Sophie March 2015

March 2015

Welcome Spring!

Crafty Ideas

Unique & Sophisticated

Styling

Coach Brenda Mock Kirkpatrick Goes Pink!

2 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 3

March 2015

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

smart • sophisticated • savvy

Feature

Publisher

22 UNC Asheville’s

Vincent Grassia

Pink Game

Assistant General Manager

Patricia Martin Betts

Basketball + Fashion

= A Winning Combination.

Managing Editor

JeanAnn Taylor

Beauty & Fashion 12 A Spring Green Makeover

Creative Editor

Debi Manfre

Jacqui Perry gives Maria Treskas a fresh spring look.

14

Styled For Spring

18

Spring Color Watch

Production Manager

Lisa Gallagher

Chic and classy looks for spring.

Creative Services Specialist

Adalee Elkins

Nothing says spring like Lucite Green!

Healthy Living 31 Healthy Life

Contributor

Carrie Harder Proofing Diva

JeanAnn Taylor and Dianne Rose collaborate to bring important information on those important yet stubborn fat cells.

Karen Shepard Advertising Consultants

Home & Garden 20 Crafty Girl

30

Table Manners

24

All About

32

Garden Bloomers

26

Sun and Soil

In Every Issue 8 Quick Tips

Debi Manfre and JeanAnn Taylor share several crafts to make your springtime special.

Paul Kline makes countertop selection a breeze with this helpful information.

Kristina Urquhart helps us understand why frogs are so important to our very existence.

28

Let’s Get Cooking

Debi Manfre shares delicious and nutritious asparagus recipes for your spring feasts.

Share your ideas and inspirations.

Email writer@sophiemagazine.com with recipes, books, article ideas and calendar listings. Follow Sophie on Facebook and Pinterest.

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sophiemagazine.com Sophie-Magazine sophiemagavl 4 | Sophie MARCH 2015

JeanAnn Taylor explains how proper manners from the past connect with our present.

Betty Sharpless grows stunning orchids and shares how you can as well.

Find a four-leaf clover and brighten your smile with this months Quick Tips!

10

Sophie Celebrates You!

25

Real Men Read Sophie

36

Girls On The Run

40

Betty’s Book Review

Sophie celebrates men and women in Western North Carolina.

Bob Jones and a cute pup read Sophie!

Spotlight on SoleMate Dave Brodie etty Sharpless gives a review on “The Garden of B Burning Sand.”

Jody Gantt Meg Hale Brunton Rick Jenkins Maggie Leftwich Rose Lunsford Roberta Llyod Pamela Hart Distribution Manager

Mark Graham Sophie On-line Development

Dan Jaworsky SOPHIE MAGAZINE 22 Garfield Street, Suite 100 Asheville, NC 28803 828.210.0340 sophiemagazine.com 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.

Kirsten Fuchs photography 828.216.9141 kirstenfuchs.com

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 5

From the Editor

O

ur weather is a fickle friend. When this photo was taken, it was a balmy 50 degrees. Three days later when I sat down to write this editorial, the temperature had fallen over 30 degrees!

I’m thinking spring, but I’m feeling winter. It’s hard to believe that in just a few weeks, this very winter-y weather will be over. The sun will come out, the snow will melt, the flowers will bloom, and I’ll wake up every morning to the sound of birds singing.

I imagine that on the first warm days of March, it’s going to be difficult for me to stay inside and work, when I’d rather go outside and play. I’m looking forward to digging out my hiking boots and taking long walks on the many trails we have nearby.

Spring fashion trends are pointing to lots of sheer lace, florals, and ginghams. These feminine fabrics always come out in spring, but this year they have an even more romantic edge. The denim dress is also making a statement. It’s versatile enough to dress up for evening or dress down for a barbecue dinner with friends. Our fashion editorial on page 14 highlights the timeless shades of black and white – another spring staple.

Debi Manfre is ready to decorate for spring with her adorable wreath made from balloons and embroidery floss, while I’m crocheting flowers and making calico bunnies. See our Crafty Girl feature on page 20. Paul Kline makes sense out of the vast selection of countertops (page 24), while Kristina Urquhart shares why frogs are so important to our livelihood, (page 26). Betty Sharpless’ green thumb grows enchanting orchids (page 32) and Dianne Rose helps us understand how fat cells work in our bodies (page 31). Debi also has delicious asparagus recipes starting on page 28.

All this and more in the March issue! So, while the weather is still frosty, curl up with Sophie. When spring comes along, we’ll be refreshed and ready to take on whatever comes next.

JeanAnn Taylor editor@sophiemagazine.com

We’re confident, strong, and we like who we are. We’re smart and sophisticated. We’re savvy. We have panache. We’re not afraid to take risks. We’re edgy and we’re real. We know what we want, and we’re willing to work to make our dreams come true.

Reflections of the Month LAURA SMITH, Buncombe Co. social worker

I wouldn’t say that I have a lucky charm, because I don’t believe in luck. I do keep some items as daily reminders though. I have a Weight Watchers pendant that reminds me to keep on track. And I have a cross and medal I got when I was baptized to help me remember that, even though I don’t always have the answers, there is a reason for things.

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LISA RAMSEY, owner of Reliks Antiques

When asked when in her life did she feel lucky- she said when she finally realized how lucky she was to be born to the mother she was, and to be living in the place where God meant for me to be planted.

KRISTINA URQUHART

In our first house, my husband and I found a four leaf clover. We kept looking and ended up finding dozens of them. We couldn’t decide if we were lucky or just good hunters.

JACQUI PERRY

St. Patty’s day is so fun and festive and YES I do wear green!!! I have a very special good luck charm. It is a tiny heart shaped ring with a diamond that my mom gave me when I was 12 years old. I still wear it to this day and rarely take it off!

PAUL KLINE

A few years ago, I entered several different contests. For a whole year, I won every single one of them! I won a radio, lawn chairs, a cooler, tickets to a concert, beer, a circular saw, a jacket, and more. It was fun!

BETTY SHARPLESS

As a geeky red headed girl who was NOT Irish, no I do not pinch people who do not wear green. But I do feel lucky at the end of each and every day and send a thank you out to the universe. (And I love the song “I feel Lucky” by Mary Chapin Carpenter)

DUNCAN CHABOUDY

I celebrate St. Patrick’s Day like many other Holidays... by cooking!

LINDA WHITE

Yes, I will wear green on St Patrick’s Day...and if you don’t I might pinch you (I said might!).

March comes with many blessings, 1st day of Spring, colorful flowers, my birthday...love chocolate LOL. Happy March!

DIANNE ROSE

I don’t have a good luck charm, Never found a four leaf clover, but I’ve looked. However there is a lovely Irish poem that I’ve heard and have loved on occasion, something about the wind always being at your back.

AMY RENIGAR

I was in 4th grade when I felt the “luckiest.”

I dressed as a witch and won a costume contest at a local Halloween festival. Not only did I win a new bicycle, but my picture was in the local paper! My face was painted green, so maybe it was the makeup that made me so lucky that night!

DEBI MANFRE

Even though it’s not a traditional meal served on St. Patrick’s Day, I celebrate by cooking corned beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots.

KIRSTEN FUCHS

My mamaw had a bible filled with four leaf clovers! I never asked her about them, but I would always look in her yard for more. To this day, I have never found one.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 7

Quick Tips

6 Tips To A Good Night’s Sleep When you finally get into bed at night, do you find yourself staring up at the ceiling unable to shut your brain off?This is due to the go-go-go schedule women are on daily. Falling asleep at night is the hardest thing some women do all day. Here are 6 tips to help you get a better night’s sleep.

1. Breathe deeply. This technique helps reduce your heart rate and blood pressure, releases endorphins, and relaxes your body, priming you for sleep. Inhale for 5 seconds, pause for 3, then exhale to a count of 5. Start with 8 repetitions; gradually increase to 15.

2. A before-bed routine can also help you chill. Try a hot shower with a favorite, scented body wash; some evidence suggests that when your body temperature is elevated that way and begins dropping, it has a calming effect that can help you sleep more soundly.

3. Put on a pair of socks before you hop in bed. According to that Swedish study, the blood vessels in the feet naturally dilate as the body begins to relax, and warming your feet facilitates the process.

4. Cut caffeine after 2 p.m. That means coffee, tea, and cola. Caffeine is a stimulant that stays in your system for about 8 hours, so if you have a cappuccino after dinner, come bedtime, it’ll either prevent your brain from entering deep sleep or stop you from falling asleep altogether.

5. Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends, holidays and days off. Being consistent reinforces your body’s sleep-wake cycle and helps promote better sleep at night.

6. Exercise, but not within 4 hours of bedtime. Regular physical activity can promote better sleep, helping you to fall asleep faster and to enjoy deeper sleep.

Don’t Neglect Your Neck!

An important anti-aging rule to remember: You skin doesn’t stop at your jawline.

When you apply any serum, lotion, or sunscreen to your face continue down to your décolletage.

Add a neck cream with peptides to your nightly routine – it will boost collagen and firm skin.

8 | Sophie MARCH 2015

How To Whiten Teeth With Hydrogen Peroxide

For a cheaper and natural solution for whitening teeth at home use hydrogen peroxide. Bleaching teeth with a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution is acknowledged as a safe practice by the American Dental Association.

1. Brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste.

2. Rinse with a diluted solution of hydrogen peroxide (1/2 water and 1/2 hydrogen peroxide) for 30-60 seconds. When the hydrogen peroxide comes in contact with your mouth, a chemical reaction will take place and it will begin to foam. Start by swishing with a small amount so you don’t end up foaming at the mouth.

3. Spit out the rinse, DO NOT swallow hydrogen peroxide.

4. Don’t eat or drink for 30 minutes.

Lucky Four-Leaf Clover

Marble Effect Colored Easter Eggs

Here are directions to create a marble effect on eggs. It’s an easy way to give your eggs more pizzazz this Easter.

Directions: 1. In different containers, combine one tablespoon of each of the following: oil, vinegar, and your choice of food coloring.

2. Add enough water to make the liquid deep enough to cover an egg.

3. Swirl the liquid with a spoon, and quickly lower and raise an egg into it.

4. Pat dry with a paper towel, and repeat with a second color.

5. Swirl into a third color, if desired. Some white areas can be left on the egg.

6. Gently pat dry the completed egg, leaving a bit of the oil to give the egg a varnished look.

The four-leaf clover is an uncommon variation of the common, threeleaved clover. According to tradition, such leaves bring good luck to their finders, especially if found accidentally. In addition, each leaf is believed to represent something: the first is for faith, the second is for hope, the third is for love, and the fourth is for luck.

It has been estimated that there are approximately 10,000 three-leaf clovers for every four-leaf clover; even so, this probability has not deterred collectors who have reached records as high as 160,000 four-leaf clovers.

Clovers can have more than four leaves: The most leaves ever found on a single clover stem is 56 and was discovered by Shigeo Obara of Hanamaki City, Iwate, Japan, on 10 May 2009. Five-leaf clovers are less commonly found naturally than four-leaf clovers; however, they, too, have been successfully cultivated. Some four-leaf clover collectors, particularly in Ireland, regard the five-leaf clover, known as a rose clover, as a particular prize.

To find a four-leaf clover, one should look in a patch of white clover or red clover to find genuine mutant clovers.

Source: wikipedia.org

Beer-Braised Corned Beef & Cabbage

We’re never too short on time when we have a slow cooker to turn to in our kitchen. This version of corned beef and cabbage literally cooks itself.

Ingredients: Serves 6 • 2 1/2 - 3 lbs. flat corned beef brisket (with spice packet*), trimmed of excess fat • 2 1/2 lbs. baby potatoes or large potatoes, halved • 1 medium onion cut into wedges • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces • 3 large garlic cloves, chopped • 1 medium sized head of cabbage, cut into wedges • 1 bottle (12 oz.) lager or pilsner beer (non alcoholic is fine) • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 2 tablespoons butter Directions: • Place carrots, potatoes, onions, and chopped garlic in the bottom of a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.

• Place corned beef on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle the meat with the seasonings from the spice packet.

• Add beer and enough water to just cover corned beef.

• Cover and cook on HIGH for 4 1/2 hours or LOW for 7 hours.

• Uncover and add cabbage to slow cooker. If cooking on LOW, increase temperature to HIGH. Re-cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours.

• To serve, lift cabbage wedges carefully from slow cooker and place on a serving platter. Sprinkle with 1/2 of the chopped parsley.

• With a large fork remove corned beef and place on a cutting board.

• Remove potatoes and carrots with a slotted spoon. Place in a serving bowl and toss with butter and the rest of the chopped parsley.

• Slice the corned beef against the grain into 1/4-inch-thick slices and place on the serving platter alongside the cabbage. Serve with a hearty brown mustard. *If your corned beef doesn’t have its own seasoning packet, place 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, 6 whole cloves and 1 dried bay leaf on a piece of cheesecloth and tie with string. Add the packet to the slow cooker.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 9

Sophie Celebrates You!

Send your accomplishments, achievements, recognitions, and business news to writer@sophiemagazine.com. 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.

Marlee Colligan, P.A.-C., joins Park Ridge Health South Asheville, a brand new medical campus focused on primary and specialty care for the whole family.

P ame l a St over, D. P. M . , ha s r ecently joined the compr ehensive team of physicians and caregivers at Park Ridge Health Wound Care.

Bea Mattice, of Exit Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Lister for the month of January.

Kadee Beasley, was named the Distinguished Young Woman of North Carolina during a statewide scholarship program for high school girls held in Greensboro, NC.

Dr. Shannon Hunter, will be joining Dr. Michael Stalford, Dr. Michael Neuenschwander and Dr. Rodney Hawk at Park Ridge Ear, Nose and Throat.

Matt Paoletti, is Buncombe Special Olympics 1st State Athlete of the Month. Matt is a student at AB Tech Community College a nd volunte e r s his time at Goodwill, the Salavation Army and Asheville Therapeutic Recreation.

Glenn Gottfried, of Exit Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Seller for the month of January.

Jane Rapp, of Exit Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Producer for the month of January.

10 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Stephanie Moore, Director for Craft, Creativity & Design, has become an OM Care awardee. The award was given to Stephanie by OM Sanctuary, a non prof it organization whose mission is to inspire healthy lifestyle practices through holistic education and connection with nature.

Laura Collins, BSN, RN-BC, SANE, RN III, has been recently honored by Pardee Hospital for receiving the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Laura is a clinical coordinator and staff nurse in the Emergency De pa r t me nt Ps ychiat r ic Transitional Unit at Pardee Hospital.

Betty Anne Mincey, MD, has recently joined the team at Angel Primary Care of Mission Health. Dr. Mincey had previously served as a hospitalist for Community Hospice of Northeast Florida’s inpatient facilities in Jacksonville, Florida.

Beth Cassidy, M.S.N., R.N.C.O.B., C.N.M.L., F.A.C.C.E., Director of The Baby Place at Park Ridge Health, has been selected as a member of the Steering Committee for the American Nurses Association Professional Issues Panel on Wor kplace Violence and Incivility.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 11

A Spring Green Makeover Written and Coordinated by Jacqui Perry | Photography by Kirsten Fuchs

Do you ever think about what different colors mean? I thought it would be interesting for our March makeover to look up what the color green means. There were many explanations but I loved the one that stated green offers a sense of renewal, hope, adventure, harmony and beauty. With spring arriving this month, that definition certainly describes our multifaceted makeover model, Maria Treskas. She is all those things and more!

Jacqui: You wear a beautiful gold coin ring. Tell me about what it means to you.

Maria: My aunt gave me a Queen Elizabeth gold coin ring. Strong women inspire me and Queen Elizabeth and my aunt have done just that. The ring helps me to remember to reach for my dreams. Women need to be strong and empower each other.

Before

Jacqui: What do you love most about working for Belk?

Maria: First of all it is a wonderful company to work for. I also enjoy talking to the diverse population of Ashevillians and tourists. I was born in Greece so I enjoy different cultures. The world would be boring if everyone was the same.

Jacqui: You have a lot going on as a mother of two and also going to school.

What are you studying?

Maria: Clinical Coding and will be a certified Coding Associate from AHIMA in August.

Jacqui: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?

Maria: I volunteer at Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and teach kindergarten Sunday school. I also enjoying doing yoga as it is good for me and strengthens my core muscles. I will admit that I do have an indulgence for Rum Raisin ice cream!!!

Jacqui: What motto do you live by?

Maria: Every day is a new day! You get the chance to start fresh every morning.

Life is a gift and I am thankful. I would also like to say that “no other country is like this great nation we live in. It gives you the opportunity to reinvent yourself again and again!�

And this lovely lady is not only reinventing her life but she has also reinvented her look. You look amazing Maria!

Clothes and accessories: Belk, Asheville Mall Salon Manager: Linda White for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Hair: Brittanny Craig for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Makeup: Ann Cockrell for Chanel at Belk Photographer: Kirsten Fuchs

Maria after 12 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Interested in a makeover? Send your photo and 75 words of why you need a makeover to info@luminousyouinc.com.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 13

Styled For Spring Timeless shades of black and white paired with pops of color. Simply build on your basics. Looks are in keeping with the “Sophie woman”Smart, Sophisticated, Savvy. Clean looks that are comfortable & classy!

Black Perfect Form Jacket $140 Floral Fracture Shell $94 Red Soft Drape Ankle Pant $78 Black/White/Tan Sling Back Heel $130 Red Square Stud Earring $25 Red Charmy Necklace $60 Red Rivoli Snap Bracelet $50 14 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Black /Tan Stripe Blouse $98 Black Drapey Jogger Pant $78 Black Heel with Bow $135 Black Patent Bow Belt $44 Circle Hoop Convertible Earring $40 Silver /Black Stretch Bracelet $45

Long Sleeve Red Tech Jacket $150 Black/White Jacquard Shell $68 Black Skinny Jegging $68 Red Heel $130 Red Cross Body Bag $78 Jet Crystal Hoop Earring $28 Black Piano Keys Necklace $60

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 15

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Duncan Chaboudy duncanchaboudy.com 828.275.4774

ALL CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BY:

White House Black Market in Biltmore Village 3 Kitchin Place Asheville, NC 28803 828.277.3317

HAIR & MAKEUP BY:

Jessica Dodd

Asheville Mall • 828.296.9463 MODEL:

Helen Young FASHION COORDINATOR:

Angela Ramsey

ASSISTANT FASHION STYLIST:

Allyson Sharpe and Rachel Fogg

Tan Patch Pocket Popover Blouse $110 Essential Boot Cut Jean $78 Mixed Metal Stone Stretch Belt $34.99 Neutral Linear Earring $30 Charmy Short Neutral Necklace $65 16 | Sophie MARCH 2015

On the cover, Helen is wearing: 3Q Cascade Leather Jacket $299.99 Ballad Sleeveless Top $58 Navy Ponte Flirty Skirt $39.99 Navy Heel $130 Silver Crystal Mini Hoop Earring $30 Grey Bead Stretch Bracelet $48

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 17

Spring Color Watch - Lucite Green It is no surprise that this jadeite minty green is going to be one of the strong colors this spring. Lucite Green makes us think of vintage dental cabinets, lime sherbet punch, and 1950s advertisements.

A.

B.

D. E.

C.

Image credit cdn.decorpad.com

F.

G. H.

I.

Image credit moderndecorhom.me

18 | Sophie MARCH 2015

A. Honeycomb glass pendant urbanoutfitters.com B. Light green ladies clutch bag pakrobe.com C. See and be seen green and lucite pumps lulus.com D. Foral fantasy woven scarf forever21.com E. ASOS midi skater dress asos.com F. Interior paints sherwin-williams.com G. Rolling rustic bookshelf houzz.com H. Coral and mint beaded boho necklace urbanpeachboutique.com I. Elka dinnerware anthropologie.com

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 19

Crafty Girl

Hop Into Spring!

Get ready for spring with these cheerful and colorful crafts!

Calico Bunny Created by JeanAnn Taylor

For instructions on how to make this adorable bunny visit sophiemagazine.com

Crocheted Basket & Flowers Created by JeanAnn Taylor

For the crochet basket, I suggest going to ravelry.com to find a pattern. There are several free patterns to choose from at different skill levels. I attached an assortment of crochet flowers to my basket, but the Rolled Rose is the easiest flower pattern I’ve ever found.

Directions for Rolled Rose: • Chain 21, leaving a 12 inch tail • Row 1 - 2 SC in 2nd chain from hook and all the way across. CH 3. Turn. (40 SC) • Row 2 - DC in 1st stitch. 2 DC in each stitch across. (80 DC including beginning CH 3) • Fasten off, leaving a 12 inch tail.

• Curl work.Thread needle with yarn tail and weave ends creating flower shape.

20 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Eye

Tail

Leave open

Easter Egg Wreath Created by Debi Manfre

I’ve been seeing these embroidery floss eggs everywhere lately. They are usually in a bowl or strung into a garland. While browsing on Pinterest, I saw a wreath using the floss eggs. I loved it and decided to make one It was easy to make and looks great hanging on my front door.

For instructions for this wreath and one made of plastic Easter eggs visit sophiemagazine.com

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 21

Pink Game Photographs by Tommy Moss

UNC Asheville Athletics hosted their Annual Pink Game: Women’s Expo and Fashion Show on Saturday, February 7th.

The event, which is sponsored by Belk in the Asheville Mall and Sophie Magazine, featured a ladies expo with businesses such as Suraj Spa and Miche Bags where women could shop and learn about opportunities in the community. The event, which raised money for the fight against Breast Cancer, concluded with a runway fashion show featuring the UNC Asheville Student Athletes.

Sophie ladies Debi Manfre, JeanAnn Taylor and Rebecca Roberts support the Bulldogs.

Taylor Tramel strikes a pose.

Marissa Craver walks the runway in style.

22 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Riley Cook looking pretty in a lilac swing dress.

Coach Peterson takes on the roll of auctioneer.

Joey Cutting taking a selfie while sporting his orange plaid sportscoat.

These two cuties stole the show!

Go Bulldogs!

Maya Newlin ready to walk the Pink runway.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 23

All About

COUNTERTOPS Written by Paul Kline

most expensive choices, it has a natural beauty and prestige factor that man made materials do not. As it is a natural material, the price will vary greatly in appearance, quality, and rarity of the stone.

Engineered stone or “quartz” countertops are manufactured by combining crushed quartz with resins and pigments. It is sold under various brand names “Silestone”, “Caesarstone”, “Zodiaq” as well as a few others. It imitates the look of granite but has a more uniform appearance. It is available in a variety of patterns and colors. Like granite it is extremely heat and scratch resistant. Quartz countertops do not require sealing and are very stain resistant. Avoid using bleach or abrasive cleaners. Wipe up acidic spills quickly to avoid possible staining. The nature of the material allows for greater overhangs than granite, which may be a design consideration.

The benefits of quartz are very comparable to those of granite. Prices are similar but either will vary depending on color, pattern, quality, etc.

W

hether you are building a new home or renovating your kitchen, when it comes to selecting countertops, there is a great variety available in today’s market. The best choice for you will depend on your individual taste, lifestyle, and budget.

Granite has become very popular in recent years due to its durability, easy cleaning, and natural beauty. It’s extremely scratch resistant, I know you’re probably not supposed to do this, but I have often used our granite counter top as a cutting board. So far, no damage. Granite is also heat resistant, so taking a hot pot from stove to countertop is not a problem. Granite does need to be sealed occasionally, however countertopspecialty.com advises sealing only once every 3-8 years. There are also varieties of granite that are extremely dense and do not require any sealing. Cleaning with a good quality stone cleaner may be all that is required. Be sure to avoid abrasive cleaners. While granite is one of the 24 | Sophie MARCH 2015

“Corian “countertops are a brand name for Dupont’s version of this product. Similar products are sold under other names such as Avonite, Gibralter, and Earthstone. They are made by blending acrylic polymers and stone derived materials. This type of product is durable but is softer and much less scratch and dent resistant than granite or quartz. This also means a dropped glass is less likely to shatter. Scratches can be sanded out but I have found it is difficult to duplicate the original sheen of the product in the area that was sanded. It is also not heat resistant; setting a hot pan on this product will cause the countertop to melt. Corian type products are easier to work with and offer more design flexibility than other countertop materials. The panels can be joined and seams are virtually invisible so larger and more unique designs are possible. Maintenance is easy, no sealing is required and abrasive cleaners are ok. The price of these products will be lower than granite or quartz as long as you don’t get too crazy with your design.

Plastic laminate, usually called Formica (also a brand name) is the least expensive countertop option. It is made by combining layers of paper and resin. To compete with the popularity of other countertop materials, the manufactures of laminate have developed a great variety of patterns, colors, and textures. You’re no longer limited to the white with gold flecks countertops many of us saw in our Mom’s kitchen. It is also available with

a variety of edge patterns matching those of other countertop choices.

It is not heat or scratch resistant but is durable and with a little care will look good for years.

Concrete countertops offer the most versatility in design. They are most often produced on site so almost any design or size is possible. You are also able to design this type of countertop to be completely unique for your needs and taste. They are heat resistant but susceptible to scratching. Maintenance is higher than with other products as the countertop will need to be sealed and then waxed periodically to protect the sealer. Cost can be quite high as installation is difficult and requires a great deal of expertise to be done well.

Recycled glass countertops have been gaining in popularity as an ecofriendly alternative. These are made from pieces of glass held together with a cement binder. They are easy to maintain, resistant to heat, stains and scratching. Each one is unique and no two are exactly alike. As with “Corian” or concrete, they offer more design flexibility than other options.

With these options, you’ll have fun picking out a countertop perfect for your kitchen.

Paul Kline is the owner of North Star Construction. Call 828-231-1965 or email at paul@nscbuilds.com

REAL MEN READ SOPHIE We know that men read Sophie, so send a photo of your man reading Sophie to writer@sophiemagazine.com, and you may see your photo published in the magazine!

Bob Jones with the Asheville Tourists.

Dee Gillespie’s puppy, Poppy, loves to bring the latest issue of Sophie “to the office”.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 25

Sun & Soil

Your (Frog) Prince Awaits Written by Kristina Urquhart

T

his morning I woke up to an unusual sound, one that I’d never heard before: it sounded like the dripping of 1,000 overflowing house gutters. I’d heard it all through the night, too, but chalked it up to our wet weather and our dirty gutters – until I realized it wasn’t raining anymore. I bundled up and went outside. I noticed the cats were on edge: wide-eyed and all staring in the same direction – towards the small pond at the edge of our property. I cautiously stepped closer, knowing I didn’t want to disturb whatever was happening at the pond.

As I reached the water’s edge, they saw me and fell silent. I instantly regretted disturbing them, but was excited to see hundreds of young toads floating at the pond’s surface, staring at me. What an incredible sight and sound! Frog and toad populations around the world are declining at an alarming rate, mostly due to habitat destruction. But as I started to read more, I realized it wasn’t just habitat loss: invasive species (preying on toads and frogs), infectious diseases and climate change have all contributed to their decline, and to the extinction of about 200 species in the last 30 years alone. Inspired by my experience, I dug a little deeper and found some other facts you might also find interesting: Frogs are bio-indicators, which means their health directly reflects the health of the environment around them. Because of their permeable skin and the fact that many species live on both land and water, they are more prone than other creatures to absorb toxins and chemicals from the world around them. If they are sick and dying (which many are) it

26 | Sophie MARCH 2015

can tell us a great deal about the health of the natural world and our direct environment.

Frogs are critical to the food chain and the greater environmental web of life. Growing up in Florida, we loved frogs for their taste for mosquitoes and their contribution to keeping populations down (they love other insects as well, of course). But they are also an important food source to other animals, such as birds, fish and snakes. What’s more, tadpoles naturally clean waterways by feasting on algae.

I was relieved to hear that, within a few minutes of my leaving the pond’s edge, the toads were back at it again, making their water-like drip-drop music. I managed to get a few photos of those floating on the pond’s surface, but they were shy, to say the least, diving under the water quickly when they saw me. While seeing and hearing them has been an educational experience for me this morning, I’ll leave them be and allow myself the satisfaction in knowing that they are healthy and thriving in the little pond on our property.

To learn more about frog and toad populations around the world and what you can do to help, visit savethefrogs.com or Google “frogs and toads of North Carolina,” and explore the search results.

Follow Kristina Mercedes Urquhart’s homesteading exploits on her blog, kristinamercedes.tumblr.com.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 27

Let’s Get Cooking

Written by Debi Manfre

Whether it’s grilled, roasted, or baked, asparagus is a refreshing way to add flavor and nutrients to any meal. And with so many ways to prepare asparagus, the variety of recipes seems endless. The tender veggie adds sophistication as a side dish, an appetizer, or part of your main course, and it has just 5 calories per spear.

Watercress, Arugula and Asparagus Salad With watercress, asparagus, and radishes, this salad is the perfect way to celebrate the onset of spring. If you prefer your salad greens on the milder side, use baby spinach in place of the arugula.

Ingredients: 8 servings • 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar • 2 teaspoons grainy mustard • 1/4 cup finely diced shallots • 1/2 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed, sliced into 1-inch pieces • 10 cups (4 oz) watercress, roughly chopped • 10 cups (4 oz) arugula • 8 radishes, thinly sliced Directions: • In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, mustard, the salt and pepper. Stir in shallots.

• Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add asparagus; cook for 1 minute. Drain and run under cold water to cool.

• In a large bowl, toss asparagus with watercress, arugula and radishes.

Right before serving, add the dressing, and toss.

28 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Lemon Parmesan Asparagus A quick and easy side dish with fresh lemon juice, garlic and Parmesan, made with just 5 minutes prep! Best of all, you can control exactly how much lemon juice and Parmesan you want. And if you double the Parmesan cheese – I won’t tell. After all, you can never have too much Parmesan cheese!

Ingredients: 4 servings • 1 pound asparagus, trimmed • 2 tablespoons olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 3 cloves garlic, pressed • Juice of 1 lemon, or more, to taste • 2 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan, or more, to taste Directions: • Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Lightly oil a baking sheet or coat with nonstick spray.

• Place asparagus in a single layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, salt and pepper, to taste; gently toss to combine. Place into oven and roast for 8-10 minutes, or until tender but crisp.

• Serve immediately, tossed with garlic, lemon juice and Parmesan.

Asparagus Soup with Creme Fraiche

Fettuccine with Asparagus and Salmon

Ingredients: 4 servings • 2 bunches of asparagus (approx. 1 lb.), washed • 3 cups of good quality chicken or vegetable stock • 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped • 2 stalks of celery, finely chopped • 1 medium yellow potato, peeled & cubed • 2 tablespoons of olive oil • 1 teaspoon of sea salt • Freshly ground pepper for seasoning • 1/3 cup of creme fraiche (You can subsitute with sour cream.)

Ingredients: 6-8 servings • 1 pound fettuccine • 2 pounds asparagus, cut into one-inch pieces • 2 teaspoons of olive oil • 5 cloves garlic, minced • 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes • 1/2 cup hot chicken broth • 1/4 tsp salt • 2 6-oz salmon fillets, skinless • 2 teaspoons of lemon pepper • Juice from 2 lemons • A handful of fresh basil leaves, coarsley chopped. Reserve a few leaves for a garnish.

This soup is one that can be eaten in winter or summer. In colder weather it is quite thick which means it’s not strained and contains all the nutritious vegetable pulp. In summer, for something lighter, strain the soup which results in a smooth, velvety broth.

Directions: • Trim off the tough ends of the asparagus and place them in a saucepan with the stock. Simmer over a medium heat.

• Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in another saucepan over a medium heat.

Saute the onion and celery for about 5 minutes or until soft. Add the potato cubes and season with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and a little pepper. Fry for another 4 minutes, adding a little more olive oil if the saucepan gets dry.

• Strain the stock and discard the asparagus ends. Add stock to the saucepan with the onions and simmer for 5 minutes or until the potatoes are soft. Add remaining salt and stir.

• Coarsely chop the asparagus spears and add them to the saucepan.

Simmer for 5 minutes but no longer otherwise they’ll lose their vibrant green colour.

• Add the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Transfer soup back to the saucepan and cover.

• Heat the creme fraiche on a low heat in a small saucepan and then stir it into the asparagus soup.

• Heat the soup gently over a low heat (Do not boil.) and continue stirring until the creme fraiche is mixed in.

This is a great, simple dinner that’s perfect any time of year. Serve it with a side of hearty garlic bread.

Directions: • Heat your oven to 350 degrees. Sprinkle the lemon pepper all over the salmon, coating both sides, and place it into a small casserole dish sprayed with cooking spray. Bake it for 15 minutes or so, until it’s cooked through. Let cool.

• Get a large pot of water boiling, salt it liberally, and cook fettuccine until it’s al dente (start on the sauce while this goes). Drain well.

• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and red pepper flakes and saute about 2 minutes – don’t let the garlic brown!

Add asparagus and saute about 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Add hot chicken broth and salt, cover pan, and let cook about 2 more minutes.

Uncover, let it go one more minute, stir in the lemon juice, chopped basil and remove it from the heat.

• Use your fingers to break the salmon apart into chunks. Add to sauce mixture. Return fettuccine to its cooking pot and pour sauce over it.

Lightly toss together.

• Pour into a large serving dish. Garnish with reserved basil leaves. Serve with a little grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 29

Table Manners Matter Written by JeanAnn Taylor

I

grew up in a family of six, and every night, my mother cooked a full course meal. The pots, pans, and utensils used to cook the meal were never used to serve the food. Each dish was carefully spooned into pretty china bowls and only then placed on the table.

One of my jobs as a young child was to set the table. That meant placing the tablecloth or placemats, plates, forks, spoons, knives, and neatly folded napkins at each place setting. I filled each glass with ice for the fresh pitcher of sweet tea she made every night, and then placed the serving dishes on the table with clean serving utensils.

During our meal, we were taught proper etiquette and expected to adhere to these rules. Manners were also taught in school back then.

Nearly all students took a home economics class where manners and basic social skills were taught and reinforced.

Fast-forward to 2015 and we have a nation who routinely eats fast food in the car while on the way to soccer practice, or in front of the television while watching The Big Bang Theory. Home economics has been replaced with more “important” curriculum. While the days where meals were routinely prepared from scratch and served in china serving dishes may be over, I don’t believe manners are as obsolete as one may presume.

Whether you are at a family dinner or attending a business luncheon, proper etiquette is a reflection of who you are, and will leave a lasting impression – good or bad. These tips won’t get you through a formal meal with the queen, however they may help you get through a date or office dinner where good table manners actually do matter.

First, sit down. Not on the edge of your seat, but completely in your chair. Actually, first, turn off your cell phone. This modern day no-no is important to remember at home and during work related meals. Take a breath and notice your surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the fact that someone took the time to prepare a nice table setting and meal for you. If you are with a group of people, wait for everyone to sit down, especially your host, before serving yourself and taking a bite. Sit up straight and remember, no elbows on the table.

Place your napkin, and your left hand, in your lap. Remember what your mother said, “don’t chew with your mouth open.” Swallow one bite before taking another bite, and bring your fork to your mouth, not your mouth to your fork. When you take a drink, put your fork down so you can use your right hand to pick up your glass. Don’t hold your fork in 30 | Sophie MARCH 2015

one hand and your glass with the other. Replace your glass at the upper right corner of your place setting.

During your meal, be aware to not let your food or utensils touch the table linens. After using your knife, place it across the upper right side of your dinner plate. Keeping your food and utensils on your plate will avoid stained linens.

When everyone is finished, gently fold and place your napkin on the left side of your plate. Don’t wad it into a ball and throw it on your plate in the middle of leftover bites of food. To signal to your waitress or host that you are finished, place all of your cutlery across the middle of your plate with the handles toward the outside of your plate. Only when everyone is finished eating, is it acceptable to excuse yourself from the table, unless you must blow your nose or have another type of emergency.

Good manners are not out-dated unnecessary chains to the past.

Adhering to proper etiquette creates feelings of self-respect and confidence. A bit of poise and finesse, can take your business and personal relationships to the next level. And, should you get that invitation from the queen, you’ll be ready.

Healthy Life

Adipose Antics Written by JeanAnn Taylor | Consultation by Dianne Rose

O

besity is one of the most common health problems we face in America. In fact, over half of the adults in the United States are overweight. In spite of diet pills, diet books, diet food, and gyms on every corner, Americans struggle with their weight. Obesity has become so commonplace that in some cultures it is the status quo. Unfortunately, obesity is such a serious health issue, it can actually shorten our lives.

While you may think fat, or adipose tissue, is just a bunch of sluggish cells sitting quietly in your body, the fact is that these cells are biologically very active. They continually secrete dozens of hormones and chemicals affecting almost every single organ. In a person of healthy weight, fat cells secrete appropriate amounts of hormones to maintain a healthy body. However, when a person gains weight, their fat cells grow and become much larger, resulting in a much larger secretion of chemicals. This flood of chemicals along with increased pressure on your organs can increase your chances of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, dementia, sleep apnea, and cancer.

A quick biology lesson can help us understand how fat cells work in our bodies. We are all born with a set number of fat cells, determined primarily by genetics. After puberty, unless we gain a lot of extra weight, the number of fat cells remains the same. If we gain weight, they become larger and when we lose weight, they get smaller. Unfortunately, the fat cells we acquire if we gain too much weight, too rapidly, stay with us for the rest of our lives.

The most dangerous type of fat is the visceral fat we carry around our waist, often referred to as ‘belly fat’. This fat produces greater amounts of harmful chemicals. The location of belly fat is a significant problem because the chemicals pour directly into the liver and increase the risk of disease.

Consuming too many calories in the form of alcohol is a dangerous practice. Understanding how your liver and kidneys work can help us understand why. The liver’s function in your body is to burn fat for energy and remove toxins, including alcohol. When you consume alcohol, your liver goes into immediate survival mode to get these toxins out. It’s so important to get rid of the toxins, all other functions are put on hold. When the liver is working so hard to remove the toxins, it cannot burn the fat. In addition, the average beer has 150 calories and many specialty beers have even more. And, as you may know, the more you drink the easier it becomes to have “one more”. These calories add up fast!

Fortunately, there are many things we can do to help us shrink those fat cells. The number one solution: move! Walking is the safest and easiest form of exercise to incorporate into your daily life. And, other than buying a supportive pair of walking shoes, it’s free!

Drinking water is also vital to losing weight. After the liver burns fat, it’s the kidneys job to get rid of waste via urine.Your kidneys need water to carry waste out. Without adequate water, the kidneys can’t function properly, the liver has to help out the kidneys, and therefore can’t do its job of breaking down fat. It becomes a vicious circle and results in fat being stored in the body. When you consume plenty of water, your liver can do its job of breaking down fat, and your kidneys can do their job of carrying out the waste.

One last bit of advice; get your sleep. According to WebMD, there are two nightly hormones; ghrelin, which tells us to eat, and leptin, which tells us when we are full. When we are sleep-deprived, we have more ghrelin and less leptin, resulting in overeating. On top of that, when we are tired and sleepy, our metabolism slows down.

It may seem daunting, but losing weight can be achieved. And, once you shrink those busy fat cells, your risks of many diseases can be reversed. Making a commitment to health will give you more energy and passion for life.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Before starting any exercise or food modification program, consult with your medical professional.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 31

Garden Bloomers

Orchids: The Absolute BEST, No Maintenance House Plant!

Written By Betty Sharpless | Photograph by JeanAnn Taylor

O

kay I know a lot of you are scratching your heads in total confusion. However I tell you it is true: orchids require less care to be happy than any other house plant, take less watering and pinching and you can set them outside all summer in the shade and forget about them, since you have all your other flower beds to attend to… Besides, tell the truth, wouldn’t you rather casually mention that “one” of your orchids is in bloom to a friend than that your begonia is blooming?

I came by my love of orchids honestly, through my mother who had a fail proof way of getting orchids to bloom, that I follow to this day: Set the plants on trays of gravel in a barely warm enough room in partial sun and ignore them. Water them whenever you remember, but don’t let them get used to it! Then when, out of total desperation the orchids send up a bud shoot, lavish them with attention. Bring them out into the living room, mist them every day and snip off any brown leaves. Works every time.

Now I know that many people will tell you that you need special everything to grow orchids in western North Carolina: special soil mix, special pots, special fertilizer, heck, even special water. Well you don’t.

The “orchid soil mix” is not soil at all, rather it is a loose, well draining bark mix to give the orchid roots something to hold on to similar to wild orchids hanging around in trees holding on to bark. The mix helps to hold in dampness, but not water and keeps the pots from just falling over as the orchid gets too big. I guess you could use a special fertilizer for orchids, but I just use one that you mix with water and spray on (from Spray and Bloom) once a year, if I remember.

The most reliable orchids to start with are phalaenopsis, or Moth orchids, so named for their big round wings of petals. They are the most common ones for sale at grocers and hardware stores. They will bloom twice a year or more, with just a small amount of care on your part. You often see them marketed as “ice cube” orchids. Once you have succeeded with moth orchids, try branching out. Buy orchids with many un-opened buds and you will have a plant that will bloom for months as the buds open one at a time.

If you just want to bask in orchids without growing them, use your Biltmore House pass to visit the conservatory (glass house), which always has lovely orchids in bloom. Another wonderful experience is to go to the WNC Orchid club’s show at the North Carolina Arboretum March 28th and 29th this year.

32 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Betty Sharpless is a professional free-lance gardener who loves small indulgences that make life worth living. Like orchids and dark chocolate.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 33

Biltmore Antiques District Spend the Day Antiquing, and Discover the Treasures You’ve Been Searching For...

Exit 4A

2

Exit 5B

To Chamber of Commerce

70,000 Square Feet of Shopping in a Historic Tobacco Barn Monday through Thursday 10am - 6pm Fri & Sat 9am - 6pm • Sun 1pm - 6pm

To Grove Park Inn

75 Swannanoa River Rd Asheville, NC 28805 828-252-7291

A Vast Array of Antiquities

10

Bryant

ANTIQUES

In Biltmoer, Ltd.

120 Swannanoa River Rd •828-225-5872

1 The Cathedral of All Souls

Exit 50 Map Designed by Adalee Elkins

34 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Exit 51

Over 12,000 Sq. Ft. of Fabulous Finds!

11-5 Mon - Sat • 12-5 Sun

124 Swannanoa River Rd 828-350-7800 oddfellowsasheville.com 8

31,000 Sq. Ft. 115 Sweeten Creek Rd 828-277-6100 sweetencreekantiques.net

10

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 35

SoleMate Spotlight on Dave Brodie The Girls on the Run SoleMates program provides adults an opportunity to raise money for Girls on the Run while training for the athletic event of their choice. Through a partnership with iDaph Events, GOTR of WNC was able to offer SoleMate charity spots for the Asheville Marathon and Half at Biltmore Estate on March 15. Those SoleMates training for this exclusive event have committed to raise a minimum of $500 to fund GOTR program scholarships. Dave Brodie is one of the twenty GOTR SoleMates training for this event, and here is why he has chosen to be a SoleMate:

A few years ago my wife, Dena, who is a teacher at Upward Elementary in Hendersonville, NC, was given the opportunity to coach a group of young girls as part of a program called Girls on the Run (GOTR). I’ve had the pleasure to see this program in action, to see the girls within Dena’s school grow and mature through the lessons here, and have had the joy of running a 5k every year with the team to see their excitement and pride in reaching their goal.

The impact that this program has on these girls is incredible. For me, this impact made me think of all the important women who impressed, inspired, encouraged, supported, and enriched my life. The women in my life are Mothers, Aunts, Teachers, Engineers, Professors, Nurses, Doctors, Lawyers, Artists, and all very good friends.

A program like GOTR helps girls find themselves and become the best person they can be. If a little financial support is all that is needed to help one more girl experience this program, it is worth it. That is why I decided to run a 1/2 marathon and raise money to support this program.

Are you training for your first 5k or considering running your first marathon? Learn more about becoming a SoleMate at: gotrwnc.org/get-involved/solemates or by contacting Robin Mehler at robin.mehler@girlsontherun.org.

Dave with his spouse Dena Rashkover, a GOTR of WNC Coach, at a GOTR 5k they ran while vacationing in Anchorage, AK.

learn. dream. live. run. western north carolina 36 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Register, Volunteer, and Learn More at gotrwnc.org or (828) 713-4290

Donate to GOTR of WNC If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Girls on the Run of WNC, checks can be mailed to 50 S. French Broad Ave, Suite 249, Asheville, NC 28801, or you can visit their website: gotrwnc.org/donate.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 37

CONCERNING OUR COMMUNITY Free Tax Assistance

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, in cooperation with the I.R.S, N.C. Dept. of Revenue, Buncombe County Library System and Council on Aging of Buncombe County will again offer free tax preparations for taxpayers with low and moderate-income, with special attention to those age 60 and older.

This service will be available now through April 15, 2015. Both Federal and N.C. State tax returns will be electronically filed for safe and accurate preparation and faster refunds.

To find out where Tax-Aide sites or further information, call The Council on Aging of Buncombe County at (828) 277-8288.

Fiber Arts Alliance March Fiber Madness

The Fiber Arts Alliance of Asheville will hold a reception for the exhibit “March Fiber Madness” on Thursday, March 5, 6-8 p.m., UNC Asheville, Ramsey Library, Blowers Gallery. Fiber-based items will be on display such as wall quilts, wearable art, dolls, jewelry, knitted, woven or felted things of beauty and amazement. Artists will be on hand to chat about their work. The exhibit will run March 2-30. It is free and accessible during normal library hours. UNC Asheville parking regulations apply; visitor passes are available at Vance Hall. Website unca.edu for maps and directions.

Winter Jam Attendees Show Support For Mission Children’s Hospital

Local iHeartMedia radio station 99.9 Kiss Country (WKSF-FM) raised over $30,000 to benefit Mission Children’s Hospital at its fifth annual Winter Jam concert, which was held at the Orange Peel on January 26, 2015.

Winter Jam is the second concert leading up to the KISS Country Cares for Kids Radiothon hosted by 99.9 KISS Country each year to benefit Mission Children’s Hospital. This year’s Radiothon takes place on March 5 and 6, at the Reuter Family YMCA in Biltmore Park Town Square.

Students Bring Home Top Award From National Junior Theatre Festival

Twenty-four Asheville Performing Arts Academy cast and crew members, ages 6-18, presented selections from “Peter Pan Jr” and brought home the Excellence in Ensemble Work Award from the Junior Theatre Festival in Atlanta, Georgia. The Asheville Performing Arts Academy was one of 101 groups from six countries, and 28 states including the District of Columbia participating in this festival. These students are members of the audition based musical theatre training program at the Academy.

Academy students Ceili Taft, Mia Sander, and Charlene Powers received Golden Tickets to audition for future Broadway Junior shoots for “how-to” choreography videos for soon-to-be released Broadway Junior musicals.

Prep Academy students Ellie Hewitt-Corzine and Cory Silver were named to the Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, made up of two outstanding performers from each group attending the festival. The All-Stars performed a song during the closing ceremony for all 4,500 festival attendees.

High School Senior and Academy Intern Amanda Wilson was one of ten technical theatre All-Stars chosen from the entire festival and was in charge of the technical elements during the awards ceremony.

The Junior Theater Festival is produced by the Junior Theater Group in partnership iTheatrics, an educational theater company which creates innovative experiences and products for the public and private sector.

38 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Greek Orthodox Ladies Philoptochos Society Of Holy Trinity Annual Palm Sunday Luncheon & Bake Sale

The tradition for many in Asheville on Palm Sunday, March 29, is to trek to the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church for their annual Ladies Philoptochos Societyʼs array of delicious foods including slow roasted lamb shank, béchamel topped pastichio, spanakopita (spinach & buttery filo), keftethes (meatballs)....and then head to the bake sale for a favorite Greek pastry.

Think honey, nuts and, yes....buttery filo. The dessert selections never fail and are the perfect finale to the vast buffet of savory foods you will find here.

Luncheon buffet line will begin at 11 a.m., although the ladies (and gents) offer take out for those who wish to head home with their gourmet goodies. Phone (828) 253-3754 weekdays from 10 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. to place your orders for pick up. For the last minute deciders, on the day of the luncheon phone (828) 254-7424 and your order will be packaged for you upon arrival.

Proceeds from the Ladies Philoptochos Society luncheon go to charities world-wide, and locally they are involved with programs for the homeless, children & hunger.

This year will mark the 50th year for the fundraising luncheon. Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Church and the Morris Hellenic Cultural Center are located in the Montford area at 227 Cumberland Avenue. All are invited and welcome. Food service begins at 11a.m. and continues until 2 p.m.

There will be Greek music and dance presentations as well.

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 39

Betty’s Book Review

The Garden of Burning Sand Written By Betty Sharpless

I

f you enjoy a book with a smart and strong female protagonist set in a beautifully described foreign land as much as I do, I have only one word of advice to give you: don’t turn to the first page of The Garden Of Burning Sand unless your to-do list is already done for the next four days.

Set in modern day Zambia, this book tells the story of a young American lawyer working with a non-profit human rights organization fighting for the rights of women and girls who have been raped or abused. While that might not sound like a page turner to you, the author has used the main action as a basis to tell Zoe Fleming’s personal story from the past to the present as it relates to one particular case. The story accurately depicts the rampant graft and collusion between many African countries’ governments and business owners. Woven into the story as well are everyday descriptions of life in a country that alternates between drought and abundance.

One indicator of how The Garden of Burning Sand was well written is that until I read the author’s notes at the end I had no idea that the author was a male, telling a story very credibly from a woman’s point of view. Mr. Addison is a lawyer and a father, concerned about the lack of safety for women and

40 | Sophie MARCH 2015

children in all sub-Saharan African countries. He uses fiction to educate, but also to humanize the problems associated with a country that has no regard for the rights of the helpless.

I highly enjoyed reading this book and all the memories of Africa the reading brought back to me. Although the main story is a hard one, it is told in such a way that you are compelled to race to the end to find out the verdict.

The Garden of Burning Sand

By Corban Addison

Betty Sharpless is a free lance author writing for Sophie Magazine since it’s inception and an avid reader.

I love

spring

anywhere, but if I could choose, I would always greet it in a

garden

.

–Ruth Stout

Sophie MARCH 2015 | 41

“The Wizard of Oz” March 12-29, 3pm Experience the magic and adventure of this classic tale presented by Flat Rock Playhouse YouthTheatre at the Downtown Playhouse in Hendersonville. For more information, call (828) 693-0731 or (866) 732-8008 or visit flatrockplayhouse.org.

Bear Crawl 5K March 14, 9am Get ready to run, crawl, jump, and traverse a challenging mud-filled 5K course at Jellystone Park in Marion. The race is open to all ages and skill levels including personal and corporate teams. Enter online at active.com. Contact Alex Garcia at yogibearmarion@gmail.com

Hendersonville Community Band “Spring Fever” Concert

CALENDAR of EVENTS 25th Anniversary Celebration of The Laurel Chapter of EGA March 5, 11am A special anniversary program, Combining Embroidery with Mixed Media for Effective Designs, will be presented by Laura Smith, Chairman of the Fiber Forum of EGA. It will be held at Cummings United Methodist Church on 3 Banner Farm Rd. in Etowa/Horse Shoe. A sandwich luncheon and dessert will follow to celebrate the chapter’s anniversary. Contact Carol Foster, (828) 686-8298 or Janet Stewart, (828) 575-9195 for more info.

3rd Annual “Chilly” Chili Cook-Off March 7, 12 - 3pm Green River Community Association culinary competition will be held at the Tuxedo Park on Old US Highway 25 in downtown Tuxedo. Admission and tasting fee $5 and votes for your favorite are 3 for $1. Tasting is from 12pm - 2pm, and judging starts at 2pm. For more info, call 699-5198.

6th Annual Healthy Parks Healthy You 5K Run/Walk March 7, 8:30am The race will take place in Candler at the Buncombe County Sports Park track. Race starts at 10:30am and is open to adults and children of all ages. Check in and late registration begins at 8:30am. For more information and registration forms, please call (828) 250-4269 or email jay.nelson@ buncombecounty.org

American Sewing Guild of Western NC March 7, 10am - 1pm Meeting will be at House of Fabrics, 214 Merriman Ave., Asheville. Program is 42 | Sophie MARCH 2015

Making Hexie Quilt blocks. Session 3 of the Sew Along Project immediately follows.

If you love sewing come join our guild. For more info. contact Loretta Phipps, asgwnc@ gmail.com.

Art Affair 2015: “A Starry Night” March 7, 7pm The 6th OpenDoors of Asheville annual gala and art auction directly supports initiatives to help Asheville youth break the cycle of multigenerational poverty through education, enrichment, and opportunity.

Event will be at Harmony Motors, 621 Brevard Rd, Asheville. For event or raffle tickets and for more information please visit opendoorsasheville.org

Hendersonville Chamber Music presents Jason Posnock and Friends March 8, 3pm $20/adults. First Congregational Church, Hendersonville. For more information, call (828) 808-2314 or (828) 696-2118.

WNC Knitters and Crocheters for Others Meeting March 9, 7 - 9pm Meeting will be at New Hope Presbyterian Church at 3070 Sweeten Creek Road. All skill levels welcome. Call Janet at (828) 5759195 for more information

American Business Women’s Association Meeting March 10, 5:30 - 7:30pm ABWA will be meeting on the 2nd Tuesday of every month instead of Thursdays.

Meeting will be held at the Crowne Plaza Resort. Visit abwaskyhy.com for more info.

March 15, 3pm Spring is almost here and the Hendersonville Community Band wants to help you welcome it by playing beautiful music at our annual Spring concert. The concert will be held in the Blue Ridge Community College Conference Hall in Flat Rock. For more information, call (828) 6928801 or visit hcbmusic.com.

Project Linus Make-A-Blanket Day March 21, 10am - 2pm This is an opportunity to participate in creating blankets for seriously ill or traumatized children. The event will be held at Eliada Home, 2 Compton Drive, Asheville. Call Sharon Waltman at 645-7190 or Ellen Knoefel at 645-8800 for more info.

Arabian Spring Classic Horse Show March 27 - 29 Event will be held at the WNC Agricultural Center McGough Arena in Fletcher. Call (828) 674-1758 for more information.

WNC Orchid Society Annual Show March 28 & 29, 10am - 5pm Thousands of orchids will fill the Education Center of the Arboretum in this show, which is one of the largest in the southeast. This year’s theme, “The Lost World of Orchids,” will be an adventure of the imagination. The show will be held at The North Carolina Arboretum which is located at 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville. For more information, call (828) 665-2492 or go to ncarboretum.org.

Easter on the Green presented by Earth Fare March 30, 2 - 5pm There will be age-specific Easter egg hunts throughout the afternoon, plus a 21 foot

giant slide, an inflatable obstacle course and even a mini bounce house for toddlers. This family event is free and open to the public.

It will be held at Roger McGuire Green at Pack Square Park.

ON GOING Fiber Arts Alliance Meeting

1st Tuesday of the month, 12 noon Open to anyone interested in any form of fiber. No membership requirements. Bring bag lunch at 12 noon and meeting starts at 12:30 p.m. West Asheville Presbyterian Church on Haywood Rd. Call 683-6563 for more information.

Diabetes Support Group

3rd Wednesday of the month, 3:30 - 5pm Our support group brings people with diabetes together to learn and support each other through education by experts in the field and personal testimonies. Meeting held at the Diabetes & Health Education Center, 1 Hospital Drive, 3rd Floor Room 3308. For information call Laura Tolle RD, LDN, CDE at 213-4788.

AL-Anon Support Group

Every Wednesday, 11:30am - 12:30pm Support group of peers who share their experience in applying the Al-Anon principles to problems related to the effects of a problem drinker in their lives. Group meets at Pardee Signature Care Center at 1800 4 Seasons Blvd. in Hendersonville. For more information, call (828) 692-4600.

Grief Support Groups

Highlands Every Thursday, 11:30am - 12:30pm Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 171 Hospital Drive in Highlands. No charge to attend. Call (828) 450-7575 for more info.

Sylva Every Tuesday, 10:30am - 12:00pm Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 100 County Services Park in Sylva. No charge to attend. Call (828) 450-7575 for more info.

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