07/29/2026
We couldn't let our birthday month end without recognizing some of the people who've made Barnes Supply what it is today. 💚
Xine — 20 years (since 2006)
Manager, purchaser, and resident cat lover. Off the clock, Xine's into resin art, jewelry making, and perennial flower gardening — plus spoiling her cats, Baby Bear and Mikasa. "I enjoy the varied tasks that keep my sense of novelty engaged — flowers right now, kitty litter later. I also work for employers who treat me so well. I love that."
Jon — 20+ years (since 2004)
General Manager, avid fisherman, and lifelong Tar Heel fan (GTHD). Married 30+ years, John loves growing summer vegetables — heirloom tomatoes for BLTs are his favorite. "I like all the interesting people and pets you come across here. Every day seems to be different."
Brandi — 18 years (since 2008)
Bookkeeper and Office Manager — and the creative force behind our window displays, signage, and elementary school field trip tours. “I was a young single mother when I started working here many years ago. My daughter was allowed to come into work with me anytime that I lacked childcare and I’ve never once been questioned for leaving to attend to her or other heavy responsibilities. As a Durham native, working for one of oldest family-owned businesses in Durham allows me to continue to feel grounded and connected to the community as it changes and grows." Brandi is an avid gardener and enjoys designing perennial gardens for NC's pollinators. While she recently lost her two senior doggies, Brandi gets her furry-friend fix from the neighborhood dogs who visit the store. 🐾
Thank you, Xine, John, and Brandi — for your years of hard work, heart, and everything you bring to Barnes. 🌻
