Spring is nature’s reminder that fresh starts are always possible. Trees bud, flowers bloom and the sun lingers a little longer every evening. Around here, spring feels like permission to open the windows (once the pollen is done doing its worst!), clear out the clutter and breathe in something new.
We did just that with this issue.
You’ll notice a few recent additions to our pages – fun, new features meant to bring more joy, meaning and discovery to your reading experience. We’re especially excited to debut a recurring column that celebrates those bright lights in our community who quietly make everything feel a little warmer and kinder. We’re calling it Glow Getters, and it was pitched and written with heart by Laura Zimmerman Whayne. You can meet the first “yellow” – her word, meaning someone who brings you sunshine – on page 32.
In anticipation of the magazine’s 20th anniversary next spring, we also take a look back. Our history column, Blast From the Past, debuts with quick glances into pivotal moments in time, fascinating figures and stories that shaped our county. Enjoy the inaugural one on page 20.
Spring cleaning isn’t always about scrubbing floorboards or dusting – sometimes it’s about refreshing your perspective and finding inspiration. – Jessica Stringer, editor
WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT
60 Emily Kreutzer
Co-owner, Carrboro Plumbing
62 Mary Stowe
Owner, Yarns Etc…
64 Sylvia Sloan Black
Founder and President, Black Star Strategies
66 Flicka Bateman
Founder and CEO, Refugee Support Center
68 Ronit Freeman
Associate Professor, UNC
72 Loryn Clark
Deputy Town Manager, Town of Chapel Hill
76 Dr. Michelle Pearlstein
Physician & Owner, Morgan Creek Dermatology
77 Dr. Amy Fox
Physician & Owner, Morgan Creek Dermatology
78 Julie McCauley
Exceptional Children Director, The Expedition School
FEATURES
40 A Fresh Start
One Ukrainian family finds refuge and new life in Chapel Hill
82 Woodland Retreat
A Chapel Hill family transforms a 1980s home into a modern retreat that embraces nature
98 Golden Opportunities
Discover local spots that help older adults keep moving, stay engaged and live life to the fullest
DEPARTMENTS
10 About Town
Events not to miss
18 Musical Notes
A survey of the latest albums from area musicians
20 Blast From the Past
President James K. Polk arrived in Chapel Hill on May 31, 1847 – the first sitting president to visit the town
32 Glow Getters
Laura Zimmerman Whayne celebrates those who shine bright in our community
36 What We’re Eating
News from our restaurant community, plus a dish we love
PEOPLE & PLACES
24 The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro’s Community Heroes
26 Chamber Annual Meeting
27 Nerys Levy art installation at Hodge & Kittrell
28 Webster’s Rock the Hill
29 Elizabeth ‘Libba’ Cotten Day Celebration
WEDDINGS
118 Dyal & Smith
120 Daly & Wilson
SPONSORED CONTENT
43 The Big Give
Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved
45 Faces of Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough
Celebrating the people behind our local businesses
