The Wish Book’s Final Chapter
Saying a fond farewell to Sears’ last North Carolina store, where this writer got his first bike and ogled mannequins.
Category: Noted
A Welcome Home in Liberation Station
By founding North Carolina’s first Black-owned children’s bookstore, Victoria Scott Miller creates a safe space for personal discovery
Walter in the Weeds: Elizabeth, do you need a light?
A quirky sculpture of Sir Walter Raleigh made from an old tobacco case inspires a deeper look into his history with the crop.
“I Can’t Give Up” by Ed Mitchell
This introduction to the cookbook Ed Mitchell’s Barbeque explains how the pitmaster got into the business and how it came to shape his life.
June 2023 Poem: this i know for sure
In this poem, North Carolina Poet Laureate Jaki Shelton Green writes about the joy of Juneteenth and the horror that came before it.
D.I.Y Dad: A Tribute to An Amateur Architect and Weekend Builder
Looking back at the resourceful spirit that burgeoned after soldiers returned from WWII and made homes for their families.
The Return of Jimmy the Yard King
Fresh-cut grass stirs up memories of you love and early entrepreneurship during writer Jim Dodson’s teen years.
End Note: The Unlikely Path
A self-professed couch potato ventures to new frontiers — the greenway, the American Tobacco Trail, and beyond — and finds herself.
Poetry: Times Change, Us Too by Leah Dew
This poem is by Leah Dew, the High School Poet Laureate at South Columbus High School, and reflects on the passage of time.
Poetry: Boylan Bridge by Justin Wellons
This peaceful poem by the East Columbus Junior/Senior High School Poet Laureate finds joy in humanity and our cities.
Poetry: Mallard Ducks
A poem from Terri Kirby Erickson about a pair of old, married mallard ducks.
Simple Life: Cadillac Joe
While his azaleas are long gone, the legacy of Joe Franks — a man who loved listening to Sinatra while waxing his car — lives on.
Beads on a String: Will Lee Smith’s New Novel Be her Last?
The Southern author discusses her latest novel, Silver Alert. The 15th book from Smith, it leaves readers with memorable characters.
Poetry: Society by Alleyna Roberts
This poem by Alleyna Roberts, the High School Poet Laureate at West Columbus High School, offers a reflection on feeling trapped by society.