JANUARY/FEBRUARY 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
Ellison Beaver, Valeria Cloës, Sam Edge, Sinclair Holian, Katie MacKinnon, Haley Pineles, Isabella Reilly and Caitlyn Yaede
CONTRIBUTORS
Anna Beth Adcock, Teresa Fang, Elizabeth Poindexter and Morgan Cartier Weston
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
OpenMonday-Friday10amto6pm
DISTRIBUTION
Matt Bair, Tristan Cook, Matt Mansell, Jim Shaw
Chapel Hill Magazine is published 7 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
January 20 – April 2, 2023
Also on View: Laurel Nakadate: Ten Performances from 365 Days: A Catalogue of Tears
January 20 – April 2, 2023
FEATURES
22 Blank Slate
The ArtsCenter looks ahead to the anticipated June 2023 opening of its brand-new location in Carrboro
24 Poetry in Motion
Carrboro’s new poet laureate starts her two-year term
26 Great Scot! Saltire Gallerie, the newest art gallery in Hillsborough, features a collection of Scottish works
60 Forever Home
A family’s dream comes to life in Hillsborough
DEPARTMENTS
6 Letter from the Editor
8 About Town Events not to miss
16 Noted
What we’ve heard around our towns …
30 What We’re Eating
News from our restaurant community, plus a dish we love
80 Celebrate Good Times
Big ballrooms, rustic farm venues, renovated industrial spaces –no matter what kind of wedding you’re throwing, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to host your big day in Chapel Hill and beyond
TERRACES
HURRY — PRESALES HAPPENING NOW!
New contemporary apartment homes for retirement. Learn more at forestduke.org/TheTerraces.
BECOME A CHARTER MEMBER TODAY!
KEEP GROWING SM
Vibrant living. Continuing care. In the heart of Durham. 800-278-9729 / forestduke.org/TheTerraces
eresa Fang was already a seasoned reporter by the time she applied to Chapel Hill Magazine for a summer internship last year. The first-year student at East Chapel Hill High School her email that “from 2018 to 2021, I wrote articles and stories as a kid reporter for Scholastic Kids Press. I’ve covered the 2020 elections, [the] pandemic and social justice movements. I’ve talked to and interviewed a lot of amazing, talented people ... including Joe Biden, Barack Obama, Nathan Chen, Christina Koch and many more, spanning from kids to voters to athletes to Nobel scientists and professors to presidential candidates. I always aim to shine a light on the stories of people, both local and far, to share to kids and young people across the country, believing it would help them reach their dreams, too.”
How can you say no to that kind of passion?
It was a delight to have Teresa in the office this past summer, as she asked such great questions and soaked up knowledge. I relish working alongside interns and then knowing they leave us as better writers and editors, no matter where their career paths take them. (Humble brag time – some have gone on to intern or work at publications across the country including Real Simple, Garden & Gun, The New York Times, Washingtonian and The Local Palate.)
This winter, when it came time to assign a story about a seventh grader participating in the Scholastic Kids Press program, I knew just the reporter for the job! Now a sophomore, Teresa came ready with a list of questions and her recorder, and she made her subject, Max Chen, feel at ease. She turned around the story for our Kids Issue in record time and, like always, was a joy to work with.
I encourage you to reach out and share your stories of young people in our community – from local budding entrepreneurs and volunteers to gifted musicians and athletes – so writers like Teresa can tackle stories for next year’s Kids Issue. (And Max, keep on gaining great experience – we’ll be here if you ever need an internship!) CHM
If Teresa doesn’t pursue journalism, she’s certainly got a fallback plan as an artist! That’s Executive Managing Editor Amanda MacLaren, myself and my dog, Olive, on her handillustrated thankyou card.
Through June orangehistorync.org
Learn about the people and events behind Chapel Hill’s rich town and gown history at the Orange County Historical Museum. This exhibit, presented by the Chapel Hill Historical Society, highlights the period from 1930 through 1980, including a timeline of the local civil rights movement and a World War II Women
Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service uniform.
Jan. 10 - Feb. 5 frankisart.com
FRANK Gallery invites you to this celebration of 11 Latinx artists, including Marcela Slade, Fabrizio Bianchi, Nana Abreu and Samantha Rosado. Explore art in a variety of mediums at the opening reception on Jan. 13 from 5-8 p.m., and hear from the artists at a panel discussion on Jan. 21 from 10-11 a.m.
Jan. 25 - Feb. 12 playmakersrep.org
Enjoy this classic 17th-century tragedy by William Shakespeare, reimagined by director Vivienne Benesch PlayMakers Repertory Company hosts this thrilling performance in its 550-seat Paul Green Theatre. Tickets start at $20.
Feb. 4, 8 p.m.
carolinaperformingarts.org
Head to Memorial Hall for this unique performance created by Geoff Sobelle and directed by Lee Sunday Evans. Presented by Carolina Performing Arts, “Home” uses illusion, choreography, construction and live documentary to introduce the audience to the modern housing landscape.
‘Omar’
carolinaperformingarts.org
Take part in the North Carolina premiere of “Omar,” an opera that questions how one reckons with gaps in their history. This work was written by Southern Futures at Carolina Performing Arts artist-in residence Rhiannon Giddens, alongside composer Michael Abels. The opera mirrors the autobiography of Islamic scholar Omar ibn Said, who was enslaved in the U.S. in the nineteenth century.
Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m.
chamberorchestraofthetriangle.org
The Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle invites you to this eclectic installment of its UpClose Chamber Music series, hosted at Ackland Art Museum. Enjoy the classical stylings of Wu Man, Joseph Haydn and Ludwig van Beethoven, featuring Maria Serkin on the horn. CHM
RAN A 5K WITHOUT LEG PAIN!
“When I first came to Ignite, I could hardly walk. I had back pain, knee pain and ankle pain. I also had sciatic nerve pain down the back of my leg. Since coming to Ignite Wellness, I no longer have any back pain, leg pain or knee pain. And the most important thing is—I used to run. Since coming here, I’ve been able to run. This past week, I ran my first 5k in over 2 years! It’s all because of the wonderful treatment that I’ve gotten here at Ignite Wellness. I also feel better emotionally, mentally and I’m much more alert!”
“Iam 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!
I
“Iwas experiencing low back pain which resulted from a compressed bulging disc. I tried treatment from another facility that was not a chiropractor and received no relief, so I decided to come to Ignite to see if they could offer any help. I began decompression therapy, cold laser, and chiropractic adjustments. I started to feel relief after only five treatments. Four months later, I have 100% improvement and can walk and stand without pain.
The Chapel Hill-Carrboro NAACP marked its 75th anniversary with a series of events in October, ranging from performances of songs, readings and spoken word of the African diaspora to a Freedom Journey walk. The festivities culminated Oct. 22 with a gala at the Sheraton Chapel Hill Hotel featuring entertainment from Liquid Pleasure and a Founding Day celebration on Oct 23. Photography by Sonja Matheny, Matheny Media
The inaugural Design Matters program took place on Oct. 17 at The Carolina Inn, featuring a presentation by internationally recognized interior designer Shelley Johnstone and moderated by her friend Tori Mellott, style director of Frederic Magazine. A plated lunch for nearly 150 followed their conversation, and then guests were able to meet Shelley and receive their copy of “A Loving Table,” a new book she co-authored. The afternoon companion event, Set the Table, welcomed nearly 200 additional guests, who were also able to meet Shelley for a book signing and view inspirational tabletops, masterfully created by interior and floral designers from across the state and accented by stunning artwork available for purchase. The initiative raised more than $100,000 for the Fitch Family Comprehensive Pediatric Rehabilitation Program at UNC Children’s Hospital
1 Van Chuong of elements and Elizabeth Hullender of Ronald McDonald House.
2 Shawn Fisk of Mediterranean Deli and Jones Angell, guest judge and Voice of the Tar Heels.
3 Miss North Carolina 2022 Karolyn Martin (center) with Lew Hendricks and Julie Paddison of NoDa Brewing Company Tapas.
At Ronald McDonald House of Chapel Hill’s annual A Tasteful Affair event in October, guests enjoyed samples from local restaurants and breweries, including Deli Edison, Alpaca Peruvian Charcoal Chicken and Gizmo Brew Works at The Carolina Club. Celebrity judges, including Jones Angell, the Voice of the Tar Heels, and Carrie Brogren of Chapel Hill Carrboro Foodies, awarded Best Visual Display and Best Entree to La Résidence, Best Beverage to NoDa Brewing Company Tapas, Best Dessert to Mediterranean Deli while Best Plate Presentation and People’s Choice went to elements. The event raised $93,500 for RMHCH, which provides lodging and support for pediatric patient families. CHM
The 14th annual Giving Party on Dec. 1 raised more than $25,000 during a festive evening to support three local nonprofits: the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Public School Foundation, the Church World Service of Durham and Hope Renovations. Members of each organization spoke with guests about their mission and volunteer opportunities. The annual event is hosted by sisters Allison Polish, Tamara Rice and Carrie Norry with the goal of building a stronger community and bringing people together. CHM
1 Shannon Grabowski, Tamara Rice, Madeline Blobe, Tammy LeMoine and Laura Malinchock.
2 Gillian Mishalko, Jennifer Player and Chapel Hill Magazine’s Jessica Stringer.
3 Aimee Margolis, Debbie Parker, Cindy Gudeman, Vicki Pineles, Allison Polish and Colee Schroeder.
4 Chapel Hill Mayor Pam Hemminger and Jeanne Brown.
Spencer, CEO and founder of Hope Renovations, was honored as one of the top 10 CNN Heroes on Nov. 3 and received a $10,000 prize to benefit her nonprofit.
The “CNN Heroes: An All-Star Tribute” was broadcast on Dec. 11, where Nora spoke about her work to the audience at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. At press time, people could donate via GoFundMe to Hope Renovations and the other nine organizations through Jan. 3, and Subaru would match up to $50,000. Nora plans to use the funds to create a third construction crew and to provide a living wage stipend for those in training.
WE Power Food, a Hillsborough-based organization focused on assisting women entrepreneurs in the food industry, received a $100K Regional Impact Grant from NC Idea Ecosystem in November. “We are excited to be awarded this grant as it will allow us to grow our reach to support women in underserved North Carolina counties whose resources can benefit from our network,” says Kat McGee, program coordinator at WE Power Food.
The Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange & Chatham Counties announced the 2022 Remodelers Outstanding Construction winners on Sept. 29. One Orange Countybased winner was Housing Solutions, Inc. for best bathroom under $35K and best kitchen under $60K. Additionally, J. Hoffman Studio Design + Build won best bathroom over $50,001, best kitchen over $100,001, best major renovation between $250K and
Furniture’s “Designing For Celebrities” panel on Oct. 24. After a successful fall High Point Market, she began dedicating more of her time and energy toward a lineup of 2023 projects and appearances.
$500K and best major renovation over $500K. Pictured above are owner Jennifer Hoffman and interior designer Maria Siegel accepting the award with David Fitch.
Jacquelyn Dowd Hall, Julia Cherry Spruill Professor Emerita at UNC, received the Christopher Crittenden Memorial Award for significant contributions to the history of North Carolina. The honor was presented on Dec. 2 during the North Carolina Literary and Historical Association’s annual meeting in Raleigh. Jacquelyn is the founding director of UNC’s Southern Oral History Program, as well as the past president of both the Organization of American Historians and the Southern Historical Association. Additionally, she is the founding president of the Labor and Working Class History Association.
Michelle Murphy, founder of Chapel Hill interior design company Demi Ryan, was named a 2022 Rising Star of Design from the Decoration & Design Building on Oct. 11. She spoke at the D&D Rising Star Keynote in New York City on Oct. 13 and again at Universal
Send us your noteworthy moments!
From births to awards to new biz and more –noted@ chapelhill magazine.com
The Town of Chapel Hill awarded Neal Bench and Jeanette Bench the Rayburn “Rip” Jackson Award for their significant contributions to the community, including their 10 years of service to the Department of Parks & Recreation as park advocates. Additionally, the couple also works with the Friends of Chapel Hill Parks, Recreation & Greenways, helping the organization establish a fresh food distribution program and provide free backpacks and school supplies for children. Mayor Pam Hemminger, pictured above right with Neal and Jeanette, invited them to the Chapel Hill Town Council meeting on Oct. 19, where she and the council expressed their gratitude.
Finn Plastic Surgery is a comprehensive aesthetic practice serving patients seeking a variety of services, from minimally invasive treatments and physicianprescribed skincare to surgical procedures of the face, breast & body. Dr. Finn and Dr. Elkins-Williams are excited to welcome a new member to the team, Dr. Justin Sowder, MD. Dr. Sowder is double board-certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology. He joins Finn Plastic Surgery after spending over three years as an Assistant Professor of Facial Plastic Surgery at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center. Dr. Sowder 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. Call to schedule your consultation with Dr. Sowder today!
Carrboro-based musician John Harrison, better known as Jphono1, released an instrumental album, “Low Key Companion,” on Oct. 21. The album was produced in collaboration with a regional boutique label, Potluck Foundation, and features themes of unity among neighbors and harmony in nature, omnipresent in tracks such as “Sundown Glosson” and “Poppy Patrol.”
Chapel Hill Town Manager Maurice Jones has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31. “After an assessment of my personal priorities, I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position as town manager,” Maurice shared with the town council. “It’s been an honor to serve the Town of Chapel Hill over the past 4 ½ years. Together, we have come through the pandemic in good shape and taken important steps forward as an organization.” During Maurice’s tenure as manager, the Town created Chapel Hill’s first Climate Action and Response Plan, launched the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and developed an expedited entitlement review process for affordable housing projects.
On Dec. 14, the Chapel Hill Town Council appointed Chris Blue to serve as interim town manager, effective Jan. 1. “We are fortunate to have the unique opportunity to select someone who has many years of experience with our organization and who has demonstrated his deep belief in our Town values,” Mayor Pam Hemminger says. In his more than two decades with the Town, including 12 years as chief of police, Chris has brought an extensive community network to the job and a proven commitment to community engagement.
Marshall Goods, a men’s clothing and home goods store, opened at 422 W. Franklin St. in October. The store offers premium clothing, candles, furnishings and fresh flowers. Owner Lucas Marshall closed the original Boise, Idaho, location during the pandemic. After a move to the area, he opened the Chapel Hill shop to be close to family and fill a niche that he says can’t be found elsewhere in the Triangle.
administrative and accounting assistance. She previously served as an administrative assistant and accounting technician at Duke University. Welcome Center receptionist Bobbi Wilkins, pictured above, serves on Saturdays and during special events. A North Carolina native, Bobbi spent her career in the medical industry and loves working with people.
The Orange County ABC Board has opened its ninth store in Orange County at 300 Market St., Ste. 122 in Southern Village.
Restore Hyper Wellness opened a location at Eastgate Crossing on Oct. 28. The franchise offers boutique wellness services like cryotherapy, compression treatment, hydrafacials and more with a mission to make these services accessible and affordable. “We are blown away by the success of our first two locations in the Triangle and cannot wait to support the Chapel Hill community on their wellness journey,” said Meri Clark, owner of Restore Hyper Wellness’ Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill locations.
Pickett Sprouse Commercial Real Estate brokers Mark O’Neal and Emilee Collins represented the Board alongside CCIM’s North Carolina chapter in negotiating a longterm lease of the 3,420-square-foot space with landlord D.R. Bryan – the original developer of Southern Village – and Sarah O’Brien, both of Bryan Properties
The Chapel Hill/ Orange County Visitors Bureau welcomed two new employees in October. Administrative support staff member Mary Salvarezza, pictured left, provides
Lucky Dancewear, an apparel shop carrying dancewear and activewear, opened its doors at 603 Meadowmont Village Circle in October. Owner Laura Kinsley noticed the need for a dance store in the area after
teaching locally. Laura grew up performing and competing in dance and has been a teacher and choreographer for more than 20 years.
Chapel Hill native Michael Rosenbacher joined the Jujube family in November as catering and event manager. Michael is well-versed in the food and beverage industry as the former sales representative at Jordan Lake Brewing Company. The restaurant shared that they are “over the moon to have him head [up] this new endeavor.”
Inhabit Real Estate opened an office in Chapel Hill at 1113 Environ Way in East 54 in November and hosted a party on Nov. 9 to celebrate its third location in North Carolina.
Golden Fig Books opened the doors to its new Carrboro location in Carr Mill Mall on Nov. 18. The bookstore carries both used and new books ranging from young adult lit and scifi to historical fiction and autobiographies and also operates a Durham location.
On Oct. 28, retired NASA astronaut Daniel Tani – pictured second from left (with Al Feinberg, NASA’s media specialist for space communications and navigation,
and high school students. Eric discussed his extraterrestrial experiences with multiple classes at Emerson Waldorf School. In addition to two space shuttle missions –which featured six spacewalks – he spent four months of his 132 days in space aboard the International Space Station. Dan and crew member Peggy Whitson had the honor of performing the 100th spacewalk outside the ISS.
As of November 2022, PORCH has provided $5 million in local hunger relief since its launch in 2010. The nonprofit’s neighborhood coordinators are currently active in 115 neighborhoods around Chapel Hill and Carrboro, serving an alltime record of 2,150 individuals, including 1,250 children. More than 500 families receive nonperishable food, fresh produce, milk and eggs from PORCH every month. The nonprofit currently has 200 monthly volunteers, including some interpreters who assist with communication between the organization and families in Spanish, Burmese and Karen.
On Oct. 30, Carolina for the Kids hosted its 10th annual Kilometers For The Kids Fun Run and 5K race, bringing together 555 runners of all ages, both in person and virtually. The organization is currently the largest student-run nonprofit in the state, working year-round to support patients and families at UNC Children’s hospital. With their support, CFTK raised over $65K, adding to the more than $6.6 million raised since its inception in 1997.
Janet shares her experience as a caregiver to her son, Sammy, who was diagnosed with two rare chronic conditions as a baby – one of which required Janet to administer his medicine every three hours.
Author Linda Ashman teamed up with illustrator Nancy Carpenter to release “Fire Chief Fran,” on Oct. 11. The book for kids follows the daily routine of a female fire chief, focusing on themes of community and educating children about how firefighters keep their neighbors safe.
Chapel Hill-based wellness expert and entrepreneur Matt Zemon is the author and editor of “Psychedelics For Everyone: A Beginner’s Guide to These Powerful Medicines for Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, PTSD and Expanding Consciousness.” The book was released in June with the intent of making more information about psychedelics decipherable for the masses.
Emerson Waldorf School development director Deb Feinberg and high school teacher Eric Meckley) – spoke with middle
Author Janet Malcolm Hayles’ new book, “Every Three Hours: A Mother’s Story of Raising a Child with Chronic Illnesses from Car Seat to Career,” comes out on Jan. 18.
Clayton Weaver died on Oct. 13. The Chapel Hill native was heavily involved with the Chapel Hill Historical Society. He undertook a plethora of noteworthy projects from producing a documentary video for the 2019 tribute to Howard Lee and Lillian Lee to directing the “Heritage of Hope” TV series on WUNC and subject of a 2021 CHHS program. He was organizing the audiovisual displays about Black history at the time of his passing. The Marian Cheek Jackson Center’s “From the Rock Wall” series includes an oral history of Clayton and his work. CHM
he ArtsCenter has come a long way since Jacques Menache founded what was then called ArtsSchool in 1974. He rented space on the second floor of the present-day Armadillo Grill. In 1988, the venue found a worthy home in the 20,000-squarefoot site of the old Piggly Wiggly supermarket. It is there that The ArtsCenter has spent the last 3 ½ decades becoming the multidisciplinary center for education that is so important to the community. However, in June 2023, the center will be moving again to a new home at 400 Roberson St. to continue its mission under Executive Director Jenny Shultz-Thomas, who started in July.
1979
The ArtSchool moves from its loft space on Main Street to upstairs at Carr Mill Mall. More than 500 adults and children enroll in the fall classes.
1984
1987
The ArtsCenter looks ahead to the anticipated June 2023 opening of its brand-new location in Carrboro
By Sam EdgeThe ceramic studio will be three times the size of the current space, while the painting studio will have natural light streaming in. According to Marketing Director Lynn Lee, the location will feature a number of technological advancements that The ArtsCenter team is excited to incorporate into their programs and classes. “There will be makerspaces with new technologies like laser cutters, 3D printers and green screens,” Lynn says. “Classes for both adults and youth will build on these new technologies along with dance, theater work and nature-based classes that can be held outside.” There are currently nine full-time staff members, but the team anticipates that new hires will be necessary as programs and classes grow after the grand opening currently slated for early summer. CHM
On July 1, the organization moved into its new renovated space at 300 E. Main St. The name is officially changed to The ArtsCenter.
The name of the school is changed to Center for Visual and Performing Arts.
2019
The quiet phase of the capital campaign for a new home for The ArtsCenter began, and it received a record-breaking $1.6 million gift from The Nicholson Foundation toward the construction of the new facility.
By Katie MacKinnon
by Catherine Lazorko, courtesy of the Town of Carrboro
Award-winning poet and writer
Liza Wolff-Francisholds a master's in creative writing from Goddard College and has been featured in many national publications and exhibits. She was selected as Carrboro’s Poet Laureate in October and began her tenure in January. We asked Liza about her new role, her writing career and why poetry is important.
When did you first start writing?
I think I started writing back when I was probably like 10 or 12 in a Ramona Quimby diary that I got, and I just started kind of answering the questions that they give you. And then as I got to be a teenager, I started writing poetry and enjoying it a little more.
Where do you like to write?
I love to write with other people. I think that’s really fun, and it can be kind of interesting because you’re feeding off of their energy and they’re feeding off of yours. But writing is often a solitary thing. So I have space at home. I have an office that I write in. I have a screened porch that I love to sit on and write. Anywhere that I can just sit down and have my journal and my pen is great.
Why is poetry valuable to the community?
It’s a way to share your voice and also to witness and listen to other people’s voices in a way that helps us get to know [one another]. I think it brings people together. I think poetry is a real integral part of art, music, community, and it really is a way to not only inspire people, but to be inspired and to connect. I think it can promote literacy – really encouraging people not just to learn how to read but to be readers. To be wanting to read and wanting to contribute to the literary world. It can be an outlet for emotions, and it can be a way to share with others and for others to listen to you and be sharing with you as well.
How does your experience as a licensed therapist inform your work as a poet?
I think that I bring kind of a therapeutic lens, even thinking about hope and thinking about the past few years. I think that it’s been a form of trauma that people have experienced, and how can we help them? How can we help one another move through that trauma as a community to find hope, so that we don’t keep having so much fear? I really love working with people to help them be the strongest that they can be. I think that therapy helps with that, and I think that poetry can, too.
What is a common misconception people have about poetry? If you want to write a poem, you can, and if you need some guidance or some help, we’re going to have some workshops to do that.
This poem was first published in eMerge magazine
They say everybody has at least one novel within them, and I would say everybody has probably a gazillion poems within them. But at least one. It can be intimidating, in some ways, but it shouldn’t have to be and I think anybody can write if they want to.
What part of the role are you most excited about?
I’m most excited to get to know new people and to write with them and to hear what they write. I think that everybody has a different voice and everybody has a different poetic voice and things to say, and I would love to hear what other people write. I think the opportunities that I’ll be facilitating for the community are also opportunities for me. I get to go and write with new people that maybe I don’t know yet and people that I do know. Let’s all get together and hang out and do poetry. CHM
‘Weight of Earth’ Tree leaves bend with the heaviness of rain, mountain stands by, lets water slide off. What we do to each other day after day is too much to hold. Even the earth cannot soak it in.
– Liza Wolff-Francis
Saltire Gallerie, the newest art gallery in Hillsborough, features a collection of Scottish works
By Elizabeth Poindexter
Photography by John Michael Simpson
aurel Kilgore has lived in Scotland, Malawi, Raleigh and elsewhere, but she feels at home in Hillsborough where she lives on the banks of the Eno River. She and her husband, Sidney Kilgore, purchased the 1794 James Hogg house in December 2021. James, a native of Scotland, named the two-story home Banks of the Eno, and soon it will bear an Orange County Historical Museum heritage marker. Its front rooms act as Laurel’s gallery with a focus on 19th- and 20th-century artwork, most of which comes from Scotland. Saltire Gallerie was named for the flag of Scotland (with its diagonal cross).
“I focus on landscapes because the theme of the art gallery for the foreseeable future is a sense of place,” Laurel says. “I feel a sense of place here in Hillsborough – where we are, this house and its history.”
Laurel’s love of art goes back decades –she holds a Ph.D. from SOAS University of London with a focus on African arts and poetry. “My study was really on that fleeting moment in dance and in the performance,” she says. “These paintings aren’t fleeting; these are with us.”
Following her graduate studies, she taught the anthropology of art at the University of St. Andrews in Scotland for many years. Now stateside, Laurel can survey the art in her gallery and point to bridges, landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, or pastoral scenes and tie them to her 16 years living in Scotland. “I bought the paintings for a reason,” Laurel says. “They all kind of ring true to me in some sort of way.”
Though Banks of the Eno is in the midst of renovations, including to the foundation, to the roof and more, Saltire Gallerie is still displaying the rotating 60 pieces of art with a current focus on winter scenes. Visitors to the gallery, open Thursdays and during private appointments, can see works from some contemporary Scottish artists Jack Vettriano and John Lowrie Morrison.
Laurel says the flurry of activity at her home has kept her in North Carolina, where she is reminded of Scotland and its ties to our state every day. “Working with local tradespeople has been a delight, as some of them are as interested in preserving history as I am,” she says. “It is so rewarding being surrounded by art. It touches the soul.” CHM
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!
Karlee
“Someone told me a long time ago,” Kevin Callaghan says as a song by The Avett Brothers comes on, “that bars and restaurants should feel like the way you want the rest of your life to be because you want to sit there and [think], ‘I’m living that life.’” Atlas Bar certainly has that intimate je ne sais quoi. With thoughtful touches like handpainted walls, eclectic local art and paper-mache dragon heads, the bar he opened just a short walk from Acme last March feels like an elevated escape from the everyday. There’s even a bookshelf brimming with selections for the taking or, for those sipping solo, reading at the bar – an activity Kevin encourages. (“For me, personally, if I’m at a bar and I’m doing this,” he says as he mimes scrolling on a phone, “I’m not really enjoying the bar.”)
The menu features classic cocktails by and large, with offerings ranging from palomas and daiquiris to the French 75. Lead bartender William Clark says he relishes the opportunity to serve customers their first New York sour or Tom Collins, knowing it’s going to be made correctly. “When you have a great cocktail, that sort of haunts you,” he says. “That person is going to have that as their first memory – the platonic ideal of the cocktail – wherever they go.” Other patrons will tell William that they’ve already had everything on the menu. “And that’s when the bartender really has to take their preferences and push them in a direction, such as modern classics or things they just come up with on the fly,” he says.
In the spirit – or rather, lack thereof – of Dry January, Atlas Bar has you covered with options, too. Served in a lowball glass, Return to Sender, with its club soda, Coke and lemon juice, gains umami thanks to undetectable soy sauce. Or, tell William you want to try the refreshing not-yet-named drink (pictured right) made with guava shrub and grapefruit. – By
Jessica Stringer• Beer Study, Chapel Hill’s first bottle shop with in-store drafts, has moved from North Graham Street to 504 W. Franklin St. (formerly home to Mint Indian Cuisine). The move coincided with the store’s 10th anniversary in December. Since the new space came with a kitchen, the Beer Study team decided to additionally open a second location of The Boot Room, their soccer pub and sandwich shop in Durham. They will offer a smaller menu in Chapel Hill that focuses on the bestselling items from the Durham location.
• Beer Study’s Graham Street space will be reimagined into an art gallery and bar called Lapin Bleu by Michael Benson who owns Franklin Motors Beer Garden and previously operated a gallery in Washington, D.C. Michael, who has been in the restaurant and bar business for more than 40 years, says he wants to feature both local and international art that rotates monthly and occasionally host group shows. “We’re looking forward to continuing our presence in the Midway district of Chapel Hill,” he says.
• Award-winning sommelier Paula de Pano opened Rocks + Acid Wine Shop in December in Southern Village. The wine shop and bar offers 300-350 labels – the majority of those priced at $20 or less – as well as cheese, charcuterie and caviar offerings and a wine supper club to match sellers with wine lovers.
The space, designed by the Carrborobased duo of LEED-certified architect Doug Pierson and international experiential designer Youn Choi of pod architecture + design, features customdesigned display units made of Baltic birch and a Baltic birch communal table on casters that can be moved wherever it’s needed to seat 16 for tastings or educational events.
Classes kick off in the new year with a Champagne flight and french fry tasting on Jan. 10, featuring crinkle-cut fries, sweet potato fries and tater tots from Al’s Burger Shack. On Jan. 22, learn about Nebbiolo selections from Gattinara, Boca, Costa della Sesia and Valtellina. Visit rocksandacidwineshop. com/events for a full schedule.
A large accordion glass door connecting the interior to a 15-seat outdoor patio will be installed in early 2023, just in time for spring.
• The Shake Shack in Eastgate Crossing opened on Dec. 19. The fastcasual chain, known for its hand-spun shakes and crinkle-cut fries, has six other locations in North Carolina.
• The Dead Mule Club has continued to make improvements since a new porch, which nearly doubled the establishment’s outdoor space, was completed a year ago. The bar is also focusing on food quality, with an updated menu and new sous-chef,
John Watson, who is supporting chef Christian Patterson Big Sam’s BBQ will continue to be a menu staple.
• Al Bowers, the namesake and founder of Al’s Burger Shack, has sold the business to UNC graduates Charlie Farris and Jason Kesler. This sale includes both of the restaurant’s locations – one on West Franklin Street and the other in Southern Village. Charlie and Jason also own several local Jersey Mike’s Subs franchises. Don’t worry, the award-winning burger shacks will keep their famous name and menu under the new ownership. CHM
– Compiled by Caitlyn Yaede
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
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
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
*DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. CHECK RESTAURANT WEBSITES AND SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS PRIOR TO VISITING.
ADVERTISERS HIGHLIGHTED IN BOXES
Blue’s on Franklin North Carolina barbecue, burgers, hot dogs, sandwiches and salads. 110 W. Franklin St.; 919-240-5060; bluesonfranklin.com
COMING SOON – Bombolo Sandwiches, pasta dishes and small plates. 104 N. Graham St.; bombolochapelhill.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
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
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
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.; 919-9146717; 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
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; phohappiness.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
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
Alfredo’s Pizza Villa Pizzas, calzones, salads, subs, pasta, desserts. 919-968-3424; alfredospizzanc.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)
Hunam Chinese Restaurant Cantonese cuisine. 790 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-967-6133; hunamrestaurant.net
Kitchen Bistro-style dining with a seasonal menu that always includes mussels. 764 MLK Jr. Blvd.; 919-537-8167; kitchenchapelhill.com
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
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.; 919-9295727; farmhousesteakhouse.com
Joe Van Gogh Coffee, tea and pastries. Timberlyne Shopping Center; 919-9672002; 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; 919932-7002; 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. Patio dining. 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
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; 919-8839003; 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.; 919-903-8699; facebook.com/ NoDaBrewingTapas
The Poplar Cafe Coffee shop offering tea, wine, mimosas, beer and specialty drinks, plus Deli Edison bagels. 1114 Environ Way, East 54; facebook.com/thepoplarcafenc
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
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
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
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; chamthai.squarespace.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
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
Mosaic Tapas Bistro & Wine Bar A trendy tapas and wine bar with a relaxed bistro atmosphere. 203 W. Weaver St.; 919-967-5008; mosaicbistro.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
Amante Gourmet Pizza Create-your-own pizzas, salads and pasta. 300 E. Main St.; 919-929-3330; amantepizza.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
COMING SOON – 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 and inspired cocktails open for private parties. 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
Aidan’s Pizza Pizza, wings and salads. 602 Jones Ferry Rd., Ste. D; 919-903-8622; aidanspizza.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
Antonia’s Italian cuisine. 101 N. Churton St.; 919-643-7722; antoniashillsborough.com
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
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
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
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; tacontento.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
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/house
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; hwy55.com/locations/pittsboro
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
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 no-bake peanut butterchocolate 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
While many kids dream of becoming an astronaut or doctor in the future, seventh grader Max Chen is already a budding journalist. Along with playing tennis, cello and learning how to code, his hobbies also include writing.
Now, the Smith Middle School student is taking part in a unique opportunity that allows him to share his writing with other kids as part of the Scholastic Kids Press program. He is one of 29 kid reporters this school year, all aged 10-14 and based across the globe.
The program, which started in 2000, works with young journalists to write “news for kids, by kids” – that’s anything from politics, entertainment, the environment, sports and more, both in their hometowns and on the national stage. Suzanne McCabe, the New York City-based editor of Scholastic Kids Press, says it was a “great idea to have kids tell the story to their peers because young people love to listen to someone their own age.”
The journey to join the cohort was rigorous. “We look for curiosity, good interviewing skills, good writing skills, critical thinking, [an openness] to all ideas and just an interest in sharing the stories that may not get told otherwise,” Suzanne says. Applicants had to think of a topic for a story, conduct interviews and write an article to submit to the judges at Scholastic.
For many kids like Max, inspiration came from their own community. “I decided to find a topic that was close to home,” he says. “I really enjoyed my orchestra class, and I thought it would be interesting for kids to know the importance of music.” He interviewed his music teachers during his first-ever interviews.
Upon his acceptance into the program, Max wrote his first article covering Election Day in Chapel Hill. He says he was nervous in the beginning but soon found himself in the groove while in action. “I kept pestering my dad about how I should approach the volunteers [at the
polling place],” he says. “Once I got there though, I thought it was really fun. You don’t feel nervous once you start talking to real people. Everyone was nice, and they even congratulated me on my interview when I finished.” When he settled down to write, Max says he felt accomplished.
“What I loved about Max’s first story is that he covered the election and told the story from the vantage of kids his age and the age of our readers who can’t vote.” Suzanne says. “We’re helping young people see that they have a voice, even if they’re not old enough to cast a vote. Max is very bright; he loves to read. He loves social studies. That was his first story, and he did a great job.”
The stories that kid reporters cover vary depending on their schedule, guidelines set by Suzanne and their own passion and responsibility for
sending interview requests and writing questions. “I help them pitch articles, and I may give them or toss around ideas that they have and see which one works best for the moment.” Suzanne explains. “Then we go through the editing process back and forth. There’s much more editing needed at the beginning and almost none at the end, which is really great to see.”
This drive to write to the best of his ability, especially with a unique perspective as a student, is among the main skills that Max hopes to learn from this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
“My perspective as a student gives me a humble way of writing. I’m still learning things. So as a writer, I need to make sure my readers know that I’m also with them and not like a random adult writer who is a little bit above their reader.” Max says. He went on to describe how he
applies his understanding of kids at school in his stories, describing his ideal way of writing with the word “colloquialism.”
When asked about his goals, Max says he just wanted to meet new people, including those larger than life. “I want to go into the world and learn from the people I interview,” he says. “I just hope to have a great time.” He is considering covering something related to space in a future story.
Whether these kid reporters in the Scholastic Kids Press program start their own newspapers, go on to write for high school or college publications or pursue professional careers, they are involved in a “fantastic process [that] gets young people involved in making their voices heard and thinking critically, expressing their ideas. It’s so rewarding,” Suzanne says. “That’s the wonderful part.” CHM
After a trip to India in elementary school to visit her grandparents, Aarya Potti returned home with a vision. “Seeing the disparities in education [in India] was a lot to handle, especially seeing how I was growing up so differently than girls my age who were unable get an education,” Aarya says.
During her sophomore year at Chapel Hill High School, Aarya realized she could be taking action to
help young girls go to school. Soon after, Project Asha was born. Translating to “hope” in Hindi, Project Asha works to aid young girls in their efforts to complete their elementary, middle and high school education. Through campaigning, sharing brochures and distributing shirts, Aarya has spread her message to the community for donations, and so far, has raised almost $10,000 to sponsor orphaned girls and help charities giving back to girls in India.
Aarya recently made a $1,000 donation to the Orange County Partnership for Young Children to give back to students on a local level. “I realized there were people close to home that needed help,” Aarya says. “After doing some research, the OCPYC seemed really great, so I went to visit. It was nice to see the money donated go toward things like buying new books for schools.”
The OCPYC serves as the administrator for Smart Start and NC Pre-K in the county and operates with a mission to ensure that every
child arrives at school healthy and ready to succeed. Robin Pulver, OCPYC’s executive director, says Aarya’s contribution makes a big difference, and the support helps fund book purchases, playground equipment and many other projects.
“Donations like this impact the lives of young children and their families and support programs necessary to help children get ready for school,” Robin says. “It’s really exciting to see young leaders like Aarya care about the community and make a difference. We were thrilled when Aarya came to us.”
Now a senior, Aarya is now applying to college and plans to study psychology or political science. Beyond her work with Project Asha, she plays volleyball and is active in student government.
“I think community is a big deal and really important, especially in our area,” she says. “It’s important to be doing things to help those around you if you can – and being able to do so is a privilege.” CHM
"SEEING THE DISPARITIES IN EDUCATION [IN INDIA] WAS A LOT TO HANDLE, ESPECIALLY SEEING HOW I WAS GROWING UP SO DIFFERENTLY THAN GIRLS MY AGE WHO WERE UNABLE TO GET AN EDUCATION."
– Aarya Potti
By Brooke Spach
Scraps of fabric, piles of fluff and bustling children filled the colorful craft room. Cely Chicurel stood with a student, offering a helping hand and supportive guidance over the sound of the chattering sewing machines. Nearly lifesized plaster figures of dogs, unicorns and even Rameses, UNC’s mascot, sat perched on the miniature craft tables, overlooking the excitement on that day in July.
Cely has hosted Cely’s House Creative Workshops for more than 20 years in the basement of her home near Ashley Forest. One of
her most popular summer camps, and the one that started it all, is “Crazy Chairs,” a weeklong day camp where each student creates a rideable version of nearly any animal they can think of.
Some kids choose their family pet or favorite animal, and some let their imaginations run wild. Cely says that in recent years, she’s had to reel it in to strictly four-legged creatures after attempts to build a rooster and a fish. Each chair starts as a frame of two-by-fours, and the campers spend a few days adding plaster and paper to give it its shape.
Other camps include “Magical Moments,” a two-week pottery camp, and “Wonderful Worlds,” where students
paint and create a plaster panorama of their own world. Registration for Cely's summer camps typically fills up by March.
Sofia Vavalle, a sixth grader at Culbreth Middle School, was the artist behind Rameses, which was inspired by her love for the UNC men’s basketball team after their awesome 2021-22 season. This was her first time at one of Cely’s camps, and she said her favorite part of the process was painting her chair. The students truly bring their creations to life by painting on its features once the animal chairs take shape.
Claire Lynch, a Durham Academy sixth grader, agreed that adding the details was the most rewarding part. “You can really
Montessori School of Durham is an accredited independent Montessori school bringing authentic Montessori education to families in Durham and the surrounding areas for over 40 years. Now accepting 2023-24 school year applications online for children ages 3 months through 6th grade. Summer camps are also available for children 3 years-rising 7th grade; register on our website beginning in late January.
start to see what it looks like,” she said while gluing white fur onto the ears of the replica of her pet Cavachon, Charlie
Cely and her husband, Bill Chicurel, have lived in the house for more than 30 years. And as it turns out, the suburban home on the corner is the perfect venue for a summer camp. Outside of the main craft room, the spacious backyard is filled with gardens, a playground and a zip line, plus a few beehives and a chicken coop. There’s a large “Where the Wild Things Are” mural that Cely painted in the foyer. Also on the main level is her personal workshop, a winding fun house of rooms filled with her ceramic creations and a pottery workshop where she teaches classes.
Cely has been an artist her whole life. The Chapel Hill native says she grew up behind a potter’s wheel in her parents’ basement and then worked as a production potter for 35 years. “Clay was this awakening. I had not felt artistic before,” Cely says. “3D art worked for me, and it was like an ‘aha!’ moment. I found a voice.” She hopes to facilitate those “aha!” moments for her students through her summer camps and other art classes. “We offer a wide range of activities so that kids can find the material that best expresses their creative selves,” she says. Between teaching, the longtime member of the Orange County Artists Guild also worked as an after-school teacher at Orange United Methodist Church before retiring.
Cely has a core staff of helpers who make it all possible with an average of 16 8- to 13-yearolds each week. Twenty-somethings Henry Wilkinson and Chloe Strauss are some of Cely’s protégés, having grown up attending her after-school classes and summer camps.
“I feel like this is a place where everyone can both express themselves and get a sense of accomplishment, which is an important thing for young minds,” says Chloe, an Orange United Methodist Church preschool teacher and owner of Creature Camp Studio, a card and sticker company that donates all profits to a different nonprofit each month, like TABLE and Compass Center
Noah Zerden, a seventh grader at Guy B. Phillips Middle School, agrees. “[The camp] made me feel creative, and I knew I
could express myself anyway I wanted to,” says Noah, who has been attending camps and classes since second grade. “I had a lot of support, and it raised my confidence in my art. Ms. Cely is such a nice and gentle person, and when you make a mistake, she helps guide you through the next step.”
Cely’s programs are just as popular with parents as they are with the students. “Cely’s House is one of Chapel Hill’s greatest treasures,” says Noah’s mom, Lisa de Saxe Zerden. “She is amazing, as are all the teachers there. It couldn’t be a better place for children to foster their love of creating art.”
As Cely’s students continue to grow and new kids take her classes, she says she will be there to develop their talents and help foster an appreciation for the arts. “There is just tremendous talent with these young people,” Cely says. “We’ve tried to create a safe space where they feel successful and creative and good about themselves. … They’re so nice to [one another] and supportive. It’s a joy to be with this group of kids.” CHM
101 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill 919-966-5736; ackland.org
The sessions provide kids with a guided view of art in the Ackland’s galleries, followed by the opportunity to create takehome treasures in an adjacent art studio using newly learned artmaking techniques. Materials are provided. Registration required, sign up online.
Ages 6-9
Dates May 20, June 10, July 8, Aug. 12; two sessions at 10:30 a.m. to noon and 1-2:30 p.m.
Price Free for museum members; $5 per session for nonmembers. Register at ackland.org
ARTSCAMP AT THE ARTSCENTER
300-G E. Main St., Carrboro 919-929-2787; artscenterlive.org
1870 FARM CAMP
1224 Old Lystra Rd., Chapel Hill 919-590-4120; 1870farm.com
The summer day camp at 1870 Farm is set on 17 acres. Outdoor activities include animal care, fishing, capture the flag and nature exploration. Indoor activities include crafts, an apothecary workshop, games and an entrepreneur club. 2023 camps offer more animal time, climate-controlled play areas and a newly expanded egg production barn. Campers may also sign up for the kids vet club each week.
Ages 3-13; CIT program available ages 14+
Dates June 12-Aug. 11
Price $270-$475/week
ALL IN DANCE ACADEMY
5832 Fayetteville Road, #110, Durham 984-219-7381; allindance.com
Each week comes with its own theme that is featured in crafts and dancing throughout the week. Camps end on Friday with a special performance for friends and family. Themes this year include villains, pop stars and much more. Kids will be introduced to a variety of dance styles including tap, jazz, ballet, hip-hop, lyrical, musical theater, acro and more.
Ages 4-17, ages vary by week.
Dates June 12-Aug. 4; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price Varies by camp. See website for details.
AMERICAN DANCE FESTIVAL
721 Broad St., Durham 919-797-2871; americandancefestival.org
American Dance Festival’s Samuel H. Scripps Studios hosts a variety of camps taught by expert faculty to expand students’ knowledge and understanding of dance.
Ages 6-17
Dates Weekly in June and July. Visit website for details. Price Varies by camp. Visit website for details.
Mix and match the half-day camps in the visual and performing arts to fit your schedule or create a full-day camp experience based on your camper’s interests. ArtsCamp features small classes taught by professional artists that focus on skill development and encourage the discovery of a creative voice. The ArtsCenter favors process over product and self-expression over perfection. Registration for patrons opens Jan. 23 at 9 a.m. The general public can register beginning Jan. 30 at 9 a.m.
Grades Rising K-9
Dates June 19-Aug. 25
Price Patron $169; public $197
BALLET SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL
1603 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill 919-942-1339; balletschoolofchapelhill.com
Offers a variety of classes, dance camps and workshops in creative arts, ballet, modern, contemporary jazz, rhythm tap, hip-hop, musical theater and DanceAbilities, a workshop for children with special needs.
Ages 3-17
Dates June 12-Aug. 12; frequency and times vary. Price Varies. Call or visit website.
BARRISKILL DANCE THEATRE SCHOOL
3642 Shannon Rd., Durham 919-489-5100; barriskilldance.com; contact@barriskilldance.com
Classes and dance camps/intensives in creative movement, ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, conditioning, musical theater and more.
Ages 3-18
Dates June 12-Aug. 11; half-day and full-day camps available, as well as weekly classes.
Price Email or visit website for details.
BOUNCING BULLDOGS JUMP ROPE CAMP
101 S. White Oak Dr., Durham 919-493-7992; bouncingbulldogs.org
Jump rope skills designed for beginners to advanced participants, some of whom are seven-time national champions and 12-time world champions.
Ages 5-18
Dates Visit website.
Price Visit website.
There’s a camp in the Triangle for every kid’s interest from sports and science to art and engineering
8302 S. Lowell Rd., Bahama 210-908-7629 (winter); 919-477-8739 (summer); campriverlea.com
Provides high-quality outdoor and art programs that emphasize personal growth, learning new skills, positive interpersonal relationships and appreciation for the natural world.
Grades Rising K-7
Dates Session 1: June 12-June 30; Session 2: July 3-July 14; Session 3: July 17-Aug. 4. Open house June 10, 1-4:30 p.m. Price Visit website for pricing.
1940 Hanks Chapel Rd., Pittsboro 919-542-4684, ext. 3006; carolinatigerrescue.org
Learn in-depth information regarding the animals while getting to observe them and play games to learn about specific adaptations of the cats, complete art projects and make enriching toys for the animals. Campers watch the keepers feed and learn about vet procedures and what it takes to care for about 50 carnivores every day.
Grades 3-12
Dates June 20-24 and June 27-July 1 (rising third-fifth grade); July 11-15 and July 18-22 (rising middle schoolers); July 25-27 (rising ninth-12th grade). Registration will open on Feb. 21. Price Elementary and middle school camps $350; high school camp $200. Before and aftercare available for additional cost.
101 S. Columbia St., Chapel Hill 919-966-5736; ackland.org
Tweens look at selected works in the Ackland’s galleries and identify techniques that the artists used to make them. Gallery teachers demonstrate and teach participants technical skills, which they can then apply to their own artistic creations. A mix of drawing from works on display and creating one’s own original work is offered in each session. Materials are provided. Registration required, sign up online.
Ages 10-13
Dates May 20, June 10, July 8, Aug. 12; one session at 10:30 a.m. to noon
Price Free for museum members; $5 per session for nonmembers. Register at ackland.org
3716 Erwin Rd., Durham
919-493-2642; dukeschool.org
More than 70 camps available, including outdoor adventures, sports, arts and crafts, music, technology, coding, makers, community service, day camps for preschool and more.
Ages 4-15
Dates June 19-Aug. 4, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Aftercare available until 6 p.m.
Price $350-$425/week
DURHAM ACADEMY
3501 Ridge Rd., Durham 919-489-3400 ext. 6114; da.org/summer
Durham Academy has provided premier summer camp experiences for area families since 1982. The school utilizes 84 acres of campus and state-of-the-art facilities with the goal of providing a summer experience for all ages that grows minds and fosters character. Join for a new program this summer – a transformative all-day camp experience that keeps campers closer to home but feeling far away as they gain independence and confidence. At the core of the program is the goal to equip campers with the tools to lead moral, happy and productive lives.
Ages 4-18
Dates June 12-Aug. 4
Price Starting at $375 per session.
DURHAM ARTS COUNCIL
120 Morris St., Downtown Durham 919-560-2726; durhamarts.org/dac-camps
One- and two-week cultural camps based on country themes and art-themed mini-camps for rising K through age 13. Campers have the opportunity to participate in clay, drawing, painting, mixed media, dance, theater and music classes. Teen intensives for ages 13-17 are also available.
Ages Rising K-17
Dates June 12-Aug. 25
Price Call for inquiry. Scholarships available.
DURHAM PARKS AND RECREATION
400 Cleveland St., Durham 919-560-4355; dprplaymore.org; dprcareprograms.org
Offers a safe and inclusive environment where children and teens are encouraged to participate in a variety of traditional, specialty and teen camps. DPR is committed to the development of life skills through exposure to diverse activities and recreational experiences.
Ages 5-12 for traditional and specialty youth camps (must have completed kindergarten); 13-17 for traditional teen camp; 13-18 for teen MyDurham drop-in program
Dates June 20-Aug. 18; youth camps, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; teen camp, 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; teen MyDurham program, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Price Call or visit website. Registration opens March 13.
DURHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS – CAMP 4 RISING K
Camp location TBA; check website for updates 919-560-9488; dpsnc.net/afterschool
This rising kindergartener camp offers a well-rounded summer experience. Campers explore science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Students participate in weekly STEAM-related activities, including sports, games and swimming and also explore their learning through weekly field trips at no extra cost. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. Students receive a free T-shirt.
Grades Rising K students (must be 5 years old by Aug. 31, 2022)
Dates June 19-July 28; closed July 3 and 4
Price $140/week for first child; $130/week for additional children in the same family. $35 registration fee per child. Limited space.
Camp locations TBA; check website for updates 919-560-9488; dpsnc.net/afterschool
Four- or five-star licensed summer camps by the NC Division of Child Development and Early Education that offer a wellrounded summer experience, including academic enrichment, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). Campers are placed in age-appropriate groups as they participate in weekly academic and STEAM-related activities and play sports, games, swim and explore their learning through weekly educational and recreational field trips at no extra cost. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided. Accepts DSS vouchers. Students receive a free T-shirt.
Grades Rising first through sixth graders
Dates June 19-July 28; closed July 3 and 4
Price $140/week for first child; $130/week for additional children in the same family. $35 registration fee per child. Limited space.
6211 New Jericho Rd., Chapel Hill 919-967-1858; emersonwaldorf.org
Activities include art, cooking, world languages and cultures, outdoor exploration, farming, fiber arts, basketball, practical living skills and more. CIT program also available.
Ages 4 through high school age
Dates June 19-July 28; 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; extended care available
Price $225-$350/week
HILL LEARNING CENTER
3200 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-489-7464; hillcenter.org/summer
Provides individualized instruction with a 4:1 student-teacher ratio in reading, writing and math for children with learning differences.
Grades Rising 1-8
Dates June 26-July 28 (closed July 3-4); Two session options (8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3:30 p.m. daily)
Price $3,175
JUNIOR VET ACADEMY AT 1870 FARM
1224 Old Lystra Rd., Chapel Hill 919-819-5258; juniorvetacademy.com
Weekly camps for animal lovers and aspiring vets.
Ages 8-14
Dates Visit website.
Price $545-$1,895
KIDZU CHILDREN’S MUSEUM
201 S. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill 919-933-1455; kidzuchildrensmuseum.org
Camp favorites include weekly themes of Pirates and Princesses, Around the World, Robots and Rockets and more. See website for weekly themes and descriptions. Enrollment available Feb. 1 and is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ages 4-8
Dates Weekly camps starting June 12; 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., drop-off starts at 9 a.m.
Price $375; Kidzu members receive 20% off
MONTESSORI DAY SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL SUMMER CAMP
1702 Legion Rd., Chapel Hill
919-929-3339; mdsch.org; admin@mdsch.org
Montessori Day School welcomes campers for a fun-filled summer where they will have a chance to enjoy a variety of hands-on crafts and explore different activities in each session.
Ages 3-8
Dates June 12-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 10-14, 17-21, 24-28; July 31-Aug. 4, Aug. 7-11; 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Price $195/week
MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF DURHAM
2800 Pickett Rd., Durham 919-489-9045; msdurham.org
Weekly themed camps include athletics, music, visual and performing arts, cooking, nature exploration, gardening and science.
Ages 3 through rising 7th graders
Dates June 12-Aug. 18 (closed week of July 3-7); half- and full-day camps
Price Visit website. Registration open as of Jan. 25.
MOREHEAD PLANETARIUM SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS
250 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill 919-962-1236; moreheadplanetarium.org/camps
Encourage your child’s natural curiosity and intellectual growth by signing up for a camp at the newly renovated Morehead Planetarium & Science Center.
Grades K-8
Dates Weekly from June 12-Aug. 11 (no camp the week of July 3)
Price K-5 half-day camps, $187-$231; full-day camps for grades 6-8, $495. Morehead Family Plus members receive a 10% discount and early registration.
N.C. MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCES SUMMER CAMPS
11 W. Jones St., Raleigh; 919-707-9889; naturalsciences.org/summer-camps; summercamps@naturalsciences.org
All campers will experience a range of creative, fun and interactive activities and adventures. The museum strives to provide an equal experience to any child registered and is committed to open and honest communications with guardians to ensure the best experience for all of our campers.
Grades Rising K-12
Dates Visit website for details.
Price Visit website for details. Scholarships available.
NORTH CAROLINA THEATRE CONSERVATORY 3043 Barrow Dr., Raleigh; 919-855-0015; nctheatre.com/conservatory; classes@nctheatre.com
Dream of seeing your name in lights? Offering year-round musical theater classes for ages 3 and up and summer camps for ages 7 to 18. Participants will learn dance, voice, and acting techniques with beginner to pre-professional courses. Summer programs include sharings in the conservatory space and the youth-staged production.
Ages 3-18
Dates See website for details. Price Varies. See website for details.
ORANGE COUNTY ARTS COMMISSION/ENO ARTS MILL
437 Dimmocks Mill Rd., Ste. 17, Hillsborough 919-245-2129; artsorange.org
Diverse camps that focus on the visual, performing and literary arts.
Ages 5-18
Dates Weeklong camps June 12 through Aug. 18
Price Check website.
OUR PLAYHOUSE PRESCHOOL
2400 University Dr., Durham 919-967-2700; ourplayhousepreschool.com
Offers unique camp topics and an exciting summer curriculum based on sensory, art, building and movement activities! Each two-week session of camp will focus on students’ interests within the topics of gardening, outdoor explorations, tinkering and art.
Ages 2-5
Dates June 12-Aug. 4
Price Visit website for details.
PRIMROSE SCHOOL OF CHAPEL HILL AT BRIAR CHAPEL
81 Falling Springs Dr., Chapel Hill 919-441-0441; primrosechapelhill.com
Imaginations take flight this summer through different weekly themes that engage students in creative critical thinking while doing fun, STEAM-based projects and weekly field trips for experiential learning.
Grades K-5
Dates Weekly, June through August, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price Call to inquire.
SCHOOL OF ROCK CHAPEL HILL
1500 N. Fordham Blvd., Chapel Hill 919-338-1011; chapelhill.schoolofrock.com
Offers one-week camps with a variety of themes, all of which end with a concert performance!
Grades Rising 4-12 (see camp descriptions on website for specifics)
Dates Weeks of June 19, June 26, July 17, July 24 and July 31; Monday-Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Price Varies. Call or visit website.
THE STUDIO SCHOOL OF DURHAM
1201 W. Woodcroft Parkway, Durham 919-967-2700; studioschooldurham.org
Offers the opportunity to discover, explore and engage in hands-on learning all summer long, with a variety of themes for children that are guaranteed to spark their creativity in a safe and naturally inspiring environment.
Ages 5-8 and 9-12
Dates June 12-16, June 19-23, June 26-30, July 10-14, July 17-21, July 24-28 and July 30-Aug. 4
Price $325
SUMMER @ SAINT MARY’S
900 Hillsborough St., Raleigh 919-424-4028; sms.edu
Girls have the opportunity to explore new interests, build fundamental skills, pursue artistic dreams and expand academic horizons. Whether creating a charcoal drawing, learning to be a leader, strengthening their writing skills or participating in healthy
competition on the playing field, participants will enjoy a summer full of new friends and experiences in an all-girl setting as they master skills and grow in confidence.
Grades Rising K-10
Dates June 20-24, June 27-July 1, July 11-15, July 18-22 and July 25-29. Residential, full-day, half-day and extended care options are available.
Price $350 per session; $1,200 for residential Ms. Nancy’s Manners Camp
SUMMERSCAPE AT THE MONTESSORI SCHOOL OF RALEIGH
7005 Lead Mine Rd., Raleigh 919-848-1545; msr.org
Seven weeks of full- and half-day camp sessions for students ages 15 months to grade eight. With a range of offerings including arts, athletics, the sciences, strategy games, robotics, outdoor adventure and more, there is something for everyone. Expert instructors and access to excellent facilities on the school’s beautiful Lead Mine Campus makes for an ideal summer experience. Registration is open to MSR students and nonstudents. Early-bird care available for an additional fee. Registration opens to the Raleigh-Durham community in March.
Ages 15 months-eighth grade
Dates Weekly, June 12-Aug. 4; no camp offered the week of July 4 Price Varies by camp. Visit website for details.
Crosswinds Boating Center, 565 Farrington Rd., Apex info@carolinasailingfoundation.org; carolinasailingfoundation.org
Beginner and intermediate classes taught by US Sailing Certified instructors. Weeklong, full-day sessions, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Only 12-14 students per class, so register early. Have fun on the water this summer learning to sail!
Ages 9-16
Dates See website for schedules and online registration. Price $385 per student per week
6407 Millhouse Rd., Chapel Hill 919-968-8581; sunrisecommunityfarmcenter.com/summer-camp
Campers at Sunrise play and get experiential education with chickens, bunnies, goats and pigs, learn about creatively expressing themselves, growing garden vegetables, cooking and hiking around the property. Every camper has the opportunity to ride a horse and learn the crafts of partnership, make strong friendships and play in nature’s playground!
Grades Rising K-7
Dates Weekly, June 12-Aug. 25
Price $350/week for farm camp, $450/week for horse camp. Scholarships available – visit website for more information.
TRIANGLE DAY SCHOOL
4911 Neal Rd., Durham 919-383-8800; triangledayschool.org; summer@triangledayschool.org
Students will have the opportunity to learn a new craft or hobby, enhance and develop existing skills, travel to local places and make new friends. Staff consists of experts, artists and educators from TDS and other local schools and programs. A variety of programs focus on art, STEAM, nature, adventure, early childhood and more. CIT program for 13- to 15-year-olds.
Ages 4-15
Dates June 12-Aug. 4; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., extended care available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Price Before March 1, $300/session; after March 1, $315/session
TRIANGLE ROCK CLUB
1010 Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Chapel Hill 919-981-7441; trianglerockclub.com/durham
Offers a variety of half-day and full-day summer camps for ages 6 and up. Each camp day is filled with rock climbing, learning, adventure, goal setting, games and tons of adventure-filled memories!
Ages 6-13
Dates Weeks of June 12, June 19, June 26, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, July 31, Aug. 7, Aug. 14
Price Full-day $340; half-day $205
4011 Pickett Rd, Durham 919-402-8262; trinityschoolnc.org
Trinity School of Durham and Chapel Hill offers weeklong full-day camps all summer for rising first through sixth grade students. Participants will enjoy a variety of activities that keep their bodies and their brains active. Each week features a field trip and "splash days" for some fun in the sun!
Grades Rising first through sixth
Dates June 12-Aug. 7; no camp offered the week of July 4. 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with an extended care option available for $75/week.
Price $325; $25 sibling discount
1430 Camp Cheerio Rd., Glade Valley 336–869-0195 (fall, winter, spring); 336-363-2604 (summer); campcheerio.org
YMCA residential camp in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. Activities offered include horseback riding, climbing, ropes course, aquatics, sports, field games, creative arts and nature study.
Ages 7-15
Dates June 4-Aug. 18
Price $1,390-$2,960
Run or walk with your teachers and your friends at the Public School Foundation 5K for Education. This March, the PSF 5K for Education will celebrate its tenth year of supporting our teachers, our schools, and our community. It is a great fun-filled community event which promotes health and fitness and school spirit!
The Teachers First Breakfast is all about supporting teachers and kicks off Teacher Appreciation Week in late April. Your donation gives in two ways: a rose and a breakfast to ALL CHCCS staff and an opportunity for you to honor school staff with a gift to the PSF Teachers First Fund which supports vital teacher programs including classroom grants, professional development, and awards.
For more information on how to participate visit publicschoolfoundation.org
YMCA CAMP KANATA
3524 Camp Kanata Rd., Wake Forest 919-556-2661; campkanata.org
Located on 150 acres, this camp nurtures the potential of every child to develop into confident, competent leaders. It is traditional, coed and overnight with activities such as archery, hiking, swimming and creative arts, and water activities like canoeing, kayaking and a 75-foot double waterslide on the camp’s 15-acre lake. Offers an overnight camp in one-week sessions, a traditional summer day camp in one-week sessions, and several overnight weekend camps throughout the fall and spring.
Ages 6-16
Dates June-August for day camp and overnight camps; April-May for family camps
Price Ranges by length of session.
Check website for details.
YMCA CAMP SEAFARER AND CAMP SEA GULL
218 Sea Gull Landing and 2744 Seafarer Rd., Arapahoe; 252-249-1111 (Sea Gull); 252-249-1212 (Seafarer); seagull-seafarer.org
Overnight camps – Sea Gull for boys and Seafarer for girls –located on the North Carolina coast. Signature four-week program gives campers time to develop their character, build strong relationships, independence and confidence in a safe, resilient and supportive environment. It also offers a Starter Camp (one week), a Mariners camp (two weeks), a Family camp and specialty weekend camping programs throughout the year.
Ages 7-16, and family camps
Dates June-August for summer camp; dates in May, August and September for family camps
Price Ranges by length of session. Check website for details.
754 Fox Knob Road, Mouth of Wilson, Virginia 336–869-0195 (fall, winter, spring); 276-579-6731 (summer); campcheerio.org
This YMCA residential camp on the New River offers kayaking, canoeing, mountain biking, fly-fishing, tree climbing, target sports, creative arts, paddle boarding and hiking/backpacking on 150 acres.
Ages 10-15
Dates June 11-Aug. 11
Price $1,480 CHM
Emilee Collins, a commercial and residential real estate agent, and Chad Collins of custom home builder Collins Design-Build often receive calls from others in the industry. One day, someone reached out to Chad about available lots to see if he
was interested in building on them. “I said, ‘Well, my wife is a realtor if you need help selling them,” Chad says.
At the time, the couple already had plans to build their next home on a lot in one of Chad’s communities in northern Orange County. “I have always wanted to build my wife a house,” Chad says. The Collins’ dream was a long time in the making, given all the challenging years for their industry, including the 2008 recession and its impact on the housing market.
“Emilee went to look at this land, and she called me right away,” Chad explains. “She said, ‘Chad, you’ve got to come out here.’” The couple fell in love with a wooded lot with pond views and decided to change their plans.
Soon, another coincidence solidified their decision: Chad realized their new home would resemble the logo he has used for
years, which depicts a single oak tree standing beside a home. “It was like I had envisioned it a long time ago,” Chad says. “We already felt strongly that this was the right place for us, but when we realized we could preserve a large oak tree on the property and build our home around it, we were even more certain.”
Chad and Emilee, who are parents to Liam, 19, Graylon, 15, and Kendall, 11, knew their house would have to meet a range of practical needs. These “musts” ranged from having sufficient space to host gatherings with fellow members of New Sharon United Methodist Church to a soundproof garage space for Graylon to play music with
As you build houses for other people, you learn to understand the differences between fads and trends, and we feel we’ve created something that is both modern and timeless here. – Chad Collins
his friends to the spacious
“When my mother visited for the first time, she said it felt as though we just took all the little things from all the houses we had lived in and incorporated them into one place, and she’s absolutely right,” Chad says. “As you build houses for other people, you learn to understand the differences between fads and trends, and we feel we’ve created something that is both modern and timeless here.”
Emilee wanted lots of natural light, so the couple built the home facing south to maximize sun exposure year-round.
“Everything is built to maximize the pond view [and] the sunsets,” Chad says. “I joked with Emilee that she would need sunglasses.” The home utilizes minimal blinds and window treatments and even has transom windows above bedroom doors so that light continues to flow throughout. A 6-foot-wide door to the covered back patio more than doubles the living space and adds to the open feel.
Out back, the family and their guests can enjoy the peaceful landscape from the porch swing or pool, with screened patios to keep bugs out in summer and heaters and a fireplace to cozy up in the cooler months.
Your professionalism shines through in everything you do. This includes our meetings with you, all the print and online media, your sense of the market, and so much more!”
- karlton and staci
“What a blessing you are! Your kindness, generosity, patience, excellent communication, professionalism, and the list goes on! Thank you for such a positive experience.”
-sarah
Passthrough windows from the kitchen to the outdoor dining area make entertaining easy, too.
Another need was the potential for Chad and Emilee to live in the home long term. “We wanted zero-entry doors and showers, wider doorways, the ability to house a live-in caregiver or aging parent – just the flexibility to support whatever might come our way in life,” Chad says.
The couple is also passionate about meeting high energy standards. “We are proud to have a 55 HERS index rating,
Energy Star certification and meet the national green building standard,” Chad says. “That was nonnegotiable for us.”
The couple relied on local experts who they have partnered with over the years to help bring their vision to life. “I have a great team, so I got out of the way and let my trade contractors and partners make a lot of decisions, some of which were based on what was available at the time,” he says.
Planning began in 2020, and the whole process from development to build took a little over two years; the family finally moved in in July
“With any project like this, there is an element of being in the right place and the right time, and we feel lucky to have had that on our side in this process,” Chad says. “I feel blessed to have the opportunity, the skills, the partners, for everything to come together like it did, and no matter what else I do in life, nothing will replace the feeling of seeing my family not even be able to walk through the
" 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. "
AC HOTEL CHAPEL HILL DOWNTOWN
The 625-square-foot Rosemary Room hosts up to 30 guests for a formal seated event. The AC Kitchen hosts semiprivate, receptionstyle events for up to 70 guests. Additionally, there are two outdoor patios available for events: a 400-square-foot covered front patio is available for up to 20 guests and a 1,000-square-foot uncovered patio is available for up to 75 guests.
Contact: 919-590-4955; monnoca.badonnih@marriott.com
ALOFT CHAPEL HILL
This stylish boutique hotel breaks the traditional hotel mold and offers three spaces with a combined total of 1,600 square feet. The largest room hosts 80 people for theater-style seating or a reception, and 42 for a banquet. The lively on-site bar offers delicious craft cocktails and live music. Special wedding group blocks and rates are available on request. Contact: 919-932-7772
ARDENWOOD FARM
This 47-acre equine farm near Chapel Hill has various tranquil indoor and outdoor settings to host a ceremony. Pick a spot for a custom tent, or book the large covered pavilion that has indoor space attached. All wedding packages include dressing rooms and parking assistance, while on-site staff handles setup. Prices range from $2,500 to $6,000 for an event weekend.
Contact: 919-523-2237; info@ardenwoodfarm.com
This 750-acre family-owned farm in Efland hosts weddings from the end of March through June and from Sept. 1 to mid-November. The
20,000-square-foot main barn includes a bridal suite, restrooms and plenty of options for a combination of indoor and outdoor seating for up to 450 guests. The barn is dressed up with string lighting and drapes, with lots of vintage touches and antique decor. Couples have access to the working farm for pictures or outdoor seating and ceremony spaces. Contact: 919-880-5680; cherylhumphreydesign@gmail.com
THE BARN AT UNION GROVE FARM
This family-run farm has a 4,000-square-foot climatecontrolled post and beam barn surrounded by picturesque vineyards, orchards, waterfalls and gardens and is minutes outside of Chapel Hill. The venue has newly completed restrooms, a beautiful outdoor ceremony area and gettingready suites. Contact: events@ uniongrovefarm.com
THE BARN AT VALHALLA
Chandeliers, polished mahogany floors and wraparound porches stand out at this barn that can host up to 125 people for a
Big ballrooms, rustic farm venues, renovated industrial spaces – no matter what kind of wedding you’re throwing, you’re sure to find the perfect spot to host your big day in Chapel Hill and beyondCompiled by Renee Ambroso and Jessica Stringer PHOTO BY RUSSELL-KILLEN PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTO BY PHOTOS BY CLAY
seated reception, 149 for a ceremony or more with a tent added. The 40-acre serene property features an enclosed gazebo on the pond, outdoor patio, fire pit and hot tub. There’s also a bridal suite, two three-bedroom houses and room for up to 30 overnight guests. Choose a weekday overnight or full weekend with on-site planning and coordination, which includes options to add an onsite massage, yoga class, brunch or cocktail hour.
Contact: 919-360-4922; valhallabarn@gmail.com
Celebrate your big day at this beautifully restored 19th-century white barn with soaring ceilings and hand-hewn wood beams, located 12 miles from downtown Chapel Hill on a 22-acre flower farm. Choose from three signature packages or an intimate package for smaller events. The in-house floral design team, Wild Flora Flowers, offers customized plans, and venue packages include full private access to the barn, gardens and grounds.
Contact: hello@barnofchapelhill.com; barnofchapelhill.com; wildfloraflowers.com
The perfect spot for a Tar Heel wedding is nestled in the heart of the UNC campus. The Carolina Club’s beautiful Alumni Hall ballroom features stunning three-story ceilings and windows that fill the room with natural light. The one-of-a-kind space can seat 350 for your reception and includes a built-in stage for entertainment to keep the celebration going. The ballroom opens onto a large outdoor terrace, ideal for cocktail hours or an intimate ceremony for up to 120.
Contact: 919-962-1101; carolinaclub@invitedclubs.com
This modern and airy venue offers ideal spaces for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies. The string-lit outdoor grove, covered veranda or stunning indoor reception space make for effortlessly romantic events. Indoor seating can accommodate up to 240 guests. Wedding package rates for weekends range from $8,500 for Friday or Sunday to $10,200 for a Saturday date.
Contact: 919-213-1652; info@carolinagrovenc.com
Whether you’re planning a small, intimate event or a spectacular occasion, this inn delivers the setting and sophistication. A variety of indoor and outdoor spaces and impeccable accommodations give the unique Southern charm and grace that make Chapel Hill ceremonies special. Planners offer a professional eye for detail and help with an endless variety of
delightful culinary offerings. Multiple courtyards, ballrooms and the front porch offer spaces for up to 350 guests for a standing reception, or 250 seated. Contact: 919-933-2001; weddings@carolinainn.com
The restored 1940s dairy barn and working farm equidistant from Hillsborough, Mebane and Carrboro can accommodate up to 150 guests for a rustic, charming wedding. Couples are encouraged to “dream away” to create their preferred experience with full access to the garden and fire pit and can enjoy the tranquility of the farm during any season.
Contact: 919-622-8646; jandj@catesfarmatcanecreek.com
CHAPEL HILL CARRIAGE HOUSE
This family-owned property provides a unique setting for an outdoor ceremony and reception in the beautiful open-air barn. An outdoor chapel, pond and rustic fireplace offer gorgeous scenery, while the farm’s alpaca, llamas and a putt-putt course spice up cocktail hours. Wedding packages for 2023 dates start at $8,600.
Contact: 919-260-2986; chapelhillcarriagehouse@gmail.com
CHAPEL HILL COUNTRY CLUB
At this private country club, your indoor or outdoor ceremony and wedding package can include a golf or tennis outing.
Contact: Scott Harmon; 919-9322851; sharmon@chapelhill-cc.com
THE CLOTH MILL AT ENO RIVER
Exposed brick walls, hardwood floors, massive original windows, tall ceilings, wood beams and columns plus a private outdoor courtyard make this industrial venue located in Hillsborough’s historic Eno River Mill one of a kind. The Cloth Mill can comfortably accommodate up to 350 guests for an on-site ceremony with a seated reception. Weddings are hosted on Saturdays and Sundays only, and prices start at $5,000.
Contact: 919-241-4855; info@ theclothmill.com
COKER ARBORETUM
This 5-acre garden on UNC’s campus provides a serene outdoor setting for ceremonies at any time of year. The Arboretum is managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden and follows its green event policies for environmentally conscious celebrations.
Contact: 919-537-3819; NCBGevents@unc.edu
Tie the knot at this classic, historical and cozy inn located in downtown Hillsborough. The 1,800-square-foot ballroom and courtyard offers seating or standing room for up to 100 guests. Beautifully appointed on-site accommodations for your wedding party will make it a wedding to
remember! Wedding packages range from $750-$5,250 and include a two-evening stay in the honeymoon suite, the bridal parlour, a rehearsal and tables and chairs for up to 75 and more.
Contact: Elise Tyler; elise@colonialinn-nc.com; 919-930-5555
Located near Meadowmont, the hotel offers 169 guest rooms and 2,100 square feet of indoor space for events. The outdoor lawn area is also available to meet your ceremony or reception needs. Easily host a rehearsal dinner, work with the catering team or treat guests to cocktails at the hotel’s restaurant, The Bistro.
Contact: 919-883-0700
Plan your spring or summer nuptials at this amphitheater nestled in the woods. A Chapel Hill landmark, the Forest Theatre hosts ceremonies during daylight hours. The venue is managed by the North Carolina Botanical Garden and follows environmentally friendly event policies.
Contact: 919-537-3819; NCBGevents@unc.edu
Nestled on Edwards Mountain in Chapel Hill, the property lends itself to creating unforgettable memories. Exchange your vows against a lush green backdrop overlooking the lake, or host your reception in the elegant ballroom with expansive views. The venue can host a maximum of 220 guests inside and up to 250 for an open-air event. The $5,000 package includes tables, chairs, linen and napkins, table settings and setup and breakdown. All packages include a premium bar and hors d’oeuvres.
Contact: Passion Graham; 919-9187292; passion@governorsclubnc.com
This hotel on Franklin Street is full of Tar Heel charm. Choose the 1,512-square-foot Davie Poplar Room for up to 125 guests or the 945-square-foot Dorrance Room that offers space for 50. A full kitchen and catering is available.
Contact: 919-442-9000; sales@ graduatehotelchapelhill.com
Conveniently located downtown, the hotel offers 2,615 square feet of event space with a dance floor for weddings of up to 150 people. The rooftop pool deck is the ideal location for cocktail hours or rehearsal dinners, and 142 guest rooms and suites offer plenty of space for overnight guests.
Contact: 919-969-6988
A Chapel Hill landmark, the Horace Williams House is an elegant and welcoming setting for any event. Built in the 1850s, its original interior with parquet ceilings and a unique octagon room is complemented by wide open lawns and magnificent trees. Indoors or out, the Horace Williams House is a classic backdrop for weddings, rehearsal dinners, special parties or a fabulous corporate event.
Contact: rentals@preservationchapelhill.org
This venue offers multiple spaces across the 16-acre property for weddings, with room for formal seating for 110 inside the restaurant and an additional 100 can be seated on outdoor patio spaces. Enjoy a seasonal, handcrafted menu created for you by celebrated chef and owner Ron Spada.
Contact: 919-241-4083; events@houseatgatewood.com
This hotel, located 2 miles from downtown Chapel Hill and an easy walk to Southern Village, specializes in attentive guest services and is centrally located to many fabulous wedding venues in the area. Inquire about discounted rates when booking room blocks for wedding parties and guests. The hotel’s three meeting spaces offer up to 1,740 square feet for receptions.
Contact: Kristi Kaas; 984-214-1000
The luscious covered garden patio is a romantic spot for a ceremony, conveniently heated and cooled for comfortable year-round events. The patio can hold up to 150 seated guests or 225 for a standing ceremony. Formal indoor dining rooms for receptions can include either plated or buffet-style dinners for 60 people seated or 90 standing.
Contact: 919-967-2506; info@laresidencedining.com
This lavender farm that sits on more than 60 acres in Chapel Hill looks as if it could be in the south of France. Established in 2015, owners Karen Macdonald and Robert Macdonald designed the property specifically to cater to couples’ needs. The elegant 7,000-square-foot Main Barn overlooks blooming lavender fields. There’s also an open-air Pavilion Barn and 1,000-square-foot loft, luxury getting-ready suites, a wrought-iron gazebo and a gourmet kitchen for catering.
Contact: Karen Macdonald; 919-909-7417; info@lavenderoaks.farm
Conveniently located in a rural setting between Chapel Hill, Hillsborough and Mebane, this venue has a large field and arbor with a flower garden, small pond, bonfire area, parking and a trail down to Cane Creek. Contact: lilymont.events@gmail.com; 919-812-1059
A classic two-story farmhouse and small cottage boast countryside views and overlook sandstone paths and lawns. Choose a package with or without a tent for outdoor receptions. Contact: 919-563-8510; merryhillweddings@gmail.com
Hold your wedding among the landscaped grounds and display gardens. The covered porch and Reeves Auditorium that can hold up to 160 people provide indoor options, and Reeves Auditorium North is available for a smaller event. Weddings must align with the Garden’s green event guidelines such as using compostable materials and bulk beverages. Contact: 919-537-3819; NCBGevents@unc.edu
Located on 10 acres nestled beneath towering oaks and magnolia trees, the Inn is a breathtaking location. The stunning remodeled 1890s farmhouse was once the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Paul Green. A 40-by-80 tent with cathedral sides included for receptions can seat up to 176 guests with room for a dance floor and buffet. Contact: 919-397-1377; beth@oldlystrainn.com
An intimate venue for up to 100 guests, this restored chapel is designed for the highly curated guest list and refined events. It features an outdoor patio, Euro-inspired courtyard and garden for a charming ceremony, reception, cocktail hour or dancing. A restored Airstream
serves as a private, swanky dressing area, photo booth or hip band backdrop. Contact: info@theparlourchapel.com
At the newly opened building, there is more than 15,000 square feet of event space. The Ballroom can hold up to 180 guests under its 35-foot copula ceiling; the Club Room features a double-sided fireplace ideal for cocktail receptions; and an outdoor courtyard can host a ceremony or be the backdrop for photos. Contact: 919-619-0630; info@post6events.com
This hidden gem features a 1,700-squarefoot main room with floor-to-ceiling pine, an overlooking second-story loft and the option for a dance floor. Wraparound screened porches open to the landscaped 10-acre grounds with perfect sunset views. Other amenities include a well-equipped kitchen, five bedrooms, plenty of seating and table options and outdoor spaces like a pergola and fire pit. Contact: Ben Bork; 919-933-7177; info@rigmorhouse.com
The DuBose Home offers several spaces for varying sizes of pre-wedding events and rehearsal dinners. Enjoy the pergola or pool courtyard that can host up to 100 people for a fun outdoor event, or choose the Meadowmont Grill or Magnolia Room for indoor celebrations. Contact: 919-913-2227
This is your perfect Carolina setting with the beautiful historical farmhouse, large pinewood barn and spacious shaded lawns. Outbuildings house space for catering and a bar/lounge area. The wedding site is nestled at the edge of a beautiful forest with sunset views. Sowing happiness and reaping joy for 17 years with wonderful local vendors has been a family tradition and pleasure.
Contact: rockquarryfarm@gmail.com
Celebrate at the newly renovated Sheraton Chapel Hill. The hotel provides a modern feel with a classic twist and the option to have an outdoor ceremony or reception with a total of 20,000 square feet of space. Whether you are planning an intimate wedding or a large gathering for up to 600 guests, the award-winning culinary team can help bring your dream day to life. With 168 overnight guest rooms, your bridal party can all get ready in the wedding suite while your guests stay onsite overnight. Inquire about the various wedding packages available.
Contact: 919-968-4900; martina.brooks@atmahotelgroup.com
This 79-room hotel’s Lombardi, Terrace and Tuscany rooms provide options for weddings of up to 100 people. Outdoor spaces like a dining area that can hold up to 30 people, a bocce court, lounge and fountain make for a pleasant atmosphere to relax and enjoy the company of friends and family.
Contact: 919-929-4000
Set on 33 acres of farmland near Hillsborough, the barn can accommodate 150 guests for dinner, dancing and celebrating and has additional space in the 1,500-square-foot loft. Choose a spot beside the 3-acre pond or in the grassy pasture for a ceremony. The guest cottage hosts overnight guests, and there’s plenty of parking for all attendees.
Contact: 919-238-9199; connie@stonechurchevents.com
Three floors and a rooftop overlook West Franklin Street at this 4,700-square-foot venue featuring exposed brick and rustic accents. There’s also a basement game room and a private suite for your big day. Contact: 919-914-6032; thestoryvenue@gmail.com
Wildflower fields, garden patios and lush greenery await you at Sunnyside. Set on a picturesque 70-acre family farm, Sunnyside at Baldwin Farms offers a variety of indoor and outdoor space to host your event. Chestnut orchards, serene ponds and running creeks are just some of the backdrops you and your guests will enjoy. Indoor accommodations for up to 150 with outdoor space for 200+ guests. Contact: 919-935-8798; info@baldwinfarms.com
This rustic barn venue with a 2-acre pasture backdrop can host up to 300 guests and is located just 10 minutes north of downtown Hillsborough. The upstairs bridal suite has perfect accommodations for the bridal party to get ready with large vanity mirrors and kitchen. The downstairs reception space has a full-size bar and walk-in cooler to accommodate catering and drinks.
Contact: 336-580-3923; vgwallfarms@gmail.com
WINDY HILL FARM
This 70-acre working farm offers several wedding package options for up to 160 guests, as well as options tailored to an intimate wedding of up to 30 guests or elopements. Amenities include dedicated getting-ready spaces in the historic farmhouse, optional in-house catering, linens and vintage table settings, goat’s milk soap favors and a stay in the honeymoon suite. Contact: 919-439-4638; hello@visitwindyhill.com CHM
While online dating can be the stuff of nightmares for some, Alyssa Collins and Erik Nystrom managed to swipe right on each other and find true love over three years ago on Tinder. Once they met in person, Chapel Hill High School graduate Alyssa bonded with South Carolinian Erik over a shared love for the outdoors, good food and strong coffee. On a chilly morning in 2020, during a romantic weekend trip to Boone, the two hiked to the summit of Rough Ridge to watch the sunrise with a cozy blanket, and Erik proposed. Despite the freezing weather, both say it was the perfect proposal.
On April 23, 2022, Alyssa and Erik got married under beautiful blue skies at the Chapel Hill Carriage House. Their good friend Galen Howlett officiated a heartfelt ceremony and managed to leave everyone with tears in their eyes. The event was filled with baby goats, alpacas and loved ones including his parents, Brian Nystrom and Susan Nystrom, and hers, Val Collins and Ed Collins, plus local bridal party members, Elise Healy and Ariane Cook. After dinner from Rocky Top Catering, guests enjoyed a cake made by Alyssa’s mother. The night ended with impromptu limbo and lots of dancing thanks to the work of DJ Al of Epic DJ who got the newlyweds behind the booth for a few songs.
The couple lives in Durham where Erik works as a finance analyst while Alyssa is a clinical dietitian at UNC Hospitals. CHM
Chapel Hill native Juliana de Souza Ritter met Avery Fisher McGuirt, who grew up in Charlotte, at a party thrown by Juliana’s brother, João Ritter, during her first year at UNC in 2014. For their first date, the pair attended the Shakori Hills GrassRoots & Dance Festival. They started dating shortly after and moved to New York City upon her graduation.
The couple, who will celebrate nine years together this April, says there was no official proposal; instead, they mutually agreed they were ready to declare their commitment to each other. They bought rings and settled on a nice meal with family members to celebrate the engagement. “We really aren’t into the traditional wedding things – but it’s funny how when you start planning a ‘big party to celebrate love’ how it ends up looking a lot like a wedding,” Juliana says.
The event was held on May 21, 2022, in mother of the bride Alessandra Ritter’s backyard in downtown Carrboro. “We thought the rain just might hold off but had to start the ceremony earlier so
that we could at least walk out to clear-ish skies,” Juliana says. “The rain did not disappoint – it started pouring rain during the ceremony. We called our families [to join us] under the gazebo, and when we kissed, the skies magically lit up and the rain stopped – I’m not kidding!” She recalled her favorite part of the big day: watching her friends and family members dance together during the reception.
Juliana is a high school math teacher and Avery started medical school last fall. CHM
Samantha Leder and Phil Bick were introduced in August 2017 at The Carolina Inn’s Fridays on The Front Porch by longtime friends Hawkins Gagnon and Erika Gagnon. At the time, Samantha was in nursing school at Duke, while Phil had just moved back to Chapel Hill from Charlotte.
Although their love story started at the Inn, their history goes way back. Phil and Samantha both attended Durham Academy, then UNC – and even moved to the same city after graduation – but never met. “We were in the same place at the same time on many occasions but, because Phil is three years older than me, never ended up crossing paths until we both returned ‘home,’” Samantha says.
Phil proposed on Dec. 23, 2020, while at their favorite date night spot, Hawthorne & Wood. It came as a surprise to Samantha, and the couple was excited to share the news with family over Christmas.
In a nod to their beginnings, the couple held the ceremony and reception at The Carolina Inn on April 30, 2022. From walking into the Old Well Room for the first time as husband and wife, surrounded by all their most favorite people, to surprising Phil with custom cocktail cups featuring their pup, Otis, Samantha says every detail made it the most magical day. They also included a special touch atop the Guglhupf cake: a cake topper, which has been in Phil’s family since 1948.
Phil works as a real estate agent for Hodge & Kittrell Sotheby’s International Realty, while Samantha is an oncology nurse at Duke University Hospital. They reside in Chapel Hill. CHM
