Chatham Magazine February / March 2022 by Triangle Media Partners

32 Local Love Stories 44 A Northwood Teacher’s Poetry Journey February/March 2022 vol. 5, no. 4

Ca SuOur A m mmnnua p l Pa G e ge u r 58 id e

PASS THE BOTTLE The Skelton family – Harry Skelton Jr., 15, Caroline Skelton and Page Skelton – enjoy their mom and pop (and son) business in Pittsboro.

The

SPICE LIFE

A DASH OF CACKALACKY GOES A LONG WAY IN PITTSBORO

Page 48

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022 CHATHAMMAGAZINENC.COM P U B LIS H E R/ V IC E P R E S I D E N T

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LETTER FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

Promise of Spring

y younger daughter celebrates her birthday on Valentine’s Day. Though it’s not a public holiday, it’s a sweet reminder to stop and show your affection to those whom you love. On page 32, you’ll find a story about two couples who’ve each been together for more than a half-century. Larry Autry still looks at his wife, Avis Autry, with an adoring glow. They’ve been married for 64 years. Paul Messick Jr. and Sally Messick make a good team, each crediting the other for their happy partnership of 51 years. Love is more than romance. David Eskelund and Kristi Eskelund’s family seems to have an endless supply of warmth for their large family and extensive network of friends. See inside their welcoming Siler City homestead on page 78. For Harold P. Freeman, a sixth-generation descendant of one of Pittsboro’s earliest successful Black settlers, love of humanity calls him to explore his family’s ancestry and to apply what he learns to his own long career in oncology. Trace his family’s history on page 40. Love is boundless for Terrence Foushee, an English teacher at Northwood High School, who was encouraged by one of his own high school teachers to tap into his passion for poetry. Read more about him on page 44. Troy Ennis discovered his love of football as a Northwood High School freshman. Now the former linebacker’s goal to return to the team and one day play at the college level drives him to beat cancer. He is one of about 200 kids a year in the U.S. to be diagnosed with a rare bone cancer called Ewing sarcoma. Follow his inspirational journey on page 72. We are past the winter solstice, and our days are getting longer. The promise of spring is not far, and love, in one form or another, springs eternal. CM

Anna-Rhesa Versola  rhesa@chathammagazinenc.com

THE COVER Photo by John Michael Simpson 4

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

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CONTENTS

FEATURES

28 On The Road Again A travel expert shares her picks for spring road trips 32 Everlasting Love Two couples share their stories of how they met and their more than 50 years of marriage 40 The Legacy of Lewis Freeman A descendant of a notable Chathamite reflects on race in America 44 The Write Stuff A Pittsboro teacher waxes poetic in time for World Poetry Day on March 21 48 The Secret’s in the Sauce A local family continues to grow its brand 54 Camp Out Two local families check out an upscale camp option

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

58 Summer Camp Guide There’s a camp in the Triangle for every kid’s interest from sports and science to art and engineering

24 Who’s Who in Town & County Government Meet Theresa Thompson, Pittsboro Planning Director

72 Keeping His Eye on the Ball A high school football player tackling cancer hopes to return to the field

94 Here We Grow Again Commercial real estate updates, plus a look at upcoming projects 96 Wedding Kennedy & Ottman

78 Home is Where the Heart Is Following tours around the world, a former military family settles down in Chatham

PEOPLE & PLACES

10 Chatham 250 Grand Finale 11 Women of Achievement Luncheon

DEPARTMENTS

4 Letter from the Managing Editor

12 Pittsboro Rotary Club’s Trike Rodeo

8 Five Events Events in February and March you won’t want to miss

14 The Sycamore at Chatham Mills opening

20 Noted

18 Reindeer Run 5K

16 Death Faire

PHOTO COURTESY OF FEARRINGTON FOLK ART SHOW

Inside an artist’s booth at the Fearrington Folk Art Show.

Fearrington Folk Art Show

FEB. 19-20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s back! The 18th annual Fearrington Folk Art Show is an opportunity to meet self-taught folk artists inspired by the spirit of raw vision, naïve art and primitivism. The two-day event brings together some of the most interesting work of outsider art, like whimsical paintings, sculptures, pottery and more. Admission is $5 (cash only) at the door. fearrington.com/fearrington-folk-artshow

FIVE EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS Compiled by Anna-Rhesa Versola

Make Mead with Fruit

FEB. 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Starrlight Mead in Pittsboro offers a new intermediate class on making melomels – mead with fruit – which can range from dry wine-like meads to “fruit bombs.” Learn when to add fruit during the fermentation process and how to resolve issues with pectin haze during a class at The Plant, which will include tastings. Attendees must have a basic understanding of home mead-making. Registration is required, and all attendees must be 21 or older. starrlightmead.com

Black Tie & Tails Ball

FEB. 26, 7-11 p.m. Dust off a tuxedo or glittery evening gown for Carolina Tiger Rescue’s 15th annual gala at Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club in Durham. The event will benefit approximately 50 tigers, lions, cougars, caracals, bobcats and more at the nonprofit wildlife sanctuary in Pittsboro. An online auction will be available for those

who are unable to attend the ball in person. carolinatigerrescue.org

Wham Bam! Music Festival

MARCH 10-12, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. In its inaugural year, this three-day music festival offers ticket holders an opportunity to experience a virtual world set in 2042 at the Shakori Hills Community Arts Center. Featured performers include The Disco Biscuits and Papadosio, and there will be electronic music, jam bands and video games. Attendees must be 18 or older. whambamfestival.com

Leprechaun Dash 5K/10K

MARCH 12, 8:30 a.m. Start your St. Patrick’s Day at the Chatham YMCA and run in the inaugural Leprechaun Dash! Proceeds from the race will help support Chatham kids through funding after-school programs and scholarships. Participants can register online and will receive a race T-shirt. runsignup.com/Race/NC/ Pittsboro/YMCA CM

EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE; CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS PRIOR TO ATTENDING. 8

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PEOPLE & PLACES

1 Vince Sanabria.

Dazzling Night

2 Jon Spoon and Scarlett.

BY CC KALLAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA Chatham 250 went out with a bang for its final event, the Grand Finale Fireworks

Display in downtown Siler City on Nov. 13. Professional pyrotechnics company Hale Artificier launched fireworks from the Wren Family Estate across from the Siler City Fire Department. Numerous events held throughout 2021 that celebrated our county’s 250-year anniversary were made possible by volunteers, committee co-chairs Carl E. Thompson, Renee Paschal and Lendy Carias, and sponsors including Chatham Hospital, Bold Construction, Mosaic at Chatham Park, Duke Energy and Mountaire Farms. CM 10

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

3 Denis de St. Aubin Jr. and Lydia Hartung. 4 Jon Baughman (on bass), Vincent Parham (on drums) and Eck McCanless (vocalist). 5 Eileen Williams, Addie Meeks, 11, and Chana Meeks.

PEOPLE & PLACES

1 Chatham Magazine’s Chris Elkins, WoA 2021 honoree Paula Brown Stafford, 2018 honoree Karen Howard and Chatham Magazine’s Lucinda Poole.

Women of Achievement Luncheon BY ANNE TATE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Chatham Magazine, Chapel Hill Magazine and Durham Magazine honored the 2021 Women of Achievement at The Carolina Inn in October 2021. Guests enjoyed prosecco, coffee and lunch while networking with fellow community leaders, honorees past and present, and Triangle Media Partners’ staff, including COO Rory Kelly Gillis and Vice President Ellen Shannon. The event was made possible by Hendrick Subaru Southpoint, Wake Radiology UNC REX Healthcare, Aesthetic Solutions, Edward Jones, Posh the Salon and ELEVATE by Longfellow. CM

2 Triangle Media Partners’ Marie Muir, WoA 2021 honoree Dana Iglesias and Durham Public Schools' Sheena Cooper. 3 WoA 2018 honoree Tami Schwerin and 2021 honoree Maria Parker-Lewis.

2021

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PEOPLE & PLACES

Let’s Go Ride a Trike

PHOTOS COURTESY OF PITTSBORO ROTARY CLUB

The Pittsboro Rotary Club partnered with the town to make the annual street fair a success on Oct. 30. A highlight of the event was the club’s Trike Rodeo where participants raced along Hanks and Credle streets as attendees enjoyed food vendors, children’s activities and local arts and crafts booths. All proceeds were reinvested into the community. CM

1 Sue Merritt and Katy McReynolds. 2 Vicki Newell. 3 Jay Williams and Coleman Walker. 4 Kathie Russell, Chris Kennedy and Katie Walker. 5 Mark Barroso and Katy McReynolds. 12

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

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PEOPLE & PLACES

Raising the Steaks Longtime Pittsboro restaurateurs Greg Lewis and Maria ParkerLewis opened The Sycamore at Chatham Mills in June. Located at 480 Hillsboro St., the fine dining restaurant features dry-aged and prime steaks and a full bar with classic and contemporary cocktails. Former owners of the Pittsboro Roadhouse, the couple also own the adjacent Forest Hall at Chatham Mills wedding venue and have a dedicated kitchen in Chatham Mills for 39 West Catering. CM

1 Michael Smith, Jay Werth and Chreatha Alston. 2 Randi Markowitz and Katy McReynolds. 3 Randy Voller and Bill Crawford. 4 Ashlie Campbell and Shana O’Leary. 5 Former Mayor Jim Nass, The Sycamore co-owner Greg Lewis and Chatham Chamber of Commerce’s Cindy Poindexter. 6 Sam Rauf, Ann Fitts and Connolly Walker. 7 Sharon Annette Roberson and Sheriff Mike Roberson. 14

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Gone, But Not Forgotten BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA Abundance NC held its sixth annual Death Faire on Oct. 30 to

celebrate and remember the lives of departed loved ones at The Plant on Lorax Lane in Pittsboro. Activities began with sessions of healing through art, music, writing and storytelling. Presenters and moderators included heart2heart, Living Arts Collective, artists Aubrey Griffith-Zill and Bruce Rozeboom, Diali Cissokho and Psalms White, Dori Ann Dupré, Andrea Saccone Snyder and Frank Phoenix. Meals were provided by Copeland Springs Farm & Kitchen and Angelina’s Kitchen. Chatham-based keynote speaker Tamira Cousett offered her perspective of looking at grief through the lens of our ancestors. The all-day event wrapped up with a New Orleans-style funeral parade led by the Bulltown Strutters, an inspiring lineup of poets and an after-party featuring curated house music by BEXXIE. CM

1 Elise Crawford and Teagan Williams. 2 Susan Pizzo and Trevor Pougnet. 3 Tanya Garcia. 4 Gabriel Moorhead. 5 Tammie Zhao, Amanda Bennett, Zack Roberson and Alexander Percy. 6 Eric Roberts. 7 Paul Nicholson.

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PEOPLE & PLACES

Run, Run, Rudolph

TEXT BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CC KALLAM

After skipping the race in 2020, the 17th annual Reindeer Run 5K returned to the Central Carolina Community College campus in Pittsboro on Dec. 11. Registration fees benefited the Chatham County Partnership for Children,

a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children. More than 700 participants registered to race along the USA Track & Field-certified course. A new addition to the event – the Polar Olympics – was available for younger participants to stop at stations along the route to perform different activities. Finishers received medals from Rudolph and his helpers. CM 1 Don Lein gets ready to announce the start. 2 Chela Tu and Cypress Irons-Tu, 6 months. 3 Jesse Sikes and Wiley Sikes. 4 Chatham County Sheriff Mike Roberson. 5 Jerry Lux directs some of the youngest racers. 6 Bill Alston.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

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NOTED. ARTS & CULTURE On Nov. 25, Frances Gaillard,

15, (left) and Meredith “Mere” Gaillard, 14,

jumped rope in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. PHOTO COURTESY JANE GAILLARD The sophomore and freshman at Northwood High School are members of YMCA Super Skippers and Team USA. The sisters were selected by Jumpers United for Macy’s Parade to perform along the 2.8-mile course with more than 100 other jumpers nationwide. The Chatham Arts Council, in partnership with the NC Arts Council, announced its 2021 Grassroots Arts Grants recipients in November. The seven organizations that will share the $11,000 include the Chatham Artists Guild, Chatham County

WHAT WE’VE HEARD AROUND OUR TOWNS ...

North Carolina-based honky-tonk-infused rock band Sarah Shook & the Disarmers released their latest album “Nightroamer” on Feb. 18. With her vocals and rhythm guitar, singer-songwriter Sarah Shook leads the quartet of Eric Peterson (lead guitar), Aaron Oliva (bass), Jack Foster (drums) and Adam Kurtz (pedal steel). The new record, produced by three-time Grammy nominee Pete Anderson, features 10 PHOTO COURTESY SARAH SHOOK & THE DISARMERS new songs.

Bold Construction partnered with the Clean Jordan Lake project to clean part of Jordan Lake’s shoreline on Nov. 19. In under two

PHOTO COURTESY KARA LUSK DUDLEY. LARRY ROSS (ABOVE LEFT) AND MARY REAVES.

hours, the group collected more than 15 bags of trash.

On Dec. 9, the Home Builders Association of

Remembrance Coalition-Chatham, Jordan-

Durham, Orange

Matthews Arts Foundation, Pittsboro

and Chatham

Elementary School with NC Arts in Action,

Counties raised

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LET US KNOW WHAT YOU'VE HEARD! EMAIL NOTED@CHATHAMMAGAZINENC.COM 20

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

seven Chatham County seniors through the Council’s Meals on Wheels program. More than 100 volunteers work together to serve approximately 80 seniors, five days a week, through Meals on Wheels.

GIVING BACK

Partnership for Children, Community

and StreetSigns Center for Literature and Performance. Funds are typically used for program or operating expenses to help organizations fulfill their missions.

Compiled by Anne Tate

PHOTO COURTESY BOLD CONSTRUCTION

On Dec. 6, Chatham County public information officer Kara Lusk Dudley teamed up with Alan Russo of the Chatham County Council on Aging to deliver meals to

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

$17,695 during its annual Casino PHOTO COURTESY OF HBA DOC Night and Auction event. All funds will go toward the HBA DOC Scholarship Program to help high school graduates in Durham, Orange and Chatham counties pursue higher education in the construction industry.

NOTED Mosaic at Chatham Park dedicated its stage to

local bluegrass legend Tommy Edwards, who died in May at 75 from pancreatic cancer. Performers at the dedication event in October included Shay Martin Lovette, Chatham Rabbits and the Bluegrass Experience – the band Tommy led for 50 years. MOSAIC developer Kirk Bradley presented the dedication plaque to Tommy’s wife, Cindy Edwards, naming the venue Tommy Edwards Memorial Stage. 

PHOTO BY CC KALLAM

For the second year, Carolina Meadows residents donated more than $500,000 to an employee appreciation fund for over 500 staff members. On Dec. 10, workers received checks in amounts based on hours worked and how long they’ve been with the company.

PHOTO COURTESY MARYRACHEL BOYD

IT’S AN HONOR Chatham Magazine

publisher Chris Elkins joined the Chatham Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors. She will serve as the membership and marketing committee chair.

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Three young Chatham residents from Goldston won awards at the N.C. State Fair Dairy Show’s junior dairy cattle division in October. Dennet Withington showed off his 5-year-old Guernsey cow, Cuba, winning Supreme Champion, Grand Champion and Senior Champion. Lilly Withington won Reserve Grand Champion with her 5-yearold cow, Evi, while Meadow Withington placed first in the Aged Cow Class with her 4-year-old cow, Bailey.

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

NOTED

IN OUR SCHOOLS In October, the U.S. Department of Education awarded Central Carolina Community College a more than $2 million grant to increase student success across its three campuses in Chatham, Lee and Harnett counties. The money, which is part of the Title III Strengthening Institutions program, will be disbursed over the next five years. A portion of the grant will go toward the James French Dreamkeeper Student Emergency Fund to provide financial assistance to students facing unforeseen circumstances. The grant will also support improvement to student onboarding and advising, academic customer service and administrative processes. On Oct. 30, CCCC’s men’s and women’s cross-country teams won the National Junior College Athletic Association Region X Cross Country Championships.

Chatham residents Britt Lehman (right), Kyle Howarth and Eddy Giron Dominguez

helped lead the men’s team to victory in Axton, Virginia. The PHOTO COURTESY CCCC women’s top runners did not include Chatham residents. The Central Carolina Community College Foundation, a nonprofit established to provide additional resources to the college and to assist students through scholarships and grants, received a grant from the Pentair Foundation in December. The foundation will use the money to run a summer STEM academy for middle schoolers. BIZ BRIEFS Hilary Pollan, lead coordinator for the Chatham 250 anniversary project, moved

with her husband to Montevideo, Uruguay, in January for a six-month term to begin her new career as a professional facilitator. “During all our Chatham 250 meetings over the last 18 months, I discovered that my passion is facilitating groups through the process of defining their shared goals, collectively making decisions and orienting toward actions – as we have done with Chatham 250,” she says. Pam Fulk retires after

19 years as Carolina Tiger Rescue’s executive director. She oversaw the sanctuary’s growth and helped it achieve Global Federation of Sanctuaries accreditation. Since her arrival in 2003, the organization refocused its mission to rescue and has provided forever homes to 87 animals. On Feb. 26, she celebrated her career at the annual Black Tie and Tails Ball.

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Relax, B our

The Creative Goat moved from its original East Street location in Pittsboro to Thompson Street in January to expand its

workshop offerings and custom work, in addition to selling art supplies from arts and crafts brands including Black Lotus Glitter & Epoxy and Dixie Belle. Shannon Media, Inc., publisher of Chatham

Magazine, is now Triangle Media Partners and has added a digital marketing division, according to Founder and Chairman Dan Shannon. “To reflect our expansion and broader range of integrated marketing products and services,” he says, “we decided the new name better describes what we do. We’ve been thinking for a little while about changing our corporate name, but the recent launch of our Triangle Digital group prompted us to make the switch now.”

“Triangle Digital Partners is the new digital marketing group that works with clients to reach their ideal target market anywhere, at any time, on any device,” says TDP President Rory Gillis. “We’ve been providing digital marketing services to many clients for several years, but given their expanding needs and a growing customer list it requires a full-time, dedicated team.” Founded in 2006, Triangle Media Partners publishes Chapel Hill Magazine, Durham Magazine, DPAC’s Broadway Series programs and Heart of NC Weddings. Also, the company hosts local “foodie” events, including TASTE and Sip+Savor. “This is a corporate reorganization and a name change, not a change in local ownership,” says Dan, who owns Triangle Media with Ellen Shannon and Rory Gillis.

IN MEMORIAM Gregory “Greg” Alexander Hubbard

of Pittsboro, an information technologist at GlaxoSmithKline, PHOTO COURTESY died on Dec. 16, 2021, RHONDA HUBBARD BEATTY at 54. Many described him as the “best boss ever” and marveled at his memory and organizational skills. Greg, who was a master of dad jokes, was devoted to coaching his children in soccer, cooking meals for family and friends, working on endless home improvement projects and gardening. Greg is survived by his wife of 26 years, Alicia White Hubbard and children Brandon Hubbard and Juliana Hubbard. CM

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Donut.

Theresa has a bachelor’s degree in community and regional planning from Appalachian State University.

WHO’S WHO

IN TOWN & COUNTY GOVERNMENT THERESA THOMPSON STEPS INTO HER NEW ROLE AS PITTSBORO’S PLANNING DIRECTOR BY CHRIS VITIELLO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Planning Director and her husband, Bryan Thompson, moved to Chatham County in 2013 and live in Siler City with their daughters, Taylor Thompson, 13, and Alex Thompson, 9, their dogs, Mango, Boomer and Onchow, and their cats, Guster and ittsboro

Theresa Thompson

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

What is your background? What planning work did you do before you came to Pittsboro? I have 15 years of experience in planning. After starting my career as the planning director in Montgomery County, North Carolina, [I also was] the planning director for Lillington and planning supervisor in Moore County, [both in North Carolina]. I’ve deeply enjoyed each of my prior positions, and I’m very happy to return to municipal planning, particularly within a growing and vibrant community here in Chatham County. What is a typical workday like for you? As you might imagine, with the rate of growth and development activity within Pittsboro’s planning jurisdiction, a “typical” workday isn’t always that typical. The types of issues that occur on a daily basis are both challenging and exciting. As I am still new in this position, a good amount of attention is given to reviewing, creating and updating application and workflow processes and building a planning staff that can help meet these challenges in the most effective and efficient ways possible. What kinds of civic needs concern you the most? Workforce/affordable housing is an ongoing community concern. The Pittsboro area is a highly desired

location for residential and commercial development. While this offers opportunities for our residents and businesses, it also represents a challenge for meeting the needs of low- to moderate-income families. Affordable housing is a topic of ongoing discussions within the community, with the town’s administration and among the Board of Commissioners. What are the current planning priorities for Pittsboro? What are the active projects on your desk at the moment? There are really too many to name. We are easily assisting at least 50 different types of development permits and projects right now. Every project takes staff time to thoroughly review to ensure all standards are being met and all issues are being vetted. Then, staff analysis is relayed to the Planning Board and Board of Commissioners. From an organizational perspective, our top priorities at this time are focused on the fundamentals – providing exceptional customer service, meeting deadlines and creating a healthy work environment rooted in the FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

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TOWN GOVERNMENT

core values of trust and mutual respect. Pittsboro is changing quickly. What planning needs to be done for the city’s future? The department has several projects on the to-do list right now that offer lasting positive impacts for Pittsboro. These include updating the newly adopted Unified Development Ordinance, the Comprehensive Transportation Plan and the Land Use Plan. Each of these projects is a massive but necessary undertaking. What are Pittsboro’s biggest challenges, from a planning standpoint? Aside from working through the three projects just mentioned, our biggest challenge, from a planning

perspective, is to work with all civic and community partners to ensure that, as the town expands, it does so with easy accessibility. Amid Pittsboro’s rapid growth, our department must do what we can to keep our community feeling connected and cohesive. Amid Pittsboro’s rapid growth, our department must do what we can to keep our community feeling connected and cohesive.” – Theresa Thompson

What projects are you most excited about in the coming year? I am excited about our department’s upcoming work around the downtown area. Downtowns often serve as the social, historic, cultural and economic center of communities. With the anticipated growth of Pittsboro, preserving and strengthening our downtown can go a long way toward fostering a sense of place and personality for our unique community. CM

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ON THE

ROAD AGAIN A TRAVEL EXPERT SHARES HER PICKS FOR SPRING ROAD TRIPS WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRISTINA RILEY

Our area is surrounded by small towns and iconic attractions that many people know very little about. Here are five destinations that deserve your attention the next time you want to head out for a daytrip.

SEAGROVE

andolph County gets a lot of attention thanks to the North Carolina Zoo, but Seagrove is another excellent spot to visit in the area. Home to slightly more than 200 people, this is the handmade pottery capital of the U.S., thanks to the local clay’s rich minerals. You’ll find at least 100 potters and more than 50 studios within this small community. Start by grabbing a map from the North Carolina Pottery Center. Then drive up and down Pottery Road, designated as a scenic road by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. You can also ask the kind people at the visitors center where to go, and they’ll ask what you’re seeking. Find just about any style, including popular ModdWare and one-of-akind agateware from Eck McCanless. Speaking of Eck, he is always happy to provide a demo, which is truly a wonderful experience.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

When you get hungry, head to nearby Asheboro for a meal at The Table. The farmhousestyle restaurant keeps things as local as possible and also makes the best cinnamon rolls in central North Carolina. If you need another option, don’t count out the legendary fried chicken at Magnolia 23.

BEAUFORT

he Crystal Coast, located between Wilmington and the Outer Banks, is another incredible daytrip. In this stretch of coastal byways is Beaufort, a wonderful town full of charm and history. Take time to walk down the boardwalk that runs parallel to Front Street. The views of Taylor’s Creek and boats docked in the marina provide for a beautiful backdrop. Learn about the area’s 300year history at the Beaufort Historic Site and at the North Carolina Maritime Museum. It is the third oldest town in the state and was originally a fishing village. Beaufort offers one of the easiest ways to see wild horses in North Carolina. You can sometimes see them from the mainland as they graze and roam the inlets and islands of the Rachel Carson Reserve. You can also kayak or hire a boat to take you across the creek and get a closer look. Another option from Beaufort is to take a ferry to Shackleford Banks, where you can see more horses and explore the iconic Cape Lookout National Seashore. After your adventures, enjoy a refreshing meal at Moonrakers in the Beaufort Historic District. The restaurant has some of the best views of Beaufort from its rooftop and a great local beer

ABOVE The wide, flat trails at Medoc Mountain State Park make an excellent daytrip for hikers with young kids. OPPOSITE PAGE Eck McCanless is a Seagrove potter who specializes in agateware. Enjoy a small plate of baked shrimp with coconut and pineapple at Moonrakers.

selection. Start your meal off with a delicious appetizer of whipped feta, and ask about the local catch of the day. Make sure to browse its extensive wine list with more than 90 selections – the restaurant earned an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator magazine.

HALIFAX COUNTY

his county northeast of the Triangle is home to important North Carolina history and has lots of opportunities for outdoor adventures. Start in the county seat, Halifax, which is partly responsible for the “First in Freedom” state license plates that adorn our cars today. That’s because the Halifax Resolves, which ordered North Carolina’s delegation to

the second Continental Congress, was signed here on April 12, 1776. You can learn about this historic happening at the Halifax State Historic Site in town. The Underground Railroad Trail, another Halifax landmark, has a site here and at two other spots in the county. One of the other locations is at the Roanoke Canal Museum and Trail. Here you’ll find information about the enslaved people who built the canal, which ended up serving as an escape route for those seeking freedom. History is just one piece of what makes the county special. The Sylvan Heights Bird Park is an 18-acre, primarily outdoor aviary with more 2,000-plus exotic waterfowl and birds. You can even feed flamingos and other birds in a designated area. 

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Medoc Mountain State Park is also in Halifax County, spanning 3,900 acres with more than 10 miles of hiking trails. The majority of the trails are short and perfect for less experienced hikers or families.

WILSON

T ABOVE The whirligigs have reflective material on them and light up at night. BELOW The world’s oldest longleaf pine can be found in Weymouth Woods and is thought to be more than 474 years old.

his city, less than an hour east of Raleigh, is known for the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park and Museum. The 2-acre park is in the heart of downtown and features 30 kinetic sculptures. Each one was built by local farm machinery repairman Vollis Simpson, who used various discarded parts to tell a story of life in eastern North Carolina. Walk around this unique place, and you’ll see milkshake mixers, ceiling fans, bicycles and road signs that spin in the wind. You can also walk around Lake Wilson, a scenic reservoir on the outskirts of town. The Oliver Nestus Freeman Round House is also worthy of a stop. This unique piece of architecture preserves the area’s African American history, art and culture. Afterward, grab some iconic eastern North Carolina barbecue (and fried

chicken) from Parker’s Barbecue. This wood-fired barbecue restaurant has been smoking whole hogs since 1946, and there is an air of nostalgia as the entire staff wears 1950s-style paper hats. Tailgate outside The Beefmastor Inn if you arrive early enough before they open. When you’re seated, prepare for one of the state’s finest steak dinners.

SOUTHERN PINES

ead south to Moore County and Southern Pines for a wonderful getaway. Sometimes Southern Pines is overshadowed by its more famous golfing neighbor, Pinehurst, but there’s a lot to do in the area beyond the links. You can start your adventure here by searching for North Carolina’s oldest known longleaf pines at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve. Its three access points and sandy hiking trails sit just a few minutes from downtown Southern Pines. Each trail is surrounded by towering evergreens, meaning that this state park is verdant throughout the year. Downtown Southern Pines is packed with shops and great local food. Get in line for the delicious crepes coming out of Betsy’s Crepes for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, order ribs and an appetizer of Cajun crawfish fries from Chapman’s Food & Spirits. A stop at The Ice Cream Parlor Restaurant for a homemade scoop is a must. They also make great burgers if you’re looking for a full meal. Wash those incredible meals down with a frosty pint from Southern Pines Brewing Company before heading back home. CM Christina Riley is a photographer and writer at the North Carolina travel website NC Tripping, nctripping.com.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

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L O N G T I M E

L O V E S

EVERLASTING

LOVE

TWO COUPLES SHARE THEIR STORIES OF HOW THEY MET AND THEIR MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF MARRIAGE BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

THE BOY AND GIRL NEXT DOOR

arry Kent Autry, 88, wraps his fingers

Larry says, adding that after school he around his cup of coffee and smiles would walk the three miles back home sweetly at his wife in their Pittsboro with Avis. Their childhood friendship kitchen. Avis Mackey Autry, 85, leans blossomed when Larry left to attend the against the countertop and answers with University of Maryland and two years her own sly smile. later, Avis went to Madison College, now “It’s a certain kind of grin,” Avis says known as James Madison University, in of her husband of 64 years. Harrisonburg, Virginia. The way they look at each “I think I fell in love with Larry Autry, 88, other seems akin to telepathic her in ’52,” Larry says. “She hits a high note connection. The couple first came to fraternity parties, with his wife, Avis Autry, met in 1948 when Larry’s and I would go down to 85, who is an family moved into the house Harrisonburg, driving my ’49 accomplished pianist and next door to Avis’ in Perry Mercury. We dated and stayed former Point, Maryland. He was good friends for a long time. cryptographer 13, and she was 11. They … Somewhere along the line, with the National share memories of canoeing I think it was around ’56, I Security the Susquehanna River and wanted her to marry me, and Agency. playing sports with close in ’57 I asked her.” friends and neighbors whose Decades later, the couple fathers worked in nearby has three daughters, six Department of Veterans grandchildren (one of whom Affairs offices. was killed in a car accident “We were the boy next door in 2018) and two greatand the girl across the alley,” grandchildren. 

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

LONGTIME LOVES

OPPOSITES ATTRACT

arry credits their deep friendship and complementary personalities for their durable relationship. “Well, I’m kind of laidback, and she’s very forward and can do all kinds of things,” Larry says. “If you’re alike, it’s a tough road.” Larry and Avis bought their home on Hadley Mill Road in 1967 when he accepted a job transfer from Houston to North Carolina with Beckman Instruments, a scientific research instrument company in the Triangle. Larry later formed his own company servicing complex instruments and recruited Avis to take on the administrative side of their business. Avis, who has a music degree, previously worked eight years as a cryptographer for the National Security Agency. Though the pair had separate roles at work, they would take advantage of their long commutes between Chatham and Durham to talk about their family, life at home and other matters.

MUTUAL ADMIRATION

“E

very relationship has something that is key to why they’re still together,” Avis says. “I think it’s good for people to look at their relationship. I don’t think people stop and do that enough.” Avis says she takes time to remind herself of the qualities she loves most 34

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about Larry. “He’s a kind, generous and caring man who puts other people before himself,” she says. “And he admires me, I know, because he’s always talking to people about my music.” Avis was about 9 or 10 years old when she began weekly intensive music studies at the Peabody Institute, which is now part of Johns Hopkins University. “It’s a place for not only developing a specific musical talent, but you take classes the whole day. I did that every Saturday, even in the summer. … We lived about 40 miles outside of Baltimore, and I rode the train every Saturday by myself. I actually wouldn’t do it nowadays, but anyway, I walked down Charles Street and went to class all day and then walked back to the

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

I think I fell in love with her in ’52. She came to fraternity parties, and I would go down to Harrisonburg, driving my ’49 Mercury. We dated and stayed good friends for a long time. … Somewhere along the line... I wanted her to marry me...” – Larry Autry

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LONGTIME LOVES

train station. And Larry, of course, was doing his own thing at home. So we’ve learned to be together and be apart.” Larry remembers hearing the notes drift across the alley between their houses as Avis practiced and played the piano. He remains a devoted fan of her talent to this day as he attends her twice-monthly shows on Wednesday nights at The Mod in downtown Pittsboro. “Most everything we do, we’ve done together; in some cases, it can be a disaster,” Avis says. “And in some cases, it’s really good.” 36

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

One of the special things they do together is to create journey sticks for each family member. They have created 19 sticks so far. Avis researches symbolic meanings relevant to each recipient while Larry carves and decorates limbs he finds somewhere along their 46-acre property, which includes an historic mill. Larry was born in New Mexico and lived in Utah where his father worked for the Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs, teaching school on a Ute reservation. Larry still feels deeply connected to Native American beliefs

LONGTIME LOVES

indigenous to the tribe. He believes in the connectedness we have to one another and to the Earth. Objects and carvings on each stick symbolize a memorable event, experience and interest specific to the recipient of each one.

GIVE AND TAKE

“H

Paul Messick and Sally Messick have mutual respect and separate hobbies to keep their relationship solid for 51 years.

e encouraged me to go where I want, and I do the same with him,” Avis says. “But it’s just that we always seem to come back and just do it together. … It’s like we’re always taking care of each other. I suppose some people have a moving experience, you know, but we didn’t. If he was busy, I’d go on. If I was doing something, and he needed to do something, he’d go on. But if it was something that we were interested in together, we’d move together.” Avis offers another factor for success – tolerance for differences in opinion and parenting styles. “People give up too easily, too. I think that’s another thing in relationships. It’s not easy. I mean, anybody who’s been married or is married or hopes to be married, they need to realize it takes a little doing. … what some call work, but it’s not that, it’s tolerance.” Without pause, she notes, “You know, he’s slow.” Larry chuckles at Avis’ observation. “So I walk in front of him. … I’m the queen walking in front because I walk faster,” she continues. Larry laughs, “I’m not as slow as my brother.”

WHEN PAUL MET SALLY

ften, mothers know best, and for Paul S. Messick Jr. his mother was right. “My mother was the supervisor of nursing in the Duke [University

Hospital] emergency room, and one day she said there was this wonderful student nurse and that I should meet her,” says Paul. At the time, he was a 1968 Duke graduate turned UNC law student who spent his nights working at the ER room registering patients as they rolled through the door at all hours of the night. “Anyway, I met Sally. … She was working, and I was interrupting her, and my mother put me up to it and all that sort of thing. But anyway,” he says, trailing off. Sally Messick smiles across the table at Paul, who was trying not to smile back at her. “And both of us were resistant as all get out,” she says, both laughing. “It was an ‘arranged marriage’ … I think having his mother, who was my supervisor, introduce us was just awkward. You can understand that.” Still, first impressions of each other were good. “I thought she was wonderful,” says Paul, who grew up Catholic. Sally, who was raised Methodist, says, “He was a smart law student. Quiet. He smiled and was attractive.” After dating all that first year, they married in Sally’s parents’ home in Leesville, South Carolina, and honeymooned in Williamsburg, Virginia, where they return nearly every year before Christmas. This last visit, the couple celebrated their 51st anniversary on Dec. 19. Paul’s first (and only) job out of law school landed him in Pittsboro in 1971 working for Robert “Bob” Louis Gunn, whose law practice grew to include Messick in the moniker in 1972. Bob passed away in November 2020. Paul is attorney for the town where he and Sally raised their family. Sally finished her undergraduate degree at Duke and then

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

LONGTIME LOVES

completed a family nurse practitioner program at UNC.

progress. “I think that’s the main thing we have shared, all these years, is this place. I think that’s really a part of who we are,” Sally says.

MAKING ROOM

heir home reflects the evolution of their family of five children and eight grandchildren. The residence was purchased in 1973 from the estate of renowned horticulturist and landscape architect Francis Joseph LeClair, whose designs include the original rose garden at Morehead Planetarium and evergreen plantings across the entire UNC campus. The Messicks didn’t move in for another two years. They remodeled their home over the years, each successive renovation or addition marked by the birth of each child. “We didn’t move until 1975 when Jennifer was born,” Paul says. “So that was the first renovation.” Their home, like lasting relationships, is a work in

THE MOD.

YOU DO YOU

And both of us were resistant as all get out. ... It was an ‘arranged marriage’ … ” – Sally Messick

he has a theory about the secret to their successful marriage. “People have to be their individual selves in the marriage,” she says. “Neither of us is dependent on the other person for deciding who it is that we are. If that makes any kind of sense.” For example, Paul says Sally has “a vast propensity for making things” like most of the kids’ clothes, window drapes and table runners. She also has serious hobbies in woodworking, jewelry, fiber arts and pottery. A kiln sits in the room downstairs. A separate workshop outside holds a notable range of power tools and wood materials. Somewhere, there are looms and a Cricut machine.

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LONGTIME LOVES

“Once upon a time, she made a sweater,” Paul says in a low voice. “You did not like it,” Sally points out gently. “The button holes were on the wrong side,” Paul says, shaking his head. “Do you realize that men’s button holes are different?” “I didn’t make you a button-hole sweater,” Sally denies in a soft tone. “You did.” “I did not.” “You did, and the buttons were on the wrong side,” Paul insists. “It might have been a shirt,” Sally concedes. “OK, well, after that, no more,” Paul laughs along with Sally. “We made it to 51 years by arguing with each other just like this,” Sally says, acknowledging how their individual strengths and weaknesses complement each other. They both enjoy gardening.

People have to be able to be their individual selves, in the marriage. ... Neither of us is dependent on the other person for deciding who it is that we are.” – Sally Messick

Sally buys the plants, and Paul obliges by planting them for Sally without complaint. “I’m good at tearing up stuff and digging holes,” he adds.

HAPPY WIFE, HAPPY LIFE

hen their youngest child, Nicholas, was about 6 years old, Sally returned to working as a clinical nurse practitioner. Paul openly supported Sally’s personal and professional ambitions. “It was not an issue for me,” Paul says, fully aware of the competing priorities so many women still face today between staying at home with the kids and being a working professional. “I think the house and home suffered while I was not here, but I think I needed to do what it is that I was doing,” Sally says matter-of-factly. Once again, mothers know best. CM

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

THE LEGACY OF

LEWIS FREEMAN A DESCENDANT OF A NOTABLE CHATHAMITE REFLECTS ON RACE IN AMERICA

BY JON SPOON AND ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

ABOVE Dr. Harold P. Freeman is a sixth generation descendant of Lewis Freeman, an early Black settler of Pittbsoro. RIGHT Robert Tanner Freeman is another distinguished ancestor for Harold.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

orn in the same year the Revolutionary War began, Lewis Freeman was at that time considered “a free man of color” who achieved a version of the American dream – owning a home and property. In downtown Pittsboro, the small pewter green house that once belonged to the Black landowner in 1800s Chatham County still stands on Salisbury Street. The building houses Hobbs Architect. Lewis made sacrifices to accrue the wealth necessary to bring his family out of slavery and secure a future for them. His descendants have gone on to become the first Black dentist in the United States, the first Black American to serve in a presidential cabinet, and a renowned cancer surgeon whose groundbreaking research improved health care today. “This is an American story, the way I look at it,” says Harold P. Freeman, Lewis’

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

great-great-great-grandson, during a Zoom interview. “You can tell it in one family through ancestry – a man born in 1775, at the beginning of the country, the beginning of America, who was somehow free by age 25, who became wealthy through property. A man, who had a son by a slave woman, therefore, a son who was a slave, and who ultimately lost his property somehow.” Though few public records exist from the period before the county’s first major growth in 1830, there is enough evidence to piece together a history of one of the earliest successful Black settlers in Pittsboro. In 1811, Lewis built a oneroom house measuring 16 feet by 16 feet, and by the time of his death in 1847, he owned 16 town lots and 20 acres of land, a cow and a horse, according to state archives. “He was a wealthy man for his day,” Harold says. “And his wealth was lost, related to race … so it tells two sides of a story.”

Harold, who is chairman emeritus and co-founder of the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention in New York City, has been researching his family’s history for years. He believes Lewis, who could not read nor write, intended to pass on his property to his wife and son, and entrusted someone to help. “But somehow that failed,” Harold says. “And the person who was arranging the papers for Lewis ended up owning the property. Sadly, it seems like something’s not right.”

RISKS AND SACRIFICES

This is not a story about Black people; this is a story of America itself.” – Dr. Harold P. Freeman, living descendant of Lewis Freeman

In a desire to know more about Lewis, Harold reached out to Henry Louis Gates Jr., the host of a popular PBS documentary television series called “Finding Your Roots with Henry Louis Gates Jr.” “We were able to discover the ingenious way that [Lewis] invented to free his enslaved son [Waller Freeman],” states Henry in a letter to Harold. “When death set his wife free from this Earth, Lewis took pains to see that their son was set free from slavery in the South, by selling him to a friend who would free him in the North. Since it is highly unlikely that Waller would risk returning to a slave state and being illegally reenslaved, it is highly likely that Lewis knew, by taking this decision, he would never see his son again. It would take a bloody civil war nearly 30 years later to relieve other Black fathers in the South of that terrible burden.”

A CANCER ON SOCIETY Delving into his family’s history inspired Harold. He devoted his career to facing the full impact of racism and poverty on health outcomes. After hearing tales of patients whose cancer had advanced for years while they were ignored and forced to avoid treatment due to a lack of means, Harold came to understand that his patients were having worse outcomes because they were poor and they were

IN PERSPECTIVE 1775 • Approximate year of Lewis Freeman’s birth. Fighting breaks out as the Revolutionary War begins. 1776 • The signing of the Declaration of Independence. 1789 • The state of North Carolina chartered UNC. Construction begins in 1793. 1795 • UNC welcomes students and becomes the nation’s first public university, and the only one to award degrees in the 18th century. 1811 • Approximate year Lewis’ one-room home was built on Salisbury Street in downtown Pittsboro. The original structure was modified over the decades by its successive owners, according to state archives. 1814 • Lewis purchased freedom for his first wife, Maria. 1837 • Waller purchased his own freedom for $3,000 – $90,000 in today’s dollars – and $1,800 for his wife and children. 1847 • Approximate year of Lewis’ death. 1861 • Civil War begins. 1862 • Emancipation Proclamation issued; it was signed the following year. 1865 • Civil War ends. President Abraham Lincoln is assassinated. 1868 • Year of Waller’s death. 1869 • Lewis’ grandson Robert Tanner Freeman was the nation’s first Black dentist, graduating with Harvard’s first dental school class. 1964 • The Civil Rights Act of 1964 signed into law. 1966 • Great-great-grandson Robert Weaver became the nation’s first Black Cabinet member when President Lyndon B. Johnson appointed him Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. 1988 • Great-great-great-grandson Dr. Harold P. Freeman served as national president of the American Cancer Society. 2015 • Harold was inducted as one of the Giants of Cancer Care and is emeritus professor of surgery at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. He served as Chairman of the U.S. President’s Cancer Panel under three American presidents. Harold is credited with creating the patient navigation model to help eliminate disparities in health care access. 2019 • Portrait installed in the lobby of Harvard Dental School recognizing Robert Tanner Freeman. 2021 • A park, located on property once owned by Lewis, is named in his honor. CM FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

A STORIED LINEAGE

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poor because of their race. It was the cancer in our society rather than his patients that was proving most difficult to treat. “I connect all of this to Lewis Freeman,” says Harold, who trained at Memorial Sloan Kettering and spent 40 years as a surgeon in Harlem. He is internationally recognized as an authority on the interrelationships between race, poverty and cancer. In 1990, Harold pioneered the concept of patient navigation to reduce disparities in access to diagnosis and treatment of cancer, particularly among poor and uninsured people. In 2007, the Harold P. Freeman Patient Navigation Institute was established in New York City, located across the street from the New York Stock Exchange. “I wanted to cut cancer out, but the disease [racism] was so deeply entrenched in the community, I couldn’t cut it out,” Harold says. “I don’t think we can solve these issues unless you understand how they came about, the origins of things going on in politics today where there’s a need for people to understand what happened in the history of America.” CM

A copy of Lewis Freeman’s will (on the right). Lewis’ son, Waller, was manumitted in 1837 but laws at that time prevented his legal return to North Carolina to inherit property upon his father’s passing.

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

L I F E

I N S P I R E D

THE

WRITE STUFF A PITTSBORO TEACHER WAXES POETIC IN TIME FOR WORLD POETRY DAY ON MARCH 21 BY MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

errence Foushee was a high

school senior when poetry changed his life. A Chapel Hill High School teacher encouraged him to participate in a poetry showcase for Black History Month. “I wrote and performed a poem about my experience as a young Black man living in Chapel Hill in the early 2000s,” he explains. “A decent amount of students were there, and I remember my hands shaking so vigorously.” Once he recited his poem from memory, the immediate, positive feedback from the

crowd left Terrence exhilarated. “It was the first time I realized the power of reflection, and that sharing our stories can lead to revolution and real change,” he says. Today, Terrence is an English teacher and the poetry club advisor at Northwood High School and is continuously inspired by how his students utilize what they’ve learned in class. “Some of my students have used their poems as their college identity essays, to both depict the peaks and valleys in their lives and apply creative writing and performance as a skill in interaction with intergenerational groups,” he says. “I think a lot of teachers might not recognize right away that students are very socially

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

A LIFE INSPIRED

aware. They know what is going on in the world around them, and as teachers, it’s part of our job to help them navigate and equip them for the times we are living in.” Terrence encourages his students, especially those feeling frustrated by current events, to write. “Writing is such a great tool for processing emotion,” he says. “In both my classes and poetry club, I try to give students the platform to write about the things that matter to them and to use school as a venue to research and explore topics they care about.” He advocates for recognizing and validating one’s own emotions as a starting point. “This is the part that can move you into doing real work in the world, not only understanding and identifying what you think and feel, but how you can use what you read and learn to back up the poignant

points you’re making. I am here to help students connect those dots.”

FINDING HIS OWN WAY At NC A&T State University, Terrence took business classes and had big plans for a traditional career, but he felt disconnected from the poetry community he had grown so close to. He was no longer driven to learn and create. “It quickly became apparent that was not the right choice for me at the time,” he explains. Terrence took a break from school to serve with AmeriCorps, volunteering in cities like Denver and New Orleans to rebuild homes, trails and communities. “I also worked with high school-age youth, acclimating them to service work. That moment was important on my journey to both teaching and spoken word,” Terrence says. “My mom [State Senator Valerie Foushee] has always been a servant

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leader, oriented toward helping people. My time with AmeriCorps helped me realize that, like my mom, I feel the most fulfilled when helping and providing service to others.” After two years with AmeriCorps, Terrence returned to North Carolina with a clear path in mind. “I knew the next step was: ‘How do I use my passion for service work in a career?’” He first attended Durham Technical Community College, then N.C. Central University as an English education major.

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My time with AmeriCorps helped me realize that, like my mom, I feel the most fulfilled when helping and providing service to others.” – Terrence Foushee

During that time, Terrence’s close friend CJ Suitt, who was appointed Chapel Hill’s first poet laureate in November 2019, also helped Terrence renew his creative edge. Back when the pair was in high school, CJ founded Sacrificial Poets, a spoken word poetry and hiphop arts education nonprofit serving North Carolina youth, and encouraged Terrence to write his first poem that wasn’t a school assignment. “When I came back to North Carolina after AmeriCorps, CJ was hosting open mics and developing this community with some other friends and poets in the area, and I wanted to be part of it,” Terrence says. “I started writing again, and now and then would perform as well. As small as it was at that time, it was completely organic and one of the most beautiful things I had seen.” Prior to the pandemic, their events at Flyleaf Books drew upward of 100 people. Reconnecting with the poetry community meant Terrence also had the opportunity to awaken his dormant skills, not only in writing, but in teaching the power words can have – a skill he also uses with his students. “The relationships I build with my students, and giving them the tools they need to process things, are the best thing about my job.” CM

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

THE SECRET’S IN THE

SAUCE A LOCAL FAMILY CONTINUES TO GROW ITS BRAND

BY AMBER WATSON

sauce by any other name is just a sauce, and Cackalacky is no ordinary sauce. Two decades ago, Harry Page Skelton Sr.

and Caroline Lee Skelton

experimented with locally grown ingredients in their kitchen to make a sweet potato-based hot sauce with a “secret spice blend.” “We were having everyone try our yet-to-be-named

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Harry Skelton, 15, holds the sauce with his parents, Caroline Skelton and Page Skelton.

sauce creation, and one of our friends said, ‘Hey, pass me some of that Cackalacky!’ That was it. We knew immediately that was the name,” Page says. Though there’s no definitive origin for the word, “cackalacky” seems to best capture the spirit of a feisty, homegrown brand with a commitment to authentic and locally sourced ingredients, production and partners. “We deliberated over the best way to spell the name and did a little digging,” Page explains. “No one had ever

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SPICE OF LIFE

used the name Cackalacky in commerce – something I originally learned from my intellectual property professor at N.C. Central University when I was studying for my master’s in information science. So, we trademarked the name and, with the internet being relatively new at the time, were able to secure the domain.” That was about 20 years ago in Chapel Hill when Caroline was pursuing her MBA at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School. She sought input from classmates and professors about their idea to commercially produce a unique sauce complementing Southern cuisine. “My classmates and professors were instrumental in helping to incorporate the business, trademark the Cackalacky name, position the brand and execute marketing initiatives for our startup company. I utilize my MBA in our 50

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

ABOVE Page Skelton takes a jar from his son, Harry Skelton, as they pack boxes of their Cackalacky products. RIGHT The original “Cackalacky Jack” smokin’ chile pepper logo.

daily decisions and reflect on my UNC experiences often,” she says with pride about the company, now based in Pittsboro. Page admits that building brand recognition and a solid reputation takes time. He had to overcome discouragement during the first decade when people at sampling events would ask, “What’s a Cackalacky? Never heard of it.” After hundreds of sampling events from here at home to as far as Houston, New York and Albuquerque, New Mexico, people now say things like, “That’s you guys?” and “I can’t believe you trademarked that name!” Tenacity and determination helped establish a strong foothold in the market, but the heart of their business model comes from the relationships they have with a select network of small, independent North Carolina businesses from Henderson, Raleigh, Durham, Winston-Salem and Greenville. “As much as we have grown geographically, at our core, we are still

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SPICE OF LIFE

a hardworking local mom and pop (and son) operation,” Page says. “Because we use a patchwork of local makers, brewers, printers, distributors and artisans to help make our Cackalacky wares, we’ve helped create and sustain jobs all over the state.” Partnerships can yield success like Cackalacky’s Cheerwine Sweet Sauce, which is used by restaurant partners like Biscuitville (another large family-run operation) and every Food Lion in the nation that carries heat and serves ribs. Along with sweet and spicy sauces, Cackalacky offers pepper powder, spiced

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nuts and coffee beans. Their brand-new product is a lip balm made with peppermint oil, organic beeswax and hemp-derived, broadspectrum CBD extract called Cackalacky “Gooshie Lips,” a cute name Page and Caroline tossed around for years to mean “kissable lips.” The last 20 years have been “a very long-winded prologue for the Cackalacky brand story,” Page says. “Chatham County is a big piece of this story. It’s home, and both the county and our business are growing in unexpected ways with more exciting news on the horizon.” CM

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ABOVE Maesey CoughlinPignatora, 11, Ellie Aldrich, 10, and Lily CoughlinPignatora, 11. RIGHT Amy Coughlin and Andy Pignatora enjoy coffee on the couch inside one of the cabins. BELOW A Highland cow with an unintentional fashion statement.

CAMP

OUT BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

and Christina Ford of Chapel Hill take their kids – Annabel Ford, 10; Nathan Ford, 13; and Emily Ford, 17 – to check out camp and glamp options at The Farm at Piper Hill. The 100-acre farm in Silk Hope celebrates its first anniversary this spring. In addition to catching immy Ford

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

Jingles, a Belgian draft horse, stands by the Ford family at The Farm at Piper Hill in Silk Hope.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

DOWN ON THE FARM

fish in the stocked pond and hunting for old coins and artifacts with available metal detectors, visitors can extend their stay, opting to spend the night in an upscale bunkhouse, barn house, a log cabin, a furnished tent or a waterfront fishing shack. Business partners and co-owners, David Schwartz and Gary Nardilla, plan to open treehouses and more cabins in the coming year. The pair met and became friends while working in Hollywood for “Entertainment Tonight.” David, who also founded 1870 Farm in Orange County, lives in Governors Club with his veterinarian wife, Amanda McKee, while Gary resides on-site with his wife, Joyce Nardilla. Weeklong kids camps continue to follow pandemic precautions by limiting kids’ camps to 30 attendees at a time. Once restrictions are lifted, Gary and David hope to increase camp capacity to 90-100 kids per week. CM

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

TOP Amy Coughlin and Andy Pignatora. MIDDLE Emily Ford, 17, Christina Ford and Anabel Ford, 10. BOTTOM Amy Coughlin greets Hamlet the pig.

XXXXXXX

ABOVE Ellie Aldrich, 10, Maesy CoughlinPignatora, 11, and Lilly CoughlinPignatora, 11, give Jingles some hay. BELOW Jimmy Ford casts off with his son, Nathan Ford, who turns 14 on Feb. 11.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER

CAMP GUIDE THERE’S A CAMP IN THE TRIANGLE FOR EVERY KID’S INTEREST FROM SPORTS AND SCIENCE TO ART AND ENGINEERING

1870 FARM CAMP 1224 Old Lystra Road-Chapel Hill 919-590-4120; 1870Farm.com

BALLET SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL 1603 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill 919-942-1339; balletschoolofchapelhill.com

Award-winning program set on 17 acres that incorporates animal care, outdoor games and play, fishing, crafts and farm entrepreneurship in addition to chicken races, gem mining, gardening, hayrides, cooking, fort making, outdoor survival and more. Ages 3-13 plus CIT 14-16 Dates Visit website for more information. Price $250-$455

Offers a variety of classes, dance camps and workshops in creative arts, ballet, modern, contemporary jazz, rhythm tap, hip-hop, musical theater and DanceAbilities, a workshop for children with special needs. Ages 3-17 Dates June 13-Aug. 13; frequency and times vary. Price Call or visit website.

AMERICAN DANCE FESTIVAL 721 Broad St., Durham 919-797-2871; americandancefestival.org American Dance Festival’s Samuel H. Scripps Studios hosts a variety of camps taught by expert faculty to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of dance. Ages 6-17 Dates Weekly in June and July. Visit website. Price Varies by camp. Visit website. ART ADVENTURES AT THE ACKLAND ART MUSEUM 101 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill 919-966-5736; ackland.org The sessions provide kids with a guided view of art in the Ackland’s galleries, followed by the opportunity to create take-home treasures using newly learned art-making techniques. Materials are provided. Registration required, sign up online. Ages 6-9 Dates May 14, June 11, July 19, Aug. 13; two sessions at 10:30 a.m.-noon, 1-2:30 p.m. Price Free for museum members, $5 per session for nonmembers. 58

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BARRISKILL DANCE THEATRE SCHOOL 3642 Shannon Rd., Durham 919-489-5100; barriskilldance.com; contact@barriskilldance.com Classes and dance camps/intensives in creative movement, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, conditioning, musical theater and more. Ages 3-18 Dates June 13-Aug. 12; half-day, ¾-day and full-day camps available, as well as weekly classes. Price Call or visit website. BOUNCING BULLDOGS JUMP ROPE CAMP 101 S. White Oak Dr., Durham 919-493-7992; bouncingbulldogs.org Jump rope skills designed for beginners to advanced participants, some of whom are seven-time national champions and 12time world champions. Ages 5-18 Dates Visit website. Price $45/day; $225/week

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CAMP RIVERLEA 8302 S. Lowell Rd., Bahama 210-908-7629 (winter); 919-477-8739 (summer); campriverlea.com Provides high-quality outdoor and art programs that emphasize personal growth, learning new skills, positive interpersonal relationships and appreciation for the natural world. Ages 5-12 Dates Session 1: June 13-July 1; Session 2: July 4-15; Session 3: July 18-Aug. 5. Open house June 11, 1-4:30 p.m. Price Sessions 1 and 3: $1,230; Session 2: $820 CAROLINA FRIENDS SCHOOL 4809 Friends School Rd., Durham 919-383-6602, ext. 263; cfsnc.org/summer Weekly courses in subject areas such as leadership, theater, outdoor adventures, cooking, weaving, sports, Legos, comic design, Minecraft, fashion design, “Harry Potter,” “Star Wars” and more. Ages 4-18 Dates June 20-Aug. 19; 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; extended care available from 8 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Price $320-$350/week CAROLINA TIGER RESCUE 1940 Hanks Chapel Rd., Pittsboro 919-542-4684, ext. 3006; carolinatigerrescue.org Learn in-depth information regarding the animals while getting to observe them and play games to learn about specific adaptations of the cats, complete art projects and make enriching toys for the animals. Campers watch the keepers feed and learn about vet procedures and what

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it takes to care for about 50 carnivores every day. Grades Third through 12th Dates June 20-24 and June 27-July 1 (rising 3rd-5th grade); July 11-15, 18-22 (rising middle schoolers); July 25-27 (rising 9th12th grade) Price $300, elementary and middle school camps; $150 for high school camp; before and aftercare available for additional cost. CHAPEL HILL TENNIS CLUB 403 Westbrook Dr., Carrboro 919-929-5248; chapelhilltennisclub.com Tennis instruction for beginners to advanced players, plus swimming and other sports in a fun and positive environment; advanced tennis camp available for tournament players. Ages 5-15 Dates Call or visit website. Price Call or visit website. CRESSET CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 3707 Garrett Rd., Durham 919-354-8000; cressetchristian.org STEM-focused camp. Ages Check website for more information. Dates June 6-July 15; 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; early drop-off available Price Check website for more information. DPAC – NEXT STOP BROADWAY 123 Vivian St., Durham 919-680-2787; dpacnc.com A weeklong performing arts program of classes, workshops and rehearsals focused on classic Broadway shows. Participants learn songs and choreography and create their own presentations based on shows in the upcoming DPAC season and other hit musicals. Ages 10-17 Dates July 11-15 Price Call or visit website. Registration starts early 2022. DRAWING FOR TWEENS AT THE ACKLAND ART MUSEUM 101 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill 919-966-5736; ackland.org Tweens look at selected works in the galleries and identify techniques that

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

the artists used to make them. Gallery teachers demonstrate and teach participants technical skills, which they can then apply to their own creations. A mix of drawing from works on display and creating one’s own original work is offered each session. Materials provided. Ages 10-13 Dates May 14, June 11, July 9, Aug. 13; one session at 10:30 a.m.-noon Price Museum members, free; $5 per session for nonmembers. Registration required. DUKE PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER PROGRAMS Campus Box 90700, Durham; 919-684-6259; learnmore.duke.edu/precollege/ all-programs Programs provide academically motivated students with rigorous learning experiences. A diverse course selection is designed to provide the Duke experience through cutting-edge topics featuring Duke guest speakers, researchers and resources. Subject areas include engineering, humanities, mathematics, science, social sciences and technology. Summer 2022 will feature residential, commuter, hybrid and online programs. Grades Sixth–12th Dates Vary by selected program. Price Call or visit website. DUKE SCHOOL 3716 Erwin Rd., Durham; 919-493-2642; dukeschool.org More than 50 camps available, including outdoor adventures, sports, arts and crafts, music, technology, coding, makers, community service, day camps for preschool and more. Ages 4-15 Dates June 14-July 30, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Aftercare available until 6 p.m. Price $350-$450/week DURHAM ACADEMY 3501 Ridge Rd., Durham; 919-489-3400 ext. 6114; da.org/summer Durham Academy has provided premier summer camp experiences for area families since 1982. The school utilizes

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

84 acres of campus and state-of-theart facilities with the goal of providing a summer experience for all ages that grows minds and fosters character. Join for a new program this summer – a transformative all-day camp experience that keeps campers closer to home but feeling far away as they gain independence and confidence. At the core of the program is the goal to equip campers with the tools to lead moral, happy and productive lives. Ages 4-18 Dates June 13-Aug. 5 Price Starting at $325 per session. DURHAM ARTS COUNCIL 120 Morris St., Durham; 919-560-2726; durhamarts.org Themes vary. One- and two-week cultural camps based on country themes. Flexible mini-camps also available. Campers have the opportunity to participate in clay, drawing/painting, mixed media, dance, theater and music classes. Teen intensives for ages 13-17 also available. Ages Rising K-age 17 Dates June 13-Aug. 19; day camp Price Call for inquiry. Scholarships available. DURHAM PARKS AND RECREATION 400 Cleveland St., Durham 919-560-4355; dprplaymore.org; dprcareprograms.org Offers a safe and inclusive environment where children and teens are encouraged to participate in a variety of traditional, specialty and teen camps. DPR is committed to the development of life skills through exposure to diverse activities and recreational experiences. Ages 5-12 for traditional/ specialty youth camps (must have completed kindergarten); 13-17 for traditional teen camp; 13-18 for teen MyDurham drop-in program Dates June 21-Aug. 19; youth camps, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; teen camp, 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m., teen MyDurham program, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Price Call or visit website. Registration starts March 7. 

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DURHAM BALLET THEATRE 608 N. Duke St., Durham; 919-680-4363; durhamballettheatre.org Dance and aerial camps, classes for all ages. Ages 5-14 for camps, 4 and older for classes. Dates TBA Price Call or visit website. Registration starts March 16. DURHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS – CAMP 4 RISING K Camp location TBA; check website for updates 919-560-9488; dpsnc.net/ afterschool This rising kindergartener camp offers a well-rounded summer experience. Campers explore science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Students participate in weekly STEAM-related activities, including sports, games and swimming and also explore their learning through weekly field trips at no extra cost. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. Students receive a free T-shirt. Grades Rising K students (must be 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2021) Dates June 20-Aug. 5; Closed July 4 Price $140/week for first child; $130/week for additional children in the same family. $35 registration fee per child. Limited space. DURHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS – CAMP FUNTASTIC Camp locations: Creekside Elementary, 5321 Ephesus Church Rd., Durham; Hillandale Elementary, 2730 Hillandale Rd., Durham; Spring Valley Elementary, 2051 Northern Durham Pkwy., Durham 919-560-9488; dpsnc.net/afterschool Four- or five-star licensed summer camps by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education that offer a wellrounded summer experience, including academic enrichment, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Campers are placed in ageappropriate groups as they participate

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in weekly academic and STEAM-related activities and play sports, games, swim and explore their learning through weekly educational and recreational field trips at no extra cost. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. Accepts DSS vouchers. Students receive a free T-shirt. Grades Rising first through rising sixth graders Dates June 20-Aug. 5; Closed July 4 Price $140/week for the first child; $130/ week for additional children in the same family. $35 registration fee per child. Limited spaces. EMERSON WALDORF SCHOOL 6211 New Jericho Rd., Chapel Hill 919-967-1858, ext. 143; emersonwaldorf.org Activities include art, cooking, world languages and cultures, outdoor exploration, farming, fiber arts, skateboarding, practical living skills and more. CIT program also available. Ages 4 through high school age Dates June 20-July 29; 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m.; extended care available Price $215-$350/week THE EMILY KRZYZEWSKI CENTER SUMMER CAMPS 904 W. Chapel Hill St., Durham 919-680-0308; emilyk.org/camps Join the Emily K Center and the Justice Theater Project for two weeks of drama camp. Grades Rising second through ninth graders Dates Aug. 1-12 Price $245 per week; partial scholarships available. FORGE FENCING ACADEMY AND CLUB 610 N. Duke St., Durham 919-800-7886; forgefencing.com Full-day camp of Olympic fencing and more. Beginners welcome! Ages 8-17 Dates June 13-Aug. 19 Price $290-$335

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

HILL LEARNING CENTER 3200 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-489-7464; hillcenter.org/summer Provides individualized instruction with a 4:1 student-teacher ratio in reading, writing, and math for children with learning differences. Grades Rising first through eighth Dates June 27-July 29 (closed July 4); Two session options (8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3:30 p.m. daily) Price $3,125 HOLLY HOUSE PRESCHOOL AND SUMMER CAMP 75 Cedar Run, Pittsboro 201-638-0913; hollyhousepreschool.com; hollyhouseconsulting@gmail.com A series of weeklong themed camps. Sign up for one week or all of them. Relaxed, developmentally appropriate activities. Mid-morning snack and all supplies included in fees. Themes include construction, crafts, fairy tales, gardening and cooking. Ages 4-7 Dates Weeklong camps in June and July; half-day programs from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Price Fees vary depending on camp. Contact hollyhouseconsulting@gmail.com for more information and to be notified when registration opens. INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI SCHOOL 3001 Academy Rd., Bldg. 300, Durham 919-401-4343; imsnc.org Camps provided in a safe, nurturing environment, tucked away among the trees. Enthusiastic summer camp counselors delight in engaging your young child’s creativity and imagination through music, movement, stories and exciting, hands-on activities with others in a multiage setting. Ages 3 through rising first graders Dates June 20-July 29 with partial- and fullday option Price Half- and full-day camps (8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 3 p.m.); early drop-off and late pick up available for an additional fee. Camp details and prices will be available on the website in early 2022. 

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Over 35 activities, evening programs, and out-of-camp adventures!

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C E L E B R AT I N G 2 1 Y E A R S S E R V I N G P I T T S B O R O ! Drs. Tammy Severt and Laura Jacox provide orthodontic treatment in a personalized and caring enviornment. • Highly trained staff and the most up-to-date technology • Offering Damon Braces and Invisalign • Platinum Plus Invisalign Provider for children, teens, and adults • Virtual consults available to fit your schedule

Tammy R. Severt, DDS, MS (L) Laura Jacox, DMD, PhD (R)

T H A N K YO U C H AT H A M F O R VOT I N G U S B EST O RT H O D O N T I ST ! Contact Us Today to Get Star ted on Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile! 35 Thompson Street, Pittsboro, NC 101 Conner Dr., Suite #401, Chapel Hill, NC

919.858.2864

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S E V E R T S M I L E S .C O M FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

SUMMER SAILING CAMPS

JUNIOR VET ACADEMY AT 1870 FARM 1224 Old Lystra Rd., Chapel Hill 919-590-4120; juniorvetacademy.com Weekly camps for animal lovers and aspiring vets. Ages 8-14 Dates Visit website. Price $545-$1,895 KIDZU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 201 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill; 919-933-1455 kidzuchildrensmuseum.org

AT JORDAN LAKE!

Camp favorites include weekly themes of Pirates and Princesses, Around the World, Tiny Tinkerers and more. See website for weekly themes and descriptions. Enrollment available Feb. 1 and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 3-5 and 6-11 Dates Weekly camps starting June 13; 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., drop-off starts at 9 p.m., pickup ends at 4 p.m. Price See website for details.

Have fun on the water this summer learning to sail with US Sailing Certified Instructors. • •

Children ages 9 to 15 Week Long, Full-day Sessions 9–4 M-F

MARBLES KIDS MUSEUM SUMMER CAMP 201 E. Hargett St., Raleigh; 919-857-1040; marbleskidsmuseum.org/summer-camp

Registration, schedule, and more at

carolinasailingfoundation.org A 501(c)3 Non-profit corporation

A COZY PL ACE TO GROW

Camp Marbles has long been a community favorite for its playful, fun, creative and original summer camp. The camp follows CDC guidelines and best practices for safe play, giving parents peace of mind while giving children the chance to discover, connect and make new friends. Ages 3-10 Dates June 6-Aug. 26; half-day (ages 3-6) and full-day (ages 5-10) weekly sessions Price Half-day: $165, member; $180, nonmember. Full-day: $300, member; $330, nonmember. MONTESSORI DAY SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL SUMMER CAMP 1702 Legion Rd., Chapel Hill; 919-923-3339; mdsch.org

Holly House Preschool PITTSBORO, NC

Now Enrolling for 2021-2022 School Year

• • • • •

Preschool program for ages 3.5-5 with small class size Reggio inspired, age appropriate learning activities Half day sessions with rolling admissions Nutritious snacks provided 2 acre campus with beautifully remodeled building

201-638-0913 • hollyhousepreschool.com •  64

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

The school welcomes campers for a fun-filled summer where they will have a chance to enjoy a variety of hands-on crafts and explore different activities in each session. Campers will be split into two age groups, ages 3-5 and ages 6-8. Email admin@mdsch.org for more information. Ages 3-8 Dates June 13-17, 20-24, June 27-July 1; July 11-15, 18-22, 25-29; Aug. 1-5, 8-12; 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Price $195/week MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF DURHAM 2800 Pickett Rd., Durham; 919-489-9045; msdurham.org Weekly themed camps include athletics, music, visual and performing arts, cooking, nature exploration, gardening and science. Ages 3 through rising 7th graders Dates June 13-Aug. 19 (closed week of July 4-8); half- and full-day camps Price Visit website. Registration began Jan. 26.

S U MMER CAMP G UID E

MOREHEAD PLANETARIUM SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS 250 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill; 919-962-1236 moreheadplanetarium.org/camps Encourage your child’s natural curiosity and intellectual growth by signing up for a camp at the newly renovated Morehead Planetarium & Science Center. Grades K-8 Dates Weekly from June 13Aug. 5 Price K-5 half-day camps, $170$215; full-day camps for grades 6-8, $450. Members are offered a 10% discount.

animal science and more. New extended hours at two in-person locations in both Durham and Chapel Hill, plus virtual options to experience the fun of camp from home. Ages PreK-Grade 8 Dates June 6-Aug. 19 Price Check website for details. ORANGE COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION/ENO ARTS MILL 437 Dimmocks Mill Rd., Ste. 17, Hillsborough; 919-245-2129; artsorange.org

MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE 433 W. Murray Ave., Durham General Info: 919-220-5429, ext. 405; camp reservations and membership: 919-220-5429, ext. 313; summercamp@lifeandscience.org; summercamp.lifeandscience.org Interactive, hands-on science camps with topics ranging from coding and gaming to

Diverse camps that focus on the visual, performing and literary arts. Full and partial day camps will be offered. Ages 5-18 Dates TBD Price Varies for each camp. OVERNIGHT FARM CAMP AT PIPER HILL 2340 Jessie Bridges Rd., Silk Hope; 919-590-4120; camppiperhill.com

Overnight weekend camps and weekly camps by 1870 Farm. Ages 8-13 Dates Visit website for more information. Price $255-$1,375/week PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL AT BRIAR CHAPEL 81 Falling Springs Dr., Chapel Hill 919-441-0441; primrosechapelhill.com Imaginations take flight this summer through different weekly themes that engage students in creative critical thinking while doing fun, STEAM-based projects and weekly field trips for experiential learning. Ages Grades K–5 Dates Weekly, June through August, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Price Call to inquire. SCHOOL OF ROCK CHAPEL HILL 1500 N. Fordham Blvd., Chapel Hill 919-338-1011; chapelhill.schoolofrock.com Offers one-week camps with a variety of themes, all of which end with a concert performance! 

Jump in on the Fun

BOUNCING BULLDOGS FUN + FOCUS + FRIENDS

Jump rope classes & camps for all ages For more information and to register, go to:

bouncingbulldogs.org | 919.493.7992 FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMME R C A MP G UI DE

Grades Rising third graders through rising 12th graders (see camp descriptions on website for specifics) Dates Weeks of June 27, July 11, July 25 and Aug. 8; Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Prices Varies. Call or visit website. THE SCRAP EXCHANGE 2050 Chapel Hill Rd., Durham; 919-213-1278; scrapexchange.org Offers a variety of creative reuse arts programs, classes and workshops. Can travel to camps and schools or host groups on-site. Ages 4 and older Dates June-August; frequency and times vary. Price Varies. Call or visit website. SEVEN STAR KUNG FU ACADEMY 11312 US Hwy. 15-501, Ste. 306, Chapel Hill; 984-2340717; chris@sevenstarkungfuacademy.com Half-day camps include outings to local parks, a kung fu lesson, cultural lessons including music and Chinese drumming, and a game day with dodgeball. Ages 6 and older Dates Weekly, half-day camps from 8 a.m. to noon; check website for dates Price $225 per week

THE STUDIO SCHOOL OF DURHAM 1201 W. Woodcroft Parkway, Durham 919-967-2700; studioschooldurham.org Offers the opportunity to discover, explore and engage in handson learning all summer long, with a variety of themes for children that are guaranteed to spark their creativity in a safe and naturally inspiring environment. Ages 5-8 and 9-12 Dates June 20-July 29 Price Visit website for details. SUMMER @ SAINT MARY’S 900 Hillsborough St., Raleigh 919-424-4028; sms.edu Girls have the opportunity to explore new interests, build fundamental skills, pursue artistic dreams and expand academic horizons. Whether creating a charcoal drawing, learning to be a leader, strengthening their writing skills or participating in healthy competition on the playing field, participants will enjoy a summer full of new friends and experiences in an all-girl setting as they master skills and grow in confidence. Registration opened on Dec. 15. Grades Rising grades K-10 Dates June 20-24, June 27-July 1, July 11-15, July 18-22 and July 15-29. Residential, full- and half-day and extended care options are available. Price $165-$325 per session, $995 for residential Ms. Nancy’s Manners Camp and $1,195 for residential Innovators Hub program. SUMMER SAILING CAMPS AT JORDAN LAKE Crosswinds Boating Center, 565 Farrington Rd., Apex info@carolinasailingfoundation.org; carolinasailingfoundation.org

CAMP KANATA • CAMP SEAFARER • CAMP SEA GULL

Beginner and intermediate classes taught by US Sailing Certified Instructors. Weeklong, full-day sessions, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Only 10-12 students per class, so register early. Have fun on the water this summer learning to sail! Ages 9-15 Dates See carolinasailingfoundation.org for schedules and online registration. Price $365 per student per week. SUMMERSCAPE AT THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF RALEIGH 7005 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh 919-848-1545, msr.org

Day and Overnight Camps Spring/Fall Weekend Camps Family Camps

CampKanata.org • SeaGull-Seafarer.org 66

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Seven weeks of full- and half-day camp sessions for students ages 15 months to grade 8. With a range of offerings including arts, athletics, the sciences, strategy games, robotics, outdoor adventure and more, there is something for everyone. Expert instructors and access to excellent facilities on the school’s two beautiful campuses makes for an ideal summer experience. Registration is open to MSR students and nonstudents. Early-bird care available for an additional fee. Ages 15 months-grade 8 Dates Weekly, June 13-Aug. 1; no camp offered the week of July 4 Price Varies by camp. Visit website for details. 

SUMME R C A MP G UI DE

SUNRISE COMMUNITY FARM CENTER 6407 Millhouse Rd., Chapel Hill 919-968-8581; sunrisecommunityfarmcenter. com/summer-camp

TRIANGLE DAY SCHOOL 4911 Neal Rd., Durham 919-383-8800; triangledayschool.org; summer@ triangledayschool.org

Summer camp fun like games, crafts, and swimming comes together with riding horses, tending the produce garden, and meeting chickens and bunnies. Campers will make lifelong friends while learning about partnership with nature, trying new things, and having a blast. Give your kids a summer experience like no other!

Students will have the opportunity to learn a new craft or hobby, enhance and develop existing skills, travel to local places and make new friends. Staff consists of experts, artists and educators from TDS and other local schools and programs. A variety of programs focus on art, STEAM, nature, adventure, early childhood and more. CIT program for 13- to 15-year-olds. Ages 4-15 Dates June 13-Aug. 5, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.; extended care available 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Price Before March 1, $300/ session; after March 1, $315/ session

Grades Rising K through seventh grade; junior mentor program for rising eighth grade and up Dates June 13 through Aug. 19; weekdays 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. with extended care available Price $350/week for farm camp, $450/week for horse camp; scholarships available

TRIANGLE YOUTH BALLET 1708 A/B E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill 919-932-2676; triangleyouthballet.org Offers a variety of classes, intensives and dance camps in ballet, creative movement,

modern, jazz and musical theater. Ages 3 through adult Dates June 12-Aug. 20; frequency and time vary with each program. Price Varies for each program. Call or visit website. TRINITY SCHOOL OF DURHAM AND CHAPEL HILL 4011 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-402-8262; trinityschoolnc.org Camp topics include math, Latin, SAT prep, college essay writing, robotics, scripting, basketball, soccer, volleyball, pottery, art, sewing, cooking and much more. Ages 5-18, Rising K-12 grade Dates Weekly, June 1-Aug. 7; Morning and afternoon sessions available. Price $190-$250/week YMCA CAMP CHEERIO 1430 Camp Cheerio Rd., Glade Valley 336–869-0195 (fall, winter, spring); 336-363-2604 (summer); campcheerio.org YMCA residential camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Activities

SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER! FIND IT IN YOUR INBOX EVERY THURSDAY! Use it to: Plan your weekend Get the latest in restaurant and retail news Enter ticket giveaways See an updated list of local job openings Go to chathammagazinenc.com to subscribe.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

S U MMER CAMP G UID E

offered include horseback riding, climbing, ropes course, aquatics, sports, field games, creative arts and nature study. Ages 7-15 Dates June 6-Aug. 19 Price $1,195-$2,390 YMCA CAMP KANATA 3524 Camp Kanata Rd., Wake Forest 919-556-2661; campkanata.org Located on 150 acres, this camp nurtures the potential of every child to develop into confident, competent leaders. It is traditional, coed and overnight with activities such as archery, hiking, swimming and creative arts, and water activities like canoeing, kayaking and a 75-foot double waterslide on the camp’s 15-acre lake. Offers an overnight camp in one-week sessions, a traditional summer day camp in one-week sessions, and several overnight weekend camps throughout the fall and spring. Ages 6-16 Dates June-August for day camp

and overnight camps; April-May for family camps Price Ranges by length of session. Check website for details.

dates in May, August and September for family camps Price Ranges by length of session. Check website for details. CM

YMCA CAMP SEAFARER AND CAMP SEA GULL 218 Sea Gull Landing and 2744 Seafarer Rd., Arapahoe; 252-249-1111 (Sea Gull); 252-249-1212 (Seafarer); seagull-seafarer.org Overnight camps – Sea Gull for boys and Seafarer for girls – located on the North Carolina coast. Signature four-week program gives campers time to develop their character, build strong relationships, independence and confidence in a safe, resilient and supportive environment. It also offers a Starter Camp (one week), a Mariners camp (two weeks), a Family camp and specialty weekend camping programs throughout the year. Ages 7-16, and family camps Dates June-August for summer camp;

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING 16 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN CHATHAM COUNTY For more than 16 Years, Cambridge Hills Assisted Living and Twin Rivers Independent Living have been home to many amazing seniors. We consider our communities "their home" and it's our privilege to bring them joy, care, love and safety each and every day. The bonds we build with our residents and their families mean the world to us, and differentiates us. We welcome the opportunity to meet your family and have you consider our communities for your loved one.

CAMBRIDGEHILLSAL.COM

“

My sister and I are so appreciative of the Cambridge Hills staff for their efforts in the midst of a pandemic to put the safety of their residents first. Their handling of the COVID 19 situation has been top notch!” Our parents have been safe and well cared for during the pandemic and the employees have done an outstanding job of communicating joys, concerns and protocols with us.”

JoAnn N.

“

I chose Cambridge Hills for my Mom because it is a home and a family. The Staff at Cambridge Hills gave me the confidence to move my Mom during COVID. They are professional, kind, and loving. I am so thankful to be a part of the Cambridge Hills family.”

Angela A.

“

Thank God for Twin Rivers!! Our dad moved in about a year and a half ago and we are so grateful he did. His quality of life has improved tremendously, and his social interaction is wonderful. The food, activities and gatherings allow us to sleep well at night knowing he’s in a safe environment. The entire team has made a phenomenal effort in successfully keeping the residents 100% COVID-free. I would recommend this place to anyone!

Cozetta C.

AT CAMBRIDGE HILLS AND TWIN RIVERS, YOUR FAMILY IS OUR FAMILY

CAMBRIDGE HILLS ASSISTED LIVING 140 BROOKSTONE LANE, PITTSBORO, NC 919.545.9573

• A  Rated Community, the highest achievable rating for Assisted Living. • Nestled in the heart of Pittsboro. • Home to more than 100 Seniors with a broad range of care needs. • Veteran and Female owned small business offering a Veteran’s Discount. • Proudly employing over 80 compassionate and professional caregivers. • Enriching the lives of our residents with our Award-Winning Activities Team.

OFFERING THE BEST IN SOUTHERN LIVING FOR SENIORS

TWIN RIVERS INDEPENDENT LIVING 25 S. RECTORY ST., PITTSBORO, NC 919.545.0149

INDEPENDENT LIVING

H E A L T H

C A R E

KEEPING HIS EYE

ON THE BALL A HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYER TACKLING CANCER HOPES TO RETURN TO THE FIELD WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

of Pittsboro steps onto the mat, planting his feet shoulder-width apart. He sets his gaze – his lashless eyes becoming laser-focused – as he lifts the weighted steel bar with explosive power. At 17, Troy stands 6 feet, 2 inches and weighs 245 pounds. He’s larger roy Ennis

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

2021

MODERN CONSCIENTIOUS DENTISTRY

Our team at PFD strives to treat all of our patients with sincerity and respect when choosing a dental practice for their oral health - everything from routine maintenance and simple restorative treatment or complicated cases involving multiphases and top local specialists. We are very thankful for the support and friendship over the years from the local community and look forward to maintaining those relationships and forming new ones as Chatham County continues its growth and evolution. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR NEXT APPOINTMENT.

919.545.9500 pittsborofamilydentistry@gmail.com

www.smilepittsboro.com

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

HEALTH CARE

A SMALL SHADOW

than most pediatric patients at UNC Children’s Hospital in Chapel Hill where he receives treatment for an aggressive and rare bone cancer called Ewing sarcoma. Approximately 200 children and teens nationwide are diagnosed each year, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders. The linebacker, who withdrew from Northwood High School this academic year, remains committed to his goal to play college football. Though his cancer treatments will continue into spring, Troy began regular workouts in December. He is on a mission to become stronger, both physically and mentally. “I went from being totally fine with having a bad ankle, to getting in the hospital and being in so much pain that I want to vomit,” Troy remembers. “It was a rude awakening to the rest of what was gonna come.” 74

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

Doctors found a small tumor in Troy Ennis’ left ankle last year and told him he may lose his leg. After months of chemo, Troy began regular workouts to get back in shape though his cancer treatments continue until March.

A year ago in February, Troy was scrimmaging on the football field despite persistent ankle issues. “I had taken a funny hit,” he says. “Each time I stepped back out on the field, it seemed like I just kept making it worse.” No matter what he did, Troy struggled to move his swollen ankle. An X-ray showed a small shadow. “It was not until the end of March when [the athletic trainer] finally convinced us to go in for an MRI,” he says. “I had been just trying to rehab and put it off because I wanted to play the season.” A contrast MRI revealed a mass on the talus bone, an important component between the foot and leg that helps transfer weight and pressure across the joint. A biopsy confirmed the diagnosis, but Troy and his family were not prepared for what it really meant. “The gold standard [of care] is to take the leg because they don’t want the tumor to come back in that particular site. That’s what they do. It’s almost 90% amputations,” explains Tom Ennis, Troy’s father. “It’s very rare that they even tried to save it.” Tom says they continue to be grateful that the surgical oncology team avoided amputation – for now. “It’s already metastasized,” Tom says. Cancer cells were found in Troy’s lungs and in his spine. The mass in his right lung was removed, but doctors warned that there are potential risks of recurrence. In the past year, Troy underwent surgeries, radiation and 10 months of

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

HEALTH CARE

A CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

a rigorous chemotherapy regimen. By the end of February, he will have a repeat scan to provide an update on his condition before more radiation (this time on his lungs and T1 vertebra). “He wants a chance to get on with his life and play football and the best chance for that is what we’re trying to do right now,” Tom says.

LIFE INTERRUPTED

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

The Ennis family moved from the Chicago suburbs to North Carolina about six years ago when Troy’s mom, Shannon Ennis, accepted a job working with the women’s track and field team at UNC. She is now an assistant coach at Campbell University where Troy’s sister, Samantha Ennis, 20, is a track and field champion competing in discus, shot put, javelin and hammer throws. She also blogs about Troy and their family’s experience on a GoFundMe page. The family suspended their plans to move into a new home when Troy learned about Ewing. For now, Shannon continues her daily commute between Chatham County and Campbell’s main campus in Buies Creek, North Carolina. “We spent a lot of months in disbelief,” Tom says. “This just can’t be real. And then you start to realize, huh, you’re in it – keep moving.” Troy shuffled into the kitchen and mumbled a question to his dad. The answer was mac and cheese. The meal reminds him of “normal” times before cancer and a global pandemic changed everything.

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

Troy’s hemoglobin levels hover around 7 grams per deciliter, roughly half of the expected amount for a healthy male, which means he has to work

I prepare myself by remembering all the difficult things I’ve been through so far. Nothing ahead of me is going to be as hard as what I’ve already gone through. ” – Troy Ennis

HEALTH CARE

much harder than his peers on half the amount of oxygen he needs. “But I lifted on the same day, so I guess I’ve gotten used to it to a certain extent because I don’t get dizzy or lightheaded anymore,” Troy says, adding that he receives blood transfusions when he experiences serious bruising. “It can be pretty annoying if I have a bruise that stays really, really painful for like three or four days just because I don’t have enough blood and blood cells to heal it.” He remembers one recent workout. “I’m sitting there, drenched in sweat. And some of these freshmen kids are looking at me like, ‘Whoa, what’s so hard?’ And I take off my cap and say,’ Man, I’m dying here, give me a second.’”

Troy knows his recovery may be a long road, but he’s already decided that he’ll be on the football field when he returns to school in August. “I prepare myself by remembering all the difficult things I’ve been through so far,” he says. “Nothing ahead of me is going to be as hard as what I’ve already gone through.” CM

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LOOKING AHEAD Troy’s objective remains the same – to play college football. “That’s the goal. I’m not exactly certain what it’s looking like,” he says. But he still wants to go for it. His dad shares a reminder that Troy’s immediate goal is to regain his health. “Our goal right now is to get it stable,” Tom says. “And, get to a point where we can determine if it is painful or not painful. If it’s a mild pain that only happens when he’s on the field, and you can take an aspirin for it after the game and recover the next day, great. If it’s a pain, every time you play on it, you’re gonna heal it for three weeks. That’s kind of what we don’t know. And [the doctors] don’t know. They’ve just told us to be careful – don’t expect to be at 100% when really you’re at 10%. It’s gonna take a long time. And just be patient. That’s hard for him.”

Sara Donaldson Ins Agcy Inc Sara Donaldson, President www.insurewithsara.com Pittsboro, NC 27312 Toll Free: 833-415-0283 Se habla Español

1708167.1

State Farm Bloomington, IL

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Rikki Amedick leans on her sister, Lydia Eskelund, on the family’s front porch with David Eskelund, Kristi Eskelund, and Jesse Eskelund, 14.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

H O M E

G A R D E N

HOME IS WHERE THE

HEART IS FOLLOWING TOURS AROUND THE WORLD, A FORMER MILITARY FAMILY SETTLES DOWN IN CHATHAM BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSICA BERKOWITZ

fter 30 years of active duty, Marine Corps Col. David Eskelund retired in 2019 to finally put down roots with his wife, Kristi Eskelund, and build a legacy homestead outside of Siler City. David was the first commanding officer of the Marine Corps Logistics Operations Group, and

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

HOME & GARDEN

ABOVE LEFT Family and friends gather in the main room of the Eskelunds’ home. ABOVE RIGHT Babydoll sheep and Great Pyrenees dogs greet visitors. LEFT The view from the kitchen into the dining and living room areas. BELOW LEFT David Eskelund enjoys having a separate workshop to keep his equipment and projects organized.

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

their family had lived in 17 different temporary homes on and off military bases in the U.S. and Europe. Because of this, they knew exactly what they wanted in a permanent place to call their own. The 5,309-square-foot home sits on more than 25 acres near Rives Chapel Baptist Church and was completed in 2019 just months before the pandemic lockdown. The couple’s two youngest kids, who still live at home, were joined by their three older siblings who were already married and living in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The entire family, including one grandchild, quarantined together and filled all six bedrooms and six full bathrooms. And Kristi’s mother, who visits from Elkin, North Carolina, used the one-bedroom apartment above the three-car garage and workshop. “I would say probably providence led us here,” David says, referring to friends they met more than 20 years ago who are now their next-door neighbors. UNC pediatric surgeon Tim Weiner and

2021

Voted Favorite Landscaper by Chatham Magazine & Chapel Hill Magazine Readers We offer full landscape design and installation. In addition, we provide flexible maintenance services from basic lawn care to full service grounds care allowing you to customize your program to fit your needs.

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WE KNOW CHATHAM COUNTY! Locally, we are known as The Specialists on our community’s houses, neighborhoods, schools and cultural activities. Wendy Thompson

Tammi Thornton

Jaye Kreller

Chris Culbreth

Tony Hall

Cindy Gudeman

IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A HOME,

call or drop by our office for the most varied newcomer packet and an interesting introduction to the Chatham County Area.

Residential Real Estate • 901 Willow Drive, Suite 3, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919.933.8500 • 800.382.0673 • tha@tonyhallassociates.com • www.tonyhallassociates.com FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

HOME & GARDEN ABOVE LEFT The concrete pad in front of the three-car garage doubles as a basketball court. RIGHT Kristi Eskelund displays copper souvenirs from different places. LEFT The separate apartment above the garage offers a private space for guests. BELOW Kristi’s son-in-law, Noah Amedick, uses the living area in the downstairs apartment as a workspace while Rolf, a goldendoodle, keeps him company.

his wife, Meredith Weiner, offered to sell part of their property when David was ready to retire. Kristi says, “Truly, I mean [all of this is] provided by God and these relationships from years ago.”

INSIDE THE MANSE A paved, covered walkway connects the workshop and garage to the wide front porch of the main house. A line of shoes by the mudroom hints at all the family members inside. The first room in the house is Kristi’s favorite – the library – where sofa cushions hide a pullout bed and a full bathroom is just steps away. The 10-foot-high ceilings open to an expansive gathering space where a massive kitchen island overlooks the dining and living room areas. Two sets of sliding glass doors lead to an outdoor dining area, a screened-in living room and a sunset viewing deck off of the master bedroom on the main floor. All of these rooms overlook the 20-by-40-foot heated 82

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

HOME & GARDEN

swimming pool. Downstairs, there’s another apartment with two bedrooms, two full bathrooms and its own kitchen and living spaces. On the top floor, a landing room separates two more bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. A centerpiece of the master suite is a soaking bathtub made of copper, which holds heat longer than other materials. Kristi’s affinity for copper is evident throughout the home, and she displays her china collection in a copper-toned Drexel hutch. But Kristi says the true family heirloom piece is a handmade tapestry she and her kids created years ago during home schooling lessons about medieval art. “We spent a lot of time [on] this,” Kristi says, adding that the tapestry was shown during the county and state fairs. “This is the must-grab item in case of fire. It’s an heirloom. It says so much about our family and how we did things.” Kristi, a former high school teacher, is a substitute teacher in the Chatham County Schools system and a competitive speech and debate coach.

HOMESTEADING David, who is a decorated veteran and a former director of the Marine Corps War College, is also a graduate of the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. He is well aware that farms and homesteads require considerable resources – and a sense of humor. “You know the old joke about how you become a millionaire farmer? You start with 2 million,” David laughs. “I got some great advice from a farmer who told me all his livestock does is try to figure out how to kill themselves every day. He was exactly right. You know,

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HOME & GARDEN Kristi Eskelund’s favorite room in the house is the library, which can be also used as a guest bedroom.

’cause I envisioned these low maintenance animals … there ain’t no such thing.” The Eskelunds plan to build a 4,000-square-foot event barn and to launch new businesses. One will involve breeding and selling Olde English

Southdown babydoll sheep, and another, breeding Great Pyrenees dogs trained specifically to guard and herd livestock. “The great thing about transitioning from a very fast-paced global life is that now we have time,” David says. “The last

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two years we’ve spent our time focused on planning and getting set up here. The barn will be the next piece of that.”

TIES THAT BIND In 2000, David was stationed in Camp Lejeune in eastern North Carolina, and Kristi was pregnant with conjoined twins. They were referred to UNC where they met Tim, the pediatric surgeon who became a part of their extended family. In 2001, Lydia Joy Eskelund and Anneka Mercy Eskelund were born on Kristi’s birthday, Jan. 10. The team of surgeons – including Tim – were able to successfully separate the twins, but despite best efforts, Anneka drew her last breath six months later. “This man is incredible,” Kristi says, referring to Tim. “But not only him, the

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HOME & GARDEN

HOLT’S I N T E R I O RS

FAR LEFT Decorative pieces hang in the master bathroom. LEFT The 20-by-40 foot pool is perfect for family gatherings and is easily accessible from the downstairs apartment. BELOW David created a special room to store his military awards and mementos from more than 30 years in the Marine Corps.

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HOME & GARDEN David Eskelund and Kristi Eskelund (center) with Nelu Skumpija, Lisa Skumpija, Meredith Weiner and Tim Weiner.

whole UNC community was phenomenal. You’re all going through trauma together, and really, they are too. It really does bind you together. And, what’s been really awesome is the way they’ve all followed [Lydia] as she’s grown up… They don’t

get to see that all the time. Very often, they do their thing, and then people go away and that’s all they ever know, but she’s growing up next door.” Tim and Meredith, who are like godparents to Lydia, sold part of their

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own property to David and Kristi in 2018. The experience with Lydia and Anneka inspired the Eskelund Award for Excellence in Pediatric Surgery, which is given to a first-, second- and third-year resident at UNC School of Medicine in recognition of the ability to manage a whole family’s experience beyond patient diagnosis and care. “My daughter has been able to go and present that award sometimes,” Kristi says. “There was one year, in particular, when that was her big question – why did I survive and she didn’t? There’s not a great answer for that … We [told her], ‘We did the very, very best to have both of you survive.’ I think it has been great for her to just stay in touch with people who love her [at UNC].”

When the Eskelunds moved into their home, Kristi planted an ornamental cherry tree in the pollinator garden next to the solar-powered shed and raised vegetable beds. On Jan. 10 – the shared birthdate – the family scattered Anneka’s ashes. “We’ve carried them around all these years because there was no good place to lay her to rest when we were moving,” Kristi says. “But we’re doing that this year. She will be part of the pollinator garden, and we will all be part of that here, so it really is like coming home for us. It really is. She’s 21 this year, so it’s time. That will be the memorial. Every year, pale pink blossoms will scatter in the wind, and it’s going to be beautiful.” CM

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GROW AGAIN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE UPDATES, PLUS A LOOK AT UPCOMING PROJECTS

COMPILED BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

onstruction is underway for Briar Chapel’s second phase of commercial growth called The District, a mixed-use site straddling 15-501 between Taylor Road and Ballentrae Court. The western property will include a Food Lion grocery store, a Goodwill donation center, a Refuel convenience store and gas station, and an apartment complex. The eastern section will have a mix of retail and medical offices and a 300-

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

unit active adult living and senior care facility. The Food Lion is slated to occupy an approximately 36,000-square-foot building on 5.5 acres, including 180 parking spaces, according to public records. The Goodwill donation store is projected to have more than 12,700 square feet of space for its operations while the Refuel will have a 4,900-squarefoot structure for its market. The Perch Apartments will have at least three buildings, with 66 units in one, 53 units in another and a standalone clubhouse. CM

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2022

OTHER UPDATES For Garden’s Sake is moving the O’Kelly Chapel Christian Church about 40 feet closer to the garden center. Last July, Chatham County commissioners approved a legislative rezoning request, which includes utilizing the decommissioned church as an event space. The small white chapel is a landmark for local commuters along the Highway 751 corridor between Chatham and Durham counties. The chapel was founded by a well-known abolitionist, James O’Kelly, when he moved to the area in 1794 and shuttered for regular worship in the early 1980s. In 1985, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Tim Sweeney, founder and CEO of Cary-based video game company Epic Games, and one of the largest private landowners in the state, purchased nearly 300 acres south of Siler City for more than $1.7 million, according to public records. The acreage is the latest addition of purchases made through 130 of Chatham LLC, part of Tim’s conservation efforts. He owns more than 16,000 acres in Chatham County alone. Statewide, Tim owns more than 56,000 acres. Early last year, Tim donated about 7,500 acres of land in the Roan Highlands in Avery and Mitchell counties to the Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy. “This is the largest single gift in SAHC’s history and the largest gift of land to a land trust that I’m aware of,” said Carl Silverstein, executive director of the land trust. “As we watch so much of our region get carved into subdivisions, strategic acquisition of large parcels of land is increasingly important – and increasingly hard to accomplish.”

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WEDDING

Kennedy & Ottman

BY MAKAYLA WILLIAMS PHOTOGRAPHY BY TRACY TIMMESTER; TIMMESTERPHOTO.COM

rianna Ottman of Cary and Duncan Kennedy of Winston-Salem met one

night on the town in Raleigh in 2017. They dated for three years after Duncan graduated from Appalachian State and Brianna from UNC Charlotte. In 2020, Duncan surprised Brianna with a fun weekend in Charlotte for her birthday. They enjoyed brunch at their favorite restaurant, Tupelo Honey, and cheered on the Carolina Panthers at the Bank of America Stadium. When the couple returned home to Chapel Hill, they discovered that their loved ones “[had] transformed [it] into the most magical engagement celebration.” Brianna and Duncan’s wedding was held at Rivers & Bridges in Siler City on Oct. 17, 2020. The couple trimmed their guest list from 120 to 50 due to pandemic precautions, and included a small wedding party of Brianna’s sister, Kristina Ottman Crnkovic, and Duncan’s father, Brian Kennedy. Brianna’s uncle, Robert “Bob” Ottman, officiated the ceremony. Blossom Floral Artistry decorated the venue and provided the bridal flowers. Rocky 96

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Top Catering served dinner at the reception with desserts from Maxie B’s. Although the couple originally planned for an additional, larger reception in May 2021, they decided to cancel it because their wedding “turned out to be the perfect day, and we couldn’t have asked for anything more.” Brianna and Duncan live in Chatham County. CM

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