Beloved Chapel Hill restaurant Mediterranean Deli reopened this week after a 2023 fire. (Photo via Med Deli on Facebook)
Another dose of good news from around North Carolina: This week, the return of Chapel Hill restaurant Mediterranean Deli, and a chimp’s viral antics at the North Carolina Zoo.
It’s been a chaotic and tumultuous week, so we want to bring some heartwarming news to everyone’s screens.
In today’s edition of Good News Friday, we look at a local restaurant’s new beginning, a sweet baby chimp’s toddler-like antics, and some lessons in resilience for North Carolina youth.
For past editions of Good News Friday, click here.
Beloved Mediterranean Deli reopens in Chapel Hill
Mediterranean Deli, a beloved Franklin Street restaurant, reopened this week after a 2023 fire left its building in ruins.
Owner Jamil Kadoura says the journey back has been one of resilience and teamwork, crediting lessons from legendary North Carolina basketball coaches for keeping him motivated through the process.
Now, with doors open once more, he and his staff are welcoming the community that has supported them since day one.
The restaurant features a huge selection of fresh Greek and Mediterranean food. It was one of the most popular spots on West Franklin Street before the fire.
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Baby chimp goes viral at the North Carolina Zoo
His favorite game? Climb, jump, repeat.
A young chimpanzee at the North Carolina Zoo had visitors laughing as he climbed up a tree and free-fell into the bushes below over and over.
The playful routine, captured on TikTok, reminded many onlookers of a toddler showing off for attention, a sweet glimpse of how chimps, like humans, use play to learn and connect.
@heather_kay_still Little dare devil chimp at the NC zoo in ashboro!! I highly recommend this zoo but have in good shoes!!! #nczooasheboro #nczoo #nczoo🦒🐘🦓
NC students learn resilience in the classroom
Check out this creative educational program, which helps kids bounce back after storms.
Schools across North Carolina are using Ready, Set, Resilience, a curriculum that blends storytelling, art, and nature lessons to teach children how to cope with challenges.
From fables about live oaks weathering storms to student-made poems and puppetry shows, the program turns tough experiences into creative outlets—helping kids find strength, connection, and even joy in recovery.
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