May PineStraw 2024

— Ariel Chenworth, Marketing Manager

May ����

FEATURES

73 Beguiled by the Frailties of Those Who Precede Us Poetry by Stephen E. Smith

74 Hooked Up to History By Amberly Glitz Weber Skydiving with Bush 41

80 Party Animals By Jim Moriarty N.C. Zoo

90

94

DEPARTMENTS

this page by John Gessner

Photograph

Moore County’s Most Trusted Real Estate Team!

SEVEN LAKES WEST •$450,000

172 MORRIS DRIVE

Delightful 4 BR / 3 BA home in beautiful 7LW location. Home has been nicely updated to include remodeled kitchen, new flooring and has been freshly painted!

PINEHURST • $375,000

138 LOVE THIRTY LANE

Beautifully renovated 2 BR / 2 BA townhome in popular Lawn and Tennis. Hardwood flooring throughout main living areas and great inset wet bar in formal dining room.

PINEHURST • $489,000

6 GREENBRIER LANE

Charming 3 BR / 2 BA golf front home in popular No. 6 community! Floorplan is bright and open with nice views of the course across the back. Just a short walk from the Clubhouse and driving range.

PINEHURST • $488,900

30 JUNIPER CREEK BLVD.

Beautiful 3 BR / 2 BA brick home in charming No. 6 community! Bright, open floorplan all on one level with fenced, private back yard and great stone water feature.

PINEHURST •$345,000

6 GLEN EAGLES LANE

Nice 3 BR / 2 BA home on nice cul-de-sac in Pinehurst No. 6. Home is being sold AS-IS and has wonderful potential with a little TLC.

PINEHURST • $390,000

130 LOST TREE ROAD

Situated in the desirable Lake Pinehurst area, this 3 BR / 2 BA home is perfect for a family, a place to retire or a golf retreat. The layout is spacious with nicely remodeled kitchen!

PINEHURST • $95,000

370 PINEHURST TRACE DRIVE

Large lot in desirable Pinehurst Trace! One of the few lots left in this area. Location is convenient to shopping, dining and the First Health Hospital and medical facilities.

PINEHURST• $155,000

TBD QUAIL RUN

Nice 1.05 acre lot in popular Clarendon Gardens. Location convenient to shopping, dining and the First Health hospital and local medical complex.

JACKSON SPRINGS • $425,000

276 DERBY ROAD

Wonderful 3 BR / 2 BA home situated on just over 9 acres with a pond. From the inviting front porch to the incredibly open layout this home is perfect for country living!

IN MOORE COUNTY REAL ESTATE FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

Luxury Properties

Beautiful 4 BR / 3.5 BA home on the 10th tee of the Magnolia course in Pinewild CC. Home has wonderful curb appeal with special features and fine finishes throughout. PINEHURST • $1,080,000

Delightful 3 BR / 2.5 BA golf front home overlooking the 2nd green at Talamore. Hardwood flooring throughout main living area, bright breakfast nook/kitchen and cozy family room! SOUTHERN PINES • $612,000

Charming golf front 4 BR / 3 BA home in Longleaf CC. Floorplan is open and offers lots of space and natural light with gorgeous panoramic golf views. SOUTHERN PINES • $545,000 521 COTTAGE LANE

Sun-Mon: Closed. Tues: Private Appointments Only. Wed-Fri: 12-5. Sat: 12-4. Email info@knickers-lingerie.com or call 910-725-2346

150 E. New Hampshire Ave Southern Pines, NC 28387

Volume 20, No. 5

David Woronoff, Publisher david@thepilot.com

Andie Stuart Rose, Creative Director andiesouthernpines@gmail.com

Jim Moriarty, Editor jjmpinestraw@gmail.com

Miranda Glyder, Graphic Designer miranda@pinestrawmag.com

Alyssa Kennedy, Digital Art Director alyssamagazines@gmail.com

Emilee Phillips, Digital Content emilee@pinestrawmag.com

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Jim Dodson, Stephen E. Smith

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Gessner, Laura L. Gingerich, Diane McKay, Tim Sayer

CONTRIBUTORS

Jenna Biter, Anne Blythe, Keith Borshak, Tom Bryant, Susan Campbell, Bill Case, Wiley Cash

Tony Cross, Brianna Rolfe Cunningham, Mart Dickerson, Bill Fields, Meridith Martens, Mary Novitsky, Lee Pace, Todd Pusser, Joyce Reehling, Deborah Salomon, Scott Sheffield, Rose Shewey, Angie Tally, Kimberly Daniels Taws, Daniel Wallace, Ashley Walshe, Claudia Watson, Amberly Glitz Weber

ADVERTISING SALES

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

Samantha Cunningham, 910.693.2505

Kathy Desmond, 910.693.2515

Terry Hartsell, 910.693.2513

Erika Leap, 910.693.2514

Christy Phillips, 910.693.2498

ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN

Mechelle Butler, Scott Yancey

PS

Henry Hogan, Finance Director 910.693.2497

Darlene Stark, Circulation Director 910.693.2488

SUBSCRIPTIONS

910.693.2488

OWNERS

Jack Andrews, Frank Daniels III, David Woronoff

In memoriam Frank Daniels Jr.

145 W. Pennsylvania Avenue, Southern Pines, NC 28387 www.pinestrawmag.com

Browse Inventory, Get Pre-Approved, or Complete Paperwork

CURBSIDE PICK-UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE FOR YOUR NEW CAR!

Check out our Advantage Plan that is guaranteed with every purchase.

PINEHURST TOYOTA ADVANTAGE PLAN

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Ready for your next summer vacation? Rent a Toyota, let’s go places.

Thanks to your support, we have won: Best of The Pines 2023 for the #1 Dealership Service Department. Schedule your appointment today to experience #1 Service

Photograph by Matthew Gibson

Poorman’s Guide to Domestic Bliss

Even unconditional love has its conditions

By Jim DoDsoN

Wives,

does your husband suffer from RRBS, also known as Recurring Refrigerator Blindness Syndrome?

The symptoms are relatively easy to diagnose. Your husband is making himself the first locally-grown tomato sandwich of the season and opens the refrigerator in search of Duke’s Mayonnaise. He scans the refrigerator shelves for three full minutes, increasingly agitated as he shifts jars of pickles, and containers of mystery meat and cottage cheese hither and yon.

plain view only to the average female person. If you live in my house, this happens on an almost daily basis.

Yes, I suffer from Recurring Refrigerator Blindness Syndrome. But I am not alone. There are untold millions of us out here who suffer instantaneous blindness whenever we open the refrigerator in search of condiments, cold pizza, leftover mac-and-cheese or the last piece of chocolate meringue pie.

Finally, after shifting the contents of the entire refrigerator around and even checking the vegetable and meat bins for the missing mayonnaise, he straightens up and loudly declares one of two things:

“This is ridiculous! I know we have mayonnaise! I saw it in here yesterday!”

Or, alternatively, with a wail of wounded resignation, “Honey, where’s the G#%@* mayonnaise? You said you just bought a brand-new jar this week. Someone must have taken it!”

Commonly, what happens next is the victim’s wife calmly appears, opens the refrigerator, and, within seconds, presents the aggrieved spouse with a fresh new jar of Duke’s Mayonnaise. Turns out, the mayonnaise was partially hidden behind a carton of orange juice last used by said victim, apparently in

Moreover, according to the National Association of Endangered Domestic Tranquility, refrigerator blindness isn’t the only condition that strikes the average married American male, placing undue stress on relations with wives, visiting mothers-in-laws and elderly aunts.

Tranquility experts cite a commonly related condition known as DAS or Dishwasher Avoidance Syndrome that afflicts an estimated 87 percent of men married an average of 10 years or more. DAS is defined as a chronic inability to correctly load and unload (much less operate) a German-built dishwasher without proper supervision by someone familiar with the machine’s standard operating procedures, typically a married person of the female persuasion.

Sufferers generally avoid this normal everyday household task by poorly hand-washing dirty dishes and used glassware whenever the domestic partner is out of the house, not only resulting in suspiciously spotted dishware, but unnecessary

use of precious water. A related inability to operate the average clothes washing machine and reach into a clogged garbage disposal have also been documented in some cases.

In addition, studies conducted on the average suburban American male reveal at least two other common stress-inducing habits that take place outside of the home.

The first is LGLP or Lost Grocery List Phenomenon, generally affecting mature to elderly husbands who volunteer to go to the store for their wives with a list of a dozen essential items and return hours later with chips, salsa, three or more frozen pizzas, a six-pack of craft beer, the wrong dishwasher liquid, a set of half-price blinking Christmas lights, four Tahitian patio sconces, a tub of rainbow sherbet, Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s Guide to Home Auto Repair (sixth edition) and only four of the 12 items on the original list, which was somehow lost in transit to the store. An unsupervised return to the store is sometimes undertaken with a revised shopping list safety pinned to the sufferer’s sweater.

Finally, there is the all-too-common domestic problem of UHIC, better known as Unfinished Home Improvement Complex, an affliction in which various do-it-yourself home projects have been sitting idle, unfinished or simply forgotten since the first Obama administration. This includes, but is not limited to, half-tiled bathroom walls; toilets that don’t properly flush; mountains of pricey hardwood mulch left in the backyard so long they’re sprouting young trees; doors that never quite close; suspicious sounds beneath the house; the broken doorbells;

half-installed home security systems; and driveway sinkholes.

Curiously, in the interest of saving time and money, the typical victim of UHIC routinely stalks the aisles of Lowe’s or Home Depot, dreaming up ambitious new home improvement projects that will make home life easier but don’t stand a chance of ever being completed.

Yes, wives, you know these conditions all too well.

Sadly, there’s no known cure for any of these domestic maladies just yet. But there is hope in the form of a newly created self-help grassroots organization called Building Better Husbands, designed to afford hard-working wives like you the opportunity to network and share creative ideas on how to make their homes happier places and spouses more thoughtful and responsive. Look for chapters forming in your neighborhood soon. BYOB (or two).

A final word to my fellow sufferers.

This Mother’s Day, fellas, let’s give the little lady of the house a break by picking up the slack on normal domestic duties, finishing those pesky home projects, even reading the appliance operating instructions and learning to go to the grocery store only once without a list pinned to your golf shirt.

Meantime, it’s probably best to avoid calling your wife “the little lady” or, for that matter, never ever asking me to put my hand in a clogged garbage disposal.

Some old habits die hard, I guess. PS Jim Dodson can be reached at jwdauthor@gmail.com.

1655

Discover Penick Village’s Newest Expansion

Prepare to be captivated by the luxurious additions to our community at Penick Village–designed to elevate your lifestyle to new heights.

44 brand-new residences, meticulously Engage in a Transformative Healthcare: Experience remarkable renovations in our Terrace Healthcare Center, ensuring the highest quality of care for our residents.

Warm Welcome: Wave at our security team in the updated Welcome House, a space designed to safely welcome you into our community.

lowest pre-opening pricing along with other benefits and be among the first to select your new forever home before they are gone! Contact us today by calling (910) 692-0199, , or use the QR Code.

PinePitch

Come and Go, Talk of Michelangelo

Even if they’re not J. Alfred Prufrock, May is a busy month for authors at The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St. in Southern Pines. Cheryl L. Mason, Stephen E. Smith, Mary Kay Andrews, Max Braillier, Tommy Tomlinson, Kristen Harmel and Mesha Maren will all be discussing and signing their books. For specific dates, times and titles go to www. ticketmesandhills.com or visit www.thecountrybookshop.biz.

Garden Party

The Village Heritage Foundation hosts its Spring Garden Party on Tuesday, May 7, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the Timmel Pavilion, 105 Rassie Wicker Drive, in the Village Arboretum in Pinehurst. There will be wine, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. Guests will receive updates on the Woodland Garden design, one of the earliest developments in the park, and the dedication of the new Jim and Elizabeth Fisher Gathering Place. Tickets are $30. In the event of rain, the location will move to the Fair Barn. For further information go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

A Night to Behold

Do yourself, and your community, a favor by attending the one-night only performance of seven-time Grammy Award nominee Nnenna Freelon for a concert benefiting the Southern Pines Land & Housing Trust on Friday, May 17 at 7 p.m. at the West Southern Pines Center, 1250 W. New York Ave., Southern Pines. The incredible jazz vocalist recently starred in the show “Georgia on My Mind: Celebrating the Music of Ray Charles.” She has toured with Charles, performed at the White House, and appeared with talents like Ellis Marsalis, Al Jarreau, George Benson, Earl Klugh and others. For tickets and information go to weblink.donorperfect.com/nnenna.

A floral arrangement donated for the 2023 Spring Garden Party

Somebody Had to Do It

Release your inner Wookie at The Tyson Sinclair, 105 McReynolds St., Carthage, the planetary location for a “May the Force Be With You” costume party beginning at 6 p.m. on — what else? — Saturday, May the Fourth. There will be food, drinks and games. All you Lukes and Leias must be 21 or over to attend. That shouldn’t be a problem since Star Wars premiered 47 years ago. For more information go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

A Touch of The Grape

The Women of Weymouth will hold their annual happy hour on Wednesday, May 15, beginning at 5:30 p.m. on the Boyd House grounds at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. There will be appetizers and desserts by Scott’s Table, a wine bar, a wine tasting by Standing Room Only, music by Sam Thomas, raffles and more. Tickets are $55 for members, $60 for non-members. If you’re still thirsty the Farm Fresh Spring Wine Walk on Saturday, May 18, in the village of Pinehurst features 12 boutique locations offering spring wine and tapas. Tickets are $45 and start times are 3:30, 4:30 or 5:30 p.m. For info and tickets got to www.eventbrite.com.

First Friday, 2024 Edition

Come one, come all on May 3 to the first First Friday of 2024 to enjoy the music of The Wilson Springs Hotel, a Virginia-based band with a honky-tonk, folk rock sound, on Sunrise Square next to the theater at 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. We know y’all remember the drill — bring blankets, lawn chairs, dancing shoes, flowers for your hair and kids, but leave Cujo at home. Beverages are meant to be purchased, not smuggled. For additional info go to firstfridaysouthernpines.com, www.sunrisetheater.com or call (910) 420-2549.

Sunrise Live

There will be six live performances of Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version) beginning Friday, May 10, and concluding on Sunday, May 19, at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. For information on show times call (910) 420-2549 or visit www.sunrisetheater.com.

The Phil

Maestro David Michael Wolff and the Carolina Philharmonic will be joined by the husband and wife duo of Josh Young and Emily Padgett-Young in a performance of “Broadway Brilliance: A Symphony Pops Spectacular” on Saturday, May 18, at 7:30 p.m. at BPAC’s Owen’s Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Tickets range from $10 (students) to $60 (VIP). For more information call (910) 687-0287 or go to www.carolinaphil.org.

© 2024

Quail Haven Village

Taurus

(April 20 – May 20)

While it’s true you tend to be a bit self-absorbed, who can blame you? Ruled by the planet of love, money, romance, art and beauty, your sensual nature is part of what makes you so utterly magnetic. This month, both Venus and Jupiter will amplify your charm factor, creating a “golden ticket” effect in relation to your wildest longings. Here’s the catch: You’ve got to be willing to ditch your plans.

Tea leaf “fortunes” for the rest of you:

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Choose a focal point.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

One word: hummingbird.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Just take the ride.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Step away from your comfort zone.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Expect a miracle.

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Try slowing down.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Mind your tone.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Read the care instructions.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Find your true north.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Dust the fan blades.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

Let the butterfly come to you. PS

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

Sweet Memories

A year on the journey to adulthood

By Jim moriarty

My freshman year in college was nothing like the one Stephen E. Smith writes about in his memoir The Year We Danced. And yet it was exactly the same.

For any memoir to rise above the level of that dusty old book sitting on the mantel in your grandchildren’s house, it has to reach a level of universality — no easy feat — and The Year We Danced does it without breaking a sweat. Except on the dance floor, that is.

Written with a touch of humor and a bit of heartache by one of North Carolina’s finest poets, Smith’s tale of his freshman year at, then, Elon College in 1965-66 is sweet without being sentimental, poignant without being preachy. While simultaneously being tethered to and free from his family back in Maryland, and with the escalating war in Vietnam a kind of constant buzz in the background, The Year We Danced is nothing less than the launchpad of a life, a survey course in Adult 101 — complete with its own soundtrack. Along the way we’re introduced to an endlessly entertaining cast of characters, drawn by Smith in distinctive, rich detail.

Smith’s father, the boxing coach at the U.S. Naval Academy, had taken control of his son’s college admission process in March and delivered the results in June like an uppercut:

“We were devouring Mrs. Paul’s fish sticks and oven-baked frozen French fries smothered in Hunt’s ketchup, our standard Wednesday evening fare, when he stared at me across the dinner table and stated matter-of-factly, ‘You’re going to North Carolina in the fall.’

“I froze in mid-bite, a flaky chunk of trans-fat-engrossed fish stick balanced on my fork. ‘I am?’

“‘Yeah, you’re going to Elon College,’ he continued. ‘It’s far enough away that you won’t be running home every fifteen minutes.’”

We are introduced to Grandma Drager, who “never forgave her wayward first husband and never passed up a chance to deliver a sermon on the evils of drink,” who travels 350 miles by bus to hand-deliver to a young man about to venture forth into the world a baffling bit of wisdom in six words, memorable only in their towering insignificance — “Promise me you’ll wear tennis shoes.”

Once at Elon, where Smith’s father delivers both him and the message that he doesn’t expect his son to make it through the first semester, Stephen meets his roommate, Carl, who has arranged his

shoes in the closet alphabetically by brand and has a pricy collection of 30 or 40 bottles of men’s cologne in parade formation on top of his dresser. “Unfortunately, Carl was the loquacious sort. He was going to sign up for physics and run for class president in addition to majoring in German. Then he started in on his personal life. I had no choice but to lie there in the dark and listen to him brag about his girlfriend, who was a freshman at a college in Virginia, and how they were going to get married before the year was out, a notion that struck me as utterly demented.”

As it turns out, it becomes clear rather quickly that Carl could have benefited from one, or several, of Grandma Drager’s exhortations on demon rum. “In the time we shared room 218, Carl never once exchanged his sheets for clean ones, and the pile of dirty laundry on his desk had spilled onto the floor beside his bed and included many of the garments he’d so neatly arranged in the closet on the first day of orientation. He’d sold off most of his bottles of cologne for beer money, and, as nearly as I could determine, he’d quit going to class altogether.”

On the plus side, Carl became the subject of an essay written by Smith for the spine-chilling professor of English 111, Tully Reed. Smith picked a subject he knew and wrote the hell out of it. When the “The Making of a Derelict,” with copy as clean as anything that ever ran in The New Yorker, gained nothing better than a C–(the highest grade in the class), Smith screwed up the courage to find Tully in his office and ask the fearsome man why.

“‘It’s not A or B work,’ he said, shaking his head, ‘not for a college freshman.’ He handed me my essay, took a drag on his Lucky Strike and returned to slinging red ink.”

Smith’s dance partner, and surely one of the first honest loves of his life, is Blondie, an upperclassman (they weren’t gender neutral

in 1965), who can power drink a PBR and dance until curfew, if not dawn. At their favored club, the Castaways, she takes flight. “As I watched, the simple truth dawned on me: We might be at a club where there was only one acceptable dance step, but if Blondie didn’t want to dance the Shag, she didn’t have to. She was beautiful, unique, and she didn’t give a damn about attracting undue attention. She wasn’t there to prove herself to anyone; she was there to have a good time, and she intended to do just that.”

Also unique, and on the other end of the spectrum from the fearsome Tully, was another English professor, Manly Wade Wellman, a prolific author who would eventually call the Sandhills home, just as Smith would and does. “Wellman was barrel-chested and wide-shouldered, his graying hair combed back from his broad forehead. His round, open face was accentuated with heavy eyebrows and a prominent nose below which was cultivated a tweedy, slightly skewed Clark Gable mustache. What was immediately appreciable was the peculiar way in which his eyes reflected light. The very tops of his dark irises flickered, suggesting an inner illumination. . . . If Wellman was insistent, he was also endearing. I was immediately convinced that this guy had a sincere interest in who I was and what I thought. He wanted to know about my latest writing project as if it were of immense concern to the literary community. ‘What are you working on?’ he asked.”

In a few short months, Smith had met both the carrot and the stick.

In the end, Blondie moves on. As all of our Blondies do. Then Smith gets the news that a boyhood friend has been killed in combat. “The spring of ’66 was early in the war, and although the weekly casualties were the highest since our involvement in Vietnam, I doubted anyone at Elon could name a friend who’d died in that distant war. I kept the news to myself.”

But not the sense of helplessness and futility. “I reviewed the times Barrie and I had spent together, my memory sliding from one image to another in no particular sequence — the hours playing hide-and-seek on dusky evenings in the little town of Easton, Maryland, the summer days I visited with him in Salisbury, where we skipped stones from the banks of the Wicomico. But what I remembered most vividly was a summer afternoon in 1957 — we were both eleven — when Barrie and I were singing our favorite top ten rock ‘n’ roll songs and I mentioned that I was fond of a country song, ‘The Tennessee Waltz.’ ‘I can teach you how to play it on the piano,’ he said, and then he sat down at the family’s upright Baldwin and with uncharacteristic purposefulness showed me how to pick out the melody on the white keys. It was a good moment to hold in memory, affirmative and focused, his casual smile, his fingers walking along the ivories.”

Smith’s memoir, to be released this month by Apprentice House Press, is packed full of good moments. If you know someone who is going to be a college freshman — or if you were ever young once yourself — this trip down memory lane is well worth taking. PS

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

FICTION

Rednecks, by Taylor Brown

May Books

Brimming with the high-stakes drama of America’s West Virginia mine wars of 1920-21, Rednecks tells a powerful story of rebellion against oppression. In a land where the coal companies use violence and intimidation to keep miners from organizing, “Doc Moo” Muhanna, a LebaneseAmerican doctor (inspired by the author’s greatgrandfather), toils amid the blood and injustice of the mining camps. When Frank Hugham, a Black World War I veteran and coal miner, takes dramatic steps to lead a miners’ revolt with a band of fellow veterans, Doc Moo risks his life and career to treat sick and wounded miners, while Frank’s grandmother, Beulah, fights her own battle to save her home and grandson. The real-life, fiery Mother Jones, an Irish-born labor organizer once known as “The Most Dangerous Woman in America,” struggles to maintain the ear of the miners amid the tide of rebellion, while the sharpshooting police chief, Smilin’ Sid Hatfield, dares to stand up to the “gun thugs” of the coal companies. Rednecks is a propulsive, character-driven tale that’s both a century old and blisteringly contemporary.

Summers at the Saint, by Mary Kay Andrews

Everyone refers to the hotel St. Cecelia as “The Saint.” Traci Eddings was one of those outsiders whose family wasn’t rich enough or connected enough to vacation there, but she could work there. One fateful summer she did — and married the boss’ son. Now, she’s the widowed owner of the hotel, determined to see it returned to its glory days, even as staff shortages and financial troubles threaten to ruin it. Enlisting a motley crew of recently hired summer help, including the daughter of her estranged best friend, Traci has one summer season to turn it around. New information about a long-ago drowning at the hotel threatens to come to light, and the tragic death of one of their own brings her to the brink of despair. She has her back against the pink-painted wall of her beloved institution, and it will take all the wits and guts she has to see wrongs put right, to see guilty parties put in their place, and maybe even to find a new romance along the way.

The Hazelbourne Ladies Motorcycle and Flying Club, by Helen Simonson

It is the summer of 1919, and Constance Haverhill is without prospects. Now that all the men have returned from the front, she has been asked to give up her cottage and her job at the estate she helped run during the war. While she looks for a position as a bookkeeper or governess, she’s sent as a lady’s companion to an old family friend who is convalescing at a seaside hotel. Despite having only weeks to find a permanent home, Constance is swept up in the social whirl of Hazelbourne-on-Sea after she rescues the local baronet’s daughter, Poppy Wirrall, from a social faux pas. Poppy wears trousers, operates a taxi and delivery service to employ local women, and runs a ladies’ motorcycle club (to which she plans to add flying lessons). She and her friends enthusiastically welcome Constance into their circle. And then there is Harris, Poppy’s recalcitrant but handsome brother, a fighter pilot wounded in battle, who warms in Constance’s presence. As the country prepares to celebrate its hard-won peace, Constance and the women of the club are forced to confront the fact that the freedoms they gained during the war are being revoked.

NONFICTION

The Light Eaters: How the Unseen World of Plant Intelligence Offers a New Understanding of Life on Earth, by Zoë Schlanger

It takes tremendous biological creativity to be a plant. To survive and thrive while rooted in a single spot, plants have adapted ingenious methods of survival. In recent years, scientists have learned about their ability to communicate, recognize their kin and behave socially, hear sounds, morph their bodies to blend into their surroundings, store useful memories that inform their life cycle, and trick animals into behaving to their benefit — to name just a few remarkable talents. In this eyeopening and informative look at the ecosystem we live in, The Light Eaters is a deep immersion into the drama of green life, and the complexity of this wild and awe-inspiring world that challenges our very understanding of agency and consciousness.

May

3-Oh!May

MAY 4

3-Oh!

Horses Benefit Kids Derby Watch Party 3PM - UNTIL Come early for the Team Show Jumping Event from 3-5pm and stay for the Kentucky Derby Watch Party that begins at 5. Prizes for Best Dressed, Win/Place/Show Raffle, BBQ from Parker’s with Butter Cake from Ashten’s, Mint Juleps and Live Music. Tickets start at $100 with VIP package available.

MAY 12

Young Musicians Festival 2-4PM

The Young Musicians Festival is an annual event that invites young musicians from Moore, Lee, Hoke, Montgomery, Richmond, Cumberland, and Scotland counties to compete in the lovely setting of the Weymouth Center for cash prizes. Auditions are being held on May 11 starting at 11am with the finalists performing on May 12. Free and open to the public. Registration required.

MAY 15

Ladies Wine Out 5:30-7:30PM

Sip, Savor, and Support! The Women of Weymouth present their annual happy hour(s) outside on the beautiful Weymouth grounds. This crowd-pleasing, much-anticipated event features delectable appetizers and desserts by Scott’s Table, a wine tasting by Standing Room Only, a liquor pull and 50/50 raffle! $55 Members/$60 General Admission

MAY 19

“Come Sunday” Jazz 11:30-2PM

Join us for a family friendly event on Weymouth’s beautiful grounds. Bring a Blanket, chairs, and picnic basket. Relax with the swinging sounds of Raleigh’s Thrio band. Cash Bar. VIP Packages available. Sponsored by Spark the Arts in conjunction with the NC Arts Council. Tickets start at $27.50 (kids under 12 are free).

weymouthcenter.org 555 E. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines, NC A WELCOME PLACE

Come Sunday Jazz Series is sponsored by the NC Arts Council’s “Spark the Arts.”

love! A Mother’s Day delight. (Ages 3-7.)

Greenwild: The World Behind the Door, by Pari Thomson

Going green gets a whole new meaning in this botanical fantasy where a stray cat, a missing mother and a dandelion paperweight are Daisy Thistledown’s ticket into a world of green magic . . . even without a grassport. Perfect for fans of Morrigan Crow, Keeper of Lost Cities or The Marvellers. (Ages 9-13.) PS

Compiled by Kimberly Daniels Taws and Angie Tally.

The dental frontier. This is the journey of Allison and Associates. Our ultimate mission: To educate patients about the importance of oral health and its effect on lifespan, To seek out new technologies and new research, To venture where few dentists have gone before. Our dental office has a 100% digital dental laboratory, one of a kind in Moore County. We utilize CAD/CAM designing and manufacturing methods to create final restorations for patients. Our staff embraces evidence-based research and treatment to provide the best dental care to our patients. Lastly, oral health is important for longevity. Studies demonstrate oral health is vital if you want “To live long and prosper.”

By Bill Fields

It’s always

Quiet Time

A tranquil week at Weymouth

great to come to Southern Pines, but a return last fall was special. I’d passed the hounds on Ridge Street marking the entrance to the Boyd House many times — walking, on my bike or in a car — going back to when I started elementary school in the mid-1960s. In November, though, I drove up Vermont Avenue, crossed Ridge and went through the stone canines.

For the first time, I wasn’t just passing by; I was arriving to settle in for a week at Weymouth as a writer-in-residence. My writing chops pale in comparison to some of the authors who have graced the estate going back more than a century, but I was certain no visitor had closer roots given that I’d grown up only three blocks away. Not only was I excited to see what I could get done over seven days in an inspiring environment, I was proud to be there.

I was booked to bunk in a room named for Max Perkins, the legendary book editor who helped shape 20th-century American literature with his vital ties to F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway and North Carolinian Thomas Wolfe, among others. The room assignment pleased me. As I unpacked, I recalled reading A. Scott Berg’s 1978 biography Max Perkins: Editor of Genius while in college. Given that typing a high school hoops gamer on deadline in the sports department of the Durham Morning Herald was the big time at that point in my life, discovering Perkins’ New York world was a revelation.

By week’s end — when two fellow resident writers and I celebrated with a lovely dinner at Ashten’s and afterward shared aloud samples of what we’d produced while at Weymouth — I’d written thousands of words for what I hope will someday be a memoir. My output, in longhand (I was reminded of the pleasure

of a fountain pen) and on my laptop, didn’t quite reach the five-figure goal I’d set for myself. Yet as I waved goodbye to the dogs as I left the property and began the long drive home to Connecticut, I realized that my time at Weymouth shouldn’t be measured by word count alone.

If I’m not careful, I watch too much television and spend too much time on social media. While staying in the Boyd House, I watched no TV and paid scant attention to what was being said online. In that small bedroom and in those large common rooms alike, I had time to think.

I’m not nearly as plugged in as some people, and my texting thumbs will never reach warp speed. Stepping out of a normal routine for a week, however, and holing up in a place where the point is to get away from everything, made it easier to realize just how much sway technology holds over us.

It was quiet at Weymouth. The lack of noise took me back to late night studying in an unlocked classroom building not far from Old West dormitory, or the hours in a lonesome carrel in the Wilson Library stacks. I’ve written plenty of stories over the years in crowded press rooms, and there is satisfaction in tuning out the surroundings and turning out smooth copy in time to make an editor happy.

But I think my best work has come in quiet hotel rooms after golf tournaments, when Sunday night has turned into Monday morning and, somehow, a couple of thousand words were on the page by dawn and by deadline, in an order that mostly made sense.

Months after my peaceful week at Weymouth, I don’t get the message on my smartphone that my screen usage has been up as often as it used to. Not only did I write something there, I learned something too. PS

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

The Late Drive Home

The music of David Childers

By Wiley Cash

P hotogra Phs By m allory Cash

Onechilly evening in early March, I parked in front of WiredCoffeeEspress in Kannapolis, North Carolina. I waited in the car for a few moments, wondering if I had the right place. The coffee shop sat in a strip mall between a discount store and a supermercado, and it seemed like a surprising spot to find one of my favorite living musicians on a Tuesday night. But then I remembered that I was there to see Mount Holly native David Childers, a universally beloved songwriter who is as at home sitting in on an intimate showcase of local musicians in front of a weeknight crowd as he is performing with the Avett Brothers in the Greensboro Coliseum.

Inside I found Childers already seated on the small stage, tuning his acoustic guitar and adjusting the harmonica holder around his neck. He and two other men about his age spent the next hour-and-a-half taking turns playing original songs, each performing five or six numbers. I knew most of the songs Childers played, but I couldn’t help but be struck by their beauty and nuance, how he was able to create rich tension between two lines that revealed a complicated duality that most songwriters aren’t capable of reaching for, much less grasping.

“There are moments of greatness,” he sang during his last song of the evening, “but this ain’t one of those.”

He could’ve fooled me.

By 10 p.m. Childers and I were sitting at a table on the sidewalk in front of the coffee shop as patrons loaded into their cars and trucks to head home for the evening, but not before several of them stopped by our table to say hello. One of them offered Childers condolences on the recent passing of Malcolm Holcombe, a singer/songwriter from western North Carolina whom Childers knew for years and who recently lost a long battle with cancer. Childers had honored his friend that evening by performing one of Holcombe’s songs.

“I’m sorry we lost Malcolm,” the man said.

“Yeah,” Childers responded, “but I think Malcolm’s in a better place.” He smiled a sly smile. “We’ll probably run into him.”

Holcombe and Childers came up together in the North Carolina music scene, two literary singer/songwriters who both seemed haunted by the South, its religious iconography, its mystery, and its hardscrabble economics. Both men released their debut albums in 1999 and spent the years before and after touring incessantly, making regular jaunts across Europe.

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“I couldn’t get a gig around here in Charlotte,” Childers said, referring to a time when most bars wanted cover bands, not poets with guitars singing blue collar stories about mill closures and lost souls. “I was pretty much by myself, although I would get these bands together and eventually started getting gigs. One place was Dilworth Brewing. That let me get some experience because I started late.” Childers, in his mid-60s now, was around 38 years old when he began performing publicly while he and his wife, Linda, raised a young family, all while Childers worked 50 and 60 hours a week as an attorney in Mount Holly.

In 2007 he looked around and decided that life on the road wasn’t for him, especially when he realized that by the end of November he’d only spent four weekends at home during the entire year. There were things he wanted to do in Mount Holly: spend time with his wife and kids, work in the yard, paint.

“I’d been playing overseas, and there had been some good things, but there was a lot of disappointment, a very mixed bag. And I just realized, I don’t want to be in an airplane all the time or in strange hotels or riding in buses and cars. And Charlotte was changing, North Carolina was changing. The music scene was opening up, and I was getting more of a name, so I had more opportunities. Why fly all over the place if you can stay here and make a living?

“I don’t have the wanderlust anymore,” he said. “I don’t really want to go anywhere.”

And that makes sense if you listen closely to Childers’ more recent music, almost all of which is firmly grounded in the Mount Holly soil that rests along the Catawba River dividing Gaston and Mecklenburg counties. The songs from The Next Best Thing (2013), Run Skeleton Run (2017), Melancholy Angel (2023), and especially 2020’s Interstate Lullaby play like soundtracks of mill culture, zeroing in on the hope born in the post-war years of the 1950s and the despair felt once the lifeblood of local industries began to seep away.

“It’s there in those songs,” he said. “Those two emotions — hope and despair — they give you a conflict, and that’s a good thing to have in a song.”

A young man was standing nearby, and Childers looked up and saw him.

“Hey, man,” Childers said. He shook the young guy’s hand. “I’m glad you came out. I’ve seen you play.”

The guy seemed surprised and genuinely touched, and before walking toward the parking lot he invited Childers to an upcoming show. Childers promised to try and make it.

“That boy’s a hell of a songwriter,” Childers said.

We talked for a few more minutes, and then it was time for Childers to step inside the coffee shop to pack up his gear. I asked him how long the drive home to Mount Holly would take.

“It’s about 40 minutes,” he said. He stood from his chair and stretched his back.

I apologized for keeping him so long after the show ended.

“It’s OK,” he said. “It was a good show, and it was nice to chat.”

“I hope it was worth the late drive home on dark roads,” I said.

He smiled. “Hope and despair,” he said. PS

Wiley Cash is the executive director of Literary Arts at the University of North Carolina at Asheville and the founder of This Is Working, an online community for writers.

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Dissecting a Cocktail

By tony Cross

Its origin dates to the early 1900s, and its recipe was first printed in the 1920s. I’ve found various sources that have differing opinions on which bar and what bartender had the first recipe, but many agree that the mojito we all now love and cherish was the drink famously served at Sloppy Joe’s in Havana, Cuba.

There are different ways to attack the execution of this cocktail — some bartenders prefer to build this drink in the glass that they are serving it in, while others employ tins to shake the mint, lime, sugar and rum. I’ve practiced both methods, and I prefer the former. No matter which one you choose, one thing should not be overlooked: Do not annihilate your mint.

Mojito

SPECIFICATIONS

3/4 ounce fresh lime juice

1/2 ounce rich simple syrup (or 1 tablespoon organic cane sugar)

8-12 mint leaves

2 ounces white rum

2-3 ounces club soda

4 drops salt solution (optional) Mint sprig for garnish

EXECUTION

Combine lime juice, syrup or sugar and mint leaves in a Collins glass. Gently press and twist to express mint oils. (If you’re using cane sugar, you can mix with lime juice before adding mint to dissolve. Bartender and author Garret Richard has a great hack: Use a milk frother — it’s perfect.) Add rum and cracked ice. Gently stir. Top with more cracked or crushed ice and garnish with mint sprig. PS

Tony Cross owns and operates Reverie Cocktails, a cocktail delivery service that delivers kegged cocktails for businesses to pour on tap — but once a bartender, always a bartender.

PHOTOGRAPH BY TONY CROSS

story and Photogra Ph By rose sheW ey

Spill It!

Berry-infused herbal iced tea

This summer, I plan on adapting the most iconic of all Southern traditions. My goal is to have a jug of iced tea chilling in the fridge at all times, ready to be served to anyone knocking on the door of my screened-in porch, honoring that Southern hospitality I’ve come to appreciate so much.

As someone who is notoriously sensitive to substances of any kind (kombucha on an empty stomach has me buzzed), I had to lay off the caffeine recently which, naturally, disqualifies coffee, but also caffeinated teas. So, black tea is out for me. While everyone’s favorite champagne of teas — Darjeeling — or any of the other black tea varieties have never been my top choice to begin with, I do enjoy caffeinefree herbal teas with a glowing passion. Not only have herbs helped me heal a number of ailments throughout my life, many herbal teas have the most delightful aroma and

are just plain delicious in all their earthy, sweet goodness. While tea — black, herbal or otherwise — isn’t for everyone, even the staunchest tea opponents (mainly devoted coffee drinkers) will come around to it when tea is served the Southern way: ice cold with a hint (or heaps) of sugar, preferably on a hot summer’s day. If the conditions are right, it doesn’t even matter what variety of tea is served. As long as ice cubes chink and tumblers glisten, bottoms will go up.

Apart from using the best quality leaves available to you, there is one other significant way to elevate your tea-brewing game: collecting water from a pristine source. My mom, to this day, will hike into the woods outside the village where I grew up to bottle the purest mountain spring water that comes spluttering down between moss-covered rocks. In lieu of that, filtered water will do the job. The bottom line is, quality ingredients will make a quality product. Whether you prefer a hot brew, cold brew or whimsical “sun tea,” pour it over ice, add seasonal fruit and enjoy a quintessential part of Southern living.

Strawberry Hibiscus Iced Tea (Makes 2 servings)

Ingredients

1 quart filtered water

5-6 teaspoons dried hibiscus flowers

200 grams (roughly 1 cup) frozen strawberries

Sweetener of choice, such as honey, granulated sugar or maple syrup, to taste

Ice and fresh strawberries, for serving

Bring water to a boil. Place dried hibiscus flowers and frozen strawberries in a large jar (bigger than a quart). Remove water from heat and pour over hibiscus and strawberries. Mash strawberries and allow to steep for 6-8 minutes, then strain liquid into a pitcher. Refrigerate and serve over ice with sweetener of choice and fresh strawberries.

For a more intense strawberry flavor, steep the tea without strawberries for 6-8 minutes, strain, then add strawberries, mash and infuse for several hours or overnight, and strain one final time before serving. PS

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

All You Knead Is Love

Confessions of a novice baker

By tom a llen

“Avoid those who don’t like bread and children,” a Swiss proverb says. I’ll second that.

Two years ago, after 10 years in health care and 30 years in local church ministry, I retired. “Whatcha gonna do?” folks asked. Some assumed my wife and I would travel (I thought I’d be underwhelmed by the Grand Canyon — I was wrong), continue writing columns (yep), and most of all, spend time with grandson Ellis, born in April 2022 (you bet).

A chilly, rainy winter marked the first weeks of retirement, perfect for sleeping in. Mid-mornings I poached, scrambled or fried a couple of eggs, Googling various methods to find the perfect recipe. After showering and (sometimes) shaving, I might water houseplants in the sunroom, go for a walk, piddle in the yard, watch Sports Center, or catch up on episodes of Grantchester and The Crown. Afternoons I decluttered the garage and attic, a task I thought would take, maybe, two weeks. Two years later, I’m still decluttering but have mastered the art of selling on Facebook Marketplace.

I came to embrace sleeping late as a gift. But, with wife Beverly still working, other early morning risings became welcomed occasions, silently sipping coffee and watching light pierce our darkened sunroom. And I simplified. After summers of brutal heat and pesky deer, I did away with raised beds, opting to fill our deck with pots of herbs and grape tomatoes, zinnias and cosmos. We emptied and let go of a storage unit and finally joined the legions who ditched cable for streaming.

I embraced coloring outside the lines, literally, and began dabbling with watercolors. Then, drawing on my years as a hospital laboratory tech, I started to bake bread. My first major in college was medical technology. I loathed the math part but thrived in chemistry and biology labs, mostly because you got to mix this with that and produce something that changed color, fizzed, oozed or lit up.

This baker set his sights high, thinking I would join the sourdough social media craze. That lasted about one week. I loved being a granddad to Ellis, not a jar of starter. I decided to have a go at baking yeast bread. I wanted to get my hands in dough, form it into a squishy clump, watch it double in size, then after a few hours, fill our house with that comforting aroma.

Thanks to the same social media that fueled the sourdough frenzy, I discovered a plethora of no-knead bread recipes, most of them variations of Jim Lahey and Mark Bittman’s 2006 no-knead instructions published in The New York Times. The recipe became one of the most popular the Times ever published, mostly due to its simple ingredients — flour, yeast, salt and water — baked in a screaming hot Dutch oven.

Lahey and Bittman’s recipe takes about 24 hours. Most of that time is spent waiting for fermentation and rising. After several trial runs, I settled on a variation that takes fewer hours and produces a round, rustic-looking loaf, a boule in French, with a crackly crust and airy texture. Along with another online recipe that makes two rectangular loaves of honey wheat bread, the Times variation became a go-to, sometimes twice weekly endeavor — one to keep and one to give. I used to think baking bread (and giving it away) imparted an aura to the baker, similar to folks who run marathons or complete The New York Times Sunday crossword before Monday. I don’t know if that holds true for a novice. I do know handing a freshly baked loaf to a neighbor feels good.

I wouldn’t call bread-making a newfound obsession, like my love of Carolina Hurricanes hockey, but there’s something about making bread that’s also comforting and life-affirming. Maybe because yeast, a living organism, leavens and gives life to plain flour and water. Maybe because mixing dough, especially with your hands, and watching simple ingredients morph from a blob into what the 19th century Congregationalist minister John Bartlett called “the staff of life,” is not only short of magic, but likewise sacred. Biblical images abound, from the unleavened bread of Passover to the Last Supper.

From measuring the dry ingredients to mixing the wet, sticky dough with your hands, I wonder if studies have been done to quantify the release of dopamine, one of those feel-good chemicals our brains dole out when we do something challenging, pleasurable or rewarding. Bread-making surely makes the cut.

James Beard once said, “Good bread is the most fundamentally satisfying of all foods, and good bread with fresh butter, the greatest of feasts.”

I’ll have a slice of that, along with a hug from Ellis. PS

Tom Allen is a retired minister living in Whispering Pines.

– Charles Y.

By deBorah salomon

In My Time Capsule

What would Indiana Jones say?

Old folks are guardians of the past . . . now, especially, when life moves at the speed of Google. I don’t mean important things like electric cars and ticket stubs from a Taylor Swift concert. Rather, everyday stuff that after surviving tag sales emerges valuable. Just read about a first edition Corning casserole with cornflower design bringing $1,000 at auction. Not all icons are tangible, however. Some are behaviors, norms, happenings that unless relegated to the cloud, risk extinction.

When archeologists/social historians sifted through Pompeian ruins they weren’t looking for fine art. Rather a pot, a chair, coins. Just as valuable, however, are ancient clay scrolls containing lists, recipes and correspondence. Yale University’s Sterling Memorial Library keeps a collection.

Clay is more durable than thumb drives. The human brain is a likely repository but with an expiration date. Mine, approaching that date, has lately dredged up stuff from a life lived half “up North,” as New York and New England were once called, the rest in North Carolina.

Surely, if the Smithsonian Institution enshrines a Swanson turkey TV dinner I can have a go at . . .

• “Y’all want coffee?” Only in the mid-20th century South would a waitress holding a coffee pot descend upon a justseated table at breakfast, lunch, dinner and in-betweens. I can’t remember if it was free. Probably, since coffee was all one flavor and cost about 25 cents. Folks with “Mr. Coffee Nerves” ordered Sanka or Postum, not “decaf.”

• Comic strips: Bankers, senators and surgeons read them, sans ridicule. Whether Blondie or the more cerebral Doonesbury, which still runs in The Washington Post, nobody chided followers. Then, on Sunday, New York newspapers put the funnies section on the outside, so readers could pre-empt the bad

news with Penny and The Katzenjammer Kids. Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia read the K-Kids on the radio to children during a 1945 newspaper delivery strike. Why else would the Big Apple name an airport after him? Oh, Charlie Brown, we need your wisdom.

• Cafeterias, another Southern delight prefast food drive-thrus, are now fewer, fancier, much more expensive. S&W, K&W, J&S once dominated the state. Some are making a comeback with seniors and lonelyhearts with their still-satisfying experience, especially the mashed potatoes, country-fried steak, biscuits, cornbread and pie. Get on it, Smithsonian.

• Green Stamps have become collectors’ items: We got them at the supermarket check-out, then pasted them in books to be exchanged for housewares (like that thousand-dollar Corning dish) at Green Stamp redemption stores.

• What could be more worth remembering than gas at 25 cents a gallon with a complimentary windshield wipe?

• How I long for Saturday curb markets held in dusty vacant lots, where sun-wizened farmers in overalls sold produce from pickup trucks. The non-organic tomatoes! The corn! The runner beans! These days, too many farmers markets resemble foodie boutiques displaying herbs, baby zucchini, purple lettuce, white eggplant to fill shoppers’ French string shopping bags. Anybody for a grilled goat cheese sandwich?

• I can no longer reconcile “personal” seedless watermelon, too often pale and flavorless. Mother Nature intended watermelon to be sized for a crowd, with sweet, deep red flesh and slippery black seeds. Nothing tops off a fried chicken picnic better.

• Cash: Greenbacks. Two bits. Folding money. A fin. Modern shoppers can go weeks, maybe months, without “breaking” a crisp $20. Just swipe a card, read a chip.

We pride ourselves on time-saving inventions that make life “easier.” Long live the ones that cure disease, feed the hungry. As for the rest, thanks for the memories. PS

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

Water Challenge

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

Tier 1, 2nd Place: Peaceful Sunset By Michael Sassano

Tier 1, 3rd Place: Sunrise at Sunset By Frank Lipski

Tier 1, 1st Place: We Otter Be in Pictures By Patti Cifelli

Tier 2, 2nd Place: Peak Hour Venetian Style By Kathryn Saunders

Tier 3, 2nd Place: Slip Sliding Away By Neva Scheve

Tier 2, 3rd Place: Rookie on the Hose By Steve Long

Tier 3, 3rd Place: Car Wash Blues By Dave Powers

Tier 2, 1st Place: On My Pad in My Pond By Mary Wheaton

Tier 3, 1st Place: Reflecting By Donna Ford

For 27 years, Ashten’s has been dedicated to keeping all menus seasonal and reducing our carbon footprint by sourcing the best local and regional ingredients. At our Southern Pines field-to-table restaurant, we proudly support artisanal and local growers, local breweries, cider houses, distilleries and potters. Join us for a true taste of our region.

107 Wimbledon Drive, Pinehurst

Silverburn Place, Aberdeen

Sports Action

Tier 1, 1st Place: Step Ahead By Michael Sassano

Tier 2, 1st Place: Racing to the Finish By Mary Wheaton

Tier 3, 1st Place: Ain’t My First Rodeo By Dale Jennings

Tier 1, 2nd Place: Battle Born By Cindy Murphy

Tier 2, 2nd Place: Makes It Look Easy By Steve Long

Tier 3, 2nd Place: How to Get a Perfect Score

By Darryll Benecke

The Hidden Hawk

Looking for the elusive broad-winged

By susan CamPBell

All of us are aware of hawks in the landscape — no matter where in North Carolina we may be. We are fortunate to have a diversity of raptors in our state. These birds are formidable hunters that use their talons to grab unsuspecting prey of varying kinds. The most noticeable are larger species such as red-tailed hawks that sit in the open on stout branches or snags, and in the absence of natural perches, can be seen on fence posts or telephone poles. But there are hawks that are more secretive and spend most of their time hidden. One of these is the broad-winged hawk. This species is smaller in size and is more likely to be found in swampy woods. Happily, they are now returning from their wintering grounds in Central and South America.

These birds seem to enjoy the diversity of prey in wetter habitats. Mind you, I do not see these diminutive but magnificent birds regularly but, as with so many species during the breeding season, I hear them advertising their presence. Their call is a high-pitched whistle, unlike any other bird in our area. Being heard and not seen may be a strategy for these birds, given their smaller size: close to that of a crow. Often living within the boundaries of other, larger hawks — such as a red-shouldered — being less visible is a distinct advantage.

Not surprisingly, given their size, broad-wingeds often go unnoticed. They are birds of the forest and, given their dark coloration, blend in well with their surroundings. But that doesn’t mean they’re drab. These stocky little hawks have reddish heads and handsome barred underparts that match their boldly barred tails. Only the keenest of birders will likely spot them unless they’re migrating, when they congregate in large numbers (even into the thousands) in certain locations. At these raptor “hot spots” the birds can be seen soaring in circles, forming large “kettles” on updrafts, gaining altitude early in the day. Broad-wingeds, like many other hawks, use upper air currents to make their long journey a bit easier. Unlike most of our local hawk species, these birds move back and forth between the eastern United States and central to northern South America during the year.

In the Piedmont, the species can be found in hardwood or mixed pine/hardwood forest. The courtship ritual is breathtaking, involving “skydiving” — circling high in the sky followed by a rapid dive. The pair will nest in the lower limbs of a mature tree, usually close to water or some sort of opening in the canopy. The parent hawks will feed their young everything from mice to frogs, lizards to large insects. Since broad-winged hawks are easily disturbed, they are rarely seen outside of rural areas.

Should you be out hiking at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve in Southern Pines or at, say, Haw River State Park in Browns Summit, keep an eye out — as well as an ear — you just may spot an elusive broad-winged. PS

Susan Campbell would love to hear from you. Feel free to send questions or wildlife observations to susan@ncaves.com.

Trouble at Slim’s

Change at the old country hideout

By tom Bryant

It was one of those early spring Sundays when the weather was doing its North Carolina thing, frosty in the morning, heading toward summer by sundown. Dogwoods were almost clear of their blooms, and the leaves on the hardwoods were about as full and green as they can be in what my grandma used to call God’s time.

I was still kinda out of sorts, tired of nursing along a knee replacement and ready for a road trip but knowing that it was still too early to hook up the little Airstream and head to the beach. I can take house arrest for a short time, but after a while I begin to get a little restless. Just ask my bride and caretaker, Linda. She jokingly said, “Why don’t you go somewhere, sit in the sun, find some of your good buddies to talk to?”

There. I had as good an excuse as I’ve had in a while to set forth on a little adventure. But where to go? Slim’s Store, if it’s still there, would be something I could handle, decrepit knee and all. The problem was I hadn’t visited my old country hangout in a couple of years, and it might not be the same as it used to be.

Located in the north central part of the state, Slim’s Store was almost a household name among the folks in that part of the country who are partial to the outdoors. Hunters, fishermen, campers or farmers, everyone was welcome at Slim’s.

Slim’s grandfather built the store in the early part of the last century, and it almost immediately became a huge success. Like stores at that time all over the country, it was a meeting place, a place to see what your neighbors were up to, and the place to buy the goods you needed around the homestead. Everything was

there from a barrel of tenpenny nails to a pair of boots or coveralls. If it wasn’t in the store, you probably didn’t need it. It was also where local farmers could sell their goods, like H.J. Johnson’s Angus steaks and roasts, and fresh corn and collards from Aunt Mary’s garden. These amazing country stores came along way before the A&P or the city hardware store appeared downtown.

Eventually Slim’s grandfather passed away, and the store declined. It sat in disrepair for years until Slim made his fortune out West and decided to revive the business. He did it, as he put it, so all his “reprobate” friends would have a place to go.

It was more like a hobby than a place to make money, although I later found out that it did break even. More importantly, it did give his friends a place to go and be recognized, a place where everybody knows your name.

It became a proper store with everything that an enterprise of its day had. There were barrels of hardware stuff from nails to door hinges. Overalls, jeans and work shirts hung from racks toward the back of the open space. On the right as you entered were the counter and cash register. The glass-fronted counter displayed all the knickknacks, everything from pocket knives to reading glasses. On top of the counter were big gallon jars of pickled eggs, sausages and pigs’ feet, a gourmet’s delight.

A good example of the stock in the store was the white rubber boots, the kind coastal commercial fishermen wear. Slim had four or five pairs lining the top shelf behind the counter. We were a couple hundred miles from the coast, and when I asked Slim why in the world he stocked something he probably would never sell, he replied, “You never know when a fishery worker might show up and need a pair of boots.”

Nothing stays the same, though, and when Slim went on to join his grandfather at that Heaven’s gate store that never needs restocking, we regulars of the old country emporium were afraid we had outlived a favorite way of life. But thankfully, along came Bubba.

but

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Bubba and Slim had a lot in common. They both had a lot of money. Slim made the store a hobby. Bubba, who bought the store from Slim’s cousin Leroy, who had inherited it and didn’t have a clue what to do with it, kept it going because he said, “I like the people, my favorite rocking chair, and the coffee. As far as I’m concerned that’s enough to be successful.” Leroy stayed on as manager.

That afternoon I gave Leroy a call at the store to alert him that I might pay him a visit and to see if he could round up some of the other regulars.

Leroy has never been very loquacious on the phone, so I was ready for a one-way conversation. “Hello,” he answered on the second ring. That alone was a surprise. Usually the phone will ring off the hook before someone, usually a customer, answers.

“Hey, Leroy. It’s Tom Bryant. How you doing?”

“OK, I guess.”

“I’m thinking on riding up your way this Friday and hoped you could call a few of the old-timers and we could have sort of a reunion.”

“Mr. Tom, I’ll try, but most of the old customers are dead or maybe dying.” If nothing else, Leroy always cut to the chase.

“How about Bubba? Is he back from Costa Rica yet?” Bubba had been saltwater fly-fishing in Central America.

“No, sir. I think he’s supposed to come back any day now. I do remember he said before he left that he wanted to talk to you.”

“Leroy, what’s the matter? You don’t sound like your usual cheerful self,” I said jokingly.

“Naw sir, things are pretty much a mess around the old ’stablishment. You’ll see when you get here.”

“Now you got me worried. I’ll see you Friday. Try and round up a few of the live ones.”

“Yessir.” He hung up leaving me wondering what was going on in Leroy’s environs. Friday couldn’t come soon enough.

About mid-week, before I was to head out to the old store, Bubba called. I could tell by his clipped conversation that he was in a disgruntled mood. It seems that a problem had developed with one of his businesses, and he had to make a fast trip to New York.

“Bryant, Leroy said you were coming up here Friday. Do me a favor. Check out things and when I get back from New York, we’ll get together up here with the girls for a steak dinner and talk about what you saw. I don’t know if I’m going to keep the place open.”

“OK, Bubba.” I had a thought that perhaps the ancient business wasn’t long for this world. We hung up after a short conversation with Bubba lambasting everything from the state of the dollar to the mess with foreign imports of every kind.

I told Linda about the conversation and she said Bubba was probably just tired from all his travels. “Yep,” I said, “but you know what? When I go up there this Friday, I’m gonna buy me a pair of those vintage white fishing boots and eat a pickled egg and maybe a pig’s foot while I still can. It’d make Slim proud.”PS

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

By lee PaCe

Saving a Soul

Defending the identity of Pinehurst

At 83 years of age, Jim Van Camp rises every morning, puts on a dress shirt and necktie, and goes to work in one of the oldest buildings in the village of Pinehurst. He takes the elevator to the third floor of the Theatre Building, which opened in 1923 and for decades was the hot spot for evening entertainment. Now his law firm leases an office complex at the top of the hexagonal structure conceived in the fertile mind of architect Aymar Embury II, and Van Camp settles in each morning with three other attorneys and seven paralegals at his disposal, not to mention a black Lab named Tweed and a Löwchen named Mr. Pringle.

“At my age, I should be retired, but I don’t know what the hell I’d do,” Van Camp says. “I’m not a big gardener, I don’t like mowing grass, I’m not married so I don’t have a bunch of honeydo lists. I like getting up in the morning and knowing I have something to do.

“I love the practice of law. I love the challenge. I love helping someone save time, save money, save their lives if we’re talking a capital case.”

Or in one very special case, save a town, a golf course and a way of life.

Pinehurst existed for 75 years beginning in 1895 as a “be-

nevolent dictatorship” under the auspices of the founding Tufts family. The specter of needing to make major capital improvements and potential inheritance taxes for the generations after patriarch James W. Tufts prompted the family in the late 1960s to look to sell the resort, five golf courses and an entire town with commercial buildings, a police and fire department and all the infrastructure, and thousands of acres of undeveloped land.

The buyer in December 1970 was the Diamondhead Corporation, which was founded by Maxton native Malcom McLean, a former truck driver who made a fortune in the 1950s and ’60s creating a new industry — the container shipping business. Diamondhead had resort and residential development operations in Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia, and moved quickly into Pinehurst, bringing bulldozers and carpenters by the dozens.

“Diamondhead sold dirt, that’s what they did,” Van Camp says. “They bought 8,000 acres. Their plan was to sell the dirt, make a profit and get out. There was no municipal government back then, no restrictions on them at all.”

Diamondhead built condos within 15 feet of some of the fairways of the No. 3 and No. 5 courses on the west side of N.C. 5, some of them octagonal-shaped units derided then as now as looking like little spaceships. The company was encroaching on Marshall Park, a circular preserve in the middle of the village named in honor of Gen. George Marshall, who lived in Pinehurst following World War II. And it had plans to build condos in a triangle of pine forest between the first, 17th and 18th holes of No. 2, and to erect more commercial structures along the fourth fairway.

A Pinehurst Country Club member and resident named Stuart Paine said enough. He formed a group called “Concerned

John May, James Van Camp and Bruce Cunningham

GOLFTOWN JOURNAL

Citizens of Pinehurst” and looked for a lawyer to challenge Diamondhead’s aggressiveness in court.

That’s where Van Camp, 32 at the time and a partner in the law firm of Seawell, Pollock, Fullenwider, Van Camp and Robbins, entered the picture.

“I have no idea why Stuart hired me,” Van Camp says. “I had had some successes at trial, but I was young. I’m not sure he didn’t talk to other people, and they said, ‘Forget it.’ He was probably working down his list. He said, ‘I have $10,000. What can you do?’”

Van Camp and a team that included attorneys John May and Bruce Cunningham, each of them 26 and one year out of law school, set off over the next year to build a case, which was tried in Moore County Superior Court in Carthage in September 1973.

“The sense of the case was there was a culture here, an environment that was unique,” Van Camp reflects today. “Pinehurst has always been unique. No. 2 was part of that culture. As a matter of fact, it was one of the reasons there was a culture. To destroy that element of the culture would have destroyed the culture and the environment of the village. I did not have a lot of case law, but the argument sounded good.”

Among the exhibits Van Camp produced were aerial photos of the development around the No. 3 and No. 5 courses, and photographs capturing the history and ambience of a village designed by Fredrick Law Olmsted, the “father of American landscape architecture.” Van Camp was heartened that the judge, the Honorable A. Pilston Godwin, was a strict traditionalist, a man who chided attorneys if they were not dressed properly and could accurately ascertain by hearing a man’s surname if his ancestors were from England or Scotland.

“I really tried to sell the ambience of this place,” Van Camp says. “That was my argument. ‘Your honor, this just can’t happen. We need your help. This is what you’re being asked to destroy.’ The judge bought into it. He told their lawyers, ‘You better meet with Mr. Van Camp, because

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you’re not going to like my ruling.’”

Van Camp and the defendant’s attorneys worked out a settlement that prevented Diamondhead from building any structure along No. 2 with the exception of the already planned World Golf Hall of Fame headquarters, which would sit to the east side of the course’s fourth green and fifth tee and open in the fall of 1974. In addition, Diamondhead could not build more than 11 condominiums per acre on land adjoining a golf course; could not build any dwelling within 30 feet of a golf course; and could never use Marshall Park for any purpose beyond recreation.

Imagine the ramifications had No. 2 been blasphemed with goofy condos and 1970s-style commercial structures. Could that look have infected the village itself? Where would it have stopped? What would have been left when Diamondhead eventually lost the club and the resort to the banks in 1982? Would there have been enough for a resurrection project of a “fallen angel,” to use the words of Robert Dedman Sr., who bought Pinehurst in 1984 and revived it with the help of son Robert Jr. into the golfing colossus that will host its fourth U.S. Open Championship in June?

We’ll never know. But you want the odds?

“There’s no telling what this place would look like,” Van Camp says. “It was a time and place, and something tragic was going to happen. We had the right cause from Stuart, some smart young attorneys in John and Bruce, we had the right judge. I was just the mouthpiece at the hearings. And it worked. It kept what was important about this place. The whole character of this town would have changed.”

With that, Jim Van Camp turns back to his legal pad and briefs, rubs Mr. Pringle’s head and plows through his afternoon. Outside the Village Theatre, the carillon in The Village Chapel peals out as it does at the top of every hour. It’s just another beautiful day in Pinehurst. PS

Author Lee Pace chronicled Payne Stewart’s magical week in 1999 in his book The Spirit of Pinehurst , published in 2004.

Design

May ����

Beguiled by the Frailties of Those Who Precede Us

Scrub your face with a vengeance. Brush your teeth till your gums bleed. Comb your hair into a pompadour, braid it into cornrows, buzz cut a flattop with side skirts, spit-paste that cowlick to your forehead. That’s how it begins, this becoming who you aren’t.

A twitch or tic or two you may inherit, but the face in the mirror you recognized only once before you’re beguiled by the frailties of those who precede you — your wayward Aunt Amelia, the lying politician, tongue flickering through his false teeth, the long-legged temptress slyly sipping a latté at the corner coffee shop, your scapegrace  one-eyed Uncle Bill — all of them competing for your attention, all of them wanting you to become who they believed they were going to be.

Between intention and action, take a deep breath and welcome the moment you become who you aren’t. Slap on Uncle Bill’s black eye patch, stuff those willful curls under Aunt Amelia’s cloche, pluck your eyebrows, rouge your cheeks, bleach those teeth whiter than light: then stare deep into the reflection behind the mirror: who you’ve become will trouble you, even if you shut your eyes.

— Stephen E. Smith

Stephen E. Smith is a retired professor and the author of seven books of poetry and prose. His memoir The Year We Danced is being released this month by Apprentice House Press.

Hooked Up to History

Skydiving with Bush 41

By A m Berly Glitz WeBer

John Gessner

“Sir.”

He didn’t say anything.

“Mr. President?”

No answer.

Time is very important. We’re losing time and altitude. I’m, like, is he dead? Everything’s going through my head right now.

“Sir?”

“Yeah?”

“Sir, you gotta help me get your legs up.”

It was the morning of June 12, 2014. Former President of the United States George H.W. Bush is floating toward the Earth from approximately 8,000 feet over his home of Kennebunkport, Maine, strapped to the chest of retired Sgt. 1st Class Mike Elliott, a former Golden Knight and founder of the independent skydiving team All Veteran Group. The panoramic view of St. Anne’s Episcopalian Church and the Atlantic Ocean stretch out below them. And the side pinnings that allow for a flexible landing position will not loosen.

Maine is a long way from Linden, North Carolina, a little town 45 minutes north of Fayetteville, where Mike Elliott was born and raised. “I had four uncles who were all in the military. My grandfather was a veteran of World War II. I was the only grandchild for many, many years, and my uncles were more like my big brothers. They loved the military, which led to me loving the military,” Elliott says. “My grandfather just had that military soul. He always had the high and tight haircut, the perfect mustache. He was a book of knowledge.”

Working part time at a grocery store in Spring Lake during high school, Elliott saw soldiers walking in and out, pulling on their berets. “Whether it was the green beret or the maroon beret, I knew my destiny was to join the military,” he says. He enlisted after high school and spent a year in Baumholder, Germany, in the mechanized infantry, a titanic change for a kid from North Carolina. “It was white and snowy and I think it stayed that way the entire year.”

His first encounter with the open skies was when he was sent to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, home of the 101st Airborne Division. He became an air assault instructor and stayed in that position until war broke out, deploying as a scout in Operation Desert Shield, Desert Storm. No parachutes there. Instead, he spent his time “doing reconnaissance on a dirt bike in the desert.”

At war’s end Elliott returned to Fort Campbell and secured a post as driver to Gen. John M. Keane, then commander of the 101st. “He always called me ‘good sergeant’ and after 14 months he asked me, ‘What’s next for you, good sergeant?’ I told him I wanted to jump out of airplanes.” In 1991, Keane sent Elliott to Fort Bragg (now Liberty) and the 82nd Airborne Division, where he became a squad leader. Even now he calls it the “toughest job in the military.” After four years, he was transferred to Fort Benning, Georgia, as an airborne instructor. His skydiving destiny was coming closer.

“Walking out onto Fryer Drop Zone I see these four specks with blue parachutes come out of an aircraft,” he says. He watched

them land to a precision point in the field. The specks were members of the Golden Knights, the U.S. Army’s parachute team. “I said to myself, there are people in the Army who do that, jump out of airplanes and tell people about the Army? Man, I want to do that.” Determined to get there, Elliott began the process. First he was named Instructor of the Year, an honor that gained him entry to the Fort Benning parachute team, the Silver Wings, a demonstration team that feeds applicants to the Golden Knights. Then he met a challenge he couldn’t muscle through.

“At the time I was really big into weightlifting, just a musclehead. This should have been easy stuff, but I spent 30 jumps trying to relax and get stable. I would flip through the air over and over, and right at pull time I would flatten out on my belly, and deploy my parachute, and that kept me in the program . . . that and I was Instructor of the Year,” he says with a wink.

How does a guy who can’t get stable in the air become team leader of the Silver Wings? “Finally, I realized I couldn’t fight the air. I had to take muscles out of the equation.”

Eight years into his military career he was a sergeant first class and where he wanted to be. “I was living and breathing my dream, which was to become a Golden Knight,” he says. He returned to Fort Bragg and the 82nd as a platoon sergeant, a position he held for two years under a division command sergeant major who didn’t want to lose him to the “pretty boy” parachute team. What began as a stumbling block in his path to the Golden Knights became “the greatest job ever, taking care of 30 kids,” he says. He continued to jump part time with the All American Free Fall team, the 82nd Airborne’s demo team, where he also was appointed team leader.

In 2000 Elliott finally had his chance to try out for the Golden Knights. “I thought I’d done some pretty cool things in the military, but tryouts was an eye-opener. I went in at 205 pounds and came out 185. With 15 to 20 jumps a day, you’re running and you’re rolling, and the attrition was so high.” He shakes his head. “That was one of the happiest moments of my life, getting jacketed as a Golden Knight.”

During his career with the parachute team, Elliott fostered its burgeoning tandem program. “Being able to share my passion for free fall with someone else and see that excitement in their first jump was absolutely amazing. That first year we did a lot, a lot, of tandems. The program really launched and, to this day, I think it is probably the most important element of the Golden Knights,” he says. “When you can take an educator, or a first responder, or a celebrity on a tandem jump, representing the Army in that way, and they see it through our eyes, and get a chance to enjoy that sensation and that passion. It spreads the knowledge about what we do as Golden Knights, but more importantly what we do as soldiers.”

Elliott spent 11 years as a Golden Knight. In 2007, he was the most experienced tandem instructor on the team when he got a call that would alter the trajectory of his life.

“My boss calls me in, and says, ‘C’mon in, close the door. Former President Bush wants to do another jump and we want you to be his tandem instructor.’” Of course, Bush’s first parachute jump was in 1944 during World War II as a Navy pilot shot

down on a bombing raid over Japanese-occupied Chichi Jima. He’d gone on to conduct skydives and tandems with both the Golden Knights and the U.S. Parachute Association, marking every fifth birthday after his retirement by strapping on a parachute and jumping from a plane.

“So I walk out of the office, close the door, and it hits me, you’re gonna get to jump with a former president and leader of the free world. One of those moments where you know you can’t screw this up, the whole world’s going to be watching.” The mission had one more twist — it was a secret.

“No one knew. Not even the Secret Service,” Elliott says. “So we have this closed office call. I’m sitting in there, drinking coffee, eating doughnuts with the 41st president. He said, ‘Here’s the deal guys, we’re gonna keep this thing a secret.’ No one knows but Jean Becker (former Chief of Staff).”

They don’t tell Barbara Bush until the day before the jump. “I’m getting ready to do a teleconference with the 41st president. Once I’m done, they say, ‘Mrs. Bush wants to come meet you and the guys who are going to be jumping her husband tomorrow.’ So I’m standing out in front of the team and I see Mrs. Bush coming down the stairs. She had such elegance about her, just gliding down the stairs. She’s tiny, probably 4 foot 2.” He grins at the recollection. “I’m thinking she’s gonna give me a hug, say thank you for taking care of my husband kind of thing. So she walks over, I got this big, cheesy smile on my face. I was looking down at her, and

she’s looking up at me. She had no smile on her face whatsoever.

“They introduce us, ‘Mrs. Bush, this is Sgt. 1st Class Elliott, he’s going to be jumping your husband tomorrow.’ And again, I’m sort of pushing my face forward a little bit, still thinking she’s gonna be giving me this big hug right? And she looks up at me and says these exact words: ‘If you hurt him, I will kill you.’ And I chuckled a little bit — she did not chuckle. She turned and walked away.”

Elliott bursts out laughing. “Turned and walked away! And I’m thinking, ‘Wow!’”

The jump was flawless. “I remember he was coming out of the crowd, waving . . . a beautiful landing. I was so grateful to say that I was a member of the U.S. Army, of the Golden Knights, at that moment; to give him that jump, something he loved. He ended up writing me a letter afterward, and he said ‘You made an old man feel young again.’ So that was just the icing on the cake, to have the opportunity to be with such an iconic figure, the 41st president, head of the CIA, world’s youngest Navy pilot shot down in World War II, and I just jumped him out of an airplane in front of a thousand people. Every network in the world was there . . . and I didn’t hurt him, so I didn’t have to face Mrs. Bush.”

Years passed, when Elliott heard from the president again. “He wanted to jump for his 85th birthday, and he requested me by name,” says Elliott. Together with the Golden Knights tandem coordinator Dave Wherley, “my best friend, airborne buddy, my

little brother,” Elliott traveled to Kennebunkport for a survey of the jump site. He remembers with perfect recall the time he and Wherley spent with “41.”

“We’re walking around with the president at Walker’s Point, and this guy’s just so humble, you don’t think you’re talking to a former world leader, because he’s just such a nice guy,” says Elliott. After the survey, the president invited the two to join “him and Barbara” for dinner.

“We go into the sunroom, overlooking the water, Dave and me. Soon as we walk in, the president goes, ‘You guys want a drink?’ This is all happening in slow motion. He pours two cocktails out, so we sit there, and we’re talking to Mrs. Bush and the president about jumping. He’s telling us about being shot down, and it’s just one of those moments, where I’m like, wow.”

The next day’s jump came off perfectly. “It was just an amazing feeling to give that to him in front of the world. It wasn’t just me, it was the entire team that made the mission happen. But it was my second successful jump with the president, and after each jump, he writes me a letter. ‘Thanks for carrying all the weight, you’re the best ever. Let’s get working on my 90th birthday jump.’”

Three years later, after more than a decade as a Golden Knight, Elliott was preparing to retire. “The tandem team had been successful and I noticed that a lot of guys would leave the Golden Knights with great skill sets as far as performers in the air, as skydivers, but they wouldn’t jump anymore. They would leave the Golden Knights and just stop jumping.” He shakes his head. “I get it. It’s not the same, but myself and Dave, we were like ‘Man, there’s such potential out there. Let’s start our own team.’”

Together, the two best friends began making their dream a

reality. Elliott found sponsors and office space in downtown Fayetteville. A year later, Wherley retired and came on board full time. “I was waiting on Dave to retire,” Mike says. “He was going to be the coordinator, making phone calls and getting us locked in doing shows.” Then, 28 days later, on January 31, 2013, tragedy struck.

Elliott found his friend in his apartment having taken his own life. “It put a hole in my heart,” says Elliott, “but it also put the wind in my sails to stand this team up. This veteran suicide thing is out of control. So if we can do something positive, if we can save one life a month, one life a year, then what we do is a great thing.”

The loss of his friend redefined the mission and goal of the team. By raising awareness about veteran suicide Elliott hoped to build a legacy for his friend and brother. “Dave, he gave us our purpose for the All Veteran Group. When you have a passion for something, and that passion turns into a drive for other reasons, it’s a fusion that’s immeasurable. You know we do this out of passion, but we do it because there’s a possibility it’s going to motivate someone else, give them the strength and courage to say, ‘You know what, I’m gonna continue to live my life. There are veterans out here doing great things who love me. Why should I not want to be here?’”

Moving out to XP Paraclete, a Raeford drop zone, Elliott established new operating headquarters in the freshly dedicated Wherley Building. “I was riding the ebbs and flows of starting a parachute team,” when he got a call from Jean Becker. The same Jean Becker. The former president, now turning 90, had not forgotten his “airborne buddy.” Despite a plague of health concerns, 41 wanted to jump again — and he wanted to do it with Mike and the All Veteran Group.

“Ms. Becker calls me, she says, ‘Mike, you’re not going to believe this, his doctor is saying no, his wife is saying no, 43 (George W. Bush) is saying no, but he is determined.’”

And so Elliott launched six months of preparation, designing specially constructed heavily padded harnesses for the wheelchairbound president, rigged to carry supplemental oxygen. The All Veteran Group’s plane at the time was a King Air 90, “a great plane, but a tiny door,” not suitable for this jump. Reaching out to the CEO of Bell Helicopter, a veteran and former Army Ranger,

Elliott got a “brand-spanking new Bell 429,” transported from Texas to Maine, ready to land on the president’s front yard. “All the moving parts were coming together.”

Until the day before the jump, when Elliott received another call from Becker.

“Mike, we have a problem,” she says. “Mrs. Bush doesn’t want the jump to happen.”

Elliott shakes his head, remembering. “I’m thinking about everything we have done to get to this point but also, ‘I’m gonna kill you’ is in the back of my mind. If Mrs. Bush doesn’t want it to happen we might as well pack up.”

Jean Becker wasn’t finished. “No, no, no, we want you to go and talk to Mrs. Bush,” she said.

“All these people around — two former presidents, a former governor — and you want me, the person she threatened to kill, to talk to her and get her approval to jump her husband tomorrow?”

Becker replied, “Yeah, that’s what we want.”

They left the office together and headed to the main house overlooking the water where they explained the situation to 41. The president interrupted, “I thought we had that all figured out.” The nonagenarian looked at Elliott and said, “Do we both have to go up and talk to her?”

It was then that George W. Bush, “43,” walked out from one of the smaller lodges. “He’s been painting, got paint all over his hands, hair looking all crazy,” says Elliott, “and Ms. Becker says to him, ‘Sir, Mike’s going to go talk to Mrs. Bush and persuade her,’ and he says, ‘Mmmm, I don’t know about that.’ Not much confidence from 43 because Mrs. Bush, she’s the head honcho. What she says is the final answer.”

Becker went in first to prepare Barbara, leaving a disconsolate trio outside on the porch.

“So here I am,” Elliott says, “a little soldier boy from North Carolina, standing here with two former presidents, waiting to go in and get clearance from a former first lady, and I was just like, ‘Man, I can’t believe this is happening.’”

Jean Becker stepped back onto the porch. “Mrs. Bush was looking out the window at all you guys, and she says, ‘I don’t want to talk to any of you.’

“Is she pissed?” 43 asked Becker.

“No, she just doesn’t want to talk to you.” The former first lady was, reluctantly, on board. George W. Bush turned and said, “Mike, you are the man.” He gives Elliott a high-five and went back to his easel.

The weather was marginal the next morning as a team of four people helped lift the 6-foot, 2-inch former president into the helicopter. At 8,000 feet the tandem jumped. “I remember the parachute opening, and once you get the parachute open, you have to loosen things up,” says Elliott. “You’re hooked up to each other at four attachment points, and the two at the hips are really important, because if you don’t get them loose, you won’t have the mobility to lean back and get that perfect landing position.”

With time going by quickly and Bush “not acknowledging anything — I didn’t even know if he was still breathing,” Elliott had only moments to prepare.

“Never got the side connections undone, so now we’re coming

in hot. We’re tight together, so I roll over my shoulder onto the ground.” Straightening into position, Elliott aligned himself to take the brunt of the landing with Bush positioned on top of him, Elliott’s body acting as a buffer with the ground.

“I was thinking, I just hurt the president. I say ‘Sir, you OK?’ and then I see, he’s giving me the thumbs up, waving at the crowd. Man, it was the best feeling you could have.” Elliott smiles. “I know that day I made a 90-year-old former world leader happy.”

Another chapter with the Bush family complete, Elliott returned to leading the All Veteran Group. “That jump gave us news on a national level,” he says. It brought badly needed publicity in a niche industry, and the team has continued to maintain a tight schedule. With each year, they add more shows, more jumps, raising awareness for veterans’ issues. For a team composed of more than 80 percent former Golden Knights, they maintain their connection via train-the-trainer exchanges and internships for soldiers in need of extra support.

The All Veteran Group conducts an annual Toys for Tots event at its home base in Raeford and travels the country supporting the home-building nonprofit U.S. Veterans Corps on ceremony days. Today, their sponsor is American Airlines, and they are the official skydiving team of the Carolina Panthers.

It’s the 11th year of the team, and the schedule is relentless. “It’s demanding but I enjoy it so much. It’s relaxing — I don’t like sitting at home,” says Elliott. “I’m comfortable in this environment because I understand why we do what we do, and this passion is real and I love it and I’ll do everything that I can and continue to do it for as long as I can.”

Last year saw the All Veteran Group jump at 137 shows. The 2024 schedule has been filled with cross-country and international flights, from Texas in March jumping a 102-year old World War II veteran, to Normandy in June for a landing on Omaha Beach. He’ll be back to Texas in mid-June for another special celebration for what would have been George H.W. Bush’s 100th birthday.

Though 41 has passed on, this party will be special for Elliott, as he conducts tandem skydives with the Bush grandchildren, honoring their late grandfather. “They’re super nice people. They treat everybody the same. That’s how I remember the 41st president,” Elliott says.

So, what is it about the 60 seconds in free fall that makes it so alluring, particularly to veterans? Is it just the airborne legacy or is there something more? Elliott eyes the mementos of a long career spent in service to others, memorabilia from 41, and his best friend David Wherley’s life-sized cutout standing guard by the front door of his Raeford office. He thinks about his final jump with a president.

“It was a picture perfect moment, in between St. Anne’s Church and Walker’s Point overlooking the water, and I think at that moment, he was just kind of doing an internal shot of his life. He was just so calm and at peace.”

The stillness in that stretch between sea and sky can offer a few seconds of reflection for us all. PS

Aberdeen resident Amberly Glitz Weber is an Army veteran and freelance writer.

American Alligators from left to right: Liv and Gatorboy

Southern White Rhinos from left to right: Bonnie, Abby and Nandi. Fringe-Eared Oryx in background

African Elephant: C'sar

Giraffe: Turbo

Red Wolves from left to right: Catawba and Pearl

t began with Sonny Jurgensen, Tort and Retort. None of them moved very fast, but all of them played significant roles in the birth of the North Carolina Zoo 50 years ago.

The zoo, built initially on 1,371 acres in Randolph County near Asheboro, is the largest natural habitat zoo in the world. It entertained over a million visitors last year, including nearly 90,000 students who attended free of charge. The formal celebration will be on Aug. 2, the day the interim facility was officially dedicated in 1974. Among the many promotions staged throughout the year will be the recognition, probably sometime in June or July, of the zoo’s 30 millionth guest, who will be showered with a lifetime membership, a Zoofari (an open-air trip through the

Watani Grasslands), and every manner of zoological swag known to man.

The seed money for the zoo came, in part, from a series of four preseason football games that raised money for the feasibility study to determine the location of the zoo. The first of those games was on Aug. 19, 1967. The Washington Redskins (now Commanders, though that’s likely to change) were led by their quarterback, Jurgensen, a Wilmington native, and linebacker Chris Hanburger, who was born at Fort Bragg (now Liberty) and attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. The Giants had a Carolina connection of their own: Darrell Dess, a guard/tackle who had attended N.C. State University. The game was played at night, the first such event, at what was

By Jim moriarty • Photogra Phs Courtesy of N.C. Zoo

Southern White Rhinos from left to right: Linda and Jojo

Zebras from left to right: Miracle and Zuberi

Galapagos Tortoise: Retort

Von der Decken's Hornbill: Jake

African Elephants from left to right: C'sar, Batir, Rafiki, Nekhanda and Tonga

African Lion: Mekita American Bison: Calf

then called Carter Stadium in Raleigh. Washington won 31-13 in front of 33,525 who paid six bucks apiece to attend.

The location that was eventually settled on for the zoo was known as the Purgatory Mountain site, named, according to legend, for the fires from the moonshine stills visible at night. Randolph County donated the land, the state legislature earmarked $2 million for the project, and hiring began.

The interim zoo, today nothing more than a staging and construction area, became home to the first animals, two endangered Galapagos tortoises named Tort and Retort, who were sent to other zoos long ago for propagation, one of the zoo’s foundational purposes. “The interim zoo was chain link, that’s all it was,” says Diane Villa, the zoo’s director of communications and marketing. “But that’s not what we were going for. What sets our zoo apart from other zoos is the original vision for

what they wanted it to be. They wanted it to be good for the animals.” Its creation marked a turning point from concrete, fenced facilities to the creation of environments as close to the animal’s natural habitat as possible.

Bill Parker was one of the facility’s earliest zookeepers. A graduate of Pfeiffer University (Pfeiffer College at the time), he began in ’74 and retired six years ago this September. “When I started there were probably fewer than double digits of permanent employees, mostly in administration,” he says. “They started acquiring animals in the late summer and early fall of ’74.” And it was definitely learn as you go.

“A lot of us in that era were skilled at working with lots of different kinds of animals in lots of different ways,” says Parker. “You had to be able to do most any job. It was four years before the first exhibit with zebra, ostrich and giraffe opened in the permanent zoo. Lions, chimpanzees, baboons, elephant, rhino and then

Red River Hog: Patience

the aviary were about two years following. We were bringing huge numbers into the collection.”

At first there were no veterinarians on staff. “We actually used a local veterinary service,” says Parker. “They learned and evolved, too. Somebody that was in a big animal practice in a small rural county like Randolph County hadn’t had experiences anesthetizing a giraffe, for example. We all pieced together the information we had and learned how to do it.”

Like any startup, there were challenges in the early going. “We had to make do with what we had,” says Parker. “I remember when we had a cold winter in the interim zoo days and all the pipes froze. We had no maintenance staff to help with that kind of thing. You have to water the animals; you have to clean up after them. We didn’t have a lot of vehicles. We had one pickup that we hauled water in trash cans around to the different animals out in the hoof stock areas. You’d be doing that all day long.”

Devotion to the animals is part of the zoo’s DNA. Chris Goldston joined the zoo’s staff in the fall of ’83 after he got out of the Army. At first he worked with the design group building artificial rocks, and then he transferred to horticulture. “A lot of plantings around here, especially some of the large oaks, I planted those back in the early ’80s,” he says.

By the end of the decade he was working in animal care. “I was on the African grasslands, at the time we called it the African Plains,” he says. “We were riding on the back of a truck and we had an antelope, called a nyala, that was breach birth. So we called out the vets and we started doing what we could to help the animal deliver, but it looked like it wasn’t going to survive. So, in the back of the truck, the vet did an emergency C-section and pulled the calf out. The lady I was working with — her name was Nancy Lou Gay Kiessler — who was training me to be a keeper, immediately took the calf out of the vet’s hands, wiped the mucous off its snout, and she put the snout in her mouth and started giving it resuscitation. I thought, ‘Boy, if I’m ever called to do that, I don’t know if I could.’ What it demonstrated to me was the level of care and compassion she had for that group of animals, and that calf survived.”

Part of the zoo’s commitment in helping to restore populations of endangered species involves transporting animals to facilitate breeding recommendations in

Fringe-Eared Oryx

Ocelot: Inca

Zebra: Spirit

Grizzly: Ronan

Chimpanzee: Obi

a program implemented by zoos and aquariums called the Species Survival Plan. These days the animals are shipped FedEx, but Goldston has done it driving down I-85. “My first transport was in ’99. We had a recommendation to move our male gorilla to a zoo in Atlanta. Myself and another keeper, I think we were somewhere in South Carolina, we needed to stop to refuel. It was one of those combo stations where it’s a Wendy’s on one side and a fuel stop on the other. So I’m standing in line waiting to get our food and I’m just reeking with gorilla musk. People are sniffing and turning around. ‘Where’s it coming from? Who is it?’ We just sort of cracked up.”

If the early days had its challenges, over five decades the zoo has grown, gazelle-like, by leaps and bounds. Today it manages 2,805 acres and broke ground on an Asia region in August of ’22 that will feature tigers, Komodo dragons and king cobras, to name a few species, when it opens in two years. There are currently 305 permanent state employees with a staff that expands to roughly 700 during the highest traffic

months. The zoo has three full-time vets on staff and a number of vet techs. “They work on everything from Madagascar hissing cockroaches to African elephants and everything in between,” says Villa. The zoo won the 2021 World Association of Zoos and Aquariums sustainability award.

A monitoring and reporting tool called SMART, developed by the North Carolina zoo in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society and several other zoos, is being used in over 80 countries to track animals and combat poaching. “A lot of animals are in trouble. African lions, African elephants, vultures. One of our signature programs here is vulture tracking,” says Villa. “They’re part of the circle of life. African vultures are one of the steepest declining birds in the world. One of our scientists, Dr. Corinne Kendall, is one of the leading vulture experts. If there was one thing that we try to let people know, it’s that just by coming to the zoo, your admission price helps support our conservation efforts. We’re trying to be a leader for our guests.” Man and animal alike. PS

Elephant: Tonga. Rhinos from left to right: Nandi and Bonnie

Desert Dome

Red Wolf: Warrior

Western Lowland Gorilla: Hadari

Wild and Wonderful

Pinehurst No. 2 prepares to test the best

By Lee PaCe

ADecember day in 1935. A man approaches the house at 120 Midland Road in Pinehurst, notices the Scottish-style stonework and arches of Dornoch Cottage, and rings the bell.

Donald Ross opens the door and greets A.W. Tillinghast.

What a meeting of the minds of the early days of golf course architecture.

Ross, 63, the son of a Scottish stonemason, apprentice in his 20s to legendary pro Old Tom Morris at St. Andrews, an immigrant to the United States who set up shop in Pinehurst in 1900 and designed notable courses across the eastern United States — from Seminole Golf Club in Florida to Inverness Club in Ohio to Oak Hill Country Club in upstate New York. His tour de force, Pinehurst No. 2, sits just behind his house.

And Tillinghast, 59, the son of a wealthy rubber goods magnate in Philadelphia, who grew up playing cricket and fell under the spell of golf on a visit to St. Andrews in 1896 where he established a mentor-mentee relationship with Morris. Tillinghast’s design acumen was on display across the land as well — from San Francisco Golf Club on the West Coast to Winged Foot Golf Club and Baltusrol Golf Club in the shadows of the New York City skyscrapers.

Oh, to have been a fly on the wall, to hear these friends and sometime competitors talk about their shared experiences — their formative years at St. Andrews, their design philosophies, the challenges of maintaining businesses and servicing clients when travel was by train and communication by post.

Surely Tillinghast espoused, to some degree, his belief that “a round of golf should present eighteen inspirations, not necessarily eighteen thrills.”

And no doubt Ross would have looked at the 72-hole facility at Pinehurst Country Club and talked about how it had become the epicenter of golf in America. “I wholeheartedly believe in golf,” Ross once said. “A country which gets golfminded need not worry about the honor, the integrity and the honesty of its people.”

Tillinghast’s visit came at the behest of the PGA of America and his role as a consultant with the organization which in 11 months would conduct its flagship competition, the 1936 PGA Championship, on Pinehurst No. 2. They carried their golf clubs past Ross’ masterful rose garden in the backyard, through the wrought-iron gates and onto the third green.

The Ninth hole of Pinehurst No. 2

Copyright USGA//Fred Vuich

Donald Ross

A.W. Tillinghast

COURTESY

Ross showed his guest the green complexes that he had just converted, with the help of green superintendent Frank Maples, from their previous flattish sand/clay structure to undulating Bermuda grass, shaping the sandy soil around them into a cacophony of dips and swales. He noted the roll-offs around the greens, how they penalized shots even slightly mishit and propelled balls into the hollows nearby.

Ross led Tillinghast to the fourth tee and explained how he had just added that hole and the fifth to the routing, taking them from a previous employee-only nine holes, and had arrived at the final (and current) configuration after originally unveiling the course in 1907.

They felt the taut turf under their feet, reveling in how the drainage qualities of the sandy loam made for the ideal golf playing surface. As they went, Ross explained the choices golfers had off the tee — on the par-4 second, for example — showing his friend what a lovely view it was into the green from the left side of the fairway but pointed to the gnarly bunker complex a player had to flirt with to get there. Ross nodded to the native wiregrass that grew in profusion along the fairways and how it reminded him of the whins of his native Scotland.

Did the man known in the business as “Tilly” dip into his bag for a flask and a wee snort as he was wont to do? Did Ross grouse that this new and improved No. 2 was better than any new-fangled effort from Bobby Jones and Alister MacKenzie down in the red clay of north Georgia?

All of this, we’ll never know. What we do know is what Tillinghast said after his visit.

“Without any doubt Ross regards this as his greatest achievement, which is saying a great deal,” Tillinghast offered. “Every touch is Donald’s own, and I doubt if a single contour was

fashioned unless he stood hard by with a critical eye. As we stood on hole after hole, the great architect proudly called my attention to each subtle feature, certain that my appreciation of his artistry must be greater than that taken in by a less practiced eye. Nothing was lost on me, and after our round together, I told him with all honesty that his course was magnificent, without a single weakness, and one which must rank with the truly great courses in the world today.”

And, 89 years later, the show goes on.

Pinehurst No. 2 would continue to be the site of the North & South Open on the PGA Tour through 1951, with Ben Hogan, Sam Snead, Byron Nelson and Ross himself among the winners. It would host the 1936 PGA (won by Denny Shute) and the 1951 Ryder Cup (won by the Americans, 9 1/2to 2 1/2, over the team from Great Britain and Ireland).

But it wasn’t in the mix to host a U.S. Open.

Through the 1970s that union was simply impossible because Pinehurst shut down for the summer (the founding Tufts family and the staff went to Linville or Roaring Gap in North Carolina or traveled north to Maine), and the American national championship was played always in June.

When the resort went to air-conditioning and a year-round operating calendar, the idea was still problematic because of the USGA’s preference for playing courses with firm and fast greens, a challenging task on Southern courses during hot weather months. The U.S. Open was not played in the muggy Southeast until venturing to Atlanta Athletic Club in 1975, though it had already visited hot spots in Houston, St. Louis, Dallas and Fort Worth.

About the time Jerry Pate was winning in Atlanta, officials at Pinehurst Country Club began floating the idea of an Open for No. 2. The Diamondhead Corporation was five years into its

2014 U.S. Open

Photograph by Joann Dost

ownership of Pinehurst after purchasing it in 1970 from the Tufts family, whose patriarch, James W. Tufts, launched the town and resort in 1895 as a refuge from the cold winters of New England. The Diamondhead president, Bill Maurer, conceived the World Open on the PGA Tour and the World Golf Hall of Fame in the early 1970s and wanted all the traffic, attention and accolades he could muster for Pinehurst and its No. 2 course.

It took two more decades to figure out how to bring the National Open there.

First, there was the dodgy financial bona fides of the resort and club, which eventually went bankrupt and was taken over by eight banks for two years beginning in March 1982. Robert Dedman Sr. and his Club Corporation of America bought the facility in 1984 and provided what has turned into four decades of stability, innovation and financial security, with Robert Dedman Jr. taking the baton after his father died in 2002.

Second, there was the issue of the playing surfaces.

Pinehurst and other golf courses in the Mid-Atlantic, or socalled “transition zone,” have forever been vexed over the choice for their putting surfaces between Bermuda grass, the de facto choice for Florida and warm weather climes, and bent grass, which thrives in the North. Pinehurst officials experimented with new strains of both over the 1970s and ’80s, walking that tightrope between offering smooth and playable greens for members and resort guests for 12 months of the year, and yet having the ability to get them lightning-quick while not dying in the summer for an elite competition. Pinehurst old-timers still remembered Hale Irwin and Johnny Miller taking dead aim at flagsticks during PGA Tour competitions on No. 2 in the late summer and their approach shots going splat and stopping mere feet from the hole (Hale Irwin shot 62 and Johnny Miller 63 in mid-1970s birdie-fests).

Donald Ross must have raged in his grave.

By the early 1990s, the USGA and Pinehurst officials agreed that advances in grass technology and green foundation construction would allow them to rebuild the greens and have them stand up to the world’s best players on a 90-degree day in June. The USGA announced in June 1993 that it would conduct the 1999 Open at Pinehurst. The competition was a rousing success from the perspective of ticket sales, corporate support, traffic ebb and flow, housing and, certainly, the golf course itself.

“It’s the most draining course I’ve played in a long time,” said European Ryder Cup team member Lee Westwood.

“People sometimes ask what’s the hardest course I’ve ever played,” said two-time U.S. Open champion Lee Janzen. “Now I know.”

The Open has been contested on No. 2 twice more, and the course has played as a par-70 for each championship. The scores validate that what Ross completed in 1935 stands in fine fettle in the next century.

Payne Stewart was 1-under in winning the Open in 1999, Phil Mickelson was even-par, and Vijay Singh and Tiger Woods were 1-over. Michael Campbell won with an even-par total in 2005, with Woods at 2-over. Martin Kaymer has been low man in the three Opens, shooting 9-under in 2014, but his nearest competi-

tors were a mile back, with Ricky Fowler and Eric Compton tied for second at 2-over.

The firm greens, the delicate chipping areas, the flow of the holes and the strategic nuances led Tom Weiskopf to venture in a 1995 conversation that Pinehurst No. 2 is a better year-round test than Augusta National Golf Club.

“Augusta National is good one week a year,” Weiskopf said. “I’ve played Augusta two or three weeks before (The Masters) and it’s a piece of cake — a piece of cake. Pinehurst No. 2 is never a piece of cake.”

The 2024 Open at Pinehurst will be the first played on the Champion Bermuda greens installed after the 2014 Open and the second of the Coore & Crenshaw restoration era. Bill Coore, a native of Davidson County who played No. 2 often during his boyhood summers, and Ben Crenshaw, the two-time Masters champion, coordinated an extensive makeover in 2010-11 that included stripping out hundreds of acres of Bermuda rough, recontouring fairways and bunkers to Ross’ design, and rebuilding the perimeters with firm hardpan sand dotted with wiregrass, pine needles and whatever natural vegetation and debris might accumulate.

“In the early days, this golf course was disheveled and brown, and the ball rolled and rolled and rolled,” Coore says. “That’s what gave it its character. There was width here, the ability to work your ball to get the best angles. Over time, that was lost. It was too green and too organized.”

“Bowling alley fairways,” Crenshaw adds. “Straight and narrow, just like a bowling alley.”

Don Padgett II was the Pinehurst president and chief operating officer from 2004-14 and the man who convinced Dedman that hiring Coore & Crenshaw and taking No. 2 back to its “golden age” from 1935 through the 1960s was the correct move. Padgett is a “golf guy,” in industry parlance, coming to the resort with a background as a PGA Tour player in the early 1970s and a longtime club professional. His father, Don Sr., was director of golf at Pinehurst from 1987-2002.

One March afternoon a decade into his retirement, Padgett is sitting in a rocking chair on the porch overlooking the 18th green of No. 2. It’s sunny and 55 degrees. The tee sheet on No. 2 is full.

“I think this is what the Tufts envisioned,” Padgett says. “If you’re from Boston, this is balmy. My dad used to say if you’re in the golf business, stand here because everyone will come to see you.”

The world of golf is coming to Pinehurst in June, and the game’s top players will find the 18 holes that so impressed A.W. Tillinghast in 1935 and will vex them in 2024.

“I think the golf course today probably presents itself as the best it ever has,” Padgett says. “It’s Ross’ concepts with modern maintenance behind it. I think he would look at this golf course and say, ‘Wow, I wish I’d had the ability to grow grass like this.’ These are his concepts with modern turf. It’s not distorted, it’s enhanced. I think he would bless it.” PS

Chapel Hill-based writer Lee Pace has authored four books about golf in Pinehurst, including “The Golden Age of Pinehurst — The Rebirth of No. 2.” Write him at leepace7@gmail.com and follow him @LeePaceTweet.

STORY OF A HOUSE

The Perfect Shade

A couple builds their forever home

By DeBorah sa LomoN • Photogra Phs By JohN gessNer

For Susan and David Wood, their sun-splashed, white-painted brick home in the East Lake section of the Country Club of North Carolina practically glows. White flowers fill the beds. Two spotless white cars repose in the driveway. Inside the front door, walls blind the eye.

One of the hardest things for Susan was finding the right white for the outside brick and inside walls. The one she chose makes Cool Whip look dingy. “White is easier to clean and doesn’t fade,” she says.

But, in fact, white is merely the backdrop for a whole-house collection of blue chinoiserie porcelain and pottery, from tiny figurines and ginger jar lamps to urns big enough to hold an emperor’s remains. Many pieces belonged to parents, grandparents and family members while others were collected through the years. For an accent color, she settled on lime green, and more recently, a pinkish coral reminiscent of Palm Beach lobster and shrimp, from whence came several of her inspirations.

It’s certainly not your typical retirement cottage. David still runs a business and Susan, a graduate of Converse College with a double major in sociology and psychology, still works four days a week in a law office in Rockingham where she's been employed for many years.

The yellow brick road leading to the Woods’ white brick residence starts in Wadesboro, where Susan grew up in her grandmother’s house, which she describes as “wonderful, gracious Southern living.” David’s childhood was spent in Rockingham where, after obtaining a business degree at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, he returned to work in his father’s business, a chain of five-and-dime stores. Susan and David were introduced by mutual friends and, after a five-year courtship, married. From the start, their homes have been enriched by family heirlooms.

“It’s the kind of house where anybody can just drop in,” says Susan.

In 2020 Susan’s mother and stepfather moved from Rockingham to Penick Village. Susan and David followed them north. After first scouting in Pinehurst, they decided to build.

Susan’s method was to cut and paste photos of houses, details, colors, furnishings to be adapted by builders and interior designers, who appreciated the visuals to flesh out descriptions. The result: personal, striking, gorgeous. And often daring.

The front door, done in panes of beveled glass, opens into an enormous foyer, the kind hardly seen since antebellum plantation house layouts. In its middle is a round glass table on a fanciful base used for overflow dining, since dinner parties can be large, and the dining room, done in lime green-patterned wallpaper, opens conveniently into the foyer. Ten-foot ceilings make rooms feel larger than the actual square footage and provide space for

lighting fixtures, some fit for a modern-day Phantom.

The living room introduces bright navy blue accents, repeated throughout the house. An upstairs bedroom elicits gasps for its dark blue wallpaper with circular white figures that suggest movement, while a vibrant green startles guests using the main-floor powder room.

Two glass-and-white gaming tables are positioned on one side of the living room, just inside the veranda with its own fireplace and TV, overlooking the Dogwood Course and pond. “I love playing cards and all kinds of games,” Susan says. Two elephant heads appear as brackets beneath the living room mantel, introducing another icon repeated throughout the house, including a parade of small jade elephants marching across a shelf. The kicker

is a glass-topped desk held up by white elephants, a piece tracked down with dogged determination.

A Carolina room, unlike the usual screened porch, is tucked behind the living room, providing space for a mini shrine to David’s alma mater, complete with ram mascot. On the other side of the living room, a TV den has been wallpapered in navy blue grasscloth, dominated by an abstract seascape by Allison McLean.

No surprise: The ground floor master suite features the same colors with a different fanciful wallpaper. His-and-her bathrooms, closets and dressing areas are grouped together, closed off by a door.

The kitchen, a preen-point in most contemporary construction, is notable for its restraint. Moderate in size with a large island, copious storage and combination butler’s pantry and laundry room, its most startling feature is a mirror backsplash over the range.

Susan is obviously a detail person who knows what she wants and how to find it, down to old banister posts shaped like pagodas, which she spotted, had painted white, and fitted onto the posts.

The house took about a year to complete. During construction, the couple rented an apartment in Pinehurst. Now, golf lessons are on their to-do list, along with visits from family.

“We want people to feel at home here, be able to find things easily,” Susan says. To this end, the second floor has several bedrooms, bathrooms, a seating area with coffee-bar/mini-kitchen and a fringed froggy-green love seat sure to spark conversation.

So . . . how do the Woods feel now. David answers in a word: “Happy.” PS

ALMANAC

May

By a shLey Wa L she

May tucks her treasures gently in our hands.

For the young girl in the sunhat: her first ripe strawberry, bright and plump, just warm from the tender, loving sun. Before lifting the fruit to her lips, she studies its tiny seeds — 200 stars studding crimson infinity — and how its leafy top looks like a tiny fairy cap. When the sweetness hits her tongue, her eyes brighten; her lips pucker; her hands open for more.

Mother of Flowers

The magnolias are blooming, their sweet, citrusy fragrance utterly commanding our attention.

Yes, and more, please.

The “Great Mother” of flowers, Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) blossoms can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. Despite the delicate, ephemeral nature of their creamy white blooms, the tree itself is quite resilient — and ancient. Fossil records suggest that magnolias are among the oldest flowering plants on Earth, blossoming among the dinosaurs 100 million years ago.

In the same field, an elderly man is picking his last flat of berries, recalling the scratch-made shortcakes of his childhood. His eyes glisten as the memories rush in; as the sweetness hits his tongue, as his granddaughter reaches for a sun-kissed strawberry.

For the sisters at the park: early ox-eye daisies.

For the dreamers: dandelion puffballs.

Somewhere, a teenage boy slips a dogwood flower behind the left ear of his first love. By the creek, his brother plucks crawdads from the cool, trickling water.

In a neighbor’s garden, peonies and roses perfume the spring-fresh air. Yellow butterflies worship orange poppies. Bare hands worship worm-rich earth.

And what of your own hands?

Might they cradle magnolia blossoms? An empty bird’s nest? A palmful of seeds?

Might they stay open to give and receive?

May tucks her treasures gently in your hands, giggles as you hold them, then playfully resumes her grand unfolding.

An icon of feminine grace, it’s fitting that our Southern magnolia should shine this month — and just in time for Mother’s Day.

The fair maid who, the first of May

Goes to the fields at break of day

And washes in dew from the hawthorn tree

Will ever after handsome be. — Mother Goose Nursery Rhyme

The Birds and the Bees

Named for the Greek goddess Maia (eldest of the Pleiades and goddess of nursing mothers), May is a month of growth and fertility — a month of flowers, birds and bees.

National Wildflower Week is celebrated May 2 - 7 (always the first week of the month).

Let’s hear it for spider lilies, spiderwort, wild indigo and crested iris.

On May 4 — National Bird Day — take a quiet moment to honor the winged ones who live alongside us. You don’t have to be an expert to appreciate the richness they add to our ecosystem and soundscape. Your presence is all that’s required.

On that note, World Bee Day is acknowledged on May 20. Consider the essential role these hard-working insects play in the health and abundance of our planet. Honor your local pollinators with the choices that you make. Have a garden? Incorporate native flowers and, for the love of bees, put the toxic sprays away. PS

WOMEN

BUSINESS

MELISSA MCPEAKE

OWNER

Melissa dreamed of a local venue that offered a full property experience— all the amenities you need for a grand event and a picturesque background with gorgeous gardens. She just never knew she’d be the one to do it! Melissa and her husband, Sammy, designed and built Village Pine Venue and opened their doors for business late last year.

• Amenities and Property Details: 5,000 sq ft main hall that opens to a large 2,500 sq ft covered veranda, indoor/outdoor bar with garage doors, amphitheater with seating for 200, bridal suite with multiple rooms for getting ready, “groom’s garage” with cigar porch, pond with a fountain and light feature, conference room, kids’ room, catering prep kitchen, vendor lounge, enclosed English- style gardens with brick pathways a patio. All spaces are versatile and can be used to suit your needs including lots of options for wedding ceremony locations.

• Events: weddings, corporate events, conferences, trade shows, balls, showers, private dinners, seminars, theater productions, fashion shows and more

• Mission: to provide a venue that is different from the rest, and to help clients bring their wedding or event vision to life at the property that was created with them in mind. Melissa thought of everything and is passionate about sharing all the details while showing the property.

• Proudest Career Accomplishment: “Taking that leap! I look at the last two years and wonder how in the world did we make this happen. It is surreal.”

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: “Discover, learn, transform and achieve goals, but also be open to something different if the opportunity strikes or you have an idea that keeps popping up in your head! We go through so many changes as women and we need to adjust where our heart wants us to be sometimes, and that is completely okay! Give yourself the grace to reimagine.”

• At Home: Melissa and Sammy have been married for 22 years and have three daughters. They enjoy time with family and friends and being in the sunshine by any body of water!

Photos by Jennifer B. & Heather Gunter Photography

PINELAND PROPERTY GROUP

Blendi Rife, Michelle DiPietro, Mandi Akrami, Josh Sievers, Lindsey Sievers, Kristina Webster (Broker-in-charge and owner), Ashley Donovan (owner), Jessica Marsh (owner), Jodi Franklin, Jennifer Virdier, Tricia Hernandez, Taryn Clark

Pineland Property Group, founded by Ashley Donovan, Jessica Marsh and Kristina Webster in 2022 is Moore County’s first Veteran, Native American and all-women owned and operated real estate firm. In just two years together this downtown Southern Pines real estate firm has put their name on the map!

• Mission: To guide clients seamlessly through the home buying or selling process, utilizing a vast knowledge of local real estate and years of experience in the market along with a team of transaction coordinators.

• Areas of Expertise: Seasoned real estate brokers specializing in luxury properties, land, commercial, military buyers and sellers and new construction.

• What Sets Us Apart: With a name inspired by the culminating exercise that all Special Forces soldiers must go through to earn the coveted Green Beret, PPG is rooted in community and its service to its members. Charity, servitude, and positive client relationships are paramount.

• Best Thing About Being Women in Business: “It allows us to open doors for other women who want to be self-employed outside of the home while still managing work/life balance. PPG prides itself on empowering women and military spouses in our community.”

www.pinelandpropertygroupnc.com

Photos by Paige Kentner

TOI RATANA-APAROJ WUNPEN EDDLEMON

PAULA MIMS

THAI ORCHID

The owners of Thai Orchid are three sisters, two biological,Toi Ratana-Aparoj and Wunpen Eddlemon, and one sisterin-law, Paula Mims, who opened their restaurant in Aberdeen in 1993. This close-knit trio don’t think of themselves as business women only, but as aunties, sisters, mothers (and grandmothers) sharing a family legacy.

• Thai Orchid’s Specialty: Authentic thai food made from scratch using their family recipes, and always served fresh.

• Areas of Expertise: Best Thai food in Moore County for 5 years running.

• A Family Business: “We eat and cook here. We serve authentic Thai food from family recipes, from scratch, with everything fresh. It’s not just the legacy of passing down a family business as a legacy to our children, but also serving and treating our customers like family, as well.”

• Best Thing About Being Women in Business: Getting to know everyone in this community. We love the southern charm.

• Biggest Lesson Learned: Kindness and generosity don’t cost anything but will take you far.

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: Be strong-minded and independent. Work hard with passion and never give up.

• At Home: They cook, of course.

Photo by Lolly Nazario

WENDY FARRELL

PENICK VILLAGE

Wendy Farrell, Director of Sales and Marketing at Penick Village, landed in her career in senior living by chance but stayed for the love of it.

• Penick Village’s Areas of Service: A continuum of service to older adults in independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing.

• What Sets Penick Village Apart: Ideal downtown Southern Pines location, a distinct personality and it’s self-run management structure.

• Wendy’s Expertise: Navigating seniors and their families through a plan for a new lifestyle and new beginning with the guaranteed continuum of care at Penick Village.

• On the Horizon: A large expansion which will include over forty new Independent Living residences, updated healthcare areas and significant wellness spaces.

• Proudest Career Accomplishment: “The promises I’ve kept to all of my clients over the years. Happy residents mean everything to me.”

• In the Community: Wendy serves on the board of the Southern Pines Business Association and volunteers at Father Vincent Capodanno High School in Vass.

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: It’s as important to know when to say ‘no’ as it is for when to say ‘yes.’ Be bold, be kind, and ask questions.

• For Fun: She loves to travel with family or flying solo, for work or for pleasure, and is always up for an adventure!

Photo by Lolly Nazario

NIKKI BOWMAN & JESSICA ROWAN

REALTY WORLD OF THE PINES

Nikki Bowman opened Realty World Properties of the Pines in 2012. Working alongside Buyer Specialist, Jessica Rowan, this dynamic duo offers a unique experience where you work with two knowledgeable agents for the price of one.

• Background: These Southern Pines natives have over 30 years of real estate experience between them.

• Services: Buying and selling, military specialists, enhanced listings, personal consultations, advanced online presence of listings including social media

• What Sets The Nikki Bowman Team Apart: Strong negotiation skills, problem solving abilities, home-grown local knowledge, and dedicated hard work assuring smooth property transactions.

• Expertise: “We understand that buying or selling a home can be stressful with many unknowns. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process so you can achieve your real estate goals.”

• In the Community: Nikki Bowman has helped her family open and operate several local businesses: Manifest Boutique, The Cave Barbershop and Workout Anytime in Aberdeen. They are the longtime presenting sponsor of First Friday and supportive of many local non-profits.

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: “Like I taught my daughter— you can do anything you put your mind to and don’t let anyone tell you different. You will have many ups and downs, you get a 24 hour pity party and then pick yourself up and keep moving.”

Photo by Lolly Nazario

NOELLE GRANVILLE FINANCIAL

ADVISOR

Noelle Granville is a third generation financial advisor. Through comprehensive financial planning she gives her clients confidence that they will reach their lifetime goals.

• Education: graduated from St. Andrews Presbyterian College with Magna Cum Laude honors in 2001.

• Licensing and Services: licensed stockbroker holding series 6, 7, 63, 65 and 24 licenses; insurance licensed for Life Accident & Health Insurance as well as Long Term Care and Medicare Supplement; holds the Certified Senior Advisor designation, and is a Certified Financial Planner™.

• Expertise: credentialed and experienced to handle every aspect of investments, retirement planning, estate planning, charitable giving, trust management and tax planning needs.

• Philosophy: “We at Granville Financial believe that clients can be overwhelmed with the complexities of financial planning. Our goal is to simplify the financial planning process for our clients as much as possible. We believe that clients deserve to be educated so they can better understand the process and their personal financial plan.”

• What Sets Granville Apart: A process built on communication, collaboration and confidence. Every plan starts with a conversation about the client’s hopes, dreams, desires and even financial fears.

• Proudest Career Accomplishment: “I designed the course Financial Decision Making for Women in 2003 and have been educating and teaching women for over 20 years through Sandhills Community College.”

• At Home: Noelle and her husband, Matt, have been married since 2005 and have four children. Her daughter Calli is the current Miss Moore County. She has two maltipoos that come to work with her everyday.

110-C Applecross Rd., Pinehurst, NC 28374 910.692.1052 | www.granvillefinancial.com

MELISSA BILLINGSLEY

HONEYBEE BRIDAL & BOUTIQUE

Melissa Billingsley is the proud owner of Honeybee Bridal & Boutique in Rockingham serving Moore County and neighboring communities with the boutique formalwear shopping experience they deserve.

• Specialties: Taking the stress out of wedding fashion coordination as well as size-inclusive inventory

• Offerings: A wide selection of wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses, mother of the bride/groom dresses, evening wear, prom dresses, tuxedos, jewelry, headpieces, veils and shoes.

• Mission: To provide her customers a unique experience they will forever remember, including shopping parties for brides and their entire wedding party to pick out and sample their gowns.

• What Sets Honeybee Bridal & Boutique Apart: Top-notch service from a knowledgeable staff. Customers can purchase their dream gown off the rack or custom order their favorite look to their specific size, from 00 to 30.

• A Family Affair: Melissa’s husband, brother, high school friend and daughter-in-law (manager of the boutique) completely renovated the Honeybee Bridal & Boutique building inside and out, to create the elegant shopping experience it is today.

• Advice For Young Women Starting Their Career: “If it is something you love and your dream job, you will never work another day of your life.

by

Photo

Lolly Nazario

MARY MARGARET MCGUIRE

MERIT

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Mary Margaret started selling real estate in 2006 and moved into property management a few years later. She opened her one-woman business, Merit Real Estate Services, in February of this year.

• What Led You to This Career: a love of interior design, architecture, and helping people find their dream home.

• Services: Focuses on hands-on, personal property management and real estate services.

• Offerings: Works with buyers and sellers, investors and property owners, and renters looking for rental property in the Sandhills.

• Mission: To help people pursue their dreams of home ownership and real estate investments.

• Community Involvement: volunteers with Habitat Builds, Backpack Pals, and Meals on Wheels.

• Recognitions: Mary Margaret was recognized by her real estate association with the citizenship award for volunteer work in Moore County.

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: “Always be yourself, and you will be successful.”

• At Home: Mary Margaret loves to thrift, work in her yard and spend time with her adult children Sam, 22 and Lacy, 24.

Photo by Lolly Nazario

EMILY WALDEN HARRIS

EXECUTIVE CHEF

Introducing Emily Walden Harris, the seasoned Chef poised to lead The Buggy Factory by Southern Pines Brewing Co. opening up this month in Carthage, along with a new location on Hay Street in Fayetteville.

• Culinary Background: Emily has worked in prestigious kitchens in Denmark, Norway, Italy, France, Japan, South Korea and beyond, including a stint at Noma in Copenhagen, the pinnacle of gastronomy. Her culinary roots lead back to her start in Detroit.

• Favorite Food to Cook: Big bowls of noodles, bibimbap and tacos

• What to Expect: Emily’s arrival promises a culinary revolution, marrying her experience and love for global cuisines with local flair for a diverse and flavorful menu. The Buggy Factory’s specialty will be Detroit-style pizza.

• Biggest Lesson Learned in Business: “I used to be afraid to fail. It felt catastrophic to me but then I worked for someone who taught me that taking risks is the engine progress. It changed the way I viewed the world, and my work.”

• At Home: “My husband and I moved here after falling in love in Korea. He has two daughters, Hailey and Hannah (my steps) who are immensely funny and rambunctious girls. Watching them grow up has revamped my love for learning! They teach me to always be exploring, to stay curious and ask questions and most importantly to create things unabashedly!”

106 S. Ray St., Carthage, NC

Photo by Lolly Nazario

DOTTIE BLACK

A SOUTHERN LAND TITLE AGENCY

Dottie Black opened A Southern Land Title Agency in 2011 where she and her team of underwriters work relentlessly to produce precise insurance policies, giving peace of mind to property owners and lenders.

• Background: Dottie was an onsite new home sales agent for many years in Raleigh and Pinehurst before transitioning into title insurance in 2001, shortly after moving to Moore County with her husband.

• Areas of Service: Her six-person team, including an in-house title attorney, specializes in both commercial and residential underwriting and are licensed in both North and South Carolina.

• What Motivates Her: Educating anyone who will listen about the need and benefit of title insurance, and the North Carolina approved attorney process.

• Career Goal: “My team and I focus on earning the business and support of our loyal customers by doing business ethically, being a valuable resource, and delivering a superior policy, which we proudly stand behind.”

• Best Part of Being a Woman in Business: “As a business owner I want to be a role model for other women. I believe it’s important to graciously empower and support one another.”

TAMMY EVERETT

DEFENSE ALLIANCE OF NORTH CAROLINA & JACOBY REAL ESTATE, LLC

Since 2015, Tammy has served as the Executive Director of the Defense Alliance of North Carolina. In 2021, she expanded her expertise by obtaining a real estate license and is currently an active broker with the Jacoby Real Estate team assisting both buyers and sellers.

• Background: Her career began in hotel and restaurant management with a degree from Sandhills Community College. She worked for Pinehurst Resort for 17 years.

• Defense Alliance of North Carolina: The DANC is a non-profit supporting North Carolina’s military, business, and academic communities.

• Community Involvement: Volunteers and supports Habitat for Humanity, the Cancer CARE Fund, and Animal Advocates. Also a member of Pinehurst Business Partners and the Moore County Chamber of Commerce.

• Proudest Career Moment: Inducted in 2023 into the Women of Power Society of NC, a celebration of women that have demonstrated leadership by contributing to the community through volunteerism, entrepreneurship, or public service.

• Biggest Lesson Learned in Business: “Lead by example. Practice honesty”

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: “Don’t let potholes in the road slow you down. Go around them!”

• At Home: Tammy finds pleasure in traveling, scrapbooking, reading, bargain shopping, and playing Pickleball. Her husband, Rob, is passionate about fishing and runs Aberdeen Bait & Tackle, which has transitioned into an online store. She is a proud mother of twin boys, Christopher and Matthew, now 23 years old.

910.690.4450

www.defensealliancenc.org

HOLLY WEBB

THE RELATABLE LEARNER

Holly Webb is the owner/operator of The Relatable Learner, a local tutoring business that specializes in providing quality education to students with unique academic and functional needs.

• Background: Master’s degree in special education and several awards for teaching excellence.

• Mission: Founded A Relatable Learner in 2022, to provide an accessible and tailor-made education for every child that walks through her doors.

• Area of Expertise: Extensive training in sensory integration methods, reading instruction, and inter-disciplinary practices (including using literacy to teach math.)

• What she’s proud of: “I witnessed a 7 year old student say their very first word after almost two years of modeling language. It was one of the best moments of my life.”

• Biggest Lesson Learned in Business: “Adversity and challenges will not only strengthen your skillset, it will shape you into the person you are today. You will surprise yourself.”

• At Home: She strives to get 8 hours of sleep, also snuggling The Relatable Learner’s official mascot, Lilah, a golden retriever in training to become a certified reading therapy dog.

CAROLINA SUMMIT GROUP

MOORE COUNTY RESIDENTIAL TEAM

TRACEY GREENE, JACKIE MCDERMOTT, CASEY CRUMPLER, KRISTYN GAVAZZI, CRYSTAL PATE

With over six decades of combined real estate expertise among the owners of Carolina Summit Group, and a driving love for this corner of the Sandhills, you are in good hands when buying or selling local real estate with the Residential team at CSG.

• Background: CSG was founded in the summer of 2023 by Holly Bell, George Manley, Lee Pittman and Matthew Wimberly

• Mission: to get your home sold fast and for top dollar, to offer knowledgable service through each transaction and to make the process seamless and worry-free

• Specialties: All five members of the CSG Residential team have military roots and understand the insand-outs of PCS moves from near and far. They love helping fellow military families relocate to the area.

• Biggest Lesson Learned in Business: Don’t put your business before your family. Always be kind, genuine, and authentic.

• Advice for Young Women Starting Their Career: Keep your “why” on the forefront of everything you do.

OWNER

A school community dedicated to helping your children thrive.

PreschoolAges 1-5 2 to 5 Days a week

After school care, Summer Camps, Birthday Parties

kids stay and play while you get time away

125 East Illinois Ave

Southern Pines, NC 28387

910.695.0014

DEBRA RHODES SMITH

OWNER

Fine Art Advisor, Appraiser, Collection Curator, Lecturer & Author

Member, Appraisers Association of America since 1991, USPAP compliant

Debra Rhodes Fine Art Services.

910.315.4570 • debrarhodessmith.com • drhodessmith@nc.rr.com

MOORE, MS, CSCS, EP-C, USAWL2 REMOTE STRENGTH TRAINING

www.heyyomooreandco.com • kelsee@heyyomooreandco.com

Lolly Nazario

Newborn and Family Photographer

“Rooted in a desire to have fun and fuel my creative passion to help you preserve and relive your favorite family memories. Photography sessions for your heart and your soul.”

@LollysLensPhotography LollysLens.com

Photo by Courtney Grant Photography

Cheryl L. Mason J.D.

First woman and military spouse Chairman of the VA Board of Veterans Appeals

Dare To Relate: Leading With A Fierce Heart

May 1 at 5:00 PM

Stephen Smith

The Year We Danced

May 7 at 5:00 PM

Mary Kay Andrews

Summers At The Saint

May 8 at 11:00 AM

Max Brallier

The Last Comics On Earth: Too Many Villains!

May 8 at 4:00 PM

This event is appropriate for creative

and kids ages 8 to 12

www.thecountrybookshop.biz

Tommy Tomlinson

Dogland: Passion, Glory, and lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show

May 15 at 5:00 PM

Kristin Harmel

The Paris Daughter

May 16 at 11:00 AM

Mesha Maren

Shae

May 22 at 11:00 AM

Taylor Brown Rednecks

May 26 at 2:00 PM

arts & entertainment

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

TECH HELP SESSIONS. SPPL offers oneon-one Technology Help Sessions. A library staff member will sit with you to assist with accessing eBooks, learning how to use a new device, navigating a computer, and to answer any other basic technology questions. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. To make an appointment come into the library or visit www.sppl.net.

MAY EVENTS

Wednesday, May 1

BOOK EVENT. 5 p.m. Cheryl L. Mason J.D. chats leadership and her book Dare to Relate: Leading with a Fierce Heart. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Thursday, May 2

FILM SERIES. 7 p.m. Watch Batman (1989) during the BatMaynia Film Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

THEATER. Enjoy a new production of Macbeth, filmed in a London theater. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Friday, May 3

LUNCH BUNCH. 11:30 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to dine on different cuisines each month as you visit different restaurants in the area. Carpool with friends or meet at the restaurant. Dining locations will be chosen the week before. Info: (910) 692-7376.

ART EXHIBIT. 5 - 7 p.m. The Artists League of the Sandhills will host an opening reception for its As Large as Life exhibit, featuring the art of Vanessa Grebe. It will be on display through May 24. Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Info: www.artistleague.org.

05.11

Craft Day

FIRST FRIDAY. 5 - 9 p.m. Come enjoy music from The Wilson Springs Hotel during the First Friday Concert Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

THEATER SHOW. 7 p.m. The Encore Center presents Nunsense. There will be more performances on May 4 and 5. Encore Center, 160 E. New Hampshire Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.encorecenter.net.

CONCERT. 8 p.m. Chatham County Line performs. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Saturday, May 4

KID’S SATURDAY. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Families are invited to a monthly themed craft event to socialize and get creative. Geared toward ages 3 - 10. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642 or www.vopnc.org.

PAGES OF THE PINES. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Meet authors and illustrators of the Sandhills and surrounding area at the third annual “Pages of the Pines, A Festival of Books Celebrating Local Authors.” Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: lholden@sppl.net.

FILM SERIES. 1 p.m. Watch Star Wars: A New Hope. Then, at 4 p.m., Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back will be shown. Finally, at 7 p.m. watch Star Wars: Return of the Jedi. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

PAGEANT. 2 p.m. Eleven candidates from across the state of North Carolina will be on stage to compete for the 2024 Ms. North Carolina Senior America crown. Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

THEATER. 2 p.m. Imagine Youth Theater and the village of Pinehurst present The

Music Man Jr. There will be another show May 5 at 2 p.m. Pergola Garden at the Village Arboretum, 395 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

COSTUME PARTY. 6 p.m. Enjoy a “May the Force Be With You Costume Party.” Come dressed to impress in your favorite character and join us for an evening of fun games, food and drinks. Party is for 21 and older. The Tyson Sinclair, 105 McReynolds St., Carthage. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

SHAG SOCIETY. 7 - 11 p.m. Moore Area

Shag Society (MASS) invites those 21 and over to a night of dancing at Down Memory Lane, 161 Dawkins St., located off N.C. Highway 5 in Aberdeen. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. A cash bar is available and you may bring snacks for your table. A 50/50 drawing will also be held. Admission is $10 at the door. For more information, call (910) 215-4054.

Sunday, May 5

AUTHOR CHAT. 2:30 p.m. Join Donna Everhart, Marybeth Whalen and T.I. Lowe for an author chat about the writing process and the world of publishing. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

Monday, May 6

QUILTS OF VALOR. 12 - 4 p.m. Quilts of Valor meets the first Monday of each month to create lap quilts made especially for veter-

ans. If you sew, bring your machine; if you don’t sew, you can iron or cut out fabrics for new designs. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

Tuesday, May 7

BRAIN FITNESS. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 18 and older are invited to enjoy short relaxation and brain enhancement exercises, ending with a mindfulness practice. Eve Gaskell will be the instructor. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH. 11:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. Join us as we honor moms for all they do. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy fun Victorian parlor games, fellowship and tasty snacks. Cost is $2 for residents and $3 for nonresidents. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

AT THE PARK AFTER SCHOOL. 3:30 p.m. Learn about the library and get free books, snacks and a craft to take home. All ages welcome. While supplies last. Memorial Park, 210 Memorial Park Ct., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

GARDEN PARTY. 4 - 6 p.m. The Village Heritage Foundation hosts its Spring Garden Party. There will be refreshments, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $30 per person. Village Arboretum Timmel Pavilion, 105 Rassie Wicker Drive, Pinehurst. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

TEEN CREATIVITY CLUB. 4:30 p.m. Teen Creativity Club is a new meeting space for creative teens in grades 6 - 12. From creative writing to storytelling to drawing and more, come by and see what other teen artists are doing. Bring your friends. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: kbroughey@sppl.net.

BOOK EVENT. 5 p.m. Stephen E. Smith will be discussing his memoir, The Year We Danced. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Wednesday, May 8

BOOK EVENT. 11 a.m. Mary Kay Andrews returns to talk about Summers at The Saint. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

BOOK EVENT. 4 p.m. Max Brallier will chat about his latest book, The Last Comics on Earth: Too Many Villains! The event is for kids ages 8 - 12. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

CONCERT. 7 p.m. Dar Williams is live in concert with Heather Maloney. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Thursday, May 9

CAREGIVER SERIES. 3 - 5 p.m.

The Sandhills Woman’s Exchange invites the public to a caregiver series called “Unspoken Voices: Essential Conversations.” Four experts in their fields will give honest answers about topics like suicide, dementia, mental health and more. Wine and cheese will be served during this free event. Space is limited to 32 people, call for reservations. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

SUPPORT GROUP. 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. The Sandhills Chronic Kidney Disease Support Group meets the first Thursday of each month. Clara McLean House, Shadowlawn Room, 20 FirstVillage Drive, Pinehurst. Info: angela@ sandhillsckd.com or kathy@sandhillsckd.com.

Friday, May 10

SENIOR EXCURSION. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Adults 55 and older are invited to join Southern Pines Parks and Recreation to tour the 170-acre historic estate that comprises the Reynolda House Museum of American Art and Reynolda Gardens. Afterward head to Reynolda Village for shopping and lunch. Cost is $44 for residents and $61 for non-residents. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LIVE THEATER. 7 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Saturday, May 11

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

COMMUNITY YARD SALE. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Enjoy shopping 20 - 40 individual outdoor

Quilts of Valor

booths offering everything from handmade crafts, modern tools and electronics, vintage and antique collectibles and even an assortment of everyday household items or clothes. A food truck will be on-site. The Bee’s Knees, 125 N.C. 73, West End. Info: (910) 420-8970.

LIVE THEATER. 7 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

SHOWCASE. 7 p.m. The HES - ESS North Carolina Showcase will recognize excellence in education. The showcase will feature live performances and presentation of awards. Mac Gray Auditorium, 474 N. Center St., Statesville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

CONCERT. 7:30 p.m. The Fayetteville Symphony Orchestra presents Bad to the Bones with Joseph Alessi. Seabrook Auditorium, 1200 Murchison Road, Fayetteville. Info: (910) 433-4690.

Sunday, May 12

LATINO FESTIVAL. 1 - 6 p.m. Latinos

Activate JOCO announces the eighth annual JOCO Latino Festival, a vibrant celebration of Latino culture and community engagement. The festival will be held at 105 S. Raiford St., Selma. Info: www.latinosactivatejoco.com.

LIVE THEATER. 3 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Monday, May 13

ANNUAL MEETING. The Sandhills Woman’s Exchange will hold its annual meeting. The volunteers, members and public are invited to attend for fun, food and a little history. Susan Taylor-Schran and Sandy Gernhart will recap the U.S. movement forming woman’s exchanges, including details of the founding of the local exchange. Pine Crest Inn, 50 Dogwood Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

PHOTO CLUB. 7 p.m. Sandhills Photography Club monthly meeting presents “Shutter Up and Roam On — Developing a Travelogue

Civil War Round Table

That People Want to See.” Cal Rice, a seasoned traveler and gifted storyteller, will share his expertise in transforming ordinary travel

snapshots into captivating narratives. Guests are welcome. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3245 Airport Road, Southern Pines. Info: www.sandhillsphotoclub.org.

FILM SERIES. 7 p.m. Watch Batman (1966), during the BatMaynia Film Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Tuesday, May 14

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

AARP TALK. 12 - 12:30 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to join AARP for a fraud talk. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BOOK CHAT. 5:30 p.m. Come for a perfect blend of books and crafts at the “Book Chat and Craft Night.” Southern Pines Growler Company, 160 W. New York Ave., Southern Pines. Info: mhoward@sppl.net.

Wednesday, May 15

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

BOOK EVENT. 5 p.m. Tommy Tomlinson returns to discuss his latest book, Dogland: Passion, Glory and Lots of Slobber at the Westminster Dog Show. The event is good for kids ages 8 - 12. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

LADIES WINE OUT. 5:30 p.m. The Women

sic by Sam Thomas, a liquor pull and raffles. Tickets are $55 for Weymouth members and $60 for non-members. Weymouth Center, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

Thursday, May 16

BOOK EVENT. 11 a.m. Kristin Harmel chats about her book The Paris Daughter. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

AT THE PARK AFTER SCHOOL. 3:30 p.m. Learn about the library and get free books, snacks and a craft to take home. All ages welcome. While supplies last. Morganton Road Sports Complex, 100 Fire Lane, Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

READ BETWEEN THE PINES. 5 p.m. Do you love reading and discussing amazing books? Join SPPL’s evening book club for adults, “Read Between the Pines.” Copies of the book are available at the library to checkout while supplies last. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: mhoward@sppl.net.

Keys to Your Next Home

CALENDAR

CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE. 6:30 p.m. The guest speaker will be historian and author Greg Mertz, with a presentation on the Battle of Fredericksburg. Meeting starts at 7 p.m. Open to the public. Civic Club, corner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Ashe Street, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 246-0452 or mafarina@aol.com.

Friday, May 17

SUSTAINABLE ART. 1 - 3 p.m. Enjoy a fun afternoon with Marcia Woodfield. Learn the basics of weaving and how to shape your work into your desired form while helping to reduce paper waste. All supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring things from home such as old magazine covers, tea bags, security envelopes and candy wrappers. This event is sponsored by the Sandhills Horticultural Society. Registration required. Limit 20 people. Ball Visitors Center, 3245 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: sccgardens@sandhills.edu.

FAMILY CAMPOUT. 7 p.m. Camp out under the stars. Enjoy family games, snacks, fun and a story by the campfire. Must provide your own tent. Space is limited to the first 20 families. Cost is $10 per resident family and $14 per non-resident family. Downtown Park, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LIVE THEATER. 7 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Saturday, May 18

CORVETTE SHOW. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Corvettes of Sandhills is hosting its third annual Corvette show. There will be a silent auction, trophies, dash plaques, door prizes, music, food trucks and more. Rain or shine event. Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst.

WINE WALK. 3:30 p.m. The Farm Fresh Spring Wine Walk features 12 boutique locations, each offering a farm fresh tapa expertly paired with a spring wine. Participants can choose one of three start times, either 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. or 5:30 p.m. Tickets are $45. Downtown Pinehurst. Info: www.eventbrite.com.

DANCING. 6 p.m. Carolina Pines Dance Club invites you for a fun evening of swing, shag, ballroom, Latin and line dancing. Doors open at 6 p.m. Dance lessons from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Dancing until 9:30 p.m.

Beginners and experienced dancers, couples and singles all welcome. Cost is $20 per person, cash at door. Tyson Sinclair Ballroom, 105 McReynolds St. (second floor), Carthage. Info: (910) 331-9965.

LIVE THEATER. 7 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

SYMPHONY. 7:30 p.m. The Carolina Philharmonic, 5 Market Square, Pinehurst, presents “Broadway Brilliance: A Symphony Pops Spectacular,” at BPAC’s Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 687-0287 or www.carolinaphil.org.

Sunday, May 19

STEAM. 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Elementary-aged children and their caregivers are invited to learn about topics in science, technology, engineering, art and math, and to participate in STEAM projects and activities. This month make paper airplanes. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or kbroughey@sppl.net.

LIVE THEATER. 3 p.m. Enjoy Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple (Female Version). Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

Photo by: Shayla Velazquez

Tuesday, May 21

BRAIN FITNESS. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 18 and older are invited to enjoy short relaxation and brain enhancement exercises, ending with a mindfulness practice. Eve Gaskell will be the instructor. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BINGO. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to play 10 games of bingo. Cost is $4 for residents and $6 for non-residents. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Wednesday, May 22

BOOK EVENT. 11 a.m. Mesha Maren joins a free author event in celebration of her latest book, Shae. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Thursday, May 23

FILM SERIES. 7 p.m. Watch The Dark Knight, during the BatMaynia Film Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

CALENDAR

Friday, May 24

WOMAN’S EXCHANGE CLOSES. The Sandhills Woman’s Exchange will close for the spring and summer season. It will reopen in September featuring popular Lunch n’ Learns and additional events. Sandhills Woman’s Exchange, 15 Azalea Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-4677 or www.sandhillswe.org.

Saturday, May 25

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

Tuesday, May 28

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

Thursday, May 30

WELLNESS CLASSES. 10 - 11:30 a.m. For adults 18 and older. Explore educational topics involving information to improve the overall mind, body and spirit. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

DOUGLASS CENTER BOOK CLUB. 10:30 a.m. Multiple copies of the selected book are available for checkout at the library. The Douglass Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: mmiller@sppl.net.

MEDICAL MINUTES. 1 - 2 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to learn about topics beneficial to the senior community. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

FILM SERIES. 7 p.m. Watch The Lego Batman Movie, during the BatMaynia Film Series. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 420-2549 or www.sunrisetheater.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Monday, June 17

SUMMER CONCERT. 6:30 p.m. The Sandhills Community College Jazz Band has its summer concert featuring the thematics of Henry Mancini and Duke Ellington. Sandhills Community College, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 315-6900.

WEEKLY EVENTS

Mondays

WORKSPACES. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Given Tufts Bookshop has a new pop-in co-workspace open on Mondays and Thursdays in the upstairs conference room. Bookshop floor and private meeting room by reservation only. Info: www.giventuftsfoundation.com.

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

CALENDAR

CHAIR YOGA. 9 - 10 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Help offset body aches encountered with desk work. This is an accessible yoga class for bodies not able to easily get up from and down to the floor. Do standing or sitting in a chair. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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

RESTORATIVE YOGA. 12 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Practice gentle movements to improve well-being, help alleviate pain and improve circulation. Bring your own mat. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

GAME ON. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. You and your friends are invited to come out and play various games such as corn hole, badminton, table tennis, shuffleboard, trivia games and more. Each week enjoy a different

activity to keep you moving and thinking. Compete with friends and make new ones all for free. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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

Tuesdays

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

BABY RHYMES. 10:15 a.m. Baby Rhymes is specially designed for the youngest learners (birth - 2) and their caregivers. Repetition and comforting movements make this story time perfect for early development and brain growth. There will be a duplicate session at 10:45 a.m. An active library card is required. Dates this month are May 7, 14 and 21. Southern Pines Public Library, 170

Eucharist Three Distinct Services

Communion Service

Family

Service with Children’s Sermon

Service 8:15am 9:30am 11:00am 8:15am 9:30am Communion Service

Service 8:15am 9:30am

Worship

Service

CALENDAR

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

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

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

CHESS. 1:30 - 5 p.m. Come join a chess group, whether you have been playing for a while or you have never played. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

LINE DANCE. 4:45 p.m. Put on your dancing shoes and line dance. This is for beginners and is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

Wednesdays

SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 3 p.m. –6 p.m. The Sandhills Farmers Market features many of the area’s farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheesemakers and specialty food producers. The vendors are on site at Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road W, Pinehurst, through October 1. For more information visit: www.moorefarmfresh.com.

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

BRAIN BOOST. 10 - 11 a.m. Test your memory while creating new brain connections. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

KNITTING. 10 - 11 a.m. Learn how to knit or just come enjoy knitting with

2021 Painted Pony Payne Stewart, 8'x8' tall 15 Hands Serious inquiries only You Transport. “Stabled” in Southern Pines

poses slowly and intentionally, moving breath to movement, stretching everything from your head to your toes. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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

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

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

DANCE. 2 - 2:30 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Instructor Maria Amaya introduces dance fitness in this class designed for anyone who wants to gently and gradually increase cardio function, mobility and balance and have fun at the same time. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CALENDAR

LINE DANCING. 2 p.m. The town of Vass will host line dancing for seniors every other Wednesday. Cost is $5 per session. Vass Town Hall, 140 S. Alma St., Vass. Info: www.townofvassnc.gov.

LIBRARY PROGRAM. 3:30 p.m. At The Library After School (ATLAS) is an afterschool program for childern ages kindergarten through second grade who enjoy activities, crafts, stories and meeting new friends. Dates this month are May 1, 8, 15 and 22. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

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

YOGA. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Grab your yoga mat and head to Hatchet for yoga with Brady. Session cost is $10. Hatchet Brewing Company, 490 S.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.hatchetbrewing.com.

PineNeedler Answers

from page 143

Thursdays

WORKSPACES. 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. The Given Tufts Bookshop has a new pop-in co-workspace open on Mondays and Thursdays in the upstairs conference room. Bookshop floor and private meeting room by reservation only. Info: www.giventuftsfoundation.com.

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

GIVEN STORY TIME. 10 a.m. Bring your preschooler to enjoy stories, songs and activities. Given Memorial Library, 150 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: (910) 295-3642.

BALANCE AND FLEXIBILITY. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to enjoy a class to help reduce the risk of taking a tumble while increasing your ability to recover if you do. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

MUSIC AND MOTION. 10:15 and 10:45 a.m. Does your toddler like to move and groove? Join “Music and Motion” to get those wiggles out and work on gross and fine motor skills. For ages 2 - 5. An active library card is required. Dates this month are May 2, 16 and 22. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

CROCHET CLUB. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to come with friends to create fun designs and memories. Supplies are

CALENDAR

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

STRETCH, STRENGTH, BALANCE. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy exercises to improve their overall quality of life, performed standing or seated. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

ADAPTIVE YOGA. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy yoga that meets you where you are. Create a sense of balance and ease by slowly increasing your range of motion and mobility while maintaining your natural abilities. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CHESS AND MAHJONG. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Bring a board and a

friend. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CABIN TOURS. 1 - 4 p.m. The Moore County Historical Association’s Shaw House grounds, cabins and gift shop are open for tours and visits. The restored tobacco barn features the history of children’s roles in the industry. Docents are ready to host you and the cabins are open Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Shaw House, 110 W. Morganton Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2051 or www.moorehistory.com.

IMPROVERS LINE DANCE. 3 - 5:30 p.m. Put on your dancing shoes and line dance. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15501, West End.

LITTLE U. 3:30 p.m. Introducing Little U, Southern Pines Public Library’s new preschool program for children ages 3 1/2 - 5. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and activities that explore the world of books, language and literacy. Little U is a fun and interactive program designed to help preschoolers develop early literacy skills in preparation for kindergarten and beyond. Dates this month are May 2, 16 and 23. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

SOUND BATH. 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. All ages can enjoy the rhythm and vibration of this medicine drum sound bath moving the body and mind into deep rest mode. The body will be refreshed and the mind clear and quiet. A unique and ancient healing arts practice. Cost is $4 for residents and $6 for non-residents. Train House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Moore County Farmers Market

Gallery • Studios • Classes

910-944-3979

Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 12-3pm 129 Exchange Street in Aberdeen, NC artistleague@windstream.net • www.artistleague.org

As Large as Life Opening Reception

Friday, May 3, 5:00-7:00

Featuring the art of Vanessa Grebe

Painting the Landscape - Watercolor Workshop with JJ Jiang

September 9, 10, 9:30-4:00

Clarity. Confidence. Common sense. These are what JJ Jiang brings to his instruction. With sincerity and good humor, JJ will share his wisdom and insights stemming from his eastern cultural background and his deep knowledge of western art. In this workshop JJ will do daily demos, give clear, brief talks, and provide individual guidance tailored to your level. $390

The Dramatic Landscape - Pastel Workshop with Greg Stone October 8, 9, 9:00-4:00 Greg wants his paintings to capture a feeling or mood, something that is evocative and memorable. Often that means editing details, rearranging shapes, and venturing from the exact photo reference or actual subject. By focusing on principles of good design and color theory, you’ll sharpen your skills and achieve a new level of confidence as a landscape painter. $420

Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 12-3pm

Ask Us About Becoming a Member • 129 Exchange Street in Aberdeen, NC Visit our website for many more classes. www.artistleague.org • artistleague@windstream.net

About the show: When disco diva, Deloris Van Cartier, witnesses a murder, she is put in protective custody in the one place the cops are sure she won’t be found: a convent! Disguised as a nun, she finds herself at odds with both the rigid lifestyle and uptight Mother Superior. Using her unique talent to inspire the choir, Deloris breathes new life into the church and community but, in doing so, blows her cover. Soon, the culprits are giving chase, only to find themselves up against Deloris and the power of her newly found sisterhood!

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

Fridays

AEROBIC DANCE. 9 - 10 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy a low-to-moderate impact class with energizing music for an overall cardio and strength workout. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

JAM SESSION. 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Do you like to play an instrument, sing or just listen to music? Come join a music jam session. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. Hwy. 15-501, West End.

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

QIGONG. 1 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Classes will consist of chair and standing move-

ments that can help soothe achy feet, tight hips, and lower back pain while easing restriction in mobility. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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

HOMESCHOOL HANGOUT. 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Homeschool Hangout is for homeschooling families in the area. Come to an open space to share ideas, triumphs, challenges, and questions while you get to know other families. This is a drop-in program. Board games and coloring sheets will be provided. Dates this month are May 10, 17, 24 and 31. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

LINE DANCING. 3 - 4 p.m. For adults 55 and older. If you’re interested in learning dance moves and building confidence on the dance floor, this class is for you. Leave your inhibi-

tions at the door and join in. Cost is: $36 for residents and $52 for non-residents per month. Cost is for a monthly membership. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

Saturdays

MOORE COUNTY FARMERS MARKET. 8 a.m. - 12 p.m. The market features “producer only” vendors within a 50-mile radius providing fresh, local and seasonal produce, fruits, pasture meats, eggs, potting plants, cut flowers and local honey. Crafts, baked goods, jams and jellies are also available. The market runs through November. Downtown Southern Pines, 156 S.E. Broad St., Southern Pines.

SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. The Sandhills Farmers Market features many of the area’s farms, nurseries, bakeries, meat and egg providers, cheesemakers and specialty food producers. The vendors are on site at Tufts Memorial Park, 1 Village Green Road W, Pinehurst, through October 1. For more information visit: www.moorefarmfresh.com. PS

photo credit: Timeless Carolinas

SandhillSeen

Episcopal Day School Gator Gala/ Auction Fair Barn

Friday, March 8, 2024

Photographs by Diane McKay

Sean & Aubrey Kinsman, Meagan Miller, Jayci Harrison, Kacey & Andrew McLester

Elliottʼs on Linden

Brett & Heidi Barker

Michelle Stinnett, Jennifer McCall

Ashley Holderfield, Anna Kiker, Lily Camina-Vick

Ben & Shayna Jones, Hershell & Christal Cole

Stephanie Hillard

Karen & Peter Mamuzic

Alex & Sarah Newsom

Lisa & John Gessner

Gab & Caitlin Kessay, Bridget & Casey Clark

Dr. Jill Connett, Schuyler Crowder, Jill Hutchinson

SandhillSeen

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Village of Pinehurst

March, March 16, 2024

Photographs by Jeanne Paine

Crosscreek Pipe and Drum

Rev. Morris, Emily, Liza & Mack Thompson, Henry

Kathrin Franklin, Amanda Peterson

Terry & Charlie Cook

Jennifer Ritchie, Daniel Tanner

Phil Keown, Kathy Gurrola

Sherry Calcutt, Anne Tate

Cannon and Brianna Formyduval Danille Rose

Kali Layla, Cole Mattson

Longleaf Animal Hospital and Pet Boutique

Carry Simmons, Kathy Richardson

Stu Heilman as St. Patrick Moore County Republicans

Ray and Frances Bosworth

May PineNeedler Greens!

ACROSS

1. Book of maps

6. Ponzi scheme, e.g.

10. Blackens

14. Balderdash

15. podrida

16. “ Don’t bet !” (2 wds)

17. Fool

18. Curb, with “ in”

19. Shiny, flaky mineral

20. Salad with apples named for a hotel

22. Chemical compound

24. “ Peanuts” character

25. Salad with tomatoes and mozzarella

26. Inclined

29. Clergyman

30. Mom’s month

31. “ Rabbit food”

33. “ In the merry of May . . .”

37. Like fine wine

39. African river

41. Lean and sinewy

42. Garden waterer

44. Angling teasers

46. Small bite

47. Bristles

49. Southern Europe parsley-like herb

51. Based on observation

54. Actor O’Shea

55. Salad with parmesan, anchovies and croutons

56. French salad with tuna and eggs

59. Dryer fluff

60. Related

62. Coldly

64. “Green Gables” girl

65. Mar, as a car

66. Taste, e.g.

67. Angry, with “off”

68. “ For Your Only”

69. Pines, oaks, chestnuts, e.g.

1. Store convenience, for short

2. Small barge

3. Italian moolah

4. Artemis’ twin

5. “ Saturday Night Live” specialties

6. “ My mistake!”

7. Musical sign

8. Boxer Muhammad

9. Crackpot

10. The next day

11. Cartoon art

12. Reduces to bits, as potatoes

13. Gawk

21. The briny

23. Junk e-mail

25. Autumn drink

26. Asian nurse

27. Kind of palm

28. Harsh cleaning substances

29. Hard to pin down

32. Purple shade

34. El Niño opposite, La

35. H.S. math class

36. Ballyhoo

38. Ceased and

40. Archaeological find

43. “ Buona ” (Italian evening greeting)

45. Cadenza player

48. Diatribe

50. Person hired for cartoon audio

Puzzle answers on page 133

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

Sudoku:

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

51. Brilliance

52. Acadia National Park locale

53. Pasta choice

54. After-dinner freebies

56. Opening time, maybe

57. function, in math

58. “ . . . or !”

61. E or G, in music

63. “Absolutely!”

A Taste for Golf

Sometimes it just comes naturally

By EmilEE P hilliPs

Golf and I go way back. My earliest memory of a golf ball was at my uncle’s wedding. It was held at a country club somewhere in Iowa. I assume it was flat and kind of cornfieldy. I was 4 and given the honor of being one of the flower girls.

During the rehearsal dinner, we were in one of the many swanky dining rooms in a confusing maze of swanky rooms that I’m still not sure were all dedicated exclusively to our party. Nonetheless, little ol’ me scouted out the place. After all, there were three flower girls, surely they didn’t need all of us.

Central to the decorating theme, there were golf balls on every table — but not just any golf balls. These were regulation-sized, pure white chocolate golf balls. There was one at each place setting in the room.

I’m not sure if someone suggested the idea, as kids do, or if I arrived at it all on my own, but I decided to lick one. Having once discovered the delectable goodness — of which there seemed to be an unlimited quantity — I made it my mission to taste as many as I could.

Seeing teeth marks sunken into a golf ball may be something out of the fever dream of a high handicapper, but to my young eyes, the sight of my teeth carving a smooth path out of the dimpled outer shell was mesmerizing.

The trance was broken when my mother ripped a golf ball, a mere shell of its former self, out of my hand. By that point it was too late. I don’t know how many I had already bitten into, but I can tell you I know what it’s like to overindulge at the 19th hole. My “hangover” may have been sugar induced, but my head felt it all the same.

Looking out on the golf course the next day, I naturally associated feeling like garbage with the little white balls people seemed to take such delight in striking. Fists clenched, I said to myself, So that’s why they hit them so hard. And, yes, I still hate white chocolate.

My next run-in with a golf course wasn’t until high school, when I moved to Pinehurst. Like Starbucks in Manhattan, there seemed to be a golf course on every corner.

While I still don’t know much about golf, I am learning. I know that

there are 18 holes in a standard game of golf, and that the term “birdie” has nothing to do with fingers. Peak season in North Carolina is spring and fall, presumably because it’s not too hot or too humid. I’m also told that the tiny craters on a golf ball serve more than an aesthetic purpose and actually have aerodynamic properties to make the balls travel faster or farther, or whatever, through the air.

I’m aware that being on a golf course is like being in a theater after the curtain has gone up. One should be mostly quiet and mostly respectful of those trying to focus on the task at hand. I’ll likely never understand what goes into a perfect swing. But I know it’s supposed to be repetitive, like eating every bit of chocolate in sight. PS

Emilee Phillips is PineStraw’s director of social media and digital content.