Chapel Hill pauses to mark the anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination, reflecting on a tragedy that deeply resonated within the local community.

On November 22, 1963, the shocking news stirred profound grief at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, uniting students and faculty in a somber acknowledgment of both loss and civic responsibility.

In honor of this moment, Chapel Hill continues to champion unity and dialogue, most notably through investments in inclusive growth.

The approval of the Hillside Trace project in May 2025 brings 190 affordable homes to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, reinforcing the town’s commitment to accessible housing and diversity.

A $20 million affordable housing loan fund, launched earlier this year, aims to deliver over 600 new units in the coming decades, emphasizing Chapel Hill’s dedication to progress and community.

In remembering President Kennedy, the community renews its focus on dialogue, equity, and honoring history while embracing the future.

Q/A Questions

Q: What are the best outdoor activities to do in Chapel Hill, NC?

A: There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Chapel Hill, NC, such as hiking in the Chapel Hill Community Center Park, exploring the North Carolina Botanical Garden, or taking a walk around the beautiful UNC-Chapel Hill campus.

Q: Where can I find the best restaurants in Chapel Hill, NC?

A: Chapel Hill, NC, has a vibrant food scene with a variety of restaurants to choose from. Some popular options include Lantern for Asian fusion cuisine, Crook's Corner for southern comfort food, and Mediterranean Deli for delicious Mediterranean dishes.

Q: What are some must-see attractions in Chapel Hill, NC?

A: There are several must-see attractions in Chapel Hill, NC, including the Ackland Art Museum, Carolina Basketball Museum, and the Morehead Planetarium and Science Center. These attractions offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Chapel Hill.

The arrival of radio in 1920 transformed communication, and Chapel Hill quickly embraced this innovation with its rich academic and cultural roots.

By 1953, WCHL 1360 AM, launched by Sandy McClamroch, gave the town its own broadcast voice, offering locals the latest in news, sports, and music while echoing Chapel Hill’s evolving identity.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill helped shape radio trends, particularly through WXYC 89.3 FM, founded by students in 1977.

WXYC made global headlines in 1994 as the world’s first Internet radio broadcaster, underscoring the community’s progressive spirit.

WUNC 91.5 FM debuted in 1976, providing in-depth news and specialty programs, earning trust across the Triangle.

Chapel Hill’s radio stations remain essential, celebrating local voices with shows like Carolina Connection and adapting to the digital era while keeping their mission alive: uniting and informing the community.

❄️ Shaved Fennel, Persimmon & Pomegranate Salad with Citrus-Miso Dressing

Ingredients:

• 1 bulb fennel, thinly shaved
  
  

• 2 ripe Fuyu persimmons, thinly sliced
  
  

• ½ cup fresh pomegranate seeds
  
  

• 4 cups baby arugula or mixed winter greens
  
  

• ¼ cup toasted hazelnuts or walnuts (roughly chopped)
  
  

• Shaved manchego (optional for non-vegan)
  
  

Dressing:

• 2 tbsp fresh orange juice
  
  

• 1 tbsp white miso paste
  
  

• 1 tbsp maple syrup
  
  

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  
  

• 2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• Pinch of sea salt
  
  

Instructions:

1. Whisk dressing ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
   
   

2. Toss shaved fennel and persimmons with half the dressing.
   
   

3. On a platter, layer greens, dressed fruit and fennel, then top with pomegranate seeds, nuts, and shaved cheese (if using).
   
   

4. Drizzle remaining dressing just before serving.
   
   

This salad is stunning on the holiday table and packs a crisp, sweet-tangy balance perfect for the cooler season.

Chapel Hill channels the unifying energy of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address through modern acts of community leadership and inclusivity.

The town’s fourth annual Pride Promenade in June 2025 brought residents together in a colorful celebration, beginning at Peace and Justice Plaza and winding down Franklin Street with music and art.

Local voices like Town Council member Karen Stegman highlighted the vital role of visibility and authenticity, inspiring attendees to embrace their true selves.

Chapel Hill’s commitment goes beyond events, seen in new ventures such as Próximo and H&H Bagels, which enrich the town’s cultural landscape.

Rising enterprises, like software startup CData with its recent $350 million funding, signal ongoing economic growth and innovation.

These efforts reflect a steadfast dedication to unity, diversity, and progress—ideals echoing Lincoln’s enduring legacy.

Interesting Facts

The invention of the roller coaster in 1884 proved that joy could be intentionally crafted, and few places embody that spirit like Chapel Hill.

From bustling Franklin Street celebrations to Tar Heel game nights that unite the town, Chapel Hill thrives on connection and creativity.

Signature spaces like the UNC campus, Kidzu Children’s Museum, and Morehead Planetarium serve as canvases for shared happiness and discovery.

Residents of all ages discover moments of delight in local festivals, lively theater, and the energy of a college town always on the move.

Exciting new additions highlight this commitment to joy, with iconic H&H Bagels arriving at University Place and One40 Social bringing a fresh sports and culinary scene to Franklin Street.

The Lune Spark Center for Creativity opens up new avenues for learning through the arts, while beloved traditions like Halloween on Franklin Street continue bringing neighbors together.

Chapel Hill’s dedication to building joy into daily life endures—one festival, performance, and shared moment at a time.

Secret Little Hack

One secret hack for Chapel Hill, NC is to explore the local food scene by visiting Carrboro Farmers' Market for fresh produce and artisanal goods, followed by a stroll through Franklin Street to discover hidden gems and unique dining experiences.

Enjoying the vibrant culture and culinary delights of the area is a great way to immerse yourself in the community and create lasting memories.

Social media is flooded with intense weight loss challenges like "75 Hard" and the "Winter Arc," urging users to pursue rapid transformations through strict diets and extreme workouts.

Experts warn these trends can harm your body and mind, especially since the routines are rarely sustainable long-term.

Focusing instead on gradual, healthy lifestyle changes helps build habits that last while avoiding the burnout and anxiety often triggered by perfectionism online.

Health professionals recommend a safe pace of one to two pounds lost weekly.

Quick fixes deprive the body of key nutrients, leading to muscle and bone loss, and often cause the lost weight to return if old habits reset.

College students feel extra pressure from these trends, balancing studies, jobs, and unrealistic body ideals online.

By introducing small, consistent habits — and focusing on what feels enjoyable and achievable — a truly healthy transformation becomes part of daily life.

Skip the trends and invest in sustainable well-being.

Quote Of The Day

"Good morning Chapel Hill! Today's quote of the day is: 'The beautiful thing about learning is that no one can take it away from you.' Have a great day filled with new discoveries and knowledge!"

In Gettysburg, a fresh movement is thriving, echoing the legacy of Abraham Lincoln’s iconic Gettysburg Address.

Modern residents are embracing micro living and minimalist values, inspired by Lincoln’s call for purpose and simplicity.

The tiny home trend is on the rise, with dwellings under 400 square feet that maximize efficiency through creative design and smart use of space.

Community engagement has grown, highlighted in 2025 by the Adams County Arts Council’s “The People Project: At Home in Adams County,” celebrating how locals redefine the meaning of home with art, music, and personal stories.

Efforts like the South Central Community Action Programs (SCCAP)’s renovation of a former gas station into affordable homes address critical housing needs while supporting the push for sustainability.

This shift prioritizes intentional living and deeper community bonds, reimagining what it means to truly belong.