Chapel Hill Magazine March/April 2023

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CHAPEL HILL

MARCH/APRIL 2023

CHAPELHILLMAGAZINE.COM

EDITOR

Jessica Stringer

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR

Amanda MacLaren

MANAGING EDITOR, CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Anna-Rhesa Versola

DIGITAL EDITOR

Kevin Delgado

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS

Renee Ambroso and Brooke Spach

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Sam Annetta, Ellison Beaver, Cailey Cetani, Emily Davis, Anna Wesley Dubach, Sinclair Holian, Rong Huang, Katie MacKinnon, Cooper Metts, Lena Miano and Haley Pineles

CONTRIBUTORS

Leah Josephson, Shane Snider, Morgan Cartier Weston and Caitlyn Yaede

ART

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Kevin Brown

GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

Lindsay Scott

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Khadijah Weekes-Nolan

PHOTOGRAPHER

John Michael Simpson

ADVERTISING

For advertising inquiries, email advertising@chapelhillmagazine.com

Melissa Crane melissa.crane@trianglemediapartners.com

Kem Johnson kem.johnson@trianglemediapartners.com

Lauren Phillips lauren.phillips@trianglemediapartners.com

Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com

Dana Statkun dana.statkun@trianglemediapartners.com

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE OPERATIONS

Ashlin Acheson

CORPORATE

FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN

Dan Shannon

PRESIDENT, TRIANGLE MEDIA PARTNERS

Ellen Shannon

PRESIDENT, TRIANGLE DIGITAL PARTNERS

Rory Kelly Gillis

VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Amy Bell

VICE PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER, CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Chris Elkins chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com

PUBLISHER, HEART OF NC WEDDINGS

Jenna Parks

CREATIVE DIRECTOR, TRIANGLE DIGITAL PARTNERS

Sally Scruggs

DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER

Lizzie Jones

DIGITAL CUSTOMER SERVICE SPECIALIST

Brian McIndoo

OFFICE ADMINISTRATION AND ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT

Cassady Orsini

DISTRIBUTION

Matt Bair

Chapel Hill Magazine is published 6 times per year by Triangle Media Partners 1777 Fordham Blvd., Ste. 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919–933–1551 Subscriptions $38 for 2 years – subscribe at chapelhillmagazine.com

UNSETTLED THINGS

Art from an African American South

April

21 – July 2,

2023

Bank of America is the national sponsor for Unsettled Things. Additional support comes from the Terra Foundation for American Art, the Wyeth Foundation for American Art, Harriet Taylor Herring, and Joan Roberts Cates.

Lonnie Holley, American, born 1950, What Was Beyond Us (The Ocean of Our Thoughts), 2019, globe and stand, model ships, rocks, earth, moss, and cast iron pot, 40 1/2 × 19 in. (102.9 × 48.3 cm). Ackland Art Museum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Promised Gift of John A. Powell ’77, L2020.10.1a-o. © 2023 Lonnie Holley / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

146 Rooted in History

Two entrepreneurs share how they are creating a plant nursery with community at the center

151 Behind the Garden Gate

An early look at the Hillsborough Garden Club’s tour

154 By Design

Local pros from the home and garden industry weigh in on what’s new, what’s next and what’s timeless in home trends

FEATURES

36 Hit the Road

Start planning your North Carolina getaways with some help from our staff

62 Bon Appétit

Two young cooks whip up a batch of crêpes in time for North Carolina strawberry season

107 Italian Hospitality

2023 marks 40 years in business for VIETRI, the Italian ceramic dinnerware line

6 Letter from the Editor

our

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

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Work of Heart

ou’ll just have to trust me,” I told my partner, Jason, as I finally made moves to fill the empty wall above the couch. Putting together a gallery wall has been on my to-do’s for years, but it’s an item relegated to the bottom of too many lists. Inspiration struck around the same time I spotted the two stunning examples in interior designer Renu Mathias’ home on page 116. I decided to surprise Jason by framing some meaningful items: a painting of our dog, Olive; a map of Scandinavia (our first overseas trip together); and photos of us at different MLB parks. I hope to have everything hung by the time this issue – our 18th home and garden edition – hits stands. Speaking of things that deserve framing, the bright, bold paintings of artist Meghan Rosenthal struck me when I first saw them, and I knew her story of rediscovering a hobby during the pandemic would resonate. Learn more about Meghan and seven other entrepreneurs who put themselves out there every day beginning on page 68. Their hard work and dedication to their ventures reminds me so much of my own dad who, after 40 years of running the family business in Northern Virginia, retired in December. He led by example, teaching me how to juggle a million things while maintaining a sense of humor and making people feel appreciated. Like all entrepreneurs, he’s finding it quite hard to stay still (please, go take a vacation, Dad!), but he’s slowed down enough to join my mom at a Club Pilates class or two. But life is a journey, not a destination – I can’t wait to see where these like-minded individuals end up in five, 10 or even 40 years from now! CHM

YOU’VE GOT MAIL

Sign up for our food & drink, home & garden and other newsletters.

DELIGHTFUL DIGS

Show off your home or garden in our pages or nominate your neighbors’ fantastic abode.

EVEN MORE SUMMER FUN

See our complete camp guide for kids on our website.

jessica.stringer@chapelhillmagazine.com

Photo by John Michael Simpson

ABOUT TOWN

EVENTS NOT TO MISS

‘They Do Not Know Harlem’

March 1-12

playmakersrep.org

“Nothing can be changed until it is faced.” Join PlayMakers Repertory Company for an engaging and powerful performance with an ode to James Baldwin and an exploration into a Black and queer life. The show is directed by Kathryn Hunter-Williams and stars storyteller, artist and dancer Tristan André

Big Night in for the Arts

March 9, 7 p.m. bignightin.org

Join Orange County Arts Commission in a partnership with Durham Arts Council, Chatham Arts Council and United Arts Council for their regional fundraiser broadcasted on WRAL. This event will address the impact of COVID-19 on the arts and will feature stick sculpture artist Patrick Dougherty and Chatham Rabbits, among other performers. Funds raised will aid local nonprofits and culture organizations in their post-pandemic recovery efforts.

Carrboro Annual Kite Fly

March 12, 1-3 p.m. carrbororec.org

Dust off your kite and say hello to spring at Hank Anderson Community Park in Carrboro. Whether you’re 9 or 89, flying a kite is for everyone. A few kites will be available for those without one.

5K for Education

March 18, 8 a.m. publicschoolfoundation.org/events

MARCH 24-25

‘Tao of Glass’

carolinaperformingarts.org

Spend an evening with Carolina Performing Arts at Memorial Hall for a semi-autobiographical play by actor, director and puppeteer

Phelim McDermott and New York musician and composer Philip Glass. The show examines both life’s beginnings and ends, as well as the intersection of Taoism and psychology with both humor and boldness. This collaboration between the pair celebrates theater’s capacity to transform, embrace and move.

Run or walk to support teachers, schools and the community at the 10th annual 5K presented by the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Public School Foundation. This year, the East Chapel Hill Rotary Club will be hosting a raffle benefiting the Teacher Supply Store to provide more materials to teachers.

Carolina Love Gala

March 18, 6-11 p.m.

rmhch.org/gala35

Celebrate 35 years of the Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill with hors d’oeuvres, a three-course surf-and-turf meal, auctions, raffles, a program highlighting the House and more at The Carolina Club. There will be dancing and live entertainment by The Parks Brothers following the program. Tickets can be bought online, and in-person attendance is not required to take part in the silent auction. 

Compiled by Anna Wesley Dubach EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE; CHECK WITH ORGANIZERS PRIOR TO ATTENDING

“Tao of Glass” features 10 new pieces by the 86-year-old composer Philip Glass.

PHOTO BY TRISTAM KENTON

NCSciFest

April 1-30

ncsciencefestival.org

North Carolina is celebrating science with hundreds of hands-on, thought-provoking and fun events scheduled for the month of April. The festival is produced by the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center in Chapel Hill, and events will be held both in person across the state and virtually.

‘Good Object / Bad Object’

Through April 2

ackland.org

Traditional conventions of objects are shattered in the Ackland Art Museum exhibit consisting of sculptures created since 1980. In this exhibit, “good” and “bad” do not specify quality but instead imply breaking decorum. Artists highlighted in the display include Carl Andre, Michael Ashkin, Martin Creed, Urs Fischer and Eero Hiironen.

zoe | juniper: ‘the other shore’

April 14-15

carolinaperformingarts.org/events

Be part of an interactive modern dance experience in CURRENT ArtSpace

+ Studio, Carolina Performing Arts’ smaller, more immersive venue. This show challenges expectations about the audience’s relationship with stories through a two-part choreographed experience utilizing bodies, light, sound and sculpture.

Carrboro Open Streets

April 16, noon to 4 p.m. carrbororec.org

Join the Carrboro Recreation, Parks, & Cultural Resources Department for its annual event that closes down Weaver Street and opens the space for activities from bike riding and yoga to rock wall climbing and more.

Monet Richardson Community Foundation

5K Run & Walk

monetrichardsoncommunityfoundation.com/events

MARCH 25

9 A.M.

Lace up your running shoes because the Monet Richardson Community Foundation is putting on their second annual race at East Chapel Hill High School. MRCF is a nonprofit organization founded to provide backpacks and scholarships to youth in the community. Wearing angel wings is optional but encouraged.

Touch a Truck

April 16, noon to 4 p.m.

touchatruckchapelhill.com

This family-friendly event at The Friday Center allows kids to see an incredible assortment of more than 40 vehicles from construction to emergency. There will be on-site food trucks. Admission is free, and donations benefit N.C. Children’s Hospital and Boy Scout Troop 39

Family House Classic

May 1, 9 a.m.

secufamilyhouse.org/familyhouseclassic

Tee off at the Chapel Hill Country Club course for a tournament benefiting the SECU Family House at UNC Hospitals. Afterward, golfers can enjoy a 19th hole celebration with heavy hors d’oeuvres, drinks and a golf awards presentation. CHM

Pat Richardson, pictured at last year’s race with Ali Cyr-Scully, founded the nonprofit after the loss of her daughter, Krissy Monet Richardson, in 2021.

TONY

AWARD-WINNING THE COLOR PURPLE

APRIL 22 – 30, 2023

A.J. FLETCHER OPERA THEATER, RALEIGH

This musical adaptation of Alice Walker’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel spotlights Celie, whose personal awakening over 40 years forms an epic story of hope and the healing power of love.

MARY POPPINS

JULY 25 – 30, 2023

RALEIGH MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

Mary Poppins continues to delight audiences of all ages. Believe in the magic and discover a world where anything can happen if you let it!

OCT 10 – 15, 2023

RALEIGH MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM

Faded silent-screen goddess Norma Desmond lives in a fantasy world. When young screenwriter Joe Gillis accidentally crosses her path, she sees in him an opportunity to make her return to the big screen, with romance and tragedy to follow.

DISNEY & CAMERON MACKINTOSH’S

ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER’S MASTERPIECE

HENDRICK SUBARU SOUTHPOINT

WE WANT YOUR CAR!

TOP DOLLAR FOR TRADE-INS!

WE'RE OFFERING KBB VALUE + $500

WE WILL BUY YOUR VEHICLE WITHOUT YOU BUYING FROM US!

WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS

MEET MICHAEL MILLIGAN SERVICE DEPT. DIRECTOR

MICHAEL’S VAST EXPERIENCE WITHIN THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY, COUPLED WITH HIS PASSION FOR ULTIMATE CUSTOMER SERVICE MADE HIM A NATURAL FOR HENDRICK SUBARU SOUTHPOINT’S NEW SERVICE OPERATIONS DIRECTOR. MICHAEL’S INTRIGUE AND EDUCATION, WITH THE TECHNICAL SIDE OF THE INDUSTRY, EARNED HIS “MASTER TECHNICIAN” STATUS EARLY. TO HIS CUSTOMER’S DELIGHT, MICHAEL’S PASSION TO “FIX IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME” ACCELERATED HIS CAREER TRANSITION INTO CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGEMENT. HIS BROAD TRAINING AND AWARD-WINNING EXPERIENCE WITH MULTIPLE LUXURY & IMPORT AUTO LINES EXTENDS CONFIDENT CONSULTATION TO BOTH SUBARU'S CUSTOMERS AND STAFF.

WHEN OFF DUTY, HE HAS VOLUNTEERED HIS SKILLS THROUGH TEACHING A CAR CARE MINISTRY. AT HOME, YOU CAN FIND HIM GRILLING, GETTING CREATIVE WITH HOME IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS, CYCLING THROUGH HIS NEIGHBORHOOD WITH HIS BRIDE, OF 30 YEARS OR EXPLORING WITH HIS NEW DRONE!

Local Government & First Responder Appreciation

The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro honored outstanding community leaders during two events in December. Ten first responders from Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough received recognition for their service on the court during the UNC men’s basketball game on Dec. 13. On Dec. 15, local elected officials and community members gathered at the Sheraton Chapel Hill Hotel for the Local Government Appreciation Reception, where Chamber members and partners shared gratitude for the work of government officials. Photography by Amy Stern Photography and Maggie Hobson

CHM

1 North Carolina Rep. Renée Price, Chapel HillCarrboro City Schools Board of Education Chair Rani Dasi and Orange County Commissioner Jean Hamilton.

2 Chapel Hill Town Council member Camille Berry and Rachel Waltz.

3 Jim McNeely and the Chamber’s Seth Hoyle.

4 Shenekia Weeks, Hillsborough Commissioner Robb English, Hillsborough Mayor Jenn Weaver and Hillsborough Mayor Pro Tem Matt Hughes.

FULL LIST OF COMMUNITY HEROES RECOGNIZED

• Carrboro Fire Department

Firefighter of the Year

Michael Miller

• Carrboro Police Department Officer of the Year

Sgt. Charles Brent Hobby

• Chapel Hill Fire Department

Firefighter of the Year

Fire Inspector Roland Falana

• Chapel Hill Police Officer of the Year

K-9 Officer

Jacob Clark

• Hillsborough Police Officer of the Year

K-9 Officer

Juan Jaime Duran

• Orange County Emergency Services Employee of the Year

Jorge Hernandez

• Orange County Sheriff’s Deputy of the Year

Deputy Eric Castro

• South Orange Rescue Squad Member of the Year

CPR Instructors

Jane Waddell and Bill Waddell

• UNC Police Officer of the Year Officer Jonathon Michael Ross 

5 Betsy Harris and Vakesia Graves with Chamber President and CEO Aaron Nelson and his son, Max Nelson.

6 Nicole Comas, Joel Levy and Sweta Adkin.

7 Triangle Media Partners’ Lucinda Poole with Cecelia GreeneBarr.

8 Seema Chandna and Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Superintendent Nyah Hamlett.

9 Chapel Hill Fire Department Fire Marshal Chris Wells, Chapel Hill Firefighter of the Year Roland Falana and Chapel Hill Police Chief Celisa Lehew.

10 Carrboro Fire Department Interim Fire Chief Will Potter, Carrboro Firefighter of the Year

Michael Miller and Carrboro Mayor Damon Seils.

11 Orange County Emergency Services Director Kirby Saunders, Orange County Emergency Services Employee of the Year Jorge Hernandez and Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood. CHM

1 Emma Claris Sawaia, Matt Sawaia, Gayle Claris and Woody Claris.

2 Roger Bernholz, 2023 OCHAR President Rachael Elliott and Leah Adams.

3 Nate Nunes and Jay Walden.

OCHAR Gala

The Orange Chatham Association of Realtors held its annual awards gala on Jan. 13 at The Carolina Inn Guests dressed in their Roaring ’20s best, and all proceeds benefited The Pittsboro Boys & Girls Club. The recipients of the 2022 OCHAR Realtors of Distinction Awards included Pat Serkedakis (Realtor of the Year), Gayle Claris (Broker in Charge of the Year), Randy Cox (Community Service), Jay Walden (Organizational Award), Maggie Davis (Affiliate of the Year), Gwynneth Harrington (Rising Star Award) and Ed Billings (Realtors Choice). Four individuals – Cindy Gudeman, Erika Buchholtz, Sammy Martin and Mariana Fiorentino – won the Milestone Award. CHM

Meet Dr. Todd Granger Primus Internal Medicine

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

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11312 US 15-501 North, Suite 106 Chapel Hill, NC 27517

Shake Shack Grand Opening

Shake Shack hosted a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for its newest location at Eastgate Crossing in December. The first 100 customers received gift cards and special prizes, and The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro’s President and CEO Aaron Nelson stopped by to present a membership certificate to general manager Adam Duncan. Shake Shack donated $1 for every sandwich sold on opening day to PORCH, resulting in a donation of more than $1,400 and 1,000 pounds of nonperishable food. Photography by Melissa Crane CHM

5th in the Rhe Brewster Mystery series!

DEATH AT THE ASYLUM

Maine’s most tenacious sleuth is back, surrounded by the colorful characters who populate the coastal town of Pequod. In this fifth installment of the Rhe Brewster Mysteries, Rhe’s strength and determination are tested to their limits while she tries to protect her unborn child.

1 Aaron Nelson, Katie Lazor, PORCH Board Chair Laura Malinchock, Megan Varner, Karen Shabroski and Adam Duncan.

2 Tina Mention and Ashlee Amos.

Come together as ONE.

NOTED .

WHAT AN HONOR

On Jan. 17, the Youth Mentoring Collaborative presented the Lifetime Achievement award to Howard Lee, former Chapel Hill mayor, at the inaugural Champions of Mentoring Awards Ceremony & Reception.

The Board of County Commissioners meeting room in the Whitted Human Services Building was renamed to the Donna S. Baker Meeting Room in memoriam of the former clerk.

In September, the North Carolina Cancer Hospital in Chapel Hill was renamed North Carolina Basnight Cancer Hospital in honor of Marc Basnight, the state’s longestserving legislative leader who was instrumental in the opening of the hospital.

UNC Adams School of Dentistry student Dariel

Liakhovetski, pictured right, and his brother, Emil Liakhovetski, performed a cello rendition of “Take on Me” on “America’s Got Talent: All-Stars” on Jan. 23. Since finishing as finalists on Season Nine in 2014, Dariel and Emil have both gone on to study dentistry, following in the footsteps of their father.

MILESTONE MOMENTS

Poet and musician Jeffrey Beam will be celebrated on his 70th birthday, April 1, in a concert curated by soprano Andrea

WHAT WE’VE HEARD AROUND OUR TOWNS … Compiled

by Katie MacKinnon

SPOTLIGHT

After 10 years in business, SOUTH, a gift and home store in Meadowmont Village, shut its doors for the last time in January.

“I am truly honored to have celebrated the last decade with you – wrapping baby gifts, ordering wedding invitations, selecting furniture for new homes and so much more,” owner Rebecca Rosenberg said in a Dec. 31 Instagram post.

Edith Moore. Jeffrey, pictured left, will also perform a small selection of his poems and his own songs throughout the concert, and attendees will receive a limited edition book. An abbreviated, family-friendly concert will be offered the following day; both events will be at The Fruit in Durham.

PHOTO BY ABBEY DOWNING

PHOTO BY SHAUNA HOLIMAN

Hillsborough is celebrating a few longtime town employees for reaching milestones in years of service this year. Wastewater treatment plant superintendent Nathan Cates, police Sgt. Tim Corbett, billing and customer service supervisor Linda Daye and utility maintenance supervisor Al Robertson all hit 25 years of service.

Fleet mechanic Darren Koch and town manager Eric Peterson both marked 30 years of service.

COMINGS AND GOINGS

Joe Sagula, who led the UNC volleyball program to seven regular-season Atlantic Coast Conference championships and is the winningest volleyball coach in ACC history, is retiring after 33 seasons at Carolina and 42 years as a collegiate head coach. He will remain the program’s head coach until a successor is named.

Lee Bowman, president of The Legion Company, was installed as the 60th president of the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties on Dec. 8 at Hope Valley Country Club.

Shanell Smaw joined Habitat for Humanity of Orange County as the new vice president of development in January. Shanell, a UNC

Greensboro and UNC Charlotte graduate, moved back to the area with her 6-year-old daughter after working as the resource development director of Habitat for Humanity Cabarrus County for a year.

Celisa Lehew was sworn in as Chapel Hill’s ninth – and first female – police chief on Jan. 3.

Celisa has worked nearly 19 years in the Chapel Hill Police Department and held several leadership positions, including, most recently, assistant chief.

worked to assume Margaret’s responsibilities. He previously worked for the Town of Carrboro and the city government of Greenville, South Carolina.

Matt Gladdek left the Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership after four years as executive director and is moving to the Greater Durham Chamber of Commerce to be the vice president of economic development. Jeri Lynn Schulke, the director of arts & culture, will serve as the interim executive director until a permanent replacement is found.

BIZ BRIEFS

• Bonne Cecil made her dream of running a familyowned business come to life when she opened dwell, a home and life shop, on Black Friday last year. Located at 107 N. Churton St. in Hillsborough, the shop offers both new and vintage items like throw pillows, ceramics and art prints inspired by the feelings of presence and thoughtful slowness in the home.

SHARE YOUR NEWS! Submit noteworthy items, from award and scholarship winners to new book and album releases.

Margaret Hauth retired in February as assistant town manager and community services director for the Town of Hillsborough after more than 30 years of service. Matt Efird joined the Town of Hillsborough in December and has

The Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has elected Raul Herrera as board president for 2023. Raul has been a longtime board member and previously served as vice president, bringing 20-plus years of experience in the financial industry and a wealth of volunteer experience to his new role.

Jeff Mahagan took on a new role as deputy utilities director of water treatment at the Hillsborough plant in November. After serving as the water treatment plant

• Map Dot, a new 157 E. filled with fun accessories and home goods, opened in October. The shop is a “speakeasy shopping experience” – meaning all guests must call ahead or ring the bell for entry. Map Dot started out as a mobile boutique and is owned by sisters and UNC alumnae Deedee Mills Hagner and Melissa Mills Lebo

• Quantum Soul opened in November at 104 N. Graham St. This “metaphysical

Orange County Living Wage increased its pay standard from $15.85 to $16.60 an hour in 2023.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF CHAPEL HILL

gift shop” is owned by a husband-andwife duo, Tom Swain and Lynn Swain, and features crystals, sage, candles, jewelry, essential oils, books, art and more.

superintendent for 16 years, his title reflects his experience overseeing administration and operations, budgeting, procurement and plant maintenance.

took over for Kim Tesoro, who is transitioning to a limited role in the organization for health reasons and to focus on her passion for advocacy.

• Sutton’s Drug Store celebrates 100 years of business with an anniversary party on April 12. The first 100 customers at the celebration will receive a free

Scott Czechlewski has been named the new chief executive officer of the Hillsborough/Orange County Chamber of Commerce. His position includes management of staff, generating ideas for programming and events, promotion of member businesses and improving economic development and quality of life initiatives in northern Orange County. Previously, Scott served as the communications director for the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce for 15 years. He

Two professors in the UNC School of Social Work, Lisa Zerden and Brianna Lombardi, will direct a new, federally funded

Behavioral Health Workforce Research Center that will collect, analyze and report data to help local, state and federal decisionmakers understand health workforce needs.

With the retirement of its former owners, John Stokes and

Tamsy Stokes, Signs Now has been taken over by Bert Johnson. The local signage and graphic solutions provider started as a kiosk in University Mall in the 1990s and has been open at its current location since 2005. A longtime customer and

A. K. BOBBY MALLIK D.M.D.

DIPLOMATE,

AMERICAN BOARD OF ENDODONTICS

PRACTICE LIMITED TO

AND ENDODONTIC SURGERY

Our team realizes the importance of your dental health and strives to provide all your endodontic needs in a clean, comfortable and stress-free environment. We utilize state-ofthe-art technology to ensure you are receiving the specialized care you deserve.

Using the most advanced knowledge and techniques available today, we can perform many different endodontic treatments with ultimate precision and comfort.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNC SCHOOL OF SOCIAL WORK

Chapel Hill resident, Bert has a background in law and business partnership and plans to take a step toward entrepreneurship by providing custom graphics to area businesses and nonprofits.

almost 20 years of planning experience and a background in community engagement and participatory planning to the role.

Erin graduated from UNC in December and is the most decorated player in program history, coming off of a 2022 National Championship win. The transition from student-athlete to coach starts immediately, as the team is already preparing for their fall 2023 season.

UNC alumna Britany Waddell began her new role as planning director for the Town of Chapel Hill on Feb. 13. She brings

Karen Shelton announced her retirement on Dec. 7 after 42 seasons as head coach of the UNC field hockey program. Karen is the winningest coach in field hockey history and holds the NCAA record with 10 national championships. It was announced on Jan. 31 that Erin Matson is taking over as head coach for the UNC field hockey program.

READ ALL ABOUT IT

In his recently published book, “A New History of the American South,” Pulitzer Prize finalist and UNC history professor W. Fitzhugh Brundage weaves a new narrative of Southern history from its ancient past to the present. The work draws on wellestablished and new scholarship and

birthday T-shirt and a hot dog, fries and drink combo for $1.

• Hope Renovations, the nonprofit organization that empowers women to pursue livingwage jobs in the construction trades, outgrew its space at 205 Lloyd St. and is now headquartered at 3 Bolin Heights

PHOTO BY KRISTIN PRELIPP

PHOTO COURTESY OF UNC ATHLETICS

focuses on those whose experiences have been underrepresented in scholarship of the South like Black, Indigenous and poor communities.

“Who We Are Now,” a compilation of personal histories, details what Americans lost and found in the early days of the pandemic. Michelle Fishburne, full-time digital nomad, wrote the book by traveling 12,000 miles in her motor home and sitting down with hundreds of people to learn what their lives were like. The hardcover book was published in March by UNC Press.

IN OUR SCHOOLS

Chapel Hill High School English teacher

Kimberly Jones was named the 2023 Regional Teacher of the Year by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund. One of the nine regional honorees will be named Burroughs Wellcome Fund’s 2023 North Carolina Teacher of the Year at a ceremony on April 14.

Chapel Hill High School’s Concert Choir, directed by John Benton, performed with Eric Whitacre as the opening act for

the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular on Nov. 28. The group’s trip to New York City also included a performance alongside the New

York City Children’s Chorus at Carnegie Hall. In other chorus news, the McDougle Middle School choir will sing at Carnegie Hall for a third time on June 5.

• THRIVE | Coworking is slated to open a new location at 505 W. Franklin St. in mid-2023. The coworking space provides a “purpose-driven, socially engaged environment for freelancers and entrepreneurs, as well as remotework hubs for employees of both large and small enterprises.” THRIVE members have 24/7/365 access to all 17 office spaces throughout the Southeast which include amenities like private offices, dedicated desks, conference spaces and more.

IN MEMORIAM

Jesse Gibson Jr. died on Nov. 3, 2022. The Chapel Hill-Carrboro NAACP executive committee member served as branch treasurer, labor committee chair, criminal justice committee chair and other positions during the past 15 years. Jesse was an active member of the Town of Chapel Hill’s Criminal Justice Debt Program Advisory Committee and the North Carolina Commission on Racial & Ethnic Disparities in the Criminal Justice System.

Jo Anne Earp died on Nov. 18, 2022. An educator, researcher, wife and mother, she was professor emerita and past chair in the Department of Health

Behavior at the UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health.

was a fierce advocate for women’s health and racial justice and was known for empowering everyone who knocked on her door to reach their full potential. CHM

PHOTO BY BETH MANN

CHAPTER 16

The Time Machine

Jeff’s heart raced. He didn’t expect a casual bike ride to transport him right back to his childhood 30 years ago. It was so clear: a Friday in fall right before a long, carefree weekend. Just like today. In that second, he realized everything was different, but in three decades nothing had really changed.

hit the road

Start planning your North Carolina getaways with some help from our staff

Spend time outside in Graham and Burlington, two charming towns just a hop, skip and a jump away from Chapel Hill. Start with brunch at the Smokehouse at Steve’s in Graham, and order the hefty chicken biscuit and grits or one of the specials with the famous brisket. There’s a shaded patio, and my dog is more than happy to come along for the drive if I share a bite. Or kick the day off with something sweeter – a Nutella crepe at Press Coffee + Crepes alfresco will do the trick. Enjoy a walk through Burlington’s Springwood Park or stroll downtown and peek into shop windows. Don’t forget to make a pit stop at a brewery. I recommend Burlington Beer Works’s Front & Main American Lager and the spinach and artichoke dip. Or Forgotten Road Ales in Graham has amazing sour ales, food trucks parked out front and an expansive patio with a disc golf course in the back. And, perhaps best of all, Forgotten Road is dog-friendly!

– Jessica Stringer, editor, Chapel Hill Magazine

y family’s happy place is Ocracoke, a tiny barrier island off the coast of North Carolina. From Pittsboro, it’s about a four-hour drive to Cedar Island where you roll onto a ferry. Two hours later, you follow Highway 12 to the only village on the island. We usually rent a home at the edge of Springer’s Point, a nature preserve along the sound where Edward Teach (aka Blackbeard) was beheaded in 1718. We ride bikes to small shops, like Mermaid’s Folly (they have a great selection of T-shirts), and restaurants like Dajio and the Flying Melon. Our favorite eatery is Thai Moon, which only offers pickup service, but it has the best Thai food in the state. We hang out at one of the many beaches during the day. I enjoy hunting for pretty shells while my husband is fishing and our daughters are jumping in the waves. Only one beach is monitored by a lifeguard. And there’s a beach by the airstrip where four-wheel vehicles can drive onto the sand. Ocracoke is a true barefoot getaway where you can feel like you’re standing at the edge

PHOTO BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

Compiled by Jessica Stringer

IT

KINDS

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David Champagne & Michael Bassman, historians & travelers. Seeing the world puts every little thing into focus, making it clearer to see when you’ve found the place that feels like home. Here in Cary, N.C., in the heart of the Research Triangle, Searstone is a Life Plan Community where fascinating folks from all over converge to create a retirement living experience like nowhere else on Earth.

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Let your adventure begin.

Learn more at Searstone.com or by calling 919-646-6071.

TAKES ALL

to make life an adventure.

of the world listening to waves as a storyteller shares ghostly tales while the sun slips behind the dunes.

– Anna-Rhesa Versola, managing editor, Chatham Magazine

In state, I am heading anywhere there is a spa, whether that’s Pinehurst (The Spa at Pinehurst), Blowing Rock (Westglow) or Cary (The Umstead Hotel & Spa). For some beach time, Sunset Beach is my favorite destination to relax and unwind. When my boys were small, this was my fave.

– Lucinda Poole, account executive

Each summer, my family heads east and rents a house on south Topsail Island. By day, we swim in warm water, look for dolphins and walk along the dunes – peering out toward Wilmington. Most evenings involve preparing fresh seafood from the market, then watching the sunset from the southern tip of the island. For casual eats, we grab a burger or mahi sandwich at SurfDog Bites & Brews. This Surf City spot is owned by Suzanne Ray and John Ray (the latter is a former Raleigh restaurateur of Crowley’s and Edwards Mill Bar & Grill). Another favorite is Beach Shop & Grill on Topsail Beach where we can shop for gifts or clothing while we wait for our delicious seafood meal. It had a Wine Spectator list rating, and it’s a true hidden gem! With my

kiddo in tow, the retro putt-putt, arcade and ice-cream shop Patio Playground is always on our list.

– Jenna Parks, publisher, Heart of NC Weddings

Kure Beach is a bustling, small North Carolina beach town. We love going in May or October when the weather is warm, but it’s not overcrowded. We always stop by The Veggie Wagon on the way into town for a seasonal beer on tap and to pick up some ready-made dinners and locally farmed vegetables. Spend a long weekend surfing and building sandcastles on the beach, or take a ride to Southport on the ferry. Hike through Fort Fisher and spend an afternoon at the North Carolina Aquarium.

– Rory Kelly Gillis, president, Triangle Digital Partners

Ilove spending my summer weekends in Wilmington, North Carolina. I went to college there, and now I go back frequently to visit family and friends. After a sunny day at Carolina Beach’s Freeman Park (which you can drive onto with a day pass), I like to eat at The Kitchen Sink for dinner. With a rolling menu, there’s always something new to try! I recommend the Beef on Weck with horseradish sauce or Nonna’s Meatball served on a sub, and be sure to wash it down with their homemade lavender lemonade. Afterward, I head over to Boombalatti’s for the best nondairy coffee ice cream or walk next door to Edward Teach Brewery for their signature B.A.D. Lager. There’s so much to do that it’s hard to pick just one or two things – visit Airlie Gardens, eat an acai bowl at Zeke’s Beans and Bowls, relax with a drink at High Tide Lounge & Tiki Bar, take a stroll along Johnnie Mercers Fishing Pier, grab some chicken salad from Robert’s Market, have some coffee from Bespoke, listen to live music at Wrightsville Beach Brewery, eat the tastiest brunch at Blue Surf Cafe, learn all about Wilmington’s ghosts on a tour, play skee ball or Pac-Man at Blue Post Billiards, go to the flea market at Satellite Bar and Lounge,

PHOTO BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

watch a play at The Wilson Center, take a tour of the Bellamy Mansion Museum of History & Design Arts or Historic Thalian Hall, and, most of all, enjoy the sights and sounds of the sun, sand and surf.

– Lindsay Scott, graphic designer/production coordinator

Our family has been heading to Bald Head Island for more than 30 years. We like to go a few weeks before Memorial Day. Everything is open, but we get to avoid the crowds. The water is still too cold to swim, but we always have a blast riding around in golf carts, building sandcastles and enjoying the people watching at the marina. Tip: Plan your trip around a full moon so you can enjoy bagpipes, a bonfire and a stunning moonrise at the year-round Howl at the Moon event held at Beach Access 39 and sponsored by Maritime Market. You really do get to howl at the moon with your fellow islanders!

– Sally Scruggs, creative director, Triangle Digital Partners

Imost enjoy Isle of Palms, South Carolina, with my family, and I also love a quick getaway with girlfriends to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. It’s less than a two-hour drive from here, we stay at the newly renovated and modern Holiday Inn to save a buck, and eat at cute, casual beach bars with great margaritas and fish tacos – like Shark Bar and Kitchen – or dine late on the waterway at Bluewater Waterfront Grill.

– Ashlin Acheson, director of creative operations

Ilove getting out to the mountains, specifically the Blue Ridge Parkway around Blowing Rock in the spring and summer. I love to camp out at Julian Price Campground, coming up to town to get breakfast at Blowing Rock Market and then coffee at Camp Coffee Roasters. I will spend the day out on the parkway, whether doing a round trip on my bike from Blowing Rock to Linville Falls and back, taking in the views and overlooks, or finding any of the amazing hiking trails (like Rough Ridge to the viaduct on Tanawha Trail). If I’m feeling extra adventurous, I’ll throw my stand-up paddleboard in so I can do some paddle exploring at Price Lake.

– Lauren Phillips, account executive CHM

landscape goats

By Ellison

The Goat Squad, founded 11 years ago by Diana Tetens, offers eco-friendly vegetation removal with a mighty gang of 25 to 40 goats eager to clean up even the most overgrown sites. The time it takes them to clear a site of unwanted vegetation like poison ivy, oak and sumac depends on the amount and density. Some plants get gobbled up quickly while other ones get eaten

The Heighton family – Charlie, 1, Pete and Lizzie – spend some quality time with the goats as they get to work on their land on Dairyland Road.

Beaver Photography by John Michael Simpson

eventually, like a kid finally clearing their plate of vegetables. Recently, the goats have tackled areas surrounding the Chapel Hill Public Library and some public parks in Durham as well as residential yards. As part of the process, Diana and her two-legged team members later fill the newly bare land with sustainable native plants while raising awareness about the effects certain plants have on our ecosystems. “[We] strive to get the property into a state people can maintain and enjoy,” Diana says. As for the goats, she says they are always a hit and have a knack for bringing communities together. “There have been many instances where people say, ‘We’ve lived here for 20 years, and we never met the neighbors two houses down until the goats came,’” she says. And the goats don’t mind having an audience. She recalls one customer who loved them so much, she set up a workspace outside, giving “working from home” a whole new meaning. CHM

Diana, pictured here with Little Stewart, says that the goats love to eat plants such as English ivy, kudzu, wisteria, briars and blackberries.

New location less than 1 mile away!

Feels Like Family

Chris G. Adigun, MD is a board certified dermatologist and a recognized leader in dermatology. She is known for her expertise in laser and aesthetic dermatology as well as her warm, compassionate and down-to-earth personality. Dr. Adigun’s team is comprised of top notch, dermatology-trained professionals, offering the latest technology and treatments.

There is a reason DLC has been voted Best of Chapel Hill and Best of Chatham every year since we opened the doors. It’s simple, DLC treats everyone like family!

Voted Best Of Chatham 2019-2022 Voted Best Of Chapel Hill 2017-2022

10441 US 15-501 N Chapel Hill, NC 27517

Chris G. Adigun, MD, FAAD

Karlee Wagoner, ANP-BC

Diana Walker, PA-C

Jennifer Jahoo, LME

reap what you sow

North Carolina Botanical Garden course teaches the holistic benefits of horticulture

By Brooke Spach

Digging your fingers into the soil, soaking up the sun and helping cultivate new plant life – gardening is good for the soul. Tuning into the healing properties of working in nature is the foundation of therapeutic horticulture, a practice that educators at North Carolina Botanical Garden have begun to train people in through its certification program.

“Therapeutic horticulture is basically when a trained professional uses plants and/or nature-based activities to work toward specific goals of the participants,” says Emilee Weaver, therapeutic horticulture program manager. The practice can look like anything from using tools to improve fine motor skills to helping individuals with disabilities find a sense of independence and accomplishment. “It’s an unassuming gateway that doesn’t look like treatment, so people are more willing to embrace it and connect with it,” she continues. “And all of a sudden they go, ‘Whoa, I’ve been treated.’”

Students Cecily Horstman and Candace King use a roleplaying activity to practice as instructors.

Experts at NCBG have provided this therapy as a direct service since 1978, but the online and hybrid certification programs have just rolled out over the past two years to give more professionals the tools to integrate therapeutic horticulture into their work. The first-ever hybrid course started in August, and the inaugural graduating class of 15 students will receive their certifications in April. These students learn the material outside of class and then meet in person one Saturday each month to complete workshops or go on field trips, like to The UNC Farm at Penny Lane in Pittsboro.

Those in the online course – a collaboration with the NC State Extension Master Gardener Program – complete four six-week asynchronous classes at their own pace, typically between one to two years. The third and fourth courses are currently in development and will be offered for the first time this spring and fall, respectively.

“In just these two years since we’ve started, we’ve had 350 to 400 students go through our program, which is

incredible, and I think that speaks to the flexible model that we have,” Emilee says.

One hybrid student, Candace King, is an Alamance County-based clinical social worker who’s learning to use therapeutic horticulture as a supplement to adolescent bereavement counseling. She’s able to introduce concepts like mindfulness and presence in a way that feels safe to grieving children through sensory exercises in a lively, colorful garden. The metaphors for life, death and rebirth that exist in nature are helpful tools, too.

“Something that’s been so fabulous about this course is seeing the work

During their field trip to The UNC Farm at Penny Lane, the class took a tour and completed an assessment of the farm.

OTHER UNC OUTDOOR UPDATES

COKER ARBORETUM RENOVATION

• The timbers that make up the Coker Arboretum arbor, an iconic site in the heart of UNC’s campus, have not been replaced in 25 years and have begun to deteriorate. The goal for

the renovation is to preserve the arbor’s character while ensuring its longevity with more durable building materials. The project will also improve accessibility with a new walkway on a sloping grade, parallel with Cameron Avenue. The renovation is tentatively set to be finished in December 2023 after the arbor’s vines are replanted.

NATURE PRESERVE EXPANSION

• The North Carolina Botanical Garden Foundation recently purchased 24.7 acres of land to increase the buffer between the Stillhouse Bottom Nature Preserve (a restricted-access natural area located south of campus off Mount Carmel Church Road)

Helping You Build a Be er Home

Before

and surrounding hiking trails. Contributions from community members and conservation organizations played a big role in purchasing this land, along with a grant from the North Carolina Land and Water Fund. The foundation is still raising funds to support management of the newly acquired land. – By Sam Annetta

that’s happening in the community and then connecting with fellow students who are coming at this work from several different angles,” Candace says. “It’s really inspiring to see the niches that folks are exploring and the different strengths folks bring.”

The program is bringing people from all over the state – and the world (the online course has had students from 26 states and five countries) – to engage with how therapeutic horticulture can improve quality of life for so many people. If you’re looking to get your hands dirty, sign up for the next online introductory course in April, or register for the 2023-24 hybrid course, which will run from August to May.

“What’s great about therapeutic horticulture is its accessibility,” Candace says. “Anybody can do it anywhere. All you need is a pot of dirt, and that can start your therapeutic relationship with nature.” CHM

Therapeutic horticulture practitioners are trained to use and recommend various adaptive gardening tools.

LET US HELP YOU REACH YOUR FULL HEALTH POTENTIAL!

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

“Istarted at Ignite Chiropractic several months ago. My main problem when I came in was plantar fasciitis and it had just taken over my life. I was not able to walk or do the normal things that you want to do, but pretty immediately the doctors here at Ignite were able to get me back to where I was living a fairly normal life. I’ve been mowing the yard, playing golf, walking the dog, and doing all those things that I wanted to do again, so I’m really thankful for the improvements since coming here.”

“I

am so lucky and thankful I found Ignite Wellness! I was having severe lower back pain and my right leg had been collapsing at times due to pain and weakness. Ignite took x-rays and found out that I had a severe scoliosis (spine curvature) causing my pain and leg weakness. I started adjustments and decompression therapy. I am back to walking for exercise without my leg giving way and my back is much more flexible!

—Tonya —Tracy

—Carey

WHAT WE ’ RE EATING

NEWS FROM OUR RESTAURANT COMMUNITY, PLUS A DISH WE LOVE

When Michelle Webb and Stevie Webb moved their family to Carrboro in early summer 2020, they were eager to find a spot where they could stop in, enjoy a chat with the local cheesemonger and buy fresh, high-quality cheeses – an experience Stevie relished as a cheesemonger in Brooklyn. After an unsuccessful search, they set out on their own to create what they were looking for, and so began the evolution of

The plan was simple: find a space and open a shop. “But it’s never as easy as all that,” Stevie says. Over the past year, he and Michelle have hosted popup tasting events and classes at Brewery, Pluck Farm, Belltree Cocktail Club and more. As the community became familiar with the business and their stock of cheese grew, they started selling online and introduced a monthly subscription box, the Cheese Club, in summer 2022.

Stevie and Michelle developed a relationship with Glasshalfull through these community events, and their plans for a brick-and-mortar location started to take shape. At press time, construction for The Cheese Shop’s retail space inside the restaurant and wine shop was underway with a goal to open March 9. Upon completion, the couple plans to offer a rotating assortment of 50 cut-to-order cheeses, alongside an extensive collection of pairings like condiments and crackers.

“These are all things that people have heard of, but we get the best that we can possibly find and bring to the people of the Triangle,” Stevie says. Their quality selection is curated from local cheesemakers, like Chapel Hill Creamery and Cheese, and beyond, like Quicke’s Mature Cheddar from Stevie’s native England.

On the plate pictured right is what Stevie, head cheesemonger, likes to call a tasting journey from “mild to wild”: (clockwise from 9 o’clock) a sheep’s milk brie; a 12-month aged Gourmino Gruyère, which was named

THE CHEESE SHOP

106 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro cheeseshopnc.com

the World’s Best Cheese for the third time in 2022; a Brabander goat’s milk Gouda, paired with a dark pollen chocolate; a wine-soaked

NEWS BITES

• Various products by local food and beverage companies were selected as finalists in the 2023 Good Food Awards, which honor superior taste, social and environmental responsibility and craftsmanship. The winners will be announced April 21 in Portland, Oregon.

 Boxcarr Handmade Cheese in Cedar Grove was among the finalists in the cheese category for its Doeling and Cottonbloom varieties.

 The Spicy Hermit made the pickles category with its Sweet Onion Kimchi.

 Botanist & Barrel in Cedar Grove was a finalist for its Not What We May Be Pet Nat Cider.

 Boro Beverage Company’s Pollinator Punch made the beverage category.

 Chocolatay Confections is a contender in the confection category for its Strawberry Sunflower Bonbon.

 Big Spoon Roasters of Hillsborough was honored in the pantry category for its Pistachio Crunch Almond Butter.

• TOPO Distillery closed its doors for good on Feb. 15. The distillery has produced organic and locally sourced spirits for more than 10 years and was the first fully local USDA-certified organic distillery in the South. But don’t despair, Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery will remain open.

• Merritt’s Grill has a new addition – a food truck! The Chapel Hill classic known for its BLTs will be hitting the road this spring and is gearing up for a busy season of serving up delicious sandwiches, salads, soups and more.

• Big Spoon Roasters’ latest limited release is a White Chocolate Cinnamon Almond Butter, inspired by co-founder Megan Overbay memories of a caramel apple dipped in white chocolate and rolled in cinnamon sugar. This is the first vegan nut butter on the market made with real white chocolate.

• Mosaic Tapas Bistro & Wine Bar announced its permanent closure on Jan. 14. “It is with heavy hearts to announce the closure of our beautiful little restaurant,” the owners wrote in a Facebook post. “The last three years have been a true challenge for all of us. Add the rising inflation, and with that, the increase of both food and labor cost and a shortage of staff, a small restaurant like ours is just not sustainable. I would like to thank all of our patrons for their support and all of our staff for their work. Mosaic

(and previously Provence) has been a community that has given us all a lot of memories.”

Long-standing Chapel Hill restaurant Kitchen announced its closing in late December. Owners Dick Barrows and Sue Barrows decided to retire and sell the business to siblings Garret Fleming and Eleanor Lacy, who planned to open a new Italian restaurant in the space. Bombolo, which was slated to welcome guests in February, offers classic dishes with a twist along with craft cocktails and a curated wine list.

• B-Side Lounge in Carrboro reopened to the general public Jan. 4. After closing in March 2020, the bar opened back up for private parties and events. The menu features small plates with a range of cuisines (think global comfort food), plus signature cocktails, beer, wine and drink flights. Don’t miss half-priced bottles of wine on Wednesdays!

– Compiled by Ellison Beaver CHM

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIG SPOON ROASTERS

DINING GUIDE

INCLUDES RESTAURANTS, DELIS AND BISTROS IN CHAPEL HILL, CARRBORO, HILLSBOROUGH AND NORTHERN CHATHAM COUNTY

CHAPEL HILL

East Franklin Street

1922 Coffee cafe with grab-andgo options. 140 E. Franklin St.; carolinacoffeeshop.com

Bandido’s Mexican Cafe Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos. 159 ½ E. Franklin St.; 919-967-5048; bandidoscafe.com

Basecamp Restaurant and bar serving small plates and a variety of international dishes. Open for dinner and Sunday brunch. 105 E. Franklin St.; basecampchapelhill.com

Bonchon Korean fried chicken. 205 E. Franklin St.; 984-234-0788; bonchon.com

Buena Vibra Authentic Caribbean cuisine. 157 E. Rosemary St; 919-903-9029; buenavibranc.com

COMING SOON – Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop Hot and cold subs, hand-pulled meats, 12-hour roasted turkey and quality cheeses. 127 Franklin St.; capriottis.com

Carolina Coffee Shop Casual American cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 138 E. Franklin St.; 919-942-6875; carolinacoffeeshop.com

Cosmic Cantina Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos. 128 E. Franklin St.; 919-960-3955; cosmiccantina.com

Dame’s Chicken & Waffles Chicken, waffles, schmears. ‘Nuff said. 174 E. Franklin St.; 919-240-4228; dameschickenwaffles.com

Down Time Craft beer, pizza, tacos, wraps, paninis and more. 201 E. Franklin St.; 919-240-7008; downtimechapelhill.com

Epilogue Books Chocolate Brews Independent bookstore and Mexican-style chocolatería. 109 E. Franklin St., Ste. 100; 919-913-5055; epiloguebookcafe.com

Four Corners American fare, nachos, wings, pasta. 175 E. Franklin St.; 919-537-8230; fourcornersgrille.com

Hibachi & Company Hibachi- and teriyaki-style dishes. 153 E. Franklin St.; 919-903-8428; hibachicompany.com

Imbibe Bottle shop and restaurant serving pizza, salads and appetizers. 108 Henderson St.; 919-636-6469; imbibenc.com

Linda’s Bar & Grill Local beer, sweet potato tots, cheese fries and burgers. 203 E. Franklin St.; 919-933-6663; lindas-bar.com

Möge Tee Bubble tea shop offering cheese foam fruit tea, fresh milk tea, fruit parfaits and fruit yakult. 151 E. Franklin St.; 984-234-3278; mogeteechapelhill.com

Momo’s Master Made-to-order Himalayan dumplings. 110 N. Columbia St.; 919-903-9051; momosmaster.com

Pirate Captain Ramen, seafood, smoothie bowls. 163 E. Franklin St.; piratecaptainch.com

Sup Dogs Creative hot dogs and sides like jalapeño popper tots and funnel cake sticks. 107 E. Franklin St.; 919-903-9566; supdogs.com

Sutton’s Drug Store Old-fashioned diner known for its hot dogs, burgers and sandwiches like “Roy’s Reuben.” 159 E. Franklin St.; 919-942-5161; suttonsdrugstore.com

Time-Out Southern comfort food 24 hours a day. 201 E. Franklin St.; 919-929-2425; timeout247.com

Top of the Hill A Chapel Hill brewery that also offers American food like burgers and flatbreads. 100 E. Franklin St.; 919-929-8676; thetopofthehill.com

Tru Deli & Wine Bar Build-your-own sandwiches and wine. 114 Henderson St.; 919-240-7755; trudeli.com

Yaya Tea Japanese cafe with a variety of bubble teas and imported snacks. 157 E. Franklin St.; 919-914-6302; yayatea.com

West Franklin Street

411 West Fresh pasta, seafood and pizzas inspired by the flavors of Italy and the Mediterranean, with a healthy California twist; outdoor dining. 411 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-2782; 411west.com

*DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK RESTAURANT WEBSITES AND SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS PRIOR TO VISITING.

ADVERTISERS HIGHLIGHTED IN BOXES

Blue Dogwood Public Market Food hall with individually owned food stalls including Asian fusion, a bottle shop and a nutrient-dense weekly pre-order menu. 306 W. Franklin St., Ste. G; 919-717-0404; bluedogwood.com

Blue’s on Franklin North Carolina barbecue, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads. 110 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-5060; bluesonfranklin.com

Boro Beverage Co. Locally made kombucha and craft sodas on tap. 400 W. Rosemary St., Ste. 1005; 919-537-8001; borobeverage.com

Brandwein’s Bagels Classic New York bagels and breakfast sandwiches. 505 W. Rosemary St.; 919-240-7071; brandweinsbagels.com

Bul Box Flavors and dishes inspired by Asia in handcrafted signature boxes with limitless customizability. 200 W. Franklin St.; bul-box.com

Buns Gourmet burgers, fries and shakes made from fresh ingredients. 107 N. Columbia St.; 919-240-4746; bunsofchapelhill.com

Carolina Brewery The Triangle’s oldest brewery restaurant features Carolina cuisine. 460 W. Franklin St.; 919-942-1800; carolinabrewery.com

Cat Tales Cat Cafe A two-story coffee/ beer/wine cafe home to 12 adoptable cats. 431 W. Franklin St., Ste. 210; 843-345-5289; cattalescatcafe.com

Chimney Indian Kitchen & Bar Traditional Indian dishes and unique options like pista korma and lobster pepper masala. 306 W. Franklin St., Ste. D; 984-234-3671; chimneyindiankitchen.com

CholaNad Restaurant & Bar Contemporary and traditional South Indian cuisine. Catering available. 310 W. Franklin St.; 800-246-5262; cholanad.com

Al’s Burger Shack Gourmet burgers and fries. 516 W. Franklin St.; 919-904-7659; alsburgershack.com

COMING SOON – Ay Por Dios Mexican food. 431 W. Franklin St.; 717-802-0745

Beer Study/Boot Room Bottle shop with in-store drafts and growlers to go, plus soccer pub and sandwich shop. 504 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-5423; beerstudy.com

Crossroads Chapel Hill at The Carolina Inn New American cuisine and seasonal specialties; all ABC permits; outdoor dining. 211 Pittsboro St.; 919-918-2777; crossroadscuisine.com

Crumbl Cookies Baked-from-scratch, home-delivered cookies featuring six different flavors each week. 133 W. Franklin St., Ste. 50; crumblcookies.com

The Dead Mule Club Sunday brunch, tacos, and barbecue. 303 W. Franklin St.; 919-969-7659; deadmule.squarespace.com

Franklin Motors Beer Garden A rooftop and fully licensed ABC bar. The Roquette at Franklin Motors serves hand-cut fries, bratwurst and sliders. 601 W. Franklin St.; 919-869-7090; franklinmotors.net

Heavenly Buffaloes Chicken wings as well as vegan wings with more than 25 rubs and sauces. 407 W. Franklin St.; 919-914-6717; heavenlybuffaloes.com/ chapel-hill

Italian Pizzeria III

Pizza, Italian entrees, calzones and subs.

The “place to be” in Chapel Hill for 41 years. 508 W. Franklin St.; 919-968-4671; italianpizzeria3.com

Kurama Sushi & Noodle Express Dumplings, salads, noodle dishes. 105 N. Columbia St.; 919-968-4747; kuramasushinoodle.com

Lantern Pan-Asian cuisine. 423 W. Franklin St.; 919-969-8846; lanternrestaurant.com

COMING SOON – Lapin Bleu Bar meets art gallery as Franklin Motors owner opens a new venue featuring beer, local food and art. 106 W. Franklin St.; franklinmotors.net

La Résidence French-inspired cuisine. 202 W. Rosemary St.; 919-967-2506; laresidencedining.com

Le Macaron French pastries. 140 W. Franklin St., Ste. 120; lemacaron-us.com

Mama Dip’s Kitchen Traditional Southern specialties, brunch and dinner classics like fried chicken and Brunswick stew. 408 W. Rosemary St.; 919-942-5837; mamadips.com

Mediterranean Deli Offers healthy vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free Mediterranean options. 410 W. Franklin St.; 919-967-2666; mediterraneandeli.com

Merritt’s Grill Famous BLTs, breakfast sandwiches, burgers. 1009 S. Columbia St.; 919-942-4897; merrittsblt.com

Might As Well Bar & Grill Bar favorites. 206 W. Franklin St.; 984-234-3333; chapelhill.mightaswellbarandgrill.com

The Northside District Specialty cocktails and international small plates. 403 W. Rosemary St.; 919-391-7044; thenorthsidedistrict.com

Perennial Cafe Serving Carrboro Coffee Roasters coffee, tea and pastries. 401 W. Franklin St.; 919-914-6045; perennial.cafe

Pho Happiness Pho noodle soup, vermicelli plates and vegetarian/glutenfree options. 508-A W. Franklin St.; 919-942-8201; phohappinessnc.com

The Purple Bowl Acai bowls, toast, smoothies, coffee. 306-B W. Franklin St.; 919-903-8511; purplebowlch.com

Que Chula Authentic Mexican food, tacos and craft tequilas. 140 W. Franklin St., Ste. 110; 919-903-8000; quechulatacos.com

Roots Natural Kitchen Salads and grain bowls. Children 12 years old and younger eat free all day, every day. 133 W. Franklin St., Bldg. A-115; 984-322-5600; rootsnaturalkitchen.com

Saturni Sandwiches, coffee and baked goods. 431 W. Franklin St., Ste. 120; 984-234-3497; saturni-nc.com

Spicy 9 Sushi Bar & Asian Restaurant Sushi, Thai curries, bibimbap and other Asian entrees. 140 W. Franklin St., Ste. 150; 919-903-9335; spicy9chapelhill.com

Talullas Authentic Turkish cuisine; all ABC permits. 456 W. Franklin St.; 919-933-1177; talullas.com

Trolly Stop - The Beach on Franklin Specialty hot dogs and burgers. 104 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-4206; trollystophotdogs.com

Trophy Room A Graduate Hotels concept serving up shareable plates, salads and burgers. 311 W. Franklin St.; 919-442-9000; graduatehotels.com/chapel-hill/restaurant

Vimala’s Curryblossom Café Traditional Indian tandoori and thali. 431 W. Franklin St., Ste. 415; 919-929-3833; curryblossom.com

YoPo of Chapel Hill Frozen yogurt, treats and shakes with unique flavors since 1982. 106 W. Franklin St.; 919-942-7867; yogurtpump.com

Village Plaza/East Franklin Street/Eastgate Crossing/ Rams Plaza

Alpaca Peruvian rotisserie chicken and sides like maduros and tostones. 237 S. Elliott Rd.; alpacachicken.com

Breadman’s

A variety of burgers, sandwiches, salads and grilled meat, with daily soup and specials. All-day breakfast; catering available. 261 S. Elliott Rd.; 919-967-7110; breadmens.com

Caffé Driade Carrboro Coffee Roasters coffee, bowl-size lattes, local baked goods, beer and wine. 1215-A E. Franklin St.; 919-942-2333; caffedriade.com

The Casual Pint Upscale craft beer market with beer, wine and ice-cream sandwiches. 201 S. Elliott Rd., Ste. 5; 919-967-2626; chapelhill.thecasualpint.com

Cava Customizable Mediterranean bowls, salads, pitas and soups. 79 S. Elliott Rd.; 919-636-5828; cava.com 

The Place to Be!

Chopt Unique salads, grain and quinoa bowls. Eastgate Crossing; 919-240-7660; choptsalad.com

Clean Juice Certified organic juices, smoothies, bowls and snacks. Eastgate Crossing; 919-590-5133; cleanjuice.com

Dunk & Slide at Whole Foods Market All-day breakfast, sushi and more. 81 S. Elliott Rd.; 919-968-1983; wholefoodsmarket.com

Guglhupf Bake Shop European-style breads, pastries and coffee. Eastgate Crossing; 919-914-6511; guglhupf.com/ chapel-hill-bake-shop

Il Palio at The Siena Hotel Italian specialties like butternut squash ravioli. 1505 E. Franklin St.; 919-918-2545; ilpalio.com

Japan Express Hibachi-style meals and sushi. 106 S. Estes Dr.; 919-928-9600

Kipos Greek Taverna Greek cuisine in a relaxed, upscale setting with outdoor dining. Eastgate Crossing; 919-425-0760; kiposchapelhill.com

La Hacienda Burritos, salads, quesadillas, tacos. 1813 Fordham Blvd.; 919-967-0207; lahaciendamex.com

The Loop Pizzas, soups, salads, sandwiches, burgers. Eastgate Crossing; 919-969-7112; thelooprestaurant.com

Min Ga Authentic Korean cuisine like bibimbap, bulgogi and a variety of homemade kimchi. 1404 E. Franklin St.; 919-933-1773; min-ga.com

Monterrey Mexican Grill Tacos, quesadillas, burritos and more. Rams Plaza; 919-969-8750; letsgotomonterrey.com

Mr. Tokyo Japanese Restaurant Unlimited sushi and hibachi. Rams Plaza; 919-240-4552; mrtokyojapanese.com/chapel-hill

Osteria Georgi House-made pasta, braised meat dishes and antipasto. 201 S. Elliott Rd., Ste. 100; 919-375-0600; osteriageorgi.com

Piero’s Pasta & Wine A variety of pasta dishes, soups and salads. 1502 E. Franklin St.; 984-999-4826; pierospasta.com

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken Biscuits, donuts, chicken and coffee. Eastgate Crossing; risebiscuitschicken.com

Shake Shack Fast-casual chain serving up 100% Angus beef blend burgers, crinklecut fries and hand-spun shakes. Eastgate Crossing; shakeshack.com

Squid’s Fresh seafood options include wood-grilled fillets, Maine lobster, fried seafood and oysters. 1201 Fordham Blvd.; 919-942-8757; squidsrestaurant.com

Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen Drive-thru biscuits, sandwiches. 1305 E. Franklin St.; 919-933-1324; sunrisebiscuits.com

Sutton’s in the Atrium A cafe version of Sutton’s Drug Store with its famous hot dogs, salads and more. 100 Europa Dr.; 919-240-4471; suttonsdrugstore.com

Tandoor Indian Restaurant Traditional Indian cuisine, vegan options. 1301 E. Franklin St.; 919-967-6622; tandoorindian.com

Thaiphoon Bistro Thai cuisine, curry, stirfry, soups and salads. 1704 E. Franklin St.; thaiphoonbistro.com

Twisted Noodles Thai noodle soups, pan-fried noodles. Eastgate Crossing; 919-933-9933; twistednoodlesch.com

University Place

Alfredo’s Pizza Villa Pizzas, calzones, salads, subs, pasta, desserts. 919-968-3424; alfredospizzavilla.com

bartaco Tacos, fresh-juice cocktails, poke and mole options. 910-807-8226; bartaco.com

Flying Biscuit Cafe All-day breakfast and Southern favorites like shrimp and grits. 919-537-8974; flyingbiscuit.com

Hawkers Inspired by Southeast Asia’s street fare, this eatery features homemade favorites, from dumplings to curries. 919-415-1799; eathawkers.com

Maple View Mobile Ice-cream outpost of the iconic Hillsborough shop. 919-244-1949; mapleviewmobile.com

Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill Southern favorites like deviled eggs meet steakhouse mainstays like the legendary 12 oz. filet. 919-914-6688; stoneyriver.com

Trilogy American cafe featuring innovative twists on classic dishes. Outdoor seating available. Silverspot Cinema; 919-357-9887; silverspot.net

Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (Airport Road)

Bombolo Sandwiches, pasta dishes and small plates. 764 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-914-6374; bombolochapelhill.com

Hunam Chinese Restaurant Cantonese cuisine. 790 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-967-6133; hunamrestaurant.net

Lucha Tigre Latin-Asian cuisine and sake-tequila bar. 746 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-904-7326; luchatigre.com

The Root Cellar Cafe & Catering Sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts and more for breakfast and lunch. 750 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-967-3663; rootcellarchapelhill.com

Timberlyne/Chapel Hill North Area

Chapel Hill Wine Company Wine store with bottles from all over the globe. 2809 Homestead Rd.; 919-968-1884; chapelhillwinecompany.com

Deli Edison Neighborhood deli with bagels, sandwiches, salads. 630 Weaver Dairy Rd.; 919-929-7700; deliedison.com

Farm House Restaurant Steaks, salads, potatoes. 6004 Millhouse Rd.; 919-929-5727; farmhousesteakhouse.com

Joe Van Gogh Coffee, tea and pastries. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-967-2002; joevangogh.com

Magone Italian Grill & Pizza Italian mains. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-904-7393; magoneitaliangrillpizza.com

New Hope Market Breakfast and daily specials like burgers, soups and more. 6117 N.C. Hwy. 86 S.; 919-240-7851

OiShii Specialty rolls, teriyaki, stir-fry, sushi. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-932-7002; oishiiroll.com

The Pig Barbecue, fried tofu, collards and more. 630 Weaver Dairy Rd., Ste. 101; 919-942-1133; thepigrestaurant.com

PiggyBack Classic cocktails, beer and wine and unexpected, creative bar food. 630 Weaver Dairy Rd., Ste. 102; 919-240-4715; thepigrestaurant.com/piggyback

Pop’s Pizzeria & Ristorante Pizzas, calzones, stromboli, pasta. 1822 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-932-1040; pops-pizzeria.com

Queen of Pho Vietnamese offerings like banh mi and, of course, pho beef noodle soup. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-903-8280; queenofphochapelhill.com

Rasa Indi-Chinese Authentic North Indian and Chinese cuisine, with fusion and Thai dishes. Weekly specials. 1826 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-929-2199; rasachapelhill.com

Sage Vegetarian Cafe Vegetarian fare. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-968-9266; sagevegetariancafe.com

Sal’s Pizza & Ristorante Thin-crust and deep-dish pizzas plus an array of Italian comfort food. 2805 Homestead Rd.; 919-932-5125; salspizzaofchapelhill.com

Yopop Frozen Yogurt Frozen yogurt shop featuring 14 flavors, bubble tea and smoothies. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-537-8229

N.C. 54 East/Raleigh Road

Amante Gourmet Pizza Create-your-own pizzas. 6209 Falconbridge Rd.; 919-493-0904; amantepizza.com

BIN 54 Steaks, seafood and other fine American food. Everything made in-house. Glen Lennox Shopping Center; 919-969-1155; bin54chapelhill.com

Brenz Pizza Co. Specialty pizzas, subs, salads. 3120 Environ Way, East 54; 919-636-4636; brenzpizzaco.com

Coco Espresso, Bistro & Bar

Plant-based, fresh, locally sourced dishes, as well as classic comfort food, cocktails and mocktails, plus coffee, espresso bar, baked goods and pastries. The Gwendolyn, 101 Glen Lennox Dr., Ste. 180; 919-883-9003; cocochapelhill.com

elements Cuisine combining classical and modern Asian and European cooking techniques; check out the wine bar with full menu next door. 2110 Environ Way, East 54; 919-537-8780; elementsofchapelhill.com 

First Watch French toast, pancakes and specialty omelets. 1101 Environ Way, East 54; 919-537-8488; firstwatch.com

Hawthorne & Wood Fine dining cuisine with an outdoor patio, a fully stocked bar and an extensive international wine list. 3140 Environ Way, East 54; 919-240-4337; hawthorneandwood.com

Jujube Eclectic, modern cuisine inspired by the flavors of China and Vietnam. Glen Lennox; 919-960-0555; jujuberestaurant.com

Nantucket Grill & Bar Clam chowder, lobster rolls and more. 5925 Farrington Rd.; 919-402-0077; nantucketgrill.com

NoDa Brewing Company Tapas Small plates, NoDa beer, wine and specialty cocktails. 1118 Environ Way, East 54.; 919903-8699; nodabrewingtapas.com

The Poplar Cafe Coffee shop offering tea, wine, mimosas, beer and specialty drinks, plus Deli Edison bagels. 1114 Environ Way, East 54; thepoplarcafe.com

Thai Palace Soup, curries, pad thai. Glenwood Square Shopping Center; 919-967-5805; order.thaipalacechapelhill.com

Meadowmont Village

Bluebird French bistro-style restaurant. 601 Meadowmont Village Circle; bluebirdnc.com

Brixx Wood Fired Pizza Specialty pizzas and salads. 501 Meadowmont Village Circle; 919-929-1942; brixxpizza.com

Kahlovera Mexican bar and grill. 504 Meadowmont Village Circle; 984-999-4537; kahloveratacos.com

Lime & Lemon Indian Grill & Bar Northern and southern Indian specialties including gobi manchurian, paneer tikka, chicken tikka and hariyali murg kebab. 101 Meadowmont Village Circle; lnlrestaurant.com

Meet Fresh Taiwanese desserts and teas. 407 Meadowmont Village Circle; Ste. 101; 984-999-4983; meetfresh.us

Quickly Hot and cold tea drinks in addition to Asian street food. 503 Meadowmont Village Circle; 984-234-0401; quicklychapelhill.com

Southern Village

La Vita Dolce Pastries, sorbet, gelato, coffee. 610 Market St., Ste. 101-C; 919-968-1635; lavitadolcecafe.com

Market and Moss American cuisine made with fresh local ingredients. 700 Market St.; 919-929-8226; marketandmoss.com

Rocks + Acid Wine Shop A wine shop and tasting room from award-winning sommelier Paula de Pano. 712 Market St.; 919-428-3564; rocksandacidwineshop.com

Town Hall Grill Sandwiches, steak, seafood, Italian dishes. 410 Market St.; 919-960-8696; thetownhallgrill.com

Weaver Street Market Food bar items, plus grab and go. 716 Market St.; 919-929-2009; weaverstreetmarket.coop

CARRBORO

Downtown

401 Main Upscale dive bar and sandwich shop serving shareable bar snacks, local brews and po’boys. 401 Main St.; 919-390-3598; 401main.com

Acme Food & Beverage Co. Entrees with a Southern touch. 110 E. Main St.; 919-929-2263; acmecarrboro.com

Akai Hana Japanese cuisine including sushi, tempura and teriyaki. 206 W. Main St.; 919-942-6848; akaihana.com

Armadillo Grill Tex-Mex burritos, enchiladas, tacos, nachos. 120 E. Main St.; 919-929-4669; armadillogrill.com

Atlas Bar Uptown drinks in downtown Carrboro. 118 E. Main St.; atlascarrboro.com

Belltree Cocktail Club Prohibition-inspired speakeasy serving creative cocktails, beer and wine. 100 Brewer Lane, A; 984-2340572; belltreecocktailclub.com

Breakaway Carrboro A casual cafe serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee. 410 N. Greensboro St.; breakawaync.co

Carrburritos Burritos, tacos, nachos and margaritas. 711 W. Rosemary St.; 919-933-8226; carrburritos.com

Cham Thai Cuisine Authentic Thai, Siamese and Chinese cuisine. 370 E. Main St., Ste. 190; 984-999-4646; chamthainc.com

The Cheese Shop at Glasshalfull Cut-to-order cheese shop offering a diverse selection of cheese, meat and provisions. 106 S. Greensboro St.; 919-967-9784; cheeseshopnc.com

Krave Kava Bar & Tea Lounge Offers a wide range of tea and herbal drinks, all made from kava, a type of plant root. 105 W. Main St.; 919-408-9596; kravekava.com

Lanza’s Cafe Coffeehouse serving tea and meads in addition to local pastries, small plates and daily specials. 601 W. Main St.; 919-967-9398; lanzascafe.com

Luna Rotisserie & Empanadas

South American cuisine meets the American South. 307 E. Main St.; 919-537-8958; lunarotisserie.com

Mel’s Commissary & Catering Pop-up dinners. 109 W. Main St.; 919-240-7700; melscarrboro.com

Napoli Wood-fired pizza, espresso, artisanal gelato made from scratch, teas and local craft beer and wines. 105 E. Main St.; 919-667-8288; napolicarrboro.com

Neal’s Deli Buttermilk biscuits on Saturdays and traditional deli fare. 100 E. Main St.; 919-967-2185; nealsdeli.com

Oakleaf “Immediate” cuisine like pastas and seafood using ingredients from the chef’s own garden. 310 E. Main St.; 984-234-0054; oakleafnc.com

Open Eye Cafe Freshly roasted coffee by Carrboro Coffee Roasters, tea, beer, wine and baked goods. 101 S. Greensboro St.; 919-968-9410; openeyecafe.com

Paco’s Tacos Steak, chicken, seafood and vegetarian tacos. 109 W. Main St.; 919-240-7700

Pizzeria Mercato Pizza, antipasto, soups, fritti and gelato. 408 W. Weaver St.; 919-967-2277; pizzeriamercatonc.com

Speakeasy on Main Cocktail lounge with live music. 100 E. Main St.; facebook.com/ speakeasyonmainstreet

Spotted Dog Vegetarian- and vegan-friendly entrees. 111 E. Main St.; 919-933-1117; thespotteddogrestaurant.com

Tesoro 18-seat neighborhood restaurant with house-made pasta, seasonal plates and classic sweets. 100 E. Weaver St.; 919-537-8494; tesorocarrboro.com

Wings Over 27 flavors of wings. 313 E. Main St.; 919-537-8271; wingsoverchapelhill.com

East Main Square

Amante Gourmet Pizza Create-your-own pizzas, salads and pasta. 300 E. Main St.; 919-929-3330; amantepizza.com

Al’s Burger Shack Gourmet burgers and fries. 708 Market St.; 919-914-6694; alsburgershack.com

COMING SOON - The Critic Opinionated drinking in Southern Village. 620 Market St. (inside The Lumina Theater); thecriticbar.com

Rasa Malaysia Authentic Malaysian dishes. 410 Market St.; 984-234-0256; rasamalaysiach.com

Coronato Pizza Roman-style pizza, snacks and salads. 101 Two Hills Rd., Ste. 140; 919-240-4804; coronatopizza.com

Craftboro Brewing Depot Bottle shop and brewery with taps of craft beer. 101 Two Hills Dr., Unit 180; 919-240-4400; craftborobrewing.com

Glasshalfull Mediterranean-inspired food and wine; outdoor dining; all ABC permits. 106 S. Greensboro St.; 919-967-9784; glasshalfull.net

Gourmet Kingdom Sichuan cuisine. 301 E. Main St.; 919-932-7222; thegourmetkingdom.com

Gray Squirrel Coffee Co. Roastery and espresso bar. 360 E. Main St., Ste. 100; graysquirrelcoffee.com

Hickory Tavern Burgers, sandwiches and build-your-own salads. 370-110 E. Main St.; 919-942-7417; thehickorytavern.com

Iza Whiskey & Eats Japanese fusion cuisine serving small plates, sushi, ramen, whiskey, sake and cocktails. 370 E. Main St., Ste. 140; 919-537-8645; izaeats.com

LA Tequila and Eats Latin-Asian fusion cuisine. 307 E. Main St. Unit 170 

Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken Biscuits, doughnuts, chicken and coffee. 310 E. Main St.; 919-929-5115; risebiscuitschicken.com

Vecino Brewing Co. Craft beer and flavorful small plates. 300 E. Main St., Ste. C; 919-391-6788; vecinobrewing.com

Carr Mill Mall/ North Greensboro Street

B-Side Lounge

Small plates, like fondue, and inspired cocktails. Carr Mill Mall; 919-904-7160; b-sidelounge.com

Grata Diner From scratch breakfast and lunch. Carr Mill Mall; 919-240-7000; gratacafe.com

Oasis Organic coffee, tea, beer and wine. Carr Mill Mall; 919-904-7343

Tandem Farm-to-table, modern American cuisine with full service bar. Carr Mill Mall; 919-240-7937; tandemcarrboro.com

Thai Station Authentic, fresh Thai dishes. 201 E. Main St., Ste. C.; 984-234-3230; thaistationnc.com

Venable Rotisserie Bistro Upscale comfort food with a heavy emphasis on seasonal ingredients. Carr Mill Mall; 919-904-7160; venablebistro.com

Weaver Street Market Hot food bar items are available as grab and go. Carr Mill Mall; 919-929-0010; weaverstreetmarket.coop

N.C. 54 West/Carrboro Plaza

Aidan’s Pizza Pizza, wings and salads. 602 Jones Ferry Rd., Ste. D; 919-903-8622; aidanspizza.hungerrush.com

Anna Maria’s Pizzeria Italian cuisine. Carrboro Plaza; 919-929-1877; annamariasnc.wordpress.com

Fiesta Grill Burritos, chimichangas, fajitas, tacos. 3307 N.C. Hwy. 54 W.; 919-928-9002; fiestagrill.us

Monterrey Mexican Grill Traditional Mexican cuisine. Carrboro Plaza; 919-903-9919; letsgotomonterrey.com

Wingman Wings and hot dogs. 104 N.C. Hwy. 54 W.; 919-928-9200; bestwingman.net

35th Annual

Saturday, March 18, 2023

6-11 pm | The Carolina Club

3-Course Dinner | Silent & Live Auction | Music & Dancing

Table of 10 ~ $1,500

Individual Tickets ~ $175

www.RMHCH.org/Gala35 Black Tie Optional

HILLSBOROUGH

Antonia’s Italian cuisine. 101 N. Churton St.; 919-643-7722; antoniashillsborough.com

Big Bob’s City Grill Fresh-made burgers and chicken with country sides. 584 Cornelius St.; 919-732-2953

The Colorado Burrito Burritos, fajitas and quesadillas. 122 S. Churton St.; 919-245-3335

Cup-A-Joe Coffee and pastries. 112 W. King St.; 919-732-2008; hboro-cupajoe.com

El Restaurante Ixtapa Authentic fromscratch Mexican dishes. 162 Exchange Park Ln.; 919-644-6944; ixtapa.homestead. com/homepage.html

Hillsborough Bakeshop & Pasta Company Baked goods, coffee, wine and all-day cafe offering pasta, sandwiches and salads. 110 S. Churton St.; 919-732-6261; hillsboroughbakeshop.com

Hillsborough BBQ Company Barbecue plates and sandwiches, sides and desserts. 236 S. Nash St.; 919-732-4647; hillsboroughbbq.com

Hillsborough Wine Company Wine store with bottles from all over the globe. 118 S. Churton Street; 919-732-4343; chapelhillwinecompany.com

Hot Tin Roof Games and specialty cocktails. 115 W. Margaret Ln.; 919-296-9113; hottinroofbar.com

Monday, April 24, 2023

Governors Club Golf Course

Round of Golf

Player Gift & Raffles Networking Luncheon

Individual Playing Spot ~ $500

Sponsorships begin at $1,000

www.RMHCH.org/CKC35

Contact Ellison Lambert, Director of Special Events, at ellison@rmhch.org or 919-945-0302 with questions.

The House at Gatewood Supper club and special events venue. 300 U.S. 70; 919-241-4083; houseatgatewood.com

Jay’s Chicken Shack Chicken, buffalo wings, breakfast biscuits. 646 N. Churton St.; 919-732-3591; jayschickenshack.com

J&F Kitchen Italian, American and Balkan dishes. 155 Mayo St.; jandfkitchen.weebly.com

Kim’s Bake Shop Homemade baked goods from brownies and doughnuts to “whookies” and pie. 111 N. Churton St.; downtownpies.com

La Muñeca Ice Cream Paletas, esquites and dorilocos. 131 Mayo St.; la-muneca-ice-cream.business.site

Los Altos Mexican dishes, such as tacos and chiles rellenos. 126 W. King St.; 919-241-4177; losaltosmexicanrestaurant.com

Lupita’s Meat Market and Taqueria

Authentic Mexican food including tamales, barbacoa and carnitas. 633 Cornelius St.; 919-296-9000

Maple View Farm Country Store

Homemade ice cream. 6900 Rocky Ridge Rd.; 919-960-5535; mapleviewfarm.com

Matthew’s Chocolates Gourmet chocolates, frozen treats and baked goods. 104 N. Churton St.; 984-245-9571

Taste of the South

Nomad International street food-inspired eatery. 122 W. King St.; 984-217-0179; thenomadnc.com

Pizza Cornicione Neapolitan pizzeria and gelateria. 230 S. Nash St.; 919-245-8566; pizzacornicione.com

Pueblo Viejo Traditional Mexican food. 370 S. Churton St.; 919-732-3480

Radius Wood-fired pizzas, housemade pastas, salads and desserts. Outdoor dining. 112 N. Churton St.; 919-245-0601; radiuspizzeria.net

Saratoga Grill New England-style cuisine. 108 S. Churton St.; 919-732-2214; thesaratogagrill.com

Steve’s Garden Market & Butchery Sandwiches, baked goods, pimento cheese. 610 N. Churton St.; 919-732-4712; stevesgardenmarket.com

The Village Diner Southern fare and takeout pizza. 600 W. King St.; 919-245-8915; villagedinernc.com

Vinny’s Italian Grill and Pizzeria Italian favorites. 133 N. Scottswood Blvd.; 919-732-9219; vinnyshillsborough.com

Weaver Street Market Food bar items are available as grab and go. 228 S. Churton St.; 919-245-5050; weaverstreetmarket.coop

Whit’s Frozen Custard Rotating flavors of frozen custard, treats, pints to go. 240 S. Nash St.; 919-245-8123; whitscustard.com

Wooden Nickel Pub Pub fare and rotating craft beer. 113 N. Churton St.; 919-932-0134; thewnp.com

Yonder Southern Cocktails & Brew Beer, wine, frose and more. 114 W. King St.; yonderbarnc.com

NORTH CHATHAM Briar Chapel

501 Pharmacy Maple View Farm ice cream, plus malts and shakes. 69 Knox Way, Ste. 110; 984-999-0501; 501rx.com

Breakaway Cafe A casual cafe serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and coffee. 58 Chapelton Ct., Ste. 100; 984-234-3010; breakawaync.co

Capp’s Pizzeria & Trattoria Traditional Italian cuisine including fresh pastas, pizzas and more. 79 Falling Springs Dr., Ste. 140; 919-240-4104; cappspizzeria.com

O’YA Cantina Latin cuisine from all over the world. 72 Chapelton Ct.; 984-999-4129; oyacantina.com

Town Hall Burger & Beer Burgers plus tacos, wings and salads. 58 Chapelton Ct.; 984-234-3504; townhallburgerandbeer.com

Governors Village

Ciao Bella Pizzeria Pizza, pastas, sandwiches. 1716 Farrington Point Rd.; 919-932-4440

Flair Restaurant & Wine Bar Frenchinfluenced food, coffee and Sunday brunch. 50100 Governors Dr.; 919-967-9990; flairfusionrestaurant.com

Gov’s Burger & Tap Burgers, hotdogs, salads, milkshakes. 50050 Governors Dr.; 919-240-5050; govsburgerandtap.com

Tarantini Italian Restaurant Italian cuisine. 50160 Governors Dr.; 919-942-4240; tarantinirestaurant.com

North Chatham Village/ Cole Park Plaza

Captain John’s Dockside Fish & Crab House American seafood dishes. 11550 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 N.; 919-968-7955; docksidechapelhill.com

Guanajuato Mexican Restaurant Mexican dishes with vegetarian options. 11552 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 N., Ste. 205; 919-929-8012; guanajuatomexicanrestaurant.net

Moon Asian Bistro An Asian fusion restaurant offering sushi, Chinese dishes like sweetand-sour chicken, Thai curry dishes, rice and noodles. 111 Knox Way, Ste. 100; 919-869-7894; moonasianbistroch.com

Panda Garden Chinese dishes like chow mein and egg foo young. Takeout is available. 11312 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 S., Ste. 303; 919-960-8000; chapelhillpandagarden.com

Ta Contento Mex Fresh Food Authentic Mexican food, like tacos, burritos, guacamole and fajitas. 11620 US 15-501 Hwy. N. Chapel Hill; 919-945-4819; ta-contento.com

Village Pizza and Pasta A neighborhood pizza place serving up subs, calzones, pastas and salads. 11312 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 S., Ste. 300; 919-960-3232; villagepizzapasta.com

PITTSBORO U.S. 15-501/Fearrington Village

Allen & Son Bar-B-Que North Carolina barbecue. 5650 U.S. 15-501; 919-542-2294; stubbsandsonbbq.com

The Belted Goat Lunch, dinner and wine shop, offering salads and sandwiches. Fearrington Village Center; 919-545-5717; fearrington.com/belted-goat

Cafe Root Cellar American cuisine and “go big or go home” seasonal dishes. 35 Suttles Rd.; 919-542-1062; caferootcellar.com

Carolina Brewery The Triangle’s oldest brewery restaurant features Carolina cuisine. 120 Lowes Dr. #100; 919-545-2300; carolinabrewery.com

Compadres Tequila Lounge Mexican restaurant with a variety of classic dishes. 193 Lowes Dr., Ste. 107; 919-704-8374; compadresnc.com

The Fearrington House Restaurant

Contemporary fine dining. Reservations are needed. Fearrington Village Center; 919-542-2121; fearrington.com/thefearrington-house-restaurant

House of Hops Bar and bottle shop with a large craft beer selection on tap. Outdoor seating available. 112 Russet Run; 919-542-3435; houseofhopsnc.com

Mi Cancun Classic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Outdoor seating available. 114 Russet Run; 919-542-3858; micancunmx.com

New Japan Hibachi-style Japanese cooking. 90 Lowes Dr.; 919-542-4380

Roost Beer Garden Wood-fired pizza, local brews and live music. Open April through October. Fearrington Village Center; 919-542-2121; fearrington.com/roost

East Street

BMC Brewing Beers brewed on-site and cookies made with the byproducts. 213 Lorax Lane; 919-759-1206; bmcbrewing.com

China Inn Chinese dishes, dine in or carry out. 630 East St.; 919-545-0259

Copeland Springs Farm & Kitchen Grains and greens bowls, small plates and bar snacks. 193B Lorax Ln.; 919-261-7211; copelandspringsfarm.com

Fair Game Beverage Co. Spirits, wine, beer and cider tastings plus snacks and specialty local food items. 220 Lorax Ln.; 919-548-6884; fairgamebeverage.com

Greek Kouzina Made-from-scratch hummus, gyros, kebabs and more. 964 East St.; 919-542-9950; greekkouzina.com

Hwy 55 Burgers, Shakes & Fries Burgers, cheesesteaks and frozen custard. 987 East St.; 919-542-1312; facebook.com/hwy55pittsboro

Metal Brixx Cafe Vortex Roasters’ coffee and espresso plus tea, lemonade and gelato. 213 Lorax Ln.; 919-444-2202

Small Cafe B and B Offbeat, eco-friendly eatery offering farm-to-table fare for breakfast and lunch. Offering outdoor dining. 219 East St.; 919-228-8817; smallcafebandb.com

Starrlight Mead Tastings of honey wines and honey. 130 Lorax Ln.; 919-533-6314; starrlightmead.com

West Street

Al’s Diner Traditional American classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 535 West St.; 919-542-5800; alsdiner.net

Angelina’s Kitchen Greek and Southwestern dishes including gyros. 23 Rectory St.; 919-545-5505; angelinaskitchenonline.com

The Phoenix Bakery Small-batch and seasonal baked goods and specialty cakes. 664 West St.; 919-542-4452; thephoenixbakerync.com

Hillsboro Street/Downtown

Aromatic Roasters Small-batch coffee shop specializing in Aztec mochas, chai lattes and Thai teas. 697 Hillsboro St., Unit 101; 919-228-8345; aromaticroasters.com

The Beagle Classic and innovative cocktails and small plates like chilled seafood, charcuterie and a selection of sandwiches. 53 Hillsboro St.; 919-533-6589

Buzz Cafe at Chatham Marketplace Sandwiches, daily changing hot bar, sushi, salads and baked goods. Chatham Mills; 919-542-2643; chathammarketplace.coop

Carolina Cravings Co. Bakery serving traditional treats like pie bars, muffins and nobake peanut butter-chocolate cookies as well as Hispanic favorites like flan, bolillos and tres leches cakes. 84 Hillsboro St.; 919-444-2023

The City Tap Classic bar food. 89 Hillsboro St.; 919-545-0562; thecitytap.com

Davenport’s Café Diem Carrboro Coffee Roasters coffee and espresso offerings. 439 Hillsboro St.; 919-704-4239; davenports-cafediem.com

Elizabeth’s Pizza Pizza, calzones, sandwiches, salads and pasta. 160 Hillsboro St.; 919-545-9292; elizabethspizzapittsboro.com

John’s Pizza Restaurant Pizzas, pastas, wraps, calzones and strombolis. 122 Sanford Rd.; 919-542-5027; johnspizzarestaurant.com

The Mod Wood-fired pizza, salads, small plates and a full bar. Outdoor seating available. 46 Sanford Rd.; 919-533-6883; themodernlifedeli.com

Postal Fish Company Fresh seafood from North Carolina’s coast. Serving dinner only. 75 W. Salisbury St.; 919-704-8612; postalfishcompany.com

S&T’s Soda Shoppe Soda fountain, American fare. 85 Hillsboro St.; 919-545-0007; sandtsodashoppe.com

The Sycamore at Chatham Mills Upscale steakhouse. 480 Hillsboro St., Ste. 530; 919-704-8731; thesycamoreatchathammills.com

Tienda Hispana El Rayo Hispanic goods including Mexican pastries and packaged foods and drinks. 119 Hillsboro St. Virlie’s Grill Soups, salads, burgers, sandwiches. 58 Hillsboro St.; 919-542-0376; virliesgrill.com

Willy’s Cinnamon Rolls Etc. Bakery selling cinnamon rolls, scones, muffins, cookies and bread with ’40s and ’50s flair. 35 W. Chatham St.; 252-305-9227; willysrolls.com CHM

SPRINGTIME SNACK

bon appétit

Two young cooks whip up a batch of crêpes in time for North Carolina strawberry season

By Morgan Cartier Weston

Photography by John Michael Simpson

Sisters Winnie Maller, 13, and Ruby Maller, 16, have a built-in chef at home in mom Gwen Maller, a graduate of the French Culinary Institute (now known as the International Culinary Center) in New York City. Gwen currently works as a personal

Ruby Maller, 16, and her sister, Winnie Maller, 13, prepare to make crêpes in their home kitchen.

SPRINGTIME SNACK

chef with The Food Fairy, a meal and event service based in Chapel Hill that also offers cooking classes. With that background, she does all she can to nurture a love of food with her own daughters.

Ruby associates food with special travel and learning experiences with her family. The Chapel Hill High School junior especially loved participating in a “Harry Potter”themed cooking class at Southern Season before they closed their store in Chapel Hill. Ruby has fond memories with her mom enjoying arroz con pollo on a trip to Costa Rica. Her favorite foods to make are noodle-based, like ramen and penne pasta with meat sauce.

As a child, Winnie, now an eighth grader at McDougle Middle School, says she would pretend to cook with food scraps while her parents prepared meals. “I mixed it all up with water in a bowl and called it soup,” she says. Though she participates in her mom’s cooking classes, she doesn’t necessarily consider herself a budding chef. Winnie’s favorite things to prepare at home are microwaveable meals, though she says she would like to learn how to make lemon bars.

On the right side of this page is a basic crêpes recipe adapted from Sara Moulton. CHM

BASIC CRÊPES

MAKES 8 TO 10

• 5 Tbsp. unsalted butter

• 1 cup whole milk

• ¾ cup unbleached all-purpose flour

• 2 large eggs

• ¼ tsp. table salt

• 2 Tbsp. sugar

Melt the butter and set aside 2 tablespoons. In a blender, combine the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter with the milk, flour, eggs, salt and sugar. Blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover and set aside at room temperature for 30 minutes. Lightly brush a 10-inch crêpe pan with some of the reserved melted butter and heat over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking. Reduce the heat to medium. Stir the batter and ladle a scant ¼ cup into the pan, tilting and rotating the pan until the batter coats the bottom. Cook for 30 to 45 seconds, or until the surface of the crêpe looks set and the bottom is barely golden. Turn the crêpe and cook for 30 seconds more on the second side. Transfer the crêpes to a cooling rack as they are cooked. Once they are cool, stack them until you are ready to use them. Wrap and freeze any extra crêpes for later use.

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ENTREPRENEURS THE

ENTREPRENEURS

By Shane Snider | Photography by John Michael Simpson

Eight business owners share what it's like to be their own boss; flip the page to learn their challenges, successes and what the future holds 

CHARLIE FARRIS AND JASON KESLER

Al’s Burger Shack, Jersey Mike’s

ollege classmates Charlie Farris and Jason Kesler put potentially lucrative law careers on the back burner to become restaurateurs –and that culinary detour led them back to Chapel Hill when the duo bought Al’s Burger Shack last year.

The 2004 UNC graduates took the helm of the two-restaurant chain in December after successfully launching nearly two dozen Jersey Mike’s franchises throughout the state over the last decade. Al’s has become a popular Franklin Street mainstay since its launch on National Cheeseburger Day in 2013 – another location followed. When founder Al Bowers approached Charlie about the prospect of buying the restaurants last year, Charlie was intrigued. The pandemic had been hard on the restaurant business, and Al was looking to exit.

“After a conversation with Al, I kind of got the feeling he was ready to get out,” Charlie says, adding that he and

It’s been a really good transition. Our mindset for the future of Al’s is just the legacy of good service and good food – we’re going to keep those values the same.

– CHARLIE FARRIS

Al were friends and both members of The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro. “This place is just an institution at this point. He was kind of on an island by himself with no partners. What we can bring is the partnership between [Jason] and I. If anything comes up, I can ask Jason. What we brought to the table was knowledge and years of restaurant experience.”

So Charlie and Jason stepped in. The new owners wanted to be careful to keep the shack’s charm while updating processes that would make the business operate more efficiently. They hinted at the possibility of a future Al’s Burger Shack expansion, but for now will keep their attention on the two in Chapel Hill.

“The focus right now is making these two stores as good as they can possibly be,” Jason adds. Al’s will keep serving locally raised beef. But some of the processes will change. Charlie notes that the sauce is still made at the Southern Village location and brought to Franklin Street. “We want to make sure each restaurant is operating independently and self-sustained,” Charlie says.

Jason says before he bought into the idea, he needed to see what his family (including his wife, Erica, and his daughters, Ellie, 8, and Aubrey, 6) thought of the burgers. “I brought my family up here and we all ate, and my wife just loved it. And she’s not a big burger person. She said it was the best burger she’d ever had. So, it passed my family’s test. After that, it was just about logistics.” 

MELISSA LONG

Me-Gi’s Dog Bakery

Melissa’s side hustle was born out of a need to nourish her Peekapoo dog, Ginger – a finicky eater who just wasn’t keen on store-bought brands. The Chapel Hill resident used downtime during the pandemic to launch her business.

Melissa, a study site specialist at a clinical research firm, now spends her free time crafting dog food and treats. Armed with a pressure cooker and fresh ingredients, she has gained a small but loyal canine following. While Melissa only has about 10 clients right now, she’s happy with the progress and hopes to grow with word-of-mouth marketing.

Tell us how you started the business and how it’s going.

“I started the business during COVID-19. My dog, Ginger, who is 13, she’s such a picky eater. I’ve tried every kind of dog food you can imagine. She wasn’t really happy about the kibble I was giving her –and I found one brand she liked, but it was expensive. So I looked at the ingredients and said, ‘I can make this.’ That’s when I decided

to start making it, and Ginger loved it. So I gave some samples to my neighbors, and their dogs loved it. And I said, ‘Why don’t I just go into business.’ I started giving samples to local shelters – that’s how it got started.”

What has starting a business meant for you? Do you plan on transitioning to a fulltime business owner?

“It’s not really huge right now. My plan is to grow, and I’m not giving up on it. It’s like my little side hustle, and it’s become my passion. I love it. I love making the treats, and I just get excited seeing the dogs’ faces when they enjoy the food. If I become a millionaire overnight, sure.”

How did you decide on ingredients, and what do you think the future holds for Me-Gi’s?

“Ginger’s been eating the food for two years, and I haven’t changed anything. We don’t use any ingredients you can’t pronounce. It’s all-natural food and something I would eat myself. As far as the future, I have this vision that this will be big. There’s a lot of competition out here with dog food. This is really all about Ginger … Me-Gi’s is the first two letters of my name and the first two letters of hers. I think it has a ring to it.” 

PRIYAV CHANDNA A

MyChessTutor

chess champion in his high school days (he attended East Chapel Hill High for two years), Priyav turned his love for the game into an online chess school. Now the recent UNC KenanFlagler Business School graduate and his team of 26 instructors serve 415 students across the country harnessing Zoom and a virtual chess board. At just 23, Priyav has already built a successful online business that shows no signs of slowing down thanks to a renewed interest in the game.

How did you get involved with chess?

“I’ve been playing since I was 6 years old. It’s sort of a big part of my identity. It was actually my older brother who was taking lessons when he was 12 and I was 6. And little me would tag along and watch the lessons. I sort of got into chess along the way.”

We go above and beyond and pay attention to what our students want, to what their goals are. And we really deliver a world-class experience for them.

Give us an overview of the business and how you got started.

“We work with everyone from regular everyday people who just want to learn a new hobby to a few people in Hollywood you might recognize. It’s such a great game, and it’s accessible to everyone – there are no boundaries. Five years ago, this started as me just teaching people while I was still in high school. And then I realized I was a pretty good teacher and my students really enjoyed working with me. In 2020, “The Queen’s Gambit” came out [on Netflix], and it just launched a massive revolution for chess throughout the world. People wanted to be involved with chess. We were direct beneficiaries of that, for sure.”

Do you think the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdowns helped?

“Absolutely. People were at home, with more time on their hands. And they wanted to do things remotely. So we were perfectly positioned for that as a completely remote online business.”

How long does it take to improve at chess?

“Chess is very easy to learn but extremely difficult to master. So, someone who doesn’t know the first thing about chess can learn all the rules in probably three or four lessons. And maybe they can start to win at a basic level in two or three months against basic opposition. But like anything, it takes a long time to get very good. I’ve been playing for years now and I still have so much to learn.” 

– PRIYAV CHANDNA

MEG POWELL M

eg has found a way to marry her science and business background to become a “serial entrepreneur.” She co-founded Chapel Hillbased 501 Ventures in 2020, the latest in a series of successfully launched businesses.

501 Ventures bills itself as a “life science accelerator” that helps manage and mentor startup life science companies (they currently have two affiliate businesses on the roster with plans to launch more).

Meg leveraged her experience as an executive and business owner, along with a solid science background working in the pharmaceutical industry for Eli Lilly and GSK.

After graduating from the North Carolina School of Science and

501 VENTURES

Mathematics, Meg earned a doctorate in pharmacy from UNC and later added an MBA degree from Stanford University. Before 501 Ventures, Meg helped build and sell several companies, including Target RWE – a company that had reached $23 million in annual revenue before being bought by Norwest Venture Partners.

Meg likes naming her ventures after highways in North Carolina. “It’s my little tribute,” she says. She somehow finds time to serve on several boards and committees, including those for Echo Health Ventures, RTI International, Bio 54, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Emergo Therapeutics and her alma mater, the NCSSM.

How did you become an entrepreneur?

“Working in Big Pharma for 12 years was critical. I got an amazing amount of training and exposure to people and networks. And I’ve been able to apply that in the entrepreneurial word. The lesson I’ve learned is that there’s no one path to entrepreneurship. I would suggest

We always start with the customer. If we don’t see an unmet patient need, we just don’t spend our time there. That’s critical in any business. There has to be some unmet need.

that there are a lot of different paths. And if I didn’t have that experience in Big Pharma first, I would have never been prepared to do all of this without that experience.

What would be your advice for others interested in running a business?

“Each day you have to wake up and say, ‘What’s the best decision I can make today?’ All you can do is optimize with the information you have at that moment. As an entrepreneur, you have to fill a lot of roles and you need to be honest and open about where and when you need help and make sure you put the right people and the right resources around you.”

What are your plans for the future with 501 Ventures?

“We anticipate 501 will be in existence in perpetuity. We hope to sell the affiliated companies. What we’re trying to create are sustainable businesses. We plan on continuing to help create exciting technology and get it to the next phase of development.” 

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MEGHAN ROSENTHAL

Meghan Rosenthal wanted to brush a little beauty back into the world during the bleak early days of the COVID-19 pandemic with her paintings. She didn’t realize her business would explode in the span of a couple of years as eager customers used her work to brighten up their homes during tough times.

A former public relations professional, Meghan had turned her focus to raising her young children, Blake, 10, and 7-year-old, Lila. “I was kind of going crazy parenting at home,” she says from her Southern Village home and studio. “So I just started painting again as an outlet and started listing them on Instagram in the fall of 2021. It sort of became an overnight success.”

She adds, “My inspiration is happiness. I use bright colors because the world has just been through some really tough times recently. I wanted to create something really bright and happy that would make people feel the same.”

Even as life gets back to some semblance of normal, Meghan’s work has proven to have staying power. She released 10 collections last year, and her abstract art is now featured in Monkee’s of Chapel Hill and Gallery5 in Raleigh. She’s even started licensing the work – Ohio-based performance apparel brand 70 degrees reached out to Meghan last summer after seeing her work online. The company will feature designs from the paintings on a line of tennis clothing this spring. “I just love getting the art out there,” she says. “Whether it’s licensed on a product or an original painting.”

Meghan’s love of painting started early. Her mother was an artist, and she started sketching and painting at an early age. “I took classes my whole life and took some studio classes at UNC,” the class of 2004 graduate says. “And then I basically forgot about painting until the pandemic.”

As for the future, Meghan says she sees her art business lasting a long time. “I can see myself branching out,” she says. “I’d love to license my work further and perhaps create a wholesale kind of deal with my prints. I just see creating other streams of revenue.”

For others looking to create a creative business, she says, “You have to get yourself out there. No one is going to know your work is there to be sold if you can’t get yourself in front of people. And you have to know your audience. My audience is basically me. I paint the things I would like to see in my own home.” 

I’m using the skills I learned in my career to market my art and the skills I learned as a child to create these paintings. So, it feels very fulfilling.

– MEGHAN ROSENTHAL

MEGHAN ROSENTHAL ART

PHOTO BY ALEX DON, ALEX DON PHOTOGRAPHY

MARCUS HOWARD

Marcus grew up in St. Louis where he had to overcome some tough circumstances as an only child. “It was a high-stress, low-income environment,” he says. “A lot of things were impacting my emotional well-being.”

By the fifth grade, Marcus says his grades were declining and his mental state was worsening. Thankfully, educators intervened to get him the help he needed. After graduating from UNC, Marcus started his career as Teach For America’s middle school math and science chair and later became the organization’s chief innovation program officer. There, he honed his understanding of how to reach a large number of students in need.

Marcus went on to earn a master’s at University of Nevada, Las Vegas and a Ph.D. in education from N.C. State. Now Marcus wants other kids in his position to have the same chance at success and instant access to emotional support crucial to their mental health, so he started ROSA in 2020. The company uses emotional data

tracking, powerful data analytics and licensed professionals to provide needed mental health interventions quickly to those who need it most.

“The ultimate goal of ROSA was to be able to have a student take an assessment, determine the need for support – then they could talk to a mental health counselor instantly. The vision was to provide daily support instantly. To be able to do this means a lot to me,” Marcus says. “From my personal experience, I understand how important mental health is in order for these kids to have an equitable learning experience. These students are experiencing the same things I did as a student and to be able to express themselves and be open and honest is important – and I’m really excited to be able to lead that work.”

Marcus envisions a bright future for the company he currently runs out of his Chapel Hill apartment. “A goal of ROSA is to be able to give back at a large scale and have impact,” he says. “I had teachers at school who mentored me and took me under their wing. This is a way to give back at scale.” 

JOE BRANAN J

oe Branan has a critical nose. If he doesn’t like a scent offered up by Laura Branan, Joe’s Wax chief financial officer and his mom, he offers up a simple “eww,” rejecting the prospect of a new candle. Joe started making candles with Laura in 2020 after COVID-19 shut down Carrboro High School. Laura says she found the activity online and thought it would be a good way to bring some structure back to Joe’s day during those early days of pandemic lockdown.

Since then, the duo has churned out hundreds of candles and created a full-fledged business – selling online and in stores. As CEO, Joe helps with every step of the process and hand writes the company logo and scent on each candle jar.

“At first, we were just looking for a hands-on task – something to fill the day,” Laura says. “I thought it would be a fun afternoon project for Joe. So, we ordered a kit, and he just loved it. We thought we’d just give them away to family and friends at first. Then we put them

on Facebook, and friends were telling us we should sell them. So, I thought, ‘Why not?’”

Soon the Branans’ dining room would become a manufacturing and shipping facility. “As it turned out, Joe has this really cool handwritten font. So, he labels everything with a Sharpie in different colors,” Laura says. “And he has a great memory, so he knows all the steps to make the candles. It’s just been a great activity for him.”

Asked which candles were his favorites, Joe says, “Sea Salt and English Garden.”

For Laura, the candle-making venture has made a difference to Joe, who is on the autism spectrum. “It’s had an impact,” she says. “We’re working well together. And I was inspired because he was so proud of himself. That was reason enough to keep it going. I think it gave him confidence. And then he was learning skills and learning to think about what other people might like.”

Joe graduated from CHS last spring, and Laura says the candle business continues to add structure to his life.

With 20 different scents and orders coming in from across the state, the duo is keeping busy with the business. But being busy is good, Laura says. “The pandemic and school closing was stressful for him,” Laura says. “This was a way to express himself and ease his anxiety.” CHM

JOE’S WAX

Joe uses a infrared thermometer to measure the temperature of the wax.

Sponsored By

In the last three years, local businesses have pivoted to meet the ever-changing needs of our community. While business leaders and their teams have overcome many hurdles, they have also maintained high levels of service. The following pages offer a glimpse into the stories and people behind some of our local businesses and the qualities that make them unique in our community.

As a sponsor for this special section, Faces of 2023, Hamilton Point understands the importance of offering a personal approach to assisting clients. Our team manages all aspects of client wealth –from a high-quality investment approach to coordination of complex tax, retirement and estate planning. Our phones are answered by a

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Faces of 2023 is a warm introduction to the people behind some of the businesses that keep our community bustling. We hope that in the following section, you become acquainted with a local business or continue to support a long-time favorite along with us.

Thanks to Hamilton Point for helping Chapel Hill Magazine recognize local businesses, their leaders and their teams. 919-636-3765 | HAMILTONPOINT.COM |

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2023 FACES

CAT FRENCH DESIGN

Rooted in the heart of Chapel Hill in Southern Village, Cat French Design is a luxury interior design firm specializing in large-scale design projects across the Eastern Seaboard.

Over the span of a few years, Cat French has grown her firm from a one-woman business operating out of her home into a bustling team of design professionals. With a Master of Fine Arts in Interior Architecture and a passion for painting, Cat seamlessly blends her knowledge of design strategy and color theory to create home designs unique to each client. Her team offers a client-driven approach, helping each discover their personal style and reflecting this through custom design plans. Clients choose Cat French Design because of her whole team’s commitment to each project and the white-glove service offered to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Recently, the team moved into its third and largest studio space to date, a reflection of Cat French Design’s growth and continued desire to create exceptional spaces.

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

2023 FACES

CONSCIOUS STRONG

As a public speaker, author and the Founder of Conscious Strong™, Lauren McLaughlin helps women find their inner strength and unique pathway to a fulfilled life.

As a master-certified Pilates instructor and brain health practitioner for the past two decades, Lauren has worked with clients to improve both their physical and mental health. As a mother of five children, Lauren also understands the challenges of balancing a busy family and career while finding time to take care of oneself. She is dedicated to helping professional women learn how to nourish their mind, body and spiritual self while managing the responsibilities of leadership roles at work. Lauren is also passionate about creating community for women through hosting retreats in the mountains of Tuscany, Italy and in North Carolina.

The Conscious Strong™ lifestyle comes from Lauren’s own journey to find balance and fulfillment in all areas of life. Allow her to support and guide you in reclaiming your relationship with your body and mind.

PHOTO BY AMY MULDER PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 FACES

SEAGROVES AGENCY

Founded in Chapel Hill in 1972 by Theodore “Ted” Baxter Seagroves Jr., Seagroves Insurance is a family business whose mission is to protect people in the community by ensuring they are provided for in the event of unexpected loss. Ted passed on the business to his children, Pete and Amy, who have carried on his legacy of building trusting relationships with clients while providing quality products and service. Since taking over, Pete and Amy have expanded the agency to include ten locations across the state.

Seagroves provides highly personalized, professional service to clients, helping them better understand their unique coverage needs and creating comprehensive insurance programs suited to these specific needs.

Whether clients need to make a policy change, have a question about billing or need to report a claim, the Seagroves team responds swiftly and professionally. Seagroves agents look forward to helping clients find the right combination of insurance offerings to protect their families, farms, or businesses.

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

2023 FACES

REJUVENATION STATION NC

Bringing together their experiences as registered nurses and passion for natural healing, Nia Stiff and Tammi Campo opened Rejuvenation Station NC in Carrboro. As a registered nurse for 8 years, Nia gained therapeutic knowledge across clinics, but was particularly impacted working in perioperative services where she learned extensively about IV hydration. Tammi also worked as a perioperative nurse and learned firsthand about the benefits of natural remedies and vitamins after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Taking advantage of these remedies helped stabilize the disease so that Tammi could live a healthy, fulfilling life.

Rejuvenation Station NC offers vitamins, IV hydration and other supplements to promote a variety of health and wellness goals. One of the noted advantages of IV injections is the simultaneous delivery of antioxidants, peptides, minerals and stem cells into the body to improve the strength of skin, hair and nails. Nia and Tammi welcome clients at any stage of their wellness journey to Rejuvenation Station NC. .

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

BOUNCING BULLDOGS

Based in Chapel Hill and Durham, the Bouncing Bulldogs is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to promote jump rope for fun and fitness and to help all children grow physically, emotionally, socially and academically. Since 1986, founder Coach Ray Fredrick, Jr. has grown the Bouncing Bulldogs from a school-based club of 15 jumpers to a competitive team of more than 100, ages five to 25. Each year, the team performs and competes worldwide in front of thousands. The team has traveled to 25 countries and has earned world championship titles since 2011.

The Bouncing Bulldogs also empowers kids to serve in their communities. Driven by a peer leadership model, jumpers help teach local classes throughout the year and host seasonal camps. More recently, the Bulldogs have introduced Jump Forward, an outreach initiative that focuses on promoting youth empowerment and healthy living through jump rope.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

THE ARTSCENTER

The ArtsCenter, originally known as ‘ArtsSchool,’ was founded in 1974 and has been a vital part of the Carrboro community for more than three decades. As a hub for creativity, The ArtsCenter offers art classes, afterschool programs, summer camps, performances and more, serving more than 100,000 students and residents throughout the year. Community members and visitors are invited to stop by and meet the staff – the people who keep The ArtsCenter and its community of artists thriving. While there, guests can explore the gallery exhibitions that display works by local artists. Now more than ever, the arts play a major role in the community by inspiring hope and positive change in society. At The ArtsCenter, every person is an artist and has the opportunity to inspire others to hope and dream again.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

THE FRAME & PRINT SHOP

After 30 years in the healthcare field, Becky Woodruff started the next chapter of her life: revitalizing a 50-year-old business within University Place. Becky was a patron of The Frame & Print Shop for years and purchased it to keep it under local ownership. Giving the store a second life began with creating an inviting floor plan that is bright, clean and welcoming. Then, Becky hired an extraordinarily skilled staff with a combined experience of more than 100 years. The team offers cutting-edge, hands-on service – from when clients enter the store until the final product is proudly on their walls.

Most important to The Frame & Print Shop is customer service, community involvement and opportunities to give back. Last year, Becky started The Artist Frame Hub which offers artists free recycled and wholesale framing materials. She supports and donates to local arts groups, such as The ArtsCenter and the Orange County and Chatham Artists Guilds.

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

2023 FACES

MONARCH BROW + FACIAL

Monarch Brow + Facial Studio’s serenity belies the passion driving its owner, Angela Hugghins. Her mission is to deliver a sublime experience for clients in a tranquil one-to-one environment. Her pursuit has been so successful that the studio has been voted one of Chapel Hill Magazine’s “Best of Chapel Hill” winner multiple times.

Angela builds on her 25 years of experience with continued study of skin care and cosmetic tattooing led by world-famous, innovative educators. This led Angela to create her own Cult of Reason Skincare line, which was encouraged by clients’ rave reviews of her first product, a cleansing scrub. Her custom brand consists of a trio of products, including Grit, the highlyreviewed scrub; Quench, an impressive hydrating serum based on snow mushroom; and Shield, a quick-absorbing Vitamin C oil. Her pre-order initiative proved so successful that Cult of Reason beat its goal of sales by nearly $3,000.

Angela owes her continued success to her family, friends and clients.

PHOTO BY OTHERLOVE X RADIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 FACES

MILL HOUSE PROPERTIES

Adam W. Jones first invested in fixer-upper houses in our area as a side project while working as an advertising executive. In 2002, his hobby became a full-time job when he established Mill House Properties, named after his first several projects—mill houses in Carrboro. Mill House now handles sales, rentals, property management and HOA management and prides itself on only accepting properties that meet its high standards. The hardworking and loyal staff offer exceptional service to owners and tenants alike. As Broker-in-Charge, Adam specializes in investment sales statewide, guiding clients to solid investments rather than just buying a rental property. Today, Mill House manages nearly 600 properties across four university communities: UNC-Chapel Hill, Duke, UNC-Asheville and Western Carolina. Mill House manages nearly 2,000 HOA doors in the Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Pittsboro area.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

GAVIN

DDS, MS & KATYA SKILLESTAD, DDS, MS SMITH & HEYMANN ORTHODONTICS

Drs. Katya Skillestad and Gavin Heymann love being part of the Chapel Hill community and treating adults and children across Orange County. They are board-certified orthodontists who strive to provide evidence-based and patient-centered care.

Born in the former USSR and fluent in Russian, Dr. Kat grew up in south Charlotte and attended UNC-Chapel Hill for her undergraduate and dental degrees. Dr. Kat then studied orthodontics at Texas A&M University in Dallas, where she won the Journal of Clinical Orthodontics National Resident of the Year Award and the Resident Case of the Year Award.

Dr. Heymann is a true native of Chapel Hill: He graduated from Chapel Hill High School and received his undergraduate, dental and orthodontic degrees from UNCChapel Hill. During his orthodontics residency, he received the prestigious Andrew McArthur Brooks Fellowship. Dr. Heymann is also an adjunct faculty member at the UNC School of Dentistry Department of Orthodontics.

Together with the amazing team at Smith and Heymann Orthodontics, Dr. Kat and Dr. Heymann ensure that their patients are heard, appreciated and confident about their care.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

SHANNON KENNEDY HODGE & KITTRELL SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY

Recognizing that there is no shortage of real estate brokers in the Triangle area, Shannon Kennedy approaches her job from a place of hard work and deep gratitude. She considers it an honor when sellers and buyers trust her with their real estate endeavors. Her goal is to provide her clients with service that is as elevated as their standards.

To that end, Shannon relies every day on her strong work ethic and her problem-solving skills – as well as a healthy dose of good humor – to think creatively and strategically about how to serve her sellers and buyers. She is passionate about her career in real estate and about making the process of buying or selling a home as smooth and easy as possible for her clients.

Through her volunteer work with Habitat for Humanity of Orange County, TABLE, SECU Family House and the YMCA of the Triangle, Shannon knows that, at the end of the day, home and community are what matter most – and she never forgets that when working for her clients.

PHOTO BY NIKKI WHITT, FANCY THIS PHOTOGRAPHY

2023 FACES

FINN PLASTIC SURGERY

Dr. Charlie Finn has been practicing in Chapel Hill since 1998. Dr. Finn specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures such as facelift, rhinoplasty and endoscopic browlift. He is an accomplished sculptor and commits much of his time to giving back through the F.I.N.N. Foundation. In 2018, Dr. Elkins-Williams joined the team, adding his complementary skills in breast rejuvenation and body contouring. This year, Drs. Finn and Elkins-Williams welcomed another surgeon to the team, Justin C. Sowder, MD. Dr. Sowder is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology. He performs a full range of cosmetic procedures including facelift, rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty and browlift, in addition to nonsurgical procedures including injectable treatments and laser skin resurfacing. Finn Plastic Surgery provides a comprehensive aesthetic practice, offering everything from basic facial maintenance to major rejuvenation.

Voted “Best of Chapel Hill” 11 years in a row, Finn Plastic Surgery prides itself on a fun-loving staff known for their 5-star customer service!

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

CITRINE SALON

Citrine Salon houses an established team of dedicated, energizing and best-in-class skin and hair professionals led by its vivacious, stylish and driven owner, Heather Slott.

Every member of Team Citrine is dedicated to providing each client with top-level service throughout his or her experience within the salon. Each client’s visit is carefully orchestrated as a team effort, intentionally crafted, coordinated and optimized to ensure that at the end, each client looks great, feels great and is ready to take on the world!

Providing a masterful experience is not Citrine’s only goal. Continuing to stay mindful and vigilant in regards to current safety protocols and best practices is always top of mind to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for everyone.

PHOTO BY JAMIE KRIEG

2023 FACES

CHAN WRIGHT INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.

At Chan Wright Insurance Agency, Chan and his team believe in keeping things simple. By prioritizing the needs of each client rather than those of the insurance company, his agency has become a mainstay in the community. Owing to meaningful client relationships and partnerships with insurance companies, such as Erie Insurance, Chan and his team provide both outstanding customer service and competitive rates. As a Chapel Hill native and a local insurance agent for more than 20 years, Chan takes pride in serving the community well and, along with his staff, looks forward to doing so for years to come.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

CLIFTON & MAUNEY ORTHODONTICS & PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY

Drs. Clifton and Mauney are Chapel Hill’s expert pediatric dental and allages orthodontics providers. This husband and wife duo created a practice where families can coordinate their dental and orthodontic appointments. While both doctors are board-certified in pediatric dentistry, their clientele has evolved over time to include adult orthodontic patients. This is possible because of Dr. Clifton’s dual board certification in orthodontics. Transforming the space from a primarily pediatric clinic to one for all ages proved to be an exercise in adaptability. What resulted is a high-tech, comfortable environment for teens and adults that remains safe and kidfriendly for young clients.

The office’s hybrid structure combines the convenience of family dental clinics with the opportunity for children to be treated by true pediatric specialists, who received three additional years of training focused on the unique dental needs of infants, children and adolescents.

At Clifton & Mauney Orthodontics & Pediatric Dentistry, young ones learn how to establish healthy oral habits while mom or dad improve their own smile, too.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

2023 FACES

PAM HERNDON | STATE FARM INSURANCE

As a State Farm Insurance agent since 1991, Pam Herndon has helped customers with a wide range of insurance needs. In 2004, she opened her own agency in Chapel Hill and has developed a passion for providing customers with solutions to manage their risks. Pam leads an outstanding team of agents who help customers with retirement, education and estate planning. Her team also offers mortgages through Quicken loans. Pam has mentored and led four former team members to become State Farm Agents. Her leadership along with her commitment to educating customers earned her the recognition of Businesswoman of the Year in 2018 by the Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro. She continues to give back to the community through her involvement with the East Chapel Hill Rotary Club and the Chamber and through volunteering with the SECU Family House.

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

2023 FACES

TAMMY R. SEVERT, DDS, PA

Dr. Tammy Severt founded Severt Smiles in 2000 and Dr. Laura Jacox joined the practice in 2019. Dr. Bill Davis opened the practice that would become Severt Smiles in 1967. With a continued presence in Chapel Hill for 55 years, the practice now treats the grandchildren of former patients. Drs. Severt and Jacox pride themselves on maintaining long-term connections with families because their focus is on the patient as a whole person. Severt Smiles provides cutting-edge and efficient treatment, and just as importantly, a team who supports and genuinely cares about patients as individuals.

Dr. Severt has been in full-time private practice since 1997 while Dr. Jacox is an associate professor at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry, where she lectures in addition to conducting research on oral health and orthodontics. Both doctors received their orthodontic training at the UNC Adams School of Dentistry.

PHOTO BY JESSICA BERKOWITZ

2023 FACES

AILEEN STAPLETON & GISELLE FEIGER HODGE

& KITTRELL SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL

REALTY

Aileen (right) and Giselle (left) are a top-producing dynamic real estate duo with tremendous successes in referrals and repeat business. Their strategic approach, negotiation savvy, vision and tenacity in navigating a dynamic marketplace have proven highly successful for their clients. Renowned for their energy, initiative and enthusiasm, they take to heart and achieve their clients’ dreams as their own. Their unique niche is born from being raised by small business owners - one in Ireland and the other as a Nicaraguan in Los Angeles.

Aileen’s early career in international banking in London led to international public relations in Dublin and an award-winning real estate career in Laguna Beach, California.

Giselle previously worked in global health with teams at Boston and Harvard Universities in the U.S. and abroad, is fluent in Spanish and offers a research-oriented approach that proves invaluable to investors.

Aileen and Giselle are named Homesnap’s Top 5% of agents nationally. Their greatest joy is when friends become clients and clients become friends.

PHOTO BY BRONWYN DUFFIELD

italian hospitality

2023 marks 40 years in business for VIETRI, the Italian ceramic dinnerware line founded by Susan Gravely. She shares an excerpt from her new book, “Italy on a Plate,” that is part memoir, part cookbook, published this March.

By Susan Gravely

Fellow North Carolinians who also feel at home in Italy, Frances Mayes and Ed Mayes are kindred spirits to me. Our paths first crossed professionally with a commissioned dinnerware collection in honor of Frances’s bestselling book “Under the Tuscan

Photography by Infraordinario Photo

Susan’s husband, Bill Ross, and Susan share a toast with Frances Mayes and Ed Mayes at Bramasole.

Sun,” and that project was the start of a rich, decadeslong friendship. Momma, Frances and I have had the joy of Frances and Ed’s company in their homes in Hillsborough, North Carolina, and in Cortona, Italy, and no matter where we are geographically, we have always felt inspired, welcomed and at ease in their warm company.

Frances and Ed are passionate and skilled cooks whose enthusiasm for good food is contagious. They are curious about culinary traditions, and they produce their own delicious, award-winning olive oil from their olive groves in Cortona. They

also grow their own herbs, vegetables and fruits so they can use the freshest produce in their kitchen, following the Italian tenet that food tastes best when it is simply prepared with high-quality ingredients. I have been lucky enough to dine with them in their beautiful Italian home, Bramasole, many times, and I am grateful to be the beneficiary of their gracious hospitality and culinary interests and talents.

Bramasole is perched on a knoll above a winding road. It’s an incredible 250-year-old Italian farmhouse with terra cotta walls and light green shutters. A descending, tiered garden unfolds in front of the

Susan and Frances.

house with flowering plants, stone walls and walkways along which to amble. The home looks out on five acres of rolling green hills, cypress trees and an expansive, brilliant sky. The Mayeses have kept the interior faithful to Italian tradition; the original walls are painted with soft, dreamy frescos, large stone fireplaces bring warmth and texture, exposed ceiling beams showcase the home’s history and craftsmanship, ornate crystal chandeliers glimmer overhead, and rustic, wide-tiled floors are layered with beautiful rugs. The fabrics are both comfortable and rich, inviting one to sit down and stay a while.

While Bramasole is full of beautiful Italian antiques and has formal touches, it is Frances and Ed who inspire me by creating an inclusive, unpretentious, yet very special atmosphere for their guests. They have collected a diverse and rich group of friends over many years, and I always look forward to seeing who else might be invited to dinner – it could be the town librarian, a gardener, a dear family member or a movie star!

A dinner party at Bramasole usually begins with enjoying a glass of prosecco or red wine in their open kitchen as they put the finishing touches on dinner. Including guests in the final stages of cooking has become one of my favorite ways to entertain as well; it puts everyone at ease and creates a familial, collaborative and gracious atmosphere. There’s no fluster or pressure to have a perfect final product before the doorbell rings; rather, it’s a relaxed and easy way to start an evening. I remember when Frances and Ed told me that there was no Italian word for “stress” until Americans brought it over. Even though “stressato” now exists in the Italian vernacular, it is something I have never felt under their roof.

Before sitting down for dinner, Frances and Ed serve an inviting

LIGHTNING ROUND WITH SUSAN

• Number of VIETRI employees, then and now: When we first began in 1983, it was Momma, Frances and me. Today, we have approximately 52.

• Favorite VIETRI piece: My very first set of Campagna dinnerware from my first trip to Vietri sul Mare with my mother and sister in 1983.

• Best part of working with family: You always know you are loved and encouraged and trusted, even in the difficult times.

• Favorite recipe from the book: Hands down, the orange and sage scented shortbread cookies, created by Frances Mayes herself.

• If I could only travel to one Italian city ever again, I’d go to … Florence.

• Three must-haves in my suitcase when traveling to Italy: A black cashmere sweater, black trousers, and a white cotton collared long-sleeved shirt.

• Red or white wine? Red.

• Favorite dinner spot in Hillsborough: Antonia's.

• Farthest I’ve shipped a VIETRI piece: Australia.

• Three dream dinner party guests: Dalai Lama, Oprah Winfrey and Frances Mayes.

• I'd serve them: A crisp green salad, veal piccata, fresh peas, homemade biscuits, a light red wine and a refreshing sorbet served with Frances Mayes' orange and sage scented shortbread cookies.

• What’s next? The future is bright. We are always looking ahead and discovering new and exciting treasures.

array of antipasti that showcases the bounty of the season. They have taught me how Italians roast chestnuts over the open fire during the holidays, and they’ve shared the way to make perfect bruschetta with fresh summer produce (the lesson remains to keep the recipe simple and use the best quality ingredients you can find).

Next, the party moves to the dining room, where Frances loves to set creative, unexpected and gorgeous tablescapes. Linen tablecloths and napkins dress the table, and down the center are a collection of treasures from the house – small sculptures, little bowls, tall candles and more. The effect is unique and artistic, and it has encouraged me to remember to look around my own house first when I’m putting together my table at home. The menu always features what is in season, served in traditional Italian style. What strikes me the most about these dinners at Bramasole is the twinklyeyed, curious and youthful nature of the hosts. Conversations take the most fascinating turns because Frances and Ed are interested in everyone and everything. They are adept at finding common ground with anyone, yet they are always delighted to learn something new. Dinners at their house continue long after dessert is enjoyed, as everyone lingers at the table, sharing memories and adventures. The Mayeses have a way of making their guests feel appreciated and valued at their table, and that is something I endeavor to recreate for guests in my own home. During a recent visit, Frances and I walked into a local art gallery in Cortona that had three prints of Bramasole on display. The owner of the gallery, a friend of Frances’, said that they always sell quickly thanks to Frances’ bestselling book. Everyone wants to own a piece of that life under the Tuscan sun! I hope Frances’ favorite recipes will give you a taste of that wonderful life. 

CROSTINI DI PISELLI E SCALOGNO (PEA AND SHALLOT CROSTINI)

YIELDS 8 TO 10

Crostini are toasted slices of a finely textured bread loaf, usually a baguette. Bruschetta is also toasted, but it uses larger slices of a rustic Italian or sourdough bread.

• 2 Tbsp. extravirgin olive oil

• 4 shallots, minced

• 2 cups fresh peas, shelled

• 3 Tbsp. chopped mint

• 2 Tbsp. mascarpone

• 1⁄4 tsp. salt

• 1⁄4 tsp. black pepper

• 8 to 10 slices bruschetta or crostini, toasted

Heat the olive oil in a medium sauté pan over medium heat.

Add the shallots and peas and sauté 4 minutes, or until the peas are barely done and the shallots are wilted. Stir in the mint, mascarpone, salt and pepper.

Transfer to a food processor and coarsely chop. Spoon onto the toasted bruschetta or crostini and serve at room temperature. 

PHOTO BY FOOD SEEN

ORANGE AND SAGE SCENTED SHORTBREAD BISCUITS

YIELDS 2 DOZEN

Shortbread is a versatile and quick cookie to bake. It freezes well, too. You can make a simple version with a little vanilla, skipping the flavors below. Another delightful variation? Cut the shortbread into bars and dip them individually into chocolate.

• 8 ounces unsalted butter, softened

• 1⁄2 cup sugar

• 2 cups allpurpose flour, sifted

• Pinch of salt

• 1 Tbsp. orange zest

• 6 fresh sage leaves, minced

Combine the butter and sugar in a medium bowl and beat until fluffy. Add the flour, salt, zest and sage leaves, and mix until the dough comes together.

Divide the dough into two equal portions and roll out 2 (2 1⁄2- to 3-inch diameter) logs on a lightly floured surface. Wrap with plastic wrap, and chill the dough for at least two hours.

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F.

Cut the cookies into 1⁄2-inch slices and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 25 minutes. Check after 20 minutes for doneness; cookies should be slightly firm to the touch. Remove with a spatula to a wire cooling rack and serve warm, or at room temperature.

CHAPTER 6 ESSAY AND RECIPES REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION FROM “ITALY ON A PLATE” BY SUSAN GRAVELY (VIETRI PUBLISHING, 2023).

PHOTO BY FOOD SEEN

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Scan to watch my new video!

- Elaine

The original red oak floors were refinished to create a neutral ground for the main floor of the home.

a world apart

Inspired by her travels, an interior designer makes her Chapel Hill house feel like home

By Leah Josephson

After traveling together to more than 15 countries and living on both coasts as they grew their careers, Renu Mathias and Sam Mathias settled in Chapel Hill in 2018 seeking a diverse, close-knit community to raise their two children, Taj,

Photography by John Michael Simpson

Renu says her sofas are from RH's Belgian Track Arm collection and paired with an ottoman custom upholstered in chenille fabric by Kelly Wearstler for Lee Jofa.

8, and Kirin, 7. Sam was familiar with the area, having attended Duke University as an undergraduate. At the end of a whirlwind 36hour “scouting trip,” they were quickly under contract for their home in Chandler’s Green

Now, Renu, an interior designer and owner of Renu Mathias Interiors, uses her house as a testing ground for her eclectic, collected style as she continues to grow her design business for clients in Chapel Hill and beyond.

“For my own home, I want it to feel like a collage of cultures and experiences. I don’t want it to feel so uniform,” she says. “I want it to sort of feel like you’re peeling back all of these stories and discovering where things came from and how they got here.”

While Renu was drawn to the home’s good bones, including a large refinished kitchen, her major project was to remove an interior wall that separated the first floor common areas, creating a large, open dining and living space that flows into the kitchen. The open concept works well for the family as Renu and Sam enjoy cooking and hosting friends and family.

For more casual seating, Renu also installed a curved, asymmetrical built-in banquette adjacent to the kitchen, popular with Taj and Kirin and their friends. Large windows offer views of the wooded backyard.

The warm, neutral color palette plays well with international decor picked up on the family’s travels, including Renu’s childhood trips to India and Europe with her parents, and a ‘round-the-world adventure that Renu and Sam took when they were first engaged.

“I always would find myself gravitating toward the textiles and home stores, just buying and collecting things for [my] eventual home,” Renu says. “Kudu horns, the ostrich eggs on the dining table, all of these things that I just knew I wanted in my home someday, but didn’t know where they would go.”

She also encourages her clients to find personal inspiration, often from travel, vacations or other meaningful experiences, to guide the design process.

“I think that’s what tells a story, that’s what gives a home depth,” she says. “It’s a good starting point for me when I talk to my clients – understanding not just who they are, but what inspires them. And

RIGHT The dining area is anchored by an Indian sari silk rug sourced from ABC Carpet & Home.

We turned the third floor into a transportive yoga studio [pictured left]. It has offered endless amounts of zen for me and my husband!

– Renu Mathias

typically, that’s a place. It’s a memory; it can be a scent. Ultimately, when you’re in your home, you’re grounding yourself into this sense of place. How do you create that environment that’s really grounding and emotionally secure and supportive? I always like to start with that.”

Rather than remaining faithful to a specific style ethos, Renu, who previously worked in consumer brand marketing, engages each client uniquely through the process of pulling together a design inspired by a lifetime of experiences. One recent project bridged a client’s love for both Charleston, South Carolina, and Stockholm, blending traditional Southern and Scandinavian styles. Another project in the Northwood neighborhood involved updating a 1970s lodge-style home inherited from the

The gourmet kitchen was renovated prior to buying the house. To make it their own, Renu updated hardware, lighting, tile and repainted the cabinetry.

ABOVE RIGHT Renu wanted the primary bedroom to feel like an escape away from the rest of the home. To achieve this, she added picture trim to the walls to add depth and incorporated high-contrast details, including paint by Farrow & Ball.

client’s grandfather. The design began as a “modern lodge” that reflected the home’s surroundings set back in a grove of old trees. The homeowners have slowly incorporated antique and vintage furnishings, with Renu’s guidance, for a more eclectic blend of old and new.

“As somebody who comes from the background of trying to understand the consumer to better figure out how to market, that’s what I do all day long,” she says. “I love

ABOVE A gallery wall in the casual dining area features personal travel photography from over the years. Sam and Renu hope these images will inspire their children to explore the world.

that I’m not just designing the same playbook over and over again, and just pushing it into different homes.”

In addition to layering modern and vintage, local and multicultural, Renu uses a blend of high- and low-end fixtures and furnishings in her own home and in design projects, prioritizing durability and livability. Her laundry area is outfitted with IKEA cabinets and a mudroom bench from The Container Store, enhanced with brass fixtures and a cushion upholstered with fabric from a vintage rug Renu found on Etsy. Locally, she shops for unique touches at Patina in Durham.

Renu guides clients to invest more in comfortable seating, as well as textiles and lighting. These elements make an especially big impact in small spaces, like the jewel box powder room off the family’s laundry area. The space is wallpapered floor to ceiling in a moody William Morris print –the traditional pattern juxtaposed with unexpected touches, like the structural modern brass sconce on just one side of the mirror, whose wavy edges lend an organic style to the space. A backsplash ledge is finished with neutral tile with a handmade look, stacked vertically for a more contemporary treatment.

Renu and her family continue to find creativity and community both abroad and closer to home,

PASSION PROJECTS

So far, 2023 has kept Renu busy. She’s been spending her time on jobs in The Oaks, Apex and Hillsborough, plus three projects in Chapel Hill which were just getting going at press time in early February.

Not all her ongoing projects are residential. She says, “I am working with a team of moms and staff at East Chapel Hill High School on a Wellness Room (“a safe and encouraging place supporting mental health”) which we plan to complete in April.” The room will be designed to create an environment in which students can calm down, take a break and restore their sense of wellbeing when feeling anxious, stressed or upset. This space will also be used to hold restorative conferences between students when conflict has occurred.

She’s also working with Dr. Jim Furgurson of Chapel Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry to redesign his space, which he needed more of thanks to an increase in staff and

investment in technology. Renu says, “He recently purchased an adjacent condo to support their growth which meant modernizing the look of the office was a natural next step.” The office redesign is well timed with their 10th anniversary and will showcase modern finishes (e.g. fluted wood paneling) and an asymmetrical curved reception desk. “One of the elements I’m personally most excited about is a collection of paintings that

I commissioned to Catherine Gravatt, a local Chapel Hill artist, mother of three and cancer survivor,” she says. “It’s always rewarding to work directly with the artists whose craft I am bringing into my clients’ spaces.”

Farther from home, she’s also working on a project in Richmond, Virginia, while wrapping one up in Chicago.

Tucked away in the historical Gold Coast neighborhood is a 3,600-square-foot condo from the early 1900s Renu recently completed. It features several of her go-to makers (including IndoMade and Cisco Brothers) and weaves together the wares of creators from across the globe. And since we photographed her home last summer, Renu’s made several updates, from textiles and furniture to exterior landscaping with Swanson Landscapes Elsewhere in the house, “we just finished my office refresh and have started on a plan for a foyer addition working with Beau Long of Long Developers.” 

PHOTO BY HEATHER TALBERT PHOTOGRAPHY

BY THE NUMBERS

4,200 square feet

4 bedrooms plus yoga studio

3 ½ bathrooms

½-acre lot

including at local favorite spots including Hawthorne & Wood and Pizzeria Mercato, and The Casual Pint, the go-to hang out after Friday night Little League games. Inspired by a recent trip to Portugal, where cozy wine bars welcomed guests to settle in and stay a while, Renu has recently been dreaming of supporting a local developer in designing a mixed-use project to elevate dining and retail experiences available to families of Chapel Hill, not just the university ecosystem.

“We appreciate the sense of community [in Chapel Hill]. I think that was the thing that I was missing the most in the Bay Area,” Renu says. “People spend so much of their time working and grinding it out, it was really hard to feel any sort of connection. It’s a simple life, and people are welcoming. And that Southern hospitality thing is real.” CHM

ABOVE Renu sourced the rug from Patina and the custom toss pillow was fabricated to tie in the custom ottoman upholstered in Kelly Wearstler fabric.

ABOVE Another gallery wall of personal items fills the wall and adds visual interest.

WE LEND WHERE

AT CIMG RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE, we’re thrilled to call Chapel Hill home. Founded here over 25 years ago, we’ve built a business that is local to our core. All of our approvals happen here, we loan our own money and we work closely with vendor partners who share our community values. During the past 25 years we’ve loaned over $9 billion to homeowners, helped more than 30,000 families buy or refinance and donated over $1 million to local nonprofits that support our community.

And when it comes time to unwind, we’re all about celebrating local flavor. Like enjoying a walk with our co-workers on Bolin Creek Trail followed by co ee at Ca e Driade. Cheers to calling Chapel Hill home and being your hometown lender!

DRIADE

CAFFE

GIVING GARDEN

a gracious plenty

Community and church gardens provide a bounty

By Emily Davis

In 2014, the Environmental Stewardship Team at University United Methodist Church envisioned a place to grow healthy, fresh food for those in need. Out of their efforts grew Giving Garden. The 5,000-square-foot plot, located along Umstead Drive just 1.5 miles northwest of the Franklin Street church, is run year-round by

volunteers, including many nonchurch members. Beehives, apple and eucalyptus trees, blueberry bushes and pollinator plants around the garden’s perimeter are also tended. A majority of produce is donated to TABLE, which provides healthy food and nutrition education to children in Orange County. “We specifically asked TABLE what

PHOTO BY JULIA HUNEYCUTT

LEFT Pepper fruits begin to sprout in the Giving Garden.

RIGHT Colorful flowers bloom near the Giving Garden's entrance. "Obviously, a big part of Giving Garden is giving produce to TABLE, but it is also intended to be a place of peace and beauty for all,” Ann says.

produce recipients liked most, and we grew them if possible,” says Ann Booterbaugh, Giving Garden’s founding volunteer. According to the Rev. Justin Coleman, University UMC’s senior pastor, many volunteers are from the international community and live in rentals without access to land. Half of Giving Garden is dedicated to their use, resulting in a unique array of international crops, from

lavender to bok choy. “Giving Garden offers a beautiful glimpse of what it means to be a human family committed to the flourishing of our neighbors,” Justin says.

THE CARRBORO FAMILY GARDEN AT MLK JR. PARK

This garden aims to make growing healthy food a family affair. Carrboro or Chapel Hill residents with children under 18 pay an income-based annual fee to cultivate 100-square-foot plots. They share tools, and a few fruit plants, with the adjacent Carrboro Community Garden. Both gardens thrive on community connections – donations of leaf mulch from the Town of Carrboro, wood chips from The Treeist and compost from CompostNow. The Carrboro Family Garden recently expanded

PHOTO BY JULIA HUNEYCUTT

in size and added five new beds, and garden manager Jeanette O’Connor expects to build three more in the coming months. She says the land fills an important community niche and encourages the sharing of agricultural wisdom. “About a third of the Family Garden [participants have] been there for years, and plot neighbors will pass that knowledge along to one another,” she says. Jeanette adds that carrots are an annual favorite of their youngest planters since, “the kids think it’s endlessly exciting to pull carrots out of the ground.”

BALDWIN COMMUNITY GARDEN

Located within Henry Baldwin Park, this cooperative project serves the Northside neighborhood. It was started by area residents who petitioned the Town of Carrboro and the parks department

ABOVE The Carrboro Family Garden yields a colorful medley of garlic, potatoes, onions and carrots.

LEFT A young volunteer presents her collection of berries and cherry tomatoes. As they require extra space, berry bushes are shared in the space between the Family Garden and the Baldwin Community Garden.

for space in the park. Eric Allman, a member of the garden and the Carrboro Community Garden Coalition, helped start the gardens in both Henry Baldwin Park and MLK Jr. Park. The Carrboro Community Garden Coalition helps people who want to start a garden with the help of their knowledgeable members. Eric says enthusiasm for learning how to cultivate one’s own food has only grown. “The interest is there, [but] I think space is a limiting factor in Carrboro,” he says. 

Interest in obtaining one of Baldwin’s 31 plots especially rose during the pandemic. “We have a long waitlist that grows every year,” he says. Those who get a 4-by-8 bed also share in the responsibility of two community plots from which produce, including potatoes, black-eyed peas and green beans, is donated to local food banks, like Marian Cheek Jackson Center’s Heavenly Groceries.

SAN ISIDRO LABRADOR COMMUNITY GARDEN

Located at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, this garden celebrates its 10th anniversary this year. Its namesake, St. Isidore the Laborer, is the patron saint of farmers and gardeners. “Probably most gardens don’t have a patron saint,” says Bob Weickert, one of the founders of the 0.04 acre plot. The selection of the Spanish saint was fitting. For the past several years, San Isidro’s produce has been freely distributed to the church’s large Spanish-speaking congregation. From April to November, attendees of Saturday and Sunday Spanish Mass services are greeted in the entrance hall with tables of freshly picked produce.

“I try to grow a lot of peppers, like jalapeños, habaneros and poblanos because they’re really popular,” Bob

He and his team welcome volunteers of all experience levels: “From ‘I’ve been gardening for 40 years’ to ‘I don’t know the difference between a turnip and a radish.’” Bob says. “The more people I can get to grow their own food, the better off they are.” CHM

says.

ABOVE A head of cabbage braves the December frost in Baldwin Community Garden.

LEFT San Isidro Labrador Community Garden receives a blessing every year on May 15, the feast day of St. Isidore the Laborer.

BELOW LEFT The team plants pollinator flowers next to the vegetable garden.

Father-Daughter Team David & Elizabeth Lindquist

"The grand room was and still is stunning, and we tried to match any new work to that standard," homeowner Brendan McKenna says. "We love how it extends seamlessly into the covered porch, which we emphasized with the new folding glass doors."

HOME & GARDEN

A thoughtful renovation revives a mid-century gem

By Morgan Cartier Weston

Photography by Brad Bunyea

Architect Ellen Cassilly is no stranger to mid-century homes in Chapel Hill, having revitalized work by renowned names like William Van Eaton Sprinkle and

Jon Condoret. So, when Brendan McKenna and Kelly McKenna reached out to her in 2019 about bringing their Arthur Cogswell home into the 21st century, Ellen was thrilled.

“Chapel Hill surprisingly has one of the highest concentrations of modernist homes in the country, and there are plenty of hidden gems ripe for remodeling,” Brendan says. “We feel validated in our choice to take on this project rather than build, as it is a much more sustainable option and the character of the house is evident.”

“It was actually so well built, I was pleasantly surprised,” Ellen says. Though the home had not been touched since it was built in 1962, the only

The minimalist staircase, a new addition built by Architrave Construction, connects the previously separate floors into a single-family home. The hidden door hides a television.

structural remedies needed were a retaining wall to help with drainage at the front of the home and a solution to connect the two floors. “There were no stairs to get from upstairs to downstairs, which was very strange. We think the downstairs functioned as a separate apartment, so to incorporate the lower level into the home, we transformed it into the primary suite and Brendan’s study,” Ellen says.

“The home is modest in size, but we were adamant that every room should serve multiple purposes, so we’ve made good use of the footprint,” Brendan adds. Creative touches introduced by Megan Patnaik, the project architect, include a hidden TV cabinet, updated paneling

The updated kitchen by Wood Done Right was designed to maximize storage within the existing footprint, and the clean, linear patterns were selected to blend well with the rest of the house.

The bedrooms, pictured above and below, received major upgrades without sacrificing space or style. The owner's suite, located in what was once the home's basement level, features a custom bed and new windows overlooking the forest

and built-in storage; Megan also designed the primary suite headboard to include integrated side tables to further help maximize space.

Another unique feature was an existing paneled wall with a secret door that led into the former primary suite. “We loved the concept, but it didn’t work well for circulation,” Ellen explains. Instead, the idea was borrowed to create a secret passageway between Brendan and Kelly’s two tween daughters’ bedrooms. The wood paneling was continued there, too, but in a modern birch tone instead of the home’s existing walnut.

Similarly subtle changes outdoors helped bring out the home’s curb appeal without compromising its character. For example, Megan suggested adding cedar siding and painting the exterior brick black to create contrast and cleaner lines. “It really perked things up, and I think the black paint especially makes it look so much more modern,” Ellen says. “We also added an accordion window

Upstairs, a secret doorway (made by Eidolon Designs in Raleigh) links the girls' rooms and mimics the geometric patterned paneling in the home's original design.

wall to open out onto the screened porch, which is just dreamy.”

“We placed a lot of emphasis on usability, especially in the mudroom and kitchen where everything is intuitively located, and we expanded the storage to be more than we needed so that we could grow into the space,” Brendan says. “We wanted the living spaces to feel public, informal, multifunctional and connected, while the individual spaces, such as bedrooms, would feel like sanctuaries.”

It helps that the house has an easy, natural flow that feels seamlessly intertwined with the outdoors, something that the McKennas were intent on preserving. “You can see the forest from any window,” Brendan says. “Our dream home was always connected to nature.” And now, it seems, that dream has come true. CHM

The thoughtful upgrades extend to the home's exterior, where refreshed cedar siding, new paint and clean landscaping have a transformative impact.

rooted in history

Two entrepreneurs share how they are creating a plant nursery with community at the center

By Caitlyn Yaede

The path from museum curators to entrepreneurs was an unconventional one for Kurt Frega and Shawna Joplin, co-owners of Dirtbag Gardens. Their plant nursery is home to lively perennials, vibrant North Carolina natives and a sprawling 7 acres of mostly wooded land. But this won’t be the

Photography by John Michael Simpson

Kurt and Shawna hope to use the outdoor area as a space for people to hang out, have lunch and shop for plants, as well as a venue to host classes and events.

case for long, says Shawna, who has big plans for the lot she and Kurt bought shortly after meeting in 2019.

While working as curators at the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, the two would often go plant shopping after work. It wasn’t long before Shawna’s husband, John Nugent, found the Dawson Road property – formerly home to Niche Gardens – and sent it to Shawna and Kurt. Things moved quickly for Dirtbag Gardens, which soft opened in fall 2020 and officially opened the following spring. Kurt and Shawna were met with overwhelming support from the former staff of Niche Gardens, who volunteered to mentor the duo during their entrepreneurial journey.

The team prides itself on keeping uncommon plants in stock and steering clear from invasive species. “We are trying to grow things for everyone,” Shawna says. Her personal favorite – begonia Julau – is a hot pink plant native to Malaysia. The nursery also offers plant care services, as well as at-home consultations.

Both Shawna and Kurt grew up with an appreciation for nature. Some of Kurt’s earliest memories were from his family’s log cabin in New Hanover County, North Carolina, where he explored the property’s several wooded acres with his older brother. These adventures helped Kurt realize that he was meant to be outdoors. He went on to study biology at North Carolina State University. Shawna’s green thumb can be traced farther west, to her upbringing in Los

OTHER ORANGE COUNTY SPOTS TO BUY PLANTS

Camellia Forest

Nursery

620 N.C. Hwy. 54 W., Chapel Hill 919-968-0504; camforest.com

Ornamental and tea camellias and other Asian trees and shrubs

Carrboro Tropicals

3261 N.C. Hwy. 54 W., Chapel Hill 919-428-0010; carrborotropicals.com Cattleya orchids

Eno River Farm 2127 St. Marys Rd., Hillsborough 919-245-8775; enoriverfarms.com

Mums, ferns and annuals and perennials

Farm & Garden Center

3517 N.C. 86, Hillsborough 984-217-0067; farmandgardennc.com

Annuals and perennials, fruit trees, hanging baskets, vegetables, 16-inch geraniums

Fifth Season Gardening Company 106 S. Greensboro St., Carrboro 919-932-7600; fifthseason gardening.com

Hydrophonics and organic gardening supplies

Greener Visions Nursery

110 Storybrook Farm Ln., Chapel Hill 919-942-6957; greenervisions nursery.com

Japanese maples and abelias

Gro-Smart 250 S. Churton St., Hillsborough 919-245-1650; grosmartnc.com

Indoor house plants, rose bushes and vegetable plants

Piedmont Feed & Garden Center

4805 N.C. Hwy. 54 W., Chapel Hill 919-942-7848; piedmontfeed.com

Everything from annuals and perennials to trees, shrubs and unique specimens

Southern States

300 N. Greensboro St., Carrboro 919-942-3857; southernstates.com

Trees, house plants, herbs, vegetables and Christmas trees

Town & Country

Hardware 11470 U.S. Hwy. 15-501 N., Suite 106, and 1129 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill 919-969-1400 and 919-929-7797; townandcountry hardware.com Various hanging basket plants

Westlake Ace Hardware Chapel Hill 157 Chatham Downs Dr., Chapel Hill 919-704-7156; westlakehardware.com

Vegetables, indoor houseplants and tropical plants

Woods Farm & Garden

1218 U.S. Hwy. 70 E., Hillsborough 919-732-6393; facebook. com/1218US70E

Bedding plants, garden seeds and mulch

– Compiled by Lena Miano

Hoop houses are used to protect plants from harsh elements.

Angeles, where she grew perennials, medicinal herbs and vegetables with her great-grandmother. “I don’t speak fluent Spanish, and she didn’t speak fluent English, but growing up we used to garden together all the time,” says Shawna of her close relative, who emigrated from Mexico.

The ways that nature can connect people is part of Dirtbag Gardens’ philosophy. Plants, Shawna explains, are for everyone. “You don’t have to have a garden. You don’t have to own your house. You don’t have to have a big backyard. You don’t even necessarily have to have a window,” Shawna says. “There shouldn’t be boundaries to wanting to own a piece of nature.”

Fostering a love of nature and wildlife is a task that follows both Kurt and Shawna home. Kurt lives with his wife, Jess Frega, and 6-year-old son, Oscar, who already has aspirations to become a farmer. Given the opportunity to grow anything he wanted, Oscar chose to plant, water and harvest a stalk of corn in the front yard of their Hillsborough home and plans to bring in popcorn made from the crop to share with his classmates. In what Oscar calls the home’s “yucky room,” Kurt cares for a variety of cactuses, reptiles and turtles.

Shawna lives off Jones Ferry Road, in “country Chapel Hill” with her husband, John, 13-year-old son, Walter,

15-year-old daughter, Evelyn, and rescue dog Ronda. It isn’t home without their two cats, Taco and Tuesday, tarantulas and a snake named Sheila.

When she isn’t at the nursery, Shawna is propagating tropical plants in her home, serving as park superintendent for the City of Mebane and walking the Haw River with John. Meanwhile, Kurt does home renovations on the side, often taking a break to explore the nearby North Carolina Botanical Garden – his favorite outdoor area in town.

Looking ahead to their own vision for the nursery, the two have plans to build upon the mostly undeveloped lot, creating room for educational spaces, trails and a lively pond on the property. “There’s so much character and history from the last four decades here, and we really want to preserve some of that,” Kurt says. “But also, we’ve got a lot of dreams and schemes with this place.” With shared backgrounds in conservation education and wildlife, Shawna and Kurt hope to make Dirtbag Gardens not just a nursery, but a destination as well.

“We want people to understand that the nursery is, by no means, a finished product,” Kurt says. The two explain that they will be building, changing and improving the space for the length of time they own it. “Anybody that decides to shop with us is helping us with that vision.” CHM

There shouldn’t be boundaries to wanting to own a piece of nature.

– Shawna Joplin

HOME & GARDEN

behind the garden gate

An early look at the Hillsborough Garden Club’s tour

By Sinclair Holian

“Untamed. Unexpected. Unbelievable!” This theme, created by Tour Chair Valerie Blettner, sums up what visitors can anticipate on May 6 during the 2023 Hillsborough Garden Tour. Hosted by the Hillsborough Garden Club, this year’s tour will showcase 13 gardens, each with a unique variety of blooming flowers, vibrant vegetables and much more. The club, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2025, hosts the tour biennially to give visitors a rare chance to experience the beauty and hard work of private gardens. “A lot of people think that a garden

should be nice and neat,” Valerie says. “There are a lot of gardens that are beautiful, but they’re kind of wild and untamed. And those make for exceptional gardens.”

OPENING THE GATES

Carson Harkrader and Gary Kueber have been attending the garden tour since before they moved into their west Hillsborough home in 2015. “It’s such a special thing getting to walk through someone’s private space and see what they’ve been growing,” Carson says. But

Gary Kueber and Carson Harkrader’s 1917-era Hillsborough home and wildflower beds at dusk.

this year is the first time that the couple will open their own gates for the tour. When the couple purchased their home, which dates back to 1917, they found a plethora of plants already thriving on the property. “There were some beautiful older dogwoods, camellias and crepe myrtles on the property, along with a few large azaleas and a gardenia,” Gary says, “A large American elm that shades the house, a green ash (which we’ve been treating for the ash beetle borer), juniper, sycamore and red maple.” The lot also came with hard work – before moving in, they spent a few months clearing the tangles of honeysuckle, English ivy and poison ivy that had crept over the garden.

The two-lot, 0.75-acre garden has both sunny and shaded beds, an area perfect for growing a variety of perennials, shrubs, smaller trees, a fern garden, a vegetable patch and a young fruit orchard. Environmentally friendly elements complement its beautiful features. Composting, which Carson says diverts waste from the landfill and reduces carbon emissions, is an important part of the garden. The couple also mulches with leaves delivered by the Town of Hillsborough rather than bark mulch, a trick learned from Carson’s dad.

The garden has both sustainable and sentimental value. Some of the perennials are up to 20 years old, transplanted from Gary’s garden in their previous home in Durham. Other plants are gifts from loved ones, including irises from Carson’s mother and hellebores from her teacher. “We’ve gotten a lot of inspiration from gardens we’ve seen on the tour,” Carson says. “We’re looking forward to sharing our garden with everyone who comes out.”

SUSTAINABLE BEAUTY

Garden Club President Tammy Dorfman has had a love for gardening ever since she was a teenager. But after years of practicing a more manicured garden style, a move to Hillsborough prompted a change in her gardening philosophy. Faced with 6 acres of “wild” property on the outskirts of town, she decided that her new garden would focus on sustaining pollinators and wildlife.

“We’ve done a lot in five years to reshape the property,” Tammy says. While the original homeowners maintained a grass lawn, Tammy had most of it replaced with

ABOVE Carson and Gary’s son, Emmett, has been seeking out (and eating) the ripest blueberries on their bushes since he was 2 years old.

BELOW The water feature is a favorite respite for the homeowners and their two dogs. Tammy especially loves to hear the sounds from the porch on warm summer evenings.

“little habitats” better suited for local wildlife. The garden now features around 200 native shrubs and trees, and Tammy has already observed a huge improvement in wildlife populations. “I am seeing more insects and bugs and butterflies and bees, all the things you expect to see when you have this really diverse vegetation,” she says. “It happens really fast, so it’s rewarding.”

One of Tammy’s favorite features is her raised-bed vegetable garden, a “wonderland” that produces food year-round. She has learned to can and preserve her home-grown produce such as tomatoes and shallots, and a sauce made from her own backyard was even featured in her Christmas dinner. Bees, butterflies and birds float around the beautiful flowers of the nearby pollinator garden. And toward the back of the property, a 26-foot water feature with four waterfalls creates the soothing sounds of a rushing river.

For her first year as a featured garden on the tour, Tammy hopes to offer inspiration for visitors interested in sustainability. “No matter how big or small your property is, we can all do something to help mitigate the decline

of bees and birds and butterflies and insects,” she says. “What we do individually can make a really big impact on this Earth.”

EVER GREEN

Alice Moore’s interest in horticulture started as a young girl growing up in Maryland, where she first learned to identify trees with her father. But she says her “big awakening” in gardening happened 20 years ago, when she moved from Chapel Hill to her current home in Hillsborough. Moving in, she was delighted to find that the sunny, 4-acre property already had “good bones” for a garden, including perennial beds and mature trees. Arming herself with gardening literature and advice from friends, Alice embarked on a process of planting and replanting to learn what would grow best. With her property backing up against Ayr Mount and the Indian Trading Path’s hundreds of acres, hungry deer and rabbits quickly became a persistent foe.

The garden is named “Evergreen” as a nod to the original trees on the property. Over

the past 20 years, Alice has learned the in and outs of her property, where she grows a combination of native and ornamental plants. Irises, boxwoods and Japanese maples greet visitors at the front of the house. Several unique trees grow at every turn, including a yellow sequoia, a ginkgo, a monkey puzzle tree and a Japanese black pine. Along the side of the house, small courtyard gardens have been planted. In their pool area, Alice has created a tropical garden complete with ginger lilies and hearty palms, a feature that always surprises tourgoers. The garden is also adorned with antique planters and gates throughout and features an antique armillary surrounded by herbs that can be admired from the house.

Having been a fixture of the tour for 19 years, Alice says she is looking forward to seeing familiar faces and making more memories in Evergreen. Of all her garden’s diverse features, Alice says it’s impossible to choose a favorite. “Asking for a favorite flower or plant is like asking someone to choose their favorite child,” she jokes. CHM

ABOVE The antique armillary centerpiece in the knot garden at Evergreen.

BELOW One of many varieties of beautiful irises at Evergreen.

by design

Local pros from the home and garden industry weigh in on what’s new, what’s next and what’s timeless in home trends

By Katie MacKinnon

THE KITCHEN IS STILL THE HEART OF THE HOME

any clients are opting for less wall cabinetry and more floating shelves – especially if they have a larger pantry area where they can store overflow cookware.”

– Kaylor Russell, senior designer, Kitchen & Bath Galleries

“Kitchen remodeling is a great way to increase the value of your home. You will likely recoup a portion of your investment. A new, bright kitchen is always a great idea.”

– Kevin Gerber, lead designer, Bud Matthews Services

PHOTO BY BETH SWEETING PHOTOGRAPHY

“An appliance garage adds timeless value to any kitchen design. It eliminates clutter and allows easy access to coffee makers, mixers and other gadgets.”

– Bronwyn Charlton, principal architect, Charlton Architecture

“The classic white kitchen is still not going out of style! This kitchen reflects the timeless warm white with fresh accents of vintage soft green glass inserts and tile accents to give it that new age look. Add in innovative technology such as this induction range to bring this kitchen up to modern day. Induction cooking offers energy savings, precision cooking and ease of cleaning – reflecting the fast-growing technology trend for 2023!”

– Mary Kate Bedell, lead designer and owner, Fresh Air Designs NC

ALL NATURAL

“We have discovered that all of our clients are interested in at least one area of sustainability when provided the option. Topics include a wide range of things including packaging products in recyclable materials to partnering with women-owned artisans.”

– Kristin Bartone, creative director and principal, Bartone Interiors

“Natural materials, like wood and stone, stand the test of time because they tap into our innate human instinct to connect with nature (biophilia). As research increasingly shows, biophilic design has a positive impact on human health and well-being; natural materials should be used whenever possible. Natural materials bring complimentary warmth to elevated modern design.” –

Bronwyn Charlton, principal architect, Charlton Architecture

“Leathered and honed (matte) finishes add a more casual, natural feel to the space. These finishes are also excellent at hiding imperfections, scratches and fingerprints. A matte finish can be applied to many materials such as granite, marble, quartz and quartzite. This is a great option for growing families who enjoy hosting and appreciate good design!”

– Katherine Gianakos, owner and business manager, Max Hugo Interior Design

“This stunning kitchen marries color with natural walnut, drawing one to a natural space offering comfort and joy! The trend of biophilic design is manifested in this kitchen with the use of warm wood and marbles, offering the yearning for a connection to nature. The appliance selections offer sustainability and efficient energy usage with all of them being Energy Star rated – reflecting an increasing eco-friendly trend for 2023!”

– Mary Kate Bedell, lead designer and owner, Fresh Air Designs NC

A TWIST ON TRADITION

“We see more modern interiors in historic homes. Collaboration between our design and build teams and our clients results in clean, modern, beautiful and warm spaces on the inside while maintaining a traditional and historically correct exterior.”

– Kendall Glaze, sales and marketing lead, BuildSense

“Green certifications are high on the want list as well. We are building airtight homes as a result, so we incorporate energy recovery ventilators in 100% of all of our new homes.” – Chad Collins, Collins Design-Build

“Most of our clients love to host, and spaces that support these events are at the top of their wish list. While exterior entertainment spaces connected to interior living areas are nearly always a priority, we are designing and building more cocktail areas, billiards rooms, music rooms, game spaces, wine cellars and even tequila bars!” – Kendall Glaze, sales and marketing lead, BuildSense

“Since the pandemic, our clients have been focused on creating or revising homes for their own comfort and for gathering with guests. This has led to more indoor-outdoor living, facilitated by large bi-fold or multislide doors, porches with retractable screens, as well as built-in outdoor kitchens, playful bars and fireplaces/wood stoves for the porches. People really have rediscovered the art of staying in with their own families and with friends.”

– Sophie Piesse, principal architect, Sophie Piesse Architect

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

“We are seeing trends of adding exterior hardscapes such as in-ground pools, patios, fire pits, radiant heaters and exterior kitchen and grilling areas for entertaining and relaxing. Homes that are now reaching 25-plus

PHOTO BY CAT WILBORNE MORE ENTERTAINING

years in age can need general updates, a fresh coat of paint, new shingles, landscape pruning, etc., depending on weather exposure. We typically would incorporate these enhancements within the construction schedule of the additions.” – Chad Collins, Collins

Design-Build

“Many of my clients are asking for their outdoor spaces to feel even more personalized than they have in years past. Having made it through the pandemic, outdoor spaces are more popular than ever. Many families are maximizing their yards to become retreats. Whether a pool, outdoor kitchen or even fire pit, the focus surrounding time in nature has been at the forefront. Families are wanting to wind down away from technology and screens and spend time relaxing outdoors without having to invest the time in traveling.”

– Amy Strunk, owner and designer,

Amy Strunk Designs

“With the beautiful weather in the spring, summer and fall here in North Carolina, many people are taking advantage of spending time outside by adding a new deck or screenedin porch.” – Kevin Gerber, lead designer, Bud Matthews Services

“Outdoor living spaces truly flourished during the pandemic as people were reorienting how and where they connected to others. Furniture makers responded by creating outdoor furnishings that embodied all the luxury and comfort of indoor pieces but were also built for outdoor durability. The result has been some truly incredible design options for beautiful and functional outdoor living.”

– Cat French, CEO and principal designer, Cat French Design

“Many homeowners are asking us to design screen porches. These sheltered outdoor spaces make wonderful sense in our region and became valuable ventilated pandemic gathering spaces. With a radiant heater and a ceiling fan, you have added a relaxing year-round living space.” – Brian Grant, AIA, principal architect and Katie Wakeford, principal, Grant Group Architecture

“Outdoor kitchens are on many wish lists these days. Perhaps it is a grill with a hood on a screen porch or a poolside gazebo with a fully functional kitchen for entertaining. Regardless, the pleasures of cooking outside come with the added benefits of keeping heat and strong smells out of the kitchen. Most outdoor kitchens we design also incorporate a table, bar or seating area for enjoying meals alfresco.” – Brian Grant, AIA, principal architect and Katie Wakeford, principal, Grant Group Architecture

LET THERE BE LIGHT

“Interior improvement trends are kitchen and bath update heavy for sure! However, the request for bigger windows, sliding doors and more glass in exterior walls is the hot trend. This trend certainly requires a licensed general contractor or at least a professional engineer because of the engineering aspect of shear walls and wall bracing.”

– Chad Collins, Collins Design-Build

“Lighting trends are very popular. It is not only replacing the fixtures, but the bulbs, too. Educating our clients what an LED bulb actually is and navigating them through the process of selecting the best Kelvin color temperature for them. The soft white 3000 K is our most popular as it produces the warmer, yellow light. The 4000 K produces a brighter, white color, and we use these for folks that want full, bright light. We rarely see the 5000 K in residential, as it is mostly used in commercial-type locations, as it produces a bright, almost blue hue.”

– Chad Collins, Collins Design-Build 

PHOTO BY ARSALAN ABBASI

TIPS FOR SMALL BATHS

“I get requests for floating vanities now more than ever. Floating vanities tend to make a bathroom look larger because the floor tile can extend under the cabinet to the back wall – so in small spaces this is a way to trick the eye into making the bathroom feel bigger.”

– Kaylor Russell, senior designer, Kitchen & Bath Galleries

LOOKS AND PERSONALITY

“Lately it has been all about color with our clients. We are still doing some neutral projects, but most of the time we are incorporating color somewhere in the space.” –

Caroline Shillito, owner and principal designer, emma delon

“People also want to be inspired by their spaces, so we’re seeing an openness to more playful expressions. Clients are stepping away from neutral, desiring more interest by way of colorful kitchens, interesting lighting and creative steel use in entryways, staircases, fireplace cladding and shelving.” –

Sophie Piesse, principal architect, Sophie Piesse Architect

“We love saturating a room in one color. Painting the walls, trim and doors in one rich hue adds warmth and coziness to a space. We have found it to be most of our clients’ favorite places to hang out and relax.” –

Debra Zinn, principal designer, Debra Zinn Interiors

WORKING FROM HOME ISN’T GOING ANYWHERE

“2022-23 has said goodbye to the completely open floor plan. Working from home, remote schooling and having multiple people in the house trying to complete “focused work” has brought back the need for enclosed spaces. This can mean adding a desk to your guest bedroom and putting doors on the den or library space.” –

Kristin Bartone, creative director and principal, Bartone Interiors

“Of course, people also discovered that working from home can be much more

productive and healthy. In the past, home offices were near the bottom of the wish list, something that might be nice to have, but not a priority. Now, these spaces have become a major motivator in home renovations and new home designs, often requiring two office spaces, one for each spouse, where they can do outside work, household management and hobbies.”

– Sophie Piesse, principal architect, Sophie Piesse Architect

PAPER ROUTE

“All wallpapers are in demand right now, especially chinoiserie wallpaper. It is a timeless choice and makes any room look like a jewel box.”

– Debra Zinn, principal designer, Debra Zinn Interiors

“We have been having lots of fun with wallpaper. There is so much to choose from now and almost every project in the last couple of years has incorporated wallpaper somewhere in the design.”

– Caroline Shillito, owner & principal designer, emma delon

PHOTO BY CAT WILBORNE

“When it comes to finished, beautiful spaces, clients are drawn to inventive spaces that reflect their personalities. We create this by introducing layers of visual texture using a unique, rich or textured wallpaper.” –

Cat French, CEO and principal designer, Cat French Design

“Wallpaper is making a huge comeback! We are using wallpaper in more areas throughout the home, including circulation spaces like foyers and halls, and even on the ceiling for added interest.” –

Kristin Bartone, creative director and principal, Bartone Interiors

THINKING AHEAD

“Aging in place is a very real thing. With the housing market skyrocketing and many adults taking in their elderly parents to care for, remodeling an existing space for a new purpose has become a desire of many.” – Kevin

Gerber, lead designer, Bud Matthews Services

“Remaining in our homes as we age is a goal for many. Yet often houses are not built to accommodate our changing needs. Designing to age in place comes in many forms. It might be renovating a bathroom to be better prepared to serve if a family member becomes disabled. It could be adding a primary suite on the first floor for ease of access, including features such as wide doorways, safe bathing configurations and an eye toward future lifestyle changes. Adding accessory dwelling spaces (ADUs) can also facilitate multigenerational living, making it easy for grandparents to enjoy daily interaction with their children and grandchildren while still maintaining a level of independence.” – Brian Grant, AIA, principal architect and Katie Wakeford, principal, Grant Group Architecture CHM

Kind Words From Clients

" It's hard to express how much I appreciate Aileen and Giselle. I've bought and sold property in the Triangle with them and can't explain enough how helpful, knowledgeable and amicable they are. From the beginning, I've felt completely confident that I'm working with experts who will ensure I have everything I need. When buying, they were very much in tune with the type of property I was looking for. When selling, they ensured I'd have the house in the condition that would get a top price and they fielded the bidders perfectly."

" I can't imagine better real estate advocates in the Triangle than these two. "

PHOTO BY MARILYN PERYER

Hobgood & Schaefer

BY HALEY PINELES PHOTOGRAPHY BY HANNAH WALSER, HANNAHROSSER.COM

Katie Schaefer and Cedar Grove native Sammy Hobgood met on Hinge and had their first date at Trophy Brewing & Pizza in downtown Raleigh just before Christmas in 2019. A few years into dating, Sammy proposed on Aug. 17, 2021, in front of Big Ed’s Restaurant, his family’s Raleigh-based business. “The engagement was known and discussed, but the day it happened was a big surprise!” Katie says. “The restaurant had been a big part of his life and career, as well as [our] early relationship, so it was fitting to [propose] in a pretty setting that also carried meaning.”

The couple held the ceremony and reception at The Barn at Lloyd’s Dairy on June 4, 2022. “The Barn at Lloyd’s Dairy was beautiful – the sunset that time of year is immaculate,” Katie says. “The crowd enjoyed a lot of time outside playing cornhole, chatting and relishing the perfect weather. The Holiday Band’s music lit up the night, from beginning to end.”

Katie and Sammy’s first dance was to Adam Sandler’s “Grow Old With You” from “The Wedding Singer,” which added a humorous touch to the evening and made for another unforgettable memory.

The couple resides in Raleigh. Sammy works for a tech-focused consulting and staffing firm in Raleigh, while Katie is a lead teacher at Frankie Lemmon School. CHM

Hunter & Meyer

BY LENA MIANO PHOTOGRAPHY BY STAN LEWIS, STANLEWISPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

When Kym Hunter met Graig Meyer through her work on voting rights and climate change, the two instantly became a force to reckon with. A friendship founded on political interest and policy advocacy in 2014 blossomed into a romantic relationship as Kym and Graig began dating in 2020.

Throughout the pandemic, the couple spent much of their time together cooking, going on hikes and creating a space suited for outdoor gatherings at their home in the Blackwood neighborhood. On New Year’s Day 2022, Graig planned to take Kym by surprise and propose to her while on a hike. But when the couple’s youngest daughter, Sky, thought she had COVID-19, they canceled their plans, and Graig proposed to Kym at home, pandemic style. Kym, Graig and five of their six kids played a game of soccer to celebrate.

Love, joy and community echoed through their home as the two held a backyard wedding on June 3, 2022. Superior Court Judge Alyson Grine officiated the ceremony, and the couple exchanged rings from Rings True. The Tan & Sober Gentlemen played a version of Taylor Swift’s “Lover” for their first dance, and guests enjoyed a four-

course, 16-dish vegetarian menu prepared by Graig, Kym and friends. His parents, Bette Meyer and Gerry Meyer, read excerpts from a poem and Kym’s sister-in-law, Lucy Dunleavy, performed an original song for the couple.

To continue the celebration, Kym and Graig let their kids choose the activities for a “day-after party,” which included inflatable bounce houses and music by the Orange County All Stars.

Kym is a senior attorney with the Southern Environmental Law Center, and Graig serves as a member of the North Carolina State Senate. CHM

Burnette & Skolsky

BY SAM ANNETTA PHOTOGRAPHY BY EMILY BAUCOM, EMILYBAUCOMPHOTO.COM

When Chapel Hill native Sara Skolsky walked into a bar in downtown Charleston, South Carolina, in January 2019, she didn’t know that she’d be meeting her future husband, Mark Burnette.

Sara brought Mark home for Christmas in 2020 and suspected that he might ask her father, Steve Skolsky, for his blessing. While watching a UNC vs. N.C. State men’s basketball game, Mark, an N.C. State alumnus, asked Steve, a UNC graduate, for permission to propose. “My dad said he would have to give him an answer based on how the game turned out,” Sara says. Despite UNC losing the particularly close game, he gave his blessing, and Mark proposed on Dec. 24 in front of the fire on her parents’ back porch.

The two tied the knot almost one year later on Dec. 4, 2021, at The Barn of Chapel Hill. Sara says their wedding planner, CherylAnne Kast of Kast Events & Co., was integral to bringing her vision to life, which included floral arrangements by Wild Flora Farm and music from Liquid Pleasure.

“It was honestly such a blur, but I think what stands out most for me were the small moments I got to spend alone with Mark,” Sara says. One of those moments came when they caught up over Champagne and had a solo dance in front of the Christmas trees that served as the backdrop for their ceremony. “I’ll never forget that dance,” she says.

The couple resides in Charleston, where Sara is the general manager of a fishing and apparel brand, and Mark is the assistant superintendent at a country club. CHM

Bringing

Smiles to Chapel Hill

Whether it’s to remove one or more teeth, implants, or something more involved, you probably have a lot of questions and concerns. What are my options? What can I expect? Will I be in pain? It’s normal to be apprehensive about a surgical procedure and at Chapel Hill Implant and Oral Surgery Center, we understand. That is why Dr. Hill has created a top notch facility and a team of professionals whose singular goal is to help you understand your options and make your procedure as stress-free as possible.

Meet Dr. David Lee Hill, Jr. People who meet Dr. Hill are quickly won over by his knowledge and easy-going style. He is a stickler for detail and in his profession, every little detail matters. His commitment to patient safety and surgical precision as well as his uncompromising philosophy toward care is reflected in the state-of-the-art surgical facility he has designed from the ground up. He also places emphasis on his patient’s comfort and it showsfrom the warm and inviting surroundings to the caring staff, focused on the patient’s well being. If your case calls for implant or oral surgery, let Dr. Hill and his capable team welcome you for a tour and a discussion about your unique needs.

Barbera & Ricotta

BY SAM ANNETTA PHOTOGRAPHY BY MADISON PAKE,

Nick Ricotta and Jes Barbera fell under Cupid’s spell after meeting at a Valentine’s Day party in 2015. Nick had just graduated from Temple University, and Jes was enrolled at Drexel University in Philadelphia at the time.

Fast forward to March 2020. Nick and Jes were planning a summer trip to Emerald Isle, North Carolina, where her family used to go on vacation. Unbeknownst to Jes, Nick was planning on proposing during that trip. Unfortunately, the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic forced the couple to cancel their plans, but that didn’t deter Nick. He proposed right in their living room the day they called off the trip on March 24, 2020.

The couple’s ceremony and reception were held in New Bern, North Carolina, on June 4, 2022. The morning of, Nick’s best man surprised the bride and groom with a couples massage. While putting on her lace gown from Tre Bella Bridal, Jes’ zipper got stuck. After being hand-sewn into the dress by her bridesmaid, Hasbrouck Kolmonde, Jes was able to walk down the aisle. “Aside from that one terrifying half-hour, everything was perfect,” she says. Guests enjoyed the warm summer weather while the newlyweds snuck off for a sunset photo shoot during the reception.

Jes works at Breakaway Cafe and Breakaway Carrboro, and Nick is a freelance graphic designer. CHM

MADISONPAKEPHOTOGRAPHY. MYPIXIESET.COM