Here's a look at today's local headlines:

BACK FROM THE WAR,  A WOMAN: ChapelHill News readers know Sam Taylor from his My View dispatches from Basra. Most don't know about another journey Sam took that began even before the war in Iraq. Tammy Grubb has the first of two stories.

CHARTERWOOD CHANGES: The developer of the proposed mixed-use project has made changes in the plan that could avoid a protest petition. That petition required a Town Council super majority for a rezoning that failed last month. Now the project could be returning with only a majority of council members' support for passage. Katelyn Ferral has the story.

BRUSHSTROKES: The Hillsborough Gallery of Arts is the subject of this month's visual arts column by Debbie Meyer. If you haven't been yet, you should check it out. I did last weekend, but alas Matthew's Chocolates (my other favorite part of visiting Hillsborough) was closed for renovations.

Orange County Gymnastics has a new home, for now. Lots of letters, local sports and the best bets in local entertainment this week. Enjoy the sunshine, and thanks for reading,

Mark