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🌳 Tonya’s Café Brings New Twist to Mama Dip’s Legacy

Author

Jordan Parker
March 27, 2025

In this issue:

  • March Madness Update: Duke, UNC, and NC State in the Sweet 16

  • WRAL Investigation Challenges Durham DA’s Security Claims

  • Durham Energy Executive Accused of $722M Fraud Scheme

  • Tonya’s CafĂŠ Brings New Twist to Mama Dip’s Legacy

  • Durham County Commissioners Advance Budget Planning

Approx Read Time: 3 mins

March Madness Update: Duke, UNC, and NC State in the Sweet 16

North Carolina teams are making waves in the NCAA Tournament, with Duke (Men & Women), UNC (Women), and NC State (Women) all in the Sweet 16, while UNC Men were eliminated in the Round of 32.

  • Duke Men: Beat Baylor 89-66, led by Tyrese Proctor (25 points) and Cooper Flagg (18 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists). Next up: Arizona on March 27 at 9:39 p.m. ET.

  • Duke vs. UNC Women: The first-ever NCAA Tournament matchup between Duke and UNC’s women’s teams happens March 28 at 2:30 p.m. ET (ESPN).

  • NC State Women: Set an NCAA record with 15 three-pointers in their win over Michigan State. Aziaha James (26 points) leads them against LSU on March 28 at 7:30 p.m. ET.

  • UNC Men: Lost to Ole Miss 71-64, ending their tournament run.

WRAL Investigation Challenges Durham DA’s Security Claims

A WRAL investigation into Durham District Attorney Satana Deberry’s office attendance has raised questions about her claim that courthouse security system failures contributed to her low in-office presence.

  • No evidence found: The Durham Sheriff’s Office stated it has no reports of security issues at the courthouse.

  • DA’s response: When asked for documentation, Deberry declined to comment and provided no supporting evidence.

  • Security measures in place: The courthouse, built in 2013, has 175 card readers and requires swipe access for secured areas, contradicting Deberry’s claim that she could enter without swiping in.

Durham Energy Executive Accused of $722M Fraud Scheme

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has accused Ben Abram, husband of Congresswoman Sophia Chitlik, of running a fraudulent energy efficiency scheme through his Durham-based company, American Efficient. The company allegedly misled electric grid operators, costing ratepayers hundreds of millions while failing to deliver actual energy savings.

  • Record-breaking penalties: FERC has proposed a $722 million fine, the largest in its history, and demands the return of $252 million in “unjust profits”.

  • Fraud allegations: Investigators claim American Efficient falsely reported energy savings, manipulating wholesale electricity markets.

  • Legal battle: Abram’s company is challenging FERC’s constitutionality, a move that could weaken federal oversight of energy markets.

Tonya’s Café Brings New Twist to Mama Dip’s Legacy

Tonya’s Café, opened by Tonya Council, granddaughter of the late Mildred "Mama Dip" Council, brings a fresh take on Southern comfort food to Chapel Hill. The new café, which launched on March 19, honors her family's culinary traditions while introducing new menu innovations.

  • A family legacy: Tonya Council continues the tradition of Mama Dip’s, a beloved Chapel Hill restaurant that closed in 2023.

  • Classic meets modern: The menu features Southern staples like chicken and pastry alongside new items like catfish po’boys and a cornbread flight with sweet potato, traditional, and jalapeĂąo-cheddar varieties.

  • More than just a restaurant: The cafĂŠ joins Tonya’s Cookies & Bake Shop and Sweet Tea & Cornbread, expanding her presence in the local food scene.

Durham County Commissioners Advance Budget Planning

The Durham Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) met on March 24, 2025, to discuss budget priorities, public engagement initiatives, and community recognitions. While no final budget decisions were made, the meeting focused on resident participation in the budget process and key upcoming projects.

  • Budget Public Engagement Opens: Residents can now provide input on the FY 2025-26 budget through an online portal until May 30. The county encourages participation to help shape spending priorities.

  • Budget Timeline & Next Steps: The County Manager's proposed budget will be presented on May 12, with budget work sessions from May 12 - June 5 and a final budget adoption vote on June 9, 2025.

  • Proclamations for Community Leaders: The BOCC recognized John Hope & Aurelia Franklin for their contributions to racial equality and Pearl Fryar for his impact on gardening and community beautification.

  • Key Budget Approvals: The BOCC approved $125,000 for inmate welfare programs, $5.39 million for IT infrastructure upgrades, and a $394,000 contract to upgrade fire alarms in the county detention center.

APS Pet of the Week - Miriam

Miriam is a young, medium-sized female with a gentle heart and a shy nature. She warms up quickly but prefers calm environments over high-energy spaces. She loves sniffing, exploring, and treats but needs patient adopters to help build her confidence.

She would do best in a quiet home with adults or kids 8+. Miriam can be reactive on leash and needs slow introductions to other pets. If you’re looking for a loving companion who just needs a little extra TLC, visit Miriam today!

The Bald & The Beautiful Live
Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC)
March 29 | 8:00 PM
A live show featuring drag icons Trixie Mattel and Katya, blending comedy, storytelling, and chaos.
Details >>

Clap Your Hands Say Yeah
Cat’s Cradle, Carrboro
April 1 | 8:00 PM
Indie rock band Clap Your Hands Say Yeah performs their debut album in full.
Details >>

Rebirth Brass Band
Motorco Music Hall, Durham
April 3 | 8:00 PM
The Grammy-winning New Orleans brass band brings their signature jazz-funk energy to Durham.
Details >>

Full Frame Documentary Film Festival
Various Venues, Durham
April 3 – April 6
An internationally recognized film festival showcasing bold and compelling documentary storytelling.
Details Âť

Panel Discussion: The Abundance Agenda with Derek Thompson
Boxcar Arcade – Durham
April 10 | 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
A discussion on housing, the economy, and government innovation with Derek Thompson, Mayor Janet Cowell, and Mayor Leo Williams.
Details Âť

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