Chatham Magazine Summer 2026

Savor Summer in Siler City

Where to eat,playdrink, & exploreall season long

Sip the day away at FireClay Cellars page 32

Where Medical Expertise Meets Aesthetic Artistry

At the Dermatology & Laser Center of Chapel Hill, founded by Dr. Chris G. Adigun, we believe that exceptional skin care begins with compassion, expertise, and a genuine commitment to each patient’s well-being. Our team of board-certified dermatology specialists combine advanced medical knowledge with the latest in laser and skincare technology to deliver effective treatments. We take pride in offering personalized care in a welcoming, professional environment – helping our patients achieve healthier, more radiant skin through evidence-based solutions and attentive, individualized care.

Healthier, radiant skin and a level of care that only true experts can provide.

Chris G. Adigun, MD, FAAD

Amanda K. Suggs, MD, FAAD

Karlee Wagoner, ANP-BC

Diana Walker, PA-C

Amy Rodriguez, PA-C

summer 2026

EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Amanda MacLaren

EXECUTIVE EDITOR, CHATHAM MAGAZINE

Morgan Cartier Weston morgan.weston@chathammagazinenc.com

EDITOR, CHAPEL HILL MAGAZINE Jessica Stringer

ASSISTANT EDITOR Sharon Kinsella

EDITORIAL INTERNS

Emma Arthur,

CONTRIBUTORS

Andrea Akin, Lauren Rouse and Eric Waters

MAGAZINE DESIGN DIRECTOR Kevin Brown

PHOTOGRAPHER

John Michael Simpson

MAGAZINE DESIGNER Alex Crotti

AD MANAGER Khadijah Weekes-Nolan

ADVERTISING

For information, contact advertising@chathammagazinenc.com

Melissa Cooley melissa.cooley@trianglemediapartners.com

Melissa Crane melissa.crane@trianglemediapartners.com

Sarah Davis sarah.davis@trianglemediapartners.com

Jasmine Gaines jasmine.gaines@trianglemediapartners.com

Megan Hussey megan.hussey@trianglemediapartners.com

Lucinda Poole lucinda.poole@trianglemediapartners.com

Clayton Wrisley clay.wrisley@trianglemediapartners.com

PRESIDENT Rory Kelly Gillis

VICE PRESIDENT, SALES Chris Elkins chris.elkins@trianglemediapartners.com

VICE PRESIDENT, CREATIVE OPERATIONS Ashlin Acheson ashlin.acheson@trianglemediapartners.com

VICE PRESIDENT, CLIENT SERVICES Sally Scruggs

VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION Amy Bell

ACCOUNTING & ADMINISTRATION MANAGER Cassady Orsini

MULTIMEDIA PUBLISHER

& DIRECTOR OF CLIENT DIGITAL STRATEGY Jenna Parks

DEPUTY EDITOR, HEART OF NC WEDDINGS Renee Ambroso

CLIENT ONBOARDING & OPERATIONS MANAGER Brian McIndoo

DIGITAL MARKETING MANAGER Jack Fry

CREATIVE MARKETING MANAGER Lindsay Scott

MULTIMEDIA CONTENT PRODUCER Caleb LeJeune

DISTRIBUTION

Matt Bair

CO-FOUNDERS

Dan Shannon & Ellen Shannon

Chatham Magazine is published by Triangle Media Partners, founded in 2006 by Dan and Ellen Shannon 1777 Fordham Blvd., Ste. 105, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 | 919–933–1551

Subscriptions are $24 for 2 years – subscribe at chathammagazinenc.com

Lojine Goumaa, Ali Grau, Stephanie Hughes, Olivia Jarman, Ellie Kollme, Delphine Liu Rebekah Mann, Katrina McLean, Jamell Mumford, Tiffany Plusnick, Lexi Tatum, Cassie Tripp, Libby Wakefield

food, drink & farms

24

32 On Cloud

A hilltop vineyard pairs sweeping views with unexpected varietals – and a family’s hands-on pursuit of North Carolina wine done differently

42 Grow for It

76 Take a Hike

82

aging & wellness

108 In Ink, Not Pencil Centenarian Virginia Myers

longer days ahead

Travel may define summer for many folks, but I have always found just as much joy in spending time close to home. There’s a particular satisfaction to rediscovering my own backyard, whether it’s browsing for a new-to-me piece at Reclamation (check out its new West Street location!), seeing what chef Sera Cuni is cooking at Cafe Root Cellar or cooling off with a pint at Thirsty Skull Brewing.

And while those are my go-to’s, there’s always more to uncover. This issue, we visit FireClay Cellars, where distinctive varietals and a hands-on approach to winemaking are putting a local spin on a global craft (page 32). You’ll also find a guide to some of our favorite shops, restaurants and destinations in Siler City

We’re also exploring the idea of “Next Chapter, Best Chapter” – and while it anchors our annual retirement guide, the stories in this section offer a broader perspective on growth, reinvention and staying engaged in the community at any stage of life.

We hope you discover experiences that make life here richer, whether it’s a new favorite hiking trail, a new connection or a small business worth supporting. Another summer in Chatham County –what a gift. cm

Take good care,

’gram worthy For more curated picks (and pics!) of what’s going on, follow Chatham Magazine on Instagram!

 morgan.weston@chathammagazinenc.com

Photo by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

home sweet home

Do your summer plans include relaxing poolside or hosting a picnic in your beautiful garden? Reach out!

pencil us in! Check out our Trianglewide event calendar for even more ways to enjoy where you live.

The Cover: Erik Mitran walks the vines at his family’s farm, FireClay Cellars.

mosaic beach music series

June 12 & 26

Unwind at Chatham Park’s mixed-use community with live concerts on the lawn, featuring a Carolinaborn sound that blends soul, R&B and pop into an upbeat, danceable vibe perfect for summer nights. Grab a bite and a drink from on-site vendors or Mosaic restaurants like Greek Kouzina, Hops & Berry Taproom and Jersey Mike’s. Bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and shag the night away under the stars! mosaicatchathampark.com/events

juneteenth black arts festival

June 20, 2-6 p.m.

Celebrate Black culture and community at Community Organizing for Racial Equity’s ninth annual festival at the Chatham County Fairgrounds. This family-friendly gathering highlights Black artists, vendors and entrepreneurs from across the Triangle, featuring performances, food trucks, a community marketplace and civic engagement resources. Explore a heritage walk and educational activities that honor the history behind the holiday while examining persisting racial barriers, and join a lively spades tournament for a chance to win a cash prize. corenc.org/juneteenth-2026

america 250

June 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This Independence Day marks two-and-a-half centuries since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Celebrate early at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center with live music, food trucks, vendors, exhibits and live demonstrations – the culminating event of a 250-day initiative of programming inspired by Chatham County and American history. Remember our history, examine the present, look toward the future, and see the community in full display. visitpittsboro.com/america250

out&about

okra jamboree

Aug. 2, noon to 6 p.m.

Okra lovers unite at this festival celebrating flavor, culture and, of course, eating! The Plant hosts its third annual event offering opportunities to sample creative dishes, tour an okra farm and learn all about the health benefits of the vegetable – or fruit –depending on who you ask. Listen to Dubfire Reggae Band while browsing pop-up vendor stands or pick up a signed copy of Chris Smith’s James Beard Award-winning book, “The Whole Okra.” You’ll leave with plenty of fresh ideas for cooking with this versatile ingredient. theplantnc.com/okrajamboree

events you won't want to miss

Compiled by DELPHINE LIU

old-fashioned farmers day Sept. 5-6

Step back in time during the Silk Hope Ruritan Club’s annual Labor Day weekend farm festival at Silk Hope Farm Heritage Park, where antique farm machinery –from tractors and engines to horse-drawn equipment – bring agricultural history to life. Join more than 2,000 community members and visitors to watch live demonstrations, enjoy homemade ice cream and classic country fare, and take part in a fundraiser for a chance to win a truck. silkhopenc.org/offd 

PHOTO BY D LUCERO PHOTOGRAPHY

This is what integrity looks like.

Intrepid Build redefines success by valuing quality, integrity, and humanity.

We design, build, and coordinate across several trades internally: interiors, security integration, and electrical. That means we solve problems early, directly, and as a team.

We are here to build spaces that improve the lives of those in our region. We do so by respecting the professionals involved in every aspect of their creation, from design to final finish.

ROOTED IN C H A THAM C OUN T Y

2025

Top Triangle events this season

ARTS ON EAST

Wednesdays through June 24, 7 p.m. Gather your friends, family and picnic blankets, and head to Duke University’s East Campus for a free outdoor concert series from Duke Arts Presents. The weekly lineup spotlights regional and Durham-based acts including Meltdown Rodeo, Lua Project, Brandon Woody’s Upendo, Rebecca Porter and Zoocrü – curated in tandem with community partners to highlight the breadth of artistic voices that shape our city. Browse a community market organized by Kamara Thomas, then grab a bite from The Palace International and rotating food trucks. Tune in on WXDU 88.7 FM if you can’t join in person.

AMERICAN DANCE FESTIVAL

Through July 25 One of the largest and most influential modern dance festivals in the world marks its 93rd annual season, spotlighting the iconic choreography of acclaimed companies like Paul Taylor Dance Company, Mark Morris Dance Group, Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company (pictured) and the Charlotte Ballet, among others, across venues including Duke University’s Reynolds Industries Theater, Page Auditorium and von der Heyden Studio Theater as well as the Carolina Theatre, Chelsea Theater, Jewish for Good and ADF’s Samuel H. Scripps Studios.

SUMMER

CONCERTS IN THE PARK

June 13 & 27, July 11 & 25, and Aug. 8 & 22, 6-8 p.m. Durham Parks and Recreation presents this family-friendly summer pastime at parks around the Bull City. Pack your blankets and lawn chairs for live outdoor music (rain or shine!) from emerging local artists spanning a range of genres. Bring your friends, family, dancing shoes and an appetite to enjoy delectable fare from on-site food trucks while soaking in the summer vibes.

PRIDE PIPER WALK & ORGULLO PRIDE CELEBRATION

June 26, 4:30-8 p.m. Join in as Town of Carrboro officials roll Rainbow Ram down Weaver Street, beginning at El Centro Hispano and ending at Carrboro Town Commons, during this festive Pride event celebrating the diverse cultures, identities and experiences of our local Latinx LGBTQ+ community. Explore food trucks, drag performances, music, dancing, kids crafts and tables offering resources, support and advocacy for queer residents.

OUT! RALEIGH PRIDE

June 26, 6-10 p.m., and June 27, noon-7 p.m. An integral part of Raleigh’s downtown culture, this annual event promotes diversity, awareness and inclusiveness for the LGBTQ+ community while raising funds to support the LGBT Center of Raleigh and all of its essential programs. Friday evening, adults 18 and older are welcome to enjoy entertainment and vendors; Saturday, family-friendly festivities include food trucks, a kids zone, artists, live music and more.

CHAPEL HILL-CARRBORO

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

June 19, 4-8 p.m. Join neighbors, friends and families at Chapel Hill’s Hargraves Community Center to commemorate the emancipation of enslaved people in the United States. Celebrate Black culture, history and community while enjoying performances, speakers, food and activities that honor this holiday.

CAPITAL CITY

JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION

June 20, 2-6:30 p.m. Head to Dorothea Dix Park for an afternoon of reflection that honors the abolition of slavery in the U.S. This gathering brings the community together around live entertainment, children’s activities, local vendors and food, creating a space to celebrate history, culture and unity. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, and experience the spirit of this meaningful annual event rooted in remembrance and community connection.

PRISM

June 27 Pride, play and discovery come together at the Museum of Life and Science during this joyful, all-ages celebration. Explore the 84-acre campus while engaging in story times, crafts and science activities led by community partners like Rainbow Collective for Change. Hands-on experiments and animal encounters invite guests to rethink assumptions and investigate the rich diversity of the natural world, while rainbow-themed moments pop up across the grounds for a colorful day of connection and curiosity.

JULY FOURTH DRONE SHOW

July 4, 7-9:45 p.m. Mark the nation’s 250th anniversary and head to Chapel Hill High School early with your blankets and chairs for a good spot at this first-ever Fourth of July drone show –featuring 300 synchronized drones using light and color to create magical displays – hosted by Chapel Hill Community Arts & Culture.

‘THE NOTEBOOK’

July 14-19 Nicholas Sparks’ romantic novel – and its iconic film adaptation – comes to life at the Durham Performing Arts Center. Follow the story of Allie and Noah, a couple from two different worlds whose love unfolds in New Bern, North Carolina. Co-directed by Tony Award nominee Michael Greif and “The Wiz” revival director Schele Williams, the classic heartwarming tale returns to its home state in a sweeping musical production centered on devotion, memory and enduring love.

‘HELLO, DOLLY!’

July 16-26 See some of the best high school talent around perform in PlayMakers Repertory Company’s Summer Youth Conservatory musical – this year, the cast and crew put on a production of “Hello, Dolly!,” the Tony Award-winning musical that follows the bold and charismatic matchmaker Dolly Levi as she orchestrates love, inserts herself into her clients’ affairs and proves she’s the most unforgettable fixer of all.

SUMMER BLOCK PARTY

July 18, 3-6 p.m. Celebrate reading, summer and community at Book Harvest’s sixth annual free outdoor

PHOTO BY WHITNEY BROWNE

PHOTO BY JONATHAN DRAKE, COURTESY OF TOWNA OF CARRBORO

Participants wave Pride flags and rainbow fans as they march across downtown Carrboro.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TOWN OF CARRBORO

PHOTO BY ROGER MASTROIANNI

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOOK HARVEST

event. Head to Durham Central Park for a lively afternoon filled with family-friendly activities and entertainment, plus take home your picks from an abundant selection of free, culturally inclusive children’s books for readers of all ages –from infants through high schoolers.

GALAXYCON RALEIGH

July 23-26 Venture into the world of all things comic books, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming and anime at this four-day festival of fandom at the Raleigh Convention Center. Meet beloved entertainers, from celebrities and voice actors to writers and artists – and join in the fun with after-parties, photo ops and more.

‘ANYTHING GOES’

July 23-26 Orange Community Players marks its 21th anniversary with the classic Cole Porter musical featuring a cast of approximately 50 community members of all ages and levels of experience, continuing its tradition of promoting diversity and inclusivity.

BEER, BOURBON & BBQ FESTIVAL

July 31, 6-10 p.m., and Aug. 1, noon-6 p.m. This quintessentially Southern festival features more than 60 beer offerings, 40 bourbon

Guiding Hands.

brands and all forms of barbecue –from whole-hog pulled pork to ribs, brisket and all the fixins you can imagine – over two days at Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Admission includes a souvenir sampling glass to enjoy all the beer and bourbon your heart desires; lawn games like cornhole and giant Jenga; live rock, blues and bluegrass music; seminars with master distillers, brewmasters and pit masters; and exhibits of hot sauces, barbecue accessories, cookware and more.

OUTSOUTH

QUEER

FILM FESTIVAL

Aug. 13-16 Durham’s Carolina Theatre hosts this signature event, the second-largest LGBTQ+ film festival in the Southeast, which celebrates a worldwide glimpse of today’s LGBTQ+ life, brings the community together, and features entertaining and sophisticated films.

CARIBMASK CARNIVAL

Aug. 15, noon-8 p.m. Now in its 13th year, this spectacular, colorful and energetic festival at downtown Raleigh’s City Plaza celebrates Afro-Caribbean culture. Performers and bands parade down the street in elaborate costumes, jamming to music traditional to their countries –more than 15 will be represented – while attendees enjoy great acts, artisan vendors and tasty, culturally significant foods.

LAZY DAZE

ARTS AND CRAFTS FESTIVAL

Aug. 22-23, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Enjoy the 50th annual two-day arts and crafts festival with more than 250 featured artists, a beer garden, live music, children’s activities and various food and drink vendors at Cary Town Hall Campus. cm

2025

Head to our Triangle-wide event calendar for even more summer festivities

INSTRUCTION IN CHAPEL HILL

PHOTO BY ALYSON BOYER RODE

Come and Explore!

shifting focus

vibrant history

Student murals bring color and perspective to a Pittsboro park

Photo by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Take a stroll through the Pop-up Park at 50 W. Salisbury St. in downtown Pittsboro and explore murals created by students from Chatham County Schools. Designs highlight community history, native plants and animals, and iconic spots like the Carolina Tiger Rescue and Bynum Bridge. At right, panels illustrated by Northwood High School students depict summer on the Haw River, Clyde Jones’ critters in autumn, a winter night in downtown Pittsboro and spring blooms in Fearrington Village. cm

who's who

in town & county government

Ashlyn Martin director of Chatham County Aging Services

Photo by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

shlyn Martin has served as the director of Chatham County Aging Services for four years, tirelessly working to ensure that older adults receive the quality services they need to remain active and independent. She was born and raised in Hickory and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree in social work from UNC Greensboro in 2013 and her master’s degree in social work from NC A&T in 2014. Prior to her role in Chatham, she worked for Senior Resources of Guilford, a nonprofit in Guilford County, serving in a few different roles before finishing her time there as assistant director. In addition to her role with Chatham County Aging Services, she serves on the board of trustees for UNC Health Chatham and the board of directors for Chatham Transit Network, and volunteers with Meals on Wheels North Carolina.

Ashlyn lives just one county over, in Burlington, with her high school sweetheart, Preston Martin, their 7-month-old son, Oliver Martin, and their pet turtle, Patrick. She enjoys traveling and has visited Japan, Iceland, Italy, France, England, Ireland, Scotland and Switzerland with her husband, in addition to numerous U.S. cities. Her goal is to visit all 50 states and all of the national parks. She also enjoys crocheting, a new skill she recently learned from one of her participants at the Siler City Center for Active Living 

What inspired you to work with aging and older adults? I was blessed with two wonderful grandmothers and a grandmother-in-law who were all very special to me. I also have a great aunt, Faye, who is 86 years old [and] continues to work, drive and live independently. She inspires me each and every day. I hope that I can be just like her when I get older!

When I was working on my bachelor’s degree in social work at UNC Greensboro, I completed an internship at the Greensboro Housing Authority in one of the communities for individuals 55 and older. From there, I went on to complete my graduate level internship at the W.G. (Bill) Hefner VA Medical Center in Salisbury. I had the opportunity to visit and work with older veterans. Both experiences helped me to realize that my passion is in working with older adults.

How would you describe your role as director of Chatham County Aging Services? What does a typical day or week look like? No two days are ever the same. Most of my work involves administrative tasks that help keep the department moving forward. I do get to interact with participants at both the Pittsboro and Siler City centers for active living. I have been able to lead crafts and exercise classes at the centers, help with various events and have also helped with some of the day trips. One of the things I love about my position is, whether I’m working in the office or I’m out in the center interacting with participants, I know the work I complete each day makes a difference.

What do you find most rewarding about your work? Hearing stories from our clients on how our services have impacted their lives for the better is so rewarding. I’ve seen how

our Meals on Wheels program has helped homebound older adults to have a hot, nutritious meal during the week. Our exercise classes have helped participants improve their health and mobility. I’ve also seen our minor home repair program make homes safer and more accessible.

Our incontinence supply and durable medical equipment programs have provided supplies that might otherwise be a financial burden for recipients on a fixed income. We also provide counseling on the Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), which helps individuals explore their Medicare options and ultimately save money on their medications and other medical expenses. And, our Family Caregiver Support Program has helped provide family caregivers with support, resources and a much-needed break. At the end of each day, I know the work we have done has helped make Chatham an even better place to live for older adults.

I also consider it a privilege to get to work with such a dedicated team. The Aging Services team is so passionate about wanting to improve the lives of the individuals we serve. They are truly committed to meeting the needs of the older adults in our community. 

At Quilted Needle Fabrics LLC, we hold the belief that quilts, and the entire quilting experience possess a distinct essence. Our purpose is to offer sewists and quilt enthusiasts of all skill levels with outstanding fabric and tools that ignite their creativity and fuel their passion for fabric creations. Quilted Needle Fabrics now offers longarm services to help complete your quilt story with beautiful, professional finishing

At the end of the day, we believe every quilt tells a story and we can’t wait to be part of yours.

What do you find most challenging about your work? How do you address that challenge? We work constantly to break down some of the stigmas associated with aging. Many times, people see a senior center and have a preconceived notion of what that means or who might attend programming at that facility. In Chatham, we changed the names of centers from the Eastern Chatham Senior Center and the Western Chatham Senior Center to the Pittsboro Center for Active Living and Siler City Center for Active Living, respectively. Our goal is that individuals will see the centers as a place where they can come to have fun, meet and socialize with others, learn, improve their physical and mental health, and challenge themselves to try new things.

What are some of the most common needs among Chatham County seniors right now? Socialization is huge. Many of the older adults we serve live alone or have little to no interaction with their family or friends each day. The Pittsboro and Siler City centers play a major role in our community in helping to provide a safe environment in which older

adults can thrive. This involves interacting with others, participating in activities, attending educational programming and improving their health through our popular exercise classes. For those older adults that are homebound or are unable to come to the centers, our volunteers help reach them through our Meals on Wheels and minor home repair programs.

What do your community outreach efforts look like? The Aging Services team attends various community events such as the Pittsboro Street Fair, Goldston Old Fashion Day, Hispanic Heritage Fiesta and the Spring Chicken Festival. Our staff members also go out into the community to present to church groups, civic groups and housing communities upon request. We have a newsletter that is distributed every other month, both electronically and in print format. Our social media pages and website also help to keep the community informed of our upcoming events, activities and services provided.

What is your favorite part about serving your community? I enjoy getting to know so

many wonderful people, hearing their stories, supporting them along their journey and being a listening ear and friend for those in need. The work may not always be easy, but it’s always rewarding.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received? Who gave it to you? “Gratitude is the key to seeing beauty in the smallest things.” My mom once shared this with me, and I feel it is so important in everyday life.

What’s next for you in your role? I’m excited about the future of Aging Services in Chatham County. We are finalizing the next Master Aging Plan that will help to guide our work over the next five years. This plan is a collaborative effort between Aging Services, the County Manager’s Office and several other organizations and community members who served on our steering committee. Through the completion of this plan and the work that will be done once it is in place, we hope to achieve the AARP Age-Friendly Community designation so that Chatham can continue to be a great place for people of all ages to live, work and play. – as told to Alison Grau cm

Supporting Our Community

Where to eat, sip and explore

By SHARON KINSELLA

SIMPSON

rive 20 minutes due west of Pittsboro and arrive in Chatham County’s largest town. Siler City combines a welcoming rural community with a robust arts scene, layers of local history and a culturally diverse population. Spend a weekend – or weekday – exploring vibrant galleries, savoring standout flavors and getting to know what gives this town its signature charm.

The NC Arts Incubator is a nonprofit hub for new and emerging artists and innovators, offering affordable studio space alongside classes, exhibitions and performances right in the heart of downtown. Stop by the PAF Gallery to catch its rotating monthly exhibition, or swing through on the third Friday of each month for live music, fare provided by Bear Claw Catering and drinks from Thirsty Skull Brewing from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The space isn’t just for artists – pop in during the day for a specialty latte from The Chatham Rabbit and get some work or reading done against the gallery’s colorful, inspiring backdrop. 

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL

The Chatham Rabbit barista Anna Grace Crissman and owner Brooke Simmons welcome coffee lovers to gather, sip and enjoy the creative space seven days a week.

Did you know?

One of Siler City’s noteworthy claims to fame is its cameo on “The Andy Griffith Show,” where it was often mentioned as a neighboring community. But the town has another tie to one of North Carolina’s most enduring TV franchises: Frances Bavier, who played Aunt Bee on the show, lived the latter part of her life in town and is buried in Oakwood Cemetery. When she passed away, she left a $100,000 trust fund to the town’s police department.

ABOVE Adorable dairy goats are an important part of the experience at The

and

2.

Book a room at The Inn at Celebrity Dairy, a charming bed-and-breakfast perched on a gentle knoll beneath 250-year-old oaks and surrounded by a 300-acre goat farm. Hang out with the “hoofers” in the barn and milking parlor, then wander a network of rustic trails that wind through woodlands, around ponds and across streams. Be sure to sample the goat cheese made on site.

3.

Consider Crossroads Grill your go-to spot for comfort food classics – from hotdogs, burgers and milkshakes to seafood and fried okra. Don’t sleep on the morning menu, either – start your day right with hearty breakfast sandwiches on biscuits our readers have voted among Chatham’s best.

4.

For some retail therapy, the shops and boutiques along Chatham Avenue are well worth a browse. Hunt for pre-loved furniture and home decor at Fragments, score your next favorite outfit at Periwinkle on Chatham or explore an eclectic selection of craft supplies and handwoven artisan goods at Twin Birch & Teasel (the shop offers fiber arts classes, too!). 

Inn at Celebrity Dairy. LEFT Rest

restore in one of the Inn’s comfortable rooms, or take in the landscape from the peaceful porch.

r. Tysor has long been passionate about animal care, first as a veterinary technician and later as a graduate of the NC State University Veterinary Program in 1991. She achieved her lifelong goal of owning and operating her own practice when she opened Tysor Veterinary Clinic in 2005. In 2013, the business expanded to include a retail store with boarding and grooming services.

Dr. Tysor is deeply committed to veterinary medicine, with a goal of providing every animal who comes to her practice with the best care possible. Many pets at Tysor Veterinary Clinic have been lifelong patients, from their first vaccinations to their final days. Over the years, Dr. Tysor and her staff have formed special relationships with these pets and their owners. We look forward to forming a lifelong relationship with your furry family member.

.

This town has some stellar barbecue and wing joints. Check out The Boneyard for wings (plus smoked meats on Saturdays!), or The Broken Spit for burgers and barbecue Tuesday through Sunday – each spot is just a short drive from downtown. Don’t forget the sweet tea. 

We recommend The Boneyard’s Smokehouse BBQ Burger, pictured right: a 1/4 pound Angus beef patty topped with chipotle mayo, lettuce, smoked bacon, an onion ring and cheddar cheese, drizzled with barbecue sauce and served on a brioche bun.

BY

PHOTO

SHARON KINSELLA

FOOD drink & farms

6.

Save room for dessert at Creative Creamery, where hand-dipped ice cream and homemade waffle cones are hard to resist. Or, browse the colorful display cases at Melanie Panadería Y Pastelería, filled with an array of Mexican breads, pastries and cakes baked fresh daily. You can also find their sweet treats at the Chatham Rabbit!

7.

Thirsty Skull Brewing offers 16 craft brews on draft – from Pilsners to pale ales, lagers and more – plus a lineup of rotating and seasonal specials. We’re partial to the Pressure Drop, a hazy IPA. Keep an eye on social media for weekly deals and events, including $5 pours and Friday night karaoke. cm

Creative Creamery takes milkshakes to new heights – literally. Mason jars are packed with three scoops of Hershey’s ice cream, drizzled with syrup and piled high with whipped cream plus a cookie, a cheesecake slice or, in this case, a banana split.

BOARDING TRAINING

ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Bring

on cloud wine

A hilltop vineyard pairs sweeping views with unexpected varietals –and a family’s hands-on pursuit of North Carolina wine done differently

By MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

ou can feel Sue Mitran’s lively, welcoming energy as soon as you step foot into FireClay Cellars’ Siler City tasting room. She greets guests, pours tastings, provides recommendations and answers calls, floating seamlessly from task to task as visitors trickle in and out. One group, longtime supporters Mark Mazanek, Kathleen Mazanek and Mike Tanner, who live in Holly Springs, drop by to pick up a case of wine.

“They are among our first unofficial wine club members,” Sue says with a laugh. She tempts them with a glass of chilled white wine, and the trio steps out onto the porch, where rows of vines stretch across the rolling landscape.

Mark sums up the appeal simply: “Sometimes Kathleen and I will get up on a Saturday or Sunday and just want a change of scenery that’s quiet and removed from city noise,” he says. “We come out to FireClay and sit on the porch, and it feels like a mini vacation.”

Sue and her family designed that sense of escape with intention. Sue, who co-owns the

winery with her husband, Andrei Mitran, and son, Erik Mitran, chose the location for its natural advantages. “When we were looking for land about 15 years ago, we found this property, and it had so much going for it,” she says. The 17-acre site sits at one of the highest elevations in Chatham County, Sue says, with a south-facing slope, steady breezes and abundant sun – ideal conditions for healthy vines. The tasting room overlooks it all, inviting guests to linger and take in the view.

Andrei and Erik planted their first grapes in 2010. Trial and error shaped their early efforts, but persistence paid off with successfully cultivated wines that showcase bright acidity and unique character. The duo built the vineyard from the ground up. “They have pounded every post, run every inch of trellis wire, put in the drip irrigation system, put up the netting and planted each vine by hand, putting them down deep in the clay,” Sue says.

Erik, a graduate of North Carolina State University who holds a degree in chemical engineering, chose to combine his inquisitive mind with his family’s history of farming over a more

Erik Mitran tends his vines by hand, carefully monitoring pH, water absorption and nutrients.

FOOD drink & farms

Head to FireClay Cellars Sunday, June 7, from 2 to 4 p.m., for its annual fundraiser supporting CORA’s food pantries. Enjoy live music by The

LEFT All of FireClay Cellars’ wines are aged and bottled on site.

RIGHT The spacious tasting room welcomes groups of all sizes to relax and enjoy views of the vineyard.

BELOW The winery has won several awards at competitions with its unique grapes, like the traminette, a French-American hybrid.

traditional lab or office career. “A lot of our grape varieties are bred through universities like Cornell or [University of California,] Davis for disease resistance and to handle colder winters, and to work with the clay soil,” Erik says. That approach introduces guests to lesser-known varietals like traminette, crimson cabernet and chardonel. “I am always

O’Carolinians, scenic views and a lineup of distinctive wines.

- Eric H

excited for people to try these wines they’ve never had,” Erik says. “They are truly unlike anything you’ve tasted before.”

Red clay often gets a bad rap for its density, as it’s difficult to dig and irrigate, but it is also rich in nutrients. “We’re named FireClay as a celebration of the red soil,” Sue says. The weather, however, is a much harder – and more unpredictable – force to work around. “One year, we had just harvested and finished processing all the grapes the day before a hurricane,” Erik recalls. The power cut out just as he lowered the tank lid. “It got done just in time,” he says. “I remember thinking, ‘Well, there’s my sign to go home.’”

The elements pose other challenges as well. “The older vines’ roots go really deep,” Erik says. “Two inches of rain might sound

ABOVE The joyful sound of corks being popped and glasses being clinked is a regular one at the vineyard.

LEFT Erik and Sue toast with one of the winery’s signature reds. The Purple Martin, a semisweet Chambourcin, is named for the birds that frequent the vineyard.

FOOD drink & farms

like a lot, but it doesn’t do much for them because the water just sort of sits on the surface.” Young vines demand extra attention. The clay has a tendency to wick moisture away, especially from the newer plants, so Erik uses moisture meters to track water levels over the first few years.

He also tests soil and leaves annually to measure mineral content. “The good properties of the red clay are its nutrients,” he explains. “It’s oxidized by iron, which is why it’s red. I’ll add organic compost mixed with calcium, or maybe a little lime or gypsum, just kind of natural amendments to keep the pH between 6.5 [and] 7.”

The team is working toward an organic certification, but in the meantime, all

The tasting room offers views of the 17-acre vineyard from its spacious porch, and visitors can often catch Erik working among the rows.

Your Local Destination for Home Furnishings, Art & Accessories. Upscale, Gently Used, Occasionally Antique, Always Unique

FOOD

drink & farms

fertilization, pest and weed control are handled using natural products.

New offerings continue to expand the experience. Mead and cider now complement the wine list, and Erik plans to experiment with homegrown fruits like blackberries and figs this summer. “We sometimes produce sweeter wines, but most are dry,” he says. “We try to give people an expectation that these aren’t the muscadine wines North Carolina is known for, and it’s fun changing perceptions of what kinds of grapes can be grown here.”

The space invites more than tastings. The main room and loft library upstairs are also available for event rentals, a leisurely backdrop for memorable gatherings, from bridal showers to family celebrations. Sue fittingly hosted Erik and his wife, Kelly Carstens’, baby shower at FireClay as the pair prepare to welcome their first child. “It’s a great place to relax,” Sue says, “no matter the occasion.” cm

Sparkling cider is among FireClay’s newest offerings, and is made with more than 10 heirloom apple varieties using a natural fermentation method.

Our Roots & the Future Ahead

For over 30 years, The Inn at Celebrity Dairy has been a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a unique blend of hospitality, education, and countryside charm.

Owners Brit and Fleming Pfann are retiring and looking for the right person to take over and continue their legacy of the inn and the dairy.

Interested in owning this?

Please contact us for more information!

The Inn at Celebrity Dairy welcomes guests year-round in a peaceful, historic setting that includes a Greek Revival farmhouse, an 1800s log cabin, and wide porches under old oak trees. Overnight guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, farm-fresh breakfasts, and opportunities to interact with the animals, making it a unique agritourism experience combining hospitality with hands-on farm life. Recently, the inn got new renovations, and the dairy is now fully automated.

• A wonderful way to experience home-made pleasures and the beauty of Chatham

• Our historical Inn offers seven charming guest room accommodations

• Casual, relaxing and quiet country setting located on a 300-acre Dairy Farm

• Enjoy Trails and a 17-acre Pond

• The perfect spot for meetings, retreats and family celebrations, too

and delivering

grow

Hydroponic farmer Amy Doklovic spends her workdays monitoring crop health, planting seeds and harvesting

about 600 heads of lettuce per week.

The future of farming is looking up for this Pittsboro couple

Amy Doklovic’s grueling workdays stretched from morning to night, filled with Zoom calls.

“I was writing big proposals for construction projects, working literally seven days a week from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.,” she says. “It’s physically [demanding]. As you age, sitting down for a long period of time is super hard.”

In 2023, she and her husband, Brian Doklovic – a principal engineer at Honda – learned about urban hydroponic farms and saw an opportunity for Amy to leave her relentless calendar behind. The pair spent the following year researching growing methods, potential profits and losses of the business, and even which nearby restaurants might one day become their customers. They recognized that while many local farms provide highquality produce, a hydroponic system could supply lettuce and other greens – crops especially suited to this method – year-round,

without disruptions from weather or pests.

The couple eventually situated their farm, Drip Culture, inside a 320-square-foot shipping container on land leased from Get Rooted Nursery on Crawford Dairy Road. It took months to secure a bank loan and the proper permits, and then they had to build the water and nutrient systems that support hundreds of plants as they grow on vertical panels.

Amy and Brian are still perfecting the setup. “It’s like a giant lab experiment,” he says. They learned from other hydroponic growers, adapting those insights to fit their needs, and continue to test materials and processes

for it

By RENEE AMBROSO

Photography by ANDREA AKIN

to optimize production within the 40-by-10-by-10-foot shipping container’s small footprint.

“There’s not a playbook [for this], not really,” Amy says, but adds that she and Brian’s career experience has helped them navigate the uncertainties with confidence. “[He’s] been at the top tier of corporate for just about 30 years and I did 28,” she says. “Once you spend that much time [there], there’s nothing you can’t do or problem-solve thoughtfully.”

Amy’s workdays now consist of planting seeds, monitoring crop growth and harvesting produce. The transition to farming was jarring after the intensity of her former role. “I

Brian and Amy tested dozens of varieties of lettuce, herbs and leafy greens to refine growing methods. They now grow mainly kyphos, danstar, red oak, gatsbi and sunagri lettuce to both meet the needs of local chefs and optimize production.

FOOD drink &

think I was in shock for the first six months,” she says. “I had to [relax and remind myself] to enjoy the simplicity of it.” While there’s less stress, Amy still has her hands full delivering about 600 heads of lettuce each week to Galloway Ridge at Fearrington, The Fearrington House Restaurant, Pittsboro’s Cafe Root Cellar and The

Most crops that Drip Culture cultivates spend three weeks in the nursery before being transferred to vertical panels for about five weeks to mature.

FOOD drink & farms

Root Cellar Cafe in Chapel Hill, and Carrboro’s Spotted Dog Restaurant & Bar – all of which are within a 15-minute drive from the farm.

Brian says that while farming is a “full-time, all-the-time” gig, he has built enough automation into the processes at Drip Culture that it’s possible for

A combination of red and blue light facilitates photosynthesis inside the farm’s shipping container. Amy and Brian can amplify desired flavors, like bitterness or sweetness, by adjusting the levels of light and nutrients.

• Offering a Diverse Selection of Top Quality, USDA-Approved

• Family-Owned and Operated Father and Son Team Bringing Over 50 Years Experience in the Food

• Offering Farm-to-Table Seasonal Produce from Our Local Farmers

• Dedicated to Providing Knowledgeable and Excellent Customer Service

• Catering to Special Orders Tailoring Your Meat Selections to Perfection for Any Special Occasion. Plan Ahead!

and Jacques Dufour, Proprietors

& he and Amy to take short vacations without disrupting production. But, their sweet spot is at home in Chatham County. The Doklovics enjoy taking their 4-year-old English springer spaniel, Piper, to local dog parks and Jordan Lake for exercise, and having brunch at Pittsboro’s Carolina Brewery most Saturdays. Amy and Brian care deeply about supporting their community and increasing access to nutritious, local food. They donate lettuce and funding to CORA Food Pantry and Pittsboro’s Feed-Well Fridges. The same drive and attention to detail that allowed Amy to excel in her corporate

“People are just amazed by the brilliance of the color, texture and taste [of our produce],” Amy says.

FOOD

drink & farms

career still propel her to optimize Drip Culture’s daily operations: she’s determined to continue to refine its processes to increase efficiency and output, and she’s optimistic about adding another restaurant to the farm’s client list. But for now, she’s satisfied with what she and Brian have built. “[The farm] was an avenue for us to [leave corporate America] and use our skills – both of us, together – and I think we’ve done a good job at it,” Amy says. “We took our talents and blended them really well together. We want to maintain what we’re doing, and we’re still learning.” cm

“We

The Doklovics have enjoyed living in and being part of the growth in Chatham County over the past decade.

love our community here, and watching it and our chefs and restaurants grow,” Amy says.

LUNCH • DINNER • KID’S MENU • LATE NIGHT • SUNDAY BRUNCH

"YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY THE MOST PROFESSIONAL AND COMPASSIONATE GROUP I HAVE EVER BEEN ASSOCIATED WITH." - CONNIE

S.

“ YOU ALWAYS HIT IT OUT OF THE PARK! SO PROFESSIONAL AND EXACTING BUT SO CARING AND SO FRIENDLY. WE FEEL LIKE YOU ARE FAMILY AS WELL. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH.” - DAVID D.

“THANK YOU FOR TAKING TIME TO LISTEN TO CONCERNS AND EXPLAIN INFORMATION AND FOR BEING SO KIND AND PATIENT WITH MY BABY!” - ASHLEY A.

“ALWAYS AN EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCE. I AM SO GRATEFUL THAT YOU WORK TIRELESSLY TO MAKE SURE MY PUP GETS THE RIGHT CARE FOR THEIR NEEDS. SPECIAL NEEDS DOGS ARE HARD, AND YOU ALWAYS FIND A PATH.” - AMY P.

The Pittsboro Farmers Market plants seeds of growth

By RENEE AMBROSO

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

takingroot

very Thursday at 3 p.m., Pittsboro’s Pop-up Park on Salisbury Street fills with the chatter of children playing, old friends catching up and musicians plucking out a tune. Farmers, bakers, beekeepers, fishmongers and artists gather year-round to share their produce and products at the Pittsboro Farmers Market,

Greta Laws has worked at McNeill Farms, one of the Pittsboro Farmers Market’s founding businesses, for 21 years.

FOOD

drink

& farms which relocated to the park in February after three years at The Plant

BELOW Briar Chapel’s Mary O’Loughlin, founder of Irish Bakers, sells her homemade classic scones, bread, cookies, tea cakes and other treats, along with gluten-free versions of most of these items.

Elizabeth Ferrin, who took over the role of market manager in April, says it’s an environment that benefits all who gather there. “[Customers directly] support local families, small businesses and sustainable agriculture,” Elizabeth says. Plus, visitors enjoy access to seasonal produce that travels from farm to table within days, retaining more flavor and nutrients than most fruits and veggies that fill grocery store shelves.

The market also offers an opportunity to build connection and community with neighbors on a weekly basis. “I wish more people knew how welcoming and accessible markets are,” Elizabeth says. “You don’t have to be an expert or spend a lot, just come talk with vendors.” She says the transition to a downtown location was made to increase

ABOVE Hook & Larder’s Amanda Jones weighs crab for a customer. The company works with coastal fishermen to bring fresh seafood and shellfish to Pittsboro.

FOOD drink

& farms accessibility and visibility for the Pittsboro Farmers Market. The Plant provided a spacious, supportive gathering space for the market to operate, but lacked the opportunity to draw in many passersby since it’s not walkable from most of town.

Harris Hives owner Phil Utmor has sold his honey at the Pittsboro Farmers Market for more than seven years. “The Plant did a lot to accommodate our needs in the time we were there,” Phil says.

Greta Laws, who has worked at McNeill Farms for 21 years, hopes the new location will bring more regulars to the market. In 1997, McNeill was among the group of local farms that collaborated with the N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Chatham County Center and the Chatham County Agricultural and Industrial Fair Association to start a producer-only market – highlighting items grown or made within a 50-mile radius – in Chatham County. The market was hosted at the Chatham County Fairgrounds for more than a decade before moving to the parking lot of the Chatham YMCA’s former location on East Street, and then to The Plant.

Returning to a downtown setting reminds Greta of the market’s atmosphere during the early days at the fairgrounds. “Now that people from town can walk to it, older people can get around better and people with kids [can enjoy the playground], it’s almost like we’ve come full circle,” she says.

The park’s larger capacity also allows new applicants to join on a rolling basis. Thirteen vendors – including Pittsboro’s Academy Farm, The Crystal Cavern, Vortex Roasters and BMC Brewing, and Siler City’s Creative Cakes by Natalie –will bring their offerings to marketgoers this year.

Mark Your Calendar

LEFT Tiffany Reischl, owner of Toad Hollow Soapery, became a Pittsboro Farmers Market vendor in 2025. “Shopping local helps everybody out,” she says. “You’re getting a product that has had blood, sweat and tears poured into it by your neighbors.

... You don’t have to shop at Costco or Amazon – there’s [plenty available] right around the corner from you.”

BELOW Academy Farm’s founder Wes Lail is one of 13 new vendors to join the market this year.

Monthly themed celebrations include special activities for kids. Upcoming markets celebrate National Pollinators Week on June 25, Tomato Fest on July 16 – enter in a tomato pie contest! –and National Farmers Market Week on Aug. 6.

Emily Thompson of Heart Song Farm has sold produce, flowers and tinctures at the market for more than five years. She’s passionate about sharing quality, locally grown food and supporting small-scale agriculture, and cherishes the relationships that have bloomed during that time. “So many customers have turned into friends,” she says. Emily views the market as a way for Chathamites to support one another and help neighbors thrive. “Shopping at our market is a strong pillar of sustainability for our community – when you keep your money in your community, that keeps everyone afloat.”

Other vendors also share strong bonds with the people they see each Thursday. Greta has become lifelong pals with several other vendors over the decades. “We know about each other’s kids and grandkids and what’s going on in their lives,” she says. Rather than competing with one another, vendors do all they can to uplift their fellow producers. “We’re all in this together,” Phil says. “It’s very much a big, extended family approach.”

Emily hopes that the momentum the market has gained since moving to the park will continue to snowball. “I want this to be the place to be on a Thursday in Pittsboro,” she says. cm

With more than 25 years of community support, Dr. Severt’s orthodontic practice is proud of its tradition of excellence. Founded in 1967 by Dr. Bill Davis and carried on by Dr. Severt in 2000, the practice is Chapel Hill’s oldest and treats every patient like family. A highly trained staff and cutting-edge technology help patients achieve beautiful smiles and healthy bites for a lifetime of dental health. Personalized treatment plans range from state-of-the-art Damon braces to clear aligners. As a Platinum Provider for Invisalign , the practice expertly serves children, adolescents, and adults. Contact the office today to start the journey to a new smile!

Primary care where you’re the primary focus. In 2016, Dr. Todd Granger opened Primus Internal Medicine as a direct primary care practice to provide patients with longer appointment times, greater accessibility and improved personal care. With more than 30 years of experience practicing general internal medicine, both in private practice and on UNC School of Medicine’s clinical faculty, Dr. Granger is an expert at diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical issues. To find out how you can get premium primary care without the premium price––or long waits––call Primus Internal Medicine today.

At Dermatology & Laser Center of Chapel Hill (DLC), healthy, radiant skin is both a science and an art. Founded by board-certified dermatologist Chris G. Adigun, MD, FAAD, DLC is one of the Southeast’s premier medical and cosmetic dermatology practices. What distinguishes DLC is the team’s unique blend of medical expertise and artistic vision. From cutting-edge laser treatments to advanced cosmetic and medical dermatology, Dr. Adigun and her team deliver innovative, natural-looking results tailored to each individual. DLC is committed to respectful, compassionate care built on open communication and trust because they believe everyone deserves to have the skin they love.

Henry Kaselak , 10, Jack Ritter, 12, Leo Barsallo, 11, Edward Sartin, 11, Drew Clark, 10, Eli Johnson, 11 and Will Lloyd, 11, take the field with East Chatham Little League.

PHOTO BY ERIC WATERS

Youth programs for every level of play

By LAUREN ROUSE

Batter Up

East Chatham Little League president Jesse Yeager is proud that the organization’s focus is much bigger than wins and losses. “We want to instill values in kids – sportsmanship, teamwork and working hard – but more than anything, it has to be fun,” he says. “No matter how good they are, they’re still kids.”

The league brings families from across the community together for baseball and softball programs serving players ages 4-16 with varying skill levels. The league runs multiple seasons throughout the year and provides a structured but welcoming environment where kids can develop their skills and have fun. More than 600 athletes take part each spring, and they also provide a Challenger division for those with physical and intellectual disabilities.

People often find their way to the league through word of mouth and stay for the sense of connection. “We heard great things about it from several of our neighbors,” says parent Ben McGlaughon. “It is very well-run, organized and inclusive.”

Dominique Williams chose East Chatham Little League for his son, Ayden Williams, 11, because of the positive and uplifting environment. “[It’s] an extension of our family,” he says, adding that the league prioritizes “fair play, teaching by example and giving it your best effort.”

A sense of belonging resonates with players, too.

“Everybody’s nice, and there’s good competition,” says Ben’s 11-year-old Henry McGlaughon. Ivy Stiffler, 10, has played for five

years and loves the memories she’s made as well as how much she’s improved as a softball player. Ivy encourages anyone on the fence to sign up. “It’s hard work but so fun,” she says. “You will love it and me and my friends can help [you] learn!”

Jesi Savage, Ivy’s mom and assistant softball coach, says the league’s philosophy on supporting players beyond the game is the reason her family keeps coming back. “The people at East Chatham Little League truly care about these kids,” she says. “We strive to develop their skills on the field, in the dugout and within themselves.”

Park It

Chatham County Parks & Recreation’s catalog is stacked with a wide range of affordable youth sports teams. Basketball, T-ball, volleyball and track and field programs take place at schools and parks from Pittsboro to Bear Creek

Children ages 4 through 18 learn fundamentals, build confidence and enjoy being part of a team. Programs focus on beginner-friendly play, with an emphasis on participation, skill building and community over competition. Volunteer coaches – often parents or students – play a key role in supporting player development and creating a positive experience.

“All of the kudos goes to our coaches,” program supervisor Mallory Peterson says. “We’re really lucky to have a strong group willing to invest their time and energy in this youth experience.”

Beyond structured teams, Parks & Rec offers open gym opportunities six days a week during the summer at the Players reach up for a rebound during a Chatham County

Parks & Recreation basketball game.

Chatham Grove Community Center. These free, drop-in sessions include basketball and volleyball for teens and adults, giving families a flexible way to stay active. Summer camps, including sport-specific and multisport options, provide additional ways to have fun when school is out. The department also runs inclusive programming, such as Journey League, a year-round basketball program for individuals with disabilities.

Forward Pass

Triangle United Chatham allows athletes to start at a beginner level and progress to more competitive teams as their skills and interests grow. The organization provides soccer programming for youth ages 8-17, with 24 teams and roughly 275 players currently participating.

Younger players typically train twice a week in a less-demanding setting that builds confidence and foundational skills. As they get older, players experience additional practices and more structured coaching while still enabling families to balance other activities. Teams train primarily at Northeast District Park, with additional use of other nearby fields, including those at Woods Charter School and Northwood High School Triangle United prioritizes long-term progress over short-term results. “Our number one thing is the player experience,” executive director Mike Strand says. “We want them to enjoy the experience and develop a lifelong love of the game.”

Training and competition take place throughout the year, with tryouts in May and regular practices beginning in August after a

Players battle for possession during a Triangle United Chatham soccer game. The program becomes more competitive as athletes’ skills grow.

PHOTO COURTESY

• Comprehensive primary care

• Well child care

• Now offering IBCLC lactation consultations

• Care for chronic conditions (like asthma and ADHD)

• Care management for patients with complex medical needs

• Welcoming new patients

• Dedicated to bilingual care in both English and Spanish

• Accepting all major insurance plans, including NC Medicaid

• Same day appointments available Monday through Saturday

Chatham Pediatrics is an independent practice committed to providing the highest quality care for patients from birth to young adulthood.

Katie Delgado, MD • Margaret Campbell, FNP • Carolyn Brookhart, MD

Join the Team

summer break. Fall and spring serve as the primary seasons, while winter options include lighter schedules, free play and futsal – a smaller, indoor version of soccer.

Starting Line

Youth sports continue to grow at Chatham Park YMCA, starting with activities for the youngest athletes. “Rookie Sports” programs introduce children ages 3-5 to soccer and basketball through low-pressure, skills-based play.

Sessions run throughout the winter and spring for six weeks, with one practice per week. Coaches, including YMCA staff and volunteers, lead players through drills, games and simple team play to grow confidence and coordination.

Character development is the core of each program. “We’re focused on demonstrating what it means to be a good teammate and a good friend,” executive director Caitlin Gleissner says. The Y’s coaches model leadership and sportsmanlike behavior. “We’re creating a positive, encouraging environment so kids can see that they can be successful and support others too.” A half-day Rookie Sports summer camp runs weekly from mid-June through early August where preschoolers can try basketball, soccer and T-ball.

Bigger kids can get in on the fun through Chatham Park YMCA’s members-only swim team, which launched in May for ages 5-18 and competes in the Chapel Hill Summer Swim League. For newer swimmers, a prep program offers eight-week sessions throughout the fall, winter and spring where kids can learn strokes and refine skills before joining the team. cm

United is the Way.

This is what Chatham does differently.

Most families don’t need more programs. They need the right ones, working together.

When a family is connected to our network of par tners, something powerful happens: the organizations meant to serve them talk to each other They coordinate. They share. They follow up.

United Way of Chatham County leads the Chatham Success Network - a coalition of par tners including schools, nonprofits, and county agencies - built to wrap services around households and help families build stability and oppor tunity. In combination with the Chatham Housing Collective, we are addressing the root causes that keep families from getting ahead - and building systems that help people move from surviving to thriving.

Our Bold Goal: End and prevent pover ty for 2,000 people by 2030. It’s ambitious. It’s possible. And it’s already underway.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Bold Goal Community Breakfast

Tuesday, June 23 - 8:30 a m

Chatham County Ag Center, Pittsboro

Join us for an interactive community conversation about the progress and challenges of Chatham County's Bold Goal, and add your voice to the work Free and open to all

Please register by June 17

UnitedWayOfChathamCounty.org/BG

2026 Campaign Kickoff Luncheon

Tuesday, September 15 - 11:30 a m

Governors Club Ballroom, Chapel Hill

Celebrate the launch of United Way of Chatham County's annual campaign and hear inspiring updates on the Bold Goal, the Chatham Success Network, and the Chatham Housing Collective

Ticket information coming soon

This is systems change. This is Chatham.

Sponsorship opportunities available.

UnitedWayOfChathamCounty.org/kickoff

Subscribe to our monthly newsletter

UnitedWayOfChathamCounty org

Chatham County

Young athletes share a high-five during a YMCA Rookie Sports session. Sportsmanship is a key focus of the Y’s athletic programs.

GAM E NIGH T S

Jump into these friendly competitions in Pittsboro and Bynum

By REBEKAH MANN

Mahjong Wednesdays at ChathamLibraryCommunity

An inquiry from a library book club member turned into a weekly afternoon staple at the Chatham Community Library. Circulation Manager Mary Mills sent out a survey in the library’s newsletter in 2023 to see if there was any interest in starting a mahjong group, and with an overwhelming response, Wednesdays at 1 p.m. in the Holmes Family Meeting Room were soon booked and busy.

at Chatham Community Library play the American variant. “It’s great exercise for your brain,” Mary says.

She adds that though the group is always warm and inviting to anyone over age 16, players who are new to the game are encouraged to attend on the first Wednesday of the month. During that time, beginners can receive more attention and instruction from the experienced regulars.

“Events like mahjong at Chatham Community Library let people meet, learn something new and have fun in a welcoming environment without the need to spend money,” Mary says. “The library’s mission is to build those community connections and encourage lifelong learning and personal growth, and mahjong is definitely in line with that goal.”

Similar gaming events at the library include a chess club that meets on Saturdays from 1–3 p.m., welcoming players of all skill levels, along with Dungeons & Dragons groups for participants of various ages.

“We purchased two sets of tiles and two of the official scorecards from the National Mah Jongg League so we could provide an opportunity for participants to play for free,” Mary says. “Many players also bring their own tile sets and scorecards.”

The goal of mahjong is simple: to be the player with the most points at the end of the game. Points are scored by sorting different groupings of tiles, so to win, one must declare “mahjong” once tiles are grouped into a winning hand. The game dates back to the mid-1800s in China, but the participants

Music Bingo Wednesdays At Forgotten Road Ales

Forgotten Road Ales (previously House of Hops) changed ownership in March, but the weekly Wednesday music bingo tradition will carry on.

Kacie Walker, manager, has worked

with the bar and bottle shop since 2018 and values the sense of community the event has provided since it began in 2021. “People just kind of let the day fade away,” she says. “By the end, people are singing and dancing and laughing.”

Kyle Gauthier, owner of Evening Tide Event Productions, is the DJ and host for the bingo nights. Much like regular bingo but without the numbers, Kyle plays 10to 15-second music clips, and if the song selected is on your card, you get to mark the square. The cards have different musical themes each week: some are decade concepts, like ’70s, ’80s and ’90s, while others revolve around varying genres like country, rock and pop. Each round, players compete to win a gift card to Forgotten Road Ales. There’s occasionally a “jackpot” round,

and Kacie says the gift card value has previously been worth more than $100. The event is also family friendly, so if a participant under age 21 wins, they can choose a prize from a toy box.

Kacie recalls fond memories of working music bingo nights, from regulars creating the inside joke of calling out “It’s rigged!” to groups bringing in slow cookers of food to dine together – which is encouraged. “If you’re hungry, you can order at Cafe Root Cellar , Mi Cancun or Marco’s Pizza and bring it into the taproom,” she says. “Just pull up a seat; everyone’s welcome.”

Forgotten Road Ales also hosts Opinionation Trivia on Thursday nights at 6 p.m. Kacie describes it as a Family Feud-style survey game. “Right now

[Chatham County is] in such a state of growth,” she says. “It’s nice to have things that bring people together and weekly routines to look forward to.”

Mondays

At BMC Brewing

Monday nights at The Plant are home to weekly games of euchre, a fast-paced card game played in pairs. Starting at 6 p.m., tables at BMC Brewing fill up with enthusiasts eager to win their next points.

Euchre is played with a 24-card deck – nines through aces of each suit. Four

Mahjong is a four-player game that has seen a resurgence in popularity and a rise in groups such as this one at the Chatham Community Library.

Game On

players split into teams of two and compete to win at least three out of five “tricks” in the hopes of scoring 10 points for their duo. Winning tricks are decided by the game’s unique “trump” system, with jacks serving as the highest cards and changing value depending on the suit chosen for the round.

The game is believed to have been brought to the States by German immigrants who settled in the Midwest, and the American version has origins in jucker, an 18th-century card game from Alsace, France, and southwestern Germany.

John Rice and Carmen Rice, owners of BMC Brewing, say they enjoy watching new participants be embraced by the community and evolve into regular attendees. “Our crowd is diverse and welcoming, ranging from die-hard enthusiasts to new players looking to meet people in a friendly, competitive environment,”

John says. “It’s a great way to learn a classic game, meet new or old friends, and enjoy local craft beer.” It doesn’t hurt that the event aligns with BMC Brewing’s $5 pint special on Mondays.

It all began with support from local euchre enthusiast Peggy Dreher in 2023. John says due to its growth in popularity, they now also host larger rancher tournaments twice a year during spring and fall. And if you’re looking for more competitive fun, the brewery also hosts a monthly “Smart Cookie” trivia night.

Third Thursdays At Bynum Front Porch

Every third Thursday of the month, friends and families gather at Bynum Front Porch for a bringyour-own-game night. Local artist and selfproclaimed “game nerd” Jan Burger organizes the event, and he says the monthly get-together gives him an outlet to share his lifelong passion with others.

“Playing games together is an important way to interact and get to know your neighbors,” Jan says. “It’s a great combatant for loneliness and a fun way to play and be silly, to exercise our brains together [and] to use our imaginations.”

Jan says on top of spending quality time with his community, he enjoys the diversity of games that are played: titles including Codenames, Harmonies, Clank, Forest Shuffle and more have all made appearances. “Some folks bring traditional games that you play with cards, and other people bring a whole selection of more contemporary games,” he says. “I’ve actually also brought my own homemade games, since I like to invent games, too, and tested them out on people.”

Jan says attendees normally range from young children who come with their parents to older adults in their 70s. He enjoys learning new games and getting to experience those that have shaped another individual’s life.

“Meeting people [and learning] what they’re excited about is really kind of wonderful,” Jan says. “Jumping in and playing a game that is important for somebody is really sweet to me.” cm

ABOVE No euchre experience is needed to join in the fun at BMC Brewing on Monday evenings. BELOW Jan Burger, Emma Skurnick, Andrew Wilson and Bradley Pierce compete to gather the most valuable trees in a round of Forest Shuffle, a tableaubuilding game for two to five players, at Bynum Front Porch.

TAKE A HIKE

Your guide to a few of our best parks, waterways and walking trails

Compiled by LIBBY WAKEFIELD

by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Chatham County is rich with green spaces, offering countless ways for residents and visitors alike to step outside, breathe deeply and take in the natural beauty of North Carolina’s Piedmont region. From quiet wooded trails to wide open parks perfect for picnics and play, there’s no shortage of places to reconnect with nature. Consider this your guide to hiking, paddling and exploring nature – each spot is an invitation to slow down and take a deep breath.

Trail conditions can change with the weather or ongoing maintenance. It’s always a good idea to check ahead via a park’s website, social media or a quick phone call before you go to ensure your destination is open and ready to welcome you.

Northeast District Park

5408 Big Woods Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.8102682, -79.0315489)

This 66-acre park features a softball field, a multipurpose field, a picnic shelter, a playground, a pond (fishing is allowed, but it’s catch and release only), two tennis/pickleball courts and a ¼-mile asphalt walking trail loop.

American Tobacco Trail

Pittard Sears Rd. Access (GPS 35.8354283, -78.9281510)

New Hope Church Rd. Trailhead Park (GPS 35.8172, -78.9280)

White Oak Church Rd. Access (GPS 35.7843596, -78.9224648)

The 22-plus-mile-long Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Inc. project includes 4.7 miles in Chatham County. The trail offers a dual surface of asphalt and compacted granite screenings. It’s open for foot, bike, wheelchairuser and equestrian traffic.

Briar Chapel Trails

1600 Briar Chapel Pkwy., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.8287, -79.1082)

Located on 900 acres and 24 miles of trails, Briar Chapel has room for walking, cross-country running or mountain biking. The trails are open from dawn to dusk every day. In partnership with Triangle OffRoad Cyclists, Briar Chapel has a sustainable 18-inch-wide single-track mountain bike trail for 15 miles in and around the community. In 2018, an obstacle course was constructed and is maintained by TORC volunteers.

The Park at Briar Chapel

1015 Andrews Store Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.8107884, -79.1090639)

Amenities include two softball fields, a football/multipurpose field, a soccer/ multipurpose field, a picnic shelter that accommodates up to 80 people, a playground, a 1/4-mile paved walking trail and a dog park that features separate sections for big and small dogs, plus shaded benches and water fountains.

Mary Hayes Barber Holmes Park

304 Old Rock Springs Cemetery Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.7438089, -79.1742900)

This 10-acre park in the Powell Place neighborhood has a mix of open fields and wooded areas with art and play sculptures dispersed throughout, a multipurpose field, a 1/3-mile paved walking trail (popular for road biking and walking), picnic shelters with grills and a living-roof gazebo.

Lower Haw River State Natural Area

160 Bynum Church Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.75024545, -79.12787436)

Enjoy birding, nature photography, fishing, hiking and paddling. The North Carolina General Assembly approved the Haw River State Trail in 2023, an 80-mile land and paddle trail extending into Chatham County.

Earl Thompson Park

170 Bynum Hill Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.7735889, -79.13834978)

Located near the Haw River, this park includes a softball field and a playground. Future plans include a multipurpose event lawn, an amphitheater and additional trails.

Jordan Lake Track Trail/Seaforth Pond Trail

Seaforth Beach Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.7354, -79.0380)

The 1.4-mile Seaforth Pond Trail begins on the western side of the beach parking lot and ends near picnic shelter No. 9. Visitors can catch glimpses

Photo

of Jordan Lake while walking through forests of loblolly pines and hardwoods. There is also a meadow and a pond along this path. The Track Trail has been set up for self-guided nature hikes great for the whole family.

Knight Farm Community Park

362 Vine Pkwy., Pittsboro (GPS 35.72520819, -79.15857163)

Named after the Knight family, who were longtime Chatham County farmers and residents, this 10-acre park – the first of five parks to be constructed inside Chatham Park – was dedicated in June 2021 and contains a playground, walking trail, multipurpose field, splash pad, dog park, pavilion and picnic tables. Future amenities will include more than 30 miles of walking, biking and multimodal trails; access to the Haw River and Jordan Lake; and an amphitheater for live music and entertainment.

Roland E. Horne Walking Trail

197 NC-87, Pittsboro (GPS 35.72271, -79.18879)

This fully-paved, 1-mile loop around Carolina Central Community College and the Chatham Community Library is fully paved, making it great for strollers and wheelchairs. Open year-round. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Vista Point Blue and Red Trail

2498 N. Pea Ridge Rd., Pittsboro (GPS 35.70925722, -79.0593330)

Choose between an easy 1- or 3-mile loop hike in the Jordan Lake State Park. The easier Blue Trail passes by an old tobacco barn and crosses a boardwalk, while the longer Red Trail winds through the pine and mixed hardwood forests. The Red Trail is nearly a loop trail but requires walking along the road about 100 yards to end up back at the beginning. Hikers can rest on a bench along a quiet lake cove and then continue their trek. Both trails start from the Vista Point Campground

Poplar Point Campground Trail

558 Beaver Creek Rd., Apex (GPS 35.728993387, -79.004502107)

This is an easy 2-mile trail that connects lakeside camping sites. Enjoy walking past flowering trees, such as fringe, magnolia, sourwood, dogwood and witch hazel, along the way.

Town Lake Park

529 Highway 902, Pittsboro (GPS 35.7128402649, -79.186926575)

Pittsboro’s first park was also once the home of the town’s water supply. The 36-acre park features the Town Lake, a small soccer field, swings, trails, a picnic shelter with grills, a fishing pier and raised-bed pollinator gardens.

Ebenezer Church Trail/Old Oak Trail

2582 Beaver Creek Rd., Apex (GPS 35.708433943, -79.015702775)

Hikers can choose to follow the Old Oak Trail or the Ebenezer Church Trail. The first option begins at Area A across from shelter No. 8. The 1-mile loop begins at the parking lot in the Ebenezer Picnic Area 1. For hikers with small children, look for the shortcut loop, which cuts the distance in half. The second trailhead is at the southeast corner of the beach parking lot. The 1.01-mile trail has a natural surface and passes the site of the historic church for which the area was named. Parts of the path include an abandoned roadbed and a long boardwalk.

Loves Creek Greenway

623 S. Second Ave., Siler City (GPS 35.71874902832, -79.454297247576)

Enjoy walking, running, biking and exploring nature on the 1.4-mile paved trail along the banks of the Loves Creek

Rock Ridge Park

1397 Old Sanford Rd., Moncure (GPS 35.67689610798274, -79.1811595462077)

This 52-acre neighborhood park is set among rolling hills of mature hardwoods. It features a ½-mile asphalt walking trail, a picnic shelter, a mini amphitheater, a natural wood play fort and a popular 80-foot zipline. The park also hosts a top-ranked disc golf course.

Southwest District Park

15124 Highway 902, Bear Creek (GPS 35.61496730064, -79.3940066477)

Amenities include a picnic shelter that accommodates up to 84 people, softball/ multipurpose field, two short compact gravel trails, kitchen, playground and a sand volleyball court.

White Pines Nature Preserve

548 S. Rocky River Rd., Sanford (GPS 35.615028526887, -79.159465026204)

Nestled at the confluences of the Rocky River and Deep River, these 285 acres are owned and managed by the Triangle Land Conservancy. Offers great birding in the spring and summer and hosts the world’s largest known population of the Cape Fear shiner, a federally endangered minnow species. Offers nearly six miles of hiking trails and a canoe launch site. 

Fearrington Village Loop

W. Camden, Fearrington (GPS 35.79818410702, -79.0892392529)

This is an easy 0.9-mile trail located near Pittsboro and is great for birding and hiking.

Mason Point Horse Trail

685 Transis Camp Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.854499305805234, -78.98944291284232)

A valid Game Land License is required to ride here for ages 16+. Explore wooded terrain on this 5.5-mile loop trail, which is marked by orange arrows and/or orange diamond paint blazes.

Northwest District Park

2413 Woody Store Rd., Siler City (GPS 35.8075754209, -79.3295800423)

Amenities include a dining hall that accommodates up to 121 people, activity center that accommodates up to 114 people, picnic shelter that accommodates up to 70 people, pool available weekends only JuneAugust from 1-5 p.m., basketball court, compacted trail, playground and a pond for catch and release only. The 1.1-mile loop trail is considered an easy route and takes an average of 29 minutes to complete. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Jordan Lake Audubon Wildlife Platform Trail

281-691 Martha’s Chapel Rd., Apex (GPS 35.78997, -79.00093)

Located near Apex, this out-and-back trail is considered easy, taking an average of seven minutes to complete, and offers views of birds and other animal and plant life.

Jordan Lake Path

Farrington Rd., New Hope Township (GPS 35.75263, -79.00849)

Discover this 0.7-mile trail near Cary that’s great for paddle sports and walking. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Jordan Lake Wildlife Trail

2832 Big Woods Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.77528, -79.04168)

Catch a glimpse of the wildlife as you hike or bike along this wide, easy-to-follow loop trail through pines and hardwoods in a wetland ecosystem. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Low Lands and Jordan Lake Forest Demonstration Trail

2832 Big Woods Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.77381, -79.04136)

A 2.8-mile loop trail that’s great for hiking, running and walking with waterfront views of Jordan Lake. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. 

Parkers Creek

Parkers Creek Beach Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.7442354, -79.0419087)

This 2.9 mile out-and-back trail, located in the Jordan Lake Educational State Forest, is a good option for camping, walking and hiking. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Jordan Lake Poplar Trail

558 Beaver Creek Rd., Apex (GPS 35.72668110653418, -79.01402437005956)

Generally considered a moderately challenging route, this 3.2-mile loop trail takes an average of a little over an hour to complete.

Wilderness Island Trail

(GPS 35.70178, -79.06926)

Located in the Jordan Lake State Recreational Area, this 5.7-mile out-and-back shaded trail can be muddy. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

New Hope Overlook

448 W H Jones Rd, New Hill (GPS 35.6832026667203, -79.04757739629653)

Generally considered an easy route, give this 2.8-mile loop trail a try. It passes through wooded areas to the shore of Jordan Lake and back. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Roberson Creek Paddle Launch

Hanks Chapel Rd, Pittsboro (GPS 35.71682181179085, -79.0964715975764)

Experience this 4.6-mile out-and-back trail near Pittsboro and bring your paddle sports and bird watching gear, as this trail is great for both.

Lower Haw River Trail

4551 US-64, Pittsboro (GPS 35.73280121345, -79.1047607595)

This moderately challenging route along the Haw River shoreline takes an average of a little over two hours to complete at 7.8-miles. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Poe’s Ridge Trail

935 Jordan Dam Rd, Moncure (GPS 35.644199282899, -79.08559042698)

Pack your running or hiking gear and head to this 3.4-mile loop trail located near Moncure.

Jordan Lake Dam Loop

2082 Jordan Dam Rd., Moncure (GPS 35.65466269123973, -79.07023147215118)

Check out this 1.4-mile loop trail that’s considered an easy route and great for birding, hiking and running. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Kirks Creek Paddle Route

Near intersection of Haley Meadows Dr. and Johnson Rd., Moncure (GPS 35.64536863400172, -79.09860086354226)

Great for paddle sports, this aquatic loop trail is 6.9-miles and located near Moncure in Harris Lake County Park.

Gilbert Yager, White Pines and Rocky River Trail Loop

548 S. Rocky River Rd., Sanford (GPS 35.61530420036109, -79.16041763068255)

This 2.1-mile trail loop takes anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour to complete and is generally considered a moderately challenging route. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Rocky River Trail Loop

548 S. Rocky River Rd., Sanford (GPS 35.61530420036109, -79.16041763068255)

Hike along this 1.6-mile loop trail near Sanford, located in the White Pines Nature Preserve. This trail includes the fork of the Rocky River, home to the world’s largest population of the Cape Fear shiner minnow, as well as the preserve’s largest white pine tree. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

River Trail to Schoolkids Trail

548 S. Rocky River Rd., Sanford (GPS 35.61530420036109, -79.16041763068255)

Located in the Duke Forest, this loop trail along New Hope Creek is an easy route at one mile. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Schoolkids Way Trail

548 S. Rocky River Rd., Sanford (GPS 35.61530420036109, -79.16041763068255)

Located in the White Pines Nature Preserve, explore this 2-mile outand-back trail near Sanford that’s great for birding, fishing and hiking. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

Rock Ridge Park Disc Golf Course

1397 Old Sanford Rd., Moncure (GPS 35.67565806220778, -79.18112506136511)

This 2.1-mile, easy loop trail made for the park’s 18-hole disc golf course is located near Moncure and is also a good spot for hiking and walking.

Pittsboro Lake Park Trail

529 NC-902, Pittsboro, 27312 (GPS 35.71344719291604, -79.18671172329363)

Taking an average of 25 minutes to complete, this 1.3-mile out-and-back trail is an easy route and is great for birding and hiking in addition to walking.

Luckystone Trail

15124 NC-902, Bear Creek (GPS 35.61521837297542, -79.39412524064011)

A popular trail for birding, walking and hiking, this loop trail is 0.5-miles long and located within the Southwest District Park. This short trail is perfect for families with young children. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.

George Pauly Nature Trail

5408 Big Woods Rd., Chapel Hill (GPS 35.81094745894604, -79.0327709066654)

This new 0.6-mile natural surface trail is located within Northeast District Park. The trail, dedicated to Chatham County resident and conservation advocate George Pauly, is an upwards hike through forestry and a wildflower meadow. cm

A GOOD BOOK

‘Lammie

Loves Cubby’

by NORA GASKIN

When Lammie Timmons and Quinn “Cubby” Tatum reunite after 20 years apart, old feelings quickly reignite in unexpected and dangerous ways. Their slow-burning Southern story unfolds with rising suspense as their past begins to surface and tensions build. Can they handle the consequences?

Published date: April 7, 2026

‘

Wolf Worm ’

by T. KINGFISHER

Scientific illustrator Sonia Wilson travels to North Carolina in 1899 to work for the reclusive Dr. Halder, documenting his extensive insect collection. As she settles into his isolated manor, unsettling discoveries begin to surface, from strange animal behavior to rumors of “blood thieves” and the unexplained disappearance of Halder’s wife. Sonia soon realizes his research may be far more dangerous than it appears and wonders what she is really doing there – and how she will get out alive.

Published date: March 24, 2026

‘The

Legend of Wyatt Outlaw: From Reconstruction through Black Lives Matter’ by SYLVESTER ALLEN JR. and BELLE BOGGS

A Black leader’s rise in the small town of Graham, North Carolina, was cut short by a violent murder by the Ku Klux Klan in 1870. Wyatt Outlaw’s impact did not end there, however. Once a business owner, Union League leader and public official, Wyatt became a symbol of both Black progress and backlash against it during Reconstruction, but his story was never told. Decades later, two Alamance County natives set out to understand why his story had been erased from the history they were taught. Through archival research, interviews and their own personal stories, they connect past injustices to present-day struggles while offering ways to move forward.

Published date: Jan. 27, 2026

Compiled by ELLIE KOLLME

‘Chicken Bridge Road’

by CLYDE JEANETTE SHORE

Pauline Darnell Shore, a mother of six, finds herself trapped in a dangerous and abusive marriage in 1950s rural North Carolina with few options for escape. After repeated pleas for help go unanswered, she is forced to make a life-altering act to protect herself and her children. What follows is not only a public reckoning but a deeply personal descent into guilt, survival and resilience. As she reflects on her past within institutional walls, Pauline’s story unfolds through hardship, memory and the search for forgiveness. The novel, rooted in Southern life and family bonds, explores the lasting impact of trauma and the strength it takes to move forward.

Published date: June 11, 2024

‘Indigo Field’

by MARJORIE HUDSON

Two lives shaped by loss collide across a divided landscape in the rural South: a retired white colonel mourning his wife and an elderly Black woman grieving a violent injustice. Between them lies an abandoned field, holding centuries of buried secrets only she understands. When a chance accident sparks tension, it awakens forces tied to the land’s troubled past, awakening the spirits of the field. What unfolds is a reckoning with history, grief and the enduring weight of the South’s legacy.

Published date: March 14, 2023

When plans emerge to dump millions of tons of coal ash near the small community of New Rivers, Penny Weaver and her neighbors find themselves in a fight to protect their land and livelihoods. Local activists organize protests and search for ways to stop the environmental threat, but tensions rise as more extreme tactics are introduced. As demonstrations escalate, unexpected dangers put lives at risk and test the group’s resolve. Penny must navigate personal stakes and a growing crisis as her family is drawn into the conflict.

Published date: March 15, 2021

‘Coal Ash Bourne: The Sixteenth Penny Weaver Mystery’ by JUDY HOGAN

CHILDREN'S BOOKS A Good Book

‘The Garden of Growing Brave: Help Kids Manage Big Emotions, Build Confidence, Face Fears and Grow Emotional Resilience’

by JESSICA BORZINO

This picture book is designed to help readers ages 2 to 8 understand and manage big emotions. It is set in magical environments and teaches kids how to handle fear, calm themselves and build confidence and resilience. This book draws on therapeutic practices and a mother’s real-life parenting journey to offer gentle strategies for coping with challenges and practical tools to support children’s emotional growth and regulation.

Published date: March 19, 2026

‘Crazy Maisey and the Boy Who Understood’

by XION FERRARA AND HOLLEE FERRARA

Seven-year-old Xion lost his early intervention program at school, and began to feel misunderstood by those around him. To process those feelings, Xion started writing about a dog who often gets into trouble but is always trying her best. He developed that idea into a story about friendship and understanding with a little help from his mom, Hollee. The result is a book that highlights how differences do not make someone wrong and emphasizes empathy, support and second chances for children learning to navigate the world around them.

Published date: March 1, 2026

‘Operation: Make a Splash’

by TATE GODWIN

In this graphic novel perfect for elementary and middle schoolers, Sy is determined to prove himself as a professional gamer, but a surprise father-son fishing trip threatens his plans. Nick is excited to collaborate with his musical hero, DJ French Toast, though their creative partnership doesn’t go as smoothly as expected. Violet signs up for a comic design club only to find herself unexpectedly cast in a drama production. As their school break plans spiral, the trio does not back down and prepares to take on every obstacle together. Blending humor and friendship, the story follows three kids learning to adapt and “make a splash” when things do not go according to plan.

Published date: Feb. 24, 2026

‘Pickles for Christmas: A Pony Tale’

by KATHY SIMMERS

Matthew loves ponies, especially Pickles, the pony he rides during his weekly lessons and quickly grows attached to. When he learns Pickles is up for sale, he is devastated, knowing his parents will never buy him a pony. Faced with the possibility of losing his new best friend, Matthew becomes determined to make sure Pickles finds a good home. He is certain his love for the pony will not be enough, but could he be wrong? A perfect picture book for young animal lovers.

Published date: Dec. 5, 2024 cm

home & garden

ALL THINGS considered

ABOVE Colorful artwork, antiques and accent pillows breathe lots of joy into the McKee home.

OPPOSITE Kait and Darren relax in the front room, which serves as a sitting room, library and quiet spot for the couple to connect.

Vintage finds, vibrant interiors and everyday family moments bring warmth to this thoughtfully designed home

By MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Kait McKee and Darren McKee knew they had found something special when they landed in the Stonecrest at Norwood neighborhood last year – a place that felt less like another stop along the way and more like the setting for their family’s next chapter. “We love our neighbors,” Kait says. “We feel like we’re really part of a community here.” With a vision for a true forever home, the couple settled in with their two children, Cooper, 9, and Landyn, 7, ready to create a space that could

Photography

grow right alongside them. The family dog, Sadie, quickly claimed the expansive backyard as her own, spending afternoons exploring the space or keeping watch on the screened porch.

For Kait, the home became both a creative outlet and a reflection of her family’s story. She partnered with interior designer Ashton Blue of South of Surrey Interiors to bring cohesion to each room,

ABOVE The dining room features grasscloth wallpaper, botanical drapery and layered wood tones that bring the outside in.

RIGHT The pool and large backyard are ideal for family time and gatherings with friends and neighbors.

HOME & GARDEN

layering textures, colors and personal touches that feel curated yet comfortable. Kait’s own background in landscape design shines outdoors, where she’s thoughtfully reimagined both the front

RIGHT Kait has applied her landscaping knowledge to the front yard, bringing lots of curb appeal all year round.

BELOW The living room seating is from Deep River Mercantile, and the custom drapery is by Ronica’s Custom Creations. The coffee table is vintage.

A calming blue palette makes the primary bedroom feel like an elegant oasis.

house with music during practice sessions, while Cooper loves hanging out with his family, hunting and exploring the outdoors.

Darren, who runs his own LinkedIn consulting business, Darren McKee Co., appreciates having a home that supports both productivity

and connection: He’s able to meet with coaching clients in his home office and then join the family for a lively meal just steps away. The balance feels intentional, and with Kait recently becoming COO of the company, the couple is enjoying working together, too.

The McKees’ style leans personal rather than perfect, with mixed metallics, large windows and shades of blue and green that make each room feel lived-in and nature-forward. 

The screened back porch is the perfect place to relax after long days of work, school and play.

Living room furnishings from Deep River Mercantile anchor the main gathering space, while custom drapery by Ronica’s Custom Creations in Knightdale softens the light throughout.

Nearly every room holds a story – books collected over time are artfully arranged in the colorful front room or stacked at

ABOVE Landyn’s room is bright and whimsical. The vintage bed is flanked by vintage botanical prints and floral lampshades.

RIGHT The home’s blue and green palette continues in the kitchen and dining nook, a bright, airy place for the family to cook and connect.

bedsides, and the walls are adorned with artwork picked up during travels and secondhand treasures Kait has sourced from local thrift stores and antique markets.

“I especially love going to Reclamation,” Kait

The family room upstairs includes space for gaming, rest and music. The sofa is vintage, as is much of the artwork.

says, pointing out finds from the Pittsboro shop on the upstairs gallery wall. “So many of my favorite pieces are from there.” The family enjoys spending a day downtown, exploring shops like Circle City Books &

My perfect day is hitting all the vintage and secondhand shops in the area and searching for treasures.

– Kait McKee

The upstairs landing features a gallery wall that mixes Kait’s vintage finds with family artwork.

Chatham County Financial Advisors

Chatham Downs

Eric C. Williams, CFP®, AAMS®

190 Chatham Downs Dr Suite 103

919-960-6119

Pittsboro

Chad Virgil, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU® 630 East St, Suite 2 919-545-5669

Siler City

Laura Clapp, CFP®, CEPA®, AAMS®

301 East Raleigh St 919-663-1051

Siler City

Jonathon Marsh 301 East Raleigh St 919-663-1051

Governors Club

Sharon Dickens, CFP®, AAMS® 50101 Governors Dr Suite 118

919-967-9968

Pittsboro

Kevin Maley, AAMS® 984 Thompson St Suite E2

919-444-2961

Pittsboro

Amanda Klier 114 Russet Run Suite 120 919-542-3020

Pittsboro

Shari Becker, AAMS® 120 Lowes Dr Suite 107

919-545-0125

Pittsboro

Blake Stewart, CFP®, ChFC®, WMCP® 114 Russet Run Suite 120

919-542-3020

Pittsboro

Clinton Chapman

984 Thompson St Suite E2

919-444-2961

Photo

Music and grabbing lunch from S&T’s Soda Shoppe

That mix of old and new, polished and personal, gives the home its warmth inside, while tall trees and quiet breezes make for peaceful outdoor living.

“We like to say we are so close to everything, but it feels far removed,” Darren says. It’s a place where piano music drifts through open doorways, where muddy shoes get kicked off and lasting memories are made one day – and one vintage find – at a time. “It’s so beautiful here,” Kait says. “We just love it.” cm

Sadie loves to lounge on the screened back porch.

Landscape Lessons

On the Fringe

By AMY STRUNK

FRINGE TREES are among the most charming yet underutilized ornamental trees for North Carolina landscapes. Both the native fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus) and the Chinese fringe tree (Chionanthus retusus) offer exceptional beauty, adaptability and ecological value, making them excellent choices for homeowners and landscape designers alike.

The native fringe tree, sometimes called “old man’s beard,” has delicate, long white fringelike flowers that appear to float along its branches, creating a soft, airy effect. Because it is native, it supports local ecosystems by providing habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife. It is also relatively low-maintenance, showing good resistance to pests and diseases common in the region.

The Chinese fringe tree shares a similar ornamental appeal but has a slightly more structured form and glossier leaves. Its flowers are a bit showier, though smaller, less wispy and more densely clustered, offering a striking visual display in late spring. This species adapts well to urban conditions, including compacted soils and air pollution, making it a strong candidate for street plantings and suburban yards, as well as a fantastic climbing tree once mature.

Both species are small- to medium-sized trees, typically reaching 12 to 20 feet in height, which makes them ideal for smaller properties or as understory trees beneath larger canopies. They thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer welldrained soils, conditions commonly found throughout North Carolina.

Incorporating native or Chinese fringe trees into the landscape provides yearround interest, from spring blooms to attractive foliage and even subtle fall color. Their manageable size, resilience and stunning floral displays make fringe trees a practical and beautiful addition to North Carolina gardens. cm

Amy Strunk is a landscape designer who focuses on creating beautiful, environmentally conscious spaces. Amy has worked with plants since age 15 and holds a master’s degree in professional studies in landscape design and sustainable landscapes from George Washington University. She owns Amy Strunk Designs, transforming residential yards, local businesses and commercial spaces in our region since 2014. In this series, Amy shares news, anecdotes and ideas for gardeners across Chatham County.

PHOTO BY KEVIN CULLEN PHOTO

PEACE OF MIND

It’s our priority to make sure residents have peace of mind, knowing that all of their health care services are within reach.

LOVE FOR LIFE

GALLOWAY RIDGE EXISTS TO INSPIRE AND TO ASSURE EACH RESIDENT A AND meaningfulengaged lives life AND SUPERIOR QUALITY OF care.

As a resident, your lifestyle will transform to one that exudes creativity, passion, and purpose.

RETIREMENT WITH COMMUNITY

Our quality care combined with kind-hearted residents makes this welcoming community a wonderful place to call home.

INK, PENC I L

Centenarian Virginia Myers shares how she embraces life to the fullest at 102

By SHARON KINSELLA

SIMPSON

Aphoto of an intricately carved wood statue hangs in Virginia Myers’ sunlit apartment at Twin Rivers Independent Senior Living Community in Pittsboro. “This is called the Maddalena,” she explains,

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL

Virginia Myers sits at the ivory keys in a common area of Twin Rivers Independent Senior Living Community in Pittsboro.

“in other words, Mary Magdalene. That was the most touching thing I’ve ever seen.”

Virginia encountered the original work – Donatello’s “Penitent Magdalene” – during a trip to Florence with Road Scholar, a nonprofit providing educational travel and learning adventures primarily for older adults. That journey is just one of many art- and culture-filled experiences she has embraced in retirement, a passion that traces back to her childhood.

Virginia was born in 1923 in Cleveland, Mississippi. Though small, the town is home to Delta State University, which she says made all the difference in her early exposure to the arts. She started playing piano around age 3 and recalls seeing world-class musicians and dancers on campus as well as performances a few hours away in Memphis, Tennessee, during trips with her parents. Those formative encounters inspired her to pursue undergraduate and master’s degrees in music and piano performance, respectively.

After college, Virginia settled in Memphis with her late husband, Myron Myers, a piano professor at what is now Rhodes College, where she also briefly taught piano and music theory. There, they raised two daughters, Jinkie Redden and Margaret “Peggy” Ising. As her daughters grew, Virginia became involved in Girl Scouts – first as a troop leader, then as a program coordinator for the local council.

“I read the Girl Scouts handbook, and I realized what it was supposed to be,” she says. “It was not an entertainment thing. It is an informal education. And I said, ‘OK, we’re going to see if that really works.’” She believes it did. “We taught the girls how to be independent. That was the most important thing we could do for them.”

Myron passed away in 1983, and Virginia moved to Searcy, Arkansas, to be closer to Jinkie. She relocated to Pittsboro in 2016 – remarking that she'd had all the city living she wanted – and settled nearer to Peggy and her husband, Paul Ising, who now live in Carolina Meadows.

I m A de A

de CI s I o N th At I wA s N ’t go NN a s I t arou N d wA iti N g for other peo P le. If i wa N ted to do I t, i was go NN a go do it. t hat’s th E wAy I’ve L iv E d my L if E .

- vI rgi N i A My E rs

These days, she spends most of her time reading –everything from novels to a thick National Geographic issue titled “Jesus and the Origins of Christianity” on her coffee table, and working word puzzles – in ink, of course. “I read a great deal,” she says. “I’ve been reading all my life. That’s the thing that makes me the happiest.”

She also “never misses a meal” and takes full advantage of Twin Rivers’ extensive programming, shared with residents in a monthly calendar. “They’re very good about that,” she says. Virginia enjoys spending time with friends, often joining them on outings with their families, and, above all, cherishes time with her own – especially when Jinkie visits from Little Rock, Arkansas, and they can all be together.

Virginia does not rely on mobility devices and has no memory or cognitive impairments; she recalls moments from her long life with striking clarity. “That’s just pure fortune,” she says. “I’ve been very healthy all my life and haven’t had any major diseases in my adult life. I think the last thing [that happened] was I had my appendix out when I was 15,” she adds with a laugh. “That’s about the most I ever had.”

Arthritis in her hands prevents her from playing piano nowadays, but she still seeks out every chance to experience the arts. At times, Twin Rivers manager Paula Crain and her fellow staff even arrange outings just for her. “I was the only one who cared about [seeing the North Carolina Symphony], and they took me out of town to that,” Virginia says. “They are so giving and accommodating. It’s wonderful.” She also fondly remembers seeing Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater locally. Trips further afield have taken her to western Massachusetts for performances at Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival and by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, in addition to Europe. “I made a decision that I wasn’t gonna sit around waiting for other people,” she says. “If I wanted to do it, I was gonna go do it. That’s the way I’ve lived my life.” cm

Virginia’s piano career gave her the opportunity to study with worldrenowned artists, including Austrian pianist and composer Artur Schnabel.

Meet Dr. Todd Granger Primus Internal Medicine

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

Call us to see how affordable a personal physician is. Our annual subscription offers:

• Longer, unrushed appointments — guaranteed to be with Dr. Granger

• Easy scheduling — often we can schedule within 24 hours

• More personal care — a smaller practice means that you are more than a number

• More personal approach, less influenced by insurance companies and healthcare networks — PATIENTS are in control of their own healthcare.

• Lower out-of-pocket expenses, especially with high insurance deductibles — by being seen and treated earlier and more appropriately

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

The Cox family – Jace, TC and their parents, Carolyn and Gary – has been a fixture in Chatham for decades.

ROOTED &

Resilient

This Goldston couple built a life –and a legacy – through service, family and connection

By MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Photography by JOHN MICHAEL SIMPSON

Chatham might be experiencing unprecedented growth, but in Goldston, front porches still double as gathering places and neighbors feel more like extended family. It is here, on a quiet country road just east of town, that Gary Cox and Carolyn Cox have built a life and love that’s as enduring as it is inspiring. This November, the couple will celebrate 57 years of marriage and deepening their roots right where they are.

Their story is, in many ways, a love letter to Chatham County: to its people, its pace and the kind of connection that only comes from staying put long enough to truly belong.

Gary arrived in Goldston in 1968 for a job at Saco-Lowell Shops, a textile machine manufacturer, leaving the close-knit familiarity

of his native Harnett County. It was an adjustment. “It was really challenging for me,” he says. “Back home, everybody knew everybody. We visited each other, worked on the farm together. When I came here, it was quieter – you saw folks at church or the grocery store, and that was about it.” But over time, Gary didn’t just adapt –he became an integral part of his new community.

Carolyn, on the other hand, has always called Goldston home. Her roots run deep, tied to generations who lived, worked and built their lives on the same land the family still

cherishes today. Their love story began with a chance meeting after each had heard about the other through an important mutual acquaintance: Carolyn’s brother, Rufus Bynum Jr., who worked with Gary. The pair finally met at the town fair, and what followed was a whirlwind romance: “We didn’t date but about three months,” Carolyn says. “We were engaged for six months, then got married. I suppose it was meant to be.”

Their partnership over the years has been grounded in mutual respect and a shared belief in simply enjoying life together. Whether it’s heading out for an evening drive or catching a movie, they’ve held onto the small rituals that keep their connection strong – including a policy of open communication. Their advice for a long union is simple: “If you have a problem, you try to talk it out,” Carolyn says. “And if you can’t talk it out, just step away and take a breath.”

That same sense of commitment extends beyond their marriage and into their work and community. Both Gary and Carolyn dedicated their professional lives to the

University of North Carolina – Gary as transportation coordinator for the school of social work and Carolyn in graduate admissions with the department of physics and astronomy. Their careers reflected a shared value: serving others and strengthening the systems that support communities.

Carolyn’s influence has been the steady heartbeat of home, while Gary’s has often been felt out in the wider community. He has become a familiar face across Chatham County through his involvement in countless organizations – serving on the board of elections, working with housing initiatives, supporting the Chatham County Partnership for Children and contributing to efforts like Chatham Habitat for Humanity. “I enjoy getting involved – with politics, with community activities,” he says. “I just like being part of what’s going on.”

Gary’s leadership has touched everything from youth programs to civic engagement, even earning him

from left to right:

recognition including the Order of the Long Leaf Pine from then Gov. Roy Cooper. Service isn’t something the couple does for accolades and titles – it’s a way of life. “If one of us has a project, we all get involved,” he says. “That’s just how our family works.”

Their sons, Jace Cox and Timir “TC” Cox, grew up watching Gary in action and have carried that sense of service forward in their own ways, stepping into leadership roles, serving on boards and building businesses that keep them connected to the community. “We learned from our dad’s example,” says TC, who owns and operates Bynum Cox Lawn Care. “Watching him be involved – it paved the way for us.” Today, four generations of the Cox family call Chatham County home, a rarity that speaks volumes.

In Goldston, their story is woven into the fabric of the town itself. That connection is perhaps most evident in the land they call home. Gary and Carolyn’s

ABOVE Carolyn and Gary’s many plaques and awards, including his certificate of retirement in 2002, cover the wall in their home.

RIGHT Gary was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in 2024 by Gov. Roy Cooper.

home sits just to the left of TC’s – the house that Carolyn herself grew up in. Behind them, Jace has built his home, too. “Our great-grandfather worked hard on this land and worked hard to keep it,” Jace says. What was once a thriving farm remains part of the family’s legacy.

Carolyn reflects on her childhood, when the town was bustling with small businesses and everyday conveniences. “We even had two grocery stores,” she says. There were quieter periods over the decades, but today, “Goldston is starting to turn around,” she says. “The younger generation is bringing new energy, and it’s good to see.”

Community events like the Goldston Christmas Parade are examples of that energy and bring people together in ways that feel both fresh and familiar. There’s a sense of momentum, a feeling that the town is rediscovering itself while still honoring its past. “It’s just a joy to see what’s happening now,” Carolyn says. “It’s going to be a great change.”

It’s just another chapter in a story for the Cox family, one that continues to unfold right where it began. They are more than witnesses to the passage of time; they’ve

g oldsto N I s start IN g to tur N A rou N d. t he you N ger ge N er At I o N I s bri N g IN g NE w e N ergy, a N d it’s good to se E .

- C A roly N C ox

helped shape their town. Gary’s advice to anyone interested in becoming more involved is to simply go for it. “You gotta be able to step out, not be afraid,” he says. As the Cox family legacy shows, that motto may open more doors than you expect. At a time when “retirement” often means relocating, downsizing or starting over somewhere new, Gary and Carolyn have chosen to stay – not just aging in place but in community. Surrounded by family, supported by relationships built over decades and grounded in a deep sense of belonging, their version of retirement is less about slowing down and more about staying connected. cm

the 2026 d I re C tory of ass I st E d L ivi N g, C o N t IN ui N g CA re, IN d EPEN de N t L ivi N g, 55+ L ivi N g a N d C ohousi N g r E tir EMEN t C om M u N ities

a ssisted L I v IN g Co M mu NI t IE s

Avendelle Assisted Living at Southpoint

1305 Capstone Dr., Durham

Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Monthly rate includes personalized care, dining, activities, laundry and housekeeping

Refund Options 14-day notice required

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted

Contact Information 916-769-7956; avendelle.com

Brookdale Chapel Hill Assisted Living

2220 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 984-710-4715; brookdale.com

Brookdale Chapel Hill Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care

2230 Farmington Dr., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 984-710-4715; brookdale.com

Brookdale Durham Assisted Living and Dementia Care

4434 Ben Franklin Blvd., Durham

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 919-479-9966; brookdale.com

Brookdale Meadowmont Assisted Living and Dementia Care 100 Lanark Rd., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 919-918-7600; brookdale.com

Calyx Living of Durham 4214 Guess Rd., Durham

Entrance Fee Application fee required, call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Monthly rate includes care, dining, activities, laundry and housekeeping

Refund Options 14-day notice required

Medicare Certified Not applicable

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but accepted

Minimum Age 60

Contact Information 919-471-0091; calyxseniorliving.com 

Cambridge Hills Assisted Living

140 Brookstone Ln., Pittsboro

This all-inclusive four-star community, which has served Chatham County and neighboring counties for more than 20 years, is a 90-bed assisted living community with a 38-bed memory care wing that offers both private and semiprivate rooms and award-winning activity programs

Community Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing; veteran discounts offered

Contract Options None; requires 14-day notice before moving out Refund Options Prorated based on move-out date

Medicare Certified No; Medicaid accepted

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 65

Contact Information 919-545-9573 or shelby@silver-thread.com; silver-thread.com

Chatham Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care

114 Polks Village Ln., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee One month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range Starting at $5,290

Contract Options Month-to-month

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-883-9767; navionseniorsolutions.com

Laurels of Chatham (Skilled Nursing & Rehab Facility)

72 Chatham Business Dr., Pittsboro

Monthly Fee Range $10,260 – $12,240

Medicare Certified Yes; also accepts most Medicare Advantage plans, commercial insurance, Medicaid and private pay

Long-Term Care Insurance Not accepted

Contact Information Facility: 919-542-6677; Admissions: 919-302-7862; laurelsofchatham.com

Mebane Ridge Assisted Living & Memory Care

1999 S. NC Hwy. 119, Mebane

Entrance Fee One month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range Starting at $4,500

Contract Options Month-to-month

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 984-203-7588; navionseniorsolutions.com/communities/mebane-ridge

Roxboro Assisted Living

5660 Durham Rd., Roxboro

Entrance Fee Call for pricing

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Refund Options Requires 14-day notice

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 336-598-4697; admin1@roxboroassistedliving.com; roxboroassistedliving.com

TerraBella Senior Living

1911 Orange Grove Rd., Hillsborough Entrance Fee $3,500

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-732-9040; terrabellahillsborough.com

Waltonwood Cary Parkway

750 SE Cary Pkwy., Cary

Entrance Fee One-time community fee, call for pricing on cottages, oneand two-bedroom options in independent living; one- and two-bedroom options in assisted living and private apartments in memory care.

Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

Contract Options Year lease

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted

Contact Information 919-460-7330; waltonwood.com

Carolina Meadows

100 Carolina Meadows, Chapel Hill

The 166-acre campus includes a nine-hole golf course, pristine walking trails, tennis and pickleball courts, community gardens and more. Residents enjoy distinctive dining venues, a state-of-the-art wellness center and an auditorium that offers fascinating lectures and performances.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$154,700 – $925,100

$3,687 – $6,064

Contract Options Fee for Service: Housing, residential services and guaranteed access to health-related services in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at per diem rates, which vary. Home Care services are also available. Equity: See below.

Refund Options Predictable 75% Return of Equity refund option offered for all independent living homes on campus. The refund is based off original entrance fee.

Medicare Certified Yes, Medicare Part B

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-370-7159; 800-458-6756; carolinameadows.org

Carol Woods

750 Weaver Dairy Rd., Chapel Hill

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$116,000 – $636,000

$2,680 – $6,191

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services like meals and housekeeping, and some healthrelated services. Health-related services are provided at a discounted rate.

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

Medicare Certified Yes

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

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

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

The Cedars of Chapel Hill

100 Cedar Club Circle (Meadowmont), Chapel Hill

Purchase Price Range $400,000s – $2,000,000*

Monthly Fee Range

$4,016 – $10,742

Contract Options *Equity: Actual real estate purchase, with transfer of ownership of the unit. Type B Modified contract. If a resident moves to a health center, 90 prepaid days except two meals per day. After 90 days, member pays discounted rate.

Refund Options Not applicable because of ownership

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

Contact Information 919-259-7927; cedarsofchapelhill.com

Croasdaile Village

2600 Croasdaile Farm Pkwy., Durham

Set on more than 100 acres, the community offers a blend of a rural atmosphere and city conveniences within the residential neighborhood of Croasdaile Farm, located only 6 miles from downtown Durham.

Residents enjoy numerous green spaces with yards, gardening and walking trails, a dog park, lakes and the security of a full continuum of care on-site. The central campus buildings are connected, with a state-of-the-art wellness center, large heated pool, auditorium, woodworking shop, indoor pickleball court, art studio, multiple dining venues, a village shop and an interfaith chapel.

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$70,619 – $584,529

$2,606 – $6,017 (single occupancy with second person fee of $1,647 for all residential homes)

Contract Options Fee for Service: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, maintenance and groundskeeping; residential services such as meals, utilities and housekeeping; 

along with priority access to health-related services and health care navigation. Advanced levels of health services are provided at per-diem rates.

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

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

Medicare Certified Yes; rehab on-site

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-384-2475 or 800-960-7737 for marketing and sales; 919-384-2000 for general inquiries; croasdailevillage.org

The Forest at Duke 2701 Pickett Rd., Durham

Celebrating more than 30 years of community, The Forest at Duke is a vibrant continuing care retirement community located in the heart of Durham. The Forest offers both an off-campus residency program and an on-campus residency program for independent living. On-campus living offers five floor plans for apartment living, six floor plans for cottages and individual homes, and 10 all-new apartment floor plans debuting in its 71-residence expansion, The Terraces. Each on-campus home provides spacious, contemporary living with access to a range of amenities. Both on- and off-campus living provides residents with myriad opportunities for fitness, wellness, socialization, entertainment, self-discovery and lifelong learning.

Entrance Fee Range $99,729 – $722,585

Monthly Fee Range $4,300 – $10,096

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and some health-related services. Health-related services are provided at a greatly discounted rate and are free for a specified number of days.

Refund Options The Forest retains $10,000 of each person’s entry fee as a health care reserve.

The remaining balance of the entry fee, the residence fee, is refundable based on the following: 2% of the residence fee accrues to The Forest at Duke each month. The refund decreases to zero over 50 months.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required, but welcome Minimum Age 65 (co-applicant must be at least 62) Contact Information 919-490-8000; forestduke.org

Galloway Ridge at Fearrington 3000 Galloway Ridge Rd., Pittsboro

This welcoming life plan community redefines senior living, offering a vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle where the next chapter is filled with possibility, and deep connections are fostered among residents and staff, creating a place that truly feels like home.

Nestled south of Chapel Hill, Galloway Ridge offers the perfect balance of small-town charm and big-city access. Adjacent to Fearrington Village, the 67-acre campus is surrounded by miles of scenic trails and sidewalks, with Jordan Lake and the Haw River a short drive away for outdoor enthusiasts.

Residents enjoy an array of amenities, including independent living apartments and villas, multiple dining venues, an art studio, a woodworking shop, a movie theater with stadium seating, a billiards room, and a variety of social and gathering spaces. The WellPlex –which features the Duke Center for Living, a 20,000-square-foot fitness center, Duke Primary Care and the Center for Physical Rehabilitation –supports an active and engaged lifestyle. On-campus primary care services are available through both UNC Health and Duke Primary Care. For residents in need of additional support, Medicare-certified health care center The Arbor offers 96 private rooms for assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing, ensuring compassionate, high-quality care at every life stage.

Entrance Fee Range $275,000 – $1,802,000

Monthly Fee Range $4,415 – $10,277

Contract Options Life Care (Type A): For a one-time entrance fee and a monthly service fee, Galloway Ridge’s contract provides housing, dining, housekeeping, utilities, maintenance, wellness services, 24hour security and a variety of resident amenities. If needed, unlimited assisted living, skilled nursing and memory care are available to residents. An additional meal fee applies when transitioning to higher levels of care.

Refund Options Option 1 (Traditional Entrance Fee): Entrance fee cost is lower but is only refundable on a prorated basis for four years. Refund declines at a rate of 4% in the first month; 2% each additional month; after 4 years, no refund. Option 2 (75% Refundable Entrance Fee): Entrance fee cost is higher but is 75% refundable of original entrance fee cost.

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-545-2647; gallowayridge.com

Glenaire

4000 Glenaire Circle, Cary

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$87,000 – $1,025,000

$3,309 – $6,901

Contract Options Modified: Entrance fee and monthly payments cover housing, residential services such as meals and housekeeping, and some health-related services, which are provided at a subsidized rate or are free for a specified number of days.

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

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

Contact Information 919-460-8095; glenaire.org

Pittsboro Christian Village

1825 East St., Pittsboro

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$3,500 or $30,000 - $155,000

$1,925 - $5,525

Contract Options The Village offers a range of living options, including 26 freestanding Independent Living Homes, 40 Independent Living Apartments and a 40-bed Assisted Living facility. Fee for Service –Cottages, Patio Homes, Heritage Homes, Legacy Homes, Apartments. Included additional services, meals, activities, housekeeping, linen service, maintenance, available assisted living services.

Refund Options Option 1: Non-Refundable, Option 2: Declining refund over 36 months.

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Yes

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-542-3151; pcvnc.org

Searstone

17001 Searstone Dr., Cary

Entrance Fee Range

Monthly Fee Range

$429,000 – $1,144,000

$4,050 – $9,500; (second person fee is $1,910)

Contract Options Type A LifeCare contract. Residents pay a one-time LifeCare fee to cover costs of assisted living, skilled nursing and/or memory support. The LifeCare program has significant tax advantages and works well with long-term care policies.

Refund Options Entrance fee is 100% refundable

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Yes

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-234-0339; info@searstone.com; searstone.com 

©

2026

The Templeton of Cary

Springmoor

1500 Sawmill Rd., Raleigh

Entrance Fee/Monthly Fee Range Call for pricing

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

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

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62

Contact Information 919-848-7080; springmoor.org

The Templeton of Cary

215 Brightmore Dr., Cary

Cary’s only rental Life Plan community offers 10 spacious floor plans with high-end finishes. The Templeton’s 15-acre campus couldn’t be more convenient to everything and includes an abundance of activities and wellness programs complete with a saltwater pool, spa, transportation and several culinary choices.

Entrance Fee Range N/A. Community fee is equal to one month’s rent.

Monthly Fee Range

$4,995 – $10,380

Contract Options Rental community with 13-month lease, but can give 30-day notice at any time.

Medicare Certified Yes, for skilled nursing and rehab

Long-Term Care Insurance Yes

Minimum Age 62 (for couples, at least one spouse must be 62)

Contact Information 984-200-3688; thetempletonofcary.com

Twin Lakes Community

3701 Wade Coble Dr., Burlington

An intentional community filled with people who chose Twin Lakes for various reasons, but who all have one thing in common: the desire for a well-rounded life surrounded by others who are engaged and open to new experiences, people and ideas. More than 600 residents in independent living enjoy the 215-acre community and the amenities that make it home. In addition to the spacious campus, this is a unique CCRC: There’s no mandatory meal plan, and it offers comparably lower fees. Its neighborhoods are filled with people from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.

Entrance Fee Range

$67,000 – $599,000

Monthly Fee Range $2,033 – $4,678

Contract Options Fee-for-service contract only

Refund Options 30-month declining refund and 50% refund available

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 62)

Contact Information 336-538-1572; twinlakescomm.org

The Village at Brookwood 1860 Brookwood Ave., Burlington

Entrance Fee Options start at $162,000

Monthly Fee Range $3,081-plus

Contract Options Option 1: LifeCare: Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed future health care provided in exchange for the entrance fee and monthly fee. When moving from one level of care to another, the monthly fee reflects a significant reduction of the daily per diem skilled nursing rate. Option 2: Fee for Service: Garden Homes & Apartments, bundled services, campus amenities, maintenance and guaranteed access to future health care are

provided in exchange for entrance fee and monthly fee. Health-related services are provided at the per diem rate.

Refund Options A declining refund over 47 months

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Not required; can help with costs related to assisted living, memory care, skilled care for Fee-for-Service or LifeCare plans.

Minimum Age 62 (co-applicant must be at least 55)

Contact Information 336-570-8440; villageatbrookwood.org

p ost-A C ut E Co N ti N u IN g Car E s yst EM s

Hillcrest Convalescent Center

1417 W. Pettigrew St., Durham

The center has provided quality care – including after-hospital rehabilitation, 24/7 skilled nursing, home care or out-patient physical therapy – for more than 74 years. Contact the Raleigh or Durham location for more information about its services and signature Elegant Care.

Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required

Monthly Fee Call for pricing

Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term, assisted living or respite stays

Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded

Contact Information 919-286-7705; admissions@hillcrestnc.com; hillcrestnc.com

Hillcrest Home Health of the Triangle 1000 Bear Cat Way, Ste. 104, Morrisville

Personal care, in-home support and companion care, and respite care. Contact Information 919-468-1204; agencydir@hillcresthh.com

Hillcrest Physical Therapy & Wellness

4215 University Dr., Ste. B2, Durham

Physical therapy, specialty treatments and wellness programs. Contact Information 919-627-6700; rehab.durham@hillcrestptw.com

Hillcrest Raleigh at Crabtree

3830 Blue Ridge Rd., Raleigh

Entrance Fee No deposit or application fee required

Monthly Fee Call for pricing

Contract Options All-inclusive monthly rate for short-term, long-term or respite stays

Refund Options Pay only for the days spent, any unused daily rate refunded

Contact Information 919-781-4900; admissions@hillcrestraleighnc.com; hillcrestnc.com

iN d EPEN de N t sEN ior L I v IN g

Bartlett Reserve

300 Meredith Dr., Durham

Entrance Fee $5,000

Monthly Fee Range $4,295 – $5,195

Contract Options Month-to-month; 60-day notice to leave

Medicare Certified Yes

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted for personal care and veterans benefits

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Karen Camara, 919-634-2197; marketing@bartlettreserve.com; bartlettreserve.com 

Cambridge Hills Assisted Living is the area’s premier senior living community. We strive to enhance each resident’s quality of life with award winning activities programs and quality of care.

140 Brookstone Lane, Pittsboro NC 919 545 9573

Twin Rivers Independent Senior Living is a cozy, 31 unit community that feels like home. Residents lead an independent lifestyle, in their own apartments, while enjoying the social activities offered by our caring staff.

25 S. Rectory Street, Pittsboro NC 919 545 0149

We pride ourselves in having a hometown feel and caring staff who become like family. Both communities are locally, veteran owned. silver-thread.com INDEPENDENT LIVING

Brier Pointe Retirement Community

5911 McCrimmon Pkwy., Morrisville

Entrance Fee One month security deposit (partially refundable)

Monthly Fee $4,300 – $7,100

Contract Options Month-to-month

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance Can be utilized for additional care

Contact Information 919-378-2902; rlcommunities.com

Cambridge Village of Apex

10000 Cambridge Village Loop, Apex

This all-inclusive independent senior living community invites its residents to live their best life among its luxurious and detail-oriented amenities. The Optimal Living community focuses on improving every aspect of its residents’ lives by providing a total wellness approach and offering a variety of spacious and comfortable apartment floor plans. With its unique hybrid community model, residents have access to on-site primary care, therapy, home health care and rehabilitation, creating a true age-in-place home.

Entrance Fee Based on unit type

Monthly Fee Range

$3,200 – $6,800

Contract Options One-year or month-to-month lease options

Medicare Certified Medicare accepted through on-site physician and with WakeMed Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted by on-site home health partner

Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Sales director, 919-363-2080; apexinfo@cvsliving.com; cvsliving.com/apex

Cambridge Village at Brier Creek

7901 TW Alexander Dr., Raleigh

Entrance Fee Range Equivalent to two month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range

$4,135 – $11,995

Contract Options Month-to-month or one-year leases

Medicare Certified Medicare accepted through on-site physician and with WakeMed Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy

Long-Term Care Insurance Accepted Minimum Age 55

Contact Information Marketing Director, 919-737-7000; briercreekinfo@cvsliving.com; cvsliving.com/brier-creek

Holiday Durham Regent

3007 Pickett Rd., Durham

Entrance Fee Range First month’s rent

Monthly Fee Range

$2,379 – $4,500

Contract Options Month-to-month leases, all independent living

Medicare Certified No medical services included Long-Term Care Insurance No Minimum Age 55

Contact Information 919-490-6224; holidayseniorliving.com

Twin Rivers Independent Senior Living

25 S. Rectory St., Pittsboro

This 31-unit complex offers a friendly, social and communal atmosphere for independent older adults. Staff is on-call seven days a week, and residents have use of a communal kitchen, game room and other shared spaces.

Entrance Fee Call for current rates

Monthly Fee Range Call for current rates

Contract Options None. Requires 60-day notice prior to moving out

Medicare Certified No

Long-Term Care Insurance N/A

Minimum Age 65

Contact Information 919-545-0149; 919-637-7117; paula@silver-thread.com; silver-thread.com

55+ Co M mu NI t IE s

Carolina Overlook

19 Dover Downs Dr., Clayton

Price Range of Houses From the mid-$300s

Number of Units 620, plus possible future growth across the street

Resale Status Resales available, but mostly new homes, selling in second phase

Average Size of Houses 1,223 – 3,000 square feet (adding villas that are townhome/duplex-style middle of the year)

Amenities Included Indoor pool, indoor hot tub, outdoor pool, fitness center, aerobics studio, varsity room, clubhouse, clubs, classes, lifestyle director, pickleball courts, lake with walking trails

Contact Information 919-899-1767; delwebb.com/carolinaoverlook

Carolina Preserve

115 Allforth Pl., Cary

Price Range of Houses From the $450s

Number of Units 1,360

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,200 – 3,500 square feet

Amenities Included Tennis courts, bocce ball courts, indoor pool, outdoor pool, fitness center, clubhouse, pickleball court and access to Town of Cary Greenway and Amberly Clubhouse

Contact Information 919-467-7837; carolinapreserve.com

The Courtyards at Andrews Chapel

1007 Havenwood Ln., Durham

Showcases beautifully designed homes with single-level living and signature private garden courtyards. Homeowners enjoy a lowmaintenance lifestyle in a close, connected community, with easy access to the best of the Triangle. It is a place where neighbors become friends, and homeowners can truly live well every day.

Number of Units 120

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 4,000 square feet

Amenities Included Large clubhouse, outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, walking trails, pavilion

Sales Contact oscraleigh@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

The Courtyards at Lochmere

5100 Lilly Atkins Rd., Cary

Features thoughtfully designed homes that embrace single-level living and a lock-and-leave lifestyle. Open, light-filled floor plans and private outdoor living areas create the perfect setting for both everyday comfort and meaningful connection with family and friends.

Price Range of Houses From the upper $500s to the mid $600s

Number of Units 73

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,519 – 2,930 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, fireplace pavilion, fitness center, pool Sales Contact oscraleigh@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com 

The Courtyards at Oak Grove 1702 Doc Nichols Rd., Durham

An Epcon community offering three distinct product lines: cottage homes, townhomes and luxury ranch homes, each thoughtfully designed for single-level living with first-floor owner suites; open, lightfilled spaces; and private garden courtyards that make the outdoors a central part of each home. With HOA-maintained landscaping and a lock-and-leave lifestyle, homeowners enjoy less time on chores and more time with family, friends and the freedom to live well every day.

Price Range of Houses From the $500s

Number of Units 166

Resale Status New construction

Average Size of Houses 1,500 – 4,000 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, walking trails, pickleball courts, dog park Sales Contact 919-646-6612; oscraleigh@epconcommunities.com; epcondurham.com

The Courtyards at O’Kelly Chapel 1601 Vineyard Mist Dr., Cary

Showcases beautifully crafted home designs centered around private garden courtyards that make the outdoors a pivotal part of each home. With no more yard maintenance and more time to focus on family, travel and personal passions, homeowners enjoy a new chapter filled with freedom and flexibility.

Number of Units 149

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 2,000 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center, walking trails, access to the American Tobacco Trail Sales Contact oscraleigh@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

The Courtyards at Southpoint 1203 Cherob Ln., Durham

Offers a boutique lifestyle community with abundant natural light, open floor plans and first-floor owner suites designed for living comfortably now and in the future. Ideally located near shopping, dining and health care, it provides the convenience and connection today’s active adults are seeking.

Price Range of Houses From the $500s

Number of Units 161

Resale Status Resale only

The Courtyards on Farrington 5113 Farrington Rd., Durham

Brings together innovative home design and an active lifestyle community in a highly desirable location. With private garden courtyards, no steps and HOA-maintained grounds, homeowners enjoy a low-maintenance lifestyle that makes it easy to travel, gather with friends and fully embrace what matters most.

Price Range of Houses From the low $500s

Number of Units 64

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Houses 1,520 – 2,969 square feet

Amenities Included Clubhouse, outdoor pool, fitness center

Sales Contact 919-646-6612; oscraleigh@epconcommunities.com; epconcommunities.com

Del Webb at Chatham Park 1277 Sanford Rd., Pittsboro

Price Range of Houses From the upper $300s

Number of Units 837

Sale Status Coming soon – sales expected to start January 2027

Average Size of Houses 1,223 – 3,000 square feet

Amenities Included Pickleball courts, indoor pool, indoor hot tub, outdoor pool, fitness center, aerobics studio, food and beverage service, lifestyle director, clubs, classes and a 20,000-square-foot clubhouse. Contact Information 919-921-8689; delwebb.com/chathampark

Inspire Briar Chapel

152 Market Chapel Rd., Pittsboro

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and community at this exclusive 55+ active adult community designed to elevate your healthy, active and social lifestyle – located just minutes south of Chapel Hill.

Price Range of Apartment Homes Starting at $1,830/month – $3,265/month

Number of Units 150

Average Size of Homes 688 – 1,262 square feet

Amenities Included Heated saltwater community pool, creative art center, fitness center, yoga studio, theater room, billiards room, salon, library, bocce ball court, putting green, community garden, pet park and spa, wellness center, outdoor courtyard, grilling stations, planned daily resident events, indoor mail & package concierge, concierge services, smoke-free community

Contact Information 919-503-3034; inspirebriarchapel.com

Overture Chapel Hill

5910 Farrington Rd., Chapel Hill

Price Range of Apartment Homes Starting at $1,670/month

Number of Units 184

Average Size of Houses 598 – 1,365 square feet

Amenities Included Heated outdoor pool, outdoor lounge and terrace, fire pit, elevator-accessible floors, happy hours and yappy hours, fitness center and yoga studio, grand club room with demonstration kitchen, coffee bar, movie theater, game room, craft room, on-site guest suite for friends and family, Lyft ride-sharing scheduling through management, 24-hour emergency maintenance and carports available.

Contact Information 919-907-2200; overturechapelhill.com

Cohous IN g Co M mu NI ty

Village Hearth Cohousing

4900 Buttonbush Dr., Durham

Price Range of Condos Mid-$300s to high-$400s

Number of Condos 28

Resale Status Resale only

Average Size of Condos 650 – 1,150 square feet

Amenities Included An intentional 55-plus community 15 minutes north of downtown Durham, created by and for LGBTQIA+ folks and allies. The community – which is set on 15 acres, complete with walking trails and community raised-bed gardens – is self-governed, making decisions cooperatively. Single-story accessible homes feature welcoming front porches, vaulted ceilings, large windows and skylights. The community-oriented, 2,600-square-foot common house includes a gourmet kitchen, dining/meeting room, craft room, laundry room, exercise room and guest suite.

Contact Information 984-219-6686; connect@villagehearthcohousing.com; villagehearthcohousing.com cm

people &places

on board

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce hosted its #ThisIsChatham bus tour April 30 in partnership with Leadership Triangle. Nearly 50 local leaders joined for a day of education and exploration on resources, schools and businesses throughout the county. Stops included Fearrington Village, The Farm at Penny Lane, Bynum Bridge, Pittsboro Food Mart, Central Carolina Community College, The Chatham Rabbit, Carolina Sunshine Alpaca Farm, The Plant and Chatham Park. Attendees ended the day at 79°West Coworking Space & Innovation Hub. cm

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Tour group on the Bynum Bridge.

Chatham Magazine’s Morgan Cartier Weston with Leadership Triangle’s Kristine Sloan and Jeannine Brown.

Chatham County Schools Superintendent Anthony Jackson.

Siler City Commissioner Travis Patterson, Ilana Dubester of the Hispanic Liaison and Town of Siler City Community Development Planner Sara Martin at The Chatham Rabbit.

Jessamine Hyatt, farm manager at The Farm at Penny Lane.

Laura Morgan, general manager of real estate sales and construction at Fearrington Village, and shop dog, Luna.

Brian Glover, Amanda Klier, Denise Lahr-Akins, Heather Johnson, Tony Cash, Taylor Carter and Anna Kelly at McIntyre’s Books.

table talk

By SHARON KINSELLA

North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall visited Chatham County March 25 as a part of the Rural RISE NC initiative, a program that provides resources that support the growth and success of small businesses statewide. The visit – hosted in partnership with Central Carolina Community College’s Small Business Center at the college’s Chatham Main Campus – brought together local entrepreneurs, officials and community members. The program included an overview of the initiative and a look at the broader landscape of small business and economic development statewide, followed by a roundtable discussion focused on county business owners’ current challenges and opportunities. The secretary’s visit continued with lunch at The Quiltmaker Cafe and a walking tour of small businesses in downtown Siler City cm

North Carolina Secretary of State Elaine Marshall.

Phillip Pappas, Judy Batista, Betsey Elbogen, Jennie Knowlton, Jackie Cochran, Yeraldyn Martinez, Elaine Marshall, Adelena Parker-Lewis, Alexa Grace Avery, Daniel Routh, Trudy Walters and Chris Beal

a toast to the trees

Photography by JAMELL MUMFORD

The Plant’s Tree Museum marked its first anniversary March 8 with an afternoon that blended nature, craft and community. The birthday gala and whiskey release invited guests to gather among the trees and observe the landscape in a new way. The celebration came one year after the museum’s native trees were first planted, a milestone rooted in sustainability and growth. The evolving collection features a mix of native and cultivated species – including pecan, red cedar, black walnut, black cherry, hackberry and tulip poplar – alongside fruit-bearing trees like apple, pear and fig, reinforcing the site’s focus on both ecology and edible landscapes. Attendees moved between experiences, including guided nature walks led by a certified forest therapy guide, sips of a new black walnut whiskey release crafted by Fair Game Beverage Co. and live music from the

Daniel DeLorenzo Trio cm

The Plant Communications Director Lisa Pigeon with co-founder Tami Schwerin.

The Plant co-founder Lyle Estill with Gary Simpson and Connie McAdams of Grand Trees of Chatham.

John Fischbach, Candy Fischbach, Doug Kriebel and Wendy Snodgrass. David Allen and The Plant’s George Dusek.

Arlo Estill, The Plant’s abundance manager.

turning pages, changing lives

By ELLIE KOLLME |

Chatham Literacy hosted its 15th annual Spring for Literacy Luncheon April 22 at Governors Club, raising $53,000 to support its adult literacy programs. The event featured bestselling Chapel Hill author Daniel Wallace, who discussed his new short story collection, “Beneath the Moon and Long Dead Stars.” Daniel is the author of six novels – including “Big Fish” – a children’s book, a memoir and a coloring book, and will be inducted into the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame in October. The event drew 175 attendees. cm

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

79°West’s Katie Miller, Nancy Tanguay, Chatham County Commissioner Katie Kenlan, Mary Honeycutt and Dottie Hobbs.

Guests participated in the book spine poetry tradition. Daniel Wallace.

Marcia Walker and Duke Energy’s Sara Stephens.

Intrepid Build’s Claire Coffey and author Daniel Wallace.

Chatham Literacy’s Leslie Ocampo and Chatham Trades’ Donna Smith.

Jean MacDonald of Business Brewing and Chatham Magazine’s Morgan Weston.

peak performance

By LIBBY WAKEFIELD |

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting March 6 at 79°West Coworking Space & Innovation Hub to mark the grand opening of Skyline Exterior Group, a roofing, siding and gutter solutions company serving the Triangle. The business handles projects ranging from storm damage repair to full siding replacement. Founder and CEO Brian Rice joined coworkers, friends and family to celebrate the company’s new era in Pittsboro cm

field day

Visitors gathered at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center March 28 for the sixth annual Spring Ag Fest, a family-friendly celebration of the region’s farms, forestry and natural resources.

The festival – which is organized through a collaboration among local and regional partners including the N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Chatham County Center, the Ag Center, Chatham County Farm Bureau, Chatham County Government, Chatham County Soil & Water Conservation District, Farm Service Agency and the NC Forest Service – brought the community together and highlighted the importance of farming and land stewardship through livestock demonstrations; educational vendor booths highlighting sustainable agriculture, beekeeping, forestry and more; and a kids zone. Activities included pony rides, face painting, a petting zoo, and cooking and gardening demonstrations, while tasty bites from local food trucks kept attendees fueled throughout the day. cm

Photography by MELISSA CRANE

Photography by TIFFANY HANCOCK

Founder and CEO Brian Rice with his wife, Jennifer Rice, and son, Lincoln Rice.

Chatham Chamber President & CEO Rebecca Dickenson, Chamber Ambassador Kathy Simmers, Chamber Vice President of Membership Cheryl Littleton and Chamber Ambassador Malinda Marsh.

Kathy Simmers, Mason Belch and Skyline Exterior Group Director of Sales Erica Belch.

N.C. Cooperative Extension Family & Consumer Sciences Agent Tara Gregory leads a cooking demo.

Not Quite Right Farm’s Claire Apple demonstrates herding with a working dog and heritage breed turkeys.

A friendly goat in the petting zoo.

FACES & PLACES · WINTER ISSUE

Your Face Belongs in Chatham Magazine

In Faces & Places, we reserve full and two-page spreads for local businesses that want a moment entirely their own. Your ad comes with a styled black-and-white portrait session and an exclusive positioning statement that makes you "The Face of ___" or "The Place of ___" in front of 57,000 Chatham County readers.

Your positioning statement is entirely yours. No other advertiser can claim the same positioning within the section.

Faces & Places is available in the Winter issue, the Orange & Chatham Visitors & Relocation Guide or both – each sold separately. Your placement includes a 60-minute photo shoot, full image usage rights* and copy assistance. As seen in the 2025 Winter issue of Chatham Magazine

your space by August 20, 2026

food for thought

By LIBBY WAKEFIELD |

Chatham Outreach Alliance, the county’s largest food bank, held its 14th annual Empty Bowls fundraiser Feb. 28 at the Pittsboro United Methodist Church. This year’s event raised more than $98,000 to support CORA’s mission of serving community members facing food insecurity. A portion of the proceeds also funded a walk-in refrigeration unit at the new Siler City pantry, increasing storage for fresh, healthy foods.

More than 200 guests enjoyed appetizers, freshly baked breads and desserts, and sampled soups donated by 12 local restaurants, including 39 West Catering, The Sycamore, Cafe Root Cellar, Dockside, Doherty’s Irish Pub, Flair, Mi Cancun, Small B&B Cafe, Tarantini, The Fearrington House Inn, The Food Fairy, The Mod, The Quiltmaker Cafe and West End Kitchen. Attendees took home handmade local pottery as a reminder of the empty bowls they helped fill for fellow Chatham County residents.

The event also featured a raffle, live music from the Popcorn Blue Band and a “fund-a-need” initiative, giving attendees the chance to directly support the expansion of CORA’s programs and help provide nutritious food to more families in need. cm

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

CORA’s Emily Corbett, Rebecca Hankins and Matt Thiele.

Alex Dimos, Ave Dimos and John Dimos of Captain John’s Dockside.

Elizabeth Knowlton and Jennie Knowlton of The Quiltmaker Cafe.

CORA Executive Director Melissa Driver Beard.

Precision dental implants from Chapel Hill’s most experienced team

Voted best oral surgeons in Chapel Hill

Know that you’re in the best hands for your procedure with expert care from our board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Debra Sacco, DMD, MD, Brian Vandersea, DDS, Andrew T. Ruvo, DMD, MD, and Adam D. Serlo, DMD, MD.

DENTAL IMPLANT SURGERY

BONE GRAFTING

IMPLANT SUPPORTED OVERDENTURE

WISDOM TEETH EXTRACTION

CORRECTIVE JAW SURGERY

hand in hand

By LOJINE

Owners Michele Zembow and Lee Kazanas marked the second anniversary of their Show of Hands Gallery – a downtown Pittsboro destination for art, fine crafts and unique gifts – on Feb. 13. The celebration featured a new exhibition showcasing original works by more than 30 local artists, along with live music, champagne and cake, bringing together artists, art lovers and supporters for an evening of festivities and connection. The gallery is home to a rotating collection of works by more than 50 North Carolina-based artists, with strong representation from Chatham and Orange counties. cm

GOUMAA Photography courtesy of SHOW OF HANDS GALLERY

Michael Novak.

Zach Wiley, Kaydi Zembow and Yahir Aguilar Collazo.

Deborah Repplier, Joan Bogin and Rebecca McLean.

Vic Benedict and artist Mirinda Kossoff.

Susan Lecrone of Uppercuts Hair Studio.

Show of Hands Gallery owners Lee Kazanas and Michele Zembow.

Wally Cardona & Molly Lieber

Co-presented with Carolina Performing Arts

May 27–29 at 7 pm & May 30 at 2 pm & 7 pm

ADF’s Scripps Studios • $30

Jesse Factor

June 17 at 7:30 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30–$45

for more details & to purchase tickets, visit

Footprints

june

Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company

June 18 & 19 at 7:30 pm

Page Auditorium • $40–$70

Camille A. Brown & Dancers

Co-presented with Hayti Heritage Center

June 20 at 2 pm & 7:30 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30–$60

Made in NC

Tracey Durbin, Jabu Graybeal, Courtney Liu, & Amanda K. Miller

Co-presented with Cary, NC

June 22 at 7:30 pm

Page Auditorium • $30

ADF-Commissioned World Premieres

Encore performance at Downtown Cary Park on September 26 at 7:30 pm

I-Ling Liu & Stacy Matthew Spence

June 23 & 24 at 7:30 pm & June 24 at 2 pm

von der Heyden Studio Theater • $30

american dance festival may

Pioneer Winter Collective

Co-presented with The Carolina Theatre

June 25 at 7:30 pm

Carolina Theatre • $30

Charlotte Ballet

Co-presented with Jewish for Good

June 26 at 5:30 pm & 8 pm

June 27 & 28 at 1 pm & 4 pm

Jewish for Good • $38

Kimberly Bartosik/daela

June 27 at 7:30 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30–$45 ADF Commission

Tere O’Connor Dance

June 30 at 7:30 pm

July 1 at 2 pm & 7:30 pm von der Heyden Studio Theater • $30 ADF Commission

Ephrat Asherie, Vincent E. Thomas, & Keith A. Thompson

July 11 at 7:30 pm & July 12 at 3 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30–$45

ADF-Commissioned World Premieres

Stephan Koplowitz

July 11 at 1 pm & 3 pm

July 12 at 11 am & 1 pm

A FREE site-specific work at Mutual Tower

ADF-Commissioned World Premiere, Presented in collaboration with Turnbridge Equities

Paul Taylor Dance Company

July 15 & 16 at 7:30 pm

Page Auditorium • $40–$70

ADF-Commissioned World Premiere

Shen Wei Dance Arts & Guangdong Modern Dance Company

Mark Morris Dance Group

July 2 & 3 at 7:30 pm

July 4 at 5 pm

Li Chiao-Ping Dance july

Reynolds Industries Theater • $40–$70

Monica Bill Barnes & Company

July 7–10 at 7:30 pm von der Heyden Studio Theater • $30

SPECIAL EVENTS OFF STAGE

June 17: Opening Dance Party • $25

July 17: Closing Dance Party • $50

Film Screenings to celebrate 30 years of ADF’s Screendance Festival. For more details, visit our website.

July 17 at 7:30 pm & July 18 at 5 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30–$60

ADF Co-commission

July 22 at 7:30 pm

Reynolds Industries Theater • $30

Pilobolus

July 24 at 7:30 pm & July 25 at 5 pm

Page Auditorium • $40–$70

CHILDREN’S MATINEES

Saturdays at 12 pm • $18 followed by a free Kids Party

July 4: Mark Morris Dance Group

July 25: Pilobolus PACKAGE DEAL $30 for both!

Tere O’Connor

•

Photo by Maria Baranova

Bill T. Jones/Arnie Zane Company

Photo by Olivia Moon Mark Morris Dance Group

Photo by Danica Paulos Camille A. Brown & Dancers

Photo by Christopher Duggan

future forward

Leaders from across the county gathered March 24 at the Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center for the 2026 Chatham Development Briefing, an event focused on growth and future priorities. Through a series of fast-paced presentations and community leader “speed talks,” attendees received updates on key projects, partnerships and initiatives shaping the region. Speakers represented a wide range of sectors, including economic development, education, infrastructure, construction, housing and local government, offering a comprehensive look at the opportunities and challenges ahead. cm

Photography by MORGAN CARTIER WESTON

Chatham Homes Realty’s Catherine Hobbs, Connie Fenner with State Farm Insurance and Heather Johnson of Pittsboro Print Plus.

Bold Commercial Real Estate’s Lewis Hendricks.

Siler City Assistant Town Manager Kimberly Pickard, Mayor Donald Matthews, Town Clerk Briana Martinez, Commissioner Norma Boone, Town Manager Jack Meadows and Commissioners Travis Patterson and Michael Feezor.

Mosaic at Chatham Park’s Adriane Karlinski and Savannah Fox and Carolina Tiger Rescue’s Susan King Cope.

Brittany Sandefur of the Chatham Education Foundation and Chatham County Partnership for Children’s Sheen Klaus.

Courtesy of Storyliving by Disney

Updates on developments, real estate and future projects

behind the magic

ur executive editor, Morgan Cartier Weston , sat down with Storyliving by Disney

Senior Vice President Claire

Bilby and Walt Disney

Imagineering Creative

Director Caroline Boone in April to learn more about their plans for Asteria , a planned community within Chatham Park

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

Why was Chatham County – and specifically Pittsboro – chosen for this community?

Claire The location stood out for its natural beauty, from the rolling topography to proximity to the Haw River, as well as the character of the community itself. There’s also strong regional growth, access to healthcare and transportation and a multigenerational appeal – people in all phases of life who want to live near family. 

How will the design reflect Pittsboro and the broader Piedmont region?

Caroline The design begins with the local story. Rather than creating something entirely new, we’re drawing from regional architecture, materials and traditions synonymous with North Carolina’s history – like furniture design, quilt patterns and native plants. These are paired with subtle Disney storytelling elements. The goal is authenticity, with design that feels rooted in place.

Will local artists and makers be consulted on the design?

Caroline Yes, that’s a priority. We plan to work with local artisans both in the physical design and in programming once residents move in. That could include classes, workshops and an art program that reflects both the immediate community and the broader region.

What will day-to-day life look like for Asteria residents?

Claire The focus is on an active, social lifestyle. Residents might start the day with outdoor fitness or wellness classes, gather for coffee and participate in activities like workshops, clubs or classes in dedicated studio spaces. Dining, social events and seasonal programming are also central to the experience.

What kinds of amenities and programming will be offered?

Claire Amenities will include club spaces, fitness and wellness offerings, creative studios, dining and event programming. Experiences may range from hands-on art classes to themed events, guest speakers or educational programming. These offerings will evolve over time based on resident interests.

What makes Asteria different from other master-planned or lifestyle communities?

Claire While many communities offer amenities, this one is designed around a cohesive story that reflects the region. Programming and experiences are a major differentiator, along with ongoing operations that focus on service and engagement.

Caroline Placemaking is intentional at every level – from architecture to public spaces to programming – so the community feels immersive and connected.

How will the community serve different age groups, including 55 and older residents?

Claire It’s designed to be multigenerational, with offerings for a wide range of lifestyles. There will also be dedicated spaces and programming for 55+ residents, alongside access to broader community amenities, allowing flexibility depending on preferences and life stage.

Will amenities and programming be open to the public?

Claire The core amenities and programming are intended for residents. However, certain elements, like trails, will connect with the broader area and remain publicly accessible.

How will this community connect with the larger Chatham Park area?

Claire The intent is to complement nearby development, including existing amenities and infrastructure. Collaboration with the broader community is important, with a focus on being a positive addition rather than a standalone destination.

What does success look like for this community long-term?

Caroline Success means creating a place where people feel connected, engaged and inspired – where they can continue learning and building relationships.

Claire It also means delivering a community that meets expectations over time, with satisfied residents and evolving experiences that reflect their interests. 

ABOVE Members can reserve Lost Key Cottage for overnight stays or to host family gatherings.

BELOW The Second Star Club, part of the first phase of development, will be shaped by design principles and storytelling that honors the beauty of the Piedmont region.

Courtesy of Storyliving by Disney

Connect to Thrive

Step 1

Join As a Member

Choose the membership level that’s right for you and become part of Chatham County’s largest business community.

Step 2

Meet, Learn And Discover

Meet other members and community leaders, access resources and learn about new opportunities

Step 3

Thrive

Leverage your membership to strengthen your business, support your employees, and invest in collaborations across Chatham County.

Being part of the Chatham Chamber has helped me grow in ways I never expected. I’ve met so many incredible people and shared countless cups of coffee with fellow members. This Chatham Chamber has elevated my personal brand in a huge way and opened the door to meaningful professional opportunities I wouldn’t have found otherwise. I’ve also found a strong sense of support within the membership. Being surrounded by people who genuinely want to see you succeed has made a lasting impact. It’s amazing what the right connections can do. Keeping it local truly matters. When you work with people you know, like, and trust, it pays off, and this community genuinely looks out for you. If you want to grow your business or your personal brand, this is the place to do it. You absolutely will.

-Erica Belch (Singleton), Director of Sales

more development news

The development plan for the proposed Corbinton Living neighborhood, located on 32.7 acres of land on Old Graham Road in northwest Pittsboro, was approved at the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners meeting on March 9. Created by real estate investment and development company Blue Heel Development, Pittsboro’s Corbinton community will join others in Hillsborough, Cary and Charlotte. The neighborhood is set to create 98 single-family homes in a 55+ active adult community.

The Chatham Chamber of Commerce hosted the grand opening of the Pittsborobased Skyline Exterior Group on March 6 at Mosaic at Chatham Park. The company specializes in roofing, siding and gutter solutions on home exteriors.

The Town of Pittsboro held a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Lewis Freeman Historic Park, honoring “the first recorded and most prosperous free Black settler in Pittsboro,” on Feb. 28. The park is located on part of the land Lewis Freeman owned in Chatham County during the 1800s and is still in the “conceptual design phase of development.”

At the end of March, the long-anticipated 1,500-home Reeves Farm development, located off U.S. 64 Business within a planned 500-acre mixed-use community, finalized construction plans for the first 250 homes. Jody Leidolf, land planner for the development, said home sales are expected to begin in 2027.

Chatham County held an open house for its new Family Visitation Center, “a dedicated space designed to support families navigating difficult circumstances,” on April 27. The space, located at 984 Thompson St., will serve as a welcoming environment where families can “maintain meaningful connections, helping to preserve and strengthen family bonds during times of transition” in a supervised setting.

A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the new Parker’s Ridge Park in southeastern Chatham County on April 29. The park is named for Atlas Parker and Lola Tart Parker, whose family has owned the farmland for more than 70 years and sold the land to Chatham County. Construction is expected to complete in summer 2027, with amenities including the county’s first cycling pump track, an inclusive playground and a walking trail around the pond. – compiled by Libby Wakefield cm

A Builder’s Perspective

Tylr Stinson, project manager at Intrepid Build, has a background in nonprofit health care, public service and project management, all centered on helping others achieve their goals. Here, he shares his observations on how development is evolving in Chatham County.

1 Growth is real, but timing is everything. Demand across commercial, office and light industrial projects is strong, but permitting, utilities and agency reviews can stretch timelines. Successful projects plan early, communicate often and account for these realities.

2 Early collaboration is critical. Projects perform best when builders are involved early alongside owners, designers and agencies. This approach helps identify challenges, control costs and set realistic schedules before construction begins.

3 Development is expanding beyond our towns. While Pittsboro remains a hub, growth is spreading across the county as infrastructure improves – bringing both opportunity and responsibility to plan thoughtfully for each community.

4 Community character matters. Growth should not come at the expense of identity. Having worked in local government, I’ve seen firsthand how development decisions impact the community. How projects are designed and built matters as much as the final result.

COURTESY OF CHATHAM COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Coworking · Private Offices · Event Space

$99 / MONTH

MEMBERSHIP INCLUDES

UNLIMITED BUILDING ACCESS (9AM-5PM)

HIGH SPEED FIBER INTERNET

2 HOURS / MONTH IN ANY OF OUR 5 CONFERENCE ROOMS

BOTTOMLESS COFFEE & SNACKS

GYM WITH PELOTON PODCAST STUDIO

dunning & langfitt

By LIBBY WAKEFIELD

Pittsboro native and Northwood High School alum

Jenna Dunning first met Kay Langfitt when they were undergraduates at Appalachian State University. Kay was working as a lifeguard at the university recreation center where Jenna exercised, and just a week after their first encounter, the two found themselves on a date at a local hole-in-the-wall Greek restaurant. “We argued about which bell pepper is the best for so long that our waitress got involved,” Jenna says. “I knew it was meant to be after that.”

Jenna proposed to Kay Dec. 21, 2025, at the Haw River after three years together. She had planned a scavenger hunt for Kay – inspired by the ones her family used to do during the holidays when Kay was a child – and told her she was searching for a Christmas gift. After following clues and riddles leading to all their favorite spots around Pittsboro, Kay was surprised to find the final one – where Jenna asked Kay to marry her.

The pair celebrated their engagement April 11, 2026, at Forest Hall at Chatham Mills and will wed April 2, 2027, at Chateau des Fleures in Angier, North Carolina. cm