Durham Rising

Durham is rising and Saturday's Downtown Festival was living proof of the ascent. On Saturday between 4 PM and 10 PM, Downtown Durham was alive with children hurdling over the giant slide, young couples strolling their babies and teenagers and seniors alike taking it all in. They were all on hand to hear the Jazz, Blue Grass, Rock, test taste the new restaurants (I can't wait to visit Rue Clear) and preiveiw the newest Downtown boutiques, loft apartments and artists. So much to see and do! It did not seem to matter to anyone that a majority of the targeted construction remained incomplete. What mattered most was the great turnout and the great party. Much live a breath of fresh air blown into a once deflated balloon, Downtown Durham floated proudly above the ruins of it's past. On-lookers who now occupy loft apartments on Main Street fully extened their French balconies to take in the People's Processional Parade. The Hillside High School Drum Corp lead the way as the people of Durham marched and proclaimed once and for all that Downtown Durham is rising to all new heights!

Duke University Chapel

Let me start by saying that I am an avid, die-hard N.C. State Fan! With that being said, I would like to recognize the beauty that abounds on the Duke University Campus. Duke University, one of the most recognized universities in the world, sits pristinely in the cneter of Durham, North Carolina. Well within the confines of it's Neo-Gothic West and Georgian East Campus' are heroic images of athleticism, medical and academic excellence. I have been visiting the Duke campus since 1985 and more often within recent months. Not surprisingly, each visit brings about a certain amount of awe when I capture the initial vision of the Duke Chapel. I pour over the architecural details when I am standing just feet from it and I marvel at it's dominant presence when I glimpse it while cruising 15-501 on a clear summer night. It brings to mind one of my favorite paintings, Rouen Cathedral and Tour d' Albane by Claude Monet. What an amazing vision James B. Duke had back in 1930 when he set out to construct this masterpiece. Make sure a visit to the Duke Chapel is on your list of things to do. It is a lot less crowded during the summer months. http://www.duke.edu/

Streets At Southpoint

Living just 3 1/2 minutes from a major shopping mall is a wonderful thing! From my perspective, what's better than the option of finding my signature lipstick color, the perfect Margarita mix, updated cabinet hardware, highlights for my hair and Dulce le Leche ice cream all in the same location.

I found my way to the mall yesterday with two items in mind. My favorite Verbena Body Salt Scrub from L'Occitane En Provence and grilling sauce from William-Sonoma. My plan was to make these purchases and leave immediately. Contrary to this notion of a dash-in/dash-out approach, the lure of the sun and rushing sounds of the water fountains just outside landed me walking down Southpoint's Main Street. Before long I had swaggered in and out of Pottery Barn and through an endless swarm of leisurely travellers just like me. Whether I planned on it or not, I was destined to be entertained at the Streets of Soutpoint. One-half hour later, I was placing a dollar in the tip jar for the juggler and heading further towards the movie theatre. The mellow sounds of live jazz music filled the air from that direction. The band was amazing. No less than the sounds I have paid dearly to hear in well noted jazz clubs. OK, so I got a little distracted. Honestly, I needed a little down time and what can I say, this place has just the right buzz! The Streets at Southpoint is a great Durham destination for shopping, dining, people watching and summer entertainment. All roads leads to The Streets at Southpoint! http://www.streetsatsouthpoint.com/

American Tobacco Historic District

The crowning jewel of Downtown Durham is the American Tobacco Campus which is located in the American Tobacco Historic District. If you have not ventured into downtown Durham in recent months, do it now and do it often! Parking is abundant, and you will never tire of the endless possibilities of intriguing restaurants, world renowned art exhibits, musical entertainment and so much more. Home to the Triangle's "Creative Class" the American Tobacco Historic District exudes energy!. It's architectural distinctions are slightly lost in time with all the character and charm of a modern waterfront city. Lush green spaces and cascading water falls make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch for a group of friends, a romantic dinner for two or an elegant indoor or outdoor wedding for 500.

Looking for summer fun and entertainment? What could be better than FREE outdoor concerts in the most happening place in town? Span the summer with Music On The Lawn featuring acoustic, jazz, blues, bluegrass, motown, classical and even salsa. Dates and times vary so check out the concert schedule at http://www.americantobaccocampus.com/ .

Woodcroft Club Makes A Splash!

There are few pleasures more refreshing during the heat of summer than a splash in a cool swimming pool. Add to that a swirling water slide, diving boards and a snack bar stocked with snowcones, colas, juice boxes, beer, wine, hotdogs, popcorn and much more and you are practically on vacation without leaving the Durham city limits.

The Woodcroft Club is a perfect summer destination. While the Woodcroft Community surrounds this Club, you do not have to live in the neighborhood to be eligible to join. Joining requires a modest initiation fee and monthly dues that are well worth every penny. Need a break from "dinner duty"? During the summer months, the club sponsors TGIF from 6pm - 8pm during which Club staff grills hot dogs, hamburgers and all the fixings. Imagine knowing that you never have to cook another Friday meal from now until August. Call up your friends, pile up the kids, head to the pool...it's FRIDAY!!! www.woodcroftclub.org

Lineberry and Company

As I was having lunch at my favorite Green Tango a day ago, I stumbled across a very exciting place...Lineberry and Company. In addition to the dazzling designer and custom made jewelry, Lineberry and Company does custom engraving and personalization.
Exploring the idea of custom designing your engagement ring or wedding band? From traditional elegance to comtemporary simplicity, I was thoroughly impressed with the brilliant choices! Searching for a memorable wedding gift? A set of four pilsner glasses or coffee mugs engraved with the monogram of the bride and groom is something they will cherish for years to come. Can't decide on a housewarming gift for a friend or colleauge? Consider the beautiful monogrammed guest soaps. What about a gift for the baby that has everything? A silver monogrammed cup or hair brush is sure to become an heirloom.
Lineberry and Company is located at 3211 Shannon Road next to the Green Tango. It is definitely a place to see for yourself! http://www.lineberryandcompany.com/