Pour One Out for Jeff
The Jefferson Inn, that is, because it has closed all bar operations, including live music and karaoke, and laid off all bar staff. In September, longtime owner Curtis Dean sold the business to a new ownership group called The Carolina Experience. That group said at the time that temporary disruptions in service could be possible, but did not indicate longterm closures or layoffs.
Shannon Pearson, the new owner’s “director of experience,” said it was not determined whether live music would return, “but we are very aware of the community’s feelings regarding this and we believe that the fully refreshed changes will be worth these growing pains.”
“There is an exciting young, fresh culture in Southern Pines,” said Pat McKee, who hosted weekly karaoke on the patio. “… I’m thankful for the opportunity to play a role in bringing that community out when we needed community the most. I’m hopeful it’s not lost on the new owners.”
There is no timeline for when this corner of the Bar-muda Triangle might come out of its dry spell. Stay tuned.