I cranked up James Taylor to write this letter about my father-in-law, Luis Fernandez – who I’m proud to say called me his “bestie,” just as I called him mine. My Cuba-born FIL loved the Carolina crooner – and most music in general, for that matter – more than anyone I know. His eyes would light up as he flicked through his Spotify favorites looking for that perfect song to set the tone during a visit, whether it was Carole King or Rush or Volbeat or a classic Broadway tune. You should have seen the twinkle in his eye when, within seconds, I could guess the artist from his eclectic, wide-ranging collection. He’d tap along, sometimes on air drums, other times on his red Pearl drum kit – a grin never far behind.
The man I knew as endlessly selfless was not quick to relinquish control over the playlist. And who could blame him? Music was his love language – a way of connecting and communicating without needing many words.
Luis passed away in September from ALS, at home, surrounded by loved ones – his Spotify still playing in the background. It was a devastating loss for our family, and one we’re still coming to terms with. But even in those final moments, music wrapped around him like a warm, familiar embrace.
If there’s a silver lining, it’s in the love that carried him through. I’m especially grateful to Luis’ sister, Magaly Fernandez-Ghander – a former nurse – who provided round-the-clock care with grace and strength in his final days. I also admire my brother-in-law, Alex Fernandez, who stayed by his side day and night over the past year as things got tough, stepping up in a major way to caretake.
As we head into the holiday season and prepare to close out the year, I’m reminded just how important it is to cherish time with loved ones. Whether it’s a full house or a quiet gathering, these moments matter. Starting on page 32, you’ll find our favorite entertaining tips and ideas – so you can spend less time stressing and more time making memories.
As for us, we’ll gather in our pajamas, curl up and watch “Elf” – just like my bestie would have done. – Jessica Stringer, editor
HEALTH CARE HEROES
SCHOOLS & EDUCATION
80 Leading the Way
New superintendent Rodney Trice reflects on his journey, priorities and goals for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools
86 A Class of Their Own
Fusion Academy offers families a new way to support students with individualized teaching and daily parent updates
90 Directory of Independent, Regional Boarding, Charter & Application Program Schools
HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING
32 Make Merry
Tips for keeping your gatherings cheerful & bright
36 At the Italian Table
Vietri co-founder Susan Gravely’s new book, “Italy in a Glass”
38 Baking Spirits Bright
Hillsborough’s Homes for the Holidays contest decks downtown windows with cheerful designs
40 ’Tis the Season
Make the most of fun winter happenings
FEATURES
102 Sculpting Home
A retired couple designs their forever home beside family, with art and nature leading the way
118 Orange County Businesses Recover From Summer Flooding
DEPARTMENTS
10 Blast From the Past
Filming ‘Patch Adams’ with Robin Williams
12 About Town
Events not to miss
18 Get Out of Town
Top Triangle events this season
20 What We’re Eating
News from our restaurant community, plus a dish we love
26 Glow Getters
Taco George
50 What’s Up Downtown
A quick roundup of new and noteworthy happenings in Chapel Hill
54 The Big Picture
Cheers to Puddin
PEOPLE & PLACES
120 Public School Foundation’s Teacher Supply Store
122 Uproar Festival of Public Art
123 Carrboro Music Festival
124 Issue Launch Party
ENGAGEMENT & WEDDINGS
125 Kenyon & La Lumia
126 Bandyopadhyay & Chakravarty
127 Ball & Minor
128 Smith & Worsham
SPONSORED CONTENT
56 The Big Give
Our local nonprofits, how they support the community and how you can get involved
73 Health Care
Meet local dentists and providers
