Chatham Magazine Summer 2021

64 MEET 5 SENIOR ATHLETES 78 10 REASONS • RETIRE HERE 96 STEP INSIDE A MODERN SPEAKEASY • GOVERNORS CLUB Summer 2021 vol. 5, no. 1

• An •

UNFORGETTABLE

SUMMER•

• 20+ ways make the most of

the South’s best season Page 48

The Cabe family – Scott, Brayden, 12, and Courtney – stargaze at Fearrington Village.

Chatham Arts Council is Proud to Support Local Artists through our

Meet This Artist Series!

TIANA BROOKS • Painter ERICA BERRY • Singer MILES FREULER • Painter

TANJA LIPINSKI COLE • Fiber Artist EBONY GRISSETT-DELGADO • Dancer

DOLLY SICKLES Author

PEYTON SICKLES Photographer

JOSE CICERARO • User Interface Designer EDITH MCCASKILL (A.K.A. DEJA BELLE) Singer/Songwriter

To learn more about these, and other amazing artists, visit www.ChathamArtsCouncil.org

LYSANDRA WEBER • Clothing Designer

Chatham Arts Council’s Meet this Artist series is proudly sponsored by

SUMMER

CONTENTS

HOME & GARDEN 96 Built to Last The Smiths' custom home in Governors Club features a speakeasy and stunning views 114 Here We Grow Again Updates on commercial real estate developments

FEATURES 34 Chatham 250: For Another Time Make your own contribution to the time capsule 38 Why I Foster A CARE volunteer opens her home to pups in need, plus three adoptable pets 42 Chef’s Table How four chefs celebrate summer

48

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

8 Six Events Our top events for June, July and August

44 In a Flash Meet the man who survived four lightning strikes

12 Noted

48 20+ Ways to Have a Fantastic Summer See how many you can check off before Labor Day

119 Engagement Sidrak & Walters

64 Going for Gold Meet five older adults who competed in a variety of sports during the Chatham County Senior Games this spring

PEOPLE & PLACES

120 Wedding Holt & Spivey

19 Inaugural Chatham Rabbit Festival

78 10 Reasons to Retire Here Why retirees choose to spend their golden years in Chatham

20 Piper Hill Farm’s Easter Hunt 22 ClydeFEST in the Wild

82 The 2021 Directory of Continuing Care, Assisted Living, Independent Living, 55+ Living and Cohousing Retirement Communities

DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS 6 Letter from the Managing Editor

24 Carolina Brewery’s New Brew 26 Paws for a Cause

64

28 Day of the Books / El Día de los Libros 32 Chatham 250’s Founding Day

SUMMER 2021

CHATHAMMAGAZINENC.COM P U B LIS H E R

Chris Elkins chris@chathammagazinenc.com E XE C U T IV E MA NAGI N G E D I TOR

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E D IT O R, C H A P EL HI LL M AG AZI N E E XE C U T IV E E D IT O R, C H AT H AM M AG AZI N E

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MA NA G ING E D IT O R, C H AT H AM M AG AZI N E

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Renee Ambroso

E D IT O RIA L I N TE R N S

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Chris Elkins chris@chathammagazinenc.com

You are in safe hands! At Dermatology & Laser Center of Chapel Hill, we are committed to protecting the safety of our community. Our team strives to provide high-quality dermatologic care free of bias. We look forward to seeing you!

Kem Johnson kem@durhammag.com P RO D U C T IO N M A N A GE R

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P U B LIS H E R, H EA R T O F N C W E DDI N G S

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VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Voted Best Of Chatham 2019-2020 Voted Best Of Chapel Hill 2017-2020

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SUMMER 2021

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D IS T RIB U TI ON

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Chatham Magazine is published by Shannon Media Inc. 1777 Fordham Blvd., Ste. 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 tel 919.933.1551 fax 919.933.1557 Subscriptions are $24 for 2 years – subscribe at chathammagazinenc.com

Be Part of the

Start

In a rich and fully-lived life, everything is connected to everything else. Inspired by these connections, the possibilities for life will only become more exciting with each year at Chatham Park’s first residential community, the Vineyards.

If you’re ready for a home you love in a community you feel connected to, there’s a place for you here.

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Prices and amenities subject to change without notice. © 2021 Chatham Park Investors.

LETTER FROM THE MANAGING EDITOR

IS YOUR HOME READY

FOR SUMMER ENTERTAINING? LET US HELP.

Return to Normal . . . Sort Of

I

STUDI O HO URS: Monday to Friday: 10am - 5pm Saturday by appointment

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don't know about you, but I feel as if we are on the verge of another Roaring ’20s with our collective pent-up energies as more people are vaccinated, and we are venturing out of our quarantine comfort zones as we transition into a post-pandemic “normal.”

Of course, like time itself, normal is relative and I think the late Tommy Edwards would have agreed.

The community and the bluegrass universe is not normal without Tommy in it. We miss you, Tommy. You blessed us all.

Starting on page 48, our Ultimate Summer Guide lists more than 20 fun and educational things to do in and around Chatham to reengage with favorite activities or to try something new.

For a dash of inspiration, turn to page 66 to read about 91-yearold Lilian Pruett, who took a 65-year hiatus from playing table tennis yet competed in her third Chatham County Senior Games this year.

Regardless of outcome, Lilian already feels like a winner: Getting back to in-person practices gave her the human connection she needs after spending more than a year alone in her Carolina Meadows villa.

In Bear Creek, I was moved by Mark Stinson’s resilience – not for surviving four lightning strikes – but for raising his three kids as a single father who wants to be seen as a whole person, not as a human lightning rod. His story begins on page 44.

So, this summer, before the world revs up to full speed again, take a moment to reflect on what means most to you right now. For me, that’s spending time, unmasked, at home with my family. That reminds me – I think I’ll donate some of the masks I made last year to the Chatham 250 time capsule (see page 34). It will be interesting to find out how we see ourselves 50 years from now. CM

Anna-Rhesa Versola  rhesa@chathammagazinenc.com THE COVER Photo by John Michael Simpson 6

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2021

Coming Soon

June 2021

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Donna the Buffalo @ GrassRoots Live!

JUNE 11 AND 12 5:30 – 11 p.m.

Donna the Buffalo returns to Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival for two shows. The band is inspired by a mix of musical influences, writing songs that capture the essence of community and human potential. Tickets are sold as “pods” that can hold up to six people. shakorihillsgrassroots.org

Juneteenth Virtual Lecture

PHOTO BY RICH LEVINE, BRAMBLEBROOK PHOTOGRAPHY

Concertgoers dance the night away in front

JUNE 19 of the outdoor stage with Donna the Buffalo, founders of the Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival.

11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

The Chatham Community Library and Chatham 250 present a virtual lecture by Charles D. Johnson, an assistant history professor at N.C. Central University, JULY 4 on Juneteenth titled “From Slavery Noon to Freedom: A History of African Wear your best stars and stripes to visit Americans in Chatham County.” downtown Pittsboro for the annual Registration is required. celebration of the Fourth of July. In tinyurl.com/johnsonlecture addition to a parade and a light show, Summer Fest will have games, craft booths, a beer garden, food trucks and live music. mainstreetpittsboro.org

Summer Fest

SIX EVENTS YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS Compiled by Greta Travaglia

Old Fashioned Farmers Day SEPT. 4-6 Experience agricultural life at the turn of the 20th century in Silk Hope during Labor Day weekend. The Silk Hope Ruritan Club presents exhibits, food trucks, vendors, local music groups, demonstrations, an on-site working steam engine, an antique barn and a Civil War-era homestead. silkhopenc. org/old-fashion-farmers-day

Chatham 250 Agriculture Photo Contest THROUGH AUG. 1 Grab your cameras and set your sights on farm life for a photo contest in honor of Chatham’s 250th anniversary.

Capture the beauty of our local farms and then upload one image along with a description of 200 words or less. All submissions are due Aug. 1, and winners will be announced in September. chatham250.com

Come Out and Play Sculpture Show AUG. 28 - SEPT. 25 Walk among dozens of outdoor sculptures at JimGin Farm, a 17-acre homestead in Pittsboro. The annual show first began after 9/11 to offer a space in the spirit of promoting kindness and connections. Mingle with artists from North Carolina at Saturday receptions, enjoying food and live music provided by the North Carolina Songwriters Co-op. comeoutandplay.info CM

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

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2021

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The Spotlight Squad Charlize Theron Misty Copeland Yao Chen

NOTED. WHAT AN HONOR Olivia Riggsbee, a 2021 Northwood High School graduate, received and accepted an appointment to PHOTO BY CHRISTY the U.S. Military CLEWIS PHOTOGRAPHY Academy at West Point in New York.

Olivia leaves for the academy at the end of June.

Jordan-Matthews High School senior Shane Conroy earned a Park

Scholarship – a fouryear scholarship worth about $112,000 – to N.C. State. Shane completed the dual language program, captained the FIRST Robotics and Quiz Bowl teams and volunteered at West Chatham Food Pantry.

Shane is one of 40 Park Scholars in the class of 2025, selected from a pool of some 2,200 applicants worldwide.

WHAT WE’VE HEARD AROUND OUR TOWNS ...

two-week international journey, learning from scientists and taking part in field experiments related to their subject of study. Amy will share the experience with her students through video.

The Chatham County Board of Education voted on March 8 to fully honor Horton Middle School’s namesake by changing the name to George Moses Horton Middle School. George, born on a plantation in 1798, was an enslaved person and poet in Chatham. He spent 68 years as a slave, sold his poetry in hopes of purchasing his freedom and died a free man in Philadelphia in 1883.

The Chatham County Schools Teachers of the Year are: • Tami Henson, Bennett School,

second grade; • Sabrina Burkhead, Bonlee School,

EC resource; • Cheryl Whitehead, Chatham Center for

Innovation, English;

Amy King, a history

teacher at Chatham Central High School, received a National Geographic Grosvenor Teacher Fellowship in 2020, but the program and announcement were postponed until 2021. Fifty educators nationwide are chosen each year for the professional development program, which consists of a

• Heather Brooks, Chatham Central High

School, math; • Sara Knight, Chatham Grove Elementary

School, fifth grade; • Johnson Bohórquez, Chatham Middle

School, sixth-grade science; • Michael McMillan, George Moses Horton

Middle School, seventh-grade science; • Jennifer Tyndall, J. S. Waters School,

elementary ELA; • Manda Bass, Jordan-Matthews High

LET US KNOW WHAT YOU'VE HEARD! EMAIL NOTED@CHATHAMMAGAZINENC.COM 12

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

School, math;

SUMMER 2021

Compiled by Anna-Rhesa Versola, Renee Ambroso and Aashna Shah

• Rebecca Clemens, Margaret B. Pollard

Middle School, band director; • Holly Rapacuk, Moncure School,

third grade; • Victoria Teague, North Chatham

Elementary School, EC resource; • Julie Fogle, Northwood High School,

career and technical education; • Natalie Shaner, Perry Harrison

Elementary School, second and third grade; • Franzine Spady-Hall, Pittsboro Elementary

School, kindergarten; • Janet Brady Bridges, Siler City Elementary

School, first- and second-grade ESL; • Diana Ciro, Silk Hope School, ESL; • Madaline Allsup, Virginia Cross

Elementary School, EC resource Four Chatham-based dentists were named Top Dentists, selected through a peer-topeer survey of the local dental community: Laura A. Collatz of Enchanting Smiles Family Dentistry; Alexandra Boudreau and Kevin Ricker of Chatham Pediatric Dentistry; and Jerre L. Kennedy of Atkins Dentistry.

ON THE MOVE Anthony “Tony” Jackson

starts July 6 as the new Chatham County Schools superintendent.

Tony previously served as superintendent in three different public school districts in North Carolina and Virginia since 2007 and has more than 30 years of experience in public education in

North Carolina, Virginia and the District of Columbia.

El Futuro in Siler City

hired Sabrina AguilarSimon as its first Chatham-focused clinical project manager to lead outreach efforts in the Latinx community. Sabrina has a master’s degree from UNC in speech-language pathology and joined the bilingual mental health clinic in February.

jaguar were all removed from the Oklahoma facility due to “ongoing Endangered Species Act violations.”

Carolina Tiger Rescue is caring for four of the 68 cats as the DOJ seeks permanent forfeiture of the animals.

ARTS & CULTURE On March 11, about 35,000 people tuned into WRAL-TV to watch Big

Night In for the Arts, an inaugural collaboration among art councils of Chatham, Durham, Orange and Wake counties to show support for area arts

Sonny Crutchfield,

former owner of Sunshine Woodworks, became the general manager of True Value hardware store, which opened in January at the space once occupied by the Piggly Wiggly grocery on East Street in Pittsboro.

Kristi Short, Ph.D.,

was named the new vice president and chief academic officer of Central Carolina

THANK YOU

Community College

in May.

for voting us Best of Chapel Hill year after year!

Amy Strang became the general manager of Westlake Ace Hardware, a 16,800-square-

foot store at Chatham Downs that opened in April.

Christine Weise joined Bold Construction in

March as director of sales and client relations.

Carolina Tiger Rescue

worked with the U.S. Department of Justice and other accredited sanctuaries in May to rescue 68 endangered big cats at Tiger King Park in Thackerville, Oklahoma. The lions, tigers, lion-tiger hybrid species and a single

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

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NOTED

programs. Funds raised from this event will help art programs survive and thrive post-pandemic. More than $31,000 of the $350,000 total amount raised is designated for Chatham arts programs.

Tiana Brooks, a senior at Jordan-Matthews

High School and JMArts Scholar, was one of 35 high schoolers statewide chosen to exhibit work at the 2021 Emerging Artists Invitational, an annual exhibition for high school artists sponsored by the Sechrest Gallery of Art and the High Point University School of Art and Design.

This year’s exhibit was held online and ended April 19. Tiana says her mixedmedia piece – “Say Their Names” – commemorates the Black women who lost their lives at the hands of police officers.

WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS The Central Carolina Community College volleyball team won the National Junior College Athletic Association Division III Region 10 regular season and tournament championship. The team beat Patrick

Henry Community College at the championship match on March 20. Taylor Rosser was named Player of the Year.

George Moses Horton Middle School won the 2021 School District Cup on May 10 for medium-sized school systems in a competition hosted by the North Carolina Association for Scholastic Activities.

Educator Tracy Miller was named the Middle School Scholastic Director of the Year for leading a team of students to a state championship in The Quill, a scholastic writing competition.

The NCASA also honored Bradyn Robinson as its Middle School Principal of the Year for building a thriving campus of academic enrichment.

GIVING BACK The annual American Red Cross and Chatham County Employee Blood Drive collected 32 blood donations on April 20 at the Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center in Pittsboro.

“Giving back is a way of life for me, and it’s my passion to help others,” said blood donor Paul Bolig, pictured right.

“I enjoy volunteering in the community and giving blood is one more way to do that.”

COUNTY UPDATES Chatham County launched a new online portal in April to provide services for central permitting, inspections, planning, environmental health and watershed

PHOTO BY BRADYN ROBINSON

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2021

protection. The portal enables residents, property owners, contractors, designers and others to request various permits and approvals, schedule inspections, make payments using a credit card and more. chathamcountync.viewpointcloud.com Chatham County Public Libraries returned

to its pre-COVID-19 hours of operation at all three branch locations on May 24, permitting access to public computers, study carrels (Pittsboro only) and meeting rooms. Curbside service continues for residents who call their local branch to arrange a time to pick up library materials. Library programming remains virtual until further notice. For details, call 919-545-8084 or visit chathamcountync. gov/government/departments-programs/ library.

The Chatham County Collection Center’s Swap Shops reopened April 19. Residents can leave or take gently used items, avoiding the landfill. Residents must have a 2021 decal to use the collection centers, including the swap shops. Items are available on a firstcome, first-served basis and cannot be set aside for future pickup.

Residents are limited to two 15-minute visits per day.

Chatham Soil and Water Conservation District

announced its new no-till drill – the new Haybuster 77C – is available for rent by county residents at a cost of $10 per acre with a minimum $75 charge. Using no-till reduces soil erosion, improves seed germination, reduces labor required per acre and more. CM

Spring/Summer 2021

50

ways to just do you.

Muralist Scott Nurkin at Elizabeth Cotten mural at 111 N. Merritt Mill Road by SP Murray

Spring 2021 Guide to Orange County If you’re visiting our North Carolina communities in spring and summer 2021, you’ll want to take note of the new lay of the land, including safety precautions, restaurant choices, outdoor activities and where to relax and enjoy a beer.

Visit safely

We’re open, but we’re still taking precautions.

If you’re looking for ways to make your visit safer, visit one of our three Visitor Centers: Downtown Franklin Street Welcome Center (limited hours) 501 W Franklin St, Chapel Hill (919) 245-4320 Guides/maps are available in the drop box

Go exploring

12 trails, parks and walks 12

Battle Park & Forest Theatre

13 14

Bolin Creek Booker Creek

15

Chapel Hill walking tour (Free)

16

North Carolina Botanical Garden

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Southern Community Park Triangle & Conservancy Nature Preserves

UNC Visitors Center 134 E Franklin St, Chapel Hill (919) 962-1630 Hillsborough Visitors Center 150 E King St, Hillsborough (919) 732-7741

Get out & dig in

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11 restaurants with patio seating 1 2 3 4 5 6

Explore nature in your backyard. Scan this code to see a complete list of where to hop on the trails.

Al’s Burgers Carolina Brewery Crossroads Chapel Hill at Carolina Inn Kipos Greek Taverna Market and Moss Merritt’s Grill

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UNC Campus self-guided tour Hillsborough Riverwalk

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Eno Spring Hike Series

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See the wildflowers that bloom along the Eno, visit a historical site or follow a scenic path on the river. Scan this code to watch video.

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7 8 9 10 11

Antonia’s on Historic Churton Street Colonial Inn Sunday Brunch Nomad Hickory Tavern and Garden Pub IZA Whiskey & Eats

Hank Anderson Park & Disc Golf Course Murals walking tour (self-guided)

Town Color Key Chapel Hill

Hillsborough

Carrboro

Toast to new adventures

7 bars, pubs, and coffee/tea shops

Shop ’til you drop

14 unique shops & restaurants 37

Crook’s Corner

24

The Crunkleton

38

25

The Honeysuckle Tea House Radius Pizzeria & Pub

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Epilogue Books • Chocolate • Brews Flyleaf Books

40

FRANK Gallery at University Place

26 27

Wooden Nickel Pub

41

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Craftboro Brewing Depot

42

Il Palio Gourmet Italian at Siena Hotel IP3 Italian Pizzeria III

43

SAGE Vegetarian Cafe

44

SallyMack

45 46

Trophy Room at Graduate Hotel Carlisle & Linny Vintage Jewelry

47

Melissa Designer Jewelry

48

Uniquitiques Carr Mill Mall restaurants and shops

29 30

Gray Squirrel Coffee Company Open Eye Café

While you’re here

6 festivals and farmers’ markets 31 32 33

49

Chapel Hill Farmers’ Market Fridays on the Front Porch Southern Village Music & Movies

Shop or dine at more than 25 local and family-owned businesses in the heart of Carrboro. Scan this code to learn more.

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34 35 36

Eno River Farm Last Fridays Carrboro Farmers’ Market

This & That Gift Gallery

www.visitchapelhill.org

There’s no one way to experience Chapel Hill.

For a comprehensive list of things to do, www.visitchapelhill.org Chapel Hill/Orange County Visitors Bureau 501 W. Franklin Street, Chapel Hill, NC 888-968-2060

PEOPLE & PLACES

Hare Fair

1 Maureen Ahmad, Christian Quinlan and Teagan Williams.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CC KALLAM

2 Kathy Simmers with her new book, “Jump the Moon.”

3 Bronson Conan, 5.

hosted its first Chatham Rabbit Festival at The Plant on March 28 to honor the county's history with rabbits. The family-friendly event included local vendors, outdoor activities, sunflower painting, food and special spring offers from local businesses, along with live music from Purple Snakes, Love & Valor and Into The Fog. In the late 1800s, Chatham County was home to a large population of rabbits, and locals made money by hunting and selling them. The rabbit population began to dwindle by the 1950s due to the constant hunting, changes in farming and an increase in predators and disease. CM Chatham Cider Works

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5 Erica Aguilar, 8, and Lilith Aguilar, 7.

6 Rob Hamlet and Arlo Estill of Purple Snakes.

7 Vivian Green and Eva Green of Rabbit Patch Baskets.

8 TJ Pickett, Karen Pickett and Tyrone Pickett of Pick-A-Licious Concessions.

9 Shelby Kremer of Polymer & Paint Co. 3

2

1

5

4 Rodney Medley of Beehive Yourself.

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SUMMER 2021

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

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PEOPLE & PLACES

An Eggs-traordinary Good Time

1

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CC KALLAM

and David Schwartz officially opened in Silk Hope this spring, hosting the Gold Rush Easter Egg Hunt in late March and early April.

Families fed animals, fished, hiked, searched for gemstones and artifacts, and enjoyed boat rides and hayrides. The 100-acre farm features an 8-acre mining gulch and a 10-acre pond and joins Amanda and David’s other local properties, 1870 Farm and Old Mill Farm. CM Dr. Amanda Mckee

The Farm at Piper Hill

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3

5

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1 Mary Douglass and Abigail Douglass, 8.

2 Aidan Bryson, 4, and Conner Bryson, 2.

3 Brinley Brodsgaard, 7, Bryce Brodsgaard, 4, and Shayne Brodsgaard.

4 Andre Barboza, Hayden Mckinley, 5, Noah Mckinley-Barboza, 6, Levi Mckinley-Barboza, 8, and Jennifer Mckinley.

5 Gary Nardilla feeds Cornbread the camel.

6 Riley Lochridge, Jill Lochridge, Riley Lochridge, 2, and Elly Lochridge, 6.

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

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Growing Up in North Carolina: REFLECTIONS ON A PROFESSOR’S EDUCATION

BY ANDREW DOBELSTEIN

Professor Emeritus Social Welfare, UNC-Chapel Hill

As his career developed, his relationships with well-known North Carolinians guided his growth as a respected faculty member, and his work with poverty issues brought recognition for his leadership. Dobelstein recounts his experiences with Ellen Winston, William C. Friday, Betty Baker, Eleanor Kinnaird, L.M. (Bud) Baker, John B. Turner and other Deans and faculty in the School of Social Work, woven throughout adventures of flying a small airplane in and out of the Chapel Hill airport, an adventure with mountain moonshiners, escapades of hiking North Carolina mountains, and struggling to help North Carolina implement its 1996 welfare reform.

This Book Contributes to the Celebration of the 100th Anniversary of the UNC-CH School of Social Work.

AVAILABLE NOW FROM AMAZON BOOKS

PEOPLE & PLACES

The Return of ClydeFEST

1

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CHATHAM ARTS COUNCIL

kicked off ClydeFEST in the Wild with a live performance, sharing the music of West Africa as he traveled by truck and trailer through the neighborhoods of Love’s Creek and Pony Farm Road. The Chatham Arts Council's 19th annual art festival celebrating Bynum-based folk artist Clyde Jones was held from April 20 through May 2, taking on a different format than years past. The two-week event included Diali’s Senegalese singing, Takiri Folclor Latino dancers and a mobile Critterville that brought arts activities to kids across the county. On May 1, families picked up “critter kits” with readyto-paint cutouts from the Chatham County Partnership for Children’s drive-thru Day of the Books/El Dia De los Libros celebration at Bray Park. CM Diali Cissokho

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PHOTO BY DIANE SWAN

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5

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1 Geoffrey Neal creates large bubbles from a truck bed as Finn Calder-Bloun attempts to catch them during one of the traveling performances.

2 Volunteers Nightingale Pergolotti, a student at Horton Middle, and Gabby Collazos, a Northwood High student, mix paint at ClydeFEST at Briar Chapel.

3 The Hardin family — Nathan, 7, Chad, Lia, 6, and Christina — at a ClydeFEST event at Briar Chapel.

4 River Jester, 8, and Charlie Jester, 12, paint critters at Briar Chapel.

5 Traveling performances included Takiri Folclor Latino dancers Nidia Ramírez, Pilar Rocha-Goldberg and Ana María Díaz Rocha as well as music

by Diabel Cissokho and Diali Cissokho.

6 Carolina Lightnin' band members Alan Barnosky, Stephen Fraleigh, Rick Lafleur and Alice Zincone performed at ClydeFEST in the Wild on April 25 at Southwest District Park.

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2021

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A New Brew in Town PHOTOGRAPHY BY RENEE AMBROSO

1 Carolina Brewery sales representative Kristin Brzezinski with Sheena Kelly and Casey Stone.

Carolina Brewery’s

2 Dave Archer and Robert Poitras, owner of Carolina Brewery.

Pittsboro location hosted a low country shrimp boil and tap party on April 10, celebrating the release of Costero, a light cerveza, on its newly renovated and expanded patio. Guests enjoyed live music from Piedmont Four and enjoyed plates of North Carolina-caught shrimp from Wanchese Fish Company. “Costero is the ideal beer for the summer,” executive brewer Becky Hammond says. CM

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3 Frisco lounges on the dog-friendly patio.

4 Claudia Viveros and Timothy Mehringer.

5 Mark Branson, Thelma Branson and Jeff Ashmore.

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PEOPLE & PLACES

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Paws for a Cause PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WOMEN OF FEARRINGTON

On April 17, Women of Fearrington hosted its first Paws for a Cause fundraiser, with about 65 walkers, some with dogs, strolling designated trails in Fearrington Village.

Participants were eligible to win raffle prizes provided by local businesses, like French Connections and Town & Country Hardware, and shopped local arts and crafts after the walk. The group raised nearly $4,000 for a grants program supporting Chatham County women and children in need. CM

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1 Kathy Coughlan and Molly.

2 Cathy Morehead with Bailey.

3 Bubba.

4 Bob Biggers with Tucker.

5 Event chair Barbara Gilbert and artist Kate West.

6 Verity Dunphy with Bubba, Judy Dimon with Izzy and Jackie Castle with Maxi.

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Reading 9 to 5 WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CC KALLAM

Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library came to town on May 1 at the Day of the Books / El Día de los Libros celebration hosted

by Chatham County Partnership for Children. The annual event at Bray Park in Siler City was a drive-thru format this year and included live performances from Takiri Folclor Latino, hula hoop dancer Katja Noelani Wise and more to promote arts, literacy, early childhood education and multiculturalism.

Families took home interactive arts and crafts, toys, bilingual books, and information and registration on Chatham County Schools, along with a picnic lunch. This project was supported by the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, with funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. CM Check out our reviews on Google

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PEOPLE & PLACES

1 Maricela Morales Torres and Imani Sie-Duke of Chatham County Partnership for Children.

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2 Stilt walker Katie Rebich.

3 Artist JR Butler.

4 Chatham County Partnership for Children Program Director Elizabeth Anderson.

5 Valencia Toomer, Sonia Logan and Patricia Walters of School of the Arts for Boys Academy.

6 Travis Patterson, Jazmin Mendoza Sosa and Tych Cowdin of Communities in Schools of Chatham County.

7 Takiri Folclor Latino.

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Moments in Time

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BY CC KALLAM Ed Bronson adjusted his wig before greeting the first carload

of people at Chatham 250’s Founding Day drive-thru event in downtown Pittsboro on April 10. Ed dressed as the county’s namesake – William Pitt the Elder, the First Earl of Chatham – at one of the nine birthday-themed stations commemorating Chatham’s 250th anniversary that were set up along a route that began near St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church and moved down West Salisbury Street.

Drivers rolled from one tent to another, picking up materials and listening to stories shared by volunteers from the Chatham County Historical Association about such notable Chathamites like Lewis Freeman, the first recorded free Black settler in Pittsboro. He is remembered today through his historic home and the future Lewis Freeman Historic Park on Rectory Street.

Another station hosted the Found It! Chatham Rabbit Hunt, which featured five Pittsboro Gallery of Arts artists’ ceramic rabbit statues hidden around downtown. The first 25 visitors to arrive at the Welcome Center who showed a photo of themselves with three of the five statues were eligible to receive a $10 voucher redeemable at one of the participating downtown businesses, and all participants were entered into a drawing to win a ceramic Chatham rabbit. Winners included Debra Smith, who won a sculpture by Emily Eve Weinstein, Shalea Adams, who won a rabbit by local artist Lani Chaves, and Pat Zannolli, who won a rabbit sculpted by artist Darcy Szeremi.

The 250 Foundations Public Art Project volunteers helped Chathamites place rocks in the shape of the number 250, which will be displayed at Central Carolina Community College’s Pittsboro campus in front of Chatham Community Library for the rest of 2021.

The day’s event was made possible through the collaboration of 31 community partners, including Chatham Arts Council, Chatham County Chamber of Commerce, Pittsboro-Siler City Convention & Visitors Bureau, Chatham County Center of the NC Cooperative Extension, Hobbs Architects, Main Street Pittsboro, Pittsboro Business Association, St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, the Town of Pittsboro and the Town of Siler City.

Attendees took home goody bags filled with party hats, treats, information about the Chatham 250 time capsule (turn the page for more on that) and a paper copy of the Chatham 250 Passport, which lists activities to complete over the next few months. CM 32

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PEOPLE & PLACES

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1 Chatham County Commissioner and Board Vice Chair of Chatham 250 Diana Hales.

2 Chatham 250 co-chairs Renee Paschal, retired Chatham County manager; Dr. Carl E. Thompson Sr., senior pastor at Word of Life Christian Outreach Center and former county commissioner; and Lendy Carias, Chatham County Schools teaching assistant.

3 Chatham County Community Branch of the NAACP President Mary Nettles and Malinda Marsh, president of the Chatham County NCWorks Career Center.

4 A “Chatham rabbit,” Perch Coworking founder Betsey Elbogen and Tarheel Getaways owner Scott Dunham.

5 Chatham County Schools teacher Cicily McCrimmon; Chatham 250 Historical Content co-chairperson Annie Taylor McCrimmon; and Hobbs Architects’ Grimsley Hobbs, Jr. and Chevon Moore.

6 Ed Bronson dressed as William Pitt the Elder in a handmade costume by Nikki Gunter-Richardson.

7 Gary Simpson dressed as John Brooks Sr. Esq. and Connie McAdams as Lucy Worth Jackson.

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FOR ANOTHER

TIME MAKE YOUR OWN CONTRIBUTION TO THE CHATHAM 250 TIME CAPSULE WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY CC KALLAM

Chatham County Commissioners Diana Hales and Karen Howard.

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ounty and Pittsboro town officials want your help in sharing the here and now with our future selves.

“Everything in the time capsule should relate to 2020 and 2021,” says Chatham County Commissioner Diana Hales. “We’re asking for people to think about a message they might want to send to the people in Chatham 50 years from now.”

Diana says to think about major events from last year until now – a worldwide pandemic, the 2020 presidential election, Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders sitting cross-armed in knitted mittens, and streets

SUMMER 2021

filled with protesters after the murder of George Floyd. Now consider major milestones in our local, daily lives such as birthdays, weddings, funerals, church services and holiday visits, or Zooms with friends and family. What objects represent those meaningful moments?

Members of the Chatham 250 committee are accepting donations of mementos to fill the time capsule, which will be sealed this fall and not to be opened again until the county’s 300th anniversary in 2071.

Diana picks up a squeezable toy chicken from the Mountaire processing plant in Siler City and says it represents the largest private employer in Chatham with its 1,700 employees. All time capsule items are considered donations and will be

CHATHAM 250

transferred to the

DONATION TIPS & REQUIREMENTS • • • • •

Chatham County

Time capsule donations should include names and dates.

For photos of people, include names in the order of persons pictured left to right and back to front, location and date taken.

For photos of imagery or scenery, identify the location, current address (as applicable) and the date it was taken.

Any items deemed hazardous will not be accepted.

Items are required to be less than 48 inches by 34 inches.

To drop off an item, email Chatham County Clerk Lindsay Ray at lindsay. ray@chathamcountync.gov. Learn more at chatham250.com.

Historical Association

or its successor.

Diana says she and other Chatham 250 volunteers hope to collect items like face masks, statement buttons, church bulletins or personal letters to future citizens from children and adults alike.

Diana says there’s no need to worry about the number of paper items that can realistically fit

A squeezable toy chicken from the Mountaire processing plant in Siler City.

into the capsule. “We’re going to microfiche all the paper, because no matter what, people 50 years from now will be able to read microfiche,” she says. “Chatham County is changing every day and, as Chathamites, we need to preserve this Chatham as we know it.” CM

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P E T S

WHY I

FOSTER A CARE VOLUNTEER OPENS HER HOME TO PUPS IN NEED

F

B Y C A R LY H E M M I N G E R

ostering animals was always something I wanted to do. As a kid, I enjoyed spending time on my grandmother’s farm, admiring her as she led an initiative to fund and build a shelter for homeless animals in her community. I looked forward to helping with the animals, and the desire to foster came naturally. I loved the idea of opening my home and heart to an animal in need. Fostering was just a matter of being in the right place in my life to do so.

I joined Chatham Animal Rescue & Education (CARE) as a foster shortly after moving to Chatham County in 2019. My experience with the nonprofit has been incredible. CARE is committed to improving animal welfare, and the organization goes above and beyond to achieve its mission. I’m constantly in awe of the volunteers’ dedication, providing necessary resources, support and mentorship to enable individuals and families to be successful. The volunteers

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PHOTO BY CC KALLAM

are generous, skillful and passionate.

CARE welcomes volunteers who can’t foster to assist at events, socialize the animals or provide other necessary functions, like transportation. And donations are always welcome – every bit goes a long way. As a Realtor with Triangle Real Estate Services, I proudly donate 10% of my commission to CARE. The best part about working with a rescue like CARE is that you decide what works for you. I focus on puppies, while others take in senior or small breed dogs. Everyone asks, “Isn’t it hard to say goodbye?” Yes, goodbyes are tough.

However, fostering is tremendously gratifying. There’s a saying – “If you love something, let it go.” I think this captures the essence of fostering.

I have the privilege of playing an important role in puppies’ lives. I take them in, nurse them to health, show them affection, tend to their needs, transport them to a partner veterinarian for spay or neuter, ensure they receive their vaccinations, screen potential adopters and match them with their forever family. The

process can feel exhausting at times, but it’s worth it to find each and every animal a great home.

I can rest easy knowing the puppy is going to an amazing family. Instead of saying “goodbye,” I say, “see you later!” Nearly all of my foster puppies have returned for a puppy reunion or a visit since they went to their forever homes. I’ve stayed in touch with many of the adopters, and many have become

Realtor Carly Hemminger, a CARE volunteer, and her dogs – Ella, Almond and Willow.

friends. It brightens my day every time I receive a picture or an update of a foster puppy going on an adventure, getting spoiled with love and living their life to the fullest.

I strongly urge anyone with a passion for animal welfare to volunteer for an organization like CARE. The nonprofit invests a great deal of time and resources into preparing and training its fosters. It’s what makes CARE so remarkable and why it’s

crucial for volunteers to respect the one-year commitment to foster.

For those who are unsure whether fostering is for them, reach out to the rescue or someone involved in animal rescue to chat about whether it’s the right fit.

It’s astounding to think about how much I’ve learned and how many amazing people I’ve met since getting involved in animal rescue. It was through CARE’s program and mentorship that I was able to take in fosters and have a great experience.

They have a wonderful network in place to support fosters of all different experience levels.

I share my fostering experiences through my blog. It’s been a fun way to share stories and tips on puppy training.

Read more at homeandpuppy.com. CM

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TAKE HOME ONE OF THESE WONDERFUL PETS FROM CHATHAM ANIMAL RESCUE & EDUCATION TODAY!

MILLIE

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Millie is a sweet and independent dog who loves running and rolling around in grass or leaves. Millie gets along with other dogs and would do well having another dog in the home.

Reba is an American Shepherd mix who would do best with owners who work from home. She is crate-trained, walks well on the leash, and requires a safe and secure fenced-in yard.

Betty is a special cat. This middle-aged, microchipped feline is toothless and does not get along with children, dogs or cats; she only enjoys the company of adults.

CARE is a nonprofit animal welfare organization that has served the community since 1975 and relies on individual and corporate donors for support.

Its mission is to promote the health and safety of all dogs and cats in Chatham County. CARE works with the Chatham County Animal Shelter to save the lives of homeless cats and dogs, manages feral cat colonies and serves as an educational resource. Visit chathamanimalrescue.org to learn moree.

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Incorporating local and organic produce into the menu. Tomatoes from Jimmy Acres farm are usually a highlight. We put them in every possible thing we can. Any [dish] we use tomatoes in, we start using their tomatoes. We’ll get their second-grade tomatoes and make them into pico de gallo. I look forward to using a lot of fresh local ingredients. We use a lot of fresh stuff anyway – it ups the game when it’s coming from down the road.

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Since COVID-19, we’ve been doing weekly pop-ups from all over the world. Every week is a different country or nationality [like German and Indian]. We’re going to continue that throughout the summer. It’s like a little vacation, but you don’t have to leave Chatham County.

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Inspiration for the menu comes from the farmers market. It’s walking around seeing what’s available right then and there and picking it up. I’m always looking forward to corn, tomatoes, peppers and our summer squashes. I like good succotash – tomatoes, corn and peppers with some butter beans. Inspiration comes at [that] moment walking through the farmers market.

DANNY VACCA The Sycamore at Chatham Mills

A lot of our menu will always be seasonal. We will always take [that] approach, doing a menu change every four to six weeks with the season. We’re going to highlight what’s best at the peak – and that’s our philosophy.

For summertime, I look most forward to tomatoes. I think they are some of the most versatile foods, and you don’t have to do much to a tomato. CM

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IN A

FLASH MEET THE MAN WHO SURVIVED FOUR LIGHTNING STRIKES WORDS AND PHOTO BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

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of Bear senses when an electrical storm is close – the hairs on his arms rise to attention. “That’s the tingle you feel before the strike,” he says.

“That means you’re in an area that is highly charged.”

Mark’s voice is low and steady as he describes a series of electrifying encounters with Mother Nature (see page 46) and how he lives with the physical and mental health effects

SUMMER 2021

ark Stinson Creek

of being struck by lightning on four separate occasions in Chatham County.

Chris Hohmann, retired chief meteorologist at WTVD-11 in Durham, says rising heat and humidity in summer months can trigger a chain of atmospheric events that produce powerful thunderstorms. Chris says bolts can be hotter than the sun with some discharging more than 100 million volts and can cause surrounding air to expand so rapidly it sends out shock waves we hear as thunder; bolts can strike 10 miles away from a storm cell.

“If you can hear thunder, you need to go inside,” Chris says. “People don’t

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IN A FLASH

really pay attention. Lightning is one of the bigger problems in the summertime, and it’s hard to get people to take action.”

Dr. Todd Granger, who practices internal medicine in Chapel Hill, says he remembers when Mark came into the emergency room of the old Chatham Hospital, formerly located in downtown Pittsboro. He recalls seeing one of Mark’s arms with petechiae – ruptured capillaries that can be seen with lightning exposure. “He was quite the talk of the practice,” Todd says. “The human body is a capacitor of sorts.

Our bodies are made up of water and electrolytes, but I have no explanation for why he remains a capacitor.”

Mark says his body continues to carry an electrostatic charge, shocking family members or magnetizing tools he picks up. “I have zapped every member of my family you know, just touching ’em and this ain’t like walking across a rug and zap. Sometimes, I can pop a real pretty spark,” he says.

He has had numerous shocks apart from lightning, and all those events have a compounding effect on his physical and emotional well-being. Serious neurological issues can affect lightning and electrocution survivors, and Mark suffers headaches, anxiety, pain in his lower body and chronic fatigue.

“I’m only good three or four hours a day anymore,” Mark says. “My doctor told me, ‘I can’t fix your headaches; I can’t fix your fatigue.’ And, he said, ‘You’ve got degenerative disc disease in your back. ... you’re a walking train wreck.’”

Mark, who receives Social Security disability checks, can’t afford to see a neurologist to find out the extent of damage to his brain and nervous system.

He laments the loss of his short-term memory and says he learned only years later that the lightning rods at his home-based workshop were installed 46

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SUMMER 2021

LIGHTNING STRIKES Aug. 21, 1985 Mark was 20 and at an upholstery workshop in Bonlee, washing his hands at a sink. “All I saw was a bright flash, and the next thing I know, I’m layin’ flat on the ground of the loading dock, and Daddy [was] standin’ over me. He said, ‘Are you all right?’ All I could hear was my ears ringin’. I said, ‘I think I am.’ I really was tinglin’ ... and I was hot as a firecracker. He looked at me and said, ‘That’s whatcha get for not goin’ to church on Sunday.’ I’ll never forget that.”

June 3, 1993 Mark was at his grandmother’s home in Bear Creek working under the cab of his pickup truck when a storm moved over the area. “I remember feelin’ like a bunch of ants was crawlin’ on me. … And the next thing I remember was feeling like somebody throwed me in a bathtub of scalding water. My vision went blurry, and when I could focus, I saw that my wrench had arc-welded to the oil pan of the truck.

I remember not being able to move. I turned my head, and the ringin’ in my ears started to go away. And I heard a roar, and what the roar was, it was rainin’. ... I didn’t know this [at the time], but my daddy and Ronald Gaddis were standin’ in the door of the shop, and they saw the black cloud back here, and ... they saw the lightnin’ bolt hit, and Ronald joked, ‘I bet that lit him up.’ Daddy thought it was funny. Well, they didn’t realize I took a direct hit. ... It blowed the soles off my shoes.’ ... I was blood red, and the hairs on my arms was burned.

[They] picked me up, put me in the van, and took me to Chatham Hospital. Todd Granger was the doctor who saw me then, and I still [had] over a 100-degree fever.”

June 3, 2000 Mark and his kids were talking with a visitor in their kitchen when they heard storm warnings. “I ran out to the shop and put my hand on the breaker to flip the power, and it hit that steel pole on the front corner of the building and took out the outside light. It hit me, knocked me flat on the floor and shorted out several lights in the shop. And, same thing, I felt like I’d been dumped in hot scalding water. And I was smoked again. I was red. ... It burnt spots in the wall.”

Aug.16, 2002 Mark was in his workshop during an electrical storm when the phone rang.

He picked it up and was thrown across the room. “It was more of an indirect hit because it hit the radio antenna. It went through the wiring and hit me in the left arm; it burned the hair off my arm.”

incorrectly. “I probably wouldn’t have got hurt if that building’s lightning rods had been right,” he says, “because it forced lightning to go through the quickest path to ground, which was through the wiring in the shop.”

Electricity runs through Mark’s family tree. His great-great-grandmother witnessed ball lightning. A great-aunt was electrified by ball lightning, he says.

His paternal grandfather could hold a compass and the needle would spin, unable to find north. Lightning has struck his maternal grandmother’s house, and one set of grandparents were driving in Sanford through a summer storm when lightning rendered their car inoperable.

A licensed professional counselor prompted Mark to engage with people online to combat depression following the series of lightning strikes, a failed marriage and raising his three kids as a single parent. Mark formed a community email list that functions as a platform for people to express their opinions on local current topics. He says his homegrown chatlist has more than 3,000 members.

“It kind of gave me a voice. It was therapy,” Mark says. “I got where I just would write my thoughts down. You don’t feel like you’re so alone when you talk to people instead of at them.”

Nineteen years after the last lightning strike, Mark says, “I don’t want to be known as the lightning guy, but I guess that’s my 15 minutes of fame.” He reflects on the meaning of his life and is grateful to be around for his kids.

“Every day is a gift. I could sit here and complain about how bad I feel. Or, I could drink a cup of coffee and wait till I feel good enough to do something,” Mark says. “The only thing that mattered to me was that [my] children have a chance to grow up and be good people and get out in the world and do something.” CM

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20+ WAYS TO HAVE A

FANTASTIC SUMMER SEE HOW MANY YOU CAN CHECK OFF BEFORE LABOR DAY STORIES BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA, RENEE AMBROSO, CC KALLAM, AUBREY AUSTIN, CHIARA EVANS, CLAIRE BURCH, GRACE BEASLEY AND JANET ALSAS

FLOAT DOWN THE DEEP RIVER Explore a scenic route on the Deep River with which offers self-guided kayaking and tubing trips. An excursion typically begins at Deep River Park off of Highway 421 and ends by the Camelback Bridge. For those looking to lazily float down the river with friends and family, Endor Paddle offers river tubing starting at $19 per person. Children must be at least 3 years old

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PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Endor Paddle,

Ayanna Blake, 17, paddles the Deep River with her friends.

OPPOSITE PAGE Ayanna, Alisha McFadden, Aza McFadden, 16, and Kalena G. Delgado, 16.

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ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE

Endor Paddle guide Ilia Smirnov says.

“And the experience itself is very unique, being out in the water and experiencing wildlife and the natural ecosystems.”

Reservations are required and can be booked online. Solo kayaks cost $34, two-person kayaks cost $49.

TREAT YOURSELF TO A WEEKEND GETAWAY

PHOTO BY CC KALLAM

to participate. Wearing a bathing suit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet is recommended, along with sunscreen, secure shoes and a hat to protect from the elements. “Tubing doesn’t really take any skills, and kayaking is really easy to pick up if you haven’t done it before,”

ENJOY A SLICE OF SUMMER

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owner of Willy’s Cinnamon Rolls Etc. in downtown Pittsboro, says he’s bringing back two seasonal summer desserts – a refreshing Key lime pie and a decadent Caribbean fudge pie made with Kahlua and pecans.

“Years ago, we had a bakery, and we used to supply a lot of restaurants in Wilmington, [North Carolina], with these pies,” Jeff says. “I’ve been thinking about making them again. I have all the ingredients, and now I have the motivation.”

Jeff says he and his family opened Willy’s about four years ago because his wife, Edie Jacomet, didn’t want his

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eff Jacomet,

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baking hobby to fill their home with edible temptations. Jeff found the right space for his ovens and got the dough rolling with local farm-sourced ingredients for handcrafted cinnamon rolls, cookies, scones, muffins, brownies and breads. The shop’s namesake is Jeff’s late mother, Willmetta “Willy” Mariam Sprague Jacomet, who loved to bake.

Today, Willy’s legacy takes on a sweeter mission – to employ people with autism, like Jeff and Edie’s 20-year-old daughter, Samantha Jacomet, pictured above with her dad. Jeff says Samantha bakes daily and is learning life skills that will sustain her.

SUMMER 2021

Guests at Lucky Bar Farm can find comfort in home-cooked meals and a break from the bustle of daily life, says Nancy Adams (pictured right with Cash the horse), who owns the Moncure bedand-breakfast with her husband, Steve Adams. They moved to the property in 2010 and welcomed the first guests to their 10 acres of rural paradise nine years later.

Steve serves as the cook and innkeeper, drawing on four decades of experience in the hospitality industry and his extensive knowledge of food, wine and culinary skills. Nancy, a native of Long Island, New York, handles the administrative side of the business, including scheduling reservations. Nancy’s favorite moments are when she greets a new guest or chats with visitors on the front porch. “Everyone who comes here tells us how they feel the comforts of home,” she says.

“They can sit by the pool or on the porch and just listen to the sounds of nature.”

Mornings at the three-room B&B typically begin with hot coffee – to be enjoyed on the veranda’s rocking chairs – and a homemade breakfast of grits, bacon, eggs and biscuits. Lucky Bar also offers dinner, which might include Steve’s filet mignon with vegetables, wild mushroom risotto and, for dessert, the farm’s own ice cream. Steve, a certified specialist through the Society of Wine Educators, also teaches a wine education course.

The B&B features a deck ideal for sunbathing and walking paths to visit the farm’s horse, donkeys and goats. The Adams’ golden retriever, Sundance, and barn cat, Wyatt, can usually be found lounging nearby. Nancy and Steve try to anticipate every need for true rest, so, as Nancy says, that includes “good food, good conversation, animals, nature and organic cotton sheets.” 

PHOTO COURTESY OF LUCKY BAR FARM

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Chase Gaillard, 4, and Grant Gaillard, 8, pick strawberries in the fields at Phillips Farms of Chatham.

PICK YOUR OWN FRESH FRUITS Chatham is ripe for opportunities to enjoy local produce, like the U-pick blueberries at Howard’s Farm & Mema’s Fruit Shack in Pittsboro. Alice “Mema” Howard says blueberries are typically ready to pick from June until early August. Visitors can also purchase a variety of produce including peaches, corn, tomatoes and cucumbers and satisfy their sweet tooth with homemade ice cream flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, peach, blueberry and butter pecan. The farm stand also operates as a thrift store and sells vintage home decor.

It’s open 1 to 5 p.m. daily except Saturdays, when the farm is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

MORE U-PICK FARMS: Busy Bee Farm 1092 Dewitt Smith Rd., Pittsboro 919-542-5890 U-pick blueberries and blackberries facebook.com/busy-beefarm-117076644981186 or email chathamcountybeeman @yahoo.com Chatham Oaks Farm 573 Dewitt Smith Rd., Pittsboro 919-533-7621 U-pick strawberries and on-farm stand with veggies chathamoaksfarm.com 52

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In Good Heart Farm 456 Friendly Pooch Ln., Pittsboro 919-637-0666 U-pick blueberries ingoodheartfarm.com Phillips Farms of Chatham 6581 U.S. 64 W., Pittsboro 919-616-4890 U-pick strawberries plus pumpkins, hay and Christmas trees phillipsfarmschatham.com

SUMMER 2021

Powell’s Blueberry Farm 175 Bonsal Crossing, New Hill 919-362-4398 U-pick blueberries sites.google.com/site/ powellsblueberryfarm/home or email pbfblueberries@gmail.com Wild Abandon Farm 185 Roundtop Hill Rd., Pittsboro 919-533-7930 U-pick blueberries and blackberries facebook.com/wildabandonfarm or email wildabandonfarm @gmail.com

*Note: Always contact the farm before you visit to confirm picking hours; conditions can change daily based on weather and berry availability.

ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE

KEEP YOUR COOL AT BRAY PARK AQUATIC FACILITY

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOWN OF SILER CITY

isit the coolest spot in Siler City during the summer. Bring the family to the swimming pool and let the kids have fun in the sun at the splash pad. Kiddos can also learn to swim or make new friends at the on-site camp. The facility features amenities like a bathhouse, a day care center and a picnic shelter that make it easy to enjoy a day outside.

“We’re so excited to have people back this summer!” manager Erin Burton says. “We hope everyone takes advantage of our swim lessons and pool parties.” The pool is available to rent Fridays through Sundays, 6-8 p.m. or 8-10 p.m.

For summer jobs or season passes, contact the facility directly.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

FIND TIME TO REST, RELAX AND REJUVENATE Find peaceful solace at Fearrington Village’s The Spa at Fearrington, which offers services from custom facials and massages to manicures and pedicures. Packages range in variety and price – couples, for instance, can enjoy the Camden Duet package with their partner. Massage treatments include Swedish, hot stone, aromatherapy and more. This summer, the spa is adding a new skin care line, SkinCeuticals, which was created at Duke University, and will be sold on site.

At Spa Rituals in downtown Pittsboro, owner Lorie Barker is a licensed aesthetician and nail technician who provides manicures and pedicures, microdermabrasion services and can also customize facial and spa treatments depending on skin type. Lorie says she’s also adding a new treatment – the Peppermint Twist Body Wrap – this summer, which works to minimize the appearance of cellulite.

GO CAMPING

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et up a tent behind your house and roast s’mores with your kids.

Keep it simple with a basic tent, sleeping bags and a flashlight or lantern. Jay Wellons, a camping specialist at New Horizons West in Pittsboro, suggests placing a mat or inflatable pad under the tent to cushion hard surfaces.

For weekend excursions, Jay says using campground facilities, like ones at Jordan Lake, would be best for beginners and families with small children. Don’t forget to pack toiletries, a portable stove or grill with cooking utensils and collapsible chairs.

Jay says advanced campers should consider the type of sleeping bag appropriate for expected weather conditions and packability – traditional sleeping bags are roomier in size compared to backpack sleeping bags. And, he says, most campers pack food and water supplies plus bug spray, a firestarter, a fanny pack, compass and a paper trail map.

Better yet, participate in Chatham 250’s Passport Experience and pick a campsite on Saturday, June 26, for the Chatham 250 Great Chatham County Camp Out. Set up a tent somewhere – in your living room, in your yard or, for one night only, on the Everett Dam at Jordan Lake – and follow along as community organizations share videos about camping tips, conservation and nature. Participants are encouraged to post about their experiences on social media using #Chatham250.  SUMMER 2021

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ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE

SIP AND SAVOR LOCAL WINE

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PHOTO COURTESY OF TRIANGLE LAND CONSERVANCY

TAKE A HIKE AT WHITE PINES NATURE PRESERVE

xplore FireClay Cellars, the only commercial vineyard in Chatham County, where Erik Mitran experiments with different grape varieties to produce award-winning wines.

Erik began brewing beer, mead and wine in his parents’ basement in Apex, and he continued to make small-batch brews after graduating from N.C. State University with a bachelor’s in chemical engineering. Erik’s father, Andrei Mitran, was cruising the back roads of Chatham on his motorcycle about 11 years ago when he saw a south-facing slope off of Bowers Store Road between Pittsboro and Siler City.

It was an ideal setting to plant a vineyard, primarily European DID YOU hybrid varieties that are more disease-resistant and can hold their KNOW? acidity, like chambourcin, traminette, chardonel, cabernet franc, FireClay most cabernet sauvignon and seyval blanc. “Growing grapes is way harder recently took home bronze than making wine,” Erik says, adding that it takes about three years medals from to establish a vine and another two years to harvest and bottle. the 2021 NC Fine “Harvesting is serious business,” he says. Grapevines grow on 7 Wines Society for its 2018 of the farm’s 17 acres; white wine grapes are harvested by hand in Chambourcin August and red wine grapes about a month later. Picking begins at 6 Reserve and 2019 a.m. when air temperatures are cooler and continues nonstop until Chambourcin every ripe cluster is collected. Erik says FireClay Cellars expects to Rosé. harvest about 16 tons this year, which translates to about 900 cases, with plans to double that number in the future. Modern methods and meticulously clean equipment are used for removing stems, crushing grapes and fermenting.

Erik says he uses ozonized water to reduce the use of chemicals that other vineyards often use to sanitize large vats and other machinery.

Erik, along with his parents, Andrei and Sue Mitran, and friends Steve Thiedke and Bonita Blake, are co-owners of the venture. They welcome visitors to their spacious, twostory tasting room with an upstairs, adults-only lounge accessible by a spiral staircase.

Guests can sip wine and savor hummus and Celebrity Dairy goat cheese while sitting on the wrap-around front porch that wraps around the building. The tasting room is open this summer Fridays through Mondays.

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PHOTO BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

Trek through the 275 acres and marvel at trees that were common to the Piedmont during the last ice age 10,000 years ago. Located about 8 miles south of Pittsboro, the preserve can be 10 degrees cooler than downtown due to its unique microclimate made possible by the north-facing bluffs and the confluence of the Rocky and Deep rivers. The cooler conditions make White Pines a great place to hike in the summer, and it is also part of the North Carolina Birding Trail, a cooperative effort to promote birding in the state.

Visitors can look for 55 different species, including woodpeckers, wild turkey, warblers, thrushes, herons, the yellow-billed cuckoo and the belted kingfisher.

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LOOK UP AT THE NIGHT SKY Part of the adventure of stargazing is finding an open space with a clear view of the horizon, says Nick Eakes, an astronomy educator specialist at Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. “If you have a neighbor who’s got a big open yard, ask, ‘Can we come and stargaze out here?’” he says. “It’s not impossible to see cool stuff in your backyard.”

To stargaze away from light pollution from homes, streets and businesses, try boat ramps at Jordan Lake like Farrington Point or Poe’s Ridge – the northernmost and southernmost spots on the water, respectively. Beware of nighttime boaters blocking the view, and plan ahead since parking is limited.

During summer months, look for Scorpius the Scorpion, consisting of a bright red

Brayden Cabe, 12, enjoys stargazing at Fearrington Village with his parents, Courtney Cabe and Scott Cabe.

star called Antares alongside other stars that form a fish hook. To the left of Scorpius, find a group of stars resembling a teapot to see Sagittarius the Archer.

On exceptionally dark nights, the Milky Way is visible across the sky between those constellations. Both Scorpius and Sagittarius are situated low in the southern sky.

Higher in the southern sky, look for the Summer Triangle that connects three bright stars and creates the shape of a big pizza slice. Each star is part of its own constellation – Vega is the brightest star in Lyra the Harp; Altair is the brightest star in Aquila the Eagle; and Deneb is the brightest star in Cygnus the Swan.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

STAY SAFE IN THE SUN The [sun’s ultraviolet rays] cause damage to skin cells’ DNA, which leads to an increased risk of actinic damage and skin cancer,” says Dawn Kleinman of Sanford Dermatology in downtown Pittsboro. “Extensive sun exposure makes skin age prematurely and makes a person look older at an earlier age.”

Here are a few of her tips to keep skin healthy and protected this season:

Avoid excessive sun exposure.

“The sun is strongest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., so it is best to remain indoors during those hours,” explains Dawn, adding that if you are outside during these hours, you should increase the intensity of your sun protective measures.

Use physical sun blockers. Dawn recommends using hats, sun protective clothing or umbrellas. One company she likes is Wallaroo Hat Company because “their products are stylish, well-priced and

carry the seal of approval from the Skin Cancer Foundation.”

Apply sunscreen. Dawn recommends using products with SPF 30 and above.

“Brands I love include EltaMD, available at [Sanford Dermatology] and other dermatologists’ offices, and La RochePosay, available at drugstores.” She adds that products with oxybenzone, avobenzone, homosalate and octinoxate are safe bets. And her biggest tip on sunscreen is to use the one you like. 

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ULTIMATE SUMMER GUIDE

STRIKE A POSE DURING AN OUTDOOR YOGA CLASS

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very time Lexie Wolf, owner of the Yoga Garden PBO on East Street, hears comments like “I can’t do yoga” or “I’m not flexible,” she knows she must work harder to change stereotypes about the discipline.

“Yoga doesn’t have to involve a lot of effort in the body or be physically strenuous to provide mental, physical, emotional and spiritual benefits,” she says. “We are all coming to the mat from different places and experiences. We place a lot of emphasis on encouraging and assisting students with personalizing their yoga to suit their needs.”

Lexie says the real goal of a regular yoga practice is to gain self-knowledge, the ability to quiet and focus the mind and develop internal tools to live a harmonious life.

As more people become vaccinated, she says she believes students will switch from virtual instruction to in-person classes inside or in the spacious outdoor garden studio with privacy fencing. Yoga Garden PBO offers a variety of yoga – gentle, flow, alignment and restorative – and other classes and workshops this summer.

SPIKE YOUR SWEET TEA Quench your thirst with this refreshing twist on John Daly’s spiked Arnold Palmer made by Watson Fitts, bartender at The Fearrington House Inn in Fearrington Village. “I wanted to create a play on something familiar,” Watson says about the sweet tea-lemonade-vodka drink called The Daly Double.

To create its unique flavors, he steeps a strong rooibos tea, crushes a bit of ginger, spoons in some sugar and simmers the brew for 15-20 minutes, forming a syrup. Watson cuts large blocks of ice by hand to fit perfectly into a low-ball glass and garnishes the cocktail with a thinly sliced lemon, blackened with a handheld torch. He combines all ingredients in a stainless steel shaker before pouring the liquid through a double sieve. “[That last step is essential so] it doesn’t look hazy,” Watson says. “I like to see the ice cube. If I really pay attention to the details, I find the guest enjoys the drink that much more.”

THE DALY DOUBLE 1 oz. Ketel One Citroen ½ oz. Pasubio amaro 1/3 oz. rooibos-ginger syrup 2 splashes of Earl Grey bitters 2 oz.

Fearrington Afternoon Iced Tea Ice

Lexie Wolf holds a seated pose (Sukhasana) in the outdoor studio where she will offer classes this summer.

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Create family memories on Jordan Lake and enjoy the view with Triangle Boat Tours and Don Watkins, a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain with eight years of professional Caribbean yacht charter experience. The two-hour sunset tour takes you on a 24foot Bentley pontoon boat with sanitized cushions, a quiet (and odorless) engine and plenty of shaded space, plus ice-cold beverages and binoculars for spotting eagles and ospreys. Kids of all ages are welcome on tours and cruises, though anyone 12 or younger must wear a life jacket. 

PHOTO BY CC KALLAM

PHOTO BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA

CRUISE JORDAN LAKE AT SUNSET

“Especially during this trying time, we have appreciated The Chamber and its offerings more now than ever. We have been able to stay in touch with our new business connections and friends and be aware of all the resources available to help make a positive impact in both our business and our community.”

Kris Howard, Katy McReynolds and Allie Russell Chatham Homes Realty

Join the Chamber at CarolinaChamber.org/JOIN

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SEND YOUR KIDDO OFF TO SUMMER CAMP

Kids camps are buzzing with activity – readying fleets of canoes, polishing lesson plans and stockpiling snacks for the return of in-person activities this summer.

Here are four Chatham summer programs kids love:

summer 2021 sessions have Zoom contingency plans prepared if in-person activity becomes unsafe. Families can also register their kids for three virtual workshops for various age groups, taking place one day of the week for eight weeks.

The CHATHAM YMCA offers summer programs at Pittsboro Elementary School, Siler City Elementary School and Perry Harrison Elementary School. Traditional activities like swimming, arts and crafts, archery and field games are included in these day camps.

PHOTO COURTESY OF LOUISE OMOTO KESSEL

Eirie Mier y Terán, Ariah Mier y Terán and Aubrey Petersen.

THE FARM AT PIPER HILL in Silk Hope hosts

a girls’ overnight camp program at its 100-acre farm in June and July with limited enrollment. In collaboration with 1870 Farm, campers can ride horses, care for chickens, enjoy campfires, get their hands dirty in the garden, and kayak and fish at the 10-acre pond.

SHIMMY ALONG IN A BELLY DANCING CLASS Learn the fundamentals of belly dance in a relaxed and encouraging environment with instructor Jackie Barzvi, who’s taught various types of Mizrachi (Jewish folkloric) dance since 2011. Sign up for a class featuring dance styles from across the Middle East and North Africa, and you’ll discover a community of dancers and experience the fun of moving to the music. All are welcome, and no previous dance experience is necessary. Online classes are held via Zoom on Thursday nights at 7:30 p.m., and in-person classes are at Joy of Movement studio in Chatham Mills.  58

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PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKIE BARZVI

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID SCHWARTZ

hosts a full schedule of camps through the end of August at its off-the-grid facility.

Weeklong sessions cover themes from creative writing and ukulele workshops to watercolor painting and felting. Kids complete daily chores and can make choices about their activities, fostering a sense of responsibility and community, along with individual freedom. Chatham County Schools students are eligible for a week of camp at no cost through the Summer Learning program, and Clapping Hands’ “no one turned away” policy means camps are accessible to all. Clapping Hands’ founder and director Louise Omoto Kessel says that CLAPPING HANDS FARM

on 133 acres near Pittsboro where campers can enjoy a boating pond, climbing wall, zip line, gym, obstacle course, pool and miles of trails.

The camp offers programming for kids with autism, as well as teens, adults and families. Activities vary based on weather and interest, allowing families and adults who come to the camp to spend their time as they choose. Family fun days, camps, retreats and teen-specific programming will be held at Camp Royall this year, and registration is currently open for August through September, as well as summer 2022. Scholarships are available.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID LAXTON

CAMP ROYALL sits

Erica Zeigler, Hannah Croft, Jesenia Schwankl and Joaquin LoBuglio.

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TAKE A TWILIGHT TOUR AT CAROLINA TIGER RESCUE

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Tour the Carolina Tiger Rescue at dusk, the time of day when tigers and lions are most active. All tours can accommodate up to 25 ticket holders, but twilight tours – available through October and limited to those ages 18 and older – are held as the sun sets at the 67-acre sanctuary located between Jordan Lake and Pittsboro.

The nonprofit rescue also hosts its second annual Tiger Day 5K, a virtual fun run, from July 22 to 29. All proceeds benefit the animals at the sanctuary. Register for the race at carolinatigerrescue.org/ tiger-day-5k.

PHOTO BY CC KALLAM

Keebe Fitch, owner of McIntyre’s Books, recommends these two feminist retellings of Greek myths for fans of Madeline Miller’s “Circe,” both great page-turners:

READ A BOOK Spend a long afternoon lying in a hammock with a good book

• “Ariadne” by Jennifer Saint (available now) • Pat Barker’s Trojan trilogy, “The Women of Troy” (available Aug. 24) Read Chatham-based authors who Mary Mills, a Chatham Community Library assistant, recommends: • “The Hollow Places” by T. Kingfisher (otherwise known as Ursula Vernon) • “Reenu-You” by Michele Tracy Berger • “Accidental Birds of the Carolinas”

by Marjorie Hudson

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Pete Mock, a book buyer at McIntyre’s Books, offers these reviews about his picks: “Razorblade Tears” by S.A. Cosby (available July 6) “S.A. Cosby is the real deal. He is rejuvenating the mystery scene in a way not seen since Elmore Leonard during his prime. And his new novel is the perfect example. This story of two ex-cons, fathers, seeking answers to the murders of their married sons has it all. Fast-paced and relentless, it is an excellent look at our culture wars through the eyes of a parent who can’t understand his child’s choices. Super smart, incredibly entertaining and all-around satisfying, this is a book no one should skip!”

“Appleseed” by Matt Bell (available July 13) “Stunning! The most imaginative novel I’ve read in years. A dystopian retelling of the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice with a timeline that runs from 1705 to 1,000 years into the future and details the end of the Arcadian ideal and the demise of all life on Earth before its eventual rebirth, because nothing ever truly dies.” 

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Willow Oak Farm Riding School was founded in 1999 as a summer camp; today, it’s ideal for first-time riders or for those getting back in the saddle again.

“When people first visit the farm, they always remark on the positive energy,” owner Patty Moreland says. “They say the horses are smiling.” The riding school, located on 80 acres off of Mays Chapel Road, is south of the Rocky River and downtown Pittsboro.

When Patty retired from teaching a few years ago, she passed the lesson program and boarding operations on to her daughter, Vanessa Moreland (pictured above), who now teaches riders ages 8 and older on the farm’s most experienced horses – the school is home to 25 horses total – and also leads weekly group lessons and trail rides. Vanessa teaches the foundations of most riding disciplines to English and Western riders alike under the farm’s covered arena.

“We believe in safety and correct classical riding,” Patty says. “All horses are trained in classical dressage at all levels. Our school horses were once our own private horses and as they matured, we passed them on to the school. I enjoy the serenity and beauty of the farm, and it has become a sanctuary for both humans and animals.”

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PHOTO BY AMY PRAGER

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLOW OAK FARM RIDING SCHOOL

RIDE A HORSE

LEARN TAI CHI

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arry Williams, 64, retired from a sedentary desk job in the mortgage insurance industry and teaches traditional tai chi as a form of exercise. “At my age, it’s a mindful meditation,” Garry says about the gentle, fluid movements. He began commuting from Raleigh to Chatham more than 20 years ago when he became a student of the late Almanzo “LaoMa” Lamoureux at Black Bamboo Pavilion in Bynum.

Garry (above) teaches at the pavilion and leads three students through a pattern of circular movements and controlled breathing at a weekly in-person class. “The breathwork is so helpful for endurance,” Garry says. He hopes to welcome new students and rebuild the program to its preCOVID levels. The outdoor class will continue to be held at 70 Hearne Rd. Dan Pasek, a retired biochemist, teaches a weekly class in a nontraditional tai chi program – Entwined Dragons Taijiquan. Dan’s interactive

instruction guides students in becoming aware of their body’s responses to gravity, posture and opposing forces.

Dan gives an example: Stand on one foot and close your eyes to gain a sense of the many small muscles in different parts of your body that work to keep your balance. His class helps students refine the art of tai chi by using partnered exercises, which is different from the popular solo forms typically performed in a group setting. “As a martial artist, interactions for the most part come from contact,” Dan says. “You sense the weaknesses of an opponent and become aware of that and can use that to your advantage.”

Dan meets students at Joy of Movement studio in Pittsboro every other Sunday and also offers an outdoor class at his home on alternating weekends. He can incorporate weapons, like the saber, staff or sword, and can also include safely choreographed partnered movements.

PLAN A FAMILY DAY TRIP TO A NEIGHBORING COUNTY The North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is an easy daytrip for the entire family to see the world’s largest natural habitat zoo with its seasonal activities such as the Giraffe Feeding Deck and the Zoofari bus tours on the 40-acre Watani Grasslands. The newest feature is a small fleet of animal-themed, electric-powered mobility carts called Rydables, used to cruise through the zoo at a safe speed. The zoo is extending its hours to 8 p.m. every Thursday until Labor Day, allowing visitors to enjoy twilight, cooler temperatures and sunsets at the Kaleidoscope Butterfly Garden. “We are really looking forward to enjoying North Carolina’s beautiful summer blooms and evenings in the garden with the community,” says Nikki Petersen, a visitor educator at the zoo. Advance reservations are required to visit the zoo.

Another daytrip destination is just north of the county line at the North Carolina Botanical Garden in Chapel Hill. Take the kids to the Children’s Wonder Garden to enjoy the large sandbox, wooden blocks or wood xylophone structure. Explore Paul Green’s original log cabin where one of the best writers in the South wrote his plays, including “The Lost Colony.” Listen to a story at the storyteller’s chair or chase butterflies, but be careful not to step on the carnivorous plants. Tours and classes are offered throughout the summer. CM SUMMER 2021

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GOING FOR

GOLD MEET FIVE OLDER ADULTS WHO COMPETED IN A VARIETY OF SPORTS DURING THE CHATHAM COUNTY SENIOR GAMES THIS SPRING

BY CC KALLAM

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

resident Ronald 71, has competed in archery in the county and state senior games since 2018, winning first place in the 2020 games. “There are so many great senior athletes, but I am inspired mostly by those who continue to show up and compete with a good attitude regardless of their finish,” Ronald says. “It’s fun to watch some amazing senior athletes still riar Chapel Bousquet,

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RETIREMENT

performing at the expert level, but there is plenty of room for average people like myself.”

He shares advice on staying fit in one’s later years: “The secret as a senior seems to be to not get hurt,” he says. “It can take a long time to recover.

My daily activities are mostly modest physical exercise and long walks. There are specific archery exercises to do, but it is mostly a mental stamina sport, and fitness develops the more you do it.”

L

91, entered the games for her third time playing table tennis.

“I had about 65-plus years of interruption between when I quit playing and when I resumed again,” she says.

Lilian started playing the sport again for the thrill of competition. The pandemic made it hard for her to hone her skills the past year at Carolina Meadows. “We have not been able to play locally for a year,” she says. “Once it was allowed again for us to get together and start playing – March 29 this year – our small group appeared. We had a ball, even though everybody, of course, had not played for a year. It was just a terrific success.” Lilian says the return to in-person play has made all the difference. “The fact that I

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ilian Pruett,

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

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RETIREMENT

could actually see a living human being and talk to them at the same time, which was rather difficult during the lockdown because I live by myself in a villa, all of that [was] a tremendously uplifting event.”

D

an Tunstall,

80, cycled in the games for the fourth time this spring. “The thing is, anyone who cares about sports and does well or wants to do well, they always have people behind them,” he says, giving a shoutout to James Ruffin and Kim Conway, his trainers and support system at Carolina Meadows. Like many other local athletes, Dan appreciates the Old North State’s terrain. “There’s a lot of encouragement around here for riding bikes, and North Carolina is good because you’ve got lots of hills, unlike Illinois, where I grew up,” he says. “[Illinois] was all flat, a different kind of racing.” Dan notes his improvements since he started exercising again. “I think I hit my peak at the age of 12,” he says. 

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You give us your old stuff, we’ll give you that warm, fuzzy feeling.

Every donation and every purchase helps build safe, healthy, affordable homes in Chatham County.

Call 919-548-6910 or go to chathamhabitat.org/ pickup to schedule a free pick up for your donation of gently used furniture, building supplies, and household items.

Donate. Shop. Volunteer.

467 West Street Pittsboro, NC

RETIREMENT

“Now, I’m back at it. I’ve lost 35 pounds from what I weighed when I first retired.”

S

88, a firstplace swimmer in the 2019 games, has participated in national and international games most years since 2008.

He has a collection of medals – 31 gold, 16 silver and 10 bronze – and he has set five records. The Chatham County Senior Games in 2008 were his first swimming competitions since his years at Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons.

“I swam during three years

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teve Barrett,

FOR L IV

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SE

ELF!

RS

AN

tour

U

DUK

E

TAAKE

I

G

C

TER

N

EN

E FO R YO

FITNESS FOR YOUR

LIFESTYLE. SCHEDULE. COMFORT LEVEL. Focus on your health and wellbeing at the Duke Center for Living at Fearrington.

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919.545.2133 www.DukeFitnessFearrington.com

Please call for our most up-to-date hours and services.

Follow us on Facebook!

RETIREMENT

of college but was the worst swimmer on the team,” Steve says. When he’s not swimming laps, Steve gives free lessons to adults and children at Carolina Meadows and the Fearrington Swim and Croquet Club, bringing him another sense of accomplishment. “I find it very gratifying to see how they improve,” he says, adding that he is more resilient in his older years and doesn’t plan on retiring from his activities any time soon. 

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We’re excited to join the Pittsboro community and be your neighbor.

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fidelitybanknc.com

RETIREMENT

C

hester Hwang,

a 66-year-old transplant from Maryland, joined the games for the first time this year, competing in tennis. His friends at the 55-plus community Carolina Preserve encouraged him to enter. Chester has played tennis on and off since 1986 and advises others getting back into the sport to “always warm up before playing the game.” The former chemist has a

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RETIREMENT

theory about retiring in warmer climates.

“I assume that the weather and exercise really helped me a lot,” he says. “The weather is warmer here than in Maryland. I play tennis four or five days a week, and some days I go for two or three hours. The scene here is helping me to build up my immune system; my psoriasis is better in North Carolina than in Maryland, and I lost 20 pounds.” CM

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

SUMMER 2021

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

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

PHOTO BY BRENT CLARK

HERE

‘

‘WHY I RETIRED

WE ASKED RESIDENTS AT FOUR RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES WHY THEY CHOSE TO SPEND THEIR GOLDEN YEARS IN CHATHAM

BY RENEE AMBROSO

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

S

ue Blaustein and Mark Blaustein

(pictured above) chose to retire in 2016 to Galloway Ridge at Fearrington, citing its pastoral atmosphere and proximity to downtown Pittsboro and Chapel Hill. Sue says the community provides the right mix of “beauty and pleasantness” with “a lot of cultural opportunities. … Everything about the county is an ideal mix.” She adds that Chatham offers a welcome change of scenery without losing a sense of familiarity from the couple’s previous home in Orange County.

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OUTDOOR LIVING

M

ark and Sue are avid walkers and hikers, and they appreciate easy access to a variety of trails. The couple often makes the short drive to nearby American Tobacco Trail access points or strolls along the dam at Jordan Lake. “We walk the trails at Fearrington [Village] all the time, [and] we go down to the Bynum Bridge,” Sue adds. Pre-pandemic, Mark took part in Galloway’s “Green Trekkers” social group, joining 10 to 12 residents to embark on short hikes throughout the spring and summer months.

A COMMUNITY THAT CARES

M

ark says Galloway residents get their flu shots every year. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, retirees at Galloway Ridge were pleased with the community’s quick response. “You get a sense of comfort [and] reassurance,” Mark says. Sue adds, “That’s really an outstanding thing in my book … how well they rose to the challenges of keeping residents safe, fed and entertained.”

FRIENDLY FACES

L

ifelong Chatham resident Irma Ellis, 87, first learned of Cambridge Hills from Ronda Stubbs, Cambridge Hill’s director of admissions and marketing, when they were co-workers at Allen & Son Bar-B-Que. Irma decided it was time to move after her husband, Charles Ellis, died. “I was always used to a crowd [of people around],” Irma says, “and [then] I had no one.” Now, she bonds with many fellow residents through bingo, exercise and art classes and themed parties.

Irma Ellis

FAMILY TIES

F

or Irma, Cambridge Hills’ location was just right. She needed assisted living and also wanted to remain close to her old Bynum neighborhood and her children in Pittsboro. Irma has lived at Cambridge Hills for three years and has no plans to uproot again. “This is where I want to stay,” she says.

Mary Ann Browning came to Twin Rivers Independent Senior Living from Wilmington, North Carolina, to be near her daughter, grandsons and two great-grandchildren. “I couldn’t stay in Wilmington without anybody else named Browning,” Mary Ann says.

Similarly, after living in Pamlico County in North Carolina for most of his life, Von Stokes moved into an apartment at Twin Rivers to be closer to his daughters – one lives in Hillsborough and the other in Raeford, North Carolina. Von is now retired after 32 years of teaching at Pamlico County Schools and at YMCA Camp Seafarer.

A third Twin Rivers resident, Virginia Myers, 97, relocated there to be near her daughter in Fearrington Village.

Virginia says she is “happy, healthy and enjoying life,” at the independent living apartment complex, where 21 residents are a close-knit bunch. “It’s small enough that we are much more like a family than we are a group of friends … it’s a convivial group,” she says. 

SUMMER 2021

Mary Ann Browning

Von Stokes

Virginia Myers

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HOME SWEET HOME

A Carol Licht

fter 25 years living and working in Pittsboro, Carol Licht moved to nearby Twin Rivers. The Chatham Habitat for Humanity volunteer always knew exactly where she would go when it came time to sell her house, having known previous residents of the community. She’s been a Twin Rivers resident for five years.

COST OF LIVING

Linda and Dan Harper

Julia Wood

L

and Dan Harper arrived at Encore at Briar Chapel from Southern California two years ago. The choice was a long time in the making – the Harpers sold their previous home and lived in a rental house for a year while considering options up and down the East Coast. Chatham stood out from the rest – the reasonable cost of living and being within a day’s drive to each of their daughters’ homes topped their wishlist. Plus, Dan and Linda love the accessibility to North Carolina’s beaches and mountains. inda Harper

TAR HEEL ROOTS

A

fter teaching at UNC for 40 years, Julia Wood, a retired professor of communications and humanities, says Chatham “feels very much like home.” She moved to Galloway Ridge at Fearrington in 2014 with her husband, Robert Cox, who also taught at the university for more than four decades.

“It didn’t really occur to me to leave the state,” Julia says, noting all her paternal ancestors were North Carolinians and that she feels “deeply tied” to the area. Julia and Robert especially enjoy Galloway Ridge’s vicinity to Chapel Hill

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– just nine miles down the road – and often hop on a shuttle to attend UNC football games.

INTENTIONALLY INVOLVED

“R

esidents here are active in everything from literacy activities to fundraising for good causes in Chatham County,” Sue says. Mark serves on Galloway’s resident council, grounds committee and a communications committee that updates residents on community happenings. He also volunteers “on what we call the geek squad,” which helps neighbors with technology issues. A member of the neighborhood library advisory committee, Sue says, “these committees are resident driven, so the resident voice is accounted for.” Galloway is home to retirees from a variety of careers such as foreign service agents, engineers, artists and scientists. Neighbors share their expertise by leading discussions or workshops. “The range of abilities … just blows my mind,” Sue says.

TIMELESS TRADITIONS

“W

e used to take our own kids and our grandkids down to see the cows [at Fearrington Village],” Sue says. That’s how she first became familiar with the area, and the Village’s restaurants, shops and entertainment offerings were a major draw when it came to choosing Galloway. “[Now] I walk there literally every single day and watch other families take their little kids to see the cows,” Sue says.

“Some things don’t change at all.” CM

Open the door to your beautiful new home and wonderful future!

Opportunity Is Knocking!

Twin Lakes Community is pleased to announce pre-sales are open for our latest, exciting residential development. Stockton is the perfect combination: spacious apartment homes offering open floor plans and ground-floor garages, built in an optimal location on the gorgeous 218-acre campus of one of North Carolina’s most desired retirement communities.

Be an initial depositor to secure the perfect floor plan and location of your new apartment home.

A division of Lutheran Retirement Ministries of Alamance County, North Carolina

Live an intentional life in a community where neighbors understand where you are in life and a staff who does, too. Where independence is treasured and the transition isn’t about what you give up, but what you’ve gained.

For more information regarding this and over 400 other residency options to start living YOUR best life, please contact us at 336-538-1572.

“Moving to Twin Lakes was the best decision we ever made. We are living our best life.

That is everything. And, that is Twin Lakes.”

BURLINGTON/ELON NC • 336-538-1500 • twinlakescomm.org

THE 2021 DIRECTORY OF CONTINUING CARE, ASSISTED LIVING, INDEPENDENT LIVING, 55+ LIVING AND COHOUSING RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES BROOKDALE CHAPEL HILL ASSISTED LIVING 2220 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Month-to-month Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Contact Information 919-636-7649; brookdale.com BROOKDALE CHAPEL HILL ALZHEIMER’S AND DEMENTIA CARE 2230 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Month-to-month Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Contact Information 919-636-5247; brookdale.com BROOKDALE DURHAM ASSISTED LIVING AND DEMENTIA CARE 4434 Ben Franklin Blvd., Durham Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Month-to-month Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Contact Information 919-636-4242; brookdale.com BROOKDALE MEADOWMONT ASSISTED LIVING AND DEMENTIA CARE 100 Lanark Rd., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Month-to-month Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Contact Information 919-636-4285; brookdale.com CAMBRIDGE HILLS ASSISTED LIVING 140 Brookstone Ln., Pittsboro Cambridge Hills Assisted Living recently celebrated its 16th anniversary, serving older adults in the heart of Pittsboro. Owned by a local vet, the community proudly offers a discount to veterans.

Entrance Fee Community fee of $1,500 Monthly Fee Range $4,300 – $6,450 Contract Options None. Requires 14-day notice before moving out.

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

Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 65 Contact Information Ronda Stubbs, 919-545-9573 or ronda@silver-thread.com; cambridgehillsal.com

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CAMBRIDGE HILLS ASSISTED LIVING 5660 Durham Rd., Roxboro Entrance Fee Community Fees: $1,000 for a private room; $750 for semi-private Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options None Refund Options Requires 14-day notice Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55 Contact Information Tracey Maloney, tmaloney@cvsliving.com; 336-598-4697; cambridgehills.com CALYX LIVING 4214 Guess Rd., Durham Entrance Fee Application fee required Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Monthly rate includes care, dining, activities, laundry and housekeeping Refund Options 14-day notice required Medicare Certified Not applicable Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 60 Contact Information 919-471-0091; calyxseniorliving.com CAROLINA RESERVE OF DURHAM 4523 Hope Valley Rd., Durham Entrance Fee $2,000 fee Monthly Fee Range $3,500 plus care/shared room, $5,400 plus care/ studio, $4,500 plus care/two-bedroom suite with private bedroom and shared bath. Assisted living and memory care is offered.

Contract Options Month-to-month, 2 weeks notice required before moving out Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-709-2924; carolinareserveofdurham.com CHATHAM RIDGE ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE 114 Polks Village Ln., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee One month’s rent Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing Contract Options Month-to-month Refund Options Community fees within 30 days of move in Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-918-7872; ridgecare.com 

A CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

LI V E M O RE

Can your retirement home be your dream home?

When it comes to retirement living, Carolina Meadows offers more. Here, you’ll find beautiful homes which are customized for you, vibrant surroundings, diverse dining options and endless opportunities for the mind, body and spirit.

1-800-458-6756 www.carolinameadows.org Carolina Meadows offers the EQUITY ADVANTAGETM

MO R E CO M FO RT. “We have enjoyed living at Carolina Meadows from the first day we moved into our spacious villa. The open, custom layout suits our relaxed lifestyle.”

—TAIMI

RETIREMENT GUIDE

ELMCROFT OF HILLSBOROUGH 1911 Orange Grove Rd., Hillsborough Entrance Fee $2,000 Memory Care $4,745 – $6,255 Assisted Living $3,030 – $5,150; level of care fee is based on assessment Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Yes Contact Information 919-732-9040 MEBANE RIDGE ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE 1999 S. N.C. Hwy. 119, Mebane Entrance Fee One month’s rent as deposit Monthly Fee Range $3,595 - $7,245 Contract Options Month-to-month Refund Options None Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted, not required Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-568-0083 or katlin.lewis@ridgecare.com; mebaneridge.com

CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES (CCRC) CAROLINA MEADOWS 100 Carolina Meadows, Chapel Hill A vibrant community where residents live a lifestyle of wellness and engagement. The 168-acre campus includes a nine-hole golf course, pristine walking trails, tennis courts, community gardens and more.

Residents enjoy six distinctive dining venues, a state-of-the-art wellness center and an auditorium that offers lectures and performances.

Entrance Fee Range $132,300 – $779,000 Monthly Fee Range $2,938 – $4,855 Contract Options Fee for Service: Housing, residential services and guaranteed access to health-related services in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at per-diem rates, which vary. Home Care services are also available. Equity: See next section.

Refund Options Upon departure, resident/estate receives refund based on Entry Fee calculation and, if applicable, additional 50% of equity in the residence; calculation is current Entry Fee minus remarketing and refurbishing fees compared to original Entry Fee, and then sharing in appreciation of unit if new balance exceeds original payment.

Medicare Certified Yes, Medicare Part B Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-942-4014; 800-458-6756; carolinameadows.org CAROL WOODS 750 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee Range $102,900 – $482,100 Monthly Fee Range $2,466 – $5,531 Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at a discounted rate.

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

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

Minimum Age 65 (co-applicant must be at least 55), but any age can get on the waiting list.

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

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THE CEDARS OF CHAPEL HILL 100 Cedar Club Circle (Meadowmont), Chapel Hill Purchase Price Range $300,000s – $800,000s* Monthly Fee Range $3,133 – $7,782 Contract Options *Equity: Actual real estate purchase, with transfer of ownership of the unit. If resident moves to health center, no added amount except two meals per day. After 90 days, member pays discounted rate.

Refund Options Not applicable because of ownership Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 50) Contact Information 919-259-7000; 877-433-3669; cedarsofchapelhill.com CROASDAILE VILLAGE 2600 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy., Durham Located on 110 acres in a pastoral setting that provides a country feel fewer than 6 miles from downtown Durham and 3 miles from Duke University. Residents enjoy green spaces with yards, gardening and plenty of walking trails, a dog park, lakes and a full continuum of care on-site. The central campus buildings are connected, with a state-of-the-art wellness center, an aquatic center with a heated pool/hot tub, salon/spa, gift shop, auditorium, multipurpose rooms, woodworking shop, art studio, rehab gym with water therapy pool, ambulatory clinic, multiple dining venues and a chapel.

Entrance Fee Range $59,317 – $387,605 (range includes single and double occupancy) Monthly Fee Range $2,074 – $4,743 (single occupancy with second person fee $1,312 on all residential homes) Contract Options Fee for Service: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals, housekeeping, utilities bundle (cable/internet), transportation and maintenance services.

Advanced levels of health services are provided at per-diem rates.

Refund Options Declining Refund: Option 1: Pay lower entry fee; refund declines at rate of 2% per month; after 50 months, no refund. Option 2: 50% Refund – pay higher entry fee; refund declines at a rate of 2% per month until 50% of residence fee is accrued; refund limited to 50%.

Option 3: 90% Refund – pay higher entry fee; refund declines at a rate of 2% per month until 10% of fee is accrued; refund limited to 90%.

Medicare Certified Yes; rehab on-site Medicaid Certified Yes; Pavilion Skilled Nursing Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-384-2475; 800-960-7737; croasdailevillage.org THE FOREST AT DUKE 2701 Pickett Rd., Durham Celebrating 29 years of community, The Forest at Duke is a vibrant continuing care retirement community located in the heart of Durham.

Homes, cottages, apartments – each offer spacious, contemporary living with access to a range of amenities coupled with wellness. At The Forest, residents discover a retirement that is as varied, engaging and multi-faceted as you are. The Forest strives to strengthen the community and organizations that enrich the lives of Durham residents.

Entrance Fee Range $97,970 – $615,891 Monthly Fee Range $3,342 – $8,013 Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at a greatly discounted rate and are free for a specified number of days.

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

Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome.

Minimum Age 65 (co-applicant must be at least 62) Contact Information 919-490-8000; 800-278-9729; forestduke.org 

COME RIDE WITH US PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION AROUND CHATHAM COUNTY

CALL 48 HOURS IN ADVANCE TO MAKE A RESERVATION » 919-542-5136 » CHATHAMTRANSIT.ORG Chatham Transit Network is a local non-profit agency.

A Prosthodontic Specialty Practice Mark S. Scurria, DDS | Rosanna Marquez, DDS 1920 East Hwy. 54 Suite 410 Durham | 919.544.8106 trianglerestorationdentistry.com

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oesn’t your smile deserve a specialist’s care?

As prosthodontists, we specialize in restoring and replacing teeth using the best technology available.

TRIOS scanning allows us to provide crowns, bridges, and partials without messy impressions.

We’re also proud to offer our signature digital dentures, which provide the best fit possible with fewer appointments.

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Top Dentists for the 12th consecutive year

SUMMER 2021

CHATHAM MAGAZINE

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t n e m e r i t Re PEACE, LOVE &

CALL US AT 919-328-2657 Galloway Ridge at Fearrington 3000 Galloway Ridge Pittsboro, NC 27312

W W W.G ALLOWAYRIDG E.COM

P EAC E O F MIN D It’s our priority to make sure residents have peace of mind, knowing that all of their health care services are within reach.

LOV E F OR LIF E As a resident, your lifestyle will transform to one that exudes creativity, passion, and purpose.

meaningful

engaged lives

G A LLOWAY R ID G E EX IS TS TO INS P I RE AND

life

A N D TO A S S U R E E A C H RES ID ENT A S U P E R IOR QUA LIT Y OF

A ND

care.

R E T I R E ME NT W IT H CO MMUN IT Y Our quality care combined with kind-hearted residents makes this welcoming community a wonderful place to call home.

Medical Direction Provided By

RETIREMENT GUIDE

GALLOWAY RIDGE AT FEARRINGTON 3000 Galloway Ridge Rd., Pittsboro Crafted with heart, soul and Southern charm, Galloway Ridge is a secure, health-conscious lifestyle destination. The 62-acre campus is just south of Chapel Hill and adjacent to Fearrington Village, an 1,100-acre planned community that offers miles of trails and sidewalks. Jordan Lake and the Haw River are just a short distance away for outdoor enthusiasts.

The main building includes 248 independent living apartments, a library and business center, living room, Chapin Auditorium, Weathersfield Café, Bistro Dining Room, Camellia Fine Dining Room, Belties Lounge, billiards room, Players Lounge, a movie theater with stadium seating, art studio, woodworking shop, multiple meeting spaces and conference room. The Arbor, a Medicare-certified health care center, is connected to the building and offers 96 private rooms for assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing. The residents of the 52 independent living villas have a short walk to all of these amenities.

The Galloway Ridge WellPlex allows residents to maintain their optimal level of health and well-being. It includes the Duke Center for Living, a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, Duke Primary Care and the Center for Physical Rehabilitation. For on-campus primary care services, residents can choose between UNC Health Care within the main building or Duke Primary Care in the WellPlex. Residents and staff volunteer thousands of hours each year to local agencies and partnerships.

Entrance Fee Range $231,000 – $1,281,000 Monthly Fee Range $3,358 – $7,816 Contract Options Extensive: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping and unlimited assisted and skilled nursing. Additional meal fee required as one moves from one level of care to another.

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

Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-545-2647; gallowayridge.com GLENAIRE 4000 Glenaire Circle, Cary Entrance Fee Range $67,000 – $739,000 Monthly Fee Range $2,587 – $5,397 Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at subsidized rate or are free for a specified number of days.

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

Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 58) Contact Information 919-460-8095; 800-225-9573; glenaire.org SEARSTONE 17001 Searstone Dr., Cary Entrance Fee Range $378,000 – $883,000 Monthly Fee Range $3,600 – $7,640 (second-person fee, $1,530) Contract Options Type A LifeCare contract. Residents pay a one-time LifeCare fee to cover costs of assisted living, skilled nurses and/or memory support. The LifeCare program has significant tax advantages and works well with long-term care policies.

Refund Options Entrance fee 100% refundable Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Yes Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-234-0339; info@searstonerla.org; searstone.com

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SPRINGMOOR 1500 Sawmill Rd., Raleigh Entrance Fee Range Call for pricing.

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing.

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

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

Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-848-7080; springmoor.org TWIN LAKES 3701 Wade Coble Dr., Burlington This intentional community draws people from all over the country, but residents all have at least one thing in common: They want a well-rounded life surrounded by people who are engaged and living purposefully. More than 550 people in independent living enjoy the 218acre community and all the amenities that create a lifestyle where people thrive. In addition to the spacious campus, there’s no mandatory meal plan; Twin Lakes offers comparably lower fees, and the neighborhoods are filled with people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

Entrance Fee Range $55,000 – $291,000 Monthly Fee Range $1,634 – $3,106 Contract Options Fee-for-service contract only Refund Options 30-month declining refund & 50% refund available.

Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 62) Contact Information 336-538-1572; twinlakescomm.org THE VILLAGE AT BROOKWOOD 1860 Brookwood Ave., Burlington The community’s intimate size makes it easy to build strong friendships. Residents can participate in physical activities that promote healthy living, feed their competitive spirit with fun games and mental challenges, de-stress with their favorite hobby or just relax. The community prides itself on its dining, including two newly renovated options: Edith Street Café and Lakeside Dining, plus a new tavern that serves beer, wine and cocktails. Enjoy engaging conversation with friends over a meal prepared by the executive chef while dining staff tends to your every need.

Entrance Fee Range Options start at $101,600 Monthly Fee Range Starting at $2,339 Contract Options Option 1: Extensive – LifeCare Residential Living: Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed future health care all covered by the entrance fee and monthly fee. When moving from one level of care to another, the monthly fee reflects a 58% reduction of the daily skilled nursing rate. Option 2: Fee for Service – Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed access to future health care are provided in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at the per-diem rate.

Refund Options Declining Refund: Option 1: Extensive – Standard Refund is declining over 47 months. 50% and 90% Refund plans are also available. Option 2: Fee for Service – Standard Refund declines over 47 months.

RETIREMENT GUIDE

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but may help with costs related to Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Care for Fee-forService or LifeCare plans.

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55) Contact Information 336-570-8440; 800-282-2053; villageatbrookwood.org WINDSOR POINT 1221 Broad St., Fuquay-Varina Entrance Fee Range $58,000 – $233,000 Monthly Fee Range $2,356 – $3,363 for independent living; $3,642 – $6,014 with health-related services Contract Options Modified: Housing, residential services and specified amount of health-related services in exchange for the entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at subsidized rate or are free for a specified number of days.

Refund Options Declining Refund: Option 1: Life occupancy entrance fee; pay up front and 2% taken out each month over a 50-month period, after 50 months there is no refund; before then, pro-rated refund available. Option 2: 50% Refund; refund declines at a rate of 2% per month for 25 months until 50% of residence fee is accrued; refund received only after resident passes away or moves.

Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but helpful Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55) Contact Information 919-552-4580; 800-552-0213; windsorpoint.com

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING ATRIA 5705 Fayetteville Rd., Durham Entrance Fee $5,000 Monthly Fee Range Independent living: $4,300 – $4,475/one bedroom; $4,600 – $5,000/two bedroom; cottages: $5,400 – $5,700 Contract Options Independent Living: No lease term, no buy-in, monthto-month rental with 60-day move-out notice. Assisted Living: No lease term, no buy-in, month-to-month rental with 14-day move-out notice.

Refund Options 60-day notice to terminate independent living lease Medicare Certified No, except for therapy services Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted if resident meets criteria of the policy Minimum Age 62 Contact Information 919-401-0100; atriasouthpointwalk.com AZALEA ESTATES 700 N. Estes Dr., Chapel Hill Entrance Fee One-time community fee of a half month’s rent Monthly Fee Range Rent starts at $2,595 Contract Options Month-to-month, 30-day move out notification Refund Options Security deposit is fully refundable and equals a half month’s rent Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Azalea Estates does not; home heath care agency on-site and rehab does accept Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-929-2160; seniorlivinginstyle.com/azaleaestates; azaleaestates@hawthornret.com 

OFFERING: Ayurveda Workshops * Cooking Class: Using Food as Medicine Wellness Consultations Yoga Studio

Safe Haven for Small Gatherings

* Ayurveda is an ancient science that uses diest and lifestyle for healing

healinglilly.com • 919.933.2502 • Pittsboro SUMMER 2021

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CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN CHATHAM COUNTY For more than 15 Years, Cambridge Hills Assisted Living and Twin Rivers Independent Living have been home to many amazing seniors. We consider our communities "their home" and it's our privilege to bring them joy, care, love and safety each and every day. The bonds we build with our residents and their families mean the world to us, and differentiates us.

We welcome the opportunity to meet your family and have you consider our communities for your loved one.

CAMBRIDGEHILLSAL.COM

“

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

JoAnn N.

“

I chose Cambridge Hills for my Mom because it is a home and a family.

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

Angela A.

“

Thank God for Twin Rivers!! Our dad moved in about a year and a half ago and we are so grateful he did. His quality of life has improved tremendously, and his social interaction is wonderful.

The food, activities and gatherings allow us to sleep well at night knowing he’s in a safe environment. The entire team has made a phenomenal effort in successfully keeping the residents 100% COVID-free. I would recommend this place to anyone!

Cozetta C.

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

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

• A  Rated Community, the highest achievable rating for Assisted Living.

• Nestled in the heart of Pittsboro.

• Home to more than 100 Seniors with a broad range of care needs.

• Veteran and Female owned small business offering a Veteran’s Discount.

• Proudly employing over 80 compassionate and professional caregivers.

• Enriching the lives of our residents with our Award-Winning Activities Team.

OFFERING THE BEST IN SOUTHERN LIVING FOR SENIORS

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

INDEPENDENT LIVING

RETIREMENT GUIDE

BARTLETT RESERVE 300 Meredith Dr., Durham Entrance Fee One month’s rent Monthly Fee Range $3,095 – $4,200 Contract Options One-year lease; 60-day notice to leave Medicare Certified Therapy services are covered by Medicare.

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted for personal care and veteran’s benefits Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-361-1234; bartlettreserve.com; Sean Yule, syule@bartlettreserve.com

EMERALD POND 205 Emerald Pond Ln., Durham Entrance Fee Range Community fee of $3,350 – $5,550 Monthly Fee Range $2,239 – $5,100 Contract Options Month-to-month leases after 90-day commitment.

No buy-in fees.

Refund Options Community fee nonrefundable Medicare Certified No medical services included Long-Term Care Insurance N/A Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-493-4713; emeraldpond.net

THE CAMBRIDGE AT BRIER CREEK 7780 Brier Creek Pkwy., Ste. 410, Raleigh More than just a place to retire, this is an active community of neighbors and friends perfectly located between two premier cities.

It offers the luxuries of a first-class resort with the support and services you need for optimal health, fitness and well-being.

Entrance Fee Range No entrance fee, just a deposit of $1,000 up front to get on the waitlist Monthly Fee Range $4,395 – $6,545 Contract Options Month-to-month or one-year leases Refund Options Deposit is refundable Medicare Certified Medicare accepted through on-site physician and with WakeMed Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Long-term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55 Contact Information Victoria Sosa, Marketing Director, 919-612-1054, victoria@cvsliving.com; thecambridgebriercreek.com

TWIN RIVERS INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING 25 S. Rectory St., Pittsboro Entrance Fee $1,500; second-person fee, $500 Monthly Fee Range Starting at $2,000/one bedroom, $3,500/two bedroom; VA/public servant discounts available Contract Options None. Requires a 30- or 60-day notice prior to moving out Medicare Certified No Long-Term Care Insurance Not accepted Minimum Age 65 Contact Information 919-545-0149 or 919-637-7117; michelle@silver-thread.com, cambridgehillsal.com

CAMBRIDGE VILLAGE OF APEX 10000 Cambridge Village Loop, Apex Featuring well-maintained grounds, certified health facilities, an engaging event schedule and a diverse community, Cambridge Village is a vibrant, resort-style community for adults 65 and older that offers living spaces, amenities, care and services thoughtfully designed to support exceptional whole-self health and happiness for each resident.

Entrance Fee Range Community fee equivalent to one month’s rent Monthly Fee Range $2,995 – $5,895 Contract Options One-year, two-year or month-to-month lease options Medicare Certified No Long-term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 65 Contact Information Katina Faulkner, Marketing Director, 919-363-2080, kfaulkner@cvsliving.com; cvsliving.com/apex DURHAM REGENT 3007 Pickett Rd., Durham Entrance Fee Range $2,750 – $4,250 Monthly Fee Range $2,200 – $4,200 on single occupancy, second-person fee Contract Options Month-to-month leases. All independent living.

Medicare Certified No medical services included Long-Term Care Insurance N/A Minimum Age 55 Contact Information 919-490-6224; durhamregent.com

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POST-ACUTE CONTINUING CARE SYSTEMS HILLCREST CONVALESCENT CENTER 1417 W. Pettigrew St., Durham Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required Monthly Fee Call for pricing Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term, assisted living or respite stays Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded Contact Information 919-286-7705; admissions@hillcrestnc.com HILLCREST HOME HEALTH OF THE TRIANGLE 1000 Bear Cat Way, Ste. 104, Morrisville Personal care, in-home support and companion care, and respite care.

Contact Information 919-468-1204; agencydir@hillcresthh.com HILLCREST RALEIGH AT CRABTREE VALLEY 3830 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required Monthly Fee Call for pricing Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term or respite stays Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded Contact Information 919-781-4900; admissions@hillcrestraleighnc.com HILLCREST THERAPY & WELLNESS 4215 University Dr., Ste. B2, Durham Physical therapy, specialty treatments and wellness programs.

Contact Information 919-627-6700; rehab.durham@hillcrestptw.com SIGNATURE HEALTHCARE OF CHAPEL HILL 1602 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill Monthly Fee Range Private pay is average $7,020 – $7,800/month; majority of all Medicare insurances accepted for rehab stays Contract Options Monthly rate for short-term, long-term or respite stays Refund Options Refunds for any days not used Medicare Certified Yes Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted Contact Information 919-967-1418; shcofchapelhill.com; admission.chapelhill@signaturehealthcarellc.com 

Cultivate

your sense of

Community

One of the most common things we hear from those who visit The Village is, “I can’t believe how friendly everyone is.” At our intimate Life Plan

My friend is the one who brings out the best in me.

- Henry Ford

Community, we are intentional about connecting people. Residents get to know one another, and our terrific team gets to know you. We are a vibrant and down-to-earth Life Plan Community offering:

✓ active, maintenance-free living ✓ whole person wellness ✓ lifelong learning at Elon University ✓ numerous opportunities for service and volunteering

✓ a spacious new home or apartment ✓ peace of mind for the future Contact us to schedule a visit – we believe

1860 Brookwood Ave. | Burlington, NC Proud to be a part of

Managed by

you’ll notice the difference right away.

Call us today at 800-282-2053 or visit VillageAtBrookwood.org

RETIREMENT GUIDE

55+ COMMUNITIES CAROLINA ARBORS 357 Carolina Arbors Dr., Durham Price Range of Houses Varies; $300s to high $500s Number of Units 1,293 Resale Status New and resale Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 2,400 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Full lawn care, full clubhouse access with an indoor/outdoor pool and gym, more than 100 clubs and events.

Contact Information 919-701-3043, contactarbors@gmail.com; 55places.com CAROLINA PRESERVE 115 Allforth Place, Cary Price Range of Houses high $200s to low $500s Number of Units 1,360 Resale Status Resale only Average Size of Houses 1,200 – 3,500 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Tennis courts, bocce ball courts, indoor pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, clubhouse with a pottery studio and billiards, pickleball court, shuffleboard and access to Town of Cary Greenway.

Contact Information 919-467-7837; carolinapreserve.com CORBINTON AT KILDAIRE FARM 3401 Arthur Pierce Road, Cary Price Range of Houses $400s to $500s Number of Units 60 Resale Status New only Average Size of Houses 1,698 – 2,175 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Walking trail, dog park, yard maintenance, exterior home maintenance Sales Contact Katerina Dema or Veronica Solomon; 1-888-523-9070; corbintonliving.com/cary; info@corbintonliving.com CORBINTON COMMONS – CLOSED OUT 680 Market House Way, Hillsborough Price Range of Houses low $300s to mid $400s Number of Units 70 Resale Status New only Average Size of Houses 1,600 – 2,100 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Clubhouse, walking trail, dog park, community gardens, yard maintenance, exterior home maintenance Sales Contact Julie Amos, 919-260-6348; corbintonliving.com; info@corbintonliving.com THE COURTYARDS AT SOUTHPOINT 1203 Cherob Ln., Durham Price Range of Houses high $300s to $600s Number of Units 93 Resale Status New only Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 4,000 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, walking trails Sales Contact Terrell Turner, 919-289-5784; epconcommunities.com CREEKSIDE AT BETHPAGE 6511 Crown Pkwy., Durham Price Range of Houses Low $300s to mid $500s Number of Units 655 Resale Status New only Avg. Size of Houses 1,294 – 2,425 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Clubhouse, fitness center, aerobics studio, community garden, social clubs, resort-style pool, tennis courts, bocce ball and pickleball courts, trail system within natural surroundings Contact Information 919-626-3500; taylormorrison.com

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FENDOL FARMS BY LENNAR IN BRIER CREEK 1003 White Bark Ln., Durham Price Range of Houses upper $200s to low $500s Number of Units 500 units Resale Status Primarily new Average Size of Houses 1,400 – 2,800 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Community clubhouse, fitness center, zeroentry resort-style pool with swim lanes, bocce courts, tennis courts, pickleball courts, community garden, dog park, event lawn, natural greenway trails, grandkids’ playground Contact Information 919-337-9420; lennar.com/New-Homes/North-Carolina/Raleigh OVERTURE CHAPEL HILL 5910 Farrington Rd., Chapel Hill Imagine carefree, maintenance-free, 55+ active adult living where you can truly focus on yourself. This vibrant community offers spacious living, an engaging lifestyle and meaningful mind, body and social amenities.

Price Range Starting at $1,200/monthly Number of Units 184 Resale Status N/A Average Size of Houses 604 – 1,365 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Continental breakfast five days a week and a monthly brunch, heated pool, outdoor lounge and terrace, fireplace, elevator-accessible floors, happy hours and yappy hours, fitness center and yoga studio, grand club room with demonstration kitchen, 24hour self-serving barista coffee bar, media movie theater room, game area, arts and crafts room, on-site guest suite for friends and family, concierge services, Lyft ride-hailing scheduling, 24-hour emergency maintenance services and carports available.

Sales Contact 919-907-2200; overturechapelhill.com

COHOUSING ELDERBERRY 60 Elderberry Ln., Rougemont Price Range of Houses low- to mid-$200s Number of Units 18 Resale Status Resale only Average Size of Houses 700 – 1,200 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Self-developed, community-oriented cohousing, hiking trails, community garden Sales Contact Mary Bennett, 919-482-4222, mbkbennett@gmail.com; elderberrycohousing.com VILLAGE HEARTH COHOUSING 4900 Buttonbush Dr., Durham Price Range of Houses high-$300s to low-$400s Number of Cottages 28 Resale Status New only Average Size of Houses 650 – 1,150 sq. ft.

Amenities Included Self-developed and self-governed, LGBT-friendly, handicap accessible, intentional neighborhood; community-oriented, large common house, workshop, clustered accessible cottages on 15 acres, community garden.

Contact Information 561-714-8009; villagehearthcohousing.com CM

We Know

WENDY THOMPSON

JAYE KRELLER

CHRIS CULBRETH

TRACY WRIGHT

CHATHAM COUNTY! Locally, we are known as THE SPECIALISTS on our community’s houses, neighborhoods, schools and cultural activities.

If you are looking for a home, call or drop by our office for the most varied newcomer packet and an interesting introduction to the Chatham County Area.

TAMMI THORNTON

CINDY GUDEMAN

Residential Real estate

901 Willow Drive, Suite 3, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 919.933.8500 Toll-Free 800.382.0673 tha@tonyhallassociates.com KATHERINE CLARK

TONY HALL

tonyhallassociates.com

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H O M E

&

G A R D E N

B U I LT TO LAST

THE SMITHS’ CUSTOM HOME IN GOVERNORS CLUB FEATURES A SPEAKEASY AND STUNNING VIEWS THEY’LL ENJOY FOR DECADES TO COME

J

BY MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ennifer Smith and Rocky Smith

fell for Chatham County a long time ago. Jennifer grew up in Chapel Hill and returned to the area after attending East Carolina University. She knew she wanted to settle near her family, who still live nearby. The couple married at Fearrington House in 2012 and moved to Chatham shortly

SUMMER 2021

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AROUND THE BLOCK. WHAT YOU NEED IN STOCK. WITH PEOPLE WHO KNOW THEIR STUFF.

www.westlakehardware.com

NOW OPEN!

V I S I T U S T O D AY!

STOP BY OUR EXTENSIVE BBQ SHOP Over 65 Grills & Smokers | Over 150 Rubs & Sauces Over 400 BBQ Accessories | 7 Brands of Charcoal More than 10 Varieties of Wood chips, Chunks, & Logs!

157 CHATHAM DOWNS DRIVE CHAPEL HILL, NC 27517 919.704.7156 Across from Harris Teeter in Chatham Downs Shopping Center

HOME & GARDEN

ABOVE Because their home sits atop a hill, the speakeasy patio provides views of Chapel Hill on clear days.

LEFT Rocky mixes a cocktail for Jennifer in the speakeasy.

“The bar design was inspired

by English pubs and really feels like an escape to another place,” she says.

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thereafter. For Rocky, a former Marine who has lived all over the United States, there is nowhere else he would rather call home. “I married a Carolina girl, and that changes your life,” he says.

“You really can’t beat North Carolina.

It is such a special place.”

So, when the opportunity came along to create their dream home in Governors Club, the Smiths didn’t think twice.

Jennifer and Rocky worked with Bold Construction to design every detail.

They chose a base plan they loved, then customized it with the future in mind.

“Building a home is hard, but Bold was amazing to work with,” Jennifer says.

“A REAL ESTATE EXPERIENCE THAT MAKES YOU SMILE!”

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HOME & GARDEN

ABOVE The open living area provides a cozy transition between the kitchen and pool.

LEFT Henry takes his toys for a spin in the playroom.

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“We knew we were planning for the long haul, so we had to think outside the box a bit.”

The one-of-a-kind home includes thoughtful elements to enable the Smiths to live there long term as well as entertain friends and family members of all ages and abilities. It features an entrance without stairs or ledges, an elevator and an informal, open layout that provides easy access to living, dining and kitchen areas.

Prior to the pandemic, Jennifer and Rocky frequently hosted parties and dinners, so the large kitchen island provides both overflow seating and plenty of food prep space. Their love

C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 + Y E A R S S E R V I N G P I T T S B O R O !

Contact Us Today to Get Star ted on Your Journey to a Beautiful Smile!

Drs. Tammy R. Severt, DDS, MS and Laura Jacox, DMD, PhD, provide orthodontic treatment in a personalized and caring enviornment.

• Highly trained staff and the most up-to-date technology • Offering Damon Braces and Invisalign • Platinum Invisalign Provider for children, teens, and adults • Virtual consults available to fit your schedule

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S E V E R T S M I L E S .C O M

35 Thompson Street, Pittsboro, NC 101 Conner Dr., Suite #401, Chapel Hill, NC

HOME & GARDEN

LIVING OUTSIDE IN

R

Henry and Rocky jam out in the playroom.

of entertaining also inspired one of their favorite features in the house – the speakeasy. An inconspicuous bookcase built into a hallway hides a secret staircase, which leads to a door unlike any other in the house.

Composed of aged wood and an iron grille, a wooden panel at eye level swings open from the inside so the hosts can ask guests for a password.

Inside, a fully stocked bar, welcoming leather club chairs and a deck with sweeping views of Chapel Hill make for a perfect place to wind down.

ocky, Jennifer, their son, Henry, 2, and dogs, Sebastian and Louis, enjoy being outdoors as much as possible on weekends, spending time at the neighborhood playground, hiking the Eno River or hanging in their own backyard oasis. “It was important that we bring the feeling of being outside into our home as much as possible,” Rocky says. The living area opens directly onto the patio, which features cozy seating and retractable screen doors on all sides.

The backyard pool, which was installed by Gress’ Inc., invites guests to enjoy long afternoons outdoors, offering stunning views of the wooded backyard accented with landscaping

by Agape Lawn Company. A separate restroom opens to the backyard so time away from the pool can be kept to a

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WE DELIVER AND INSTALL. 3151 US 15-501 N, Pitt sboro

919.542.5438 poultr yv illa .com 104

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N O R T H C A R O L I N A’ S B E S T VA L U E S F O R

AUTO, HOME, BUSINESS AND LIFE INSURANCE

CHAD SPIVEY

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BETH MALLOCH

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HOME & GARDEN When not exploring nearby parks, the Smiths enjoy their backyard pool, which features natural stone and is surrounded by trees.

minimum, and eye-catching features provide a relaxing experience for adults and kids alike. “It was [Gress’ Inc.’s] idea to add the big rock to the ledge, and at first I thought they were crazy – but it turns out all our friends’ kids love jumping off of it,” Rocky says. “The forest environment

F E M A L E - O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D F O R 2 5 + Y E A R S

Carol’s Electric 919.929.0582 carolselectric.com

Serving Residential Clients in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, Burlington, Saxapahaw, Graham and surrounding areas in NC

Electrical Repairs

Whole House Generators

Lighting Upgrades

Electric Vehicle Chargers

Electrical Remodeling & Upfits

LED Light Conversions

Wiring & Service Upgrades

Outdoor Landscape Lighting

- Abbey B.

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The Next Move Is Yours “Gretchen was great. She was every bit a personal counselor as much as a real estate agent. Her guidance and observations were spot on in every instance during our buying and selling process.”

- Stephen, March 2021 “Gretchen guided us through an unexpectedly tricky process selling our home. Her knowledge, professional contacts and support were invaluable.”

- Mary, March 2021 “Gretchen’s intelligent use of online marketing vehicles was the reason we were able to sell our home in 10 days – sight unseen. Gretchen is what every real estate agent wants to be – a trusted advisor in one of the most critical financial decisions we made in the past several years.”

- Bev & Gary, December 2020

GRETCHEN CASTORINA 919.951.5566 GretchenCastorina.com

Only

HOME & GARDEN

also makes for great animal watching, which is great, because Henry loves salamanders.”

It was important to us that Henry grow up in a neighborhood with other kids and that our family could have friends nearby. As soon as we moved in, our neighbors came over to welcome us, and we knew we had found that place.”

SUSTAINABILITY MATTERS

T

heir love of the outdoors inspired the Smiths’ building choices in more ways than one; thanks to dozens of solar panels and three Tesla Powerwalls, the home’s energy usage is nearly netzero. “We don’t want to take more than we need to from the environment,” Rocky explains. “It also provides an extra layer of security, knowing we can keep the heat and lights on during power outages and storms.”

Thanks to higher temperatures, the Smiths are able to resume small gatherings with friends, including their Governors Club neighbors,

– Rocky Smith

Love your window decor!

Family Owned & Operated

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

OPEN WEEKDAYS, 9AM – 5PM

BLINDS

•

SHUTTERS

•

SHADES

•

DRAPES

•

HOME

AU TO M AT I O N

5131 NC Hwy. 55, Ste. 104, Durham | 919-361-0495 | budgetblinds.com/durham 108

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YOUR HOMETOWN CHOICE

Results That Move You

chat hamhomesr ealty.com in fo ch athamhomesr ealty@gmai l.com

HOME & GARDEN

Rocky spent many years traveling the country and world serving the U.S. Marine Corps. Now his memories have a permanent home.

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HOME & GARDEN

Rocky’s fellow Pittsboro Rotary Club leaders, and of course, Jennifer’s family.

And when they’re not cooking for a crowd, the family enjoys takeout from nearby restaurants Flair and Tarantini. “Restaurants like these make our community what it is,” Rocky says. “We are thankful to have them here – the food is delicious, but just as important, the [employees] make you feel like family. That sense of community is what helped us get through the pandemic and only reinforces our decision to build our forever home here.” CM

Rocky shakes up a cocktail in the speakeasy.

“It means the world that our friends and family can enjoy this space with us,” he says.

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UPDATES

to a new location next year.

“Honestly, the demand for quality dermatology services was greater than we had imagined,” Chris says. “We very quickly outgrew our space at the Veranda, and we knew we wanted to stay in the community that so graciously welcomed us. We limited our search to Chatham County only as we wanted to continue to invest in this community.”

Instead of moving to a larger existing office, Chris and her husband, Abayomi of Chapel Hill

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are developing Chatham Professional Park, a new, expanded clinic and office building with nearly 15,500 square feet off Highway 15-501 at Lystra Road. The Adiguns are working with Partners in Construction LLC, a Virginiabased commercial builder, to provide enough space to accommodate more patients, including those with mobility challenges. The second floor will be available for lease and can be divided depending on tenants’ needs. The building (above) is expected to open in May 2022.

Chris says the commercial builder “completely embraced our goal of contributing to this special community in a positive way and designing a space Chatham County will be proud of.” CM

SUMMER 2021

Lowes Foods, a North Carolina-based grocery chain, will anchor a 92acre shopping center in Northwood Landing adjacent to Northwood High School.

The site will include 312 multifamily units and will offer .85-acre to 2-acre outparcels for retail, restaurant, bank and medical offices.

CHATHAM COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

NEW FACILITY FOR

05/29/2020

,

i on or at

Dermatology & Laser Center

“Yomi” Adigun,

rch it ectura l Corp red A

I nc .

W

ith her rapidly growing medical practice, Dr. Chris Adigun plans to move the 3D View 2

• Construction begins this summer for Chatham’s first hotel catering to business travelers, says Kirk Bradley, developer of MOSAIC. A five-story Hampton Inn & Suites, developed by Malcolm Bryant Corporation, will be built on 3 acres and the 78,500-square-foot hotel will have 120 rooms and is slated to open in early 2023.

S k y S t ud i o s

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BY ANNA-RHESA VERSOLA ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF DR . CHRIS ADIGUN AND PARTNERS IN CONSTRUCTION LLC

al

N TIO UC STR 51491 ON RC No T FO r t h Ca r o l i na NO

VA

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE UPDATES, PLUS A LOOK AT AN UPCOMING PROJECT

in i a Beach

CHA PROJECT ISSUE DATE

,

GROW AGAIN

it

HERE WE

Di g

View 1

• Construction is underway for three residence condominium buildings that will have one-, twoand three-bedroom floor plans for 12 condo residences in the first building and another 42 units in two future buildings. Each unit includes 11-foot ceilings, a large kitchen island, and open living and dining areas. Amenities include smartphone keyless entry, private entrances with elevators and a pet spa. Prices range from mid-200s to upper-500s.

The builder, Montgomery Development, expects a 2022 completion date.

Regi st e

• A Refuel convenience store and gas station is under construction and is expected to open by year-end.

CHATHAM PROFESSIONAL PARK

IN MOSAIC AT CHATHAM PARK • A 3,900-square-foot UNC Urgent Care Clinic opens June 15 next to UNC Rheumatology at Chatham Park. The clinic operates 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week.

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ENGAGEMENT

Sidrak & Walters

BY GRACE BEASLEY

M

ike Walters and Christina Sidrak met at a CrossFit gym

in 2014, enduring tough workouts and competitions together. Christina says she was drawn to Mike’s great listening and conversation skills. Mike, executive director of Cambridge Hills Assisted Living in Pittsboro and also a Navy Reserve officer, and Christina, a clinical pharmacist at Blue Cross NC, have been best friends ever since.

On Feb. 10, 2020, the couple met friends at their favorite restaurant, Rey’s, in Raleigh, where Mike slipped the engagement ring to the owner, Rey Arias, for safekeeping.

Mike and their friends made up a story about a special dessert menu and had Rey himself play along to unveil the ring on the dessert tray. At first, Christina thought it was one of their friends surprising their partner with a gift, but then realized the ring was actually for her. She was so caught off guard and happy that she doesn’t even remember if Mike popped the question.

The couple plans to marry May 7, 2022, in San Diego. CM

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CHATHAM MAGAZINE

119

WEDDING

Holt & Spivey

BY CLAIRE BURCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARTHA MANNING; MARTHAMANNING.COM

B

rooks Holt and Daniel Spivey’s love

story began six years ago in church.

Brooks’ cousin, Payton Springle, whispered that she’d found “the perfect match’’ for Brooks.

The match – Daniel Spivey – checked off Brooks’ boxes: NC State fan, handsome and Christian. Soon, the couple had their first date. For Daniel, it was love at first sight, and Brooks started to fall for him during a hike at Raven Rock State Park. After graduation – Brooks from Northwood High School and Daniel from Chatham Central High School – the sweethearts were off to college.

By their fourth Christmas together in 2019, Daniel proposed beneath the glow of lights at the North Carolina Chinese Lantern Festival in Cary, and Brooks said “yes.”

The wedding and reception were held on Nov. 7, 2020, at Emmaus Baptist Church in Pittsboro. With help from his father, Danny Spivey, and an uncle, Jimmy “Wheel” Phillips, Daniel built a 10-foot wooden cross for behind the altar. An aunt, Belle Brooks, was the wedding planner, and another cousin, Kyle Holder, 120

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officiated the ceremony.

Floral arrangements were made by Daniel’s mother, Beckie Spivey, a florist. Brooks also wore one of her grandmother’s necklaces in her hair.

Brooks is a registered nurse at WakeMed Cary Hospital and Daniel works for Siler City Parks and Recreation. They live in Pittsboro. CM

Honored to help Chapel Hill find its way home since 2005.

OUTSTANDING ORTHOPAEDIC CARE CLOSE to HOME.

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