Embrace sustainability and incorporate these best practices for green living in your own backyard Photo courtesy of Keep Durham Beautiful As told to Liza Smith What are some key initiatives or programs aimed at promoting sustainability in homes and gardens in Durham? There are great tax credits available through the Inflation Reduction Act [of 2022] that can cover 30-50% of the cost of some home retrofits. Duke Energy also has programs and rebates to help defray the costs. … The N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Durham County Center has a program where you can send in your soil sample, and the [sta ..read more

Photo by Assorted Poppies Photo When Davey first came to the Animal Protection Society of Durham he was just a little pup, but after finding his way back here as a stray and no answer from his most recent owner, APS scooped him back up! While his journey hasn’t been ideal, Davey’s attitude has remained resilient. He’s sweet, playful and enthusiastic, and ready to lead you on the road less traveled for the rest of his days. Davey is the type of guy that will always be happy to see you at the end of a long day and will never say no to a sweet treat after dinner. He gets along with other canine c ..read more

Dr. Alisha Benner shares the impact and importance of palliative care as a palliative medicine physician with Duke University Health System. She’s also an assistant professor at the Duke University School of Medicine and the program director of the Duke Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship. Alisha emphasizes mentorship, particularly for women navigating the challenges of medical professions. “It’s important to find good mentors – female mentors – and then become a good mentor,” she says. “Pay it forward.” By Amanda MacLaren | Photography by John Michael Simpson Amid the bustling corridor ..read more

The most recent iteration of Nanas restaurant embodies culinary excellence amid an elegant and glossy interior design Brian Owen and his team at ShopBot Tools custom-fabricated all of the curved wood trim. “Without them, the curved walnut back bar would not have been possible,” says Shaun Sundholm, creative director and designer of the new Nanas space. By Morgan Cartier Weston & Amanda MacLaren | Photography by John Michael Simpson The long-anticipated revival of Nanas in December 2023 made quite the splash in Rockwood’s dining scene. The new Nanas, under the skilled guidance of chef and o ..read more

Barbara uses various materials – paint, collage and stitching – to create artworks that draw inspiration from the world around her Barbara says she is still experimenting with art, still learning and growing. If she had a chance to visit her younger self, she would have shared this advice: “Have more faith in yourself. Have more faith in your abilities. Make sure to engage others in what you want to do, and do it. Make mistakes, have some fun.” By Anna-Rhesa Versola | Photography by John Michael Simpson Barbara Lee Smith grew up to defy the expectations of her post-World War II generation when ..read more

Tiffany Griffin built her business around designing specific aromas that evoke Black narratives and memories “My favorite scents depend on the moment,” Tiffany says. “The one constant – it’s going to sound cliché – but it is ‘Durham.’ ‘Signature’ is a close second and, most recently, my other favorite is ‘Resist,’” a candle where 50% of net sales support the BIPOC Therapy Fund run by Inclusive Therapists/Mental Health Liberation. By Holland Bodner and Leah Berry | Photography by John Michael Simpson What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of a candle? Warmth? Glow? Fragra ..read more

Photo by Assorted Poppies Photo Marty is a silly, curious and playful guy, and is sure to win over the heart of any crowd. He’s an enthusiastic goof who loves toys, treats and affection. Marty would benefit from someone who can keep up with his fun energy. He’s been in a home setting before, but his most recent owner faced some housing challenges that led Marty back to the Animal Protection Society of Durham. Visit Marty’s webpage to learn more, and come visit him today at APS – he would love to meet you and win you over! The Animal Protection Society of Durham, located at 2117 E. Cl ..read more

Vital strategies, expert insights and community resources for successful aging The Forest at Duke Sales and Marketing Director April Ravelli meets with resident Usha Gulati at the continuing care retirement community off Pickett Road. By Emily Price | Photography by John Michael Simpson Financial planning firm Kuhn Advisors recently worked with a client in her early 60s to find her retirement home. The woman is completely healthy and still working; however, she knew that in 15 years she might be interested in moving into a community. Armed with a list of criteria most important to her, she tou ..read more

Photo by Assorted Poppies Photo “Angel without wings,” “absolute joy,” “wonderful,” and “easy to be around” were just a few of the ways volunteers at the Animal Protection Society of Durham described Rosie. She’s a friendly, cute girl with a big heart and gentle soul. She enjoys the simple things in life like peanut butter, relaxing in the sunshine, pup cups and leisurely strolls. Rosie has just completed heartworm treatment and is ready to play to her heart’s content now that she is off activity restrictions, though she’ll likely stick to her walks and cuddle time. She can be introverted and ..read more

Photo by Assorted Poppies Photo Heartthrob alert! Sawyer is a big, goofy guy who is not camera shy and will never say no to a big “cheese!” Toss him a ball or toy and he’ll be your loyal companion for days. He likes to hop up on things to explore, and wouldn’t pass up on the opportunity to help clean your counters. Treats, gentle affection and playtime are some of his faves. Sawyer does well romping in the Animal Protection Society of Durham play yard with other dogs or flying solo. He may do best with other dogs similar in size as he’s still figuring out just how big he is. Sawyer will need s ..read more