June PineStraw 2017 by PineStraw Magazine

Welcome Home!

Independent LIvIng

Including independent living and garden cottages situated on 18 acres and convenient to local golf courses, shops, & the Village of Pinehurst; Quail Haven Village is also located close to major medical facilities & unique arts and cultural centers. Residents have access to all levels of care offering security for the future and enabling residents to live independently longer.

ContInuIng Care retIrement CommunIty There may come a time when you require additional care or assistance. Here we strive to make this transition as east as possible through a number of services. HOME CARE

Our Licensed Home Care services range from medication reminders to personal care assistance FAMILY CARE HOME

Our cottages create a small residential home in an intimate environment. Our staff is on- hand 24 hours a day and is trained to provide Assisted Living Care and support as needed SKILLED CARE

The Inn at Quail Haven Village provides health and nursing care in addition to personal care and support. REHABILITATION

Our dedicated, highly experience team works one-on-one with our patients to provide in- and out-patient physical, occupational and speech therapies.

For more information contact Lynn Valliere 155 Blake Boulevard, Pinehurst, NC 28374 910.295.2294 www.qhvillage.com A PART OF THE LIBE RTY FAMILY OF SERVICES

jamie Mcdevitt ... ALWAYS working for YOUR lifestyle.

Bob and sue Lane moved here from Virginia with their horses, dogs and cats looking for a little piece of the country...yet they wanted to be close to town! jamie found them the perfect horse farm on youngs Road! Bob and sue are living their dream.

Let Jamie help you live yours ...

Looking for a little piece of the country? Enjoy 401 youngs Road... A 5 acre horse farm with deeded access to the Walthour Moss Foundation. Amazing features and quality inside and out! MLS #181622 $749,000 jamie Mcdevitt | 910.724.4455 McdevittTownandCountry.com | jamie@jamieMcdevitt.com | 107 nE Broad street, southern Pines, nC

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Featured Homes 360 Lake Dornoch Drive

55 Bel Air Drive

Country Club Of North Carolina, Pinehurst Located on the 12th hole of the Dogwood Golf Course! This all brick home offers a grand entrance and lovely living room with French doors to a private deck and screened in porch. 3 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms, 5,000+ Sq.Ft.

Country Club Of North Carolina, Pinehurst Immaculate home on the 6th green of the famous Dogwood Course! Offers a large living room, Carolina room, master suite with Jacuzzi tub, 3 car garage, and much more! 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Bathrooms, 4,500+ Sq.Ft.

414 Meyer Farm Drive

650 Fort Bragg Road

MLS# 178975 $730,000

Forest Creek, Pinehurst Custom built golf front home with open floor plan, featuring an expansive kitchen with large center island, screened in porch off the main living area overlooking the golf course, and guest suite over the garage. 9 Bedrooms, 9.5 Baths, 6,500+ Sq.Ft.

MLS# 181930 $895,000

MLS# 178913 $990,000

Southern Pines Stately home on over 6 acres with double doors leading to a brick floored entry. Features 2 laundry rooms, brick patio, and separate guest cottage. Zoned and easily converted into a bed and breakfast! 5 Bedrooms, 6.5 Baths, 5,000+ Sq.Ft.

MLS# 180644

$675,000

210 Grove Road

Pine Needles, Southern Pines Beautiful home with a fenced in backyard, large deck, and wrap around front porch. Hardwoods throughout, gourmet kitchen with double ovens, fireplace in living room, formal dining, office/study, large rec area, and bonus room. 4 Bedrooms, 3.5 Baths, 4,000+ Sq.Ft.

MLS# 179902

$539,000

58 Pinebrook Drive

Pinehurst No. 6, Pinehurst Spectacular view of the water and 2 golf holes from this lovely custom built home! Features a gourmet kitchen, family room with wet bar and fireplace, spa-like master suite with balcony. 4 Bedrooms, 4.5 Baths, 4,500+ Sq.Ft.

MLS# 176325 $429,000

Call today for a private showing of these beautiful homes!

130 Turner Street, Suite A Southern Pines, NC 28387 (910) 693-3300

Coldwell Banker Advantage Toll Free: (855) 484-1260 www.HomesCBA.com

100 Magnolia Road, Suite 1 Pinehurst, NC 28374 (910) 692-4731

June 2017 FEATURES 73 Reclamation Project Poetry by Sarah Edwards

74 The Rifles of Bear Creek

By Bill Case How the Colonial Kennedy long rifle factory in Robbins became one of the largest in the South

80 Boys to Men

By David Claude Bailey Coming of age in Troop 48

82 A Stitch in Time

By Jim Moriarty Putting art in the palm of your hand

88 The Jugtown Century

By Ray Owen Turning fire and clay into works of art

105 Almanac

By Ash Alder Fireflies and a Strawberry Moon

DEPARTMENTS

35 Hometown

17 Simple Life

37 A Writerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Life

57 Out of the Blue

By Jim Dodson

20 PinePitch 23 Instagram Winners 25 Good Natured

By Bill Fields

By Wiley Cash

55 Papadaddy

By Clyde Edgerton

By Deborah Salomon

108 119 125

Arts & Entertainment Calendar SandhillSeen PineNeedler

43 Vine Wisdom

59 Mom, Inc.

45 In the Spirit

61 Birdwatch

127 The Accidental Astrologer

27 The Omnivorous Reader

49 The Kitchen Garden

63 Sporting Life

128 SouthWords

31 Bookshelf

53 The Pleasures of Life

By Karen Frye

By D.G. Martin

By Romey Petite and Angie Tally

By Robyn James

By Tony Cross

By Jan Leitschuh

By Kathleen Causey

By Renee Phile

By Susan Campbell By Tom Bryant

67 Golftown Journal

By Mart Dickerson

By Astrid Stellanova

By Tom Allen

By Lee Pace

Cover Photograph and Photograph this page by John Gessner 6

June 2017 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

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at Cameron Village, 400 Daniels Street, Raleigh, NC 919.467.1781

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Serving the Carolinas & More for Over 20 Years — Financing Available

ExpErtisE...when it matters most

OLD TOWN PINEHURST: “Original Schoolhouse” on 1st

FAIRWOODS ON 7: Dream home for entertaining! Elegant and comfortable with expansive golf vistas of Courses #2 & #4 from house, pool terrace and backyard. Stunning interior and exterior architectural features. 6 Bedrooms, 8Full&2Half Baths. $2,795,000. Karen Iampietro 910.690.7098

HORSE COUNTRY: “Azalea Crossing Farm” with 17 acres is a true gem amidst the hoofbeat of Horse Country! Lush rolling pasture, trails to Weymouth & short hack to Walthour Moss Foundation. Abundant changes & additions have been made to this farm. 3BR/3BA. $1,250,000. Debbie Darby 910.783.5193

OLD TOWN PINEHURST: “Edgewood Cottage” a Dutch Colonial inspired home complete with inground pool & cabana housing a bath/dressing area & kitchenette. Master Suites w/firepalces on both levels. Versatile living spaces. Warm & Elegant! 4BR/4.5BA. $899,000. Emily Hewson 910.315.3324

FAIRWOODS ON 7: Gracious home nestled on a prime

CCNC GOLF FRONT WITH POOL: 4,000 sq.ft. with 3BR/3.5BA’s.

PINEWILD COUNTRY CLUb: Elegant & Spacious! Fine architectural details. Soaring ceilings, custom columns and trim work. Kitchen with butler’s pantry & island. Main Level Master. Lower Level: Rec Room, 2BRs/2BAs, Hobby Room, Storage & Wine Closet. $649,000. Pat Wright 910.691.3224

NATIONAL PINEHURST 9: Golf-front transitional, well-positioned on hole #1 boasts fairway & water views. Custom built & professionally lanscaped in ‘12. Cook’s dream kitchen w/island that seats 10! 4BR/4BA. $569,900. Susan Ulrich 910.603.4757

PINEHURST: Water front Craftsman Cottage with gracious living spaces & totally renovated making this home like new! Open plan with 3,108sf plus a 700sf workshop. Versatile, comfortable living with magnificent views! 3BR/2.5BA. $559,900. Judy & Jerry 910.695.6669 | 910.690.7080

PRESTIGIOUS DONALD ROSS AREA: More than 3,700sf of open living space in this 4BR/3.5BA home. Light and bright living room bathed in natural light has a gas-log frplc. Lovely kitchen with quartz counters. $539,000. Kay Beran 910.315.3322

7 LAKES WEST: You will LOVE the views! Water front,

GOLF FRONT WITH WATER VIEW: Situated on the 4th green of CCNC’s Cardinal Course. Over 4,000 sq.ft., 4BR/3.5BA’s, Great Room with cathedral ceiling, wet bar, 2-Master Suites with great views. Lots of space for $499,500! Scarlett Allison 910.603.0359

fairway of Pinehurst #2. Circa 1896 - totally renovated in ‘02 with exquisite detail. 6,780 sq.ft., 5+Baths, Gourmet Kitchen, wood floors, 2FP’s. A must see for the discerning buyer. $3,297,500. Emily Hewson 901.315.3324

golf-front location overlooking the 9th hole & pond! Generous size rooms with 3 ensuite bedrooms. Superbly equipped kitchen with upscale appliances. $695,000. Kay Beran 910.315.3322

4BR/3BA home at a great price! Extensive landscaping. Spacious interior with plantation shutters. All common living areas, plus master, on main level. $499,900. Linda Criswell 910.783.7374

Located on the 6th hole of the Dogwood Course. Updated Kitchen, living room with fireplace, Carolina room & pool with spa. View at: 75LinvilleDrive.com $685,000. Scarlett Allison 910.603.0359

Southern Pines: 910.692.2635 • 105 W. Illinois Avenue • Southern Pines, NC 28387 ©2015 BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of American, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC.

www.BHHsprG.com

DISCOVER THE JOY OF PINEHURST LIVING: Splendid

executive home sits on 2 lots with magnificent golf front views from LR, Sun Room & Master. Fenced backyard with brick patio overlooks in-ground pool with Caban & outdoor chess game. 3BR/2.5BA. $485,000. Carol Haney 910.315.5013

MID SOUTH CLUb: New Constrution & Golf Front situated on the 15th hole. Beautifully finished & spacious home. Crown modling, wainscoting, hardwood, coffered ceilings, granite, stainless appliances & much more! 5BR/4BA. $475,000. Karen Iampietro 910.690.7098

PINEWILD CC: Beautiful, golf front home with a European influence. Spacious living room with custom moldings & soaring ceiling! Banquet size Dining Room. Study, Gourmet Kitchen w/granite opens to Family Room & Fireplace. 3BR/3BA. NEW PRICE $448,000! Pat Wright 910.691.3224

WEYMOUTH HEIGHTS: Curb appeal, great neighborhood, 3BR/2.5BA, 1.88-acre lot, large workshop (HVAC), over 3,000 sq.ft. See: www.170HalcyonDrive.com $389,000. Frank Sessoms 910.639.3099

PINEHURST: Stunning & gracious residence with tasteful décor. Cathedral ceiling, hardwoods, Kitchen w/granite counters opens to the gathering room w/breakfast nook. Seasonal peek-a-boo view of Lake Pinehurst. 4BR/2.5BA. $379,500. Debbie Darby 910.783.5193

WEST END: Over 3,000sf home with all the modern conveniences of new construction! Situated on almost eight acres, and completely renovated! Natural light in every room. Many upgrades! 4BR/3BA. $340,000. Linda Criswell 910.783.7374

DOWNTOWN SOUTHERN PINES: Mid Century home offering light filled, spacious living & dining rooms with hardwood floors. Eat-in kitchen, family room, office & 4BR’s/ 3BA’s. Walk to Dowtown Southern Pines! $335,000. Mav Hankey 910.603.3589

CHARMING CRAFTSMAN HOME: Built in 2011

PERFECT COMMUTE TO FT. bRAGG:

KNOLLWOOD VILLAGE: Lots of space up & down! Two Living Rooms & Kitchens. 3BR/3BA’s. Upstairs Ktchn has stainless appliances & custom counter tops. Lovely Carolina Room overlooking one of the ponds. $225,000 Bill Brock 910.639.1148

LAKEVIEW CONDOS: Water front view,

bRAE bURN: One of Pinehurst’s charming Treehouses! Amazing view of Lake Pinehurst and Course #3. Wrap-around deck for relaxing and watching beautiful sunsets. NEW: Floors/ Paint/Ktchn Appliances, New HVAC in ‘15. 2BR/2BA. $125,000. Jennifer Nguyen 910.585.2099

with 4BR’s/3.5BA’s. Open floorplan with hardwood, granite, stainless; fabulous playroom on 2nd floor, tons of storage. $319,000. Carolyn Hallett 910.986.2319

2Bedroom, 2Bath, furnished, upstairs unit, transferrable Pinehurst Country Club membership. $165,000. Frank Sessoms 910.639.3099

Beautfully updated 3BR, 2BA home w/fenced yard, porch, oversize garage, lots of storage. Move-in ready! $275,000. Carolyn Hallett 910.986.2319

Pinehurst: 910.295.5504 • 42 Chinquapin Road • Pinehurst, NC 28374 Berkshire Hathaway HomeSercies and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.Housing Opportunity.

CountRy Home

in Southern Pines

M A G A Z I N E Volume 13, No. 6 Jim Dodson, Editor 910.693.2506 • jim@pinestrawmag.com Andie Stuart Rose, Creative Director 910.693.2467 • andie@pinestrawmag.com Jim Moriarty, Senior Editor 910.692.7915 • jjmpinestraw@gmail.com Lauren M. Coffey, Graphic Designer 910.693.2469 • lauren@pinestrawmag.com Alyssa Rocherolle, Graphic Designer 910.693.2508 • alyssa@pinestrawmag.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Deborah Salomon, Staff Writer Mary Novitsky, Sara King, Proofreaders CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS John Gessner, Laura Gingerich, Tim Sayer CONTRIBUTORS Tom Allen, Harry Blair, Tom Bryant, Susan Campbell, Bill Case, Tony Cross, Al Daniels, Annette Daniels, Mart Dickerson, Clyde Edgerton, Bill Fields, Robyn James, Jan Leitschuh, Meridith Martens, D.G. Martin, Diane McKay, Lee Pace, Romey Petite, Renee Phile, Joyce Reehling, Stephen E. Smith, Astrid Stellanova, Angie Tally, Ashley Wahl, Sam Walker, Janet Wheaton

David Woronoff, Publisher

285 N Bethesda Road • Southern Pines Beautifully located on 12.2 acres and surrounded by 4 acres of gardens, this picture-book charming cottage is a unique opportunity to live near town in a horse country setting. A very spacious open living/dining room core is complimented by an equally spacious family room accessed by French doors. The glassed side room overlooks a lovely terrace and breathtaking expanse of lawn. A luxurious master bedroom wing includes a gracious bedroom with sitting area and fireplace, a sun room attached that opens to a terrace with outdoor fireplace, bath with walk-in closets, laundry and a separate study with full bath. The grounds off the master include stone paths and a winding waterfall. The updated kitchen features a built in breakfast table and mudroom. Outside is a two story guest cottage.

To view more photos, take a virtual tour or schedule a showing, go to:

www.clarkpropertiesnc.com

Maureen Clark

ADVERTISING SALES Pat Taylor, Advertising Director Ginny Trigg, PineStraw Sales Manager 910.691.8293 • ginny@thepilot.com Deborah Fernsell, 910.693.2516 Terry Hartsell, 910.693.2513 Perry Loflin, 910.693.2514 Darlene McNeil-Smith, 910.693.2519 Patty Thompson, 910.693.3576 Johnsie Tipton, 910.693.2515 ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN Mechelle Butler 910.693.2461 • mechelle@thepilot.com Brad Beard, Scott Yancey SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION Darlene Stark, Circulation Director 910.693.2488 145 W. Pennsylvania Avenue Southern Pines, NC 28387 pinestraw@thepilot.com • www.pinestrawmag.com ©Copyright 2017. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PineStraw magazine is published by The Pilot LLC

when experience matters

Pinehurst • Southern Pines BHHS Pinehurst Realty Group • 910.315.1080

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

285 N Bethesda Road

140 Pine Grove Road

25 Maple Road

235 Quail Hollow

Enchanting 1920’s country home in a garden setting on 12 acres. 4 BR, 4.5 BA with a guest cottage. Exquisite master wing, updated kitchen, 3 fireplaces.

Exceptional renovated cottage in premier location. Beautifully designed in character with original architecture. 4BR, 3.5BA. $845,000.

The 100 year old Rambler Cottage has a premier location in the Village with an endearing garden. Exudes signature Pinehurst charm. 4BR, 3.5BA.

CCNC Pinehurst Exquisite total renovation of 4BR, 4.5 BA, Colonial on 2.5 acres, golf front. $1,450,000.

110 N Highland Road

940 E. Connecticut Avenue

85 Lake Dornoch

129 National Drive

Historic Southern Pines 1920’s Colonial Revival Lovely Irish Georgian country house on 12.21 Golf front CCNC with lake view. 4023sqft main Stunning golf from residence in Pinehurst on 1.91 acresinWeymouthHeights. 6BR, 5.5BA, acres in Weymouth. Built 1998, 3 stories, 3BR, house, 763sqft guest house addition. One floor, No. 9 at National with spacious living areas, 2.5BA, 3 fireplaces, 4 car garage. $998.000. 3 BR, 3.5BA main, 1 BR, 1 BA guest. $1,100,000. 5227sqft. Slateroof,3fireplaces. $990,000. 4BR, 4.5BA, 3 car garage. $885,000.

Maureen Clark

910.315.1080 • www.clarkproperties.com

190 Kings Ridge Court

292 Old Dewberry

Gorgeous, renovated mid-century house with Mid South Club one floor living plan with remarkable gourmet kitchen. 3BR, situated on 6.2 acres. Grandfathered horse farm with total privacy on iconic sand road. $885,000. 3.5BA. $535,000.

14 Appin Court

Pinewild golf front on 3.24 acres. 4 BR, 3.5 BA, pool, 3 car garage, bocce ball court. $750,000.

177 Cross Country

11 Kenwood Court

920 E. Massachusetts

34 Courtney Place

162 Starland Lane

Open dining, living and kitchen arrangement, main 30’s Dutch Colonial, restored in ’06 adding two floor, lovely master bedroom suite, to light filled wings. 4 BR, 3.5 BA, walled patio with courtyard, guest house, main floor master. $790,000. rooms with upscale detail. 3BR, 3.5BA. $625,000.

Private Horse Country estate on 10 acres in- Beautifully located unit within the Middleton Place grounds is Stunning end-unit with a golf-front view of Longleaf cluding lovely lake. Faulk designed 4BR,4.5BA, in pristine condition. Freshly painted with all new carpeting, Golf Course. Panoramic views, maintenance free and new refrigerator and dishwasher. 2BR, 2BA, $318,000. 5640 sq ft home built in 1970. $1,200,000. and move-in ready. 3BR, 3BA, $249,900.

PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017 Berkshire Hathaway HomeSercies and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.Housing Opportunity.

Martha Gentry’s H o m e

S e l l i n g

T e a m

Moore County’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team!

Pinehurst • $459,000

Pinehurst • $450,000

seven lakes West • $425,000

105 tall timbers Drive Amazing 5 BR / 4.5 BA brick home located in desirable Pine Grove Village and offers great living space for a large family. In addition to a large living room, dining room and spacious family room, the sellers have added a master suite and a master bath with an adjoining study.

45 magnolia avenue Stunning all brick 4 BR / 3 BA home located on 1.13 acres of well landscaped privacy in desirable Taylorhurst. The main level offers a large living room with a center fireplace, built-ins and French doors that open onto the spacious Carolina Room. The gourmet kitchen is every cook’s dream with updated appliances, granite countertops and tons of cabinets.

106 eDWarDs Court Lovely 5 BA / 3.5 BA stone and vinyl home at the end of a quiet, wooded cult-de-sac in popular Seven Lakes West. The floorplan features the great room that is open to the gourmet kitchen and informal dining area. The attractive screened porch opens from the kitchen – wonderful for outdoor dining!

Pinehurst • $419,000

Pinehurst • $415,000

Pinehurst • $399,900

80 DalrymPle roaD Elegant and spacious 3 BR / 3 BA home with wonderful flow for family and guests. The living room features hardwood floors and crown molding. The kitchen has recessed lighting, skylights, Corian countertops, a center island and pantry. Enjoy the private, fenced backyard from the brick patio and gracious living in this classic home!

14 sCioto lane Classic 3 BR / 2.5 BA brick home on the 18th fairway of Pinehurst #6 and while it enjoys great golf course views, it is also a very private location. The interior is bright and open with a large living room with an entrance to the covered patio area, a formal dining room, kitchen with lots of cabinet and counter space, and nice in ground pool!

5 viCtoria Way Elegant 4 BR / 3.5 BA Cotswold townhome offers the ultimate in carefree living! It features hardwood floors, 10’ and 12’ ceilings, deep crown moldings and a brick patio area off the keeping room that offers a great deal of privacy.

unD

Pinehurst • $395,000

seven lakes West • $375,000

4 buCkingham PlaCe Gorgeous all brick 3 BR / 3 BA townhome in desirable Cotswold. With over 2,600 sq. ft. of living area, the floorplan is bright and open with an expansive living room with center fireplace surrounded by custom built-ins. The living area is open to the oversized rear patio and offers great privacy.

105 simPson Court Amazing 3 BR / 3 BA home--unique and special in so many ways! The house is located at the end of a quiet cul-de-sac on over 3.5 acres – almost the entire cul-de-sac – what a great setting and what great privacy! The interior is bright and open with a view of Lake Auman in the distance.

seven lakes West • $333,000

seven lakes West • $339,000

410 longleaf Drive Lovely and well-maintained 5 BR / 3.5 BA home conveniently located close to the back gate of Seven Lakes West. Walk to the water, play in the over-sized 1 acre lot or relax on the front porch. A truly beautiful home for a growing family.

157 longleaf Drive Charming 4 BR / 3 BA cottage style home with beautiful hardwoods, crown molding and an open floorplan. The expansive living room opens to a spacious screened porch and adjoining terrace. The kitchen has granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. This house also has a beautiful yard and displays great curb appeal.

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Pinehurst • $469,900

31 abington Drive Gorgeous custom built 3 BR / 3 Full and 3 Half Bath Contemporary home on Lake Pinewild in Pinewild Country Club. Beautifully maintained with trey ceiling and gas log fireplace in living room, formal dining room and updated kitchen with built-in breakfast bar.

aberDeen • $335,000

106 bonnie brook Court Delightful 4 BR / 3.5 BA Charleston Style home located in the picturesque side-walk community of Bonnie Brook. This unique home has been meticulously maintained and complete with white picket fence accents and upgrades throughout.

In Moore coUnty reaL eState For oVer 20 yearS!

Luxury Properties maRTHa genTRY’S Home Selling Team

Moore County’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team!

Pinehurst • $1,795,000

215 inverrary roaD Spectacular 5 BR / 6.5 BA home located between the 13th tee box and 14th fairway of the #7 course in Fairwoods on 7. The interior is open and sun-filled with 9 ft. ceilings on the 2nd level and 11 ft. ceilings on the main level and wonderful views from almost every room. This home has over 4 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds that gives great privacy while enjoying panoramic golf views.

Pinehurst • $999,000

southern Pines • $1,200,000

155 highlanD roaD Harking back to the glorious era of the 1930’s, Broadhearth is a stately historic Southern Pines landmark with 9 BR / 8.5 BA and is located on 2.4 parklike acres on the highest point of Weymouth Heights.

Pinehurst • $925,000

Pinehurst • $1,100,000

966 linDen roaD If you love golf and cars, this is the perfect place. This stunningly rustic 4 BR / 4 BA home sits on 3 private acres and features a saline swimming pool, oversized 7 person saline hot tub and a heated and cooled six car garage and list goes on and on. A car lovers dream!

Pinehurst • $795,000

80 braemar roaD Incredible golf front home in Fairwoods on 7. This beautiful 4 BR / 5.5 BA home features top of the line finishes, mouldings, marble and hard-wood slate flooring. Wow guests with the gourmet kitchen, luxurious bedroom suites, wine cellar or cascading terrace overlooking the 15th green.

145 brookhaven roaD Stunning custom brick 5 BR / 5.5 BA home in Fairwoods on Seven is located on an oversized, private lot and overlooks the 15th fairway of the #7 course. This beautiful home offers lots of upscale features and is a must see!

85 abbottsforD Drive Stunning contemporary 4 BR / 2.5 BA home was honored as home of the year in 2006 in their price bracket. Located on the 13th green of the Holly Course, this is one of the most beautiful home sites in Pinewild, overlooking both golf and water with long views.

West enD • $695,000

Pinehurst • $649,000

Pinehurst • $640,000

106 raChels Point Drop dead gorgeous 4 BR / 2.5 BA Bob Timberlake design located on 1.8 beautifully landscaped acres that slopes gently to the water and includes an outdoor kitchen on the patio, a private dock and beach with a fireplace. A must see in McLendon Hills!

19 mCmiChael Drive Gorgeous all brick 4 BR / 4.5 BA custom home with lovely views of the scenic pond as well as the golf course. The gourmet kitchen has custom cabinets, granite countertops, tile backsplash, built-in desk area and a walk-in pantry. This is a wonderful home!

175 miDlanD roaD Private 4 BR / 3.5 BA cottage located across the street from prestigious Pinehurst #2 and within walking distance to the historic Village of Pinehurst. This home possesses a timeless beauty and is designed for casual yet elegant entertaining The home offers a spacious living room that opens onto a sun-filled Carolina room overlooking the gorgeous in ground pool.

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Pinehurst • $635,000

11 village lane Gorgeous 4 BR / 3.5 BA Old Town Home complete with white picket fencing and fully fenced back yard. The interior is light and bright with an open living plan and an upstairs that flows beautifully. PCC membership option available for transfer.

seven lakes West • $499,000

104 sunrise Point Magnificent 4 BR / 3.5 BA custom home sitting high on the hill with breathtaking views of Lake Auman from expansive porch and patio areas. The interior is bright and open with lake views from almost every room. The family room features a corner fireplace and extensive window walls and also opens to the kitchen and informal breakfast area.

seven lakes West • $480,000

520 longleaf Drive Enjoy life to the fullest in this exquisite 3 BR / 3.5 BA award winning and impeccably maintained custom home with over 4,000 square feet. Beautiful and bright space with open floorplan and beautiful water views. This home exhibits true southern charm!

www.MarthaGentry.coM

Re/Max Prime Properties, 5 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, NC 910-295-7100 • 800-214-9007

MarthaGentry.coM • 910-295-7100 • Re/Max Prime Properties 5 Chinquapin Rd., Pinehurst, NC

always a step ahead 601 El ivEs

39 sCioto ln

65 oak hills

aberdeen • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 2 bath • $165,000

pinehurst • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 2 bath • $255,000

southern pines • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 2.5 bath • $270,000

693 s. ashE st

26 ColdstrEaM

213 sPringwood

southern pines • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 2.5 bath • $292,000

pinehurst • Amy Stonesifer 4 bed • 3.5 bath • $335,000

southern pines • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 2.5 bath • $339,900

390 lEgaCy lakEs

3964 youngs rd

155 Cardinal rd

aberdeen • Amy Stonesifer 5 bed • 3.5 bath • $345,000

4 lowEll Ct

jackson springs • Kelly Curran 3 bed • 2.5 bath • $279,000

southern pines • Amy Stonesifer 3 bed • 3.5 bath • $375,000

39 BEdford Cir

pinehurst • Kelly Curran 3 bed • 2 bath • $245,000

southern pines • Amy Stonesifer 4 bed 2.5 bath • $340,000

5 Pin oak Ct

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www.maisonteam.com Aisling Bonner Each month we are going to feature our Top Producer at Maison Realty Group. We are proud to recognize Aisling Bonner for this month’s acknowledgement! Aisling truly exemplifies what being a great agent is all about. From start to finish, she makes time for each and every client, guides them through the home buying process and ensures they find the perfect house to turn into a home. One of Aisling’s strongpoints as an agent is that she is able to balance all aspects of the job. She works with multiple clients at a time without deviating from the seamless service each of them deserves! Her specialty is in Fayetteville, NC and surrounding areas. To contact her, please call 910.987.9532. Again, congrats to Aisling Bonner for being our Top Producer!

Jacob Sutherland

Bridget Hussey

Kristin Hylton

Traci James

Stewart Thomas

There are over 500 real estate agents in Moore County. amy stonesifer is among the top 3. Award-winning REALTOR® Amy Stonesifer got into the business of selling homes because she wanted to get out on her own. Six years ago, she realized she was becoming restless and needed new challenges beyond managing the household while her husband served in the Army in some of the most dangerous parts of the world. What started out as a simple midlife-career change quickly became one of Moore County’s fastest growing real estate firms. That’s because she realized there was an unmet need, one that she could intimately identify with: Soldiers and their families who need specialized individuals to take care of their homes while they’re away — and to sell them quickly when their assignments changed. As business boomed, she recruited the best of the best and built the Maison Real Estate Team – a team of highly talented, client-focused professionals who have the ability to meet military families where they’re at. Stonesifer’s disciplined, results-focused approach to buying and selling homes has become as much a mission as a business, one that gives back to the community and expresses deep appreciation for our men and women in uniform.

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SIMPLE LIFE

What’s Enough? Timeless advice from a modern sage

By Jim Dodson

A few weeks ago I read in The New York-

er about a group of Silicon Valley billionaires who’ve built luxury retreats in some of the remotest parts of the planet, safe houses designed to allow their owners to survive a global catastrophe — and stocked with enough good white wine and military hardware to hold out indefinitely.

A short time later, I read about a second group of young Silicon Valley billionaires funding a top-secret scheme to bioengineer a so-called “God Pill” that can cure everything from cancer to flat feet and make human mortality as obsolete as your trusty old Osborne computer. According to Newsweek magazine, this latter group of “visionaries” includes Peter Thiel, the billionaire co-founder of PayPal, who is making plans to live for at least 120 years. Dmitry Itskov, the “godfather” of the Russian Internet, says his goal is to live to 10,000 years of age, while Larry Ellison, co-founder of Oracle, finds the notion of accepting mortality “incomprehensible.” Sergey Brin, co-founder of Google, meantime, simply hopes to someday “cure death.” As Newsweek notes, “The human quest for immortality is both ancient and littered with catastrophic failures. Around 200 B.C., the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, accidentally killed himself trying to live forever, poisoning himself by eating supposedly mortality-preventing mercury pills.” Centuries later, the answer to eternal life appears no closer at hand. “In 1492, Pope Innocent VIII died after blood transfusions from three healthy boys whose youth he believed he could absorb. A little closer to modern times, in 1868 America, Kentucky politician Leonard Jones ran for the U.S. presidency on the platform that he’d achieved immortality through prayer and fasting — and could give his secrets for cheating death to the public. Later that year, Jones died of pneumonia.” For better or worse, as the ancients of every spiritual tradition remind us, it is life’s bittersweet impermanence — and one’s perspective on the matter — that determines whether every day is regarded as a gift to be savored or a good reason to pack up and head for the hills. As I read about Silicon Valley’s lavish End Time retreats and quest to make human mortality irrelevant, in any case, I couldn’t help but think about the summer I realized I was mortal and probably wouldn’t be around forever. It was June of 1962 and school was just out. Third grade was in my rearview mirror and I had both a new neighborhood plus a shiny new Black Racer bike upon which to go adventuring. My new neighborhood gang was buzzing about the bomb shelter “creepy Mr. Freeman” had reportedly built beneath a shed in his backyard in the raw new subdivision south of the city. The Russians were coming, and bomb shelters were all the rage on TV and in magazines. About this same time I watched

an episode of The Twilight Zone that tells the story of neighbors at a dinner party when word comes that a nuclear missile has been launched at America. The host and his family flee to their bomb shelter only to have their terrified neighbors batter down the door — just as the word comes that the report was a mistake. But panic has brought its own devastation to the neighborhood. I freely admit becoming obsessed with Mr. Freeman’s bomb shelter. My brother and I were sons of an itinerate newspaperman, after all, who’d witnessed Klan rallies and floods during our family odyssey through several newspapers across the deep South before coming home to Greensboro for good. There’d been stops in Wilmington and Florence, South Carolina, and our dad had even owned his own paper in Mississippi for a while. But the misfortunes and tragedies we’d witnessed or heard about in the context of newspaper reporting always belonged to someone else. To my over-stimulated 9-year-old brain, the prospect of a sneaky, thermonuclear attack by the Russians was in a class of disaster by itself. It made the rickety wooden desks we practiced huddling beneath during civil defense drills at school seem laughably insufficient compared to the allure of an Oreo-filled, TV-equipped bomb shelter in one’s own backyard. I even asked my dad if we could build one, helpfully providing a preliminary sketch of what ours might look like. My bomb shelter was one classy affair, resembling a cross between the Flintstones’ cave and a Jules Verne wondrous Nautilus submarine. My old man smiled when I showed him my bomb shelter design, which also depicted a wasteland where our new subdivision previously existed — a cindered moonscape inspired by photographs of Hiroshima I’d seen in an Associated Press photo book of the Second World War. “How many people can fit in your bomb shelter?” he casually wondered. “Just the four of us and Herky,” I said. Herky was my dog, short for “Hercules,” named for the mythological Greek strongman featured in cheesy Steve Reeves movies. “I see. Well, Sport, would you really want to live in a world like that? How are you going to feel knowing all your friends and schoolmates who didn’t have bomb shelters were left up top where everything is gone — all the birds and trees and animals you seem to love so much?” This was a point I’d not considered. “Do you think the world will end anytime soon?” I asked him. “In some fashion or another, the world is always ending for someone somewhere,” he calmly explained. He even had an answer to the nuclear appeal of creepy Mr. Freeman’s bomb shelter. “You can’t run away from the world,” he said. “You can only try to improve it. Rather than bury yourself in the backyard, I suggest you grow up and help create a better world. You have a brief time on this Earth. The trick is to use it wisely — and to learn what’s enough.” Decades later, when we talked about this funny moment, my philosopherfather remembered it almost exactly the way I did.

PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

A R O M AT H E R A P Y BEGINS WELL BEFORE

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SIMPLE LIFE

We happened to be sitting in a pub on the rainy Lancashire coast of England, sharing a pint following a rained-off round of golf. Though you wouldn’t have guessed it, my dad was dying of cancer, and this was our final golf trip together, a long-talked-about trip to see the places where he fell in love with golf as an Air Force sergeant just prior to D-Day. Among other things on this trip, I’d learned that my father had been through his own versions of an Apocalypse — first a tragic plane crash that killed dozens of people including children in the village where he was stationed; and a second time when his dream of owning his own newspaper in Mississippi went up in smoke after his silent partner cleaned out the company bank accounts and headed for parts unknown. That same week, unimaginably, my mother suffered a late-term miscarriage and my dad’s only sister died in a car wreck outside Washington, D.C. Talk about the End of the World. “How on Earth does one survive a week like that?” I asked him over my warm beer. I remember how he smiled. “Because I’ve learned that it’s not what you get from this life that really matters — but what you give and leave behind. Knowing what’s enough is the key to a meaningful life.” My dad was 79 years old that rainy afternoon in England. I could suddenly see why he was the perfect fellow to moderate the men’s Sunday morning discussion group at First Lutheran Church in Greensboro for more that two decades. I was 42 years old with two small children back home in Maine and already in grief over his approaching absence from my life. And I remember something else he said with a wry smile, draining his beer. “There are no endings, Sport, only beginnings. Make each day count.” Reading about the wealthy Silicon Valley billionaires who crave more time and seek to live forever simply reminded me of these lessons I learned very early in life, from that faraway bomb shelter summer and the mouth of a modern

sage. Later in life, I actually took to calling my wise old father, an adman with a poet’s heart, “Opti the Mystic.” All these years later, I think about how blessed I was to have such a funny, philosophical father and his essential message about knowing “What’s enough?” Mine really is a pretty simple life, it turns out. I even jotted down a few things that at the end of the day (or even the world) are more than enough for me. Enough for me is an old house I love where every creak or groan underfoot sounds like a sigh of contentment. Long walks around Paris — or just the neighborhood at dawn or evening — with my wife, Wendy, is the stuff of everyday magic. Ditto a Japanese garden that will probably take at least a decade more to complete, new friends who come to supper on weekends, old friends who get in touch, Sunday evening phone calls from our four grown children, good books, rainy Sundays, our screened porch, and the night skies over our terrace. For the record, I’d like to write five or six more books of my own and maybe hobble off someday to find the world’s most sacred places, purely for spiritual kicks. Also, like a worried 9-year-old boy I remember being, I wish my dog Mulligan could live forever — or at least until I’m ready to push on to God knows where. Point being, I guess I don’t fear the end of this world, a gift Opti the Mystic gave me long ago. “This is why we are in the world,” advised the Sufi mystic Bawa. “Within your heart is a space smaller even than an atom. There, dear ones, God has placed 18,000 universes.” A good reason to make every day count. PS Contact Editor Jim Dodson at jim@thepilot.com. Read more about Opti the Mystic and Mulligan in The Range Bucket List, Dodson’s new book, available everywhere.

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Blues-n-Brews Festival

The 15th annual Blues-n-Brews Festival takes place on Saturday, June 3, at Festival Park in downtown Fayetteville. Mark McKinney & Co., an acoustic trio from Pembroke, plays the blues from 5 to 6:30 p.m.; soulful blues singer Tullie Brae on the main stage from 6:45–8:15 p.m.; and Elliott and the Untouchables will be jamming from 8:30–10 p.m. Over 30 breweries from all across the U.S. will be represented. Gates open at 4 p.m. for VIP and 5 p.m. for General Admission. All proceeds support Cape Fear Regional Theatre. Buy tickets online or at CFRT Box Office. (910) 323-4233. Festival Park is located at 335 Ray Avenue, Fayetteville.

Wildlings: Bug Hunt Sunrise Classic Series

On Thursday, June 8, at 7 p.m., the Sunrise Theater kicks off its Summer Classic Series with its first film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, about King Arthur and his knights on a low budget, obstacleridden search for the Grail. On Thursday, June 15, at 7:30 p.m., Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971), about a boy who encounters strange adventures at a candy factory; on Thursday, June 22, at 7:30 p.m., High Noon (1952), when a marshall faces a deadly enemy with no help from his town. And on Thursday, June 29, at 7:30 p.m., Weird Science (1985) a sci-fi comedy about two high school nerds who attempt to create the perfect woman. Cost: $6. Doors open at 6:30. The Sunrise Theater is located at 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. (910) 692-8501 or sunrisetheater.com.

Insects are some of the most numerous and diverse creatures in the world. Come out to Weymouth Woods on Saturday, June 24, and join a park ranger on a hunt to discover some of the insects that live there. The ranger will show you safe ways to catch, observe and release them. Wildlings is a new Exploration Series for Kids ages 6 through 10. Meet at the Welcome Center at 10 a.m. for the hike. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167.

Carousel in Concert

On Thursday and Friday, June 29 and 30, at 7:30 p.m., the Sandhills Broadway Series and Touching Humanity, Inc., presents Carousel in Concert, a semi-staged theatrical event. With minimal sets, a cast headed by Broadway actors Tony Capone, Jennifer Swiderski, Zachary Prince and Elysia Jordan will enact the story of carousel barker Billy Bigelow and the naive millworker he loves. Things go awry, and he gets one heavenly chance to make things right. Together with an 18-piece orchestra, a Sandhillsbased chorus and local youth talent, they will perform the entire inspirational score, including “If I Loved You” and “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” The show is presented at Lee Auditorium, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines. Proceeds from this performance will help promote arts in the schools of Moore County. Info and tickets: www. touchinghumanityinc.org or (910) 692-6554.

Lunch with a Little History

The Country Bookshop is hosting Dr. Jennifer Ritterhouse at a speaking luncheon in the Cardinal Ballroom at The Country Club of North Carolina on Saturday, June 10 at 12 p.m. to discuss her new book Discovering the South: One Man’s Travels through a Changing America in the 1930s. The book explores the politics and culture of a crucial period in U.S. history by following North Carolina newspaper editor Jonathan Daniels on a sweeping tour of the South in 1937. Discovering the South examines a variety of interrelated topics including the impact of the New Deal; the literary and intellectual history of the Southern Renaissance; the race, class and gender dynamics of the Scottsboro case; and the planters’ and industrialists’ violent responses to labor organizing. Dr. Ritterhouse is a graduate of Harvard University with advanced degrees from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is the author of Growing Up Jim Crow: How Black and White Southern Children Learned Race. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased online at www.thecountrybookshop.biz or at The Country Bookshop.

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

Shakespeare in the Pines

How do you make two people who detest each other fall in love? Tell each that the other is in love with them! And if you want to see how much fun that can be, come see Much Ado About Nothing, Shakespeare’s witty comedy about the manipulations of matchmaking. Pinehurst Parks & Recreation is sponsoring the inaugural production of the Shakespeare in the Pines Festival, presented in the outdoor intimacy of Tufts Memorial Park by locally owned Uprising Theatre Company. Owner Jonathan Drahos, associate professor and director of Theatre at UNC Pembroke, invites you to enjoy the performance for free, or purchase a VIP table for four near the stage at $300 that includes gourmet cheeses, crackers, prosciutto, a bottle of wine and a special meet and greet with the cast, including Natalie Graham and Caleb Kneip (whose credits include appearances with the Rubicon Theater Company in Ventura, California), the finest local talent and Dr. Drahos himself. Friday through Sunday, June 2–4 — VIP tables June 2 only. Opening at 6 p.m., show at 7:30 at 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. (541) 631-8241 or www.uprisingtheatrecompany.com.

The Sunday Exchange

The Town of Aberdeen and the Rooster’s Wife are joining forces to build community through the exchange of ideas, art and entertainment. The Sunday Exchanges feature free concerts, food trucks and community groups gathering on the green space adjacent to the Artists League of the Sandhills. The first Sunday Exchange takes place on Sunday, June 11, and features the band Ranky Tanky. This Charleston quintet has updated the Gullah tradition of the Georgia/Carolina coastal islands with gospel vocals, jazz trumpet solos and an R&B rhythm section. Doors open at 6 p.m. Bring your own cup to minimize single use containers for Southern Pines Brewing products, coffee from Swank and fresh water supplied on-site. One Nine Drive, the Goodie Jar and the Market Place will be on hand serving dinner. The Artists League is located at 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. For more information, call (910) 944-7502 of visit theroosterswife.org.

W ho’s a Good Dog? Is there something about your dog that is unique, clever, or just plain cute? Give it a chance to show off at the Walthour-Moss Foundation Fun Dog Show on Saturday, June 10. You can enter your dog(s) in one or many of the classes, which include Best Trick, Best Coiffed, Best Rescue, and Best in Show. There will be prizes and ribbons for each class. Come out for the fun of it and enjoy this beautiful nature preserve, which your $5 entry fee (per class) will help maintain. Registration at 8 a.m. or online during week prior. Show starts at 9 a.m. at Lyell’s Meadow, 225 Mile Away Lane, Southern Pines. For a list of classes and more information, call (910) 695-7811 or visit www.walthour-moss.org.

The Rooster’s Wife

More than a little bit of country and a lot of jazz and rhythm and blues, a rollicking good time awaits you at the Rooster’s Wife this month. Sunday, June 4: Less is More JAZZ band members turn their versatile and virtuoso musical gaze on everything from Irving Berlin to The Cars, with bold arrangements that pierce the heart and pique the intellect. $15. Friday, June 9: Side Car Social Club, a stylish and versatile five-piece jazz ensemble from Raleigh, performs speakeasy jazz, vintage R&B, real country and modern pop. $10. Sunday, June 18: Instrumental group Sons of Pitches performs cowboy jazz. $15. Sunday, June 25: The Jack Grace Band performs experimental country art rock with cowboy grit. $15. Friday, June 30. Singer/songwriters Bill West and Abigail Dowd pair up on the stage to play some acoustic guitar and sing some bluesy songs. $10. Doors open at 6 p.m. and music begins at 6:46 at the Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. For more information, call (910) 944-7502 or visit www. theroosterswife.org for tickets. Prices above are advance sale.

Remembering Our Past

This month’s Gathering at Given treats you to a spirited re-enactment of the Revolutionary War. Historical re-enactor Colonel Trent Carter, dressed in historical attire, will take you back in time as he describes major characters and events of the period. Trent, a retired U.S. Army colonel, is a frequent participant in re-enactments at the House in the Horseshoe and a volunteer at the Given Book Shop. See his performance at 3:30 p.m. at Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, or at 7 p.m. at Given Outpost, 95 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Free and open to the public. (910) 585-4820 or 295-6022.

I N S TA G R A M W I N N E R S

Congratulations to our June Instagram winners!

Theme:

Fathers

#pinestrawcontest

Next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s theme:

Lawn Ornaments Submit your photo on Instagram at @pinestrawmag using the hashtag #pinestrawcontest (submissions needed by Monday, June 19th)

PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . May 2017 23

We Can Find It For You. Whatever Your Dream Home,

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G O O D NAT U R E D

Cereal for Breakfast? Umm . . . maybe not

blockade-runner.com

By Karen Frye

ne of the biggest game-changers in the food industry was when processed food became more desirable than fresh food. For some people, the convenience of breakfast cereals became a priority. I clearly remember Saturday grocery shopping with my mother, staring at all the beautiful cereal boxes, and making my choice. I typically went for the Rice Krispies, a pretty boring selection with all the cereals on the market these days. If I had only known back then, or even cared, I would have stayed far away from the cereal aisle. Cereal is what I call “dead food.” Most breakfast cereals are heavily marketed as being healthy — low fat, whole grain, high fiber, all natural. When you look at the ingredients, the first few on the list are refined grains and sugar. These are highly processed foods that are loaded with added sugar. The cereal manufacturers are experts at marketing, especially toward children, using bright colors and popular figures to attract attention. Cereal costs a few cents to make, and usually sells for $4-5 a box. Huge profits for a multi-billion-dollar industry. The way that cereals are manufactured, a process called extrusion, is probably not what you would ever imagine. The grains are mixed with water, processed into a slurry, and placed in a machine called an extruder. This process denatures and alters the structure of an otherwise healthy grain. The grains are then forced out through a tiny hole at a high temperature and pressure, which shapes them into little o’s or shreds or flakes, also destroying much of the nutrients. Next, the cereal is sprayed with a coating of oil and sugar as a sealant to give it a crunch. Unfortunately, even the cereals sold in natural food stores are made using this same method. I do agree that breakfast is an important meal, but you should be mindful of what you choose. Children are the largest consumers of breakfast cereal. It would be wise to serve your family something healthier for the first meal of the day. There are options that could become as easy as pouring milk over extruded grains. Hot cereals like oatmeal are a good option, and can be prepared the night before to eat in the morning. Eggs provide much needed protein in the morning. I like to make deviled or boiled eggs, and they are ready to grab on the go. Retire your cereal bowl forever, or maybe start filling it with fresh seasonal fruit. PS

Photography Courtesy of Joshua McClure

Karen Frye is the owner and founder of Nature’s Own and teaches yoga at the Bikram Yoga Studio. PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

Shari Lapena The Couple Next Door

Wednesday, June 7th at 5PM

Lapena’s chilling tale pits the banal decisions and failures of everyday life against the pressure to do everything right as a parent. Using this very relatable material, Lapena then pumps up the volume and transforms the story into a seat-of-the-pants thriller. This is the kind of book you tear through in one sitting, only to find it popping up unexpectedly in your dreams months later.

Daniel Wallace

Lunch with Jennifer Ritterhouse

Extraordinary Adventures

Discovering the South: One Man’s Travels Through a Changing America in the 1930s

Wednesday, June 28th at 5PM

Edsel Bronfman works as a junior executive shipping clerk for an importer of Korean flatware. He lives in a seedy neighborhood and spends his free time with his spirited mother. Things happen to other people, and Bronfman knows it. Until, that is, he gets a call from operator 61217 telling him that he’s won a free weekend at a beachfront condo in Destin, Florida. But there’s a catch: the offer is intended for a couple, and Bronfman has only seventy-nine days to find someone to take with him.

Saturday, June 10 at 12pm at Cardinal Ballroom at The Country Club of North Carolina The luncheon includes a talk by Dr. Jennifer Ritterhouse about Jonathan Daniels and a Grapevine Salad of Grilled Chicken, Field Greens, Seedless Grapes, Pine nuts, Gorgonzola Cheese and Balsamic Vinaigrette. Books will be available at the luncheon and the author will autograph copies following her presentation.

Mike Erwin coauthor of : Lead Yourself First, Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude Monday, June 12th at 5PM

A guide to the role of solitude in good leadership, including profiles of historical and contemporary figures who have used solitude to lead with courage, creativity, and strength. Erwin is also the cofounder and president of The Positivity Project.

Storytime Fridays & Saturdays at 10:30

140 NW Broad St, Southern Pines, NC 910.692.3211 Shop Online at: www.thecountrybookshop.biz 26

The Country Bookshop

thecountrybookshop

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

THE OMNIVOROUS READER

Back to Bulgaria A compelling and mysterious journey

By D.G. Martin

Asheville author

Elizabeth Kostova will always be remembered for her 2005 novel, The Historian, that became the fastestselling hardback debut novel in U.S. history and the first ever to become No. 1 on The New York Times bestseller list in its first week on sale. Her achievement was especially noteworthy because her book was literary fiction, a genre that does not often produce massive sales results.

The plot of The Historian followed a search by scholars for the origins of Vlad the Impaler, better known as Count Dracula. After research in libraries and archives in Amsterdam and Istanbul, the book’s main characters travel throughout Eastern Europe in search of Dracula’s tomb. When they find it in a Bulgarian monastery, it’s empty. Is Dracula still alive? Will they find him? Are there other vampires? On these questions, Kostova built her compelling and successful mystery. Kostova’s second book, The Swan Thieves, was set in the world of art and made the Times bestseller list for 20 weeks in 2010. In her third and most-recent book, The Shadow Land, she takes her readers back to Bulgaria, but this time there are no vampires. The villains are modern and very realistic. Its main character is a young North Carolina mountain woman, Alexandra Boyd. On her first day in the country she meets a small Bulgarian family group — an older woman and two men, one in a wheelchair and the other a tall man of particular note. Showing off her lyrical prowess, Kostova writes, “She saw that the tall man was dressed in a black vest and an immaculate white shirt, too warm and formal for the day. His trousers were also too shiny, his black shoes too highly polished. His thick dark hair, with its sheen of silver, was brushed firmly

back from his forehead. A strong profile. Up close he looked younger than she’d first thought him. He was frowning, his face flushed, glance sharp. It was hard for her to tell whether he was nearer to thirtyeight or fifty-five. She realized through her fatigue that he might be one of the handsomest men she’d ever observed, broad-shouldered and dignified under his somehow out-of-date clothes, his nose long and elegant, the cheekbones flowing up toward narrow bright eyes when he turned slightly in her direction. Fine grooves radiated from the edges of his mouth, as if he had a different face that he reserved for smiling. She saw that he was too old for her after all. His hand hung at his side, only a few feet from one of hers. She felt an actual twinge of desire, and took a step away.” He tells her his group is on its way to a beautiful monastery and suggests she consider visiting it, too. After they leave, notwithstanding Alexandra’s obvious fascination with him, it will be several hundred pages before she sees the man again, and we understand why he was described so completely. When his group departs in a taxi, Alexandra discovers she has a satchel that belongs to the Bulgarians. A young taxi driver called Bobby befriends her as she seeks to find the satchel’s owners. In it is a wooden urn, containing ashes and inscribed with the name Stoyan Lazarov. She and Bobby report the incident to the local police, who seem suspiciously interested, but who don’t take possession of the urn. Instead, they give Alexandra an address where Lazarov lived. Bobby suggests they rush to the monastery and return the urn to the Bulgarians, but when they get there the group is gone. Ready to continue their search, they find themselves locked in a room. Alexandra thinks, “nothing in her previous experience had prepared her for the feeling of being suddenly locked in a monastic room with a stranger five thousand miles from the Blue Ridge Mountains, holding an urn containing the ashes of another stranger. In addition to being tired and afraid, she was suddenly a thief, a vagrant and a prisoner.” Though Alexandra and Bobby escape from the monastery, they cannot escape a growing awareness that they are being followed and their possession of the urn has put them in danger. The next day they go to the address the police provided. The house is empty, but photos and papers inside confirm

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the owners of the urn had, indeed, lived there. A neighbor sends them to another address in a different part of Bulgaria but, before going, they adopt a stray dog that would come to play a major role in one of the concluding scenes. Kostova introduces other people, including an older, wealthy businessman-turned-politician named Kurilkov, known as “The Bear” who, running on a promise of “non-corruption,” is seeking to win the nation’s next election. There are growing and inexplicable dangers: vandalized cars, threats, murder and kidnapping. The urn’s secret and its dangerous value become the spine on which Kostova builds the book’s surprising and violent resolution. On that same spine she attaches another story, that of the man whose ashes are in the urn. Stoyan Lazarov, a talented violinist, lover of Vivaldi, devoted husband and father, ran afoul of Bulgaria’s brutal Communist dictatorship following World War II. He was confined for many years in a torturous labor camp where work conditions and weather almost killed him, destroying his health and his prospects for a fulfilling musical career. At the work camp, Lazarov met two men, one a friend and fellow inmate, and the other a guard who becomes a heated enemy. Both characters play a major part in the book’s dramatic conclusion. Kostova confesses that The Shadow Land is “very much a book about political repression — and suppression — and I’m glad to be bringing it out at this exact political moment.” Her unforgiving description of the oppression Lazarov suffered is based on factual events. It is a disturbing reminder of the horrors of the Soviet methods of dealing with any failure to toe the Communist line. Why has Kostova set another book in Bulgaria? Explaining her fascination, she writes about her first visit to “this mysterious country, hidden for so long behind the Iron Curtain,” and that she felt, “I had somehow come home.” Kostova’s poetic portrayal of Bulgaria’s cities and villages, landscapes and people will make readers want to see for themselves the place she loves and describes so well. Another beloved North Carolina mountain author, Ron Rash, affirms the book’s importance. “In this brilliant work, what appears at first a minor mystery quickly becomes emblematic of a whole country’s hidden history. Lyrical and compelling, The Shadow Land proves a profound meditation on how evil is inflicted, endured, and through courage and compassion, defeated. Elizabeth Kostova’s third novel clearly establishes her as one of America’s finest writers.” PS D.G. Martin hosts North Carolina Bookwatch, which airs Sundays at noon and Thursdays at 5 p.m. on UNC-TV.

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June Books The kickoff to summer reading

By Romey Petite

The Marsh King’s Daughter, by Karen Dionne

Born to an abducted teenage girl and raised in the confines of a remote, tiny cabin, the last thing Helena ever wants to do is go back to the marshlands of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — the world she and her mother ran away from 13 years ago. Helena has built a life for herself with a good job, two sons and a loving husband, far away from the media sensation her life turned into following their narrow escape. When her father, Jacob Holbrook, vanishes from custody, murdering two prison guards in the process, a hapless manhunt begins. Having spent her earliest years being trained by Holbrook, Helena’s survivalist instincts kick in — knowing she is the only one with the skill and know-how to find the Marsh King. With allusions to both fairy tales and mythology, praise from Lee Child and Megan Abbott, and told in delicious, hackle-raising prose, Dionne’s The Marsh King’s Daughter is certain to be this summer’s sleeper hit.

Magpie Murders, by Anthony Horowitz

The author of the best-sellers Moriarty, Trigger Mortis, The House of Silk, the young adult Alex Rider series, and one of the creators of the British detective drama Midsomer Murders has crafted a tale in homage to the whodunit masterpieces of Agatha Christie. When editor Susan Ryeland receives the manuscript for novelist Alan Conway’s latest Atticus Pund mystery, she is initially delighted to be holed up all alone in her London, Crouch End flat without her paramour, Andreas, to disturb her. As Susan begins to read between the lines, however, she discovers there might be more to this page-turner than what appears on the page. Spellbound by a mystery only she has the clues to solve, Susan follows a trail left by the author that has her retracing the fictional detective’s steps. Readers will be similarly enthralled.

Flesh and Bone and Water, by Luiza Sauma

When a letter arrives in London for Andre Cabral supposedly all the way from an old flame back in his childhood home in Rio de Janeiro, the middle-aged father and surgeon finds himself drifting into a reverie. Separated from his British wife, Esther, Andre begins to fantasize about searching for the love letter’s sender — Luana, daughter of his family’s housemaid. One problem: He does not remember her surname. Bit by bit, Andre attempts to recall the events spinning out of his mother’s death, prompting him to set out on a journey from London to Rio to the Amazon. Flesh and Bone and Water is Pat Kavanagh Award Winner Luiza Sauma’s dreamlike debut, containing meditations on issues regarding race, social mobility, sex, and the selective nature of memory.

More of Me, by Kathryn Evans

In this electrifying debut novel, possessing the DNA of both Ray Bradbury’s short story “Fever Dream” and Katherine Dunn’s Geek Love, Teva has a convincingly ordinary life where her teachers, Ollie (her boyfriend) and her best friend, Maddy, are concerned. Unbeknown to the world beyond her cloistered home, however, Webb involuntarily clones herself once a year. The 16th Teva in line, she’s forced to balance the usual teenage frets about exams and life with the memories of 15 other Tevas. Fortunately, the others are kept locked away to avoid confusion, but that’s the least of 16’s worries. Realizing there is only a short while before she, in turn, will be replaced by yet another clone, and contending with the 15-year-old version of herself over their mutual affection for Ollie, Teva has decided she won’t surrender her life or love without a fight.

Marriage of a Thousand Lies, by SJ Sindu

Lakshmi, dubbed Lucky, is a programmer and a freelance fantasy illustrator — often acting as the digital artist equivalent of a boudoir photographer. Her husband, Krishna, works as second pass editor for a greeting card company. When the two really want to have fun, they briefly abscond from their traditional gender roles where each acts as the other’s beard — leaving their wedding rings at their Bridgeport, Connecticut, apartment — to frequent the local gay bars. When Lucky’s grandmother in Boston suffers a fall, she finds herself once again staying with her conservative Sri-Lankan American family. It is here that Lucky reconnects with her girlhood crush, Nisha, and discovers she, too, is bound for an arranged marriage to a man she hardly knows. Star-crossed, these two lovers must choose either to defy conventions and face shame, embarrassment and denial from their community, or uphold tradition and accept the lies their families hold dear.

The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O., by Neal Stephenson and Nicole Galland

Taking a whimsical approach to history, science, fantasy, epistolary documents and mystery, best-selling author Neal Stephenson and critically acclaimed historical novelist Nicole Galland recruit readers for a chimerical speculative thriller. Melisandre “Mel” Stokes, a linguistics expert, is approached by Tristan Lyons, a representative of the shadowy military intelligence division D.O.D.O. — the Department of Diachronic Operations. Initially, she is offered a large sum of money to act as a translator for some very ancient classified documents, but Mel’s life changes forever when her new job takes her on an expedition back through time to the waning days of the Victorian era. Fans of Douglas Adams’ Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy series and Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett’s Good Omens will appreciate how The Rise and Fall of D.O.D.O. challenges our fundamental assumptions of the post-enlightenment world while being a whirlwind of good fun.

BOOKSHELF

The Shark Club, by Ann Kidd Taylor

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On July 30, 1988, a young Maeve Donnelly and her “crush” Daniel are wandering the Gulf of Mexico’s shores just outside of her grandmother Perri’s watch. After the two share a brief kiss, Maeve is seized by her leg and yanked beneath the waves by a prowling blacktip shark. Surviving the attack with only a flesh wound, Maeve is encouraged instead of deterred by her experience and 18 years later has become a marine biologist of semi-renown. Considered by her colleague Nicholas to be a “shark whisperer,” she displays a natural rapport with the creatures. The Shark Club, the first solo novel of the co-author of the best-selling Traveling with Pomegranates, is the story of Maeve’s return to the magical beach where her story first began, her grandmother’s magical Hotel of the Muses — where there is a room dedicated to each of the matriarch’s favorite authors — and perhaps a chance to reconcile with her childhood sweetheart, who promised his heart to her that fateful day in ’88.

Our Little Racket, by Angelica Baker

When the financial crisis of 2008 sees the collapse of investment bank Weiss & Partners, it is immediately followed by a public outcry and the demand that CEO Bob D’Amico be brought to justice. The weight and responsibility of picking up the pieces of the fragmented firm fall on the shoulders of five women in Greenwich, Connecticut: Madison, D’Amico’s teenage daughter; Isabel, D’Amico’s wife; Amanda, Madison’s best friend; Lily, the D’Amico family’s nanny; and Mina, a family friend. As each finds herself in a position of relative complicity in the ongoing scandal, loyalties are tested. Told in a tone both tender and droll, the prose of Baker’s first novel is reminiscent in scale and ambition to Edith Wharton’s abashed insider view into bourgeois family life.

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CHILDREN’S BOOKS By Angie Talley

Go to Sleep in Your Own Bed, by Candace Fleming

It is bedtime on the farm, but when pig toddles off to snuggle

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

BOOKSHELF

down for the night, he finds someone sleeping there already. What ensues will have pajama-clad young readers giggling themselves to sleep . . . right after they ask to hear the story one more time. Ages 2-4.

The Book of Mistakes, by Corinna Luyken

Oops! Whoops! Oh no! Mistakes can be creativity ending showstoppers or, better yet, opportunities. In this beautiful new ode to U-turns, debut author/ illustrator Corinna Luyken celebrates mistakes and the wonderful roads they can lead down. Ages 3-adult.

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Orphan Island, by Laurel Snyder

Nine on an island, orphans all/Any more, the sky might fall. So goes the rhyme and so goes life on Orphan Island, a place where it only rains at night, where snakes are docile, waters calm, food plentiful, and rules must always be followed. But when Jinny, the Elder, breaks a cardinal rule, the serenity of the island is threatened. Reminiscent of a grown-up version of The Boxcar Children, this captivating read is a mysterious journey and a fascinating exploration of what it really means to grow up — a literary novel sure to get a nod toward next year’s Newbery Medal. Ages 11-14.

When Dimple Met Rishi, by Sandhya Menon

Meet Dimple, crazy for coding and psyched to be attending Insomnia Con summer camp, where she can develop an idea she has for an amazing new app. Meet Rishi, crazy for Dimple, and a closet comic-illustrating prodigy who’s attending Insomnia Con to, well, to be with Dimple. This laugh-outloud coming of age sweet love story between two talented high school graduates brilliantly explores new love, the experience of being young IndianAmericans, and the difficult decisions they must make when they focus on careers, but find themselves smitten. This is the perfect summer-beforecollege read. Ages 14 and up. PS

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June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

HOMETOWN

A Fast 40

And the fabric of memories

By Bill Fields

Measured by bricks and mortar,

Pinecrest High School wasn’t quite finished in 1977 — having recently gained a cafeteria and a gymnasium, it still lacked an auditorium — but goodness knows, those of us graduating that spring also were works in progress.

“Home is where one starts from,” T.S. Eliot wrote in a poem quoted in our senior yearbook, the Spectrum. Those three years at Pinecrest, which commenced when, as sophomores, we were herded by alphabet into homerooms for fall semester in 1974, were part of our opening lap. At the same time, though, it was a finish line, the familiar about to be traded in for something else, make and model to be determined. Can it really be 40 years? The color of my hair and the length of my belt say it’s so, yet the gap between then and now is bridged by sharp, scattered memories: benevolent teacher Julianna White doing her very best to help a clueless student grasp a concept in Advanced Math; assistant principal Bobby Brendell reading the daily skip list over the intercom with his distinct inflections; coach John Williams in the field house warming up for calisthenics and a cross-country run by doing arm circles and toe touches. Mrs. White was indeed very good to me, realizing the subject she taught was a requirement and, given my career goals, not my future. She gave me the benefit of the doubt during one senior year grading period so that I would have no worse than a C on my high school transcript, an assist I sorely needed since my SAT math score was so poor I still treat it like a state secret. If not for her kindness, I have a hunch I wouldn’t have been handed an envelope by my father on my 18th birthday a couple of weeks before graduation. On May 25, the day Star Wars was released, I found out by letter that I had been accepted off the waiting list by UNC-Chapel Hill, where I’d long wanted

to attend. In a season of Cross pens and Belk ties this was the only present I really wanted, and my parents didn’t fret over the loss of my dorm room deposit at East Carolina. Nor was I bothered that a number of classmates had wished me luck at ECU when they signed my yearbook because it appeared I was bound for Greenville. If the proximity to graduation hadn’t heightened spring fever, then getting into Carolina and turning 18 surely did. By that juncture we were more intent on the Pizza Hut buffet or a Tastee-Freez burger than any classes before or after our lunchtime excursions, although I didn’t have much of an appetite on May 26. Thanks to a classmate whose family had connections to Terry Sanford, our commencement speaker was a cut above average, to say the least. I wish I could remember what wisdom the former North Carolina governor — then president of Duke University and a future U.S. senator — offered the approximately 300 capped-and-gowned Patriots. Unfortunately, my overarching recollection of that Friday night in the campus gym is how badly some in the audience behaved, talking and yelling over Gov. Sanford’s speech, Southerners having forgotten their manners. I didn’t have a lot of school pride that evening, but when I look through my 1977 edition of the Spectrum, it returns. It was my school. They were my classmates, too many now absent. In the formal yearbook pictures — clip-on bow ties for the boys, v-neck tops for the girls — most everyone is following the photographer’s command and looking slightly away from the camera. I have overcooked his direction, my gaze appearing to be down the right field line. Forty years later, after home runs and strikeouts, for this member of the Class of ’77, the pleasure is in coming up to the plate. PS Southern Pines native Bill Fields, who writes about golf and other things, moved north in 1986 but hasn’t lost his accent..

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June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

A WRITER’S LIFE

Trespassing on Fertile Ground Writing a book requires a curious spirit, a rental car and potential bail money

By Wiley Cash

On two separate occasions,

ILLUSTRATION BY ROMEY PETITE

my career as a novelist has nearly resulted in my being charged with breaking and entering. The first instance occurred at my elementary school. When I was 35 years old.

In June 2013, I was invited back to my high school in Gastonia, North Carolina, to receive an alumni award that was to be given during the school’s graduation ceremony. After flying down on Friday and settling in at the hotel, I woke up early on Saturday morning with a little time to kill, and I thought I’d drive my rental car over to Robinson Elementary, where I had gone to school as a child. The baseball field behind the school serves as the model for the ball field in the opening scene of This Dark Road to Mercy, a novel whose final edits I was then in the middle of completing. I wanted to see the ball field again and make certain that I had gotten it “right” on the page. I wanted to know that my memory had done it justice. I followed the sidewalk to the back of the building, where a playground sat, the old baseball field resting at the bottom of the hill. I stood there, picturing my characters, two young sisters, playing on the ball field. Once I was certain that I had imprinted the scene upon my mind, I made my way back to the front of the school. That is when I passed the gymnasium. At that moment, the exact smell of the gymnasium came back to me, a scent I had not smelled in almost 25 years: fresh carpet, new paint, well-used basketballs, and something else that I wasn’t able to place. I couldn’t resist my curiosity in wondering whether or not the gym still smelled the same. I checked the door. It was unlocked. I opened it and stepped inside. I have two bits of news to report: First, the gymnasium at Robinson Elementary has smelled the exact same for almost 25 years. Second,

Robinson Elementary’s security alarm is really loud. I slammed the door and stood there for a moment, and I’m not going to lie: I considered fleeing. Before I continue, let me tell you a little about my rental car. It was a souped-up, turquoise Camaro. The guy at the rental place had been excited when he told me about the car, and I didn’t have the heart to tell him that it wasn’t quite my style. Now, I pictured myself in my suit and tie, burning rubber in a turquoise Camaro as I peeled out of my old elementary school’s parking lot. I did the only thing I could think to do: I pulled out my cellphone and called 911 on myself. The conversation went something like this: No, I don’t work for Robinson Elementary. No, I don’t have a child who goes here. No, I’m from out of town. But I’m a writer, and I wrote about Robinson in a novel that will be out next year. I have to let you go. The police are here. A similar line of questioning occurred during my parking lot police interrogation. As soon as I was released my wife called. “Is that a siren?” she asked. I gave the only answer I could give. “I set off the alarm at my elementary school.” Apparently, my wife is used to this type of behavior because all she said was, “I’ll talk to you later.” The second time my career as a novelist nearly resulted in a rap sheet for breaking and entering occurred last spring, just west of Gastonia in the small town of Bessemer City, where much of my forthcoming novel The Last Ballad is set. The novel, which is based on true events, tells the story of a young woman who is swept up in a violent mill strike during the summer of 1929. Her name was Ella May Wiggins, and she worked at a mill in Bessemer City called American Mill No. 2. After a little research, I was able to locate the crumbling mill: It had been sold several times over the intervening decades, and, from where I sat parked along the road in front of the old mill, it appeared abandoned. I got out of the car, a Subaru Forester — more inconspicuous and better suited for exploration than the Camaro — and approached the gate, assum-

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A WRITER’S LIFE

ing it would be locked, but there was no lock, and when I tried to open the gate it opened easily. I climbed back into my car, drove through the open gate, and parked in front of the mill. For the next half hour I took pictures outside the mill, wondering where Ella had entered it, wondering how I would capture it on the page. It was painted a fading white, but I knew from old photographs that the red brick beneath had once been exposed. I also knew that Ella had worked as a spinner, but from outside the mill, I couldn’t imagine where the spinning room would have been located. I considered trying the doors to see if any of them were unlocked. I even considered climbing up the ramp and trying to gain entry to the doors in the loading area. But the place was so quiet and felt so undisturbed that something gave me pause. The mill felt haunted, whether by Ella’s presence or my own imagining, I could not tell. I decided to snap one more photo of the mill before getting back into my car and heading for Asheville, where I was scheduled to give a reading that evening. And that’s when I saw him: a scarecrow of a man standing on the loading dock about 100 yards from me. I lowered my camera, feeling as if I’d just been caught stealing secrets. The man wore blue jeans and a button-down shirt, a baseball hat pulled low over his eyes. His face was obscured by shadow, but he appeared to have a mustache and to be wearing thick glasses. I lowered my camera, and I stared at him. He stared back at me. My car was parked between us, and I considered sprinting to it and getting behind the wheel and stepping on the gas for Asheville. But instead I approached the man where he stood. I didn’t say a word until I was within 10 feet or so of where he loomed above me from his perch on the loading dock. “Hello,” I said. “My name’s Wiley Cash, and I’m a writer, and I’m writing about a woman who worked at this mill in 1929. I was just taking a few pictures for research.” Silence. “Her name was Ella May Wiggins,” I said. “She was shot and killed during the Loray Mill strike.” More silence. “Have you ever heard of her?” He raised his eyes, looked out toward the road where the gate remained open from my illegal entry. He stared at my Subaru, and I suddenly wished I’d been driving the Camaro. Finally, he looked at me. I wondered if he would go inside and call the police, or if he’d disappear and return with some kind of weapon and take the law into his own hands. “Well,” he said, “I reckon you’d better come inside and have a look around.” His name was Walter, and he was 67 years

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A WRITER’S LIFE

old. He’d grown up in Gastonia not too far from the place where I’d grown up, and he’d been working at the mill — under one owner or another — since the late 1970s. “There were almost 200 employees back then,” he said. “Today, we’ve got two on the floor.” Inside, two middle-aged women were busy packaging cloth rope and preparing it to be shipped. Neither of them looked up when Walter and I passed. The mill appeared even older once I was inside it. It was dark and musty, the hardwood floor worn smooth from decades of foot traffic and pocked from years of heavy machinery being moved across it, the ceiling low and riddled with what appeared to be hand-hewn beams and crossbeams where single bulbs cast soft yellow light defined by deep shadows. “This is probably exactly what this place looked like when she worked here back in ’29,” Walter said. He stopped, looked at me. “What did she do?” “She was a spinner,” I said. “Come on,” he said. I followed him up a rickety staircase to the second story. It ran almost the length of the mill, but it was virtually empty. The roof pitched above us at a sharp angle. Sunlight streamed through dirty glass windows and chinks in the walls. Gaps in the flooring made it so I could see through to the story below. “This is where the spinners would’ve worked,” he said. “The machines would’ve been up here.” “Would it have been loud?” I asked. “Deafening.” “And hot?” “You can’t imagine,” he said. “She worked 70 hours a week for $9,” I said. “And she had five children. Four had already passed away. She joined the strike because she thought the rest of them might die if something didn’t change.” He drew his lips into a straight line, shook his head in what seemed like either disbelief or disappointment. I thought of the two silent women at work downstairs, and I wondered if Walter saw anything of Ella’s story in theirs. When I left, I told Walter that I’d make sure he got a copy of my novel when it came out. I told him I’d drop by the mill and see him. He smiled. “If we’re still here,” he said. “If so, I hope you’ll stop by.” I’ve learned that sometimes, as a writer, you have to get out of the (rental) car and open doors. Other times, it’s best to wait for doors to be opened to you. PS Wiley Cash lives in Wilmington, North Carolina, with his wife and their two daughters. His forthcoming novel The Last Ballad is available for pre-order wherever books are sold.

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

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PHOTOGRAPH BY JOHN GESSNER

age wine-savvy consumer about chenin blanc and chances are they’ll immediately reference the Loire Valley of France. Truth is, since the 1600s chenin blanc has been the most widely planted varietal in South Africa, where they grow twice as much as in the Loire. South Africa’s alias for chenin blanc is “steen.”

During the dark days of apartheid South Africa’s wine industry suffered deeply. Embargoes prevented them from ordering modern equipment, and American and European winemakers boycotted consulting with them. The government placed demanding, unrealistic restrictions on how much they could grow, where and what grapes they could plant. They were at least 50 years behind the rest of the world. Chenin blanc’s potential was going unrealized. It simply created a neutraltasting bland base for inexpensive table wine and brandy. Post-apartheid winemakers began to experiment with the grape that many in our industry consider to be the most versatile. They discovered the effects of terroir on chenin (meaning different flavors from different vineyard sites influenced by soils and climate). They tried fermenting some in stainless tanks and others in small French oak barrels, creating two completely different results. Winemakers formed a group called The Chenin Blanc Association. Ken Forrester, owner of Ken Forrester Winery, is the current chairman of the group. His winery produces five different kinds of chenin blanc, including a sparkling and a dessert wine. His unoaked Petit Chenin Blanc is the most affordable at about $11. Robert Parker of The Wine Advocate gave it 86 points, and says it:

“Has lime flower, orange zest and just a touch of almond in the background. The palate is well balanced with a fine line of acidity, composed in the mouth with a touch of bitter lemon and orange peel towards the finish. You cannot argue at this price, as with all Ken Forrester’s ‘Petit’ range.” The Mulderbosch winery is located in the famous Stellenbosch region and has been considered one of South Africa’s premier wineries since its inception in 1989. American investor Charles Banks purchased Mulderbosch in 2011 and helped take the winery to a new level when he hired winemaker Adam Mason, who built strong relations with growers. Now the winery is recognized to be Integrity and Sustainability Certified by the Wine and Spirit Board of South Africa. Mason’s steen is 100 percent chenin and partially aged in small French oak barrels and stainless tanks. In The Wine Advocate, Parker describes the current vintage: “There’s a prevailing nuttiness to the nose and mouth of this Chenin, with assertive tones of toasted hazelnut and straw throughout. Flavors of honeydew and baked apple unfold on the medium-weight palate, ending on a spiced orange-cream note.” Another chenin blanc, Essay, is a play on words for the abbreviation of South Africa (SA). At just under $10, it has 15 percent viognier blended in for touches of floral notes. It’s unoaked and earned a Best Buy, 85 points from The Wine Enthusiast. Its description of the wine was: “Bright aromas of tart apple, melon rind and fresh chrysanthemum dance in the bouquet, while the lively, lightweight palate offers notes of white peach and citrus pith. A subtle astringency graces the close.” Be sure and check out a steen this spring. It’s the perfect warm weather wine. PS Robyn James is a certified sommelier and proprietor of The Wine Cellar and Tasting Room in Southern Pines. Contact her at robynajames@gmail.com.

IN THE SPIRIT

The Daiquiri

And the way to perfect it with myriad rums

By Tony Cross

The next time you’re

in an establishment and you’re uncertain if the drinks on their cocktail list are any good or not, order a daiquiri. If you’re envisioning a syrupy, strawberry-colored frozen drink that comes in a 16-ounce piña colada glass, keep reading. To make a classic daiquiri, all you need is rum, lime juice and sugar. But like many other pre-Prohibition cocktails, the daiquiri was ruined in the ’70s with artificial everything. When made correctly, this cocktail is the epitome of balance: not too boozy, not too tart, and not too sweet. Chances are, if the bartender can make a good daiquiri, the other cocktails on the list will also be balanced. I’ve had guests request a daiquiri for this very reason, and it resulted in their group ordering a few other cocktails throughout the evening.

PHOTOGRAPH BY TONY CROSS

I tried this gambit out a few years back on a hot summer afternoon. The bartender took my order, only to return a few minutes later to ask if I “wanted that blended.” I opted for the sauvignon blanc instead. Here are a few of my favorite rums that I’ll be making daiquiris with and kicking back during the first month of summer.

Flor de Caña Extra Seco 4 Years

Cocktail historian David Wondrich calls the daiquiri “the first true classic cocktail to be invented outside the United States.” He’s right, and like so many classic cocktails that I’ve researched, many bartenders from the past have taken credit for their creation. Wondrich found the daiquiri referred to as the “Cuban Cocktail” in a cocktail book from Hugo Ensslin called Recipes For Mixed Drinks published in 1916. However, in a later edition of the book, Ensslin corrects himself, giving credit to Jacques Straub for publishing the cocktail in 1914. What we do know is that the original was made with Bacardi rum. Bacardi in the early 1900s was different from the Bacardi

we know today. Back then it was rich and “exceptionally smooth.” Today, it’s very light, with not much flavor. Instead, grab a bottle of Flor de Caña Extra Seco 4 Years. Based in Nicaragua, this distillery — meaning “Flower of the Cane” — has been around since 1890. The sugar cane was planted at the foot of a volcano in hopes that the soil would enrich the flavors of the rum, and the humidity would naturally age it once it was in oak barrels. Flor de Caña makes a lot of different aged rums: four year, five year, seven year, 12 year, 18 year, and a 25 year. Our local ABC isn’t carrying it at the moment, but if you ask, they will order it for you. This is the best go-to rum for making a classic daiquiri without hurting your pocket: less than $20 a bottle.

Classic Daiquiri 2 ounces Flor de Caña Extra Seco 4 Years 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice 1/2 ounce simple syrup (2:1) Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake vigorously until the shaker is very cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe glass. No garnish.

Fair Game Beverage Company’s Amber Rum

A few years back, Fair Game distiller Chris Jude released a sorghum rum titled “No’Lasses.” It was delicious and different: great rum characteristics, but with a whiskey backbone. Last year, he released his Amber Rum. He sources his panela sugar from Colombia. Panela sugar is made from evaporated cane juice; it’s a raw sugar with rich flavors. This sugar gives the rum a sweet, floral and grassy profile. Like the No’Lasses, it’s also aged in bourbon barrels after distillation in Jude’s alembic pot still. The sugar ferments very slowly with Caribbean rum yeast before being added to the still. If you’re looking for a daiquiri with more body and flavor, use this rum. You can use it with the same specs from the daiquiri recipe above or when making a Hemmingway, named for the author, of course. Legend has it, at the El Floridita bar in Havana, Hemmingway set a house record for drinking 16 doubles (sans the sugar — that alone would’ve probably killed him).

Hemmingway Daiquiri 2 ounces Fair Game Amber Rum 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice

IN THE SPIRIT

1/2 ounce fresh grapefruit juice Bar spoon maraschino liqueur Bar spoon simple syrup (2:1) Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice, and shake vigorously until the shaker is very cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe glass. No garnish.

Smith & Cross Traditional Jamaican Rum

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My favorite rum. Ever. There are so many great things to say about this funky rum. Funky as in all kinds of flavor — on the nose it smells like a Werther’s caramel drop and on the palate there are ripe bananas, nuttiness and spice, undertones of grass, oak and honey. Coming in at a whopping 57 percent ABV, this is my definition of pirate rum. Titled “Navy Strength,” it must be at least 100 proof, which was the traditional strength requirement of the British Navy. Smith & Cross is one of the oldest producers of spirits and sugar in England. Dating back to 1788, the sugar refinery was located on the London docks. As time passed, the refineries turned into rum cellars. Haus Alpenz, the distributor of Smith & Cross, says, “At this proof a spill of the spirits would not prevent gunpowder from igniting. As important, this degree of concentration provided an efficiency in conveyance on board and onward to trading partners far away.” This rum is bottled in London, and made with a combo of the Wedderburn and Plummer styles of rum producing. The Wedderburn style is aged for less than a year, and the Plummer is aged one to three years in white oak. Molasses, skimmings (the debris that collects of the top of the boiling fluids, skimmed off during molasses and sugar production), cane juice, the syrup bottoms from sugar production, and the dunder (the liquid left in the boiler after distilling rum) make this rum my favorite; it’s not just because we share the same name. Here’s my recipe for a daiquri. This has got to be one of my favorite cocktails to drink. The half ounce of Smith & Cross does wonders for this quick sipper.

Cross Daiquiri 1 1/2 ounces Flor de Caña Extra Seco 1/2 ounce Smith & Cross Jamaican Rum 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice 1/2 ounce simple syrup (2:1) Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice from distilled water, and shake vigorously until the shaker is very cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail coupe glass. No garnish. PS Tony Cross is a bartender who runs cocktail catering company Reverie Cocktails in Southern Pines.

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

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THE KITCHEN GARDEN

Summer Sweet

Something decorative and delicious (and so very good for you)

By Jan Leitschuh

It’s not too late to plant sweet potatoes.

I know, right? You’ve got June harvests of summer squash, garden cabbage, cucumber, zucchini and the earliest blueberries and sweet corn on the brain — not sweet potatoes. You’ve harvested your spring-sown sugar snap peas, your kales and lettuces, your spinach and chards, your asparagus, dill, chives and green garlics. You have the tomatoes staked out in the garden, the first clusters already hinting at ripening next week, or the next. The peppers are promising. The okra went in the ground last month. You could try planting sweet potatoes now. The vines can be quite decorative in a planter. And 150 days from now, in October, what will you harvest that will fill your bellies with a sweet, satisfying bulk, that will form the basis for a healthy, seasonal fall meal? Your area farmers began in May. But since you are not counting on sweet potatoes to pay the taxes and mortgage on your farm, you can begin today if the fancy strikes you. Why not grow them in planters on your deck, taking advantage of the pleasant, cascading streamers of foliage? Come frost, you could just tip your planter over and harvest the fat tubers — decorative planter in summer, sweet potato ragout in fall. Don’t be confused by “sweet potato vines.” The white tuber ornamental sweet potato sold in garden centers is different from its orange-fleshed vegetable cousin, selected for foliage, not flavor. Whether you use a planter or not, we live upon some of the best sweet potato ground in the world. The light, sandy loams of this area favor the

production of sweet potatoes. The tubers expand readily in the light soils, producing good harvests. In fact, North Carolina leads the nation in sweet potato production, growing over 45 percent of the U.S. supply. It’s our N.C. state vegetable — for those keeping score at home — thanks to some fourth-graders who suggested it to the General Assembly in 1995. Some call it a superfood, with its readily available forms of Vitamin A and C, and their generous potassium and B6 content. It is lower on the glycemic index than regular potatoes. Its plant chemicals help support your skin, fight cancer and cholesterol levels. I call it the world’s easiest side dish. Several times a week, my husband and I rinse off a tuber, slit the side, wrap it in a paper towel and microwave for a few minutes until soft. Simply open and top with butter, coconut oil, applesauce, salsa or your favorite sweet or savory. Bam! One of the “5 A Day for Better Health” knocked down in the time it takes to check your phone. That’s ignoring all the good things like sweet potato fries, sweet potato bread, sweet potato stew, sweet potato pie, sweet potato chips, sweet potato noodle kugel, maple-pecan sweet potato mashes and so much more. But this is summer, and we have summer things on our minds. So let’s return to the growing: The sweet potatoes you find in stores will likely be Covingtons (developed in N.C.) or Beauregard, perhaps a Jewel or a Ruby. A sweet potato starts as a simple sprout. Do you remember suspending a sweet potato in a jar with toothpicks as a child? With half the sweet potato covered with water, and placed in the sunshine, it will produce several large leafy upwellings. In a month or so, that suspended sweet potato will have produced slim vines of 8 to 10 inches. Organic

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THE KITCHEN GARDEN

sweet potatoes are often best for this, since they have not been treated with a sprout retardant for long shelf life. My grandmother used to tuck one in a jar just for the pleasure of seeing that long vine grow and trail up her kitchen window. Perhaps you have some older, unused sweet potatoes already beginning to sprout on their own. By all means, help them along. You can bury tubers halfway in a moist, warm bed of sand, lying on their side, to grow more sprouts. Local producers like to form neat, raised planting beds, prepping the soil with, say, an 8-8-8 fertilizer and adequate lime to make a neutral or slightly acidic soil. I take my chances with a well-aged compost and lightly dig into a loose soil. It seems impossible, but leafy sweet potato sprouts are tough, imbued with a strong will to take root and grow. As long as the soil is moist and warm, your sprouts will take root. If you grow your own on tubers, give them a twist at planting time to remove them from the parent sweet potato. Plant sprouts 8 to 10 inches apart, and water them in well. Keep your beds (or your planter) well watered until the sprouts begin to root, never letting them dry out that first 30 days. In about a month, the shallow, expanding roots will demand another feeding. Side dress again with a little fertilizer or aged compost. Keep an eye on weeds that sprout among the expanding foliage. In time, the sweet potato’s leaves will cover the ground. I like to use simple garden scissors, weeding by snipping off the offender, not disturbing the shallow roots one bit. Keep up the watering and gentle fertilizing but be warned — deer love to nibble the tender sweet potato leaves. (Maybe a vote for a planter there?) Perhaps the third week in October or so, the first killing frost will come to the area and blacken the vines. It’s harvest time! Either tip over your planter onto a tarp and pick out your tubers, or dig gently into the ground around your plants, exposing the crowns and following the roots downward to reveal your treasures. If you started early enough there will be big ones, and lots of small ones. Children, especially, love this part. If you

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carelessly stick a fork through a root, don’t be overly alarmed, they have the ability to form a skin over an injured area. Remove your sweet potatoes from the field so that they are not exposed to the blazing fall sun. You’ll want to cure yours for the sweetest taste. Do this by spreading them out on newspapers in a warm dry area, airy, not exposed to direct sun. Your garage or shed or basement might just do the trick. Some of the starches will convert to that delicious sweet potato sweetness. Some people wash their tubers off with a garden hose in the backyard. While that is satisfying — revealing the horde, in all its glory — it also starts the clock ticking on the possibility of rot. In our sandy soils, better to brush them off lightly, let them cure, then brush with a whisk for more cleaning. Commercial operations grade them, send them through a wash bath, then dip them in a fungicide to prevent rot. One of the advantages of homegrown is controlling exactly what chemicals go into and onto your food. Store them in a cool, but not cold, place. Fifty-five degrees is about perfect. Place them in a paperlined box, and put paper between the layers to better store your homegrown sweets. Rinse thoroughly just before baking. You’ll have sweet potatoes until Christmas, maybe longer if you took care during the curing and storing process. Or if you haven’t eaten them all up first. PS Jan Leitschuh is a local gardener, avid eater of fresh produce and co-founder of the Sandhills Farm to Table Cooperative.

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Sunday Lessons

In the loving hands of a remarkable grandmother

By K athleen Causey

The black cat clock

PHOTOGRAPH PROVIDED BY KATHLEEN CAUSEY

sat directly above the living room chair where my grandmother wove the rag rugs she sold all over the country. Its large eyes clicked back and forth in time with the swishing tail, mesmerizing my little sister with its quirkiness. I watched my grandmother’s hands, bent in strange ways from my own, twisting the multi-colored satin blanket binding with amazing speed and spinning tales in a soft voice without dropping a stitch.

Hattie Mae Cochran wasn’t my blood relative. I inherited her at age 7 when my mother married her son. This would be my mother’s third marriage and his as well. The union brought a boatload of half-brothers and stepsisters, and it was never comfortable explaining the relationships of our family. The best part of the deal was inheriting Grandma Cochran. She didn’t have her mother’s Cherokee dark looks, but was fair-haired, light skinned and small in stature, with the patience to explain why her strong-minded son demanded so much from his children. After church on Sunday our extended family met at Grandma’s house. We would stop and pick up the bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken and she would have the veggies ready, covered and sitting in their bowls on the back of the stove. In the summers, we followed her down the garden rows helping to hold the basket as she picked ripened tomatoes and cukes for our lunch. In the winters when it was too chilly to play outside, I would squeeze in at her feet with my siblings and cousins in her tiny living room and hear the stories of her life — how they built their cabin too close to a rattlesnake den in Wilkes County and the snakes would try to crawl up through the cracks in the floor in the winter;

how, come spring, they moved the cabin farther up the ridge; how they used newspaper to fill the cracks to stop the freezing wind from blowing through. Her fingers stopped only to hand us a needle to thread as she filled our imaginations. My stepfather, with his Elvis Presley good looks, ran a strict house, demanding perfection and routine, and never spared the rod. Grandma was my savior. I spent weekends with her, bravely following her down into the cellar with my arms filled with Mason jars as she used a stick to clear the spider webs away from our path. She taught me how to make bread and butter pickles; how to put up beans; how to use my fingers to cut in the butter to make biscuits; how to make a flaky crust for her wonderful lemon meringue pie. Grandma made lacy, intricate doilies; crocheted afghans and quilted like a magician. On special weekends, she allowed me to hunt through her private quilt collection she kept in the closet of the guest room. One hangs on a ladder rung in my dining room. The circles of material were from colorful scraps of dresses and shirts. It took months to finish and she couldn’t bear to sell it, or give it away until it became mine. I overheard my parents say that the year my Grandma gives up her garden will be her last. When that spring came and she said she wouldn’t be planting, my heart was heavy with the grief of what was to be. I am a grandmother now, and though this woman has long left this world, her voice is with me. She is there with each pie crust I make, with each tomato I pick, with each stitch I sew. As summer comes and the earth starts to warm, I look at my own hands and how they are changing with time, and I hope one day my granddaughters will sit and ask why my fingers are crooked and bent; and perhaps they will listen patiently as the tail of the clock swishes and the eyes click back and forth. PS Kathleen Causey lives and golfs in Seven Lakes, North Carolina, volunteers at the Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, and knows way more about cyber security than your average grandmother.

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June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

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Dog Days Ahead

Ruff language from the monthly rescue dog meeting

By Clyde Edgerton

Following is a transcript of a

ILLUSTRATION BY HARRY BLAIR

recent rescue dog monthly meeting at a local pound:

Dog 1, the Moderator: Good afternoon. My name is Dusty. I’m a Mix. As you have been informed, we are meeting to go over some of the characteristics of rescue families. As you know, if you are not rescued this month then — Dog 2: Please don’t go into that. OK. But please be aware that you may be rescued by a Conservative, a Liberal, a Mix, or a Hermit. You should be able to recognize either, so that you can pick the rescue family that will be a good fit for you. That’s the purpose of our meeting — recognition. Please interrupt at any time with questions, by the way. Dog 2: What’s a Mix? Someone who is both a Conservative and a Liberal. Dog 3: Impossible Dog 4: No, it’s not. Dog 2: What’s a Conservative? Someone who listens to Fox News on their SirrusXM Satellite car radio. Dog 2: What’s a Liberal? Someone who listens to CNN or MSNBC on their SirrusXM Satellite car radio. Dog 2: How are they different? I don’t want to jump to conclusions, but it may be easier to say how they are alike. Judging from the commercials on those stations, they all likely owe $10,000 in back taxes or they are over $10,000 in credit card debt or they snore a lot, or are dysfunctional in some other way. It’s like they are all criminals. And, as with all humans these days, they are owned by somebody — or something — they may not recognize. And neither group will feed you chicken bones. But, as to their differences, I can tell you that — Dog 2: What’s a Hermit? A loner. Dog 3: Why would a Hermit want a dog? Don’t know. They probably wouldn’t. Right. So scratch that category. Dog 4: Just wondering — can a woman be a Hermit? Of course. Why would you think otherwise? Dog 5: What’s a woman? Come on, y’all — you were supposed to do your homework. A woman is

person who will most likely be feeding you once you rescue a family. Now, please hold off on the questions and let me just clarify a few things. Dog 4: But what’s a man, then? Dog 5: Do you mean a person who identifies as a man? Dog 4: You must be a Liberal. Nanny nanny boo boo. Dog 5: You must be a Conservative. Nanny nanny boo boo. Hold on, hold on. Please don’t jump to conclusions. You are dogs, remember. You serve Conservatives, Liberals and Mixes. We rescue so that we can provide entertainment and company to rescue families, regardless of their political outlook. We must all — Dog 6: I’ve been around the block a few times. Peed on a lot of fire hydrants. And I can tell you this: You want to rescue people who are kind to dogs. I rescued a Conservative family twice and a Liberal family twice. I learned that kindness is unpredictable. What you need is somebody who will squat down, look you in the eye, and talk to you. Gently. Who will give you food, shelter, and love. And if you are a Mix, like all of us here, then you — Dog 7: I’m a pure breed. Dalmatian, as a matter of fact. Dogs 2 – 23: Oh my goodness. What the hell are you doing here? My Lord. For Heaven’s sake! Overbred. Overbred. Overbred. Nanny nanny boo boo. Liar. Dummy. Softy. Calm down. Listen up. Let’s not jump to conclusions. I believe there may be more than one pure breed among us. Or that could be what we call a “social construct.” Please understand that we are all in this together. More than likely each of you will find a family match — even pure-breed-Dalmatian-Dog 7. I understand Dalmatians are high-strung and perhaps you, Dog 7, will find a comfortable match . . . say, a vegetarian family. And listen, everybody, if a family doesn’t work out, simply bring them back and we will send them over for feline therapy. Believe me, they will come crawling back. PS Clyde Edgerton is the author of 10 novels, a memoir and most recently, Papadaddy’s Book for New Fathers. He is the Thomas S. Kenan III Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at UNCW.

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

OUT OF THE BLUE

Ahhh-Choo!!!

The sneezin’ season turns summer into suffering

By Deborah Salomon

Spring-fling-April-showers-May-flowers-

June-moon-birds-and-bees-and-trees . . . and hay fever.

I do not welcome spring/early summer. I dread it. All that chirping and buzzing means misery. While others are frolicking in the meadow, rolling in the grass, picnicking in the woods I am either binge sneezing or stoned on antihistamines. That first ominous tickle appears in April, this year earlier, when trees begin budding. I can’t name which tree or grass or weed because it doesn’t matter; I’m allergic to them all. The tickle feels like centipedes doing the hokey-pokey inside my nose. Rubbing only aggravates the dance. Then sneezing commences — consecutive loud ones, eight or nine without a breather. At 10 I get dizzy. Fourteen or more and I’ve been known to faint. This leaves my besieged nose red, raw and irritated. Years ago, a fellowsufferer advised against using Kleenex because the fluff further inflames, causing more sneezing. Men’s hankies, she said, only ones that are 100 percent soft cotton. I have dozens but still run the washing machine almost every day, in season. About the season: Used to be, hayfever would abate in June, return in September, just in time for school, and last until a hard frost killed the leaf molds. What could be more embarrassing than having to flee the classroom consumed by sneezes? I remember some mean kids that, during a grand mal episode, counted them down until I fled, in tears. Tears? Who could tell, since my eyes commiserate with my nose? Every region is different, according to the flora. My hayfever is awful in Manhattan, where there’s little, but better near the ocean. I thought the Sandhills would be OK, since I’m not allergic to that gold dust emitted by

longleaf pines. Bad guess. Not only is it present, but unpredictable, since plants never really die here. Last year I suffered bouts into December. Oh, you’ve just got a cold, an allergy-free friend said, not understanding the telltale tickle. After a few weeks of sporadic attacks comes sinus involvement, when turning my head side-to-side pains more than walking on red-hot stones. Do something, Deb! As a teenager I took then-popular Chlor-Trimeton, which worked OK until I became immune. One year I had shots, twice a week, all winter, with minimal results. Since then I’ve tried every new “non-drowsy” OTC remedy. They calmed the sneezing and, as advertised, didn’t make me drowsy, more like comatose — awful, since my job requires putting one word in front of another. At least I’m not a cat burglar. Or a neurosurgeon. And, I’m equipped to play either Sneezy or Dopey for Walt Disney. Recently the doctor prescribed a nasal spray that would treat all my symptoms without inducing stupor. Which it did, for a few glorious days, followed by blurred vision and headaches — two possible side effects listed in the tiniest print on the package. Look, hay fever isn’t serious or life-threatening; maybe life-altering, but not enough to live in Arizona. There’s no magic pill or abracadabra spray. I overreact to insect bites but don’t have food allergies, thank goodness. Best of all, I was excused from the 10th grade botany class wildflower field trip. But if you plan to invite me to a garden party, a lawn wedding or a picnic, please wait until January. PS Deborah Salomon is a staff writer for PineStraw and The Pilot. She may be reached at debsalomon@nc.rr.com.

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

MOM, INC.

Tight Squeeze Not exactly the Flying Finn

By Renee Phile

Scene: June 2016.

4:30 in the afternoon. 80s. Humid. Kids and parents tired from traveling all day. Finally at our destination, an RV park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Second trip with our newest addition, Finn, a 33-foot 2016 Passport Ultra Lite Camper.

“You are at site 52, right by the pool,” she says, blowing her bangs out of her eyes, and handing me the map after circling our space with a Sharpie. “Yay! The pool! Yes!” the boys yell, pretty much in unison. At first glance, I think there is no way we are going fit in site 52, right next to the pool. It just seems tight, and this will be only my husband, Raymond’s, second time backing the trailer into a tight place. The boys and I hop out of the truck, and Raymond drives around the campsite’s loop and then begins the test: backing the 33-foot Finn into site 52, by the pool. My job is to direct him with little hand signals, and since we have only practiced this teamwork a few times, we don’t really “have it.” Typically, I will wave one way or the other, and I can’t tell if he sees me, so I continue to wave one way or another, more dramatically wave-by-wave, pretending I’m one of those people who helps a pilot park an airplane. Then he nods and says smugly, “Yes, I see you. Got it.” Anyway, back to site 52, by the pool. Finn’s hitch creaks and pops, and the guy at Camping World said it would do that. He said not to worry, even though it will sound like a gunshot, and then a cow in labor. Raymond attempts his first back-in. Too far to the left. He nearly hits the water spigot. Pilot error. He pulls up and starts over. Still too far to the left. Pull up! Pull up! Then again. And again. The other campers start to watch. The more experienced RV drivers. I feel the need to announce, “This is our second time, everyone! We are newbies! Can you stop staring?” But I wave my arms instead. Some people smirk. Maybe they don’t, really. Maybe I just think they are. Actually, I just see one guy and he is smirking, for sure. He is sitting in a chair by the RV across the road, a Budweiser in his hand.

David, my then-12-year-old, decides now is a great time to get out his juggling balls and juggle. Kevin, my then-7-year-old, exclaims, “We have a lot of neighbors! Can I start visiting them, Mom?” I feel sweat drip down my back. Our truck and trailer are sprawled across the road, blocking all traffic. Raymond’s still trying. Creak. Snap. Pop. Time seems to slow. A man driving a truck stops, waiting to pass. The man raises his hands in an exasperated manner and mouths something that looks like, “What the hell?” At that moment, David glances up from his juggling performance and says, “That guy needs to calm down!” The man continues with the rude impatience, Raymond continues backing up and straightening up Finn, David continues juggling, and Kevin is now knocking on another camper’s door. The smirky, beer-drinking guy from across the road walks over to our truck and says something to Raymond. The smirky guy then moves his own truck out of the way to give Raymond more room, or maybe out of fear. Raymond straightens the truck and drives Finn around the loop again, to start over. The impatient man passes, revving his engine as he does. Then the smirky guy takes my place in site 52, beside the pool. He reeks of beer, and his words are slurring a bit. I have been replaced by this? He flaps his arms around and yells to Raymond, “Turn it sharper! Yes! Like that! Back up! Turn! To the right! Perfect!” By this time, both boys are standing next to me. “Parking these things is a bitch!” the guy says, half to us, half to Raymond. Kevin clamps his hand over his mouth and looks at me, eyes big. “Mom,” he whispers loudly, “that guy said Dad is a bitch!” “No, that’s not what he said. You heard him wrong. We will talk about it later,” I whisper. Finally, Raymond backs Finn in perfectly. “Your dad did a great job! It took me years to learn how to park these things,” the guy says, less smirky. “It took him forever!” Kevin exclaims. David juggles. “We are new,” I say to the guy. “Yeah, I figured!” the guy says and laughs, slapping his knee. The drunkish smirky guy stumbles back to his campsite. Kevin thinks, in site 52, by the pool, the language gloves are off. The Finn adventures have begun. PS Renee Phile loves being a mom, even if it doesn’t show at certain moments.

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

B I R D WA T C H

Calls of the Wild

The season of the full-throated eastern phoebe is here

By Susan Campbell

Eastern phoebes are small black-and-

white birds that can be easily overlooked — if it weren’t for their loud voices. Repeated “feee-bee, fee-bee” can be heard around wet areas all over our state during the warmer months. The farther west one travels through the Piedmont and into the Foothills, calling males become more and more common. From March through June, they loudly and incessantly declare their territory from elevated perches adjacent to ponds and streams. Phoebes have an extensive range in the Eastern United States: from the coast to the Rockies and up and across central Canada. In the winter they can be found in southern states from the Carolinas over to Texas down into Mexico and even in northern Central America. They are exclusively insectivorous, feeding on beetles, dragonflies, moths — any bugs that will fit down the hatch. Although they don’t typically take advantage of feeders, I have seen one that did manage to negotiate a suet cage one winter. The birds’ feet are weak, and they are not capable of clinging. So this bird actually had perfected a hovering technique as it fed in spurts. Originally, Eastern phoebes would use ledges on cliff faces for nesting. We do not know much about their habits in such locations since few are found breeding in such places now. Things have changed a lot for these

birds as humans have altered their landscape and offered them an abundance of urban locales in which to nest. In our area, phoebes can be easy to spot as a result of their loud calls, but their nests may not be. Good-sized open cup structures, the habitats will be tucked in out-of-the-way locations. Typically they will be on a ledge high up on a girder under a bridge or associated with a large culvert. The corner of a porch or another protected flat spot often suits them. Grasses and thin branches are woven and glued together with mud, so the nests are necessarily located near wet areas. The affinity eastern phoebes have for nesting on man-made structures in our area may indicate that these are safer than more traditional locations. Climbing snakes are not uncommon in the Piedmont and Sandhills. Black rat snakes and corn snakes are not as active in buildings as they are on bridges and other water-control structures. It might be that the birds are adapting their behavior in response to these predators and others that are less likely to dwell so close to human activity. In recent years it has been fascinating to discover the variety of locations that these little birds choose as support structure for nesting. Light fixtures and light boxes (such as the one on our hay barn that is this year’s choice for the local pair), gazebos, porch support posts and other domestic structures suit their needs as long as they are covered by at least a slight overhang. Water, of course, is a necessity for phoebes in summer, and they require mature trees for perching and foraging, as well. So keep an ear out and perhaps you will find one of these adaptable birds nearby — ’tis the season! PS Susan would love to receive your wildlife sightings and photos at susan@ncaves.com.

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

SPORTING LIFE

Guest Lecturer Bringing the outdoors in

By Tom Bryant

Traffic was backed up for miles on

the inner beltline of Raleigh, so I decided to take country roads home to Southern Pines. Big cities seem to be getting bigger every time I have to visit one, and today was no different. On this trip to the metro, I had met a couple of friends I worked with in the newspaper business. It was a great reunion. We sympathized with each other on our personal aging problems as well as the problems the newspaper industry is experiencing. After a couple of cups of coffee and an hour or two of catching up, we hit the road to get back to our respective home bases. I angled my route over the backroads toward Cary and then decided to cut across country to Lake Jordan for a quick look-see. But first, since it had been a long time since my bowl of breakfast cereal, I pulled into a handy McDonald’s right outside the city limits for an early lunch. I was in luck because just as I entered the restaurant, a church bus pulled up and unloaded a bunch of youngsters. They appeared to be in their early teens, so I grabbed a table in the back corner to be out of the way. I had the morning issue of the News & Observer, so I kicked back with my biscuit to catch up on the Raleigh news. As expected, the young folks came in with all the enthusiasm only they can have, especially when they’re hungry. I couldn’t help but overhear that they were on a field trip to the Capitol to see and be seen with the legislators. At a glance, it seemed as if each one had a smartphone and was constantly checking for important information or messages. The technology that has changed the way newspapers do business was in evidence right there in McDonald’s. There I was, an older guy, not quite a geezer but on the way, reading a hard copy of a newspaper; and there they were, a bunch of young folks engrossed in their smartphones. It was a living testament to how times have changed. These young folks reminded me of the time I was invited to speak to an eighth-grade class about the beauty of nature. It was a project dreamed up

by the school to emphasize the importance of the outdoors. Even back then, school administrators understood that kids were spending too much time inside, watching TV and playing video games. That early encounter with those eighth-graders was the first inkling I had that the new generation was growing up differently from anything I had known. A few more hungry customers came in the door, and the young folks moved as a group to the center of the restaurant. I was surprised at how subdued they were, and all but two, that I saw, were engrossed in their phones. The two kids who weren’t, a boy and a cute petite girl, carried on a conversation, laughing and smiling all the while. The contrast between the couple and the rest of the group was very evident. There are a few hanging on, I thought. The couple with no phones in sight would have fit right in with the eighth-grade class I visited many years ago. There were 30 or more students in that classroom, and it was just before lunch, so my time was limited. The young teacher introduced me and returned to her desk. I looked out at all those youngsters who had so much living yet to do and wondered how many had spent any time at all in the outdoors. So I asked, “Raise your hand if you’re in the Boy Scouts.” About five boys tentatively put up their hands. “OK,” I said, “how many of you young ladies are in the Girl Scouts?” No hands went up. I decided to use a different tact. “How many of you have ever been fishing, hunting, camping or hiking, anything at all to do with the outdoors?” I was amazed at how few raised their hands. “Well, I guess I have my work cut out for me. I’m supposed to get y’all interested enough in the birds and bees for you to spend more time away from the TV.” The birds and bees comment brought on a little snickering in the back rows. “Not that kind of birds and bees,” I laughed. I had gotten their attention. A boy sitting close to the front raised his hand. “Mr. Bryant, one time when I was a lot younger, my granddad took me duck hunting.” I looked at him with a glimmer of hope, thinking that here was a boy I could relate to. He continued, “I not only about froze to death, but I was bored stiff. We didn’t see a duck all day.” The class erupted with laughter. The teacher looked over at me with raised eyebrows. I’m losing these people. What’s the best way to respond to this little whip-

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

SPORTING LIFE

persnapper? I thought about bringing the beauty of sunsets and sunrises into the conversation. I had even emphasized that in my notes, but that wouldn’t work; these kids have seen too many nature documentaries on TV. OK, I figured I had one last chance before the teacher took her class back and dismissed me. I walked around to the front of the lectern. “All right, folks,” I said. “I’ve left my speech back there. Just give me a little attention, and I’ll let you get out of here early for lunch.” That perked them up. I looked at the young fellow who gave me the duck hunting story. “I’m going to tell you about one of my duck hunts. “It was Thanksgiving weekend, really just a couple of years ago. I was out early Friday morning at my special duck hunting spot not too far from home. It’s a beautiful undisturbed area with all kinds of wildlife and one of my favorite locations. Unfortunately, we’re losing these places all too quickly to development. So-called progress, I reckon. I have a small duck boat I use for hunting, one that will nestle right close to the creek bank; and on this morning, I was hunting alone because my old hunting dog, Paddle, had died the year before. She was a yellow Lab and a great retriever. We hunted together for 14 years and I still miss her.” The class was paying more attention and I continued. “On this morning I didn’t really expect to have a lot of luck because of the mild weather, but I just wanted to be in the woods. I pulled the boat under alders growing from the bank and watched as the sun came up over the lake. Canada geese had roosted out in the big water the night before and were calling in preparation to head to the fields to feed. Mixed in with their calling, I could hear an unusual whistling noise coming from up the creek. A black bear had recently been sighted in the area, and not knowing what the whistling was, I hunkered down in the boat.” I had the class now. They were all paying attention, and I finished the impromptu lecture and watched as the students were dismissed and filed out of the room heading to lunch. Several of them thanked me for the story. The teacher gave me kudos for my talk. I don’t know if they were deserved or not, but I told her I had enjoyed the experience. As I packed up to leave, the young guy who had duck hunted with his granddad stood by the classroom door, and as I walked out into the hall, he said, “Thanks, Mr. Bryant. I’m going to see if my grandfather will take me duck hunting again.” That youngster made my day. PS Tom Bryant, a Southern Pines resident, is a lifelong outdoorsman and PineStraw’s Sporting Life columnist.

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

G O L F T OW N J O U R NA L

Of Sepia and Color Pinehurst, the gift that keeps on giving

By Lee Pace

The first floor halls of the venerable

Carolina Hotel and the 200 feet of what’s deemed “Heritage Hall” half a mile away at the main golf clubhouse are replete with images extolling the resort’s gilded past and its always evolving present. There are sepia-toned photos of Ben Hogan and Donald Ross, recent shots of Martin Kaymer and Michelle Wie. There is Harvie Ward from yesterday, Tiger Woods from today. On display are replicas of trophies from the U.S. Open, Women’s Open, U.S. Amateur, Women’s Amateur, PGA Championship and Ryder Cup, events that have been contested outside on the No. 2 course. While there are courses that have hosted more championships, no other club or facility in America can equal its breadth.

“We love our black-and-whites,” says Pinehurst President Tom Pashley. “They’re what distinguishes us. They make us unique. Some places try to manufacture a feeling of history. Pinehurst’s is authentic. “At the same time, we cannot exist in a time capsule. Those color pictures are important as well. We have to remain relevant today. We’ve got to be in the conversation about the top golf destinations in the country — not because of

what we were, but what we are and what we’re going to be.” Therein lies the crux of Pashley’s mission nearly three years into his tenure running this far-flung and complex business that has nine golf courses operating out of five clubhouses, three hotels and roughly a dozen restaurants offering everything from a quick hot dog at the turn to Australian lamb or Scottish salmon in the 1895 Grille. Preserve the past and innovate for the future. An ambitious drawing board in golf operations alone at the moment includes various restoration/tweaking projects for courses No. 1, 3, 4 and 5, a greens conversion on No. 7, a relocation of the popular Thistle Dhu putting course on the south side of the clubhouse, and the design and construction of a nine-hole short course. Each is a domino tumbling from the restoration of the No. 2 course from 2010-11 engineered by architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. That eyeopening project came at the behest of then-President Don Padgett, who felt No. 2 had lost its way trying to look too much like Augusta National and no longer sported the singular appeal that connected it to designer Donald Ross’ homeland in Scotland. The restoration was hailed by competitors and design buffs during the back-to-back U.S. Opens in June of 2014. When Pashley took over for Padgett three months later, he wasn’t sure what to capitalize and boldface on his to-do list. “The restoration of No. 2 was such a watershed moment in the history of Pinehurst, and no club had ever hosted back-to-back Opens like we did,” Pashley says. “When I took over for Don, I remember thinking, ‘Wow, all the work is done. What am I going to be able to do that’s going to have an impact anywhere near that?’” Pashley allows a modest smile. “I don’t have that fear anymore,” he says. “There are a lot of opportunities

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June 2017P��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

G O L F T OW N J O U R NA L

presenting themselves right now.” Certainly the most noteworthy on the docket is the work that begins in the fall to redesign the No. 4 course, a 1999 Tom Fazio creation that was, in turn, a brand new course on land occupied by a hodgepodge No. 4 with influences from various eras from Ross, Richard Tufts, Robert Trent Jones and his son, Rees. A confluence of reasons — ranging from wanting to covert the greens to Bermuda, to solve drainage problems, to have less of the clean and stark-white sandy expanses of No. 4 and more of the unkempt and burnished look of No. 2 next door — led Pashley to call architect Gil Hanse in the fall of 2016 to float the idea of major surgery. “It was one of those moments when I put the phone down for a second and thought, ‘Is this really happening?’” Hanse says of the idea of joining Ross (Nos. 1-3), Fazio (Nos. 6 and 8), Jack Nicklaus (No. 9), Rees Jones (No. 7) and Ellis Maples (No 5) in Pinehurst’s pantheon of architects. Much of the routing will remain the same, though Hanse will take liberties with the positioning and elevation profiles of several par-3s. The preponderance of pot bunkers will change in lieu of more rustic edged traps with the wire grass and “volunteer” vegetation that has become partand-parcel of the No. 2 look. The greens will be converted to Champion Bermuda and have fewer of the sharp roll-offs. “I hope what Gil can do on No. 4 is change that dialogue a little bit,” Pashley says. “Introduce some debate. Maybe when it re-opens you’ll hear some talk in the bar afterward — that though you can’t rival the history of No. 2, maybe the fun and challenge and visuals will be close. “The things people love about No. 4 won’t change. It’s secluded, there aren’t many houses in sight. It’s peaceful, it’s scenic, it’s a neighbor to some of the corridors on No. 2. There’s that big, beautiful lake. Those things won’t change.” The short course, which will have nine holes ranging in distance from 65 to 117 yards, will occupy land where the first holes of courses 3 and 5 have been located — the same area, incidentally, where the practice range for the 2005 and 2014 U.S. Opens was positioned. Hanse and his team will design it over the summer and it will open in the fall. “Thistle Dhu has been such an overwhelming success,” Pashley says of the opening of the 2.5-acre putting course in the spring of 2013. “It’s quick, it’s fun, it’s for every age and every level of golfer. The idea for the short course comes from the same place. It can complement the experience of the hard-core golfer and introduce the game to another group of guests.” The domino of needing the land occupied by those holes from 3 and 5 has been felt on the west side of N.C. 5, where the two courses are routed. The first hole of course 5 is now what was the second hole of course 3, only it runs in the opposite

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REGISTRATION IS OPEN Go to https://www.ncmep.org/ to register for mfgCON 2017!

The conference offers a specialized manufacturing curriculum with more than 24 highly curated sessions featuring expert speakers and real-world case studies from your fellow NCMEP colleagues, plus four keynote presentations.

What’s New? This year, we are adding a Meet-the-Experts program. Conference attendees can schedule and meet oneon-one with top NCMEP subject matter experts to discuss strategies/issues related to the manufacturing environment. Get access to the brains behind our solutions and services.

Curriculum This year’s tracks focus on solutions in four key areas: Talent Development, Emerging Technologies and Innovation, Leadership and Culture, and Business Growth.

G O L F T OW N J O U R NA L

direction; then it connects with the second hole and the routing remains the same. The problem on No. 3 was solved by Bob Farren, the resort’s director of grounds and golf course maintenance, with input from Hanse and architect/builder Kyle Franz, by taking two par-4s and redesigning them into pairs of a shorter par-4 and a new par-3. The revised No. 3, which opened in April, plays to a par of 68 at 5,155 yards. Franz, with some help from architect Kye Goalby and builder Blake Conant, have reintroduced more of the native Sandhills look a la No. 2 with wire grass, irregular bunkers dimensions and less of the monochromatic sheen of green grass. The die is cast arriving at the new starter’s hut on the west side of N.C. 5. To the south is the new first hole of No. 5 with a meandering new fairway contour defined by natural areas of hardpan and wire grass. Ninety degrees away and headed to the west is the new first hole of No. 3 (the previous third hole) with a new bunker in the corner of the dogleg marked by an uneven perimeter and tufts of wire grass within the sand. Then from the tee of the second hole, the golfer plays across an expanse of sand cut into the hillside with more haphazard edges and assorted vegetation. “Two holes into it, you know there’s something different going on,” Farren says. “It’s obvious there’s a new look and new feel to No. 3. Our members and guests both have embraced the ‘old look’ that Bill and Ben reintroduced on No. 2. It fits the land and the native vegetation. It fits our heritage.” Franz will implement a few more modifications on No. 3 over the summer. No. 4 shuts down in the fall for one year. After that, No. 1 is earmarked for more retrofitting. And when the greens on No. 7 are converted to Bermuda this summer, all courses at Pinehurst except No. 9 will have hybrid Bermuda greens. Pashley and Pinehurst owner Bob Dedman Jr. look at the landscape of the hot and evolving golf destinations like Bandon Dunes, Cabot Cliffs and Streamsong and know that history alone is not enough. Pashley says that one of Dedman’s visions is for “people to walk into the clubhouse and feel like they’re in golf heaven.” “In the very near future, we’ll do a better job of saying to people, ‘You can do a whole trip to Pinehurst and never leave the clubhouse,’” Pashley says. “We can create something no one else can create. We have a ‘sense of place’ like few others.” A sense of place that demands 64 crayons — from black and gray to every one in the rainbow. PS Lee Pace has been writing about the Pinehurst golf scene for three decades and in 2012 authored the book “The Golden Age of Pinehurst — The Rebirth of No. 2.”

s U h it W ip sh r o W Come THE VILLAGE CHAPEL

(An Interdenominational Church founded upon the principles of Christian Unity and Community Service) Sunday Services: 8:15 a.m. Communion • 9:30 a.m. Family Service • 11:00 a.m. Traditional Service 10 Azalea Road.Pinehurst , NC. 910.295.6003 • tvcpinehurst.com • info@tvcpinehurst.com

Bringing Families & Communities Together One Pool at a Time for Over 35 Years! www.spaandpoolworld.com 3703 Bragg Blvd. Fayetteville, NC 910-868-8319

Whether you prefer Steak Diane at the Carolina Dining Room, Chipotle Jumbo Shrimp and Grits at the 1895 Grille, Grilled Salmon Salad at The Tavern, Taterman Tots at The Deuce or the Carolina Burger at the Ryder Cup Lounge, you’ll find

910.235.8415 • pinehurst.com The Tavern • Ryder Cup Lounge • Carolina Dining Room • 1895 Grille • The Deuce

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

exactly what you’re hungry for at Pinehurst Resort.

June 2017 Reclamation Project Sunken shapes of claw, paw, toe betray those who trespass on the beach when tide is out. Shells, their chambered lives destroyed by roiling waves, spread detritus like chad. Stones that shine with wet color, bronze, gold, orange, onyx, dull to grey as sea breezes dry them out. Evening tide awakens, reaches, erases evidence of interlopers, leaves the shore like a bedsheet, taut, smooth, tucked in. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Sarah Edwards

The Rifles of Bear Creek

How the Colonial Kennedy long rifle factory in Robbins became one of the largest in the South By Bill Case • Photographs by John Gessner

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ore than 50 years ago, three men clambered down the steep bank of Bear Creek in Robbins hoping to discover artifacts from a frontier rifle factory that, along with its owner, David Kennedy, vanished around 1838. Arron Capel II, now the retired CEO of his family’s century-old braided rug manufacturing business in Troy, teamed with Pinehurst psychiatrist Don Schulte and candlemaker Carl McSwain to conduct what amounted to an archaeological dig. Each possessed an abiding interest in the legendary Kentucky long rifle, which became the gun of choice for America’s frontier settlers and fighting men after gunsmiths of German descent began producing them in southeastern Pennsylvania around 1719. Those artisans discovered that combining a rifled cylinder in the bore of a 4-foot-long barrel dramatically enhanced a gun’s accuracy at previously unimagined distances. British soldiers experienced the lethal power of the rifles when patriot sharpshooters, firing from 250 yards away, toppled redcoats like tenpins during the Revolutionary War. Because the entirety of the frontier was sometimes referred to as “Kentucky,” the rifle became associated with that area even though long rifles were never actually made there. Ambitious entrepreneurs spread production from Pennsylvania to Virginia, and finally outlying areas like the interior of North Carolina. One of those rifle makers was David Kennedy’s father, (John) Alexander Kennedy, a Philadelphia gunsmith of Scottish descent. The precise date Alexander moved his family by wagon train from Philadelphia to North Carolina is difficult to pin down. One account suggests he arrived in this area as early in 1768 — the year of David’s birth. Family lore says Alexander left Philadelphia to steer clear of the British Army, poised to seize the city in 1777. Concerned that the British would identify him as an arms supplier to the rebels, Alexander usually refrained from engraving his name on rifles he made. Only one bearing the signature “A Kennedy” is known to exist, but his rifles were employed by the Continental Army in the Revolutionary battles of Guilford Courthouse and Kings Mountain. When he arrived in what is now Robbins, Alexander Kennedy befriended fellow riflesmith William Williamson, who helped Alexander start his own operation by loaning him assorted gunmaking tools. He then taught his trade to son David. Around 1795, David began his own business partnering with

Williamson in the operation of a gunmaking facility on Bear Creek. The partners erected a dam across the creek, diverting the water flow to millworks where the stream’s force powered a waterwheel that, in turn, operated the mill’s machinery. Iron flat bar was rolled into the form of rifle barrels by large grindstones produced by a neighboring millstone maker. The metal was hot-forged and molded into barrels by trip-hammers, likewise operated by waterpower. The barrels (referred to as the gun’s “soul” by Arron Capel) were then “cooked for days at a time and stacked like firewood.” Coal from a nearby mining works supplied the heat source. Brass fittings were cast at Bear Creek too. Once the guns were assembled, they were test fired over the millpond to a target and the rifle’s sights carefully adjusted. As Capel points out in his book, Bear Creek Long Rifles, there existed a high demand for effective weaponry since, “(in) addition to the obvious need to put food on the table, every frontiersman had the responsibility to protect his family from hostile Indian attack.” Moreover, the Kennedys’ rifle mill and smithy were strategically situated to serve as an outpost for intrepid pioneers departing from Fayetteville (then Cross Creek) and traveling the adjacent trail on their journeys to Salisbury and destinations farther west. It was not long before David Kennedy bought out Williamson’s interest and, with his father aging, became the man fully in charge. Soon, he expanded his holding to include a sawmill, and lumberyard. Five of David’s 10 children, along with his brothers Alexander and John, busied themselves making rifles, pistols and swords. Woodworkers, carvers, engravers and silversmiths crafted the finishing touches that gave Kennedy rifles their unique look. Virtually every component, aside from flintlocks imported from England, was fabricated and assembled at Bear Creek. So many skilled artisans were employed at the bustling mill, the site became known as Mechanics Hill, and a post office by that name was opened. It was the first name given to a settlement that over the following century and a half would undergo name changes as frequently as a flimflam man, identified, in turn, as Elise, Hemp, and finally Robbins. David Kennedy was resourceful in finding ways to trim costs. Blackwell Robinson’s The History of Moore County — 1747-1847 recounts the local legend of how Kennedy circumvented payment to a New York company of what he deemed to be outrageously high-priced gunlocks. After journeying on horseback to the factory and using his greatly admired violin music to ingratiate

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

himself with the workmen and operators, David “soon discovered the secret involved and returned to Mechanics Hill, where he began to make his own.” And the craftsmanship didn’t come cheap. The most highly ornamented rifles, according to Robinson, “contained silver melted from 16 silver dollars and sold for proportionately higher prices.”

o definitive proof exists that Kennedy succeeded in landing a major contract to supply arms to the U.S. during the War of 1812, but Capel and his friend Bruce Turner unearthed correspondence at the Archives of the War Department in Washington sent by Kennedy in January 1812, to North Carolina Congressman Archibald McBryde. In a letter, Kennedy expressed his willingness and readiness to manufacture whatever numbers of rifles and muskets the government might require, writing, “Tho I am not ancious to under take the bisness, as I am content with my present imployment, which a fordes me a cumfortabel livin….., when I think on the blessings we injoy in our much beloeved country, it makes my hart glo with the love of the same and makes me willin to incounter almost any hardship in defence of our rights.” Capel maintains there would never have been the “sudden and dramatic increase of employment at the rifle mill (150 workers, according to the estimate of Walter Williamson, William Williamson’s grandson)” absent the procurement of such a deal. In his dogged research, Capel also discovered ancient military records mentioning that a wagonload of Kentucky rifles “had been shipped from the north,” to General Andrew Jackson immediately prior to the Battle of New Orleans — the final engagement of the conflict — and surmises that the wagonload is as likely to have come from Mechanics Hill as any other location. Whether Kennedy supplied armaments for the war effort or not, it is clear his factory was a booming moneymaker. Robinson’s history asserts that the factory “was the largest in this part of the south.” One contemporaneous account reported the profits of David Kennedy at about $15,000 annually and those of his brother “about 1,000 per annum.” If Google’s inflation calculator is to be believed, that $15,000 represents something in excess of $250,000 today.

Kennedy became an influential personage and benefactor in Mechanics Hill. According to the 1830 census he owned a large plantation consisting of 23 people, including 15 slaves. He and brother Alexander were trustees of the Mount Parnassus Academy in Carthage. David donated land and financed the building of the Mechanics Hill Baptist Church, located on Salisbury Street in Robbins, where the Woodmen of the World Hall now stands. He served as a deacon in the church. A Bible donated by Kennedy in 1823 contained the following tongue-in-cheek inscription: “David Kennedy — his book he may read good but God knows when.” Kennedy’s religious inclinations may have been galvanized by a harrowing close call. Nearly crushed by a rolling log at the sawmill, David “declared that ‘if the Lord let him live he would use his logs for better purposes,’” according to Robinson’s Moore County history. Business slowed at the Kennedy rifle factory after 1825, a period of a generally declining economy culminating in the depression known as the Panic of 1837. Making matters worse was the ongoing presence of competitive rifle mills near Salem and Jamestown, North Carolina. The real coup de grace for Kennedy occurred around 1835, when he faced a demand to make good a surety for payment of a large debt owed by brother Alexander, whose general store had failed. David and wife Joanna were ruined and their holdings liquidated. According to Capel’s book, “one 300 acre tract of Kennedy’s land sold for four dollars.” Ironically, gold was later discovered on it. The rifle mill was closed and auctioned off. The buyer converted the facility to a grain mill. Creditors never ceased hounding David Kennedy even after he’d lost everything. He and his wife fled to Green Hill, Alabama, where they resided on son Hiram’s cotton plantation. He died there in 1837. His total estate reported in Alabama tallied $170.30. David’s second son, John, stayed on in Mechanics Hill making rifles in his own business. John achieved lasting local fame in a three-way "shoot-off" before a large crowd in Carthage against fellow Moore County gunsmiths Phil Cameron and John B. McFarland. Each of the competitors claimed to make Moore County's most accurate rifles. When the smoke cleared, all three were found to have met the bull's-eye. The men called it a draw and each went home

"feeling proud of his marksmanship, and certain that no gunsmith in the state made a more accurate shooting rifle than he did." John continued in the business until shortly before he died in 1855, the same year a spring storm washed the Kennedy rifle mill down history’s drain. An amble today along Bear Creek’s rugged trail provides scant evidence that the area was once a beehive of activity. Aside from easily overlooked foundation stones, there is no vestige of the old factory. Capel, McSwain and Schulte knew it would take real digging to find any remnants of manufacture, but they were prepared to do just that in their visit to Bear Creek half a century ago. Over time, local residents had unearthed various metallic objects thought to have been left behind, but few of those relics had been preserved. Working together, the three men located a small vine-tangled mound. It proved to be the mill’s discard pile. For the excited long rifle enthusiasts, the shards of buried rifle barrels, drill bits, flint hammer castings and raw silver they unearthed constituted a treasure trove as valuable as gold. These artifacts provided the insights into the Bear Creek operation. Aficionados of David Kennedy’s rifles have launched their own Facebook site — Kennedy Rifle/Mechanics Hill. Followers post comments that run the gamut from Second Amendment discussions to providing advance notice of the Kennedy gun show and food drive recently held in Robbins in April. Historian-collectors like Capel and Asheboro’s Bill Ivey, author of North Carolina Schools of Longrifles 1765-1865, cite the historic importance of the Bear

Creek gun factory as one of nine documented facilities (referred to as “schools” ) that produced the vaunted Kentucky long rifles in North Carolina. What really excites historians and collectors are the beautiful carvings and engravings on the long rifles. Like the Kennedys, many founders of the North Carolina long rifle schools hailed from either Pennsylvania or Virginia, and their craftsmanship reflects those roots. Ornamental engraving contained on the butts of many Kennedy rifles exhibit a six-pointed star nearly indistinguishable from those found on guns made in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, where Alexander Kennedy began his career. Similarly, engravings emblazoned on the side “patchbox” (used to store cloth patches and grease) of Kennedy rifles typically reveal “flower petals” that mimic a recognized mark of Lancaster County rifles. Long rifles displaying David Kennedy’s engraved initials or signature (he spelled it “Kannedy) are particularly prized. Another of the under 100 known Kennedy guns depicts a serpentine-like comet on the butt. Capel says the design was inspired by the “Great Comet of 1811,” which electrified the country for the better part of a year. In a remarkable coincidence, a Kennedy rifle owned by Capel displays the name of an English lock maker named “Robbins” on the flintlock. It was crafted more than a century before Karl Robbins’ beneficence in the community caused the town to be renamed in his honor. When asked about the market value of Kennedy rifles, savvy collectors Ivey and Capel tend to hold their cards close to their respective chests, but neither blinked at five figures as a fair starting point.

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

A Kennedy rifle hangs above a doorway in the Shaw House. The Moore County Telephone Directory contains nearly as many entries for “Kennedy” as there are for “Jones” and more than a few are descendants of David Kennedy, including Southern Pines’ Assistant Town Manager Chris Kennedy. A gun lover and hunter, Chris had frequented Robbins many times and was generally familiar with David Kennedy’s story, but his 2015 visit to the town as a member of the Moore County Leadership Institute heightened his awareness of his ancestor’s critical role in the founding and development of the town. “It’s pretty humbling, especially in my role, to think that the Kennedys had a lot to do with development not just of Robbins, but of the whole county,” says Chris. The rapid decline in recent decades of Robbins’ textile industry caused town leaders to grapple with how best to attract new business. One tactic has been to go “back to the future” by stressing the community’s rifle-making origins. Prominently positioned in the center of town is a historical landmark plaque recognizing the Kennedys’ “extensive gunsmithing operation” at Mechanics Hill. In 2013, the Town Council members adopted resolutions establishing the second Thursday in each April as “Mechanics Hill/Kennedy Rifle Day,” and affirming their personal sworn duty to uphold the Second Amendment. Like the Phoenix of ancient lore, gunmaking in Robbins astonishingly rose from the ashes. Soft-spoken gun devotee and lifetime Robbins resident Joey Boswell is something of a latter day David Kennedy. After a wideranging career performing computer automation, engineering new product developments, and generally solving all sorts of industrial problems for various manufacturers, Boswell tired of travel to faraway destinations and being away from his family. Familiar with the design, operation and limitations of weaponry, both civilian and military, he and his wife, Martha, started their own business, War Sport Industries, LLC, in the “barn” alongside their home atop a hill in Robbins. His first major solo project in 2008 involved finding a method to camou-

flage the infrared heat visible to the enemy at nighttime on the hot barrels of American soldiers’ guns after repeated firing. Boswell invented a heat-resistant device he labeled a “suppressor sock,” which did the trick. The sock became standard issue for certain Army weapons. They began producing their own armaments — the first manufactured in Robbins since the day the Kennedy factory was shuttered. After extensive research, Boswell designed what he called a low visibility operations application rifle (LVOA), which proved to be a major advancement in military weaponry. Soon, customer demand for the LVOA increased to the point that the Boswells could no longer handle operations out of their barn and they moved War Sport to an old factory off Route 24. With operations running full tilt, two shifts, with 25 employees, War Sport had suddenly become a major Robbins employer. In 2016, the Boswells sold their interests in War Sport (which continues its manufacturing under different management) and began another weapons-related enterprise in their barn. The new company is called Mechanics Hill Marketing, LLC, in homage to Boswell’s gunmaking predecessor. The Boswells and Mechanics Hill now work in partnership with Osprey Armaments in researching, developing and marketing its weapons and other related products. “I have never had to move from Robbins to do anything I wanted to do, and I have worked overseas and everywhere,” says Boswell, who has served as a member of Robbins’ Town Council since ’09. As the catalyst to the rebirth of gunmaking in Robbins, Boswell feels a kinship with David Kennedy since — modern assembly line processes aside — the art of making guns has not changed much since Kennedy’s day. “Here we were bringing jobs to this town in the same business that started it.” PS Pinehurst resident Bill Case is PineStraw’s history man. He can be reached at Bill. Case@thompsonhine.com.

Boys to

Men Coming of age in Troop 48

By David Claude Bailey • Illustration by Romey Petite

“D

on’t pat the pancakes!” The voice comes to my 11-year-old ears as if through gauze, muffled but clearly insistent. I’m hunkering in front of a campfire, dodging the smoke that seems to chase me no matter where I drag the massive castiron frying pan in which half-a-dozen pancakes sizzle and pop. I’m delirious from having spent the night doing what Boy Scouts do on camping trips, swilling soft drinks, telling stories, and feeding our faces and the fire until 2 or 3 in the morning. Once I hit the sack, I’m dealing with a caffeine buzz only achievable in the 1950s before they took the good stuff out of soft drinks, not to mention the two quarts of Double Cola pooling in my bladder. And am I the only one who hears a raccoon raiding the unwashed pots and pans? I get up as soon as I see the slightest glimmer of dawn because I never really did go to sleep and because I’m cold and hungry and someone’s making a fire. “Bailey. Don’t pat the pancakes.” It’s our scoutmaster, John Samuels. I could spend a few lines describing his long rangy gait and his penetrating blue eyes below his beetling, sandy eyebrows or his infectious smile that we all want to trigger. But it’s easier just to conjure up John Wayne, whom, to my impressionable eyes, he resembled in every possible way. I shift yet again away from the smoke, huffing and puffing as I drag the black mass of smoking cast-iron behind me. “Patting them makes them fall so that they’re flat,” Mr. Samuels says, a twinkle in his eye to blunt the bite of his criticism. I stop the spatula a quarter inch from a flapjack, obedient to his command, as yet another finger of smoke finds its way into my stinging nostrils and bleary eyeballs. Troop 48 was the best thing that ever happened to me, except maybe getting a bike for Christmas when I was 8. The bike freed me from the half-a-mile range of my mother’s booming voice to wander the back alleys of Reidsville with a gang of three, scrounging stuff like an old washing-machine motor that we lugged home and played with until smoke and flames summoned a neighbor. But it was Boy Scouts that truly liberated me from my Pennsylvania Dutch mother, who was loving, to be sure, but who had a maddening way of insisting there was a right and wrong way to do everything — and there was never any doubt which hers was. She never resisted watching as I tied my shoes — and letting me know that I was still doing it the wrong way. Nothing beat spending a weekend with boys my age, semi-supervised by a former Merchant Marine turned repo man who, on occasion, packed what looked to me like a huge, black pistol. (I later learned it was a .22-caliber Colt Woodsman.) Like most good teachers, Mr. Samuels liked to fix things. In his case, boys who needed just a bit of guidance and attention at a crucial point in their lives — and at an age, I might add, that didn’t make them particularly appealing to their fathers or anyone else. I’ll speak for myself. My dad did his best considering that his role model was a

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

father who had nine children and acres of corn and tobacco that had to be tended so that the aforementioned children and wife wouldn’t starve. Plus, during the ’50s, children in my neck of the woods mostly raised themselves without the benefit of Dr. Spock or any helicoptering. Dads, at the prompting of mothers who read magazine articles on that new phenomenon called parenting, occasionally tossed a baseball with their sons or played golf with them (mine never did) or took them fishing and hunting (on rare occasions when other men weren’t available). But most kids were turned loose, along with the dogs, in the morning, and were only noticed if they didn’t come home for supper at night. Mr. Samuels, who had no children of his own (but a stunning wife who sometimes accompanied him on camping trips), took an interest in whether you knew how to handle a knife or an axe and would show you how to retain your fingers and toes doing so. He’d watch you try to put up a tent and coach you on how to do it in less than an hour. He taught us gun safety, knowing that the subject was, in fact, as serious as death — and your reading this might very well be a tribute to his tutelage. At 11 and 12, boys are between boyhood and manhood, some still believing in Santa Claus while noticing that they’re growing hair where there didn’t used to be any. On the way to becoming men, boys need mentors. Mr. Samuels took an interest in each and every one of us, even a geeky, one-eyed clumsy mother’s son like myself. I realize now that he liked seeing us grow into men and wanted us to share the values he held dear, which is what Scouting is all about, despite recent revelations and its detractors. But Troop 48 was not your run-of-the-mill Scout troop. We were a resourceful and mischievous lot who had a reputation throughout the council (and Reidsville) for being wild and crazy. Guilty as charged. Troop 48 viewed jamborees in the same way that some aboriginal tribes regard others occupying open range, a good excuse for a raiding party. Initiations, I’m ashamed to report, could sometimes be described as medieval in their ingenuity. And consider that my best friend taught First Aid to Fritz Klenner, the protagonist in Bitter Blood. The Chinese invented gunpowder. Troop 48 re-invented the gun. Since South Carolina and Myrtle Beach were only several hours away, any boy who’d recently paid a visit to either one brought fireworks on camping trips. Mr. Samuels never blinked an eye as long as we didn’t disturb his sleep or lose a digit. Armed with hundreds of firecrackers, some clever troop member figured out how to take a firecracker and an acorn and turn a harmless tent pole into a weapon of minimal destruction. Doubtless thinking that any one of us could throw an acorn a lot harder than the improvised gun could shoot it, Mr. Samuels just shook his head and warned us not to put out anyone’s eye, especially mine. I found the protective glasses my mother insisted that I wear at all times — and actually put them on — and soon we were facing off in Dodge City–style showdowns with shooters, each with his own personal fuse lighter. In the end, someone came up with the idea of replacing the acorn with something a little higher caliber, explosively speaking. This, in turn, required a series of precision actions on the part of fuse lighters that remains highly classified, Troop 48-eyes (or eye)-only information to this day. When the required calculations were just right, the projectile would explode as it flew through the air. When the fuselighter’s timing was even slightly off, the tent pole ended up looking like a peeled banana, which Mr. Samuels noticed, thus putting an end to our gunplay. And here I was in charge of pancakes after telling Mr. Samuels that my mom let me cook breakfast now and again, and his having eaten one of them and saying it was pretty good, if a little flat from my patting it . . . when I saw stars and smoke and flames all at the same time as John Samuels planted his size 12 boot against my backside, kicking me head-first into the fire as I patted, surely, my 20th pancake of the day. In good time, he hove me up like a puppy out of a well, holding and shaking me by the front of my untucked shirt and twisting his head slightly and smiling like a jackdaw. “Didn’t I tell you not to pat the pancakes,” he asked quite reasonably. I allowed as how he did and how I wouldn’t do it again. He deposited me back in front of the fire after kicking it back into shape and putting the pan back in front of me again, buffing the dirt off the spatula on his pants. I have never, ever patted a pancake again — or idolized anyone as much since. PS David Claude Bailey, who went on to attain the rank of Eagle, is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave and clean but rarely reverent. PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

A Stitch in Time

Putting art in the palm of your hand

By Jim Moriarty • Photographs by Tim Sayer

ith a plastic headband circling a shock of combustible red hair and a flip-down 5x magnifier in front of her eyes, Rita Ragan sits at a desk covered with what seems like a table runner of Sticky Notes and stitches art in the miniature. While it’s not exactly getting small in the way Steve Martin joked about it back in the ’70s, the road to these pieces — not much larger than your hand — stretches back at least that far. Ragan, now in her 70s herself, hasn’t exactly marched to a different drummer, she was the drummer in the band. She was christened Nancy Marguerite Ragan but flip-flopped all of that by becoming a Buddhist after meeting the Dalai Lama in Dharamsala, India, and becoming Rita after Ronald Reagan was elected president and the inevitable first lady name game grew tiresome. A decade or so ago she decided to go small while she was living in the biggest, broadest city America has to offer, New York. “I saw an ad for a miniature show and thought I’d go. I just fell in love with all the things that can be so tiny and wonderful, how you could take a whole world and, oh, look, it’s in the palm of your

hand,” she says, extending one. “At first I was just collecting things. I always thought art was something you had to have this extraordinary special ability to do — to paint or sculpt or all those things. It just never occurred to me that I could do it — but here I am.” Though patterns are available, Ragan makes her own, reaching back to the ’20s and ’30s for inspiration. “It was such an exciting time. The whole world of art just went topsy-turvy,” she says. She has reproduced designs created by Frank Lloyd Wright, a painting by Henri Matisse and other images discovered as she roamed around the internet. After locating her subject, Ragan transfers it to a paper grid of her own creation with a 12 to 1 ratio to guide the otherwise freehand needlepoint. The thread she uses is 100 percent Chinese monofilament that comes in 700 different shades. There are 48 stitches to the inch, 2,304 in a square inch. “I can probably do one in six or eight weeks without going bananas. If I spend all day on it, I just get my mind fried,” she says. “But I recommend it as a hobby to anyone who likes to immerse themselves in something, let the worries of the world go away and make something beautiful.”

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

Ragan is the older daughter of Sam Ragan, who owned The Pilot from 1969 until his death in 1996, a man who casts as long a shadow over journalism and literature in North Carolina as the tallest pine at the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities where his granddaughter, Robin Smith, is executive director and his younger daughter, Talmadge, serves on the board as chair of the N.C. Literary Hall of Fame. “He was a lovely man,” Rita says of her father. “He always was wanting to go somewhere to see something and do something, meet interesting people.” In this respect, at least, the pine cone didn’t fall far from the tree. “Sam thought of Mom as an adventurer, a lover of life who saw the world with the tenacious curiosity of a child,” says Robin. “He thought her brave to go after what she wanted and found her optimistic spirit contagious. I believe they were kindred spirits.” And spirited ones. Rita, née Nancy, entered the University of Georgia at age 15, at the time the youngest student ever admitted. It only lasted a year or

so until she decided to run off to New York — her first time to live there — to become an actress. It may not have been the shortest run ever on Broadway but it was in contention. The trail led back to Chapel Hill and marriage and children, Robin and Eric, and, eventually, single life again spent mostly in Vancouver, as ethnically diverse and cosmopolitan a city as any in North America. “That’s probably the place I’ve lived the longest,” says Ragan, who, in addition to doing design work for local publications including the Vancouver Courier, became a drummer in a pair of punk rock bands, Nash Metropolitan and A Merry Cow. “We weren’t all that good, but I got to know all the other musicians in the punk scene.” Ragan became a manager, sound technician and pre-Uber driver for the hard-edged music that crisscrossed the border from Seattle to Vancouver and back. One of the bands was The Dishrags. Though these things become a bit hazy in the long pull of time, The Dishrags were, if not the very first all-female punk rock band, in contention for the title. The group is sufficiently famous that the three band members have supplied memorabilia for a 2018 punk rock exhibit at the Canadian Museum of History in Hull, Quebec. “For some reason The Dishrags just will not die,” says their drummer, Scout (Carmen Upex), who remains close to Ragan. “We made many trips with her to Seattle,” says Scout. “We were 16 when we moved to Vancouver. She was the one who was the DD. She was responsible. She didn’t drink and she had the car.” Let’s see, there was the vanilla colored Citroën and the blue station wagon with the push-button transmission. How many punk rockers can you

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

get in a Rambler? “They’re usually pretty skinny, so five or six,” says Ragan. Plus gear. She also managed another influential Vancouver punk rock/new wave band called The Pointed Sticks. In the mid-’80s and still living in Canada, Ragan was dating a guy who knew a guy (Glenn Mullin), who had lived in Dharamsala from 1972-1984 and written extensively about the Dalai Lama. In a 2015 New York Times Magazine story by Pankaj Mishra, Dharamsala is described as a rhapsodic stew of, “crimson-robed monks, longhaired travelers on motorcycles, Tibetan women in brightly striped chubas, Sikh day-trippers, Kashmiri carpet sellers and English, German and Israeli backpackers.” According to Ragan, it hadn’t changed much. Mullin introduced her to the Dalai Lama and she helped his main assistant enter speeches and other communication into an early computer, stayed about a year and emerged a practicing Buddhist. “What a charming man. At the time he was fairly young. He has a translator and he asks questions: Where are you from? How did you get here? What do you do? He’s just fascinated,” she says. “Mom was always very independent,” says son Eric. “She’d decide she wanted to do something, she’d just pick up stakes and do it.” In the early ’90s, that included a return trip to North Carolina, where she lived in a houseboat on the Cape Fear River listening to the fish jump and the alligators chomp until it was destroyed in a hurricane. The storm blew her back to Vancouver. Then, in her early 60s, Ragan pulled up stakes again and headed back to New York. “I’d always wanted to live there. Who doesn’t? Art. Music. People. It’s possibly the greatest city in the world,” she says. She studied graphic design at NYU and lived in an apartment on the Upper West Side at 84th and Columbus. It was an easy walk to Central Park and the Natural History Museum. “My very favorite place to eat was the buffet brunch in the spectacular Peacock Alley at the WaldorfAstoria hotel,” she says. “It was fairly expensive, but the food was excellent, and there was always a scattering of semi-celebrities having brunch along with us regular folk.” Then the rent controls came off and, as Ragan says, “Here I am.” In his 1986 volume of poetry, A Walk into April, Sam Ragan has a poem entitled “Nancy.” It goes: You talked about bluebirds When you were three— And the bright bluebird Winging into the sunlight Always seems a part of you. There was that song, “Nancy With the Laughing Face,” Which brightened dark days of long ago, And other sights and sounds Flood the memories Of someone very special. It has been a wonderful journey, And it’s the journey that counts, Not the getting there. Here at home the dogwood is in bloom, And across the miles I am proud That others share my pride in you— The very special you. It seems the gift of producing art in the miniature may be genetic. PS Jim Moriarty is senior editor of PineStraw and can be reached at jjmpinestraw@gmail.com.

The Jugtown Century Turni ng fire and clay i nto works of art By Ray Owen

estled in the northwest corner of Moore County in the early 1900s, Jacques and Juliana Busbee’s Jugtown Pottery elevated folk pottery into a broader appreciation of art and cultural heritage. A pair of Raleigh artists initially viewed as “foreigners,” the Busbees traveled the back roads of Moore and Randolph counties like old-time politicians, introducing themselves and their goals while learning about pottery from those who made it. They collected traditional wares and studied folkways, lived among the country folks and wove themselves into the culture with dignity and personal warmth. The Busbees cared deeply about the plight of the potters, their long history and struggles. Utilizing local materials and old-time turning and firing techniques, their own pottery provided a kind of visual nourishment that proved as timeless as its classical inspiration, and became the foundation for traditional pottery of the 20th century in North Carolina. The great gift of the Busbees’ revival was their aesthetically pleasing ware, a fusion of traditional and Oriental ceramic forms created under the watchful eye of Jacques Busbee. They found not only a new

direction for the North Carolina pottery trade, propelling their community into the future, but also a means of sustaining a way of life for the Owen/Owens family of potters. And the couple grew to be the leading advocates for the trade. The Busbees accomplished this transformation by cultivating a wider audience for folk pottery and, in turn, the Seagrove area came to embrace the Busbees as their own. This symbiosis proved not only important for marketing pots but for defining the identity of the potters themselves, helping to foster the survival of a craft that in most other areas had passed into the ages. The arrival of the Busbees marks the turning point for a region that was looking to reinvent itself at the end of the era of the salt-glazed jug. While the locals saw pottery as another cash crop, Jacques and Juliana thought of it as something to be celebrated for its beauty. Their outsider’s perspective offered a broader view for the symbols of handmade pots and rural society, and over time the district’s residents began to see themselves through this lens. The old pug mill with the mule, and the treadle wheel and groundhog kiln, came to have new meaning and a source of community pride. This vision of a new pottery that could breathe life into handmade craft

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

Jacques Busbee

Juliana Busbee

would have been nothing without the willing hands of the potters. The craftsmen were ripe for engagement and served as the co-creators of Jacques and Juliana’s artistic undertaking. It should be noted that gifted craftsmen open to innovation were viewed as exceptional, or “different,” not unlike the early perception of the Busbees, whose pieces were at first described as “play” or “toy” ware. This view of the innovative potters’ exceptionalism likely resulted from their involvement with the newcomers in southern Moore County who where influencing their style and taste. In the early years of the 20th century, Southern Pines and Pinehurst provided a market for pottery from the northern end of the county. The potters streamed into the settlements on schooner wagons with loads of utilitarian ware, only to find worldly resort dwellers more interested in urns, jars and teapots. The townsfolk began showing the tradesmen drawings and examples of the pieces they were willing to buy, compliant craftsmen began turning out new shapes, and sightseers began visiting their shops. A new way for the potters was also provided by arts enthusiast Neva Burgess, who at the start of the 1900s began promoting regional arts and crafts at Liftthe-Latch Tearoom in the southern Moore County town of Pinebluff. This early sales outlet for traditional pottery offered lectures and exhibitions, set in a self-consciously rustic log cabin reminiscent of Jugtown. For several years prior to the Busbees’ arrival, potters were invited to give public demonstrations and to exhibit at the Sandhills Fair in Pinehurst, paving the way for their venture. Jugtown represents a convergence of people who joined together with a

common creative goal to make something successful happen. Beyond nourishing the pottery tradition, the key to understanding the Busbees’ vision is its connection through the generations. Sustained by teaching and sharing, such a lineage is a fragile thing, lost forever if the chain is broken. With a heritage so rich, perhaps all those who have followed in the Busbees’ footsteps have felt that nurturing the tradition was tied to a sense of being part of something greater than themselves, and that those before them kept the tradition alive under much harder circumstances. Since 1983, Jugtown has been owned and operated by potters Vernon and Pam Owens, and their family. Vernon began turning pots at Jugtown in 1960, and his grandfather, J.H. Owen, was the first potter to successfully partner with the Busbees. Through the years, the pottery complex has remained basically unchanged, and the Owenses have carefully restored and preserved the facility. Most remarkably, in a time when almost all traditional pottery buildings have disappeared, Vernon still turns pots in the original turning room, completely unchanged from when it was built, with a dirt floor and bare log walls. Like the Busbees before them, the Owenses produce a hybrid of traditional and classic forms, ever careful in their transformation from old to new traditions. Older pots from the region remain an inspiration, just as Jacques and Juliana had envisioned. Decorative motifs reflect the natural world and agrarian setting, with incised sine waves, farm animals, and birds being common themes. The vessels carry evidence of the fire and earth from which they were made — some slick like clay, others rough and volcanic, and others with slight

finger grooves from the hands of their creator. In some regards, the cares and concerns of today are not so different from the early 20th century — machines continue to replace people, as social upheaval and change persist — but Jugtown holds the same allure as when it was founded. In a 1991 interview conducted with Vernon Owens, reflecting on life at Jugtown, he said, “The more automated and the more things are done by a computer, the more important it is that this place, and any other place like this, stay the same. What you’re doing, you’re going back to a time when time didn’t matter that much, and that’s one of the things that draws people to a place like this.” With its picturesque setting, Jugtown is the best-preserved pottery in the eastern Piedmont and one of the most significant traditional potteries in America. The complex consists of 12 rustic log cabins that blend seamlessly into the surrounding farmscape. The property embodies the Busbees’ belief in the civilizing influence of rural society, a throwback to a place closed off from the outside world where they had everything to do for themselves. The effect is one of being deep-rooted and unchanged over time, reflective of the values of thrift, modesty, plain-style tastes and homespun ways. When you pass through the gates you encounter a cultural landscape, with a visceral, almost instinctive alignment with the past. There are those who have said it is haunted, that sometimes in the quiet of the old Busbee house you can hear the muffled sound of music drifting through the air. Stories of this apparition pre-date the current owners, with reports of the phenomena spanning decades. Whether or not one believes such accounts, the telling and retelling of these stories gives them a certain degree of life and meaning. Jugtown is, and always has been, a shared experience. The Busbees’ vision permeates the site, and its distinctive and cherished aspects are as real to its residents and their patrons as its physical characteristics. It is a feeling that surrounds them and is held within, connecting with the invisible fabric of life. PS (Adapted from The Busbee Vision, with permission from the N.C. Pottery Center.) The Arts Council of Moore County will present the exhibit, Jugtown Pottery: A Century of Art & Craft in Clay, at Campbell House Galleries from June 2-30, 2017. The show also features jewelry by Jennie Keatts of JLK Jewelry and photographs by Angela Walker. The exhibit is free and open to the public on weekdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Saturday, June 17, 2 p.m. to 4p.m. During the month of June, two free Jugtown events will be presented at the Southern Pines Civic Club at 105 S. Ashe St. in Southern Pines. On Sunday, June 11 at 7 p.m., the PBS film, Craft in America/Jugtown Pottery will be screened, followed by a panel discussion with Jugtown artists. And, Steve Compton, author of Jugtown Pottery 1917-2017: A Century of Art & Craft in Clay, will give a talk on Wednesday, June 14 at 7 p.m.

Top: 1962 photo of Vernon. Middle; Travis, Bayle, Vernon and Pamela Owens Right: Bayle and Vernon passing pots.

Left: Potters wheel. Right: Pamela Owens: Commerative Marker 90

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

Vernon Owens: Jugtown Salt Glaze Jug with Bird Decoration

Travis Owens: Four Handle Jar with Rope, Copper Glaze over Salt Glaze

Travis Owens: Decorative Vase

Bayle Owens: Fly Plate

Vernon Owens: Churn

Pamela Owens: Vase

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

STORY OF A HOUSE

Living la Vie en Rose Designer brings Paree to Pinehurst B y D eb orah Salomon â&#x20AC;¢ Photographs by John Gessner

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ont j’udge a b ook bytsi c ov,erb ut d o hed wh ta a for ntd oorayss ba out a house. Espe cllaiyfih te d oor is b ub b le gum pi n k. W hy? “Beaucse I li ke ti,” Cathy Carlisle asys. Those four words explai n what sets Ramb ler Coatge apart from retreats b ui lt i n Pi nehurst i n the early 19 00s for golfing snow brids. One by one,these whtei clap b oardco “atges ” have b e come showpl ce as for fami ly heriloom,santique-barn finds,High Poi nt upholstery, b ui lt-i n b ook ase,scplanati on shutter,sheart of pi ne floor,sCapel rug,smi les of moldi ng,smagzi ne ki chtens and spa bathrooms b ui lt around clawfo- ot tubs. Instead, Cathy, an Ameri anc So ci et y of Interi or D esgi n memb er, has i ndulged her love for formalti y, à la française. “I got that in Paris,” she says, pointing to a handsome 19th century breakfront — and lots else. The trips were for stocking her shop in Rocky Mount, where the Carlisles lived (in a home built like a European villa) before relocating to Pinehurst full time in 2000. Cathy’s romance with formality began during childhood, when dinner was served in the dining room, with silverware and linens. This era worshipped Givenchy, Dior, Catherine Deneuve, Chanel, Jack and Jackie in Paris. “By the time I was 7 I knew I wanted French (things),” Cathy says. “My mother took us to museums and plays, places where we wore white gloves.” When working for a client, “I have to make them happy. This is to make me happy.” PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

Cathy interprets French décor not as rustic Provençal, but with carved chairs, pastel fabrics, lace demi-drapes, fanciful chandeliers and sconces, gilded mirrors and frames for her own paintings, described as abstract impressionist, adorning what appears to be an average-size cottage from the exterior, but extends in many directions. In fact, legend has it that Donald Ross dubbed the house “Rambler” because it rambles on and on. As does its story.

he three-quarter-acre plot where Rambler stands was purchased in 1910, likely from the Tufts family, by Warren Manning, a landscape architect employed by Frederick Law Olmsted. Manning was tasked with the first village plantings, according to documents at the Tufts Archives. But he never developed the land, instead selling it to F.W. Von Cannon, cashier of the new Bank of Pinehurst, who built the cottage in 1915. Publications describe it as having a gabled roof, front shed dormer and screened porch, later enclosed as part of the entranceway. The cottage was classified as year-round occupancy, which meant multiple fireplaces and a full kitchen. The original floor plan has all but disappeared into renovations accomplished by half a dozen owners, resulting in a warren of small sitting rooms which Cathy furnished with settees, benches, mini bureaux, fanciful objets d’art and books cantilevered, not piled or stacked, on tables. But given her penchant, why Pinehurst, not francophone New Orleans?

June 2017P�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

Sam Carlisle, an attorney/mediator/arbiter, was attending a seminar at the Carolina Hotel. “No matter where Cathy is she looks at houses,” Sam says. Fatefully, she picked up a sales brochure describing Rambler. “I have to see this house before we leave,” she told Sam. They rode by in the pouring rain, with no intention of moving anywhere for 20 years. Coincidentally, a few days later Sam’s law partner proposed the two couples buy a condo in Pinehurst, to share. “I told him, well, Cathy already found this cute house …” Cathy and condo have little but their first letter in common. “I could never be happy in anything modern,” she says. They returned on a Sunday, bought Rambler as a vacation property the following Thursday. The house had been updated in the ’70s and looked it — which provided Cathy the thrill of the chase. Sam had doubts: “The only way you’ll make that house French is to rename it Rom-blay.” How wrong he was.

athy began by creating a vestibule with a hot pink bench (matches the front door) opening into a foyer “to introduce my house.” The foyer’s formality sets the tone, which contrasts sharply to the picket-fence-and-shutters street view. Its flooring: classic black and white tiles, while a green marble-topped round table from a Paris flea market stands in the center as it would in a European townhouse or an antebellum Southern mansion. Spiral topiary rises from pots here and everywhere. Exit right, into the high-ceilinged salon, another surprise, since it appears to have double fireplaces a few yards apart, although one is in the dining room, separated from the salon only by columns and a half wall. “Cathy was always going to have a fussy parlor,” Sam says. She chose to place ornate French furnishings, tiny footstools and curvy-legged tables on wall-to-wall sisal carpeting (“I like a mix”) instead of polished hardwood or Oriental rugs, which she “doesn’t like.” She does like mirrors: An architectural installation covers a wall in the foyer and others, ornately gilded and framed, reflect living and dining rooms.

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PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

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A second exit from the vestibule reveals another surprise. This room, probably the original master bedroom, is totally Sam’s. The floors, sanded and whitewashed pine. The upholstery, Scotch plaid; and on the walls — painted a striking brownish-black, with a hint of aubergine — hang 11 shotguns belonging to his ancestors as well a collection of antique maps, most of eastern North Carolina and all identifying Tarboro, where Sam and Cathy grew up and became high school sweethearts. “This one from 1775 is of North and South Carolina during the Revolutionary War. George Washington had a copy,” Sam explains proudly. Europeans do not overemphasize kitchens. Cathy’s, mostly black and white with lemon walls, is both functional and a good backdrop for her collection of green Majolica pottery. Surprises continue. Up a narrow flight of stairs typical in Pinehurst cottages, the fabrics, painted white floors and woven area rugs are pure Martha’s Vineyard B&B except for the original paneled floor-to-ceiling sleeping porch, which made summer nights almost bearable. What Cathy does emphasize is her garden — actually a series of “secret gardens” grouped, with seating, for relaxing and conversing, all designed by Cathy in 1994, when she razed the area and began anew. Along one side, neatly trimmed shrubs form ellipses with focus plantings in the center. Why the unusual forms? “Because I like it,” Cathy repeats. “I find them pleasing to the eye.”

he final surprise, so very Cathy, so very French, is her garden studio, contrived from a single-car garage, of no use since its driveway lost access to the alley. Here, she employs blue and white for country French freshness. Here, flooded by sunshine from skylights and paned windows, Cathy paints, designs, reads and plans. Those plans include a shocker: The Carlisles will soon move to a more formal historic house in the village on which Cathy will, once again, imprint her style.

Why? Certainly not because they need more space, or a better location. “Just because I love old houses,” she says. PS

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June 2017i�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

In June as many as a dozen species may burst their buds on a single day. No man can heed all of these anniversaries; no man can ignore all of them. By Ash Alder

The mockingbird sings 100 songs. Ballads of honeysuckle and wild rose. Lady’s slipper. Skipper and milkweed. Plump strawberries. Cottontail and mophead hydrangeas. June is here, he whistles, prelude to a queue of tunes about cukes and pole beans, creaky tire swings, hives full of honey. His morning song, syrupy as the last spring breeze, is interrupted by a string of sharp rasps. The tune tells how to scold a crow. As fox kits scuffle in a pine-fringed wood, the sweep of a tail sends a troupe of dandelion seeds swirling into the dreamy green yonder. Summer is near, the mockingbird calls. We can feel the truth of it. Cicada skin clings to the grooved bark of an ancient willow. On the solstice, a little girl finds it. The mockingbird watches her carry it home. Summer is here, the bird sings. The girl places the empty vessel on her windowsill, hums a tune as sunlight washes over the golden amulet. Evening unfolds. Fireflies dance beneath the sugar maple and a resident toad joins the cricket symphony. Mockingbird sleeps, yet the music swells into the night.

Magic of Midsummer The days grow longer. On Friday, June 9, a full Strawberry Moon illuminates the tidy spirals of golden hay dotting a nearby pasture. For Algonquin tribes, this moon announced ripe fruit to be gathered. Because the hives now hum heavy, the June moon is also called the Mead Moon. Honey, water and yeast. Patience. Sip slowly the magic of this golden season. Perhaps stemming from the ancient Druid belief that summer solstice symbolizes the “wedding of Heaven and Earth,” many consider June an auspicious

–Aldo Leopold

month for marriage. This year, Solstice falls on Tuesday, June 20. Celebrate the longest day of the year with sacred fire and dance. Now until Dec. 21, the days are getting shorter. Sip slowly the magic of these golden hours. When the sun sets on Friday, June 23 — a new moon — bonfires will crackle in the spirit of Saint John’s Eve. On this night, ancient Celts powdered their eyelids with fern spores in hopes of seeing the wee nature spirits who dance on the threshold between worlds.

Lady’s Fingers

Some like it hot. Some like it cold. Whichever your preference, fresh okra is one of this month’s most delicious offerings. Also called lady’s fingers, okra is a member of the mallow family (think cotton, hollyhock and hibiscus). The edible seedpods of this flowering plant are rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy vision, skin and immune system. Because it’s an excellent source of fiber, okra also promotes healthy digestion. Father’s Day falls on Sunday, June 18. Say “I love you” with a jar of pickled okra — local and, perhaps, with a kick.

Everlasting Love

When you send someone roses — the birth flower of June — the color of the petals tells all. Red reads romance. Pink for gratitude. White or yellow for friendship. Orange for passion. PS

I know a bank where the wild thyme blows, Where oxlips and the nodding violet grows, Quite over-canopied with luscious woodbine, With sweet musk-roses and with eglantine. –William Shakespeare, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”

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Titans: Copland, Beethoven and Mahler

Sat., July 1 | Dana Aud. | Guilford College | 8:00 PM

Gerard Schwarz, conductor Horacio Gutiérrez, piano The Burlington Boys Choir | The North Carolina Boys Choir

Russian Tableaux

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Gerard Schwarz, conductor Midori, violin Hunter Bockes, saxophone

Rosen-Schaffel Competition Winner

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The American Scene

Sat., July 15 | Dana Aud. | Guilford College | 8:00 PM

Gerard Schwarz, conductor Jon Manasse, clarinet series continues:

Sign up forSummer Classes ANY MEDIUM Color with Bob Way Wed/Th/Fri, August 16, 17, 18; 9:00AM-4:00PM each day $195 OIL AND ACRYLIC Intro to Still Life with Yvonne Sovereign Mon/Wed, July 10, 12; 1:00PM-4:00PM each day $60 The Art of Seeing with Bob Way Wed/Th/Fri, July 19, 20, 21; 9:00AM-4:00PM each day $195 Still Life in Oil (Beg/Int) with Harry Neely Wed/Thur, August 9, 10; 10:00AM-3:00PM each day $80 Abstract Acrylics with Debby Kline Monday, August 14; 9:30AM-3:00PM $45 WATERCOLOR Beginning Watercolor with Andrea Schmidt Tues/Wed, July 25, 26; 10:00AM-1:00PM $60 DRAWING Open Studio: Life Drawing Friday, July 14; 9:30AM-12:30PM $15 Basic Drawing with Laureen Kirk Monday, August 7; 10:30AM-3:30PM $40 Open Studio: Life Drawing Friday, August 11; 9:30AM-12:30PM $15

July 22 | Anne Akiko Meyers, violin, and July 29 | Awadagin Pratt, piano

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COLORED PENCIL AND PASTEL Oil Pastel with Linda Drott Monday, July 17; 10:00AM-3:00PM $40 OTHER MEDIUMS Painting on Silk with Kathy Leuck Saturday, July 8; 9:30AM-3:30PM $78 Ink-Finity: Advanced Alcohol Ink with Pam Griner Friday, August 25; 12:30PM-3:30PM $45 Contact the League for details and to register!

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250 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines • 910-692-8501 PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

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Lazy Man Iron Man 6/

1-30

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. To add an event, email us at pinestraw.calendar@gmail.com MASTER GARDENER HELP LINE. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. weekdays, March 1 through Oct. 31. If you have a question or need help with plant choices, call the Moore County Cooperative Extension Office. Walk-in consultations are available during the same hours at the Agricultural Center, 707 Pinehurst Ave., Carthage. If possible, bring a sample or photos. Info: (910) 947-3188. SUMMER DAY CAMPS. Southern Pines Recreation & Parks Department is offering day and week-long camps for kids of all ages throughout the summer in arts and crafts, clay-working, games, swimming, science and cheerleading; and weekly trips, too. For more information, including dates, costs, locations and registration info, call (910) 692-1835 or visit www. southernpines.net/recreation.

Thursday, June 1 SUMMER READING PROGRAM. “Build a Better World” this summer during the Library’s annual Summer Reading Program. Registration begins June 1 for participants of all ages. Log your time spent reading and earn prizes, and come to Library programs during the summer to collect Book Bucks. Sign up at the library or online at www.sppl.net. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. SENIORS DAY OUT. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. State farmer’s market, offering fresh produce and other local items for you to enjoy, and lunch at the State Farmers Market Restaurant. Cost: $20/ residents; $40 non-residents. Meet at Assembly Hall Lobby, 395 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-1900 or pinehurstrec.org. INTERMEDIATE TAI CHI. 11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. (Thursdays through July 6) Instructor Lee Holbrook focuses on refining the Yang style for participants who already have a basic knowledge of Tai Chi. Cost: $28/resident; $56 non-resident. Pinehurst Parks & Rec, 300 Kelly Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-1900 or www.pinehurstrec.org.

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Duck Derby 6/

Chilling Tale 6/

117th North and South

CAMEO ART HOUSE. 7:30 p.m. Cricket Tell the Weather. Tickets: $12 in advance, $15 day of. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville, Info: (910) 486-6633.

Thursday, June 1 — 4, 11, and 15 — 18

SWEET TEA SHAKESPEARE. 6:45 p.m. Sweet Tea Shakespeare of Fayetteville State University performs Othello. Othello and Desdemona seem to have the perfect love, but Iago, fueled by jealousy and hate, sets a plan in motion to separate them for good. Tickets: $15 general admission; $13/ srs, military; $8/students. The play will be performed in the backyard of the Poe House, 801 Arsenal Ave., Fayetteville. Info: (910) 486-1330.

Thursday, June 1 — 30

LAZY MAN IRON MAN. This month-long event is sponsored by Prancing Horse and FirstHealth. Qualifying activities include swimming (or water exercise class); biking; working out on elliptical, cycling, or rowing machine, running or walking; or other group exercise. Entrance fee: $50/individual; $120/team of 3. All profits benefit Prancing Horse’s mission to enhance the lives of children and adults with special needs by providing a safe environment for therapeutic horsemanship. Info: prancinghorseinfo@yahoo.com or (910) 281-3223.

Friday, June 2

NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 10 a.m. Where Would We Be Without Bees? (For wee ones!). Learn the important role bees play for us as we read a book, play some games and make a craft. For 3- to 5-year-olds with parental participation. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. FIRST FRIDAY. 5 p.m. A family-friendly event with live music, food, beverages, and entertainment by The Broadcast Band, an Americana group from Asheville, who will perform a mix of soul, blues and classic rock arrangements. Free admission. No dogs, please! First Bank Stage at the Sunrise (inside Sunrise Theater in case of rain), 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or firstfridaysouthernpines.com.

Friday, June 2 — 4

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PINES FESTIVAL. 7:30 p.m. (Gates open 6 p.m.) The Pinehurst Parks & Recreation

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Department is proud to sponsor Shakespeare in the Pines, presented by Uprising Theatre Company. The inaugural production will be the comedy Much Ado About Nothing. General admission is free, but VIP seating will be available for purchase. Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green West, Pinehurst. Info: (541) 631-8241 or www.uprisingtheatrecompany.com.

Saturday, June 3

NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 10 a.m. –12 p.m. Volunteer Trails Workday. Celebrate National Trails Day by helping with trail maintenance. Bring gloves and yard tools, as well as water and bug spray. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Call to sign up so we can plan for the right number of volunteers or email: eric. dousharm@ncparks.gov. Info and signup: (910) 692-2167. NATURE TALES. 10–11 a.m. and 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Preschool storytime and nature time. No cost for program, but please pre-register 2 business days in advance. (Admission to garden not included in program.) Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info and registration: (910) 4860221 (ext 20) or capefearbg.org to register online. 9TH ANNUAL KILN OPENING. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. This unique pottery event features contemporary pottery pieces. The honorary “clay cousin” guests are Julia Galloway from Montana, Tara Wilson from Montana, Dug Stanat from California and Michael Kline from North Carolina. Free admission. Bulldog Pottery, 3306 US Bus. 220, Seagrove. Info: (910) 428-9728. RUNNING START DERBY CROSS SERIES. Each Derby Cross (DX) course consists of a combination of show jumps and cross country fences (including banks, ditches and water). Championship prizes will be awarded to the horse and rider with the highest score after all seven competitions in the series, at each level, at the RSDX Championship Finals on Oct. 28. The June event will be held at Secrist Farm. Event entrance at 735 Furr Road, Vass. Info: (910) 315-5800 or (910) 875-2074. LIVE MUSIC. 7–10 p.m. Jen Hillard performs at the Wine Cellar & Tasting Room, 241-A NE Broad St., Southern Pines. Free to the public. Info: (910) 692-3066. 15TH ANNUAL BLUES N BREWS FESTIVAL. Taste over 100 of the finest beers around and jam to the hottest blues bands. Festival Park, Downtown Fayetteville. Festival Park,

June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ca l e n d a r 335 Ray Ave., Fayetteville (corner of Ray Ave. and Rowan St.). Tickets: $35/general admission; $75/VIP; $15/non-drinking. Info and tickets: (910) 323-4233 or cfrt.org.

$25 per class, or pick 5 for $100. Joy of Art Studio, 139 E. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 528-7283 text or www.joyof_art@msn.com.

Saturday, June 3 & 4

Tuesday, June 6

AN EVENING OF ROMANCE. 7:30 p.m. on June 3, and 2 p.m. on June 4. Taylor Dance Ensemble will present a performance featuring the local students of Taylor Dance Ensemble with High Point Ballet and special guest artists from WinstonSalem Festival Ballet. Purchase tickets at www.tututix. com or at the box office one hour prior to the show. Owens Auditorium, Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 695-1320 or www.taylordancetheplayhouse.org.

NATURE TALES. 10–11 a.m. and 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Preschool storytime and nature time. No cost for program, but please preregister two business days in advance. (Admission to garden not included in program.) Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info and registration: (910) 4860221 (ext 20) or capefearbg.org to register online.

Sunday, June 4 4TH ANNUAL HITCHCOCK CREEK DUCK DERBY. 2–5 p.m. A race of 5,000 rubber ducks down the creek. Free Kids Zone with fun and games. Foster your ducks at www. SandhillsChildrensCenter.org and you could win cash and prizes. This event benefits the Sandhills Children’s Center and will take place at Hitchcock Creek Park, 615 Steele St., Rockingham. Info: (910) 692-3323 or www. SandhillsChildrensCenter.org. NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 3 p.m. Tracking Turtles with Transmitters. Join Dr. John Roe, UNCP Biology, for an exploration into the ecology of the Eastern box turtle. You will look for turtles by using radio-telemetry and learn how they respond to fire in the Sandhills. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. EXPLORATIONS SERIES FOR ADULTS. 3–4 p.m. Raising Goats and Making Cheese. Sue Stovall from Paradox Farm Creamery in West End will share her experience starting a creamery and provide samples of fresh goat cheese. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. Less is More JAZZ perform. Cost: $15 in advance. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www.theroosterswife.org. ART EXHIBIT OPENING RECEPTION. 5–7 p.m. “Absolutely Art,” an Associate/Full Members Exhibit. Awards Ceremony 5:30 p.m. Exhibit runs through June 27. Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-3979 or artistleague.org.

Monday, June 5

SASSY TAPPERS. 1:30–3:30 p.m. Mondays through Aug. 28. Tap dancing for all levels with instructor Angie VonCanon. The group practices weekly and also performs at various functions throughout the year. Cost: $10/resident; $20/nonresident. Pinehurst Parks & Rec. Class location: Program Room, 300 Kelly Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-1900 or pinehurstrec.com. BOOK LOVERS UNITE. 3:30 p.m. Learn more about great women authors and share your list of favorites with other lovers of great women authors. Bring your list of favorites and add to it as others describe theirs. Free and open to the public. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 585-4820 or (910) 295-6022.

Monday, June 5 — 30

JOY OF ART. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Be Cool and Create Summer Arts: Classes for children and adults. See www.joyof-art.com for complete list of day classes in drawing painting, photography, paper-dolls design, jewelry-making, journaling, and more.

ACTION AT THE OUTPOST. 6–8 p.m. Printmaking for Fun. Join local artist Lynn Goldhammer for an introduction to the art of printmaking. Use your imagination to create beautiful note cards to take home and send. Cost: $15/person. Limited space. Reserve your seat with lisa@giventufts.com. Given Outpost/Book Shop, 95 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 585-4820 or (910) 295-7002.

Wednesday, June 7

PLAY ESCAPE. 10 a.m. Character Storytime. For all ages. Free with admission. Cost for non-members: $2/child and $1/ siblings. Play Escape, 103 Perry Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-2342 or playescapenc.com. CHILLING TALE. 5 p.m. Shari Lapena has reached new heights with her international best-selling book The Couple Next Door. Come to The Country Bookshop to hear Shari talk about her book about a couple who appears to have it all until their newborn baby disappears while they are having dinner with the next-door neighbors. The couple is hiding something and the secrets reveal a chilling tale of deception, duplicity and unfaithfulness that will keep you breathless until the final shocking twist. Info: www.thecountrybookshop.biz or (910) 692-3211

Thursday, June 8

WEYMOUTH ANNUAL TAPAS EVENT. 5:30 p.m. Carolina Gold Rush. Join the fun evening on the ground and enjoy delectable small plates and wine Cost: $50/Weymouth members; $60/non-members. Weymouth Center for Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-6261 or weymouthcenter.org. GARDENING EVENT. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Growing Garlic with Norma Burns. Norma will teach you how to plant, grow and harvest garlic, along with a hands-on cooking demonstration. Cost: $15/Horticulture Society members; $20/nonmembers. Payment due at registration. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens-Ball Visitors Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 695-3882 or www.sandhillshorticulturalgardens. com/upcoming.htm. MUSIC AND MOTION STORYTIME. 10:30 a.m. For all children through age 5. Every other week, this event incorporates stories and songs along with dancing, playing and games designed to foster language and motor-skill development. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net. GATHERING AT GIVEN. 3:30 and 7 p.m. “Remembering our Past.” Visit the Revolutionary War with Col. Trent Carter, dressed in historical attire as he describes and enacts major events from that time. Free and open to the public. Given Memorial Library, (3:30 p.m.), 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst; and Given Outpost (7 p.m.) 95 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 585-4820 or 295-6022. SUMMER CLASSIC SERIES. 7:30 p.m. Monty Python and the Holy Grail (1975). Doors open 6:30. Cost: $6. Sunrise Theater,

JUNE 8TH - MONTY PYTHON AND THE HOLY GRAIL JUNE 15TH - WILLY WONKA JUNE 29TH - WEIRD SCIENCE SEVEN DAYS A WEEK SHOWINGS OF NEW RELEASE AND CLASSIC FILMS

250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or 692-3611 or sunrisetheater.com.

Friday, June 9

CHAIR YOGA. 9–10 a.m. Fridays through July 18. Taught by Darlind Davis, ideal for those with chronic conditions, balance issues, or lower body challenges that affect the ability to get up and down. Cost: $35/resident; $70/non-resident. Info: Pinehurst Parks & Rec, 300 Kelly Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-1900 or pinehurstrec.org. THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. Side Car Social Club performs. Cost: $10 in advance. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www.theroosterswife.org. MOVIE IN THE PINES. 7:30–9 p.m. Trolls. Bring a blanket or a chair. Concessions will be available on-site. Come early for good seating and games before the movie. Free to the public. Downtown Park, 145 SE Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376 or www.southernpines.net.

Saturday, June 10

POOL OPENS FOR THE SUMMER. 12:30–6:30 p.m. See website for costs and activities. Southern Pines Pool Park, 735 S. Stephens St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2463 and southernpines.net. SUMMER FLING. 8 a.m.–5 p.m. The Sandhills Small Ruminant Association, a local goat association that focuses on educating people and allowing more hands-on learning with small ruminants (goats), is presenting this two-ring ADGA sanctioned show with an Alpine Specialty Show in Ring 1 being judged by Cameron Jodlowski and a Toggenberg Specialty in ring 2 being judged by Katie Wolf. The event takes place at the Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford. Info: (910) 875-2074. LUNCH WITH AN AUTHOR. 12 p.m. Please join The Country Bookshop for an event/luncheon at The Country Club of North Carolina. The event includes a luncheon and talk by Dr. Jennifer Ritterhouse author of Discovering the South: One Man’s Travels Through a Changing America in the 1930s. She will talk about her research into Jonathan Daniels and his discoveries of the South. Tickets are $25 and are for sale online or at The Country Bookshop. Books will be available at the luncheon and the author will autograph copies following her presentation. All are welcome. The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-3211 SATURDAY KIDS PROGRAM. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. Summer Reading is Fun! Come to the Library for some fun at different activity stations that highlight summer activities and books to read this summer. Given Memorial Library. 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-6022 or www.giventufts.com. NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 9 a.m. Guided Track Trail Hike. In honor of National Get Outdoors Day, join a Park Ranger on this 1-mile hike around our kids’ Track Trail. You’ll complete an activity-filled brochure along the way, and then you can log your journey online to earn prizes. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. DOG SHOW. 9 a.m. (Registration at 8 a.m. or online during week prior). Classes to include Cutest, Best Trick, Best Coiffed, Jr. Handler, Look Alike, Best Rescue, Father and Dog, and Best in Show. Prizes and ribbons for each class. $5 per class. Event to be held at Lyell’s Meadow, 225 Mile Away Lane, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 695-7811 or www.walthour-moss.org. DANCE SOCIAL. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., lesson at 7, social dancing from 8 to 9:30 p.m. Carolina Pines Chapter of USA

SUMMER CLASSIC MOVIES ARE BACK! Enjoy our selection of refreshments including beer and wine

Tickets are $8 with showings at 7:30pm and additional 2:30pm matinee on Sat & Sun

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250 NW Broad Street, Southern Pines, NC • 910-692-8501 Contact us for information about movie sponsorships!

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ca l e n d a r Dance. Cost: $11 ($8 members). Southern Pines Elk’s Lodge, 280 County Club Circle, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 215-5791. LIVE MUSIC. 7–10 p.m. Ethan Hanson performs at the Wine Cellar & Tasting Room, 241-A NE Broad St., Southern Pines. Free to the public. Info: (910) 692-3066.

Saturday, June 10 — 17

LIBRARY SUMMER PROGRAM. Library hours. Sharpie Mug Decorating. A low-key, creative project for teens. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Saturday, June 10

HISTORIC TOURS BY CARRIAGE. 1–5 p.m. The Downtown Alliance (DTA) and the Fayetteville Area Transportation and Local History Museum host guided tours by horse-and-carriage of historic sites from Fayetteville’s colorful 250-year history, including some from the Revolutionary War era. Tickets: $15–25/person may be purchased online, at the DTA office, or by phone. In the case of inclement weather, tours will be rescheduled for the following day (Sunday). Downtown Alliance, 222 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: (910) 2223382 or www.visitdowntownfayetteville.com.

Sunday, June 11

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE IN HD. 2 p.m. Peter Pan is broadcast from National Theatre Live in London. $20 reserved seating; $15 kids age 12 and under. Discounts for 10 or more reservations. Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or sunrisetheater.com. SUNDAY KIDS MOVIE. 2:30 p.m. Come to the Library for a free showing of a film about a dog who is reincarnated as different breeds belonging to various owners. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 3 p.m. Eye to Eye with a Butterfly. Join a park ranger for a 1.5-mile hike to learn about

some of our most beautiful insects. Weymouth WoodsSandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167.

incorporates stories and activities that foster a love of books and reading. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 3 p.m. Father’s Day Walk. Bring Dad out for a mile walk through the forest as we reminisce about our special moments as fathers and children while enjoying the scenery. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167.

SANDHILLS PHOTO CLUB MEETING. 7–9 p.m. Member Competition — Black and White. Theater in the Hannah Center at The O’Neal School, 3300 Airport Road, Southern Pines. Info: www.sandhillsphotoclub.org.

THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. The Sunday Exchange presents Ranky Tanky. Free admission. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www. theroosterswife.org.

Monday, June 12

FOLLOW THE LEADER. 5 p.m. Join The Country Bookshop in an author event with Mike Erwin as he talks about his book Lead Yourself First - Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude. Learn about how to use solitude to lead with courage, creativity and strength. The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-3211 SIP & PAINT WITH JANE. 5–7 p.m. Join resident artist Jane Casnellie for an evening of sipping and painting, and take home your own masterpiece. No experience necessary. All materials provided, including a glass of wine. Cost: $35. Hollyhocks Art Gallery, 905 Linden Road, Pinehurst. Info and registration: Jane Casnellie at (910) 639-4823. SUMMER CONCERTS. 5:30 p.m. A Sandhills Summer Tradition. Food truck service begins at 5:30, music at 6:30. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening under the pines with the SCC Jazz Band. Sponsored by Star 102.5 FM Radio. On the Lawn at Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 692-6185. AFTER-DINNER STORYTIMES. 6 p.m. Children through 5th grade and their families are invited to enjoy a session that

Fa b u l o u s F i n d s

June 12 — 16

SUMMER MUSIC CAMP. For all rising eighth grade, high school, and college-level students (from any school) who have experience playing one of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, double bass, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, trumpet, French horn, trombone or tuba. Tuition: $275 for the week, or $300 with a private lesson. Fayetteville Academy, 3200 Cliffdale Road, Fayetteville. Must register by June 1. Info and registration: Julie Atkins (910) 433-4690 or www.fayettevillesymphony.org/summer-music-camp.

Tuesday, June 13

ADULT & CHILD COOKING CLASSES. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Let’s Have a Pizza Party. Bring your favorite adult and spend some quality time together in the kitchen with Chef Fiona McKenzie learning how to make your own dough (or use one from the store) to build your own pizza, with a choice of toppings, shapes, and sizes. For ages 10–14 plus an adult. $44 each for adult and child. Russell Dining Hall, Little Hall, Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info and registration: (910) 695-3980 or www.sandhills.edu/coned.

Wednesday, June 14

WEYMOUTH CONCERT. 7 p.m. Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed and Something Blue. Young artists Tyler Young and William Hueholt interpret classics on saxophone and piano. Sponsored by the Weymouth Young Affiliates. Free and open to the public. Weymouth Center for Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787 or weymouthcenter.org.

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ca l e n d a r Thursday, June 15 DOUGLASS CENTER BOOK CLUB. 10:30 a.m. Book lovers interested in joining a book club this summer are invited to meet with the Douglass Center Book Club. Sign-ups are available at the Douglass Community Center. Copies of the book to be discussed may be obtained at SPPL or Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376. THIRD THURSDAY. 5–9 p.m. Piano Pizazz. A night of tickling the ivories with Casey T. Cotton, who will have you laughing the night away! Evenings are free with a membership or paid admission. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info: (910) 486-0221 or capefearbg.org. WINE AND WHIMSEY ART CLASS. 6–8 p.m. “Lily Pads.” A perfect date night or girls’ night out. All supplies and instruction provided. Wine, beer and snacks available for purchase. Cost: $20/member; $25/non-member. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info: (910) 4860221. Register online at form.jotform.com/51666115773964. SUMMER CLASSIC SERIES. 7:30 p.m. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971). Cost: $6. Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or 692-3611 or sunrisetheater.com. LIVE CONCERT. 6-9 p.m. Filly & Colt’s will be hosting a live concert series every Third Thursday through September. Matt Mason is the featured artist in June. Filly & Colt’s, Little River Golf & Resort, 500 Little River Farm Blvd, Carthage. Info: (910) 692-4411.

Friday, June 16

STEAM FRIDAY. All day. This week’s event features a Lego Challenge, a slower-paced event for the whole family that includes take-home summer learning ideas. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

GARDENING EVENT. 10 a.m.–12 p.m. (possible afternoon workshop also, if needed) Cement Leaf Birdbath. Instructor Pat Banville will show participants how to create a cement bird bath in the shape of a leaf. Cost: $25/Horticulture Society members$ $35/non-members, all materials supplied. Space is limited. Payment due at registration. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens-Ball Visitors Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 695-3882 or http://sandhillshorticulturalgardens.com/upcoming.htm.

Saturday, June 17

SUMMER BUILD DAY EVENT. 11 a.m. Build a Better World! Build your own fairy, pixie, gnome or troll house. Join the Library and Ronda Hawkins of Sandhills Community College for this whimsical event. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net. BALLROOM DANCING. 7:30–10 p.m. Cape Fear Ballroom Dancers Formal Dinner-Dance. Cost: $50/members; $60/ guests. Tuxedo required. Highland Country Club, 105 Fairway Drive, Fayetteville. Info: (910) 987-4420 or www.capefearballroomdancers.org. LIVE MUSIC. 7–10 p.m. Tim Wilson performs at the Wine Cellar & Tasting Room, 241-A NE Broad St., Southern Pines. Free to the public. Info: (910) 692-3066.

Saturday, June 17 & 18

EQUESTRIAN EVENT. 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Saturday: War Horse Event Series Schooling Day; and 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday: June War Horse Event Series Horse Trials, Combined Tests, and Dressage. Call for prices. Spectators welcome and free. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford. Info: (910) 875-2074.

Sunday, June 18

WATER CELEBRATION. 3–5 p.m. See Gran’ Daddy Junebug at the Pool Park for the summer kick-off. 735 S

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Stephens St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www. sppl.net. THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. Sons of Pitches performs. Cost: $15 in advance. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www.theroosterswife.org.

Sunday, June 18 — 30

LIBRARY SUMMER PROGRAM. Library hours. Design your own emoji pins with the button maker. A low-key, creative project for teens. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Monday, June 19 — 23

Tuesday, June 20

GENTLE FLOW YOGA. 10:30–11:30 a.m. (Tuesdays through Aug. 1) Instructor Carol Wallace leads this class for individuals who have some familiarity with basic yoga poses. This class focuses on alignment, balance, posture and body awareness. Cost: $35/resident; $70 non-resident. Pinehurst Parks & Rec, 300 Kelly Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-1900 or www.pinehurstrec.org. WOMEN VOTERS. 11:30 a.m. Luncheon and meeting. Annual programming planning meeting. Everyone welcome. Cost: $13/person. Reservations required. Little River Resort, 500 Little River Farm Blvd., Carthage. Info: (910) 944-9611 or owegeecoach@gmail.com.

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PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

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ca l e n d a r Wednesday, June 21 NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 8:30 a.m. (Weather permitting) Wednesday Hummingbird Banding. Join Susan Campbell for a remarkable look at how hummingbirds are banded and their data recorded. Call the day before to be sure banding is taking place. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. WRITER-IN-RESIDENCE READING. 5:30 p.m. Lois Holt: An NC Poet’s Journey with Weymouth. Light reception following. Free & open to the public. Sponsored by St. Joseph of the Pines. Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-6261 or www.weymouthcenter.org.

Thursday, June 22

MUSIC AND MOTION STORYTIME. 10:30 a.m. For all children through age 5. Every other week, this event incorporates stories and songs along with dancing, playing and games designed to foster language and motor skill development. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Rommel

ADULT & CHILD COOKING CLASSES. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. How Sweet It Is. Join Chef Fiona McKenzie to learn a few fun, creative, and easy desserts you can make at home. Bring your sweet tooth and favorite adult for this class for ages 10 through 14 plus an adult. Cost: $44 each for adult and child. Russell Dining Hall, Little Hall, Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 695-3980 or www.sandhills.edu/coned.

Pamela Powers January Lively Custom Drawings of the Dog Who’s Ready for his Close-Up!

SUNRISE THEATER SUMMER CLASSIC SERIES. 7:30 p.m. High Noon (1952). Cost: $6. Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or 692-3611 or sunrisetheater.com.

COLOR PENCIL • GRAPHITE • PEN & INK

910.603.2888

www.pamelapowersjanuary.com

Friday, June 23

STEAM FRIDAY. All day. This week’s event features paper bridge contests, a slower-paced event for the whole family that includes take-home summer learning ideas. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

Visit

online @ www.pinestrawmag.com

Saturday, June 24

ALL-DAY CRAFT DAY. Craft tables will be out all day for families looking for a slower paced event. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net. NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 10 a.m. Wildlings: Bug Hunt. In this first program in a new Exploration Series for Kids ages 6 through 10, kids will go on a hunt through Weymouth Woods to discover some of the insects that live there, and learn safe ways to catch, observe and release them. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. LIVE MUSIC. 7–10 p.m. Gary Lewis performs at the Wine Cellar & Tasting Room, 241-A NE Broad St., Southern Pines. Free to the public. Info: (910) 692-3066.

Sunday, June 25

NATURAL HISTORY TALK. 2 p.m. “The Natural History of the Sandhills,” presented by Jesse Wimberly, whose family has been in this area since at least 1870. Jesse will talk about how the landscape and geology of the Sandhills has affected the culture and lifestyles of those who settled here. Free admission. Southern Pines Civic Club, 105 S. Ashe St., Southern Pines. Info: moorehistory.com. SUNDAY FILM SERIES. 2:30 p.m. This critically acclaimed film is about an actress and a jazz musician pursuing their Hollywood dreams. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. NATURE STUDY PROGRAM. 3 p.m. Pond Exploration. Discover what animals and plants make their home in a pond. Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167. THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. The Jack Grace Band performs. Cost: $15 in advance. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ca l e n d a r Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www.theroosterswife.org.

Monday, June 26

LUNCH & LEARN IN THE GARDEN. 12–1 p.m. with Tim Emmert from Sandhills Farm to Table. Learn about the challenges and opportunities of running a regional multi-farm CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). This event is free. Bring your lunch and the Garden will provide drinks. Register by email: landscapegardening@sandhills.edu. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens-Ball Visitors Center, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 695-3882. AFTER-DINNER STORYTIMES. 6 p.m. Children through 5th grade and their families are invited to enjoy a session that incorporates stories and activities that foster a love of books and reading. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. SANDHILLS NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY MEETING. 7 p.m. “Chile: From Seacoast to Andean Altiplano,” presented by ornithologist and botanist Bruce Sorrie, including photos of birds, plants and wildlife in various regions of Chile and on Robinson Crusoe Island 400 miles out to sea. Visitors welcome. Weymouth Woods Auditorium, 1024 Fort Bragg Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2167 or visit online at www.sandhillsnature.org.

Monday, June 26 — 30

CREATIVE ARTS CAMP. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. For children ages 5 through 12. Individual and collaborative art projects, plus organic and edible gardening instruction. Cost: $165, includes all art and gardening supplies, a healthy lunch, snack and water. Discounted and extended childcare available before and after camp. In partnership with and held at Rugg Rats, 125 E. Illinois Ave., Southern Pines. Info and registration: (540) 454-3641 or www.theartifactshack.com. 117TH NORTH AND SOUTH MEN’S AMATEUR. The longest consecutive-running amateur golf championship in the United States. Played on Pinehurst No. 2., Pinehurst Resort, 1 Carolina Vista Drive, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 235-8140 or (800)

795-4653, Opt 3 or http://www.pinehurst.com.

Tuesday, June 27

COOKING CLASS FOR TEENS. 3 p.m. Adulting 101: Bare Essentials Cooking Class. Teens (grades 6–12) are invited to come learn how to cook easy recipes and creatively cook in dorm rooms. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. WEYMOUTH YOUNG AFFILIATES. 6:30 p.m. Join the younger crowd at Weymouth for an evening of networking, program planning and refreshments. All are welcome to attend. Weymouth Library, Weymouth Center for Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-6261 or www.weymouthcenter.org. MUSICIANS JAM SESSION. 7–9 p.m. Bring your instrument and your beverage, or just come to enjoy. Free and open to the public. Library, Weymouth Center for Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-6261 or www.weymouthcenter.org.

Wednesday, June 28 FUN BOOKS. 5 p.m. Join The Country Bookshop for the return of Daniel Wallace (of Big Fish fame) for his next book, Extraordinary Adventures. This book is about a man in a rut, who wins a prize to stay in a Florida beachfront condo. But there’s always a catch. It is a good read for a good laugh! The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-3211

Thursday, June 29 SUNRISE THEATER SUMMER CLASSIC SERIES. 7:30 p.m. Weird Science (1985). Cost: $6. Sunrise Theater, 250 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8501 or 692-3611 or sunrisetheater.com.

Tony Capone, Jennifer Swiderski, Zachary Prince and Elysia Jordan. Tickets: $50/VIP, $35/general; $30/senior & military; $20/students. All tickets available online; VIP Reserved and Student Tickets available only online. General Seating & Senior/Military Tickets also available at the Arts Council, Campbell House, Southern Pines, or Given Memorial Library, Pinehurst. Performance at Lee Auditorium, Pinecrest High School, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines. Info and tickets: (910) 692-6554 and www.touchinghumanityinc.org.

Friday, June 30

STEAM FRIDAY. All day. This week’s event features a Giant Jenga game, a slower-paced event for the whole family that includes take-home summer learning ideas. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235. THE ROOSTER’S WIFE. 6:46 p.m. Abigail Dowd and Bill West perform. Cost: $10 in advance. The Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or www. theroosterswife.org.

UPCOMING EVENTS Thursday, July 27 & Saturday July 29 DISNEY’S BEAUTY AND THE BEAST. Don’t miss this smash Broadway musical at Raleigh Memorial Theatre. $125/ person, includes luxury transportation and ticket. Dinner is Dutch-treat. Reserve by Monday, June 5, 2017. Kirk Tours. (910) 295-2257 or kirktours.com.

WEEKLY EVENTS Mondays

Thursday, June 29 & 30

BRIDGE. 1–4:30 p.m. A card game played by four people in two partnerships, in which “trump” is determined by bidding. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CONCERT. 7:30 p.m. The Sandhills Broadway Series and Touching Humanities, Inc., presents Rodgers & Hammerstein’s timeless classic, Carousel, with Broadway stars

FARMERS MARKET. 2–5:30 p.m. Fruits, vegetables, meats, crafts, flowers, plants, baked goods, and more. FirstHealth Fitness Center, 170 Memorial Drive, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 947-

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ca l e n d a r 3752 or moorecountync.gov or localharvest.org.

Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

KIDS COOKING CAMPS. 8:30–11:30 a.m. Campers learn to work in a kitchen, learn safety tips, make 2 or 3 recipes and have plenty to eat! $50 per child ($5 off additional siblings) or $200 for the week (Monday–Friday). The Flavor Exchange, 115 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info and menus: (910) 725-1345 or www.TheFlavorExchange.com.

GAME DAY. 11:30 a.m. Bring your lunch and enjoy fellowship and activities, including card games, board games and the Wii. The Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Mondays — Fridays (June 12 — August 7)

Mondays — Saturdays

JOY OF ART. 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Be Cool and Create Summer Arts. Classes for children in drawing, painting, photography, paper-doll design, jewelry-making, journaling and more. See website for ages and subjects. $25 per class, or pick 5 for $100. Joy of Art Studio, 139 E. Pennsylvania Ave., B, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 528-7283 text or www.joyof_art@msn.com. THE OFFICE PARTY. 5:30–8 p.m. When you work for yourself, do you keep office hours? The modern old-fashioned response is cocktails at the office. Meet locals and the occasional visiting artist for discussion and learning. Free admission. Poplar Knight Spot, 114 Knight St., Aberdeen. Info: (910) 944-7502 or theroosterswife.org.

Mondays — Sundays

TAI CHI FOR HEALTH. 10–11:30 a.m. Practice this flowing Eastern exercise with instructor Rich Martin. Cost for one class: $15/member; $17/non-member. Monthly rates avail. No refunds or transfers. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info and registration: (910) 486-0221. PLAY ESCAPE. 3:30 p.m. Arts & Crafts. For ages 2 and up. Free for members. Cost for non-members: $2/child and $1/ siblings. Play Escape, 103 Perry Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-2342 or playescapenc.com.

Tuesdays — Saturdays

SANDHILLS WOMAN’S EXCHANGE. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Lunch served 11 a.m.–2 p.m. The gift shop features over 60 NC and American hand-made artisan gifts. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677, www.sandhillswe.org or Facebook. Volunteers needed!

COOKING CLASS. 6:30 p.m. Hands-on instruction for pasta, Moroccan, ravioli, sweet potato gnocchi, sushi, eggplant parmesan, pierogis and charcuterie and knife skills. Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options. Reservations and pre-payment required. Prices: $45–$55 per person, includes meal, instruction and recipes. The Flavor Exchange, 115 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info and menus: (910) 725-1345 or www.TheFlavorExchange.com.

Wednesdays

Tuesdays

YOGA IN THE GARDEN. 6–7 p.m. Improve flexibility, build strength, ease tension, and relax through posture and breathing techniques for beginners and experts alike. Free for CFBG and YMCA members. $5/non-members. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info and registration: (910) 486-0221 ex. 36 or capefearbg.org. (Must register 1 day prior). Email questions to mzimmerman@ capefearbg.org.

BUNNIES STORYTIME. 10:30 and 11 a.m. (two sessions) This storytime, reserved for ages birth to 18 months, will engage parents and children in early literacy practices. Programs will be offered June 13, 20 and 27. Southern Pines Public

SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 3–6 p.m. The market features many wonderful farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheese makers and specialty food producers our area has to offer. 1 Village Green Road W., Pinehurst. Info: (910) 687-0377 or www.moorefarmfresh.com. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME. 3:30–4 p.m. For children through age 5, this storytime focuses on stories, songs and fun, with a special emphasis on activities that build skills for Kindergarten. Dates this month are June 14, 21 and 28. Stay for playtime. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235.

Thursdays

MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET. 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Fruits, vegetables, meats, crafts, flowers, plants, baked goods and more. Armory Sports Complex, 604 W. Morganton Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 947-3752 or www.moorecountync. gov or www.localharvest.org. PLAY ESCAPE. 10 a.m. Mommy & Me Yoga. Cost for nonmembers: $12/child and $5/siblings. Play Escape, 103 Perry Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-2342 or playescapenc. com. STORY TIME! 10:30–11:30 a.m. For ages 3 to 5. Wonderful volunteers read to children, and everyone makes a craft. Free and open to the public. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-6022. MAHJONG (Chinese version). 1–3 p.m. A game played by four people involving skill, strategy and calculation. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376. CHESS. 1–3 p.m. Don Hammerman instructs all levels of players. You need a chess set to participate. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

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Custom Built Homes and Remodeling 910-673-3603 • 4317 Seven Lakes Plaza

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boltonbldrs@boltonbuildersinc.com PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 2017

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Dining Guide

The

Bakehouse & Cafe Breakfast Tues-Sat 8 am- 10:30 am

in Fresh Baked Daily Eat or Cronuts & Danish Carry Croissants & Breads out

Lunch Tues-Sun 11 am- 2:30 pm Omelets Salads & Burgers sandwiches

Home of the Famous

ona Burger! Barcel

The Bell Tree Tavern is partnering with the Pinehurst Country Club Membership Office

Every Monday for the Month of June at the Bell Tree Pinehurst Country Club Membership personnel will be on site to answer any questions and help to sign you up.

50% OFF Red CaRd disCOunt

Rotating Drink Specials - Entertainment - Ongoing Raffles

Where European Tradition Meets Southern Charm

Please call for more details or to reserve parties of 6 or more.

910-944-9204 • 120 N. Poplar St., Aberdeen www.thebakehouse.biz

910.692.4766 • belltreetavern.com 155 NE Broad Street • Southern Pines, NC

Restaurant Authentic Thai Cusine

U.S. Hwy 1 South & 15-501 1404 Sandhills Blvd. Aberdeen, NC 28315

Smoke Free Environment Lunch

Closed Monday Tuesday - Friday 11:00am - 2:30pm Saturday Closed for Lunch Sunday 11:30am - 2:30pm

Dinner

Tuesday - Sunday 5:00pm - 9:30pm Saturday 4:00pm-9:30pm See our menu on MooCo under Oriental Restaurants

(910) 944-9299

www.thaiorchidnc.com

PineStraw DINING GUIDE To a d v e r t i s e , c a l l 910-692-7271

Carryout and Vegetarian Dishes 116

June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

It's a ZOO out there!

June PineNeedler Answers from page 125

ca l e n d a r TAI CHI FOR HEALTH. 6–7:30 p.m. Practice this flowing Eastern exercise with instructor Rich Martin. Cost for single class: $15/member; $17/non-member. Monthly rates available. No refunds or transfers. Cape Fear Botanical Garden, 536 N. Eastern Blvd., Fayetteville. Info and registration: (910) 486-0221.

Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays

HISTORY OF PINEHURST TOUR. 11 a.m., 2 and 4 p.m. (1 hour & 15 minutes each). Also by request. Experience the Home of American Golf on a guided windshield tour with Kirk Tours and learn about Mr. Tufts and some of Pinehurst’s celebrity patrons. Cost: $20/person. Departs from Pinehurst Historic Theatre, 90 Cherokee Road. Info and registration: (910) 295-2257 or kirktours.com.

Fridays PLAY ESCAPE. 10 a.m. Arts & Crafts. For ages 2 yr + Free for members. Cost for nonmembers: $2/child and $1/siblings. Play Escape, 103 Perry Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-2342 or playescapenc.com. PRESCHOOL STORYTIME. 10:30 a.m. Reading selections are taken from our current inventory of children’s literature, from the classics to modern day. The Country Bookshop, 140 NW Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-3211. BRIDGE. 1–4:30 p.m. A card game played by four people in two partnerships, in which “trump” is determined by bidding. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Solution:

F I L E

A B C S

A F A R

JAZZY FRIDAYS. 6–10 p.m. Enjoy a bottle of wine and dancing with friends under the tent with live jazz music, provided by The Sand Band, The Entertainers, The Coastline Band, Midnight Allie, Black Water Rhythm & Blues, The Holiday Band, The Entertainers, or The Carolina Breakers. Cost: $15/person. Ages 21 and older. Reservations and pre-payment recommended for parties of 8 or more. Food vendor on site. Cypress Bend Vineyards, 21904 Riverton Road, Wagram. Info: (910) 369-0411 or www.cypressbendvineyards.com.

Saturdays MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Fruits, vegetables, meats, crafts, flowers, plants, baked goods, and more. FirstHealth Fitness Center, 170 Memorial Drive, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 947-3752 or moorecountync.gov or localharvest.org. SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 9:30 a.m.–1 p.m. The market features many wonderful farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheese makers and specialty food producers our area has to offer. 1 Village Green Road W., Pinehurst. Info: (910) 687-0377 or www. moorefarmfresh.com.

Dining Guide

I D O L

A L O E

T J E C A M L U P H A N T A R T C C E D E L U R T R A R O N I P B L G O R I L L I R I S R R E S T U S S Z E D V T E M E P S S U

7 3 9 1 6 5 4 2 8

1 4 2 9 7 8 3 6 5

O E L U S E S T S S C T R O I G I R A E S S N E O N D O S A P O R A U D I B R A B E D R E

5 8 6 2 4 3 1 9 7

6 7 1 3 8 9 5 4 2

3 2 5 4 1 6 8 7 9

A L F A L F A

L I E N

M O N T

A N D Y

F L A S I P R E E N D E E R R O

E A G L E

R E L Y

C A M E

E R A S

4 9 8 7 5 2 6 1 3

2 1 7 8 3 4 9 5 6

8 5 4 6 9 7 2 3 1

9 6 3 5 2 1 7 8 4

MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET

Saturday June 24th 9:30 to 11:30 Food Demo by Flavor Exchange with Esther Gore Tomatoes, Corn, Blueberries, Fruits, Veggies, Jams, Meats, Flowers & Plants, Crafts, Goat Cheese, Prepared Foods, Baked Goods Mondays- FirstHealth (Fitness Center) Facility courtesy of First Health

170 Memorial Dr • Pinehurst 2pm-5:30pm Will be open through October 30th

Open Year Round • Thursdays - 604 W. Morganton Rd

(Armory Sports Complex) 9am -1pm Facility courtesy of Town of Southern Pines Saturdays - Downtown Southern Pines

Facility courtesy of Town of Southern Pines Broad St & New York Ave 8am-Noon Will be open through October 28th

Call 947-3752 or 690-9520 for more info. hwwebster@embarqmail.com www.moorecountyfarmersmarket.com Web search Moore County Farmers Market Local Harvest www.facebook.com/moorecountyfarmersmarket SNAP welcomed here

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As seen on

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T-F 10:30-5:30, S 10:30-4:30 157 NE Broad Street, SP • (910) 315-1280

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LOCKLEAR CABINET & WOODWORK SHOP, INC.

Building Award Winning Cabinetry Since 1959 910-521-4463 • locklearcabinets.com • Showroom at Kees • 104 E. Main St. • Aberdeen NC

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

SandhillSeen

Marshall Caddell

Clenny Creek Day Carthage Saturday, April 15, 2017

Photographs by Diane McKay

April Garner, Cheryl Colvin

Dora McCrimmon, Karen Violette, Yvonne Violette, Sharon Lasswell Johannah Schillin, Cheryl Colvin, Kelly Hinson

Kaye Brown, Dorothy Kicklighter Zeke, Pallu, Heddie & Salem Russell

Tom Imars

Ruth & Ken Sturley, Matty

Lucy Brown, Kaye Brown, Juniper Mae (baby), Bob Davis, Luna

Hugh Shepard

Tony & Gab Hoel

Jim Brock

Kim Kirkpatrick, Harold Pickett

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Bright,Colorful and Fun… just as summer should be

Tuesday-Saturday 10a-6p 100 West Main Street, Aberdeen | EloiseandCompany.com

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

SandhillSeen

Karleen Hubley, Dennis Paules

Angie & Dennis Tally

Walthour-Moss Foundation Hoedown Southern Pines Saturday April 29, 2017 Photographs by Diane McKay

Bob Walsh, Dottie Greenleaf, Edie Overly

Babette & Norman Minery

Cathy & David Carter

Lyell McMerty, Cameron Sadler Danny & Susan Stallings

Fred McCashin, Helen Kalevas

Emily Cumin, Cramer Hall

Joan & Lee Howard

Cindy Pauls, Gayle Staunton

Shelly & John Talk

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Pinehurst Medical Clinic Dermatology

June Special

All Cosmetic Fillers Buy 1 syringe get $50 OFF Buy 2 syringes get $100 OFF Buy 3 syringes get $150 OFF

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Call 910-235-3330 to schedule a free consultation. 205 Page Rd. • Pinehurst, North Carolina, 28374 www.pinehurstmedical.com/dermatology

3300 Airport Road • Southern Pines 910-692-6920 • www.ONealSchool.org

PAul B lAke

Find us on Facebook: Pinehurst Medical Clinic Dermatology Please mention this ad when scheduling appointment.

& A ssociAtes

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ESTATE LIQUIDATORS Paul Blake 910.315.7044 Chuck Helbling 910.315.4501

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www.itsthesway.com

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June 2017i��PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

SandhillSeen

Wine in The Pines Junior League of Moore County - Charity Fundraiser Saturday, April 29, 2017 Photographs by Al & Annette Daniels

Abbe Malone, Jenny Collins, Ali Zaimis

Cynthia Davis, Danielle Mahoney Jean Smyth, Stan Martin, Wendy Smyth

Members of the Junior League of Moore County Tiffany Maddox, Kat Pierce-Cloutier, John & Kathryn Talton, Julia Brokmeyer

Michelle Mobley, Tracy Blake, Katherine Blake Fallon & James Brewington

Jordan Greene, Allison Parker

Kristin Rice, Emily Meng, Meridith MacDonald, Jamie Wooten Kelly & Joe Owens

Anna & baby Zoe Wilbur

Kim & Travis Deutman, Liz Nabb, Rachel Bertsch, Stephanie Moore

Jennifer & Jacob Turnquist

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June 2017i�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

June PineNeedler It’s a Zoo out there! ACROSS 1 Sports car 5 Singer Billy 9 __ matter 13 Be in neutral 14 ____and effect 15 Zoo maned attraction 16 Weaving machine 17 Sexual desires 18 Fight off 19 Zoo trunked animal 21 Inadequate 23 Tangy 24 Churn

DOWN 1 Rasp 2 False god graven image 3 Healing plant 4 Tantalizer 5 Outing 6 Remove from office 7 Our time zone 8 Lease givers 9 One of the Little Rascals 10 Legal claim 11 ___Blanc, highest in the Alps. 12 Raggedy Ann’s friend

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Succumb Zoo tallest animal Become less distinct Hair strand Like a wing Automobile Less than two Ripen Lop Fair haired Window ledge Zoo chest pounder attraction Sea eagle Spring flower

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Skin opening Take into custody Stage crowd Fret Zoo striped attraction 60 Beloved 61 “For rent,” e.g. (abbr.) 62 Implant 63 Writer Bombeck 64 Sales agents, for short 65 Certain of 66. Fish eggs

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Light red wine Owned U.S. spy group Out of bed Children’s alphabet recitation Trolley sound Treasure found in a cabinet Italian seaport city Natural aptitude National bird Dinner breads Depend Clergymen Aerial attacks

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Whatchamacallit Police target April 15 collector __ Lanka Blenderize Not near Ill-mannered Invitation abbreviaton Abbreviate (abbr.) Roman emperor It __ Upon a Midnight Clear... Historic time periods Flightless bird

It's a ZOO out ther 1

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ACROSS

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48 50

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June 2017i�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

T H E A C C I D E N TA L A S T R O L O G E R

Double Vision

There’s never a dull moment when Gemini is in the house By Astrid Stellanova

Donald Trump, Kanye West, Marilyn

Monroe, John F. Kennedy, Prince, Joan Rivers, Johnny Depp, Anderson Cooper, Morgan Freeman, Nicole Kidman. What do these famous names have in common besides fame? First and foremost, their sun sign, Gemini. Star children, just try and imagine these Geminis in the same room. If the universe doesn’t have a sense of humor, then pray tell, what is at work here?—Ad Astra, Astrid Gemini (May 21–June 20) Warm to your gal pals, challenging to your male pals, heck — challenging period. That is what everyone knows runs deep inside your Gemini spirit. You have backbone, which is true. That back can get up, too, when someone gives you grief. You are many things, but never dull. This birthday may wind up being one of your favorites, because you have command of a stage and a chance to vent your anger. You’ve been as hopped up as a mule chewin’ on bumblebees over a friend’s actions. They want to make up. Let them. Show them your generosity can be as deep as your considerable wounded pride. Cancer (June 21–July 22) You uncovered something you didn’t much like. Things went catawampus when someone you trusted was caught lyin’ like a no-legged dog! It will make you more cautious, which is a good thing. Now, watch how they prove themselves in the future. Translation: Time for them to actually prove themselves to you, and for you to insist upon it.

rest of us. Well, slap my head and call me silly! Now that you have all the information, calculate what it will take to buy yourself a pack of nabs and an orange soda, then call your broker. Your hunches are right on the money. Capricorn (December 22–January 19) Darling, there’s a Southern riddle that goes like this: Is a pig’s rump made of pork? Well, Honey Bunny, that’s rhetorical. There is no answer, because the answer is obvious. Now something just as obvious is staring you right in the face. Turn this moment into what you need to march forward and onward and make barbecue. Aquarius (January 20–February 18) She’s so pretty she could make a hound dog smile. He’s so pretty he could make it smile again. That’s said of you and your circle of good-lookin’ Aquarian friends. You’ve taken your kindnesses into your personality in such a big way that you wear it on your fine faces. You make every one of your circle glad to be in your orbit.

Leo (July 23–August 22) You face a challenge and tend to rely upon an old ally. The problem is, your ally is so dumb, they could throw themselves on the ground and miss it. They just don’t understand the consequences of their lack of judgment. You, Child, do. Give them your guidance, and if they fail, show them how to hit the ground and roll.

Pisces (February 19–March 20) There’s a very sweet someone who wants to hitch a ride on your happy train because he senses you have a good sense of direction. If leather were brains, he wouldn’t have enough to saddle a June bug. All that said, you may feel a sense of loyalty to him just because he is polite and says “please” and “thank you.”

Virgo (August 23–September 22) Well, Sugar, you sure put the right person in charge of handling the money. He squeezes a quarter so tight the eagle screams. Thanks to reforming your once thoughtless money sense, you can afford a splurge. Take the opportunity to let loose and be generous with yourself. Also, let loose in another way that’s completely free — smile!

Aries (March 21–April 19) Lately, you have pretty much said “yes” to everything. Sugar Pie, if promises were persimmons, the possums could eat good at your place. This is a reality check for you. If you don’t face up to the music, you could wind up in the orchestra with a baton in your hand and no musicians. Stop all the mania and drop the baton long enough to direct your own life.

Libra (September 23–October 22) Someone in authority is making you half-crazy. Time is here, Sweet Thing, for you to draw a hard red line with this person and stop the crazy-making. Don’t let them pee on your leg and tell you it’s raining! By the end of June, you will discover something you dug up. This hard digging may lead you to a much bigger discovery. Scorpio (October 23–November 21) Needlepoint this onto a pillow: “Excuses are like behinds. Everybody’s got one and they all stink.” There was a time when you didn’t take time to offer up excuses. That is your truer self. When you own up to your role in a stinky situation, you can turn it around and find release. Truth works better than Odor-Eaters. Sagittarius (November 22–December 21) You weren’t wrong. We just misunderstood what you figured out way ahead of the

Taurus (April 20–May 20) Deep in the South, where sushi is still called bait, you have been doing some things nobody around you quite understands. You have been going a little overboard with your need to make a big impression. Like, for example, buying a mystery box at the auction when the rent was due. Take the auction paddle out of the air. PS

For years, Astrid Stellanova owned and operated Curl Up and Dye Beauty Salon in the boondocks of North Carolina until arthritic fingers and her popular astrological readings provoked a new career path.

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SOUTHWORDS

Marriage in the Age of Social Media By Tom Allen

June belongs to fathers and brides,

except this father will walk his daughter down the aisle in August.

My wife and I knew the FaceTime call was coming. Our daughter Hannah’s boyfriend, Zach, gave us the heads-up. He planned to propose, at a lovely spot overlooking Grandfather Mountain, in Western North Carolina. When the ringtone sounded, everyone smiled through a few tears. Hannah struck up a conversation with this nice chap her freshman year at N.C. State. They started dating early in her junior year. The “M” word came up, occasionally. He asked our blessing in December, proposed in February. “You can do this,” I told myself, much like I had when I learned I was going to be a father or the day we moved Hannah into her college dorm. “Millions of dads go through this every year,” I reasoned. Treading in the footsteps of Spencer Tracy and Steve Martin, I became, until August 19, the father of the bride. Friends who’d been through the experience gave the same advice: “Keep quiet and write the checks.” I understand what’s required of the bride’s family — our bank account is leaner than it was three months ago. I’ve given up purchasing that red Toyota Tacoma flatbed truck (with extended cab, back-up camera and heated seats). Still, I shun the stereotype. No, I won’t lose sleep over Hannah’s choice of hors d’oeuvres for the reception. I really don’t have an opinion on the color of the bridesmaids’ dresses (although my mouth dropped when informed there would be 10). But Hannah has a sister in college. Retirement looms. I’m not content to live on beans and bread for the sake of a reception feast that rivals William and Kate’s. Grass-fed prime rib and imported Champagne? Surely Pinterest offers creative ways to serve chicken and green beans. Would Emily Post sneer at a Sara Lee pound cake for dessert? What to wear? What to wear? The guys (10, of course) are donning black suits and skinny ties, the color of which has yet to be determined. No sweat. I’m sure, after numerous texts, Snapchats and Instagrams, the perfect shade will emerge. And how hipster will I look in a skinny tie, whatever that is? Hannah and my wife, Beverly, scoped out mother-of-the-bride dresses on a recent Saturday. Feeling a bit left out, I stayed home and mowed the lawn. I anticipated pictures. A text requested my opinion. “Lovely . . . for the grandmother of the bride,” I responded.

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The second ring, a few minutes later brought a similar comeback. “A little low cut, don’tcha think?” After the third ding, everyone agreed. Emojis confirmed the choice. “You look smashing,” I texted my wife. “Love the bling.” I look forward to the father-daughter dance, at the reception. Though I’m partial to “My Girl,” by The Temptations, Hannah has a Stevie Wonder hit in mind. Either will be fine. We both love to dance, and I’ll love dancing with her. We haven’t decided whether we’ll interrupt for a real throw-down. Bruno Mars and “Uptown Funk”? Hannah and her dad could go viral. I think I’m ready to walk my daughter down the aisle — a bittersweet moment, same as when she was born, when I waved goodbye on her first day of kindergarten, and when we moved her in to her college dorm. I’ll selfie a pep talk. “You can do this. Millions of dads do every year.” The ceremony will be intensely personal, given my profession. After another minister asks, “Who brings Hannah to marry Zach?” and I’ll respond, place her hand in his, then I’ll officiate their ceremony. I’m honored she asked, and like walking her down the aisle or waving goodbye as we drove away from the dorm, I’ll get through it, just fine. Besides, my officiant fee is a bargain. What words will I offer Hannah and Zach? I’ll encourage them to be kind, to dream, to pray. I may tell them to pay off their credit cards every month and change the oil in the cars every 3,000 miles. I might remind them of how fortunate they are to have families who love them, friends who stick by them, and faith to guide them in tough times. We’ll be sad that my parents, who loved and nurtured Hannah and her sister, died before the happy day (my mother appreciated a fine glass of Champagne). I’ll remind Hannah and Zach that marriage is serious business, that living with imperfect people takes work. I’ll bless their union, then introduce a new couple, and a daughter with a new last name. Beverly and I will smile, with the occasional tear, while the family poses for pictures. Afterwards we’ll celebrate like our wedding is the only one in the world. On what I suspect will be a hot, humid August night, Beverly and I will say our goodbyes and watch as Hannah and Zach’s happiest day winds down. I’m not sure if they’ll drive away in Zach’s college Kia or a horse-drawn carriage. Do millennials Uber to their wedding night destination? Who knows? I’ll rest well, perhaps dream of that red Toyota Tacoma, and wonder when I’ll get to be the father of the bride again. PS Tom Allen is minister of education at First Baptist Church, Southern Pines.

June 2017i�� PineStraw : The Art & Soul of the Sandhills

ILLUSTRATION BY MERIDITH MARTENS

The father of the bride-to-be gets a lesson in millennial weddings

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