Durham Magazine December 2023 / January 2024

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 DURHAMMAG.COM

Redefine retirement.

TheTERRACES

H U R RY — P R E SA L E S H A P P E N I N G N OW !

New contemporary apartment homes for retirement.

Learn more at forestduke.org/TheTerraces.

B E C O M E A C H A R T E R M E M B E R T O D AY !

KEEP GROWING

SM

Vibrant living. Continuing care. In the heart of Durham. 800-278-9729 / forestduke.org/TheTerraces

magazine

DECEMBER 2023 / JANUARY 2024 VOL 16 NO 6

durhammag.com   

EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Amanda MacLaren amanda.maclaren@durhammag.com

EDITORIAL

EDITOR, CHAPEL HILL MAGAZINE Jessica Stringer MANAGING EDITOR, CHATHAM MAGAZINE Morgan Cartier Weston MANAGING EDITOR, HEART OF NC WEDDINGS Renee Ambroso EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Leah Berry SENIOR STAFF WRITER Anna-Rhesa Versola EDITORIAL INTERNS Lauren Baddour, Alana Bleimann, Sinclair Holian, Avery Householder, Lena Miano, Haley Pineles, Lauren Rouse, Katie Scherner, Liza Smith and Catherine VanSchaick

ART & Production

DIRECTOR OF CREATIVE OPERATIONS Ashlin Acheson ashlin.acheson@trianglemediapartners.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Kevin Brown GRAPHIC DESIGNER/PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Lindsay Scott GRAPHIC DESIGNER Khadijah Weekes-Nolan PHOTOGRAPHER John Michael Simpson

Advertising

For advertising inquiries, email advertising@durhammag.com Melissa Crane melissa.crane@trianglemediapartners.com Sarah Davis sarah.davis@trianglemediapartners.com Lauren Phillips lauren.phillips@trianglemediapartners.com Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com Dana Statkun dana.statkun@trianglemediapartners.com

Corporate

FOUNDER/CHAIRMAN Dan Shannon PRESIDENT, TRIANGLE MEDIA PARTNERS Ellen Shannon PRESIDENT, TRIANGLE DIGITAL PARTNERS Rory Kelly Gillis VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Amy Bell ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT AND ADMINISTRATION MANAGER Cassady Orsini VICE PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER, CHATHAM MAGAZINE Chris Elkins chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com PUBLISHER, HEART OF NC WEDDINGS Jenna Parks CREATIVE DIRECTOR, TRIANGLE DIGITAL PARTNERS Sally Scruggs SEARCH MARKETING MANAGER Lizzie Jones DIGITAL OPERATIONS MANAGER Brian McIndoo DIGITAL GROWTH STRATEGIST Morgan Cartier Weston DIGITAL CONTENT SPECIALIST Renee Ambroso DISTRIBUTION Matt Bair Durham Magazine is published six times a year by Triangle Media Partners Subscriptions, $38 for two years, are available at durhammag.com. To purchase copies, call 919.933.1551.

2

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

January 17 & 18

February 6 - 11

May 15 - June 9

Hurry for Best Seats

February 27 - March 3

THE ALL-NEW

2024 OUTBACK IS BETTER THAN EVER

ADVANCED CAPABILITY

It all starts with the traction and terrain-clearing features of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance. It’s a trailtested combination the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Hyundai Santa Fe just can’t match2.

SAFE AND SECURE

State-of-the-art active safety technologies like standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology3 and the available DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System4.

BUILT FOR THE ROAD AHEAD

Every Outback is made to last so you can rely on it no matter where your adventures take you.

In fact, 97% of Subaru Outback vehicles sold in the last 10 years are still on the road today8, more than Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, or Hyundai Santa Fe.

GET 3.9% APR FINANCING FOR 36 MONTHS AT HENDRICK SUBARU SOUTHPOINT!

200 KENTINGTON DRIVE, DURHAM, NC 27713

984-287-5600 | SUBARUSOUTHPOINT.COM

*COLLISION CENTER ON THE CORNER OF HWY 70 & PAGE RD.

SUBARU SALES & FINANCING MON - FRI 9am - 7pm SAT 9am - 6pm

SERVICE & PARTS MON - FRI 7am - 6pm SAT 8am - 4pm

COLLISION CENTER* MON - FRI 7:30am - 6pm SAT & SUN CLOSED

®

SOUTHPOINT

letter

Joy to the World

T

he go-to meal my mom made for our family was spaghetti. Is it because she had picky eaters (namely, me)? Probably. But now a bowl of noodles in any red sauce brings back a lovely wave of nostalgia. She wants to make lasagna for Thanksgiving, but when I saw Jaime Lawing’s recipe for “World’s Best Baked Spaghetti,” I realized that might be the compromise.

Find Jaime’s and other celebratory dishes perfect for parties and large gatherings – including not one, but two desserts by Baker Street Cookies owner Keri Efird, who made the expertly designed cookies featured on our cover, table of contents and right here on this letter page – on page 40.

Food is comfort; it’s healing, both for the cook and the consumer. Cathy Kelly (pictured below), mom to our own Triangle Digital Partners President Rory Kelly Gillis, prepares a lunch for our staff that brings us together every other week. We all get to take a pause and reconnect over a thoughtfully crafted meal, complete with a main course and many sides, toppings, even something sweet. (Visit our website for a recipe handed down from Cathy’s mom, Cathy Rastelli Reed – trust us, you’ll be glad you tried her “Double Delicious Bars”!) “This is a labor of love,” Cathy says. “I do this because it makes me happy.”

It is a reminder to me that it is so important to take care of one another at all times of the year, but especially in this season. I was asked recently what I was most thankful for. And truly, it’s that I want for nothing. That I am comfortable.

That I am safe. That I do not know poverty, famine or the atrocities of war firsthand. Are there still profound sadnesses in my life? Sure. Do I fall prey to doom scrolling and have my heart break time and again over images on my social media, on news channels? All the time. You donate here, sign a petition there, do what you can for the causes and organizations you believe in. You do what you can to help.

In this issue, too, we feature a handful of folks who are doing just that for our community – volunteering their time, energy and resources into leaving Durham a little bit better than it was yesterday – beginning on page 80. (Speaking of, if you’d also like to give assistance to nonprofits locally, check out our “Big Give” profiles that begin on page 91.)

These dedicated souls are a reminder that there is still light in this world, and that is reason enough to celebrate. By lifting ourselves out of the darkness, we can fully appreciate and find joy in the blessings that life offers.

 amanda.maclaren@durhammag.com THE COV E R Cookies by Keri Efird, Baker Street Cookies | Photo by John Michael Simpson 6

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

THE HOLIDAY ISSUE

40 There’ll Be Parties for Hosting Foodies share go-to holiday dishes and desserts that are sure to impress every guest 48 Passing the Top Hat A tale of tradition and transition as Ira David Wood III bequeaths the iconic role of Scrooge in Theatre in the Park’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ to his son, Ira David Wood IV 52 That Festive Feeling Make merry with spirited celebrations around the Bull City 58 All Is Bright A Colvard Farms renovation prioritizes cozy touches and family-friendly updates, creating a dreamy home for the holidays

WELLNESS

DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS

6 Letter from the Editor

70 Mind, Body and Soul Discover the path to your best self with guidance from experts

10 Go.See.Do. Celebrate the season with wonderful winter events

FEATURES

20 Noted.

What we’ve heard around our city …

80 Hometown Helpers These eight community members champion a ‘doing good in the neighborhood’ mentality

DURHAM INC.

100 Biz Briefs 104 Networking: Take No Bull Women’s Conference 106 Hot Shot: Jordan Fearrington The Skanska project manager works to build a better Durham 108 Holidays Bring Glad Tidings for Durham Businesses Local retailers and restaurateurs rev up for a bustling winter season

111 Engagement & Wedding Tying the knot, Bull City-style

PEOPLE & PLACES

16 Durham Arts Council’s CenterFest

17 Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People’s Founder’s Day Banquet 18 Adam Dickinson Realty Group’s MeFine Foundation fundraiser 19 Museum of Durham History’s ‘Stranger Times’ exhibit opening

SPONSORED CONTENT

28 Faces of Durham Celebrating the people behind our local businesses 90 Adopt-A-Pet Visit the Animal Protection Society of Durham to find your new forever friend 91 The Big Give Our area nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

JOHNSON LEXUS

JOHNSON LEXUS

5839 Capital Blvd.

Raleigh, NC 27616 (919) 877 - 1800 JohnsonLexusRaleigh.com

1013 Southpoint Autopark Blvd.

Durham, NC 27713 (919) 433 - 8800 JohnsonLexusDurham.com

OF RALEIGH

OF DURHAM

'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs' DEC. 2 0

Experience an evening of enchantment at the Carolina Theatre as the classic fairy tale unfolds through mesmerizing dance and staging by the State Ballet Theater of Ukraine. This two-act show magically weaves a tale of affection, companionship, enchantment, fantasy and the enduring clash between the forces of good and evil.

go see do

‘Girl From the North Country’ JAN . 2- 7

The Durham Performing Arts Center presents the Tony Awardwinning new musical based in Duluth, Minnesota, amid the Great Depression. In this poignant tale, the lives of a group of travelers converge in a guesthouse brimming with music, love and loss. The performance weaves together the threads of human experience through the soulful melodies of one of music’s greatest legends, showcasing 20 of Bob Dylan’s iconic songs, including classics like “Forever Young,” “All Along the Watchtower,” “Hurricane,” “Slow Train Coming” and “Like a Rolling Stone.”

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH WONDERFUL WINTER EVENTS Compiled by Lauren Rouse

Dream Big

Retro Film Series

JAN. 1 5

Literacy nonprofit Book Harvest honors Martin Luther King Jr. during this 13th annual celebration of books and children at Golden Belt. Drive up with children’s books to donate, and/ or bring your children to select books to take home. Stay for the indoor and outdoor community celebration featuring a partner fair and plenty of fun for the kiddos!

10

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

JAN . 19 – J U N E 2 8

Visit the Carolina Theatre during the first half of 2024 to watch double features of movies in various genres – including action and adventure as well as comedies and thrillers – from the 1920s to the 2000s. Grab your popcorn and a drink before each showing, and head in early for screenings of classic film trailers and door prizes. 

Go See Do

21st Annual N.C. MLK Black History Parade

Escher String Quartet JAN. 2 0

Embark on a captivating musical journey at Duke University’s Baldwin Auditorium as Duke Arts Presents hosts these season artists of the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and renowned quartet as a part of its Chamber Arts Series. The ensemble’s captivating program spans the emotional spectrum, featuring Haydn’s lively “The Lark” quartet, Bartók’s 20th century masterpiece “String Quartet No. 4 in C Major,” which blends Eastern European influences, and Schubert’s elegiac “Death and the Maiden” quartet, a moving composition reflecting the composer’s personal loss of his sister, his final major work before his death in 1847.

Triangle Restaurant Week JA N . 2 2 - 2 8

Indulge in a weeklong celebration of culinary excellence during this bi-annual event that showcases premier restaurants in Durham and the surrounding area.

Participating establishments offer special three-course menu options and fixed pricing, providing a great opportunity for residents and visitors alike to savor the Triangle’s finest cuisine.

12

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

FE B . 3

Gather in front of W.G.

Pearson Elementary School on Fayetteville Street to celebrate North

Carolina’s largest Black history month event. The Martin Luther King Jr. parade showcases marching bands; step, dance and drill teams; antique cars; mascots; drum lines and more for spectators to enjoy as the procession makes its way toward North Carolina Central University.

American Indian Powwow FE B . 3

Join the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics for an

exciting, inclusive, familyfriendly event that celebrates the rich culture of the first Americans. The festivities kick off with a grand entry of dancers followed by a vibrant array of songs. Explore unique arts and crafts available for purchase.

(Credits, clockwise from top left) Page 10: ‘Girl From the North Country’ photo by Matthew Murphy, Dream Big photo courtesy of Book Harvest; Page 12: Escher photo by Shervin Lainez, N.C. MLK Black History Parade photo courtesy of Spectacular Magazine; American Indian Powwow photo courtesy of N.C. School of Science and Math; Triangle Restaurant Week photo by John Michael Simpson

CHUB

Shop+Dine!

NM AIN

ST

E ST LAK

IT’S BETTER IN PERSON

RD

RE AM S THE GAME EXCHANGE / THE ART AND FRAME GALLERY ON MAIN

-UNSALTED FARM II

RUSSELL’S LTD

AV E

THE HAPPY SOL, LLC

-BUTCHER’S DAUGHTER MARKET & DELI -THE COMMONPLACE STUDIO & COLLECTIVE

DOODLE CRUMBS

KIRBY CULTURAL ARTS COMPLEX

BL VD ON

SPECIALTY DESIGN CO.

DALTON’S SPORTS BAR & GRILL

ROXBORO FARMER’S MARKET

SAVANNAH JACK’S CAFE G GREEN’S JEWELERS ORD ON ST CRY FREEDOM MISSIONS

COLE’S PHARMACY

CO

ON UR TS (S COU ITE N T T Y CIR C CA OU 17 RTH 92 OU AB ) SE B

ITT

OD ON COFFEE DEPO T SCREEK BLACK BREWERY T

ST

TRICIA’S ESPRESSO LA PIAZZA

PE RS

N

SL AM AR

ST

MA DIS

THE ROXBORO BUILDING

SM AI

DEPOT SOUTHERN BISTRO 1792 BEER CO.

ST

NERDIBLES

TRUTH THRIFT CAROL’S COLLECTIBLES UPTOWN PRODUCE MARKET THE EXCHANGE CONSIGNMENT+

-THE PINK LOUNGE

-ROOTED FOR LIFE / T’S BARNQUILTS AND CRAFTS NOTE: PUBLIC BATHROOMS ARE AVAILABLE

ST

EL

MO

RE

SM AIN

-AN ARTISAN’S EMPORIUM

ST

KeyRETAIL / SHOPPING

itsbetterinperson.com Visitor & Information Center: 705 Durham Road, Roxboro, NC 27573

ST

DS T

ST

-CONTEXTURES FABRICS

IEL

EE

THE JUMBLE STORE AC AD EM Y

-INCORRIGIBLE CAFE

SA TT ER F

SH

SL AM AR

ST

THE SHOPS OF HALL’S WAY

SF OU

RG LEASBU

Just a quick drive north of Durham, you can discover shopping & dining in Uptown Roxboro! It’s a special experience, where you can discover unique gifts while enjoying the warmth of a tight-knit community, making it a perfect destination for festive season shopping.

RESTAURANTS / DINING PUBLIC PARKING

DEPOT ST

DECEMBER 8-10 at Martin Marietta Center for The Performing Arts ticketmaster.com

DECEMBER 13-17 at DPAC (919) 680-2787 or dpacnc.com

Photography by Catherine Davis Photography

IRA DAVID WOOD III’S FINAL PERFORMANCES AS SCROOGE

people &places

2

3

1

4

Center of Creativity

BY LEAH BERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY EDWIN BARNES

Durham Arts Council’s 48th annual CenterFest returned to downtown in September 2023.

The longest-running outdoor juried arts festival in North Carolina saw a record attendance of 34,827 people celebrating our creative community in Durham’s vibrant City Center. This year’s event showcased 89 visual artists (including 23 from Durham) who traveled from cities in towns within North Carolina and nine other states to display their work, as well as entertainment from 67 performers across five stages. Attendees enjoyed fare from a variety of food trucks and vendors set up in CCB Plaza and a beer garden at Bull McCabe’s Irish Pub in addition to refreshing beverages from Durham Coca-Cola Bottling Co. throughout the rest of the festival. The little ones frolicked in a kids zone with creative activities and rides; the event also highlighted the city’s civic functions, with representatives from dozens of nonprofits and state and local government services sharing their messages with passersby.

5

16

6

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

1 Takiri Folclor Latino performers at CCB Plaza.

2 Sanha Kim and Sofia Dahlgren.

3 First Place Visual Artist Merit Award Winner Soonja Cook of LazyRiver Gallery. 4 Regina Gale & Friends perform at Duke Arts’ Five Points stage.

5 Artist Saudamini Madra. 6 Scott Weiner with his cat, Keeley. 7 Sandra Losa-Ward with Andjay Ward, 10, Elia Ward, 9, and Aisa Ward, 8.

7

1

2

Foundation for the Future

3

BY ALANA BLEIMANN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JERRY HEAD

The Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People – a civic organization that focuses on promoting the welfare of the Black community in Durham, eliminating racial discrimination and collaborating with other groups to improve various aspects of community life – hosted its 88th annual Founder’s Day Banquet at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park on Aug. 12, 2023, to celebrate the accomplishments of its members in politics, education, service and other fields over the past year. Civil rights specialist Stella Adams, founder and CEO of civil rights research and consulting firm S J Adams Consulting, and North Carolina Utilities Commissioner Floyd B. McKissick Jr. were the principal honorees at this year’s event, recognized for their unwavering commitment and contributions within the spheres of community service and politics. Youth honorees Harmony Fairley, a recent graduate of The School for Creative Studies and incoming freshman at UNC Greensboro, and Bryson Mittman, a seventh grader at Shepard Magnet Middle School, were also recognized for their influential leadership within their communities and each awarded $500 from the organization. The program additionally highlighted the achievements of Durham School of Technology grads Jordan Vereen and Kaelin Cadlett, who were each awarded scholarships of $1,000 from the organization. Karen Clark, midday on-air radio personality at Foxy 107.1/104.3, emceed the evening, Gov. Roy Cooper gave the keynote speech, and now-former Durham Mayor Elaine O’Neal presented E. Lavonia Allison with DCABP’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

5

6

7

8

4

1 DCABP Chair Walter Jackson, Jacqueline Beatty-Smith, Richard Smith and John Robinson.

2 Newly elected Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams, DCABP Civic Committee Chair Angelique Stallings and Zweli Williams. 3 Lifetime Achievement Award honoree E. Lavonia Allison.

4 Honoree Floyd B. McKissick Jr. and former Durham Mayor William V. Bell. 5 Honoree Stella Adams and N.C. House Rep. Zack Hawkins.

6 Henry McKinley “Mickey” Michaux Jr. with John Atkins of O’Brien Atkins. 7 Gov. Roy Cooper and Larry D. Hall, secretary for the N.C. Department of Military and Veterans Affairs and DCABP Interim First Vice Chair. 8 Durham County Commissioner Nimasheena Burns and Sheriff Clarence Birkhead.

9 Spectacular Magazine CEO/publisher Phyllis Coley.

9

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

17

People & Places

Hit Bull, Help Kids

BY CATHERINE VANSCHAICK PHOTO BY KEVIN SEIFERT

The Adam Dickinson Realty Group hosted a private batting practice fundraiser at Durham Bulls Athletic Park

on Sept. 6, 2023, to raise money and awareness for Me Fine, a foundation that provides emotional support and financial assistance to families whose children are receiving care at North Carolina partner hospitals including those within Duke Health, UNC Health and WakeMed Health & Hospitals. Clients and friends of the realty group participated in the event, which raised $3,000 for the organization.

Adam Dickinson Realty Group staff Carolyn Kinneen, Aryn Baker, Adam Dickinson and Dahlia Walker with Wool E. Bull.

Our boutique model is powerful.

18

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

People & Places

1

1 Jane Willborn and Museum of Durham History Programming Manager Lynne Lambert.

2 Sales Coordinator Maria Rangel and Director of Sales Shannon Groff of AC Hotel Durham, which sponsors the exhibit. 3 Jordan High School Principal Susan Stewart Taylor. 4 Jordan High School senior and student curator of the exhibit, Ava Kinghorn.

2

3

Museum of Oddities

4

BY LEAH BERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRAND FORTNER

The Museum of Durham History celebrated the opening of its new exhibit, “Stranger Times,” on Sept. 8, 2023, with popular food and music from the 1980s, a scavenger hunt for the more than 100 attendees to learn about retro “artifacts,” and speeches from sponsors and student curators. The project, based on the Emmy-winning Netflix series “Stranger Things,” delves into the intersection of contemporary and nostalgic themes in popular culture. Drawing inspiration from the alternate reality in the show known as the “Upside Down,” the exhibit metaphorically explores the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown on the lives and coming-of-age experiences of Durham teens. It remains on view through spring ​​ 2024.

Accepting seasonal consignment year-round no appointment needed

Consignment Boutique

2023

Voted Best Thrift/Consignment Store and Best Clothing Store!

1000 W. Main St. Downtown Durham

(Across from Brightleaf)

Raleigh’s Village District 510 Daniels St.

Mon-Sat 10am-7pm Sundays 12-6pm

Mon-Sat 10am-7pm Sundays 12-6pm

 MODE Consignment Boutique

 modeconsignment

919 803 5414

919 806 3434

Open 7 days a week. Gift cards available!

modeconsignment.com

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

19

noted.

W H AT W E ’ V E H E A R D A R O U N D O U R C I T Y …

GIVING BACK

The Durham Regional Association of Realtors donated $11,000 to 11 local nonprofits throughout 2023 via fundraisers and charitable activities, from refreshing public school grounds, to collecting school supplies for Fill That Bus, books for Book Harvest, toys for Duke Department of Pediatrics

and more. The organization’s largest fundraiser was Oct. 12, 2023, when it raised $24,291 for Hope Renovations, a nonprofit that provides hands-on training for women and older adults within construction fields.

Habitat for Humanity of Durham

➜

partnered with Garman Homes and J. Hoffman Studio Design and Build for its 2023 Home Builders Blitz, an annual event where organizations come together to build two homes in seven days in response to the need for more affordable housing opportunities for Durham families. Durham Habitat acquired the land and required permits while the two building companies provided materials and labor for the homes, which were completed Oct. 20, 2023.

FLYING HIGH

Raleigh-Durham International Airport held a grand opening on Sept. 21, 2023, for Durham’s own Beyu Caffe, which now offers its unique variety of coffee blends, smoothies, teas, baked goods, snacks, and grab-and-go sandwiches and salads to travelers at its new location between Terminals 1 and 2.

PHOTO COURTESY OF RALEIGH-DURHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

COMPILED BY: LENA MIANO 20

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

➜

The Museum of Life and Science welcomed male red wolf Adeyha in October 2023, as red wolf Niko moved to the Niabi Zoo in Illinois.

The transfer is part of a national effort to maximize the chance for red wolves to reproduce by introducing new partners.

Fittingly, MLS also recently launched a T-shirt campaign to support red

➜

Interior design studio Leslie May Designs and A Lotta Love, an organization that transforms homeless shelter bedrooms through inspiring makeovers, partnered together to renovate and decorate a Durham Crisis Response Center family crisis shelter. Thanks to sponsorships from organizations like the Durham Bulls, Leslie and A Lotta Love were able to turn a whole house into “a true home that is a warm cozy place for families to regroup, heal and move forward,” Leslie says. “The sense of dignity and self-worth that comes from living in a place, even temporarily, that is cared for and loving, is a tremendous boost to these families.”

On Oct. 23, 2023, Durham’s

Holistic Empathetic Assistance Response Team (HEART) expanded

to provide services to all residents within the city, seven days a week, 12 hours per day, thanks to the hiring of 19 new employees. Its units – Crisis Call Diversion, Community Response Teams, CoResponse and Care Navigation – can all be reached by dialing 911.

PHOTO COURTESY OF MUSEUM OF LIFE AND SCIENCE

The Place to See and be Seen The Fine Art of Shopping | Now open through January 2024 Raleigh – North Hills

For more information, visit us online balharbourshopspopup.com Follow along on social media @balharbourshops_popup

noted

NEWS BITES

➜

• Tasu Noodle Bar held a grand opening for its Watkins Road location on Sept. 8, 2023. The restaurant is the newest of four Shiki and Tasu Asian Bistro establishments specializing in rice bowls, ramen and Japanese dishes.

Affordable rental housing development Hardee Street Apartments in northeast central Durham broke ground on Sept. 20, 2023. The 132-unit mixed-use living community – a partnership between Self-Help Credit Union’s Ventures Fund and DHIC Inc. – is slated to open in early 2025. One-hundred-andfive units will be affordable to households making 60% less than the area median income, 14 will be affordable to those making 30% or less than the AMI, and the rest will cater to people with disabilities or those experiencing homelessness.

➜

• The Glass Jug Beer Lab started serving new draft cocktails that feature North Carolina-produced spirits mixed with local and organic juices and topped with its house brand of hard ginger beer – Harper’s Real Ginger Beer – on Dec. 1.

wolf conservation. Half of the proceeds will benefit the museum’s red wolves, and the other half will support the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Saving Animals From Extinction program.

It was also announced that MLS’s Magic Wings Butterfly House will undergo vital renovations and enhancements after receiving a $1 million grant from the state. The butterfly house, which opened in 1999 and has not received any significant updates since, will allow the facility to offer year-round rental services.

PHOTO BY ALEX MANESS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY JULIA LYNN

➜

• Raleigh’s Cheeni Indian Food Emporium owner Preeti Waas opened a Durham location in the former Jack Tar and the Colonel’s Daughter space in November 2023. The new spot is larger than its sister restaurant and offers breakfast, lunch and dinner most weekdays, shifting away from the Raleigh location’s cafe-style eatery.

WHAT AN HONOR

• Persian treats-inspired Pistachio Ice Cream is currently in a soft opening phase of its first location off of Chapel Hill Road.

The shop offers flavors from saffron and rosewater to pistachio and classic blends, all topped with a variety of nuts, syrups, fresh fruits and more.

22

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

The Durham Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity of Durham won a 2023 Housing North Carolina Award for their Hope VI Homeownership Partnership, a 37-home affordable and energy efficient development in East Durham. The award, presented by the N.C. Housing Finance Agency, recognizes the top affordable housing accomplishments across the state. 

Professional & Attentive Team

Preventive, Restorative, & Cosmetic Dentistry

.

.

Welcoming New Patients

William W. Turner, DMD

Jason W. Butler, DMD

Eric T. Cole, DMD

. croasdailedentalarts.com

2900 Croasdaile Drive, Suite 5, Durham, NC 27705

919.383.7402

2010-2023

Personalized Patient Care

Vets to Vets United founder Dr. Terry Morris received

➜

PHOTO BY FORREST MASON MEDIA

noted

• 21c Museum Hotel restaurant Counting House welcomed Stephanie Klos as its executive chef in September 2023. She brings 25 years of culinary experience from all over the country with her. “We want our food to be soulnourishing and to pay homage to North Carolina in our own playful way,” Stephanie says.

the 2023 ASPCA Henry Bergh Award, which recognizes a person or organization who has made a significant impact on animal wellness.

Terry founded Vets to Vets – a nonprofit that pairs rescued dogs and veterans with disabilities, and offers a two-year training program for veterans to learn how to best care for their new pets – in 2012.

➜

The Home Builders Association

of Durham, Orange and Chatham Counties announced the 2023

• The Common Market retail store and hang-out space opened its first Triangle location at 1821 Green St. on Sept. 26, 2023. The establishment is intended to create a “living room” for the

winners of its Remodelers Outstanding Construction program, which highlights remodeling projects completed within the past year: CQC Home for best home addition and best aging in place upfit; Trinity

Design/Build

for best exterior facelift and best major renovation between $250,001$500,000 and more than $500,000; BuildSense for best historic remodel and best attic/basement remodel; Grau Building Company for best outdoor living. Unified Custom Homes earned gold for best kitchen over $80,000, and Abacus Builders, took silver in best major renovation between $100,000$250,000.

BULLCITYSCHOOLS.ORG/DONATE

24

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

B&C Care System registered nurse

Anisha Byers was gifted a $10,000 scholarship by the company to attend a yearlong psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner

North Carolina Central University’s

women’s tennis team won the 22nd annual HBCU National Tennis Championship title. The players competed in a series of singles and doubles matches on Sept. 14-17, 2023, scoring 108 points altogether and beating their closest competitor by 15 points.

➜

Invest in Durham’s future Make a year-end gift today:

Durham secured the No. 15 spot on Forbes Advisor’s list of the most educated cities in the country. The ranking considers high school dropout rates, graduate degree rates as well as gender and racial gaps in each city’s education system. The Triangle’s college and higher degree rates were reported as higher than many other areas.

2022 2023

PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERCOLLEGIATE TENNIS ASSOCIATION

noted

among many other Bull City classics as well as new locales like Durham Vintage Collective, Little Bull and The Velvet Hippo. Durham is the second city in the state to be featured, and this constitutes the city’s second mention in the column.

➜

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

➜

➜

The New York Times highlighted Durham as part of its “36 Hours” travel feature, emphasizing the city’s newest development into a bustling downtown area with eateries, breweries, shops, historic locations and outdoor activities.

The Nov. 2, 2023, article suggested visiting the Nasher Museum of

Kristen HopkinsVincent, founder of Dangers of the Mind Education Fund, (left) and Maya Jackson, MAAME Inc.’s executive director,

Art at Duke University, Saltbox Seafood Joint, Ponysaurus Brewing Co., Monuts, Bennett Place State Historic Site, Motorco Music Hall and the Eno River,

PHOTO BY CARL R. BOCK

(below) were selected as two of United Way of the Greater Triangle’s 10 to Watch cohort.

The program recognizes and addresses disparities in local nonprofit leadership and amplifies underrepresented voices, investing $25,000 in each of the 10 named nonprofits per year.

innovation and excellence.

Sybil received the award at the WakeMed Soccer Park on Oct. 14, 2023. “Sybil is a joy to coach,” says Hannah Sink, NCFC Youth Regional Girls Director and Sybil’s coach. “Her positive attitude and encouraging spirit brings out the absolute best in her teammates and everyone around her.”

Sybil Ludington, 11, a sixth grader at Durham Academy and a player

The Lewis Prize for Music – a music and arts organization dedicated to recognizing and investing in leaders who positively impact young people through music – chose BUMP: The Triangle Executive Director Joy Harrell Goff as a finalist for its 2024 Accelerator Awards. BUMP connects students ages 6-18 to African diaspora

for the U12 Gold DCH (Durham/ Chapel Hill) Girls soccer team, was among the 450-plus recipients of the North Carolina FC Youth Shield Award, which highlights one player from each area team who exemplifies the club’s five core values: fun, community, passion,

➜

program at Duke University, which will allow Anisha to expand her role at the care facility. “B&C Care System continues to invest in highly skilled health care providers as the company prepares for a major expansion in staffing CNAs and personal care assistants,” says Executive Director Fortrell Johnson.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

25

North Carolina Central University secured the No. 11 spot among top HBCUs and the No. 24 best value school in the country in U.S. News and World Report’s 2024 Best Colleges rankings. The university rose from its previous No. 14 and 44 spots, respectively.

The report is based on graduation and retention rates, social mobility, faculty resources, alumni giving and more. visual and performing arts in order to build heritage and cultural knowledge, artistic proficiency, agency and communalism. Prize winners, which receive either longterm or single-year support, will be announced on Jan. 29, 2024.

in November 2023 for her educational leadership; she’s one of only two North Carolina educators to have received the Milken Award this year.

➜

Maureen Joy Charter School

held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 22, 2023, as it welcomed four electric buses as part of Duke Energy’s EV School Bus program and celebrated its status as one of the first schools in the country to have a fleet of electric buses.

Attendees were invited to ride on one of the new vehicles and meet the sustainable energy team.

➜

➜

IN OUR SCHOOLS

Durham Public Schools celebrated

the ongoing construction of

Murray-Massenburg Elementary School with a school beam signing

and topping out ceremony on Sept.

21, 2023, during which digital signatures were imprinted on the tallest and last beam placed. The new school, under construction since October 2022, will accomodate roughly 800 students from pre-K through fifth grade upon its expected completion in August 2024.

PHOTO BY TONY CUNNINGHAM

➜

• Harvest 18 owner Jason Smith served the restaurant’s last meal on Oct. 15, 2023, after almost 10 years. Jason said he’d decided to focus solely on family and his Raleigh Southern-Tex restaurant, Cantina 18. “I would like to thank all of our regulars and everyone [who] supported the restaurant, especially during the tough times since 2020,” Jason said in an email.

• Saffron Indian Cuisine took over the former Itaewon Grill location off of Erwin Road in November 2023. The Cary-born restaurant, led by chef Gamer Rawat, specializes in authentic North Indianstyle dishes.

26

|

durhammag.com

COMINGS AND GOINGS

Pearsontown Elementary School Principal Asia Cunningham

(pictured center) received the $25,000 Milken Educator Award |

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Bull City Massage Therapy relocated to a new space at 310 E. Main St., Ste. 103. U.S. Air Force veteran and owner Susan Falyar

built out the spot to suit the needs of the business, which celebrated its fourth anniversary this year.

ARTS & CULTURE

WUNC aired the first episode of its new show, “Due South,” which provides a deep dive into issues, culture and communities within North Carolina and the South, on Oct. 30, 2023. Co-hosts and longtime journalists Leoneda Inge and Jeff Tiberii guide audiences through conversations on a variety of topics each weekday morning at 10 a.m.

Sauna House, a community

bathhouse that focuses on the harmony of sustainability and self-care through its cold plunge, light and sauna therapies, is slated to open in summer 2024 at 326 W. Geer St., where Sauna House CEO and founder Andrew Lachlan is pictured below.

Meanwhile, Beem Light Sauna, a light therapy studio offering infrared, red and chromotherapy solutions for holistic health, is slated to open in January 2024 in Ellis Crossing.

The two businesses join the sauna scene alongside Ahava

➜

Steams Sauna Boutique, located in Hamilton Centre, which

PHOTO BY GAVIN JOCIUS

• Southeast Asian fusion restaurant CO is slated to open another Triangle location at The Streets at Southpoint, taking over the space previously occupied by Zinburger. The restaurant has locations across the state, including one in Raleigh, and offers noodles, pho, sushi, banh mi and more.

offers a variety of infrared heating technology, wellness sessions and complimentary shower services.

➜

PHOTO BY FORREST MASON MEDIA

➜

neighborhood while also offering a curated mix of craft beer, affordable wine, local food and deli favorites to enjoy indoors and out. The Parlour also operates its “Junior” walk-up window out of the space, while Mid Bloom Coffee offers coffee, tea and pastries.

noted

Professional boxer, kickboxer and MMA fighter Marcus Davis published his first book, “How I Became the Irish Hand Grenade,” which follows a young protagonist who perseveres through childhood hardships and becomes a UFC fighter, in August 2023. The author and former threesport athlete’s second book, “Age Defying Vitality: A Fitness Journey to 50,” was published on Nov. 6, 2023.

1415 West HWY 54, Suite 207 Durham, NC 27707

Services Provided: • DWI/DUI Evaluations • Counseling Services • Sandplay Therapy • Emotional Freedom Technique • Clinical Hypnosis • Trauma Therapy-EMDR • Substance Abuse Group Counseling

Reasons for Services: • Being charged with a DWI/DUI • Life transitions • Relationship conflicts • Constantly feeling sad or anxious • Death of an important person • Job/School concerns

Office: 984.219.7727 | Fax: 984.219.7968 | healingmindsnc.com

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

27

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF RESIDENTIAL REAL ESTATE: SIMPLY THE BEST PEAK, SWIRLES & CAVALLITO In 1993, Susan Peak, Sudi Swirles and Ann Cavallito founded Peak, Swirles & Cavallito Properties (PSCP) with a goal for excellence. Dedicated to the highest level of service for clients, their knowledgeable and skilled associates have diverse experiences in residential brokerage. They are committed to providing exceptional service and maintaining client relationships far beyond the sale. PSCP values being a part of the personal path chosen by each client.

Their team has a deep appreciation for the opportunity to be a respected resource for real estate throughout the Triangle.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-419-1234

|

3608 SHANNON RD., STE. 100, DURHAM

|

PSCP.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF DURHAM’S EVENT RENTAL COMPANY AMERICAN PARTY RENTALS Founded by Pete and Judy Daymont in 1989, American Party Rentals (APR) is Durham’s premier event rental provider. Now under the second generation of family leadership, APR partners with clients to create memorable events and deliver exceptional experiences. They specialize in providing unique and high-end tabletop equipment, such as glassware, china, linens and flatware. From extravagant weddings and backyard barbecues to university fundraisers and corporate holiday parties, APR provides rental services for a wide variety of events. Todd and Chad Daymont are excited to continue working with the greater Durham community to build a better tomorrow, one event at a time.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-544-1555

|

3633 S. ALSTON AVE., DURHAM

|

AMERICANPARTYRENTALS.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

THE FACE OF FAMILY LAW PATRICK LAW, PLLC Cheri Patrick graduated from Duke Law in 1999 and opened The Law Office of Cheri Patrick in Durham in 2001, focusing on family law – specifically advocacy for non-traditional families. With the addition of associate attorneys Ethan Timmins and Kirsten Grieser, the firm became Patrick Law, PLLC. Along with practicing family law, Ethan is a respected wills, trusts, and estates attorney, and Kirsten is a successful appellate attorney.

Patrick Law is proud of their dedication to each client’s individual needs.

Each case is unique and understanding what matters to clients is why their firm prioritizes “Protecting What Matters.”

919-956-7171

|

3805 UNIVERSITY DR., STE. A, DURHAM

|

PATRICKLAWNC.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF THE ARTS AT DUKE DUKE ARTS Duke University’s Vice Provost for the Arts, John V. Brown, has overseen a remarkable transformation in Duke Arts. The newly rebranded Duke Arts Presents, previously known as Duke Performances, now embraces literary, cinematic and visual arts in addition to the performing arts. This expansion creates an inclusive space for art enthusiasts within the university and greater Durham area, including free community arts workshops offered through Duke Arts Create. John Brown, who got his start as a musician, can still be found performing in and around campus for special occasions, truly exemplifying the fusion of artistic passion and administrative vision.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ARTS.DUKE.EDU

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-382-2000

|

1901 HILLANDALE RD., STE. 100, DURHAM

|

WESTANDWOODALL.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACES OF LOCAL REAL ESTATE WEST & WOODALL AND PICKETT SPROUSE West & Woodall Real Estate is a full-service residential, commercial and real estate management company made up of West & Woodall Real Estate, Pickett Sprouse Commercial Real Estate and West & Woodall Property Management. Originally operating

as three long-time, local real estate firms, the companies joined together in recent years as part of the West & Woodall family of companies.

With roots that run deep in the Triangle and beyond, West & Woodall and Pickett Sprouse agents and brokers are the heart and soul of their companies. They share an unwavering commitment to delivering personable service and building strong relationships while using their industry knowledge and expertise to deliver the best possible outcomes for their clients. At West & Woodall, every client is treated as part of the family, and every property is managed as if it were their own.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF DURHAM’S PREMIER PRIVATE DINING CLUB UNIVERSITY CLUB Established in 1987, the University Club is Durham’s premier private dining club. Located in the penthouse of University Tower, the Club offers gourmet dining amid panoramic views of Durham, Chapel Hill, Duke University and Duke Forest.

Over the past 22 years, Kelly Santel and Jessica Lee have worked in many roles, including server, events director and manager, and eventually became co-owners and managing partners. They are celebrating 13 years of ownership with their team of dedicated servers, bartenders, cooks, dishwashers, managers and chefs.

The University Club is a home for members to create lasting memories with their families, friends and colleagues.

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

919-493-8099

|

3100 TOWER BLVD., STE. 1700, DURHAM

|

UNIVERSITYCLUBNC.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF FINANCE BAKER WEALTH ADVISORS With more than 10 years of experience, Marie Baker, CFP®, AAMS® opened an independent practice in 2022. She offers multiple ways to partner together – from financial planning to investment management, or as a strategic consultant for your family or business, all with your best interest in mind.

Marie understands that your life, your goals and your dreams are yours alone. Working with Baker Wealth Advisors, you’ll have the comprehensive resources, longstanding support and the thoughtful sounding board you need to plan for more – more control, more possibility and more of what matters to you.

She offers complimentary consultations, please contact her online.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-321-1213

|

2828 PICKETT RD., STE. 100, DURHAM

|

BAKERWA.COM

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Baker Wealth Advisors is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF DIGITAL MARKETING TRIANGLE DIGITAL PARTNERS Triangle Digital Partners emerged in 2019 from parent company Triangle Media Partners, a multimedia marketing and publishing company (publisher of this magazine) with over 800 regional clients. TDP was established to meet the needs of Triangle-based businesses navigating the evolving landscape of digital marketing. Running an organization and following digital marketing trends is challenging, especially when Google and Meta constantly change their algorithms. Our team offers support to enhance your digital presence and strategically allocate marketing resources. Working with us, you gain a local partner committed to tailoring custom, thoughtful and flexible marketing plans to meet your unique business objective’s with a common goal to build a sustainable and vibrant community where we live, work and play.

We get your customers!

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-933-1551

|

1777 FORDHAM BLVD, STE 105, CHAPEL HILL

|

TRIANGLEDIGITALPARTNERS.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION SERVICES & GENERAL CONTRACTING GATEWAY BUILDING COMPANY

PHOTO BY SARAH MARTIN

Downtown Durham’s most recognizable commercial general contractor, Gateway Building Company is known for its deep Durham roots and iconic projects.

Gateway Building Company was founded in 2013 by Jack Moore, whose experience in the Durham market dates back to 1974. As the company quickly grew, Austin Moore and Pete Zseleczky joined the team. Now, Gateway has completed more than 700 projects in Durham and the surrounding areas.

Gateway is deeply thankful for its clients’ support over the years and will continue to help make Durham a great place to live, work and play.

919-797-2527

|

618 RAMSEUR ST., STE 102, DURHAM, NC

|

GATEWAYBUILDCO.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF AWARD-WINNING DESIGN-BUILD & REMODELING CQC HOME CQC Home, led by Kenneth Combs and Daryl Mejeur, provides professional whole home remodeling and renovation services across Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. Their team of passionate, highly-skilled designers and field crews understand the trust that clients place in them to create their dream kitchens, ADU’s or additions. CQC communicates consistently, collaborating closely with clients throughout the renovation process. Born and bred in Durham, North Carolina, CQC understands the local building and remodeling industry and improves homes with caring attention. They recognize the privilege of being invited into your home and demonstrate their appreciation through their dedication to bringing your home design visions to life.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-971-5119

|

5102 DURHAM-CHAPEL HILL BLVD., STE.100, DURHAM

|

CQCHOME.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE FACE OF ENDODONTICS A.K. BOBBY MALLIK, D.M.D. Since 2006, Dr. A.K. Bobby Mallik has provided specialized dental care in endodontics in Durham. His team shares one goal – caring for the patient from the moment they walk through the door. With a thoughtful, warm and informative approach, Dr. Mallik and his team utilize cutting-edge technology to more accurately diagnose patients and offer efficient, viable treatment options. Dr. Mallik is a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics – a qualification attained by only 30% of practicing endodontists. As a board-certified endodontist, Dr. Mallik focuses on providing the highest level of and most effective treatment for patients.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

919-493-5332

|

5324 MCFARLAND DR., STE. 120, DURHAM

|

DURHAMENDO.COM

liday HoY

g n i t s o HY

B e l l ’ e r e T h Parties for

Foodies share go-to holiday dishes and desserts that are sure to impress every guest P HOTO G RA P H Y B Y JAME S STE FIU K

40

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Berry Festive

onnie Littell and Brian Littell moved from a small farm

in southwest Virginia to North Durham in early 2023.

“Over the years we’ve raised a combination of sheep, dairy goats, turkeys, chickens and bees and had a large garden,” Connie says. “We downsized and moved [here] to live near our daughter, Claire, and son-inlaw, Travis.” They also have another daughter, Tracy, who lives in central Florida with her husband, Brad, and kids Dominic, 10, Maxine, 6, and Wrenley, 1.

The family has enjoyed these Red Roosters cocktails during the holidays for going on 15 years now. While it’s typically a pre-Thanksgiving dinner drink, “We usually have it on hand for Christmas, too,” Connie says. “It lasts a very long time in the freezer. …

If you have any left come New Year’s Eve, put a scoop in a pretty glass and top it with a splash of Champagne.”

Connie says she saw the recipe on a Food Network holiday show “forever ago, and it sounded great.” She even entered her version of the drink into a cocktail contest for the TV show “True Blood” using the program’s branded blood orange soda in 2010 – and it won! “My prizes included a T-shirt, a poster, a pack of the ‘True Blood’ soda and VIP tickets to the ‘True Blood’ convention in Orlando to meet several of the cast members,” Connie says. 

RED ROOSTER S • 64 oz. cranberry juice (needs to be a high concentration of juice – too much water, and it won’t freeze right) • 10 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate • 1 cup vodka • Cranberries (optional) • Orange slices (optional)

A

dd the cranberry juice to a freezersafe container with a lid, then add the frozen orange juice concentrate.

Let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

Add the vodka, mix well, put a lid on it, and pop it in the freezer overnight. The next day, scoop it into glasses. If desired, add a cranberry and orange slice on a toothpick (or just an orange slice), and serve with a spoon.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durham Magazine editors recommend trying this cocktail with Liberty & Plenty Distillery’s Slate Belt Spirits’ Cold Distilled Citrus Vodka.

Durhammag.com

|

41

liday HoY

Brie Prepared aren Cunningham started making a variation of this appetizer about 10 years ago.

She experimented with different bases (i.e. phyllo vs. crostini) and fruit toppings, but found that “brie’s mild and buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the honey, the tartness of the blackberry and crunch of the phyllo cup.”

This finger food is a staple for her and her family – husband Geoffrey Cunningham; daughters Annalee Cunningham, 9, and Audrey Cunningham, 6; and their bluetick hound, Maggie May – this time of year. “It’s so easy, yet 42

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

feels – and looks – like it took effort,” Karen says. “It’s also on the ‘lighter’ side, as opposed to a fully baked brie or some type of dip.”

Karen says the key to making this easy app taste like it comes from a high-end restaurant is the ingredients. “While I purchase already-made phyllo cups out of convenience, I try for the rest to be local,” she says. “The Durham Farmers Market is a great place to source from (and support) local farmers. We like Fricks Apiaries for honey and Boxcarr Handmade Cheese – specifically a mature Boxcarr Cottonbell cheese, which is brie-like.” 

B AK ED B RIE PHYLLO CUP S • 24 phyllo cups (homemade or premade shells) • 8 oz. chilled brie (or brietype cheese) • ¼ cup honey • 24 blackberries

P

reheat oven to 375 F. Place phyllo cups on a baking sheet. Cut chilled brie into ½-inch cubes and distribute among the cups. Drizzle honey into the cups. Bake for 5-7 minutes (or until cheese melts). Top each cup with a fresh blackberry.

Serve warm.

“

I adore being surrounded by family, friends, good food and wine.

– KAREN CUN N IN G HAM

Phyllo Cups • 8 oz. packet of phyllo dough • Nonstick cooking spray or canola oil • ¼ cup butter

T

haw phyllo dough according to package instructions.

Preheat oven to 350 F. Grease two 12 mini muffin pans with nonstick cooking spray (or canola oil).

Melt butter and set aside. Unroll the phyllo on a large cutting board covered in plastic wrap.

Cut the stack of phyllo sheets into quarters, cutting in half lengthwise, then crosswise.

One at a time, layer 5 or 6 pieces of phyllo into each muffin well, lightly brushing each layer with melted butter and gently pressing the dough into the bottom and against the sides of the pan (fine to let the excess extend past the top of the pan).

When all cups are formed, lightly brush the insides with butter. Bake for 10 minutes (or until cups are golden brown and crispy). Let cool slightly, then transfer the cups to wire racks to cool completely.

You can make and store (at room temperature) up to three days earlier.

*Note: Cover any dough you are not using with plastic wrap or a damp kitchen towel to prevent it from drying out for later use.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

43

liday HoY

A Gracious Plenty his decadeold recipe from Durham native Jaime Lawing found its pride of place when she worked as the catering chef at UNC Charlotte.

“I would make this for the football team every once in a while, but especially in the cooler months the day before they had a big game,” Jaime says. “Coaches and players always loved this [dish] because it gave the players a hearty, filling meal that also felt comforting to them. My favorite kind of compliments are those that make people remember something nostalgic or reminds them of home. [The] football [squad] loved it so much that this meal became a rotational menu item for the basketball team (women’s and men’s) as well.”

Jaime, her husband, Marcus Lawing, kids Mariah Lawing, 14, and Jaxxon Lawing, 12, and their cat, Lincoln, moved back to the South Durham area in 2020 to be closer to Jaime’s relatives again as they prepared to welcome Micah, now 2. She ran her own private chef service, Chef Jaime, for a time (she still offers some catering and chef services to this day), and says her clients would request this meal fairly often.

“This recipe makes for a great holiday gathering because it’s typically a crowd pleaser, it’s easy to bulk up or stretch if you need to feed a larger group of people, it’s super affordable, and it’s a hug to your tummy!” Jaime says. “I’ve made this for my own family of five for Christmas and even gifted a few pans to family friends. I think some of the best gifts around the holidays are ones you can eat and enjoy with your family and friends.”  44

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

WORLD’S B EST B AK ED SPAG HETTI 12 servings • 1 lb. ground beef (can substitute ground turkey) • 1 medium onion, chopped • 24 oz. marinara • 1 lb. spaghetti noodles • 8 oz. cream cheese, room temperature • 1 cup cottage cheese • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided • 1 egg • 1 Tbsp. parsley flakes • Salt and pepper, to taste • Olive oil or avocado oil • 2 cups mozzarella cheese • 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley

PLAN LIK E A PRO Jaime recommends grabbing tomatoes – she gets hers from the South Durham Farmers Market – to make your own tomato sauce in the summer and store for use in this recipe.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

P

reheat the oven to 350 F. In a medium skillet, cook ground meat and onion until done. Drain off the fat. Pour marinara sauce over meat and mix well.

In a large pot, cook spaghetti according to package directions. When done, drain. Add cream cheese and mix well, coating the pasta.

In a medium bowl, mix cottage cheese, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley and salt and pepper.

To build baked spaghetti, grease a 9-by-13 casserole dish with oil and place ½ cup meat sauce in the bottom. Place half of spaghetti on top of the meat mixture, smoothing to the edges. Layer on cottage cheese mixture, covering all of the spaghetti.

Layer remaining spaghetti over cheese. Spoon remaining meat mixture over all layers. Top with mozzarella.

Cover with parchment and foil, and bake for 20 minutes.

Remove paper and foil, sprinkle on remaining Parmesan cheese, and put back in the oven for an additional 15 minutes until cheese is golden brown. Remove from oven, and allow it to rest for 10 minutes. Cut into squares, finish off with chopped fresh parsley (dried flakes are fine, too), and serve with salad and fresh bread.

Durhammag.com

|

45

liday HoY

HERSHEY B AR CAK E • 1 box chocolate cake mix • 1 small box of instant vanilla pudding • 3 eggs • 1½ cup milk • 1 cup oil

P

reheat the oven to 325 F. Line two 8-inch round cake pans with wax paper (or another method you prefer). Add all ingredients to a mixer and combine until well-blended. Pour evenly into the cake pans. Bake for 38 minutes.* Once the cake has cooled, cut each cake into two layers. Add a generous amount of icing to each layer and around the sides. Keep the cake refrigerated until you are ready to serve. *Baking time will vary by oven. Start out with less time, and check the cake with a toothpick at various intervals.

Take it out of the oven when just a few crumbs are on the toothpick.

Immediately remove from cake pans and put on a cooling rack.

This ensures your cake does not continue to cook in the hot pans.

O Christmas Treats

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

never thought I would do this job,” says Keri Efird, owner of Baker Street Cookies, but adds that she is truly living out her dream.

Keri had always baked for loved ones on the side, but she had the chance to make it her full-time gig after she was laid off from her job as a publication designer in Chapel Hill in 2018. Her friends and family encouraged her to sell her beloved cookies on a larger scale, and thus, Baker Street Cookies made its debut in an announcement on 46

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Icing* • 8 oz. cream cheese, softened

social media on Jan. 18, 2019. “I thought, ‘Well, why not?’” Keri • 1 cup powdered says. “It was low risk.” sugar Keri has fond • ½ cup sugar memories of baking • 12 oz. biscuits and cookies Cool Whip with her “Meemaw,” • 3 1.55 oz. who lived just down Hershey’s Milk the road from her Chocolate bars, shaved childhood home in Fayetteville, North lend cream Carolina. Her cheese, powdered sugar grandmother passed and sugar in a away 12 years ago, mixer until smooth. but Keri cherishes Add Cool Whip gradually until all the time they spent ingredients are together and honored incorporated. Fold in most of her memory by the chocolate naming the business bar shavings with after Meemaw’s a spoon or spatula.

Save the reserved address on Baker shavings to Street. The Baker add to the top Street Cookies logo of the cake. even incorporates *Make the icing the silhouette of the night before so it can firm up the exact rolling pin before spreading that belonged to her on to cake. grandmother, which was made by her great-grandfather, a carpenter. Keri now uses that same 80-yearold rolling pin to make each batch of cookies.

“Every time I bake cookies or look at the logo, it makes me happy,” she says.

Keri only makes custom sugar cookies these days, providing personalized treats for anything from a small birthday gathering to a 200-person wedding or business event – even a liver transplant party! “I love it because it brings joy to people,” she says. “The cookies are usually for something fun, and even the times when I’ve made them in sympathy, it brings at least a little joy.”

Keri believes the secret to getting perfect cookies every time boils down to one word: consistency. She’s a devoted recipe follower, and now that she’s found a foolproof technique, she crafts her delectable treats with the same unwavering precision each and every time. Keri’s committed to ensuring her cookies are as flawless and as fresh as possible for her customers: She bakes the day before a delivery, ices them that night, then decorates and packages them the day of. “I’m grateful this skill was uncovered, because I love the flexibility, and I love being a part of people’s special day,” Keri says.

Keri’s talent is showcased in the expertly crafted cookies that grace our cover, adding to the joy and whimsy of our holiday issue.

B

While we’d never dream of asking her to divulge the magical formula that goes into those cookies, we were curious what other desserts she enjoys making at the southwest Durham home she shares with her husband, Steve Efird, and 7-year-old son, Carter Efird. Keri’s go-tos for special occasions are her Hershey Bar Cake – a favorite for celebrations; Keri’s mom handmade her birthday cakes, and Keri continues that tradition – and a chocolate chess pie, another ode to her grandmother, who brought a pie to nearly every family gathering. Carter loves to help his mom in the kitchen, especially with treats like these so he can reap the benefits of leftover sweets.

“He also likes that I have hundreds of cookie cutters to cut his sandwiches into fun shapes,” Keri says.

“Hey, Siri, find the quickest route to the North Carolina coast.”

“Starting route to LOCALS SEAFOOD in the Durham Food Hall at 530 Foster Street, Durham, NC.”

CHOCOLATE CHESS PIE • 3 eggs • 1¹/³ cup sugar • ¼ tsp. salt • 1 tsp. vanilla • 1¹/³ stick salted butter (about 11 Tbsp.)

• 1½ oz. unsweetened Baker’s Chocolate baking bar (6 squares), chopped • 1 unbaked pie shell*

P

reheat oven to 365 F. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, salt and vanilla. In a small pot (or a double boiler) on low heat, melt butter and chocolate pieces.

Add chocolate to the sugar mixture.

Mix together well

with whisk and pour into pie crust.

Bake for about 35 minutes. (Oven temperatures vary, so adjust accordingly. Pie should be set, with a little jiggle.

After 15 minutes of baking, place a silicone crust cover or foil over the crust to prevent excessive browning.) Allow the pie to cool before cutting. As the pie cools, it will continue to set.

Pie can be served as is, but you can also heat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds and add Cool Whip or vanilla ice cream. *Either a frozen pie crust (in a disposable pie pan) or a refrigerated pie crust in your own pan will work just fine.

PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Glow

for the holidays.

HamiltonHillJewelry.com

ORDER ONLINE AT localsseafood.com

Brightleaf Square courtyard 905 West Main Durham, NC 27701 919.683.1474

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

47

liday HoY

48

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

t a H p To e h t g n i Pass

id Wood III v a D ra I s a n io n and transit A tale of traditio rooge in Theatre in the Park’s role of Sc ic n o ic e th s th a beque avid Wood IV D ra I , n o s is h SI M PS O N arol’ to HN M IC HA EL C s a tm s AP HY BY JO ri GR h TO C O PH ‘A |

BY AN NA -R

he inimitable Ira David Wood III says there’s only

one moment he dreads before every performance as Ebenezer Scrooge in his musical comedy adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”; it’s pulling on those tights.

“Oh, my God,” David says, rolling his eyes about the Victorian style of dress. “And putting on that nose.

Your nose can get raw underneath the rubber; when you peel it off, [it] can take off layers [of skin]. We’ve learned to put a tiny Band-Aid on the bridge of your nose, then put [Scrooge’s] nose on over that.”

This season, the founder and executive director of Theatre in the Park will officially pass the Dickensian role – along with its signature costumes

HE SA VE RS O

“

That cold breath of mortality on the back of your neck can be inspiring.

You want to live every day, and you want to love every day, you want to make a difference every day.

– IRA DAVID WOOD III

LA

– on to his eldest son, Ira David Wood IV. “I’m 76,” David says. “I just thought, while I have my faculties, and I can still move, this would be a good time to turn it over to Ira. He certainly demonstrated that he’s ready for the role. I’m sure it will be emotional when I walk off stage for the last time, but I haven’t even thought about that, because now it’s all about putting the show together.”

David’s final bow as Scrooge after playing the part for 50 years will be Dec. 17 at Durham Performing Arts Center’s 2 p.m. matinee show.

Afterward, he will continue his roles as an administrator and director of the production. Ira, 38, a seasoned actor and artistic director at Theatre in the Park, has taken turns as Scrooge since 2010 when his father suffered an aortic aneurysm and underwent open heart surgery. Ira was 26 at the time, only a year younger than when David first debuted the production in 1974 in Raleigh. 

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

49

liday HoY

“After doing it my first year, and doing the physicality [of it], seeing Dad do it in his 70s is pretty incredible – I was getting a little winded at 26,” Ira recalls. “I’m very impressed that he can still conjure up that energy and stay in that zone. It’s never really wavered in all these years. If anything, at this point, part of stepping down is just health concerns, because he won’t stop unless someone makes him.”

Main Characters

Millions in the U.S., France and England have seen David’s musical and comedic rendition of “A Christmas Carol” by this point. The show is often Ira David Wood III leans on the chair behind his son, Ira David Wood IV. After 50 years of playing the part of Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” David retires from the role this season, passing it on to Ira and the next generation of actors. praised as a Broadwayquality production and one of the most successful in our state’s theater history. David, David says generations of families see a 1970 graduate of UNC School of the Arts in “A Christmas Carol” as their holiday tradition.

Winston-Salem, has a lifelong devotion to stagecraft “One night during the lullaby, I saw a grandfather, in North Carolina, even turning down offers from father and grandchild sitting together on the front Hollywood and New York in favor of teaching, row,” he says. “The lights are right on us, and that’s acting and directing locally. His numerous and varied the one time in the show that I can really look out if accomplishments include writing and directing the I want to, and I saw the grandfather reach over the opening ceremonies for the U.S. Olympic Festival in grandson and put his hand on the shoulder of his 1987, writing “A Lover’s Guide to the Outer Banks” son. And then I saw them both touch the child in and “Confessions of an Elf,” and winning a Tony the middle. And I thought, ‘Oh, wow. They know.’

Honor for Excellence in Theatre award when he was That’s the gift. They’re all there to share it together. artistic director for “The Lost Colony” in 2013.

And they won’t always be there. It just floored me.

He says his greatest joy is his family. He and It makes me emotional just to talk about it. But that his wife, Ashley Mattox Wood, have a son, was the gift – to see that song and that moment in Thomas Miller Wood, 11, who’s played the role the show. They got it. That’s what you live for – to of Tiny Tim. David’s two adult children from his get those moments where they understand.” first marriage to acting coach Sara Lynn Moore, Ira and Evan Rachel Wood, 36, have also shared the stage with their father.

For Ira and his sister, the theater was their playhouse.

David expects to see his daughter return home for “They would go into the prop shop and get their – IRA DAVID WOOD III this year’s alumni cast reunion, which will include swords and run around,” David says. “They used to actors who began their careers with Theatre in the have their sleeping bags offstage. We were doing Park, like Frankie Muniz of “Malcolm in the Middle” and Michael C. ‘Othello,’ and their mother was playing Desdemona, and I was playing Hall of “Dexter.” Evan is most recently known for her starring role as Iago. They were sleeping offstage in the prop room, and when the door Dolores Abernathy in the TV series “Westworld.” was open, they could look out onto the stage. They would wake up every

“

That is the one thing about comedy: You can’t fake funny. An audience will laugh, or they won’t. You can fake drama. You can fake tears. But you can’t fake funny.

And we live or die on that audience.

50

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Exposition

Denouement

night and watch their mother getting strangled to death. They would look at each other and go, ‘Mom did really, really great. Great death scene, Mom!’ And they’d go back to sleep.”

David says he is looking forward to watching how Scrooge’s character develops under Ira’s direction. “He does stuff that I can’t do,” David says. “He does a Christopher Walken imitation that just puts me out. It’s hysterical. And he’s woven it into the show. We still do a lot of topical humor, which I think people have come to really enjoy –t’s one way to demonstrate that the story still matters.

When I’m seeing Jacob Marley when he first appears, I’m like, ‘President Biden, is that you?’ We take a little shot at both sides of the aisle. And I think people have gotten used to that. The audience knows what we’re doing, and they go along.”

With his father’s blessing, Ira will carry the traditions forward. “It’s been a gift that I have loved and treasured growing up,” Ira says. “It’s a responsibility, but it’s definitely a pleasure. I’m excited to see what can be accomplished in the future.”

Ira says he was 6 or 7 years old when he sat on the stairs Christmas morning, feeling sad. His father asked what was the matter. “I said, ‘My Christmas wish was for your dad to be here to celebrate Christmas,’” Ira says of his grandfather, who passed away when David was 12. “And [Dad] said, ‘Well, you know, I think he is.’ I think that moment sticks out because it was an early lesson about what Christmas is and its meaning. Charles Dickens did a wonderful job tapping into that therapy.”

Christmas is about transformation, David says. “I’ve always thought, if you can laugh at Scrooge, you’re laughing at yourself, because there’s a little bit of Scrooge in everybody,” he says.

Throughout the performance, the audience follows the main character’s evolution. And then, there comes a moment on stage that David holds as long as he can.

“Nobody breathes; nobody moves,” he says of the close to 2,400 people in a typical Raleigh audience and 2,700 people in Durham. “It’s silence. It’s stillness. It’s Christmas. When Scrooge starts to sing, the tears start, and everything that we’ve done for an hour and 50 minutes has led up to that moment. I’ve said to the cast that if you put your hand up, there’s a force you can feel, and it’s the love that comes across that stage and is returned to the audience. In the end – I’ve said it over and over – the gift is to the giver. We’ve worked our hearts and bodies to get to that moment, and all we have to do is relax and feel it. People cry. People laugh.

It’s just a happy, happy moment. And there’s no better way to leave an audience when that curtain closes.”

please join us for a

HOLIDAY LUNCHEON honoring our 40th year

Wed. Dec. 6, 2023

11:30 a.m.

Urban Ministries of Durham 410 Liberty St. Durham, NC

host committee

Ann-Louise & Newman Aguiar Laurie Braun & John Taylor Yolanda Brown Angeloe Burch Sue Concannon Jackie Cohen & Nate Nussbaum Josephine & Fredrick Davis Sarah Beckwith & Bart Ehrman Leigh & Jeff Furman Kelly & Jacob Goad Stephanie K. Johnson Demetria E. & Antonio Jones Lee Little Barbara & George Lucaci Clare Matti Faye Banks & Harvey McMurray Patrice Nelson Deborah & Michael Page Virginia Parker, Bank of America Cecily & Andrew Peterson Tarkisha Poole Leighton Roper Susan Ross & Tom Hadzor Wendy & David Sontolongo Susan & Matt Springer Kelli Dugan & John St. Clair Jennifer & Brian Vosburgh Yvette & Rich West Maryann Younger

RSVP to Shana at sfilter@umdurham.org

umdurham.org/donate

Bart Ehrman Foundation

The William R. Kenan, Jr. Charitable Trust

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

51

e v i t s e FY liday HoY

T hat

Feeling

h spirited Make merry wit the Bull City d n u ro a s n o ti celebra RO US E PS O N

BY LA UR EN IC HA EL SI M

BY JO HN M HY AP GR TO PH O

Holiday Tree Lighting Dec. 2, 5-9 p.m.

The tree lighting is a celebration of the holidays and also the city of Durham.

This year’s program includes a holiday market, music from the Choral Society of Durham, Fruits of Our Labor and Duck. Batalá Durham provides the drumroll to the tree lighting, current Mayor Elaine O’Neal lights the tree, and the jolly old man in a red suit will also make an appearance!

“The downtown Durham tree lighting highlights Durham’s diversity and our welcoming community,” says Nicole J. Thompson, president and CEO of Downtown Durham Inc., which organizes the event.

“It is always a fun, family-friendly and uniquely Durham experience.”

52

|

durhammag.com

|

Holidays in the Park Select nights in December Enjoy a memorable stroll with your loved ones through outdoor and indoor spaces at the Museum of Life and Science. Follow shimmering pathways and glowing trees from the gardens to the Dinosaur Trail and revel in the tropical temperatures inside the Magic Wings Butterfly House. Plus, take a train ride on the Ellerbe Creek Railway, passing colorful light displays along the way.

Wool E. Bull’s Winter Wonderland Select nights in December Durham Bulls Athletic Park transforms into a festive wonderland with largescale light installations, visits with Santa (or his favorite elf, Wool E. Claus) and an Arctic Chill Tavern beer garden.

Enjoy sledding on six Frosty Fun Hill slopes, reserve an infield igloo and ride the Bulls Express train around the outfield. Indulge in seasonal snacks and drinks and then shop for unique gifts at Winterland Market. The ballpark’s stands dazzle with a spectacular 13,000-light, 4-mile display of colors and music.

Christmas by Candlelight Dec. 1 and 8, 5:30-9 p.m.

Experience an 1870s Christmas on this candlelight tour through the Duke Homestead State Historic Site.

Learn the history behind the Duke family home as costumed interpreters bring it to life while engaging in storytelling and delighting in cookies, cider, singing, live music and more.

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Black Santa Dec. 3, 16-17 and 21-24 Bring your little ones to the Hayti Heritage Center to meet Black Santa and tell him what they would like for Christmas! The mission of Black Santa is to provide every child and family with a magical holiday experience.

Patchwork Holiday Market Dec. 3, noon-4 p.m.

More than 70 local makers and vintage vendors come together at the Durham Armory to create a unique shopping experience with a diverse selection of high-quality and original goods.

N.C. Jazz Ensemble Holiday Concert Dec. 3, 4 p.m.

Immerse yourself in festive vibes and big band sounds as the sensational ensemble, led by dynamic vocalist Denise Barnes, takes center stage at the Hayti Heritage Center. This talented band of educators and artists will play to the theme of “Holiday Rhythms Marching On.” Dr. Seuss’ ‘How the Grinch Stole Christmas’ Dec. 5-10 The Durham Performing Arts Center hosts Broadway’s holiday hit set in Whoville, where the Grinch devises a plan to steal presents and decorations in an attempt to ruin the holiday for the Whos. However, through a heartwarming revelation, he learns the true spirit of Christmas and ultimately joins in the festivities. Featured songs include “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grinch” and “Welcome Christmas.”

PHOTO BY SUSAN MURRAY

Hanukkah Festival Dec. 3, 2-5 p.m.

Celebrate the Festival of Lights with Jewish for Good at the Levin Jewish Community Center of Durham. There will be kids activities, games and crafts, holiday foods for sale including sufganiyot (jelly doughnuts) and latkes, interactive menorahs, opportunities to learn more about the holiday and a community shuk (gift and craft market). “[This] is a time to gather in community and celebrate with the Triangle’s vibrant Jewish community,” says John DeMartino, director of marketing and communications at Jewish for Good. “Hanukkah is a celebration and commemoration of the resiliency of the Jewish people, and it’s important we continue to display that resilience.”

Holiday Market at The Durham Dec. 6, 6-9 p.m.

Celebrate the season with festive drinks and shopping for gifts from local vendors, all in support of Durham YMCA of the Triangle’s Y Learning nonprofit, which provides certified teacher-led instruction and after-school and summer camp care at no cost to Durham families who need it most.

Hanukkiah Installation and Nightly Candle Lighting Dec. 7-14 All are welcome to watch the candles light up on this unique, custom-designed, 8-foot-tall piece each night outside Jewish for Good.

Holiday Parade Dec. 9, 10 a.m.

Kickstart the holiday season with downtown Durham’s holiday parade. Celebrate and show your support for local bands, drill teams, schools and community organizations as they make their way down Main Street. The festivities culminate with a guest appearance from Santa Claus.

Celebrate the season by visiting the iconic, illuminated Lucky Strike Water Tower at American Tobacco Campus.

Brightleaf Square Holiday Market Dec. 9, 10:30 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Shop gifts, stationery, clothing, candles, jewelry, desserts, coffee and other items from more than 25 local small businesses right along the Durham holiday parade route – grab some treats or a drink from Clouds Brewing while you browse! 

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

53

liday HoY flART Market Dec. 9, noon-5 p.m.

The final flea and art market of 2023 features live music and performances from local artists, food trucks and 60-plus local vendors showcasing a variety of handmade, locally sourced and vintage goods at ARTpost Supplies and Studios.

Holiday Craft Market Dec. 10, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

More than 50 local makers and artists specializing in a range of mediums like pottery, painting, textile arts, photography, jewelry and much more sell their wares at the Durham Central Park Pavilion during the Durham Craft Market’s annual fair.

Triangle Youth Ballet: The Nutcracker Dec. 9, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

A cast of more than 100 young ballet dancers take the stage at the Carolina Theatre, performing to music from the Tchaikovsky Virtuosi and conducted by Andrew McAfee.

Family Day: Lights Celebrate Dec. 10, 1-3 p.m.

Young dancers from North Carolina Arts In Action kicks off Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University’s multicultural celebration of lights. Families can explore how artists use lights as a tool to express identity, emotions and perspectives as well as learn about the different ways people celebrate light around the world.

Hanukkah 8K Family Fun Run and Pool Plunge Family Swim Dec. 10, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Jewish for Good invites participants to keep the energy burning, just as the oil and light did in the story of Hanukkah, with an 8K at 9 a.m. and family fun run at 9:30 a.m. Push yourself to complete the whole thing, or just take a lap around the Levin Jewish Community Center of Durham and celebrate.

Participants in the event, now in its fourth year, can enjoy doughnuts and Hanukkah gelt at the end! Stick around in the afternoon for a Hanukkah family swim that starts at 1 p.m. Barrel down the waterslide into the icy water, hang out on the pool deck and sip some hot chocolate before the lighting of the 8-foot-tall menorah at sundown.

2023/24 SE ASON

Santa on the Roof Dec. 10, 1-4 p.m.

Santa returns to The Roof at The Durham this year for photos (taken by attendees) overlooking the city as well as complimentary hot chocolate. Santa joins the event from the North Pole via Santas Just Like Me, a local organization that has provided North Carolina families with the option to visit with a Santa of color since 2013.

Candlelight: Holiday Special Dec. 13, 6:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Experience the enchantment of a live, multi-sensory concert under the gentle glow of candlelight at Hayti Heritage Center. The program, inspired by winter and the holidays, features classics from “Hark the Herald Angels Sing” to Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.”

MEYMANDI CONCERT HALL, RALEIGH MARTIN MARIETTA CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

The Magic of Rodgers and Hammerstein

Holiday Music on the Roof Dec. 13, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Head up to The Durham Hotel’s heated rooftop for a holiday-themed performance from Durham-based singer/songwriter Ally J, whose “old soul” lends textured vocals and sultry melodies that spin classics into jazzier renditions; her range spans from deep, expressive blues to sweet falsettos.

Theatre in the Park’s ‘A Christmas Carol’ Dec. 13-17 Ira David Wood III’s cherished musical comedy returns to the Durham Performing Arts Center this holiday season to celebrate its 50th anniversary!

Join Ebenezer Scrooge on a transformative journey guided by spectral visitors, unveiling the true meaning of Christmas. With six enchanting performances and a heartwarming narrative, this play brings to life the magic of redemption, compassion and a festive spirit for audiences of all ages.

Christmas Candlelight Tour Dec. 16, 6-9 p.m.

Take a special guided tour around the farm at Bennett Place State Historic Site under the glow of candlelight and see how soldiers and civilians experienced the holidays during a time of war.

Tours will take place every 15 minutes in groups of 20, and there will be complimentary hot apple cider for your enjoyment.

2024 Annual Meeting A GEOFF DURHAM PRODUCTION

FRI/SAT, JAN 1920 | 8PM

Let’s Groove Tonight: Motown Meets the Philly Sound FRI, FEB 9 | 8PM SAT, FEB 10 | 3PM & 8PM CONCERT SPONSOR

Totally ‘80s FRI/SAT, MAR 1516 | 8PM Dates, programs, artists, venues, and prices subject to change.

Guarantee your seats —buy today! ncsymphony.org 919.733.2750 54

|

durhammag.com

|

For more information and to register, visit durhamchamber.org

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

The Glenn Miller Orchestra: In the Christmas Mood Dec. 16, 8 p.m.

Get in the Christmas mood at the Carolina Theatre as more than 18 musicians and singers reimagine favorites like “Santa Claus Is Coming to Town” and “Let It Snow.” The orchestra also performs timeless Glenn Miller tracks like “Chattanooga Choo Choo” and “In the Mood,” infusing holiday warmth and legendary tunes into the happiest time of the year.

Christmas in the Piedmont Dec. 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Visit Bennett Place State Historic Site to learn how soldiers celebrated and families decorated for Christmas during the Civil War. There will be cooking demonstrations in the kitchen house, Christmas decorations and packages in the main house, soldiers will be on hand to demonstrate Christmas in the field and, of course, there will be a visit from Old Saint Nick. Complimentary hot apple cider will be on hand alongside a bake sale, with proceeds going toward the preservation of the site.

Kwanzaa Fest Jan. 1, 2024, noon The African American Dance Ensemble’s annual Kwanzaa festival at the Durham Armory focuses on family, friends and the fruits of the Earth. It takes place on the seventh day of Kwanzaa, which is dedicated to Imani, or faith. This year, AADE will donate food to Urban Ministries of Durham and honor a senior with funds from the Davis-Williams Scholarship. “If you have never experienced Kwanzaa Fest, join us,” says AADE Program Director Demetrius R. Holder. “It is a time for reflection and celebration, with communal feasts and gatherings that bring together family and friends.”

Holiday Concert Dec. 17, 4 p.m.

Celebrate the holidays and the Choral Society of Durham’s 75th season! This concert at Duke Chapel features diverse musical experiences from around the world to commemorate the season, including Ariel Ramírez’s “Navidad Nuestra,” representing Latin American musical stylings, Ralph Vaughan Williams’ “Fantasia on Christmas Carols,” portraying British traditions, and Z. Randall Stroope’s “Hodie,” showcasing a blend of American elements.

Holiday Music on the Roof Dec. 20, 7:30-8:30 p.m.

Head up to The Durham Hotel’s heated rooftop for a holiday-themed performance from Triangle Gay Men’s Chorus, a Raleigh-based nonprofit that fosters a safe place and provides an avenue for LGBTQ+ persons and their allies to develop and display their musical talents, performing a full range of types and styles of choral music.

Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet Dec. 20, 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.

A magical nutcracker doll comes to life at the Durham Performing Arts Center as an international cast and ensemble of Ukrainian Principal Artists showcase the epitome of classical European ballet. This ballet, a cherished holiday tradition, is celebrated for its captivating choreography, iconic characters and memorable musical compositions.

Mitzvah Day Dec. 25 Join hundreds of volunteers from around the region in community service on Christmas Day with Jewish for Good. There will be opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to volunteer and do good for others, such as spray painting accessible icons on parking spots, beautifying local parks, visiting nursing home residents, and cooking and serving breakfast at Durham Rescue Mission as well as dinner at the Ronald McDonald House of Durham.

PHOTO BY SUSAN MURRAY

Kwanzaa Celebration Dec. 26, 1-9:30 p.m.

Kick off the weeklong African American celebration at the Hayti Heritage Center. Honor family, community and culture by watching documentary film “The Black Candle” and dancing with Winston-Salem singing sensation, African quartet The Healing Force.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

55

Holiday Gift Guide

SPONSORED CONTENT

CITRINE SALON 3110 Environ Way, Chapel Hill 919-929-2209 citrinesalonnc.com The Bakuchiol + Niacinamide Collection from Éminence Organic Skin Care, Bakuchiol + Niacinamide Moisturizer, $69; Radiant Protection SPF Fluid, $58 This refreshing gel cream moisturizer hydrates while minimizing the look of wrinkles. Pair with the velvety SPF fluid to shield skin from the sun’s UVA and UVB rays.

MAX HUGO INTERIOR DESIGN 5850 Fayetteville Rd., Ste. 104, Durham 919-806-3638 maxhugointeriors.com

BRIGHT BLACK 2020 Chapel Hill Rd., Ste. 24, Durham brightblackcandles.com

Wine Decanter, $122 This hand-painted gold stripe wine decanter elevates any dining experience, enhancing the wine’s flavors while adding a touch of contemporary design to the table setting.

Diaspora Full Collection, $145 These award-winning candles, which are handcrafted in Durham, offer an exploration through scent of cities rich in Black history and culture – Addis Ababa, Durham, Kingston, Paris and Salvador.

HEART OF NORTH CAROLINA VISITORS BUREAU 500 Albemarle Rd., Asheboro 336-626-0364, ext. 102 heartofnorthcarolina.com North Carolina Zoo Annual Membership, varies from individual membership, $59, to curator membership, $300 Become a member of the North Carolina Zoo to experience a full year of encounters with animals from North America and Africa – Asia coming soon!

56

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

HAMILTON HILL JEWELRY Brightleaf Square Courtyard (24A) 905 W. Main St., Durham 919-683-1474 hamiltonhilljewelry.com Colette Bracelets Designed

by Niessing, each starts at approximately $900 Ideal for everyday wear, these stackable bracelets in 18-karat gold and platinum are available in many color options and wrap styles and can be worn with a selection of charms.

MODE Downtown Durham 1000 W. Main St., Ste. 1B, Durham 919-806-3434 Village District – Raleigh 510 Daniels St., Raleigh 919-803-5414 modeconsignment.com YSL Large Loulou Handbag in Quilted Leather, $2,489 This envelope bag featuring the iconic Saint Laurent chevron quilt overstitching can be worn on the shoulder or as a cross-body purse.

JEWELSMITH 2200 W. Main St., Durham 919-286-2990 jewelsmith.com

WHITEHALL ANTIQUES 1213 E. Franklin St., Chapel Hill 919-942-3179 whitehallantiques.com Bamboo Tables, ranges from $625–$925, depending on size Dating to circa 1870, these tables are decoupaged with decorative motifs by an artisan in England.

Whitehall carries a variety of these tables yearround – perfect as side tables in any home.

Personalized Disc Pendants and Charms, starts at $175 (for pendant only) These handcrafted discs are made in Jewelsmith’s Durham studio with recycled silver, gold or platinum.

Customize them with an initial or name – hand-engraved or stamped – and accent with a natural gemstone.

BLO BLOW DRY BAR Eastgate Crossing 1800 E. Franklin St., Unit No. 6, Chapel Hill 919-903-8062 blomedry.com Unite 7Seconds Trio Set, $101, plus tax Achieve a salon-quality wash at home with Unite’s must-have trio. The set includes shampoo, conditioner and detangler to revitalize your hair care routine.

CONSCIOUS STRONG 410 Market St., Ste. 433, Chapel Hill 919-695-7738 consciousstrong.com 90-Minute Physical and Nutritional Assessment + Two 1-Hour Private Pilates-Based Movement Sessions (Virtual or In-Person), $350, a holiday savings of $150 less than retail Designed to rejuvenate the mind and body, this thoughtfully curated package includes a physical and nutritional assessment to create informed wellness goals and two private Pilates movement sessions to build momentum toward these goals. d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

57

liday HoY

Allis

t h g i r BY 58

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

A Colvard Farms renovation prioritizes cozy touches and family-friendly updates, creating a dreamy home for the holidays B Y MORG AN CARTIER W ESTO N PHOTOG RAPHY B Y J OHN MICH A EL S I M PS O N

urham native Chrissy Serrano, her husband, Jose Serrano, and the pair’s four active children – Robbie Serrano, 15, Sofie Serrano, 13, Leo Serrano, 10, and Camille Serrano, 7 – plus the family dog, Zion, had already begun to outgrow their home in Treyburn when the pandemic hit. “When we were all at home 24/7, we started living in the house differently,” Chrissy says. She realized she needed a home office, for starters, plus a guest room for

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

59

liday HoY LEFT The Serrano family gathers around the dining room table.

BELOW Intentional decor groupings like the ones Chrissy put together here can create a textured, layered feel without cluttering a surface.

Jose’s parents, and Sofie and Camille’s shared bedroom felt a bit tight. “Suddenly, this great house that had worked for us so well just didn’t work anymore.”

The couple embarked on a search for a home that would accommodate their family for the long term and, most importantly, ensure each child had a place of their own to work, play and recharge. “We were not interested in building,” Chrissy says. “We thought, let’s take a house that has a great footprint in a great neighborhood and make it our own.”

They found that perfect canvas in Colvard Farms.

The 2005 build felt a bit dated, but the brick home’s classic charm and the fact that they’d have plentiful space for each of their kids were enough to convince Chrissy and Jose to look past surface details.

It also helped that the family’s routines would become easier, too. “The location was great because, where we felt a bit isolated [in Treyburn] before, we now have a much quicker trip to things like gas stations, grocery stores and things to do,” Jose says.

“We knew the neighborhood would be great, but that location component was huge as well. It is so quick to pop down to [The Streets at] Southpoint or Target.”

They purchased the home in 2021 and began envisioning a transformation to make it work for their family. “We walked in, saw it had everything we needed and immediately went into the next thought process, which was ‘What do we do to make it ours?’” Jose says.

The Serranos have plenty of experience with homes of all types – Jose is a practiced real estate sales agent with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolinas Realty, and Chrissy is the creative force

60

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

ABOVE Chrissy recommends putting holiday lights on an automatic timer so you don’t have to worry about turning them on and off every day.

RIGHT The guest bedroom is classically decorated, but visitors are treated to a hint of whimsy thanks to the starpatterned wallpaper on the ceiling.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

61

liday HoY

C H RI S SY, WA KE UP !

A day in the life with Chrissy and her styling endeavors

I

wake up around 6 a.m., 30 minutes before my kids, make a quiet coffee and sit in bed with my laptop. I spend 30 minutes doing things I dislike most, primarily checking off things that should have been done the day before and responding to emails. If I can, I take a quick look at blog and social performance.

From 6:30 to 8:45 a.m., I make breakfast, pack lunches and get my kids out the door.

Jose takes the three younger ones to school, and I drive my oldest to high school. I love to listen to podcasts and Audible books in the car. I used to feel so bad about not reading anymore – Audible has saved me! Highly recommend it.

I’m back home and sitting in an armchair with my laptop by 9 a.m.

On Mondays, I get everything my assistant needs over to her for the week, and she goes from there. If it’s not Monday, I film or take photos, first thing! Not only is the lighting best, but I need to tackle the biggest priority first because there’s always interruptions later to throw the day off track.

This means either creating content for brands or myself.

Half the time Jose comes home for lunch; if so, I’ll take a break, and we’ll eat something he cooked together. If not, I just graze while working.

I do my best work after lunch, because time is ticking before kids come home. I am laser focused, editing, sending content out for approvals, updating the blog, preparing posts on my own social media.

Jose grabs kids from school, and I grab my high schooler – we’re all home together at 3:30 p.m. Unless under a tight deadline, I greet them, give them snacks, sit in the kitchen to hear about their day, get homework going, etc.

When homework is finished, they typically run off to play with their neighborhood friends or get busy on their own at home, and I’ll open my computer back up and finish up between now and dinner.

Jose is the cook for the family. Monday and Tuesday, he cooks dinner, and we all eat separately because of sports. Wednesday through Friday, we sit and eat together and then run out the door to sports. We don’t overschedule the kids, but there are four of them! So, yeah, there’s something every day of the week.

In the evening is when I plan content – it always takes about twice as long as I think it will! I am in our bedroom by 10 p.m. and asleep at 11:30 p.m. If I’ve checked most things off the list, this is my time to just chill, check email and plan tomorrow’s activities, and hang out with Jose.

62

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

ABOVE Chrissy’s holiday decor extends to her office, where she has maximized light and space with neutral tones, a large vertical mirror and, of course, a festive tree.

LEFT Raleigh Custom Glass & Mirror installed the antiqued mirror backsplash in the wet bar, which also features cabinets from Kitchen & Bath Galleries.

behind nationally recognized design blog Chrissy Marie Blog – but the pair had never undertaken a renovation before.

“We didn’t want to do an open concept,” Chrissy explains. “We weren’t into making all the rooms connect. But we did want the living room and kitchen to be together.” The initial phase of the renovation centered on removing the wall that separated the two rooms, flooding the previously dim kitchen with natural light streaming in from the living room’s large windows.

The couple turned to Raleigh-based designer

The Serranos didn’t want to completely convert their main floor into an open concept, but opted to remove the wall separating the kitchen and living room to improve natural light and traffic flow. Post-renovation, Alison Flinn from Reclaim Professional Organizing gave order to the kitchen.

Katie O’Neal to assist with choosing new finishes and fixtures, and sourced them from Kitchen & Bath Galleries in North Hills.

“It’s totally changed the way we live,” Chrissy says. “We’re always in here.”

“It makes entertaining really easy, but also feels intimate,” Jose adds.

Shortages of materials and labor affected the renovation timeline more than once, but the family worked around it. “In all the projects that we have gotten ourselves involved in, both voluntarily and involuntarily,

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

63

liday HoY we always end up spending a lot of time at Chrissy’s parents’ house in North Durham,” Jose says.

He and Chrissy’s mom, Susan Richter, work together at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, and her dad, Daniel Richter, is a professor of soil science at Duke University. “And bless their hearts,” Chrissy says, that’s not easy, taking on four kids and a dog for any amount of time, and we were there for months.”

The kids got involved in the renovation, too. “The younger two were especially excited about their rooms and the process, and they wanted to help with the move,” Chrissy says.

Today, the home stands as a testament to the family’s shared dreams, offering sanctuaries tailored to each member. The owner’s suite is Chrissy’s favorite room in LEFT Leo and Zion relax together in Leo’s bedroom, adorned with lush green toile wallpaper and natural textures.

BELOW Camille’s room strikes a balance between soft and bold, with pastel and white shades rendered in strong graphic patterns and shapes.

DECK THE HALLS Chrissy’s decor tips for creating a magical holiday haven

P

ick a color scheme for the season and lead with those colors to create flow. Instead of the traditional red and green, how about green and navy, or metallics, or brown? This can be kept inexpensive. For instance, with browns you can use items like velvet ribbons and repeat this with bows on garlands, wreaths, presents, even tied on the end of branches on the Christmas tree as ornaments.

Use biodegradable brown kraft paper to match your colors instead of buying wrapping paper! Your home will feel cohesive and intentional.

Don’t take on the holiday decorating by yourself (or alone with your spouse, if you have kids). I’ve done this myself, and it can quickly take out the fun! When everyone is involved, it’s so much more memorable.

ALL AB OUT THE DETA I LS • We are candle people, and a good candle to enjoy throughout the season really sets the mood. We love Bright Black’s “Bachata” scent in the winter • Since we do a faux tree, a live plant in neat pottery is so nice to have out. I showcase a lot of faux plants on social media because that’s what my audience looks for, but our real plants are from For Garden’s Sake – it’s just a mile down the road! They have some great pottery pieces I’ve invested in, too.

• A really good wreath. Don’t knock a faux wreath. Etsy has some fabulous, thick and well-made wreaths! You can use wreaths inside as well: over the oven on the range, on the inside of a window, even over a bed. Just use a big Command hook, and take it down after the season is over so it doesn’t pull paint.

• Velvet ribbon, thick or thin! I choose one color and use it everywhere. Tied on wreaths; in big, hanging bows on swag; tied on Christmas tree branches; or even at the top as your star. And on presents, of course.

• Use smart timers for all Christmas lights, inside and out. No more crawling behind trees and turning off porch lights. I have them all on timers on the Alexa app, but there are several ways you can do it that are simple and inexpensive.

64

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

The family spends the majority of their time together in the living area, now adorned with pops of greenery for the holiday season.

Remodeling at its Finest − Craftmanship, Value and Trust Housing Solutions, Inc. is your award-winning Durham, Orange, and Chatham County partner for quality design and craftsmanship. Recently awarded first place for best kitchen and first place for best bath renovations by Durham, Orange and Chatham County Home Builders Association, Housing Solutions specializes in custom whole-house and kitchen and bath renovations, as well as room additions, screened-in porch and deck additions or expansions.

Ryan Holden, Housing Solutions owner named:

2023 TOP FORTY UNDER 40 INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL

by ProRemodeler Magazine

• Kitchen and Bath Renovation, Room Additions, Screened-in Porches and Decking • Authorized Dealer for Wellborn, Waypoint, Diamond, Green Forest, Kountry Kraft Cabinetry plus Hardwoords and Luxury Vinyl Plank, Luxury Vinyl Tile, Carpeting and More.

• In-house Design Utilizing CAD Software

Office and Showroom: 230A ORANGE GROVE ST. HILLSBOROUGH, NC

• In-house Trade Teams • 5.0««««« Google-Rated Home Renovation and Review Rating

housingsolutionsinc.com • 919-296-9073 • contact@housingsolutionsinc.com d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

65

liday HoY the house, an oasis of tranquility for her and Jose to enjoy on their own. A double-sided fireplace divides the sleeping area from a private lounge, the ultimate retreat for the busy parents to steal a quiet nap or watch TV on a matching pair of chaise lounges.

As the renovation inches toward completion, Chrissy and Jose express their contentment with the decision to raise their family in Durham. They find joy in exploring the Durham Farmers Market and attending Durham Bulls games in the summer, and LEFT The primary suite features a striking twosided fireplace, which bisects the room to create a lounge area separate from the bedroom.

BELOW Chrissy and Jose enjoy the quiet space off their bedroom with a cup of coffee (and maybe a soccer match on TV) in the mornings.

66

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

BY THE N U M B E RS

7,127

square feet

6

bedrooms

8

bathrooms

2005

year built

2021

year bought

2 years

of renovations Camille, Leo, Sofie and Robbie jump around on the in-ground trampoline installed by White Oak Group Custom Landscapes of Apex.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

67

liday HoY

home & garden

Remodeling at its Finest Craftmanship, Value and Trust

Chrissy has a front-row seat to the evolution of her old stomping grounds through the eyes of her children. “It’s funny, because when I was in high school [at Immaculata Catholic School], the thing to do was hang out on Ninth Street,” Chrissy says.

“Now, Robbie has started hanging out downtown; he goes to The Parlour. It’s so cool to see how things have grown.”

RYAN HOLDEN,HOUSING SOLUTIONS OWNER NAMED 2023 TOP FORTY UNDER 40 INDUSTRY PROFESSIONAL

by ProRemodeler Magazine

5.0««««« GOOGLE-RATED HOME RENOVATION & REVIEW RATING Office and Showroom: 230A ORANGE GROVE ST. HILLSBOROUGH, NC

housingsolutionsinc.com • 919-296-9073

DESIGN. BUILD. REMODEL.

Helping You Build a Better Home 2023

2023

Camille gets creative at her desk; many of her works are displayed on the wall above.

68

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

HVAC • Plumbing • Electrical Appliance Repair • Design/Build

BudMatthews.com 919.929.0203

C OMMERCIAL • HOMES • C OND OS • APARTMENTS

REAL ESTATE & HOME SERVICES GALLERY

2023 Commercial General Contracting Services | Pre-Construction Planning | Construction Management

2023

Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill & Cary

Award-Winning Design + Build

YOUR PARTNER IN RENOVATION Schedule a Personalized Consultation Today! cqchome.com | 919 - 971 - 5119

618 RAMSEUR ST. | SUITE 102 DURHAM, NC 27701

919-797-2527 GATEWAYBUILDCO.COM  GATEWAY_BUILDING_COMPANY

Elizabeth Lindquist, Realtor ALWAYS WORKING FOR YOU

An Eye for Excellence, Design, Marketing & Negotiating I’m a native Chapel Hill business owner and a Durham resident. Put my experience and expertise to work for you!

ELindquist@cbadvantage.com 919-656-3325 ELindquist.CBAdvantage.com Coldwell Banker Advantage 1130 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill

MIND, BODY AND SOUL

Discover the path to your best self with guidance from experts

B Y L E A H B E RRY P H OTO G RA PH Y B Y J O HN MIC HAE L SIMP SO N

A

new year doesn’t have to mean a new you.

Maybe it means a better you. A more well you.

Taking care of your whole self is easier said than done – the multifaceted nature of wellness is often disregarded, failing to take into account a holistic perspective. Our mental, physical and spiritual health are largely dependent on one another, and neglecting one means neglecting your overall well-being. We spoke with local experts in these fields to gather the best advice on how to take care of, well, all of you.

70

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

YOUR BODY IS A TEMPLE

A

Gaby Zinn and Anna Coyne get physical at Fitness @ the Cube, the speciality fitness studio they co-own in Lakewood.

nna Coyne, co-owner of Fitness @ the Cube, knows a

thing or two about exercise.

Anna grew up with parents and grandparents who instilled in her the importance of staying active, and it has always played a critical part in her life. It’s been a lifelong dream of hers to aid others in their journey as well. “I feel better when I’m moving my body, so I try to help others feel better by moving their bodies,” she says.

Anna opened Fitness @ the Cube in 2016 with her business partner, Gaby Zinn, after the Chapel Hill exercise studio they worked at closed.

Anna and Gaby’s clients set up a GoFundMe page and also provided the pair with the connections and coaching to properly start their own fitness studio. “When you come into the studio and feel the sense of community there, it all makes sense,” Anna says.

“Even though it’s clear that a lot of [our clients] have been with us for a long time, it’s a welcoming space … we want newcomers to feel successful and like they’re part of the group.”

The studio offers barre classes, suspension training, Pilates mat and Pilates apparatus training as well as cardio options including Zumba and trampoline. “It’s important to have a variety of movement,” Anna says.

“Moving your body in different planes and in different ways leads to more balanced musculature and, in turn, leads to healthier joints and longevity of movement. We’re not doing a sixweek boot camp – this is for life.”

Anna believes overall wellness is not about how you look, but how each of your systems function together – digestive, nervous, muscular and skeletal. For her, fitness is about constant learning. “We’re not always going to feel our best, and that’s OK,” she says.

“Plan something that’s sustainable for you and that fits within your schedule,” Anna says, giving her best advice for creating and maintaining fitness goals. She encourages looking at your fitness journey as a marathon, not a sprint. “Find a place where you see yourself building community, as that community will help you stay motivated. Find a workout that’s sustainable and personalized. 

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

71

WELLNESS

Try different classes to see what’s fun and what feels good. You don’t have to have a concrete, detailed plan to start moving. Your plan will develop as you gain more information about yourself and those around you … just do something.”

“E

at your fruits and veggies and exercise regularly!” We’ve all heard it a million times before. But, it’s not an action plan that actually helps in lifestyle adjustments.

“We all have different situations, responsibilities and resources,” says Deborah D. Smith, a nurse practitioner in internal medicine at the Duke Lifestyle and Weight Management Center, which has offered a comprehensive approach to obesity treatment, weight loss and lifestyle change for the past 50 years. “… One plan does not fit all, and the plan needs to be suitable for that particular client to succeed. It takes time, encouragement and openmindedness by the provider to figure this out. I am always an advocate for setting some short-term achievable goals so that people see results and are not discouraged. … Sometimes just getting started is so overwhelming that people often stop when they feel like they have a huge mountain to climb.”

Mary Constantino, a clinical social worker at the center, notes that to understand our relationship with food, we need to develop insight related to why we overeat, stress eat or emotionally eat. “Engage in nonjudgmental curiosity of self,” Mary says. “Without self-judgment, ask yourself, am I using food to cope with big emotions or problems? If so, what are the associated emotions? Are there times of day when I am more likely to overeat? Are there situations in general or in the future that are stressful and may lead to overeating?”

She believes it’s important to show yourself grace and kindness, especially when you deviate from your ideal meal plan.

“Plan ahead if you want to eat better … nothing good happens without a plan,” adds Christine Tenekjian, a dietician, health and well-being coach who focuses on helping the center’s patients with mindful and intuitive eating. “Whether you choose to plan meals, shop and cook yourself, use pre-portioned healthy convenience foods or review restaurant menus ahead of time for healthy choices, some thinking ahead about what you are going to eat – before it’s time to eat – will be to your benefit.” Christine also believes prioritizing good sleep is crucial in eating healthier. “When you are exhausted and sleep-deprived, you have no energy to plan meals, and you will be hungrier and crave more sugary foods,” she says.

Durham native and Duke Lifestyle and Weight Management Center Medical Director Dr. William S. Yancy Jr. emphasizes the difficulty in changing eating habits. “We try to make it easier any way that we can,” he says. “It may be simply placing emphasis on certain foods at meal or snack time. … For example, strive to have protein and non-starchy vegetables at every meal, and eat those first before moving on to other foods. That way you may be less hungry and eat less of other foods (starches, sweets) that typically have fewer nutrients and won’t satisfy your hunger as long.” Dr. Yancy also stresses the importance of activity. “Strength exercises are being recognized as key to keeping your metabolic rate higher,” he says. “Adding any type of strength exercises just twice a week can make a difference – even simple dumbbell or body weight exercises like planks or pushups on your knees or against a counter.” 

72

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

WEATHERING WINTER Frosty frizz and snowflake skin? The mix of dry, cooler seasons with serious summer heat means our skin and follicles are put under pressure all year in the Bull City.

Nourish your epidermis and tame your tresses with these cold weather TLC tips: Dry, itchy skin is the reality for many in the winter, so Lo & Behold Naturals founder and CEO Lizzie Chadbourne advises moisturizing, moisturizing and then moisturizing some more. “We recommend implementing a simple plan that you can be consistent about without introducing too much hassle, and bolstering that routine where needs and interest arise,” she says.

Lizzie handcrafts her 100% natural body care products using locally grown and certified organic ingredients, and says that Lo & Behold’s serum, face cream and moisturizer can best address winterspecific skin and hair concerns.

“Our cleansing balm offers a unique way to clean your skin without stripping it of its natural moisture,” she says. “We also recommend keeping a few lip balms and hand salves around so you’re never caught out without one.”

Dr. TopicOils founder Dwella Moton Nelson also believes using natural, high-quality products lays the foundation for proper self-care. Her company provides non-steroidal, vegan, dairy-free, gluten-free, topical formulas for skin care, hair and scalp care, eczema, anxiety relief and more, using essential oils to create formulas that can be used to provide symptom relief and encourage overall wellness.

Dwella believes knowing the difference between skin moisturizers and skin protectants is crucial to taking care of yourself during the winter months. “A moisturizer will be hydrating to the skin, and it is meant to keep the skin soft and supple,” Dwella says. “A skin protectant is used to lock in that moisture and keep the skin from feeling dry and flaky.”

For hair, Dwella emphasizes that hot oil treatments are excellent for locking in moisture, especially during the cold.

“I prefer using lighter essential oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, sweet almond oil and safflower oil for this treatment,” she says. “Mixing in heavier oils like olive oil or castor oil can be useful, too, but be careful when using dilutions that contain these heavier oils, because they can be very difficult to remove from the scalp and hair.”

“Holistic, head-to-toe wellness starts with the mind,” Dwella adds. She recommends three ways to stay healthy, in any season: Find natural ways to manage stress and anxiety, pay attention to aches and pains and rest. “Ever feel like you need to get to the ocean? Ever feel like taking a walk outside in the dark?” Dwella says. “Those are examples of your spirit needing rest from the hectic moments of your life. Lean into those feelings.” Her favorite activity to “revive and restore” is a long soak in a bath using Dr. TopicOils’ eucalyptus-lemon bath salt.

The world always looks

brighter

from behind a smile

Martha Ann Keels, DDS, PhD Erica A. Brecher, DMD, MS M. Gentry Byrd, DDS, MPH

TOP magazine

DENTISTS

We are accepting new patients!

2020

We want to keep your child’s smile healthy for a lifetime!

2711 North Duke Street, Durham, NC 27704

919-220-1416

www.dukestreetsmiles.com

Working with adults and youth in Durham to achieve their educational and personal goals

SUPPORT

The Durham Literacy Center today at:

www.durhamliteracy.org

Become a volunteer tutor in our programs: www.durhamliteracy.org/volunteers

Durham Literacy Center d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

73

WELLNESS

FEED YOUR SOUL

H

arness the power of healthy food sources to get your new year off on the right foot, diet-wise; these three businesses are just a few newer establishments dedicated to helping customers nourish their bodies: Originally from India, Veena Birajadar grew up with a focus on

healthy eating – an influence from her parents. After moving to the United States and working in IT for 13 years, she quit her job in 2017 and spent two years putting her energy into a 700-square-foot vegetable garden, selling its produce to neighbors. She was juicing smoothies and focusing more on eating healthy.

Her journey took a significant turn when her father-in-law was diagnosed with cancer, leading her to explore alternative medicine options like Gersen therapy, which is centered on diet and nutrient changes as a method of treating cancer patients. A push from her husband, Ravi Jeyaraman, encouraged Veena to open her first locations of Pure Vegan Cafe in Wake County in 2020 and 2021. The Erwin Terrace location opened in July 2022. “I believe in not boring yourself with just healthy foods,” Veena says. “Our cafe has juices and salads, but also burgers and fries.” The restaurant is gradually incorporating more Indian items, too, including uttapam, a savory pancake topped with onion, tomato and cilantro.

“Wellness is holistic,” Veena adds.

“Along with diet, you have to focus on sleep cycles and stress levels and incorporate as much local, fresh food as possible.” She stresses the importance of hydration and cutting down on white cane sugar. “I’m here with multiple options,” she says, smiling.

C

ABOVE Pure Vegan Cafe’s Veena Birajadar with one of the restaurant’s Novid orange juices and the Tikki burger, a mixed veggie burger with lettuce, tomato, avocado, microgreens, chipotle mayo and “Honee” mustard.

BELOW ”Food is an underrated aspect of health and fitness and general well-being,” says J.D. Hughes of Clean Eatz.

“Everyone wants to talk about what they should do at the gym, etc., and they often forget about food.”

lean Eatz Cafe can also help you in your wellness journey,

or perhaps kickstart it. The national franchise started in Wilmington, North Carolina, in 2013. J.D. Hughes, an owner of the Durham cafe (that opened in March 2021) and the director of operations for the Triangle, has a background in physiology and 20 years of experience in health and fitness. He became involved in Clean Eatz seven years ago. “Neither [me nor my co-owner, Mike Parker,] had any restaurant experience at all,” J.D. says.

74

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

B

“We learned together, grew the business together and put together the processes we use today.”

General Manager Jacob Coyne, who has a martial arts background, found a fulfilling lifestyle through Clean Eatz. “This has been a game-changer for me,” Jacob says. “Being able to affect people on a very personal level, meeting people in the community daily and hearing stories about how they’ve had great results from coming in … it’s been very rewarding.”

The cafe has meal plans, meal prep options and freezer grab-and-go meals, all with portion control and healthy proteins and carbs. “What you get here is a lot healthier than what your average 9-5 worker eats daily,” J.D. says. “We try to stock meals with what people love,” Jacob says, like healthy versions of dishes like pasta and pizza.

“The American diet is a lot of heavily processed foods, and that’s what leads to a lot of health issues,” J.D. notes. “We try to combat all of that by providing as much food as we can in its most whole and realistic form,” which boosts energy and focus, and facilitates better workouts and recovery, he says.

Their advice for improving wellness is simple: “Eat better and move more,” J.D. emphasizes. lend of Soul co-founders Kiera Gardner and Margo Newkirk

didn’t plan on starting their own bottled juice company.

Kiera, who spent much of her life in Grimesland, North Carolina, learned the importance of growing produce from her grandfather, who was a farmer. “It’s always been at the forefront for me,” she says.

Margo, a native of Salemburg, North Carolina, also learned about nutrition from her grandfather, who raised chickens and grew veggies. She was in the military for 10 years, and met Kiera while still serving; the two

WELLNESS

BE KIND TO YOUR MIND

T The Blend of Soul food truck allows Kiera Gardner and Margo Newkirk to bring their products to events like the South Durham Farmers Market.

have been inseparable ever since, first as a couple (who just recently tied the knot!) and now as business partners, too.

Blend of Soul emerged from Margo’s expertise and Kiera’s spontaneity. Margo, dealing with weight gain due to selfprofessed poor eating habits and lack of exercise after an injury, needed to get in shape quickly for a fitness test. She started making smoothies, eventually buying a proper juicer. Interest grew once she began making them for others, and Kiera, with a business mindset, encouraged Margo to turn it into a company. The pair began selling juices in January 2020.

The business got off the ground right as the COVID-19 pandemic sent folks into lockdown, so Margo and Kiera initially sold juices and wellness shots via no-contact delivery. Since opening a food truck in May 2023, Blend of Soul now also offers cold-pressed juices, protein bites, smoothies and acai bowls. All products are 100% fresh, plant-based, vegan-friendly and vegetarian-friendly. Ingredients come from Kiera and Margo’s backyard or other local, small, Black-owned businesses.

They are motivated by seeing their community healthier. “Be mindful of the types of foods you’re putting into your body,” Kiera says. “Try to eat as natural and as fresh as possible.” Her No. 1 piece of advice, though, is to celebrate the body that you’re in. “Bad foods aren’t a thing; there’s unhealthy foods, but food should be celebrated,” she says.

76

|

durhammag.com

|

aking care of your mental health is paramount in maintaining overall wellness. Our mind informs every decision we make, so in order for us to live full, healthy lives, we must prioritize it.

Clinical mental health counselor and Healing Minds Therapeutic Services PLLC owner Johnny Leonard has worked in this field for 14 years, but has always had a fascination with understanding human behaviors. “I eat, drink and breathe therapy,” he says. “In my free time, I like going to workshops and conferences so I can learn as much as possible.”

Johnny realized his long-held dream of opening his own private practice six years ago. Healing Minds has offices in Durham and Fayetteville, and offers resources for mental health counseling and substance abuse therapy. He often utilizes techniques such as clinical hypnosis, which can be used in treating traumas, anxiety, depression and performance; eye movement desensitization and reprocessing traumabased therapy; play therapy with children; standard cognitive behavioral therapy; and schema therapy.

Johnny says therapy is centered on relationship building. “You can’t go into these difficult spaces and be vulnerable if you don’t have a relationship with that person,” he says, adding that knowledge of the person’s overall health is also paramount. “The therapist needs to be consulting with the physician, and the physician needs to be consulting with the dietician and so on,” Johnny says. He identifies motivation as a significant barrier to prioritizing mental health, noting that people may fear change due to their long-standing familiarity with their current state. “They don’t know anything else … they want to get better, but they don’t know what that feels like,” he says. To address this, Johnny empowers clients to take control by making lifestyle changes. “I let them know that they’re the ones to determine the outcome of their life,” he says.

Once individuals recognize the benefits, Johnny says, they are more likely to embrace change.

The initial step in caring for your mental health is often the most challenging – reaching out. Johnny recommends simply picking up the phone or searching online. “When you find a service, you want a good match,” Johnny says. He advises not sticking with someone if it doesn’t feel like a good connection. Comfort is key.

Above all, Johnny stresses the urgency of taking action. Mental health is too crucial to be confined to a New Year’s resolution. Start the process now.

D

urham-born Meg Hamilton grew up near Charlotte and moved back to the Bull City in 2014 when she started dating Sarah Dunsmore (who’d moved to North Carolina from Indiana in 1999 to attend UNC). Meg says she aspired to utilize her counseling and art therapy degree to help people process difficult experiences and to bring awareness to social injustices. “When I found that none of the work I did separate from direct mental health work felt as helpful and sustainable as mental health work itself, I got licensed and began working as a therapist,” Meg says.

She started Birch Counseling in 2016; after working in community-based mental health for several years, she wanted to cater to the needs of individuals in personalized therapy. Sarah joined the practice as a co-owner in 2018. A naturally empathetic soul since childhood, Sarah says she gravitated toward the mental health field to help others navigate emotional pain.

Birch Counseling is currently comprised of three clinicians – Sarah and Katie Loebner work with adult clients, and Meg works primarily with children, adolescents and families. All three are queer-identifying providers and work extensively with those in the LGBTQIA+ community, also specializing in trauma treatment. They advocate for mental health practices that incorporate nature, art, movement and connection – in fact, the name of the practice came from an experience with a former client who was deeply traumatized and felt most safe in the woods. “The only way I connected with him was through discussions of nature, camping and hiking,” Meg says.

“Wellness, to me, means understanding what gives to and takes away from well-being on a day-to-day and moment-to-moment basis,” Meg shares. She emphasizes knowing one’s body and relationships and incorporating playfulness for overall health: “What foods make you feel good and energized? What kind of movement do you need after a stressful day?” she says.

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Meg Hamilton and Sarah Dunsmore employ art as a therapy tool with their patients.

“We are wired to be highly social creatures, and connection within the community is an important part of wellbeing. … Finding ways to engage humor, awe and spontaneity [also] does incredible things to keep us healthy and connected.”

Meg and Sarah stress the slow and subtle nature of lifestyle changes, encouraging clients to make small, intentional shifts aligned with personal values rather than what they perceive others want from them.

She recommends starting with tiny, achievable measures and gradually building upon them for lasting change.

“Don’t wait until Monday, until New Year’s Day or until you have a perfect plan,” Sarah says. “Action begets motivation, rather than the other way around.”

Some small steps Sarah recommends include daily movement, two minutes of focused object study and selfcompassion. “Our culture tends to demand perfection, performance and productivity,” Sarah says. “These lofty expectations are often destructive to our creative energy and sense of agency.” 

Comprehensive Dentistry • Snoring & Sleep Apnea Treatment • Family Dentistry • TMD Treatment

1020 Broad Street, Durham, NC 27707

Dr. Fleming is proud to continue the comprehensive care that Dr. Stallings and Dr. List provided to patients throughout the Triangle. At Fleming Dental, it is our goal to provide excellent dental care in an environment where you feel calm and comfortable.

Welcoming New Patients! 919-682-5327 • durhamncdentistry.com d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

77

WELLNESS GOOD GRIEF

E L ITE M EDIC I N E PRIORITIZING YOUR TIME AND HEALTH

CO N C IE R G E M E DICI N E PRIVATE

|

PERSONALIZED |

PROMPT

919-428-5864 | elite-medicine.com Now accepting a limited number of new primary care patients

WE WILL INSTALL THIS STAIRLIFT FOR ONLY $4,889 • Battery Operated - Works even when you lose power • Safe around Pets & Children!

• Plugs into a standard wall outlet • Remote Controls - Call it or Send it *Folds to just 10 1/2 inches! from Top and Bottom!

• Easy to use control switch on the end of the armrest GREASE FREE • Mounts directly to the Steps - NOT the Wall Clean with a Feather Duster!

(Not Greasy Rack-and-Pinion like • Weight capacity of 350lbs. Footrest and Seat flip other brands) up neatly out of the way.

SAFE & EASY TO USE

• Pressure sensitive surfaces on carriage and footrest stop the unit from moving if there is an obstruction.

• 24 Volt DC operation - eliminates electric shock risk.

• Stairlift remains operative during blackout. Whisper quiet operation.

• Swivel seat locks in position at 45 and 90 degrees.

Scan QR Code

LIFETIME WARRANTY ON ALL PARTS...

EVEN WITH A LIGHTNING STRIKE!

CALL FOR FREE INFORMATION (984) 267-1889 SAME/NEXT DAY INSTALLATION. 78

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

One aspect of wellness that many of us fail to act upon fully – if at all – is grief. But Rebecca Feinglos has made it her life goal to do so and lead others to do the same.

Rebecca, a Durham native and Durham Academy alumna, is a certified grief support specialist and the founder of Grieve Leave. Originally a blog created in 2022 to process her own grief – her mother died when she was 13 from glioblastoma, her father passed away in 2020, and she went through a divorce a year later – it officially became a company in 2023.

Rebecca led what she considered to be a linear life before her father’s death. She graduated from Duke University, earned her master’s degree in public policy from the University of Chicago and held various roles, including as the senior early childhood policy advisor for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. It wasn’t until her dad’s passing that she fully processed her mother’s death. “By the end of the year I was like, ‘Man, I just feel like something is weighing on me,’ and I didn’t have the vocabulary to identify it as grief,” she says. “It wasn’t praised as a society to get in touch with our feelings … for me it was, ‘How strong am I to put my head down and go back to work after my dad died.’” After spending all of 2021 with her nose to the grindstone and neglecting her own emotions, Rebecca quit her job in December 2021 to take a sabbatical in 2022 to grieve.

While on her “grieve leave,” Rebecca explored what grief looked like for herself and others – specifically young adults. “It seemed like I was getting at something … it was an itch I had, to better understand grieving,” she says. “It felt like I was the only one who felt it, but I realized that there were a lot of people my age who felt totally lost,” Dissatisfied with the lack of available support, she created resources for others.

Grieve Leave organizes “meet-and-grieve” events – nonreligious support groups largely composed of young adults – to provide a space for discussing death to divorce and beyond hosted at bars and online. “I just wanted to chill with people who understood me,” Rebecca says. A group recently met in October at Meat & Graze in Boxyard RTP. Grieve Leave also produces content, including interviews with experts and grief guides. She also trains corporate leaders in facilitating workplace dialogue to support employees. “The likelihood that you’re going to quit your job when you’re going through a big loss is pretty high,” she says. “But we can do something about that.”

There is truly no way to “properly grieve,” Rebecca says, but to process emotions in the best sense, you must create space for authentic feelings. “Just acknowledging your grief is step No. 1, and honestly, that’s enough,” she says. “Hopefully you’re giving yourself space for those feelings.” She suggests employing outlets, such as yoga or meditation. “Grief can look a million different ways,” she says.

She also notes that, while the holiday season is particularly difficult for those grieving, it’s OK to be honest with yourself and recognize that. “It’s also OK to look forward to the holidays,” Rebecca says. “You don’t have to feel guilty.”

“If you’re going to a holiday event, have a plan for yourself if you start to feel overwhelmed,” Rebecca says – it could be that you’ll go home and turn on Netflix. “Already have that plan in mind, and tell a friend. “Loop people in about your feelings and grief around the holidays – whether it’s peers or a therapist.”

Connecting with others has transformed Rebecca’s life. “I feel more authentic today and more secure in who I am as a person because I talk about these things that make me human – I’m not pretending all the time that I’m fine,” she says. “That doesn’t mean we let our grief overwhelm us or quit our jobs, but it means we’re a tiny bit more honest with ourselves about our grief. That will literally change the world.”

PREVENTATIVE DENTAL CARE | COSMETIC & RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY | TMJ TREATMENT

For over 30 years, Dr. Brent L. Blaylock

Meg advises against comparisons. “Each of us has our unique process, and there’s wisdom in that process,” she says. But also pausing to celebrate successes and focus on positive benefits can help reinforce behavior changes – “[try to] bookmark that feeling and return to it when you need a reminder of why you are making the changes,” she says.

has been a trusted dentist in Durham. Continuing education is important to Dr. Blaylock, and he has completed many courses in the principles of complete dentistry. His focus has been identifying and treating problems with the TMJ and occlusion, and the impact of oral inflammation and disease on the heart and rest of the body.

S

hea Burkett, the owner of Planned & Proper, understands the multifaceted

nature of mental health. To her, organization is a key component in maintaining overall well-being. After graduating as an occupational therapist from Dominican University in New York, Shea recognized the significance of structure in her life and began imparting this knowledge to her patients. A job offer from Duke University Hospital drew Shea south in 2006. “I haven’t looked back, not for a second,” she says. “I fell in love with Durham.”

In 2016, Shea established Planned & Proper, crafting highquality planners, journals and notebooks that blend beauty and functionality, featuring valuable tools like goal-setting worksheets.

The business was originally driven by her own struggles to stay ahead. “I always felt like I was catching up,” Shea says.

Goal-setting holds a central place in her products – which can be found online and at Bull and Bean – promoting both longterm visions and practical short-term objectives. Shea advises clear, realistic targets – “say, ‘I’ll go to the gym every Monday and Wednesday at 2 p.m.’ … Don’t say, ‘I’ll go to the gym seven days a week,’” Shea advises.

Shea believes establishing these intentions helps to eliminate life chaos, thus removing disorganization that can lead to stress, affecting your overall well-being. “No matter how big or how small the goal, being able to control it instead of it controlling you is important,” Shea says. “You have to take care of yourself in order to do the other things well and juggle your family life, work life and personal life.”

To get the new year off on the right foot, Shea advocates prioritizing daily goals. In her daily planner, there’s a section for to-dos and the top three priorities for the day. “We can’t do it all,” Shea says. “You have to decide which things are the most important for you, because when you choose your top two or three to get done, it’s more fulfilling than trying to finish them halfway.”

Make goals and work toward them in 2024, but also give yourself grace. “It’s OK if you don’t get to where you want to be [quickly],” Shea says. “If you fall off track, that’s fine … such is life.”

OUR SERVICES ESTHETIC SMILE DESIGN IMPLANT RESTORATION TMJ EVALUATION BITE GUARDS

TEETH WHITENING AIRWAY ASSESSMENT PORCELAIN VENEERS DENTAL CROWNS & BRIDGES

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME NEW PATIENTS 919.518.9963 | CURRENT PATIENTS 919.493.8036

3206 OLD CHAPEL HILL ROAD, DURHAM, NC 27707

919.493.8036 | DRBRENTBLAYLOCK.COM  d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

79

Hometown

Hf elpers

n

)

Hometown

Hf elpers [ These eight community members champion a ‘doing good in the neighborhood’ mentality B Y A N N A - RH E S A VE R SO L A P H OTO G RA PH Y BY JO HN MICHAE L SIMP SO N

$ Turquoise LeJeune Parker

founder, Mrs. Parker’s Professors Foodraiser

D

urham Public Schools educator Turquoise LeJeune Parker

sparked a movement of compassion in 2015 with a single text sent to every contact listed in her phone: “I’m trying to send each of my 22 kids home with a bag of nonperishables to help their families with them being out for Christmas break. If you know anyone wanting to donate, let me know.”

Turquoise was a second-grade teacher at Eastway Elementary School at the time, and a student’s mom had asked for help sourcing food for her family during the holidays. “I talked with my husband when I got home, and we got her everything she needed, but I was still really struggling with the fact that she had to ask this question, and if one parent is experiencing that, there are probably lots more who need help,” Turquoise says. So, she sent out that text message. Two days later, she had enough donations to give every student in her class a bag of groceries for the school break. “It was amazing to see the community move like this,” she says. “It was just beautiful. It’s not cool that people have to go hungry. The next year, I was ready to do it again, because it felt good to be able to help people.”

Today, Turquoise is a media coordinator at Lakewood Elementary School, and her calls to action have grown exponentially beyond one classroom. What began with about $585 in donations to help a handful of families has grown into “Mrs. Parker’s Professors Foodraiser,” which

Turquoise LeJeune Parker bags donated grocery items for the winter foodraiser event Dec. 5-8, 2023, at Lakewood Elementary School.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

81

Hometown

Hf elpers raised more than $103,000 to fill more than 5,200 bags for students in a dozen public schools in 2021.

Turquoise even added a spring break foodraiser in 2019 to keep kids nourished during that time off from school, too. In 2022, the donations collected in March and December combined amounted to $206,000. This year’s winter foodraiser will be held Dec. 5-8 in the Lakewood Elementary gym.

“It takes a lot of community and a lot of organizations to come and spend their time helping us,” Turquoise says. After monetary donations are collected, groceries are ordered from Costco; for the past two years, the company has also donated 500 book bags for the kids. Fruit, yogurt and smoothie pouch company GoGo Squeez donated about 6,000 of its products last year to the delight of many students, Turquoise says.

Two 18-wheeler delivery trucks will pull up to the school, and volunteers will transfer the goods into the gym, where an assembly line forms to fill paper grocery bags. Service-based organizations like the Boy Scouts and businesses like Lowe’s Home Improvement send local members and staff to come and help pack supplies from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Turquoise’s husband, Donald Parker III, leads the logistics and operations to distribute the thousands of bags to Durham schools with high percentages of students enrolled in DPS’ free or reduced-price meal program.

“We choose foods that are going to be able to be used no matter the living situation,” Turquoise says. “If they’re living in a place where they don’t have heat or a stove, but they have a microwave, they can still make use of all the things that are in the bag. The only thing that expires fast is the bread. Everyone gets cereal, peanut butter, baked beans, black beans, green beans, corn, canned chicken, canned tuna, ramen noodles, mac and cheese, popcorn, oatmeal, packs of crackers and granola bars.”

“Some families are moved to tears,” she says. “It’s just overwhelming. They just can’t even get words out to express how grateful they are for this blessing that somebody really cares.”

These acts of care and kindness that Turquoise began nearly nine years ago haven’t gone unnoticed.

In early October 2023, she was named one of 40 community leaders in the Triangle who received the Joseph R. Biden Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of exceptional leadership and more than 4,000 hours of volunteer service.

“This is so beautiful,” Turquoise says about the generosity she sees from the community. “Every year, it just blows my mind. It really makes me speechless sometimes, because it all started with trying to help one family, and this turned into a really big thing that’s helping a lot of people.”

82

|

durhammag.com

|

Ashley Sherrow

photographer, Assorted Poppies Photo

A

shley Sherrow is an animal rescue and welfare supporter living her

dream as a pet photographer. “Aside from seeing my daughter, it is the highlight of my week,” she says about volunteering her time at animal shelters and rescues like the Animal Protection Society of Durham and Hope Animal Rescue. She also photographs events like Barktoberfest for Beyond Fences and Santa Paws for Durham Parks and Recreation, with all proceeds going to respective organizations. “I can’t tell you the love I feel for [these cats and dogs] and the feelings you get when you meet them.”

She first picked up a camera as a high school senior and continued her education in photography at N.C. State University’s College of Design.

“I think photography is just such an important tool,” she says. “It freezes a moment. And a moment can say so much.”

In 2014, Ashley was working as a manager at The Streets at Southpoint’s Anthropologie store and regularly posting her photos of merchandise on Instagram. Then, customers began asking her to take their family photos.

“I was like, ‘OK, well, this is kind of fun,’” she says. Ashley welcomed an assortment of assignments, from family portraits to newborn photos and “whatever came to me.” By February 2018, she officially registered her aptly named side hustle, Assorted Poppies Photo, which also paid homage to her dog, Poppy, who passed away in 2019. Ashley’s path continued to push her toward this profession, she says. “I couldn’t be more happy because now I’m a full-time photographer, and it’s giving me joy every day.”

Ashley now has two dogs, Cloud, a Great Pyrenees, and Shasta, a German shepherd-Airedale mix, at home with her and her husband, Ian Kelly, and their 15-month-old daughter, Lennon June Kelly. She regularly volunteers with APS of Durham, helping to manage social media for the nonprofit.

“When the pandemic happened, everything went online,” Ashley says. “We would take photos outside, wearing masks and doing as much as we could. It was a lot of teamwork. We still gotta keep going and promote our animals as much as we can.”

Ashley sets up her portable studio with lights and a backdrop at APS twice a week. On the average Tuesday, just a few furry friends might need photos, so the rest of the day is filled with social media updates. On a Thursday, triple the number of animals might be ready for a picture.

Ashley usually needs two key elements for a successful photo session: an assistant to wrangle the dog or cat and lots of treats. “Before we start getting any animals, you always get your bag of hot dogs, your hard treats and a few Kongs with peanut butter,” Ashley says.

Sitting on the floor, Ashley starts each session with individualized attention.

“The first thing I do is literally just hang out with them and give them some love,” she says. “I let them know that everything is OK. I talk to them in the dog-baby voice that we all have. Give them plenty of nicknames – by the time I’m done, they probably have like, 10 different nicknames. And then I use treats, hot dogs and peanut butter. And, I make a lot of noises – a ton of noises.

If you just spend a few moments with them to establish a connection and let them know who you are, then you really can get them to do quite a lot.”

The proof is in the portraits – bright, happy, smile-inducing images that get sent out on APS’ website, social media and to outlets like Durham Magazine and other news organizations to highlight adoptable animals in need. Hundreds of pets find their forever homes every year thanks to Ashley’s charitable work – and that’s worth quite a few tail wags, indeed. 

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

~

Photographer Ashley Sherrow is an avid volunteer at Durham animal shelters to help promote pet adoptions.

b

n d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

83

Hometown

Hf elpers

~ Niccolo Roditti, who uses they/them and he/him pronouns, and Freddy Perkins, who uses he/him, both agree that it’s a good practice to ask a person how he/she/they prefer to be identified.

84

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Hometown

Hf elpers

n Niccolo Roditti NFreddy Perkins

co-program directors, LGBTQ+ Youth Center of Durham

F

reddy Perkins remembers how he felt growing up in

New C. Laws ThatN.Affect LGBTQ+ Youth

‘Adulting 101’

Freddy says he wants to bring back a lecture series Durham as a Black queer man, searching for those safe spaces where he could truly be himself. His that he offered in 2021, which covered a variety of co-program director, Niccolo Roditti identifies as a topics he believes every young person should know In July, Gov. Roy Cooper vetoed three legislative nonbinary, Latino immigrant with neurodivergence. to prepare themselves to become independent. “A bills that impact LGBTQ+ Together, they are building a caring community for lot of youth who are in that transitional age of 18youth statewide.

LGBTQ+ youth between the ages of 12-24.

24 are missing a lot of [basic skills] or were never In August, the Republican-led General “Our aim is to make sure [marginalized youth] have a given opportunities to learn,” he says about key Assembly voted to space where they can come and be themselves,” Freddy competencies like how to do taxes, how to open and override the Governor’s says. “If their house is not that space, if their school is not manage a bank account or how to organize a home. “I action, immediately making those bills law: that space, if they don’t have the opportunity to build up want them to be able to take care of themselves,” he House Bill 808 systems of support in friends or other external resources, says. “I want our youth to be set up for success.” severely restricts the use of surgical genderwe set ourselves up to be an option as that resource.”

The youth center, which moved to 1007 Broad St. in transition procedures, Freddy carried out a predecessor’s idea for the September 2023, also offers drop-in support groups, a puberty-blocking drugs LGBTQ+ youth center and turned it into a reality growing summer camp program and a variety of social and hormone therapy to minors, defined despite pandemic limitations in 2021. “It required a events, including its first-ever queer youth prom, which as someone younger lot of innovative thinking and collaboration,” he says was held at The Fruit. Grants help fund projects such than 18. about developing social programs in a time of physical as the Project Fellow Employment Program where two House Bill 574 requires transgender distancing. He described different outdoor events UNC students encourage students,18 to 24, to take athletes at the middle, held at various parks throughout the city, like Durham part in support groups. As the youth center broadens high school and college levels to play on sports Central Park and Piney Wood Park. More recently, the its reach through social media and community events, teams assigned by their center is tackling mental health concerns in the wake Freddy and Niccolo expect to engage in local business “reproductive biology of legislation that bans gender-affirming care for kids collaborations, like with a local optometrist who wants and genetics at birth.”

Senate Bill 49, younger than 18, prevents transgender athletes from to offer free eye exams and glasses. colloquially known competing in sports and mandates schools to report “There’s a lot of intention behind what we do,” Niccolo as the “Parents’ Bill of changes in name or pronouns. says. “And really, it comes down to funding. Without Rights,” limits instruction of gender identity and Freddy, a Jordan High School alumni who is entering donor support, all of our ideas remain limited.” They sexuality in kindergarten a master’s program in clinical mental health counseling hope to prioritize grant-writing and fund-raising efforts through fourth-grade classrooms. The legislation at North Carolina Central University, also has a master’s and continue building the center’s varied programs. also mandates that in music therapy from Slippery Rock University schools notify parents and in Pennsylvania. His professional career began in legal guardians “prior to any changes in the name classrooms with special education students in nonprofit Freddy and Niccolo regularly hear from parents about or pronoun used for a organizations in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. real concerns over race and gender. “Fear is such a big student in school records Eventually, Freddy was drawn into mental health work in thing as a parent,” Freddy says. “I’m not a parent myself, or by school personnel,” which LGBTQ+ advocates community settings outside of schools. but I assume fear just never leaves the body no matter say will force educators to Niccolo, who was born in Ecuador and grew up in how old your child gets.” out students.

Rhode Island and North Carolina, has a bachelor’s in “How do you act in spite of that fear?” Freddy asks psychology and international studies from N.C. State rhetorically. “Learning to accept the fear for what it is, University plus a master’s in community development and to know that’s just gonna be a part of beginning a and action from Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. process, but I’m not going to let that impede upon my They joined the center in 2022 and became co-program director child’s ability to live their life, or my ability to love my child and support this past August. Niccolo’s early work, which began in housing them in the direction that they’re going. We are here to have those and domestic violence and education, evolved into positive human conversations with parents. We’re here for the youth. We’re also here for development on the community level. the families in whatever they need.” 

Bridging the Generation Gap

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

85

Hometown

Hf elpers

n Heather Bryce, Rebecca Bliss I Susan Saenger Parkinson’s Movement Initiative instructors, American Dance Festival

A

vis Afshar stood rigidly in place until a familiar song filled the air at American Dance Festival’s Samuel H. Scripps Studios.

He began to sing, and his feet remembered how to move.

“It’s like magic,” Avis says. He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease six years ago and is now one of 56 registered students in ADF’s Parkinson’s Movement Initiative. The program was founded in partnership with ADF in 2017 by Susan Saenger and Lindsay Voorhees of NC Dance for Parkinson’s and Meg Poe of Poe Wellness Solutions. Thanks to funding from William R. Kenan Jr. Charitable Trust, RTI International, the Parkinson’s Foundation and individual donors, the cost-free weekly movement classes are held in person and virtually for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s and their caregivers. More than 300 people with Parkinson’s have participated in the PMI program since its founding.

Susan, a board-certified dance movement therapist, taught movement classes since 2013 before establishing the PMI program at ADF, which formally welcomed the movement classes as a way to help people cope with the daily physical challenges associated with disorders like Parkinson’s.

“In dance therapy, we are guided by goals, but are always responding to the client,” she says. “There is not a specific movement that cures a specific problem.

Every body is different.” Susan, who also owns Spry Fitness, works with older adults, helping them have the strength, energy and mobility to enjoy an independent, active life.

About 60,000 people are diagnosed annually, and nearly 1 million people nationwide are living with Parkinson’s, according to the Parkinson’s Foundation.

86

|

durhammag.com

|

Musicthe unlocks body for movement.

– Susan Saenger

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

The disease typically affects older adults, and more men than women are diagnosed. “It makes people ‘small’ – their handwriting, their gait, their facial expressions, even their voice (they may speak very quietly and not even realize it), and it affects their balance as they have less access to core support,” Susan says.

Another teacher, Rebecca Bliss, first started teaching in the PMI classes at ADF five years ago. A dancer and a licensed physical therapist with a doctorate in physical therapy from Drexel University, she helps other dancers recover from injury and also works with Parkinson’s patients to improve their balance.

“Maintaining movement is an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to living life with PD,” Rebecca says. “That’s a big part of why it’s so important that we offer accessible community classes. I am so inspired by our participants who show up each week.”

After working with people with Parkinson’s, Rebecca learned that her grandfather had had the disease. “I was young when he was alive,” she says. “I always attributed the mobility changes I saw to [his] post-polio [symptoms]. After talking with my mother and grandmother, I understood that these changes were due to Parkinson’s. Their stories and my memories gave me greater empathy and understanding of what families go through. I wish he had access to classes like the ones offered at PMI; I am so grateful to be a part of these classes now.”

Susan primarily uses freestyle choreography based on a teaching model developed by the Mark Morris Dance Group in Brooklyn, New York, as well as PWR!Moves, which is a more prescriptive movement program.

Heather Bryce is the newest teacher to join PMI after moving to the area from New York City this past summer. She is the founder and artistic director of Bryce Dance Company and has expertise in working with people living with dementia, students who have special needs and individuals who have movement disorders.

“Once you turn on the music, folks are kind of grooving to a rhythm,” Heather says. “It really changes things for them. They can suddenly do things that they maybe didn’t realize, because they’re able to not think about it and let it go.

I learn from my students constantly.”

For Avis, the dance classes this year helped build his confidence for his daughter’s wedding reception in September. When Dean Martin began to croon “You’re Nobody Till Somebody Loves You” for the father-daughter dance, Avis’ feet remembered how to move. 

*

?

Heather Bryce, Rebecca Bliss and Susan Saenger teach movement classes at American Dance Festival’s Samuel H. Scripps Studios for people diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

87

Hometown

Hf elpers

88

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Hometown

Hf elpers

Derek Rhodes

founder and executive director, Durham Success Summit

M

aking connections is what fuels the engine of success for Derek Rhodes, the founder and executive director of Durham Success Summit. The Durham native initially expected to go to college out of state, but his Durham Academy Upper School counselor encouraged him to apply to Duke University, and recruitment events convinced him to attend.

“It was an entirely other world that I hadn’t previously known about or been exposed to despite being right here in Durham,” he says. At Duke, Derek discovered how mentors are essential for career development, leading to formative opportunities like internships and early-career experiences.

After graduating with a bachelor’s in public policy studies in 2015, he snagged his first corporate job with Google in New York City. He then moved to Florida for a job with the Miami Heat as a manager of innovation and strategy and later as director of business strategy. At the Obama Foundation in Washington, D.C., Derek worked in strategic initiatives and operations for a program called My Brother’s Keeper Alliance.

It was during his next gig, working as a chief of staff at Microsoft in Seattle, when he realized his true calling was in the nonprofit sector, helping young Black men find resources and mentorship to prepare themselves for productive careers. “Almost every opportunity I had was the result of networking and relationship building or having introductions from former bosses,” Derek says of the need for social capital.

Busting Stereotypes, Building Futures In 2019, Derek and some friends offered a one-day conference at a local church. Seven young men turned up. Forty came the next year. By 2021, more than 200 young Black men were asking Derek for help. He founded DSS – which offers a free, 12-week program for professional development, entrepreneurship

?

Derek Rhodes wrote a children’s book, “Jimmy for the City,” to inspire young people, especially Black students, to consider public service leadership.

Presidential Proclamation President Barack Obama stands at the podium at a White House press conference celebrating the Duke Men’s Basketball’s 2015 NCAA Championship.

“So, it’s good to see the Blue Devils again,” he says. “This is the second time that I’ve hosted them here at the White House.

It is. My old body man, Reggie Love, played for Coach K – helped me win a lot of pickup games.

And then there’s Derek Rhodes. Where’s Derek?

Derek was an intern here last summer before being head manager for the championship run. So, a little White House magic rubbed off on this team.

I’m just saying.”

“I don’t think I’ll ever forget that moment: I was terrified,” Derek says, remembering when the president called out his name, referencing the years he spent as a manager for the Duke men’s basketball team while he was an undergraduate student.

Derek interned at the White House in 2014 during Obama’s second term and had been a public affairs intern in the U.S. Justice Department during the summer George Zimmerman was found not guilty for fatally shooting 17-year-old Trayvon Martin in February 2012.

The verdict sparked nationwide outrage, triggering the “Black Lives Matter” movement in 2013.

“I had the opportunity to go over to the White House to sit in on meetings during that time,” Derek says. “And then the following year, [I] was [at] the White House. I kept ending up in Obamaland. It was seriously such an amazing experience.”

n education and leadership training – that same year and opened the Workforce Development Center on Mangum Street, where Black male high school and college-enrolled students ages 16 to 24 can walk in to access local resources, this past August.

An important characteristic of DSS’ team is that it reflects its intended audience. “We are all young Black men who grew up in Durham,” Derek says.

The average age of program staff is 30 years old, which offers relatability. He says an estimated 70% of young Black men between the ages of 16 and 24 are unemployed or underemployed in Durham. “How do we make a significant dent in youth unemployment so they are more confident and stay on a path or trajectory to provide for their families and for future generations?” Derek asks. “Not everyone’s going to college. We want to start with that piece and connect [these young men] to organizations after we feel that [they] have that sort of economic footing.”

Derek is familiar with the stereotypes that young Black men don’t want to work, aren’t dependable or aren’t showing up for a class or a job. “What we [at DSS] are seeing is that it’s not necessarily specific to young Black men; this is a problem we’re seeing with youth in general,” he says. “On the nonprofit side, we believe that because we are filling a gap among the school system, our workforce and our economy, we need the cross-sector collaboration that the nonprofit structure provides. We want the government to have a seat at the table, to hold us accountable for our goals, but also to share resources, information and best practices, and be involved. We want companies to have a seat at the table. It’s not about how we make more money for us; it’s how we make sure more families are supported and more young men have pathways that are leading them to better outcomes professionally.” 

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

89

Hometown

Hf elpers Value Propositions Inclusive Progress DSS crafts development plans customized for each individual participating So why attempt this mission in Durham? “Because we have so much

AD

Thank you for voting us Best Vet three years in a row!

opportunity,” Derek says, pointing to the pace of economic expansion in the area. According to the Kenan Institute’s American Growth Project 2022 report, this area experienced the fourth-fastest gross domestic product growth rate in the nation. Historically, Derek says, in cities like Durham that are going through similar development, economic and workforce changes, most marginalized groups find themselves on the outskirts of that growth; in particular, young Black men have been excluded from the workforce.

“With so many eyes on this city right now, we need to show a model that is inclusive, that works and that reflects us as Durham,” Derek says. “With our history, our culture has always been one that includes minorities as a hub for Black people to succeed. I just can’t think of a city that I truly believe is capable of being that modulation and showing it, so that’s the driver.”

Derek says he continues his outreach in schools, community barbershops and churches to help young men who are in need of services. He estimates that about 80% of applicants are referred to DSS by program alumni. “It’s been such an unexpected, celebratory outcome to know that our biggest advocates are alums,” he says.

“That’s our outreach team. It means we’re doing good work and that they want to talk about it in their circles.”

PT A PET SPONSORED CONTENT

TAKE HOME ONE OF THESE WONDERFUL DOGS FROM THE ANIMAL PROTECTION SOCIETY OF DURHAM TODAY!

Wellness care • Surgery & dentistry • Lab work Laser therapy • Acupuncture Grooming • Boarding... & beyond

Nougat

2023

A one-stop shop for your fur baby.

Happy team. Happy pets. Happy visits.

Join our happy family!

(919) 471-0308 • ENOANIMALHOSPITAL.COM

90

|

durhammag.com

|

Nougat is sweet as his name, nutty as can be and would love to wiggle his way into your heart. This guy is playful and active, friendly with new people and will even try and climb on your shoulders if you’re sitting down.

Nougat enjoys a gentle sniffing partner but does well with other dogs. He is super calm, great in the car and easy on the leash.

PHOTOS BY ASSORTED POPPIES PHOTO

b

in the 12-week program. The young men are introduced to partners at different companies to create networking opportunities. “We take our young men directly to job sites for employers,” Derek says. “We have had mock interviews on site with leaders of Fidelity [Investments] who are in charge of hiring and decision making, who provide a tour [of the office] and talk about their entry-level experience. That exposure is rare and important.”

Of course, not everyone wants to become a business entrepreneur or go into biotech. “There’s something for everyone,” Derek says. And DSS is not just a way to connect to jobs; it’s also a support network. “We’re with you for life,” Derek says about the long-term commitment to each person’s holistic success. “You’re not just in a 12-week program [that] you graduate, and you’re done. There are 16-year-olds who’ve started with us, and they’re now in college. Or, those who started with us as college freshmen and are graduating this December. We’ve been with them … [for] three years. That is really where I think we, as a team, love seeing the connection, the growth and development over time, or seeing a young man who was 16 do our program once and come back at 19 to do it again, because he’s in a different space. That’s our value.”

There are 175 alums across DSS programs, which have delivered more than 2,180 hours of professional instruction. Of those who had participated in previous development programs, 87% found DSS more helpful, Derek says, and 94% of last year’s cohort saw an increase in the number of professional opportunities available to them.

Lima Bean

Lima Bean is sweet, kind and ready to join you for the “howlidays!” This 5-year-old girl is a friend to all humans and loves any visits from people, especially when they offer treats and affection. Lima Bean prefers a gentle sniffing pet partner or someone who will just let her be her best self – she’s not into that rough and tough play.

Adoption fees for cats are $95 and $50 for the second cat when adopting two together. Dog adoption fees range from $125 to $175. Fees for other animals vary. The shelter, located at 2117 E. Club Blvd., is open Mon.-Tue. and Thu.-Fri., 10:30am-5pm; Wed. 10:30am-6pm; and Sat. 10am-2pm.

For more information, call 919-560-0640 or visit apsofdurham.org.

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Mission statement

Habitat for Humanity of Durham works to eliminate substandard housing in Durham and to help foster thriving communities. We envision a Durham where decent, affordable, and sustainable housing is available to all.

Background

Founded in 1985, Durham Habitat is dedicated to eliminating substandard housing through constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes; by advocating for fair and just housing policies; and by providing access to resources to help families improve their shelter conditions.

Wish list

• Give a gift – go to durhamhabitat.org/donate • Volunteer – check out durhamhabitat.org/volunteer for more information

• Donate to a ReStore - donate gently used household items to a Triangle ReStore location • Visit durhamhabitat.org/ways-to-give for more ways you can support Durham Habitat!

Upcoming events

• $50,000 Critical Repairs Matching Challenge: Through Dec. 31, 2023 your contribution to our Critical Repairs program can have double the impact!



Donate



Volunteer

Brag lines

Durham Habitat brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. In partnership with the Durham community, we lift up our neighbors through the transformative power of home ownership.

Durham Habitat has built more than 450 new homes and completed critical repairs on more than 500 non-Habitat homes.

As our city rapidly grows and changes, the need for Durham Habitat’s work is greater than ever!

Get in Touch!

1823 Chapel Hill Rd. Durham, NC 27701 919-682-0516 durhamhabitat.org



Facebook

Our local howget they support the community and how you can get involved Our local nonprofits, how they support the community andnonprofits, how you can involved Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content

Wish List

Your options for supporting Duke Children’s are as varied as the children we treat. Options for giving include:

Our Mission

Duke Children’s is committed to achieving and maintaining a standard of excellence in all we do. Most importantly, we consistently strive to make the patient experience a model of quality care through advanced treatment, compassionate support and full family participation and communication.

Our mission is to provide: • Excellence in the clinical care of infants and children • Innovation in basic and applied research

Background

• Leadership in the education of health care professionals

and strives to provide the highest quality care through

• Advocacy for children’s health

advanced treatment, compassionate support, and full

• Patient- and family- centered care

Duke Children’s serves patients in the Triangle and beyond

family participation. Duke Children’s is recognized for its clinical programs, research initiatives, educational opportunities for medical students, residents, and fellows, and strong advocacy efforts for children. Duke Children’s is affiliated with the Department of Pediatrics at Duke University School of Medicine.

Brag Lines

• U.S. News and World Report ranks Duke Children’s as the No. 1 children’s hospital in North Carolina and tied for No. 1 in the Southeast. Duke Children’s is nationally ranked in 10 pediatric specialties and is ranked second nationally for cardiology and heart surgery.

• Duke Children’s ranks No. 2 nationally in NIH funding for pediatric medical research, a testament to the remarkable research performed at Duke; three Duke researchers are among the top 20 recipients for individual funding.

• Duke Children’s is a Level 1 Children’s Surgery Center, the top ranking designated by the American College of Surgeons.

• Duke Children’s is a member of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

• Annual and monthly gifts to help the greatest needs of our patients and families • Corporate partnerships to increase community awareness and support • Estate and planned gifts to leave a legacy that can support medical discoveries • Transformational gifts to underwrite research and education We are happy to work with you directly! For more information on giving to Duke Children’s, please visit giving.dukechildrens.org.

Signature Events

• Season of Hope Radiothon on MIX 101.5 giving.dukechildrens.org/ events/soh-radiothon • Duke Children’s Charity Stripe Challenge with Duke Men’s Basketball giving.dukechildrens.org/ events/charity-stripe • Over the Edge for Duke Children’s giving.dukechildrens.org/ events/over-the-edge

Get in Touch!

Websites: giving.dukechildrens.org dukehealth.org/dukechildrens Social: facebook.com/DukeChildrens twitter.com/Duke_Childrens instagram.com/duke_childrens

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Community Impact

Thanks to our generous donors, this past year the Foundation made a significant impact on access to education by: • Providing more than $260,000 in scholarships to 185 students.

• Distributing 50,000-plus pounds of food to more than 900 students through the College’s Campus Harvest Food Pantry.

• Providing more than $75,000 in

emergency financial assistance to students.

Ways to Make a Difference

With your support, we can do even more.

Earmark your gift for the Durham Tech General Fund to support a wide-range of college programs and greatest needs or select a specific designation, such as the Campus Harvest Food Pantry; help remove barriers to academic persistence with the Student Success Fund, which assists students facing unexpected financial crises, such as housing and transportation; or, give the gift of education by investing in the Durham Tech Scholarship Fund. Change the course of a life by opening the door to education!

Mission

The Durham Tech Foundation is committed to the belief that education and a pathway to well-paying careers should be accessible for all who aspire to them. The Foundation raises resources to support the Durham Technical Community College with a mission to advance opportunities for students, the College, and Durham and Orange counties through bold strategic partnerships, resource development, zealous advocacy, and wise stewardship.

Background

Since its inception in 1982, the Durham Tech Foundation has partnered with mission-driven corporations, foundations and individuals to secure resources to support students, provide equitable access to education, and strengthen the College and community. The Foundation helps expand job training and tools in growing industries through private support, cultivates strategic partnerships to address our community’s needs, and provides resources to Durham Tech to ensure that all students develop the knowledge, skills and networks needed to be successful in college, work, and life.

Get in Touch!

1637 Lawson St. Durham, NC 27703 919-536-7200, ext. 6007 durhamtech.edu/durham-tech-foundation

Scan here to donate today! 

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community Our local andnonprofits, how you can howget they involved support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content

Mission statement

Books for every child, support for every parent and literacy for every community: this is Book Harvest’s audacious goal. With programs that are grounded in evidence, Book Harvest believes that literacy starts at birth, in the home, powered by parents and nourished with books.

Background

Headquartered in Durham, Book Harvest is a recognized anchor of childhood literacy in North Carolina and beyond. Since 2011, they have provided more than two million books to families, ensuring that parents have the tools to ignite and strengthen their children’s literacy, starting at birth. Book Harvest’s vision is of a world in which reading, learning and access to information are considered rights, not privileges, so that all children thrive.

Brag lines

Book Harvest’s innovative ventures focus on two core approaches:

Early Literacy: They focus their work on direct service to children and their families, providing individualized literacy coaching and unfettered access to the tools and support they need to embark on the road to reading from birth.

Book Abundance: They create book-rich environments throughout the community – in school settings and in informal learning spaces – so that wherever families go, they have access to free, culturally-inclusive books.

Wish list

• Donate books: Run a book drive, clean off your child’s bookshelves or purchase new books to donate.

• Donate: Help Book Harvest fulfill their big dream of books for every child, support for every parent and literacy for every community. Your tax-deductible donation to Book Harvest helps to build brains and spread joy for every child – starting at birth!

• Volunteer: Nothing gets accomplished at Book Harvest without the help of hundreds of hardworking volunteers each year!

• Spread the word: Follow Book Harvest on social media (@bookharvestnc) and subscribe to their monthly newsletter available on their website.

• Get books: Book Harvest provides books for every child. Visit their headquarters in Durham or find a book hub location on their website.

Upcoming events

• Dream Big Book Drive and Community Celebration on MLK Day – January 15, 2024 • Summer Block Party in July – stay tuned for more details!

Get in Touch!

2501 University Dr. Durham, NC 27707

252-497-BOOK (2665) bookharvest.org

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Mission

To create a place of lifelong learning where people of all ages embrace science as a way of knowing about themselves, their community, and their world.

Background

Located less than five miles from downtown Durham, the Museum of Life and Science is one of North Carolina’s top family destinations. Our 84-acre campus includes a two-story science center, one of the largest butterfly conservatories on the East Coast, and interactive exhibits to explore both inside and outside. The Museum is also an AZAaccredited zoo, home to rescued black bears, lemurs, endangered red wolves, and more than 150 species of animals.

How to help

• GIVE • Become an Innovators Society member by making a tax-deductible contribution of $250+ to our annual fund • Shop our Amazon Wishlist in support of our Animal Care Team

Brag Lines

• CONNECT • Volunteer • Follow, share, and like our social media posts

For nearly eight decades, visitors have found a home at the Museum as a place to discover, play, think, and explore. As a proud member of our Durham community, we are committed to providing programming that highlights our shared interest in science and our world.

• EXPLORE • Visit us • Become a Museum member • Shop at Elements Museum Store

Last year we: • Opened the redesigned Play to Learn exhibit

Upcoming events

• Offered free field trips for Durham students • Provided camp scholarships to families • Created sensory-friendly events and new Cool Down space • Partnered with NASA, EL Futoro, and El Centro Hispano to elevate Hispanic voices in STEM

• Holidays in the Park: Our annual

holiday event • Youth Climate Summit: A youth-led

summit on climate and sustainability • AfterHours: Science of Wine: An

evening of diverse wine, scientific exploration and live music

Get in Touch!

433 W. Murray Ave. Durham, NC 27704 919-220-5429 lifeandscience.org

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community Our local andnonprofits, how you can howget they involved support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content

Wish List

• Donate baby diapers and products.

Our most needed items include diaper sizes preemie, 1s, and 5s, and baby formula.

• Donate period products.

Our most needed items include tampons, individually wrapped liners, adult underwear and leggings/shorts.

• Donate adult incontinence products.

Our most needed items include: tab and pull up style briefs from size large to 3XL and adult wipes.

• Host a product drive.

Contact info@ncdiaperbank.org for more details.

• Shop from our Amazon Wishlist • Make a cash donation.

Cash donations allow us to purchase our most needed sizes when we run low, and because we buy in bulk, your dollars can purchase three times more diapers than retail!

• Become a sustaining donor through our Circle of Change Program.

• Volunteer with us.

Mission Statement

Diaper Bank of NC increases awareness of and access to essential hygiene items to promote dignity, health and quality of life for the people of North Carolina.

Background

Founded in Durham in 2013, the Diaper Bank of NC (DBNC) is the largest state-wide diaper bank in the country. Working with volunteers and partners from the communities we serve, we provide diapers, period products and adult incontinence supplies to individuals and families in need across the state. The need is great – research has shown that 1 in 2 families struggle to afford diapers every month despite working multiple jobs. By helping with these basic needs, our work enables children, families and seniors to thrive and live with dignity.

Brag Lines

Since our founding, DBNC has covered more than 460,000 babies. During COVID, we saw a 2000% increase in need and still managed to fulfill every order despite volunteers being severely curtailed. This year we expect to distribute more than 7.5 million diapers. Together with our partners, volunteers and donors, we will keep more than 72,000 babies clean, dry and healthy. More than one million period products will be available in North Carolina schools so that students do not have to choose between going to class and having their period. More than a half million adult incontinence supplies will be provided so that seniors can live with the dignity that they deserve.

Announcements

• We’re celebrating our 10-year anniversary! Over the last decade, we’ve distributed more than 23 million diapers— that’s nearly half a million bottoms covered statewide!

• Connect with us on social media to stay tuned for upcoming events!

Get in Touch!

1311 E. Club Blvd.

Durham, NC 27704 919-886-8085 ncdiaperbank.org @DiaperBankofNorthCarolina @nc_diaperbank

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Mission

El Futuro is a nonprofit mental health clinic based in Durham that serves a vibrant and resilient community of largely low-income, Spanish-speaking immigrants. Their mission is to nurture stronger familias to live out their dreams. They provide bilingual and culturally responsive mental health services, including therapy, psychiatry, substance use treatment, and case management in a welcoming environment of healing and hope.

Wish List

• Gift cards ranging from $25-$500 to help with emergency financial assistance for clients and for holiday gift donations • Support maintenance of the therapeutic garden for one year (mulch, plants, etc.) - $5,000 • Support one family receiving comprehensive, holistic support services for one year - $7,500 • Support one kermes fiesta to celebrate Latino culture, cultivate a sense of belonging and build community - $1,000 • Mural painted on the front of the building that incorporates the El Futuro logo and resonates deeply with the diversity of clients’ cultural heritages - $3,000 • Three video monitors, including installation, for the waiting rooms in each of the two clinics - $10,000 • New shade sails for the green space patio where events like Cuentos, Junior Gardeners and Nature Tots are hosted - $1,000

Brag Lines

Background

Founded in 2001 as a volunteer project by Dr. Luke Smith to address the unmet need for bilingual mental health services, El Futuro was incorporated as a nonprofit in 2004. As a community-based nonprofit organization, El Futuro seeks to transform Latino-serving mental healthcare in North Carolina and beyond. The organization provides bilingual and culturallyresponsive mental health services in a welcoming environment.

Their team meets clients with a warm, outstretched hand and engages with them in an affirming, transformative way.

Upcoming events

• El Faro Class: We offer a free eight-week class throughout the year for any Spanish-speaking parent who has a child with ADHD. Participants receive a workbook in the mail and a certificate of completion for attending the program.

For 20 years, El Futuro has increased access to mental health care services in the Latino community. In 2023, El Futuro served 2,510 clients and provided more than 16,000 sessions, an increase of nearly 15% over 2022, with a success rate of 92% clinical improvement, in which individuals reported decreased symptoms of anxiety, depression, substance use, ADHD, etc. The organization creates an environment where Latinos can improve their mental health while pursuing their aspirations for their future.

Get in Touch!

2020 Chapel Hill Rd., Ste. 23 Durham, NC 27707 Sponsored By:

Location 401 N. Ivey Ave. Siler City, NC 27344 919-688-7101 elfuturo-nc.org

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Brag Lines

UMD is Durham’s public shelter for single adults and the backup shelter for families. The program employs best practices, including:

Mission Statement

We connect with the community to end homelessness and fight poverty by offering food, shelter and a future to neighbors in need.

Wish List

• Make a tax-deductible donation. It’s the #1 way to help!

• Volunteer • Donate items needed year-round: food, underwear, twin sheets and towels (white) • Collect basic kitchenware and bedding for move-out kits • Special one-time needs: shoes, backpacks and hand sanitizer

• A low-barrier approach. Clients are not routinely breathalyzed when they enter the shelter, for example. Staff focus on helping residents succeed while maintaining safety.

• A Housing First model. Case managers help shelter residents obtain permanent housing as quickly as possible—affording stability— so they can better tackle other challenges.

• Inclusion. UMD will serve anyone, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, faith or non-faith.

• Shop our Amazon Wishlist

Background

Urban Ministries of Durham (UMD) stands in the gap to meet the needs of neighbors facing homelessness, hunger and poverty. Thanks to generous donors and 2,000 volunteers, the program helps more than 6,000 individuals annually through its: • Emergency shelter, which welcomes 600 men, women and children each year, helping 100-120 obtain permanent housing.

• Community Café, which serves three meals a day, every day, or a quarter-million meals a year.

• Food Pantry and Clothing Closet, which provide mostly donated items to 500+ low-wealth households each month.

Get in Touch!

Phone: (919) 682-0538 Website: umdurham.org Email: devel@umdurham.org Follow us: facebook.com/ UrbanMinistriesOfDurham Address: 410 Liberty St Durham, NC 27701

Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved Sponsored Content

Background

Animal Protection Society of Durham is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that has been helping animals in our community since 1970 and has managed the Durham County Animal Shelter since 1990. APS relies on donations from caring individuals and corporations to feed, shelter and provide medical attention for the more than 4,000 stray, surrendered, abandoned, abused and neglected animals we care for each year.

Mission statement

Animal Protection Society of Durham (APS) is a leader in building lifelong bonds between people and animals through education, community outreach and providing care for animals in need. Our vision is that there are no displaced or unwanted pets; all animals are treated with compassion and respect; and community services are available to all pet owners.

Brag lines

Animal adoptions last year: 2,197 Kittens fostered: 1,235 Volunteer hours: 18,427 Pets reunited with owners: 523 APS has managed the Durham County Animal Shelter for 23 years. Our goals are to:

• Increase low-cost spay/neuter resources offered in Durham County • Enhance educational programs and offerings for community members to receive needed resources, such as microchips, identification tags, behavioral assistance and medical assistance • Expand foster programs to better serve animals outside of the shelter

Upcoming events

Wish list

• Give a gift: Learn more on our website by selecting “Donate” under the “How You Can Help” tab.

• Kuranda Shelter Beds: Visit shelterbeds.org and search for “Animal Protection Society of Durham.”

Home for the Holidays This holiday season, consider opening your home to an animal in need. APS is seeking adopters and foster homes as the temperatures are dropping and more animals need loving and safe homes. If you are unable to adopt but are able to foster, please visit our website and select “Foster” under the “How You Can Help” tab to fill out an online application, view our available foster animals, and schedule a time to pick up a foster pet.

APS is seeking fosters for all time periods – whether it is for the whole month of December, a weekend or during our holiday closure. Our animals would be thrilled to have a break from the shelter! Please consider adopting or fostering this holiday season and adding a little more joy to your home.

Get in Touch!

• Amazon wish list: Available on our website under the “How You Can Help” tab.

• Foster, volunteer or adopt: Find out more on our website.

2117 E. Club Blvd.

Durham, NC 27704 919-560-0640 apsofdurham.org

Adopt!

Engage!

Donate!

BIZ BRIEFS

PHOTO BY JULIA VAUGHAN

durham inc.

Compiled by Katie Scherner

Meredith Biechele, an advanced research and development engineer at John Deere, was honored PHOTO BY KEVIN CHAMBERLIN with the Rising Technical Contributor Award by the Society of Women Engineers at SWE’s annual conference in Los Angeles in October 2023.

The honor recognizes Biechele’s work on the development of multiple battery-electric prototype vehicles, paving the way for commercially available electric mowing equipment, as well as her research in swappable batteries and protecting cargo ships from electric vehicle fires.

In a study published by CommercialCafe, Durham ranked as the No. 8 best Southern metro area for technology development based on nine metrics. It ranked No. 3 for its ratio of tech businesses within the local economy, and No. 6 for technology employment density.

North Carolina Technology Association’s NC Tech Awards recognized Durham’s Peoplelogic.ai with a Beacon award, placing the workplace software platform on its “Top 10 Startups to Watch” list of successful companies that were founded in North Carolina within the past four years. According to the company, its mission is to provide better insights to scaling organizations so they can excel.

100

|

durhammag.com

|

Durham-Chapel Hill ranked No. 6 out of 110 top U.S. metro areas for technological innovation, inching in front of Raleigh at No. 7, according to North Carolina Technology Association’s annual state of technology report.

will resonate for years to come,” said Department Director Don Greeley. Pictured left are Water Efficiency and Conservation Analyst Grant Cullinan and Water Efficiency and Conservation Manager James Lim.

COMINGS & GOINGS PHOTO COURTESY OF EPA WATERSENSE

WHAT AN HONOR

CandleScience, an e-commerce provider of candle and soap-making supplies in the U.S. and Canada, held a grand opening for its new showroom at its Durham headquarters located at 1247 Person St. on Oct. 11, 2023. At the showroom, visitors can shop for candle containers and exclusive deals and discounts; connect with other makers; and take in the smells of the company’s extensive fragrance and essential oils library.

The City of Durham’s Department of Water Management won its first Sustained Excellence Award from the Environmental Protection Agency’s voluntary partnership with WaterSense, marking the city’s eighth consecutive award from the organization. It previously won five WaterSense Excellence awards and two WaterSense Partner of the Year awards. “[Our water efficiency team’s] dedication and innovative approach to water efficiency outreach earned this recognition, and their efforts showcase Durham Water’s commitment to sustainable practices that

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Thomas & Hutton, a professional services company providing consulting, planning and engineering design services related to land and infrastructure, relocated its Durham office to 2510 Meridian Pkwy., Ste. 100.

“We now have four private conference rooms, which provides a very convenient location for out-of-town clients to use our new office as a base of operations for meetings,” said T&H Principal and Regional Director Dan Jewell.

Global pharmaceutical company Pfizer announced the closure of plants in both Durham and Morrisville to streamline operations and reduce costs, aiming to cut at least $3.5 billion in costs. Its two largest North Carolina facilities in both Sanford and Rocky Mount will not be affected by the closure.

Beacon Properties Group, represented by CBRE | Raleigh, sold 6.82 acres of land at 4802 Durham-Chapel Hill Blvd. to AvalonBay Communities.

The land is slated for 459 units as phase one of this purchase between Beacon and AvalonBay to develop a 930unit apartment community.

AvalonBay’s plans include three four-story mid-rise buildings, each with its own parking garage, as well as a resort-style PHOTO BY DAN JEWELL

durham inc. swimming pool, outdoor grilling areas, an indoor/outdoor fitness center and several courtyards for each building.

validate and advance their idea, including Durham-based DiffyQ, Elroi Enterprise Inc. and Hayti.

In addtion to these NC IDEA MICRO grant recipients, Durham’s own Bristles Inc., an AI-powered DIY design co-pilot for home improvement projects, earned one of the spots in the fall cohort for the 36th cycle of the $50,000 NC IDEA SEED grant.

FUNDING

Google.org granted Urban Institute $2 million to support the creation and expansion of tech apprenticeship programs tailored for small and medium businesses in North and South Carolina. “Small and mediumsized businesses are the lifeblood of our economy and, unfortunately, too often they do not have the resources to build and maintain the type of apprenticeship programs their bigger competitors can easily offer,” said Lilyn Hester, Google’s head of Southeast external affairs and government relations.

“Google.org has long recognized this challenge, and this continues our support of training workers for the careers of today and tomorrow.” Through 2025, Urban Institute apprenticeship experts, alongside ApprenticeshipNC and Apprenticeship Carolina, will work

PHOTO COURTESY OF AVALONBAY COMMUNITIES

County Board of Commissioners Chair Shinica Thomas and Hester (pictured left) celebrated the announcement at Wake Technical Community College’s RTP Campus in September 2023.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOGLE

with these businesses to build programs for learners in their communities, with the goal of hiring 200 registered apprentices into tech careers in the Carolinas.

Rep. Deborah Ross, Code the Dream Co-Executive Director Daisy A. Magnus-Aryitey, Wake

Independent private foundation NC IDEA awarded $10,000 in funding to 15 young companies – chosen after a three-month competitive application and selection process that drew 170 applications from across the state – that are looking to

2023

Investments

Financial Planning

Coastal Credit Union Foundation gave $325,000 in grants to 14 North Carolina-based nonprofits, including five in Durham: Cristo Rey Research Triangle High School received $50,000; Housing for New Hope, $40,000; Boys & Girls Clubs of Durham and Orange Counties, $15,000; North Carolina Employee Ownership Center, $15,000; and Farmer Foodshare, $15,000.

“These nonprofits are working diligently to improve access to resources, support affordable housing efforts and provide financial education throughout our local communities,” said Emily Nail, the foundation’s executive director. 

Chapel Hill, NC Fiduciary Since 1982 919.968.2977

Risk Management

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

101

durham inc.

PARTNERSHIPS AND ACQUISITIONS

Cisco announced it would acquire cybersecurity and observability company Splunk for approximately $28 billion in equity value by the end of the third quarter of 2024. This new investment will build Cisco’s digital security and customer experience. “Our combined capabilities will drive the next generation of AI-enabled security and observability,” said Chuck Robbins, chair and CEO of Cisco. “From threat detection and response to threat prediction and prevention, we will help make organizations of all sizes more secure and resilient.” Upon close of the acquisition, Splunk president and CEO Gary Steele will join Cisco’s executive leadership team and report to Robbins.

Georgia-based revenue cycle management company Aspirion acquired Infinia ML, a Durhambased machine learning startup founded by Duke University professor Larry Carin.

Durham-headquartered physician enablement platform Alo added Davidson Family Medicine to its independent practices, expanding its network to seven in the Charlotte area.

United Therapeutics Corporation, a biotechnology company that designs products to address the medical needs of patients with chronic illnesses, acquired Miromatrix Medical, a life sciences company that

PHOTO COURTESY OF RALEIGH-DURHAM AIRPORT AUTHORITY

Durhamheadquartered child’s toy rental service Tiny Earth Toys, led by founder and CEO Rachael Classi PHOTO BY JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON (pictured), announced a partnership with Nurtured Nest, a parenting education company, in October 2023. The collaboration aims to transform the way parents shop for their children, allowing them to subscribe to the rental service and simultaneously gain insight into their child’s development.“By exposing parents to our education through a company like Tiny Earth, we are able to help parents see the value of parent education, especially in our on-demand format,” says Kathryn Dunn, Nurtured Nest founder and CEO.

Genetics-led consumer healthcare and biopharmaceutical company 23andMe Holding Co. has entered a nonexclusive data licensing agreement with GSK. This agreement extends the two companies’ previous five-year collaboration and grants GSK access to the 23andMe database to conduct drug target discovery and other research. Under an amendment to their collaboration agreement, 23andMe will receive a $20 million upfront payment for a one-year, nonexclusive data license. “With approximately 50 programs developed over the last five years, we are thrilled to work with GSK in discovering genetically validated targets,” said 23andMe CEO and cofounder Anne Wojcicki. “The continued relationship with GSK demonstrates the power of the 23andMe research platform to consistently produce novel insights for therapeutic development, rooted in human genetics.”

102

GIVING BACK

bioengineers organs composed of human cells, in a $91 million cash deal that is set to close in the fourth quarter of 2023.

The acquisition will expand United Therapeutics’ existing complementary platform of organ manufacturing programs with the objective of creating an unlimited supply of tolerable, transplantable organs. United Therapeutics Chairperson and CEO Martine Rothblatt said that the company is “determined to rectify the severe shortage of transplantable organs,” and believes Miromax will support its goal.

IBM acquired data lineage platform Manta Software Inc. in October 2023 to support its initiatives in AI transparency and governance. The acquisition of Manta marked IBM’s eighth acquisition in 2023.

WHAT’S NEW?

Software company ProcessMaker unveiled the integration of an artificial intelligence (AI) functionality in its automation platform. In this new era of artificial intelligence, this platform will efficiently analyze unstructured data much faster than the human eye.

“With these new enhancements, anyone can describe a process and watch ProcessMaker AI build out a process map in seconds,” said ProcessMaker Founder Brian Reale.

Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority leaders, local dignitaries and regional business leaders joined in a ceremonial groundbreaking on Oct. 11, 2023, for the replacement of Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s primary 2-mile runway that was built in the mid-1980s.

The new runway will be 537 feet to the west to allow for the

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

BASF, a climate protection chemical company, gathered 125 employees to support the Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina on Oct. 4, 2023. Known as “Yam Jam,” the volunteers sorted through 20,000 pounds of fresh yams, filling almost 1,600 bags, in the company’s parking lot at 2 TW Alexander Dr.

future expansion of Terminal 2 and extended by 639 feet, which will permit long-haul aircraft to carry more passengers and cargo. “As the signature project in the Airport Authority’s Vision 2040 master plan … this critical infrastructure will allow RDU to keep up with the region’s increasing demand for air travel and help RDU recruit new airlines and more routes,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. The project is estimated to take five years, and will cost $500 million. RDU also recently welcomed its 16th and 17th airlines, Air France and Aeromexico, respectively, and will expand its Icelandair flights to daily, year-round service in May 2024.

Nonprofit research institute RTI International announced in October 2023 that its health equity dashboard, RTI Rarity, is now available to the public.

This platform, which draws on a comprehensive data library of community-level measures of social and behavioral determinants of health, allows users to view risk of inequities in life expectancy, cancer mortality, drug overdoses and more in communities anywhere in the U.S. Google Fiber, now known as GFiber, unveiled its first GFiber Labs project, 20 Gig + Wi-Fi 7, in late October 2023, announcing that it would provide residential customers with access to 20GB speeds – double the current top commercial offering – by the end of the year.

durham inc.

NETWORKING

Durham Chamber of Commerce’s Angelique Stallings.

TAKE NO BULL WOMEN’S CONFERENCE

By Leah Berry | Photography by HuthPhoto The Durham Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Take No Bull Women’s Conference on Sept. 27, 2023, at the Sheraton Imperial Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park. The event – the first one held since 2020 – welcomed women in business and their allies to learn from leaders in our community on how to take up space, network, be a mentor and an ally, and advocate for themselves through hands-on and interactive discussions.

Christy A. Walker and Sarah Chick of NPower.

Ray Brown, Kimberly J. Sowell, Kristi Jones, Minnie Forte-Brown, Mina Forte and Karen Clark. Forte-Brown was honored during the program with a Take No Bull Legacy award.

Vincent Brown and Sheba Brown of APlus Test Prep & Academic Services.

Shepley Bulfinch’s Angela Watson spoke on a panel of female CEOs.

Guests spent the morning attending breakout sessions in which several panelists discussed topics ranging from navigating and thriving in a world designed for men, understanding the politics of the office and life, the importance of women in the C-Suite, the pressures of being a female leader and more.

Foxy 107.1/104.3 midday on-air radio personality and entrepreneur Karen Clark emceed the event, which also featured remarks from now-former Durham Mayor Elaine O’Neal and Duke Office of Durham and Community Affairs Vice President Stelfanie Williams during a provided breakfast and lunch. Gov. Roy Cooper’s Chief of Staff Kristi Jones gave the keynote speech to conclude the conference.

NC Counts Coalition’s Tracy Mosley, Durham County Commissioner Chair Brenda Howerton and Thiané Carter of the RaleighDurham International Airport.

104

|

durhammag.com

Rev. Sharon Dean of Wake Chapel Church and Duke Energy’s Indira Everett.

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

YOU’VE SPENT 30 YEARS BUILDING YOUR NEST EGG. NOW COMES THE HARD PART:

MAKING IT LAST ANOTHER 30.

The challenges facing today’s retirees are unique. Higher inflation, sky-rocketing healthcare costs, longer life expectancies, and complex Social Security rules all make much of the conventional retirement wisdom of the past obsolete. In this new era, it’s crucial that you take a fresh look at the challenges ahead and create a comprehensive plan to address them.

For 30 years, we’ve been working with people like you to address the challenges of the transition from accumulating their nest egg to using it to support their retirement lifestyle. Get in touch today to schedule a complimentary consultation.

2828 SuiteSuite 170 1001 3622 Pickett LyckanRoad, Parkway, Durham, Durham,NC NC27705 27707 Mark Kuhn

President & Founder

Scott Ranby, CFP® Financial Advisor

CALL 919-493-3233 TO LEARN MORE

durham inc.

HOT SHOT:

JORDAN FEARRINGTON THE SKANSKA PROJECT MANAGER W O R KS T O B U I L D A B E T T E R D U R H A M

BY A N N A- R H E S A V E R S O L A P H O T O BY J O H N M I C H A E L S I M P S O N

D

urham native Jordan Fearrington played with Lego bricks and Lincoln Logs in his youth, like many other kids. As he grew older, his father encouraged him to keep building and to follow his own path into engineering. Today, Fearrington manages complex projects that transform our city’s landscape and shape how people interact with those spaces.

Fearrington is a project manager at construction and development company Skanska, which employs more than 28,000 employees globally, with about 6,500 in the United States. He recently directed construction work for the Duke Quantum Center, a new physics research laboratory at The Chesterfield. The former cigarette production facility was once part of a sprawling manufacturing district where both of Fearrington’s grandfathers worked to keep the machines humming for Liggett & Myers. Fearrington’s paternal grandfather, John T. Fearrington, was the first Black “fixer” – as a Black man working in the 1940s, he was not afforded the appropriate designation of mechanic – for the tobacco company.

106

|

durhammag.com

|

Fearrington attended Pearsontown Elementary, Rogers-Herr Middle School and C.E. Jordan High School. “I had the opportunity to go to a couple different colleges for wrestling and decided on NC State for [civil] engineering,” Fearrington said. While at State, Fearrington studied abroad at Southeast University in Nanjing, China and Hong Kong Polytechnic University in Hung Hom, Hong Kong. “I had my first internship with Skanska in 2014 and was hired on from that internship,” he said. “After graduation [that year], I began working with them full time. I started as an assistant project engineer, which is sort of our entry level, and I’ve worked my way up since then.”

He and his wife, Alexis Fearrington, live off of T.W. Alexander Drive near Page Road with their sons Caleb Fearrington, 1½, and Jacob Fearrington, who was born Nov. 9, 2023.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Durham.

We moved a number of times when I was growing up, mostly between the Southpoint area and North Durham near the Starlite Drive-in, up toward [Interstate] 85.

What drew you to engineering?

Well, there was my father. I loved playing with Duplo blocks and whatever building toys that I had

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

as a child. [I asked him,] “If I go to school, [and I want to build], what do I do?” “Well, you should be an engineer,” [he told me].

One of my friends in college was doing civil [engineering], and I was like, “Oh, well, if you’re doing that, I’ll do [it], too.” And thankfully, thankfully, thankfully, that was the one that I actually wanted to do.

What are some Durham projects, either current or past, that hold special meaning for you and your family?

The first one would be Duke Central Tower [at Duke University Hospital].

There are a lot of people who receive lifesaving services at the hospital, so it was always a good feeling to work on a project like that and contribute to the community in that way.

While I was working there [in 2019], it was the hospital that my maternal grandfather died in. It was important to me to build to the best of my ability so people in end-of-life situations will be able to receive the best services possible. I was able to be with him in those last days in a way that I wouldn’t have if I was working somewhere else. So that one definitely has a special place in my heart for many reasons.

The next one would be the Merrick-Moore Park that we built off of Hoover Road. That’s an area where I grew up going to the Wheels Roller Skating Rink right across the street. I’ve actually taken my son to play in that park. That’s always nice, being able to go and spend time in a place that you’ve built.

And the [third] project, the Duke Quantum Center in the Chesterfield building, holds a special place because it’s a building that both of my grandfathers worked in. It was really, really cool to be able to have worked in the same place as my grandfathers did 60 years in the past. Sometimes I just wonder – obviously the building has been renovated since then – but what door did my grandfather walk through, which floor would he have been on, in what area would he have been?

Are those kinds of thoughts or memories part of your inspiration for projects?

Absolutely. We are always speaking of building with the end user in mind. We never build just to get the job done. We never build cutting corners. It’s just an extra reinforcement to remember that your loved ones will be using the facilities and infrastructure that you build. So every corner cut could have a direct impact on the people that you love. So not only is it an integrity issue with doing the right thing and doing the best job possible, but it also has a direct impact on the people you care about most.

What would you say to young kids or students to encourage them to follow their passions, but especially if they’re interested in a career in civil engineering?

The advice I would give would be, No. 1, you have to have persistence. It’s not something that’s easy to do or maintain. You have to have a lot of determination. I had no background in engineering; my parents weren’t engineers. I didn’t even know what civil engineering was until I got to college.

Make sure you surround yourself with community.

I had a great community in my family, and once I got to school, I [found] a great community through the National Society of Black Engineers – I was a member of our local collegiate chapter throughout my time at NC State. I was also a member of the regional board. And I had a great time doing that; I met a lot of people. I think NSBE did a great job of supporting college students throughout their collegiate and professional development – as did NC State’s Minority Engineering Programs. Those two communities definitely supported me. I have lifelong friends from those communities who I still talk to today.

Follow your passions. Don’t let anyone dissuade you from it. Do understand that there are challenges and difficulties that you will have to endure

durham inc.

Jordan Fearrington and his grandfather, John T. Fearrington, who died earlier this year at age 100, were able to visit the Chesterfield building together in February 2023 – a powerful moment for them both.

In addition to the work he did for Liggett & Myers, John T. served in the Army during World War II and was one of 103 men and women who received the Legion of Honor at the Hôtel National des Invalides on June 5, 2004, commemorating the 60th anniversary of D-Day. These 103 were selected from among the U.S. military units that participated in the liberation of France between June 6, 1944, and May 8, 1945.

– endure them, don’t give up.

And if you’re interested in a career in engineering, try to find a mentor, someone who is in a position that you want to be in, seek out what they did. If you’re interested in construction or engineering, try to find a place that will offer you experience in those areas, even if you aren’t getting paid for it – volunteer for experience. Volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

And then build a community.

Don’t ever try to do anything alone in life. Just as general advice, surround yourself with people, because you’re going to need encouragement in times where you’re down.

What are you working on actively? What are some future projects that you’re excited about?

I’m working on the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University project, doing a lot of exterior improvements. This is a facility that our company has worked on previously. I do really love building in Durham and just being back in my hometown. It’s a great feeling to know the positive impact that the things we build will have on the community where I grew up. I think any project in Durham is something that I will really look forward to.

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

107

durham inc.

HOLIDAYS BRING GLAD TIDINGS FOR DURHAM BUSINESSES L O C A L R E TA I L E R S A N D R E S TA U R AT E U R S R E V U P F O R A B U S T L I N G W I N T E R S E AS O N

BY A N N A- R H E S A V E R S O L A | P H O T O G R A P H Y BY J O H N M I C H A E L S I M P S O N

T

his year’s holiday outlook is merry and bright for shop and restaurant owners, particularly since the Bull City caught the attention of The New York Times as a “diverse cultural and culinary destination.”

Durham was featured on Nov. 2, 2023, in the newspaper’s travel column that highlights things to do and see when an out-oftowner has only 36 hours to check out an area.

Visitors to Durham spent more than $1 billion in 2022, up 31% over 2021 and the second highest year-over-year growth rate in the state, according to Discover Durham’s tourism impact report for fiscal year 2023. The state and local tax impact amounted to nearly $72 million.

Durham’s hospitality jobs grew 21% to more than 7,000 workers, which was the state’s largest increase. This job growth was spurred, in part, by a rise in new business openings and expanded restaurant hours, though many establishments have not returned to pre-pandemic schedules. Still, demand for more workers is high for the restaurant and hotel sectors.

Nearly 60% of out-of-town visitors come to reunite with family and friends during the holidays, said Discover Durham President and CEO Susan Amey. “There’s nothing like hosting your family and seeing

108

|

durhammag.com

|

the joy grandkids experience during the holidays,” she said.

Travel patterns and visitor spending continue to shift postpandemic, but the most recent visitor impact data shows the

county’s lodging occupancy rate is up 4% compared to this time last year. “We’re encouraged, and expect to continue seeing this year-over-year growth during this holiday season,” Amey said.

Hometown Apparel fills its 1,800-square-foot storefront on Ninth Street with wearable gifts and home decor made by more than 40 different artists and vendors based in Durham and throughout North Carolina.

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

However, colder weather can slow travel and tourism rates, which can impact surrounding retail and hospitality businesses.

“That’s important to mention, considering retail and food and beverage accounted for more than half of visitor spending in 2022,” Amey added.

Last December attracted more than half a million unique visitors to seven different downtown districts, according to a monthly report assembled by Tiffany Bashore, business engagement director for Downtown Durham Inc. There were 787,000 visitors to downtown last year between Thanksgiving and the end of December – a 10% increase over 2021. She said there have been 9.8 million visitors to the area so far this year, and could match the pre-COVID visitor number of 10.5 million by year’s end.

Gina Rozier, DDI’s marketing and communication director, said the outdoor tree lighting event on Dec. 2, 2023, at CCB Plaza is expected to bring thousands downtown with a talented lineup of Durham musicians and performers. City council members unanimously approved the creation of The Bullpen, Durham’s first social district, in October 2022, and it kicked off just a couple days before the tree lighting last December; businesses adjacent to CCB Plaza ended up running out of Bullpen cups – which allow people to responsibly drink beer, wine or cocktails purchased from participating bars and restaurants as they walk through downtown – during the event.

durham inc.

Jewelsmith has six in-house goldsmiths and offers on-site appraisals and repairs. “That’s one of the things I love about what we do,” said Jewelsmith President Kristine Wylie. “We do a twist on traditional jewelry; I’d say we think outside the box. Our designers are just overflowing with creativity.”

Here, designer and sales associate Mary Coleman presents a few pieces to regular customers Terri Meliones and Vanessa Gordon.

Starting Jan. 9, 2024, DDI will also host the third annual Downtown Durham Feast, a monthlong campaign that encourages customers to dine downtown and submit a copy of their receipts for a chance to win weekly prizes, including goodies from downtown retailers, a $100 SpendaBull gift card and a night’s stay in a downtown hotel. DDI also plans to boost the marketing of its SpendaBull e-gift card program that began in 2019 this holiday season. Since its inception, customers have bought nearly $150,000 worth of gift cards, which are exclusively redeemable at participating downtown merchants.

THE GIVING SEASON “Once there’s a hint of fall, the holiday shopping begins,” said Lauren Elmore, owner of Mode Consignment, which began preparing for the season in late summer. “It’s definitely a busier time of year,” she said. “People are excited to come look for a fun cocktail dress, cute little clutches, heels or jewelry to match outfits for parties.”

The shop has built a loyal following over the past 13 years.

“We love seeing our return customers from out of town,” she said. “Lots of mothers and daughters or sisters make it a tradition to always visit Mode when they are back in [Durham].” Elmore said sales are up from last year at both her Raleigh and Durham locations where consignment sales are heavily dependent on brick-andmortar shoppers.

Event-driven experiences with lifestyle and accessories designers at Vert & Vogue also make for meaningful holiday gifts. “Our mother/daughter styling appointments are the

most memorable experience we offer during this time,” said Vert & Vogue co-founder Ryan Hurley.

“It’s a unique and fun opportunity for mothers and daughters to connect and celebrate the season together. Last year, one of our clients who lives out of town and visits often bought a [curated] box for each of her three daughters. They opened them together during the holidays – [it] was a huge hit.”

Hurley said sales are strong this year despite lower rates of foot traffic during daytime shopping hours downtown.

He said focusing on customer experience has become critical for the shop’s growth. “We expect to have a brisk holiday season,” he said. “Our business has evolved into personal styling, which includes our appointment experiences. Our bookings have grown significantly.”

Custom jewelers also rely on private appointments to connect with their customers.

“The shopping experience is another reason why we stick with the appointments; [it]

allows us to give each client their time,” said Jewelsmith President Kristine Wylie. This holiday season, though, the storefront will be open every day with extended hours and no appointments required during the month of December to encourage shoppers in search of meaningful – and sometimes lifechanging – gifts. “Having been in business for 20-plus years, we have lots of amazing regulars, and we are also meeting many newcomers, especially for engagement rings and wedding bands,” Wylie said, noting that 2022 was a good year for the company’s sales, and 2023 is shaping up similarly well.

The employees of Hamilton Hill Jewelry in Brightleaf Square look forward to the bustling weeks of December when they greet returning clients, meet new ones and wrap beautiful gifts.

Hamilton Hill co-owner Sarah Hill said the holiday season is a major part of her business, “but I’m happy to say we are nicely busy all year

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

long. Brief lulls come and go, but engagements, birthdays, anniversaries and gifts to self never fade.” She said the store serves many long-distance clients who make purchases by phone, e-commerce or email, which turns the back room into Santa’s shipping department.

Hill said the shop’s Christmas Eve shoppers are particularly fun, with some families or groups making an annual outing to the store. “There are lots of wonderful and sometimes silly tales on the holiday shopping front,” she said. “One in particular is when a husband was shopping for his wife and she, shopping for him, ran into each other at Hamilton Hill. They were able to have a laugh about it and then neither had to have the challenge of choosing a surprise gift. We did wrap the gifts though, and I’m told they went under the tree nonetheless.”

At Letters Bookshop on West Main Street, owner Land Arnold said the store will open on Mondays during the holiday season and is open 11 a.m. until

|

Durhammag.com

|

109

durham inc.

8 p.m. on most days. “The busier a bookstore gets, the better it feels, and the more fun it is for the people working there,” Arnold said.

Letters Bookshop celebrates its 10th anniversary this year in the downtown district and hopes more retail businesses will fill nearby empty storefronts. “I think we need to support not just startup tech entrepreneurship; we need retail,” he said.

Over on Ninth Street, shop owner Barbara Stover is re-configuring the layout of Hometown Apparel because the 1,800-square-foot store is packed with merchandise and seasonal inventory. “I tell people when they come in the store, ‘You need to take a couple laps around just to take it all in,’” she said, and added that it is now open seven days a week to feature products made by 40 different vendors based in Durham and other locations across North Carolina.

And, every item is also available online through their website.

“We’re very proud of getting everything cataloged,” Stover said. “I mean, it was exhausting, but we are so thankful because now we’re seeing people are ordering from everywhere, not only the United States, but globally. People come to Durham, and it makes an impact on them. And they want to bring it home with them, but they don’t necessarily have room in their luggage, or they forgot an item, or they want to send it to a loved one.”

Stover said she trains her seasonal employees – she plans to hire three part-time staff who she hopes will stay on after the holidays – about every product’s backstory.

“We really find that helps the customer,” she said, adding that she encourages her workers to actively connect with visitors.

“That way when they leave, they’re wanting to come back.”

NOW SERVING The hospitality industry is growing across the state, said Lynn Minges, president of the North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association. “We’re only just now surpassing 2019 employment numbers,”

110

|

durhammag.com

|

ABOVE Tables fill up quickly for New Orleans-inspired meals at Seraphine, the newest restaurant to open at the American Tobacco Campus.

BELOW “We breathe deeply and do our best to go with the flow,” said Hamilton Hill co-owner Sarah Hill. “Perspective is key. Even when shipping disruptions or technological issues wear on us, we remember how fortunate we are to work with beautiful goods and gracious people.”

Minges said. “But that’s not the whole story – North Carolina is growing, and that means more people, more businesses and ultimately more competition.

The whole hospitality industry is feeling this shift and the need for more workers.”

Minges said a new statewide marketing recruitment campaign, Serving Careers, promotes the opportunities that exist within the industry to help attract and retain employees in restaurants, bars, hotels and motels across

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

the state. Funded by a $5 million grant from North Carolina’s portion of the American Rescue Plan, the plan highlights the valuable skills that can be learned working in the hospitality industry and the diverse career paths available. According to the NCRLA job board, there are nearly 2,000 hospitality-related positions open in Durham.

NanaSteak co-owner Brad Weddington likened launching his new restaurant – Seraphine – to having a baby. “We’re still in

the phase when you say ‘weeks,’” he said. Brad and his brother, Graham Weddington, own both restaurants. “For Seraphine, we’re still figuring out our day-to-day, so thinking about stuff in the future, we’ve got some ideas, especially being in American Tobacco Campus – it’s so pretty, [and] they do the tower lighting and all [during the holidays].”

Brad said this is the busiest time of the year for the restaurant industry in general and added that NanaSteak is typically booked for holiday parties five or six months in advance. He said his restaurants are typically always hiring due to the need to maintain a high level of staffing, but that most employees brought on during this lively season end up staying on board.

“I think what’s going to be cool is being [part] of the [downtown] social district … especially when they do the tower lighting,” Brad adds. “[The city] invests a lot in the holiday season down here. We feel very fortunate always to be a part of these things. This really shows how special it is for us to be so close to Durham Performing Arts Center and to create that kind of experience for people.

It’s something that we really try not to take for granted. It really just means a lot for people to want to celebrate with us.”

engagement Justin Cromwell & Nicole Mitchell

The Proposal Justin asked Nicole’s

B Y AV E RY H O U S E HO L DE R

P HOTO B Y A RT B Y CO U RT WINTE R , A RT B YCO URT W I N T ER. COM

Wedding Date Feb. 2, 2024 Occupations Justin is a diagnostics lab

manager for UNC, and Nicole is an assignments coordinator for housing at Duke University.

Crossed Paths Justin and Nicole met through a mutual friend at a party in 2019. “We had heard so much about each other and how much we had in common, but didn’t really think anything of it when we actually met,” Nicole says. “But Justin came into town again a few months later, and we were able to really connect.” They went on a first date over Labor Day weekend, and their relationship (two years of which were long distance), took off from there.

father for his blessing before popping the question on May 4, 2022, (a nod to the couple’s mutual love of “Star Wars”) while the two were vacationing in Miami. “It was such a surprise!” Nicole says. “I did not suspect a thing!” Justin proposed on the first night of the trip after dinner at the Versace Mansion. “I was thinking we were just taking a photo in front of the beautiful fountain,” Nicole says.

“I didn’t even believe it was really happening until I actually saw the ring!

The rest of our trip ended up being an engagement celebration.”

Now, “I Do” The big day, in the hands of Enchanting Events & Designs, will take place at The Cotton Room with floral accents by Poppy Belle Event & Floral Design, tunes by DJ Paradime from Cool Receptions and a cake

by Sugar Euphoria. The couple currently lives in South Durham.

Come and Celebrate with us!

One hundred years of service, charm, history, and unforgettable relationships.

Centennial Celebration Schedule

carolinainn.com/events

d ec e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

|

Durhammag.com

|

111

wedding

Kelsey Duncan & William Gillespie

BY HALEY PINELES

P HOTO G RA P H Y B Y C HR ISTIAN R E Y E S P HOTO GR APHY, C HR I ST I A N R E Y E S P HOTOG RAPHY. COM

Wedding Date Oct. 15, 2022 Occupations Kelsey is an occupational therapist at Duke Regional Hospital, and William is the wellness director

at Cambridge Fitness in Brier Creek.

Crossed Paths The two met at Christ Central Church in November 2019 through their respective roommates. A friendship formed between the pair, and a few months later, William asked Kelsey on a date via Instagram during the second week of pandemic lockdown. “We fell in love fast because ... we were forced to get creative and spend a lot of time in conversation in our homes and on our front porches,” Kelsey says.

The Proposal Keeping Kelsey’s preferences of “something low-key, [with] just the two of us” in mind, William planned a romantic picnic at the summit of Black Balsam Knob along the Blue Ridge Parkway, where he got down on one knee and popped the question. Kelsey didn’t believe him at first. “I asked, ‘Are you serious?’ three times … and finally said ‘yes’ after the initial shock wore off,” she says. Then William surprised Kelsey yet again with an overnight stay in downtown Asheville.

The Big Day After a rehearsal dinner at Namu, Kelsey and William tied the knot with rings by Brad Dingler at Union Grove Farm in Chapel Hill.

William’s father, Gus Gillespie, was their officiant. The selection of their other vendors was deeply personal as well: They frequented Two Roosters Ice Cream, the dessert for the reception, while dating; Kelsey befriended the owner of Blawsome Flower Farm, which provided the florals, through her involvement in Reality Ministries; and both loved dining at caterer Mediterranean Deli during their time as students at UNC. Their color scheme, beautifully accentuated by American Party Rentals decor, included rust, gold, Champagne and brown to reflect the changing of the season.

112

|

durhammag.com

|

d e c e m b e r 2 0 2 3 / ja n ua ry 2 0 24

Favorite Moments “My father passed away when I was 16 and

always told me he wanted to dance to ‘I Loved Her First’ by Heartland at my wedding,” Kelsey says. “To honor him, I danced to that song with my mom, brother and aunt – all of his favorite people.

It was a very surreal and emotional moment that I’ll never forget.”

William’s favorite memory from the big day was the couple’s last, private dance to “Cover Me Up” by Jason Isbell at the end of the reception. The newlyweds live in downtown Durham.

Do you live in Durham and want your wedding or engagement featured in our magazine?

Scan this code to send us your info.

Live a healthy, active, fulfilling life.

Duke Lifestyle & Weight Management Center provides a one-stop-shop for those seeking weight loss services, and features a lifestyle-based approach that incorporates every aspect of your life.

Duke Lifestyle & Weight Management Center 501 Douglas St. Durham, NC 27705

Services Available: § Medical weight loss services § Nutrition consultations § Behavioral health § Low-calorie, meal replacement program - Optifast® § Body composition measurement with Bod Pod®

Call for an appointment 1-800-235-3853

DukeHealth.org/DLWMC