Uncomfortable? Dislike CPAP? Exhausted? Oral Appliances Can Help! www.kuhndennst.com (910) 692-4450
1902 North Sandhills Blvd., Suite H Aberdeen, NC 28315
Never spend the night tossing and turning trying to get comfortable wearing CPAP again. Oral appliance therapy is the perfect CPAP alternanve. Oral appliances are small mouth-guard like appliances you wear in your mouth while you sleep to open your airway, prevent snoring, and you treat sleep apnea without hoses, a face mask, or loud machine. Contact us today to learn more. Call (910) 692-4450
OďŹƒce Hours: Mon-Thurs: 7:30am-3:30PM
www.kuhndennst.com (910) 692-4450
McDevitt town & country properties
Schedule your screening mammogram today. FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital would like to encourage you to get screened this October by offering a free with your mammogram.
3D Mammo Now Available To schedule your mammogram, call (866)415-2778 or ask your provider for a referral.
www.firsthealth.org/cancer
1061-100-20
©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
Pinehurst Office • 42 Chinquapin Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374 • 910 -295 -5504 | Southern Pines Office • 167 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines, NC 28387 • 910-692-2635
10 Village Green Road, Pinehurst 10 Village Green Road, Pinehurst Original schoolhouse on 1 $2,989,999
2310 Midland Road, Pinehurst 2310 Midland Road, Pinehurst The chance of a lifetime to $2,250,000
st
5 bed / 4/2 bath
$2,989,999 Pamela O’Hara
5 bed / 4/2 bath 910-315-3093 Pamela O’Hara Emily Hewson 910-315-3093 910-315-3324 Emily Hewson 910-315-3324
fairway of #2 golf course. Totally renovated. Enclavest Original schoolhouse on 1 blends tradition with luxury fairway of #2 golf course. amenities. Garage apartment. Totally renovated. Enclave blends tradition with luxury MLS 182223 amenities. Garage apartment.
3 bed / 3 bath
3910-315-3093 bed / 3 bath
Pamela O’Hara 910-315-3093
equestrian property adjacent to the Walthour-Moss “Monreve Farm” — Beautiful Foundation. Eight-stall Morton equestrian property adjacent barn, two run-in sheds, 10 to the Walthour-Moss paddocks, and a riding ring. Foundation. Eight-stall Morton barn, run-in sheds, 10 MLS two 198891 paddocks, and a riding ring.
MLS 198891
3 bed / 3 bath
$825,000
paddocks, and a riding ring. barn, two run-in sheds, 10 Foundation. Eight-stall Morton to the Walthour-Moss equestrian property adjacent “Monreve Farm” — Beautiful
1220 Aiken Road, Vass
910-315-3324 Emily Hewson 910-315-3093 Pamela O’Hara
5 bed / 4/2 bath
$2,989,999
4910-315-3093 bed / 4 bath
Pamela O’Hara 910-315-3093
MLS 192774
MLS 198891
910-315-3093 Pamela O’Hara
own a special property. 16.74 prime acres with four houses The lifetime to onlychance minutesoftoaPinehurst own a special 16.74 Village. R-210 property. allows many prime acres with four houses uses from horse farm to only minutes to Pinehurst golf course. Village. R-210 allows many uses horse farm to MLS from 192774 golf course.
SOUTHERN PINES TO PINEHURST & GOLF ASSOCIATION THE UNITED STATES
B H HS PRG .CO M
MLS 182223
1220 Aiken Road, Vass 1220 Aiken Road, “Monreve Vass Farm” — Beautiful $825,000 $825,000 Pamela O’Hara
4 bed / 4 bath
$2,250,000 Pamela O’Hara
B H HS PRG .CO M
WELCOMES
50 Merion Circle, Pinehurst 50 Merion Circle, Pinehurst Under contract in 48 hours $259,000
150 W Salisbury Street, Robbins 150 W Salisbury Street, Robbins Lovely farmhouse circa 1930 $189,000
$259,000 Debbie Darby
$189,000 Debbie Darby
910-783-5193 Debbie Darby 910-783-5193
with multiple offers! One level ranch in desireable Under contract Original in 48 hours neighborhood. owner, with multiple offers! One what updates galore. Wonder level ranch is in worth desireable your home in this neighborhood. Original owner, market? Call Debbie! updates galore. Wonder what your is worth in this MLShome 202081 market? Call Debbie!
3 bed / 2 bath
3910-783-5193 bed / 2 bath
oozing with charm! Hardwood flooring, large-scale rooms, Lovely farmhouse circa 1930 two fireplaces, beautifully oozing with charm! Hardwood maintained. flooring, large-scale rooms, two MLSfireplaces, 201924 beautifully maintained.
Pinehurst Realty Group MLS 201924 Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Debbie Darby 910-783-5193
MLS 202081
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Berkshire Hathaway PinehurstHomeServices Realty market? Call Debbie! MLS 201924 Group 910-783-5193 your home is worth in this maintained. updates galore. Wonder what Debbie Darby Pinehurst Realty Group two fireplaces, beautifully neighborhood. Original owner, MLS 202081
910-783-5193 Debbie Darby
$259,000
WELCOMES WELCOMES
level ranch in desireable with multiple offers! One Under contract in 48 hours
50 Merion Circle, Pinehurst
3 bed / 2 bath
$189,000
flooring, large-scale rooms, oozing with charm! Hardwood Lovely farmhouse circa 1930
150 W Salisbury Street, Robbins
THE UNITED STATES THE UNITED STATES GOLF ASSOCIATION GOLF ASSOCIATION TO PINEHURST & TO PINEHURST & SOUTHERN PINES SOUTHERN PINES MLS 192774
MLS 182223 amenities. Garage apartment. blends tradition with luxury Totally renovated. Enclave fairway of #2 golf course. Original schoolhouse on 1 st
10 Village Green Road, Pinehurst
B H HS PRG .CO M
910-315-3093 Pamela O’Hara
4 bed / 4 bath
$2,250,000
golf course. uses from horse farm to Village. R-210 allows many only minutes to Pinehurst prime acres with four houses own a special property. 16.74 The chance of a lifetime to
2310 Midland Road, Pinehurst
Pinehurst Office • 42 Chinquapin Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374 • 910 -295 -5504 | Southern Pines Office • 167 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines, NC 28387 • 910-692-2635 ©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
Pinehurst Office • 42 Chinquapin Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374 • 910 -295 -5504 | Southern Pines Office • 167 Beverly Lane, Southern Pines, NC 28387 • 910-692-2635 ©2020 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
FALL IN LOVE WITH OUR NEW ARRIVALS! Shop them in store, or on our website. Join our loyalty program to receive closet perks. Deals include
$50 OFF
your next purchase!
124 NW BROAD STREET SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 (910) 693-7463 M-SAT: 10 AM - 5 PM SUN: 12 PM - 4 PM monkeesofthepines.com @monkeesofthepines For private events and parties, email girls@monkeesofthepines.com
October ����
FEATURES 75 A Nimble Deer
Poetry By Terri Kirby Erickson
76 Magic Show Photographs by John Gessner Seeing the world in greater depth
86 Art in the Woods By Jim Moriarty Sculpture grows in a Seagrove garden
92 “What It Was Was...” By Jenna Biter It kinda looks like ice hockey
94 Still a Castle By Deborah Salomon Dunross holding the fort in Knollwood
105 Almanac
By Ashley Wahl
DEPARTMENTS
25 30 33 35 37
Simple Life By Jim Dodson PinePitch Instagram Contest Good Natured By Karen Frye The Omnivorous Reader
41 47 49 52
Bookshelf Hometown By Bill Fields Home by Design By Cynthia Adams Weekend Away
By D.G. Martin
By Jason Oliver Nixon
55 In the Spirit By Tony Cross
59 The Kitchen Gardener
By Jan Leitschuh
61 63 64 67 68 71 106 125 127 128
Out of the Blue By Deborah Salomon Mom Inc. By Renee Whitmore Sandhills Photography Club Birdwatch By Susan Campbell The Naturalist By Todd Pusser Golftown Journal By Lee Pace Arts & Entertainment Calendar SandhillSeen PineNeedler By Mart Dickerson Southwords By Traci Loper
Cover photograph of musician Brett Harris by John Gessner Photograph this page by Todd Pusser 6
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
It’s a dogs life…
Bovi & Graccioza
– 20% OFF – in October
Opulence of Southern Pines and DUXIANA at The Mews, 280 NW Broad Street, Downtown Southern Pines, NC 910.692.2744
at Cameron Village, 400 Daniels Street, Raleigh, NC 919.467.1781
at Sawgrass Village, 310 Front Street Suite 815 Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 904.834.7280
www.OpulenceOfSouthernPines.com Serving the Carolinas & More for Over 20 Years – Financing Available
Talent, Technology & Teamwork! Moore County’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team!
ER UND
CT TRA
CON
ER UND
CT TRA
CON
D
SOL
SEVEN LAKES WEST • $399,000
SOUTHERN PINES • $310,000
PINEHURST • $302,000
105 CHRISTINE PLACE Lovely 3 BR / 2 BA one story home in beautiful 7LW community. Located in quiet cul-de-sac home sits on 3 full sized lots w/great curb appeal and nice inground pool in back.
110 CLIFF COURT Beautifully renovated 3 BR / 2 BA brick home in great location w/an abundance of space and lots of curb appeal…..a must see!
130 SHADOW CREEK COURT Appealing 3 BR / 2.5 BA townhome in Forest Hills community. Townhome offers spacious layout, gorgeous kitchen and lots of curb appeal.
D
SOL
NEW
S CON
N
CTIO
TRU
ER UND
CT TRA
CON
SEVEN LAKES WEST• $405,000
SEVEN LAKES WEST • $363,000
SOUTHERN PINES • $450,000
105 COOK POINT Located on a point w/gorgeous wide water views in every direction, this lovely property has lots of water frontage for the ultimate lake life experience!
139 LONGLEAF DRIVE Newly constructed 3 BR / 3.5 BA home in beautiful 7LW. Home features great open floorplan on one level w/nice oversized kitchen.
1880 MIDLAND ROAD Lovely 5 BR / 4.5 BA historic home offering lots of space throughout w/additional apartment space above garage……a very nice bonus to the property.
NEW
ING
LIST
D
SOL
D
SOL
WEST END • $367,000
SOUTHERN PINES • $315,000
PINEHURST • $359,900
401 MOUNTAIN RUN ROAD Very nice 4 BR / 3.5 BA home in popular Juniper Ridge community w/open layout, bonus room and attached 3-car garage. Perfect for a growing family!
80 STATION AVENUE Lovely 3 BR / 3.5 BA townhome in Walker Station. Beautiful location w/easy access to shopping and dining in Pinehurst and Southern Pines.
98 DEERWOOD LANE Attractive one-story 3 BR / 2.5 BA golf front home in popular Pinehurst #6. Home features gorgeous interior and nice brick exterior offering lots of curb appeal.
1
#
IN MOORE COUNTY REAL ESTATE FOR OVER 20 YEARS!
Luxury Properties Moore County’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team!
ER UND
CT TRA
D
CON
SOL
NEW
ING
LIST
PINEHURST • $795,000
FOXFIRE • $575,000
PINEHURST • $785,000
26 OXTON CIRCLE Appealing 4 BR / 3.5 BA home in great location w/ spacious layout, gorgeous with views of golf and water. Tons of appeal inside and out.
115 REYNWOOD COURT Stunning custom built 4 BR / 4.5 BA modern farmhouse situated on almost 6 acres. Home offers spectacular layout where each bedroom has it’s own bathroom!
20 WALNUT CREEK ROAD Custom 5 BR / 4.5 BA home w/over 5500 sq.ft of luxury living. Located in desirable Fairwoods on #7 this home offers open layout w/pool and patio in large backyard.
E Y TH LD B
AM
E RY T
GENT
T RAC
U
SO
NTRY
ONT
RC NDE
E GE Y TH LD B
TEAM
SO
PINEHURST • $810,000
PINEHURST • $610,000
PINEHURST • $800,000
16 BIRKDALE DRIVE Elegant 4 BR / 4.5 BA custom built home dripping in Southern Charm. Located in Forest Creek this home is the ultimate in upscale living.
52 PINEWILD DRIVE Stunning 4 BR / 3 BA home in Pinewild CC w/ versatile floorplan. With 2 large bonus rooms and fantastic outdoor space it’s a classic Southern Living at its finest.
126 BROOKFIELD DRIVE Pristine 5 BR / 4 BA home located in desirable Forest Creek where simplicity meets sophistication. Interior is spacious and inviting while exterior is farmhouse beautiful!
D
SOL
D
SOL
E Y TH LD B
AM
E RY T
GENT
SO
SOUTHERN PINES • $685,000
PINEHURST • $718,000
PINEHURST • $764,000
120 EAGLE POINT LANE Luxurious 3 BR / 3.5 BA French country style home in beautiful Mid South community. Floorplan is spacious w/gourmet kitchen and gorgeous views!
91 ABBOTTSFORD DRIVE Magnificent 5 BR / 3 full BA 2 half BA Tuscan Villa with THE best golf course and water views in Pinehurst.
28 MIDDLEBURY ROAD Extraordinary 4 BR / 4.5 golf front home located on north course of Forest Creek. Craftsman style home offers 4 large bedroom suites and gorgeous kitchen.
Re/Max Prime Properties, 5 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, NC 910-295-7100 • 800-214-9007 • Re/Max Prime Properties 5 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, NC
www.ThEGENTRYTEAM.COM
• 910-295-7100
Thank you The USGA is thrilled to become a larger part of the community in Pinehurst and looks forward to all we can do together.
For all golf is and all it can be.
The WhiTehall esTaTe
M A G A Z I N E Volume 16, No. 10 David Woronoff, Publisher Jim Dodson, Editor Andie Stuart Rose, Creative Director
910.693.2467 • andie@pinestrawmag.com
Jim Moriarty, Senior Editor
910.692.7915 • jjmpinestraw@gmail.com
Alyssa Rocherolle, Graphic Designer
910.693.2508 • alyssa@pinestrawmag.com
Lauren M. Coffey, Graphic Designer
910.693.2469 • lauren@pinestrawmag.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS
Deborah Salomon, Staff Writer Mary Novitsky, Sara King, Proofreaders CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Gessner, Laura Gingerich, Tim Sayer
490 Pee Dee Road • Southern Pines Whitehall, a rambling, clapboard, country home overlooking open fields rimmed by classic stands of long leaf pines, represents the Sandhills in its most splendid presentation. The historic estate, built in 1920, is located down a winding, white sand road, on land bordering Reservoir Park. The popular Whitehall Trail, a 2-mile woodland hike, winds through the 157-acre tract. 57 acres of the land, primarily low, sloping topography, are in a conservation easement. The 6200 sq ft house, (5 BR, 5 BA), has been beautifully restored. The gracious living spaces, punctuated with extraordinary architectural detail, are flanked by bedroom wings with period tiled bathrooms. Outbuildings include an equipment barn, separate 4-car garage and covered storage. New Listing Offered at $3,500,000 To view more photos, take a virtual tour or schedule a showing, go to:
Maureen Clark
www.clarkpropertiesnc.com
when experience matters
Pinehurst • Southern Pines BHHS Pinehurst Realty Group • 910.315.1080 ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of American, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.
14
PineStraw
CONTRIBUTORS Tom Allen, Jenna Biter, Harry Blair, Tom Bryant, Susan Campbell, Bill Case, Wiley Cash, Tony Cross, Brianna Rolfe Cunningham, Mart Dickerson, Bill Fields, Laurel Holden, Jan Leitschuh, John Loecke, Meridith Martens, D.G. Martin, Jason Oliver Nixon, Lee Pace, Todd Pusser, Joyce Reehling, Scott Sheffield, Stephen E. Smith, Angie Tally, Kimberly Taws, Ashley Wahl, Claudia Watson, Renee Whitmore ADVERTISING SALES
Ginny Trigg, Advertising Director 910.693.2481 • ginny@thepilot.com Jennie Acklin, 910.693.2515 Samantha Cunningham, 910.693.2505 Terry Hartsell, 910.693.2513 Erika Leap, 910.693.2514 ADVERTISING COORDINATOR
Emily Jolly • pilotads@thepilot.com
ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN
Mechelle Butler, Scott Yancey
PS Steve Anderson, Finance Director 910.693.2497 Darlene Stark, Circulation Director 910.693.2488 SUBSCRIPTIONS
910.693.2488 OWNERS
Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels Jr., Frank Daniels III, Lee Dirks, David Woronoff 145 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387 www.pinestrawmag.com
©Copyright 2020. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PineStraw magazine is published by The Pilot LLC
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
123 Pinefield Court • Southern Pines Built in 2006, this 6580 sq ft residence on 8 acres includes 5 BR, 6.5 BA, theater room, billiard room, open living plan, wine cellar, 3 car garage and outdoor kitchen. Gated privacy. Offered at $1,900,000
451 Old Mail Road • Southern Pines The jewel of Moore County’s horse country, Fox Hollow Farm is secluded on 10.52 acres with easy access to thousands of acres of equestrian land. 4BR, 4.5BA, 5,276 sq ft. New Price $1,950,000
Maureen Clark
910.315.1080 • www.clarkproperties.com
140 North Valley • Southern Pines
Loblolly, a Southern Pines historic treasure, located on a quiet, tree-lined street, is a lovely combination of unparalleled building elegance embraced by comfortable living features. 5BR, 5BA, 8,050 sf. Offered at $1,490,000
40 Village Green East • Old Town • Pinehurst Historic Whispering Pines Cottage, 1915, was totally restored and expanded 20072012. Main floor master, 3 fireplaces, gourmet kitchen, brilliant landscaping. 4 BR, 3.5 BA, 5754 sq ft, .69 acres. Offered at $1,640,000
Four More Cottages Under Construction
Chanticleer at Forest Creek • Pinehurst
Choose from one of three French Country Cottage designs by Mark Parson: Rosecomb at 126 Chanticleer $556,500. Gourney at 125 Chanticleer $548,500. Gourney at 130 Chanticleer $548,500. Welsummer at 121 Chanticleer price TBD. 122 Chanticleer available for $495,000
5 Merion Place • CCNC • Pinehurst Rambling, fun-filled home on 5 acres, has it all for family living: 2 family rooms with fireplaces, 4 BR, 4.2 BA, guest apartment, main floor master, 5500 sq ft., 3 car garage. $899,000
Berkshire Hathaway HomeSercies and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.Housing Opportunity.
Convenience. Without Compromise. Safe, Secure, Quality Care
Pinehurst Medical Clinic offers virtual visits to registered patients! Virtual visits are easy, safe and secure. Allowing you convenient care with peace of mind.
Contact your provider to schedule an appointment.
PINEHURSTMEDICAL.COM
Knickers F R O M
D A Y
T O
N I G H T
VISIT US FOR ALL OF YOUR SPORTS BRA NEEDS. We fit from a 30-band to a 48-band, and from an A-cup to an I-cup. Your correct fit matters!
L I N G E R I E S L E E P W E A R L O U N G E W E A R M E N S
W E A R
B R A S B R E A S T
F O R M S
www.knickers-lingerie.com 910-725-2346 Open Tuesday - Friday 11-5:00 Saturday 11-4. Sunday and Monday closed. 150 E. New Hampshire Avenue Southern Pines, NC 28387
Always a Step Ahead
Introducing Introducingaabrand brandnew newCaviness Caviness a brand new Caviness Land development in NC. LandIntroducing development inAberdeen, Aberdeen, NC. Land development in Aberdeen, NC.
Pre-Selling Pre-SellingNow! Now!
Pre-Selling Now! Winds Way Farm Way Farm Winds Way Farm Set among among beautifully manicured Set manicured grounds groundswith withaaspectacular spectacularwooded wooded
Set among grounds with a spectacular wooded backdrop. Eachbeautifully upon lots access totoan backdrop. Each home is setmanicured upon ½ ½ acres acres lotswith with access animmaculately immaculately backdrop. Each home isopen-air set uponcovered ½ acresBBQ lotsarea. with access to an plans immaculately presented are presented pool and open-air coveredBBQ area.Open Openfloor floorplans are presented pool and open-air covered BBQ area. Open floor plans are generously proportioned and generously and flow flow effortlessly effortlesslythroughout throughoutfrom fromthe theliving living generously proportioned and flow effortlessly throughout from the living room through enjoy the stunning room covered patio where you can enjoy the stunning roomthrough throughtotoyour yourprivate privatecovered coveredpatio patiowhere whereyou youcan can enjoy the stunning views. Gourmet with double oven and soft-touch cabinetry are just a aa views. Gourmet kitchens double oven and soft-touch cabinetry are just views. Gourmet kitchens with double oven and soft-touch cabinetry are just couple ofofupgraded upgraded these homes. These couple that come asasstandard standard with these homes. These coupleof upgradedfeatures featuresthat thatcome comeas standardwith with these homes. These brand new and brand all the elements for relaxing, comfortable, and brandnew newhomes homesprovide provideall allthe theelements elementsfor forrelaxing, relaxing,comfortable, comfortable, and easy-care discover aanew way ofof life. easy-care living. living.See Seeour ourfloorplans floor plansand and discover anew new way of life. easy-care our floorplans and discover way life.
Serving Moore County and Surrounding Areas! 910.684.8674 | 120 N ASHE ST | SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387
www.maisonteam.com
MLS 201175 113 NEWINGTON WAY Aberdeen, NC • $261,000
MLS 201620 184 ENFIELD DRIVE Carthage, NC • $293,500
MLS 201617 171 ENFIELD DRIVE Carthage, NC • $299,500
MLS 201622 188 ENFIELD DRIVE Carthage, NC • $311,500
MLS 199422 716 WINDS WAY Aberdeen, NC • $313,500
MLS 201619 176 ENFIELD DRIVE Carthage, NC • $315,900
MLS 201693 715 WINDS WAY Aberdeen, NC • $319,000
MLS 199419 707 WINDS WAY Aberdeen, NC • $322,000
MLS 199421 711 WINDS WAY Aberdeen, NC • $324,000
MLS 199474 938 WINDS WAY Aberdeen, NC • $326,500
MLS 201623 195 ENFIELD DRIVE Carthage, NC • $336,500
MLS 199382 349 R SANDS ROAD Aberdeen, NC • $160,000
Buy, Sell or Rent through us - we do it all! 910.684.8674 | 120 N ASHE ST | SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387
THE LIGHTHOUSE GROUP
How can our wealth be a resource that grows conistently while having a positive impact on those who benefit from it? However you define it, we believe your wealth must have a positive impact on those who benefit from it. Beginning with the intentional efforts of family leaders who are unwilling to leave the ultimate fate of their wealth to chance, we help families organize their shared values and passions into a collective vision that prepares members to be responsible stewards of the family legacy. For those who believe successful wealth management must extend beyond their financial capital, we are here to guide them toward a confident life with wealth. With offices across the state, we are eager to show you what the pinnacle of wealth management can mean for you and your family. Pinehurst 100 Pavilion Way, Suite F, Southern Pines, NC 28387 910-992-3275 Raleigh Winston-Salem 3605 Glenwood Ave., Suite 400, Raleigh, NC 27612 110 S. Stratford Rd., Suite 400, Winston-Salem, NC 27104 919-571-1893 336-722-4702 BB&T Scott & Stringfellow is a division of BB&T Securities, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. BB&T Securities, LLC, is a wholly owned nonbank subsidiary of Truist Financial Corporation. Securities and insurance products or annuities sold, offered or recommended by BB&T Scott & Stringfellow are not a deposit, not FDIC insured, not guaranteed by a bank, not insured by any federal government agency and may lose value.
For For more more than than 40 40 years, years, Your Your Vision Vision Has Has Been Been Our Our Focus. Focus.
Cataracts Cataracts •• Cornea Cornea •• Retina Retina •• Diabetic Diabetic Eye Eye Macular Macular Degeneration Degeneration •• Glaucoma Glaucoma •• Dry Dry Eye Eye •• LASIK LASIK Eyelid Eyelid & & Brow Brow Lifts Lifts •• Cosmetic Cosmetic Botox Botox North Carolina: North Carolina: Albemarle • Asheboro • Dunn • Fayetteville • Greensboro • Laurinburg • Lumberton Albemarle • Asheboro • Dunn • Fayetteville • Greensboro • Laurinburg • Lumberton Pinehurst/Southern Pines • Rockingham • Sanford • Wadesboro • Winston-Salem Pinehurst/Southern Pines • Rockingham • Sanford • Wadesboro • Winston-Salem South Carolina: Cheraw South Carolina: Cheraw
carolinaeye.com carolinaeye.com •• 910.295.2100 910.295.2100 •• 800.733.5357 800.733.5357
One out of eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime. An annual mammogram takes only about 20 minutes, and may detect breast cancers before they can be felt, increasing your chance of survival. Most insurances cover annual mammograms for women over age 40.
S C H E D U L E A N A P P O I N T M E N T T O D A Y 910-295-6831
Urologic Center
w w w. p i n e h u r s t s u rg i c a l . c o m
Urologic Center
I
n early March, we began implementing innovative ways to provide care, services, and amenities to all those that live and work within our community. Since then, every department has risen to the occasion, finding solutions for residents to communicate with loved ones, keeping the spirit of love and family flowing, and meeting the material needs of all while working to protect the health and well-being of residents and staff alike. Here, a few Independent Living residents share their stories.
“Life is good here at Penick Village thanks to our friendly and competent employee team members. They leave the safety of their own homes seven days each week to be with us. We love them all.” Andrea & Dick M.
Our Our OurLife Life LifePlan Plan PlanCommunity Community Community has has hasserved served servedolder older olderadults adults adultssince since since1964, 1964, 1964, providing providing providingexceptional exceptional exceptionalIndependent Independent Independent Living, Living, Living, Our Life Plan Community has served adults since 1964, Home Home HomeCare, Care, Care,Assisted Assisted Assisted Living Living Living &older &&Plan Skilled Skilled Skilled Nursing. Nursing. Nursing. Our Our Our Our Our Life Life Life Life Life Life Plan Plan Plan Plan Plan Community Community Community Community Community Community providing exceptional Independent Living, has has has has has has has served served served served served served served served older older older older older older adults adults adults adults adults adults since since since since since since 1964, 1964, 1964, 1964, numerous changes to ensure the 1964, safety “Since the pandemic, there have been of residents and staff. Our meals and
providing providing providing providing providing providing providing exceptional exceptional exceptional exceptional exceptional exceptional exceptional exceptional Independent Independent Independent Independent Independent Independent Independent Independent Living, Living, Living, Living, Living, Home Care, Assisted Living Skilled Nursing. mail, forIndependent example, are delivered to Our Our Life Life& Plan Plan Community Community “We moved into Penick Village on April 30, 2020 at a time of national, state, and Penick Village us daily. restrictions. It presented many more challenges than we could have expected when we made has has has served served served& older older adults adultsNursing. since since 1964, 1964, Home Home Home Home Home Home Home Care, Care, Care, Care, Care, Care, Care, Assisted Assisted Assisted Assisted Assisted Assisted Assisted Assisted Living Living Living Living Living & & & & &Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Skilled Nursing. Nursing. Nursing. Nursing. Nursing. the decision to move to Penick Village last January. However, we both appreciate the confidence Everyone I haveIndependent talked with agrees that that Penick’s safety measures provide. Our cottage was completely renovated, and despite theproviding providing providing exceptional exceptional exceptional Independent Independent Living, Living, we live in the most perfect place possible, difficulties of adhering to safety guidelines, was completed close to the projected schedule … We Home Home Home Care, Care,Assisted Assisted Assisted Living Living & & Skilled Skilled Skilled Nursing. Nursing. where there is a plan to meet our needs. were lucky to have moved into a cul-de-sac with fun and friendly neighbors. Great friends on Care, I am thankful to be a part of the Penick the “outside” drop things off at the gate which dedicated, hard-working employees deliver to our Village family.” front door.” Paula & Chuck B.
Joyce W.
Our Life Plan Community Our Our OurLife Life Life Plan Plan PlanCommunity Community Community
WHERE EXCELLENCE LIVES
421 Meyer Farm Drive $1,900,000 | MLS#197282
13 Chestertown Drive $1,585,000 | MLS#201113
35 McLean Road $1,300,000 MLS#200971
Cristin Bennett 336-202-2858
Victoria Adkins 910-992-8171
Cristin Bennett 336-202-2858
R DE UN
T AC TR N CO
155 Quail Hollow Drive $949,000 | MLS#200859 Cathy Larose 910-690-0362 T AC TReek N CO a w
R er DE und UN In
600 Linden Road $999,000 | MLS#201546 Southern Partners in Moore 910-236-3030
190 Midland Road $1,500,000 | MLS#199165 Cathy Larose 910-690-0362 Beverly Gentry 910-975-0399
11 Village Lane $899,000 | MLS#201359 Victoria Adkins 910-992-8171
CT RA NTweek O R C er a DE und UN In
1215 E Massachusetts Avenue $845,000 | MLS#201803 Cathy Larose 910-690-0362
845 Linden Road $775,000 | MLS#201960 Amanda Bullock 910-315-2127
90 Ponte Vedra Drive $700,000 | MLS#201829 Cathy Larose 910-690-0362
910-693-3300 | www.HomesCBA.com 130 Turner Street, Suite A | Southern Pines, NC 28387
SIMPLE LIFE
“A Story For These Times” By Jim Dodson
On a lovely evening beneath the trees
not long ago, as summer green gave way to autumn gold, my wife, Wendy, shared a charming little story a friend had recently passed along to her via email. She wondered if I’d ever heard it before.
In fact, I had. But it had been many years since I thought of it and the wise soul who first shared it with me decades ago. Here’s the story. The Bohemian novelist and short-story writer Franz Kafka was walking home through a park in Prague one afternoon when he passed a little girl who was crying because she’d lost her favorite doll. The writer, known for stories that fused realism and fantasy, suggested that the two of them search for the missing doll, but the doll was nowhere to be found. Hoping to console her, he suggested that they meet the next day and continue the search. Upon his return, he presented the girl with a letter he insisted was written by her missing doll. “Please do not mourn for me,” the doll wrote. “I have gone on a trip to see the world. I will write to you about my adventures.” Over the days and weeks that followed, he presented a stream of “letters” that recounted the doll’s amazing encounters with interesting people she’d met on her journey through the world. The letters provided deep comfort to the little girl. When their meetings finally came to an end, Kafka presented the The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
girl with a new doll that didn’t look anything like the original. To ease her confusion, he read the girl a final letter from her doll explaining why she seemed so different. “I have been out in the world,” the doll wrote. “My travels have changed me.” The little girl hugged the new doll and carried her home. Franz Kafka died a short time later from tuberculosis. He was just 40 years old. He never married. His stories and novels, however, were destined to become some of the best-loved writings of the 20th century, exploring themes of loss, grief and existential anxiety in a rapidly changing world. His very name — Kafka — would become a synonym for a world turned upside down by surreal predicaments. The poet W.H. Auden called him the “Dante of the 20th Century” and novelist Vladimir Nabokov ranked him among the most influential voices of all time. Many years after her meeting with Kafka in the Prague park, the little girl, now an old woman, found an unread letter secreted in her beloved childhood doll. “Everything you love will probably be lost,” the letter said. “But in the end, love will return in a different form.” Though at least one of his biographers later questioned whether the encounter in the park actually happened, it is reported that Kafka, a prodigious letter-writer, put as much time and care into the creation of the doll’s colorful adventures as he did crafting his own wildly imaginative tales. Regardless, the story outlived its author and has provided comfort to untold numbers of people wrestling with grief and loss, a timeless “healing” story long used by grief therapists and spiritual advisors. In a year that will be remembered for its incalculable losses of life PineStraw
25
SIMPLE LIFE
and livelihood, its Kafkaesque politics and a historic pandemic that will change each of our lives, the doll’s message seems more relevant than ever. Everything you love will probably be lost. But love will return in a different form. Hearing the story again gave me a shot of much needed hope. It reminded me of the first person who told me the story over a bowl of soup, a dear old friend named Col. Bob. During the last decade we lived in Maine, Col. Bob and I met every few weeks for lunch and conversation at a village cafe where the soup was homemade and the community chatter lively. Bob Day was a decorated veteran of WWII who’d led one of the first Army units over the Rhine into Nazi Germany. After his service, he returned to West Point, where he taught logistics. He made his mark as the pioneering director of admissions who is credited with admitting women to America’s top military academy by convincing his superiors to adopt merit over patronage as a primary means of admission. We first met one Christmas when Bob played the angel Gabriel in the annual Christmas play at our local Episcopal Church. My two knee-high nippers had important roles in the pageant. One was playing a lamb, the other a baby cow in the climactic manger scene. As Col. Bob stood hovering over the blessed setting with his goofy, Gary Cooper smile, one of his plaster-of-Paris wings fell off and conked a baby cow on the head. The audience gasped with alarm but erupted with applause when the boy beneath the cow’s head turned
out to be laughing. The boy was my son, Jack. Col. Bob was a volunteer grief counselor with a local organization that worked with families suffering from the loss of a child. As he explained to me over soup one crisp autumn day, his main job was to listen and care and simply “be” with people wrestling with unimaginable grief and loss. As I learned in time, Bob was uniquely qualified for such soulful service. One day during his early years at West Point, his wife phoned him at the office to report that their youngest son had run outside to play and been run over and killed. Not long after the funeral, Bob returned from work to discover that his grieving wife had packed up and moved out with their two other two boys. The weight of sorrow had become too much. Bob understood. He set up his wife and kids in a nice house in a neighboring town. Though he and his wife were never fully reconciled, they remained best of friends for the balance of her life. A few years later, a second son set off to see the world before college, contracted a strange virus and died. Once I learned of these tragedies and others in his life, I understood — and deeply admired — the source of Col. Bob’s easy grace in the midst of so much personal suffering, including his unsinkable sense of humor and belief in the healing power of love. Every year for almost a decade, he showed up at our annual winter solstice party. Guests were invited to perform for their supper — to sing a song or read a poem to lighten the darkest night of the year. Col. Bob read hilarious limericks he spent the year composing.
Lin gets Results! toP 1 % of Moore Country reaLtors toP 1 % of u.s. reaLtors
ENERGY. EXPERIENCE. EFFORT. WWW.LINHUTAFF.COM
26
PineStraw
Lin Hutaff’s PineHurst reaLty GrouP Village of Pinehurst | 910.528.6427 | linhutaff@pinehurst.net The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
If Pinehurst has it, Lin can get it for you! Go to LinHutaff. com
315 N BEULAH HILL ROAD • OLD TOWN Elegant, historic, formal, “Cotton Cottage”. Restored Historic home with large Master Suite, indoor pool and elevator. New 3 bay garage. 6BD, 5 ½ BA. Offered at $1,250,000.
40 ORANGE ROAD • OLD TOWN Feel the rich Pinehurst History in every room of this 1922 built, totally restored, ‘’Great Gatsby’’ home in the center of the Village. Downstairs second Master Suite! 4BD, 3 ½ BA. Offered at $1,150,000.
64 STONEYKIRK DRIVE • PINEWILD Design or quality was not spared. Two Master suites on main level. Gourmet kitchen. Expansive wrap around deck. Separate living quarters on lower level. 4BD, 4 1/2BA. Offered at $799,000.
465 LAKE FOREST DRIVE SW • LAKE PINEHURST PRIME POSITION ON LAKE PINEHURST. Floor to ceiling windows on first floor and lower level overlooking the Lake and inground pool. 3BD, 3 1/2BA. Offered at $795,000.
14 GREYABBEY DRIVE • PINEWILD Stunning, golf front, contemporary home with walls of glass. Amazing gourmet Kitchen boasts Miele and Thermidor appliances, Miele stainless hood. Superb. 5BD, 4 ½ BA. Offered at $795,000.
1 ROCKLAND COURT • DORAL WOODS LIKE NO OTHER. Surrounded by Golf overlooking 6 holes of Pinehurst Country Club’s original Course No. 1. Perfect for golfers & horse lovers. 3BD, 2 ½ BA. Offered at $679,000.
6 SQUIRES LANE • PINEHURST NO 6 Contemporary masterpiece with walls of windows to enjoy 10th Hole of Pinehurst No 6. “WOW” factor of golf, fairways, pond and lush fairway. 3BD, 2 ½ BA, plus office. Offered at $650,000.
255 WOODLAND DRIVE • PINE GROVE VILLAGE Enjoy the gorgeous backyard Oasis on an acre lot plus a 2 level deck w/pergola, Koi pond and fire pit. New quartz, counter tops textured backsplash in kitchen, Master bath upgrades 5BD, 31/2 BA. Offered at $519,000.
12 TROON DRIVE • PINEWILD Custom, white brick home with great kitchen, cozy breakfast area overlooking deck open to large family room. Woodworking shop in lower level. 4BD, 3BA. Offered at $484,000.
4 BANGOR LANE • THE WOODLANDS Fabulous location just a short golf cart ride to the Club. Located on the 15th Green of Pinehurst No 4. All brick with beautiful gardens and private back yard. 3BD, 2 ½ BA. Offered at $395,000.
1 STANTON CIRCLE • COTSWOLD Stunning home in Cotswold. All brick, custom, with large rooms. Handsome kitchen and sun filled Carolina Room with private courtyard. Bonus rm with chair lift. 3BD, 2 ½ BA. Offered at $380,000.
34 EDINBURGH DRIVE • PINEWILD CC LOT Desirable Edinburgh Drive located between the Linden Rd gate and the Abbington Drive entrance/exit. Great building lot on nearly one acre. Live the Pinewild lifestyle! Offered at $79,000.
ENERGY. EXPERIENCE. EFFORT.
Lin Hutaff’s PineHurst reaLty GrouP Village of Pinehurst | 910.528.6427 | linhutaff@pinehurst.net
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
27
SIMPLE LIFE
Framer’s Cottage
162 NW Broad Street • Downtown Southern Pines • 910.246.2002
28
PineStraw
Bob’s thing was original limericks. Some were sweet, others were poignant. Some were devilishly blue. The solstice crowd loved them all. Bob loved literature and life. As I said, it was he who first told me the story of Kafka and the little girl with the lost doll. This was not long after my own father died and I was going through a double dose of loss from his death and a divorce that seemed to come out of nowhere, leaving me more than a little discouraged about the future. It was Bob — using this story — who reminded me that, given time and an open heart, love and laughter would come again in different form. He was right. Both came in the form of an extraordinary woman who has been the joy of my life for more than two decades — the same woman, I might add, who reminded me of the story of Kafka and the doll as we sat beneath the autumn trees a few weeks back. Hearing it again also reminded me of the last letter I received from Col. Bob a decade or so ago, inquiring about Wendy and our kids and our new life “back home in the South.” He informed us that he, too, had recently moved home to Connecticut to be close to his surviving son and grandchildren. He was volunteering as a docent at a history museum several days a week and still working with grieving families. The handwritten letter included several pages of his original limericks — the “greatest hits of an angel with a broken wing,” as I like to think of them. Not long after the letter arrived, I learned that Bob had passed away and drove up to his memorial service at West Point. It was great to meet his son and several of Bob’s old friends, students and colleagues. We all had stories of his amazing grace and healing sense of humor to share. Folks had a good laugh when I explained how a broken angel’s wing in a Christmas play introduced me to Col. Bob, a gift not unlike the one that Kafka gave the little girl in the Prague park. It’s still the perfect message for a changing season and Kafkaesque days like these. Everything you love will probably be lost. But love will return in a different form. PS Contact Editor Jim Dodson at jim@thepilot.com. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Our Communities Feel Different Because They Are NATIONALLY ACCREDITED LIFE PLAN COMMUNITIES Independent Living | Assisted Living | Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation | Home Care
Independent Living at Pine Knoll
Independent Living at Belle Meade
With a variety and choice of comfortable residences with convenience to attractive and purposeful senior living amenities, Pine Knoll offers history and comfort.
Surrounded by lush greenery, Belle Meade is a gated, resort-style community that offers a wide variety of senior living options, including spacious homes and lavish apartments.
Call today to schedule your visit! For more information, call 910-246-1023 or visit www.sjp.org.
Southern Pines
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
29
PinePitch Feeling a Little Dirty? The Moore County Historical Association began peddling soap in 2008 at the suggestion of Pinehurst’s Richard Huntwork, the founder of Greenwich Bay Trading Company, and now they’re cleaning up. With vintage labels and zippy language — all of their own creation — they’ve slipped into a lucrative niche. From a few hundred bars a year, the soap now sells in over 400 stores and 27 states. All the work is done inside the bubble by staffers and volunteers, from designing and wrapping to shipping. Scrubbing is extra. The proceeds cover the expenses of maintaining the Historical Association’s five historic properties, a new museum, and the 259-year-old American Revolution cemetery in Southern Pines. Shower yourself with further information by visiting www. moorehistory.com.
Rembrandt, Self-Portrait with Saskia, 1636
The North Carolina Museum of Art reopened to the public on Sept. 9. The David McCune International Art Gallery at Methodist University — and its exhibition “Rembrandt: The Sign and the Light” — opened to the public on Sept. 11. The Cameron Art Museum in Wilmington opened to the public on Sept. 15. The Reynolda House Museum of American Art in Winston-Salem with its current exhibition, “Tiffany Glass: Painting with Color and Light,” opens to the public on Oct. 6. All the museums will be functioning at a reduced capacity and most require advance ticketing with timed admission. The rules vary, so be sure to check their websites first. And welcome back. They need your support.
30
PineStraw
Live Sparks Bestselling author Nicholas Sparks will stop in to sign books for — and have a picture taken with — customers at The Pilot, 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., in Southern Pines, on Thursday, Oct. 1. Tickets can be purchased for a time slot to attend the socially distanced gathering. Masks will be required. For information and tickets, visit www.ticketmesandhills.com.
Stir Crazy The Arts Council of Moore County and Mrs. John Daughtridge will present “Art in Quarantine” beginning Friday, Oct. 2, and continuing through Oct. 30 at the Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. The exhibit includes paintings, sculpture, jewelry and face masks created during the COVID-19 lockup. For more information call (910) 692-2787 or go to www.mooreart.org.
Cousin Culture
Rembrandt, The Tribute Money, 1635
They’re Baaaaack!
TRUST BUT VERIFY: As our communities deal with the challenges presented by the novel coronavirus, please be aware that events may have been postponed, rescheduled or existed only in our dreams. Check before attending.
Susan Zurenda, the author of the Southern literary novel Bells for Eli, will talk about “cousin culture” and how it relates to the conflicts of her widely praised novel in a socially distanced event at The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6. It’s free and open to the public. For more information visit www.thecountrybookshop.biz or call (910) 692-3211.
100 Years—But Who’s Counting? Join the Sandhills Woman’s Exchange for a lunch and talk by Faye Dasen, who will discuss “The 100 Year History of The Pilot Newspaper” on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 10 a.m. The cost is $25 and includes a box lunch. Bring a lawn chair for the outdoor event at Cav Peteron’s Garden, 15 Azalea Rd., Pinehurst. Should the weather prove uncooperative, the rain date is Oct. 15. For information call (910) 295-4677. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Pitch and Sway
––––––––– as seen in –––––––––
Or jog, peddle, run, walk, canter, trot, jump. You pick. Complete 100 miles on horseback, on foot, on a bike, on a carriage, on your hands and knees, between Oct. 1 and March 31, 2021 (no more 2020!), log the mileage and receive the “100 Miles for Moss” commemorative medal. The $50 entry fee supports the Walthour-Moss Foundation. You can sign up at https://runsignup.com/Race/ NC/SouthernPines/100MilesforMoss. Mileage updates will be posted. You can even include a selfie.
Old Abe New York Times bestselling author John Cribb will discuss his new work of historical fiction, Old Abe, on Oct. 22 at 4 p.m. at The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. The event is free and open to the public, and socially distanced. For more information go to www.thecountrybookshop.biz or call (910) 692-3211.
Real Live Musicians Progressive bluegrass artists Hank, Pattie and the Current will perform outdoors beginning at 7 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 24, on the McNeill-Woodward Green at Sandhills Community College’s Bradshaw Performing Arts Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Masks, social distancing, the whole nine yards. For information and tickets go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.
The Boiling Point White Rabbit Catering will serve up a delicious Low Country boil dinner, either in person or as a pickup, to support the Given Memorial Library on Wednesday, Oct. 28. For cost and details visit www. giventufts.org or go to www.facebook. com/givenmemoriallibrary. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Pine Pressed Flowers Brings Backyard Beauty Indoors Katie Tischler has been drying and pressing flowers since her teenage years. Extra time gained from the pandemic allowed her to take her longtime love of all things floral to the next level with Pine Pressed Flowers. It helped that both resin and floral art are making a comeback. Through Pine Pressed Flowers, Katie preserves flowers by layering resin to make decorative wall hangings, keychains, bookmarks and more. In the sunroom of her Whispering Pines home sits a desk, a wooden press and pages of dried flowers. According to Katie, the environment plays a big role in how the resin sets and dries. “You have to have a clean space, free of dust or anything that could be drawn in by the resin. Humidity places a role, too, so the environment has to be just right,” Katie said. And that’s just the beginning. A tedious process, resin preservation takes time and patience. She starts by drying out the flowers in a wooden press. She then mixes the resin and then, begins to layer it on. “You have to know your end goal for the display and strategically plan out how many layers,” Katie said. “Bubbles will form, so you have to stick around and make sure to eliminate those. It’s not a project you can just walk away from.” In addition to decorative work, Katie freezes memories through custom orders. Wedding bouquet preservation has become one of her most popular services. She also offers take-home flower pressing kits on her website that include everything you need to press and dry flowers or plants. “This has been so fun for me so far. It’s work that I really do enjoy,” Katie said. “I just feel so lucky to be creating something that people love and want to buy right now.” Find her work locally at Twigg & Co. and The Estate of Things, or check her out on Etsy and Instagram. PineStraw
31
32
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
INSTAGRAM WINNERS
Congratulations to our October Instagram winners!
Theme:
Back to (Virtual) School #pinestrawcontest
Next month’s theme:
“Halloween Costumes” The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
To submit your photo on Instagram you need to post a photo, tag us @pinestrawmag and in the caption field add the hashtag #pinestrawcontest (Submissions needed by Monday, October 19th) PineStraw
33
Rembrandt THE SIGN AND THE LIGHT ETCHINGS
“Self-Portrait with Saskia,” 1636, etching by Rembrandt Photo courtesy of The Art Company
September 11 - November 18, 2020 Underwritten by a grant from an Anonymous Fund of the Cumberland Community Foundation, Inc.
34
PineStraw
Organized by The Art Company Pesaro, Italy
Scan for safety guidelines or visit DavidMcCuneGallery.org The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
G O O D NAT U R E D
wrights v ille
b e ach
ENDLESS SUMMER Boost Your Immunity
The list of supplements is long By K aren Frye
It seems the virus of 2020 is not done with
us yet. While a vaccine will likely be the most effective solution to slow the spread of COVID-19, what about the upcoming typical cold and flu season?
Some of the supplements known for building a strong immune system, like vitamins C and D, zinc and elderberry, were sought after by so many in the early months of the pandemic that they are now in short supply in some areas. However, there are a few other effective immune-boosting supplements to help you make it through this pandemic — and other cold or flu germs you may come in contact with. Your immune system is your best defense. Take care of it and it will take care of you. Glutathione tops the list. A recent study in the Journal of Infectious Diseases links a deficiency of glutathione — resulting in an impaired immune response — to serious manifestations in COVID-19 patients. Glutathione is a small protein composed of three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine and glycine. It is a powerful antioxidant, protecting your cells from damage, and maintaining a super-strong immune response. And the list is long on other benefits of glutathione, such as anti-aging and detoxifying abilities. Another supplement is quercetin, a plant flavonoid found in green tea. It has long been used for seasonal allergies and works well with vitamin C as an immune boost along with some anti-viral effects. Probiotics are crucial to keeping the gut and intestines healthy. Feed yourself good bacteria with fermented foods to get a daily dose of a good probiotic, so your immune system can thrive. One more to keep in mind is olive leaf. The extract has many benefits when it comes to lung and respiratory health, and is great for the cold, flu and virus season. PS Karen Frye is the owner and founder of Nature’s Own and teaches yoga at the Bikram Yoga Studio.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Mild weather, gorgeous sunrises, crowd-free beach, and evening sunset cruises, all await you on the island of Wrightsville Beach. Summers are endless at the historic Blockade Runner Beach Resort. Stay two nights and leave the rest to us! Our Resort Package includes two beach chairs, a hot breakfast in bed each morning, valet parking and high-speed Wi-Fi for your remote work and school.
blockade-runner.com 844-891-9707
PineStraw
35
36
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
THE OMNIVOROUS READER
A McCorkle Couplet Connecting tissue of two novels
By D.G. Martin
In 1984, a
young North Carolina writer, Jill McCorkle, shocked the literary world by making her debut with two simultaneously released novels, The Cheer Leader and July 7th. The New York Times called her a born novelist. She went on to write three more novels, Tending to Virginia (1987), Ferris Beach (1990), and Carolina Moon (1996).
Then she paused to concentrate on short stories that won high praise. But in 2013 she was back with another novel, Life After Life, and then again in July 2020 with Hieroglyphics. Both books deal with the complications in older people as they face life’s end. Life After Life focuses on residents of a retirement home and the people who work for and with them. Hieroglyphics deals with one couple’s efforts to adjust to retirement and aging. Into these settings McCorkle injects rich and disturbing stories that hold her readers’ attention throughout. Life After Life is set in the fictional town of Fulton, North Carolina, a place not unlike Lumberton, where McCorkle grew up. In the Pine Haven Retirement Center, her characters come together as residents, staff, visitors and family. One important character, Joanna, provides hospice-like counseling and comfort to dying residents and their loved ones. Her activities give the novel a gentle storyline and provide a persistent reminder that illness and death are an inescapable part of the experience at Pine Haven.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
A mentor tells Joanna, “Make their exits as gentle and loving as possible. Tell them how good it will be, even if you don't believe it yourself. You’re Southern, you know how to do that.” McCorkle describes how family members embrace Joanna “like she is one of them. Lung. Brain. Breast. Uterus. Pancreas. Bone. The families discuss and explain their loved one’s symptoms and diagnoses for her as if they have never been heard of before, have never happened to anyone else, and she listens.” Each of McCorkle’s characters has a different set of challenges, but the onset of fatal illness and death is a constant. For instance, there is Stanley, a lawyer and widower. After Stanley’s wife died, his son moved into the family home, would not leave Stanley alone, slept beside him in his dead wife’s place in their bed, and began driving the grieving father crazy. To get away from his son, Stanley decided to act as if he really was crazy and therefore needed to be in a retirement center. He constructed a new image for himself, a kind of senility combined with a loss of judgment that led to inappropriate remarks to women. His crude descriptions of his desires and how he wants to fulfill them prove that his mental condition requires institutionalization. Stanley’s crazy conduct is an act to get him away from his son and into the retirement center. It worked. Stanley is only one of the several characters whose situations evoke sympathy, pain and laughter. Dealing with the presence of death is part of life’s experience. Reading Life After Life deepens a reader’s realization of its oncoming approach. It makes one wonder again why we are here, why we are still here, and whether there really is some life after life. At the end of Life After Life, one of Pine Haven’s most popular service people, C. J. (for Carolina Jasmine), is found dead in her apartment. It looks like suicide, but there are hints that something PineStraw
37
OMNIVOROUS READER
Michael D. Ritter
Senior Vice President - Investment PIM Portfolio Manager
Lauren Corum Client Associate
Steven J. Menendez
Senior Vice President - Investment PIM Portfolio Manager
To feel confident in your investment planning, you deserve a personal, tailored plan and a meaningful and open relationship with your investment advisors. Since 1991, Menendez & Ritter Retirement Group has made these goals the foundation of our practice. We are here to give you advice and guidance on how to plan to achieve your financial goals. Backed by the sophisticated resources of one of the nations most recognized financial service companies, we will develop personalized strategies that are designed to let you plan your future with confidence.
110 Turnberry Way | Pinehurst, NC 28374 | 910.693.2430 www.fa.wellsfargoadvisors.com/mrrg Not FDIC Insured / No Bank Guarantee / May Lose Value Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and nonbank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2020 Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC. All rights reserved. CAR – 0820 – 02454
38
PineStraw
is amiss. A single parent with a young son, C.J. had been secretly seeing a surgeon who had a wife and other love interests. The surgeon is an obvious suspect, but there is no closure to his fate. Near the book’s ending another character remembers “a train wreck in this very county in 1943 where over 70 people died, most of them soldiers trying to get home for Christmas.” McCorkle says she recalls her dad talking about visiting the crash site near Lumberton and seeing all the scattered debris. C. J.’s death and the train wreck provide connective links from Life After Life to Hieroglyphics. The father of a central character in Hieroglyphics died in the train wreck. McCorkle also lived in Boston for a number of years, where she heard about a 1942 nightclub fire that took more than 492 lives, including the mother of another key character in Hieroglyphics. When Lil, whose mother died in the fire, and Frank, whose father died in the train wreck, first met, they discovered their common bond, one that held them through 60 years of marriage. The story begins with Frank and Lil, now in their 80s, retiring to Southern Pines. They live within driving distance of the train wreck’s site, which is near the modest home where Frank lived for several years after his dad’s death. Frank and Lil have driven to the old house, now occupied by Shelley, a single mother, and her young son, Harvey. Shelley has seen Frank driving by before and is nervous. “It doesn’t help that that old man rides by so often now, his green Toyota slowing in front of the house and then circling the block.” When Shelley meets Frank at the door, he explains, “I grew up here. I would love to see inside if convenient. My wife, too.” Shelley resists, but at the end of the book Frank is in the backyard of the old house finding some closure. In the 300 pages between its opening and closing at the old house, McCorkle takes us deep into the lives of the characters we meet on the first pages: Frank, Lil, Shelley and Harvey. Frank carries the consequences of the train wreck throughout his life. Both The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
OMNIVOROUS READER
his father and mother were on the train, coming from Florida to their home in Massachusetts, where Frank and his grandmother waited for them. Frank’s seriously injured mother remained in North Carolina to recuperate. She was sure she heard Frank’s father calling, “Don’t leave me.” So she stayed and ultimately married a local man. Frank joined her and they lived in her new husband’s house. Ultimately, Frank went to college and graduate school, married Lil, and became a college professor specializing in ancient history and archeological relics. Along the railroad tracks he collected relics from the wreck, including a toy decoder that he imagined his parents were bringing him for Christmas. Lil cannot get over the loss of her mother, a ballroom dance instructor, who had not told her husband or Lil that she was going to the nightclub. The questions of who her mother was with and why still haunt Lil. She is also a collector. McCorkle uses Lil’s collected newspaper clippings and copious notes to help tell a story that include her agonizing experience of Frank’s misadventures with a younger academic. Shelley’s son, Harvey, collects horror stories about the Beast of Bladenboro, the Glencoe Munchkins, and other scary tales that keep him awake at night and that he uses to frighten his schoolmates and add complication to his mother’s life. Shelley is a court reporter in a Robeson County courtroom during a high profile trial of the doctor accused of murdering one of his many girlfriends. The doctor’s victim was C.J., a major character in Life After Life. Shelley’s troubles with Harvey and Frank intersect with her life’s other challenges to put her court reporter’s job at risk. McCorkle brings these different characters together into a complex, layered and gripping novel, making Hieroglyphics, along with Life After Life, more proof of her storytelling genius. PS D.G. Martin hosts North Carolina Bookwatch Sunday at 3:30 p.m. and Tuesday at 5 p.m. on UNC-TV. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Mill End THE
STORE
Est. 1936
“You have to color outside the lines once in a while if you want to make your life a masterpiece.” Albert Einstein
Create
with a palette of over 2,000 in-store textiles & trims, over 40,000 samples, designer drapery hardware & the area’s largest designer wallpaper resource library.
Fabric for LiFe
Specializing in bespoke window treatments, pillows & more.... Tuesday - Friday 10 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
2706 Bragg Bvld., Fayetteville, N.C.
910-483-2375 PineStraw
39
40
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
BOOKSHELF
FICTION
October Books
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue, by V.E. Schwab In France in 1714, during a moment of desperation, a young woman makes a Faustian bargain to live forever — and is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. Thus begins the extraordinary life of Addie LaRue, and a dazzling adventure that will play out across centuries and continents, across history and art, as a young woman learns how far she will go to leave her mark on the world. Everything changes when, after nearly 300 years, Addie stumbles across a young man in a hidden bookstore and he remembers her name. It’s a story you will never forget about a life no one will remember, penned by a New York Times bestselling author. Leave the World Behind, by Rumaan Alam A magnetic novel about two families, strangers to each other, forced together on a long weekend gone terribly wrong. Amanda and Clay head out to a remote corner of Long Island expecting a vacation: a quiet reprieve from life in New York City, quality time with their teenage son and daughter, and a taste of the good life in the luxurious home they’ve rented for the week. But with a late-night knock on the door, the spell is broken. Ruth and G.H., an older couple who claim to own the home, have arrived there in a panic. A sudden blackout has swept New York and — with nowhere else to turn — they’ve come to the country in search of shelter. With the TV and internet down, and no cellphone service, the facts are unknowable. Should Amanda and Clay trust this intruding couple, and vice versa? Suspenseful and provocative, Alam’s third novel is keenly attuned to the complexities of parenthood, race and class. Leave the World Behind explores how our closest bonds are reshaped, and unexpected new ones forged, in moments of crisis. Troubles in Paradise, by Elin Hilderbrand Travel to the bright Caribbean one last time in this satisfying conclusion to the bestselling “Winter in Paradise” trilogy. After uprooting her life in the States, Irene Steele has just settled in at the villa on St. John, where her husband, Russ, had been living a double life. But a visit from the FBI shakes her foundation, and Irene once again learns just how little she knew about the man she loved. With help from their friends, Irene and her sons set up their lives while evidence mounts that the helicopter crash that killed Russ may not have been an accident. Meanwhile, the island watches this drama unfold — including the driver of a Jeep with tinted windows who seems to be shadowing the Steele family. As a storm gathers strength in the Atlantic and surprises are in store for the Steeles, all will be revealed about the secrets and lies that brought Irene and her sons to St. John . The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Moonflower Murders, by Anthony Horowitz Susan Ryeland, the retired publisher, is living the good life running a small hotel on a Greek island with her long-term boyfriend Andreas. Then the Trehearnes come to stay. The strange and mysterious story they tell, about an unfortunate murder that took place on the same day and in the same hotel in which their daughter was married — a picturesque inn on the Suffolk coast named Farlingaye Halle — fascinates Susan and piques her editor’s instincts. One of her former writers, the late Alan Conway, knew the murder victim. Conway based the third book in his detective series, Atticus Pund Takes the Cake, on that very crime. The Trehearne’s, daughter, Cecily, read Conway’s mystery and believed the book proves that the man convicted of that murder is innocent. When the Trehearnes reveal that Cecily is now missing, Susan knows that she must return to England and find out what really happened. Brilliantly clever and relentlessly suspenseful, Moonflower Murders is a deviously dark take on vintage English crime fiction from one of its greatest masterminds. NONFICTION Keep Moving: Notes on Loss, Creativity and Change, by Maggie Smith Sometimes it seems, in the midst of a dark time, a deep rut or maybe just in the middle of a long boring stretch, the thing that keeps one from moving forward is simply the inability to move at all. In Keep Moving, Smith offers thoughts, suggestions, reflections and stories that encourage readers to keep going: to breathe, blink, sit, eat and to call that a successful day. This little gem is one to keep close at hand and revisit anytime the world gets a little too hard. When Smith, the award-winning author of the viral poem “Good Bones,” started writing inspirational daily Twitter posts in the wake of her divorce, they unexpectedly caught fire. It is all here. For fans of Anne Lamott and Cleo Wade, a collection of quotes and essays on facing life’s challenges with creativity, courage and resilience. No Surrender: A Father, a Son, and an Extraordinary Act of Heroism that Continues to Live on Today, by Chris Edmunds and Douglas Century An unforgettable story of a father’s extraordinary acts of valor in World War II and a son’s thrilling journey to discover them — an epic narrative of bravery, compassion and faith. Like most members of the Greatest Generation, Roddie Edmonds, a humble American soldier from East Tennessee, rarely spoke about his experiences during World War II. Not even his son Chris knew the full details of Roddie’s capture at the Battle of the Bulge or his captivity at Stalag 9A, a Nazi POW camp. But when Chris’ daughter was assigned a family history project, Chris reread Roddie’s wartime diaries, which PineStraw
41
BOOKSHELF
set in motion a series of life-changing events. Chris embarked on a years-long journey, interviewing surviving POWs under Roddie’s command, and retracing his father’s footsteps. Century, a New York Times bestselling author, and Edmonds take us to the front lines of this inspiring multigenerational story.
You Should Be Hanging Out With Us! Hot Yoga • Aerial Yoga • Yin Yoga • Power Vinyasa Sign up for live classes at HotAsanaStudio.com or use our on-demand classes on HotAsanaOnline.com 910-692-YOGA (9642)
Is This Anything? by Jerry Seinfeld In page after hilarious page, one brilliantly crafted observation after another, readers will witness the evolution of one of the great comedians of our time and gain new insights into the thrilling but unforgiving art of writing stand-up comedy. Since his first performance at the legendary New York nightclub Catch a Rising Star as a 21-year-old college student in the fall of 1975, Seinfeld has written his own material and saved everything. “Whenever I came up with a funny bit, whether it happened on a stage, in a conversation, or working it out on my preferred canvas, the big yellow legal pad, I kept it in one of those old school accordion folders,” he writes. “So I have everything I thought was worth saving from forty-five years of hacking away at this for all I was worth.” Modern Comfort Food, by Ina Garten In this collection of allnew soul-satisfying dishes from America’s favorite home cook, Garten shares 85 new recipes, many inspired by childhood favorites, but with the volume turned way up. There are few things more comforting than gathering for a meal with the ones you love, especially when dishes like “Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas” are at the center of the table. Old-fashioned crowd pleasers like “Roasted Sausages, Peppers, and Onions” are even more delicious and streamlined for quick cleanup. Home cooks can always count on Garten's dependable, easy-to-follow instructions, with lots of side notes for cooking and entertaining. From cocktails to dessert, from special weekend breakfasts to quick weeknight dinners, you'll find yourself making these cozy and delicious recipes over and over again.
42
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
10/1 Nicholas Sparks Mini-Events for Socially Distanced Photo & Autographed Book The Offices of The Pilot Newspaper
Fridays & saturdays Paradox Farm Tours Paradox Farm Creamery
10/8 Dreams 4 All Foundation’s Third Annual Fundraiser Cooper Auto Choice
10/24 Hank, Pattie & the Current BPAC’s McNeill-Woodward Green
LOOKING FOR A JOB? Tired of spending hours searching and applying for jobs on the national job boards and receiving no responses? Let The Pilot and MooreCountyJobs.com help find the perfect job for you.
If you or your organization is interested in hosting an event, online or in person, TicketME Sandhills is here to help. We can assist in online event execution & ticket sales and distribution. If you have any questions or think we can help, please contact us:
TicketME Sandhills 145 W Pennsylvania Ave, Southern Pines 910.693.2516 info@ticketmesandills.com
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
43
BOOKSHELF
CHILDREN’S BOOKS
We Love Our Town Almost as Much as We Love our Clients! Call us for your real estate buying and selling needs!
If You Want a Friend in Washington: Wacky, Wild & Wonderful Presidential Pets, by Erin McGill From Macaroni Kennedy (a horse) to Pauline Wayne Taft (a cow), there have been some outrageous presidential pets along with a veritable herd of dogs, cats and the occasional chicken. This fun, informative, cleverly illustrated picture book will have young readers laughing out loud and their adults cramming information sure to be useful for trivia nights. (Ages 4-8.) I Promise, by LeBron James Children believe what you tell them. This book of affirmations should be the go-to for anyone hoping to raise a child to be courageous, kind, helpful, questioning, hardworking, respectful, and curious. And in the end, isn't that what we really want of them all? Proceeds from this motivational picture book will go to the LeBron James Foundation and the I Promise School. (Ages 3-5.) Kenny and the Book of Beasts, by Tony DiTerlizzi In this highly anticipated sequel to the much-loved Kenny and the Dragon by Caldecott Honor winner and N.C. Battle of the Books author DiTerlizzi, Kenny must cope with many changes in his life — including a litter of baby sisters, friends at different schools, and the fear that he’s losing his best friend. (Ages 8-12.)
JESSICA ROWAN
Broker 910-585-5438
NIKKI BOWMAN
Broker/Owner 910-528-4902
760 B NW Broad Street Southern Pines, NC www.realtyworldofmoore.com
44
PineStraw
The Complete DIY Cookbook for Young Chefs, Americas Test Kitchen Kids Curious young foodies will enjoy this fun new cookbook that explores the secrets behind some commonly available foods (think: ketchup, applesauce, sprinkles, pancake mix, hummus, and fish-shaped cheddar crackers), and recipes to create their own healthy versions of these kid favorites. (Ages 8-12.) PS Compiled by Kimberly Daniels Taws and Angie Tally The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
SIMPLE FIX-UPS MAKE
a world of difference.
BEFORE BRICKWORK
STONEWORK
THE ONLY LIMITATION IS YOUR IMAGINATION
FIREPLACES
OUTDOOR LIVING
910-944-0878
www.howellsmasonry.com 10327 Hwy 211 • Aberdeen, NC 28315 The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
45
Now more than ever, residents at Quail Haven recognize and appreciate the true meaning of COMMUNITY. With concierge services such as meal delivery, grocery pickup and technology support, residents continue to live their best lives. Socially-distanced wellness and life-enrichment opportunities connect residents to each other, and the myriad of support and healthcare services onsite, allow residents to live more and worry less.
Call 910-295-2294 today to learn more
QuailHavenVillage.com | 155 Blake Blvd. • Pinehurst 46
Continuing Care Retirement Community from the Liberty Senior Living family
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
HOMETOWN
All’s Fair
A ride on the wild side By Bill Fields
Anticipation
PHOTOGRAPH BY BILL FIELDS
is — or at least, was, in simpler times — a big part of childhood. And there wasn’t much of anything to look forward to more than the Moore County Agricultural Fair.
It was an annual tradition to ride up Highway 15-501 toward Carthage, hang a right and pull into the field that served as the fair’s parking lot. When I heard that the county fair was being canceled this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic, it struck me that, even in these much different times when entertainment is on demand instead of on-site, kids would be disappointed their families weren’t making the same trip mine did a long time ago. This would have been the 74th Moore County Fair, it having been held each year since World War II ended. I must have attended more than a dozen growing up. We weren’t a “state fair” family. We went to the amusement park at the beach, and took a special trip to Six Flags Over Georgia in the early 1970s — log flume! — but the county event was a staple. For a small-town boy, the Tilt-A-Whirl was a big deal. For that matter, so was cotton candy, corn dogs, Sno-Cones and candy apples, which, to my memory, were the four main food groups in the years before any vendor had sold his first giant smoked turkey leg or microwaved some nachos. With a warning from Mom to keep the vast sum of money in my pocket safe, I would be off for an adventure — choosing a rubber duck, riding the carousel and Ferris wheel, shooting at balloons, pitching nickels. I ate applesauce and drank juice from the “china” my nickels settled in. Even though it wasn’t too far from home, the fair seemed exotic and full of things that didn’t populate our daily lives. These many years later, I still don’t know if it was a “Hoochie Coochie Show” or
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
“Hootchy Kootchy Show” that lurked in the shadows away from the rides and games. Whatever belly dancing or other entertainment happened in the forbidden tent I never knew. But regardless of the spelling, they were five syllables to speak and ponder each fall. A year ago, when I happened to be in town during the fair, I went for the first time in decades. Many things from childhood seem physically smaller than they used to. Things seemed more spread out, too, as if socially distanced before we knew what that term meant. The rides and games conjured memories, and so did the carnival workers who sold chances or clicked the safety bar down on your waist before the Ferris wheel spun into action. In the exhibition building, blue ribbons spoke of things cooked or sewn well. I investigated all corners of the grounds for evidence of risqué entertainment, but saw no tent or heard any crowds. The fair seemed to have survived nicely into the 21st century, but the same couldn’t be said for the Hootchy Kootchy Show. Riders shrieked while spinning through the air on the “Yo Yo.” A little girl carried a large stuffed bunny toward the exit. I did not observe anyone heading for their car with dishes or glasses. I stayed away from the fried dough but capped the night with a cherry Sno-Cone. There were three places in my world where you could get such a treat: the fair, the beach and the concession stand at the Little League field. The fair looked and felt a bit different than it had but tasted pretty much the same. A year from now, folks will be eager to return. PS Southern Pines native Bill Fields, who writes about golf and other things, moved north in 1986 but hasn’t lost his accent. Bill can be reached at williamhfields@gmail.com. PineStraw
47
The Country Bookshop is a part of our community. We work for you to curate a selection of books and serve you by helping to direct your attention to books you might not discover anywhere else. Check out our October Staff Picks!
(Staff Picks are 20% off in store and on our website). Find the book that changes your life forever. DAMITA
Monogamy by Sue Miller
Homeland Elegy by Ayad Akhtar
Cabinets of Barnaby Mayne:
In The Valley
A Mystery by Elsa Hart
by Ayad Akhtar
ANGIE ArtCurious: Stories of the
Unexpected, Slightly Odd, and Strangely Wonderful in Art History
by Sue Miller
White Ivy
by Susie Yang
Fresh Water for Flowers by Valerie Perrin
BETH
Dear Edward
by Ann Napolitano
Four CIA Spies at the Dawn of the Cold War– A Tragedy in Three Acts
Americans:
the Light and Magic of Our Creative Community
Murder at the Mena House
by Scott Anderson
by Erica Ruth Neubauer
Jesus and
Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life
John Wayne:
by William Finnegan
Florence Adler Swims Forever
Unspoken Name
Call the store to RSVP
by Isabelle Allende
by Vanessa Coore Vernon & Morgan Ashley
Redwall
AUTHOR EVENTS IN OCTOBER
of the Sea
BILL The Quiet
The Exiles
by Rachel Beanland
Long Petal
KIMBERLY Brown Bohemians: Honoring
Universe of Two by Christina Baker Kline
by Elizabeth Wetmore
Love by Roddy Doyle
TYLER Norse Mythology
by Stephen Kiernan
PAT
Valentine
Mountains Burn by David Joy
by Ron Rash
48
TRACY When These
How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nations
by Kristin Kobes Du Mez
Evil Geniuses: The Unmaking of America: A Recent Histor
by Neil Gaiman
by Kurt Anderson
by Brian Jaques by A.K. Larkwood
SUSAN BECKHAM ZURENDA Bells for Eli
In the store October 6th at 5pm
JOHN CRIBB Old Abe
In the store October 22nd at 4pm
140 NW Broad St, • Southern Pines, NC • 910.692.3211 • www.thecountrybookshop.biz • thecountrybookshop
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
HOME BY DESIGN
Kitchen Confidential Damn this kitchen and its quarantineer demeanor
By Cynthia Adams
In 2020, we learned the new kitchen
requisites: expansive, slick, lit like a Hollywood set for a Nancy Meyers flick, and/or the perfect set for your Zoom conference.
While most of us are scrounging around for whatever can be created with the random remains in the cupboards, writers at Fast Company breezily forecast the brave new world of future kitchens. Some boast smart fridges that sense what needs restocking — even possessing UPC barcode scanners that can transmit item info to your shopping list — and even order, if so desired. Extensive dry and wet food storage, cold storage that goes far beyond mere wine fridges, and specialized exhaust systems for both odor and virus removal, will be de rigueur. But not for everyone. We’re the fourth owners of a century-old house built by Ralph Lewis that has charm in spades. It also took an actual spade to chisel away four layers of kitchen flooring affixed with black tar, when we bought the place. An old photo shows me scraping madly with garden tools, including a weed claw. We hauled away mismatched cabinets from a cheap reno. Our vintage kitchen is still tiny. Most would have banged out more walls — at least two were previously removed in order to remove the butler’s pantry.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Allow that to sink in: a butler’s pantry. File that feature under “delusional thinking.” There has never, ever, been a butler in residence. Sorry, Lord and Lady Carnarvon fans, to disappoint. (Although a Swedish chap at a Key West B&B offered to come be our “house man.” We had to decline, given the absence of downstairs quarters, no wages, not to mention our bewilderment concerning what a house man would even do.) Ugliness slowly yielded to eccentric charm. My brawny partner manhandled the stove from its dangerous location by a doorway. He installed tiles and created a cooking alcove, now one of the room’s best features. Later I insisted upon industrial appliances. I envisioned a range like ones you see in celebrity kitchens, with names that sound like stealth weaponry: Viking, Vulcan, Wolf or Aga. We wound up with what we could afford — a Frigidaire, unsuited to wartime maneuvers. “It looks pretty good,” I agreed, with indifference to actual performance. We sold off stock to bankroll modest cabinetry and said appliances; the market value immediately skyrocketed. “Enjoy your $100,000 kitchen,” Don groused. “Our retirement.” But now clean, with the underlying wood floor refinished, it felt refreshed. Just having a deep kitchen sink and a sexy range to twiddle with after months spent microwaving meals on the porch and washing dishes over the bathroom sink — positively made me want to get into that kitchen! And cook! PineStraw
49
TAKING COMFORT TO THE NEXT LEVEL
2296 Suite C NC HWY 5 • Aberdeen, NC 28315 • (910) 695-2665
50
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
HOME BY DESIGN
Mainly, we enjoyed having coffee in said improved kitchen. Also, pouring wine, and reading newspapers upon the retiled island. And now? “Now that people are in lockdown, there’s all this joy of cooking going on,” says designer Kim Colin. “People are rediscovering sourdough and learning how to grow useful kitchen herbs.” What people? Those would not be my people. A functional kitchen does not make me a cook, to paraphrase the joke, any more than standing in a garage makes me a mechanic. I have not, even once, produced a meal approaching ones enjoyed at (insert restaurant name here: ___________). Not at Print Works Bistro, Green Valley Grill, Pastabilities, Melt, Mythos, Osteria, 1618, Undercurrent, Fleming’s, Cugino Forno or even, God help me, Dunkin’ Donuts. Miss Colin, it appears that I alone among quarantineers did not learn to bake sourdough. Nor master the art of martini-making, dehydrated snacks, or homemade dressings. But I did just coin a new word: quarantineer! Oh, food pornographers. You are a fraudulent bunch. I am talking to you, Giada De Laurentiis! Giada, of darling platform shoes, bohemian tops, cinched-waisted jeans, tooth veneers and dangly earrings. Star of Food Network’s Giada at Home 2.0. “Worth the effort!” “So much better homemade!” “Easy as pie!” Pie-making, for the record, is not easy. Who coined that phrase? Pie crust dough sticks to a rolling pin like dog poop sticks to white sneakers.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Also, I can spell the word umami but I have no idea how to deploy it. What is it, exactly? The “fifth sense?” Say what? Food pornographers like Ms. De Laurentiis got me good: I’ve labored long, even risked Covid over chasing down odd-ball ingredients, only to find the outcome revolting. My fig jelly looked like pancake syrup. Thai Cooking for Dummies is not to be trusted. And don’t get me started on the inedible eggplant fiascos. My partner became a studied liar. Watching Don picking at the result disguised with cilantro (or basil; bigger camouflage and easier to keep alive in our quarantine herb garden) hiding the burned bits, he remains sturdily positive. “Well, hey! It’s pretty good!” I growl like a mean dog with range rage; a flour and grease splattered one. (A positive pandemic note: I don’t yet have Covid because I can taste and smell how revolting my concoctions are.) When he commandeers the kitchen, wrecking every countertop and space, leaving the gas range (why, oh why, did I insist upon that?) blotched with more oil than the Exxon Valdez disaster — I survey the carnage from frying calamari in a too-small pot. The calamari actually tastes good. Grabbing the Windex and paper towel — there’s an upcoming Zoom wine tasting and this mess simply will not do — I disassemble the frigging oil-slicked range to scrub, blot and spray. On second thought, just don’t Zoom me till the vaccine is ready. PS Cynthia Adams is a contributing editor to PineStraw and O.Henry.
PineStraw
51
W E E K E N D A WA Y
Mountain Men The Madcap gents head for the hills
By Jason Oliver Nixon
There’s a handful of rarefied
American resorts that are spoken about in hushed terms. Among those are The Point in upstate New York, Vermont’s Twin Farms, and San Ysidro Ranch on the California coast south of Santa Barbara. Blackberry Farm, tucked into the rolling hills and mountains of eastern Tennessee, also appears on that coveted, inthe-know list with breathy nods to the estate’s culinary prowess, superlative spa treatments, impressive wine list, and themed escapes built around literary and fashion “activations.”
I have been lucky enough to visit “the Farm” and was impressed by the estate’s gastronomic glories and bucolic landscape, so I was excited to hear that the Blackberry team would be opening a new outpost up the road from the Farm and atop a nearby mountain named, predictably, Blackberry Mountain. In a word, Blackberry Mountain is camp. High-end camp. Rooms start at about $1,500 per night. Just for the room. Envision a certain luxe rusticity paired with stunning vistas of the Great Smoky Mountains, interesting menus, endless activities, charismatic sommeliers, and private fire pits complete with dial-up s’mores. And lots of
52
PineStraw
construction still taking place. But let’s dive deep: As you follow the directions from the main highway through Walland, Tennessee — about a 4 1/2-hour drive from the Triad — you might ask, as I did, “Er, did we miss something?” “Deliverance,” my partner, John, said. But then you turn onto a newly asphalted road, and that seems encouraging. We drove past the vaguely Druidic gatepost emblazoned with an artistic “M” twice before realizing that we had gone too far. Back on track, we rounded a corner to the property’s actual gates, where we announced ourselves via intercom and were buzzed in. And then we got lost again at a junction as we traveled up and up the mountain. “Just like camp,” John observed. “We need a map.” A few turns past the many homes being constructed (the Mountain is mixed use in its focus — resort meets second, third and fourth residences), and we arrived at the 5,200-acre property’s lobby-cum-bar/ dining room, aka The Lodge. The views out toward the endless pineshaded Great Smoky Mountains and the heated pool and spa lawn were breathtaking, and we lapped up the very calm interiors of the public spaces with the fire crackling merrily away in the bar. We were ferried by Lexus up from The Lodge to our stone-clad cottage complete with sprawling bedroom, spa-like bathroom, and private terrace with fireplace. A golf cart sat charging beside the villa’s entrance that would allow us to travel up the mountain to locations such as the fitness center, aka The Hub, and Firetower — and, yes, it’s a hike uphill, so the golf cart certainly came in handy. Settled into our neutral-hued (aka, beige) pitched-roof guest room, John and I set out to explore. A stay at the Mountain — unlike the Farm, which gears itself more to relaxation — revolves around things to do. Or as the resort refers to the post-reveille run sheet, “active adventure.” The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
“We want the Mountain to inspire curiosity in our guests,” notes Blackberry Mountain proprietor Mary Celeste Beall. “Have fun with that, I plan on sleeping,” commented John. “If I have to be curious, is there room service and a sauna and Turner Classics on the TV?” And so I was left on my own to channel an inner “curiosity.” I skipped the Japanese pottery class — something called “raku” — but did try the Sound Bathing treatment, and that left me a bit perplexed. There were lots of musical instruments and singing, I think. Maybe a gong and a zither. I felt like I had attended a Sarah McLachlan concert, albeit supine. But then I didn’t like the bizarre “equine therapy” I tried at another retreat either, so maybe it’s me. Would I care to do a spin class? Or any of the myriad exercise classes, yoga, spa treatments, workshops, painting classes, and hiking trails and so much more? Er, no. I do too much of too much in my daily life. Well, maybe not the gong playing. Or the raku. Instead, I created my own version of “active adventure.” I luxuriated with a perfect martini in The Lodge surrounded by a heap of magazines beside the fire before enjoying the hot tub in a natty Orlebar Brown bathing costume depicting James Bond. But maybe I wasn’t being a good sport. I recalibrated and tried to fit in. I donned head-to-ankle organic Lululemon and generic Allbirds. “You look like a trustafarian from Venice Beach,” John commented, whilst dialing up for bubble bath and ice. “Very Abbot Kinney.” Still, I tried. In my own way. “Where’s the spa?” I trilled. “A farm-to-table pedicure, perhaps?” “And is there a mixology class at the bar? With complimentary The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
nibbles . . . ” “Is there archery?” We lapped up two inspired dinners at the Three Sisters restaurant and hiked a bit and took the golf cart to lunch at the Firetower, where John and I savored the eye-popping views. I took part in a cooking demonstration and felt like Ina Garten for about an hour. John slept in, and we ran amok with the golf cart and Instagram TV-ed the whole thing. Frankly, the golf cart was our favorite active adventure. Brilliant. I considered a yoga class. And thought about Pilates. And I have no idea what happens in a “movement studio” and don’t want to know. Happily, there were s’mores that evening by our fire. What I realized was that my interest in camp-like activities ended at about age 14 in tandem with the demise of The Go-Go’s and my plaid Swatch. If I have to be active, I want to bike through Provence or hike Sicily. And if I am curious, it’s about art-house films, museums, and famous gardens. Although I do like a good lanyard. Sigh. I guess I am the wrong demographic. Get me to the Farm. So this bad camper ordered another martini and sat back to enjoy the postcard-perfect vista and wait for the internal dinner bell. PS In their debut travel column, the Madcap Cottage gents, John Loecke and Jason Oliver Nixon, embrace the new reality of COVID-friendly travel — heaps of road trips. To kick off the festivities, the gents pile into their Subaru and set off for the recently opened Blackberry Mountain (see blackberrymountain.com), the adventure-geared sister to Tennessee’s fabled Blackberry Farm. PineStraw
53
–––– Given Tufts Fundraiser ––––
910-944-3979
GIVEN-TO-GO
Low Country Boil Catered by Giff Fisher of White Rabbit Catering
Menu: Shrimp, Andouille Sausage, Corn on the Cob, Potatoes & Onion
Gallery • Studios • Classes
“ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE” October 2-24
Linda Nunez/ Paula Spinner Opening Reception: October 2 • 5 - 7pm
Wednesday, October 28th 5:30-7:00 PM Meal to be picked up on the library’s front lawn
Tickets are $22.00 per meal Meals must be pre-purchased Call or e-mail to pre-purchase your meal(s) at the Tufts Archives 910.295.3642 or by email giventufts@gmail.com by October 23
26TH ANNUAL FALL EXHIBIT & SALE
November 5-December 18 November 5: Collector’s Choice (call for an invitation), 5:30-8:00 November 6: Opening Reception, 5:00-7:00 November 7: Open House, 10:00-3:00
“Tranquil Illumination” by Carol Gradwohl
Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 12-3pm CLASSES Watercolor Creative Doodling and Mandala Art (Watercolor/Acrylic) Joy Helman - Tuesday, October 13 10:00-4:00 Acrylic/Oil Painting from Photos (Oil) Harry Neely - Wednesday & Thursday, October 14-15 10:00-3:00 Drawing Silverpoint and Metalpoint Drawing Brandon Sanderson - Thursday & Friday, October 8-9 1:00-4:00 WORKSHOPS Watercolor Loose and Fast - Ryan Fox - October 5,6,7 Lots of Little Landscapes - Oil & Acrylic Workshop - Ben Hamburger - March 11-12 2021 Driven to Extraction - Pastel Workshop - Laura Pollack - April 20, 21, 22 2021
129 Exchange Street in Aberdeen, NC www.artistleague.org • artistleague@windstream.net
54
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
IN THE SPIRIT
The Hangover Making sure the sequel is a dud
By Tony Cross
I run my cocktail delivery business out of a
PHOTOGRAPH BY TONY CROSS
health food store. Shocking, I know. I love working out and eating healthy — during the week, that is. On the weekends I’ll let loose. There are some who might say I have a supplement problem. And by “problem” I mean taking myriad vitamins to ensure I stay tip-top. When customers learn I run a cocktail business, too, the look of confusion is priceless. One of the first questions I’m asked when people find out about my double life is: What do you take for hangovers?
The Mayo Clinic defines a hangover as “a group of unpleasant signs and symptoms that can develop after drinking too much alcohol.” If you enjoy reading a spirits column, this is not exactly CNN breaking news. And if you’ve never experienced one, you’re a better person than me. Maybe. Long story short: They’re awful, and they get worse with age. Although there is no magical cure for a hangover, I’ve learned a few things along the way. But first, the basics. Consuming a glass of water per alcoholic beverage is going to help you from becoming dehydrated, which is a huge hangover symptom. Also, avoid excess sugar in your cocktails if you’re going to be making a night of it. When I was 21 and bartending at a private party, the host told me that there was a bottle of Crown Royal hidden for a lady who would be arriving later in the evening. The whisky was only for her. I took that responsibility with pride, since The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Crown was the only liquor I drank at the time. When the woman arrived, I shared my affinity for the spirit, prompting her to ask, “How do you take it?” I replied confidently, “With Coke.” “Oh, no, honey, no!” she exclaimed. “That’s only making your hangover worse. Take it over ice or with water.” Important lessons from decorated professionals should be taken seriously. I never drank Crown and Coke again. First and foremost, I strongly believe that having a healthy lifestyle is key; it’s all about balance. I know from experience that treating your body with respect throughout the week will help those weekend hangover blues. Having a clean diet is the number one priority. That doesn’t mean being on a diet, it simply means eating as cleanly as possible, and limiting the processed foods and sugars you put into your body. Next, exercise. Alcohol is a depressant, and for some folks it’s easy to slip into a routine of having a few drinks every night after work, and then more on the weekends. I’m speaking from experience on both fronts. I am happier, more confident, and have wayyy more energy when I’m in my workout routine. I’m not saying that exercise is going to prevent your hangover, but if you’re in good shape, and work out often, the hangovers are easier for the body to process. Now, let’s talk supplements. As a rule of thumb, I always recommend a good multi-vitamin. No matter how clean your diet is, you’re still probably not getting all of the vitamins/minerals you need on a daily basis. When you’re consuming alcohol, your vitamins get depleted, and it adds to why you don’t feel so great the next day. B-Complex: A lot of mental and emotional wellbeing that takes a beating after a night of over-indulgence comes from B vitamin deficiency. Most people will just take a B12 tablet, but that’s not PineStraw
55
IN THE SPIRIT
COME HOME TO STRESSLESS RECLINERS FROM EKORNES VOTED THE WORLD’S MOST COMFORTABLE RECLINER
160-L Pinehurst Ave. Southern Pines, NC comfortstudio.net 910-692-9624 ENDORSED BY
The Sandhills Original TEMPUR-PEDIC Showroom
The American Chiropractic Association now endorses the “Stressless” seating solution from Ekornes, the largest furniture manufacturer in Scandinavia. This premium line of reclining sofas and chairs provides comfort and quality through its adaptive features, including a unique “Plus” system that ensures correct support for both the head and lower back.
LOCATED ON PINEHURST AVENUE BETWEEN ARBY’S AND LOWE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT
AND NOW! ALSO OFFERING EXPERT CADILLAC, GM, FORD SERVICE
ilitary AAA and M ts n u co Dis
Yo u r Convenient C o n v e n i e n t I Auto m p o r tExperts Experts Your
Minutes from the Traff ic Circle
COMPLETE SERVICE, DIAGNOSTICS AND REPAIRS CONTACT FREE / STRESS FREE SERVICE
910-295-5888 • 2036 Juniper Lake Road autowerksnc.com 56
PineStraw
good enough. When your Bs — 1, 2 and 3 — are depleted, depression, irritability and anxiety can be triggered. Magnesium: This mineral is great for so many things, but being deficient can cause confusion, loss of appetite and weakness. For me, I take the glycinate form of magnesium. It was recommended to me by an amazing fitness trainer who, sadly, no longer lives in North Carolina. After a month of supplementing, I noticed that my panic attacks (especially if I was even slightly hung over) vanished. Seriously. I was this close to getting a prescription from a doctor, which would’ve been a Band-Aid. Instead I’ve been taking this supplement for six years now. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum): This is a flowering plant grown around the world. Silymarin is one of the substances in milk thistle believed to protect the liver against toxins. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects help the liver after being damaged. Is it going to cure your hangover? No. Will it help your liver after a night of drinking? Probably. I take a liver supplement during the week at night before I go to bed. I look at it as a multi-vitamin for my liver. When I run out of my bottle of milk thistle, I’ll switch to another company that uses herbs like dandelion and burdock, or another one that uses the resihi, chaga and turkey tail mushrooms. All good for liver protection. And the winner for “Best One-Two Punch for a Hangover” goes to: ibuprofen. Created by Stewart Adams and his associate John Nicholson in the late 1960s, the drug went to clinical trials in 1969, and was probably first tested on an alcoholinduced headache by Adams in 1971 while he was in Moscow, hours away from giving a big speech. Many shots of vodka the night before led Stewart to give it a go. “He took a handful of ibuprofen and felt fine, no hangover!” recalls his son, David Adams (Smithsonianmag.com 2020). Personally, I prefer Ranger Candy. If you know, you know. PS Tony Cross is a bartender (well, ex-bartender) who runs cocktail catering company Reverie Cocktails in Southern Pines. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
ABERDEEN CONSIGNMENTS & ESTATES Now accepting gently loved fine furnishings and décor
We buy estates!
consignment information: info@AberdeenConsignments.com • estate information: info@InstantEstateSale.com 101 N. Poplar Street • Aberdeen, NC • 910.757.0089
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
57
65 Southern Hills Place COUNTRY CLUB OF NORTH CAROLINA Pinehurst, N.C
Stunning waterfront estate located on quiet cul de sac overlooking Lake Dornoch. Built in 1993, the French Country architectural design has 8500 square feet including 5BR, 6+Baths, guest house, 3 car garage, wine cellar and pool overlooking the lake. This perfect corporate retreat or family home is offered at $1,600,000.
Peggy Floyd Broker - Realtor
910.639.1197 peggyfloyd77@gmail.com
58
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
THE KITCHEN GARDEN
Fall Gourds Harvest of many colors
By Jan Leitschuh
Come fall, when the leaves turn
and the pumpkin spice lattes star on the coffee shop menus, we all breathe a collective sigh of relief that the big heat is behind us. The morning crispness makes some of us giddy, and we succumb to that fine urge to mark the change of seasons.
Pumpkins, of course, are the first decoration to spring to mind; orange is the new seasonal black. But fall harvests come in many colors, sizes, patterns and shapes, and gourds are some of the most interesting. But first: How is a gourd different from a squash? (Short answer: fun.) For this and more, I turned to my North Carolina friend and gourd expert, Linda Fisher, owner of Fisher Pumpkin Farm in Red Oak. Linda has been growing gourds (and pumpkins) for the last 50 years on the family farm, hosting a popular fall harvest sale of many types of gourds and pumpkins right on the farm. Basically, for our purposes, you eat squash and look at gourds. Winter squashes are not gourds but can be decorative, and eventually you bake them. Gourds are purely for fun. (You won’t die if you eat them, but you won’t be raving about the taste on your Facebook page.) Gourds, she says, had a heyday. “Gourds were useful household tools provided by nature before manufacturing,” says Fisher, a former history teacher. “Dipper gourds were used as cups. The bottoms of martin gourds for bowls. Spoon gourds. Bushel basket gourds were containers for oats, corn and meal. Bottle gourds were tied to fishnets so they could float; today, they are primarily used for birdhouses and crafts.” Some gourds can become useful toiletry, such as exfoliating sponges (luffa). Some can become birdhouses (martin gourds). Some can become craft projects (long-handled dipper gourds, bottle gourds). Musical instruments have been fashioned from gourds. Some are stripy, spotted or solid, like speckled swan gourds or apple gourds. Fisher specializes in dipper and martin gourds, but has grown basketball, canteen, egg, and snake gourds, Crown of Thorns, spoon gourds, Turk’s Turban and more. And most are decorative and evocative of the ancestral abundance time, autumn farm harvest. There are whole craft communities dedicated to carving, burning and painting gourds. Besides traditional gourd crafts, some contemporary crafters dry the larger gourds, drill interesting patterns of holes and fill them with lights for an autumnal porch decoration to chase the darkness. As you yield to the spirit of the season, pick up some fall decorations to brighten your autumn. Greens, gold, tans, scarlets, whites and oranges. Ridges, long necks, short necks, spiky shapes, bulbar, warty. The The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
red/green and white Turk’s Turban squashes are spectacular. And next year, remember, gourds are easy to grow, and beloved by children. You want a rich soil for gourds. “The best site for gourds is a highly organic soil,” says Fisher. “Even just an old sawdust pile. They have tendrils that will anchor the vines to trellises, bushes and fences.” If you choose to plant gourds, give them room to run. Some vines can stretch 15 feet. They could be wound on a porch rail or fence as a decorative screen. They like what we have in the Sandhills, a welldraining soil that receives full daytime sun — just add compost and water. Some gourds need a long growing season to ripen on the vine, up to six months. Harvest your gourds when the gourd stems dry out and turn brown on the vine. Leave a few inches of stem on the gourd. If an early freeze is coming, cut off any remaining gourds and discard any with bruises or soft spots, as these will decay in storage. Cold will damage the gourds’ ability to cure. Most of us will simply buy some gourds at a farm stand or store because they make us smile. But others may want to fashion a birdhouse, or use them for art and craft purposes. Google “gourd art” for beauty and inspiration. If you’ve harvested your own, wash any gourds you plan to keep in soapy water and pat dry. Some collectors wipe down with rubbing alcohol afterward to further prevent rot. Store on a screen, in a shed or an airy spot out of bright light. Check and discard any that are getting soft instead of curing. Fisher has a hard time keeping the squirrels out of her farm-sized harvest, as they gnaw in after the seeds. When the gourd feels light and the seeds rattle inside, it’s ready for crafting. Polish with steel wool or sandpaper. Now you can paint, wax, shellac, carve or burn designs into the hard-skinned gourd. If you’ve harvested correctly, “Gourds last indefinitely, if they dry out,” says Fisher. For tabletop and decorative purposes, you could toss a few edible winter squash into the decorative autumn mix and enjoy their beauty before consuming. Some good shapes and tastes are the green, ridged acorn squash (wonderful baked with cider or maple syrup), the delicious tan butternut squash (cube it and use it like meat in casseroles and ethnic dishes), and the nutty striped delicata (eat these first, simply roast with butter and salt). All jumbled together, it looks like fall. Harvest time. PS Jan Leitschuh is a local gardener, avid eater of fresh produce and co-founder of Sandhills Farm to Table. Find Fisher Pumpkin Farm on Facebook for hours and directions. PineStraw
59
Don’t let your pup walk around like a ghoul this season! Visit our full service grooming salon!
Voted Best of the Pines for Best Place to Board Your Pet 4 Years in a Row
Boarding Daycare Grooming 1495 Montrose Rd., Raeford • 1 mile from Carolina Horse Park fivepointspetresort.com • 910-904-5787 US Hwy 1 North, Vass • Beside Spay/Neuter Clinic • fivepointspetresort.com • 910-692-2275
60
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
OUT OF THE BLUE
Tubular
Plugged in and plugged up By Deborah Salomon Note: The following stands in memoriam for bygone Octobers, when three of the four TV networks debuted new seasons which, except for Christmas specials, ran until May.
Roku. Hulu. Sling. Philo. Fubu. Xumo.
Are these dialects spoken by aboriginal tribes living on remote Pacific islands? Is Netflix a percussion instrument made from bamboo? Did you know an Apple app is coming to your Mac? Dare you cringe at sly ads that link Sling-ing to swinging? Here’s what I resent: Most “quality” TV entertainment has been commandeered by services that require abandoning cable and signing up for something that may or, as you discover too late, may not carry clandestine favorites. Mine is Ancient Aliens, where a science guy with long, greasy curls professes that Martians with elongated heads engineered the pyramids. What a relief from non-stop COVID-19 stats. In addition, my 12-year-old Panasonic flat screen of modest but adequate proportions requires an appendage in order to Sling — as well as a technician to attach it. And a very patient teacher to explain the workings. That’s OK. I’ve still got The Sopranos and Homeland on demand — superb. Also, some cheesy channel that runs The Golden Girls and Everybody Loves Raymond continuously. Go ahead . . . laugh. Those are two of the best-written sitcoms ever, after All in the Family and Sex and the City. As for streaming award-winning The Handmaid’s Tale, no thanks. I read the book. I saw the movie (filmed in part on the Duke campus). No offense, but this English major (taught in toto on the Duke campus) judges anything Atwood an assignment, not entertainment. The new quality TV, alas, has gone the way of Oreos: permutations galore, subjected to hard sell. Resisters feel out of the loop, lowbrow, left awash in New Amsterdam and CSI: Los Angeles. Ahoy, Anderson Cooper, Ari Melber, Joe Scarborough, Alex Trebek. I will not abandon you to Sling with anybody. Because that’s how the anteup works. First came cable upgrades like HBO and Showtime, whose offerings reveled in F and S words. Then On Demand. Now, the arbiters insist we abandon our current service which provides 200 channels, 165 of which broadcast junk, and sign onto HullaBallo, or
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
whatever, when all I want is ACC basketball. Lest you think me a hopeless old fuddy-duddy, I learned, early on, exactly how TV operates. Summers during college I worked as a uniformed and well-trained tour guide at NBC Studios, Rockefeller Center. In the 1950s this and the United Nations tour were musts for out-of-towners. One of the stops on the hour-long “studio” tour was a wall-sized display, with moving parts (controlled by a hand-held clicker), of how TV works: The picture is broken into dots (electrons), which are transmitted tower-to-tower and reassembled on home screens. This involved cathode ray tubes, therefore the early nickname for a TV set: tube. It was almost rocket science. I was so proud. Now, all is digital, which sounds related to fingers, but isn’t. Now, screens are so big and picture quality so hi-def that popcorn seems outdated. Sushi, anyone? Now, made-for-streaming movies and series gobble up all the Emmys. Viewers have become spoiled to commercial-free entertainment with a pause option, for when the cell rings or nature calls. The problem with streaming the good stuff is that you want to watch it all. And all, available 24-7, is just too much — although binge marathons got a lot of folks through the virus lockdown. Back in the day I enjoyed waiting a week for the next Mad Men or 24, especially after a cliffhanger. “Who shot J.R?” joined the American lexicon for a reason. The interval gave people time to discuss episodes, predict outcomes. You know . . . morning after stuff, last enjoyed when Sybil, then Matthew, were snuffed out on Downton Abbey. Oh, the agony. Eventually, when my Panasonic repairs to the flat screen graveyard, I will replace it with something “smart,” that comes ready-toSling, even if I’m not. Maybe I’ll even live to see this handmaid’s idea come true: an electric-style outlet in each room. Plug in the TV and access everything out there with one remote, from this single source. Impossible? That’s what they shouted at Ben Franklin, Alexander Graham Bell, Guglielmo Marconi, Charles Babbage, Philo Farnsworth and Bill Gates. Somebody can do it. Or, as a last resort, we can always task those little extraterrestrials with elongated noggins. PS Deborah Salomon is a contributing writer for PineStraw and The Pilot. She may be reached at debsalomon@nc.rr.com. PineStraw
61
the
CLOTHES HORSE LADIES clothing & accessories
Beside The Fresh Market
163 Beverly Ln, Southern Pines, NC • 910.693.2111 Saturday & Monday 10-3 • Tuesday-Friday 10-5 facebook.com/ClothesHorseofSPines
~ Full-service Florist ~ Custom Silk Designs ~ Gifts ~ Furniture ~ Holiday Installations for Residential & Business 130 E Illinois Ave Southern Pines (910) 692-7243
62
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
MOM INC.
You Gotta Move Working out in the Age of Corona
By R enee Whitmore
I had to do something.
Working from home meant a lot of sitting. The heat outside made jogging miserable. The endless recipes of chocolate chip cookies and banana nut muffins — perfected during QT (quarantine time) from an old cookbook — were turning me into a sloth diva.
YouTube to the rescue. I combed through home workouts, pulled on my too-tight leggings and classic running shoes and, armed to my triceps with 5-pound dumbbells, I planted myself in front of a laptop in the middle of the living room. Let’s do this. As soon as her disturbingly enthusiastic voice — so high-pitched only Bailey, my 100-pound Rottweiler, could understand the vowels — blared through my speakers, I wondered what I had gotten myself into. I started the squats, the lunges, the running in place, the jumping this way and that, all in an effort to keep up with the 20-something brunette who just walked out of an Olympic fitness competition and into my house. Gasping for air, I took a water break and told my YouTube mistress to go on without me — I would catch up in a minute. Bailey, excited from all the jumping, looked at me as if I had personally let him down in the most profound way. That’s when I saw my teenager, David, sticking his head out of his room. If he was trying not to laugh, he wasn’t trying very hard. “Seriously? You think this is funny?” “No, not at all,” his voice said, but his eyes were howling. Sweat dripping down my forehead, I checked the AC to make sure it was still working, gulped some more water, and rejoined my YouTube fitness führer, who was now trying to make me do a minute-long plank that lasted a month and a half. I took a few more “breaks,” popped some ibuprofen, slathered Icy Hot all over my shoulders, and didn’t move for the rest of the day. The next morning, I reached out on Facebook. “Does anyone know of any workouts from home that won’t embarrass me in front of my kids and my dog?” I posted.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
People mean well, they really do — I suppose. Some suggested fitness apps. That was a maybe. A few more mentioned YouTube videos. No thank you. Then I got a private message from one of my colleagues who teaches fitness classes. She was offering daily Zoom workouts — cardio mix, Pilates, yoga, and so on. Fitness in real-time with someone I knew. Yes, please. I joined the workout at 4:30 p.m., but this time I set up in my bedroom and put a note on the door that said: Workout in Session Do Not Enter (Dogs only) Eight of us lined the screen in our little Zoom boxes. Bailey and I began the squats, the lunges, and all that other stuff. It wasn’t so bad because my colleague told us what we were doing and what was coming next, so there weren’t any surprise three-day planks. Our little Zoom squares all moved in unison. As the weeks went by, I looked forward to my workouts and even moved myself back out to the living room. I’ve completed three months worth now, 4-5 days a week, balancing out my newest baking recipe: Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup, chocolate chip brownies. The exercise sessions have been largely uninterrupted — except for that one day. It went like this: Two minutes till Zoom. Me: “I’m gonna do my Zoom workout. All of y’all leave me alone for 45 minutes. That’s all I ask.” Five minutes in. Kevin, the 11-year-old: “Mom, I have a question.” Me (doing jumping jacks, breathing hard): “It can wait.” Five minutes later. Kevin: “So, am I or am I not starting back to school in the fall? And, I need a phone. All my friends have phones.” Me (doing squats): “I’ll talk in 34 minutes.” Less than four minutes pass. Kevin: “There’s someone at the door. I think they may have the coronavirus.” It was our beloved UPS delivery woman. Amazon trumps Zoom. And so does an open gym. PS When Renee isn’t teaching English or being a professional taxi driver for her two boys, she’s working on her first book. PineStraw
63
Sandhills Photography Club
Anything Old
CLASS A
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 3300 Airport Road in Pinehurst. Visit www.sandhillsphotoclub.org.
1st Place: Jacques Wood - Stonehenge-Pillars of Age
1st HM: Judy Nappi Vintage Memories
3rd HM: Shari Dutton Monument in the Pines
2nd Place: Pam Jensen - Tunda Old
2nd HM: Tom Batts - Skeleton 4th HM: Mike Stevens The Old Wise One
3rd Place: Ira Miller - Still Watchful
64
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
CLASS B
1st Place: Mary New - 92 Years
2nd Place: Susan Bailey - Blacksmith
1st HM: Mary New - Wagon Wheels
2nd HM: Cathy Locklear - Old Chevy
CLASS C
1st Place: Gisela Danielson Ancient Mixtec Turquoise Skull
2nd Place: Dave Powers - TV-In Living Color The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
3rd Place: Pat Anderson Modesto, Age 99
1st HM: Donna Ford - Contemplating
3rd Place: Dee Williams Old McDougal Church 1875
3rd HM: Lana Rebert Cody Creek Station
4th HM: Kathryn Saunders The Gypsy
2nd HM: Diane McCall Beauty from Millions of Years of Erosion PineStraw
65
A West Coast Lifestyle Boutique
Paul Blake
& Associates
ESTATE LIQUIDATION & TAG SALE SERVICES
Serving buyers and sellers in Moore and surrounding counties for over 30 years.
LICENSED & BONDED Refer to The Pilot Newspaper for current sale dates & locations or go to ThePilot.com or estatesales.net
CoolSweats in the Village of Pinehurst
ESTATE LIQUIDATORS Paul Blake 910.315.7044 Chuck Helbling 910.315.4501
910.295.3905 105 Cherokee Rd, Pinehurst, NC 28374
When it comes to local, take our word for it.
Voted Best Estate Sales Team Three Years In A Row!
Call Now To Schedule Your Free Security Assessment
No, really. There Is No Place Like Holmes!
Your Insider’s Guide to The Pines
CHECK OUT OUR UPDATED WEBSITE FOR ALL THE INTEL YOU NEED TO THRIVE IN THE PINES.
itsthesway.com
66
PineStraw
112-year-old family-owned business LOCAL 5-DIAMOND MONITORING STATION
127 Hay St., Fayetteville, NC • 910-483-1196 • www.HolmesSecurity.net The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
B I R D WA T C H
Pine Dwellers
The familiar trill of these tiny warblers is never far
By Susan Campbell
When most folks think of war-
blers, what comes to mind are diminutive, colorful songsters flitting about in the treetops during the spring and summer months. Most warblers subsist on a diet of insects and therefore head south as the first cooler breezes begin to blow, winging their way toward Central America and beyond. However, for the handsome pine warbler, things are a bit different!
Pine warblers can be found across North Carolina year round. They are not choosy about the evergreen species that they inhabit, so you may find them in spruces and Virginia pines in the mountains, loblollies and longleaf in the Piedmont and Sandhills, as well as pond pines along the coast. Develop an ear for their vocalizations, and you will find that these little birds are quite common — even in mid-winter. And it doesn’t take a whole lot of pines in an area to attract them. Just a few mature trees in a mixed stand may produce a pair or two. Pine warbler vocalizations are limited to a “chip,” uttered by both the male and the female, in addition to a musical trill coming only from the male. His warble can be heard on warm days in the winter, and, during breeding season, a come-hither signal to potential mates. These
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
little males, about the size of a titmouse, have short, slender bills, yellow bodies and yellow-gray wings that sport two white wing bars. Females are similar but more greenish — definitely well camouflaged to protect them during their brood-rearing activities in early summer. Flocks of pine warblers can number in the dozens come winter as individuals from up north mix in with our sedentary birds, no doubt finding safety in numbers. Also, they may be seen associating with yellow-rumped warblers that are found in the Piedmont and Sandhills during the cooler months. Both species may show up in your yard to take advantage of feeder offerings. Suet is very attractive to these insect-loving birds. Although yellow-rumpeds may also feed on fruit or sugar water, pines usually do not. They, however, may take advantage of smaller seeds or, not uncommonly, sunflower hearts. This species spends probably more time in search of seeds than any other warbler, foraging deep in the cones that are produced in late summer. For whatever reason, these feisty little birds are not very bashful when they are particularly hungry. On colder mornings, when I would go out to refill my homemade suet feeders when I lived in Whispering Pines, it was not unusual for a bird to land right next to me as if to say “Hurry up! Where have you been? It’s past my breakfast time!” I do miss having them in the yard where I live now. But it just takes a five-minute walk through the neighborhood to a ridge with a long line of loblollies for me to spot a flash of yellow high up in the branches and hear that familiar trill. Fortunately, a few handsome pine warblers are never very far away! PS Susan would love to receive your wildlife observations and/or photos at susan@ncaves.com PineStraw
67
T H E NAT U R A L I S T
The Natural History of Pumpkins
There’s more to the orange gourds then just pie and jack-o’-lanterns
Story and Photographs by Todd Pusser
Pumpkins have always evoked
strong memories of childhood and my Moore County home. I vividly recall each fall season my parents taking me to view the giant pumpkin display at the county fair in Carthage. I would stand dumbfounded, staring at the enormous behemoths weighing hundreds of pounds, and wonder how on earth a vegetable could grow so freakishly large. As October rolled around, pumpkin decorations plastered the halls of West End Elementary School. My class would gather in the library to watch Ichabod Crane dodge a flaming pumpkin tossed by the Headless Horseman in the old 1949 cartoon The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Speaking of cartoons, I’m pretty sure I can repeat every line from Linus’ Halloween ritual of waiting through the night, in his most sincere of pumpkin patches, for treats from the mythical Great Pumpkin. Thank you, Charles Schulz. However, it was Otis Boroughs who really sparked my interest
68
PineStraw
in pumpkins. Otis grew several acres of pumpkins, and throughout the 1980s, he, along with his wife, Nancy (who happened to be my kindergarten teacher), hosted an incredible jack-o’-lantern display each Halloween. People would travel from all over the state to their farm in Eagle Springs to see his artfully carved faces of famous cartoon characters, sports mascots and wild creatures. It was a magical feeling, standing beneath starry skies, staring at the flickering light dancing from the jagged cuts of dozens of pumpkins. Heat, given off by candles deep inside the large, orange orbs, created a scent of warm pumpkin pie that permeated the night air. Realizing how much I liked the pumpkin display, Otis and Nancy invited me over one Saturday, to teach me how to carve jack-o’-lanterns. This was long before the days when you could buy mass-produced pumpkin carving kits at Walmart. For much of that afternoon, Otis, using a special handsaw, patiently taught me how to carve Mickey Mouse and the Demon Deacon mascot of Wake Forest University (my father, a fan, was dismayed when I later attended the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill). Otis sent me home with a couple of large pumpkins to practice on, and from that day forward, I was hooked on carving jack-o’-lanterns. When Otis and Nancy finally retired from showing their jack-o’lanterns to the masses, I wanted to continue the tradition, so I took up the baton and started my own pumpkin show nearby. As well as traditional scary faces, I cut everything from Star Wars characters to The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
rattlesnakes into the orange gourds, some years carving as many as 200 jack-o’-lanterns. The simple act of placing a candle inside a carved pumpkin has long been a staple of Americana. According to Cindy Ott, author of Pumpkin, the Curious History of an American Icon, one of the first illustrations of a pumpkin jack-o’-lantern appeared in an 1867 edition of Harper’s Weekly. The image depicts a trio of young boys lifting up a carved pumpkin with triangle-shaped eyes, a triangle nose, and a jagged mouth, to the top of a fence post on a family farm. The candlelight emanating from the sinister face appears to frighten two young girls (perhaps their sisters) and a small dog walking down a dirt path. Today, pumpkins are the quintessential symbols of the fall season, like conifer trees are to Christmas and rabbits are to Easter. Pumpkin pie is a prerequisite for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Images of pumpkins adorn horror movie posters and the covers of children’s books. In recent years, a pumpkin spice craze has swept the country, due in large part to the popularity of Starbucks lattes featuring the mix (typically a blend of clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ironically, very little, if any, pumpkin). One can find hundreds of pumpkin spice products, everything from beer to granola and doughnuts to potato chips, in the aisles of grocery stores come October. There is even such a thing as (blech) pumpkin spice toothpaste. Yet, for all its cultural familiarity, have you ever stopped to think about exactly what a pumpkin is or where it comes from? It is a common misconception to think of a pumpkin as a vegetable. (I even refer to pumpkin as a vegetable at the beginning of this piece, but hey, I was only a kid, so what did I know?) Pumpkins, by botanical definition, are a fruit, just like apples, bananas and berries. They are essentially a seed case covered in a wall of flesh (the plant’s ovaries), formed when the flower of the plant is fertilized through pollination. Vegetables, like lettuce and celery, are just the non-fruit part of plants, such as leaves, stems and roots. Pumpkins are herbaceous vines of the gourd family found within Cucurbita, a genus of plants that contain well over a dozen species. The true ancestors of pumpkins looked nothing like the headshaped, orange globes we all know and love today. Originating in Central America and Mexico, early pumpkins were small (just a The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
few inches in diameter), thin, hard-shelled gourds. Archaeologists found 10,000-year-old domesticated pumpkin seeds in the Oaxaca Highlands of Mexico, making them among the first plants to be cultivated by humans in North America. Since that time, Cucurbita have been selectively bred into many of our grocery store staples, such as zucchini, acorn squash, yellow squash, butternut squash, and, of course, pumpkins. The sheer number of pumpkins cultivated today is mind-blowing. With catchy names such as Ghost Rider, Casper, Sugar Baby, Big Mac, Jack Be Little, and Possum-nosed (a personal favorite), pumpkins come in an infinite variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Some are even larger than small cars. Consider the current Guinness World Record Pumpkin, which, at a hefty weight of 2,624 pounds, is 600 pounds heavier than a Mitsubishi Mirage. Of course, if it were not for pollinators, we would not have any pumpkins, or any of our food crops for that matter. The primary, natural pollinators of pumpkins are bees, especially squash bees of the genus Peponapis. Like most native bees, squash bees are solitary and nest in the ground. Typically, they forage for nectar and pollen at pumpkin plant flowers during early morning hours. To help increase yield, farmers often enlist the aid of honeybees, a species native to Europe, to help supplement pollination of pumpkin crops. Unfortunately, in recent years, honeybees, as well as one-quarter of North America’s 4,000 species of native bees, have seen dramatic declines in their population numbers. As to why so many pollinators are being affected, scientists are not exactly sure. It is likely due to a combination of factors, including the increase use of pesticides, extensive loss of habitat, and a warming climate. One thing is more certain. Pollinators keep this planet functioning, and without the services they provide, free of charge, crops would fail, ecosystems would falter, and Earth, in general, would be less habitable. That is a thought more scary then even the most frightening of jack-o’-lanterns. PS Naturalist and photographer Todd Pusser works to document the extraordinary diversity of life both near and far. His images can be found at www. ToddPusser.com. PineStraw
69
NEVER CLEAN GUTTERS AGAIN!
Paul E. Gauthier D.D.S.
No-Maintenance Gutter Guards Advanced Micro-Mesh Technology
LIFETIME WARRANTY!
CALL TODAY TO GET A FREE ESTIMATE
910.939.8900 Family Owned & Operated 75 Years of Combined Experience
WWW.PEAKPERFORMANCEGUTTERPROTECTION.COM
Dedicated to continuing the tradition of Family Dentistry since 1947
The world looks brighter from behind a smile Southern Pines Family Dentistry
655 SW Broad St Southern Pines 692-6500
Quality Service Before, During & After
October Special 15% OFF PAIRING Butter Olive Oil and Pumpkin Pie Spice Balsamic Vinegar
A+ BBB Accredited Business • Fully Insured
RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL Specializing in Colored Metal Roof Systems Authentic & Synthetic Slate & Shake Roofing Custom Copperwork, TPO & EPDM Flat Roof Systems Locally Owned & Operated
Includes 8 recipes! thepinehurstoliveoilco.com • 105 Cherokee Rd • Village of Pinehurst • 910.986.0880 32 Balsamic Vinegars • 28 Olive Oils • 6 Speciality Oils • Pasta • Local Pasta Sauce Honey • Herbs & Spices • Olive Oil Skin Care
70
PineStraw
FREE ESTIMATES
910-944-0520
10241 NC HIGHWAY 211 EAST • ABERDEEN, NC CreedGarnerRoofing@hotmail.com
creedgarnerroofing.com
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
G O L F T OW N J O U R NA L
Passion Fruit The simple treasures of the game
By Lee Pace
“Collecting — I think it’s in your blood, or it’s not. Either you have it or you don’t.”
Mike Daniels certainly does. The native of Albany, New York, and avid, lifelong golfer started a business in the early 1990s selling premium golf tournament gifts beyond what he called the standard “bowling trophies.” That led him into the rich and deep world of golf collectibles — feathery balls, hickory-shafted clubs, paintings, books, pottery, scorecards and more. “Golf has been my whole life. Really, I don’t know what I would have done without it,” he says. “The world of golf collecting reflects the depth of the game in my mind. In baseball, you collect a signed ball or bat, but that’s about it. There are so many categories within golf collecting. Some guys just collect pencils or scorecards from courses they’ve played. We all have this common interest in the history of the game.” Bob Hansen shares that passion. He grew up in New Jersey playing at Manasquan River Golf Club and remembers at 6 years of age being captivated by the old Scottish golf artifacts displayed in the golf shop by the club’s early Scottish born pros, George Low and Jack Beckett. His father loved wooden ducks and hunting artifacts, and Hansen watched in wonder the artistry of the woodworkers. “It was fascinating seeing them hold a piece of wood in their hands and work a tool and shape this bird that is going to come to life,” he says. “I found the same appeal with the old clubmakers. I was a pretty good player as a kid and young man, but eventually a bad back killed my golf game. I really wanted to stay in golf. So I started collecting rare golf memorabilia and studying the history of golf — like a maniac, I might add.” And Tom Stewart goes deep in the world of golf collecting as well. He grew up in Northern Michigan, caddying as a 10-year-old at Petoskey-Bayview Country Club and then working nights watering the course at Walloon Lake Country Club. Walter Hagen was the first golf pro at Walloon Lake, and the golf shop was decorated with photos of golfers like Hagen, Bobby Jones and Gene Sarazen playing there during the summer tourist season. Stewart was soon imbued with the history of the game, and later, as a professional at clubs such as the exclusive Adios Golf Club in Coconut Creek, Florida, began decorat-
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
ing his golf shop with hickory clubs and antique Sunday bags — long before it was fashionable to do so. “I spent $20 for an Alister MacKenzie architecture book in the 1970s; now it’s worth $1,500,” Stewart says. “I’m lucky I never sold it. I’ve got 3,500 books and thousands of old wooden clubs. I love this stuff. I’m not particularly eager to part with any of it. But there are lots of people who want these things as well.” Daniels, Hansen and Stewart all are purveyors of fine golf art and memorabilia in two different shops in the village of Pinehurst. Daniels and Hansen are partners in The Old Golf Shop, which opened in June 2014, just days before the U.S. Open, and Stewart has owned and operated Old Sport & Gallery since 1997. And all three are longtime members of a group originally named the Golf Collectors Society that is now known as the Golf Heritage Society. The Society turns 50 this year, with Hansen and Stewart among the early members in the 1970s and Daniels following in the late 1980s. “They changed the name trying to be more inclusive and include people that play hickory golf, trying to broaden the scope of the organization,” Daniels says. “When it first got started, it was a handful of guys meeting in Dayton or Cincinnati or wherever, trading stuff out of the trunk of their cars.” To mark and help celebrate its anniversary, the Golf Heritage Society is reducing its annual dues to $25 a year from its standard $50 as a means to attract more golfers to this fraternity built around the study of the game’s history, and trading and collecting memorabilia (simply visit its website, GolfHeritage.org, to find out more). “The Golf Heritage Society has evolved so much over the years,” Hansen says. “I remember in the early days guys were trading stuff you can find at a flea market. What I’m really appreciating now is the Society has gotten to the point that the collectors want to know things and not just own stuff. The stuff is evidence of history. But if you don’t know the history, it’s just stuff. That’s what’s important — the history.” The Society conducts an annual general meeting and trade show (though 2020’s event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic), operates various tournaments through the Society of Hickory Golfers, and publishes The Golf, a quarterly journal. The GHS also operates a classified advertising board on its website where members can survey all manner of golf memorabilia available on any given day — perhaps a PineStraw
71
G O L F T OW N J O U R NA L
~ Ciders with a Sense of Place ~
There’s no better place to experience our artisanal craft ciders made from Southern heirloom apple varieties than our newly opened Cider Garden and Bottle Shop.
172 US-1 N, Bus, Cameron, NC 910.245.9901• jamescreekciderhouse.com Thurs 4-9pm, Fri & Sat 1-9pm, Sun 1-6 pm
It’s Fall Ya’ll!
710 S. Bennett Street, Southern Pines, NC 28387 910-725-0975 • www.one11main.com Tuesday - Saturday, 10-5:30
72
PineStraw
collection of 24 vintage Golfiana magazines or an antique solid maple clubmaker’s vise from the MacGregor Co., to cite a random day in September. But that experience pales in comparison to rummaging around either the Old Pro Shop or Old Sport & Gallery in Pinehurst. You can find original art or copies of famous paintings like Charles Lees’ The Golfers set on an Edinburgh course in 1849, rare books, prints and all manner of artifacts. “I never knew about the Golf Collectors until I saw an article in a magazine, made a phone call and started attending shows,” Daniels says. “It had been going 20 years before I got involved. It opened up a new world for me. I’ve made so many friends and had so many wonderful experiences.” “Our collections had gotten so big individually, and we reached our 60s and said, ‘We’re too old to be schlepping this stuff around the country to trade shows. Why not put it under one roof?’” Hansen adds. The sport of golf has thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic (the National Golf Foundation reports the game lost 20 million rounds initially during the spring shutdown but has bounced back with 14 and 20 percent monthly year-over-year increases in rounds played in June and July). And the Pinehurst golf art and collectibles shops have ridden those coattails to brisk business as well. “This business is actually doing better right now than it’s done in two years,” Hansen says. “I’m amazed. It’s interesting to watch the attitude and the people coming back that haven’t been in here for years. I think there are people who are looking at the world very differently today and they’re saying, ‘You know what, I know I shouldn’t have it, but if I want something, I’m going to get it.’” “It’s energizing. It keeps me engaged,” Stewart says of his dual vocation and avocation of golf collecting. “A lot of my buddies are retired, but I like what I do. Why quit?” Why quit indeed for those with collecting and golf history in their blood? PS Longtime PineStraw golf columnist Lee Pace admits to having his eye on the massive and beautiful Golf Through The Ages volume but will have to sell a lot of articles to pay for it. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
An upscale wine and cocktail lounge in downtown Southern Pines
LARGEST THIRD THIRD T THIRD LARGEST LARGEST THIRD * RACK AVAILABLE VAILABLE* RACK AVAILABLE*
LARGEST THIRD RACK AVAILABLE*
RACK AVAILABLE*
The KitchenAid® FreeFlex™ Third Rack fits reeFlex™ Third Rack fits ™ The KitchenAid FreeFlex Third fits tools. 6" glasses,® mugs, bowls andRack cooking bowls and cooking tools. 6" glasses, mugs, bowls andrack cooking tools. ™ Plus it’s the®only third that cleans The KitchenAid FreeFlex Third Rack fits hird rack that cleans Plus it’s thetwo only third rack that cleans with rotating wash jets. All without wash jets. All without 6" glasses, mugs, bowls cooking tools. with two rotating wash jets.for Alland without compromising space larger items below. ce for larger items below. compromising space for larger items below.
The KitchenAid® FreeFlex™ Third Rack fits 6" glasses, mugs, bowls and cooking tools. Plus it’s the only third rack that cleans with two rotating wash jets. All without compromising space for larger items below.
Plus it’s the only third rack that cleans with two rotating wash jets. All without compromising space for larger items below.
Open 7 days a week
*Among leading brands based on usable volume. Available on select models. s based on usable volume. Available on select models. ®/™ © 2020 KitchenAid. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. D200134XX ghts reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. D200134XX*Among leading brands based on usable volume. Available on select models.
910.944.8887 | www.keesappliance.com 104 East Main Street | Downtown Aberdeen
®/™ © 2020 KitchenAid. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. D200134XX
®/™ © 2020 KitchenAid. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. D200134XX
APPLIANCE CENTER
390 SW Broad St. Southern Pines
910.690.3601
*Among leading brands based on usable volume. Available on select models.
*Among leading brands based on usable volume. Available on select models. ®/™ © 2020 KitchenAid. All rights reserved. Printed in the U.S.A. D200134XX
ENERGY EFFICIENT Air Conditioning Units Economic • Reliable • Powerful
Oil • Natural Gas • LP Gas Boiler • Steam or Hot Water Sales • Service • Repairs New Installations & Replacements After Hours Emergency Services Available
Plumbing & Heating Co., Inc
Serving the plumbing, heating & air conditioning needs of the Sandhills since 1948! License # 670
Homes, Churches, Businesses, Schools
949-3232
Also - Here for all your plumbing repairs and upgrades
Call us for all your commercial and residential HVAC and plumbing needs. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Let us relieve the stress of downsizing, the move of an aging parent, death, divorce or relocation by providing the highest quality sale with the most professional service. Our staff will show respect not only to you and your family but also to the belongings entrusted to us. THE REGION’S PREMIERE ESTATE SALE SERVICE PROVIDER
Philip H. Huggins, AEL
910.670.1813 • 910.235.3763 howieandhuggins.com estatesales.net Licensed and Bonded Member Better Business Bureau Accredited Estate Liquidator ASEL
PineStraw
73
© 2019 Pinehurst, LLC
© 2020 Pinehurst, LLC
We’re brewing GREAT BEER and smokin’ some of the BEST BARBECUE you’ll find anywhere. C O M E S E E U S I N T H E H I S T O R I C S T E A M P L A N T.
74
PineStraw
300 Magnolia Road • Village of Pinehurst, Nor th Carolina • 9 10.235.8218 • PinehurstBrewing.com
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
October ���� A Nimble Deer A doe that was, only a minute before, quietly munching, leaps over a wooden fence, nimble as a goat. She rears up, after reaching the other side, like a trick dog — her front hooves dangling from her useless forelegs, her hind legs absorbing all the weight. She cranes her soft, brown neck just far enough to reach the succulent leaves of a dogwood tree. But the younger deer — smaller, less sure — stick to low-hanging branches, their tails flicking like little propellers that fail to lift them from the earth. – Terri Kirby Erickson
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
75
76
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Magic Show Seeing the world in greater depth Photographs by John Gessner
J
ohn Gessner has been seeing double most of his life. Not in the clinical sense, mind you, but in the artistic one. “They had this place, Museum Village, where I grew up, and one of the rooms was full of photo amusements,” says Gessner. Among the amusements were stereo cards — those stiff, antique cards with side-by-side images viewed through a handheld stereograph, yielding a three-dimensional image. “They’ve been doing those since the beginning of photography. I’ve been making them since I was little.” For the last 10 years Gessner has been producing 3D images with a 35mm camera fixed to a mount of his own design. He levels the camera, frames the shot, makes the first exposure, slides the camera to the right approximately the distance between the centers of your eyes, makes the second exposure, then fuses the images using Photoshop. What follows is a collection of his 3D photographs, seen with the help of glasses sponsored by Carolina Eye Associates. If you want to know why the pictures work, well, the shortest explanation I could come up with was that two images, when viewed through color-coded anaglyph glasses, produce an integrated stereoscopic image that the visual cortex of the brain fuses into the perception of a three-dimensional scene. Or something like that. As for me, I think it’s magic. — Jim Moriarty
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
77
Mitch Capel 78
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
79
80
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Jack the Radio The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
81
82
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Paul Brown The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
83
Jayarani Elamaran 84
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Extra sets of 3D glasses are available at The Pilot building (145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines) or The Country Bookshop (140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines)
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
85
Art in the Woods Sculpture grows in a Seagrove garden By Jim Moriarty Photographs by Tim Sayer
86
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
I
f you happen to be an artist trying to shop around a work that is roughly the size and weight of a walk-in freezer, your choices might be, let’s say, limited. Hauling it from one autumn craft show to another would present absurdly daunting logistical challenges, and this hypothetical Bacchus in a Box may well not fit through the front door of that cute little gallery in the theater district that represents you. So, what’s a sculptor to do? One option is the sculpture garden at Carolina Bronze, the artists’ foundry in the backwoods of Randolph County, down a gravel drive off Maple Springs Road on the opposite side of Hwy. 220/Interstate 74 from Seagrove, the ground zero of North Carolina pottery. Just because Carolina Bronze is off the beaten path doesn’t mean artists don’t beat a path there. Internationally renowned sculptors like Charlotte’s Chas Fagan have the castings of their work poured there. The sculpture garden is a natural offshoot of the business founded in 1995 by Ed Walker, a sculptor himself, and his wife, Melissa, both products of East Carolina University’s art program. “It’s all a work in progress,” says Melissa of this weekend project, years in the making. “We keep doing a little bit here and there.” While the simple, rough-hewn path around a pond will never be mistaken for the manicured gardens of the palace at Versailles, it features the art of 25, plus or minus, artists. Melissa is populating the landscape with native North Carolina plants like cardinal flower and Jack-in-the-pulpit. Just like a museum tour, using your cellphone, it’s possible to download an app from the Carolina Bronze website that identifies and discusses the art and the various species of plants when The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
you click on the corresponding number. Ed’s dream also includes a heliport for prospective clients. If that seems wildly far-fetched, it wasn’t that long ago that they were trying to figure out a way for Nancy Reagan to fly in to preview one of Fagan’s sculptures of her husband, the 40th president of the United States — a trip that was eclipsed by Ronald Reagan’s illness. Jim Galluci, well known in Greensboro and beyond for his “gates” sculptures, is one of the artists represented in the garden with his piece Temple. “Well, I guess you can say when you show sculpture in the darnedest places, the darnedest people enjoy it,” says Galluci, who recently began fabrication work on an entryway project for the South County Regional Library in Charlotte. The work will include 18 sheets of aluminum fitted to look like the pages of a book, complete with titles and authors’ names. “I really have a philosophy that the beauty of public art is you can go places where it’s never been before, open doors that have never been opened before, and get people interested that never, ever saw art before — and that’s a good purpose for public art,” says Galluci, who became intrigued with gates as an artistic leitmotif during a 1986 project. “I was shortlisted for a Holocaust memorial, and I designed a set of gates that would have survivors of the Holocaust press their hands in the foundry sand and molten bronze be spread on top of that and that would create the panels of the gates and the doorway. It was called Witness Gates.” He didn’t get the commission, but he kept the concept. “If you have a good idea, it’s still a good idea,” he says. “Gates really hold kind PineStraw
87
88
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
of universal truths, like right now. Is the door open or closed? COVID closed; COVID open.” Richard Pitts, who has a studio in New York and another in Pennsylvania’s Endless Mountains an hour or so south of New York’s Finger Lakes, is another of the artists on exhibit on the little path around the pond. He has two pieces, Holy Smoke and Candle. “That bronze foundry is in the middle of nowhere, but I think a sculpture can make a place important, until the place makes the sculpture important. I think that’s the kind of dialogue that happens sort of naturally,” says Pitts. “To show sculpture outside is very important. It creates the landscape as much as the landscape creates it.” The piece titled Candle was hand-painted, distinct from a commercial process he frequently uses now. “It was sort of a natural evolution of some of the hand-painted three-dimensional objects I was making indoors,” says Pitts. “My pieces are all hand-fabricated, and there’s a kind of spontaneity that I enjoy about making decisions and revisions as I go along. To me that’s an important part of the creative process.” While most of the sculptures in the garden tend toward the abstract, Larry Bechtel’s more representational bronze Rapture occupies a singular space. “I did the original piece, on a small scale — about 12 inches — for a private collector in Charlottesville,” says Bechtel. “He had a beautiful garden and a pond, and he was looking for something to go there. He asked me to come up with an idea, which I did, a total blissed-out rapture. In some respects I’ve tried to do that in other works but that one really hit it just right.” Bechtel, who taught English at Virginia Tech for seven years, is completing the third volume of “The Tinsmith’s Apprentice,” a trilogy of books centering on Isaac Granger, one of Thomas Jefferson’s slaves. It was a story he came across when he was researching Jefferson for a sculpture project for the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia. “I ran across a little book about Isaac Granger that included a very riveting picture of him. I did up this portrait bust of Isaac and eventually had it cast for a fellow in Virginia Beach. But the story stuck with me. In a sort of memoir dictated in the 1840s, Isaac talks about a time when he was a young man and he was taken to Philadelphia by Jefferson to be apprenticed to a tinsmith. I just began thinking about what it must have been like for a young man, enslaved on a Southern plantation, to be taken up to the largest city in the country, the capital, founded by Quakers, living in a household with other apprentices and a Quaker family. This had to be a mind-blowing experience. That was what I started with. It’s gone on from there.” Ed Walker has several of his own sculptures gracing the grounds of Carolina Bronze. Some of the other artists represented include Norman Keller (a former professor at ECU); Kim Goh; Bill Donnan (also an ECU grad); the late Bob Edmiston; the Seagrove potter Daniel Johnston; former neurosurgeon Ed Byrd; a French artist whose 19th century work the Walkers personally acquired, Jules Moigniez; and more. The peace of the pond and the path can be disturbed from time to time by groups of school kids touring the foundry (pre-coronavirus) or perhaps the pop-pop of neighbors hunting in the distant woods — or maybe the occasional curious stranger just hunting for art. PS Jim Moriarty is the Senior Editor of PineStraw and can be reached at jjmpinestraw@gmail.com. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
89
90
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
91
“What It Was Was...” It kinda looks like ice hockey
T
he University of North Carolina women’s field hockey team tied the University of Maryland’s team for the second-most NCAA Division I championship wins last year. On Nov. 24, 2019, the UNC Tar Heels beat the Princeton Tigers 6-1 at Kentner Stadium, a Wake Forest University facility, to clinch their eighth title. The win meant back-to-back championship victories for the Tar Heels and two consecutive undefeated seasons compiling 46 wins. On top of that, the Wake Forest field hockey team has three championship titles of its own, and Duke has been the runner-up four times, the last in 2013. In total, there are five Division I and three Division II field hockey colleges in North Carolina; yet, most Southerners probably don’t know what field hockey is. “Is that lacrosse?” some ask. Or, “It kinda looks like ice hockey,” they say, pitching the word ‘hockey’ slightly higher, transforming their statement into a question. On one occasion last year, my husband took my car to work at Fort Bragg, and the security guard at the I.D. checkpoint stopped him for a random search. He popped the trunk, and the guard picked up one of my field hockey sticks, saying, “What is this?” Picture an ice hockey stick but shorter, with a stubby, turned-up end. But unlike in ice hockey, and probably most shocking to outsiders, only one face of the stick is playable.
92
PineStraw
Field hockey sticks have a flat face known as the “right” or playable side, and a rounded face, the “wrong” side. “The difference is you have to turn the stick over to bring the ball back,” says Grant Fulton, the associate head coach of the UNC field hockey team and the coaching director of Carolina All Stars, a Chapel Hill-based field hockey club. “You can’t use the round side of the stick.” He continues, “It’s difficult. There are really no other sports that correlate to the technical side; it’s kind of its own animal.” Rather than a puck, field hockey is played with a baseballsized ball made out of hard plastic with a cork and rubber core. Ball speeds can exceed 100 miles per hour, depending on the level of play and the surface; and, for that reason, goalkeepers are padded up like their ice hockey equivalents. At beginner levels, the sport is often played on grass or synthetic turf, usually the kind with rubber beads. But at higher levels, it’s played on water-based field hockey turf, a carpet-like surface that skips the rubber beads and gets wetted down with high-powered water cannons. Watering artificial turf — bizarre, perhaps — allows for better ball control and the ability to slide with less injury. In a regulation field hockey game, two 11-player teams face off. “I always gave the ‘similar to soccer in numbers, positions and some strategies’ explanation,” says Denise Zelenak, the The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PHOTOGRAPH BY GREG CARROCCIO
By Jenna Biter
head coach of the Division I Drexel Dragons in Philadelphia, and my former coach. “But our skill sets are more challenging, as is the type of running.” Field hockey has rolling substitutions and no offsides, and because the ball is played primarily on the ground and sticks can only be up to 41 inches in length (no matter the height of the player), running happens in a perpetual squat. As the field hockey adage goes, bend at the knees and not at the back. The Northeast, specifically my home state of Pennsylvania, is a hotbed for youth field hockey. To put its popularity in perspective, well over 200 Pennsylvania high schools have field hockey teams, while less than 30 in North Carolina have the sport. And of the 28-player UNC roster, only three players are North Carolina natives, while 16 are from the Northeast — 12 of them hailing from Pennsylvania. Zelenak, coaching in the hotbed, speculates about field hockey’s reach. “I think it’s as simple as where it landed. Constance Applebee came from England and moved to the Philadelphia area, where she created opportunities to learn and play, which led to a league, which then spread to schools and colleges building it into their curriculum.” Applebee is the Englishwoman who introduced field hockey to the United States, specifically to northeastern women’s colleges, when she came over to study in 1901. “Once these teams started spreading into conferences, it grew throughout the Northeast, the Southeast, as well as California,” Zelenak says. Even though the sport spread at the collegiate level and, to some extent, younger levels, youth field hockey is still concentrated in the northeastern United States. My older brother often joked, “How does it feel to have a skill that 99 percent of people don’t know exists?” At least in this country. Field hockey is enormously popular elsewhere. According to most web statistics, field hockey is the third most played sport worldwide, and that includes women and men. Stateside, field hockey is typically played by women, although America has women’s and men’s national teams, and boys’ field hockey is gaining some steam. “I think it goes to the schooling systems,” UNC’s Fulton speculates about field hockey’s reach. “Soccer has always been here and massive in the women’s game, so I think that a lot of potential field hockey players are actually playing soccer.” Field hockey, like soccer, is traditionally a fall sport, and the two would compete for athletes, but getting a foothold in schools is the key to spreading the game. “The way to get into those schools is to go and meet with the athletic directors and introduce free clinics where you pop into the school and do a physical education training section, where you introduce the equipment and start it grass roots,” explains Fulton. And the younger the girls know about field hockey, the better. “My daughter, she’s 4, and they come to her day care, and they’ll run these soccer clinics. They’re just half an hour every Tuesday. They bring balls, cones and a bunch of The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
pop-up goals, and they just teach the fundamentals,” Fulton says. “If you do that at day cares all around, and you pop into middle and high schools, that’s how we have to introduce it, right when kids are 3, 4, 5, 6 years old, especially for girls in this country. There are other options, but field hockey is a big one that’s underutilized.” Lauren Williams neé Love, the head coach and owner of Pinecones Field Hockey Club here in the Sandhills, is working to right that. Williams is a Pennsylvania native, and she played for Wake Forest when they won the NCAA Division I championship in 2004. She explains what field hockey can offer to young women. “I think it is important for people to recognize the opportunity and potential for the athletes to play at the collegiate and Olympic levels,” she says. “This includes athletic scholarships, as well.” (And it’s also fun; to this day, my best friends were my Drexel teammates.) Williams says, at Pinecones, “Our mission is to bring field hockey to young female athletes in our community. Our program focuses on fundamental instruction, teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline, while building character and instilling confidence that will last a lifetime.” Building on Williams’ sentiment, Fulton says, “It’s a game that is lifelong, right? You can play all around the world. It’s like riding a bicycle. You can pick it up where you left off. You’re not going to lose the game. You might be a little rusty, but you can jump on your bike, and you can go.” He continues, “You can find a job in the big city and, on the weekend, you can go play pickup with a bunch of field hockey, like-minded people. You can build friendships; it’s transferable; it travels.” PS Jenna Biter is a fashion designer, entrepreneur and military wife in the Sandhills. She can be reached at jenna.biter@gmail.com.
PineStraw
93
94
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
STORY OF A HOUSE
Still a Castle Dunross holding the fort in Knollwood
By Deborah Salomon • Photographs by John Gessner
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
95
96
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
O
n Feb. 15, 1929, The Pilot featured seven houses built by prominent families in the Knollwood residential enclave, a development that followed the opening of Mid Pines in 1921 and Pine Needles in 1927. Why let Pinehurst have all the glory? The write-up gushes over a brick residence commissioned by golf course architect Donald Ross:
When Donald Ross delivered to the builder the plans for his new house . . . he went far beyond the concepts of a $10,000-$12,000 house and ordered what would look like a castle. In after years the house will become a shrine . . . Ross is the Mohammed of the golf cult. His home in Knollwood Heights, overlooking two of his finest creations, will be sought out by devotees for years. However, since Ross sold the house in 1931, one legend suggests that he built and occupied it briefly to call attention to Knollwood, thus increasing sales. Ross should see it now . . . if not a castle, at least a manor house named Dunross by its current owners. In Scots “dun” means fort. Cynthia — a seventh generation Texan — and Bruce Birdsall like things Texas-big. Seven thousand square feet of living space (plus carriage house/apartment, workshop and greenhouse) with six bedrooms and 10 bathrooms on nearly 3 acres suited the couple, as did the history. “We were looking for a place to retire near my daughter and grandchildren,” Cynthia explains. The daughter lives in Charlotte, but they preferred a small town reasonably close to an airport offering nonstop flights to Paris, a favorite getaway. Neither their Carolina beach house, a condo in Washington, D.C., nor a Savannah residence with formal gardens met the requirements.
PineStraw
97
“Bruce was a big golfer. I bought an ornament in the Village when we came here,” Cynthia says. Something clicked. She searched listings online. “I liked the area for its history, art, vibrant community, its bars and medical care.” Oddly, the Ross house provided no “ah-hah” moment, at first sight. “But it had potential, and we had renovated other old homes.” This one had been modernized, but Cynthia found plenty to do, beginning with removing and repairing the 37 paned casement windows, refinishing the original flooring, and adapting the screened porch to accommodate a lift down to the garden, where she had ramps installed, should either of them require a walker or wheelchair. The house was already equipped with an elevator. Setting it apart from others of the period is the asymmetrical exterior with pink brick, three setbacks and a front door facing away from the street, quite avant-garde for the 1920s. This allows a floorplan that creates a circular flow during large gatherings. The Birdsalls enjoy entertaining; when they moved in, in 2018, they put invitations for a get-acquainted party in mailboxes throughout the neighborhood. The house is scheduled to be on next spring’s (COVID permitting) Southern Pines Garden Club home and garden tour. True, the main staircase stands, traditionally, opposite the front door, but the dining room lined with casement windows forms a wing jutting to the left. Enter the kitchen directly from the foyer area, continue to the screened porch, the bar room (where they have cocktails daily at 5:30 p.m.), the Carolina sunroom (big enough to comfortably accommodate a 10-foot leather couch) and back to the living room.
98
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
99
100
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Also off the foyer, an adorable nook (originally a butler’s pantry?) furnished with a scaled-down table, chairs and tea service, for the granddaughters. The kitchen contains a farm sink painted in blue Provençal motifs with matching backsplash tiles, white glass-front cupboards, a yellow Viking double-oven range and yellow prep sink. The two-tiered island has a stained (not painted) base, and the ceiling is covered in floorboards. Upstairs, the master suite opens out onto a TV room, formerly a porch as indicated by the exposed brick wall. A five-part bath-dressing room laid out around a hallway appears to have been put together by a previous owner from a bedroom and small bath. Cynthia’s office and guest rooms complete the second floor, with Bruce’s office and more guest rooms, formerly servants’ quarters, accessed by a narrow staircase. Almost every room has built-in bookshelves; a corner fireplace in the living room follows the Scottish placement tradition, Cynthia learned. Then, the above-ground basement Texas room, with giant black and white floor tiles, weathered leather upholstery, a pair of wall-mounted longhorns, a lampshade made from hide, a photo of long-ago Texas rangers and other Lone Star memorabilia justifying its name. Also on this level, a combination wine cellar and fitness room. The Birdsalls purchased adjacent lots, enabling construction of a workshop for Bruce’s vintage motorcycles and cars, as well as a Victorian greenhouse imported from Belgium for Cynthia’s plants. Guarding her raised beds, the fountain statue of a woman is reminiscent of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, set in Savannah. Already in place when the Birdsalls assumed ownership, an apartment with deck over the carriage house and a complete outdoor kitchen with dining area, stone fireplace and koi pond. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
101
No pool. “We’re not pool people,” she says. But they are grandparents who provide a tree house, where the grandkids have art lessons. The Birdsalls travel, collect and display, with restraint. No clutter in this fort. Cynthia identifies favorites: In the living room, a 19th century inlaid French armoire, “The first piece of furniture I ever bought,” now filled with crystal flutes. In the bar room, where they relax over afternoon cocktails, Cynthia displays Bruce’s collection of single-malt Scotch. Her favorite kitchen appliance is a gelato maker, which she uses to turn berries and mint from the garden into elegant European-style desserts. The dining room standout has to be the table that seats 12, custom-made from a single mesquite tree, with a heavy wrought iron base. Paisley upholstery on porch furniture was chosen to complement a poster from Verona. Cynthia is definitely a poster person: Her favorite, drawn and signed by Tony Bennett, has a jazz theme. Cynthia and Bruce were regulars at the New Orleans Jazz Festival. The star of the master bedroom, done in white and seafoam beige, is a tiny crystal Baccarat jewelry box found at an antique auction, while in the master bathroom Cynthia likes a round glass stand next to the claw-foot tub for her bathtime glass of Champagne. Also in the bath suite, a glass-front cabinet belonging to Bruce’s mother now displays Cynthia’s collection of perfume bottles. Their only other family heirloom, a child’s rocking chair made by Cynthia’s great-grandfather, has a special place in a guest room, as does a purple velvet slipper chair.
102
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
103
Of the several chandeliers, Cynthia’s prize, from a mansion in New Orleans’ Garden District, is suspended over the main staircase, where also hangs a family portrait. A former maid’s quarters is home to a dress-up closet containing costumes worn by Cynthia’s granddaughters. The unifying factor: Walls throughout glow a particular shade of white, like whole milk diluted with chardonnay. Moldings and woodwork have been painted high gloss to reflect light streaming through windows occasionally covered by shutters, never drapes. “Colors create energy, and I’m looking for calm,” Cynthia explains. Bruce’s favorite things, aside from his workshop, set Dunross apart. A system of soft lights weaves through the tall pines surrounding the lawn. At dusk they come on, bathing the estate in faux moonlight. Donald Ross’ castle has evolved into an extraordinary retirement home occupied by far-from-ordinary people. Cynthia grew up on a ranch in East Texas; Bruce in a wood frame house in Connecticut. Dunross represents their achievements, as well as a well-planned gathering place for families, friends and two French bulldogs named, bien sur, for a pair of French institutions, Coco Chanel and Rémy Martin. “This house has a sense of peace about it — a contented place,” says Cynthia, “a good place to spend our last years.” PS
104
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
A L M A N A C
October n
By Ashley Wahl
O
ctober is a cauldron of enchantment. The cracking open of pecan husks. The whirl of sparrows casting cryptic messages across fiery canvases. Crisp air and burn piles. Black walnuts and black dahlias. Golden leaves and ever-fading light. October awakens the mystic, beckons homemade tinctures, loose-leaf teas, sage leaves wrapped in tidy bundles. October is pumpkins and gourds, pumpkins and gourds, spring-blooming bulbs in the cool autumn soil. She’s the veil between worlds — thin as a web in the morning light. The black cat that slinks across your path, disappears, then watches from beyond a silky sea of milkweed pods. Do not be afraid. October is ripe with blessings. You need only let her reveal them. Try squatting down — fluid movements are best — and then gaze into her yellow moon-eyes until all you can see is yourself. This is her invitation. And in her own time — you cannot rush nature — she will saunter toward you, perhaps with a jingle, and all superstition will dissolve. October is the black cat kissing your hand, arm and shin with her face and body, her circular movements like that of an ancient symbol, a sacred dance, a living incantation. She is purring. She is plopping belly-up in the dry leaves at your feet. She is all but crawling into your lap — a playful and hallowed month filled with auspicious surprises.
There is no season when such pleasant and sunny spots may be lighted on, and produce so pleasant an effect on the feelings, as now in October. — Nathaniel Hawthorne
Mums the Word
Chrysanthemums are blooming. Pink, purple, red, orange and yellow. Doublepetaled and fringed. Heirloom cultivars as lovely as dahlias. In Chinese bird and flower paintings, chrysanthemums are depicted in ink wash paintings among the “Four Gentlemen” or “Four Noble Ones,” an assemblage of plants that represent the four seasons: plum blossom (winter), orchid (spring), bamboo (summer), and chrysanthemum (autumn). Native to China, this medicinal flower was brought to Japan by Buddhist monks in the year 400. Here in the United States, a “Dark Purple” cultivar was imported from England in 1798 by Col. John Stevens, the American engineer who constructed the country’s first steam locomotive and steam-powered ferry. In the years since, mums have reigned as the “Queen of Fall Flowers,” singing alongside our kale, pansies and cabbage, and coloring our autumn gardens magnificent. According to feng shui, chrysanthemums bring happiness and laughter into the home. They’re loaded with healing properties and have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Chrysanthemum tea (made from flowers of the species morifolium or indicum) is considered a common health drink in China, often consumed for its cooling and calming effect. And as any flower-savvy gardener will tell you, mums repel most insects yet are non-toxic to animals. Glory be to this noble flower! Long live the lovely Queen of Fall.
Autumn leaves don’t fall, they fly. They take their time and wander on this their only chance to soar. — Delia Owens, Where the Crawdads Sing
The Night Sky
This year, the full harvest moon rises on the first of October, and on the last day of the month, the first blue moon of 2020 (the full hunter’s moon) will create the quintessential vision of Halloween, illuminating the sky for a howl-worthy night. And, look, there’s another celestial beauty shining bright this month: Mars. On Oct. 6, Mars will be just about as close to Earth as it can get — 38.57 million miles — a proximity the likes of which we won’t see again until September 2035. On Tuesday, Oct. 13, Mars will arrive in the constellation Pisces, beaming from dusk until dawn at a magnitude three times brighter than our brightest nighttime star, Sirius. In fact, this month Mars supersedes Jupiter as the second-brightest planet, following the moon and Venus as the third brightest object in the night sky. PS The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
105
&
Arts Entertainment C A L E N DA R
Kiln Opening
10/
3
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 an event. JOY OF ART STUDIO. Joy of Art Studio is offering after school Create with Joy, homeschool art, history, and fashion illustration, Saturday Paint with Joy, Anime and Techniques, Abstract Art and Surface Design for Women, and private lessons. You can also book small art groups and birthday parties. 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. GIVEN BOOK SHOP. The Given Book Shop will be open on a limited basis. Those who wish to enter must wear a face mask, have their temperature taken and abide by rules of social distancing. For those not wishing to enter the bookshop, a request form can be found at www.giventufts.org/book-request-form/. Please check www.giventufts.org for up-to-date information on the status of open days, hours of operation and book donations. The Given Book Shop, 95 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 585-4820. GIVEN MEMORIAL LIBRARY. The Given Memorial Library will be open on a limited basis. Those who wish to enter must wear a face mask, have their temperature taken and abide by rules of social distancing. Please check www. giventufts.org for up-to-date information on the
106
PineStraw
Outdoor Theater Show
10/
16
status of open days and hours of operation. For those not wishing to enter the library, “to-go” orders can be placed by phone or email. Go to the online catalog at www.giventufts.com and under the library drop-down menu select catalog. Check for availability and then call (910) 2956022 or email info@giventufts.com. Staff will fill requests and contact with instructions on pickup. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. LITTLE READERS. Little Clips for Little Readers features fun rhymes, songs and literacy tips for children aged birth to 5, and their parents and caregivers. Look for these videos posted weekly on Southern Pines Public Library’s Facebook and YouTube channel. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www. sppl.net.
Read for the Record
10/
29
TAKE AND MAKE BAG. Kids in grades K-5 are invited to pick up a Take-and-Make Bag featuring projects, experiments and crafts. These bags will feature all the materials and instructions for activities based on science, technology, engineering, art and math. New bags are available on Wednesdays on a first come, first served basis. A special Halloween Treat Bag will be available on Oct.28. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net. STORYWALK. Join us for a new StoryWalk during October. Vote for Our Future, by Margaret McNamara, is the book. You will wind around the path, giving children and their caregivers ideas for activities along the way. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.
MOORE ART SHARE. The Arts Council of Moore County and Given Memorial Library invite citizens of all ages to share their art with the community by submitting it to an online publication. Submissions can include visual arts, music, theater, short stories, videos, photography, recipes and more. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.mooreart.org.
Thursday, October 1
WEYMOUTH CENTER. The Weymouth Center has tentative events dependent upon the directives of the governor’s office. Visit www.weymouthcenter.org for upcoming event information.
Friday, October 2
BOOK EVENT. 5 - 9 p.m. Author Nicholas Sparks will stop by to sign books for customers. Tickets can be purchased for a time slot to attend the socially distanced gathering and get a photo. Masks required. The Pilot, 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info and tickets: www. ticketmesandhills.com. ART IN QUARANTINE. The Arts Council of Moore County and Mrs. John Daughtridge present “Art in Quarantine.” The exhibit features visual artists’ works created during The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
CA L E N DA R the COVID-19 quarantine including paintings, sculptures, jewelry and decorative face masks. The exhibit continues through Oct. 30. Campbell House Galleries, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.mooreart.org. OPENING RECEPTION. 5 - 7 p.m. Join the Artists League of the Sandhills for the opening of “All Things Are Possible.” It is a joint exhibit by Artists League members Linda Nunez and Paula Spinner. The exhibit will be on display through Oct. 24. Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 9443979 or artistleague.org.
Saturday, October 3 KILN OPENING. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. The R.D. Mahan kiln opening is an annual event celebrating pottery and family. There will be new work available fresh from the wood kiln along with tree pots, soul pots, bells and more. The kiln will also be open on Oct. 4 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Shop in person and online. Refreshments to go. Masks required. From The Ground Up, 172 Crestwood Road, Robbins. Info: (910) 464-6228 or www.fromthegrounduppots.com.
Sunday, October 4 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 is currently scheduled to meet via Zoom. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. To join email: lholden@sppl.net.
Tuesday, October 6 ART LECTURE. 5:30 - 7 p.m. This lecture is presented by Molly Gwinn and will be on “Physicians and Heroes: Two Portraits of Philadelphia Surgeons by Thomas Eakins.” Cost is $25 for Arts Council members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited to 10 people per lecture. There will be a second lecture on Oct. 7 from 10 - 11:30 a.m. Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.mooreart.org. AUTHOR EVENT. 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Susan Zurenda will discuss “cousin culture” in relation to the conflicts and circumstances in her Southern literary novel Bells for Eli. The event is free and open to the public, though rules of social distancing apply. It will be followed by a book signing. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. For information see www.thecountrybookshop.biz. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Thursday, October 8 LUNCH AND LEARN. 10 a.m. Join the Sandhills Woman’s Exchange for a lunch and learn event with speaker Faye Dasen of The Pilot. The presentation will be on “The 100 Year History of The Pilot Newspaper.” Cost is $25 per person and includes a box lunch. Bring a lawn chair. Rain date will be Oct. 15. Outdoors at Cav Peterson’s Garden, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677.
Thursday, October 15 CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE. 6:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be Harry Smeltzer with a presentation on “Gen. Irwin McDowell’s Real Plan for the First Battle of Bull Run.” Meeting starts at 7 p.m. Open to the public. This date is tentative pending COVID-19 restrictions. Please call or email to confirm. Civic Club, corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Ashe Street, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-0452 or mafarina@aol. com.
Friday, October 16 OUTDOOR THEATER SHOW. 7 p.m. The Encore Center will be running a familyfriendly outdoor show, “The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon.” Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy this wild comedy with audience participation. There will be additional shows on Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. and Oct. 18 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $20 for VIP. The Encore Center, 160 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 725-0758 or www. encorecenter.net.
Saturday, October 17 BAKE SALE. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Women of the Pines invites you to its fall bake sale. Stop by for lunch and homemade baked goodies. There will be raffle prizes as well. Face masks are mandatory. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst.
Thursday, October 22 AUTHOR EVENT. 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. New York Times bestselling author John Cribb will discuss his sweeping new work of historical fiction Old Abe. Every scene is based on actual events that bring Abraham Lincoln, his family and the hardships of the Civil War to life. The event is free and open to the public with social distancing in effect. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad Street, Southern Pines. For information see www.thecountrybookshop.biz.
Saturday, October 24 LIVE CONCERT. 7 - 9:30 p.m. Hank, Pattie and the Current perform. This is an outdoor concert and masks will be required. BPAC’s
McNeill-Woodward Green, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and tickets: www.ticketmesandhills.com.
Tuesday, October 27 PAGE TURNERS. 10:30 a.m. Southern Pines Public Library’s newest book club will meet via Zoom. The book for October is The Broken Girls, by Simone St. James. Can’t make the live meeting? Head over to the SPPL Page Turners Facebook Page to post your thoughts and interact with group members. Info: (910) 692-8235 or email lib@sppl.net. ART LECTURE. 5:30 p.m. This lecture is presented by Ellen Burke and will be on “Nature and The Pursuit of Beauty: The Paintings and Decorative Arts of Louis Comfort Tiffany.” Cost is $25 for Arts Council members and $30 for non-members. Space is limited to 10 people per lecture. There will be a second lecture on Oct. 28 at 10 a.m. Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.mooreart.org.
Wednesday, October 28 LOW COUNTRY BOIL. A Low County Boil Dinner will occur either in person or as a pickup dinner in support of Given Memorial Library. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. For more information visit www. facebook.com/givenmemoriallibrary or www. giventufts.org.
Thursday, October 29 READ FOR THE RECORD. In this virtual celebration, pick up a free copy of the book Evelyn Del Rey Is Moving Away, by Meg Medina, starting on Oct. 26, and watch Miss Christin read the story live on our Facebook page on Oct. 29 at 10:30 a.m. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8325 or www.sppl.net.
Friday, October 30 SPOOKY TALES. 4 p.m. Tune in to the Southern Pines Public Library’s Facebook page for some Spooky Southern Pines Tales. Carley Sutton of A Step in Time Tours will share her knowledge of local happenings and historical costuming. Catch the video live or watch during Halloween weekend. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8325 or www.sppl.net.
UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, November 5 THEATRE SHOW. 7 p.m. Coronavirus permiting, Judson Theatre Company hopes to present PineStraw
107
CA L E N DA R A Few Good Men, a classic military mystery. Owens Auditorium at SCC, 3395 Airport Road, Southern Pines. Check for latest info: www. judsontheatre.com.
WEEKLY EVENTS Mondays INDOOR WALKING. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Improve balance, blood pressure and maintain healthy bones with one of the best methods of exercise. Classes are held at the same time Monday through Friday. Ages 55 and up. Cost for six months: $15/resident; $30/nonresident. Southern Pines Recreation Center, 210 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376. WALKING WITH EASE. 10 - 11 a.m. Participants will learn how to walk safely, improve flexibility, strength and stamina all while getting into shape. Classes are held every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday for six weeks. Ages 55 and up. Cost: $15/resident; $30/nonresident. Southern Pines Recreation Center, 210 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.
MASTER GARDENER HELP LINE. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. If you have a garden problem, a garden pest, a question, or if you want help deciding on plant choices, call the Moore County Agriculture Cooperative Extension Office. Knowledgeable Master Gardener Volunteers will research the answers for you. The help line is available Monday through Friday and goes through October 31. Walk-in consultations are available during the same hours at the Agricultural Center, 707 Pinehurst Ave., Carthage. Info: (910) 947-3188.
Wednesdays
TAP CLASS. 1:30 - 3 p.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 and registration: (910) 692-7376.
FARM TO TABLE. Join Sandhills Farm to Table Co-op by ordering a subscription of local produce to support our local farmers. Info: (910) 722-1623 or www.sandhillsfarm2table.com.
Tuesdays
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 and registration: (910) 692-7376.
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.
TESLA HRC HAIR RESTORATION SOLUTIONS
TAP CLASS. 1:30 - 3 p.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 and registration: (910) 692-7376. FARMERS MARKET. 3 - 6 p.m. The Farmers Market in Pinehurst offers a great variety of farmers and produce including asparagus, lettuce, tomatoes, grass-fed beef, goat cheese, flowers and more. Village Green, Pinehurst.
Thursdays
Fridays
MOVIES ON THE SQUARE. Come enjoy a movie on the Sunrise Square. Titles to be announced. Call (910) 692-3611 or visit www.
PineNeedler Answers from page 127
125 Fox Hollow Road, Suite 103 Pinehurst, NC 28374 910-684-8808 | 919-418-3078 | teslahrc@gmail.com Anna Rodriguez • Confidentiality is ensured.
‘Deck Your Halls’ This Holiday Season
The Possibilities are Endless at VLV Designs! Contact Us Today to See How We Can Bring Your Design Dreams to Life! Services: Holiday Decorating, Tree Decorating, Interior Design, Custom Faux Paint Treatments, Custom Artistic Murals, Furniture Renovation, Furniture, Accessories and Paint Selection
Shop local & handmade 630-768-1388 victoria@vlvdesigns.net vlvdesigns.net Follow Us On Social Media!
108
PineStraw
at Downtown Southern Pines’ own pottery studio and gallery Mon-Sat 10 to 5 www.ravenpottery.com
260 W. Pennsylvania Ave • Southern Pines, NC • 336-465-1776 The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
CA L E N DA R sunrisetheater.com for more information on movie titles and showings.
Saturdays FARMERS MARKET. 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. The Southern Pines Farmers Market has a variety of fresh produce, baked goods and more. Downtown Southern Pines. PINEHURST FARMERS MARKET. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Farmers Market in Pinehurst has a great variety of farmers and produce including asparagus, lettuce, tomatoes, grass-fed beef, goat cheese, flowers and more. Village Green, Pinehurst. MOVIES ON THE SQUARE. Come enjoy a movie on the Sunrise Square. Titles to be announced. Call (910) 692-3611 or visit www. sunrisetheater.com for more information on movie titles and showings.
Mid-State Furniture of Carthage
Sundays MOVIES ON THE SQUARE. Come enjoy a movie on the Sunrise Square. Titles to be announced. Call (910) 692-3611 or visit www. sunrisetheater.com for more information on movie titles and showings. PS
#newarrivals
1650 Valley View Road • Southern Pines, NC Adjacent to Hyland Golf Course on US 1
910-692-0855
403 Monroe St. Downtown Carthage 910-947-3739
www.WindridgeGardens.com Wed - Sat 10AM-5PM and Sun 1PM-5PM Design, Delivery and Installation
POWER YOU CAN COUNT ON MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET
Tomatoes, Apples, Fruits, Veggies, Jams, Meats, Flowers & Plants, Crafts, Goat Cheese, Prepared foods, Local Honey, Baked Goods License# 32340
THE GENERATOR GUYS
Follow us on
www.highcottonconsignment.com The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Affordable Maintenance Plans
FREE Consultations
24 Hour Service
Extended Warranties
Low Interest Financing
Factory Trained Technicians
910-241-4752 GeneracNC.com
MONDAYS FirstHealth Fitness Center CLOSED THURSDAYS Armory Sports Complex 604 W. Morganton Rd. • Southern Pines Facility Courtesy of Town of Southern Pines 9am – 1pm • YEAR ROUND SATURDAYS Downtown Southern Pines SE Broad St. & NY Ave. Facility courtesy of Town of Southern Pines 8am - Noon • April 18 - October 31, 2020 OPEN ALL SATURDAYS IN OCTOBER
Call 947-3752 or 690-9520 for more info. hwwebster@embarqmail.com Search online “Moore County Farmers Market Local Harvest” SNAP welcomed here
PineStraw
109
Flavors of the Sandhills' culinary scene
Restaurant Guide Whether you’re looking for an intimate date night or a place to feed the whole family, take a peek at some of the best dishes and ambience that our neighborhood has to offer. 110
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
A rejuvenation to match the times. With the pandemic forcing local businesses to adapt to the times, Curt Shelvey found a way to revamp his restaurant and meet the needs of the COVID era. Meet Grinders and Gravy, a venue with fresh Italian food for everyone with a pickup window for to-go orders or to enjoy your meal in the outdoor seating area with tables, fans and music. The
grinder, the main feature, includes bread from Cassone’s Bakery in Tribeca, house-made veal, pork and beef meatballs, hand-breaded parmesan, house-made mozzarella, and tomato gravy. The menu rotates among 25 different grinders, and includes pasta dishes and other Italian street food to warm your stomach and heart.
515 SE BROAD ST. SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | (910) 725-1868 | GRINDERSANDGRAVY.COM
New Owners, New Menu, Same Small Town Charm With its new purchase of Southern Pines Golf Club, the Pine Needles and Mid Pines family have added their own flair to the menu at the 1906 Grill. Enjoy golf course views from the airy dining room over
a casual breakfast or lunch. Start your day with house-made biscuits, waffles, an egg bowl or a smoothie, or enjoy a variety of sandwiches, wraps, salads, and more after a round of golf at this Southern Pines local gem.
290 COUNTRY CLUB CIR. | SOUTHERN PINES, NC | (910) 692-6551 | SOUTHERNPINESGOLFCLUB.COM
Experience a world of culinary possibilities in downtown Southern Pines Wolcott’s is a community staple of downtown Southern Pines, and along with the new expansion of Fish Co. next door, boasts a metropolitan atmosphere accompanied by impeccable attention to detail, extraordinary taste, and warm and friendly service. The uncomplicated, Neo-continental cuisine of Wolcott’s pairs locally sourced ingredients with
world-class wine to provide a menu like no other. From caramelized onion and apple-stuffed pork loin to a unforgettable lobster roll, Wolcott’s will be having you coming back for seconds. Meanwhile, Fish Co. features fresh sushi flown in regularly from Hawaii, and sake cocktails to provide residents and visitors alike with a new culinary adventure.
160 W. PENNSYLVANIA AVE. SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.695.1551 | WOLCOTTSRESTAURANT.COM 190 W. PENNSYLVANIA AVE. SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.725.2171 | FISHCOSUSHI.COM
Vito’s Celebrates 40 Years of a Family Tradition For the past 40 years, Vito’s has In addition to offering delicious been offering the best Italian Italian food, Vito’s grows many pizza and dishes in Moore County, of their own vegetables in a ® providing the region with a taste garden out back, and has an of hospitality that mirrors that extensive wine collection in a found in Southern Italy. Started temperature controlled cellar in in 1980 by brothers Vito, Franco, Southern Pines. Vito invites wine and Giovanni, the restaurants loving guests to speak with him Established 1980 have raised the next generation personally about their favorite of leaders: Vito’s son, Marco, and nephew, wine and vineyards. Whether you’re a regular Michael, at the Southern Pines location, and or brand new to the restaurant, you’re always nephew, Mino, running the Pinehurst operation. treated like family at Vito’s. 615 SE BROAD ST., SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.692.7815 1689 NC-5, ABERDEEN, NC 28315 | 910.295.0304 VITOSNC.COM
Take a step back in time at Drum & Quill Hidden among tall pines of Pinehurst is a storied authentic American tavern, Dru m & Quill. Drum represents famous golf writer Bob Drum and Quill represents the pen that he used to immortalize Arnold Palmer as they founded Golf’s Pro Grand Slam. Built on the old Irish tradition of a Public House, a place to gather or a cozy place to eat, drink and make new
friends. Try their famous p i me nto c h e e s e b u rg e r, Korean beef tacos or fried green tomato caprese, but whatever you do, don’t leave without sampling a cocktail. The bar at Drum & Quill boasts nearly 200 spirits to wet your whistle, housed in a 130-year-old magistrate judge’s chamber that is just a taste of the historic authenticity of Moore County’s most liked tavern.
40 CHINQUAPIN RD. PINEHURST, NC 28374 | 910.295.3193 | DRUMANDQUILL.COM
Quality Food Meets Warm Hospitality If you’re looking for warm hospitality in a quaint, local atmosphere, look no further than Midland Bistro. Exceptional customer service is a key component to building their reputation as a local favorite for breakfast
and lunch, along with quality food. At Midland, there is also a strong emphasis on supporting local, as they love to utilize local produce as much as possible. Even their fresh bread and aromatic coffee come from nearby Aberdeen.
2160 MIDLAND RD. SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.420.1030 | MIDLANDBISTRO.COM
The Deuce, One of Golf’s Greatest Gathering Spots The Deuce at Pinehurst Resort overlooks the 18th hole of the famed No. 2, where diners gather to watch golf and enjoy open-air seating. The restaurant offers an array of
craft cocktails and delectable dining selections in a casual pub setting, including shareables like Taterman Tots and wings, as well as towering sandwiches and crisp salads.
Overlooking the 18th green of Pinehurst No. 2
ONE CAROLINA VISTA DR. VILLAGE 28374 | 910.235.8134 | PINEHURST.COM SundayOF– PINEHURST, Thursday, 11NC a.m. – 6 p.m.
Friday – Saturday, 11 a.m. –8 p.m.
Tantalizing burgers with a side of up and down.
Pine Needles pairs casual elegance with Southern comfort I n - Th e - R o u g h L o u n g e
Pine Needles makes hosting your in a charming environment. next special occasion effortless. Nothing to celebrate? Stop Whether you’re getting friends by In The Rough Lounge for or family together for a dinner, lunch to enjoy the famous Bell gathering for a luncheon with Burger, grab a cocktail by the Dine-In and Takeout the ladies, or celebrating the fireplace this fall, or enjoy a mix year with your employees this holiday season, of gourmet and Southern comfort foods in the 1005 Midland Road • Southern Pines, NC 28387 you’ll enjoy the chef’s fresh, seasonal selections Crest Dining Room. Reservations are encouraged. 910.692.7111 • pineneedleslodge.com 1005 MIDLAND RD. SOUTHERN PINES, NC | 910.692.7111 | PINENEEDLESLODGE.COM 20PNM036.PNDiningAd(3.875x9.625).indd 1
6/11/20 3:42 PM
A round that never disappoints.
Relax like at Pro at Mid Pines. P o p’ s
L o u n g e
Soak in the spectacular views breakfast or lunch any day of of the iconic 18th hole at Mid the week. While their famous Pines while grabbing a drink bottomless brunch is on hold after work or enjoying lunch due to the pandemic, their with friends. There’s not a innovative chef is coming up bad seat in the house, whether you’reDine-In dining and Takeout with mouth-watering brunch specials each indoors at Pop’s Lounge or on patioRoad for • Southern Sunday. 1010the Midland Pines, NC 28387
910.692.2114 • midpinesinn.com 1010 MIDLAND RD. SOUTHERN PINES, NC | 910.692.2114 | MIDPINESINN.COM 20PNM037.MPDiningAd(3.875x9.625).indd 1
6/11/20 3:45 PM
The Best Steak in the Pines For generations, locally owned and family-operated Beefeaters has been a favorite dining destination in the Sandhills. As one of the best steakhouse restaurants in the area, they continuously have been voted “Best Steak� in Moore County for over 20 years. But Beefeaters offers a
variety of dishes to meet the desires of all diners with their surf and turf style menu, featuring succulent seafood, juicy chicken and much more. With a large banquet room, candlelit dining room, and a relaxed lounge, Beefeaters is ready to host your night out and satisfy every craving.
672 SW BROAD ST., SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.692.5550 | BEEFEATERSOFSOUTHERNPINES.COM
Pinehurst Brewing Co. Brings New Energy to The Village For decades, the Village of Pinehurst’s steam plant powered the homes, hotels and cottages of Pinehurst until it was shuttered in the 1990s. Now, after retaining the character of the century-old building, Pinehurst Brewing Co.
offers an array of craft beers brewed on-site and a delicious assortment of brisket and Carolina barbecue from the smokehouse out back. A wide range of pizzas are fired up every day, and always be on the lookout for their ribs specials.
300 MAGNOLIA RD. VILLAGE OF PINEHURST, NC 28374 | 910.235.8218 | PINEHURSTBREWING.COM
The stylish, old-school watering hole perfect for any night out. Over the years, The Bell Tree Tavern has reinvented itself from a whiskey bar to a neighborhood tavern, and now even offers a marketplace with local meats, cheeses, and produce. Delight in a variety of Southern fare for lunch and dinner - fresh salads, fried okra,
shrimp and grits, burgers and sandwiches - or stop in to enjoy the game with your favorite appetizers and libations. From meals and cocktails to trivia, karaoke, theme parties, live music and more, The Bell Tree Tavern is the place to go for a good time in Southern Pines.
155 NE BROAD ST., SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.692.4766 | THEBELLTREETAVERN.COM
G ER IN B N TO PE C O -O ID M
Experience Off the Charts Gourmet Bliss We are the Sandhills premier farm to table restaurant. Come in and experience creative, unique, gourmet sandwiches, soups and salads. We are a scratch kitchen, from our roasted meats all the way to our fermented sriracha. We have visited many local farms to procure the absolute finest quality ingredients to create our signature fare. The beef, chicken, pork and turkey are raised right here in our beautiful state of North Carolina. We offer many vegetarian / vegan and gluten free options as well. Come check out our beer and wine garden
where we grow our own hops in aged whiskey barrels. In addition to eating at our quaint Southern Pines location, you can place your order online at RoastNC. com, call-in, and order delivery (5p.m.-9p.m.). You can also pre-order on our mobile app and use our drive-thru pick-up window for “dine in a dash� convenience. We are located near the Moore County Airport traffic circle, in front of the Southern Pines Ace Hardware. We look forward to serving our community and supporting North Carolina farms.
NEXT TO ACE HARDWARE ON CAPITAL DR., SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28327 | 910-725-7026 | ROASTNC.COM
Comfort Food Like You’ve Never Had Before At Chapman’s Food and Spirits, you’ll find delicious chef-driven, American fare in a comfortable, casual atmosphere. Enjoy unique spins on fresh, homemade comfort food while sipping
on cocktails out on the patios in downtown Southern Pines. The kitchen produces a variety of specials along with their popular classics, such as the Ultimate Burger or their wicked good Crawfish Fries.
157 EAST NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE. SOUTHERN PINES, NC 28387 | 910.246.0497 | CHAPMANSFOODANDSPIRITS.COM
124
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
Norian, Abraham, Aniko & Penelope Saldana-Medina
SandhillSeen
Cassie, Becca & Betsy Strong
The Marketplace in the Sunrise Square Outdoor market featuring small businesses Saturday, August 22, 2020 Photographs by Diane McKay
Brooke Thomas, Cheryl Thomas, Samantha Peterson, Megan Keating
Jan Havey, Lynn Mogavero
Hazel & Carly Robertson
Sandra Holloway, Arlene McCue
Bo Belton, Cody Hyatt, Michael Bleggi, Angie Averitte Marla Jones, Dave Robinson
Karen Meyer, Kirk Smith
Michael & Laurie Holden
Kevin Dietzel, Elaine Evans
Rachel, Owen, Olivia & Sarah Ambroson
Kim & Carly Lyons
Kathryn Saunders & Ursula
Brandi & Lily Herr
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
PineStraw
125
Pine ServiceS Vintage Watches Wanted
Giving families
a brighter future
ROLEX & TUDOR Omega Hamilton Breitling Pilot-Diver Chronographs Military Watches Buying one Watch or Collection
CALL US AT 910-944-9412!
with
compassionate home care. 24 hour, 7 days a week availability
Ed Hicks Vintage Watch Collector
NC Licensed & Nationally Accredited Home Care Agency
www.battlefieldmuseum.org www.warpathmilitaria.com
910-246-0586
110-B Applecross Road Pinehurst, NC 28374
910.425.7000 or 910.977.5656
littlemissmowitallnc.com Fire • Water • COVID • Duct • Mold • Storm
local, veteran owned serving Moore County Fully Insured
24 Hour Emergency Service
(910) 428-5280 Like it never even happened.
®
after
Easy Scheduling
HOUSE WASHING WINDOW CLEANING GUTTER CLEANING ROOF CLEANING PRESSURE WASHING DRYER VENT CLEANING
Commercial and Residential Services
250 McDougall Dr • West End, NC 27376 wlunney@servpro9950.com Independently Owned and Operated
accepts credit cards
before
910-944-0871
Fully licensed, bonded, and insured.
545 N Walnut St, Pinebluff, NC 28373 Mailing: PO BOX 4211, Pinehurst, NC 28374
$25off
FOR ANY SERVICE expires 10/30/2020
CALL US NOW!
910-725-6170
www.gentlerenew.com
SandhillS RenovationS llC Mark G. Spencer BROKER/REALTOR®
(910) 835-9092
Committed to Excellence!
Remodeling • Windows Door • Siding • Sunrooms Screen Porches • Decks Termite Damage Repair
Mark@LinHutaff.com 25 Chinquapin Rd Pinehurst, NC
Large & Small Jobs
Call for All Your Home Needs!
910.639.5626 or 910.507.0059 Free Estimates & Fully Insured
Interested in Advertising?
Call 910.692.7271 126
PineStraw
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
October PineNeedler No Tricks or Treats By Mart Dickerson
ACROSS 1. Metal fastener 5. Parrot 10. 50 percent 14. Roman garment 15. Japanese city 16. Spoken 17. Demonic 18. Moses’ mountain 19. Motion “hello” 20. Cure for everything 22. Caught 24. Coral reef 25. Smooth tightly twisted thread 27. Wounds 30. Permits 34. Imitative 35. Misprint 36. Horse’s gait 37. Gym repeat 38. Rainbow fish 39. Boxer Muhammad 40. Region 42. Flat boat 43. Devil 45. Criminal restraints 47. Concerning 48. Immoral habits 49. Attempt 50. Newly washed window blemish 53. Text 57. Couple 58. Nail filing board 61. Notion 62. Weapons
63. 64. 65. 66. 67.
Prices Greatest amount Eye infection Meager Threatening word (with or)
DOWN 1. Stair 2. Science channel 3. Southern anti 4. Royalty’s residences 5. Ramble 6. Land mass 7. Food container 8. Precedes an alias 9. Wall paneling 10. Nevertheless 3 wds 11. Middle East dweller 12. Wash 13. Ran away 21. Money 23. Comp. key 25. Firings 26. Types in data 27. __ Lee (pie brand name) 28. Musical production 29. Age, as fruit 30. Shoot from a plane 31. Speak in public 32. Mr. Ryan 33. Period of work 38. Haulers 41. Opposite 43. Asian dress 44. Whenever 46. Gov. spy agency
Puzzle answers on page 108 Mart Dickerson lives in Southern Pines and welcomes suggestions from her fellow puzzle masters. She can be reached at martaroonie@gmail.com.
The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 59. 60.
Rendezvous Hotel amenities Tangy Covered with ice Small bird False god graven image Loch __ monster Fence opening IBM competitor Flight Figure
Sudoku:
Fill in the grid so every row, every column and every 3x3 box contain the numbers 1-9. PineStraw
127
SOUTHWORDS
The Inconsequential Comic By Traci L oper
“Shine bright like a diamond,” I
began in the dullest way imaginable.
“Shine bright like a diamond.” I looked around at the audience flatly. I hear a few chuckles. “Shine bright like a diamond,” I sing blandly, followed by a long, deep sigh. The crowd lost it. More or less. I committed to the most cynical version of Rhianna’s then-popular song to kick off my first ever stand-up comedy show at an off-off-off Sunset comedy club in Los Angeles. It was so “off” kids colored with Crayons there during the day. That may have been the only big laugh I got during my five minutes of rocking the mic that night, but honestly I can’t remember. It’s a pretty big blur, and not because it was five minutes of bliss. It was five minutes of dread, regret, embarrassment, effort, and carefully planned talking points with jokes mixed in that crashed and burned. OK, fine . . . looking back, the topics I chose for my first night of stand-up weren’t that great, but they were mine. I’ve been entertaining for as long as I can remember. From the moment I could string sentences together, my mom would usher me into the center of a room and I’d just ramble. People would laugh and laugh, I’m guessing mostly because I was a child, I wasn’t shy, and nothing I said made much sense. (So, what’s changed, you ask.) It was mostly at family gatherings, but she would occasionally take me to work with her at the Hammond Nursing Home. It was there where I found my most captive audiences. Surprising, I know. I’d chat with the elderly through my mom’s entire shift. I’d go room to room doling out hugs and humor. Maybe that was the first sign of my desire to entertain. I think it’s fair to say, I didn’t really know what I was doing or what they were laughing at — but I haven’t stopped since.
128
PineStraw
When I finally made the move to L.A. in my mid-20s to pursue an acting career, I naturally gravitated toward comedy. Perhaps that was a mistake. My friends didn’t help. They were constantly on me to do some funny voice, or character I had come up with. And every time they asked, I delivered. “OMG, Trace, you should be on SNL.” I, of course, thought this was ridiculous. Making your friends laugh was easy, bringing laughter to the world, not so much. As a kid, I loved SNL and was in awe of Steve Martin, Gilda Radner, Jane Curtin and so many more. If I could follow in their footsteps, sign me up. And sign up I did . . . at the Groundlings — that famous improv school that has churned out many comedic celebrities, like Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig. I enrolled in regular acting classes for TV and film. I even joined a local sketch group that some of my theater friends started. I had a sharp wit, but now I had finally — and I suppose mistakenly — accepted that I was seriously funny. Look, if everyone around you is telling you the same thing, you eventually start to believe it. And confidence is never bad. Especially for an entertainer. Especially in Los Angeles. The first rule of improv is to “Yes, and . . . ” everything. You have to agree to what your scene partner says, no matter what. If they say, “I see your pants are on fire,” then your pants are on fire and you better start jumping around like crazy. The moment you say “No,” the scene is over. The most important person in the scene is the person playing opposite you, not yourself. But with stand-up, it’s just you. And your solitary goal is to make the audience laugh. That’s pressure of a different magnitude. Even though diamonds are formed under pressure, it takes a ton of polishing to make them shine. I’ve learned I sparkle best with spontaneity. I’ll leave stand-up to the pros. PS Traci Loper is an actor, writer and dreamer. After 20 years she ditched the Hollwood Hills for the Sandhill in search of less traffic, off-street parking and a slower pace of life. The Art & Soul of the Sandhills
ILLUSTRATION BY MERIDITH MARTENS
All alone with a microphone
“Gratitude is an art of painting adversity into a lovely picture” -Kak Sri
Buyer, Purveyor & Appraiser of Fine and Estate Jewellery 229 NE Broad Street • Southern Pines, NC • (910) 692-0551 Mother and Daughter Leann and Whitney Parker Look Forward to Welcoming You to WhitLauter. @whitlauter_jewelers
LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE
Look for the “Mark” of a Great Builder 910-673-1929
mark@stewartcdc.com
www.StewartConstructionDevelopment.com