I’m looking forward to summer, though I’m usually a sweaty mess in the uncomfortable humidity. Still, it’s a season when many of us have a chance to slow down the pace of daily life and maybe try something new.
Beginning on page 72 is a collection of fun things to do in Chatham County, like slalom skiing and other water sports on Jordan Lake or exploring the numerous hiking and biking trails in our area. For me, I’m going to try throwing sharp objects at Chatham Axes in Pittsboro.
Sports fans can turn to page 36 and read about a group of fathers who started a recreational lacrosse team in Pittsboro in 2007 so their kids could learn the ins and outs of the game – one not commonly found in rural communities at the time. The Chatham Cardinals have grown since then, and the first generation of players have made their way onto teams at Northwood High School, Seaforth High School and at the collegiate level.
On page 44, you might be inspired by the fine examples of selfless acts of service set by Moncure Fire’s female crew members. The area they serve will soon include new businesses like the 2,000-acre VinFast manufacturing complex – you can read more about that facility and other commercial projects throughout the county on page 148.
Elsewhere in this issue, starting on page 52, discover four stories about local musicians who use their gifts to lift us from grief, heal our hearts and carry us back to living with joy. I have always admired anyone who could sing or play a musical instrument with expertise and passion, and these individuals are prime examples of the talent found here in our county.
I hope you take the time to pore over and enjoy this issue, and when you’re done, pass it on to a friend or neighbor. Chances are they’ll be thankful for the reading material as they, too, take in the laid-back rhythms of summer – preferably in a shady spot, chilled sweet tea in hand. – Anna-Rhesa Versola, managing editor
SUMMER 2022
36 Good Sports
Pittsboro lacrosse program builds a pipeline of players through sportsmanship
44 Blazing a Trail
Meet the six women of Moncure Fire
48 A Reunion to Remember
Locals gather to celebrate the renovation of a landmark building
72 Fun in the Sun
Make a splash this summer and learn more about our favorite local must-dos
94 Silver Linings of New Friendships
Preschoolers from Primrose School of Chapel Hill at Briar Chapel connect with Galloway Ridge residents
100 Emptying Your Nest
Tips on downsizing from professional organizer Perri Kersh
104 Retire Happy
Experts share advice to feel confident about the next phase in life
122 A Home Fit for Two
This Pittsboro couple built a perfectly sized home in just the right place
140 Aging in Place
How universal design principles allow older adults to stay in their homes
MUSIC
52 The Healing Sounds of Neo-Soul
Deja Belle finds her way back to joy
58 An Ear for Music
How a young mandolin player overcame hearing loss
64 Lucky Charms for Chatham Rabbits
The musical duo release their third album and launch a series on PBS North Carolina
68 Grief, Love and Bluegrass
Remembering Tommy Edwards
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
4 Letter from the Managing Editor
8 Five Events
You won’t want to miss in June, July and August
26 Noted
What we’ve heard around our towns
30 Who’s Who in Town and County
Susan Levy talks affordable housing in Chatham County
148 Here We Grow Again
Updates on commercial developments and upcoming projects
150 Wedding
Elkins & Nielsen
152 Engagement
Denton & Williamson
PEOPLE & PLACES
12 Local on Lorax at Forest Hall
14 ClydeFest
18 Piedmont Farm Tour
20 Spring for Literacy Luncheon
22 Spring Craft Fair at Shakori Hills
