Summer 2025

June 2, 2025/Chatham Magazine/The Magazine

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If you read the last issue of the magazine, you know that I sold Chatham Magazine and its publishing company to Rory Gillis – a community-minded, experienced media executive (and, yes, much younger than I am!).

I’ve worked full time in media since I was 17, so you might assume that selling the company and stepping into retirement was a tough decision, especially for someone who’s loved their career as much as I have. But surprisingly, it wasn’t. I had a clear vision for what I wanted this next chapter to look like, and I had already taken steps toward it. Of course, life also threw me an unimaginable curveball: the loss of my husband, Dan.

The idea of retiring first took shape 23 years ago when Dan and I moved here from the New York City area, looking for a better lifestyle. Seven years ago, we left our large home in Durham, let go of most of our possessions and built a beautiful one-story home in Encore, the 55-and-older community in Briar Chapel. Honestly, the Encore pool was what sealed the deal at first – but now I realize the best part is the community itself. My neighbors are kind, interesting and supportive. They’re there when I need help, a dinner date, a walk or just good company.

Since moving to Briar Chapel, two of my cousins have joined me here from Connecticut, and three more now live on the North Carolina coast. Having so many loved ones nearby makes this next phase of life feel full and meaningful, even though life will never be the same without Dan. He and I always hoped Rory would take over the business, so that part of the transition felt natural. I’m still actively working, just cutting back my hours, which makes the shift into retirement feel gradual and grounding. During this transition, I’m grateful to live in a close-knit community and for the colleagues and friends I’ve developed here. I’ve also continued a role I’m passionate about: serving on the Durham Tech Foundation board, where I’ll become board chair this July.

After a lifetime of working outside the home, I’m relishing the chance to spend more time with my three children, and now their spouses and kids. I look forward to visiting them in New York City and London. I stay active through swimming and exercising at the Duke Center for Living at Fearrington and am relearning how to grow my social life as a newly widowed woman. There are so many ways to connect right in my neighborhood – from book clubs and mahjong to walking trails, social events and more.

While this chapter looks different than I once imagined, it’s one I’m stepping into with gratitude, curiosity and an open heart. I may be easing out of the publishing world, but I’m leaning fully into family, friendship, service and community. Thank you for being part of this journey with me. I can’t wait to see what comes next – for all of us. – Ellen Shannon, co-founder Triangle Media Partners

FOOD & DRINK

40 Savor the Season
Local chefs serve up summer with their fave warm-weather recipes

52 Sipping in Style
How West End Kitchen’s Wine Club Wednesdays elevate midweek dining

5 6 Dough It Right
Popular Pittsboro pizza joints you need to try

SPORTS & OUTDOORS

18 Wander Wisely
Warm-weather tips for the wild

62 Heart of the Game
Journey League builds confidence, community and connection through inclusive basketball programs

68 Booked for the Summer
While the long days away with these recs for seasonal reads from McIntyre’s Books staff

AGING & WELLNESS

74 What We Love About Living in Encore
This vibrant 55-and-older community offers personalized homes and close-knit connections

96 Stay Golden
Chatham County’s centers for older adults offer free programs – from craft circles to Friday night dances – that foster fun, fitness and friendships

112 Glow On
Good habits, holistic care and sun smarts can help you look and feel your best through the years

118 The 2025 Directory of Assisted Living, Continuing Care, Independent Living, 55+ Living & Cohousing Retirement Communities