November PineStraw 2022

LEARN TO EARN

Greater Earning Power

Greater Opportunities

O ering day, evening, and online classes. Full semester and 8-week session curriculum classes begin January 9.

Continuing Education short-term training classes begin throughout each semester.

Boys & Girls Club afternoon and evening programs are o ered on campus.

Transportation from McDeeds Creek and Farm Life Elementary Schools is currently available.

November ����

FEATURES

71 Chime Poetry by Debra Kaufman

70 WKRP

In Moore County

76 Living with a Legend By Gil Hanse Donald Ross, up close and personal

78 Caught In A Trap By Jim Moriarty

Agatha Christie’s classic turns 70

80 Remembering Frank Jr. By Jim Jenkins

A tribute to a leader

84 Space Well Spent By Deborah Salomon

Blinkbonnie is larger than life

97 November Almanac

By Ashley Walshe

Cover Photogra Ph by tim Sayer

DEPARTMENTS

17 Simple Life By Jim Dodson

22 PinePitch

27 Tea Leaf Astrologer By Zora Stellanova

29 The Omnivorous Reader By Stephen E. Smith

33 Bookshelf

37 Hometown By Bill Fields

38 The Creators of N.C. By Wiley Cash

44 Focus on Food By Rose Shewey

47 In the Spirit By Tony Cross

51 Sandhills Photography Club

55 Out of the Blue By Deborah Salomon

57 Birdwatch By Susan Campbell

59 Sporting Life By Tom Bryant

63 Golftown Journal By Lee Pace

128 Arts & Entertainment Calendar

138 SandhillSeen

143 Pine Needler By Mart Dickerson

144 Southwords By Beth MacDonald

Hotel Experience for Your Home

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PINEHURST TOYOTA ADVANTAGE PLAN

At Pinehurst Toyota, we’re more than just a dealership. We’re a family. Every time you step onto our lot, our goal is to make sure you are 100% satisfied with your visit, whether you’re looking to purchase a new ride, secure financing for that vehicle, have your current auto serviced, or buy genuine Toyota parts. You can count on our staff to make you the number-one priority. Interested in joining the family? Check out our Advantage Plan that is guaranteed with every purchase.

LIFETIME LIMITED POWERTRAIN WARRANTY! UNLIMITED TIME…UNLIMITED

MILES! NO ADDITIONAL COST!

Lifetime limited non-factory warranty on all new Toyotas. Good at participating dealerships nationwide.

No additional charge. See dealer for details.

2 YEARS NO COST MAINTENANCE! *

The first 2 years/25,000 miles are covered under the Toyota Care program.

5 YEARS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE! *

You get 5 years of Roadside Assistance, regardless of miles!

COMPLIMENTARY LOANERS!

We value your time. That’s why with any major service at Pinehurst Toyota, you will receive the use of a complimentary loaner.

OUR BEST PRICE DIFFERENCE!**

If within 3 days of purchasing your new vehicle from us, you find a lower price on the exact same vehicle on our lot, we will refund you 100% of the difference!

COURTESY CAR WASH WITH EVERY SERVICE!

You will receive a complimentary car wash anytime your vehicle is in for service, maintenance, or repairs!

100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE!***

If within 72 hours of purchasing your new or pre-owned vehicle you are not completely satisfied, bring it back and exchange it for another vehicle at Pinehurst Toyota!

MAGAZINE

Volume 18, No. 11

David Woronoff, Publisher david@thepilot.com

Andie Stuart Rose, Creative Director andiesouthernpines@gmail.com

Jim Moriarty, Editor jjmpinestraw@gmail.com

Miranda Glyder, Graphic Designer miranda@pinestrawmag.com

Alyssa Kennedy, Digital Art Director alyssamagazines@gmail.com

Emilee Phillips, Digital Content emilee@pinestrawmag.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Jim Dodson, Deborah Salomon

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Gessner, Laura L. Gingerich, Tim Sayer

CONTRIBUTORS

Jenna Biter, Harry Blair, Tom Bryant, Susan Campbell, Bill Case, Mallory Cash, Wiley Cash, Tony Cross, Brianna Rolfe Cunningham, Mart Dickerson, Bill Fields, Meridith Martens, Jason Oliver Nixon, Mary Novitsky, Lee Pace, Todd Pusser, Joyce Reehling, Scott Sheffield, Rose Shewey, Stephen E. Smith, Angie Tally, Kimberly Daniels Taws, Daniel Wallace, Ashley Walshe, Claudia Watson, Amberly Glitz Weber

ADVERTISING SALES

Ginny Trigg, Advertising Director 910.693.2481 • ginny@thepilot.com

Samantha Cunningham, 910.693.2505

Kathy Desmond, 910.693.2515

Jessica Galloway, 910. 693.2498

Terry Hartsell, 910.693.2513

Erika Leap, 910.693.2514

ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN

Mechelle Butler, Scott Yancey

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Rebah Dolbow • pilotads@thepilot.com

PS

Henry Hogan, Finance Director

910.693.2497

Darlene Stark, Circulation Director

910.693.2488

SUBSCRIPTIONS

910.693.2488

OWNERS

Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels III, Lee Dirks, David Woronoff

In memoriam Frank Daniels Jr.

145 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387

www.pinestrawmag.com

Mary Ann Radmacher

UNDER CONTRACT

$1,900,000

4 bed • 5 bath

Julia Lattarulo (910) 690-9716

Jennifer Nguyen (910) 585-2099

MLS 100342695

$440,000

3 bed • 2 bath

Debbie Darby (910) 783-5193

MLS 100352123

Just outside of Historic Pinehurst, constructed as a farmhouse, and lovingly renovated into an exquisite home and equestrian property. It is wonderfully spacious. The estate sits on just over 9 acres, and includes a 2-stall barn, fields, and a kennel. The private gardens and surrounding grounds are the perfect setting for wonderful evenings and magical events.

$549,900

4 bed • 3/1 bath

Callan Nagle (703) 303-8969

Jennifer Nguyen (910) 585-2099

MLS 100348597

Pristine Pinehurst home move-in ready! Open living area with split floor plan. Downstairs has a family room and two flex rooms. Enjoy the fenced-in yard with a deck, patio, and firepit.

$499,000

4 bed • 2 bath

Jennifer Nguyen (910) 585-2099

MLS 100350614

$325,000

3 bed • 2/1 bath

Jennifer Nguyen (910) 585-2099

Stacey Caldwell (910) 391-4199

MLS 100346763

Lovely brick residence in the Woodlands community. Pinehurst transferrable/ charter membership available. One level living with bonus room. New deck and fencing. Propane range and Fireplace. Roof replaced in 2013.

$439,000

5 bed • 3 bath

Julia Lattarulo (910) 690-9716

Jordan Burch (941) 350-7678

MLS 100344428

Rare opportunity to own a grand residence in Moore County, golf capital of the world. Built in the beginning of the 20th Century, the home is distinctive with its Italianate frame and wrap around porch. It’s accredited to Charlotte designer C.C. Hook and listed on the National Register. It is wonderfully spacious,

$424,900

3 bed • 3 bath

Callan Nagle (703) 303-8969

Nelle Rullman

This one-level home is located in the beautiful Woodlake neighborhood and is move in ready. Complete with an openconcept kitchen, dining, and living room with fireplace. EZ Breeze porch overlooking deck with pergola, back yard, and private dock. Large 2 car garage with separate golf cart entrance. Come and enjoy the Woodlake lifestyle.

Enjoy Southern living from this rocking chair front porch. Wood floors flow throughout the living spaces. The main floor has primary bedroom suite with an oversized walk-in closet. Relax on the covered porch that overlooks a beautiful fenced-in backyard.

If you would like to make a donation, please drop off canned goods to any

This hard-to-find Farmette is coming soon. This homestead location on 2.2 acres is minutes from downtown Pinehurst. This one-level home has been updated with a new hot water heater and roof in 2020. The run-in shelter has a loft for additional storage and the larger fenced pasture has a smaller

10 Salem Drive, Pinehurst 15 Dry Springs Court, Cameron

201 Blue Street, Aberdeen 321 Pinecrest Court Road, Aberdeen

1233 Greenbriar Drive, Vass

6 Emerald Lane, Pinehurst

1382 Linden Road, Pinehurst

My November Song

A prayer of gratitude for the lives that touch us and those that await beyond

by Jim DoDSon

of the last warm mornings of summer, I was watering shrubs when I heard a heavy thump behind me in the garden. Turning around, I saw only half a dozen birds feeding at the three feeders that hang from our aged maple’s outstretched limbs. I walked over to investigate.

I found a large squirrel crawling desperately on the ground toward one of the young azaleas planted back in the spring. The critter had evidently fallen from one of the high branches and was either dazed or severely injured. As I approached, the big squirrel curled up at the base of the plant and burrowed its nose under the shrub’s branches.

My first impulse was to fetch a garden tool and end the poor animal’s suffering. But long ago I made a pact with the universe to cause as little harm as possible to creatures large and small, probably the result of reading too many transcendental poets and Eastern sages early in life, and covering a great deal of murder and social mayhem during the first decade of my journalism career.

Not counting the untold number of innocent garden plants I’ve inadvertently offed due to general ignorance or untimely negligence, I’ve generally abided by the naturalist maxim that it’s best to let nature take care of her own. So for this reason I went back to watering the shrubs for a spell, hoping the big fallen fellow was merely stunned.

Our little patch of paradise is a remarkably peaceful kingdom. Dozens of birds feed daily from the feeders that hang from the old maple’s mighty limbs. Over the years, the squirrels that inhabit the forest of trees around us have displayed impressive acrobatic skills

and inventive ways to get at those feeders, prompting me to constantly come up with strategies to thwart their efforts. It’s kind of a fun game we play.

When I walked back to check on the fallen squirrel, however, he was lying right where I left him, perfectly still. He was dead.

I picked him up to look him over. He was an older fella bearing scars, nicked-up by life. It seemed only fitting to bury him on the spot where he lived out his final moments on this Earth — underneath the young azalea.

It was my second death of the week.

Two days before, on a beautiful morning when the rains I’d been waiting and praying for all summer finally arrived, we decided to put my beloved dog, Mulligan, to sleep.

Mully, as I call her, found me 17 years ago, a wild black pup running free just above the South Carolina state line, literally jumping into my arms as if she’d been waiting for me to come along. She was my faithful traveling companion for almost two decades.

Three days before we lost her, Mully made the daily milelong early morning walk we’ve strolled together for over a decade. Never sick a day in her life, it was the rear legs of this gentle, soulful, brown-eyed border collie I called my “God Dog” that finally gave out. She hobbled painfully on three legs around the Asian garden she watched me complete this summer, and settled at my feet where we sat together on a bench most evenings just watching the world. Her upward gaze told me it was time for her to go.

It was the hardest — but right — thing to do.

The idea of the afterlife for all God’s creatures — especially dogs — has fascinated me since I was a little kid. One of my first memories of life comes from a late autumn evening in 1958 when my mother and I were walking the empty beach at

Onone

low tide near our cottage in Gulfport, Mississippi, looking for interesting seashells washed up from the Gulf of Mexico.

Our dog, Amber, had just died of old age. I was sad to think I would never see her again, and wondered what happens when dogs and people died.

My mom picked up a perfect scalloped shell, pure alabaster white, and handed it to me.

“Tell me what you see in that shell,” she said.

“Nothing. It’s empty.”

She explained it had once been the beautiful home of a living creature that no longer needed it, leaving its protective shell behind for us to find.

“Where did it go?” I demanded.

“Wherever sea creatures go after this life.”

“Do you mean heaven?”

She nodded and smiled. I’ve never forgotten her words.

“That’s where your dreams come true, buddy.”

“Same with Amber?”

“Same with Amber.”

A few years later, a marvelous Black woman named Miss Jesse came to help heal my mom after a terrible late-term miscarriage that nearly killed her. I often pestered Miss Jesse in the kitchen or when she took me along to the Piggly Wiggly. One evening I asked her why all living things had to die. She was rolling out dough and making biscuits at the time.

Her rolling pin kept working. “Let me ask you something,

child,” she said matter-of-factly. “Do you remember a time when you weren’t alive?”

I could not.

“That’s because you ain’t never not been alive, baby. Nothin’ you love dies. It just passes on to a new life — just like the trees in spring.”

Half a century later, I heard the voices of both my mother and Miss Jesse in a powerful song called “Take It with Me” by bluesman extraordinaire Tom Waits.

I played it the day Mully left me. I’ll play it again when I spread her ashes in the garden she helped me create.

I play it, in fact, every year when the leaves begin to fall. It’s my November song.

The children are playing at the end of the day Strangers are singing on our lawn

There’s got to be more than flesh and bone

All that you've loved is all you own . . .

Ain’t no good thing ever dies

I’m gonna take it with me when I go

The leaves fell early this year. By the time we give thanks for tender mercies, missing friends, beloved traveling companions and even fallen squirrels that have graced our lives with their presence, they may all be safely gathered up to wait for us.

Somewhere where dreams come true. PS

list. $1,350,000

DECK THE HA LLS

‘Tis the season for rich colors, festive patterns, and the comfort of wool underfoot.

Green Front has been importing rugs from around the world since 1968. Each rug is distinctly unique and made by an artisan whose loom has been producing hand-knotted rugs for generations.

Just an hour from Southern Pines, Green Front in Raleigh is the place to get inspired for your home. Visit today to find the piece that will warm your home in time for the holidays.

PinePitch

Jealousy, Gambling and Death — What’s Not to Like?

Tragic love takes the stage in high-def at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, in a live performance of La Traviata by the Metropolitan Opera on Saturday, Nov. 5, at 1 p.m. For more information go to www.sunrisetheater.com.

Sunday Serenade

Duke University’s Ciompi Quartet arrives Sunday, Nov. 6, at 2 p.m. to sweep you off your musical feet. In a career that spans five continents and hundreds of concerts, the quartet has acquired a reputation for performanc-

es of intelligence and creative programming, mixing the old and new in exciting ways. Join them at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

The Brothers Kossler

Settle into the Bradshaw Performing Art Center’s intimate McPherson Theater from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 22, for an exciting evening of classical guitar artistry with the Kossler Duo. Brothers Adam and John have established themselves as soloists, chamber musicians and educators, and have performed in concerts across the country. Concessions will be available for purchase. McPherson Theater at BPAC, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Sweet and Powerful

At the age of 22, Japanese native Risa Hokamura is on the short list of the world’s finest violinists. She’ll appear in the second of the four-concert Classical Concert Series at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., on Monday, Nov. 14, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Presented by the Arts Council of Moore County, tickets can be purchased at the Arts Council offices at Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines or by calling (910) 692-ARTS. For additional information go to www.mooreart.org.

O Christmas Tree

Join friends new and old from 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 26, for the tree lighting celebration up and down the streets of Southern Pines. Santa Claus will be spreading cheer and taking pictures with good boys and girls (please bring your own camera). Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Thank You for Your Service

Bring the whole family and support all of Moore County’s troops and veterans at the annual Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, Nov. 5. To all those who served, we want to honor and thank you. If you are a local veteran, please join the parade. Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

PHOTOGRAPH BY TED FITZGERALD/THE PILOT

Ornaments, Lights, Action!

Let the twinkling and giving begin at the 26th annual Sandhills Children’s Center Festival of Trees, Nov. 16 – 20, at the Carolina Hotel, 80 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. The display of Christmas magic is open daily beginning at 10 a.m. Each item is designed or donated by local businesses and residents, and all proceeds go to help children with special developmental needs. Admission is by any monetary donation at the door, with a special “Girls’ Night Out” Nov. 16 with the McKenzie Brothers Band. For more info: www.FestivalofTrees.org.

The Last Waltz

It Makes No Difference what’s happening Up On Cripple Creek, because on Thursday, Nov. 24, at 7 p.m., the Sunrise Theater will present the Thanksgiving tradition like no other — its free screening of The Last Waltz, the Martin Scorsesefilmed tribute to The Band. What’s The Weight? Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Notes of Nostalgia

The Sandhills Repertory Theatre presents “Judy Norton in Concert” in two shows at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, on Saturday, Nov. 12, at 7 p.m., and on Sunday, Nov. 13, at 3 p.m. Best known as the character Mary Ellen in the hit television series The Waltons, Norton has a long career spanning decades in music, film and television. For tickets and additional information go to www.sandhillsrep.org, sunrisetheater.com or call (910) 692-3611.

Last Dance

Don’t miss your last chance to dance and mingle on Sunrise Square for the final First Friday of 2022. Enjoy food trucks, some Southern Pines Brewery brews, and listen to great music while supporting the local theater on Nov. 4 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Leave the dogs, outside alcohol and rolling coolers home, and make a night of it. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Santa is Never Overdue

Santa Claus is coming to town on Saturday, Nov. 19, and he’s making a special stop at the Given Memorial Library. Take a photo, make a craft and leave with a special gift bag. There are two time slots, from 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Library cards not required but space is limited, so Santa’s helpers are taking reservations beginning Nov. 1. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info and reservations: (910) 295-3642.

PHOTOGRAPH

OPEN H USE

PLEASE SCAN TO REGISTER FOR OPEN HOUSE

$2,500

Scorpio

(October 23 – November 21)

They say one rotten apple spoils the barrel. Let’s put it this way: Your thoughts are the apples. While you aren’t prone to having more wormy ones, per se, you’re certainly more inclined to hold onto them. Grudges, in particular. Those closest to you can sense when you’re stewing, but no one knows how dismal it can feel to be dancing to the same noxious tune ad nauseum. Remember that you’re the DJ. Forgiveness is a gift to yourself.

Tea leaf “fortunes” for the rest of you:

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Best not to think twice.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Let them talk. You know the truth.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Set an extra plate at the table.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20) Chew before you swallow.

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Bring a poncho.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

This might sting: There’s nothing between the lines.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Try rotating your mattress.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Wear the dang sweater.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

You’re asking the wrong question.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22) Go for the store-bought.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Something’s overheating. (Hint: It’s not dinner.) PS

Zora Stellanova has been divining with tea leaves since Game of Thrones’ Starbucks cup mishap of 2019. While she’s not exactly a medium, she’s far from average. She lives in the N.C. foothills with her Sphynx cat, Lyla.

Watergate Revisited

A thorough look at the end of our political innocence

By Stephen e . Smith

Ifyou don’t believe history can turn on insignificant details, consider this: The political firestorm known as Watergate was precipitated by a piece of cheap tape. In his Watergate: A New History, Garrett M. Graff, a former editor of Politico Magazine, has gathered the particulars of America’s most infamous political scandal into an 800-page history that thoroughly examines the minutiae that brought down the 37th president.

If you’re among the millions of Americans born after the Watergate scandal, here’s what you need to know. In the early hours of Saturday, June 17, 1972, a security guard at the Watergate Complex in Washington, D.C., discovered that duct tape had been used to ensure that a couple of doors remained unlocked. The guard called the cops, and five officers disguised as hippies apprehended five men in suits and charged them with attempted burglary. It was the beginning of the end of Richard Nixon’s presidency and America’s political naivete.

If you suffered through those troubled times — June 1972 to August 1974 — you’re probably wondering if another Watergate history is necessary. Given the number of books, articles, documentaries and movies that have investigated every possible facet of the Watergate debacle, it’s difficult to imagine the need for a retelling, but once you’ve begun your retrospective journey in Graff’s “new” history, there’s no turning back. You may think you know all there is to know about Watergate but you don’t.

Graff is a proficient storyteller and an able prose stylist, and he excels at breathing new life into characters who have dimmed with time — E. Howard Hunt, G. Gordon Liddy, Chuck Colson, Donald Segretti, John Ehrlichman, H.R. Haldeman, John Mitchell, John Dean, Jeb Magruder, et al. — and the journalists, senators, congressmen, wives and government employees whose lives were altered by the scandal that sent 25 of Nixon’s cronies to prison. To do this, Graff plowed through the published accounts, oral histories, the Oval Office tape transcripts, as well as FBI, court and congressional records. His objective was to “re-investigate.”

“I believed from the start,” he writes, “that the full story of

this scandal didn’t lie in the umpteenth interview, fifty years after the fact, with a key player who had already spent decades telling, refining, and positioning his story.”

Graff is particularly adept at reintroducing readers to lesser-known Watergaters. L. Patrick Gray, acting director of the FBI from May 3, 1972 to April 27, 1973, is a case in point. For most Americans, he remains an insignificant figure in the scandal, but Graff fully explores Gray’s character — especially his overriding desire to become director of the FBI — and his failings, including his admission that he’d destroyed documents taken from Hunt’s safe. “Under questioning, Gray admitted he had regularly sent investigative reports to the White House via Dean,” Graff writes, “allowing the president’s staff access to files that (J. Edgar) Hoover had previously guarded.”

Likewise, Margaret Mitchell, the brash, outspoken, way-too-Southern wife of Attorney General John Mitchell, provided comic relief during the scandal, but Graff details her political insights and how she was ruthlessly attacked by members of the administration and her former husband. He recasts her as a perceptive and outspoken critic who was harassed and demeaned by Nixon’s henchmen.

Al Haig, famous for having blurted “I’m in control here” after the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan, became Nixon’s chief of staff when Haldeman was fired. He had, in fact, taken control of the White House prior to the attempt on Reagan’s life: “. . . as Nixon retreated deeper mentally and physically while Watergate consumed his presidency, some would joke that Haig became the nation’s ‘37 1/2th’ president.”

Another minor player was Alexander Butterfield, the soft-spoken former Navy pilot who was the House committee’s first witness in its impeachment hearings. He testified for 10 hours, revealing the secret Oval Office taping system and reinforcing the notion that Nixon was too much of a control freak not to have known what was going on with his subordinates. Even Nixon’s secretary Rose Mary Woods (remember the “the Rose Mary stretch”?) doesn’t escape scrutiny. She was certainly a player in the coverup, and there was speculation that she was a CIA informant.

Mark Felt, the FBI’s No. 2 official at the beginning of the scandal, is the frequent subject of Graff’s reporting. When writing their investigative stories in the Washington Post,

Live, Love Sparkle This Holiday Season!

OMNIVOROUS READER

Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein identified their primary source as “Deep Throat,” but Felt wasn’t publicly outed until 2005, at age 91, when he revealed to Vanity Fair that he was Woodward and Bernstein’s informant. Ironically, Felt’s identity as an FBI mole was known to the Nixon administration as soon as Woodward and Bernstein began to write about the white-collar criminals who facilitated Nixon’s cover-up operation.

The questions that don’t get answered are the most obvious: Why did a serving president who was a shoo-in for a second term employ widespread illegality to secure an election he was certain to win? Did the Democrats have dirt on Nixon? Was any advantage to be gained by eavesdropping on Democratic headquarters? Were the Watergate burglars — “the Plumbers,” as they were known in the administration — set up for failure? Since the break-in at Daniel Ellsberg’s psychiatrist’s office yielded no useful information and the confusing circumstances of the ITT merger certainly went unnoticed by the electorate, why had Nixon and his minions continued their illegal activity? And there remains this overriding question: Why had Nixon insisted on recording Oval Office conversations when he knew he was speaking words that would eventually incriminate him?

Richard Nixon remains a shadowy figure in American history, and “gate” has become a convenient suffix for other scandals — most of them overblown or imaginary — but there’s no denying that Nixon’s political shenanigans changed us forever. Unfortunately, the lesson to be drawn from Watergate continues to elude most politicians. Any neighborhood gossip could tell them that in political life there are no secrets, finally or ever. PS

Stephen E. Smith is a retired professor and the author of seven books of poetry and prose. He’s the recipient of the Poetry Northwest Young Poet’s Prize, the Zoe Kincaid Brockman Prize for poetry and four North Carolina Press Awards.

November Books

FICTION

Into the Forest, by Christina Henry, edited by

Lindy Ryan

Deep in the dark forest, in a cottage that spins on birds’ legs behind a fence topped with human skulls, lives the Baba Yaga. A guardian of the water of life, she lives with her sisters and takes to the skies in a giant mortar and pestle, creating tempests as she goes. Those who come across the Baba Yaga may find help, or hindrance, or horror. She is wild, she is woman, she is witch — and these are her tales. Edited by Lindy Ryan, this collection brings together the voices of Gwendolyn Kiste, Stephanie M. Wytovich, Mercedes M. Yardley, Monique Snyman, Donna Lynch, Lisa Quigley and R. J. Joseph, with an introduction by Christina Henry.

Flight, by Lynn Steger Strong

It’s Dec. 22, and siblings Henry, Kate and Martin have traveled with their spouses to Henry’s house in upstate New York. This is the first Christmas the siblings are without their mother and the first not at their mother’s Florida house. Over the course of the next three days, old resentments and instabilities arise as the siblings, with a gaggle of children afoot, attempt to perform familiar rituals, while also trying to decide what to do with their mother’s house, their sole inheritance. As tensions rise, the whole group is forced to come together unexpectedly when a local mother and daughter need help.

We Are the Light, by Matthew Quick

Lucas Goodgame lives in Majestic, Pennsylvania, a quaint suburb that has been torn apart by a recent tragedy. Everyone in Majestic sees Lucas as a hero — everyone, that is, except Lucas himself. Insisting that his deceased wife, Darcy, visits him every night in the form of an angel, Lucas spends his time writing letters to his former Jungian analyst, Karl. It is only when Eli, an 18-year-old man the community has ostracized, begins camping out in Lucas’ backyard that an unlikely alliance takes shape, and the two embark on a journey to heal their neighbors and, most importantly, themselves. We Are the Light is

an unforgettable novel about the quicksand of grief and the daily miracle of love from the bestselling author of The Silver Linings.

Foster, by Claire Keegan

It is a hot summer in rural Ireland. A child is taken by her father to live with relatives on a farm, not knowing when or if she will be brought home again. In the Kinsellas’ house, she finds an affection and warmth she has not known and slowly, in their care, begins to blossom. But there is something unspoken in this new household — where everything is so well tended to — and this summer must soon come to an end. Winner of the prestigious Davy Byrnes Award, this internationally bestselling contemporary classic is available for the first time in the U.S. in a full, stand-alone edition.

NONFICTION

Friends, Lovers and The Big Terrible Thing: A Memoir, by Matthew Perry

The star of Friends takes us behind the scenes of the hit sitcom and his struggles with addiction in this candid, funny and revelatory memoir that delivers a powerful message of hope and persistence. “Hi, my name is Matthew, although you may know me by another name. My friends call me Matty. And I should be dead.” So begins the riveting story that takes us along on his journey from childhood ambition to fame to addiction and recovery in the aftermath of a life-threatening health scare. Before the frequent hospital visits and stints in rehab, there was 5-year-old Matthew, who traveled from Montreal to Los Angeles, shuffling between his separated parents; 14-year-old Matthew, who was a nationally ranked tennis star in Canada; 24-year-old Matthew, who nabbed a coveted role as a lead cast member on the talked-about pilot then called Friends Like Us . . . and so much more. Perry lays bare the fractured family that raised him (and also left him to his own devices), the desire for recognition that drove him to fame, and the void inside him that could not be filled even by his greatest dreams coming true. But he also details the peace he’s found in sobriety and how he feels about the ubiquity of Friends, sharing stories about his castmates and other stars he met along the way. Unflinchingly honest, moving and uproariously funny, this is the book fans have been waiting for.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Pookie’s Thanksgiving, by Sandra Boynton

Little Pookie loves his mama and his family, but he especially loves pie! This fun celebration of food and family is the perfect Thanksgiving book for little ones. (Ages birth-3.)

How It’s Made: The Creation of Everyday Items, by Thomas Gerencer

From airplanes to basketballs to gummy vitamins, find out how they’re made in this fun tell-all title that’s perfect for any inquisitive budding scientist. (Ages 7-12.)

Terry’s Crew, by Terry Crews and Cory Thomas Terry’s crew at his new school may not look like the typical friend group but, together, they can do anything they set their minds to! With themes of respect, hard work, school success and commitment to family and friends, this graphic novel is sure to be a hit. Available on Nov. 8. (Ages 9-12.)

Outside Nowhere, by Adam Borba

Parker Kelbrook’s father sends him halfway across the country to work on a farm alongside five other kids who find him less than charming. As Parker learns to roll up his sleeves and keep his head down, strange things start happening. After he awakens one morning to find a 1,700-pound dairy cow on the roof of a barn, he suspects that something magical and mysterious is growing in the farm’s fields. (Ages 10-13.) PS

Compiled by Kimberly Daniels Taws and Angie Tally.

presents

Wednesday, December 7th & Thursday, December 8th 7:30pm in Owens Auditorium at Bradshaw Performing Arts Center

Maestro David Michael Wolff leads The Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra and one of Broadway's finest stars in a festive holiday pops extravaganza. Gather your friends and get tickets while they

Table for One

Thanksgiving on the road less traveled

By Bill FieldS

By the fall of 1976, an honest appraisal of my golf game would have resembled that of the used cars my father bought when money was tight and he needed transportation: runs rough, could blow a tire at any time, uncertain future. I was 17 years old, a high school senior. Despite many hours spent playing and practicing through my teens, I was still a handful of strokes from being a scratch golfer. Only at the smallest of colleges would I have a prayer of making the team.

But my enthusiasm hadn’t evaporated, which is why I asked my parents if I could enter the George Holliday Memorial Junior Tournament held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, over Thanksgiving weekend. I would make the 130-mile drive by myself in the family Fairlane, spend two nights at the Howard Johnson’s on North Kings Highway, distinguish myself with a good performance in the boys 16-17 age group, and take some confidence into my final spring of prep golf at Pinecrest High School.

I was a responsible kid, having only an occasional beer when Tuesday teen night at the Castle of Dreams was over. Mom and Dad knew the only damage I might cause in a motel room was scuffing a wall on a practice swing. They said, “Yes.”

Before dawn on Thanksgiving morning, I left Southern Pines for a tune-up round at the tournament site, Myrtle Beach National Golf Club. I had a couple of packs of Nabs on the car’s bench seat and a road map, but having made the ride 15 to 20 times, usually on family beach trips, I knew the route.

After making it to the course, I registered and went out for 18 holes, completing a foursome with boys from Virginia and South Carolina. We were among nearly 200 entrants in the event, played since the early 1970s to honor a Wofford College golfer, George Judson Holliday III of Galivants Ferry, who perished in a 1967 car crash.

By 4 p.m., I had checked into the motel on what was a quiet main drag and called home collect to let my parents know I was settled in. Traveling with my shag bag like pros of yesteryear, I hit some wedge shots on a nearby field. Later, after wiping my clubs clean, I walked into the Howard Johnson’s restaurant for Thanksgiving dinner. Given that there were only about a dozen people dining, getting a seat wasn’t a problem.

The excitement of the trip, of my grown-up adventure, gave way to a different emotion after sliding into the booth and watching the waitress remove the other place setting. I got lonesome thinking of my parents at the table back home and the familiar foods — turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, apple rings — they were eating. I was the only solo diner aside from an elderly man drinking coffee at the counter.

I contemplated ordering a hamburger and French fries but decided I had to get turkey and all the trwimmings, even if it wasn’t going to taste like my mother’s cooking. I ate most of my turkey and the accompanying sides, eschewed one of HoJo’s 28 flavors for a slice of pecan pie, and paid my bill. Once I was back in my room, I chained the door and got a water glass off the bathroom vanity to use as a putting cup. Three-footers, 6-footers, 10-footers — for an hour I tried to groove my stroke. I wished my “make” percentage was higher, but at least I was faring better than John-Boy, who got injured in a sawmill accident during a special Thanksgiving episode of The Waltons.

A poor start Friday morning — bogeys on the first three holes — had me feeling like I’d been hit in the head, and I wasn’t able to reverse the mojo. Far from shooting a score that might have earned an instant’s worth of interest from any of the college golf coaches in attendance, I was in the mid-80s. Saturday’s score was only marginally better. Joey Sadowski of Hickory, North Carolina, finished at one-over-par 145 to beat Mike Cook of Cartersville, Georgia, by a single stroke. Each of them would go on to play collegiately at UNC and the University of Georgia, respectively; I would be in a golf physical education class at Chapel Hill, hitting wiffle balls off a door mat in Woollen Gym.

I put my clubs in the trunk and pointed my Ford toward home. In 2 1/2 hours there would be leftovers. PS

Southern Pines native Bill Fields, who writes about golf and other things, moved north in 1986 but hasn’t lost his accent.

Renaissance Barte der

When you sidle up to the bar before ordering a beer or cocktail, you probably don’t expect your bartender to have authored two books and numerous articles, have a graduate degree in liberal studies, or to be a leading advocate in the movement for historical justice. But if you know Joel Finsel and he is the one behind the bar, then that’s exactly what you would expect. You would also expect a very, very good drink.

Joel Finsel mixes books and bourbon

By Wiley Ca Sh p hotographS By m allory Ca Sh

One crisp day in early fall I spent an hour or so with Joel in downtown Wilmington at the Brooklyn Arts Center, a gorgeous, deconsecrated church that was built in 1888 and passed through the hands of numerous congregations before falling into disrepair and being saved by a public and private partnership in the late 1990s. Over the past decade, the Brooklyn Arts Center has hosted countless weddings, community events and concerts by musicians like Art Garfunkel, Brandi Carlile and Old Crow Medicine Show. The sprawling complex, which features the event space, a bridal suite, an annex that once served as an old schoolhouse, a courtyard and the Bell Tower Tasting Room, is now a busy hub of art, culture and celebration. It was in the Bell Tower Tasting Room where I found Joel, ready and waiting to mix up a few cocktails

that are perfect for the upcoming holiday season.

As Joel mixes our first cocktail — a mulled apple cider — I ask him how he’s been able to build a career as a bartender with one foot in the literary world, another in modern art and another (apparently Joel has three feet) in bartending. He smiles. “I think I’ve always been attracted to chaos,” he says, which surprises me. Joel is one of the most measured people I’ve ever met, and to watch him work behind the bar is to witness a seemingly effortless precision.

The steaming hot apple cider is poured with bourbon and garnished with star anise, lemon and a cinnamon stick stirrer. It tastes like a winter evening, presents wrapped under the tree and the kids blessedly asleep before the chaos of Christmas morning.

I ask Joel about his childhood growing up in Lehighton, Pennsylvania, a small blue collar town on the banks of the Lehigh River about an hour and a half northwest of Philadelphia.

“Until I was 5, my family lived in a trailer on a dirt road, 2 miles up along the side of a mountain. It was awesome because there were bears and deer, and you could just pick up rocks and there were orange salamanders everywhere,” he says. “And then my great-grandmother passed away and we moved into her house in town, which changed everything for me. I was suddenly in the middle of a small town and I could walk to high school and there were girls there. And there was a basketball court nearby, which I

pretty much lived at.”

The abstract expressionist painter Franz Kline also moved to Lehighton in his youth in the second decade of the 20th century. Joel’s mother had grown up in the area hearing stories about Kline and his work, and her interest led her to become one of the country’s pre-eminent specialists on everything from Kline’s paintings to his career and biography. When Joel was young, his mother began working on a biography of Kline, but it wasn’t until Joel graduated from college and was teaching school in Philadelphia that he asked for a look at the manuscript.

“I was home for Christmas, and I said, ‘Mom, what’s up with that book?’ I asked her if I could take a look at it. And then I realized what she had was a huge document of notes, but no structure.” Mother and son began working on the project together, and they would do so for over 20 years before Franz Kline in Coal Country was published in 2019, the first biography to examine this major American artist’s formative years in Pennsylvania, Boston and London before he became one of the founding members of the New York School.

The next cocktail Joel prepares is called the Cat’s Whiskers, a tipple of rye whiskey, honey syrup, fresh lemon juice and Angostura bitters that tastes like a party thrown by Jay Gatsby. If I were to turn and look over the balcony here at the Brooklyn Arts Center, I would almost expect to see a jazz band taking the stage, the audience filled with men in smart suits and women in flapper dresses, snow pounding against the stained glass windows as the hour tips past midnight.

The book on Kline was not the first Joel had published. During a long career as a bartender — one that began in college and would lead to reviews and spots in publications like Bartender Magazine, Cosmopolitan and a profile in Playboy as one of the country’s Top 10 Mixologists — Joel had accumulated countless stories from

co-workers and patrons, many of which he recounted in his 2009 book Cocktails & Conversations, which expertly mixes barroom lore with the histories of mixology and cocktail recipes.

One bar customer who had an enormous influence on Joel’s life was the abstract expressionist Edward Meneeley, a contemporary and friend of artists like Willem de Kooning and Andy Warhol. Joel and Meneeley met while Joel was in college at Kutztown University and working at a bar across the street from Meneeley’s art studio.

“Ed introduced me to mixing things like Campari and soda back in the day when everyone drank Captain and Coke, circa 1998,” Joel says. “Ed would come into the bar and throw his old copies of The New Yorker at me and tell me I needed to educate

myself out of this town, so I got to know the work of the magazine’s art critic Peter Schjeldahl pretty well. I wasn’t even 21 yet. I started tending bar at 18, which was legal.”

The next cocktail Joel makes is called Lavender 75, and while it doesn’t include Campari, the West Indian orange bitters combine with gin, fresh lemon, lavender syrup and a splash of dry Champagne to give the drink an incredibly complex and layered taste, both dry and deeply flavorful.

When Joel and his wife, Jess James (who owns a vintage clothing boutique in Wilmington that is a habitual stop for Hollywood actors when they’re in town filming movies), moved to town in 2005, Joel brought his two main interests south with him: mixology and contemporary art. He took a job as the bartender of Café Phoenix in downtown Wilmington and designed one of the first craft cocktail menus in the city. He also curated the art on the restaurant’s walls, hosting artists like his friend Meneeley and Leon Schenker. Suddenly work by internationally known artists valued at tens of thousands of dollars was hanging where local art had once dominated the walls.

It was after a few years in Wilmington, where he eventually earned an MA in liberal studies from UNC Wilmington, that Joel first learned about the 1898 race massacre, the only successful coup in American history that saw white supremacists murder untold numbers of Black citizens while overthrowing the duly elected local government. He was shocked to learn that something

so horrible had happened in a city he had quickly grown to love.

After researching the events surrounding 1898, Joel cofounded the nonprofit Third Person Project, which is dedicated to uncovering and preserving history. One of the group’s first projects was gathering and digitizing copies of The Daily Record, which was the only daily Black newspaper in North Carolina before it was destroyed by a mob during the events of 1898. Since then, the organization has gone on to host musicians like Rhiannon Giddens, who came to Wilmington to perform the “Songs of 1898” at a 2018 event with Joel’s Third Person cofounder, writer John Jeremiah Sullivan. Third Person has gone on to lead Wilmington in efforts to save historic buildings, mark burial places, and uncover lost histories, often by partnering with local institutions like UNC Wilmington’s Equity Institute.

On a smaller scale, Joel is also contributing to local history with the impact he’s had on its cocktail scene. The final drink he mixes — the True Blue — is a good example. He created it years ago when he designed the cocktail menu for the Wilmington restaurant True Blue Butcher and Table. The cocktail remains a fixture and, with its mix of pear-infused vodka, elderflower liqueur, lemon and a splash of dry Champagne, I understand why.

Our interview is over and, as Joel cleans up behind the bar, he tells me he plans to spend the rest of the afternoon working on an essay about 1898. Cocktails, conversation, curating art, correcting history. It’s all in a day’s work.

SPEND THANKSGIVING WITH ROCK STARS

THE LAST WALTZ - FREE! SPONSORED BY HOWELL’S MASONRY

THANKSGIVING DAY • 7:30 PM

THE ONLY LIMITATION IS YOUR IMAGINATION

True Blue

Fresh, clean, bright. Designed after research into ancient Greek formulas for the “nectar of the gods.”

1 ounce Grey Goose La Poire vodka

1 ounce St. Elder elderflower liqueur

1/2 ounce fresh lemon (or about half a lemon)

Splash dry Champagne

Splash sparkling mineral water

Pre-chill cocktail coupe and set aside. Mix vodka, elderflower liqueur and fresh lemon over ice in a mixing glass. Shake hard for at least 12 seconds. Discard ice from pre-chilled coupe back into ice bin. Strain mixture into coupe. Float Champagne and soda. Garnish by dropping in 3 blueberries or thin slice of pear.

The Cat’s Whiskers

Substitute gin and it becomes The Bees Knees. Both are Roaring ’20s slang for the height of excellence.

1 3/4 ounces favorite bourbon or rye whisky

1 ounce honey syrup (1:1 ratio of hot water to honey)

3-4 fresh mint leaves

1/2 ounce fresh lemon

2 dashes Angostura bitters (optional)

Splash sparkling water

Pre-chill cocktail coupe and set aside. Combine all of the ingredients over ice and shake for 12 seconds. Discard ice from prechilled coupe back into ice bin. Double strain into coupe (make sure no green flecks of mint end up in anyone’s teeth). Garnish with fresh mint top.

Lavender 75

The classic French 75 cocktail was named after a cannon. This places a flower in the barrel.

1 1/2 ounces Botany Gin

1/2 ounce fresh lemon

1 ounce lavender syrup (steep dried lavender flowers like a tea in hot water, then add sugar, 1:1 ratio)

3 dashes West Indies Orange Bitters

Splash dry Champagne

Splash sparkling mineral water

Pre-chill a cocktail coupe and set aside. Combine all of the ingredients over ice and shake for at least 12 seconds. Discard ice from pre-chilled coupe back into ice bin. Strain the chilled mixture into the coupe. Garnish with 3-4 dried lavender buds. PS

Wiley Cash is the Alumni Author-in-Residence at the University of North Carolina at Asheville. His new novel, When Ghosts Come Home, is available wherever books are sold.

Early Detection Saves Lives

FirstHealth of the Carolinas offers lifesaving screening to former and current smokers.

Talking to your physician about lung cancer screening could be one of the most important discussions you have, because it could be an opportunity to detect cancer earlier when it is more treatable. According to the American Lung Association, the five-year survival rate for lung cancer is 56 percent when found early, compared to just 5 percent when found later.

Take a quiz to find out if you are eligible for lung cancer screening. Scan the QR code or visit www.firsthealth.org/lungcancerscreening

FirstHealth’s low-dose CT lung cancer screening is for people who are 50-80 years old with a current 20-pack year history of smoking or who have quit within the past 15 years.

Aw, Shucks!

Oysters for breakfast

By roSe SheW ey

If you think oysters are for people in pink polo shirts with designer haircuts, chances are you have not attended an oyster roast in the South. Not only were these mollusks considered poor man’s food at varying times throughout history, oyster roasts have been a celebrated low country tradition in many Southern states for folks of all walks of life.

Which begs the question: Raw or cooked? How do you prefer your oysters? According to M.F.K. Fisher, one of the original food writers of our time, oyster-eaters can be divided into three camps: There are the oyster enthusiasts who will eat oysters any which way as long as mollusks are on the menu; there are the purists who will eat oysters raw and raw only; and lastly, there are those who will eat oysters cooked and no other way.

As for me, I like my bivalves raw as much as I like them cooked but will happily pass on oysters altogether if it’s summertime. As far as I am concerned, oysters are classic cold-weather fare even though the old adage that warns against eating oysters in months without an “r” no longer holds true. Despite good arguments that support safe and tasty oyster feasts year-round, I stand with tradition on this one.

“Oysters are the usual opening to a winter breakfast . . . indeed they are indispensable,” wrote Grimod de la Reynière in the Almanach des Gourmands in 1803. OK, oysters for breakfast might be pushing it a little, but I believe Reynière had it right nonetheless.

Consider this: Oysters are incredibly nutritious with unbelievable amounts of zinc — a trace mineral that will help your body fend off cold season maladies. Winter really does seem to be the perfect time to indulge in oysters.

As a “northern light” who grew up on the same latitude as Montreal, Canada (just a few thousand miles to the east), I cannot in good conscience say that North Carolina is cold during the month of November. However, having attended several Thanksgiving oyster roasts, I am definitely in favor of busting out the old oyster knife and doing some shucking this time of year. Besides, millions of French cannot be wrong — France boasts record sales of fresh oysters from late fall until the new year, every year. So, enjoy plump, briny and succulent oysters whenever you want, but celebrate them during the chilly holiday season.

Raw Oysters with Orange Fig Mignonette

(Makes 4-6 appetizers)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground pepper

2-3 fresh, ripe figs, peeled and minced

2 shallots, minced

2 teaspoon minced chives

1 teaspoon dried red chili flakes

24 freshly shucked oysters

Add orange juice, vinegar, salt and pepper in a small bowl and whisk to combine. Stir in figs, shallots, chives and chili flakes, and drizzle mignonette over oysters. PS

German native Rose Shewey is a food stylist and food photographer. To see more of her work visit her website at suessholz.com.

Weymouth Wonderland

Holiday Festival

Dec 2 - 4

Three Days of Something

Wonderful for Everyone!

Candlelight, Carols & Cocktails is for Grown Ups: Light up the season with a casual and comfortable evening get-together. Friday, Dec. 2, 5 pm. $50 Members • $60 Non-Members

Outdoor Wonderfest & Market is for the Whole Family to go Walkin’ in a Weymouth Wonderland. Our grounds will be a holiday family funderland featuring: local vendors and artisans; Weymouth’s own Holiday Shoppe; food from some of our area’s popular food trucks; wandering minstrels and choristers; Santa and Mrs. Claus in their magical toy shop. And more! Saturday, Dec 3, 10-4 pm. Entry fee of any $ donation

Teddy Bear Tea is For Kids ages 3-10, to enjoy an activity-packed event with an adult by their side. All are welcome to bring their favorite teddy bear for an afternoon filled with fun! Sunday, Dec. 4, two seatings 1 or 3:30 pm. $25 per child, $30 per adult

For tickets and more information, visit weymouthcenter.org Weymouth

Flavor Savors

Infused syrups for myriad libations

By tony CroSS

The holidays are upon us. I know, I’m rolling my eyes, too. Time flies, and whether you’re ready or not, ’tis the season. The struggle is real, and so it begins.

These next two months can be an excuse for having a few more drinks than we normally would (you know who you are), so why not have some fun with it? If you’re playing host to family and friends, or just relaxing at home after being dragged to holiday get-togethers, here are a few syrups you can have ready in your fridge. They mix well with a variety of cocktails (shaken and stirred), and pair quite nicely with non-alcoholic beverages, too.

The syrups aren’t hard to make. The key is using fresh ingredients — sourcing them locally and being organic helps as well — and measuring your specs. Once you have these ready to go, you can interchange them in an arsenal of drinks. Included with each syrup is a cocktail that incorporates the former. Feel free to interchange some of these syrups with different spirits.

Syrup: Ginger and Honey

1 part fresh ginger juice

1 part honey

Combine both ingredients into a blender and turn on high until honey is completely incorporated. I highly recommend sourcing local honey, and organic ginger. A quick note on juicing ginger: If you don’t have a juicer at home, stop by your local health food store or juice shop. Chances are you can buy the ginger there and have it juiced on the spot. Either way, make sure your juice sits in the fridge for a couple of hours before straining it. Ginger juice is very fibrous and you want as much of that fiber as possible to settle at the bottom of your container before using. This is called “racking.” Some might think that organic ginger is a bridge too far but I’ve been working with cold-pressed ginger juice for over five years now and I can attest, organic ginger tastes and looks better. Try it and see. Syrup holds for 2 weeks.

Cocktail: Penicillin

2 ounces blended Scotch

3/4 ounce fresh lemon juice

3/4 ounce ginger-honey syrup

1/4 ounce Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Candied ginger

In a shaking vessel, combine blended Scotch, lemon juice and ginger-honey syrup. Add ice and shake until vessel is ice cold. Double strain into a rocks glass over ice. Float your 1/4 ounce of Islay Scotch over the cocktail. Garnish with candied ginger. You can also use this syrup with gin and tequila sours.

Syrup: Brown Sugar/Cinnamon

10 grams cinnamon sticks

1 part brown sugar

1 part cane sugar

1 part water

1 ounce Everclear grain alcohol 151 proof (optional)

Place cinnamon in a blender and blend quickly for 10 seconds. In a small pot, combine brown and cane sugars with water. Place heat on medium and stir until sugar has completely dissolved. Place the syrup in the blender with the cinnamon, and blend once again for another 10 seconds. Let the syrup cool in a container, and then strain out the solids. Refrigerate until ready to use. Syrup holds for one month — or many months if Everclear is used.

A West Coast Lifestyle Boutique

IN THE SPIRIT

Cocktail: Old Fashioned

2 ounces bourbon

1/4 ounce cinnamon syrup

3 dashes Angostura bitters

Orange peel

Cinnamon stick

In a stirring vessel, combine bourbon, syrup and bitters. Add ice and stir until your cocktail is both cold and water is diluted. Strain into a rocks glass over ice. Express oils from orange peel over your cocktail, dropping peel into the drink with cinnamon stick. You can use this syrup in rum and tequila old fashioneds. It also works well with tequila sours.

Syrup: Vanilla (Makes 2 cups)

1 1/4 cups water

1 1/4 cups light brown sugar

1/4 vanilla bean

In a small saucepan, combine the water, sugar and vanilla bean and bring to a simmer over medium-low heat, stirring until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from the heat and let stand for 30 minutes. Strain through cheesecloth into an airtight 1-pint glass container. Seal the container and store in the refrigerator for up to one month. This syrup goes well with whiskey sours and vodka sours (add muddled strawberries for the latter).

Non-Alcoholic Cocktail: Haikara Mugicha

3 ounces charcoal-roasted barley and lapsang souchong tea (recipe below)

1/2 ounce vanilla syrup

3 dashes Angostura bitters

Orange twist

Build the drink in a double rocks glass by adding the tea, syrup and bitters over hand-carved ice. Stir well until chilled. Garnish with an orange twist.

Charcoal-Roasted Barley and Lapsang Souchong Tea

4 cups water

1/4 cup charcoal-roasted mugicha (or barley tea)

1 1/2 teaspoons loose lapsang souchong tea leaves

Fill a 1-quart container with the water, add the teas, and let steep at room temperature for 30 minutes. Strain through a coffee filter into an airtight 1-quart glass container. Seal the container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This recipe is courtesy of famed Japanese bartender, Masahiro Urushido’s book, The Japanese Art of the Cocktail. Your ice does not have to be hand-carved unless you feel obliged. PS

Tony Cross is a bartender (well, ex-bartender) who runs cocktail catering company Reverie Cocktails in Southern Pines.

Sandhills Photography Club: Faces

Got My Eye on YouCathy

The Sandhills Photography Club meets the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. in the theater of the Hannah Marie Bradshaw Activities Center of The O'Neal School at 330 Airport Road in Pinehurst. Visit www.sandhillsphotoclub.org.

Tier 1, 2nd Place: Angst - Jack Mathews

Tier 1, 1st Place: Bohemian Goddess - Karen Szafraijda

Tier 2, 2nd Place: Victor the VultureDarryll Benecke

Tier 2, 1st Place:

Locklear

Tier 2, 3rd Honorable Mention: Thinking About It - Shari Dutton

Tier 2, 2nd Honorable Mention: Looking Back - Kathryn Saunders

Tier 3, 1st Honorable Mention: The Eyes Have It - Gisela Danielson

Mention: Mr. Baboon - Darryll Benecke

Tier 3, 1st Place: Mexican Mama - Gisela Danielson

Tier 3, 3rd Place: Not So Sure - Neva Scheve

Tier 3, 2nd Place: Predator's Gaze - Donna Ford

Tier 2, 1st Honorable

Picture This

A voyage into the past

By deBorah Salomon

What follows is about pictures.

As a reporter for 40 years I learned to call them photos. Sounds more professional, like “film” instead of “movie.” But lately, watching families sift through the contents of burned out or flooded homes, I’ve reverted to pictures, which better describes amateur snapshots memorializing . . . everything — the first baby’s first bath, toddler birthday parties, a basset puppy named Duffy, skiing, football, school plays, beach vacations, graduations. I have a picture of my mother, born in 1902, with her parents and baby brother, taken in 1906. My father brought back reams of sepia-toned pictures from World War I, in France, including one of the ambulance he drove. I went wild with my own grandchildren; every week the drugstore got a roll or two. Doubles, please, so I could mail some off.

Must be thousands, crammed into plastic under-the-bed boxes. Sometimes I pull one out, like slipping through a door overgrown with ivy into a secret garden. Remember Bert who drew a better world in sidewalk chalk, for Mary Poppins to jump in?

If only we could jump back into our pictures.

Often a picture will prompt a memory not altogether pleasant. That’s me, in Rome, feeding the famous Forum cats, who live on handouts. Sad.

Recently I wrote two features about couples in their 90s who had lived noteworthy lives. In preparation for the interview, each had spread scrapbooks and photo albums on a table. True, the pictures only depicted good times although, inevitably, happy turns sad as the generations pass.

At least nobody handed me a cellphone to flip through.

A picture/photo is tangible, printed on sturdy paper. It can be framed, tucked into a wallet, affixed to a refrigerator or, as nonagenarians do, mounted with caption in an album. I’m amazed the black and white photos I took with the first Polaroid camera (early ’60s) have not faded. Otherwise, I endured the wait, whittled down to an hour, until the film had been developed. Then I would re-live the event, perhaps from a different perspective. Like the hilarious pictures of my grandson on his first birthday. He dug into a piece of chocolate cake with both chubby hands, smearing it all over himself, the high chair and whoever came near. Now, I can smile. Then, I had to clean it — and him — up. Digital cameras, and cellphones, have changed everything. I know, I know. Phones are omnipresent, meaning you never miss

a shot. Photos can be sent by text, emailed. Cellphones and cameras can be plugged into other devices that print, albeit on flimsy copy paper. I’m sure there’s a way to back them up into some cloud or facility located in Never Never Land, but do you actually do it? Furthermore, cellphones are slippery little things that slide out of pockets and purses. But I don’t know anyone who routinely prints out the day’s catch to store under the bed in a long plastic box.

Not that plastic would protect against fire and floods. If climate change continues to destroy homes and lives somebody will hawk a secure metal container on late-night TV. As for albums/ scrapbooks, I’m not that organized. Instead, to select pictures for this page I pulled out two dusty boxes, sat on the floor and went through hundreds of pictures, helter-skelter, taken over a 120-year span, from a grandmother I never knew to high school friends I had forgotten. I saw my first prom dress (scratchy net), all the apartments and houses I’ve lived in, cats and dogs I’ve loved, a ferryboat-sized Buick station wagon and a spiffy Olds convertible. I relived college graduation — mine and my daughters’ — and my son’s wedding. Yes, that’s me interviewing (Princess) Grace Kelly, during the filming of her last movie, in Asheville, in 1955.

Two boxes down, one to go, maybe another day when a storm has paused all electronic activities. Because getting lost in the past cuts both ways. I found pictures of gravestones, of healthy classmates who have withered with age. Of styles that now look silly: Mondrian-inspired mini-dresses, go-go boots and extreme bell-bottoms.

Kinship with homeowners poking through the ashes for a wedding picture, a son in Army uniform or a 50th anniversary cake runs strong, as does recalling the anticipation of picking up developed film. Digital isn’t the same, at least for me. Because, after all these years, one picture is still worth a thousand pixels. PS

Deborah Salomon is a contributing writer for PineStraw and The Pilot . She may be reached at debsalomon@nc.rr.com.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF DEBORAH SALOMON

Early Signs of Winter

Sighting the white-throated sparrow

By SuSan CampBell

Here in the central part of North Carolina, the winged harbinger of winter is the whitethroated sparrow. Summering in the forests of the far North, this bold little bird breeds across Canada and at elevation in northern New England. A medium-sized sparrow, it is brown above and white below with bold markings on the head. Pale stripes on the crown and a white throat patch are set off by gray feathers on the face. Whitethroateds also sport a yellow spot at the base of their stout bill.

Interestingly, there are two color forms of this species: those with heads that are white-striped as well as those that are tanstriped. Both forms persist because, as much as white-striped individuals are more aggressive during the breeding season, each almost always pair with the other type. Nests are made by the female in a depression on the ground under a low-growing tree or shrub. However, should it be depredated, the second nest may be placed on low branches.

If you have not spotted one of these birds, you almost certainly have heard their distinctive loud “seet” call emanating from thick vegetation. Their song, which can be heard even during cold

weather, is a recognizable, liquid “oh sweet Canada” or to some, more of an “old Sam Peabody.” Since they tend to flock together, you are likely to encounter small groups along forest edges, farm fields, parks and suburban areas that have thick shrubbery.

White-throateds are commonly found at feeding stations, often in association with dark-eyed juncos, another bird of high country. These squatty sparrows actually have a broad diet. Although they primarily feed on a range of seeds during the winter months, their preference shifts during the year. In spring, they are more likely to seek out buds and flowers of fresh vegetation.

White-throated sparrows do not walk or run but hop when on the ground. As they forage, they will forcefully scratch backward in leaf litter using both feet and pouncing on food items that they uncover. These birds will also flick aside dead leaves using their bills. In the winter months, pecking orders form within flocks with the more aggressive males dominating.

If you want to attract white-throated sparrows this winter, it is easy and inexpensive. Since they tend to stay low, scattering a seed mix in a cleared spot near shrubs or other thick vegetation is all it may take. White-throateds will hop up onto a stump or low platform feeder as well. Easier yet, simply leave a portion of your yard unmown until spring, and these predictable visitors may well turn up to take advantage of the resulting seeds that remain as the growing season winds down. PS

Susan Campbell would love to receive your wildlife sightings and photographs at susan@ncaves.com.

What does it mean that The Country Bookshop provides personal shopping?

Shopper: “Hi, Im looking for a present for my mother in law- we are not that close but I want it to be something she will love.”

TCB: “Tell me about her, what did you guys do the last time you were together?”

Shopper: “She lives in Chicago and the last time she visited we went to the North Carolina Museum of Art and shopped for pottery in Seagrove.”

TCB: “How about The Art of the State by Liza Roberts. It features renowned artists and collectors from all over North Carolina. And you can write an inscription that mentions the fun you had with her looking at art.”

Shopper: “Im looking for a present for my nephewhe is 9 and I haven’t seen him since he was 3 and I don’t really know anything about him.”

TCB: “What kinds of things did your husband do with his sister when they were growing up?”

Shopper: “They moved around alot- and I think his sister is kind of imperious.”

TCB: “How about this wierd but true atlas- your husband can show and tell his nephew about all of the places they lived growing up and you can arm your nephew with fun facts from around the world to constantly stump his mom.”

Traveling the Blue Ridge

A solemn stop on a road trip

By tom Bryant

It was early fall, summer was gone and I was at loose ends. It always seems to happen to me during the change of seasons. It’s still too hot to do any serious fishing, hunting season is in — dove season, that is — but after the openingday hunt there’s not much to do here in my neck of the woods. The local doves have moved on, and the migratory ones aren’t here yet. The same with ducks. With the mild weather, they’re still lounging around somewhere up north.

Linda, my bride, and I finished our last trip to the beach in the little Airstream. Nothing to do now but winterize and park it until February, when we head to Florida for winter fishing. But right now, like I said, I’m at loose ends.

Trying to write a little on my never-finished novel, I was up in the roost, what we call the small apartment over our garage,

waiting on the muse to arrive. While plundering through some papers in an unused drawer of my desk, I ran across a brochure I’d saved about the Blue Ridge Parkway. It’s amazing how things come together, I thought. Next step, convincing Linda we needed a road trip.

The parkway has always been one of my favorite destinations, I guess because it’s beautiful and seems never-ending. It’s the longest linear national park in the country and runs 469 miles through Virginia and North Carolina. I’ve never driven from one end to the other, but someday I hope to.

Actually, there’s another reason for my interest in this monumental project constructed during the Great Depression. I closed out my newspaper career working for the descendants of Josephus Daniels, the early owner and publisher of The News & Observer in Raleigh. Without Josephus, the parkway probably would not have come through North Carolina at all.

My mind went back to early American history classes that I waded through while pursuing an education. If I remember correctly, back around 1917 during the World War I, the president of the United States, Woodrow Wilson, offered the job of

secretary of the Navy to a loyal Democrat, Josephus Daniels, owner and publisher of The News & Observer, which was, at that time, the largest newspaper in the state of North Carolina. Daniels, in turn and needing help, offered the job of assistant to the secretary to another up-and-coming Democrat, Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Over time they became good friends.

When the idea of the parkway came up years later as a way to alleviate some of the unemployment during the Great Depression, Roosevelt was president. Tennessee was first in line to get the important revenue-producing project. Their idea was that the parkway was to run along the spine of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Naturally, the folks in the know in North Carolina wanted the parkway to run along the ridge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and they had one great ally in Josephus Daniels, friend of the president. Josephus and his group of state promoters made several overtures to FDR, and he agreed to let the parkway come through Virginia and North Carolina. The Blue Ridge Parkway was born.

It’s ironic that I ended my newspaper career working for David Woronoff and Frank Daniels Jr., direct descendants of Josephus, the man who helped bring one of my favorite national parks to our state.

I explained to Linda that it was my duty to honor the legacy of my boss of several generations ago and visit the parkway. She laughed and said, “Any excuse for a road trip.” We planned to venture out the following week.

We were sitting around the kitchen table. “I say we head up to Virginia and hit the parkway there. We haven’t done any of the Virginia stretches yet,” I said. Linda had her atlas and I was scrolling through my iPad.

“How about the Peaks of Otter?” she said.

“The who of what?” I replied.

“The Peaks of Otter. I read somewhere that’s the Cherokee word for high places or maybe the area is just named after the nearby headwaters of the Otter River, whatever. It sounds beautiful.”

“And,” I replied showing Linda pictures on my iPad, “here is where we can stay, the Peaks of Otter Lodge.”

The following Monday found us on the road heading north, up through Greensboro on Highway 29. After an uneventful three-hour trip, we entered the picturesque little town of Bedford, Virginia, only about 20 miles from our destination right on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The Peaks of Otter Lodge stretches out over 56 rooms with incredible views of Lake Abbott and the peaks beyond. There are several hiking trails geared to the expertise of the hiker, or you can do what I did most of the time we were not out exploring, and that’s kick back with a good book while relaxing in an Adirondack chair right next to the lake.

One thing on our must-do list was to visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford. The next morning we were up and at ’em early.

The memorial sits majestically right outside town at the base of the Blue Ridge and encompasses more than 50 acres. When we

SPORTING LIFE

drove up to the entrance — a 44-foot-tall arch embellished by the code name “Overlord” — a feeling came over me, sort of like the one you get in church when a special hymn touches your heart. That day it did the same to us as we walked around the site. We were silent, hushed as if at a funeral.

These 50 acres in the small town of Bedford, Virginia, serve as a remembrance of over 2,500 young men and the dedication of a nation that owes everything to the heroes who would never see past that day, June 6, 1944, on the French shore.

Why Bedford? Given the population of the town, they lost the most. By the day’s end, 19 of their young men had died. I found the following quote in a brochure: “Recognizing Bedford as emblematic of all communities, large and small, whose citizensoldiers served on D-Day, Congress warranted the establishment of the National D-Day Memorial here.”

That war, the second war to end all wars, is long gone. Without movies like Saving Private Ryan, there would likely be folks who don’t know what D-Day means or what happened or the sacrifices that took place on that amazing day. It seems that every generation has its own particular war. For me, it was Vietnam, for others the Gulf War, and others, Afghanistan. The list grows, seemingly interminable.

But looking back, I think about those true citizen-soldiers who

fought in World War II: my dad in the Navy, my uncle Tommy in the Marines, and my uncle Hubert in the Army. They volunteered, knowing that they were in for the duration and this was the only way to help save the greatest nation, and perhaps the world, for the generations to come. The boys who gave all on D-Day were part of that group. It was indeed, I believe, the Greatest Generation.

The drive back up the mountain was subdued. Neither of us wanted to break the spell the D-Day Memorial had on us, but when we got back to the lodge we decided to celebrate our last day at the Peaks with dinner and a bottle of wine at the lodge restaurant.

The next morning we drove south on the parkway heading to Boone, pulling over at every overlook. The views were remarkable. The morning sun reflected off the russet-colored leaves of hickory and oak trees down in the valley.

At one overlook, Linda said, “This is really the greatest country in the world. Just look at this remarkable view. And think of all the people who made the parkway happen.”

“Yep,” I replied. “We have a lot of folks to thank for that.”

We loaded up and headed on south to Boone for a visit with our son, Tommy. PS

Tom Bryant, a Southern Pines resident, is a lifelong outdoorsman and PineStraw’s Sporting Life columnist.

It’s a Beautiful Day

Hot or cold, rain or shine

By lee paCe

Atthe opposite end of the phone line, there is flesh and blood. There is a real person — not a computer navigated by a series of keyboard punches.

It’s a beautiful day in Pinehurst.

Ring the main number at The Carolina Hotel and Pinehurst Resort since the mid-1980s and you have found someone like Dib Taylor, Gloria Spencer, Art Roper or one of their fellow phone operators. Dial out to Bandon Dunes or Pebble Beach and you get a recording inviting you to hack your way through the maze.

A Pinehurst member might be calling from McKenzie Road and know for a fact it’s raining cats and dogs, but since the 1980s they would get the “beautiful day” greeting followed by the phone operator’s first name.

“I love to say it,” Dib Taylor once said. “Does it show? I have fun with it. People will tease me. Rain or shine, to me it’s always beautiful in Pinehurst. But if people ask, I’ll tell them the truth.”

“People say I make their day, pump them up a little bit,” added Spencer, who worked the resort phone lines from 1985 through her retirement about a decade ago. “It makes me feel good to say it. Rain or snow, it doesn’t matter, people call and say, ‘I called just to hear you say that.’ It’s a personal touch that’s important.”

Pat Corso was a hotel executive with Club Corporation of America when he was dispatched to Pinehurst in 1987 to run the resort and club. Phone operators at a resort on the Florida Panhandle that was in Corso’s regional domain answered with, “It’s a beautiful day at Sandestin,” and Corso thought that would work well at Pinehurst, too. Ever since, the Pinehurst staff has worked

the phones 24/7 and presented a subliminal message to callers that Pinehurst is a better place than any they might be calling from.

“Pinehurst to me means serenity, it’s peace, it’s the people,” Spencer said. “When I first came to work here, I thought I was going on a picnic, it’s such a place of beauty. Pinehurst is such a peaceful, calming place.”

Another signature greeting of Pinehurst is the 300 yards of Carolina Vista, the lane that runs from Highway 2 north to The Carolina Hotel. The stately white building sits grandly in the distance with its copper roof and signature cupola, framed by a canopy of hollies and pines and hundreds of flowers nestled along the street. Travelers often have driven from distant parts or ridden for 90 minutes from the airport in Raleigh and are taken aback as they pass from the here-and-now into antique nirvana.

Jack Kennally worked on the transportation staff at Pinehurst for more than a decade and sometimes heard first-time visitors grouse about the long drive from Raleigh-Durham International.

“They ask, ‘Why’d they build it so far from the airport?’” said Kennally, who then told them Pinehurst was built before the airport. That gives them some perspective and puts them in the proper frame of mind when his shuttle turned off the roundabout and wound its way up the Vista.

“They love the architecture of the houses along the lane,” Kennally said. “They say, ‘Oh, it’s lovely.’ They imagine what it looked like back in the ’30s, that kind of thing. The big dome, the copper cupola, are very striking. The drive up the Vista sets a nice tone for the visit.”

During his tenure as Carolina Hotel general manager from 2004-2020, Scott Brewton would drive out of his way each day

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF KAYE PIERSON

GOLFTOWN JOURNAL

going to work — eschewing a more direct route into the employee parking lot in back of the hotel in favor of entering via Highway 2 and Carolina Vista and passing by the old world grandeur of Ailsa House, Beacon House, Heartpine House and Little House.

“You swing off the traffic circle and there’s a gentle rise, and it’s like the hotel comes out of the ground,” Brewton said. “There are flowers on your left and right, people walking dogs or carrying tennis rackets. It’s a nice visual to start every day.”

May Wood, a golfer at Vanderbilt University in 2002 and the winner that year of the Women’s North and South Amateur, remembered her first drive along Carolina Vista.

“It was electrifying,” she said. “I almost teared up the first time I saw it. It was the most beautiful place I’d ever been.”

The “beautiful day” theme carries over from the hotel into the village of Pinehurst and, of course, onto the five golf courses emanating from the main clubhouse. Kaye Pierson has worked part time on the Pinehurst golf course maintenance crew since 2008 and, as the quality of cellphone cameras improved, began looking for good images as she mowed grass on the golf courses at dawn each morning. One morning in January 2013, she came to work and told the guys in the maintenance shop, “Watch the sky show this morning.”

She snapped a photo of the Putter Boy statue, the practice putting green, the Padgett Learning Center building and the red, gold and blue palette of the sky in the distance, all of it accented with the early morning mist hanging low to the ground. Nine years later, she captured a shot on the third green of No. 2 looking east along the fifth hole, the sky in a similar dazzling arrangement. Both images were dispensed worldwide via Pinehurst Resort’s social media channels and now are available on prints in gift shops around the resort.

“It’s just magical at that hour,” she says. “For anyone who works on a golf course early in the morning, that’s it. That’s why we’re out there. We are fortunate to be on the course that time of day to see the quiet and the mist and how it changes.

The member’s favorite, this Pinehurst golf course offers wide manicured fairways and large elevated fast rolling greens. Fairway bunkers are strategically placed to grab the wayward shot and there is no lack of sand guarding the greens.

Widely considered the most challenging course, the Grey Fox features hilly terrain, several doglegs and towering pines. Golfers must avoid the sand and position the ball on the proper side of the fairway so that they get the best approach angle to the small greens.

THE RED FOX COURSE

THE GREY FOX COURSE

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GOLFTOWN JOURNAL

Everything just kind of stops for a few seconds and you realize how lucky you are.”

In the village there are no right angles in the roads and no large signs on the shops and you half expect to see Beaver Cleaver or Barney Fife walking down the sidewalk. James Tufts’ New England roots dominate the architecture — the arched doorways, the Colonial Revival façades, the sharply pitched roofs and the gables, the cedar and redwood trim, the white picket fences, the cabins built of juniper logs, the original heart pine columns of the Casino building (now a real-estate agent’s office). Pinehurst has no drive-up windows, but one bank has a “Walk-Up Garden.” And then there are the colors, the two best being the forest green throughout the village and the sepia on the old photographs preserving the history — from the halls of the Carolina Hotel to the file books in the Tufts Archives.

“Each day you spend in Pinehurst, you escape the real world,” said clothier Chris Dalrymple, who owns Gentleman’s Corner. “You mark it off as a day you succeeded.”

Scott Straight has visited Pinehurst frequently from his home in French Lick, Indiana, sometimes as a guest of the gathering hosted each fall by Fluor Corporation and others on a spring golf outing with friends and family. When he first came in the early 2000s, cellular service was spotty in the Sandhills.

“It’s like going back in time, back to a much simpler time,” Straight said. “I couldn’t believe it when I first visited. Here I was in this little village, this golf resort, with no cell service, no email, totally removed from the world.”

He smiled, noting the evolution of technology.

“Unfortunately, somebody went and put a cell tower nearby,” he said.

Pinehurst isn’t immune from technological innovation, but it’s still old school with a voice reminding you it’s in a beautiful world of its own. PS

Lee Pace’s first book about Pinehurst and its history, Pinehurst Stories—A Celebration of Great Golf and Good Times, was published 30 years ago.

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Chime

We were birds then at thirteen, a chime of wrens chirping, carbonated goddesses blowing bubbles, spilling secrets, dancing the latest dances, we did each others’ hair, practiced kissing, gossiped (a girl’s first step toward insight), we shook the magic eight ball, could not imagine a path toward our future —

we only knew we didn’t want our mothers’ lives, taking dictation, cleaning up messes, hiding tins of money,

we were angels falling, wingless, trusting the wind to lift our bodies of light far above the silver water tower, to let us down kindly somewhere, anywhere wild and broad and new.

— Debra Kaufman

Debra Kaufman’s latest collection of poetry is God Shattered

IN MOORE COUNTY

Styled by Brady Gallagher

Photographs by Tim Sayer

Promoting WKRP in Cincinnati was never easy. There was the wig promotion, for example. The station ended up with 3,000 leftover stretch blonde wigs in a warehouse. Arthur Carlson, the “Big Guy,” didn’t know what to do with them until the Red Cross sought donations following an earthquake in Guatemala. “I still have this picture in my mind of quake victims stumbling through the rubble all looking like Dolly Parton,” said Dr. Johnny Fever. What follows is a comedy classic. You can find it on YouTube.

And now it’s time to go to our live remote man on the scene at the Pinedale Shopping Mall for the big WKRP turkey giveaway. Take it away, Les Nessman.

I’m here with hundreds of people who have gathered to witness what has been described as perhaps the greatest turkey event in Thanksgiving Day history.

Oh, yes. I can see it now. It’s a helicopter. And it’s coming this way.

What a sight, ladies and gentlemen. What a sight. The copter seems to be circling the parking area now. I guess it’s looking for a place to land. No. No. Something just came out of the back.

It’s a dark object. Perhaps a skydiver. There’s a second. And a third. There’s no parachutes yet.

- - Oh, my God! They’re turkeys! Oh, they’re crashing to the earth right in front of our eyes! Oh, the humanity! - -

Thanks for that on-the-spot report, Les. And, for those of you who just tuned in, the Pinedale Shopping Mall has been bombed with live turkeys!

Sir, it was the most unusual promotion idea I ever heard of. Never been anything else like it.

Then Mr. Carlson had the helicopter land. I guess he thought he could save the day by turning the rest of the turkeys loose. It gets pretty strange after that.

No. No, I don't suppose there has. But I thought it would work. I planned this thing right down to the last detail. It was perfect!

Dr. Johnny Fever Gerry Bateman, owner of Southern Pines Growler Company

Les Nessman David Woronoff, publisher of PineStraw Magazine

Andy Travis Jarrett Deerwester, owner of The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room

Arthur Carlson Thomas Vincent, head brewer at veteran owned and operated Hatchet Brewery

Herb Tarlek Tim Stelmat, member of local musical act Whiskey Pines, founded in 2013 with Bobby Hancock

Bailey Quarters Kristen Moracco Realtor with Everything Pines Partners, military spouse and mother of three

Jennifer Marlowe Christy Raynor, shop manager and buyer for MOD Shop on Broad

Venus Flytrap Autumn Nicholas, local singer/songwriter and recording artist. Find her on Apple Music or Spotify.

As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly.

Living with a Legend

By Gil H anse

Donald Ross was born 150 years ago this month in Dornoch, Scotland. Obviously, as a student of golf architecture, I had read about him. All of us involved in the art, and the business, of golf course design follow in his footsteps to some degree. There probably isn’t a place in America where Ross’ presence is felt more keenly than it is in Pinehurst, and my own relationship with him became more personal while I was there working on the renovation of Pinehurst’s No. 4 course.

I honestly can’t remember the first Donald Ross golf course I ever walked on. It was probably a little nine hole course up in the Catskills in New York where I went to high school. It’s called Rip Van Winkle Country Club now, and I’m sure Ross never visited it after laying it out. The first course of his that my partner, Jim Wagner, and I ever worked on was Plainfield Country Club, which I still think is one of his best. It’s not a flashy, glitzy spot. It’s not on the ocean. But pound-for-pound, as far as a piece of property, it really is spectacular. And the way he used it was incredible. Courses evolve and change and, hopefully, we’re respect-

ful and thoughtful enough that, when we finish our work, it looks a lot like what he would have done.

When I was in the landscape architecture program at Cornell University, I would try to go and see everything I possibly could. I went to Pinehurst for the first time in the late ’80s, maybe early ’90s, on a study trip, kind of touring through that part of the country to see whatever I could see. I wouldn’t say I was particularly studying Ross’ work but, if it happened to be Ross and I was there, great. Obviously, Pinehurst was an important place to stop.

Unless you go to Seminole Golf Club or Aronimink Golf Club or Pinehurst No. 2 — among the ones he spent a ton of time on — Ross courses seldom seem spectacular but are always solid. You would never go out there and say, “Oh, my God, I’ve never seen anything like that before,” but you never left thinking it was a bad golf course or one with significant flaws. It was always just solid. That’s a helluva legacy. If you do 400-plus golf courses and the worst they are is solid, that’s pretty good.

His early stuff had to have been compromised somewhat by the fact that he was still playing professionally and still teaching. His position was golf professional. And then there was a middle phase where he transitioned from a playing career to being a golf course architect solely. Take something like the Country Club

Donald Ross, up close and personal

of Rochester, for example. It was built in 1916 and the greens were nice but they weren’t terribly complex. Then he came back in the late ’20s and early ’30s and added some greens. The complexity and the beauty and the aesthetics of those were off the charts.

You also see it in his plans. The early work was just stick drawings and little sketches. Then, as he started to do more and more work — and he needed those drawings to communicate to the people who were building the courses — they became more intricate and more detailed.

But the courses Ross actually spent his time on will always be the pinnacle of his work. There’s no way he could physically do all 400 and give it the time and the energy and the effort the way he did the 15 or 20 that he actually put his heart and soul into. There’s no better example of that than Pinehurst No. 2.

In 2017, when we were getting ready to work on Course 4, I ran into Bob Dedman and Tom Pashley at the Walker Cup at Los Angeles Country Club. We were chatting and Bob told me they had purchased Dornoch Cottage, Donald Ross’ house. He talked about how they were going to use it for corporate entertaining and as a resource for the resort and then he said, “But we’re not going to do any of that until you live there while you’re renovating Course 4.”

My jaw just about hit the ground. It was the nicest honor that has ever been extended to my wife, Tracey, and me while working on these projects. Bob, I think, knew how important that would be for us and how meaningful it would be. It was just an incredible opportunity.

As things are wont to happen, the renovations on the house took a little longer than they thought, so we started out in a little cottage in the village and then ultimately moved into Dornoch Cottage. How often do you get the chance to go out your back door, walk to work across one of the greatest golf courses in the world and draw inspiration from that? It’s 10 or 15 minutes walking through Course 2 to get to Course 4 and you’re looking at beautiful landforms and beautiful bunkers and greens. I know it wasn’t his desk, but sitting in his office and working on plans and drawings, it was incredible.

One night while we were there Tracey and I woke up around 3:30 in the morning. We both heard somebody say “goodnight” and we looked at each other. I’m sure it was one of us talking in our sleep but the fact that we both woke up and we both heard the exact same thing was a little scary. Hopefully, if his spirit is in the house, he was happy we were living there. I know we were. PS

Gil Hanse is one of the world’s most respected golf course architects. His projects have included a major renovation of Pinehurst No. 4; The Cradle; The Olympic Golf Course in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; and the Castle Stuart Golf Links in Inverness, Scotland.

Hopefully, if his spirit is in the house, he was happy we were living there. I know we were.

HISTORICAL PHOTOS FROM THE TUFTS ARCHIVE/VILLAGE OF PINEHURST, PHOTOS OF GILL HANSE BY JOHN GESSNER

CAUGHT IN A TRAP

Agatha Christie’s classic turns 70

By Jim moriarty • illustration By miranda Glyder

The world’s longest-running play, written by the world’s most successful female playwright, who also happens to be the world’s bestselling novelist, will celebrate — at least in part — its 70th anniversary on the Owens Auditorium stage of the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center. Dame Agatha Christie’s classic, The Mousetrap, premiered in London’s West End on Nov. 25, 1952. Its BPAC performances on Nov. 17-20 will also serve as an anniversary celebration for the Judson Theatre Company as it closes out its 10th season of bringing live, professional theater to the Sandhills.

“Judson Theatre Company was selected to be one of the theater companies all over the world given the rights to produce a 70th anniversary production of The Mousetrap,” says Morgan Sills, Judson’s co-founder, executive producer and a Sandhills native who assumed the role of BPAC’s executive director last March. “I love it. It will be our third Agatha Christie after And Then There Were None and Witness for the Prosecution, each of which broke our box office record at the time.”

It also marks the first time one of Judson Theatre Company’s

previous headliners will return. Alison Arngrim, best known for her character Nellie Oleson on the long-running television series Little House on the Prairie, was in Judson’s production of And Then There Were None five years ago. She’s the author of the autobiographical book Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated, which became a onewoman show.

“I get this text from Morgan, just a heads up: ‘I’m on the phone with your agent. You wouldn’t want to come and act in an Agatha Christie again, would you?’ And I’m like, ‘Which one?’ It’s Mousetrap,” says Arngrim, whose character in the play is Mrs. Boyle. “I’m a sucker for a villain role and I’m like, wait, isn’t this the really mean, terrible, remorseless English woman who dies at the end of Act I? I enjoy mean, cruel and remorseless older English ladies who die in Act I. I’m totally there. I love Agatha Christie and I love Judson Theatre. I had an absolute blast the last time I did it.”

After a half-dozen out-of-town shakedown cruises that started at Theatre Royal in Nottingham in October of ’52, The Mousetrap

— which began as a radio play that morphed into a short story that evolved into a stage play — has run continuously in London’s West End since it premiered there, with the exception of a brief shutdown from March 2020 to May 2021 caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Set in the great hall of Monkswell Manor, “this collection of characters from different backgrounds gets trapped in a snowstorm,” says Sills. “There’s been a murder and you find out whodunnit. It’s got a classic Christie plot and a surprising resolution. I’ve been looking forward to doing it for a while and when the anniversary came up, we knew this was the year to do it.”

By tradition, at the end of the play, the audience is asked not to reveal the killer’s identity to anyone outside the theater to avoid spoiling the surprise for future audiences. That the play has become a London tourist and theater-going staple was a surprise to even Christie herself, who imagined it might enjoy as much as an eight-month run. In 2011, a telegram sent in 1957 from playwright Noël Coward to Christie was discovered in a piece of furniture purchased from the Christie estate. It said, “Dear Agatha Christie. Much as it pains me I really must congratulate you on The Mousetrap breaking the long run record. All My Good Wishes. Noel Coward.”

While a 10-year anniversary can seem insignificant stacked up against the 70-year history of a theatrical institution like Mousetrap, Judson Theatre’s decade of success, including as it does the years when all of Broadway was shut down by the pandemic, is impressive in its own right. Ten years ago Joyce DeWitt starred in Judson’s first production, with the late Tab Hunter. “Love Letters ended up being one of the happiest experiences of my life, doing that play with Tab,” DeWitt says. “He is one of the most underrated actors in the history of Hollywood. He was so good in that role, so powerful, so present, so simple and so nakedly honest that I just fell inside what he was doing.”

After 10 seasons, the number of classic plays and the actors who brought them to life is too long to list. A good sign. “There’s been so much joy,” says Sills, who co-founded Judson with artistic director Daniel Haley. “So many of the stars we’ve had have been wonderful on the stage — because they’re not hired for their celebrity, they’re hired for their talent — but they’ve been wonderful off stage, too. To see our students and interns interact with them, the way the legacy of theater is passed on by working with them, has been beautiful.”

Involvement with the community has been at the heart of Judson’s mission. “Daniel and I are especially

proud of the education program,” says Sills. “The Mousetrap will be part of that. The students get a copy of the book. We have a study guide written. They attend the show. We pay for transportation, their ticket, and substitute teachers. They get a field trip and a one-of-a-kind experience.” Combined, there will be something in the neighborhood of 600 students attending from North Moore, Union Pines and Pinecrest high schools.

“I’m grateful that we’ve managed,” says Sills of their first decade. “It’s always been challenging but the challenges change and the joys of doing it change. There hadn’t been true professional theater here in such a long time. The inspiration came from what they used to do in Pinehurst’s Theater Building with stars and plays, everything.”

But it wouldn’t have been possible without Sills’ Sandhills upbringing and connections. “It’s very much to do with Morgan being from there,” says Arngrim. “It’s hard to do any project from a charity to a theater to anything in any community where people think it just blew in from outside and it’s not part of ‘our’ community. If it was just someone coming from New York into Pinehurst, North Carolina and saying, ‘Hey, I’m going to do theater here’ it might not catch on the way that it did.”

And, having worked in theater in nearly every capacity known to man doesn’t hurt. “It really comes down to the fact that Morgan’s just a really fine theater manager,” says DeWitt. “He not only knows and understands the theater but he loves it, so his passion matches his talent. What he and Daniel have done there, it’s really kind of beautiful.” PS

Jim Moriarty is the editor of PineStraw and can be reached at jjmpinestraw@gmail.com.

Right: Morgan Sills

Left: Alison Arngrim

PHOTOGRAPH BY TIM SAYER

Remembering Frank Jr.

A tribute to a leader

By Jim Jenkins

Frank Arthur Daniels Jr. died at the age of 90 on June 30, 2022, in his hometown of Raleigh. It was the peaceful conclusion of a life full of professional accomplishment, financial success, and contributions to his community and his state. But for his multitudes of friends and family, Frank Jr. — as just about everybody called him — is remembered for his capacity to give and receive love.

Sitting in the cavernous dining area of her parents’ home on White Oak Road, Julie Daniels, Frank Jr.’s daughter, and her husband, Tom West, scan the many family portraits and mementos. There is one of her father, then 65, in front of a printing press.

“Look!” she says. “He’s got the little red book in his pocket. He always had that.”

Yes, Frank Jr. always carried a book with the names of his best friends, their phone numbers and their birthdays. When he was younger, he’d send cards; as he got older, he found it easier to call them and sing to them (and anyone who was with him would be expected to sing along).

Julie is one of two children of Frank Jr. and his wife, Julia, and her memories are exactly what her father would want them to be. “Oh, they had fun — parties all the time, events at the paper, things like that,” she says. “But they always put me and my brother first. I don’t re-

member that they had all kinds of money — and they didn’t think of themselves that way. But when you ask me, what was his happiest day, I’d say just about every day was his happiest.”

Frank Daniels Jr. was born at the “Old Rex Hospital,” on Sept. 7, 1931. His father, Frank Daniels Sr., was one of four brothers, three of whom were active in running The News & Observer, which was owned by Frank Jr.’s grandfather, Josephus Daniels. He attended Woodberry Forest School near Orange, Virginia, and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1953. He did two years in the U.S. Air Force in Japan and tried a year of law school but was inevitably drawn back to The N&O, which turned out to be more than his birthright — it was his destiny. Though he and his sister, Patsy, were raised in comfort and power, Frank Jr. was a righteous man. He had a sense of right and wrong that transcended the views of the generation from which he came, and of the family from which he descended. His son Frank Daniels III recalls going to the ACC basketball tournament with his father in 1968, when he was 12. It was the first varsity year for Charles Scott, a UNC sophomore who was the first Black basketball player for the Tar Heels.

A man behind them began taunting Scott. It was something Frank’s dad tolerated until he

PHOTOGRAPH COURTESY OF JULIE WOOD

heard the n-word. “He turned around and told the guy to shut the hell up and then said, ‘We don’t need you here.’ The guy left,” says Frank III. “That really took something.”

Frank Jr. worked various jobs in all departments at The N&O and was popular with the other workers at the paper. Sometimes he chafed a bit working for his father (who, as the publisher, ran the business operations) and his uncle Jonathan, the editor, but he stayed the course and, after working his way up, became publisher in 1971.

A big man for his time, Frank Jr. was 6 feet, 3 inches tall and burly. He had huge hands and a booming bass voice that carried through a room, though his eyes possessed a mischievous twinkle and he loved a good joke.

Gary Pearce, a longtime political strategist, remembers his boss from his own early days as an assistant city editor at The N&O in the mid1970s. “He’d walk through the newsroom every day about 5 o’clock to go talk to Claude Sitton,” says Pearce, referring to the editor of the paper at the time. “One day, Frank’s walking through and there’s a phone ringing at an empty desk. No one’s there, so Frank — the publisher, now — puts down his briefcase, answers the phone, puts a piece of paper in the typewriter and takes down the item, a minor news brief. Then he sticks it in the basket, gathers his stuff and

Frank Jr. at press with grandfather Josephus Daniels in 1939.

PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE NEWS & OBSERVER

walks on down the hall, not saying a word to anybody. Most publishers wouldn’t have done it. That told me a lot.”

While at The N&O, Frank Jr. took some courageous stands as a fellow who owned a newspaper too liberal for many local business and community swells. He pushed for a merger of the Wake County and Raleigh schools, supporting a controversial change that led to vastly improved, integrated schools. He supported civil rights and women’s rights and didn’t balk when the newspaper started asking troubling questions about the war in Vietnam.

In addition to leading the paper, Frank Jr. rose to the top of dozens of professional associations. He was chairman of The Associated Press, and part of the leadership of nearly every civic organization in Raleigh — from United Way to school support groups to the YMCA board to chairing the boards of the North Carolina Museums of History and Natural Sciences. His board memberships and chairmanships over nine decades were too numerous to name, but his son says that his favorite post was chairman of the Smithsonian Institution’s National Board. He arranged partnerships between the Smithsonian and North Carolina’s history

and science museums. They reflected his lifelong belief that everyone, at every station in life, deserved to know about art, history and science, and that the knowledge should be free.

Frank III says that his father’s seemingly natural capacity for leadership always put him in charge of whatever organization he had been asked to join. “Every group he was in, he rose to the top,” Frank III says. “I think it was his capacity for empathy. He could see what people needed, and it was important for him to help them.”

The Daniels family sold The News & Observer to the McClatchy newspaper company in California in 1995, and Frank Jr. remained as publisher until he retired in 1996.

In retirement, he became busier than ever, continuing his board memberships, staying active particularly in Democratic Party politics. Virtually every governor paid him a call. No one is sure if he ever gave a campaign contribution to a Republican. During his tenure, as with his grandfather and father, The N&O never endorsed a Republican candidate for office.

Frank Jr. bought a building on Fayetteville Street in downtown Raleigh and established an office on the sixth

floor, where he entertained movers and shakers and fellow board members and politicians. Through his membership in social and golf clubs he influenced another two generations of businesspeople, candidates and entrepreneurs. Until the very last month of life, he rarely had an empty lunch date or an evening without some kind of activity.

Even after his departure from The N&O, Frank Jr. supported new ventures and publications. Shortly after his retirement, he and four others bought The Pilot in Southern Pines, then owned by Sam Ragan. Why did he do it? “It just gets in your blood,” was all he ever said.

One of the other owners is David Woronoff, Frank Jr.’s nephew. Woronoff, who runs the business for the partnership, was young at the beginning, confident but willing to ask his uncle’s advice. “He’d never let me call up and say, ‘This happened, what should I do?’” Woronoff laughs. “But he’d give advice — not that he expected you to take it.”

Left: Publisher Frank Daniels Jr. and Raleigh Times Editor A.C. Snow look over the final edition of the Raleigh Times.

Right: Asst. city editor Ted Vaden, editor Claude Sitton, and publisher Frank Daniels Jr.

In one case, a prominent Pinehurst businessman called Woronoff, the publisher of The Pilot, after the newspaper was critical of a venture in which the businessman was involved. “He was screaming at me,” says Woronoff, “really rough stuff.” Woronoff called his uncle and the advice Frank Jr. gave him was unequivocal. “He said, ‘David, you never go wrong punching the biggest bully in town in the nose. What would be wrong would be if you didn’t give the person in need a hand up.’”

Frank Jr. stayed involved in the publishing group until his death, as it added The Country Bookshop, another community paper and five magazines — Business North Carolina, PineStraw, WALTER, O.Henry and SouthPark — to its stable.

Frank Jr. built friendships from childhood that lasted him a lifetime, but what he enjoyed most about all his associations was just learning. His granddaughter, Kimberly Daniels Taws, who runs The Country Bookshop, remembers visiting the beach with her grandfather when she was young. She joined him on the deck, where he was sitting next to a foot-tall stack of unusual reading material: clippings, folders, magazines, books. “I said, ‘What are you doing?’” she says. “And he

said, ‘Well, I’m trying to figure out how I feel about nuclear power.’”

Many years ago, Frank Jr. hired attorney Wade Smith to help with some legal issues involving the newspaper. That led to a deep, lifelong friendship. “To me, Frank was larger than life, but Frank was real,” Smith says. “There was no putting on airs about him. He would be straight with you in all ways, and I liked that about him.”

Communications consultant Joyce Fitzpatrick met Frank Jr. when she rented space in a downtown building he owned some 20 years ago. She began regular lunches with him and Smith once or twice a month. “He was a hyper-social person,” she says. “He loved to have his lunches planned. We always typed out an agenda. It covered everything — politics, world events. People would come over to sit with us, wanting to know the latest.”

One thing he didn’t seem to have was inhibition. “Oh,” Fitzpatrick says, “ we ’d switch from politics to golf to what happens when we die. In the last few lunches, Wade would give comfort: We’ll see each other again.”

Perhaps, in the end, Frank Arthur Daniels Jr. is proof that a man can be great without being perfect. Frank Jr.

was the first to laugh at his own flaws; he enjoyed off-color humor, indulged in profanity and played practical jokes. But if he felt he’d been too rough on someone, he’d apologize.

“From him I learned the beauty of friendship and being with other people. The importance of generosity. And that sense of humor!” says his daughter Julie. “Sometimes you don’t realize the great gifts.”

In a eulogy at his father’s funeral at White Memorial Presbyterian Church, his son, Frank III, shared a note that Frank Jr.’s longtime personal assistant, Julie Wood, found on his desk after he passed: Feed the hungry. Clothe the naked. Forgive the guilty. Welcome the stranger and the unwanted child. Care for the ill. Love your enemies.

“It’s a list of what he thought religion — and we — should teach,” says Frank III, who closed the eulogy with: “We’ll do our best.” PS

Jim Jenkins is an award-winning writer who has received North Carolina’s highest honor, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine. He retired from The News & Observer in 2018 after 31 years as an editor, columnist and chief editorial writer.

Left: Frank Jr. and David Woronoff. Middle: Frank IV, Frank Jr., Frank III

Right: Frank Jr. and Julia with Patsy Daniels-Lindley and Lucy Daniels. PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF JULIE WOOD

Space Well Spent

Blinkbonnie is larger than life

By deBora H salomon

PHotoGra PHs By JoHn Gessner

stylinG By m att Hollyfield

Bigger-than-big. Practically enormous. This residence is proportioned for an era of grandeur.

Scarlett would recognize the Tara-esque columns, while the European antiques gleam as though polished by Mr. Carson, the butler on Downton Abbey, who might appreciate the triple-sized butler’s pantry, too. Remove the runner and its length suits bowling. A grandfather clock reaches for the ceiling. The pool and pool house/sauna would eclipse those of most hotels. There are five bedrooms, six bathrooms, three home offices, a basement of ballroom dimensions, multiple gardens, even a fenced dog park for mini goldendoodle Lilly.

Just living there could be an aerobic workout.

Of course Pinehurst Old Town centenarian Blinkbonnie has been updated, enlarged and repurposed by several occupants. An added-on portico may seem incongruous to the Dutch Colonial architecture with gambrel roof, yet the house clings in spirit to an original purpose: genteel, happy times when conversation was an art and money flowed

like prohibition whiskey during Pinehurst’s fashionable winter “season.”

But times have changed, as has Blinkbonnie — Gaelic for “a glimpse of beauty.” Its most recent iteration: a refuge where owner Lisa Youngclaus escaped COVID by floating on the pool with her friends or, on a rainy day, dawdling in the 2,000-volume library where books are color-coded, or maybe even having a go at the full-sized billiards table in the finished basement where her son and friends once hung out.

The story starts, as do other Pinehurst homestead histories, in the early days of the 20th century. In 1917, Simon Chapin of New York, a major developer of Myrtle Beach, got word of the vacation enclave the Tuftses were building. Liking what he found, he built what is now called While-Away Cottage for his family on Blue Road and this larger estate for his sister, Mary Alice Chapin

May, on nearby McCaskill. She wasn’t there long. In 1920 the house, by then owned by Dickenson Bishop, was christened Bishop’s Cottage. Several owners followed, including someone identified as “well-known sporting figure” Jay Hall, and Pinehurst mayor Steve Smith and wife, Becky.

Golf drew Bill and Lisa Youngclaus, both advertising executives living in Chicago, to Pinehurst, where they owned a weekend home at Country Club of North Carolina. After their son was born in 1996, Lisa retired and the family moved to Pinehurst full time.

But the CCNC pied-à-terre wasn’t big enough for gatherings of the blended family. Besides, Lisa and Bill had spent a year in Paris, where she collected antiques on a grand scale, as well as art and assorted museum-quality objets begging a suitable venue. How many houses offer a double-wide foyer, intricate eyebrow moldings, bay windows, high ceilings, interesting wallpapers, chandeliers by Baccarat of Paris, a 30-foot-square living room dominated by a baby grand piano, drums, and an Aubusson tapestry of Pablo Picasso’s painting The Acrobat? The contorted abstract is flanked by contemporary armless sofas and antique French tables. Complementing this Picasso are several look-alikes Lisa found on Bald Head Island and had framed. On the floor, a silk rug from London. On the ceiling, strategically placed recessed lighting.

Yet, amid such splendor, Lisa chose checked gingham drapes hanging from a dowel rod. “I like to mix the old and the new,” she says, which explains a TV den with grasscloth walls, and sectional sofa in rust and sand tones that she calls her winter room. There are surprises, too, like the bathroom with a stained glass window and clawfoot tub, and a sunroom enhanced with blues, wicker and graceful ceiling details.

Throughout, a clever architect sited rooms with windows on two, sometimes three sides for maximum all-day light.

“I couldn’t believe it when we first walked around the house. I could see how our furniture fit the spaces. There was a place for everything,” including a giant French poster circa 1888, advertising an art exhibit in Brussels, that dominates the staircase landing.

Lisa remodeled the kitchen when they moved in but left the dark wood cabinetry, which she preferred to sterile all-white. She also kept Venetian plaster walls in a creamy hue but refreshed the master suite in blues and white, which continues into an adjoining sun/yoga room, her “serene retreat.”

Lisa is a yoga instructor who has traveled to India to import icons and other merchandise for studio boutiques. In her own home she successfully juxtaposes these pieces with formal European furnishings, a 17th century tapestry and contemporary art. Yet, given copious space and absence of clutter, each piece stands out, ready to tell its story.

Time passes, circumstances change. Bill died in 2006. Their son, a musician, is still close by, but Lisa’s step-grandchildren are grown. “When your family changes you make a new family, with friends,” Lisa says, recalling a recent birthday binge given by 15 girlfriends, her sisterhood. “I’ve matured with the house, from babies to kids hanging out in the basement.” To now.

But for Lisa one thing remains constant: “When I get up in the morning and walk down the stairs I think, OMG, look at the arched windows, the doors and everything else. I’m so lucky.” PS

ALMANAC

November

By a sHley WalsHe

November is a great sweeping wind, a clearing of what must go, a dance with a howling reaper.

The crickets have disappeared. Their nightly serenades, which crackled like warm vinyl from spring through harvest season, faded with the first hard frost. In their wake, the wind shrieks through naked trees. A great horned owl bellows from his perch.

The garden folds into itself. The porch toads that lurked by the watering can on warm autumn evenings now burrow beneath the frost line. Field mice shimmy down chimneys, squeeze through eaves, craft their nests inside cozy walls.

Songbirds come and go. Hermit thrushes strip the hollies of their crimson fruit. White-throated sparrows shuffle through crumpled leaves, scratching up what’s buried underneath.

The wind sings of a quickening darkness. The squirrels, scrambling to cache pecans as they fall, retort with squawks and chatter. A skein of geese sails across a golden sunset.

At dusk, when the wind nips at the heels of those still roaming, a pair of coyotes yips and howls beyond the fringe. Back and forth they shriek, wailing like banshees, piercing the air with their shrill and haunting staccato.

“I’m here,” cries one to the other.

A single voice sounds like dozens.

A biting wind howls back.

When Pies Fly

For our neighbors in Albany, Georgia (pecan capital of the world), it’s raining you-know-what right now. But we have our share of toothsome treasures plummeting upon our leaf-littered neck of the woods, too. Especially in the southeastern part of the state. Whatever you call them — PEE-cans or pee-KAHNS — ’tis harvest season. Pick them as they drop or else the crows and squirrels will beat you to it. You’ll want to let them cure (essential if they’re not yet ripe) before shelling and freezing them. Store them in a mesh bag — and in a cool, dry place — for about two weeks. While you’re waiting? Dream of pie.

On that nut-studded note, have you ever cracked pecans? If so, then you can more deeply appreciate that the average pecan pie packs between 70 and 80 of those sweet and buttery little candies. No need to mention the calories.

O wild West Wind, thou breath of Autumn’s being.

Thou, from whose unseen presence the leaves dead

Are driven, like ghosts from an enchanter fleeing — Percy Bysshe Shelley

Prepare to be Dazzled

On Tuesday, Nov. 8, a total lunar eclipse begins around 3 a.m. According to Smithsonian magazine, which named this celestial event one of 10 “dazzling” must-sees of 2022, the moon will appear reddish, as if “all the world’s sunrises and sunsets” are being cast upon it.

Speaking of dazzling events, here’s to hoping your Thanksgiving will be described as such. At the very least, don’t let the parsnips eclipse that homemade pie. PS

PineStraw magazine is pleased to present the 2022 Guide to Giving.

As you begin planning for the holidays, please give some thought to how you can help those that are working to make our community a better place to live.

The PineStraw magazine Guide to Giving is a sampling of charitable organizations in our area that rely on annual fundraising. With your help, be it monetary or hands-on, we can support their missions and have a hand in bettering Moore County.

We thank the local businesses that made our Guide to Giving possible through their sponsorship. To learn how your business can sponsor the 2023 edition, please call 910-692-7271.

195 Sandy Avenue Southern Pines, NC 28387

910.692.5959

sandhills.foodbankcenc.org

MISSION STATEMENT

The Food Bank operates under the mission: Nourish people. Build solutions. Empower communities. With the support of this incredible community and our partners, we work every day to realize the vision: No one goes hungry. The Backpack Pals’ program meets the nutritional needs of children at risk of hunger during weekends by providing discreet bags filled with weekend meals that fit inside of a child’s backpack.

HOW IT WORKS

Backpack Pals bags are compiled at the Food Bank of Central & Eastern NC location on Sandy Avenue in Southern Pines. These packs provide healthy meals and snacks for children and their families to ensure children return to school on Mondays or after a long school break ready to learn. Volunteers receive the food from the Food Bank, load it into bags, and deliver it to the school or program for distribution each week.

Common foods in a Backpack Pals bag include: proteins (tuna, beef stew, or peanut butter), fruits (canned or fresh), breakfast items (cereal or bars), snacks, and beverages (fruit juice and/or milk).

The backpacks are assembled by volunteers and delivered to a school partner each week. Normally, the packs are distributed on Thursday or Friday, with kids returning them on Wednesday of the following week.

Since the program began in October 2005, teachers and schools have reported improvements in test scores, positive behavioral gains, decrease in number of unexcused absences, and an increased recognition of potential career paths.

HOW TO HELP

Donate Online: Online donations are a fast and easy way to support the work of the Food Bank. Using a credit card or bank draft, make a one-time gift or continue your support as a monthly contributor. Honor or memorialize a friend or relative by making a tribute gift. Consider hosting a virtual food drive for friends and family to get involved.

Other Monetary Support: The Food Bank accepts many types of monetary support including stock donations, bequests by will or trust, company matching gifts, and corporate partnerships.

Donate Time: Volunteers are the heart and soul of the Food Bank’s mission. Every day, Food Bank volunteers are making a tangible contribution to our communities. If you’d like to volunteer your time, please visit foodbankcenc.org/volunteer to view opportunities, learn more about current safety protocols, and self-schedule a shift!

MAKE A GIFT

Backpack Pals

c/o Food Bank of Central & Eastern North Carolina

195 Sandy Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387

www.mealsonwheelsofthesandhills.com

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission to is to provide a hot, nutritious, diet-specific mid-day meal, Monday through Friday (including all weekday holidays) to homebound individuals who are unable to prepare a meal, regardless of their age or ability to pay.

HOW IT WORKS

Through volunteers, we deliver between 85-95 noontime meals every Monday through Friday. We charge a small fee ($4/meal) or provide the meal for free to those who cannot pay. We partner with United Way of Moore County to achieve these goals.

EVENTS

Mark you calendar for April 29th, 2023 when we will host a golf tournament in conjunction with Pinewild’s outreach organization. We are seeking sponsors for this great fundraising Opportunity. For information contact our office.

We hope to resume our annual dinner this December.

FUNDRAISING GOALS

To raise $60,000 to be used for food cost, preparations and kitchen equipment.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

It takes nine volunteers a day, Monday through Friday, to deliver our meals. And we’re planning to add a tenth team this year to serve the West End and Seven Lakes area. Please email or text our Executive Director at rklistrom@yahoo.com for more information about becoming a volunteer. We could really use your help!

MAKE A GIFT

PO Box 327

Southern Pines, NC 28388

910.281.3223

www.prancing-horse.org

MISSION STATEMENT

The mission of Prancing Horse is to enhance the lives of children and adults with diverse cognitive, emotional, and physical needs by providing a safe environment for therapeutic horsemanship.

SERVICES

Prancing Horse serves children and adults who experience a variety of physical, cognitive and emotional challenges. Our program is designed to encourage and inspire our clients to reach their highest potential and possibly attain goals once thought out of reach. Our program strategy is to develop, monitor, and assess an individualized activity plan for each participant.

EVENTS

Barn Dance fundraiser in the spring Prancing Horse Farm Tour in October. End of session Horse Shows

FUNDRAISING

Prancing Horse appreciates the continued support of the community to ensure our ability to continue therapeutic horsemanship classes for our clients.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

1. Work in arena with students and horses

2. Clerk at our shop, A BIT USED

3. Serve on committees

4. Help with fundraising events

To volunteer contact volunteers@prancing-horse.org

MAKE A GIFT

www.prancing-horse.org

Prancing Horse

PO Box 327, Southern Pines, NC 28388

PO Box 939

Southern Pines, NC 28388

910.692.6261

www.weymouthcenter.org

OUR MISSION

The purpose of Friends of Weymouth, Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization, is to provide a place of inclusivity by offering literary and cultural experiences that inspire and enrich the lives of our community.

Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities (Weymouth Center) is a community gathering place for lovers of nature and the arts. This year, we have been celebrating 100 years of the Boyd House as a community icon. Weymouth Center offers programs for all ages and opens its 26 acres of gardens and grounds to the community. We are a program-driven nonprofit and give public presentations year-round in the arts and humanities.

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS

• Concerts for all tastes, including Classical Music Sundays, “Come Sunday” Jazz Series, and “Live from the Great Room”

• Arts and Humanities Lecture Series

• Writers-in-Residence Readings

• Moore County Writers’ Competition

• “Weymouth Wonderland” Holiday Festival

• Summer Camps

• Community celebrations supported by the Women of Weymouth including Supper on the Grounds, Ladies Wine Out, and Strawberry Festival.

Your gift will support bringing the arts and humanities to the Sandhills, provide scholarships for educational programs, allow children to attend events for free, and underwrite the cost of world-class performing artists, writers, and speakers. Weymouth Center is a welcome place for all to enjoy the magnificent gardens and grounds, sustained by volunteers and contributions. A gift of $50 or more makes you a member of Weymouth, which includes the benefits of reduced ticket prices for Weymouth events, discounts to partner businesses including The Country Bookshop and Southern Whey, and all gifts are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law. Thank you for considering making a gift today!

MAKE A GIFT

To support Weymouth Center with a check, gift of stock, or estate gift, please send by mail to:

Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities

PO Box 939, Southern Pines, NC 28388

To make your gift online, go to: weymouthcenter.org and click “Support.”

This page made possible by Ashten’s

250 NW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 28387

910.692.3611

www.sunrisetheater.com

MISSION STATEMENT

To entertain, educate, and engage the community though film and performing arts, while preserving an historic Southern Pines landmark.

SERVICES

The Sunrise offers a variety of entertaining, engaging, and educational programming in its historic community theater and welcoming outdoor venue.

EVENTS

Sunrise produces live community theatre, First-run movies, classic movies, live concerts, free First Friday community concerts, Bolshoi Ballet & Met Opera simulcasts, National Theatre Live rebroadcasts, BroadwayHD performances, Children’s Theater Camps, live community theater, documentaries, private rentals & community events.

FUNDRAISING

Fundraising supports all of our programs, concerts, and shows and maintains our community’s charming historic theater.

The Sunrise Theater is a nonprofit organization that relies on community volunteers to serve in a variety of capacities and on multiple committees developing programming and assuring the best experience for our patrons. They serve as ushers, behind the concessions stand, in the box office, and on the board. Please call us about opportunities to volunteer – We’d love to have you join us!

HOW CAN YOU HELP

Donations can be made by mail, by phone to (910) 692-3611, or online at www.sunrisetheater.com.

780 NW Broad Street, Suite 110 Southern Pines, NC 28387

MISSION STATEMENT

United Way of Moore County’s mission is to advance the common good by focusing on the education, financial stability, and health of those living in our community. United Way strives to stop the cycle of poverty so our entire community can thrive. United Way also supports the community with 2-1-1 Information & Referral service connecting our residents to local health & human service supports when they need help. This year’s campaign is ‘The Cycle of Poverty Stops When We Unite.’

PARTNERS

United Way of Moore County partners with and funds 14 local charitable organizations and 16 programs: American Red Cross, The Arc of Moore County, Bethany House, Bethesda, Inc., Boy Scouts of America, Friend to Friend, Meals on Wheels of the Sandhills, Moore County 4-H, Northern Moore Family Resource Center (HOPE Academy), Partners for Children & Families (Barbershop Initiative), Sandhills Moore Coalition for Human Care, Sandhills Student Assistance Program, The C.A.R.E. Group (Mentoring/Summer Reading Stations/COVID Recovery Tutoring)

FUNDRAISING

The 2022 fundraising campaign brings an opportunity to purchase a limited number of raffle tickets for a 3 Day/2Night Package for two at Pinehurst Resort. Only 100 raffle tickets for $100 each are available for a chance to win.. This 3 day/2 night stay includes: accommodations, breakfast and dinner daily and one round of golf per day including play on the famed Pinehurst No. 2 course! Information on how to register for your chance to win is coming soon.

GIVE MOORE LOCAL

Mail your contribution to the United Way of Moore County at: PO Box 207, Southern Pines, NC 28387; Text GIVELOCAL to 26989 to make a donation; or give online at www.unitedwaymoore.com.

Give Moore Local means your gift helps right here in our local communities.

1280 Central Drive

Southern Pines, NC 28387

910.692.3323

www.sandhillschildrenscenter.org

OUR MISSION

The mission of Sandhills Children’s Center is to constantly strive to be a recognized leader and pre-eminent provider of educational and therapeutic services to young children ages birth through 5 years through continuous organizational growth and collaboration with our community partners.

The first 5 years of a child’s life are critically important to their future success in school. As specialists in early childhood education, Sandhills Children’s Center offers an inclusive child development program for children with and without special developmental needs that encourages learning, creativity, and physical/ intellectual growth. The unique peer-to-peer learning in an inclusive setting is proven to be the most natural environment for preparing children for kindergarten.

EVENTS

26TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF TREES

November 16 – 20 at The Carolina Hotel in Pinehurst Opens at 10:00 a.m. daily

Admission by any monetary donation at the door. FestivalofTrees.org

SPRING 2023 EVENTS

March 20 – Kelly Cup Golf Championship at Forest Creek Golf Club

May 20 – 16th Annual Backyard Bocce Bash at Pinehurst Harness Track

VOLUNTEER

Sandhills Children’s Center is always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to assist with our special events. If you are interested in volunteering at an upcoming event, call (910) 692-3323.

MAKE A GIFT

www.sandhillschildrenscenter.org

Sandhills Children’s Center

1280 Central Drive

Southern Pines, NC 28387

www.firsthealth.org/foundation-of-firsthealth

OUR MISSION To Care for People

FirstHealth has a strong philanthropic heritage dating back to 1928 when the community raised $75,000 to match a Duke Endowment grant for a hospital in Moore County. Today, our not-for-profit healthcare system serves a 16-county region, providing award-winning care regardless of a patient’s ability to pay.

Charitable endowments are key to FirstHealth’s future success. External forces have stretched resources of healthcare systems nationwide, causing many small rural hospitals to close. Without philanthropy and endowment building, high-touch advocacy programs and innovative advancements are at risk.

Strategically, the Foundation of FirstHealth is focused on the following five endowment priorities:

CLARA MCLEAN HOUSE

Clara’s House and its Healing Garden provide “kindness with a front porch” for out-of-town patients and their families, offering low or no-cost lodging, advocacy, support groups, and compassionate hospitality as a part of critical care.

PHYSICIAN & NURSING ENRICHMENT

Visionary philanthropists Walter and Betty Reid established the Physician Leadership Academy (PLA) to develop strong physician leaders. An outgrowth of PLA is the Center for Provider Wellbeing offering professional and personal support. This support now extends beyond physicians to nurse practitioners and physician assistants. FirstHealth also knows our nurses are the heart of patient care. As such, we make resources readily available to help nurses grow as leaders through the pursuit of advanced degrees, specialized training, certifications, and worklife balance.

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE

Hospice care, including the Hospice House, focuses on patient needs and comfort at end of life. Palliative care assists those with serious illness while the patient is receiving active medical treatment.

HEART SERVICES

Heart disease remains the #1 killer in the U.S. The Reid Heart Center boasts world-class physicians and state-of-the-art medical technology, including robotic technologies that facilitate advanced procedures performed nowhere else in the state.

CANCER SERVICES

Cancer remains a terrifying diagnosis and a leading cause of death in our region. In early 2023, FirstHealth will open a new state-of-the-art Comprehensive Cancer Center.

THE NEXT STEP IN CANCER SERVICES: GOING TO THE 4TH FLOOR

In addition to oncology, infusion and radiation, the center will house support services on its 4th Floor for patient, caregiver, family, and staff including:

• Expanded Clinical Trials

• Nurse and Financial Navigators

• Outpatient Palliative Care

• Yoga, Meditation, Fitness

• Chaplaincy

• Music, Art, and Canine Therapies

• Children’s and Teen Area

• Support Groups and more

To learn more, contact the Foundation of FirstHealth at (910) 695-7500. To donate, visit www.firsthealth.org/donation.

L-R: Dr. Karen Sullivan, Medical Chief Center for Provider Wellbeing; Clara McLean House – Kindness with a front porch; Cancer Center Rendering; Cardiac Rehabilitation; Hospice & Palliative Care

5 Market Square Pinehurst, NC 28374

910.687.0287

www.carolinaphil.org

MISSION STATEMENT

Presenting exceptional concerts that entertain, educate and inspire audiences.

ABOUT THE CAROLINA PHILHARMONIC

Founded in 2009, The Carolina Philharmonic has quickly grown into one of the leading orchestras of North Carolina. What sets us apart onstage is our visceral joy in sharing the music and the stories behind the music with our audiences. Expect more of a concert experience.

FUNDRAISING GOALS

Each year with no federal or state assistance we need to raise $200,000 to support our music education programs for the children of Moore County.

We fundraise throughout the year for children’s music programs. This year between Encore! Kids (K – 3), Link Up (4th graders) and our Junior Orchestra we have about 3,500 total students in our programs.

MAKE A GIFT

The Carolina Philharmonic 5 Market Sq, Pinehurst, NC 28374 (910) 687-0287

Let the music move you,transform you, transport you. Experience the Joy of Exceptional Music.

This page made possible by Lin Hutaff

500 E. Rhode Island Avenue Southern Pines, NC 28387

910.692.0300

www.penickvillage.org/penick-villagefoundation

MISSION STATEMENT

Honoring and valuing older adults and those who care for them. Penick Village was founded on generosity.

BENEVOLENT ASSISTANCE

Bishop Penick founded Penick Village in 1964 with the vision, mission, and promise that no resident would ever have to leave because of lack of funds. The Penick Village Foundation provides assurance to its residents that Bishop Penick’s promise is upheld and has an uncompromising commitment to deinstitutionalize the aging experience.

FUNDRAISING

17th Annual Art ShowFriday, February 24, 2023

100% of proceeds goes to the Benevolent Assistance Program

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Contact: Chaplain Colette Bachand cbachand@penickvillage1964.org

OUR BOARD LEADERS

James Heisey, Foundation Board Chair

John Frizell, Board of Directors President

Chip Cromartie, Chief Executive Officer

MAKE A GIFT

penickvillage.org/donate

Penick Village Foundation

500 E. Rhode Island Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 692-0487

This page made possible by Penick Village

BUILDING GREAT FUTURES, ONE CHILD AT A TIME

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sandhills is to inspire, enable, and educate young people from all backgrounds and circumstances to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. With the help of the Building Great Futures Campaign and community support, the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills has four Unit locations in Moore County.

We are 80% towards our goal for the Building Great Futures Campaign, which focuses on growth, impact, and sustainability. Now that the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills has established the physical capacity needed for growth, the focus shifts to the impact and sustainability of our Club as the leading youth-serving organization in Moore County. We are committed to increasing the number of children and youth that we serve, thus making a greater impact. With your support, this is not a possibility, but a certainty. will allow us to serve more kids, more often, and with a greater impact

SERVICES

A trained and caring staff implements proven youth development strategies and creates a stable, supportive environment for children and teens ages 5 to 18. Specially designed programs concentrate on developing job readiness,

study skills, leadership, self-esteem, good health, and social responsibility among the Boys & Girls Club of the Sandhills members.

During the school year, all four units are open after school from 2:30 to 6:30 p.m., when research has shown children to be most vulnerable. Our Sandhills Community College Unit is also open from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for K thru 5th-grade children of faculty members and students attending evening classes.

In addition, during the summer, all Moore County Units open their doors to young people from 7:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. Monday through Friday.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Learn how you can get involved through tutoring and mentoring opportunities by contacting Darilyn Ruotolo at druotolo@sandhillsbgc.org or 910-692-0777, ext. 2229.

OUR MISSION

To conserve the natural areas, rural landscapes, family farms, and historic places within North Carolina’s central Piedmont and Sandhills.

WHO WE SERVE

15-counties in NC (Anson, Cabarrus, Cumberland, Davidson, Davie, Harnett, Hoke, Iredell, Montgomery, Moore, Randolph, Richmond, Rowan, Scotland, and Stanly)

UPCOMING EVENTS

Uwharrie Trail Fall Thru Hike (October 13-16), Landowner Meeting (October 20), Halloween Nights at Whiskey Prison (October 27-30), Stanly County Youth Birding Event (October 29), Randolph County Hike (November 5), 3D Archery Tournaments (January 8, February 26, March 5). All event can be found at trlt.org/events

204 E. Innes St., Suite 120

Salisbury, NC 28144

704.647.0302

www.threeriverslandtrust.org

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

Join our volunteer list (https://threeriverslandtrust.org/volunteer/) to receive updates on volunteer opportunities from clean-ups at Low Water Bridge, serving as a Trail Angel for the Uwharrie Trail Thru Hike, or even help set up and work at our 3D Archery Tournaments!

FUNDRAISING GOALS

The fundraising goal for TRLT’s End of Year Campaign is $250,000. With this money, TRLT will continue to expand public lands, save family farms, and protect local waters.

MAKE A GIFT

Donate online at trlt.org/donate. C 204 E. Innes St., Suite 120, Salisbury, NC 28144. Attending events is another really great way to give back, as proceeds from each event support local conservation. Check out our upcoming events at trlt.org/events

OUR MISSION

Friends of Pinehurst Surgical Clinic is a local non-profit organization that proudly serves Moore County and other surrounding areas. Established by Pinehurst Surgical Clinic, it’s our mission to make lasting impacts on our community and that’s why we’re honored to give 100% of our proceeds to the charities that we support.

OUR CAUSES

We’re proud to have contributed to the following organizations: Tambra Place, Sandhills Community College, Friend to Friend, Habitat for Humanity, Christmas for Moore, Boys & Girls Club, VFW and more.

“The support that your board and fundraisers provided for our community has been life-changing for the young women living at Tambra Place….Thank you for making this possible as we begin to build two additional homes to serve youth that are experiencing homelessness.”

- Mrs. Tambra D. Chamberlain, Board Chair Tambra Place

GATHERING FOR THE PINES

Our 2nd annual Gathering for the Pines event was at the Fair Barn on Sunday, September 11, 2022. It was a day to be thankful and give back to our local military and first responders for their everyday sacrifices.

The 3rd annual Gathering for the Pines will be held at the Fair Barn on Sunday, April 14, 2024. You can follow any updates at friendsofpsc.org.

SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER WITH OUR SEASONAL MAILBOX SWAG

Get in the Christmas spirit with our 3rd annual Holiday Mailbox Swag. Each holiday season, we create festive, handmade mailbox displays for Moore County Communities to help raise money for local charities. In 2020, we decorated over 220 mailboxes and in 2021 we decorated 375 mailboxes. 2022 Goal is 400 Mailboxes!

ORDER YOURS NOW

For a minimum donation of $75, your mailbox will be beautifully adorned with fresh holiday swag and a festive homemade bow. All donations include delivery and installation. All orders are due by November 18th and all mailboxes will be decorated by December 9th. To order your mailbox swag go to friendsofpsc.org.

5 First Village Drive

Pinehurst, NC 28374

www.friendsofpsc.org

OUR MISSION

Nourish people. Build solutions. Empower communities.

195 Sandy Avenue

Southern Pines, NC 28387

sandhills.foodbankcenc.org

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

• Warehouse

• Backpack Pals

The Food Bank works every day to provide food to people in need while building solutions to end hunger in our communities. The Food Bank works across the food system to provide access to nutritious food that nourishes families, children, seniors, and individuals. Through partnerships, education, and programs, the Food Bank empowers communities to overcome hunger, creating an environment where all North Carolinians thrive. The Sandhills Branch of the Food Bank serves Lee, Moore, Richmond and, and Scotland Counties.

The Food Bank works every day to provide food to people in need while building solutions to end hunger in our communities. The Food Bank works across the food system to provide access to nutritious food that nourishes families, children, seniors, and individuals. Through partnerships, education, and programs, the Food Bank empowers communities to overcome hunger, creating an environment where all North Carolinians thrive. The Sandhills Branch of the Food Bank serves Lee, Moore, Richmond and, and Scotland Counties.

the COVID-19 pandemic means 48,880 people may face hunger. Of those, 17,110 are children. In addition, 13,882 seniors live at or below the poverty level.

There are three easy ways you can support the Food Bank –donate funds, donate food, and donate time. For every $1 donated, the Food Bank can provide 5 meals. Visit foodbankcenc.org to give or for more information.

In the four counties ser ved by the Sandhills Food Bank, 35,730 people may face hunger. Of those, 12,450 are children. In addition, 14,053 seniors live at or below the poverty level.

There are three easy ways you can support the Food Bank – donate funds, donate food, and donate time. For every $1 donated, the Food Bank can provide 5 meals. Visit foodbankcenc.org to give or for more information.

In the four counties served by the Sandhills Food Bank, the impact of

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES:

• Warehouse

• Backpack Pals

Nourish people. Build solutions. Empower communities.

• Administrative Support

• Special Events

• Social Media Ambassador

• Food Drive Organizer

• Administrative Support

• Special Events

To find more information about volunteering or supporting the Food Bank, visit sandhills.foodbankcenc.org.

• Social Media Ambassador

• Food Drive Organizer

MAKE A GIFT

MAKE A GIFT:

The Food Bank gladly accepts food and monetary donations. Learn more about how to donate food or funds at foodbankcenc. org

The Food Bank gladly accepts food and monetary donations. Learn more about how to donate food or funds at sandhills.foodbankcenc.org

Sandhills Branch

To find more information about volunteering or supporting the Food Bank, visit foodbankcenc. org.

Sandhills Branch 195 Sandy Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387

195 Sandy Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387

MISSION STATEMENT

Moore Free & Charitable Clinic’s mission is to provide a primary care medical home for low income uninsured residents of Moore County, North Carolina, giving access to consistent care and prescription medications for disabling chronic diseases.

Our organization’s goal is to provide access to compassionate, quality primary health care and other services to the nearly 14,000 uninsured adults in Moore County. By doing so, the overall health of our community will be improved at the population level. The burden on local hospital emergency departments is mitigated when uninsured residents have a better, more cost-effective alternative for routine care. Communities benefit socially and economically when medical insecurity is reduced.

Moore Free & Charitable Clinic’s strategic priorities are to: 1) Strengthen fundraising efforts to increase available resources to carry out its mission, 2) Expand the capacity to serve more patients by adding space and staff, and 3) Increase community outreach and education about the services offered by Moore Free & Charitable Clinic.

EVENTS

Each year, Moore Free & Charitable Clinic hosts a fundraiser called the Hearts and Hands Brunch that falls near Valentine’s Day. In the fall, the major fundraising event is Dining in the Pines™, which features special dining experiences called Chef Tables, held at local fine dining restaurants.

VOLUNTEER

Moore Free & Charitable Clinic can always use clinical volunteers, including physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, mental health professionals, dentists, registered nurses, pharmacists and pharmacy techs. Opportunities are also available for clerical positions, such as reception, enrollment and eligibility, filing and other office jobs. Please contact Tony Price at 910-246-5333 Ext 207.

MAKE A GIFT

Donations by check may be made out to Moore Free & Charitable Clinic and mailed to: 211 Trimble Plant Road, Suite C, Southern Pines, NC 28387.

Credit card donations made be made at www.MooreFreeCare.org. The Clinic also can accept gifts of securities; for more information call Tony Price at (910)246-5333 Ext. 207.

www.jilliansjitterbug.org

MISSION STATEMENT

We serve all children within the community that have mobility limitations. We rely on word of mouth and making connections with local daycare centers/school nurses in order to serve/reach our community. Our goal is to help children who have difficulties walking independently become mobile. We do so by providing financial assistance for families to purchase equipment that allows their children to become independent.

Jillian’s Jitterbug will financially assist families in purchasing wheelchairs (power chairs and push chairs), ankle-foot orthotics (orthopedic leg braces), arm crutches, adopted bicycles, and walkers.

FUNDRAISING

We do not have a fundraising target amount, but any donation no matter the amount will make an impact. A motorized wheelchair can cost as much as a new car depending on how much your insurance company will cover. This fiscal year, we have been much more focused on finding families and children in the area to help.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

We are always welcoming volunteers with open arms to help us with dayto-day logistics of planning team meetings, networking within the local community, and eventually plan fundraising events in the future. Contact President and Founder Kaelyn Edwards at Kedwards@jilliansjitterbug.org for more information.

OUR BOARD LEADERS

Kaelyn M. Edwards, President

Jillian R. Edwards, Vice President

Kimberly A. Edwards, Marketing Manager

Daniel J. Edwards, Financial Consultant/Board Member

David Bidwell, Board Member

Lee Leibowitz, Board Member

John Shewell, Board Member

Richard Gossin, Volunteer

MAKE A GIFT

Donations via PayPal, Venmo, and checks made out to Jillian’s Jitterbug Inc. www.jilliansjitterbug.org

190 Kings Ridge Court , Southern Pines, NC 28387

This page made possible by Southern Pines Brewing Company

Carthage, NC 28327

910.835.7006

drugfreemoore.org

OUR MISSION

The mission of Drug Free Moore County is to help individuals who struggle with addiction and mental health disorders, integrate back into society, through prevention, treatment and recovery support services.

Vision: Well-known, well-connected leader in Treatment and Recovery Support Services.

SERVICES

Educational efforts through community presentations, resource guides, social media, and networking with Moore County Schools, FirstHealth of the Carolinas, treatment providers in Moore County and Moore County Detention Center. We also provide Harm Reduction supplies with persons in active addiction. We provide wrap-around care support for persons seeking detox, treatment, transportation or transitional housing options. We offer Recovery Support Staff and Peer Support Specialists. Recovery Support Staff have various levels of experience providing care and support to persons who need it most.Peer Support Specialists have at least two years of recovery and training in order to offer support to those in recovery.Moore ReCreations, the community recovery center, is located at 105 Barrett Street in Carthage. The recovery center is a place where families, community members, and persons in recovery or seeking recovery can learn to Recover with evidence-based recovery options and strategies. For example we host BINGO, yoga, knitting, cooking, reading, groups, and more!

FUNDRAISING

The Run for Recovery is Drug Free Moore County’s annual 5K run/walk fundraiser held October 29 at 7AM, 105 Barrett Street, Carthage, NC. Participants will raise awareness about substance abuse, promote treatment, and celebrate those who are living in recovery.

All proceeds will benefit Drug Free Moore County and go toward providing recovery resources to individuals and families through the further development of the Community Recovery Center.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

• Event Staffing

• Community Recovery Centers

• People who have been in recovery for at least a year may be trained as a peer counselor. Email: info@re-createmoore.org or call 910-722-2265 and leave a message to volunteer.

MAKE A GIFT

Drug Free Moore County PO Box 639, Carthage, NC 28327 drugfreemoore.org

This page made possible by Lorenz

& Creed

Laura Creed Attorney at Law Michelle Stinnett Attorney at Law Margaret (Mia) Lorenz Attorney at Law

Michelle Stinnett Attorney at Law Margaret (Mia) Lorenz Attorney at Law

OUR MISSION

Champion successful lives from birth to adulthood by mentoring, adult literacy, and opportunities designed for empowering others though education and enrichment. Our Vision: A community in which adults and youth are thriving and have promising futures.

MENTORING PROGRAMS

Our Mentoring Programs offer a positive, caring adult who works one-on-one with a child at risk of failing or dropping out of school helping them develop critical life skills, set goals and do better in school.

STRUCTURED DAY PROGRAM

The Juvenile Crime Prevention Council & Moore County Schools refer children who are suspended or expelled, have a history of truancy, or are returning from a juvenile justice setting to our program.

CITIZENSHIP PROGRAM

We provide a curriculum that focuses on the civics and language skills necessary for students to pass the United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) Naturalization Test and Interview.

TUTORING FOR LOW LITERACY ADULTS

We improve the reading and writing skills of over 100 low literacy adults each year. We offer one-on-one tutoring for all levels in English as a Second Language (ESL), Adult Basic Education (ABE), and Digital Literacy.

MOTHEREAD/FATHEREAD®

We teach parents to read to their young children early and often, so that every child will be ready for kindergarten.

VOLUNTEER WITH US

We are always looking to matches adult volunteers who are willing to give their time, energy, and compassion to a Moore County youth or adult learner for at least one year.

For Mentoring: contact Katie Wilson - katie@moorebuddiesmentoring.com

For Tutoring: contact Judith Douglas - judith@mcliteracy.org

MAKE A GIFT

www.thecaregroupinc.org/donate

The C.A.R.E. Group, Inc. P.O. Box 1966 Southern Pines NC 28388

This page made possible by McDonald’s

OUR MISSION

Founded in 2015, Authors in Moore Schools (AIMS) is a North Carolinabased literary nonprofit. Over the past 6 years we have placed 14,879 books, from 82 bestselling authors, into the hands of students at 30 local schools.

55 Shadow Lane

Whispering Pines, NC 28327

www.authorsinmooreschools.org

• Mac Barnett - twice winner of EB White Read Aloud Award

• Jon Klassen- twice Caldecott Medal Winner

AIMS seeks to promote the love of reading by bringing students, parents, schools, communities, and authors together through great books.

AIMS serves elementary and middle school students in Moore and surrounding counties

EVENTS:

In 2021-22 school year, AIMS hosted events with :

Students attending these events received free copies of each author’s book

AIMS works with local bookstores and national publishers to host national bestselling and award winning authors in local elementary schools at no charge to the schools. AIMS then works with local civic groups, businesses, individuals, and granting organizations to provide free copies of the author’s book to students following the school presentations

National Ambassador for Children’s Literature, Jason Reynolds

Coretta Scott King Award Winner And NC Battle of the Books Author Varian

Johnson

NYT Bestselling Author Lauren Tarshis

NYT Bestselling Author Dav Pilkey

NAACP Image Award Winner Vashti

Harrison

Caldecott and Pura Belpre Award Winner Yuyi Morales

EVENTS

Students attending these events received free copies of each author’s book

AIMS seeks to promote the love of reading by bringing students, parents, schools, communities, and authors together through great books.

FUNDRAISING

FUNDRAISING:

AIMS yearly budget is $22,000.

Founded in 2015, Authors in Moore Schools (AIMS) is a North Carolina based literary nonprofit. Over the past 6 years we have placed 14,879 books, from 82 bestselling authors, into the hands of students at 30 local schools. AIMS serves elementary and middle school students in Moore and surrounding counties AIMS works with local bookstores and national publishers to host national bestselling and award winning authors in local elementary schools at no charge to the schools.

Much of that comes from local businesses, individuals, and granting organizations

In 2021-22 school year, AIMS hosted events with:

AIMS has only one fundraiser each year: an online children’s book art auction during the first two weeks of February. The auction has a fundraising goal of $1,500 and the link to the auction can be

• National Ambassador for Children’s Literature, Jason Reynolds

• Coretta Scott King Award Winner And NC Battle of the Books

AIMS yearly budget is $22,000. Much of that comes from local businesses, individuals, and granting organizations AIMS has only one fundraiser each year: an online children’s book art auction during the first two weeks of February.

MAKE

MAKE A GIFT

Email Authorsinmooreschools@gmail.com for more information or mail a check to Angie Tally

Authors in Moore Schools

55 Shadow Lane

Whispering Pines NC. 28327

• Sophie Blackall (4 time recipient of NYT best illustrated picture book

OUR MISSION

Life Care Pregnancy Center is a nonprofit Christ-centered ministry that promotes the sanctity of human life by providing Christian direction, compassionate care, accurate information and practical assistance for individuals and families facing crucial decisions surrounding a pregnancy.

OUR FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL SERVICES INCLUDE

• Pregnancy Testing

• Limited Ultrasound

• Parenting Education

• Bible Study

• Client Advocacy

• Connection to Community Resources to include employment and medical options

• Adoption Resources

• Education on Abortion and Risks

• Maternal and baby support until the baby is 18 months old

• Walk with you, talk with you, support you

HEALING & RESTORATION

• Bible study/advocacy on healing after abortion or pregnancy loss

• Sharing the healing nature of grace through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ

HOW YOU CAN HELP

• Donate diapers, wipes, new baby clothing

• Support our Client Christmas Gift Card Fund (see QR code)

• Volunteer

• Host a Baby Bottle Drive

• Pray Unceasingly

• Volunteer: Please call us at 910.947.6199. Moms, babies and dads need YOU!

MAKE A GIFT

Visit www.friendsoflcpc.org or mail to: P.O. Box 519 Carthage, NC 28327

This page made possible by Pinehurst Foot Specialist and Hughes Supply

Dr. Hall is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and earned her Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine from New York College of Podiatric Medicine. She completed her Foot and Ankle Surgical Residency at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.

Now accepting new patients.

Glenn H. Dunlap, DPM

James K. Smith, DPM

Shalanda Hall, DPM

HOW IT STARTED...

Sweet Dreams Mattresses & More was opened in 2002 with a mere 15- bed selection by Phil and Lindo Moneymaker. While their son Keith attended UNC Pembroke, he also worked the store and eventually was asked to take ownership in 2011 after receiving his Bachelor’s in Marketing. Sweet Dreams Mattresses & More has grown with the support of the local community, inspiring and enabling us to give back!

OPPORTUNITY OUT OF TRAGEDY

In 2016 Hurricane Matthew hit NC and Keith and his wife Dorla saw a huge need to help families that had lost everything, also leaving many without mattresses (a significant expense already!). At Sweet Dreams 90% of deliveries included the removal of a used mattress usually going straight to the dump. With about 70-80% of beds in great shape we did not feel right throwing them out while families were sleeping on the floor. So we took action and saved upwards of 300 mattress sets, sanitized them, and then distributed them. All of this is at no cost to the families. The Dreams 4 All Foundation was formed. It has since delivered thousands of mattresses to families in need.

150 Commerce Ave

Southern Pines, NC 28387

www.dreams4all.org

facebook.com/Dreams4AllFoundation

OUR MISSION & VISION

Our mission is to make a great night’s sleep accessible to everyone. We accomplish this by sanitizing and donating gently used mattresses to those in need. Our vision is to spread our mission to local mattress stores across the country to ensure that getting a good night’s sleep really is accessible to everyone. We also hope to inspire other small businesses to discover ways that they can better invest in their communities and core for their environment.

OUR PROCESS

Our process is community-based so we work through local businesses and charities. We work out of local mattress stores so when someone buys a new bed we offer to take care of their old one. We screen these used mattresses for quality and only donate those in the best condition. Then we sanitize used beds in a kiln for two hours at 230 degrees to guarantee there are no possible contaminants. Last, we work with different local charity organizations to identify families in need that can most benefit from our donations. We have worked with Habitat for Humanity, Bethany House, Friend 2 Friend, over 12 fire departments, FEMA, school counselors, social workers, foster families, Life Care Pregnancy Center, and multiple refugee efforts.

“Because no one deserves to sleep on the floor.”

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Sandhills Community College Foundation is to support the excellence of the college’s programs and to guarantee that all Sandhills students are able to pursue their course of study regardless of financial circumstances.

WHO WE SERVE

We serve the faculty, staff, and students of Sandhills Community College. The Foundation ensures that donated funds are invested wisely and used in ways that contribute to the ongoing excellence of Sandhills Community College and its students.

HOW TO HELP

There are many ways to make a gift to help ensure Opportunity & Excellence at Sandhills Community College. Gifts can be made at any time during the year and may be designated for a specific purpose, such as an academic program, BPAC, or Flyers Athletics, or may be given unrestricted (which provides the college with the opportunity to use the gift where it is needed most).

3395 Airport Rd

Pinehurst, NC 28374

910.692.6185

www.sandhills.edu

Many people choose to support the college’s Guarantors Program which helps our most at-risk students with essential resources needed to stay in school. It supports the traditional college student as well as the older student—many times a displaced worker—who is coming to Sandhills to learn a new skill and develop a new career.

Guarantors support emergency response assistance for students in crisis situations. They help with everyday expenses such as childcare that can make the difference between being able to afford to come to school or not. They support veterans’ aid programs, work-ready continuing education programs, and provide critical tuition assistance to fill the gap between what a student can afford to pay and what they owe for their classes.

MAKE A GIFT

Our giving page: https://www.sandhills.edu/giving/

SCC Foundation

3395 Airport Road

Pinehurst, NC 28374

26 Pinecrest Plaza #316 Southern Pines, NC 28387 DuskinandStephens.org

OUR MISSION

In 2013, members of 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group at Ft. Bragg, NC joined efforts to throw a simple BBQ to honor the lives of fallen soldiers Mike Duskin and Riley Stephens. That single event evolved into a foundation that has now raised and awarded more than $600,000 in youth scholarships alone. The Duskin and Stephens Foundation supports the United States Special Operations community through direct support to families of fallen operators, healing programs designed to combat the effects of PTS, TBI and loss of a loved one, and youth scholarships for children of active duty members of our community.

OUTREACH

Scholarships- A major part of our mission at DSF is to provide K-12th grade scholarship to the children of our brothers in arms. We believe that instilling strong values and leadership skills at a very young age will pay dividends in our communities and in our nation.

Gold Star Family Support- We are proud to provide direct financial support to families of our fallen, trusts for children of our fallen, travel and lodging to events that honor our fallen, and opportunities for gold star family members to meet members of our community who knew and served with their loved one.

Special Operations Family Support- DSF provides direct and timely monetary support to Special Operations families in times of financial and emotional need.

BEEF & BEER WEEKEND

What started as a plan to buy a keg of beer, grill hamburgers, and celebrate the lives and legacies of Mike Duskin and Riley Stephens, evolved into a highly organized event, attended by nearly 1,000+ people every year. More than 10 years later, Beef & Beer continues to raise enough funds to keep the mission and legacy alive. The event has become a favorite in the Sandhills community and serves as an annual reunion for operators and their families as well as the community that supports them.

MAKE A GIFT

Donations via check:

26 Pinecrest Plaza #316, Southern Pines, NC 28387 Donations via Venmo: @DSF1012 Or give online at DuskinandStephens.org

to me.”

We are proud to support the Duskin & Stephens Foundation and hope you will also.

“I’m proud to be an American, where at least I know I’m free. And I won’t forget the men who died, who gave that right

OUR MISSION

To help survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking rebuild their lives

SERENITY HOUSE

A 34 bed safe residence where our guests are given the opportunity and support to begin healing.

BUTTERFLY COTTAGE

A 4 bed safe space that provides specialized victim-centered support for highly traumatized survivors of human trafficking.

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Provide information and education to the community about domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking.

HOSPITAL ACCOMPANIMENT

A trained advocate to provide immediate, in-person support to adult survivors of sexual assault available 24/7.

COURT ADVOCACY

Protective order assistance, court related questions, court accompaniment, and counseling services.

Carthage, NC 28327

www.friendtofriend.me/donate-now

LIVE CHAT

To provide greater access to those looking for a safer and quieter way to seek information, advocacy, and support from our trained advocates.

CASE MANAGEMENT

Wrap-around case management services for shelter clients that include housing assistance, parenting support, access to substance use resources, and more.

24 HOUR CRISIS HOTLINE

910-947-3333

MAIN OFFICE & COURT ADVOCACY

910-947-1703

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Visit our website to fill out an application, or contact volunteercoordinator@gmail.com for more information.

MAKE A GIFT

www. friendtofriend.me/donate-now

Send a check to: PO BOX 1508 Carthage, NC 28327

This page made possible by Exhale....a Salon

OUR MISSION

Fostering hope and respect for individuals with mental illnesses and their families.

NAMI Moore County is a dedicated, all-volunteer organization whose purpose is to foster hope and respect for individuals with mental illnesses, and support for their families and caregivers through advocacy, education, and support groups. We also focus on educating the public to eliminate the stigma and misinformation surrounding mental illness and to encourage community involvement.

SUPPORT:

Monthly Meetings - Free & Open To The Public Family Support Group

1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at 7:00 PM. For family, caregivers, and friends of those living with a serious mental illness. Call (910) 295-1053 for more information.

EDUCATION

1st Monday of the Month 7:00 PM (2nd Monday in September) No Meetings in July, October, or December Call (910) 295-1053 for more information

PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS

Family-to-Family: Educational programs taught by members of NAMI Moore County who have been trained to educate families and loved ones on several mental health topics; includes information on available resources.

PO Box 4823

Pinehurst, NC 28374

910.295.1053

www.nami-moorecounty.com

NAMI on Campus Clubs are student-led, student-run mental health groups on college campuses.

Sandhills Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Partnership: CIT trains law enforcement officers and other first responders about mental illness and how to interact with someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis.

The Sandhills School System Partnership: Mental Health Crisis Prevention and Intervention for Schools trains teachers and other school staff about mental illness and de-escalation skills on how to interact with a student who is experiencing a mental health crisis or displaying unusual behavior.

VOLUNTEER

To volunteer or join NAMI Moore County, contact 910-295-1053 or namimoorecounty@gmail.com

These are difficult times for ever yone, and NAMI Moore County needs your help. Please join NAMI Moore County to support individuals who are living with a mental illness and their families.

JOIN AND/OR MAKE A DONATION

Checks to make a donation or join may be mailed to NAMI Moore County at the address below or join online at NAMI.org

NAMI Moore County PO Box 4823, Pinehurst, NC 28374 www.nami-moorecounty.com • www.facebook.com/namimoorecounty Shop www.smile.amazon.com for NAMI Moore County

This page made possible by Sandhills Center

These brief screenings cover a number of behavioral health issues. Just answer a few simple questions, and you’ll find out more about what you — or someone you know — may be going through. You’ll also get information about how to reach someone for help.

It’s all completely free and confidential. You don’t have to give your name or provide any other personal information.

Let’s get started — and connect you to a community that cares.

Today, we know that being healthy and feeling good is about both your body and your mind.

OUR MISSION

The mission of Caring Hearts for Canines is to rescue and rehome dogs at risk of being euthanized in high kill shelters and to educate the public in order to decrease the proliferation of these unwanted dogs and works to educate the public through community outreach about the issues of spaying and neutering, vaccinating, heartworm prevention and proper care and maintenance of their canine companions.

CHFC primarily serves the area of Moore County, founded in 2014 by Jennifer Chopping in an effort to save dogs from high kill shelters that would otherwise be euthanized.

VOLUNTEER

• Kennel Care – feed, clean, and walk dogs

• Staffing Events – manning tables and dogs

• Transporting Dogs – picking up shelter dogs and transporting them to out-of-state partners

• Running with Dogs: exercising high energy dogs a couple of times a week

• Fostering

For more information on fostering and volunteering, email caringheartscanine@gmail.com

HOW TO HELP

AmazonSmile: If you shop on Amazon, use AmazonSmile and designate Caring Hearts for Canines as a beneficiary of your eligible Amazon-Smile purchases.

Use your Birthday to have a Facebook birthday fundraiser to help the pups!

Donate a Kuranda Bed! Visit https://kuranda.com/donate

MAKE A GIFT

Donate online at www.caringheartsforcanines.com, Facebook page or Instagram page or mail a check

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Tambra Place is to provide a safe, nurturing, social learning environment for homeless and at-risk young women in Moore County, ages 18-24.

WHO WE SERVE

The Young Women’s Transitional Home of Moore County, NC is a residential program that supports and meets the needs of young women ages 18-24. Our transitional home serves females who are unaccompanied youth aging out of the foster care system, facing homelessness, or fleeing abusive environments. The goal of this program is to help prevent a lifetime of dependence on the state with a cost-effective, short-term investment in independent living which challenges participants to grow emotionally, spiritually, socially and financially in ways they often have not considered. Our overarching service strategy is to provide educational support and therapeutic services in a home setting while providing an environment that fosters social skills and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in order to be successful.

P.O Box 4324

Pinehurst NC 28374

www.tambraplace.org

FUNDRAISING GOALS

We are continually fundraising to support the young women currently living in our Independent Living Residence, and for building and maintaining operations for an additional home. Our agency is seeking to raise $115,000 annually to support homes. We are always looking for businesses and organizations that would like to partner with our organization. Our organization appreciates private recurring donations and support.

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

Visit our website at www.tambraplace.org to learn how you can volunteer and about upcoming events.

HOW TO VOLUNTEER

Mail Checks made out to Tambra Place to P.O Box 4324, Pinehurst NC 28374

This page made possible by WhitLauter

Mother and Daughter Leann and Whitney Parker Look Forward to Welcoming You to WhitLauter.

OUR MISSION

The mission of the Sandhills/Moore Coalition for Human Care is to “alleviate hunger and financial strains of struggling households in Moore County. “

WHO WE SERVE

The Sandhills/Moore Coalition for Human Care is a state chartered 501c(3) nonprofit corporation established in 1986 by eleven local churches. Today the Coalition is supported by 64 area churches, the United Way of Moore County, individuals, businesses, and civic groups throughout the community. The Coalition serves the residents of Moore County, NC. Services are made possible through generous community backing, the support of dedicated volunteers, and sales at The Coalition Resale Shops.

FUNDRAISING GOALS

Without the tremendous support received from throughout Moore County, Sandhills/Moore Coalition would not be able to fulfill our mission. There

are many different ways to support our cause. The Coalition welcomes direct monetary donations, donations of goods and services or sponsorship of an event to benefit the Coalition.

HOW

HOW

OUR MISSION

Bringing wholeness to the hopeless.

Adult & Teen Challenge Sandhills, NC is a residential faith-based, longterm rehabilitation program for men struggling with life-controlling addictions.

HOW IT WORK

An ideal place for recovery, Sandhills Teen Challenge is located on 31 tranquil acres in the heart of Moore County, and is a 12-month residential program. Sandhills Teen Challenge provides food, clothing, a warm bed, academic materials, etc., which are necessary to ensure the student receives the spiritual, emotional, vocational, and academic training required to help him overcome the problems which led to his addiction.

CORE VALUES

• Biblical foundation

• Accountability

• Stewardship

910.947.2944

www.sandhillstc.org

• Integrity

• Commitment

• Discipleship

ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BANQUETS

Join us to celebrate our Annual Christmas Banquets on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, December 8th, 9th, and 10th, 2022 at 6:30pm at Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge in Carthage.

Call 910-947-2944 for more information.

MAKE A GIFT

www.sandhillstc.org

Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge

P.O. Box 1701, Southern Pines, NC 28388

Please make checks payable to Sandhills Adult & Teen Challenge

This page made possible by Hughes Supply

arts & entertainment

connecting with other writers and getting feedback on your work? Join us for the Teen Creative Writing Club. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net or email: kbroughey@sppl.net.

MOVIE. The Grateful Dead returns to cinemas worldwide for the 2022 Meet-Up At The Movies. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Wednesday, November 2

BOOK EVENT. 5 - 6 p.m. Charlie Lovett will talk about his book The Enigma Affair. Registration required. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Thursday, November 3

annual Southern Pines Veterans Day Parade is a great opportunity for the whole family to support our troops and veterans. If you are a local veteran, please let us honor you by being in the parade. Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LEARN AND PLAY. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Come in for an open play date with your toddler or preschooler where there will be developmental toys and puzzles as well as early literacy tips on display for parents and caregivers to incorporate into their daily activities. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Although conscientious effort is made to provide accurate and up-to-date information, all events are subject to change and errors can occur! Please call to verify times, costs, status and location before planning or attending any events.

JOY OF ART STUDIO. Painting, drawing and mixed media. Offering both private and small groups with safe distance. Classes are held at Joy of Art Studio, 139 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Suite B, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 528-7283 or www.joyof-art.com or www.facebook.com/ Joyscreativespace/.

TECH HELP. Need help with your laptop, tablet or smartphone? SPPL offers one-on-one Tech Help Sessions. Visit the circulation or reference desk or the website at www.southernpines. net/601/Technology to request an appointment or call the library for more information. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

Tuesday, November 1

BRAIN FITNESS. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a Brain Fitness class. Eve Gaskell will be the instructor. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

AGELESS DANCER. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to get inspired, start dancing and express themselves creatively through guided movement. The dance series continues through Nov. 18. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

TEEN WRITING CLUB. 5 p.m. Are you interested in creative writing and storytelling,

DOCUMENTARY. See the concert film Duran Duran: A Hollywood High. There will be another showing on Nov. 10. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Friday, November 4

OPENING RECEPTION. 5 - 7 p.m. The Artists League of the Sandhills will host an opening reception for its 28th annual Fall Exhibit and Sale. The exhibit will remain open through Dec. 18. Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-3979 or www.artistsleague.org.

FIRST FRIDAY. 5 - 8 p.m. First Friday is a family-friendly, free concert series on the Sunrise Theater outdoor stage. Enjoy food trucks, some Southern Pines Brewery brews, and listen to great music while supporting the local theater. No dogs, outside alcohol or rolling coolers. Town Mountain performs. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

MEET THE ARTISTS. 6 - 8 p.m. The Arts Council of Moore County will have a meet-theartists opening for the exhibit “Passages and Perspectives.” The exhibit will be on display through Dec. 17. Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.mooreart.org.

MOONLIGHT HIKE. 6:30 p.m. All ages are welcome to discover nature by moonlight. Listen to the sounds of the night as you walk the trail. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight. Weymouth Woods Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Saturday, November 5

VETERANS PARADE. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. The

CANNING AND PRESERVING. 11 a.m. Learn the basics of canning and preserving with Janice Roberts from the Moore County Cooperative Extension. Space is limited and registration is required. This class will be held at the Whitehall House, 490 Pee Dee Road, Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

MET OPERA. 1 p.m. La Traviata live in HD. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

PURSE BINGO. 5 - 9 p.m. Purse Bingo is The Academy of Moore County PTO’s largest fundraiser. This year’s theme will be “Kentucky Derby.” Fair Barn, 200 Beulah Hill Road S., Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

CHORUS. 7 - 9 p.m. The Golf Capital Chorus presents their 41st Anniversary Show: Barbershop Goes Rock N’ Roll. Lee Auditorium, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

LIVE MUSIC. 7 - 10 p.m. Enjoy live music courtesy of Clark Bennett. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

Sunday, November 6

CLASSICAL MUSIC SUNDAYS. 2 p.m. The Ciompi Quartet performs. Tickets are $25 for members and $35 for non-members. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

WRITING GROUP. 3 p.m. Interested in creating fiction, nonfiction, poetry or comics? Connect with other writers and artists, chat about your craft and get feedback on your work. All levels are welcome. The session will meet at the library. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: lholden@sppl.net.

Moonlight Hike

Monday, November 7

PLAY AUDITIONS. 6 - 8 p.m. Auditions will take place for A Christmas Carol Radio Play Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Wednesday, November 9

SENIOR TRIP. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy a trip to the Village District in Raleigh to do some Christmas shopping or just look for fun deals. Lunch on your own at the mall. Cost is $12 for residents of Southern Pines and $17 for non-residents. Attendees will depart from the Campbell House Playground parking lot, 450 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Thursday, November 10

LUNCH N’ LEARN. 10 a.m. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange will host Sandhills Community College professor Ron Layne. He will discuss “Perfect Pairings: Cinema’s Best Couple Moments.” There will be a chef Katrina lunch following from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Cost is $30 per person. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info and reservations: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

GATHERING AT GIVEN. 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Just in time for the holidays, gather along with friends and neighbors for an hour-long discussion with local decorator Carol Dowd, who will share some tricks of the trade. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

Friday, November 11

COMEDY SHOW. 7 - 8:30 p.m. Come enjoy the Local’s Comedy Show. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

Saturday, November 12

CRAFT DAYS. Children and their families can come by the library for Drop in Craft Days and work on crafts at their own pace. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

COMMUNITY YARD SALE. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Enjoy shopping 30 - 40 individual outdoor booths offering everything from handmade crafts, modern tools and electronics, vintage and antique collectibles and even an assortment of everyday household items or clothes. A food truck will be on site. The Bee’s Knees, 125 N.C. 73, West End.

THEATER PERFORMANCE. 7 p.m. Sandhills Repertory Theatre in collaboration with the Sunrise Theater presents Judy Norton in Concert. There will be a second performance on Nov. 13 at 3 p.m. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-3611 or www.sandhillsrep.org.

MURDER MYSTERY CRUISE. 7 - 9 p.m. Escape the danger, solve the mystery and figure out who the culprit is. This is for adults only and will make two to three stops during the evening. Brought to you by the Sandhills Trolley Company. Southern Pines Brewing Company,

565 Air Tool Drive, Southern Pines. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Monday, November 14

BOOK SALE. 12 - 6 p.m. Join the Cumberland County Library Friends for a book sale. Library members can shop Nov. 1415 and the sale will open to everyone on Nov. 18 - 20. Cumberland County Library Friends, 300 Maiden Lane, Fayetteville. Info: www.cumberlandcountylibraryfriends.com.

PHOTO CLUB. 7 p.m. The Sandhills Photography Club monthly meeting will show the results of the club’s Street Photography Team Challenge. Guests are welcome. Info: www.sandhillsphotoclub.org.

CLASSICAL CONCERT. 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Award-winning violinist Risa Hokamura will be in concert. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.mooreart.org.

Tuesday, November 15

BRAIN FITNESS. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a Brain Fitness class. Eve Gaskell will be the instructor. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LADIES LUNCHEON. 11:30 a.m. The Sophisticated Ladies of Moore County precision dance troupe invites all current and former members to celebrate its 30th anniversary at a luncheon. Cost is $20 per person with additional cash bar. Heartwood Grill and Greens, Longleaf Golf and Family Club, 10 N. Knoll Road, Southern Pines. RSVP by Nov. 8 to (910) 585-0111.

BOOK CLUB. 2 p.m. The James Boyd Book Club will discuss the book Carolina Built, by Kiana Alexander. Free admission, registration required. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

TEEN WRITING CLUB. 5 p.m. Are you interested in creative writing and storytelling, connecting with other writers and getting feedback on your work? Join us for the Teen Creative Writing Club. Southern Pines Public Library,

170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net or email: kbroughey@sppl.net.

Wednesday, November 16

FESTIVAL OF TREES. 10 a.m. The 26th Annual Sandhills Children’s Center Festival of Trees will take place Nov. 16 - 20. Admission by any monetary donation at the door. Girls’ Night Out is Nov. 16 with the McKenzie Brothers Band. Come enjoy all the holiday magic. The Carolina Hotel, 80 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. Info: www.FestivalofTrees.org.

WHITEHALL BOOK CLUB. 2 p.m. Southern Pines Public Library’s newest book club for adults meets to discuss this month’s book. The book club is open to the public. Whitehall Property, 490 Pee Dee Road, Southern Pines. Info: mmiller@sppl.net.

Thursday, November 17

READ BETWEEN THE PINES. 5 p.m. SPPL’s book club for adults meets to discuss this month’s book. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. To join, email mhoward@sppl.net.

CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE. 6:30 p.m. Author and historian Kyle Senisi is the special guest speaker with a presentation on “Sterling Price in Missouri.” Meeting starts at 7 p.m. Open to the public. Civic Club, corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Ashe Street, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-0452 or mafarina@aol.com.

HOLIDAY CLASSIC MOVIE. 7 p.m. You’ve Got Mail. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

JUDSON THEATRE. There will be five performances celebrating the 70th anniversary of Agatha Christie’s classic play The Mousetrap from Nov. 17 – 20 at the Owens Auditorium in the Bradshaw Performing Arts Center. For tickets and additional information go to judsontheatre.com.

Saturday, November 19

TURKEY TROT. The FirstHealth Turkey Trot is back and runners can trek through the streets and neighborhoods of the village. The Village Arboretum, 375 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

SANTA AT THE LIBRARY. 9:45 - 11:30 a.m. Santa is coming to Given Memorial Library. Take a photo, make a craft and leave with a special gift bag. There are two time slots, from 9:45 - 10:30 a.m. and 10:45 - 11:30 a.m. Space is limited. Santa’s helpers are taking reservations beginning Nov. 1. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info and reservations: (910) 295-3642.

LEARN AND PLAY. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Come in for an open playdate with your toddler or preschooler where there will be developmental toys and puzzles as well as early literacy tips on display for parents and caregivers to incorporate into their daily activities. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Turkey Trot 11.19

NOV 2 NOV 5

“The Enigma Affair” Charlie Lovett Author Event The Country Bookshop

Purse Bingo 2022 Fair Barn

Golf Capitol Chorus 41st

NOV 5

Anniversary: Barbershop Rock n’ Roll Lee Auditorium

NOV 22 Kossler Duo: New Music & Old Favorites

BPAC’s McPherson Theater

NOV 25-27

Gary Taylor Dance’s The Nutcracker BPAC’s Owens Auditorium (Sensory Friendly show Nov 26)

DANCING. 6 p.m. Carolina Pines Dance Club invites you for a fun evening of social dancing — swing, line, ballroom, shag and Latin. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dance lessons at 6:30 p.m. Dancing until 9:30 p.m. Beginners and experienced dancers, couples and singles all welcome. Cost is $15 per person, cash at the door. National Athletic Village, 201 Air Tool Dr., Southern Pines. Info: (724) 816-1170.

CONCERT. 7 p.m. Emily Scott Robinson and Abigail Dowd in concert. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Sunday, November 20

MINI MARKET. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy shopping, food trucks and live music. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines.

STEAM. 2:30 p.m. Elementary-aged children and their caregivers are invited to learn about topics in science, technology, engineering, art and math and to participate in STEAM projects and activities. This month’s theme is “Dinosaurs.” Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

HISTORY LECTURE. 3 p.m. Civil War enthusiast Matt Farina will talk about the story of Gettysburg’s famous unknown soldier. Open to the public. Sponsored by the Moore County

CALENDAR

Historical Association. Civic Club, corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Ashe Street, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-0452 or mafarina@aol.com.

Monday, November 21

WOMEN OF WEYMOUTH. 9:30 a.m. Social time begins at 9:30 a.m. A short business meeting begins at 10 a.m. and is followed by a guest speaker. Free admission. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www. weymouthcenter.org.

ADULT STORYTIME. 12 p.m. Enjoy an adult story time with friends and bring your own lunch. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

ANIME SERIES. 7 p.m. Porco Rosso, a Studio Ghibli Anime Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

SHOP SMALL. The village of Pinehurst has dedicated a week to “Shop Small this Season.” Come out to support local small businesses in Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

Tuesday, November 22

GUITAR CONCERT. 7 - 8:30 p.m. The Kossler Duo performs. Concessions will be available for purchase. McPherson Theater at BPAC, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Wednesday, November 23

MUSIC JAM. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to grab some “Found Sounds” from around the house and join the jam session. Wooden spoons, coffee cans, chopsticks, boxes of Mac-n-Cheese, etc. Bring them to the party as we make music and move together to favorite songs and awesome drumbeats. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LIVE MUSIC. 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy live music courtesy of Kevin Regan Band. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

Thursday, November 24

MOVIE SCREENING. 7 p.m. A free Thanksgiving screening of The Last Waltz, the Martin Scorsese-filmed tribute to The Band. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sunrisetheater.com.

Saturday, November 26

CRAFT DAYS. Children and their families can come by the library for Drop in Craft Days and work on crafts at their own pace. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Craft Days

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING. 4:30 - 6 p.m. Ring in the holidays with our tree lighting celebration. Lighted trees that line the streets lend an extra sparkle. Keep an eye out for Santa Claus. He is available for pictures (please bring your own camera). Complete your celebration at one of the great downtown restaurants. Downtown Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Tuesday, November 29

MUSICIANS’ JAM SESSION. 6 - 9 p.m. Bring your own instrument and beverage or just come and enjoy the music. Attendees must have the COVID vaccination. Free admission, registration required. Weymouth Center for the Arts &

CALENDAR

Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Friday, December 2

WEYMOUTH WONDERLAND. 5 p.m. Enjoy the Weymouth Wonderland Holiday Festival. There will be three days of events from Dec. 2 - 4. Visit the website for more information on each day. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

THEATER PRODUCTION. The Encore Center will present Sanders Family Christmas. There will be more performances on Dec. 3 - 4 and Dec. 9 - 11. Encore Center, 160 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info and tickets: www.encorecenter.net.

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mondays

WORKOUTS. 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to get their workout on. Open Monday through Friday. Cost for six months: $15/resident; $30/non-resident. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

SING FOR FUN. 9 - 10 a.m. Adults 55 and older can sing for fun while reaping the physical and mental benefits of a choir experience.

Homestyles

Learn various songs from all genres. Cost per month is $36 for residents and $52 for nonresidents. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

STRETCH AND MOVE. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to do a gentle, low-impact dance with inspirational music. Cost is $36 for residents and $52 for nonresidents per month. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

STRENGTH AND BALANCE. 11 - 11:45 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to enjoy a brisk workout that focuses on balance and strength. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

GAME ON. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. You and your friends are invited to come out and play various games such as corn hole, badminton, table tennis, shuffleboard, trivia games, and more. Each week enjoy a different activity to keep you moving and thinking. Compete with friends and make new ones all for free. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BRIDGE. 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy games of bridge with friends. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: 910) 692-7376.

SOUTHERN SOUL LINE DANCING. 6 p.m. No experience necessary, put on your comfy shoes and groove to some funky tunes with funk master Terry Julius. For adults 55 and older. Cost is $6 for Southern Pines residents and $9 for non-residents. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Tuesdays

PLAYFUL LEARNING. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come for a drop-in, open playtime for ages 0 - 3 years to interact with other children and have educational playtime. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

HATHA YOGA. 10 - 11 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Increase your flexibility, balance, stability and muscle tone while learning yoga’s basic principles of alignment and breathing. You may gain strength, improve circulation and reduce chronic pain as we practice gentle yoga postures and mindfulness. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BABY RHYMES. 10:30 a.m. Baby Rhymes is specially designed for the youngest learners (birth — 2) and their caregivers. Repetition and comforting movements make this story time perfect for early development and brain growth. There will be a duplicate session at 11 a.m. Dates this month are Nov. 1, 8, 15 and 29. An active library card is required. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

HEALING YOGA. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older can try an entry-level class, for a mind and body workout that fuses dance moves with gentle aerobics, tai chi, and yoga. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

GAME DAY. 12 p.m. Enjoy bid whist and other cool games all in the company of great friends. For adults 55 and older. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

TAI CHI. 1 p.m. Come learn tai chi. There is no age limit and the classes are open to the public. Aberdeen Parks and Recreation Station, 301 Lake Park Crossing, Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7275.

SPARK STORYTIME. 2:30 p.m. This Spark Storytime at Fire Station 82 is for ages birth through 2 and kids will have a chance to see fire trucks. Dates this month are Nov. 1, 8, 15 and 29. Fire Station 82, 500 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

TABLE TENNIS. 7 - 9 p.m. Enjoy playing this exciting game every Tuesday. Cost for six months is $15 for residents of Southern Pines and $30 for non-residents. For adults 55 and older. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Wednesdays

CHAIR YOGA. 10 - 11 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Help offset body aches encountered with desk work. This is an accessible yoga class for bodies not able to easily get up from and down to the floor. Do standing or sitting in a chair. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LEARN AND PLAY. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Come in for an open play date with your toddler or preschooler where there will be developmental toys and puzzles as well as early literacy tips on display for parents and caregivers to incorporate into their daily activities. Dates this month are Nov. 2, 9, 16 and 30. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

LINE DANCING. 12 - 1 p.m. Looking for new ways to get your daily exercise in and care for yourself? Try line dancing. For adults 55 and older. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

SLOW AND STRETCHY. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older can flow through yoga poses slowly and intentionally, moving breath to movement, stretching everything from your head to your toes. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CHAIR VOLLEYBALL. 1 - 2 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Get fit while having fun. Free to participate. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BRIDGE. 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy games of bridge with friends. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LIBRARY PROGRAM. 3:30 p.m. At The Library After School (ATLAS) is an afterschool program for kindergarten to second graders who enjoy activities, crafts, stories, and learning. Dates this month will be Nov. 2, 9, 16 and 30. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

TAI CHI. 6:30 p.m. Come learn tai chi. There is no age limit and the classes are open to the public. Cost is $10 per class. Seven Lakes West Community Center, 556 Longleaf Dr., Seven Lakes. Info: (910) 400-5646.

YOGA. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Grab your yoga mat and head to Hatchet for a yoga session with Brady. Session cost is $10 and includes a

pint of our DILLIGAF lager. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

Thursdays

MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET.

9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The year-round market features “producer only” vendors within a 50-mile radius providing fresh, local and seasonal produce, fruits, pasture meats, eggs, potting plants, cut flowers and local honey. Crafts, baked goods, jams and jellies are also available. Market is located at the Armory Sports Complex, 604 W. Morganton Road, Southern Pines.

GIVEN STORY TIME. 10 a.m. Wonderful volunteers share their love of reading with children. Stop by and join the fun. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

MUSIC AND MOTION. 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Does your toddler like to move and groove? Join us for outdoor “Music and Motion” to get those wiggles out and work on gross and fine motor skills. For 2-5-year-olds. Dates this month are Nov. 3, 10 and 17. An active library card is required. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

ADAPTIVE YOGA. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy yoga that meets you where you are. We’ll be creating a sense of balance and ease by slowly increasing your range of motion and mobility while maintaining your natural

abilities. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CHESS AND MAHJONG. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. All levels welcome. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CABIN TOURS. 1 - 4 p.m. The Moore County Historical Association’s Shaw House grounds, cabins, and gift shop are open for tours and visits. The restored tobacco barn features the history of children’s roles in the industry. Docents are ready to host you and the cabins are open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Shaw House, 3361 Mt. Carmel Rd., Carthage. Info: (910) 6922051 or www.moorehistory.com.

ORCHESTRA REHEARSALS. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. The Moore Philharmonic Orchestra has weekly rehearsals. Membership is open to youth and adult community members and there is no fee to join. Wellard Hall at Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.mporchestra.com or email moorephilharmonicorchestra@gmail.com.

TRIVIA NIGHT. 7 - 9 p.m. Come enjoy a beer and some trivia. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

Fridays

AEROBIC DANCE. 9 - 10 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy this low-to-moderate impact

class with energizing music for an overall cardio and strength workout. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

TAP CLASS. 10 - 11:30 a.m. For adults 55 and older. All levels welcome. Cost per class: $15/resident; $30/non-resident. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

RESTORATIVE YOGA. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Practice gentle movements to improve well-being with certified instructor, Jahaira Farias. Practice movements that may help alleviate pain and improve circulation. Bring your own mat. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BRIDGE. 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy games of bridge with friends. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LINE DANCING. 3 - 4 p.m. For adults 55 and older. If you’re interested in learning dance moves and building confidence on the dance floor, this class is for you. Leave your inhibitions at the door and join in. Cost is: $36 for residents and $52 for non-residents per month. Cost is for a monthly membership. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376. PS

SandhillSeen

Flutterby Festival

The Village Arboretum

Saturday, September 24, 2022

Photographs by Diane McKay

Rebecca, Bryan & Dylan Nyiri

Bill & Beth DiOrio

Courtney & Palmer Stiles, Barb Burkhalter

The Urbina Family

Erica & Mary Davis

The Carolina Philharmonic Junior Orchestra

Henry & Katherine Melvin, Bowman

Kak Johnson, Paulo, Cassey & Kaya Valerio

Ryan Ulitenok, Ellen Burke, Steve Leggett, Madelyn Wicks

Carolyn Cole, Corey Teel, Lana Allen

Micki McGarry, Norah Drake, Clare & Anne McGarry

Nancy Bryant, Clara Lussier, Julie Pitts, Bonnie Archibald, Heather Lussier

SandhillSeen

Weymouth Come Sunday Jazz Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities

Sunday, September 25, 2022

Photographs by Diane McKay

Brittany Caldwell, Dawn Cazier

Martha, Sue, Laurie & Donna Davis

Margie Wilder, Stan Atwater

Bud Wurtz, Carol Rich

Kelly Martin, Mary Grace Frump

Jono Dupre, Hugh, Rachel & Andrew Prieto Adele Chestnut, Lillian Fodermaer

James Herron, Karen Noonan

The Murphy Family

Iris Angle, Joseph Hill

Teresa Danials, Loretta Rose, Kimberly Taws

The Pena Family

Artists League of the Sandhills Annual Fall Exhibit and Sale Opening Reception and Weekend

The public is cordially invited to the special opening reception for the Artists League’s 28th annual art exhibit and sale on Friday, November 4, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. This is our biggest event of the year!

The opening weekend continues on Saturday, November 5, from 11:00 to 4:00 p.m.  Chef Natasha Essed will be providing a culinary adventure, “A Taste of Latin America” for our guests. Meet the artists as they paint in their studios throughout the weekend.  The exhibit and sale will remain open through Friday, December 16th with gallery hours from noon to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

This is an ideal opportunity to acquire the perfect piece of art for personal enjoyment

or as a gift for the approaching holiday season. With approximately 150 new works of art in the exhibit and over 300 pieces in the artists’ studios, you may choose from oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, alcohol inks, colored pencils, and mixed media in a variety of sizes and prices.

Amazing gift baskets with art, gift cards from local businesses, and other lovely items will be raffled during the opening weekend. Tickets are for sale from Artists League members or at the League. The raffle winner will be announced on Saturday, November 5, at 3:00 p.m. You need not be present to win.

See How It’s Done Instructors Class Demonstration and Registration Event

Sunday, January 8, 2:00-4:00

Start the new year off by taking an inspiring art class or workshop. On January 8, visit the League and watch our instructors as they demonstrate the various mediums they will teach – then register for the classes that interest you. There will be preview demonstrations about classes in Drawing, Pastel, Colored Pencil, Oil, Watercolor, Acrylic, Acrylic Pouring, Alcohol Ink, Mixed Medium,

Encaustic Wax, and Collage. Learn something new or advance your current skills. The exhibition of our instructors’ paintings will be hung in our gallery; which will remain open through Saturday, January 28. Join us for a fun afternoon, chat with instructors, and enjoy light refreshments. You can view the complete class and workshop list on our website.

November Pine Needler

ACROSS

1. Baseball player Ripken

4. and span (very clean)

8. Fairy tale monster

12. Kimono sash

13. .16 of an inch

14. The dining this month is just

16. Post braces need from orthodontist

47. Misplace

50. Time zone abbr.

51. Move like a bunny

52. Suitable 53. Isn’t able (apostrophe) 55. Upright 58. When trying your best to lose 60. Celebrity

Seasonal Limerick

1. Corporation (abbr.)

2. Cain’s brother

3. Struck (3 wds.)

4. Watched secretly

5. Fasten

6. Frost

7. Venezuela capital

8. Eye

Puzzle answers on page 134 Mart Dickerson lives in Southern Pines and welcomes suggestions from her fellow puzzle masters. She can be reached at martaroonie@gmail.com.

46. Maize 47. Statute

48. Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries

49. Steps for crossing a fence

51. Rip-off

53. Train sound

54. Lawyer (abbr.)

56. Stuck in one’s

57. Use a keyboard

59. Apollo, for one

61. Icky expression

62. Cow sound

Sudoku: Fill in the grid so every row, every column and every 3x3 box contain the numbers 1-9.

Nekked Fighting

The ultimate element of surprise

By Beth M acDonalD

I was in D.C. recently to visit some friends and do some work. Mason, my husband, was with me. He can’t hear well, especially when I am near him and ask him to do something. This very specific type of hearing loss is often diagnosed as “Mixed Marital Hearing Loss, Unspecified,” which means he can’t hear requests, plans, demands or the doorbell.

As with most hotel rooms that aren’t presidential suites, the bathroom is directly by the entrance door. It was 9 o’clock in the morning. The Do Not Disturb sign was hanging on the doorknob. I was showering and Mason was on the other side of the room, behind a partition that served as a wall/coffee bar. I knew he was there because he was singing. His voice is deep and buttery, so I usually enjoy his warbling; though given his hearing condition, they could probably hear him in Raleigh.

As I exited the shower, I heard the hotel room door click open. Knowing Mason was oblivious on the other side of the room, I braced myself for it. Nekked fighting. Combat Nu.

Because everything in my life is connected to some eccentric misadventure somewhere else, this one began in Arkansas, sort of. Years ago I had a boss who was from there. He was short, probably because the mosquitoes ate half of him, and his Southern drawl was so thick it could make biscuits. He started every workday with wise advice as he passed my office. One day it was this: “Nekked fighting! You’ll win!” I furrowed my brow and asked what on this glorious green Earth he was talking about. At the time it never occurred to me that this could actually come in handy.

“Think about it,” he stopped, very serious. “Someone comes at ya ready to fight. Git nekked. Then, when they stare at ya, naked and ugly, flabby and weird lookin’, you attack! You have the element of surprise. Use it to your advantage and you win!” With that, he and his cup of coffee moved on.

I kept that little nugget of wisdom in the back of my cap until that hotel door clicked open.

This is it, I thought to myself. This is the day I would become the champion of Combat Nu. It all happened in slow motion, like in The Matrix. Someone was breaking in. I turned toward the door, dripping, naked and

weird looking. I came face-to-face with the danger, ready to fight. The bloodcurdling scream that came out of the maid as she fled down the hallway convinced me I had won. But I wondered, is it two falls out of three? Am I a black belt, to be feared and respected?

I put on some clothes and went downstairs to inquire at the front desk if they had a moment to hear my testimony about naked fighting. The staff was so unmoved by my experience it was as if this was a common occurrence. Their only response was, “I’m sure she knocked, you just didn’t hear it.”

At that moment, I started to cry in the lobby of a lovely hotel in downtown D.C. while trying to convince the front desk staff that Combat Nu is not a matter to be engaged in lightly. They seemed blissfully unaware of the true severity of the situation.

Mason finally either got to the end of his song or he realized I was missing and came downstairs looking for me. He’s all too aware that I am a living, breathing, walking catastrophe with a certain je ne sais quoi. He put a pair of sunglasses on me, stood me against a wall, said, “Do not move.”

Then he headed over to the Starbucks in the lobby to get me a double caramel macchiato and probably a set of ping-pong paddles. PS

Occasionally, I find myself in places where strange things happen so frequently no one bats a silky, fake eyelash at them. New York City, for example. I have never been surprised to see a citizen dressed as Superman directing traffic with ping-pong paddles. Washington, D.C., it seems, isn’t far behind.

Beth MacDonald is a Southern Pines suburban misadventurer, author and Combat Nu black belt.