Susan Stafford Kelly

Susan Stafford Kelly was raised in Rutherfordton. She attended UNC-Chapel Hill and earned a Master of Fine Arts from Warren Wilson College. She is the author of Carolina Classics, a collection of essays that have appeared in Our State, and five novels: How Close We Come, Even Now, The Last of Something, Now You Know, and By Accident. Susan has three grown children and lives in Greensboro with her husband, Sterling.

Central

Surry County’s Secret

Why is it called sonker? No one knows for sure. But when locals hanker for warm, juicy fruit baked into a sweet crust, they know just where to go.

Central

Fowler’s Southern Gourmet in Fayetteville

The father-and-son team behind a popular food truck have found a permanent home for their upscale, down-home brand of barbecue.

Home & Garden

Safe Harbor

A modern-day maritime village: At the mouth of the Neuse River, a cozy waterfront community unites around boating, architectural beauty — and “docktails.”

Home & Garden

Green House

At one couple’s dream vacation home on Lake Pinehurst, stunning backyard views — and fun — are par for the course.

Eastern

The Sweetest Stroll

Bring on the snickerdoodles. The lemon squares. The thumbprints and pinwheels. A cookie walk in New Bern boxes up Christmas magic.

Eats

NC Primer: Proof of the Pudding

During the holiday season, these delightful desserts deserve a special place on our tables.

Arts & Culture

BluSail Golitz Studios in Morehead City

A husband-and-wife team crafts every piece of art by hand at their studio in Carteret County — and they’ll teach you how to do it, too.

Central

Ashten’s Restaurant & Pub in Southern Pines

For two decades, diners have found a warm welcome at Ashten’s Restaurant & Pub.

Arts & Culture

NC Primer: High & Low

One town is the state’s highest and the other is among its lowest, but more than elevation sets these communities apart.