March april 2017 sophie

March / April 2017

sophisticated. stylish. sassy.

ING

FEATUR

Experience Art

by making your own in the River Arts District

Sophie Explores: Japan Fashion Angela Kim Sews Love in Every Stitch Prom Fashion Extravaganza

Hosted by Stargazers Designs

SophieMagazine.com

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Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 3

March / April 2017

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 6 Angela Kim

Local fashion designer tells Meg Hale Brunton how she sews love in every stitch of her designs.

17 My Hair & Me

Ahdonnica Patterson shares her tips and tricks to taking care of natural hair.

18 Travel Light

Comfortable fashions from Traveling Chic Boutique Asheville.

30 Let’s Get

Cooking

Debi Manfre shares her delicious spring vegetable recipes.

33 Wines On The Go!

Andy Hale tells us about the newest trend in wine packaging.

8 Women of WNC

Captured by photographer

9 Meet Our New Intern Ahdonnica Patterson.

34 Can We Talk?

10 Prom Fashion

Extravaganza

Hosted by Stargazers Designs

22 It’s Up To You To

Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC helps us with the question “What happened to my resolution?”

Make Yourself Happier

etty Sharpless reminds us that B life is good.

12 New Invention

Turns Every

Leg Into Perfection

S usan Reinhardt tells us about her new fashion product “Mesh For The Flesh”.

24 Explore

Your Creative Life in the River Arts District.

27 Garden Bloomers

B etty Sharpless tells us to smell some dirt.

35 Meg’s Movie Review

a La Land receives 7 out of L 10 stars.

36 Betty’s Book Review

The Body At Wrapp’s Mill is a

delightful and intriguing read by local writer, Celia H. Miles.

38 Things to Do

activities around WNC.

42 Sophie Celebrates You!

14 Japan Fashion

44 Concerning

Rachel Hoeft takes the trip of

16 What’s In The Box? S ee the newest trend in subscription boxes.

28 Dancing With The Asheville Stars

Photographs by Celia Tabitha Thruman

Our Community

45 Real Men Read Sophie Meet Ben Smith Bouser, Multimedia Account Executive at Hendersonville Times-News.

COVER CREDITS: Photograph by Katy Cook • Model: Brittney Rice • Clothing & accessories provided by Traveling Chic Boutique Asheville: Adelyn Rae dress $93, Urban Expressions cross body $55, Gunmetal grey Sheila Fajl hoops (18k gold plated) $72, Chan Luu pearl necklace $150 • Hair & makeup stylist: Jacklyn Rhew from Carmen! Carmen! at Belk • Cover design by Rachel Hoeft 4 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

IT/PRODUCTION MANAGER Jeff Ruminski CREATIVE EDITOR Debi Manfre CALENDAR EDITOR Carrie Harder CREATIVE SERVICES Carrie Harder Rachel Hoeft Randy Whittington

CONTRIBUTORS Meg Hale Brunton Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC Andy Hale Susan Reinhardt Betty Sharpless FASHION COORDINATOR Angela Ramsey PHOTOGRAPHERS Katy Cook Jennifer Mesk Celia Tabitha Thurman ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Pam Hensley Rick Jenkins Rose Lunsford

An expanded calendar of

her dreams and shares her thoughts on their fashion style.

GENERAL MANAGER/PUBLISHER Patricia Martin Betts

INTERN Ahdonnica Patterson

Jennifer Mesk.

stylish. sophisticated. sassy

CLASSIFIED SUPERVISOR Angela Frizzell SALES ASSISTANT Jayme Pressley CIRCULATION MANAGER Sam Howell

SOPHIE MAGAZINE 31 College Place Asheville Office Park, Iwanna Bldg.

Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 274-8888 Share your ideas and inspirations.

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sophiemagazine.com Sophie-Magazine sophiemagavl Distributed throughout WNC, Sophie is a complimentary monthly magazine for today’s woman. Contributions are welcome and may be sent via e-mail. Include your name, address, and phone number, so we can contact you if we decide to print your submission. Sophie reserves the right to edit any editorial submissions. Sophie also reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or article that is deemed inappropriate for the publication. No portion of Sophie may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. None of the information herein is intended as medical or professional advice.

from the publisher “Come on Spring!” Was the message on a local car washing business sign in town, and I couldn’t agree more, it’s time, we are all ready! This issue of Sophie will definitely get you in the mood for the light and breezy feel of spring fashion, as our local fashion pages showcase the casual look and feel of traveling light in downtown Asheville.

Travel has been an ongoing theme for Sophie in 2017, and in this issue our very own Rachel Hoeft recently fulfilled a life long dream with a week long visit to Japan. I think you will enjoy her take on the quirky and playful Japanese fashion scene.

I’m thrilled to introduce you to our new Intern, Ahdonnica Patterson from Warren Wilson College, and to share her article on tips and tricks for taking care of natural hair. There are so many glittery pages in this issue including a Prom Fashion show hosted

by Stargazers Design, and we placed a spotlight on the 2nd Annual Dancing with the Asheville Stars, Photograph by Celia Tabitha Thurman where I was excited Patricia Martin Betts and Zeki Maviyildiz show to share my salsa off some spicy Latin dance moves. moves!

There are some fantastically unique runway fashion shows coming up that I highly recommend. On March 11th, the 5th Annual Condom Couture Fashion Show will be held at the Orange Peel. The Oz Fashion Fantasy hosted by the Appalachian Angles of WNC is March 18th at Scarlet’s Country Dance Club, and on April 28th the Color Me Goodwill Fashion Show will be held at the Orange Peel. We can’t wait to bring you all the stunning looks in the future issues of Sophie.

Patricia Martin Betts

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 5

PEOPLE

ANGELA KIM

sews love in every stitch

By Meg Hale Brunton

A

Portrait photographs by Sarah Hooker Photography

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ngela Kim was born in Seoul, South Korea. As a child, she was always drawing, painting, or making something. One day, her mother came home from an errand to find that Kim had cut up her drapes with scissors. “I guess it was already in my blood,” Kim jokes about the drive to cut up fabric to design something new. Kim’s mother, a crafter and sewer herself, always supported her daughter’s artistic endeavors. As a child, Kim’s mother often took her to museums and galleries, to encourage her love of the arts. So, it was no surprise when Kim received her Master’s Degree in Fashion Design from Ewha Woman’s University.

In her early twenties, to further her study of English, she moved to Auckland, New Zealand and got a job with a commercial clothing company, making what she refers to as ‘fast fashion’. She quickly moved on to a designer’s position with a High Street fashion company. “It’s funny, because in New Zealand fashion designers were on a short list, and it was easier for me to get a Work Visa there.”

She spent eight years in New Zealand before returning to Seoul to continue her career there.

On a work-related trip to the United States, Kim met her future-husband and relocated to his home in Asheville. “The first year I was totally lost,” Kim admits. Being used to big cities like Auckland and Seoul, she had difficulties finding her place in Asheville and was depressed for the first year or so. Kim’s husband encouraged her to get out and meet people. So, she visited some of the artists’ workshops in the River Arts District, where she made the connections that led to her first job in Asheville as Communications Coordinator for Handmade in America.

When that business closed, due to lack of funding, Kim decided to strike out on her own and create her own brand. “I wanted to make quality garments for clients who appreciate sustainable fashion.” She adds, “More hands-on work, personal connection with designers: back to basics.”

In 2015, she started Angela Kim Designs. Conveniently, that was also the year that Asheville hosted their first-ever Fashion Week, where she launched her women’s ready-to-wear clothing line. “As a fashion designer, you always have your handwriting, your aesthetics,” Kim explains. “Mine tend to be very feminine, somewhat traditional, conservative, and somewhat dressy because of my upbringing. I think I have found my niche market here, because not everyone wants to wear jeans and t-shirts all the time. People are thirsty for well-tailored, quality garments here.” Kim says she has spent the past year and a half, learning her market and understanding her clientele.

“Everyone is beautiful,” Kim explains, “but everybody feels so insecure about themselves.

I just want to help them feel their best and empower themselves with something little like dressing properly, or putting the right colors together.

Kim, soon, realized that she needed her own studio space, where she could interact with her clients.

So, she became a member of Engaged Asheville in Reynolds Village, and shares a large studio space with other bridal businesses. She says it was a natural decision to expand her business to include bridal wear. Her new service, Asheville Couture, caters to not only brides, but also bridesmaids, mothers, and wedding guests. “It’s not only about buying luxury dresses; it’s really about creating a memory,” Kim smiles. “I feel like I am being helpful to these people who are about to have the biggest event in their lives. Oftentimes, they feel like it is too much work, or it is stressful. My goal is to show them that this is not stressful; this is fun. This is the best part!”

Kim’s favorite design experience happened last year, when an 80-year-old woman came to her studio and requested a custom-made outfit, as a special birthday present to herself. She said that clothes in department stores no longer fit her, that she felt forgotten by society, and wanted an Angela Kim original design. Kim made her a classic, traditional suit set (2 pairs of pants, a skirt and a jacket) that was comfortably-fitting and lined with silk. “It’s not what I create,” Kim says, “it’s more about what I feel when I see my products on these ladies, when I see the reaction from the people when they wear my clothes. That’s what keeps me going.”

“Everyone is beautiful,” Kim explains, “but everybody feels so insecure about themselves. I just want to help them feel their best and empower themselves with something little like dressing properly, or putting the right colors together. That gives me so much joy and happiness.” Kim professes to having always felt critical of her own appearance, since she was very young.

“I think that is one of the reasons for how I developed this sense of fashion. I would look at myself in the mirror and think of how I could make myself look better to my eyes.” In her youth, Kim paid great attention to how the clothes she wore affected how she felt about herself, and which clothing types most improved her appearance. She also tried this on her mother and her friends.

“I think that’s how I got better and better at dressing other ladies,” she smiles.

“And I enjoyed it so much; that’s why I just kept doing it.”

Kim attributes much of her success as a designer to her mother, whom she talks with often. “Mom and I have been very, very close all our lives. Mom has always been my biggest inspiration. She guided me.” Kim’s mother visited Asheville in 2014 and got to see her daughter as a successful designer, which made her very proud.

Her new collection for Angela Kim Designs will premiere on April 20th at a fashion show she is co-producing with the owner of Scout Boutique out of her studio in Reynolds Village. You can find Kim’s clothes at Boutique LP in downtown Asheville, or at Scout Boutique in Biltmore Village. For more information on Angela Kim or her designs, visit angela-kim.com, or ashevillecouture.com.

Model: Aislin Freya Pax

Fashion photographs by Lee Wilson Portraits

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PEOPLE

“Perfect love is fearless, to not be afraid.

To have no fear is what love feels like to me, complete acceptance, to know that it’s OK to fail, that it’s OK to succeed, to be imperfect and have grace in that.”

wnc WOMEN of Photographed by Jennifer Mesk, HumansOfAsheville.net

(L) “We’re sisters. We want to go do things and explore, see the world. Whether it’s out of the country or out West.

You shouldn’t be tied to one place.”

(R) “I hope to find myself entirely, to feel confident and sure in every direction. I hate being still. I look forward to becoming independent.”

8 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

“I always looked up to my grandfather. Even though he was in pain he always used to take us out places so we could express our feelings, voices wherever we wanted to go. Last year he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He battled, but he ended up losing the fight. He didn’t let us give up on our dreams.”

“What does Spring mean to you?”

“I graduated last May. As cheesy as it sounds, the new life in the air, Spring in NC is so beautiful, it really does motivate you to change things, make new things, create things. I am grateful for what I have but, at the same time pushing forward.”

PEOPLE

Meet Sophie’s Intern HELLO SOPHIE MAGAZINE READERS, my name is Ahdonnica Patterson. I am a senior creative writing major at Warren Wilson College, in the sleepy valley of Swannanoa. If you are unfamiliar with the school,Warren Wilson is a triad, meaning that our values are centered around the knowledge we gain in the classrooms or on trails (academics), the knowledge we gain working with our hands and helping the college flourish (work), and, last but not least, the knowledge we gain from leading with our hearts and passions outside of our majors (service). So, having to complete 50 hours of service, attend classes (17 credits, I might add), and work on my work crew, adding an internship sounded like a crazy and scary adventure. But through all the craziness that is my life, I somehow landed an awesome internship at Sophie Magazine.

I’m not the most fashion forward person – I have my own style called comfortable with a dash of vintage, but I have always loved fashion. When I was a kid I wanted to be a fashion designer or a hair stylist. Sadly, those dreams fluttered away on the tail feathers of reality, so I thought what better a way to pay homage to something I have an interest than to immortalize it by writing about it. Over the course of my internship, I will get a behind the scenes look at fashion shows and write my very own articles. I hope you join me on my journey with Sophie Magazine and thank you for reading.

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FASHION

Our Prom Fashion Extravaganza was hosted by Stargazers Designs on January 21st at The Asheville Masonic Temple.

We had models from several different schools such as Erwin, North Buncombe, Tuscola, & Pisgah High Schools.

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FASHION

STUDENT MODELS: Trey Martin • Josh Carrillo • Johnny Laws • Cameron Howell • Isaiah Poore Tanner Wilson • Bradley Griffin • Brianna Kent • Autumn Dillingham Sydney Richardson • Amanda Parsons • Destiny Stout • Justine Ferguson Carlee Willis • Bailey Ellege • Ahnika Miller • Bailey Yearout • Madison Johnson Alex Dillingham • Taylor Brookshire • Gracie Jenkins OUR VENDORS: MC- Dex from 96.5 (the Tammy and Dex show) | DJ - Tracy Davis Hair & Makeup - Carolina College of Hair Design | Hair - Asheville Hair Design Food - The Chop House and The Twisted Laurel Photographers - Brooke Parker Photography and Forte Photography Sunless Tan by Gilded Paparazzi | Posh Lash extensions Stargazers Designs - Dresses, Suit Rentals, Flowers SPECIAL THANKS

Stargazers Designs

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ENTERTAINMENT

New Invention Turns Every Leg Into Perfection!

By Susan Reinhardt

I

need to call George Foreman right now. I mean NOW! He hocks that InventHelp hotline and website to get all those fantastic ideas patented so all of us geniuses can become millionaires.

Somebody invented Chia Pets and Snuggies, right? Or what about those mop heads attached to babies’ onesies so when they crawl around the floors get clean? Yep. Google that one for a good laugh. Photos of those mopping babies are priceless.​​I’ll admit long ago I bought George’s Mean Lean Fat-Reducing Grilling Machine. Made my burgers taste like shreds from a treadmill.

However, my idea is so wonderful, that if someone reads it here and steals it, I’m getting the meanest lawyer in the country (not my husband ’cause he’s nice) and suing for theft of Fabulous Idea. Now before I jet off to reveal this revolutionary product to the grouches on Shark Tank, here it is. It ​​​​​​​​​​​ started with a trip to St. John a couple months ago in the Virgin Islands. Y’all know I love that island. What I hate is buying swimsuits. Even worse than paying $140 for Spandex the size of a Cornish hen, is squeezing lard into them whilst standing in unflattering light illuminating gelatinous blobs of yellow fat right there in the mirrors.

I took nine garments into the dressing room at the Dillard’s Outlet where no less than one million swimsuits dangle on racks. The bad part is the bottoms are in one section, the tops in another. So forget finding anything that matches unless you have two years to search.

I snatched up everything black in a size Large and D-cup. I also took a

Valium thirty minutes prior to this shopping trip.

Doctor’s orders for heart palpitations related to swimwear PTSD. Once ​​​​​ the benzo kicked in, I decided Fat is Where It’s At and bought all nine skimpies, only one of which had a matching top and bottom.

So all this rambling and you’re wondering, “Well, what is the invention? Why does your walrus-butt need to call George Foreman?” Because I have decided to create pantyhose that are firm, breathable, sturdy and comfortable and designed for sewing right into the swimwear fabric. The idea is to give everyone great and tan legs with no cellulite or unsightly broken veins.

My idea is so wonderful, that if someone reads it here and steals it, I’m getting the meanest lawyer in the country (not my husband ’cause he’s nice) and suing for theft of Fabulous Idea.

“Mesh For The Flesh”

is my trade name for what will turn every woman into a supermodel by the sea.

I called Mama ’cause I like to run all my ideas by her first. At 55, I still need her approval.

“What do you think about pantyhose built right into swimsuits?” I asked. “I did my research and Googled it and it hasn’t been done. Just took me to a porn site.”

“I hope you didn’t click on it,” she said.​​​​​​​​“No. But you’re pushing 80, and I wanted to know your thoughts on this and swimsuits in general.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​ “I love them. I’ve got all mine stored from back since I got married. Sometimes I get them out to look at them and they are stiff as boards. Now, when I try them on, I still look good from the waist up, but when I look down at my legs, I see they’ve died from broken veins.

She rambled on about how one leg had many more veins than the other. “It’s impossible to walk down the beach with one beautiful, virgin leg and one horrible leg,” she said. “I love your idea, but once someone reads this they will steal it from you. Get yourself a good lawyer.”​​​​​​​​​​​ “I’m on it. George Foreman and I are ’bout to do business.” ​​​​​​“Remember they’ve got to be thick enough so the veins don’t show, and you don’t want them to swell up with water when they get wet and then you have two enormous legs.”​​​​ “Yes, ma’am.”​​​​​​​​​​​​For now, until someone wants to “partner” with me on this, I’m heading to the beach with legs showing every flaw. Until I can get on every store shelf, I’ll keep singing my old sarong song: “Wrap it, Don’t Flap It.”

For The Flesh”

“Mesh

Susan Reinhardt is the author of the hilarious and quirky novel “Chimes from a Cracked Southern Belle,” along with “Not Tonight Honey, Wait ‘Til I’m a Size 6,” “Don’t Sleep with a Bubba.” and “Dishing with the Kitchen Virgin.” susanreinhardt.com 12 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

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E

ver since I was in high school I had the dream of one day going to Japan. A nobody from West Virginia, I didn’t think it would ever happen. In some way of keeping my dream alive I minored in Japanese in college and was always extremely envious of those in my classes who studied abroad. Then one day, my husband, out of the blue, surprised me with tickets for a week long stay in Japan. Of course I cried and the anticipation of waiting 5 months nearly killed me but we made it and it was everything I ever dreamed it would be.

While I was taking in the sights in Tokyo, Japan, I was doing my due diligence as a Sophie contributor and focused on the women’s fashion scene. A city full of people and styles, I was not short on variety.

photos & copy by Rachel Hoeft

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The biggest difference I noticed...no leggings!

Not once out of the hundreds of people and dozens of stores I went into did I spy leggings.

Tights are the leggings of Japan. For those that might not know the difference, leggings are a thicker material, like polyester, while tights on the other hand are sheer, stretchy fabric.

Women ages 15-late 20’s would often pair tights with mid-thigh length high waisted skirts and a slouchy top half tucked or not tucked at all. The color palette I saw for this age group were light pastels: blue, pink and nudes. Popular shoes

worn by this age group were primarily 1 1/2 inch heel shoes and booties.

As far as older women (30-mid 50’s), their wardrobe was mostly business fashion, i.e. tailored tops and pencil skirts paired with tights with a color palette of mostly darks: grey, black, dark blues. The shoes for this age category were similar to that of 15-late 20’s, but had higher heels.

Women past the mid 50 mark would wear more relaxed tops and opt for pants instead of skirts.

These ladies would wear sneakers or Keds type shoes.

Of course not everyone fits this, but generally this is what was the most popular. The closer you got to the fashion districts (Shibuya and Harajuku in particular) the more trendy and daring the fashion became.

The well known 109 building in Shibuya is a fashion hotspot which provided these photos. Each of the floors was a showcase to trending fashions in the city of Tokyo.

Japan is a wonderful place full of culture, tasty food and memories to last a lifetime. Fashion here is more playful than in the States, giving Tokyo its own quirky recognizable style. I would highly recommend going for a visit, if not for the fashion, for the experience of Japan itself.

*

*Japan is crowded, simple, cute, beautiful, old, new.

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Ipsy gives subscribers deluxe samples and full-sized beauty products. Comes with a little bag to store your goodies.

$10/mth written by Rachel Hoeft ou may have heard of Loot Crate, Harry’s Dollar Shave Club or Ipsy, but what are they exactly? Every month, for a fee, a box will be sent to you with goodies inside. Some boxes however, are quarterly or even yearly. Subscription box popularity is at a high and there’s one for everyone now. For example, Loot Crate sends comic/gamer/geeky things while Ipsy sends makeup and makeup accessories.

There’s something about subscription boxes that keeps us wanting more, and that’s the point. Depending on what box you get, you can spend as little as $5 or up to $25,000 (seriously).

Filled with natural organic goodies, every Love with Food box donates at least one meal to a food bank in America so you can feel good and eat well.

starting at

$7.99/mth

Stitch Fix, for men and women, will give you a personal stylist who will choose five pieces based on a style profile they provide.

Once you get the box, you have three days to decide what you want to buy and what you want to send back.

$20/mth

CurlKit is a monthly hair product subscription service that allows you to sample 6-9 products a month for naturals on a budget.

For ideas and tips on how to use products like these check out page 17!

starting at

$20/mth 16 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

FASHION

By Ahdonnica Patterson

Tips and tricks to taking care of natural hair have been natural ever since birth – I had no relaxers or texturizers when I was young.

My mom had been doing my hair for most of my life, so when I entered college she thought it would be easier for me to take care of my hair if I had a texturizer. If you don’t know, a texturizer is a mild form of a relaxer which is applied for a brief amount of time in an effort to only slightly relax the curl instead of completely straightening it. This is a chemicalbased process. A relaxer can be used as a texturizer; simply leave it on the hair for less time than designated for straightening.

After 2 texturizers, I was done.

I didn’t want them anymore, so I decided to stop and get back on my natural hair journey. After a few trims and lots of love, I am here to tell you about how I care for my hair, what products I use and where I get them. The products I used when I was a loose natural were Mane N’ Tail Shampoo and Conditioner, Mane N’ Tail Hair Strengthener, Everyday Shea Shampoo and Conditioner, any of the Taliah Waajid products, the Shea Moisture products (including their hair dying line, 10 out of 10! I highly recommend if you want to dye your hair) and African Pride Olive Miracle LeaveIn-Conditioner. Last, but not least the holy grail of skin and hair care products: Coconut Oil and Shea Butter. You can pick up any of these products at your local Sally’s Beauty Supply, Walmart or any pharmacy.

Things To Do: • ALWAYS wrap your hair at night with a silk or satin scarf or bonnet.

• Wrap your hair/wear a silk/satin cap when wearing hats or hooded jackets.

• Make sure to read the ingredients on all hair products.

• Drink lots of water - a healthy diet and healthy hair go hand and hand.

Natural Is For Everyone

Everyone can rock natural hair and enjoy original results based on the products used, the care taken, and the hair’s own texture.

How To Dispel Hair Envy?

Your hair is different from everyone else’s hair. They have done different things to get where they are and so have you. Everyone’s hair pattern is different. It is amazing that you appreciate someone else’s hair but you don’t have to measure yourself up to them and their hair.

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FASHION

HyFve spring jacket $70 Dark wash Blank Jeans $84 Bohemian lace top$51 Urban Expressions camel clutch $45 Susan Shaw earrings $31.50 House of Harlow bracelet $68.20 Kitsch feather inscribed cuff $30

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FASHION

W

hether you are traveling downtown or across the globe, lighten up this season with some fresh looks for Spring. Create the perfect mix of comfort and sophistication by letting your accessories be inspired by the environment around you. No matter your destination, solid pieces in airy fabrics can make your journey a breeze!

Navy romper $50 Miakoda elk skin bag $130 Miakoda choker $20 Chan Luu wrap bracelets $215 ea.

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FASHION

HyFve Plum tank $25 HyFve pleated palazzo pant $40 Vidalia Vogue (local artist) necklace $65 House of Harlow earrings $30.80 House of Harlow ring $37.40

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FASHION

FA S H I O N C R E D I TS : CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY:

HAIR & MAKEUP BY:

30 Haywood St. • Asheville 828.333.1612 travelingchicboutique.com

Asheville Mall 828.296.9463

Jacklyn Rhew

STYLING:

Anna Grace - Boutique Owner Sophia Burleigh - Assembled Looks Emorie Roberts & MacKenzie Crosby - Styling Assist.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

828.442.0337 katycookphotography.com FASHION COORDINATOR:

Angela Ramsey MODEL:

Brittney Rice

Rails soft blue button down $147.40 Blank "spray on" white jeans $79 Urban Expressions handbag $95 Watch $27 Gilded Bug (local artist) necklace $35 Hat $27

Owner of Flawless - Asheville Airbrush Makeup Artistry & Hair Design Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 21

HOME & GARDEN

It’s Up To YOU To Make Yourself Happier

S

o many of us look to outside sources to make us happy.

More money, more things, more love, and a new car… the list goes on and on. After such a roller coaster of a year for 2016, it has become crystal clear to me that people have to create their own happiness from within. If you are the artist behind your daily appreciation of life, no external circumstances can take it from you. ​So what makes me happy? With the helpful guidance of my good friend Janet, I have learned to look for the pleasures of everyday and to express my gratitude for them. It may be the luxury of growing older, or simply that with experience we have a better understanding of what is important. A beautiful sunrise or sunset will stop me in my tracks. The smell of wet earth after a much needed rain. Watching one of my fat hens try to run after a treat. (Actually watching a hen run will make anyone laugh…) The pure joy in a child’s face when they are twirling and running and dancing. ​I celebrate the first snowflake and the first spring crocus equally. I have always enjoyed making other people happy.

Since taking a part time job in retail, I make much more of an

22 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

By Betty Sharpless

effort to acknowledge other people who are working in stores and restaurants by name and thank them by name. If I can make their day brighter, mine is brighter too. ​If you are having trouble finding cause for gratitude in your life, consider volunteering. I promise you that by helping others who are less fortunate you will gain insight into appreciating your own life. Another tip for finding happiness is to get outside and exercise, even if you are only walking around the block. Walking with a friend is even better. Make sure to leave time in your crazy schedule for you. Time spent reading, taking a hot bath, or working on your hobbies is time well spent. Taking care of you helps to nourish your spirit and that will make you happy. ​Every evening when I close my eyes to sleep I send out a “thank you” to the universe for letting me have one more day and the beauty I witnessed in that day. Really, those Tee shirt guys are right: Life IS Good. Sometimes we just need to remind ourselves.

Betty Sharpless is a professional gardener, writer and quilter who is especially fond of listening to her cat purr her to sleep.

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GARDEN BLOOMERS

​I

Bringing Sense To Your Garden

By Betty Sharpless

bet you are thinking that this is a helpful article on how to organize your garden to make more sense. Seed cataloguing and such…Wrong! Spring is the perfect time to come to your senses! All winter you have been cooped up in your house, your work and your car. Without realizing it, you have been breathing recycled air for a good 4 months. Time to head outside and treat yourself to a spa day for your senses. If you are not a gardener, get to hiking trails, the arboretums or even to a greenhouse. ​Now is the time for your ears to take note of the birds singing their courting songs. One of my favorite memories is of a mockingbird sitting on my garden fence trying to be macho and to out sing my radio to prove his prowess. What lady bird could resist such an effort? Take time to just sit quietly and close your eyes, the sound of spring is awe-inspiring. ​Truly, who does not love the smell of the earth throwing off the winter frost and melting in the warm sun? If they made a perfume that smelled like freshly turned dirt I would surely buy it. New studies have shown that inhaling “recently disturbed soil” releases little microbes that make people happier.

Feeling down… go shovel a little dirt. Between the microbes and the exercise, you will be smiling in no time. If you have perennial herbs around, brush

HOME & GARDEN against them as you pass, it’s the original aroma therapy. ​I promise I won’t tell on you if you fondle the pussy willows and the first daffodils. Combine touch and sight to really look down into the crocus and tulips from a bee’s eye view. It takes a lot of floral sexy to attract the “right types” to pollinate a flower.

Allow a little extra time with your morning coffee for sunrise watching. Mother Nature paints a lovely picture twice a day for us to enjoy. ​Don’t forget taste! Hooray for the taste of fresh and green! While we can purchase “spring greens” from the store year round these days, nothing can beat the taste of a leaf of baby lettuce, the first sugar snap pea or the tang of arugula from your very own garden plot or pot. My sugar snap peas never make it more than three feet from the vine before mysteriously disappearing in my mouth! ​In this age of distancing ourselves with ear buds, gloves, air conditioning and sun glasses…I say: “Take it off, take it all off” and really come to your senses, or let them come back to you. It’s spring!

Betty Sharpless is a professional freelance gardener who is just ridiculously happy this time of year…and totally sensible!

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 27

ENTERTAINMENT

WITH THE

The 2nd Annual Dancing with the Asheville Stars event held in January at the Diana Wortham Theatre was a spectacular night, showcasing a variety of different dances from ballroom to break dance. Produced by Asheville professional dancer, Zeki Maviyildiz, who also performed with the Bluestardancers and many of his ballroom dance students. For more information on dancing, go to bluestardance.academy.

ALL PHOTOGRAPHY Celia Tabitha Thurman ABOVE John Hall & Tatiana Kazokova - Lyrical 28 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

TOP LEFT TO BOTTOM Ronald Trammel - Hip Hop Ariah Avery & Rick Harris - Argentine Tango Ken Kiser & Amber Nickole - Salsa Cuba

Jeremiah Mimken - Contemporary

Ksenia Ivanchenkova & Zeki Maviyildiz - Bolero

Ariah Avery & Zeki Maviyildiz - Cha-Cha

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 29

HOME & GARDEN

LET’S GET COOKING BY DEBI MANFRE

Quinoa and Asparagus Salad

Yields 4 servings

Fresh asparagus, crunchy almonds and goat cheese make this tasty salad a go-to recipe.

2 cups white quinoa 3 cups water 3 bunches baby asparagus, trimmed, blanched and refreshed 1/2 cup soft goat cheese, crumbled 1 pomegranate, seeds removed 1/2 cup roasted almonds, chopped Watercress sprigs Cracked black pepper, for sprinkling 2 Tbsp. pomegranate molasses 2 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil 1/4 cup water

A TASTE OF

1. Place the quinoa and water in a medium saucepan over high heat. Bring to boil, cover with a lid and reduce heat to low.

2. Cook for 12 minutes or until almost tender.

3. Remove from the heat and allow to steam, covered, for 5 minutes or until tender and the water has absorbed. Set aside to cool.

4. To make the pomegranate dressing, place the pomegranate molasses, oil and water in a bowl and whisk to combine. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Place the cooled quinoa and half the dressing in a bowl and toss to combine.

6. Divide among bowls and top with the asparagus, goat cheese, pomegranate seeds, almond and watercress.

7. Drizzle with the remaining dressing and sprinkle with pepper to serve.

Source: donnahay.com.au

Spinach Artichoke Quiche

ui no

aa nd Asp arag us Sala d

This quiche is like an egg version of your favorite spinach dip.

Q

Spring is here, and the farmers markets are bursting with a variety of delicious and colorful vegetables that are ready to bring into your kitchen. Here are 3 healthy and delicious recipes to make with your fresh produce purchases.

30 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

CRUST*: 1 cup flour 5 Tbsp. cold butter, cubed 1 Tbsp. shortening 1/2 tsp. salt 1 1/2 tsp. white vinegar 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp. ice water QUICHE FILLING: 6 large eggs 1/2 cup whole milk 7 oz. artichoke hearts, chopped 8 oz. fresh spinach, chopped 1/4 cup onion, chopped 2 cloves garlic, chopped finely 2/3 cup grated mozzarella 1/3 cup grated parmesean 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper 1/3 cup bacon bits 1. I n a food processor combine the flour, butter, shortening and salt and process to a Photo credit: ashleemarie.com coarse meal texture.

2. A dd the vinegar and water and process again, the dough will moisten and pull together.

3. P at into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap, refrigerate for 15-30 mins.

4. R oll out the pastry dough and place/pat into a 10 inch tart pan, prick the bottom, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate another 15-30 mins.

5. Preheat the oven to 350° F. 6. B eat the eggs and milk together. Add everything else and stir until the mixture is evenly mixed. Pour into the pastry crust.

7. B ake for 35-40 mins until the crust is golden and the quiche is set. *You can use pre-made pie crust dough instead of making the crust from scratch. If you do, skip directions #1 - 3.

Source: ashleemarie.com

Green Goddess Pasta

Yields 4 servings

The avocado makes the sauce luxuriously creamy, while the fresh herbs and citrus juices make it perfect for spring.

1/2 16 oz. package high fiber spaghetti like Dreamfields 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/2 of an avocado 1 garlic clove, chopped 1/2 lemon, juiced 1/2 lime, juiced 1 sprig each fresh parsley, cilantro, and tarragon, chopped 6 fresh basil leaves, chopped 1/4 cup reduced fat sour cream 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided 1 shallot, minced 1 cup fresh peas 2 cups arugula Salt and pepper 1. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Add the spaghetti and cook 5 minutes. Add the asparagus and cook an additional 4 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Drain.

2. While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce: Add the avocado, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic, lemon and lime juice, and fresh herbs to a food processor or blender. Process on high for 20-30 seconds, or until smooth. Scrape into a small bowl and stir in the sour cream. Set aside.

3. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan set over medium heat. Add the shallot and cook 2-3 minutes, or until soft. Add the peas and arugula and cook another 2-3 minutes, or until the arugula is wilted. Turn off the heat and stir in the cooked spaghetti, asparagus, and sauce. Stir to combine; season with salt and pepper.

Source: healthy-delicious.com Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 31

“Oz” Fantasy FASHION SHOW

PHOTOGRAPHS BY MAX GANLY PHOTOGRAPHY

SATURDAY, MARCH 18 8-9PM (After party starts at 10PM) Scarlet’s Country Dance Club

97 Underwood Rd, Fletcher For more information or to obtain tickets, call (828) 686-3082, or (828) 280-5342 All proceeds from the Fashion Show go the Appalachian Angels of WNC, a local non-profit group that helps many WNC Communities with financial assistance for different projects.

Dorothy: Designer: KatDog Couture; Model: Kayla Morgan Beavers; Hair: Britton AtLola; MUA: Tia Renay Hixon Todo: Holly Tolar Wicked Witch of the West: Designer: Kayren McKnight; Model: Savanah Auloura Mease; Hair: Yvonne Womble; MUA:Vanessa Sogan Oz: Designer: McKinney Gough; Model: Chartreuse Flowers; MUA: Herself; Hair: Britton AtLola Scarecrow: Designer: Jon Pierce; Model: Ryan Moor; Hair: Britton AtLola; MUA: Tia Renay Hixon

32 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

HOME & GARDEN

Wines

on the go!

By Andy Hale

W

e live in a beautiful place. We are surrounded by mountains to hike, rivers to float, waterfalls to climb and gorgeous places to camp.

Aluminum cans have made it easier to take our favorite beer with us while we enjoy our surroundings, but wine lovers still have had to lug around fragile and heavy bottles. Fortunately, many winemakers are trying out different ways to package their wines, and they are more portable than ever. Good wine now comes in cans, boxes, and kegs, with more options coming out all the time!

I realize that many of us are still getting used to the idea of good wine coming in a screw-cap bottle and that drinking wine out of a can will sound as appealing as drinking out of an old boot. I doubt you will see a restaurant sommelier opening a can of wine tableside any time soon! I took some convincing as well.

We have been carrying Underwood Pinot Noir in bottles for years. It’s a very drinkable Oregon Pinot at a reasonable price.

Last year, we ordered our usual case of Underwood in bottles and were told, “they also come in cans now.” Anticipating an occasional outdoor enthusiast, we ordered a case of the cans. They have been a surprise hit with our customers and not just in the summertime! They have been so popular that we added their Pinot Gris and their dry Rosé will be arriving in the spring.

For the California wine fan, we also added a canned California Red Blend and a Chardonnay called Porch Pounder. These are bigger and bolder than their Oregon counterparts and are definitely appropriately named!

When drinking wine from a can, here are some things to remember: 1. Pay attention to the amount of wine in each can. The ones we carry are the equivalent of a half bottle of wine, even though they look like a beer can.

I have a friend who accidentally drank the equivalent of several bottles of wine before she realized how much wine was in each can!

2. If possible, pour them into a glass. I’m snobby and don’t like touching cans with my lips. I don’t drink beer straight from a can either.

3. Wine is not beer, even if it comes in a can. It needs air to “open up”. Pop the top, and then give it a few minutes to “breathe” if possible.

Cans aren’t the only way to take wine with you. Check out the Fuoristrada

wines in a liter box called a Tetra Pack. It looks like a giant Hi-C box, only missing the straw taped to the side, but it is filled with tasty organic Sangiovese from Tuscany.

For your next get together with friends, try the new 3 liter “Le Benjamin” from Chateau Peuch Haut in Southern France. This blend of Grenache, Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet is packaged in a steel barrel and wrapped in some really eye catching art. It’s also Biodynamic!

This one is heavy, so take it on a picnic, not on the trail.

The next time you find yourself heading out into nature and want to bring along a beverage, remember that the great outdoors aren’t just for beer anymore. Pack a can of wine in your backpack and enjoy it somewhere beautiful!

Andy Hale is a Certified Specialist of Wine and cofounder of the Asheville School of Wine at Metro Wines and the Blind Tasting League of Asheville. He was a Sommelier at The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island, SC and now teaches classes at Metro Wines. Follow him on Twitter @avlwinegeek

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 33

LIFE SKILLS

What Happened to My Resolutions?

W

By Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC

hat if there was a way to regroup after giving up on your New Year’s resolutions and accomplish what is most important to you? For most of us, our resolutions are a distant memory, flung out into the world as a declarative wish based in “shoulds,” a vague sense of dissatisfaction, or a desire to please others. We feel stuck and unable to create the changes we say we want in our lives.

For many of us, our stagnation is fed by fear of change and the comfort of old habits. It makes sense from a survival level that we might resist change, especially if our lives have been chaotic or unstable.

Remaining in a familiar pattern can give us a sense of security that can be comforting. It can also feel like surviving in a rut.

Tamra, 47, wanted to extricate herself from her rut and had tried many

times to pull herself up by her bootstraps only to fail. She was frustrated that she wanted to lose weight, declared it as a resolution every year for as long as she could remember, but consistently failed to attain success. “I really wanted to do it (lose weight) because I felt so embarrassed about my appearance and I wanted to feel more attractive, especially when I was younger. But I never really was able to stick to a diet much past the first couple of weeks in January.”

Tamra described the challenges of disappointing friends and family with every failed attempt. “My mom even offered to pay me for every pound I lost but I still couldn’t do it.”

Tamra was determined to change, and made the effort to learn life skills necessary to reach her goal. In time, she understood we only change for ourselves, not to please others.

In her quest, Tamra learned: 1. We can gain leverage over our direction by clarifying our desires and crystallizing the benefits of the goal for ourselves, without looking for approval from others.

2. Choosing to believe in our own judgement and decisions. Intentional and thorough examination of our beliefs can reveal conflicting beliefs that no longer serve us. These realizations enable confidence and self-determination.

Examples of negative beliefs that sabotage us include: u I have little control over my life and what happens to me u I rarely get what I want u It’s too late Examples of positive self-determination beliefs that support us include: u I can achieve my goals even if I need several attempts u Success is mostly a matter of dedication, preparation and effort u It’s not too late 3. Willingness creates cooperation for movement away from our old habits and toward our new goals. It is mastered through harnessing and reframing our negative self talk.

4. Self care is the focused attitude and actions of our own well-being through behaviors that create positive change and health.

Tamra explored the reasons for wanting to lose weight based in her own values and not the projections of well meaning friends and family. This led her to discover her true focus of desiring to improve her health rather than just improving her appearance to match a cultural image she didn’t share (leverage). She worked to clarify her beliefs about self-determination and found that without realizing it, she was carrying conflicting beliefs about her body and her need to seek approval from others. Tamra developed a mindset of willingness by reframing her negative self talk to a kinder, more supportive voice which reduced her resistance to change. From these shifts in her thinking, Tamra felt more positive about herself and found a new desire to take determined actions of self care leading to a 38 pound weight loss which positively impacted her health. Checking in with Tamra she reports, “I use these same skills to accomplish lots of things in my life that I never thought I could do.”

Lauren Griffin, M.A., is a Licensed Professional Counselor in private practice in Asheville. Learn more about Life Skills Toolbox at WNCcounseling.com, or call her at 828782-3388.

34 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

ENTERTAINMENT

MEG’S MOVIE REVIEW

I

n a world where people were worried about their futures… where people felt divided by the politics in their country… and where the Oscar-movie line-up was a depressing collection of dramas about racism, loss, and poverty, there came a film that was so bubbly, it was almost totally devoid of plot: “La La Land.” As I write this I am assuming that, by the time this is printed and read, “La La Land” has gotten the Academy Award for Best Picture, as everyone is expecting it to get now.

Part of it is my fault. As has happened to me many times, a film has been over-hyped with Oscar buzz and Golden Globe wins. When I see it, I find myself tragically-disappointed because the movie is just alright. That is the case for me with “La La Land.” It is cute; Emma Stone (“The Help”) and Ryan Gosling (“The Big Short”) are endearing,

“So, is “La La Land” so immensely successful because it is the kind of happy drivel that our country needs right now?”

La La Land and the music is really terrific!

Was it the best movie I saw this year though? Sadly, no.

“La La Land” is a movie about artistic integrity. If you find a way to turn your talent into a professional success by tweaking it ever-so-slightly, are you selling out and compromising your dreams? Of course not. “La La Land,” however, spends 2 hours and eight minutes debating this issue via its two lead characters, Sebastian and Mia. Mia wants to be an actress, but years of living in Los Angeles, working as a barista and going to audition after audition has left her questioning her talent. Sebastian is jazz pianist who is sick of using his music to create restaurant ambiance; he wants to open his own jazz club.

They meet and fall into a constant duet.

Despite the complete lack of character development, both Stone and Gosling are perfectly charming in the role. So, charming in fact, that I am betting that by the time you are reading this, Stone has won an Oscar for her performance. I have been impressed with Gosling’s ability to rise above terrible writing ever since I first saw him in “The Notebook.”

While Gosling and Stone are both great actors, I don’t feel like “La La Land” marks either of their best performances. You can tell that a lot of their on-screen conversation was improvised by the actors, which is pretty much the only nonmusical writing in the film. Supposedly, several of Stone’s off-the-cuff witty one-liners were kept, but given to Gosling as dialogue for his character.

Their singing in the film is fine, but the dancing is truly superb. Huge kudos to choreographer Mandy Moore (no relation to the teen singer,

turned actress). I enjoyed everything except for the obnoxious floating-dance moment, that I thought was campy when they did it in Woody Allen’s 1997 film “Everyone says I love You.” The music, written by John Hurwitz, is also pretty darn impressive for the most part. Hurwitz and the film’s writer/director Damien Chazelle came on the Oscar-scene in a big way last year with the film “Whiplash.”

So, is “La La Land” so immensely successful because it is the kind of happy drivel that our country needs right now? Maybe in part, but it is also a lot of fun. And I may have gotten a tad misty when Mia sang “Fools Who Dream” during her final audition. So, I am giving “La La Land” 7 out of my 10 stars. It’s totally worth seeing; just not life-changing.

Meg Hale Brunton reviews movies for Sophie every month. She has a Creative Writing degree from UNCA, loves fresh-made popcorn, and throws an annual Oscar party at her house.

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 35

ENTERTAINMENT

BETTY’S BOOK REVIEW

​I

“The Body At Wrapp’s Mill,” by Celia H. Miles

36 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

The Body At Wrapp’s Mill

cannot tell you how many times I have told myself how lucky I am to read books that I enjoy for part of my living. This month I am especially lucky to have received The Body at Wrapp’s Mill from one of our Sophie readers, Celia H. Miles. Granted when someone sends you her book, it is not always delightful and intriguing. That being said, this book is just that. ​This little mystery is just the right size for a weekend, babysitting the grandkids or waiting at the doctor’s office. I love that it is set right here in Western North Carolina, with accurate descriptions of Asheville, Maggie Valley and the vicinity. Ms. Miles is very respectful of the mountain personalities that populate her mystery, showcasing the good and not so good about our mountain folks. ​The mystery centers around a woman in mid life who decides to say goodbye to a steady job, a cheating husband and a “normal” life to become a mill consultant. Seems crazy, but we actually have several recently rehabbed mills in this area that have been spear headed by women over “30”. Of course she ends up entangled in a mystery that goes back

a whole generation to when the mill was working originally. Of course she narrowly escapes dreadful circumstances; that is what puts the mystery in mystery writing. What makes this a good mystery is that it keeps you guessing and wondering right to the very end. ​I very much look forward to following our heroine in the follow up mystery: The Body at Starshine Mill.

Ms. Miles books are available at Malaprops and other independent bookstores in western North Carolina, at Mountain Made in the Grove Arcade and through Amazon/Kindle.

Betty Sharpless is a professional freelance gardener, writer and quilter, still behind in her winter sewing due to nice weather.

Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 37

MARCH / APRIL Submit your events online: sophiemagazine.com/calendar or send events via email: calendar@sophiemagazine.com

HAVE EVENT? HAVEAN AN EVENT?

Chef de Cuisine Elizabeth is assembling an all female kitchen line-up to present new twists on classic dishes that inspired us to do what we do. Profits will be donated to Planned Parenthood.

MAR SOCON BASKETBALL

CHAMPIONSHIPS The road to the NCAA Final Four starts here in Asheville. Catch some of the nation’s best conference tournament action at the SoCon Men’s & Women’s Basketball Championships presented by General Shale.

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 Thursday, March 16, Table. Make your reservations at tableasheville.com

MAR GROVEWOOD VILLAGE

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 Thursday-Monday, March 2-6, US Cellular Center. For more info, visit soconsports.com

MAR ASHEVILLE MARATHON

11 12

& HALF MARATHON The first race of its kind to come to Biltmore Estate.

Runners will wind through paved roads and packed dirt trails to see hardwood forest, meadows, gardens, and extraordinary views of the Biltmore House & Estate.  Saturday & Sunday, March 11&12, Biltmore. For more ashevillemarathon.com

info,

visit

MAR THE WOMEN WHO

16

TAUGHT US TO COOK Table presents a night honoring the powerful women who have defined the way we cook, the way we approach food, and the way we eat. 6 courses, 6 dynamic stories.Our humble twists. Paired with some of our favorite wines, produced by female winemakers.

MAR

11

5TH ANNUAL CONDOM COUTURE AVL A unique runway fashion show where local WNC designers use condoms to create fashionable, wearable art, promote safe sex, and benefit Planned Parenthood South Atlantic.

An evening full of live entertainment and tasty treats for a good cause!

Photo: Rodney Smith/Tempus Fugit Design

 March 11, 6-10pm, The

Orange Peel. For tickets: condomcoutureavl.org

38 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

SIP & SHOP Enjoy complimentary wine and cookies while shopping a unique collection of American-made art & craft. All gallery merchandise, including outdoor sculpture and studio furniture, will be 10% off.

Shoppers can also take in craft demonstrations by local artists and enjoy lunch at the Golden Fleece restaurant, featuring upscale Mediterranean cuisine.

MAR VINTAGE

17 19

MARKET DAYS An upscale vintageinspired indoor/outdoor market featuring original art, antiques, clothing, jewelry, handmade treasures, home décor, outdoor furnishings, consumable yummies, seasonal plantings and a little more.  Friday-Sunday, March 17-19, WNC Ag Center. For tickets and more info, visit vintagemarketdays.com

MAR

18

 Friday & Saturday, March 17 & 18,

Grovewood Village. For more info, visit grovewood.com

MAR 42ND ANNUAL WNC

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HOME & GARDEN & GREEN LIVING SHOW WNC’s longest running home show will feature products and services for the home and garden as well as dozens of new seminars and workshops with topics ranging from electric vehicles, solar energy, sustainable gardening and everything in between!  Friday-Sunday,

March 17-19, US Cellular Center. For more info, visit homegardenandgreenlivingshow.com

OZ FASHION FANTASY Appalachian Angels of WNC host their 2nd annual Fashion Fantasy Fundraiser: “The Wizard of Oz”! All proceeds will benefit families & organizations in Asheville & surrounding areas.  Saturday, March 18, 8-11pm,

Scarlet’s Country Dance Club. appalachianangels.homestead.com

MAR LITTLE PEARLS ON THE

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RUNWAY Selah Bea, a feminine, classic, clothing line focused on keeping little girls young and encouraging each belle to be the “pearl” that they are, presents a fashion show with beautiful floral runway designs and sweet treats too!  Saturday,

March 18, Engaged Asheville. For tickets and more info, visit eventbrite.com/e/little-pearls-onthe-runway-tickets-31926661504

MAR CAMPAPALOOZA

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Spring camping season gets an early start with a preview of 2017’s best reviewed gear from internationals innovators like The North Face, Patagonia, Mountain Hardwear, and more, as well as local favorites like ENO and Astral. Free hourly workshops on topics from festival camping to choosing the right backpack for a thru hike to getting started to hiking are supplemented by giveaways and the presentation of grants to local environmental nonprofits.  Saturday,

March 18, Diamond Brand Outdoors. For more info, visit diamondbrandoutdoors.com

MAR ELIADA’S ANNUAL

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LUNCH OF A LIFETIME An inspirational gathering for child advocates and an annual fundraiser for Eliada at which, each guest will experience the “why”

and “how” behind empowering children to reach success. Free admission and an adventure and information packed hour, detailing an array of Eliada stories, milestones and successes, all working with the theme of “The Sky is Not the Limit”. All donations benefit the youth of Eliada, now in its 114th year of helping children succeed.

COLOR ME GOODWILL A fashion show with a mission, where six local designers create a collection based on an assigned color, using items sourced from Goodwill stores.

APR

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 April 28, 6-9pm, The Orange Peel. colormegoodwill.org

 Thursday, March 23, Crowne Plaza Expo Center. For more, visit eliada.org

MAR 2017 ASHEVILLE

25

FOOD TRUCK SHOWDOWN Free, fun family friendly event with music, a food truck competition, adult beverages, a rock climbing wall, bounce houses, various vendors & The VIP Tasting Experience which allows foodies to taste samples from the various competing trucks.

literature, and visual arts. Exhibits and presentations by students, faculty, and staff. Local artists and alumni share their talents and expertise. Special performances and presentations by acclaimed artists.

 Saturday, March 25, WNC Agricultural

APR THE LITTLE RED RIDING

Center, Boone Building, 11am7pm. For tickets & more, visit ashevillefoodtruckshowdown.com

MAR 19TH ANNUAL

25 26

ASHEVILLE ORCHID FESTIVAL The WNC Orchid Society hosts this festival bringing beautiful orchid displays, orchids for sale, presentations from internationally-renowned speakers, and much more. Admittance to the main orchid exhibit at the North Carolina Arboretum will be $5 per person – children 12 and under are free.  Saturday

& Sunday, March 25 & 26, NC Arboretum, 9am5pm. For more, visit wncos.org

APR ARTS FEST

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An annual festival celebrating the arts with engaging events across the UNC Asheville campus. including music, dance, theater, digital media,

 Thursday-Saturday, April 6-8, UNCA, 8am-8pm. For more, arts.unca.edu

6 9

HOOD SHOW Take one girl, equipped with a basket of goodies.

Add one Grandmother, sick in bed. Combine with one Wolf, lurking mischievously.

Toss in one skeptical Mother, and let simmer for one hour.

Russell Davis stirs the ingredients of this well-loved tale in new postmodern directions, concocting a sly and spicy story that delights children and adults right down to the last surprising bite, addressing social media as the modern day “wolf in the woods.”

festival goers who purchase a ‘judges ticket.’  Saturday, April 15, REEB Ranch, 1210:30pm. loadedupandtruckin.com

APR SOCIAL GRACES: A JANE

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AUSTEN SOCIAL Over tea and scones, along with beautiful on-screen images, Fashion historian, w e d d i n g folklorist and author Cornelia Powell will take attendees into the behind-thescenes world of film and fashion and those talented costume designers featured in Biltmore’s literary-themed exhibition.

Vintage jewelry pop-up boutique, book signings, special guests, and gifts and door prizes!  Tuesday,

April 18, 9:30am-4pm, Biltmore. For more info & registration, corneliapowellweddings.blogspot.com

 Thursday-Sunday, April 6-9,

Magnetic375, Thursday & Friday: 7pm; Saturday & Sunday:1pm & 4pm. For more, visit ashevillecreativearts.org

APR LOADED UP & TRUCKIN’

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FOOD TRUCK-OFF A party, a festival, and a competition to showcase food truck culture in WNC. The festival brings together over twenty regional food trucks – an impossible collection of the best grub on wheels. In addition to their full menus, each truck will serve a special menu item for

APR MUSIC VIDEO ASHEVILLE

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An annual event, now in it’s 10th year, showcasing collaborations between filmmakers & musicians. Area bands submit their music videos and the best 90 minutes of videos are selected for a viewing and awards ceremony. The red carpet event is a celebration of the creative, unique and diverse music community we have here in the heart of WNC.  Wednesday, April 19, 5-11pm, Diana Wortham Theatre. musicvideoavl.com Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017 | 39

APR 20TH ANNUAL

22

GREENING UP THE MOUNTAINS FESTIVAL More than 220 vendors featuring arts, crafts, demos, schools, businesses, community, environmental, health, safety, children’s activities & more. Many tasty food options and regional musical acts performing on two stages.  Saturday, April 22, 10am - 4pm, Downtown Sylva. For more info, visit greeningupthemountains.com

APR DINING OUT FOR LIFE®

27

Asheville joins 55 other cities across the country for this national benefit. All money raised through Dining Out For Life® will help WNCAP continue its mission of providing prevention education and outreach for men, women and youth at risk for HIV/ AIDS, as well as support services for hundreds of WNCAP clients already infected with HIV.  Thursday, April 27. For more info, visit wncap.org

Penland School of Crafts, and the Toe River Arts Council. See new work by blacksmith artists, attend demonstrations and workshops, shop vendor booths, try blacksmithing yourself with the help of an expert.

ONGOING EVENTS

 Saturday, April 29, 10am - 4pm,

Downtown Spruce Pine. For more info, visit downtownsprucepine.com

APR WEAVERVILLE ART

BILTMORE BLOOMS March 20- May 25

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SAFARI A self guided free event where studios open their doors for an exclusive look at the artistic process, featuring artists who specialize in handmade pottery, glass, photography, sculpture, jewelry, furniture, painting, drawing, fiber art, wood art and more. The nature of the event allows guests to explore the artist community at their own pace. Preview Party 6-8pm Friday.  Saturday & Sunday, April 29 & 30, 10am

- 5pm, Weaverville area. For more info, visit greeningupthemountains.com

APR SPRING PLANT SALE

ASHEVILLE AMADEUS FESTIVAL

March 11-19 This spring marks the return of the acclaimed 10-day festival inspired by the music and life of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The incomparable Midori joins as headliner and artistin-residence for performances, education programs, social events, and collaborations. There will be something for everyone—from beer to theatre to music.  Various events & locations. For tickets & more info visit ashevillesymphony.org

Annual sale featuring a wide variety of native and non-native perennials, annuals, herbs, vegetable starts, and small trees and shrubs. Proceeds from the sale benefit the educational programs at Bullington Gardens.

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 Friday & Saturday, April 28 & 29,

9am - 5pm. Bullington Gardens, Hendersonville. For more info, 828698-6104 or bullingtongardens.org

APR PADDLEFEST

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APR

Iron Shoes by Elizabeth Brim

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FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN An annual celebration of the art of the blacksmith, held in downtown Spruce Pine. The event is a partnership between Spruce Pine Main Street, 40 | Sophie MARCH / APRIL 2017

WNC’s well known for some of the best whitewater kayaking on the east coast, but Stand Up Paddleboarding and kayak fishing have grown into sizable sports of their own over the past few years. Try out the latest models in all three categories on the still waters of Lake Julian and chat with industry experts about paddles, boating accessories, and the best spots in the region to get on the water this year.  Sunday, April 30, 10am - 2pm, Lake Julian Park. For more info, diamondbrandoutdoors.com

visit

SOUVENIR: A FANTASIA ON THE LIFE OF FLORENCE FOSTER JENKINS

March 15 - April 2; Wed- Sat: 7:30pm; Sun: 2:00 pm; select Sat matinees Florence Foster Jenkins, an eccentric socialite, lives under the delusion that she is an enchanting coloratura soprano when she is actually incapable of holding pitch. After teaming up with a pianist, she begins to hold recitals that spark a cultish following of faux fans around New York in the 1930s and 40s. Based on a true story, this beautiful comedy pierces the heart of the hopeful artist that lives in all of us.  North Carolina Stage Company. $1640. ncstage.org

A celebration takes place each spring at Biltmore when the estate shakes off winter and eases into blooming season. Springtime is show-off time for the members of Biltmore’s talented horticulture team who spend their days nurturing thousands of tulips, delicate azaleas, rhododendrons, and roses in the historic Rose Garden. Calling all garden lovers, gardeners, and green-thumb wannabes!  Biltmore. Access included with regular Biltmore admission. For tickets and more info, biltmore.com

LISTEN TO THIS

March 30 & April 27; 7:30pm Local actor/comedian Tom Chalmers invites you to take part in what is quickly becoming one of Asheville’s most popular series, Listen to This. A storytelling format in the vein of “This American Life,” An evening of stories and songs from some of Asheville’s most interesting writers, performers, and citizens. Each installment features a central theme Real people. Real stories. Real good times.  35 below. For tickets & more info, visit ashevilletheatre.org

THIS IS OUR YOUTH

March 31 - April 16 Produced by The Actor’s Center of Asheville. Penned by Pulitzer prize nominated playwright Kenneth Lonergan, This is Our Youth follows forty-eight hours of three very lost young souls living on Manhattan’s Upper West Side at the dawn of the Reagan era. Funny, painful, and compassionate, the play provides a living snapshot of the moment between adolescence and adulthood.  35 below. For tickets & more info, visit ashevilletheatre.org

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS WOMEN’S FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT CLASSES The Financial Empowerment Center at OnTrack WNC offers a full range of financial counseling & education services with a women-centered approach, responding to unique needs & perspectives, to help you reach your financial goals.  OnTrack WNC Offices, 50 French

Broad Ave. Most classes are free, preregistration required. Call 828-2555166 to register. ontrackwnc.org

HANDS ON! A CHILDREN’S GALLERY

Hands On! offers an affordable, educational and fun way to spend the day with your children, grandchildren, and students ages 1 – 10. This is a safe gathering place where kids can be kids while learning is nurtured.  Hands On!, 318 N Main St, Hendersonville. For complete class listings visit handsonwnc.org

WILD ABUNDANCE CLASSES

A variety of classes offered March

through November including: Essentials of Homesteading and Permaculture, Ancestral Foods Cooking Classes, Women’s Basic Carpentry Class & more!  F or complete class

listings and more information visit wildabundance.net or call 828-775-7052

WINE CLASSES WITH ANDY HALE March 01 - July 01

Andy Hale, Education Director for The Asheville School of Wine @ MetroWines, will conduct a series of six wine classes, the second Thursday of every month between February and July, offering what you need to know about the wines in over 10 countries through presentation and tasting! The cost for each class is $20 plus tax or $100 plus tax for the entire series.  Metro Wines, 169 Charlotte St. To purchase tickets call 828-575-9525 or visit metrowinesasheville.com

ARTIST BUSINESS BRAINSTORM: HOW TO GROW AND THRIVE YOUR SMALL CREATIVE BUSINESS

March 9 @ 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm Have questions on how to start your own creative business?

Or how to grow and make your current business thrive? Then come ask the expert!

Victor Palomino, program associate with the Western Women’s Business Center, a program of Carolina Small Business Development Fund, is partnering with the AAAC to offer his small business expertise to our members. This is your chance to ask any and all questions on how to work smart and not harder as a creative entrepreneur.  A sheville Area Arts Council, 207 Coxe Ave. For more info, visit ashevillearts. com

THE VILLAGE POTTER A range of classes for adults designed to welcome the beginner, welcome back the prodigal potter, guide a new enthusiast to the next steps and offer mentorship for those wanting to explore their skills and learn from a generous community of artists.  The Village Potter, 191 Lyman Street,

#180. For current class offerings and to register call 828-253-2424 or visit thevillagepotters.com

DANCE + TRANSFORM CLASSES

Christine Garvin features a variety of dance classes at The Colourfield in downtown Asheville. Sign up for classes in Contemporary Hip Hop Flow, Jazzy Cabaret, Belly Balance among others, or undertake her special Metamorphosis Program.  The Colourfield, 54 Ravenscroft Dr. For complete class listings and more information visit christinegarvin.com

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS ONLINE: sophiemagazine.com/calendar OR VIA EMAIL: calendar@sophiemagazine.com

A UNIQUE RUNWAY FASHION SHOW Local designers use condoms to create fashionable, wearable art, promote safe sex, and benefit Planned Parenthood South Atlantic.

SATURDAY, MARCH 11 AT THE ORANGE PEEL DOORS OPEN AT 6:30PM TICKETS $20 / Fashion show seating $50 Tickets available at condomcoutureavl.org/tickets

Photograph by Scott Duncan

Photograph by Rodney Smith

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COMMUNITY

Sophie

Belle Mia Laser and Skincare Center is proud to announce the addition of HOLLIE HARRIS. She is a Certified Nurse Injector and Licensed Aesthetician. Hollie brings over 17 years of aesthetic experience and expertise to the practice.

Carolina Mountain Sales, A Wilkinson ERA company, is proud to announce the addition of The SHANA BROOKSHIRE and LISA ANDRES Team, to their award-winning company of top-producing real estate sales professionals serving consumers in the Western North Carolina area.

Park Ridge Health Obstetrics & Gynecology is excited to welcome CHERIE LEDFORD, A.N.P.-C. Cherie is a certified Adult Nurse Practitioner who considers it an honor to be able to care for people of Western North Carolina where she was raised.

Westmoreland & Scully welcomes KIM MURRAY as Director of Employee Engagement! Kim is a passionate contributor to Asheville’s thriving independent restaurant community.

Westmoreland & Scully is the name that encompasses three distinct food service operations: Corner Kitchen, Chestnut and Corner Kitchen Catering.

North Carolina author KRISTY WOODSON HARVEY releases her upcoming novel, Slightly South of Simple (Gallery/Simon & Schuster, April 2017) in the forthcoming Peachtree Bluff Series.

Park Ridge Health Obstetrics & Gynecology is excited to welcome board-certified Nurse Midwife, DEBORAH WRIGHT, C.N.M., A.R.N.P., M.S.N.

Send your accomplishments, achievements, recognitions, or business news to writer@sophiemagazine.com and we will publish you on this page!

Include your full color photograph, saved as high quality JPEG at 300 dpi. Please limit the number of words to 35. Sophie reserves the right to edit content.

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The Asheville office of Teague, Campbell, Dennis & Gorham, LLP is pleased to announce that MINDY C. WUDARSKY and JOHN L. KUBIS, JR. have been selected to the 2017 North Carolina Rising Stars list. Each year, no more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor.

Exit Realty Vistas is proud to announce that MARIE REED is the Top Lister, Top Sales Agent, and the Top Producer for the month of January.

It’s a fashion show with a mission, where six local designers will create a collection based on an assigned color, using items sourced from our Goodwill stores.

Friday, April 28, 2017

at The Orange Peel 6 p.m. cocktail reception • 7 p.m. show $15 Tickets: theorangepeel.net/events/color-me-goodwill/ Photographer: Dathan Brannon | Creative Directors: Cindy Cash, Sarah Merrell Hair: Zhenya Lazarchuk | Makeup: Vanessa Sogan Models: Daisy Lane, Makenzy Mull, Credella Credle

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CONCERNING OUR COMMUNITY Eliada Supporters Plan “April Showers” For Children This year, Eliada is premiering a new way to collect needed items for our kids. In April, supporters will host “April Showers.” Each shower is a theme party geared towards fulfilling a particular need. One theme, “Pillow Fight,” will help Eliada collect new pillows and pillow cases for kids entering care. Another theme called “Building Blocks” will help Eliada collect educational toys for children 0-3 years old.

If you are interested in hosting an April Shower, or attending one, please contact Julie Heinitsh at (828) 254-5356 ext. 308 or jheinitsh@eliada.org.

Professional Development Grants for Artists The Asheville Area Arts Council (AAAC) is proud to announce the 2017 Professional Development Grant for Artists. These resources will be granted to individuals to attend professional development courses to aid them in reaching their business goals. This new grant program is offered to Buncombe County artists to attend area organization’s programming that expands their knowledge of sound business practices. Applications will be accepted until May 15 for courses happening between January 1 and June 1, 2017. No extensions will be approved for applications submitted after 5 p.m. on May 15 and/ or classes ending after June 1.

This grant program will provide access for artists that are committed to learning new business skills, and also inform AAAC and educational providers to help us better serve Buncombe County’s creative sector.

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EXAMPLES OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS Mountain BizWork: 6 week Foundations Business Planning Class AB-Tech: Continuing Education courses Small Business Center: Advanced Business Skills for Artists Carolina Small Business Fund: Create Your Best Year Yet and QuickBooks for Small Businesses This grant is managed by the Asheville Area Arts Council with the support of the City of Asheville. To learn more about the Professional Development Grants for Artists visit ashevillearts. com. If you have any questions, please contact Janelle Wienke, AAAC Grants Manager, by phone at (828) 258-0710 or email at janelle@ashevillearts.com.

Hands On! & Hendersonville Community Co-op Celebrate 9 Years of Partnering It has taken the support of many community organizations to sustain the non-profit children’s museum on Main Street that opened in September 2007.

The Hendersonville Community Co-op is one of these supporting partners, and has been for eight years now.

Heather Boeke, Executive Director of Hands On!, has worked with the Coop over the years and says: “Our partnership with The Co-op began in 2008 with the Co-op’s monthly BYO-bag program, where customers bring their own

COMMUNITY canvas or cloth bags when shopping and receive a 10-cent token to donate to charity.

Hands On! was one of the two charities picked for the first quarter of 2008. Our discussions with the Co-op continued as we worked to create a Hands On! Co-op as an exhibit in the facility.

While our visitors are invited to shop or work at our “mini co-op”, we are teaching valuable lessons about healthy choices, nutrition, buying locally grown foods & finances. We are thrilled to continue our partnership with the Co-op and work with them each year to see how best we can help each other meet our goals.”

Gretchen Schott-Cummins, Community Outreach Coordinator at the Co-op, says “Cooperation and good food is what we do at the Co-op. The partnership with Hands On! naturally aligns with our guiding principles- especially our commitment to sustainable communities and healthy lifestyles.” says Gretchen. You can learn more at hendersonville.coop.

Hands On! is a children’s museum with the mission to provide “hands on” educational experiences that stimulate the imagination and motivate learning in a fun, safe environment. They accomplish this mission teaching interactive programs and classes in schools, at community events and in their facility located at 318 N. Main Street in Hendersonville. For further information, visit their website at handsonwnc.org or call 697-8333.

Muddy Sneakers Launches Major NC Expansion Classes of fifth graders in the Piedmont and WNC will do something they haven’t done before. They’ll spend an entire instructional day outside, learning the state science curriculum through hands-on lessons taught by trained naturalists. Together with their teachers, students will travel to nearby protected lands for a new kind of learning experience. They’re part of the first major expansion of the Muddy Sneakers program, which partners with public schools and local land agencies to bring science education to life.

Muddy Sneakers was born in 2007 in Brevard, North Carolina. From a pilot project with two Transylvania County schools, the program has grown to serve 25 schools in Western North Carolina and three more in upstate South Carolina. This year, a generous appropriation from the state has expanded the program to the Piedmont. From a newly opened field office in Salisbury, Muddy Sneakers will serve nearly 1,100 new students from five schools districts.

As part of the same expansion effort, the Piedmont students will be joined by an additional 300 students in the Western part of the state marking one of the largest single-year expansions in the history of the organization’s home region. All told, the expansion will see Muddy Sneakers programming grow from 1,300 to 2,900 students. With each student participating multiple days, total instructional days is expected to surpass 17,500 for the year.

For more information, visit muddysneakers.org.

REAL MEN READ SOPHIE Ben Smith Bouser

• Has lived in the area for 17 years. Originally from the Piedmont of North Carolina.

• Multi-Media Account Executive at Hendersonville Times-News.

• Favorite activities: Enjoying good food with girlfriend Erin, playing drums, traveling, live music and reading.

• Favorite WNC outdoor activities: Canoeing, disc golf, hiking and fishing.

• Favorite foods: Sushi and Thai.

• Favorite sports teams: UNC Tar Heels and Carolina Panthers.

We know that men read Sophie!

Send a photo of your man reading Sophie to writer@sophiemagazine.com, and you may see your photo published in the magazine!

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