welcome guests with a signature Fearrington diffuser, made on-site. “Our guests have really enjoyed the afternoon tea offered at House Restaurant by a little stroll in the gardens and the curated selection in our shops,” Jennifer Noble Kelly, PR manager for Fearrington Village, says. “I think we offer something for everyone.”

Mar y Sol

“Estrella” tote $178

Inoui Editions

cotton-silk blend scarf

Photography

Gas Bijoux gold hoops $228

Mar y Sol “Bella” sun hat $128

De Siena “Lucilla” striped slides $258

Fearrington reed diffuser $38

This season, there’s a new vintage and antique store in town. Shimmer, located at 18A E Salisbury St., is a treasure trove of sustainable luxury where more is always more. Co-owner Betsy Wilkins opened the store with her husband, Neil Davis, last fall. “Owning a business here [in Chatham County] has been a special blessing,” Betsy says.

Deep River Mercantile

Deep River Mercantile owner Hannah Brown and store manager Sam Hill always have fun finding new items for summer. “We try not to buy into trends when we are selecting our inventory,” Sam says. “Instead, we try to find products that are timeless or nostalgic. We want customers to purchase something they will use and love year after year.” A bestseller during the summer months is Walker Feed Co.’s margarita mixes; blackberry is a customer and staff favorite. If you are feeling nostalgic during the hotter days, cool off with the old-fashioned Slip ’N Slide. “We wanted to give customers a way to recreate those memories or pass them on to a kid or grandkid,” Sam says. Or, bring a little summertime into your home year-round with an Amalfi del Mar candle from Rifle Paper Co. It exudes sunshine vibes, with notes of eucalyptus, sea salt, lemongrass and jasmine. 

Walker’s margarita mix $15

Slip ’N Slide $17

Sunglasses $39

Amalfi del Mar candle $36

Dorothy Thorpestyle silver fade bar set with tray $400

Champagne bucket cocktail picks (set of 4) $45

Silver toothpick/ cocktail pick holder $60

Bumblebee linen cocktail napkins (set of 4) $45

New Horizons Downtown

New Horizons Downtown has been part of the Pittsboro retail scene since 2000, and year after year owners Catherine McLeod and Sara McLeod make an effort to maintain their relationships with long-term customers and stay on top of the fashion trends. This summer, the pair is introducing hats from Powder as well as two new shoe lines, L’Artiste by Spring Step and Psudo. The latter is created from bottle-spun yarn made in North Carolina. “I am inspired by the sustainable stories behind many of our brands,” Catherine says. Sardine Clothing Company makes skirts from upcycled T-shirts and Soruka handbags are crafted from recovered leather materials from designer fashion houses in Europe. New Horizons is also excited to debut Market of Stars, a clothing line that carries limited edition, poetic pieces designed to brighten your spirit and your wardrobe. 

Trinket bowl $20

Kimono clip $24

Beaded hair clips, pair $22

Fragments

, demand is rapidly changing and is always interesting,” says owner Linda Pearson. “Our customer base is unique and we have wonderful clientele. People come in to refresh a room, home or Airbnb.” The shop features previously appreciated artwork, home decor, furniture and other treasures. “We are not a consignment store,” Trudy , a member of the Fragments contributor co-op, says. “We are always searching for the items with the best quality and price point to put in our inventory. We also do personal shopping shopping destination for upscale resale and to help downtown Siler

Install. Repair. Maintenance & Maintenance Agreements.

For decades, we have helped homes in the Triangle area remain cool and comfortable no matter how high the temperatures outdoors might climb. Our installers will see that you have an air conditioner with the right cooling load and energy–saving performance to keep your home cooled down in the summer without putting excess strain on your utility bills.

oh, those summer nights

By LEAH BERRY

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Goats, Cows and Live Music, Oh My!

The picturesque Fearrington Village provides an ideal outdoor environment, with several locations to dine and chat.

Roost Beer Garden is set in a casual treelined courtyard and offers exclusively outdoor seating. It’s open April through October on Thursdays and Fridays from 4-7 p.m., with live music from 5-7 p.m. Indulge in wood-fired pizza – from prosciutto to six-cheese and more – and unwind over a draft beer, largely supplied by the local Carolina Brewery, or wine by the glass. Catch Chatham County native Dmitri Resnik on June 13 and July 26, or Holly Springs, NC-based folk singersongwriter Hugh Willard on June 7 and July 25. (If uncooperative weather arises, music will be moved to Galloway’s Wine & Beer Bar inside The Belted Goat. Otherwise, Galloway’s will be closed through the summer.)

Casual dining spot The Belted Goat offers breakfast and lunch on the patio from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sip your coffee from the full espresso bar and munch on your freshly made pastry, breakfast burrito or classic buttermilk pancakes for breakfast in the fresh air, or savor a Caesar salad and grilled pimento cheese sandwich as a midday meal under the sparkling sun. After lunch, pop back in to The Belted Goat market, which features a gourmet grocery section, giftable items and a wine shop, and remains open until 5 p.m. for all of your picnic needs.

Or, seize the sunshine at The Fearrington House Restaurant’s bar, open Thursday through Sunday from 4:30-8:30 p.m. Guests can sit on the patio with nibbles and drinks, including charcuterie, buttermilk fried chicken, spring pea risotto and hot chocolate soufflé. Complement your bar bites with a local beer from BMC Brewing, a signature cocktail like the “Risky Business,” – a fusion of Sutler’s gin, lemon, orange, thyme and olive –

RIGHT Duo Retro Ukulele has guests movin’ and groovin’ on this Friday night at Roost Beer Garden.

BELOW Cheesy pepperoni pizza is a fan favorite at Roost. For those who don't love red sauce, try a slice of the mushroom carbonara or six cheese pizza!

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or a crisp glass of rosé. Patrons can also enjoy the bar menu on the The Fearrington House Restaurant patio if weather permits.

Pull Up a Chair

Red Moose Brewing Company, a family-, veteran- and woman-owned business in downtown Pittsboro, has an expansive back deck and patio area and offers a variety of craft beers to satisfy any palate, from the “Redneck Hot Tub” lager to the “Squatching It” IPA. The brewery prides itself on great beer and good company and is open Sunday through Thursday from 1-9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from noon to 10 p.m. Weekly events, including potluck trivia, karaoke and live Irish music, provide plentiful entertainment, and regular motorcycle and auto shows are a great way to meet fellow car and bike enthusiasts. Bring your little ones and your furry friends along with you – a chalkboard wall will keep the small humans occupied, and house-made dog treats are always on hand at the bar.

Pizza and Pints

Pittsboro eatery The Mod has a little something for everyone. The restaurant – where it regularly serves up gourmet sandwiches, salads and artisanal pizzas – is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., and the “The Other Side” bar, which offers beer, cocktails, the full restaurant menu and entertainment in the form of billiards, cornhole and live music nearly every weekend, is open Tuesday through Friday from 4 p.m. to midnight, Saturday from noon to midnight and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

Beer enthusiasts can enjoy a curated selection of local and national craft brews, from hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and more local and international favorites. The back patio is spacious, and service animals are always welcome.

A Sprawling Oasis

The diverse 17-acre eco-industrial park known as The Plant is home to a local economy full of small businesses.

The community hub is the perfect hangout spot, with an art gallery, retailers, the Pittsboro Farmers Market, outdoor spaces for gatherings and events and an abundance of options for dining and drinking – including “farm to fork” food truck Lilly Den Farm Meats & Eats, BMC Brewing, Fair Game Beverage Company, JDub’s PoBoys (currently open on Sundays only), Starrlight Mead, Jamaican eatery Kingston 99 Kitchen, coffee shop Metal Brixx Cafe (which serves joe from local Vortex Roasters) and mobile beverage cart Vita Mielie

There’s plenty of room to walk dogs, play games and for kids to ride their bikes, among other family-friendly activities on-site like giant chess and the Smelt art gallery. The park is open seven days a week, but hours for individual businesses differ.

Summer on Tap

The City Tap is open seven days a week and serves a rotating daily menu of creative comfort food, including hot and cold sandwiches, soups and salads. Hot dog fans can explore a range of toppings, including a bahn mi dog with pickled carrots, jalapenos and sriracha mayo or the classic Carolina dog with chili, mustard, slaw and onion.

The menu also offers several vegetarian options, including a spicy Mediterranean grilled pita. Pair your dish with a local draft or cool off with an iced tea while you tap your feet to live bands on weekends. Or, bring your own records in for vinyl nights and share your favorite music with friends. Menu updates and special event news are posted daily on The City Tap’s Instagram, @citytapbar. cm

Red Moose Brewing Company offers a number of beers on tap to ensure every drinker finds something to sip on. And if you're not sure what you want, opt for a flight before a full pour.

im Harman, founder of Roadless Races, has built a thriving community-focused initiative rooted in a passion for outdoor adventure and healthy competition.

Jim’s journey into organizing races began in Virginia where he founded EX2 Adventures. The success of his inaugural event, Venture Quest, propelled him into the world of adventure racing, and he brought that passion with him to Chapel Hill six years ago.

“The trails were a major factor in our decision to move to Briar Chapel specifically,” Jim says. A group of four mountain bikers sped by on the trail when he and his wife, Kimberly Harman, and their then-7-year-old son, Jack Harman, first toured the neighborhood. “I knew right away this was the place for us. The community’s emphasis on outdoor activities and the abundance of trails aligned perfectly with our lifestyle and helped me get Roadless Races off the ground.”

It didn’t take long before Jim started dreaming up courses and exploring local parks to continue creating both running and cycling races in his new community. His approach to event planning

Catch Me If You Can

By

MORGAN CARTIER WESTON | Photography by MARK BROCKER

Rachel Germain has run in several Roadless Races events and says the camaraderie is what keeps her coming back. “I think one of the great things about these races is how accessible they are, even for beginners,” she says.

PHOTO BY MARIO QUIVERA

is meticulous, aiming to provide exceptional experiences for participants. “I’ve always been a planner, and I like to see a plan come together,” he says. “This work combines the planning and the outdoor fitness world with healthy competition and community all in one, so it sort of is the perfect gig for me.”

Jim and his team prioritize the athlete’s experience, from detailed pre-race communication to ensuring safety and inclusivity. “We want people to feel confident when they sign up for our events,” Jim says. “Communication and attention to detail are essential to achieving that goal.”

There are many logistical challenges of organizing road and bike races. Jim says the selection of trails plays a crucial role in race planning, with an emphasis on accessibility, safety and fun for all ages and proficiencies. “Finding the right trails is key,” he says. “We want routes that

offer a challenging yet enjoyable experience for participants of all skill levels.”

Each race includes family-friendly activities, such as a kids fun run, pushup contests and post-race meals. “The Roadless Races experience is one that involves the whole family,” says Allison Binkley, who races with her husband, Derek Binkley. “We enjoy the fact that they are well run, organized and laid-back but also love the family-friendly nature of these races.” Their daughter, Maren Binkley, 4, eagerly participates in kids races, and family dog Sadie enjoys postrace hangouts. “Our family decided to settle in Briar Chapel because of the great experience we had on the trails during the first Zen Squirrel race,” Allison says. “We’ve also volunteered for races and had just as much fun as when we’re actually racing.”

Community engagement is another central tenet of Roadless Races’ mission and one that

racers have come to appreciate. “I have enjoyed running since I was in my teens and for the majority of my running life have run on the roads,” Rachel Germain says. “Since moving to Briar Chapel I’ve had the opportunity to discover trail running and I love it; I sign up for races for the community [aspect] of it.”

Rachel started running with Roadless Races for the convenience – “It’s literally right in my neighborhood!” she says – but kept coming back for the experience. “I saw how well Jim and his team organized the events and love how they offer multiple race lengths and always go out of their way to make it a family affair,” Rachel says. “There are great giveaways, and everyone gets the opportunity to participate and have a chance to win. The music playlist is also spot-on!”

Racer Greg Leonard agrees. “Everyone is welcoming, friendly and supportive,” he says. “I regularly exchange words of encouragement

Thomas Borner speeds through the “Beast of Repetition” mountain bike race held April 13 on the Briar Chapel trails.

with other racers while on the course.” Greg appreciates that races are on the smaller side – Jim says they cap each race at 500 people – and that there are several throughout the year.

“[It] creates a sense of community that has allowed me to meet new people who love trail sports,” Greg adds. “In addition, the race

production is top-notch. The courses are well-marked with volunteers and aid stations throughout the course. After the race, there is great music, food, and drinks. And all of this takes place while being immersed in nature and enjoying the beautiful parks we have here in the Triangle.”

Jim seeks to foster these kinds of connections among competitors, as well as with local businesses, to make a positive impact beyond the racecourse. “Coastal Credit Union is a big partner,” he says. “They donate $3 per racer to Meals on Wheels. Fleet Feet is super connected in the running community, and Trek Chapel Hill also supports us.” The organization’s newest supporter is Food Lion. “They came in last year and donated pies and cider for our Thanksgiving race and plan to support our races this year,” Jim says.

The Roadless Races team is also committed to leaving no trace after each event ends. “Sustainability is a huge priority for us,” Jim adds. “We strive to minimize our environmental footprint and leave a lasting legacy of responsible event management.”

Looking ahead, he plans to expand the Roadless Races roster of events while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. Currently, eight inperson races around the Triangle and two virtual races are offered.

“We’d like to have a total of 15 events per year but still keep the size manageable,” Jim says. “Our goal will always be to provide opportunities for individuals and families to come together, push their limits and celebrate personal achievements.” cm

The Roadless Races team, which includes Nicole Schoppe, Joe Harman, Jim Harman, Eric Li and Paige Nuebel, works tirelessly to ensure every race experience is seamless.

Scar Reduction at Aesthetic Solutions

Aesthetic Solutions is known for expertise in aesthetic medicine, providing a comprehensive array of aesthetic services such as injectable treatments, laser resurfacing, body contouring and medical grade skincare. They pair clinically proven treatments with a highly skilled, compassionate team of healthcare professionals. Learn more about our advanced therapies and combination treatments to help with scarring.

What type of scars can be treated with lasers?

On a daily basis we see a variety of patients looking to reduce the appearance of unwanted scars. From animal bites and motorcycle burns all the way to the everyday surgical incision – we’ve treated it all. Acne scars, MOHs scars, surgical scars and traumatic scars are among of the most common we see. Our goal is to make the scars more blended with the surrounding skin in tone, texture, and depth. While it’s not completely erasing the scars, we are able to achieve dramatic results.

What are some at-home things we can do to prevent scars?

When an injury or surgical incision is healing keeping the area covered and out of the sun is key. Sun protective clothing is a great option and has come a long way in recent years! We often get asked about overthe-counter scar creams – and truthfully they do an “ok” job. If you want to go this route, look for something that’s silicone based. If you can find it in a plastic surgeon’s office - that’s a good sign. If you want to start laser treatment for scars the earlier the better. Young scars respond better

to lasers, while older scars may require more sessions. For patients undergoing elective surgery we advise they begin treatments four to six weeks from the time of surgery. For all other scars, it is best to start treatments once the injury (cut, active acne, burn, etc) has fully healed.

What in-office treatments do you use for scars?

Typically a combination of treatments work best for scars. The exact laser or device is determined in a consultation. We try to find the treatment that fits best with a patient’s lifestyle, goals, and expectations. Other factors to consider when crafting a treatment plan are contraindications, available downtime, budget, number of sessions needed

Under the direction of Aesthetic Solutions Founder and Medical Director Dr. Sue Ellen Cox, both Corynn Newman PA-C and Garrett Forrest PA-C perform treatments for scars

and pre/post care. The age, color and depth of the scar will all play a factor in treatment selection. The Fraxel, Vbeam, RF Microneedling and CoolPeel are a few of our go-to treatments – among many others!

Q: How does Aesthetic Solutions work with new patients to set them up for success?

With so many options out there, we often meet patients who are suffering from information overload. The most important thing for new patients is an initial consultation that focuses on their main concern and all options, both inside and outside our office, that can help. A thorough consultation will set the stage for personalized solutions to address your specific concerns.

Hike. Paddle. Preserve.

A brief update on the Haw River, the state’s newest hiking and paddling blueway

By ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

aw riverkeeper Emily Sutton loves what she does every day in the great outdoors of Chatham County, where she monitors the health and safety of the Haw River

“I get to work with incredibly passionate people both on my staff and in our community [who] are concerned about the river and also [who] love this river so deeply,” she says about the Haw River Assembly, a member-based nonprofit with a mission to restore and protect the Haw and Jordan Lake.

The Haw begins in a tiny crawfish hole in Forsyth County. The waters touch six different counties before flowing through Jordan Lake and joining the Deep River to form the headwaters of the Cape Fear River, which spills into the Atlantic Ocean.

This June marks the first anniversary of approximately 80 miles of the Haw River Trail becoming officially incorporated into the state’s public park system. Emily says this gives the trail a different level of protection and a different bracket of funding. Nature enthusiasts can paddle and hike along this blueway from Haw River State Park in Rockingham and Guilford counties to the

Chicken Bridge Forest 108 acres recently acquired by Triangle Land Conservancy; does not have river frontage

Gear Up to Go

Serious hikers and campers know the value of a good pair of socks, according to Jay Wellons, manager at Chatham Outfitters (formerly New Horizons West), a locally owned and operated outdoor provisions store.

The shop carries high-quality brand name clothing and gear for hiking, camping, disc golf, backpacking and everyday adventures, including Fits, Darn Tough, Smartwool and other quality hiking socks. Some new lines, like Big Agnes and Kelty, are popular brands in camping, while Toad & Co., Cotopaxi and Livsn are sought after for their lightweight, breathable fabrics.

“[Livsn] is a top tier, really nice brand with recycled materials,” Jay says. “You get what you pay for, so the repairs they do at cost. If you rip them or something, they’ll actually do a little design if you want to make it stand out, kind of like a badge of honor.”

Jay says the new store co-owner, Tyler Harris, is an Appalachian Trail thru-hiker and disc golfer focused on products that are lighter weight, durable and kinder to the environment.

“We’re still the same store our community has known and trusted for many years, but we’re getting more specialized in technical outdoor apparel and gear and have freshened up our look and selection of brands,” Tyler says. “We have geared up for our first summer as Chatham Outfitters with a new kids section, an expanded disc golf wall, and a new line of camping gear. Based on overwhelming feedback, we’ve brought in a selection of kids apparel, shoes, socks, and hiking gear. We also have a big disc golf community in the area and we recently expanded our disc golf wall. We’ve become a goto stop for helping folks that want to get into the sport. We’re really excited about what’s to come and are having a lot of fun at the same time. Be on the lookout later this year for some informational sessions hosted at the store on relevant outdoor topics as well.”

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Chatham.

The Haw is a destination for paddlers throughout the state and skilled kayakers are attracted to the lower Haw’s Class 3 rapids, like Moose Jaw Falls and Gabriel’s Bend. There are six paddle access points along the Haw in Chatham – Chicken Bridge, Highway 15-501 at Bynum Dam, South Bynum, Bynum Mill, Highway 64 and Robeson Creek Canoe Launch at Jordan Lake.

Emily says there are common misconceptions about the Haw due to its industrial pollution history over the past

decades. “But this is a beautiful place and we’re working with so many different groups and volunteers within our own organization to protect it,” Emily says. “I swim in the Haw; it’s a beautiful rocky river.”

Lower Haw River Trail

This 7.9 mile out-and-back trail is a great place to hike, jog, fish or bird-watch. Leashed dogs are allowed.

She says many people also incorrectly assume county agencies regularly monitor for sources of pollution. “That’s just not the case,” Emily says. “They don’t have the time or capacity or the funding to do that anymore. They really rely on organizations like ours and other riverkeeper organizations across the state to do that work for them. So, if someone is out on the river or out on their creek and something looks amiss or it smells funny or anything like that, we rely on community members to let us know there’s a suspected pollution issue.”

Emily says the Bynum-based Haw River Assembly reached a settlement last August with the City of Burlington and a major

Haw River Assembly program manager Kaitlyn Elliott checks the water quality at Jordan Lake.

discharger, Elevate Textiles (formerly known as Burlington Finishing). “That facility is phasing out PFAS entirely by January 2025, so that’s huge news,” she says. PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, which are long-lasting chemicals found in water, air, soil and fish. Emily says the Haw River Assembly actively works with state agencies to keep pollutants out of our waterways.

Pittsboro, which is the only municipality that draws its drinking water from the Haw River, recently installed a fractionalization system that removes approximately 97% of PFAS chemicals, making it safer to consume. And, improving water quality helps more than humans; the Haw River watershed includes endangered and protected species, like the Cape Fear Shiner.

“It’s a tiny minnow,” Emily says. “It’s very hard to find, but that’s one of our federally listed endangered species.” Hikers and paddlers may also see wildlife including beaver, otter, mink and a diversity of bird species.

“So many really remarkable species call the Haw River watershed home,” Emily says. “I would love to see more people find their oasis [here].” cm

Emily Sutton, Haw River Assembly's riverkeeper, regularly monitors water quality and safety of the Haw River and other waterways that flow into Jordan Lake.

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—Jim

—John

y name is Tonya. I came to Ignite Wellness because I had excruciating knee pain! I have been seeing Dr. Avery for a couple of weeks now and my pain is really lessened! My back pain has also improved. I have seen many other doctors for my knee pain, but these are the best results I have experienced. Thank you Ignite Wellness!”

“Iwas experiencing low back pain which resulted from a compressed bulging disc. I tried treatment from another facility that was not a chiropractor and received no relief, so I decided to come to Ignite to see if they could offer any help. I began decompression therapy, cold laser, and chiropractic adjustments. I started to feel relief after only five treatments. Four months later, I have 100% improvement and can walk and stand without pain.”

WALKING BAREFOOT AND GOLFING WITHOUT HEEL PAIN!

“Istarted coming to Ignite Wellness for foot pain. After 2 months, I walked into the office with ZERO pain for the first time! I am so happy! When I started care with Ignite, I literally could not put any pressure on my right heel due to a pretty bad bone spur. With the laser treatments and foot program at Ignite, I have gotten to the point that I feel normal again. I walked on the beach with my grandchildren this weekend with no shoes and played golf without heel pain.”

into

the woods

A couple embraces tranquil sights and sounds in their empty nest

By MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

heir years spent in bustling urban landscapes led Leah Chen and Jack Chen to the decision to build their forever home in a more natural setting. “We raised two children in city environments and moved all over the country, and even to Shanghai, for work,” Jack says. They found their sanctuary in the serene Stonecrest neighborhood in northern Pittsboro. “Living in a quieter neighborhood

Photography

The Chens’ modern farmhouse in Stonecrest exudes elegance with its clean lines and timeless appeal.

was important to us, especially after the pandemic when we found ourselves spending more time at home,” Leah says. “We had a beautiful home [in Cary] but knew we needed more space, both in terms of layout and of land surrounding us.”

Their previous home was in a busy suburban location, and while it was a great fit for them as a family of four, their adult children were now living on their own out of state. By 2020, Leah and Jack were ready to move away from the constant hum of cars and lawn mowers.

A sprawling 5-acre lot became the canvas for their next chapter. The couple worked with Paces and Roehm Architecture and Bold Construction to design and build a home on the property.

The Chens had a clear vision and collaborated with architect Abbie Lee Roehm to execute it. “Custom building a house means making a lot of decisions,” Leah says.

“We know what we like and don’t like, so we planned everything out and Abbie Lee also shared her thoughts,” Jack adds. “We put a lot

ABOVE The kitchen design incorporated a separate scullery to keep the sights and smells of cooking from overwhelming the open first floor.

RIGHT Leah has established container gardens full of lettuce plants and plans to expand to more veggies next year.

ABOVE An open deck offers an additional space to sit and enjoy the sounds of nature.

RIGHT Jack's home office setup features a standing desk and views of the woods.

BELOW Leah and Jack spend most of their time watching for birds and other wildlife on the spacious screened porch, which includes a fireplace and floor-to-ceiling screened windows. 

Donna thomas

Getting The Results You Deserve

“Donna is the best realtor we have ever used. She was thorough and patient in an extremely di cult market. Really listened to our concerns and was always available to jump on a new listing and write up an o er. Never pushy or unavailable. Very professional and overall lovely person.”

“Consummate professional. Insightful, knowledgeable of the market, caring and friendly. Very responsive to my every concerns. Would highly recommend her!”

“Donna has assisted us with buying 2 houses and selling two houses. She has always gone out of her way to help to make our experience as stress free as possible. She has helped to see that we got the best price for our properties and assisted when complex issues arose. She is not only a great realtor but a sincerely outstanding person.”

“Donna is a wonderful agent and knows the area well. I really enjoyed how she tailored the experience based on what she heard from me. I love agents who listen to the client, and she is great at putting your interests rst!”

of thought into the details here, especially because I work from home, so my commute is from the study to the coffee machine.”

The wooded lot required some extra consideration, too, including an existing 1890s farmhouse on the property. “Our aim was to honor the rich history of that existing structure while crafting a contemporary

Jack and Leah’s oversized kitchen island is perfect for both everyday food prep and entertaining.

ABOVE Jack perfects his golf swing in the spacious yard.

LEFT A grand staircase is the focal point between the foyer and living area.

BELOW The home is minimal in design, but the Chens brought in some pops of color, like this blue tile in one of the guest bathrooms. 

home that embodies modern luxury living,” Abbie Lee says. “Drawing inspiration from the farmhouse, we incorporated its distinctive architectural elements and details into our design.”

“We worked through maybe five versions of the plan before settling on one, but the end result is really worth it,” Jack says. 

Leah and Jack enjoy each other’s company on the screened porch.

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including symmetrical windows and a gabled roof.

LEFT The dining area’s many windows provide an uninterrupted view of the pine forest outside.

“We really enjoy this space, the layout and how it utilizes the land.”

The result is a bright, airy home that welcomes guests to gather around the large kitchen island or enjoy a cup of tea on the screened porch. Large windows bathe every

ABOVE The Chens home, left, intentionally mirrors many of the design elements from a historic farmhouse that’s also on the property,

corner in a soft glow, and the sounds of nature are the only interruption.

The Chens have been surprised to find so much relaxation in the symphony of woodland creatures and towering trees. “Every day offers a new discovery,” Leah says. “We love just sitting on our screened porch and watching for animals.”

Jack echoes the sentiment. “It has become our favorite

place in the house,” he says.

“We see deer, foxes, raccoons, all kinds of things.”

The couple is also learning to identify the many trees and plants surrounding their new home.

BY THE

NUMBERS

3 bedrooms 3.5 bathrooms

3,600 square feet 14 months build time 2023 year completed

“The Chatham County [N.C.] Cooperative Extension offers classes on things like composting, gardening and twig identification, so we have taken several of those,” Leah says.

“It’s quite interesting.”

As they make their new house a home, she and Jack are also working to revitalize the historic farmhouse into a guest space. “We’d like our adult children to be able to join us for extended stays,” Jack says.

“We expect it will take another six to nine months to complete.”

Leah has also set up a vegetable garden, starting out with lettuce and kale; she hopes to expand the garden into a larger footprint and improve landscaping around the house as the couple’s roots continue to deepen into the land.

“We moved around quite a bit throughout our marriage, but settling here feels like finding our true home,” Jack says. cm

ABOVE The detached garage allowed for more windows to be incorporated into the design. “It’s nice to have, and isn’t too far away,” Jack says.

“We’re pleasantly surprised how well it works for us.”

passion projects

Retirees keep their minds and bodies active with favorite hobbies

By LEAH BERRY and MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

timber to treasure

Dick Eyestone grew up in the small town of Washington, Iowa. “My father was what I would describe as a farm carpenter,” he says. “He did basically whatever he could to make a living.” Dick went to work with his father, building and helping to make repairs, when he was 12 years old; he worked every summer and holiday until he was 22.

Dick graduated from Drake University, then spent four years in the Coast Guard during the Vietnam War before earning his master’s from The University of Iowa. “I worked for everything from Fortune 500 companies to high-tech startups over the next 30 years,” he says.

Dick and his college sweetheart, Linda Eyestone, relocated from Iowa to retire in Black Mountain, North Carolina, in 2004 and eventually moved to Galloway Ridge to be close to their daughter in Hillsborough. “We wanted to be in a genuine retirement community,” Dick says. “And, in particular, a life plan community.”

It doesn’t hurt that there’s also a woodworking shop on-site at Galloway Ridge. Dick put his carpentry skills to use, picking the hobby back up after he retired – he still has a shop at his Black Mountain home, too, where he’s “been at it for 20 years,” he says. “I had grown up as a carpenter, so working with wood was pretty natural, and I had a familiarity with power tools. It’s scary, if you’ve never run a table saw, to turn it on. It’s pretty natural to think, ‘I could lose a finger!’”

Dick has embarked on a number of projects at Galloway Ridge, including rebuilding a rather sizeable birdhouse that sits outside the community. He calls it a “bird condo,” as it has 12 nesting spots and weighs nearly 50 pounds. “Birds don’t like to nest if there’s an old nest in there,” Dick explains. The old birdhouse had been there since 2008. “You’re supposed to take it down every year and clean it out, but the old one never came down.”

and

crafting

making

This group of Galloway Ridge retirees – Dick Eyestone, Jim Crescenzi, Eilean Yates, Mary Hackman, Ginny Lentz and Norm Christensen – finds joy in their hobbies, from

birdhouses

fine woodworks to

musical instruments and arranging flowers.

He also builds furniture, outdoor benches, footstools and more. “Kind of whatever the family has needed,” Dick says. He spent his first three or four years at Galloway Ridge improving the woodworking shop, adding a supply cabinet, rolling lumber rack and assembly table.

The carpenter says bat houses are next on his project list. “A number of residents saw the birdhouse and wanted me to build bat houses. … They’re extraordinarily good at insect control.”

Another resident with a fondness for woodcraft is Jim Crescenzi. The retired engineer is a California native who found his way to Galloway Ridge in 2015, wanting to be closer to his son and grandchildren, who live in Chapel Hill.

While Jim has been “tinkering” with wood for quite some time, he took up wood turning only four years ago. “It’s become a hobby for me,” Jim says. “I primarily make bowls and ladies’ bangles – those are a hit.”

He takes pride in his other projects – a cherry wood table that has sections much like the petals of a flower, and various cutting and charcuterie boards. He distributes his works to other residents but primarily family members.

“A lot of times I’m inspired by a particular wood – the grain in the wood – and how to highlight it,” Jim explains. “Woodworking is a form of creativity. It allows me to experiment

with different forms. I use the woodworking shop at Galloway Ridge, too, and so do many other people, so it’s a social thing as well as a hobby.”

When he’s not in the shop, you can likely find him out on Jordan Lake. He’s an experienced kayaker – a skill he often showcased in California – but since becoming a Chatham County resident, Jim has taken up canoeing, because he finds the boat easier to get in and out of. “I also love canoes,” he says. He goes out on the water about once a week – it’s his chance to feel a sense of freedom and enjoy the fresh air. “I like getting out, I like to observe the wildlife,” Jim says. “It’s also a rhythmic, pleasant form of exercise. 

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“I like North Carolina,” Jim continues. “I think the weather is pretty spectacular. And I find Galloway Ridge to be a very nice community.”

a lot of pluck

Norm Christensen hits a high note with his woodworking skills, crafting beautiful musical instruments.

He earned his doctorate at the University of California at Santa Barbara and moved to North Carolina when he got a job offer at Duke University in 1973. Norm spent his entire career at the university, starting in the botany department but eventually moving to the Nicholas School of the Environment – where he worked as a professor, plant ecologist and environment scientist. While Norm retired several years ago, he still goes back to teach a three-week course every semester.

Norm and his wife, Portia Christensen, liked the idea of moving to a retirement community when they both retired. And with a daughter living in Briar Chapel, it made the decision to come to Chatham County fairly easy.

Once retired, Norm found more time to focus on his hobbies.“I’ve always had a great interest in music, specifically guitar,” Norm says. “I studied classical guitar as well as acoustic throughout my career. … That was sort of a side thing.”

The academic also always had a passion for woodworking. Norm envisioned spending his retirement playing guitar and maybe building a few wood projects on the side; it wasn’t until a friend at his 50th high school reunion suggested combining these interests that he decided to try marrying the two.

He ordered a guitar-making kit and built one. “It was a good first effort, but I was hooked on

Norm Christensen holds an acoustic guitar, one of nearly 20 he’s built over the past 10 years. The hobby requires meticulous precision, but that’s what he likes about it.

MORE WORKING

Our residents work hand-in-hand with leadership to play an active role in our community. Our committment to collaboration is unique.

MORE LIVING

We nurture quality of life and a culture of possibility. At Carolina Meadows, your home can be designed your way.

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From art classes to lectures to golf and tennis, Carolina Meadows is a healthy, active community where everyone has a part to play.

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Experience a diverse and inclusive community. Our residents and staff come from all walks of life, and we pride ourselves on our commitment to inclusivity. We are constantly striving to create more diversity and ways we can celebrate individual differences.

it,” Norm says. “I enjoyed the process and learned an enormous amount about precision woodworking and also about the engineering of a musical instrument and what it takes to do that.”

It’s been 10 years, and he’s built 16 or 17 guitars and about as many ukuleles. Norm’s made them for family members and, really, whoever wants one. “I have more guitars than I know what to do with,” he says.

Norm’s also built a mandola and likes to experiment with different varieties of guitars – from acoustic to electric. “Just for the fun of playing rock ’n’ roll again,” he says of the latter.

“It’s a fairly long process” to craft a guitar, Norm says. “There’s rules you follow – you

don’t want to do anything wrong. So it’s sort of working within those rules. Probably like any other art or craft.”

Norm makes his instruments inside his villa, in the space that he’s designated as his own shop. “You have to have an indoor space to regulate the humidity,” he says. “I happen to really like tools – I really enjoy buying them and owning them. … Having this space and a place to spread things out and work is really critical.”

To some extent, Norm believes he enjoys making instruments for the same reasons he loves music. “It’s a zen sort of thing,” he says. “When you’re working with a $400 piece of wood, you have to be really focused, in the moment. … You can’t have your mind

somewhere else. Playing music has that same aspect. And the older you get, the more you like those escapes.”

Norm not only builds guitars, he’s also the resident guitar repairman. He says he’s thankful that Galloway Ridge provides him with a community of people who also enjoy music. Norm’s even part of a band of residents – “The Oldies But Goodies” – who primarily play “gigs” at Galloway but are planning to take the stage at the Chatham Grove Community Center this summer. “I’ve never been a performing musician until I came here,” Norm says. “I’ve really enjoyed it.

“It’s nice to have rock ’n’ roll back in your life,” he laughs.

in full bloom

One Galloway Ridge resident leads a team that helps the community blossom – literally.

Ginny Lentz was born and raised in Indiana. She attended Purdue University, where she studied math and physics. She left her home state at 22 and lived “all about and down the East Coast, from Florida to Connecticut” for the next 40 years, she says. Ginny started out as a programmer for IBM and ended up as a systems engineer for the company. After 30 years, Ginny moved on to United Technologies and Otis Elevator Company, often traveling for the latter.

“I chose to retire to North Carolina, and specifically [near] Raleigh [and] Durham, because I had good friends down here,” Ginny says. “My retirement present to myself was that I wouldn’t get on an airplane for more than six hours.” 

Ginny Lentz, left, and Mary Hackman bring joy to their neighbors as part of the Galloway Ridge flower team.

She started in Cary but found Galloway Ridge after looking for longer term and more comprehensive care. “The place and people are a lot of the reasons why I came to Chatham County.

“I have always, what I call, ‘played with’ flowers, even when I was younger,” Ginny says. She was introduced to floral design in the late ’80s when she joined a neighbor’s garden club. “It was a nice club that did interesting arrangements,” Ginny says. “I got involved in that and did a number of flower shows … and I was pretty good at it.”

Ginny knew she wanted to continue feeding her passion for florals, even at Galloway Ridge. So, she joined the “flower ladies,” a group that has since been aptly renamed the “flower team” after a male resident joined. The group reuses and rearranges the flowers around the common areas of the community that would otherwise get picked up and replaced with new ones every week.

“We’re a small band of people with a broad range of capabilities,” Ginny says. “Some people were judges and master gardeners, and some had worked in florist shops. Others are ‘church flower ladies.’ All of our designers have different styles. … They all have their favorite types of flower work, so it’s a lot of fun.”

The group includes about 10 designers, and one “flower person” or team gets scheduled to recycle the flower arrangements each week. “On a day when you’re doing flowers, it’s about two to three hours to take the arrangements apart and build your new ones,” Ginny explains. “We take apart two arrangements and make six to nine new ones.”

The team often pairs the recycled flowers with freshly cut ones from other residents’ garden plots – from zinnias to irises and beyond. “We’re the core team of designers, but there’s a lot of other people with us,” Ginny says.

Her personal flower style is rather modern and simple. She also focuses on vertical arrangements, so they can be displayed on residents’ ledges.

The designer hosts floral workshops at Galloway Ridge, where everyone is sent home with an arrangement that they made themselves.

“My favorite part is that I get to work with the new people who think they might want to be a flower lady,” Ginny says. “I enjoy watching all of the people develop and improve and get better with just the process of floral design and picking out a good, solid arrangement. I enjoy watching them grow over time.

“The staff are also very complimentary and like our designs, so that’s really the best part,” she adds.

dance break

Eilean Yates uses her heritage to bring some movement to her community. She’s originally from Scotland and lived in England for many years before her husband, who worked in the polyester fiber business, was transferred to the United States – more specifically, to Shelby, North Carolina – in 1976.

She moved to Fearrington Village in 2012 to be near her daughter, but relocated to Galloway Ridge in 2016.

Eilean learned Scottish country dancing in school as a child in Scotland, where she eventually took a certification to be a teacher. She went on to start a class in America and has been teaching dance for 35 years. Eilean currently instructs a Scottish Country Dancers class in Durham and was recently elected to the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society board of trustees. “It’s the mother house in Edinburgh,” Eilean says. “There’s 10,000 members worldwide.”

Eilean also helps run a summer school for the society’s Carolinas branch in the

mountains and works with the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games.

“I’ve been doing it forever,” Eilean says. “When I came to Galloway, I thought it would be good to have a class for older people.” She teaches a modified ceilidh – a more informal Scottish dancing technique – class for nearly 24 participants every week. “The dancing we do has a lot of walking,” Eilean says. “… Scottish dancing is more technical.”

The group doesn’t typically perform, but it will fit in with special events when it can and also showcases its dances at Galloway’s annual variety show.

“It’s an enrichment activity at Galloway that anyone can join at any time,” Eilean says. “It’s a great social activity, but it’s also good exercise … and it exercises the mind. It’s a proven fact that it can help deter dementia.

“It’s my heritage,” she says. “For me, it’s a way of life. It’s part of a worldwide thing. Scottish country dancing was formalized in 1953, so whenever we do a dance, people all over the world do it the same way. This is why it’s kept alive. … It’s formal, and it’s taught.”

While Eilean enjoys preserving her heritage, she also loves providing residents with the opportunity to try something new. “Galloway is a very special place, and the activities are so varied that people can do pretty much anything they want to do,” Eilean believes. 

Eilean Yates embraces her Scottish heritage by practicing and teaching traditional country dance all over North Carolina.

the write stuff

Bob Huddleston, a retired WWII combat pilot, was drawn to the world of writing, reading and research in high school with an interest in history and geography. Upon leaving the Army Air Corps, he went on to work various jobs in Washington, D.C. and received an invitation from a local weekly paper to share his experiences in a series of essays. These writings resonated with readers and soon turned into a decadelong column, chronicling his unique insights from his time in government service.

Bob next followed the call of fiction writing, crafting stories that captured the essence of his adventures. Inspired by a fellow WWII pilot, Bob and his late wife, Pepita Huddleston, chose to retire in Carolina Meadows in Chapel Hill. Though Cary initially caught their eye, proximity to the UNC libraries were important to Bob as he delved into his research.

His latest endeavor, “A Most Remarkable Life: The Collected Works of Robert Huddleston,” is his account of his experiences as a teenage combat pilot. “Following the wisdom of literary greats George Orwell and George Will – that records can be destroyed, but books are forever – I wanted to write this book so these stories would be preserved for eternity,” Bob says.

Bob soon found himself welcomed not only by UNC librarians, but invited to share his wartime experiences with eager minds, from university

classrooms to local high schools. His talks on WWII air warfare left an indelible mark on students, igniting their curiosity and enriching their understanding of history. “Learning is different when it’s a firsthand account,” Bob says.

Bob is approaching his 100th birthday this June, and still delights in receiving an occasional surprise paycheck for his literary contributions (the latest was for a book review). “I guess you could say I am technically still not retired,” he laughs. He remains steadfast in his commitment to preserving the legacy of the Army Air Corps, correcting misconceptions and honoring unsung heroes.

And, though his eyesight has dimmed with age, Bob’s thirst for knowledge is undiminished. He continues to explore the well-stocked library of books and newspapers at Carolina Meadows, which he can read thanks to his personal magnifying device. “It is the best thing I have purchased in a while,” he says. cm

ABOVE Bob Huddleston recently published “A Most Remarkable Life: The Collected Works of Robert Huddleston,” an insightful collection of stories from his youth.

LEFT Though his eyesight is not what it used to be, Bob is able to continue reading and researching thanks to his magnifying device.

Being new to the area, my husband and I were fortunate to be referred to Chan Wright Insurance Agency and couldn't be happier. Chan took the time to assess our needs, and offered plans to insure home, auto, and life. We never felt pressured and felt that we made a new friend versus a sales agent. We highly recommend Chan Wright Insurance Agency.

- MARIE M.

We are so honored to be recognized as a Best of Chapel Hill insurance agency. Thank you to our clients who have made this possible for us!

PEACE OF MIND

It’s our priority to make sure residents have peace of mind, knowing that all of their health care services are within reach.

LOVE FOR LIFE

GALLOWAY RIDGE EXISTS TO INSPIRE AND TO ASSURE EACH RESIDENT A AND meaningfulengaged lives life AND SUPERIOR QUALITY OF care.

As a resident, your lifestyle will transform to one that exudes creativity, passion, and purpose.

RETIREMENT WITH COMMUNITY

Our quality care combined with kind-hearted residents makes this welcoming community a wonderful place to call home.

THE 2024 DIRECTORY OF ASSISTED LIVING, CONTINUING CARE, INDEPENDENT LIVING, 55+ LIVING & COHOUSING RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES

assisted living communities

AVENDELLE ASSISTED LIVING AT SOUTHPOINT

1305 Capstone Dr., Durham

Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Monthly rate includes personalized care, dining, activities, laundry and housekeeping

Refund Options 14-day notice required

Medicare Certified N/A

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted

Minimum Age N/A

Contact Information avendelle.com

BROOKDALE CHAPEL HILL ASSISTED LIVING

2220 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 984-363-6069; brookdale.com

BROOKDALE CHAPEL HILL ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE

2230 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Contact Information 984-363-6069; brookdale.com

BROOKDALE DURHAM ASSISTED LIVING AND DEMENTIA CARE

4434 Ben Franklin Blvd., Durham

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 984-363-6069; brookdale.com

BROOKDALE MEADOWMONT ASSISTED LIVING AND DEMENTIA CARE

100 Lanark Rd., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 984-363-6069; brookdale.com

CALYX LIVING OF DURHAM

4214 Guess Rd., Durham

Entrance Fee Application fee required, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Monthly rate includes care, dining, activities, laundry and housekeeping

Refund Options 14-day notice required

Medicare Certified Not applicable

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted

Minimum Age 60

Contact Information 919-471-0091; calyxseniorliving.com

CAMBRIDGE HILLS ASSISTED LIVING

140 Brookstone Ln., Pittsboro

This all-inclusive four-star community, which has served Chatham and neighboring counties for nearly 20 years, is a 90-bed assisted living community with a 38-bed memory care wing that offers both private and semiprivate rooms and award-winning activity programs. Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing; veteran discounts offered

Contract Options None. Requires 14-day notice before moving out

Refund Options Prorated for the first month from the move-in date

Medicare Certified No; Medicaid accepted

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 65

Contact Information Ronda Stubbs, 919-545-9573 or ronda@silver-thread.com; cambridgehillsal.com

CAROLINA RESERVE OF DURHAM

4523 Hope Valley Rd., Durham

Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month, two weeks’ notice required before moving out

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-892-6688; carolinareserveofdurham.com

CHATHAM RIDGE ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

114 Polks Village Ln., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range Starting at $4,750

Contract Options Month-to-month

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-883-9767; navionseniorsolutions.com/communities/chatham-ridge

THE LAURELS OF CHATHAM

(SKILLED NURSING AND REHAB FACILITY)

72 Chatham Business Dr., Pittsboro

This 140-bed facility in a serene setting near Pittsboro caters to both shortand long-term guests who work with the care team to organize a plan that’s specific to their needs. The memory-care unit and specially trained staff provide assistance to those with Alzheimer’s and other memory impairments. The staff strive to give the highest quality of care alongside recreational programs and outings to provide enrichment.

Monthly Fee Range $8,190 – $11,640

Medicare Certified Yes; also accepts Medicare HMO, commercial insurance and Medicaid

Long-Term Care Insurance Not accepted

Contact Information Facility: 919-542-6677;

Admissions: 919-302-7862; laurelsofchatham.com

MEBANE RIDGE ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

1999 S. NC Hwy. 119, Mebane

Entrance Fee

One month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range Starting at $4,005

Contract Options Month-to-month

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-737-7251; navionseniorsolutions.com/communities/mebane-ridge

ROXBORO ASSISTED LIVING

5660 Durham Rd., Roxboro

Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Refund Options Requires 14-day notice

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 336-598-4697; admissions@roxboroassistedliving.com; roxboroassistedliving.com

TERRABELLA

1911 Orange Grove Rd., Hillsborough Entrance Fee $2,500

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-732-9040; terrabellahillsborough.com

WALTONWOOD CARY PARKWAY

750 SE Cary Pkwy., Cary

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing on cottages, oneand two-bedroom options in independent living; one- and two-bedroom options in assisted living and private apartments in memory care

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Year lease

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 919-460-7330; waltonwood.com

continuing care retirement communities

CAROLINA MEADOWS

100 Carolina Meadows, Chapel Hill

The 166-acre campus includes a nine-hole golf course, pristine walking trails, tennis courts and pickleball, community gardens and more. Residents enjoy seven distinctive dining venues, a state-of-the-art wellness center and an auditorium that offers fascinating lectures and performances.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$140,300 – $839,000

$3,376 – $5,553

Contract Options Fee for Service: Housing, residential services and guaranteed access to health-related services in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at per diem rates, which vary. Home Care services are also available. Equity: See below.

Refund Options Predictable 75% Return of Equity refund option offered for all independent living homes on campus. The refund is based off of your original entrance fee and made payable while you are still a resident of the community.

Medicare Certified Yes, Medicare Part B

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-942-4014; 800-458-6756; carolinameadows.org

CAROL WOODS

750 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$106,000 – $545,500

$2,680 – $6,191

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services like meals and housekeeping and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at a discounted rate.

Refund Options Declining Refund: Pay entry fee; full refund in first 90 days; refund declines at 2% rate each additional month; after 50 months, no refund.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required; could help pay for discounted per diems.

Minimum Age 65 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

Contact Information 919-968-4511; 800-518-9333; carolwoods.org

THE CEDARS OF CHAPEL HILL

100 Cedar Club Circle (Meadowmont), Chapel Hill

Purchase Price Range

$300,000s – $800,000s*

Monthly Fee Range

$3,731 – $7,520

Contract Options *Equity: Actual real estate purchase, with transfer of ownership of the unit. If resident moves to health center, no added amount except two meals per day. After 90 days, member pays discounted rate.

Refund Options Not applicable because of ownership

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 50)

Contact Information 919-259-7000; 877-433-3669; cedarsofchapelhill.com 

CROASDAILE VILLAGE

2600 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy., Durham

Set on 110 acres in a pastoral landscape, which provides a country feel fewer than 6 miles from downtown Durham and 3 miles from Duke University. Croasdaile is within the distinguished residential neighborhood of Croasdaile Farm. Residents enjoy numerous green spaces with yards, gardening and plenty of walking trails, a dog park, lakes and the security of a full continuum of care on-site. The central campus buildings are connected, with a state-ofthe-art wellness center, large heated pool, auditorium, woodworking shop, art studio, multiple dining venues and a chapel.

Entrance Fee Range $66,083 – $546,986 (includes single and double occupancy)

Monthly Fee Range $2,412 – $5,571 (single occupancy with second person fee of $1,525 for all residential homes)

Contract Options Fee for Service: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing and maintenance, residential services such as meals, utilities, and housekeeping along with guaranteed access to health-related services. Advanced levels of health services are provided at per-diem rates. Refund Options Declining Refund: Option 1: Pay lower entry fee; refund declines at rate of 2% per month; after 50 months, no refund. Option 2: 50% Refund – pay higher entry fee; refund declines at a rate of 2% per month until 50% of residence fee is accrued; refund limited to 50%. Option 3: 90% Refund – pay higher entry fee; refund declines at a rate of 2% per month until 10% of fee is accrued; refund limited to 90%.

Medicare Certified Yes; rehab on-site

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-384-2475 or 800-960-7737 for marketing and sales; 919-384-2000 for general inquiries; croasdailevillage.org

THE FOREST AT DUKE

2701 Pickett Rd., Durham

Celebrating more than 30 years of community, The Forest at Duke is a vibrant continuing care retirement community located in the heart of Durham. It offers five floor plans for apartment living, six floor plans for cottages and individual homes, and, coming in 2025, 10 all-new apartment floor plans debuting in its 71-residence expansion, The Terraces. Each home provides spacious, contemporary living with access to a range of amenities, coupled with myriad opportunities for fitness, wellness, socialization, entertainment, self-discovery and lifelong learning. The Forest strives to strengthen the community and organizations that enrich the lives of Durham residents.

Entrance Fee Range Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at a greatly discounted rate and are free for a specified number of days.

Refund Options The Forest retains $10,000 of each person’s entry fee as a health care reserve. The remaining balance of the entry fee, the residence fee, is refundable based on the following: 2% of the residence fee accrues to The Forest at Duke each month. The refund decreases to zero over 50 months.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 65 (co-applicant must be at least 62) Contact Information 919-490-8000; 1-800-919-278-9729; forestduke.org

GALLOWAY RIDGE AT FEARRINGTON

3000 Galloway Ridge Rd., Pittsboro

Crafted with heart, soul and Southern charm, Galloway Ridge is a secure, health-conscious lifestyle destination. The 62-acre campus is just south of Chapel Hill and adjacent to Fearrington Village, an 1,100-acre planned community, offering miles of trails and sidewalks. Jordan Lake and the Haw River are a short distance away for outdoor enthusiasts. Galloway Ridge’s main building includes 248 independent living apartments, the Lynn Savitzky library and business center, living room, Chapin Auditorium, Bistro Dining Room, Belties Lounge, billiards room, a movie theater with stadium seating, art studio, woodworking shop, multiple meeting spaces and conference room. The Arbor, a Medicare-certified health care center, is connected to the main building and offers 96 private rooms for assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The residents of the 52 independent living villas have a short walk to all of the amenities of the main building. The Galloway Ridge WellPlex allows residents to maintain their optimal level of health and well-being. It includes the Duke Center for Living, a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, Duke Primary Care and the Center for Physical Rehabilitation. For on-campus primary care services, residents can choose between UNC Health Care within the main building or Duke Primary Care in the WellPlex. Residents and staff volunteer thousands of hours each year to local agencies and partnerships.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$253,000 – $1,599,000

$3,990 – $9,361

Contract Options Extensive: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and unlimited assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. Additional meal fee required as one moves from one level of care to another.

Refund Options Declining Refund: Option 1: Time-Sensitive – Pay lower entry fee; refund declines at rate of 4% in first month; 2% each additional month; after 4 years, no refund. Option 2: 75% Refund, Not Time-Sensitive – Pay higher entry fee; receive 75% of what you paid in.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-545-2647; gallowayridge.com

GLENAIRE

4000 Glenaire Circle, Cary

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$79,000 – $904,000

$3,037 – $6,335

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping and some health-related services, which are provided at a subsidized rate or are free for a specified number of days.

Refund Options Option 1: Declining Refund – refund declines at rate of 2% per month for 48 months. Option 2: 50% refundable. Option 3: 90% refundable.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 58)

Contact Information 919-460-8095; 800-225-9573; glenaire.org

SEARSTONE

17001 Searstone Dr., Cary

Searstone opened on the site of a picturesque former horse pasture in 2013. Immerse yourself in its vibrant community that fosters meaningful connections and a zest for life. Indulge in culinary delights with friends at one of its dining venues, take a walk along its beautiful lake, get a quick workout in the gym or relax in the comfort of one of the elegant apartments. Health care services are available directly on campus. Searstone is on track to open a brand-new, four-story expansion, The Highview, in 2024 and is embarking on exciting renovations to its Winston Clubhouse. The retirement community offers a perfect balance of luxury, independence and lifelong care – every moment is filled with opportunity and choice.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$409,000 – $1,030,000

$3,720 – $8,680; second person fee of $1,740

Contract Options Type A LifeCare contract. Residents pay a one-time LifeCare fee to cover costs of assisted living, skilled nursing and/or memory support. The LifeCare program has significant tax advantages and works well with long-term care policies.

Refund Options Entrance fee is 100% refundable.

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Yes

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-234-0339; info@searstone.com; searstone.com 

Meet Dr. Todd Granger Primus Internal Medicine

I greatly enjoy getting to know my patients, not only by diagnosing and treating their medical conditions and advising them in matters of health and wellness, but also getting to know them simply as persons their families, what interests them, and how and why they’ve ordered their lives as they have. Not only is that personally rewarding to me, but taking the time to get to know patients personally is an integral part of their health and wellness. Over the course of my practice of medicine, I have been humbled by the trust that patients have placed in me as their physician. I take that trust seriously, and I will do all that I am able to ensure that it has been rightly placed. ”

Call us to see how affordable a personal physician is. Our annual subscription offers:

• Longer, unrushed appointments — guaranteed to be with Dr. Granger

• Easy scheduling — often we can schedule within 24 hours

• More personal care — a smaller practice means that you are more than a number

• More personal approach, less influenced by insurance companies and healthcare networks — PATIENTS are in control of their own healthcare.

• Lower out-of-pocket expenses, especially with high insurance deductibles — by being seen and treated earlier and more appropriately

SPRINGMOOR

1500 Sawmill Rd., Raleigh

Entrance Fee/Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Modified: Housing, residential services and some health-related services in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee, which includes 30 days of free health care (with a maximum balance of 90 days), then is available at a discounted rate.

Refund Options Option 1: Life Occupancy – Residence & Care refund declines at 4% per month for 25 months, then no refund. Option 2: 50% Life Equity – refund declines at 2% per month for 25 months. The remaining 50% is returned to the resident or estate after residency is terminated and within 30 days of re-occupancy of the residential unit. Option 3: 100% Life Equity – 100% of the Residence & Care fee is returned to the resident or estate after residency is terminated. The refund is available, once residency is terminated, six years after initial move-in date, or 30 days after re-occupancy of the residential unit, if six years has passed.

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-848-7080; springmoor.org

THE TEMPLETON OF CARY

215 Brightmore Dr., Cary

Entrance Fee Range N/A. Community fee is equal to one month’s rent.

Monthly Fee Range

$5,463 – $9,064

Contract Options Rental community with 13-month lease, but can give 30-day notice at any time.

Medicare Certified Yes, for skilled nursing Long-Term Care Insurance Yes

Minimum Age 62 (for couples, at least one spouse must be 62)

Contact Information 984-200-3688; thetempletonofcary.com

TWIN LAKES COMMUNITY

3701 Wade Coble Dr., Burlington

An intentional community filled with people who chose Twin Lakes for various reasons, but who all have one thing in common: the desire for a well-rounded life surrounded by others who are engaged and open to new experiences, new people and new ideas. More than 600 residents in independent living enjoy the 225-acre community and the amenities that make it home. In addition to the spacious campus, this is a unique CCRC: There’s no mandatory meal plan; it offers comparably lower fees; and the neighborhoods are filled with people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$61,000 – $505,000

$1,852 – $4,264

Contract Options Fee-for-service contract only

Refund Options 30-month declining refund and 50% refund available

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 62)

Contact Information 336-538-1572; twinlakescomm.org

THE VILLAGE AT BROOKWOOD

1860 Brookwood Ave., Burlington

The Village at Brookwood’s intimate size allows the building of strong friendships. Residents can participate in a full array of physical activities that promote healthy living, feed their competitive spirit with fun games and mental challenges, de-stress with their favorite hobby or just relax. In addition to a heated saltwater pool in the wellness center, the community boasts a pickleball court, putting green, raised plant beds and a dog park for physical activities. The community prides itself on its dining, including lunches in its tavern, lunches or dinners at its Edith Street Café and a fine dining experience at Lakeside Dining. Enjoy engaging conversation with friends over a meal prepared by the executive chef while dining staff tend to your every need.

Entrance Fee Options start at $138,600

Monthly Fee Range $2,781

Contract Options Option 1: LifeCare: Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed future health care provided in exchange for the entrance fee and monthly fee. When moving from one level of care to another, the monthly fee reflects a significant reduction of the daily per diem skilled nursing rate. Option 2: Fee for Service – Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed access to future health care are provided in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at the per diem rate.

Refund Options All contracts offer a declining refund over 47 months.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required; can help with costs related to assisted living, memory care or skilled care for Fee-for-Service or LifeCare plans

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

Contact Information 336-570-8440; 800-282-2053; villageatbrookwood.org

post-acute continuing care systems

HILLCREST CONVALESCENT CENTER

1417 W. Pettigrew St., Durham

The center has provided quality care – including after-hospital rehabilitation, 24/7 skilled nursing, home care or outpatient physical therapy – for more than 73 years. Contact the Raleigh or Durham location for more information about its services and signature Elegant Care.

Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required

Monthly Fee Call for pricing

Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term, assisted living or respite stays

Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded

Minimum Age N/A

Contact Information 919-286-7705; admissions@hillcrestnc.com; hillcrestnc.com

HILLCREST RALEIGH AT CRABTREE VALLEY

3830 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh

Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required

Monthly Fee Call for pricing

Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term or respite stays

Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded

Minimum Age N/A

Contact Information 919-781-4900; admissions@hillcrestraleighnc.com; hillcrestnc.com 

HILLCREST HOME HEALTH OF THE TRIANGLE

1000 Bear Cat Way, Ste. 104, Morrisville

Personal care, in-home support and companion care, and respite care.

Contact Information 919-468-1204; agencydir@hillcresthh.com

HILLCREST THERAPY & WELLNESS

4215 University Dr., Ste. B2, Durham

Physical therapy, specialty treatments and wellness programs. Contact Information 919-627-6700; rehab.durham@hillcrestptw.com

SIGNATURE HEALTHCARE OF CHAPEL HILL

1602 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee None. No application or deposit fee.

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate long-term or respite stays; room and board rate and other expenses available for short-term

Refund Options Refunds for any days not used

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted

Contact Information 919-967-1418; liaison@signaturehealthcarellc.com

independent senior living

BARTLETT RESERVE

300 Meredith Dr., Durham

Entrance Fee

$5,000

Monthly Fee Range $3,800 – $4,950

Contract Options Month-to-month; 60-day notice to leave

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted for personal care and veterans benefits

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Jessica Psihas, 919-634-2197; jpsihas@bartlettreserve.com; bartlettreserve.com

BRIER POINTE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Entrance Fee One month security deposit (partially refundable)

Monthly Fee $4,000 – $6,900

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Can be utilized for additional care

Contact Information 919-378-2902; rlcommunities.com

THE CAMBRIDGE AT BRIER CREEK

7901 TW Alexander Dr., Raleigh

This new luxury independent living community is perfectly situated in Raleigh and next to Durham, a location that provides the best of both worlds, from cultural events to outdoor adventures and everything in between. As an Optimal Living community, The Cambridge provides a total wellness approach that engages its residents physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, and offers a variety of spacious and comfortable apartment floor plans for you to call home. With a unique hybrid community model, residents have access to on-site primary care, therapy, home health care and rehabilitation. The Cambridge partners with in-house health care providers to create a true age-in-place community.

Entrance Fee Range Equivalent to two month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range $3,965 – $8,995

Contract Options Month-to-month or one-year leases

Medicare Certified Medicare accepted through on-site physician and with WakeMed Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Marketing Director, 919-737-7000; briercreekinfo@cvsliving.com; thecambridgebriercreek.com

CAMBRIDGE

VILLAGE OF APEX

1000 Cambridge Village Loop, Apex

This all-inclusive independent senior living community invites its residents to live their best life among its luxurious and detail-oriented amenities. The Optimal Living community focuses on improving every aspect of its residents’ lives by providing a total wellness approach and offering a variety of spacious and comfortable apartment floor plans. With its unique hybrid community model, residents have access to on-site primary care, therapy, home health care and rehabilitation, creating a true age-in-place home.

Entrance Fee Based on unit type

Monthly Fee Range $3,200 – $6,800

Contract Options One-year or month-to-month lease options

Medicare Certified Medicare accepted through on-site physician and with WakeMed Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted by on-site home health partner

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Sales Director, 919-363-2080; apexinfo@cvsliving.com; cvsliving.com/apex

DURHAM REGENT

3007 Pickett Rd., Durham

Entrance Fee Range First month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range

$3,069 – $4,500

Contract Options Month-to-month leases, all independent living

Medicare Certified No medical services included Long-Term Care Insurance No

Minimum Age 67

Contact Information 919-490-6224; durhamregent.com

EMERALD POND

205 Emerald Pond Ln., Durham

Entrance Fee Range Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month leases; no buy-in fees.

Refund Options Community fee non-refundable

Medicare Certified No medical services included Long-Term Care Insurance N/A

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-493-4713; emeraldpond.net

TWIN RIVERS INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING

25 S. Rectory St., Pittsboro

This 31-unit complex offers a friendly, social and communal atmosphere for independent older adults. Staff is on-call seven days a week, and residents have use of a communal kitchen, game room and other shared spaces.

Entrance Fee $2,000 per person; second-person fee $650

Monthly Fee Range Starting at $1,950/efficiency; $2,750/one bedroom; $4,250/two bedroom; VA/public servant discounts available

Contract Options None. Requires 60 day notice prior to moving out

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance N/A

Minimum Age 65

Contact Information 919-545-0149; 919-637-7117; michelle@silver-thread.com; silver-thread.com 

55+ communities

CAROLINA ARBORS BY DEL WEBB

357 Carolina Arbors Dr., Durham

Price Range of Houses From the $450s Number of Units 1,292

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,100 – 2,600 square feet

Amenities Included 37,000-square-foot clubhouse, lifestyle director, fitness center, tennis courts, bocce ball courts, pickleball courts, hot tub, indoor pool and outdoor pool

Contact Information 984-219-7051; contactarbors@gmail.com; ourcarolinaarbors.com

CAROLINA PRESERVE

115 Allforth Pl., Cary

Price Range of Houses From the $450s Number of Units 1,360

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,200 – 3,500 square feet

Amenities Included Tennis courts, bocce ball courts, indoor pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, clubhouse, pickleball court and access to Town of Cary Greenway and Amberly Clubhouse

Contact Information 919-467-7837; carolinapreserve.com

CORBINTON AT KILDAIRE FARM

809 Churton Pl., Cary

Price Range of Houses $400s – $500s

Number of Units 60

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,698 – 2,175 square feet

Amenities Included Walking trail, dog park, yard and exterior homemaintenance. Contact Information 888-523-9070; info@corbintonliving.com; corbintonliving.com/cary

THE COURTYARDS AT ANDREWS CHAPEL

1007 Havenwood Ln., Durham

Number of Units 120

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 4,000 square feet

Amenities Included Large clubhouse, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, walking trails, pavilion

Sales Contact Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

THE COURTYARDS AT LOCHMERE

5100 Lilly Atkins Rd., Cary

Price Range of Houses From the upper $500s to the mid $600s Number of Units 73

Resale Status New construction

Average Size of Houses 1,519 – 2,930 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, fireplace pavilion, fitness center, pool

Sales Contact 919-297-2431; Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

THE COURTYARDS AT OAK GROVE

1702 Doc Nichols Rd., Durham

Price Range of Houses Call for pricing Number of Units 166

Resale Status New construction, opening for sales in summer 2024

Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 4,000 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center

Sales Contact 919-646-6804; Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

THE COURTYARDS AT O’KELLY CHAPEL

1601 Vineyard Mist Dr., Cary

Number of Units 149

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 2,000 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, walking trails, access to the American Tobacco Trail

Sales Contact Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

THE COURTYARDS AT SOUTHPOINT

1203 Cherob Ln., Durham

Price Range of Houses From the $500s

Number of Units 161

Resale Status New construction

Average Size of Houses 1,519 – 2,930 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, walking trails, pavilion, dog park, pickleball, access to the American Tobacco Trail

Sales Contact 919-230-8636; Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

THE COURTYARDS ON FARRINGTON

5113 Farrington Rd., Durham

Price Range of Houses From the low $500s Number of Units 64

Resale Status New construction

Average Size of Houses 1,520 – 2,969 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center

Sales Contact 919-918-0834; Terrell Turner, teturner@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

OVERTURE CHAPEL HILL

5910 Farrington Rd., Chapel Hill

Price Range of Apartment Homes Starting at $1,134/month

Number of Units 184

Average Size of Houses 598 – 1,365 square feet

Amenities Included Heated outdoor pool, outdoor lounge and terrace, fire pit, elevator-accessible floors, happy hours and yappy hours, fitness center and yoga studio, grand club room with demonstration kitchen, 24-hour self-serve coffee bar, movie theater, game room, arts and crafts room, onsite guest suite for friends and family, Lyft ride-sharing scheduling through management, 24-hour emergency maintenance and carports available. Contact Information 919-907-2200; overturechapelhill.com

cohousing communities

ELDERBERRY

60 Elderberry Ln., Rougemont

Price Range of Houses mid-$200s

Number of Units 18

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 700 – 1,200 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Self-developed, community-oriented cohousing, hiking trails, community garden, community-shared tools and equipment, and common house.

Contact Information Mary Bennett, 919-452-4222, richard.mangeot@usa.net; elderberrycohousing.com

VILLAGE HEARTH COHOUSING

4900 Buttonbush Dr., Durham

Price Range of Houses Mid-$300s to high-$400s

Number of Cottages 28

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 650 – 1,150 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Self-developed and self-governed; 55+ LGBT-focused (friends and allies welcome) intentional neighborhood; large, welcoming front porches; community-oriented with large common house, gourmet kitchen, craft room, laundry room; workshop; clustered accessible cottages on 15 acres; walking trails and community garden; 15 minutes from downtown Durham. Contact Information 561-714-8009; villagehearthcohousing.com cm

Connect Explore Challenge Build

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Duke University is a welcoming community of older adults who share a love of learning. While our members are diverse in their backgrounds and interests, they enjoy exploring new and favorite topics together. Our program offers 200+ courses annually, online and in person. OLLI members discover new friends, volunteer opportunities and a renewed passion for life. For more information, visit learnmore.duke.edu/olli

development updates

Updates on developments, real estate and future projects

Compiled by LIZA SMITH

olfspeed Inc. celebrated a pivotal moment with the topping out ceremony of the $5 billion John Palmour Manufacturing Center for Silicon Carbide in Siler City. The facility, poised to produce 200 mm silicon carbide wafers, is a testament to Wolfspeed’s commitment to driving innovation in semiconductor technology. Sen. Thom Tillis praised the investment at the ceremony, affirming North Carolina’s businessfriendly environment. With phase one slated for completion by the end of 2024, the project promises to revolutionize the energy sector and bolster economic growth in North Carolina. 

ABOVE 20 lots in Chatham Park were recently acquired by an LLC tied to David Weekley Homes of Texas for a substantial investment of over $2 million, propelling the development of residential community Encore at Chatham Park.

Innovative Construction Group LLC, a subsidiary of PulteGroup Inc., is set to establish a new manufacturing facility in Siler City with an estimated $39.8 million investment. The Florida-based company plans to occupy approximately 46 acres at the Chatham-Siler City Advanced Manufacturing Site . Nearly $3 million in state and local incentives have been approved for the initiative. The company estimates an economic impact of $463.2 million, and plans to bring more than 150 jobs by 2029, offering an expected salary 5.3% above the county average.

A dynamic mixed-use development positioned on the Wake-Chatham border gains traction as Charlotte-based Beacon Partners acquires 83 acres in eastern Chatham County for $11.6 million. This purchase, averaging $140,000 per acre, fuels the expansion of Apex Gateway – a 375-acre project on Apex’s western edge. Directed by Walker Gorham, Beacon’s Triangle expansion lead, this acquisition forms a crucial part of the project’s second phase, which will focus on restaurant and retail space. Phase one’s site work on 132 acres is expected to conclude by spring, with three buildings set for completion by summer.

20 lots in Chatham Park were recently acquired by an LLC tied to David Weekley Homes of Texas for a substantial investment of over $2 million. This acquisition propels the development of Encore at Chatham Park, a distinctive residential community crafted for retirees that offers an array of premium amenities including serene walking trails, a swimming pool and tennis courts, promising an appealing blend of leisure and activity. With homes priced between $389,000 and $551,900, and floor plans ranging from 1,467 to 3,248 square feet, prospective residents can anticipate upscale living tailored to their preferences.

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An LLC tied to Durham-based self-storage firm Lindsey Self Storage Group is investing millions into three units across Siler City. While the plan for these specific properties – which total over $4 million – remains undisclosed, this development aligns with Siler City’s evolving landscape.

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners approved farmland preservation grants for three farms in Chatham County totaling totaling 287 acres. These grants are the first of their kind from the newly established Chatham Agricultural Preservation and Development Trust Fund –a fund initiated in October 2022 to support agricultural preservation and development in the county. The grants, awarded to Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC), are contingent upon TLC securing matching grant funds. In addition, the commissioners awarded a $75,000 organizational support grant to TLC to lend additional support to farmland preservation efforts in Chatham County.

Starting July 1, 2024, TriRiver Water will provide all water and wastewater services for the Town of Pittsboro and the City of Sanford. “TriRiver Water not only symbolizes our commitment to the health and sustainability of the three rivers in our region, it also embodies our dedication to providing high quality water and wastewater services to all of our customers, regardless of their location,” says Rebecca Wyhof Salmon, mayor of Sanford. cm

barham & donaldson

By CELIA FUNDERBURK

Brittany Barham and Northwood High School graduate Lyle Donaldson’s story began with a first date at an oyster bar on July 18, 2022, one they both remember being filled with many laughs, smiles and firsts. They instantly connected over their shared love for family, and the rest was history. Eight months later, on a trip with their families to Surf City, North Carolina, Lyle took Brittany out for a boat ride and asked her to marry him.

Brittany and Lyle tied the knot at Hanks Chapel United Church of Christ in Pittsboro

Sept. 9, 2023, the third generation of Lyle’s family to marry at the church. The couple honored Lyle’s late father, Mark Donaldson, by leaving a spot open for him as the best man during their photos and ceremony. They also wore matching patches from his favorite shirt sewn into Lyle’s tie and Brittany’s wedding dress.

The day’s heavy storms knocked power out at the church that morning, but the rain stopped and the power returned just 10 minutes before the ceremony, a blessing the couple attributes to their loved ones in heaven helping them celebrate the day. Lyle and Brittany believe the rain on their wedding day brought good luck, as they were surrounded by their closest family and friends and enjoyed a beautiful ceremony.

The festivities continued with a reception at The Evermore where guests danced the night away and indulged in cake from The Phoenix Bakery

Lyle is the owner and president of Donaldson Funeral Home & Crematory, and Brittany is a first grade teacher with Wake County Public Schools. The couple resides in Pittsboro. cm