The first time I visited Jordan Lake as a child, I left sunburnt, covered in mud and absolutely exhilarated. There were fish, bugs, lizards, squirrels and so many trees to climb! As I got older and began to camp and kayak with friends, I appreciated having such a peaceful opportunity for recreation so close to home. Learn more about fishing, paddling and hiking our lakes and rivers starting on page 52.
Now, I spend a little less time in the sun and instead embrace the warm weather by mixing fresh veggies into cold salads and sipping rosé in my backyard. (I have a feeling the Greek watermelon salad on page 50 will pair well with any of Anna Lange’s wine recommendations, page 80.) And, be sure to take a look at our Out & About feature on page 8 for a snapshot of the festivals, concerts and outdoor events we’re excited for this year.
However you choose to celebrate the season – on the water or off your feet – we’ve packed this issue with inspiration to help you plan your adventures. We hope you’ll pick it up again and again this summer! – Morgan Cartier Weston, managing editor
FIRE UP YOUR SUMMER
48 Turn Up the Heat
Spice up your next backyard barbecue with a savory spread
52 Hook, Line and Sinker
Wade into a fishing state of mind
56 Diner Delights
These eateries serve up good food – and even better company
64 Back to Nature
Enjoy a few nights beneath the starry skies
68 The Chill Factor
This ice cream shop has the solution to beating the summer heat
70 All About the Animals
Barn and wildlife encounters to explore
78 Berry Tasty
Spend a sunny day picking fresh berries – and try out a new recipe with your bounty!
80 By the Glass
Expert wine recommendations to help you savor the season
84 Seasonally Chic
Refresh your home and closet by shopping local this season
90 Oh, Those Summer Nights
Dine alfresco on these charming patios
SPORTS & OUTDOORS
96 Catch Me if You Can
Hit the trail with a homegrown race initiative
102 Hike. Paddle. Preserve.
A brief update on the Haw River, the state’s newest hiking and paddling blueway
AGING & WELLNESS
126 Passion Projects
Retirees keep their minds and bodies active with favorite hobbies
FEATURES
26 Going Coastal
Explore 85 miles of beaches, historic charm and hidden treasures along the Southern shores of the Outer Banks
106 Into the Woods
A couple embraces tranquil sights and sounds in their empty nest
DEPARTMENTS
4 Letter from the Managing Editor
8 Out & About
Events you won’t want to miss
32 Noted
What we’ve heard around our towns …
42 Who’s Who in Town & County Government
Franklin Gomez Flores, Chatham County Commissioner
156 Here We Grow Again
Updates on developments, real estate and future projects
PEOPLE & PLACES
14 ClydeFEST
16 Chatham Chamber Annual Meeting
18 George Moses Horton Middle School Color Run
20 Chatham County Spring Ag Fest
22 Chatham Chamber Development Briefing
24 Show of Hands Gallery Grand Opening
