letter
The Future Is Now
B
uckle up, buttercup. We’re coming into 2024 hot, ready to embark on a new season of change. We’ve installed a new mayor, Leonardo Williams, who graced the cover of our Influencers issue just a year ago alongside his wife, Zweli Williams. When the pair were interviewed, they told us that their biggest hopes for the year were “to be of inspiration to future entrepreneurs, continue to serve our community in various ways and also provide more opportunities to aspiring individuals” – which they have certainly achieved with both Leo’s electoral victory and the opening of Zweli’s Ekhaya at American Tobacco Campus. This year’s Influencers collective embody the same characteristics that Leo, Zweli and the dozens of people who we’ve featured over the past six years continue to show time and again – an authenticity and determination to leave their mark on our community and shape our city’s future for the betterment of its citizens. Learn more about them – from the successful restaurateur known for both his quality dishes as well as the kindness and respect he shows to his customers and staff alike, to the passionate artist helming a new era of the arts at Duke – on page 26. Speaking of shaping the future, Durham families are in for a treat with our curated list of new experiences that promise unforgettable moments together. Parents, consider the guide beginning on page 62 your passport to making memories that will last a lifetime. Looking ahead, it’s also time to plan for the kids’ summer break. Flip to page 70 for our coverage of summer camps in the area, an ideal resource for choosing the perfect camp for your little ones. From arts and crafts to outdoor adventures, the Triangle offers a diverse array of options to keep your children engaged and entertained. Now, let’s talk about one of the most crucial aspects of being a Durhamite – having your voice heard in our annual Best of Durham poll! We’re excited to introduce you to the voting process (see how to start your ballot on page 44) and encourage you to participate in selecting your favorite local spots, services and entertainment. Voting runs the entire month of February. Every vote matters, and this is your chance to champion the people and places that make Durham extraordinary.
FOLLOW US
VOTE FOR THE BEST OF DURHAM! Our annual poll is back! Cast your ballot today.
CALLING ALL NEWLY ENGAGED COUPLES!
If you live in Durham or are from the Bull City, we want to hear your love story.
OH, THOSE SUMMER CAMP MEMORIES
Send us yours!
amanda.maclaren@durhammag.com THE COV E R Crystal Taylor at The Pinhook. Photo by John Michael Simpson. 4
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