May/June 2018 Sophie

May/June 2018

sophisticated. stylish. sassy.

It’s a Breeze SophieMagazine.com

Steph Hickling Beckman: Love Imitates Art It’s Finally Time To Start Your Garden

PEOPLE

8 10 12 14

Women of WNC

Steph Hickling Beckman: Love Imitates Art Nothing Wrong with Being a Loser 12 Simple Strategies to Boost Your Confidence

ENTERTAINMENT

16

My Father’s Knees

18

The Tradition of the Andes

26

It’s a Breeze

HOME & GARDEN

32

Time to Start Those Gardens

33

Farmer’s Markets Opening Dates

FASHION

21

Condom Couture Fashion Show

COMMUNITY

34

Betty’s Book Review

36

Things To Do

35

Meg’s Movie Review

40

Good Dogs Read Sophie

From the Publisher:

R

ecently I was a recipient of a random act of kindness from a woman I did not know, who stepped in to help me at just the right time.

It was so unexpected, and it left me feeling so good and grateful, like somehow I had earned this small but powerful gesture.

GENERAL MANAGER/PUBLISHER Patricia Martin Betts IT/PRODUCTION MANAGER Jeff Ruminski CREATIVE EDITOR Samantha Blankenship CREATIVE SERVICES Randy Whittington

Betty mentions in her article, "My Father's Knees" that she believes her Dad was the originator of random acts of kindness because she remembers sweet events from when she was quite young, that have imprinted her now with the same trait of surprising people and making them feel special.

This issue of Sophie unfolds like beautiful bouquet of special. Steph Hickling Beckman, founder of Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective, a non-profit theater group with the goal of promoting diversity on and off stage, is amazing. Her story of overcoming a stroke and the will to push herself has created something even better than what she had imagined, an organization that helps other non-profits, that specializes in awareness, perspective and education.

Bravo!

Both Susan and Lauren articles compliment each other some what - Susan's "Nothing Wrong with being a Loser," and Lauren's "Simple Strategies to Boost Your Confidence," seem appropriate for being in the same Sophie magazine where we celebrate women living in the real world with real emotion and real experiences, right?

And of course we have to acknowledge some incredible and amazing fashion from the Condom Couture Fashion show that happened in March.

We showcase the winners from this year's "Design

stylish. sophisticated. sassy

CONTRIBUTORS Meg Hale Brunton Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC Susan Reinhardt Betty Sharpless Meagen Mealer FASHION COORDINATOR Angela Ramsey

Through the Decades" theme where designers used 500 condoms and had to choose a decade between 1910's and the future for their inspiration.

Bringing back the basics is the look and feel of our own Sophie fashion spread, that is expertly coordinated by the always stylish Angela Ramsey, and photographed by the talented Max Ganly. Special thanks to Carmen! Carmen! Boutique Lp and Tops for Shoes.

There are many other colorful articles I hope you will enjoy and share. In closing I would like to thank the lovely lady at Tuesday Morning that helped me, and to quote Betty,making people feel special doesn't cost anything and means so much."

Pass it on!

Patricia Martin Betts

PHOTOGRAPHERS Max Ganly Jennifer Mesk Kristen Marie Greene Andrea Coon ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Rick Jenkins Rose Lunsford Pam Hensley 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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COVER CREDITS: Photograph by Max Ganly • Fashion Coordinator: Angela Ramsey • Model: Sarah Johns • Hair by: Mary Wiedel • Makeup by: Alyssa Rogala • Nails by: Jenna Duvall • Clothing & Accessories Provided by boutique Lp • On Sarah: Blank “Great White” Skirt $68 | Chaser Henley Tank/Blue $55 | Blank “Gypsy Wind” Denim Jacket $188 | Ariel Earring­— Silver $70

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.

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»PEOPLE

“I have an older daughter as well, she’s 3.

They’re just so fun, they’re kind of like my little friends. I get on their level and they surprise me everyday. Just seeing her big sister, being so sweet and giving, how unselfish she can be, it’s pretty special.”

wnc WOMEN of Photographed by Jennifer Mesk, HumansOfAsheville.net

“I think technology today makes it more difficult to be a teenager. There are more standards you feel like you have to live up to, to make sure everything is perfect, that you’re doing the right things. I draw the line at stepping out of my comfort zone to just get approval.”

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What’s something you wish you could tell your younger self?”

“I see things a lot more simply. I don’t think that everyone is too overly concerned with what I’m doing, how I’m acting, or how I look. People are a lot more focused on their own thing, which I didn’t realize before.”

What is a quality you admire most in people?

“Tenderness in people, a feeling of tenderness.

Today I was in Walmart and I saw this older woman with a child and she was being really sincere. You could just feel the warmth.”

At Girls on the Run, we are dedicated to creating a world where EVERY girl knows her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams.

Help Support girls like Taylor across Western North Carolina!

DONATE TODAY at gotrwnc.org

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 9

»PEOPLE

Steph Hickling Beckman: Love Imitates Art Written by Meg Hale Brunton

“D

ifferent Strokes! is my baby,” smiles Steph Hickling Beckman, discussing the theatre company that she founded eight years ago. In fact, Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective would probably dominate all of Beckman’s time and energy if she hadn’t adopted a little boy, named Zay, three years ago. “I never, ever thought that I would be anyone’s mother,” Beckman admits, after having to have a hysterectomy at age thirty-three. “When things are meant to be, they just happen.”

Originally from Atlanta, Beckman attended night school at Georgia State University with the intention of getting a business degree, while working at a prominent insurance company during the day. After receiving several promotions at work, she decided to leave school after her second year to focus on her career. “I loved to learn but hated the whole school thing.” Beckman laughs, “So, I got locked into corporate America.” She stayed with the company for fifteen years, starting in the mailroom and working her way up to management. In 1997, she decided it was time for a change, so she moved to Asheville.

Beckman had done theatre in school, and, finding Asheville to be a rich artistic town, she started auditioning for shows. “The acting bug just kind of hit me all over again,” says Beckman, nostalgically, “and the rest is history.” Though Beckman quickly made a name for herself in the Asheville theatre scene, she admits that it was hard to get cast, being a forty-year-old African-American woman. Directors 10 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

were often reluctant to cast her as the only non-Caucasian cast member, or would only offer her what she called “black roles,” like housekeepers and Civil Rights Activists. Beckman recalls complaining to her mother about having to fight so hard just to get to act. Her mother finally said, “You don’t get to keep complaining to me about this if you’re not going to do something about it.”

In 2000, three weeks before Beckman was to perform in a production of “The Vagina Monologues,” she had a stroke. Though the stroke damaged her left side and she had to re-learn to speak and walk fully, Beckman attributes her relatively minor physical set-backs to her theatre work. “I didn’t suffer as much damage as someone normally would have,” she explains. “I woke up during [the stroke] and didn’t get to the hospital for another half an hour. I was going over my monologue in my head and keeping my brain engaged. So, theatre saved my life ... literally.

And, in return, theatre has my life.” Partially because of that experience, Beckman started her own theatre company called Different Strokes!

Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective is a non-profit theatre group with the goal of promoting diversity on and off stage, providing opportunities for actors of all races, and presenting socially-provocative works. They donate a portion of their proceeds to, and volunteer with, local charity groups and outreach programs.

In their eight seasons of work, they have donated over $12,000 to Asheville community non-profits. The shows they produce address issues about race, gender

roles, and sexual identity. Very often, the director of their shows will intentionally cast a person of the opposite race, or gender than that which the role was written for to see how that change affects the play’s overall message.

The stroke, combined with other factors, made it possible for Beckman to retire early and devote herself full-time to her company. “I get nothing from Different Strokes! other than the feeling that I’m making a difference,” says Beckman. “I love [theatre] so much and, in this town especially, I want to see it done well.” In addition to Beckman’s stroke, the inspiration for the company name came from the notions of strokes of genius, paint brush strokes, and the Sly & The Family Stone song “Every Day People.”

“It seems like the role I have in Different Strokes! is constantly evolving into something other than what I created it for,” she says. “I created it for diversity, and then it became an organization that helps other non-profits, and that specializes in awareness, perspective and education. We have these shows about issues that people don’t think of because they’re outside their proverbial. It’s not something that they experience every day. And we have these talk-backs where people can talk about their perspectives and their prejudices and come to a different understanding.” Ultimately, it is Beckman’s goal to have theaters cast actors based on their merit, not based on who looks most like how the character has been written.

“I want to get to the point where it’s all the diversity that’s on the stage, not necessarily what’s on the page,” she says, adding, “the stage should reflect our world, not what Broadway has always looked like.”

Recently, Different Strokes! was awarded the 2018 Evan Mahaney Champion of Civil Liberties Award by the North Carolina Chapter of the ACLU for their work.

This prestigious award was originally presented in 2003 to its namesake, Evan R. Mahaney, a longtime journalist and civil libertarian, and former president of the WNC ACLU. Different Strokes! is also half-way through a capitol campaign aimed at opening their own performing space in downtown Asheville, called Downstage.

It will, hopefully, be opening in early 2019. The remainder of their 2018 season is scheduled to be produced at their current home the BeBe Theatre in downtown Asheville. The new, upgraded space will triple the audience seating, as well as include a much-expanded lobby, rehearsal and construction space, and parking area.

Despite her confidence on-stage, Beckman confesses to be an introvert and to get terrible stage-fright when she does curtain speeches or when she hosts the talk-backs. “When I get up and talk off-the-cuff to people about me, it’s difficult,” Beckman explains. “Having a script to memorize is easy to me. As an actor, I don’t worry about what you’re thinking about me.” She admits that it adds to her usual insecurities to speak in front of a predominantly-white audience about plays that deal with racism, marginalization and homophobia.

In fact, Beckman gave a talk about her public-speaking anxiety on Creative Mornings Asheville. “It was a huge hurdle for me,” Beckman admits. “Getting passed that has been a challenge.” Accepting more speaking engagements has helped her a lot, both personally, and from a networking perspective. She was always concerned that her reluctance to take these opportunities could be holding Different Strokes! back. “[Mine] is the face of Different Strokes!” Beckman acknowledges, “and I’ve had to come to terms with that.” She has learned to take pride in being one of the few African-American women in WNC who is Co-Founder and Managing Artistic Director of her own theatre company. “I did this by myself, and eventually attracted and involved a supportive Board of Directors,” she smiles, proudly.

Beckman bases a great deal of Different Strokes!’ success to her board, as well as her committed staff and longtime sponsors. “It’s been a wild ride and it feels like finally, in the eighth year, we’re coming together.”

In addition to running her company, Beckman is raising her son Zay with her wife,

“I want to get to the point where it’s all the diversity that’s on the stage, not necessarily what’s on the page” Trish. “Zay is a result of saying ‘Yes’,” Beckman says, quoting her wife. “Soon after we decided to get married, we discussed having kids and both said ‘Yes’ at the same time.” The couple fostered for a while through the Buncombe County Department of Social Services. One night, they got an emergency call from DSS, saying that a one-year-old baby needed an immediate placement. And they said ‘Yes!’ As luck would have it, Zay came to them on his first birthday. “It felt like he was born to us,” Beckman says. Since Zay was not legally adoptable for the first three years that they had him, they knew that DSS could remove him from their care at any time. “I tried not to fall in love with him,” she confesses. “I resisted initially, but very quickly love won out, and I couldn’t be afraid to love. Even if it could be heart-breaking at some point, it was the basis of our family.” Finally, they were able to adopt him. “Zay changed our lives from Day One,” Beckman beams. “Being a mom is the most terrifying and most satisfying thing that has ever happened to me.”

Now, with a successful theatre company and a family, Beckman’s life is complete.

She never stops learning though, stating that she gleans little life-lessons from Zay every day. “That’s the part of motherhood that I think makes me a better person because it takes me back to childhood,” she says. “I watch it through his eyes and I am able to remember and think about the way I walk in the world.”

•

To see what shows Different Strokes! Performing Arts Collective’s has coming up, or to learn more about their mission, visit: http://www.differentstrokespac. org/ To hear Beckman’s podcast of “Anxiety-Free Exhibitionism,” go to: https:// creativemornings.com/talks/stephanie-hickling-beckman/1 Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 11

»PEOPLE

Nothing Wrong with Being a Loser I knew that I was a bona-fide loser when in Aldi the other day, I dashed through the store hunting the last giant lamb. Not the meat, mind you — but a furry pillow pet that puts those things called “husbands” to shame.

by Susan Reinhardt

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.” www.susanreinhardt.com

Y

ou may remember the husband pillows.

Most of us in the ’70s and ’80s toted our “husbands” off to college; they were hard to carry, hideous in nature, but had arms that wrapped around one’s waist while studying in bed.

(See photo).

Buying the Pillow Chum that stretched nearly three-feet long, proved momentous in solidifying my rung on the Loser Ladder. Don’t get me wrong.

I’m not trying to be all pitiful by calling myself nothing short of a flunkee. My divine sister and I grew up trying to “Out Loser” each other, finding it much more entertaining to play the pitiful card than to social climb or seek sophistication.

“Please, please girls,” my mother implored. “Your father and I firmly believe you two need to attend a proper finishing school for more refinement.” Instead, we found joy in benign improperness.

Take this past Easter, one week prior to Baaaa-rny (Sheep for Barney) entering my life. I had invites from my former MIL (mother-inlaw) along with a bid from my CMIL (current mother-in-law) to dine with the family and enjoy all the trappings of inclusion. I pictured both events in my mind, playing them out to fruition.

In the end, I decided to “turtle,” meaning I was more than bent on withdrawing from society and its inherent socializing. I longed to retreat into my shell for centering and grounding, where I fully believe everyone should book the trip for his or her own enduring sanity.

If I’m mentally exhausted from talking to people all day at work or via social settings, the last thing I want to do when I get a smidgeon of free time is talk to more people. Turtling is a means of focusing on the present moment and your own needs until that inner battery recharges.

So when Easter came and I found swamped with stress and a wisp of depression stirring the air, I decided to turtle in my Mazda and head out for a Sunday drive. Alone.

This is how I found myself hunting chicken. And since Zaxby’s was closed, I cruised a local KFC and ordered a $5 Fill Up and 12 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

40-ounce Schlitz Malt Liquor Bull. No, really, I got what amounted to 40 ounces of Diet Coke, three crispy tenders, coleslaw and a biscuit. I parked in the strip mall, adjacent to Le Tan and Great Clips for fine-dining ambiance and enjoyed this solitary meal in the privacy of my little silver four-door.

While lolling in the warm sunshine beaming through the windshield, my tranquility shattered as I heard the thunder of a muffler’s final gasps.

Lo and behold that day you’re gnawing chicken in a strip mall and another loser rolls by in a sputtering hoopty-mobile with ducttaped windows and missing hubcaps. This poor feller nodded my way, as if acknowledging a secret greeting known only to us losers. He then smiled revealing the two sole survivors of periodontal gum disease.

A week later I was at Aldi buying strawberries for a buck, avocados for 39 cents along with an assortment of highly-processed comfort foods for future turtling. While the cashier checked out my groceries, fingers flying in a rapid blur, I spied the cart of the woman behind me.

And there it was. Perched right on top, covering her groceries and spilling over the edge, sat a gigantic fuzzy lamb. I couldn’t resist touching its plush fur, and when the woman told me it was on sale for $7, I flew to the bin and plucked one for myself.

I carted Baaa-rny home and sat him on the bed. And later that

night, with my real-life husband out of town, I put Baaa-rny in hubby’s empty place and slept like a baaaa-by.

I guess what I’m trying to say here, is that sometimes, a person needs some down time. Nothing wrong with climbing into bed with a good book, some KFC and a Pillow Chum. Nothing wrong with a touch of geeky solitude to press life’s reset button.

•

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT THE VILLAGE POTTERS MASTER SERIES PRESENTS REIKO MIYAGI The Village Potters is pleased to announce that Studio Tabula Rasa artist Reiko Miyagi will be the third presenter in their 2018 Master Series Workshops. The demonstration workshop will take place in their Independent

Study and Mentoring Studio on Saturday, June 2, 2018 from 1:30-5:30PM. This workshop will demonstrate how to decorate pottery with both narrative and simple patterns, using scratch technique that emphasizes basic sgraffito and its variations. Topics will also include how to apply images, uses of color, inlay and carving, tools, and materials.

Reiko Miyagi was raised in Japan and received a B.A. from Tama Art University in Tokyo. She studied ceramic making at Bunka Gakuin Art Institute, completed an apprenticeship at Tsukamoto Ceramic Company, and worked as a studio potter in the Mashiko area, a renown folk pottery town. After relocating to the US in 1998, she founded her Studio Tabula Rasa and set to exploring the new clay, techniques, materials, shapes, and styles of her new home.

The Village Potters is located in Riverview Station, in Asheville’s historic River Arts District at 191 Lyman Street, #180 Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 13

»PEOPLE

Life Skills Toolbox:

12 Simple Strategies to Boost Your Confidence

by Lauren Griffin M.A.

Lauren Griffin, M.A., is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychotherapist in private practice in Asheville. Learn more about Lauren’s work at WNCcounseling.com, or call her at 828-782-3388.

S

ometimes it feels impossible to reach our dreams, to break free from our comfortable routines, and truly be ourselves. How does a lack of confidence hold you back from pursuing your dreams? Ideally, we learn confidence by observing confident people around us as we are growing up.

But it may not have worked that way for you. So how does an adult learn to be more confident?

Confidence can be learned. It takes practice, small successes, and good choices that build on one another. Don't approach this list like a recipe; discover the strategies that work for you, and release the ones that don't. Success will fuel further success.

1. Persist with Positive Action

Action is a major key to developing confidence. If you think you can, it's easier to act on your positive thoughts. You will change yourself, one action at

14 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

a time. Confidence comes from practice, actually taking action and failing, trying again and succeeding.

2. Monitor Self Talk

Be aware of your self-talk, the thoughts you have about yourself, and what you’re doing. Recognizing and reframing negative selftalk facilitates big changes in your confidence level. Listen to your thoughts, and consider the positive qualities in you, the things you can do well, and the things you enjoy.

3. Create a Virtual Mentor

Think of a person you admire who exudes confidence. Pick someone you know well or a historical, fictional or famous person. Ask your virtual mentor how they would respond. For example, if you chose Wonder Woman as your virtual mentor, ask yourself, “How would Wonder Woman handle this situation?” By detaching from the situation through your virtual mentor, you'll be surprised how quickly solutions will emerge.

4. Look Your Best

Project confidence with winning clothes, expressions, and attitude.

Dress well (doesn't have to be costly) to feel confident and ready to handle the situation. Smile, and you'll feel better instantly. A smile produces physiological chain reactions that help you feel happier and more confident. Standing tall shows confidence and is attractive. It's SO important to accept compliments; the appropriate response to a sincere compliment is always, “Thank you,” without any apologies.

5. Be Prepared for Every Meeting

It’s hard to be confident when you're worried. Empower yourself by learning the appropriate facts. With that knowledge comes confidence. Ask yourself what would help: knowledge, training, practice?

Identify your needs and fulfill them!

6. Self Care is Paramount

Take good care of your one physical body to be your most confident. Make meals special, without media, and eat quality food. Get good rest: create a restful bedtime routine, unplug, and get 7-9 hours sleep. Reduce stress by uncluttering, meditating, perhaps getting an occasional massage. Purposefully care for your hair, skin, nails, hands and feet. Balance rest with movement including breathing exercises, walking, running, strolling in a park, swimming, yoga, dancing, or just move. These empowering and confidence boosting activities help you feel much better about yourself.

7. Have a Life

Doing things that you love will build positivity which helps boost confidence and happiness. Plan time for at least one thing that you enjoy every day with activities like painting, music, hiking, yoga, socializing, or reading.

8. Focus on Solutions

If you find yourself complaining, or focusing on problems, make a change: focus on solutions instead of problems. Ask yourself solution-oriented questions that begin with what, how or when. What can I do differently? How can I repair it? When is a good time to accomplish this task? Avoid the anxiety-filled trap of asking 'why' questions like "Why do I always mess things up?" These move you into anxiety and away from solutions.

“Whether you think you can, or you think you can’t — you’re right.”

(Henry Ford) 11. Be Kind, Generous, and Social

When you are kind and generous with your time and talent, you'll feel good about yourself and others. Focus on people who respect your time and boundaries, and they will reciprocate. This is a cost-free way to improve your confidence. Enlarge your circle of friends by making an effort to meet new people and reach out to old friends.

12. Deal With the Past

If you have difficulty boosting your confidence on your own, have a history of trauma or a challenging background, consider seeking the support of a licensed counselor to provide assistance and ideas to grow your confidence.

These ideas just begin to touch on ways to increase self-assurance.

Begin to implement these strategies, and you will gain the confidence you deserve.

•

Confidence

9. Be Appreciative and Grateful

Think about all the things you've accomplished in your life and appreciate what you’ve achieved. List your gratitude and appreciation for what you have created in your life. Most importantly, take time to appreciate yourself and what you’ve achieved.

10. One Step at a Time

Set a small goal you know you can achieve, and then do it. Then set another goal and accomplish it. You'll become more proficient, and feel more confident as you achieve these small goals. Focusing on small goals lets you build up to a large project, and avoid becoming overwhelmed. Break down large projects into small chunks to build confidence with every step.

www.WNCcounseling.com 828.782.3388 Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC Psychotherapist Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 15

»PEOPLE COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Buncombe County Special Olympics to Hold Annual Spring Games on May 3, 2018 Come cheer on local Special Olympics athletes at the May 3, 2018 Spring Games at TC Roberson High School football field. Opening ceremonies begin at 9:15 am.

Athletes, from across Buncombe County, ages 6 years through adult will compete and show their skills in various track and field events.

The annual Spring Games are the program’s largest event drawing upwards of 500 athletes and 1000 volunteers to showcase the comradery and competitive talents of area Special Olympic athletes. The Spring Games complement the program’s year round athletic training and competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Buncombe County Special Olympics encourages the local community to attend the Spring Games to recognize and celebrate the achievements of the athletes and to highlight the support of their accomplishments.

My Father’s Knees

by Betty Sharpless

I

have certainly turned into my parents as I enter into my sixth decade. Fortunately for me, I had pretty great parents with lots of traits and skills to emulate. So often these days I tell myself “yup, you are your mother’s (or father’s) daughter”!

Not all of these are good. Dad’s casual relationship with handling money, for example. Mom’s ability to look right past things she didn’t have time to deal with … But I am grateful for so many of them. Both of my Betty Sharpless is a profesparents could start a conversation and find common sional free-lance gardener who knows her folks are ground with absolutely anyone. While I found this morlaughing hysterically that tifying as a teen, now I am doing my best to try to hone the girl who refused to this skill that is so important when our leaders are enweed or hoe is now the woman gardening for couraging us to fear strangers. My mom could cook. a living.

She had a trick for making a meal for pennies and then stretching it for one or two more people that one of us had dragged home with us. She truly knew how to make a welcome table.

I think my dad was the originator of random acts of kindness. When I was quite young, on the way back from Grandmom’s we were treated to McDonalds but he bought one extra milkshake. As we came up to the tollbooth, he handed the lady there the milkshake with the toll and made her day. I will never forget the look on her face for this kindness and recognition. To this day I love surprising people at the bank, the mulch yard and my favorite nursery with cookies or flowers. Making people feel special doesn’t cost anything and means so much.

So with all these great traits, I have also inherited my Mom’s capable hands and my Dad’s knees! Really?! The knees? I guess that is from all the time we both spent kneeling in the dirt! It could be worse … maybe …

•

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For more information call 828-250-4265 or email special.olympics@buncombecounty.org

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 17

»PEOPLE

The Tradition of the Andes, Closer Than You’d Think Written by & photos courtesy of Meagen Mealer

W

hen one hears the word “Peru” often exotic images of the Andes or Machu Picchu comes to mind. The culture of the high Andes is a very old and sacred way of life and it can be experienced right here in Western North Carolina. While that thought sinks in, a bit of background on the Andean culture should be explored first.

The Andean geography has a mountain range that juts more than 20,000 feet in some areas, which has created an isolated terrain for its inhabitants.

The people who live at this high altitude, far above the clouds and lush green valleys below, are called the Q’ero (pronounced kâr- ō), a tribal group of about 2000 people.

It is said that when the Spaniards invaded Peru, they did not bother with the Q’ero due to the altitude sickness they experienced. As such, the Q’ero were able to leave their traditions, spirituality and way of life mostly intact.

This highly spiritual civilization has endured the test of time by practicing some simple yet profound principles. Two of the most important are Munay (pronounced mo̅ o̅ n-ī) and Ayni (pronounced ī-nē). In direct translation Munay means directed, intentional love. Not the love of possession, but unconditional love similar to agape. Ayni means sacred reciprocity. The Q’ero work to live in this reciprocity with each other, their community and the Earth.

Another Native American prophecy speaks of a rainbow tribe (or a diverse group of individuals) that will emerge to bring the two into harmony again.

Many, including the Q’ero, believe that now is a call to action.

In Andean Nature Mysticism, they call a person who has dedicated their life to this spiritual path a Paqo. A Paqo (pronounced pä-kō) is an equivalent to the Western idea of a Shaman. They perform healings in lieu of a doctor (there are not many in the high mountains), but also teach, counsel and conduct rituals to honor the Earth.

It is my honor to call Lea a teacher, mentor and friend. She is a strong Medicine Woman. A Medicine Woman or Man is someone who carries a knowing of higher realms and is deeply connected to the Earth. Her philosophy of life stems from the Q’ero people and she has studied with them and a group here in Western North Carolina called the Eagle Condor Council. This group is comprised of diverse individuals from various spiritual practices who come together as a collective to bring about Munay and Ayni through their actions.

The Q’ero, as well as many native peoples of the Americas, also hold sacred the Eagle Condor Prophecy which speaks of two paths. The one of the eagle represents a focus on the mind while the condor represents the heart. The prophecy states that 500 years ago society was split into two groups, with some taking the path of the eagle and other, the condor. The prophecy believe this is the time when the two will come together as one.

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So, how does this all tie into Western North Carolina? That is where Lea Motlow comes in.

As she has journeyed to Peru to study with the Paqos, her love and reciprocity have been called into action. During her last visit, she was moved by the local women who weave beautiful ponchos, purses, hats and other items by hand.

This work has been done with Munay and Ayni for countless generations.

The time and energy to dye and weave the items is great. Plus, the women will carry these beautiful creations on their bodies, sometimes with children, to the local markets to sale.

As Lea stood there on the last day of her pilgrimage, she realized that she was called to bring some of these items back to the local area and sell them here. Scraping together all the funds she had available, she brought home her first parcel.

From this act of Munay, Lea has grown her mission into a business that sells these beautiful handmade items to which the proceeds help fund the women who made them, their children and their communities. Truly this is the very idea of Ayni.

I have to say that I am a bit of a fashionista, but when I wear the items made by hand from these Q’ero women, I feel like a Shamanista.

If you are interested to know more, Lea’s website is www.eaglecondorcouncil.org/golden-threads/. This site also is the home of the local organization that studies the sacred teachings of the Andes. Or you can visit her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/leamotlow/.

Whatever your journey, may it be filled with Munay and Ayni.

•

Meagen Mealer is a psychotherapist, autism consultant, energy practitioner and fledgling Medicine Woman. Her website is www.spiritexpanding. com

Lea Motlow (left) with Meagen Mealer (right)

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 19

20 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

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FASHION

“

Making a garment out of condoms was a lot more challenging than I thought it would be, but a challenge is good. It makes you dig deeper into your creativity and you wind up finding ideas and abilities you never knew where there.

”

— Ray Fawley

Photo by Andrea Coon Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 21

»FASHION

Condom Couture Fashion Show Raises Money for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic

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housands of condoms were used in the making of the 6th annual Condom Couture fashion show which took place on March 10 at The Orange Peel.

The event featured 16 local designers who used a minimum of 500 condoms each to create fashionable, wearable art. The theme this year, “Design Through the Decades,” played homage to how far the reproductive rights movement has come. In addition to using 500 condoms, designers were asked to choose a decade between the 1910s and The Future. Designers used inspiration from that era to create their garment.

Celebrity judges awarded the top three winners, and the event raised more than $68,000 for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic (PPSA).

Ray Fawley, also know as Miss Mannikan, won first place with a pink and black dress inspired by the 1950s.

“Designing for the Condom Couture show was a very new experience for me,” Fawley said. “Making a garment out of condoms was a lot more challenging than I thought it would be, but a challenge is good. It makes you dig deeper into your creativity and you wind up finding ideas and abilities you never knew where there.”

PPSAT serves thousands of women, men and young people in Asheville annually, offering a wide range of services like lifesaving cancer screenings, preventive well-women exams and general check-ups, family planning and birth control and testing & treatment for STIs (sexually transmitted infections). •

22 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

First Place Winner Designers: Ray Fawley (Miss Mannikan) Model: Lauren Rivas Photographer: Max Ganly Decade: 1950s

Second Place Winner Designers: Rachel Weisberg & Stephanie Ferguson Model: Aubrey Huntley Photographer: Max Ganly Decade: 1930s

Photo by Andrea Coon

Third Place Winner Designer: Rosanne Capone (Gypsy Rose Creations) Model: Camille Reid Photographer: Max Ganly Decade: 1920s

Honorable Mention Designer: Ida Bostian Model: Natasha Noir Nightly Photographer: Max Ganly Decade: 1930s

Photo by Max Ganly Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 23

Take the guess work out of the workout.

Biltmore Fitness Yoga Personal Training

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e want to promote a healthy lifestyle for everyone in a warm, welcoming and stressfree environment that Family feels comfortable to owned and all. We have many members who have operated been here over 20 years. We offer a clean No Contracts! and drama free place All draft that is about reachmemberships are ing and maintaining month-to-month your goals of a healthy lifestyle.

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711 Biltmore Ave Asheville, NC 28803 828-253-5555 24 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

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trength training should be an important part of women’s workout regimens.

Despite this, the National Center for Health Statistics says only about 20 percent of women lift weights. Poor advice may be to blame. Women often fall victim to false information circulating about lifting weights.

By getting educated, women can do much to improve their workouts.

Quality Exercise, Conditioning and Weight Training Equipment

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hese are the virtues that represent our company. Our mission is to build and represent the best fitness equipment. Little’s Fitness Equipment has specialized in performance fitness equipment for the past 30+ years. Little’s Fitness Equipment partners Landice Cardio with world leading Equipment rated specialty exercise companies to pro#1 by leading vide every aspect consumer of your home or commercial fitness magazines needs.

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Body Weight Stations Cardio Equipment Free Weights Plate Load Equipment Plates, Dumbbells & Bars Racks, Cages & Platforms Selectorized Equipment Storage Solutions

Little’s Fitness Equipment 5C Woodland Dr. Asheville, NC 28806 828-252-0256

www.littlesfitness.com

One of the more widely circulated myths regarding women and weightlifting is that women who lift heavy weights will get bulky.

According to the exercise resource Nerd Fitness, when any person picks up progressively heavier weights as he or she gets acclimated to lifting, that individual will get stronger, but not necessarily bigger. People who “bulk up” eat and train specifically for that purpose.

In addition, women simply do not have the amount of testosterone necessary to bulk up without taking added measures designed to add bulk.

IDEA Health and Fitness Network says strength training will help the average woman lose more fat than she’ll gain in muscle. One who trains two to three times a week for two months can gain roughly two pounds of muscle, but will lose 3.5 pounds of fat. Women who want to lose weight may employ strength training to reach their goals.

Strength training also can help decrease one’s risk of osteoporosis, strengthen bones, improve posture, and reduce back pain. Weight training strengthens the muscles and bones that support the body.

Women should be open to the idea of lifting weights as part of a balanced workout regimen.

By Metro Creative

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 25

»FASHION

It’s a Breeze

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his season’s style is anything but complex. In keeping with the minimalist movement, it brings us back to basics with raw fabrics like linen, cotton and leather.

Think of it as “new, but worn-in” looks like sawn-off edges and prewashed finishes. While earthy color palettes will still be prominent, we will also see a bit of an 80’s throwback with primary Crayola colors, high waistlines and fringed accents. Don’t get too caught up in the details, just keep it as simple as a gentle wind on a warm, sunny day!

THIS PAGE

Model: Sarah Johns | Elan Flare Jegging $64 | Macrame Lilla P Fringe Bag $132 | Jenny Bird Silver Choker “The Ya Ya” $50 | Bella Dahl Strapless Top $101 Sorel Buckle Slingback $175

PREVIOUS PAGE

Model: Sarah Johns | Blank “Great White” Skirt $68 | Chaser Henley Tank/Blue $55 | Blank “Gypsy Wind” Denim Jacket $188 | Ariel Earring — Silver $70

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 27

»FASHION

Model: Sarah Johns | Bella Dahl Button Back Crop Top with Fringe $101 | Blank NYC Jean $88 | “Cut & Paste” Fringe Crossbody Bag $68 | Jenny Bird “The Jane Cuff” w/ Leather Closure $85 | Sheila Fajl Silver 2 ½ in. Hoop $68 | Miz Mooz “Kipling” Wedge Shoe $165

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 29

»FASHION

Model: Sarah Johns | Elan Halter Stripe Maxi $74 | Blank Suede Jacket $188 | Jenny Bird “Sloan” Earring $70 | TOMS “Elloa” Toffee Suede Bootie $115 30 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

FASHION CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

828.738.MAXX www.maxganly.com HAIR BY: Mary Wiedel for Carmen Carmen Salon

Alyssa Rogala for Carmen Carmen Salon Jenna Duvall for Carmen Carmen Salon

MAKEUP BY: NAILS BY:

Asheville Mall • 828.296.9463 CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES PROVIDED BY:

31 N Lexington Ave Asheville, NC 28801 828.252.0083 boutiqueLp.com shopboutiqueLp@gmail.com SHOES PROVIDED BY:

New Asheville Market 4 S. Tunnel Road Asheville, NC 28805 828-575-5918 www.DSW.com FASHION COORDINATOR: Angela Ramsey FASHION STYLING BY: Lauren Carr, Sharon

Powell & Emily Thomas MODEL: Sarah Johns

Model: Sarah Johns | Able Crossbody “Mirella Circle Bag” $118 | Elan Strapless Jumpsuit $55 | Jenny Bird Rhine Pendant $125 | Jenny Bird Kain Ear Jacket $85 | Able Nubuck Clutch $118 Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 31

»HOME & GARDEN Garden Bloomers:

Time to Start Those Gardens

by Betty Sharpless

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Betty Sharpless is a professional freelance gardener who has been gifting friends with jars of pesto all winter.

Summer in a jar—hard to say no to that!

This does not mean that experienced gardeners have not been chowing down on spinach, lettuces and assorted greens for the last two months, having fooled Mother Nature with plastic coverings and hoops since March (March 17th, to be exact).

t’s May! If you have been putting off gardening using dubious weather as your excuse; you are now officially out of excuses. Every spring I am bombarded with new gardeners saying, “Can I plant NOW?” I always answer that Mother’s Day is the official beginning of the gardening season for all your warm weather plants. I remind people that we still have blackberry winter in front of us, so be prepared to cover up your baby plants.

May means it is time to go ahead and buy the tomato and pepper plants that have been in the stores for three weeks by now. I have had great success buying plants locally from the tailgate markets that are an Asheville hallmark. Buying at the tailgate markets allows you to buy individual plants of several different varieties of your favorites. My new tomato find for 2017 was at Reems Creek: tomato “Manapal.” This little wonder produced perfect slicers all season. When I can’t find what I want at the markets, I take advantage of individually potted plants from the bigger providers, such as Bonnies, available from just about every retailer.

Last year I fell in love with chocolate cherry sprinkles.

I also tried a wider variety of peppers last year, buying one or two from a variety of vendors and stores. Because you are buying just one plant (instead of a six pack), if it’s a dud, you really haven’t lost anything. Buying from local growers also means that you will have a higher chance of success.

So! No matter if you are planting in pots on your porch or in raised beds in the back yard it is time to make your list and check it twice: Tomatoes (cherry, yellow, paste and slicers), peppers (bell, jalepeno, ancho), okra, squash (winter and summer) and bean seeds (pole, bush, green, purple and black) and lots and lots of basil.

•

32 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

2 0 1 8 o p e n i n g d at e s asheville city market

April 7, Saturdays 8-12

asheville City market South April 4, Wednesdays 12-4

Black mountain tailgate market May 5, Saturdays 9-12

east asheville tailgate market May 1, Fridays 3-6

French Broad Food CoOp tailgate market April 18, Wednesdays 2-6

henderson County tailgate market April 7, Saturdays 8-12

mills river Farmers market May 6, Saturdays 8-12

north asheville tailgate market April 7, Saturdays 8-12

oakley farmers market

May 3, Thursdays 3:30-6:30

Original waynesville tailgate market

May 16, Wednesdays + Saturdays 8-12

river arts district farmers market May 2, Wednesdays 3-6

weaverville tailgate market

April 18, Wednesdays 2:30-6:30

west asheville tailgate market April 10, Tuesdays 3:30-6:30

wnc farmers market

Year round, Everyday 8am-6pm For a complete list of the 90+ tailgates in the region, including their season closing dates, visit ASAP’s online Local Food Guide at appalachiangrown.org

June 23-24, 2018 a sa pc o nn ec t ion s . or g Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 33

»ENTERTAINMENT Betty’s Book Review:

The Last Ballad by Wiley Cash Once again I am so thankful for people in my life introducing me to new authors to enjoy.

by Betty Sharpless

Betty Sharpless is a professional free-lance gardener, writer and quilter, who wasn’t born in the southern mountains, but got here as quickly as she could…

W

iley Cash has done such an amazing job of capturing the lilting voices of mountain southern women in his new novel, The Last Ballad. The story follows Ella Mae Wiggins who was a textile worker in the spinning mills outside of Gastonia, South Carolina in 1929. For nine dollars a week she works six nights a week, twelve hours a night, leaving her young children behind. The mill she works in was the only integrated mill in the south and she is the only white woman to live with her black women co-workers in a shantytown called Stumptown.

Mr. Cash brings each character

to life in their own chapters, interweaving all the different viewpoints into the on going story.

His writing style shows the interconnectedness of everyone from workers to mill owners and all of the community that falls between the two, when greed and bigotry ruled.

Although I knew of the spinning mills and the working conditions, reading this book really illuminated what these men and women were struggling with…just to survive and raise a family. I really recommend this book and am planning on reading more of the author’s work in the future.

•

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT SHOW & TELL POP UP SHOP PRESENTS SPRING POP UP SHOP WHEN: MAY 10-20, 10AM - 9PM OPENING PARTY, MAY 10 FROM 6-9PM

WHERE: THE ASHEVILLE SOCIAL HALL. 81 BROADWAY ST, ASHEVILLE 28801

A HANDMADE AND VINTAGE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE FEATURING 75+ LOCAL & REGIONAL INDEPENDENT VENDORS The Show & Tell Pop Up Shop will pop up this Spring with an 11-day shopping experience at the Asheville Social Hall in Downtown Asheville, just in time for Mother’s Day! Explore this beautiful, light-filled, loft-like space as you shop an array of local/indie handmade, design, and vintage items.

The venue will be transformed into a retail pop up shop, showcasing over 75+ local/indie handmade and vintage vendors, including housewares, food, decor, jewelry, clothing, and more. There will be handmade items for sale created by local Mini-Makers, children ages 8-14. As well as original and print art created by local homeless artists through the I Am Home project. (Full list of vendors available on the website) Stop by Thursday evening for our Opening Party, Thursday, May 10th from 6-9pm and enjoy complimentary food, beverages from Bhramari Brewing Co, fairy hair by Fiery Fairy, and live poetry on demand by The Petite Typist.

For more information, please visit www.showandtellpopupshop.com 34 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

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ENTERTAINMENT

The Shape of Water

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

Meg’s Movie Review: The Shape of Water and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri

by Meg Hale Brunton

I

know that, normally, I write a review for one movie at a time. I realized, as I was trying to decide which film to write about for this issue of Sophie, that I have the same criticisms and compliments regarding both “The Shape of Water” and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.” Since both of these 2017 Best Picture nominees were excellent movies, I thought I would write about both of them.

To start, they are both by writer/directors who are truly master of their crafts. Guillermo del Toro (who won an Oscar this year for “The Shape of Water”) has a authentic and brilliant vision for all of his films and has been on my watch-list ever since his phantasmagoric (Thank you, Lit. degree) movie “Pan’s Labyrinth.” Martin McDonagh’s film “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri” also garnered two Academy Awards in March for the acting performances of Frances McDormand and Sam Rockwell. I have been following McDonagh’s career ever since I read his award-winning 2003 play “The Pillowman.” While he has written a few films, like his 2008 dark comedy “In Bruges,” he has clearly found his voice as a writer.

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

Despite del Toro and McDonagh’s undeniable writing and directing skills, a great deal of both of these films’ success is based on the insanely-talented and much-nominated/decorated casts. The supporting cast for “The Shape of Water” includes Oscar-winner Octavia Spencer (“The Help”), and Oscar-nominees Michael Shannon (“Revolutionary Road”), Michael Stuhlberg (“A Serious Man”), Richard Jenkins (“The Visitor”), and Sally Hawkins (“Blue Jasmine”). Other than the actors who won Academy Awards for their performances in “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” the remaining cast includes Woody Harrelson (“The People vs.

Larry Flynt”), Peter Dinklage (“Game of Thrones”), Lucas Hedges (“Man-

chester by the Sea”), and John Hawkes (“Winter’s Bone”).

Both movies feature a strong female lead, although both characters show their strength in very different ways. In “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” McDormand plays Mildred, a woman grappling with her daughter’s unsolved rape and murder. In interviews, McDormand has said that she actually based her character’s stance and physical movements on movie heroes from classic Westerns, such as those played by John Wayne. Her character is angry, to say the least, and has no problem expressing it. She is vengeful for the crime against her daughter and seeks to either solve the crime, or to inflict her fury on the entirety of the small town in which she lives. Hawkins’ character in “The Shape of Water,” Elisa, is extremely passive until she finds something worth fighting for.

She is a mute, who works as a cleaning woman for a science laboratory in the 1950’s. She befriends a creature that is being experimented on in the lab and decides to set him free when she sees that the scientists intend to kill him.

While they are both great movies, and I highly recommend both of them, neither are my favorite example of the filmmakers’ work. Still, the politics of the Academy Awards often mean that acknowledgement is given to the proper artist, but not necessarily for the correct piece. So, in addition to “The Shape of Water” and “Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri,” I also recommend that you look up other examples of del Toro and McDonagh’s works. While I have found lots that these films have in common, they are truly singular pieces and vastly different from one another. In a world filled with remake after remake, it’s relieving to find a movie with a little originality. In fact, “The Shape of Water” is so unique, I might go so far as to call it flat-out weird. The best description I can come up with for it is: a dark version of “E.T.” meets “Splash.” These two movies are prime examples of the best that 2017 had to offer. I give them both an 8.5 out of 10.

Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 35

»COMMUNITY

experts about how to produce plants with show-quality blooms.  Saturday, May 12 from 10am to 12pm at the NC Arboretum. More info at ncarboretum.org.

MAY/JUNE HAVE EVENT? HAVEAN AN EVENT?

MAY BROAD RIVER MAY FRENCH FESTIVAL IN HOT

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SPRINGS The French Broad River Festival in Hot Springs has grown steadily from a one night benefit party on the banks of the French Broad River to an all weekend festival featuring some of the best music in the area and a number of outdoor events in celebration of this beautiful river and setting.

The part outdoor adventure, part music festival has whitewater and mountain bike races, hiking, kid’s village, camping and musical acts on multiple stages.  Friday, May 4 to Sunday, May 6 at Hot Spring Campground & Spa. $110 early bird / $125 at gate. Check their website for tickets and more details, frenchbroadriverfestival.com.

MAY SPRING HERB FESTIVAL

AT WESTERN NC FARMER’S MARKET Largest herb festival in the Southeast with 50+ businesses with plants, books, soaps, herbal crafts, medicinal herbs, lotions, dried flowers, baked goods, herbal gifts and much more. Free admission.

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 Friday, May 4 to Sunday, May 6 from 8am to 6pm at The WNC Farmers Market, 570 Brevard Road (Highway 191).

FOREST PRIDE MAY PISGAH DAY

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Join the fun and help with work projects in Pisgah

36 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

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

National Forest in the Looking Glass area - including trail maintenance, repairs, plantings and more (sign up in advance), coordinated by The Pisgah Conservancy.  Saturday, May 5 from 9am to 2pm.

More details at pisgahconservancy.org.

MAY SPACE DAY AT PARI

Explore this former NASA campus hidden in Pisgah National Forest that is now a research and educational center for space and science.

Tours, star gazing, minerals, meteorites, hands-on exhibits and more for all ages. Free.

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 Saturday, May 5 from 9am to 4pm.

More info at pari.edu.

MAY LEAF FESTIVAL

A weekend at LEAF is the equivalent of going on a year-long multicultural musical and dance odyssey — longtime favorite festival held in Black Mountain on a lake with camping and limited tickets.

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 Thursday, May 10 to Sunday, May 13 at Camp Rockmont near Black Mountain.

More info and tickets at theleaf.org.

MAY DAHLIA TUBER SALE & WORLD BONSAI DAY See a big variety of dahlia tubers and chrysanthemum-rooted cuttings featuring cultivated varieties available for sale. Learn from Dahlia Society

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VILLAGE POTTERS MAY THE CLAY CENTER SPRING

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OPEN HOUSE The event, which is free and open to the public and suitable for all ages, features multiple mini-events. Outside the newly expanded Clay Distribution Center, samples of Laguna, Miller, Axner, and Standard Ceramics clays will be on hand, as well as a wheel for any potter who wants to test a clay by making a bowl that will later be fired for the Asheville Empty Bowls project.  Saturday, May 12 from 11:00am to 4:00pm at the Village Potters Clay Center located in the River Arts District. More info at thevillagepotters.com.

MAY FIBER WEEKEND

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Craftspeople at the Folk Art Center share their inspiration and expertise in a variety of textile arts.

Saturday demonstrations include quilting and ap-

HOOK, LINE AND DRINKER FESTIVAL

MAY

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MAY MAYFEST

Celebrating the WNC Fly Fishing Trail and local breweries, with craft beer vendors, food trucks, fishing guides and vendors, and live music 12:30-4:30 PM at Bridge Park Pavilion in downtown Sylva. Free admission.

 Saturday, May 5 from 10am to 5pm in downtown Rutherfordton.

There will be live music from 12:30 until 4:30 p.m. by two of the region’s most popular bands. The band A Social Function will perform classic hits from 12:30-2:15 p.m., followed by Fireside Collective who will perform progressive bluegrass from 2:45-4:30 p.m.

Downtown Rutherfordton’s Main Street is filled with crafts, vendors, food, live music, demonstrations, and plenty of kids activities - including a Pinewood Derby Race. Free admission.

5

MAY HUCKLEBERRYS CRAFTED SPIRITS DAY

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Sample spirits from 19 NC distillers along North Trade Street in downtown Tryon.

Also includes arts, crafts, a dozen food trucks and live music. 12-5 PM. Free admission.  Saturday, May 5 from noon to 5pm in downtown Tryon.

 Saturday, May 19 from 12:30pm to 4:30pm at Bridge Park Pavilion in downtown Sylva. More info at mountainlovers.com.

pliqué, doll making, weaving, mixed media fiber arts, clothing, printing design, tapestry weaving and natural dyeing. Two fashion shows on Sunday! Free admission.

gional artists along Saluda’s historic Main Street. See a big diversity of art media and enjoy music representing Americana, blues, folk and contemporary. Watch artist demonstrations. Free.

 Saturday, May 12 from 10am to 4pm and Sunday, May 13 from 1pm to 4pm at the Folk Art Center. More info at southernhighlandguild.org.

 Saturday, May 19 from 10am to 4pm in downtown Saluda.

MAY GRO FEST This outdoor music festival celebrates and supports the farmers of Polk County with music by Asheville’s Town Mountain, Aaron Burdett Band and others, plus food, beer and wine. At Harmon Dairy Farm with mountain views, near Columbus.

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 Saturday, May 12 from 4pm to 10pm at Harmon Dairy Farm. Addmission is $30/ person.

FAIRE AT MAY RENAISSANCE THE FARM

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Attention all knights, pages, jesters, jousters, kings, queens, princesses and princes!

Get your costumes ready, and come out and have some fun on May 19th! Come one, come all to the Second Bi-Annual Renaissance Fair at the Farm. We have all sorts of fun demonstrations planned, games and entertainment are guaranteed.  Saturday, May 19 from 11am to 9pm at Hickory Nut Gap Farm. More info and tickets at hickorynutgapfarm.com.

ARTS AND MAY MONTFORD MUSIC FESTIVAL

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SHOW The Asheville Fine Art Show is a high-quality, juried fine art and fine craft show where all art is original and personally handmade by the artist who is present at the show. All discipline of art are for sale to the public including sculpture, painting, clay, glass, photography, jewelry, fiber, wood, mixed media and more.

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 Saturday, May 19 to Sunday, May 20 at the WNC Agricultural Center. More info and tickets at hotworks.org.

MAY MOUNTAIN SPORTS

FESTIVAL Whether you’re a hardcore athlete or a newbie trying an event for the first time, the annual Mountain Sports Festival in Asheville offers something for you.

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 Friday, May 25 to Sunday, May 27.

More info at mountainsportsfestival.com.

ON THE MAY CONCERTS CREEK, SYLVA

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Kick off Memorial Day Weekend with free outside live music in downtown Sylva, with Freeway Revival (rock/ Americana) 7-9 PM at the Bridge Park, two blocks from Main Street with shops, restaurants and breweries. Family-friendly, bring a chair or blanket. downtoan Sylva.

 Saturday, May 19 from 10am to 7pm on Montford Ave.

MAY KENILWORTH ARTISTS

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Outstanding festival with 100% hand-picked re-

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MAY ASHEVILLE FINE ART

One of the largest one day free music and arts festivals in Asheville, held on Montford and Soco near downtown, with over 100 vendors of art, crafts and food. Two stages of entertainment.

MAY SALUDA ARTS FESTIVAL

JUN BEER CITY FESTIVAL

 Friday, May 25 from 7pm to 9pm in

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OPEN STUDIO TOUR Kenilworth neighborhood, just five minutes from downtown Asheville, annual Open Studio Tour

Sample brews from 30+ local breweries downtown in Pack Square Park, with live music and local food. Hosted by Asheville Brewers Alliance, part of Beer Week. Buy tickets in advance (often sells out).  Saturday, June 2 from 12pm to 5pm in Pack Square. More info and tickets at beercityfestival.com.

features 20+ jewelers, painters, glass-workers, fabric artists, potters, woodworkers, photographers and more!  Saturday, May 26 to Sunday, May 27 from 10am to 5pm each day. More info at kenilworthartists.org.

LURE ARTS MAY LAKE FESTIVAL

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Featuring handmade creations from more than 60 artisans from across the region, including painting, photography, jewelry, leather, metal, soaps and more on Memorial Day Weekend. Admission is free. Across from the beach, 2771 Memorial Highway.  Saturday, May 26 to Monday, May 28. More info at lakelureartsandcraftsfestivals.com.

SQUIRREL MAY WHITE FESTIVAL

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Go nuts at the White Squirrel Festival in downtown Brevard that features a parade, plenty of live music, food, arts and much on Memorial Day Weekend.  Saturday, May 26 to Sunday, May 27.

More info at whitesquirrelfestival.com.

JUBILEE MAY GARDEN FESTIVAL

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This Downtown Hendersonville Festival is the ideal event for passionate gardeners searching for the perfect plants, unique lawn and garden accessories, and arts and crafts. Memorial Day Weekend.  Saturday, May 26 to Sunday, May 27.

More info at visithendersonvillenc.org.

MAY ROSE SHOW

Exhibition at the North Carolina Arboretum by Asheville-Blue Ridge Rose Society with awardwinning roses of every color and size. Experts on hand to answer questions and provide information about the selection, care and history of roses.

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 Saturday, May 26 to Sunday, May 27 at the NC Arboritum from 9am to 5pm.

JUNE JUN NC GOLD FESTIVAL

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Festival at Lucky Strike Gold Mine near Marion with exhibits, mining demonstrations, gold Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 37

panning, arts and crafts, music and food. Free admission.  Friday, June 1 to Saturday, June 2 from 10am to 6pm at the Mountain Gateway Museum. More info at oldfort.org.

RIVER ART STUDIO JUN TOE TOURS

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The Toe River Studio Tour showcases the work of 80+ artists and crafts people across Yancey and Mitchell Counties, located about 40 miles northeast of Asheville. It is held twice a year, a weekend in June and December.

Enjoy the mountain countryside near Mt. Mitchell. These studios stretch from Burnsville to Spruce Pine and includes the Penland School area.  Friday, June 1 to Sunday, June 3 from 10am to 5pm across Yancey and Mitchell Counties. More info at toeriverarts.org.

JUN LIVERMUSH FESTIVAL

Line up for your free Hunter’s livermush sandwich while enjoying live music, hog calling, eating contest and more in downtown Marion.

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 Saturday, June 2 from 5pm to 9pm in downtown Marion.

JUN CLAY FEST

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Potters and ceramic artists of the Southern Highlands Guild at the Folk Art

Center share a variety of techniques such as throwing, sculpture and coil-building. Visitors can glaze and watch the firing of raku pots. Free admission.

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 Saturday, June 9 from 10am to 4pm at the Folk Art Center. More info at southernhighlandguild.org.

LIFESTYLE JUN APPALACHIAN CELEBRATION

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A full day celebration of traditional mountain craft, food and entertainment in downtown Waynesville. Demonstrations of Appalachian life skills & crafts, storytelling, mountain music & clogging, home-style food vendors. 10 AM –5 PM, Free admission.  Saturday, June 9 from 10am to 5pm in downtown Waynesville. More info at visitncsmokies.com.

MOUNTAIN JUN BLUFF FESTIVAL

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This free, family-friendly festival in Hot Springs (at the spa) features great old-time and bluegrass music, ballads, clogging, square dancing, as well as a silent auction and raffle of regional artwork, local crafts, vacation packages and more. 10 AM to 6 PM. Offers an array of delicious foods, too.  Saturday, June 9 from 10am to 6pm at the Hot Spring Resort and Spa. More info at hotspringsnc.org.

JUN Outdoor festival

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with plenty of live music, food trucks, beer & wine and more at Lake Logan in Pisgah National Forest south of Waynesville, about 30 miles from Asheville. Weekend tickets $75/person.

Camping and accommodations available — reserve early.

 Friday, June 8 to Saturday, June 9 at Lake Logan in the Pisgah National Forest. More info and tickets at visitncsmokies.com.

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JUN

Since Asheville is one of the top USA cities for vegan living, find many events all weekend. SpeakerFest at Masonic Temple is Saturday and the big outdoor festival in Pack Square Park is Sunday 11 AM-5 PM. All events are free. Fundraiser for local animal sanctuary.  Friday, June 8 to Sunday, June 10 from 11am to 5pm. More info at veganfest.bwar. org.

JUN XPAND FEST

A new outdoor festival in the South Slope near downtown Asheville to showcase the creative arts as a tool for positive change in our world. 11 AM-9 PM. Free admission.

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 Saturday, June 9 from 11am to 9pm in the South Slope. More info at xyvision. org.

VOICES JUN CHEROKEE FESTIVAL

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Experience the 11,000year old Cherokee culture through dance, music, storytelling, arts and crafts. Held at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, 10 AM-5 PM, with a blowgun contest at 11 AM. Traditional food available for purchase. Free admission.  Saturday, June 9 from 10am to 5pm at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. More info at cherokeemuseum.org.

GO WEST MUSIC JUN ALL FESTIVAL

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From traditional bluegrass to funk and soul, rock, jazz and hip-hop, enjoy five stages of musical diversity in West Asheville - both outdoors and indoors. Local vendors Shows start each day

at noon and continue through 2 AM Saturday and 10 PM on Sunday. Free. 743 Haywood Road.  Saturday, June 16 to Sunday, June 17 in West Asheville. More info at allgowest. com.

NEVADA BEER JUN SIERRA CAMP

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Epic adult day camp at Sierra Nevada Brewery includes obstacle course, keg bowling, hammerschlogan, silent disco, costume contest and more. Pair those with their iconic and special collaboration beers, along with great food. 12-5 PM. $25/person includes entertainment, games and shuttle.  Saturday, June 16 from 12pm to 5pm at Sierra Nevada Brewery. More info and tickets at sierranevada.com.

JUN BREVARD MUSIC CENTER

FESTIVAL One of the country’s premier summer music festival with 80+ performances by 500 students from around the world - joined by faculty and visiting artists for symphony, opera, pops, chamber, cabaret, Americana, and jazz. Artist Director is Keith Lockhart (Boston Pops).

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 Friday, June 22 to Sunday, August 5 at the Brevard Music Center. More info at brevardmusic.org.

JUN FARM TOUR

Visit farms in the Asheville area that are not normally open to the public and see what happens behind the scenes. Presented by the Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project (ASAP), farms are located in many counties across Western North Carolina.

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 Saturday, June 23 to Sunday, June 24 across the Asheville area. More info at asapconnections.org.

JUN HOLA ASHEVILLE

Experience the sights, sounds, music, pageantry, colorful costumes, food, art and extraordinary talent of Latin America. Pack Square Park, Downtown Asheville. 12-8 PM. Free admission.

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 Saturday, June 23 from 12pm to 8pm at Pack Square Park.

FRENCH BROAD JUN UPPER RIVERFEST

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Celebrate the headwaters with outdoor fun for all ages, 10 AM- 3 PM including canoe relay, outdoor gear flea market, hands-on activities, free tubing, music, food trucks and more. Champion River Park and Rosman Town Hall (6 Main Street, Rosman)  Saturday, June 23 from 10am to 3pm at Champion River Park.

ONGOING EVENTS BILTMORE BLOOMS

Until Friday, May 25 This festival of flowers celebrates two months of spring blooms that include 75,000+ tulips, orchids, azalaeas and elaborate floral displays inside Biltmore House.  Tuesday March 20 to Friday, May 25.

More info and tickets on biltmore.com

ASHEVILLE FILM SOCIETY CLASSIC MOVIE

Every Tuesday from 7:30-9:30 Join the Asheville Film Society as they celebrate film in Asheville with a classic film every Tuesday night. Introductions

by Mountain XPress film critic Scott Douglas. Tuesdays, 7:30-9:30 at 45 South French Broad Avenue, Suite 130, Asheville

WOODY WOOD WEDNESDAY AT HIGHLAND BREWING COMPANY

Every Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 Aaron Wood is quite the renaissance music man. He grew up steeped in the traditions of blues and folk music of North Carolina. His father has shared the stage with the likes of Bill Monroe and Ralph Stanley and performed at The Grand Ole Opry, taking Aaron with him every chance he got. It didn’t take long before the music took hold, and he studied any kind of music he could get his fingers on. Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30 at 12 Old Charlotte Highway, Suite 200, Asheville

THE LAUREL CHAPTER OF THE EMBROIDERERS’ GUILD OF AMERICA

Next monthly meeting on Thursday, May 3 The program this month is entitled Northern Lights. It is a needlepoint project which can be finished in several different ways. The techniques required to complete this project will be taught by Sandy Washington, Chapter Vice President. There is a kit fee of $3.00 for this project. Thursday, May 3, 9:30am - 12pm.

Cummings United Methodist Church,3 Banner Farm Road Etowah/Horse Shoe.

LE VINE NOIRE AT THE CONUNDRUM

Every Friday from 5-9pm Le Vine Noir is an unforgettable, hilarious excursion of the senses where you learn how to taste all over again. Come sample an assortment of wines, learn something new about your favorite grape based beverages, and just try to keep from giggling at the comedic hijinks that are always in full swing here at the Falkirk Estate.  Fridays, 5-9pm at 1 Battle Square, Suite 2B, Asheville. Admission is $30/person.

DOWNTOWN AFTER FIVE

Every third Friday May-September Downtown After Five provides free live outdoor music concerts in downtown Asheville every third Friday 5-9 PM from May through September. They celebrate their 30th year in 2018. Thousands gather on North Lexington Avenue near the I-240 overpass to enjoy local and national beers and a variety of food vendors. While admission is free, you must buy a $2 wristband to purchase beer, hard cider and wine.  Every third Friday of the month from May to September 5-9pm in downtown Asheville.

SATURDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

Every Saturday May-July Watch horse jumping and riding with the best jockeys in the country at the impressive, new Tryon International Equestrian Center with an exciting atmosphere featuring music, food, kids’ activities and Venetian carousel rides.

Events vary each week. Free admission.  Saturdays at The Tryon International Equestrian Center. Visit tryon.coth.com for more details and weekly schedules.

Monday, May 14, 7-9pm. New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3070 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville.

CHIHULY GLASS SCULPTURES AT BILTMORE

Thursday, May 17 to Sunday, October 7 Spectacular outdoor and indoor exhibition in the gardens and Biltmore House, featuring the monumental glass sculptures of Dale Chihuly. Included in the regular admission price. Special night tours also.  Thursday, May 17 to Sunday, October 7 at the Biltmore Estate. Tickets and more info at www.biltmore.com.

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

SECOND SATURDAYS, RIVER ARTS DISTRICT

Every second Saturday in 2018 Enjoy openings, hands-on classes, demos, music, block parties and more.

Find paintings, sculpture, pottery, fiber, glass, metal, wax, basketry and more.

There are many teaching venues, so pick up a paint brush or get your hands in the clay. Most galleries open at 10 AM. Many parties will extend into night.

Events vary greatly monthly, so expect a different experience each time.  The second Saturday of each month in 2018 at the River Arts District. More info at www.riverartsdistrict.com.

GROUP STITCHING FOR CHARITY SEEKS NEW MEMBERS Next monthly meeting will be Monday, May 14 Stitches of Love (formerly the WNC Knitters and Crocheters for Others-Arden) is a group of talented people who have created and donated over 20,000 handmade articles to local charities in the past ten years.. We meet monthly at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Asheville.

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

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

CHAIR CANING WORKSHOPS The nation’s only chair caning school & museum is operated by Brandy Clements & Dave Klingler, who are on a mission to revive a “dying art.” Its an experiential education opportunity for all ages.  Silver River Center for Chair Caning.

For complete class listings and more info visit silverriverchairs.com Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 39

»COMMUNITY

Good Dogs Read Sophie

Blue is a border collie belonging to Michael and Kirsten Fuchs, the owner of Baked Pie Company. Blue’s hobbies are jogging, playing frisbee, long car rides and reading Sophie Magazine.

40 | Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018

“My name is Sashee aka Sweet Pea. I am a blonde Cocker Spaniel.

I will be 9 years old on Christmas Day. My Mommy is Joyce Dover Evans.”

Dogs Love Sophie Too

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

“Hi, I’m Star, an Australian Shepherd. My human, Bonnie Willow, reads Sophie on the lawn at The School of Peace, where she works.”

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Real Estate

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Antique Buyer Asheville Estate Removals Buying Antiques! One item or entire estate. 40

Golden Retriever puppies, AKC. 100% English cream. Lovely, wonderful, healthy, happy family pets. Vet checked. Males $1000, females $1200. We deliver in Asheville! lonesomepinegoldens.com 276-523-5115

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35+/- wooded acres by owner, South ex-

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Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $1,795 per week for a 20 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com or contact Sophie staff 828-274-8888 Sophie MAY / JUNE 2018 | 41

PHOTO

FINISH

KMG*Photography www.KristenMarieGreene.com Photographer and Stylist: Kristen Marie Greene of KMG*Photography Model: Sarah Johns Hair and Makeup Artist: Agata Karas Spurrier Crystal Necklace: Air to Be Glasses: Planet.i

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