February/March 2016
SAND &MAGAZINE PINE
Renewable Energy
The Cost of Going Green
A Life of My Own In Search of Freedom
Down on Bear Creek Paddling the Sandhills
www.SandandPineMag.com | 3
contents 12
18
Renewable Energy
SAND & PINE
The future is now! Well, not quite. Even though it’s 2016, renewable energy still has a way to go before it becomes part of our everyday lives.
20
Garden Variety
There’s much more you can bring to your garden than those colorful blooms this spring. Try these tips to invite some avian friends to your yard as well.
Publishers Greg Girard, Amanda Jakl Editor Greg Girard
E SA N D &MPAGIN AZ IN E February/March 2016
On the Cover
greg@sandandpinemag.com
Canoes along Bear Creek during Foothills Outdoors’ annual Bearathlon race.
Creative Director Amanda Jakl amanda@sandandpinemag.com
Word Geek Katie Schanze
A Life of My Own
What do you do when fate puts challenge after challenge in front of you? How do you overcome tragedy? If you’re Saif Ataya, you continue to believe.
Photo: Amanda Jakl
Renewable EnergyGreen
Own A Life ofh ofMy Freedom
The Cost of Going
In Searc
ar Creek Down oningBe the Sandhills Paddl
Ad Peddler Vince Girard vince@sandandpinemag.com
Contributing Scribblers Susan Bellew, Darcy Connor, Dolores Muller, Anthony Parks Visual Alchemist Carter Beck
4 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
P.O. Box 892 Southern Pines, NC 28388 Tel. 910.315.0467 info@sandandpinemag.com www.sandandpinemag.com facebook: SandandPineMag
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© Copyright 2016. Sand & Pine Magazine is published six times annually by Sand & Pine, LLC. Reproduction in whole or in part without written consent is prohibited.
What’s on the Web ....... 6 Good Reads ....... 7 Quicksand ....... 8 To Your Health ....... 16
26 At the Table
Asparagus is defined as a tall plant of the lily family with fine feathery foliage, cultivated for its edible shoots. It’s considered a delicacy. That works for us.
30 Down on Bear Creek
If you know somebody in paddle sports, it’s a good bet they’re as faithful to it as to their religion. Grab a paddle and get ready to join the congregation.
Music ....... 25 Puzzles ....... 33 Last Word ....... 34
editor note by Greg Girard
H
enry David Thoreau said, “Everyone must believe in something. I believe I’ll go canoeing.” I’m positive William McDuffie of Foothills Outdoors would have joined him. When I think of canoeing, I think of some of my favorite stories. Hawkeye, Uncas and Chingachgook rowing desperately across a sparkling lake in upstate New York in The Last of the Mohicans. Steven Nason and Cap Huff guiding Benedict Arnold up Maine’s Kennebec River during the American Revolution in Arundel. Lewis and Clark braving the Missouri, Yellowstone and Columbia Rivers on their journey across the continent. Last summer, my wife, Heather, and I took the kids west in our annual trek to the mountains. After several years living in Montana, I tend to yearn for a few days under natural skyscrapers, and the Blue Ridge Mountains are a fair replacement for the Rockies.
We stayed in Boone, in a hotel, foregoing our usual camping expedition, and took an afternoon to canoe on Price Lake, just east of Grandfather Mountain. After an hour or so on the lake, enjoying a brilliant blue sky, surviving a near plunge in the water while attempting a family selfie and battling a deceptively fierce wind, we started back to the dock and Jackson, my son, said, “We need to do this again.” It was a simple statement, but it had a deeper meaning, at least for his parents. William McDuffie’s enthusiasm about being on the water is contagious. While you could talk with him for hours about kayaking and canoeing up and down his favorite waterway (Bear Creek just outside Robbins), it takes him awhile to fully express his reasons for being there. But once he does, he echoes the same feelings I had on Price Lake that idealic summer day last year. Maybe Thoreau was onto something. www.SandandPineMag.com | 5
What’s on the Web ... Instagrammin’ it, baby We’ve been taken over…on Instagram, that is. Don’t worry, we have control right now, but every so often we hand over the reins to one of our partners in the community. Willie’s Lunch Box grabbed the helm first last fall and showed us the awesome live music venue and diverse musical acts playing right here in the Pines.
Picture Book Sylvester and the Magic Pebble Written and Illustrated by William Steig Sylvester and the Magic Pebble won the Caldecott Medal in 1970, yet William Steig’s illustrations and story still resonate today. Sylvester Duncan is a donkey who loves to collect pebbles. When he finds a magic one that grants wishes, he is excited to share his good fortune with his parents. A regrettable wish, however, delays him, but when he’s finally reunited with his family they realize they have all that they could ever wish for.
David Petsolt, director of the Reindeer Fun Run, took over the driver’s seat a week before race day to show our followers the crazy busy behind-thescenes action of one of the biggest races of the year. In January, realtor Nikki Bowman gave us a peek at the daily routine of helping people find their dream homes (and made us appreciate realtors and their hard work so much more). Who will be next? We won’t spoil the surprise. Follow us on Instagram and find out!
www.instagram.com/sandandpinemag facebook.com/sandandpinemag instagram.com/sandandpinemag pinterest.com/sandandpinemag sandandpinemag.tumblr.com
6 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
Preschool/Toddler Little Owl’s Day Written and Illustrated by Divya Srinivasan In Little Owl’s Day, curious Little Owl (whom you may be familiar with from Little Owl’s Night) is so enamored by all the sounds and sights when he wakes up early that he can’t possibly go back to sleep. Instead, he explores a new and exciting world that is so different than the one he is used to at night. Little Owl is delighted by all of the wonderful things he sees and hears, and young children will be just as thrilled.
Elementary Stone Fox by John Reynolds Gardiner A moving story of love and perseverance, Stone Fox tells the story of Little Willy who takes over the farm when his grandfather falls ill. After realizing the farm is in serious financial trouble, Willy’s solution is to enter the dogsled race with his dog Searchlight and use the prize money to pay the debt. With the legendary and undefeated Stone Fox in the race, Willy and Searchlight will have to race like never before. Loyal and determined, Willy inspires all those he encounters during his adventure, and he’ll inspire young readers too.
Good Reads by Darcy Connor
Middle School The Marvels by Brian Selznick Sometimes you have to stop and just be amazed at the talent of a story teller like Brian Selznick. His newest work of art, The Marvels, doesn’t disappoint. Split into two stories, the first told completely in illustrations and the second in prose, The Marvels weaves imagination and real life into a poignant story about compassion and hope. Adult I Am Pilgrim by Terry Hayes This thriller and first novel by screenwriter Terry Hayes starts with a murder of an unknown victim in New York but soon escalates into an international hunt for a lone wolf terrorist. The flawed hero, a retired CIA operative, must navigate international politics, his own demons and a new breed of terrorist bent on mass murder. OK, this might sound like one of a dozen novels on international espionage produced each year, but I Am Pilgrim stands above with its depth of plot. It grabs you and won’t let go. www.SandandPineMag.com | 7
Quicksand 119.5
The amount of seconds for the “perfect pour” of a Guinness. To do it right, pour the Guinness Draught into a glass tilted at 45 degrees, until it’s three-quarters full. Allow the surge to settle before filling the glass completely to the top. Artisanal shamrock etched in the creamy white head optional.
4,000 The age, in years, of the oldest known recipe for beer made by the Sumerians of Southern Mesopotamia.
10M
Number of Guinness sold per day around the world. Forty percent of all Guinness are sold in Africa. More Guinness is drunk in Nigeria than in Ireland.
93,000
Liters of beer that are claimed to be lost each year in facial hair in Great Britain.
67.5
Alcohol content percentage of the world’s strongest beer, produced by Banffshire’s Brewmeister Brewery in Scotland. Called Snake Venom, a bottle goes for about $75.
23
The average number, in gallons, of beer consumed by each American adult every year.
1,815
In dollars, the most expensive beer in the world. Australia’s Nail Brewing’s Antarctic Nail Ale used ice extracted from Antarctica, melted in Tasmania, and flown to Perth for brewing. Only 30 bottles were made and profits went to the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. The most expensive American beer is Sam Adam’s Utopias at $150 a bottle. It’s released every two years and aged in sherry, brandy, cognac, bourbon and scotch casks for up to 18 years. Utopias is banned in 13 states due to its high ABV. 8 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
BEER
APT APPS...
A Look Ahead
Last Pass It seems just about everything on the web requires a password. Too simple and you’ll be bombarded with stories about how dangerously you’re living. Too hard and forget about ever remembering it again. Yes, you could write all your passwords in a little notepad that you’ll probably misplace some day. Or you can get Last Pass, a password manager app that will securely keep your passwords safe and accessible. All you need is one strong master password and the rest can be forgotten (iPhone, Android).
Road trip! Here are some events worth checking out. For events with local flavor, check out our Facebook page, updated daily.
Weather Underground If you’re ready to move beyond the factory-installed weather app on your smart phone, consider Weather Underground as a worthy replacement. This app relies on a vast network of amateur weather stations for a highly accurate local forecast with detailed maps and severe weather alerts. There’s a ton of weather information to play with on this app to satisfy almost every level of weather geek out there (iPhone, Android).
MARCH 17-20
and other tech marvels
Criminal For fans of true crime, Criminal is a must for your podcast line up. As noted on its website, Criminal is “stories of people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle.” Each episode analyzes crime in the United States, taking the perspective of both police investigators, victims and those that perpetrate. As an added bonus, one of the creators and host of the show is Phoebe Judge, host of WUNC North Carolina Public Radio.
FEBRUARY 6 Krispy Kreme Challenge Raleigh | facebook.com/KrispyKremeChallenge
WHY: Five miles, 12 donuts and it all supports the North Carolina Children’s Hospital.
Taste of the Beach Outer Banks | OBXTasteoftheBeach.com
WHY: Four days of food on the beach. That’s four days people!
MARCH 26 Centennial on the Neuse Seven Springs | NCParks.gov
WHY: A ny chance to support our state parks is worth the trip.
QUOTABLES Here’s to a long life and a merry one. A quick death and an easy one. A pretty girl and an honest one. A cold pint — and another one!
- Irish toast
Valentine’s Day: Rubbing singles’ noses in their lack of a mate and the noses of couples in their lack of time.
- Emma McLaughlin
Nothing is as obnoxious as other people’s luck.
- F. Scott Fitzgerald www.SandandPineMag.com | 9
Quicksand QUICK TIP It’s Only Rain
Your initial reaction to that healthy downpour outside may deter you from tightening those laces and logging in your go-to 2-mile run. But if lightning isn’t splintering large oaks in your front yard and the only source of that distant rumbling is a Fort Bragg training exercise, don’t let a little water keep you inside. Here are a few tips to help you enjoy that rain run:
Sole searching.
Check the bottom of your shoes. Smooth soles will probably equal wiping out on slick surfaces or wet leaves and pine straw. Make sure your shoes have deep grooves that will allow water to run through them. If you’re partial to keeping your toes warm and dry, look to invest in shoes made of waterproof fabric.
Forget your time.
The rain is going to slow you down. Don’t worry about breaking your 5K personal best, as the wet environment can add as much as two minutes per mile to your time.
Element protection.
Try not to wear too many layers, as the extra clothes will weigh you down as they get wet. And think about wearing a baseball cap to keep the brunt of the rain shower out of your face.
FEBRUARY 13 MARDI GRAS MILES Southern Pines 5K, Run for the Beads | Active.com MARCH 5 RUMBA ON THE LUMBER Lumberton 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run | RobesonRoadrunners.com MARCH 12 SHAMROCK ’N’ ROLL ROAD RACE Whispering Pines 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run | ShamrocknRollRace.com APRIL 3 ALL-AMERICAN MARATHON Fayetteville Marathon, Half-Marathon, 5K | AllAmericanMarathon.com
It’s like thunder, lightning …. Lightning strikes the
United States 25 million times a year, according to the National Outdoor Atmospheric Administration. If thunderstorms are threatening, stay inside and remain indoors at least 30 minutes after hearing the last rumble of thunder. If you do get caught in a storm, try to find shelter as soon as possible. It’s better to keep running toward shelter than to stop (the so-called “lightning squat” or keeping low to the ground really doesn’t improve your odds). Avoid tall trees, elevated areas, bodies of water and anything else that could be a conduit for electricity (wire fences, power lines).
DID YOU
KNOW?
APRIL 16 RUN FOR THE RIBBONS Rockingham 5K, 1K | Active.com RUN THE ROCK Lillington 50K, 25K | RoamUltras.com
During World War II, Oscar Blackwelder, a professional prospector working near Robbins, discovered a vein of pitchblende, a mineral rich in uranium. The pitchblende Blackwelder subsequently mined provided the majority of the uranium used in the atomic bombs that were dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. For the full story, visit the Moore County Historical Association Facebook page.
10 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
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RENEWABLE ENERGY In 2008, the big news was green, green, everybody’s going green. Tax incentives were a
dime a dozen for both residential and corporate entities, and while systems weren’t inexpensive, the technology looked promising and the possibility for clean, affordable, and more importantly, nonMiddle Eastern-dependent energy seemed to be right around the corner. Fast forward eight years, and while climate change has finally been affirmed (yes, it does exists, people!) and solutions have been discussed, concrete plans to fix it haven’t found a firm foundation. Many of the renewable energy discussions held on a global level, like in Paris last December, are about holding large companies responsible for their carbon footprint and implementing big change, but the systems available to individuals (like affordable residential solar panels) and the corresponding financial benefits, haven’t trickled down to the average citizen. While the near future doesn’t look great for renewables, there is hope down the line. by AMANDA JAKL
12 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
Slow Growth “What we’re talking about when we look at Renewable energy is a small but growing industry changing energy policy to renewable energy policy is in Moore County. There are three solar farms and structural changes. We have a gas tax but we also have another three in the works. You would think that oil subsidies at the federal level. Does a multi-billion would offer direct benefits to all of us, but the energy dollar, multinational company with its own security produced is sold to the bigger energy companies, like forces need a subsidy in this day and age? No.” Duke Energy. Solar farms in North Carolina must The support instead should be for the companies work with the local energy companies rather than sell that most need it, she says. “You need a subsidy for directly to the consumer, which is referred to as third the small companies fueled by innovation, fueled by party solar. We can thank the laws and the energy entrepreneurs that are starting up that use new battery lobby for that, although state legislator John Szoka is technology and new solar panel design. That’s where working on a bill known as the Energy Freedom Act you need a subsidy. To get those to market and to help that would change the law. us with our energy crisis — and we do have an energy “Basically the people that you rent your solar crisis.” panels from become your utility,” explains Denise Bruce of Sustainable Sandhills. “Right now we are one Energy Management of four states where that concept is illegal, and [Szoka] Until there are legislative changes that help make has sponsored a bill, which is still in committee, to renewables affordable for both businesses and make it legal, so any homeowner or business can residents, the best advice for the average person is to participate.” effectively manage and reduce In addition, the state their energy usage. A good tax credit for businesses and place to start would be the RENEWABLE individuals using renewable one place that uses the most Renewable doesn’t mean sustainable. energy — your home. energies expired at the end of last year, which leaves only the Trees are a renewable resource, but You can thank a better federal incentive, reducing the educated public for improved feasibility of making renewable using them as a fuel source is not home energy saving options. energies a permanent solution. sustainable due to their decades Green builder Mark Stewart “For the commissioners, long maturity rate. It should be noted has seen demand increase the fear is that the [solar] for more options. “Over the that a variety of renewable energy farms will go away after the last five years what was ‘new options will have to be employed in incentives expire, just like the and now’ is now very much windmills that were built years order to maintain their sustainability. expected and commonplace,” ago because of the incentives,” he says. “Also, energy efficient says Debra Ensminger, director There is no panacea for the options that were more of planning and transportation energy crisis. expensive just a few years ago for Moore County. “Now you are now our ‘normal’ items go to those parts of the country and come standard with our and they’re just there, acres and custom homes.” acres of windmills that they’re Bruce suggests taking not using anymore. That’s the advantage of technology, fear here as well.” Although like smart meters that more those fears are largely unfounded, Ensminger adds effectively and precisely monitor energy usage. “[With that the county does have a decommissioning plan “to smart meters] homeowners actually have access to ensure the land will return back to its actual state of their usage data. Not only usage data, but there are agriculture.” certain programs you can enroll in that can show you Supporting renewables through incentives is one how much your air conditioner is using in the middle way to ensure their existence, and those incentives of the day. That kind of energy auditing is extremely are part of the bigger energy structure picture, says valuable.” Duke Energy has been implementing smart Hanah Ehrenreich, executive director of Sustainable meters across the region, mostly for high turnover Sandhills. Incorporating more renewable energy is energy users like apartments and high rises, but their about changing the current system, she says. timeline to introduce this technology for areas like Moore County is a bit murky. www.SandandPineMag.com | 13
Energy Conservation/Reduction Tips from Green Builder Mark Stewart 1. Stop phantom power loss. Unplug cell phone and computer chargers when not in use. 2. Change your HVAC filters every 30 days. Dirty filters make your unit work harder. 3. Switch out your incandescent light bulbs. LED bulbs are your best bet. 4. Turn down your hot water heater to 120 degrees. A few degrees can make a big difference. 5. Check for air leaks. Check weather stripping on all exterior doors and inspect the caulk around all doors and windows. 6. Turn off your TVs. Flat screen TVs are BIG energy users. 7. Use your ceiling fans. Using fans will make your home feel two degrees warmer in the winter and two degrees cooler in the summer, without touching your thermostat.
If you want to learn more about all the renewable energy projects going on across the state, consider attending the 2016 Sandhills Clean Energy Summit hosted by Sustainable Sandhills. Attendance is free with suggested donations of $5-$10. Keynote speaker is John Szoka, an avid proponent of third party solar.
2016 Sandhills Clean Energy Summit February 20, 11am-4pm New Century Elementary School 7465 Century Circle, Fayetteville
www.SustainableSandhills.org
14 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
While we all wait for technology to catch up in Moore County, Stewart suggests starting at your front door. “Check the air sealing around doors, windows and penetrations. Even if you have an energy efficient window, if the opening in which it is installed is not properly sealed, insulated and caulked, it defeats the whole purpose.” It’s not sexy, but it gets the job done. Ensuring that your home is the most energy efficient it can be may dramatically lower utility bills as well as reduce energy consumption while we all wait for better renewable alternatives.
MORE THAN SUN Solar and wind are probably the most popular but there are more renewable possibilities out there. With the diversity of this country’s landscapes, it will take a combination of these energies to replace our dependence on fossil fuels. Let’s look at all the options and the likelihood of them being used in Moore County. SOLAR “Harvesting” the suns rays to create energy, usually in the form of electricity. There are more than 700 solar farms across North Carolina and more are going up every day. Moore County alone has three farms with three more in the works. If the Energy Freedom Act passes, you may be able to buy your energy directly from these farms rather than going through Duke Energy. WIND Turbines create energy from, you guessed it, wind. Proposals for wind turbines on the coast were rejected recently because of the potential loss of tourism. With just 32 turbines in the entire state of North Carolina, and none in Moore County, wind just isn’t blowing up our skirts. BIOMASS Simply put, we’re talking plants; growing and using plants to create energy. Corn grown for ethanol has been around for decades. Biodiesel made from soybean oil is another example of biomass energy. This kind of energy makes up about half of all renewable energy used in the United States. That’s some serious energy. Ethanol is easily found in Moore County and there is one biodiesel station in Southern Pines. BIOGAS Biogas is the shit…literally. Seems like ethanol should be in this category, but alas, it’s not. Biogas is methane created by animal waste, which is then converted to electricity and heat. Ideally, large farms could be self-sustainable thanks to the miracle of digestion tracts. Moore County currently does not have farms using biogas, but because of the nature of our agricultural landscape the potential is ripe.
GEOTHERMAL Harnessing the hot water and steam under the Earth’s surface to create power. On a large scale, this kind of power hasn’t been explored, but on a smaller scale, most of us either have or know someone with a geothermal heat pump in their house. HYDROPOWER Moving water creates electricity. Hydropower is the largest source of renewable energy in the country. The dam at the old High Falls Cotton Mills here in Moore County produces hydroelectric power, but like the solar farms, the energy must be distributed and resold through traditional power companies. OFFSHORE WIND, WAVE AND TIDAL ENERGY Harnessing the ocean’s movements and wind. Currently there are no offshore wind projects in the United States, though underwater projects are in the works.
HANDY LINKS www.NCWarn.org Whether you’re an armchair activist or a take-to-the-streets protester, check out NC Warn. The nonprofit can help you figure out who to write, tweet, FB or email to help make a difference in the climate conflict. They’ll point you in the direction of online petitions that need your signature or events that need volunteers. www.dsireUSA.org Wondering what the current policy is about installing a solar powered water heater or if there are any state incentives if you do? Check out the DSIRE database. The site breaks down corporate and residential tax credits, policies and incentives by federal, state and even county. www.EnergyStar.gov If you’re in the market for a new household appliance, check the Energy Star website during your research. Find out how much that new refrigerator is going to cost you to run before you’re hit with a big bill. Fun fact: refrigerators can eat up almost 10 percent of your electric bill, so choose wisely.
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Stay. Play. Train. Groom.
Provide new smells and toys during winter. Don’t let your pup get bored. Boredom leads to destructive behaviors.
Socialize your new puppy at doggie day play. This ensures your new puppy learns good habits and social behavior cues. Behavior Center & Kennel Play and training programs supervised by Vrnda Bailey - Certified Dog Behavior Consultant
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Use foraging cubes and puzzles for your pup’s meal times. This keeps it interesting and helps expend mental energy.
I N T E R N AT I O N A L A S S O C I AT I O N O F A N I M A L B E H A V I O R C O N S U LTA N T S
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Heart Smart
Health!
Hopefully your sweetheart makes your heart flutter, which is a great way to keep your ticker healthy. Aside from, ahem, exercise with your partner, here are three other things that are good for your heart. Laughing. Not a polite chuckle, but a real guffaw. You know, the kind where you think you might pee your pants a little. Laughing relieves stress which damages the heart. Now you have an excuse for that Parks and Rec marathon. Eating chocolate. The dark stuff has the same flavonoids found in red wine that can head off heart disease. Cutting caffeine. Stimulants reduce the quality of sleep which can lead to weight gain and puts stress on your heart. Note the use of the word “cut” rather than “eliminate.”
Why Protein Gets You Pumped By Amy Bullman of Nutrishop of Southern Pines
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Shake, shake, shake your protein. Those protein shakes that seem to be everywhere right now aren’t a fad. They’re a tasty way to get an essential part of your daily diet. What’s so great about protein? Studies have shown protein can reduce stress and optimize the immune system. People who consume protein supplements report better moods and experience fewer symptoms of depression. Components of protein are necessary for the production of glutathione, a compound that increases your body’s ability to fight off illness. Of course, protein is beneficial for your exercise regimen. It’s true that if you are trying to add muscle mass, protein supplements are the standard “go to,” but there are many other benefits for adding protein powder to your daily plan. For starters, protein supplements improve your recovery from any exercise. Eating protein after a workout can help in repairing damaged tissue, reducing soreness and creating new muscle. Do you want to drop pounds as well as gain muscle? Protein powders can aid in weight loss and promote weight management. Because protein takes longer for your body to digest, drinking a low-carb, low-sugar protein shake increases your metabolism. Consuming protein has also been shown to significantly reduce the hormone ghrelin, which tells your brain you’re hungry. A good protein supplement is a cost-efficient, convenient, low-calorie way to feel satiated.
16 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
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www.SandandPineMag.com | 17
IN
ST O
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q
Y
YA
NT
CT BIRD
UR
PLA
TRA
O
G
TO
AT
Garden
Variety BY MAST E R GA RDE NE R DOLORE S MU L L E R
18 18 || SAND& SAND& PINE PINE MAGAZINE MAGAZINE February/March February/March 2016 2016
The silence of winter is broken by the chattering of birds when spring arrives. The need to start the cycle of life begins again with various species calling out to attract a mate and defend territory. Birds need four things, most important of which is water. A birdbath or small pond will attract many birds. A habitat to hide, a place to raise their young and a source of food are the other three requirements. The best way to attract birds to your yard is to research what specific birds like to eat, where they like to nest and what plants will attract the greatest variety of species in your area. Some birds like to nest high up, others low to the ground, so providing varying plant heights is important. Plant evergreens for cover and deciduous varieties, too. Flowering trees, shrubs, perennials and annuals attract birds with their seed production, fruits and flower nectar.
Tip #1
Did you know seven states call the Cardinal their state bird?
The sound of gurgling water is very attractive to birds.
Tip #2
The seven states are
Augment the natural food with birdseed. Black oiled sunflower seed is attractive to the greatest variety of birds.
Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia.
"Bird watching is a hobby of mine and I am always planting with birds in mind. Providing for their needs can make your yard a bird
Tip #3
sanctuary and provide hours
Prepare soil for spring planting: till, add top soil, compost and organic matter. Apply 0-0-22 fertilizer for good root growth.
of bird watching enjoyment."
- Dolores Muller
Dolores’ Top Ten Here are 10 of my favorites plants that can provide food and/or shelter to birds in our area. 1. American Holly (Ilex opaca)
6. Dogwood (Cornus florida)
2. Wax Myrtle (Myrica cerifera)
7. Serviceberry (Amelanchier laevis)
3. “Fosteri” Holly (Ilex x attenuata “fosteri”) 4. Firethorn (Pyrancantha spp.) 5. Butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii)
8. Blue Anise Sage (Salvia guaranitica) 9. N ellie Stevens Holly (Ilex x “Nellie R. Stevens”) 10. W interberry Holly (Ilex deciduas, Ilex verticality)
/NCMGMooreCnty www.SandandPineMag.com | 19
P A R T
A
L I F E
O N E of a T W O
P A R T
O F
S E R I E S
M Y
O W N
BY GREG GIRARD
L
ife is often divided into chapters. Sometimes you can pinpoint the moment or day when your life changes. Other times it’s more of a gradual change until one day you realize your life is very different from what it used to be. Saif Ataya can attest to a life filled with chapters. In some form or another, Saif has been a son, brother, student, soldier, officer, rebel, refugee, prisoner, business owner, writer, teacher, diplomat, candidate, husband and father. In this part one of a two part interview with Saif, we talk about his childhood in Iraq under Saddam Hussein and his family’s treatment by the dictator, his career in the military and his rebellion and flight from the country he loved. Saif Ataya was 2 when Saddam Hussein took over the Ba’ath Party in 1968. Hussein, and his Ba’ath loyalists, who were mostly Sunni Arabs and made up just 1/5 of the population of Iraq, would rule the country with a despotic iron fist for more than three decades. For Saif, a Shia Arab living in the south of Baghdad with his mother, father and 11 siblings, their lives were not their own. The Sunni-Shia conflict is centuries old. The schism stems from the first century and to summarize a complex issue in simple terms, after the death of the prophet Mohammed, two factions emerged and disagreed on the leadership and direction of Islam. The two sects, Shias, which means “partisans of Ali,” believe that Ali ibn Abi Talib, Mohammed’s cousin and son-in-law, and his descendants are part of a divine order, and Sunnis, meaning followers of the “way,” or Mohammed, are opposed to political succession based on Mohammed’s bloodline. Iran is the predominant country for Shias; Saudi Arabia for Sunnis, specifically Wahhabi Sunnis. Of the 1.6 billion Muslims worldwide, 85 percent are Sunni.
A big family … Yes, 12 kids. Eight girls and four boys living in a three bedroom, two bath house. Can you imagine? All the boys in one room. All the girls in another room. Parents in the other room. We live south of Baghdad. The area is more Shia area. 20 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
A middle-class family. My father was a realtor, selling houses. He was the only realtor in town, so he used to make a good living. What was life like under Saddam? Look, the Shia have always been suppressed. That’s fact. There is conflict between Sunni and Shia for a long time. And I always explain that. It’s not because Americans went to Iraq that Shia and Sunni started. It’s not. It’s been 1,400 years, you know, but it was covered up with dictator force. I have two uncles killed by Saddam regime. I have three sisters killed. My mother. My brother. Killed. How did that impact you growing up? After the killing of my older brother by the Saddam regime, then my mind started changing. I started thinking I like western life. As a teenager, I want to have more open thinking. Remember also that Iraq was involved in the Iran-Iraq War at the time, in the 80s. The Iran-Iraq War, which Saddam Hussein instigated in September 1980, lasted eight years. It’s estimated at least half a million troops were killed on both sides (some estimates double that figure), with another half million permanently disabled, and more than 400 billon dollars in damage. The war ended in July 1988, with no real gains for either side.
Did your parents encourage more liberal thinking? Were they more open? Yes, they were more open, but when I put western music on it was a little too much for them. It was teenage rebellion. Nice rebellion. Not like rebellion into bad things, but rebellion into open mind. I want to break the tradition kind of rebellion, but very respectful. Look, after my two uncles were killed and my oldest brother, without court because they accuse him of belonging to a different political party, they took the house from us. And we were forced to move to Mosul. So they take the house, they
sold it and we moved. So actually I finished my last year of high school in Mosul. Then I went to Mosul University. What was that like, being forced to move north? A disaster. Different town, different city. It’s like you bringing someone from Alabama, small town, to New York. We felt lost there. Culture shock... Yeah, culture shock. People might say well it’s still Iraq, but just like the United States, from area to area it’s different. Mosul is a big city, it’s Sunni area too, so that’s the culture shock. Different culture, different accent. Was your family being oppressed or watched? Yes, of course they were being watched. My father had to go every other week to the police station to sign a paper to make sure he’s still there. Every week or so someone from the Ba’ath party come to the house to check. We didn’t do anything. We were a regular family but because my two uncles were into different stuff, it was just because of that. So we struggled, my father struggled a lot. They order us to live in Mosul for at least three years. Basically a deportation. So when my family finished the three years, they went back to where I’m from. And I stayed in Mosul and went to university. Saif was one of two students in his class accepted to college. He wanted to study law but his acceptance to the university was for geography and history.
I didn’t apply for that. I was never into that. And when I went to complain, they said you either like it or you go to the war. So I said, no, I like it. I have to go. It’s good. So you’re finishing college and the Iran-Iraq War is still going… I finished college in 1987. The war is still going. Now I have two majors: history and geography. And I have two minors:
philosophy and psychology. So when I finished in ’87, I went to serve the country because it’s an obligation to serve the army. It’s not voluntary. You’re obligated to serve the flag, as we call it. I went to the officer’s academy for six months and graduated as a second lieutenant. Reluctant to be in the army considering how your family was being treated by the government? I had no problem serving the country, to be honest. But then again, when I graduated from the university, I was one of the first in the class, top student. And for the top student, they do have the right by the university to finish their master’s and PhD. When I went to submit my paper for the master’s program, they said you’re going to be in hold. I said why. They said because the seat already is taken. And all the seats were taken by students from Saddam’s town area, El-Tikrit. That’s another reason to make me burn inside, you know. First, the killing of my family, then the deportation to different city, then I didn’t go to law school like I wanted, then when I graduate, my hope to be professor at the university changes. I delayed going to war, not because I was afraid of war, but I didn’t believe in the war. Saddam started it. When you start something you must take the risk for it, so why should I be obligated to kill myself for something I don’t believe in. So you’re torn. There’s a love of your country and proud of being an Iraqi... That’s right. Absolutely. But then the oppression you’re dealing with from the leadership of your country has you being torn. Exactly. Inside you’re being torn. And the thing is, you cannot tell anyone. I cannot trust friends. I cannot trust my brother. That’s how we became. You cannot trust neighbor. You cannot trust anyone. It’s just like you hold it inside because you don’t know. Saddam had very good intelligence. AJ
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At the officer’s academy, Saif studied to be an instructor with the plan of remaining at the academy to train new recruits. Yet when assignments were announced, his name was on the list to go to the front.
So what happened? I went. I grabbed my gear and went to the front. I served more than a year. It was a disaster, too. It’s like you see hell, the front. And then you have a death squad in the back. If you run away, escape or go without permission, they’ll kill you right there. You don’t have supplies. No food or water. There is a lake. You drink water from the lake and you see dead bodies in the lake. When I finished a year, I had the right to submit another application for higher education. So I submitted another application, University of Baghdad, and took the test. But when the list was posted, I was not on the list again. So, you accept your fate. I said, I’m not going to submit again. I give up that. That’s it, I’m done. At that point, there was really no choice? Your life is not your own… Yes, because otherwise if I don’t go back, they come to your family. They arrest your family. That’s how the system works. You see a soldier fighting in the front. It’s not their choice but they know they’ll go to their family if they don’t. They basically hold you hostage by holding your family hostage... Exactly. We have love for our family. It’s not like you are an individual when you do something wrong and just you will be charged for it. You do something wrong, the whole family did something wrong. I went back a few months and then the war was over. Thank God, I was still alive. No injury. I initially signed for a year and a half, but three years later, I was still in the military. They don’t want to let us go. Then, in 1990, we enter Kuwait. Our unit received an order to go to Kuwait. But I didn’t go. I went home. I deserted. Saif wasn’t alone.Thousands of Iraqi military personnel deserted. They had had enough of Saddam’s wars. Saif let his men decide. If they wanted to go home, he gave them permission or “leave.” He forged his commanding officer’s name for his own leave document. The soldiers then scattered, going to different cities and towns.
Why did you desert? What was the final breaking point? I said I’m serving my country. I’m not serving a dictator. He just finished with the Iran, now he turns to Kuwait. Tomorrow he’s going to go to Saudi or Jordan. You just never know. He’s just a crazy, mentally sadistic guy. He’s just looking to be a hero, his ego, you know. Like the Arab Hero. The Hamurabi of the Babalonians, you know. That’s what we used to hear. So that’s the reason I said I’m not going to go and do that. 22 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
Saif went home, but under the guise that he was there by permission. Iraqi soldiers at the time were allowed one week home for every month and a half of service. So Saif would spend time with his family for a week then would go hide at a friend’s farm house pretending to be returning to the front. It was the same fear. There was a Ba’ath party agent on every block asking about the men of the family. Where were they? What were they talking about? If they get caught, it’s not only the soldier that will suffer. Their entire family will suffer. This went on for six months. Then in February 1991, the U.S., after several attempts to persuade Hussein to leave Kuwait, attacked with ground troops in Operation Desert Storm. The liberation of Kuwait took just 100 days and as Hussein’s troops fled the region, some returning home, those in hiding began talking and plotting about revolution.
We start an underground movement. All the military guys who deserted, escaped, young people that don’t want to go to war, we start talking at night time and meeting to make uprising. We start collecting weapons and guns. It was like a popular movement though. Unorganized. In my town, every block Saddam put one tank or armored vehicle with four or five soldiers because they sensed something was going to happen. We thought, what are we going to do? We can’t defeat this army with tanks and armor. How will a pistol or AK-47 fight that? So we decided to use false propaganda. We go to every tank and we talk to them like, ‘Hey how are you? You want water, you want tea, you want coffee?’ We treated the soldiers very good at the checkpoints. And they are sick and tired to stay there. And we sense they have fear also, because they’re thinking, if this uprising happens, what is going to happen to us? I used to go there and I tell them, you know I hear that the uprising is going to be tomorrow. I hear they are coming. I hear they are here. I hear in another two hours. I hear this – more psychological war. Next thing you find out, you come to the armored vehicle, nobody there. And the next one, the same. Next one, the same. We start taking their armor. So there was not really a fight. There was fight at police station, big fight. But the army just wanted to get out. And most of the army was from the Shia area too, while their command were Sunni, from Ramada, Mosul, Tikrit.
So that was the tactic and it worked very well for us. And we enjoyed our freedom for a few months. That’s the best time of our life. You feel like big rock, big stone in your chest and it’s gone now. So for those couple months, with that sense of freedom, that sense of destiny, was there talk about what to do next? Was there talk about elections? I’m glad you asked, because that’s the point. Yes, we enjoyed the air of freedom. We breathed it. You don’t feel someone with a stick on top of you anymore. You feel, if I want to go to coffee shop, I want to sit three hours, there’s no agent, no one will report you. That’s the feeling. Because here, people take it for granted. The freedom. I love to talk to teenagers, to schools to explain what they have — you should appreciate it. You should go to your knees and say thanks for this country. Thanks for this Constitution. I struggled to reach this point. I struggled to get what you guys have. I sense it. I feel it every single day. That’s the difference between someone born here. Before [in Iraq], if you go to coffee shop, they’re going to report you and say he stayed there and you met A, you met B, you know. If you laugh, they ask is something going on. Or if you whisper to each other, that’s in the report. And they call you, why did you whisper at this time to each other? Why don’t you let anyone else hear? They question you. That’s how we used to live. That’s how you sense when we say we feel the freedom. You can walk around and everyone is happy. People start making food in the street. Really, rice and stew and just free to the people. But when you ask, what next? We don’t know what next because we don’t have organized leadership. It’s a popular uprising. Nobody knows what next. It was a time of elation and confusion for large areas of Iraq. There was talk from some about an Islamic state (not like the ISIS of today), some talked communism and some talked democracy, like Saif. But nothing was organized; much of the region was still in shock at the success of the movement. But the hopes for a better Iraq were short-lived. Hussein, realizing his hold on the country was teetering on the edge, responded by sending his Republican Guard, the elite Iraqi military force loyal to the Ba’ath party, to the rebellious areas. He also threatened to use chemical and biological weapons on the rebels, something he tragically did with the Halabja chemical attack that killed thousands of Kurds in the north. To save their towns and families, the rebels fled.
At this point, what is the U.S. involvement? The U.S. were not involved, and that was the downfall of our thought. Because we remember George Bush the first, he has a speech and I tell the guys he encouraged us to up rise because he said, Iraq you are free, if you rise up we will be with you, something like that. So we take it as a green light for us but we never see any help. It kind of a disappointment.
And we were really like a free army. We don’t have an agenda. Just democracy, freedom, just thinking of liberty, freedom of speech, all of these things. No agenda, no political party. That’s the truth. But we had to run away. We ran away for a good cause, for the people. They used the same tactic of threatening your families, this time with chemical weapons… Exactly. Same thing. So when I say that we fled, it was a group of like 100 people, then there was another group of 150 people, then another group. Saif says some groups looked toward Iran to escape, others to Kuwait, but Saif decided to head west, across the desert toward Saudi Arabia, where he knew there were still Americans. He was running toward democracy.
I came up with the idea to escape toward Saudi Arabia. They say why, I say because there is American unit on the border of Saudi and Iraq, so hopefully we’ll reach that point. Those are the people who call for democracy, for freedom, and that’s what I know about America at the time. Not the easiest route through the desert, I would imagine… It was the harder, most challenging journey. They say Kuwait, we know where it is. Iran is very close. How are we going to cross that desert? That’s a good question. I tell them, look, I studied geography, I know astronomy and I will follow the stars. So we used no GPS, no compass, nothing. I used the stars. So I led them west. How long did it take? Twenty-one days walking because we didn’t walk straight. We would walk, then we see military or border control, so you have to hide. Daytime we hide and night time we walked. It was winter. February of 1991. Cold. So cold. Here is a story I told my wife and kids, but if I tell other people they will never believe me. I have my shirt, sweater, pants and weapons. No jacket. One day, I don’t know what you call it, miracle, non-miracle, whatever you want to call it but it happened. It happened, really. I was sleeping and it was freezing cold. The desert is colder than the city because it’s open. So we stopped before the morning, about 4:30, 5:00 we get to the point that we’re going to stop to hide. Still dark. So I slept. I don’t know, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 20, I don’t know. I close my eyes but I was cold. Somebody wake me up and give me a jacket. I grab the jacket and wear it and go to sleep again without thinking. Warm, nice. When I wake up, we’re about 90 people and I say guys, whose jacket is this? Whose jacket is this? Somebody gave me this jacket. Not mine. No one claimed their jacket.
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So sometimes I think maybe one of the guys, he was too They check us. They take all the weapons. Everything nice, but too nice in that situation with that cold weather. is gone. And they put us in a place and they guard us. They No, not going to work. I never figured it out. It was freezing, treat us very well. Medic. They have food and water. They so if you have jacket, you’re not giving it away. It’s something provide tent for us. They give us some clothes. Almost no FEATURED ARTIST TOUR DATES to protect you. I don’t want to call it an angel. I don’t want to interrogation. Very light. Where are you coming from? Why call it spiritual or religious, but it happened to me. Somebody are you here? Very basic questions, you know. wake me up, give me jacket, next day, third day, fourth day, A week later that’s when the disaster happens. A week whole journey, I have the jacket. later they hand us to the Saudi Army. And we tell them, no, we came for you. We need your support to go back and fight Food, water? the Republican Guard. We need your assistance. It wasn’t No food. We would have some rain, so we would collect it our mind to escape. The purpose was to get the Americans to quickly. We put it in empty bottles we found from Americans support us. That was the purpose. Never crossed our mind to that left them behind. So we collect them and we fill them escape and go somewhere else or be a refugee. No. We need with rain water. And I find a bag of Kool Aid. So we used to to go back. We were insistent to go back. share that Kool Aid every day. I go around and everyone give But, the Americans say, you’re in Saudi land, we need to me his hand and I put little bit in that hand and they just lick give you over. it. That’s the food for 21 days. We don’t want that though. We were screaming, we don’t Two of us died on the road and we buried them, I don’t want that! We don’t want that! But we were handed over and know where. Could be from the dehydration and cold. Saudis put us in POW camp. I stayed there, in that camp, for My feet were bleeding, so I threw my shoes away because I one year and a half. couldn’t handle my shoes no more. And when you finally reached the border? The American unit sees us and we see they point their guns at us. They don’t know. They just see 90 guys come out of the desert with weapons. They thinking, come on. What is this people? So we have a flag, white flag. But what white flag? Well, our underwear and our underwear is not white anymore (laughs). I say, this is not white anymore, looks black. So that’s what we had. And the Americans say, face on the ground, don’t move.
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In part two of our interview with Saif, we’ll experience his struggles as a prisoner in a Saudi internment camp, his asylum and life in the U.S. and his return to Iraq as a liberator during Operation Iraqi Freedom.
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Mix Tape BY ANTHONY PARKS
T
here are only a few left; the places I remember from dancing in the aisles, and numerous blues legends have graced childhood that defined this area. The number may be the theater’s annual Blues Crawl fundraiser. less but it’s as if the ones that do remain have become Last summer the theater worked with the town and more meaningful and potent in their character over the years. brought a swarm of dancers out to see The Embers and That’s what makes a place special, actually, how it relates The Band of Oz. Finally, if you have not heard of The Avett to time and change. One sweet old building in downtown Brothers, look them up, they just sold out the Greensboro Southern Pines is a shining Coliseum last month, and a few years example of just such a place, The back they sold out The Sunrise. Over the years, The Sunrise Theater has hosted some amazing musical talent. Here are a few selections of songs Sunrise Theater. Another fundraiser that gives that were performed in our historic little You can’t miss it. Along with as much as it receives is First 360-seat theater. being one of the most visible and Friday. While bringing in much The Avett Brothers At The Beach recognizable historic buildings needed revenue to keep the door The Revivalists Upright in town, it has functioned for to the theater open, it provides the Anders Osborn Meet Me in New Mexico decades as the town’s social and community with a free concert from The Steelidrivers Angel of the Night cultural heart. When I returned touring acts that would usually be Desert Noises Wings of White to the pines years ago I already an hour or two and a big ticket price The David Mayfield Parade Breath of Love had fond memories of seeing away. The London Souls Steady movies and live theater at The Grammy winning artist like Doc Watson Tennessee Stud Richie Havens Handsome Johnny Sunrise, but it was wasn’t until Anders Osborn, Corey Harris, and Donna the Buffalo Seems to want to hurt I volunteered there that I truly Yonrico Scott have played the green this time (live version) understood its magic. Not only is space on Broad St. Bands that tour Larkin Poe Love or Money this place a nonprofit, it’s run by the world such as The Revivalists, Sean Hayes Angel volunteers. I was amazed by what Delta Saints, The SteelDrivers, Sister Eric Lindell This Love is Gonna Last so many different selfless minds Sparrow and the Dirty Birds, and Dangermuffin Fuego and hands could create, especially Larkin Poe have all stopped at The The Everybodyfields Magazines when the result was live music. Sunrise Theater on their tours, often Chatham County Line Tightrope of Love The theater was transformed sandwiched between appearances Sister Sparrow and the Dirty Birds Borderline from hardware store to movie on Dave Letterman and a set at the The Avett Brothers Ballad of Love and Hate house in 1940. In the 1980s, Bonnaroo Music Festival. George Winston Thanksgiving The Sunrise saw more theater First Friday will be 10 years old performances and variety shows, this year, so stay tuned for another but it wasn’t until recently that many felt the theater was line up of great music. Don’t forget that there are only 360 under-used as a concert space. The Sunrise is open seven days seats available for the April 1 concert from The Hillbenders. a week with either a movie, live HD Opera stream or live This group grabbed serious attention at the International theater production, so when choosing live music to wiggle Bluegrass Awards this year when they performed The Who’s into that full schedule, you must go big and make it count. “Tommy,” and you can see it here in your own front yard. This has led to a series of wonderful artists and bands parking I’m glad that the phrase “too many to count” now their tour buses in our little town to perform. comes to mind when thinking about great concerts at The Going back a few years, there was Richie Havens. You Sunrise. Our community is so fortunate to have access to real know, from Woodstock. Another remarkable evening was with history, as it is being preserved in the building and on the bluegrass legend Doc Watson and David Holt playing to a stage. If you live where the longleaf pines grow you should sold out crowd just before he passed away. Pure Prairie League, make experiencing all of the following a priority: A walk in The Kruger Brothers and The Kingston Trio were all of world Weymouth Woods, a round of golf at Pinehurst, a visit to wide fame when they each filled our little 360-seat theater Seagrove Potter, an afternoon at the Stoneybrook Steeplechase with music. A piano sat center stage in front of Grammy and a concert at The Sunrise Theater. OK, there are quite a winner George Winston just because someone put in the few other things that should also be on the locals’ to-do lists, effort to make it so. Festival veterans Donna The Buffalo and but you get the idea. See you at The Sunrise! Southern Culture on the Skids got people standing up and
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At the
Asparagus Table
26 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
Ahhhh, Asparagus,
the little trees in the forest of vegetables. The succulent spears hitting the farmers market officially declares spring sprung. Available in three varieties — green, white and purple — asparagus is a versatile side dish; roast it, fry it, bake it, sauté it — it’s tasty in every form. While it’s probably known best for making your pee smell funky, asparagus is chock full of vitamins and minerals that studies have shown may help fight cancer, cognitive decline and high blood pressure. As an added benefit, recent research suggests that the green spears could take the bite out of a hangover AND protect your liver from alcohol toxins. Asparagus beefs up the body’s levels of enzymes that break down alcohol, which means less head pounding the morning after.
vitamin K
(helps blood to clot)
folate copper selenium
(good for your thyroid)
vitamin B2 vitamin C vitamin E dietary fiber manganese
(helps form bones)
phosphorus
(protects teeth)
niacin potassium choline vitamin A zinc
(helps heal wounds)
iron vitamin B6 pantothenic acid
“Olive oil ... asparagus ... if your mother wasn’t so fancy, we could shop at the gas station like normal people.”
- Homer Simpson
10 Ways To Enjoy Asparagus 1. Add raw spears to your crudité platter 2. Roast it with lemon, garlic and parmesan 3. Saute it with mushrooms u 4. Wrap it in prosciutto and fry it until crispy 5. Line it on puff pastry for a simple tart 6. Cream of asparagus soup *see our simple recipe 7. Throw it in risotto 8. Quiche it! Or if that’s too French for you, make a frittata! 9. Coat spears in bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese and bake until crispy for asparagus fries 10. Pickle it and throw it in a Bloody Mary, then go watch an episode of Portlandia *See our Bloody Mary recipe
Check out our Pinterest board with a slew of Asparagus recipes to try.
pinterest.com/sandandpinemag www.SandandPineMag.com | 27
At the
Table
Cream of Asparagus Soup
1 pound fresh asparagus 1 small onion, chopped 12 ounces chicken broth 2 cups milk Salt and pepper to taste
Directions Wash asparagus, cut in pieces. In soup pot, saute onion until transluscent, then add asparagus, salt, pepper and broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes. Let cool slightly, then place in blender and process until smooth. Gradually add cup of milk. Return to soup pot and add remaining milk. Heat and serve.
Drinks On Us!
What better excuse to include a Bloody Mary recipe than the fact that pickled asparagus is a perfect garnish for one.
Carl’s Classic Bloody Mary Mix Submitted by Karen Caulfield, owner of MooreEats.com, a blog highlighting local eateries.
for Your
This recipe is a blast from the past. My parents used to make this for brunches and Sunday afternoons. If it is made according to the recipe, it has a good bit of heat. 46 ounces tomato juice 14 ounces ketchup 750 ml Collins Mix 1 tablespoon salt 2 tablespoons pepper* 1 tablespoon Tabasco sauce* 10 ounces Worcestershire sauce 1 cup red wine vinegar 5 tablespoons horseradish* *Can all be reduced to adjust the heat
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher. Take a tall Collins glass and fill with 1 oz. of vodka and ice. Top off with Bloody Mary Mix. Garnish with a lemon slice and celery stalk. Refrigerate any leftover mix.
Cocktail
when you want more than celery and lemon slices!
• We’ve mentioned pickled asparagus, right? • Olives, cheese or jalapeno stuffed • Pickles, kosher dill spears are fab • Pickled anything – try okra, peppers, cauliflower • Cucumbers • Artichoke hearts • Onions • Bacon • Shrimp • Cheese • Mushrooms • Beef jerky
28 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
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www.SandandPineMag.com | 29
If
Down on
Bear Creek Paddling the Sandhills BY GREG GIRARD Photography by Amanda Jakl
30 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
you’ve never met a paddle sport enthusiast, I recommend taking 211 from the circle, driving about 12 miles through Seven Lakes and some of Moore County’s sweeping farmland, taking a right onto 705 North and driving another 12 miles, give or take, until you find yourself in Robbins. Slow down, or you might just miss it, and be on the lookout for Carolina Fried Chicken (it will be on your left). At the stoplight, take a slight left and continue on 705 North until you get to a bridge. That’s your destination: the Dalton Cheek Canoe Access. More often than not, that’s where you’ll find William McDuffie. He’ll either be on the water or mowing the lawn or cleaning up the creek bank or introducing yet another person to paddle sports. “My goal is nobody will ever come out of the town of Robbins and not know how to paddle a canoe or kayak,” William says, without a hint of jesting. William, along with his wife Lynne, has been the leading force behind Foothills Outdoors, a non-profit organization founded in 2006 to promote outdoor recreation in the Robbins area. His appointment was a natural fit. “I live about 150 feet from where I grew up. So I’ve moved away,” William says with a laugh. “Not everybody does, but I love Robbins. I grew up on Bear Creek. Nobody loves Bear Creek more than I do. There may be somebody that loves it as much, but you can’t love it more.”
I dare anybody to prove him wrong. William has been Nearly a decade since its founding, the Bear Creek Race paddling ever since his parents bought him his first canoe at Series has blossomed to seven main races, with up to 100 14. He went away, briefly, to school at North Carolina State competitors at some events. One of the main events, the to study veterinary medicine, got his degree, met Lynne, a Bearathlon in April, consists of a one-mile run, one-mile fellow-veterinarian, and moved back home. And ever since, if paddle and some kind of goofy test in between, from diapering he’s not caring for animals at Carthage Veterinary Hospital or a baby doll to rolling a ball toward a cup with only your face. traveling around the country with Lynne and their daughter, “Foothills Outdoor’s slogan is ‘Giving Everyone a Place to River, competing in canoe and kayak competitions, he’s at Play.’ We want to keep the small town feel,” explains William. Bear Creek preparing for one of the many Bear Creek Race “As head of the non-profit, we get to do what we want to do. I Series events or just out on the creek, enjoying the sanctuary can change stuff without having to talk to a bunch of people. that has been his passion for decades. If we say the cut off is 8-years-old but you want to register “It’s my favorite place to paddle,” he says. “It’s three miles your 7-year-old daughter, I’m going to say, ‘Yeah, she can do from my house and it’s different every day we go out there. it.’ Now there are certain standards with our insurance and You’ll see beaver, river otter— the wildlife is incredible out with safety, but we can be flexible.” there. It’s just a nice, fun paddle.” The more you talk to William and Lynne the more you begin to realize paddle sports are not just a hobby for them. It’s an obsession. In fact, they readily admit it borders on a religion. “My sister calls it a cult,” William says with a smile. “I read an article once, I wish I could find it, it described paddle sports as religion because in a religion you have something that makes your life better and you want everybody else to have it and you’ll do anything to get somebody else into it. It’s the same thing with paddle sports. Whatever you do, whether it’s fishing, flat water, white water— it’s this feeling that this has changed my life.” Along with co-founders Cynthia Reeves and Mark Garner, William and Lynne didn’t really know where Foothills Outdoors would take them. From left, Lynne, William and River McDuffie It was enough for them to encourage outdoor activities around Robbins and maybe throw in a As Foothills Outdoors has grown, they’ve added more canoe race or two throughout the year. It was more about opportunities to enjoy Robbins outdoors, like the 5-mile being available to anyone with a glimpse of interest or Bear Creek trail. They’re also planning a Bear Creek disc golf curiosity in paddle sports around Robbins. And ever since course, which is in the early stages of development. “We are their first event in 2006, when six boats totaled the entire about half way to our fundraising goal of $5,000,” William field, the message of inclusiveness has remained the focus. says. “This will establish a nine-hole course and cover costs Canoes and kayaks are available at no charge for the events, for the first year. Our ultimate goal is an 18-hole course. I’m if needed, and entry fees are beyond reasonable (around $10optimistic that we will have the course ready for play by this $15, and for those 18 and younger, it’s free). spring.” A donation of $500 comes with naming rights to a “I’m very serious about the non-profit part of nonhole on the course. profit,” says William. In fact, one time they decided to charge The question, though, is why? What is it about paddling teenagers a fee. “He was going around handing teenagers $5 that keeps the congregation so faithful? so they would sign up,” says Lynne. “Yeah, so I said, ‘That’s “When my dad died this past May and I had to get it,’” adds William. “We’ll go back to nothing. I’m handing 10 somewhere peaceful, I went down to the creek,” explains teenagers $5 for the event and seven are showing up!” William. “It was nice to just be there. There is something
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about moving water. It helps you to remember the good and it helps you to forget the bad. I have always liked to go and stand by the water. I guess paddling gets you even closer. You become part of the water for awhile. “I’ve spent countless hours in a canoe with good friends, family, my wife and now my daughter. It’s the one place we go that we always talk. There’s no TV, no cell phone and no interruptions. There is no where I would rather be. I know that one day I’ll go out on the water for the last time. I probably won’t know when that is and that’s why every time is so special.”
Auto Insurance Made In North Carolina Insurance isn’t meant to be mass produced, packed up, and shipped out across state lines. With North Carolina Farm Bureau Insurance*®, you get bonafide, grade-A, homegrown auto coverage with great discounts from local agents you can trust. Auto insurance is not just a product; it’s a service. And the only way to get the best service is to get it locally. Because helping you is what we do best.
910-947-2295
For a complete paddle trail guide and access points to Bear Creek and the Bear Creek trail, visit our website or contact William McDuffie at wlrmcduffie@gmail.com. Donations made to Foothills Outdoors can be mailed to PO Box 423 Robbins, NC 27325. Foothills Outdoors is a 501(c)(3) organization and all donations are tax-deductible.
Equipment “You can go to Walmart and buy a $200 kayak or spend $4,000 on a new carbon fiber racing canoe. You can get into paddle sports at any level.” - William McDuffie Safety • Being safe on the water always starts with wearing your lifejacket (PFD). • Never go boating while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. • Avoid paddling alone. If you must, always leave a trip plan with someone. • Know your skill level and avoid weather or water conditions that exceed your skill. • Dress appropriately when paddling in cold weather. Hypothermia can be deadly. • Constantly scan for potential hazards and changing weather conditions. • Avoid having loose rope in or dangling from your boat. They can rapidly become entrapment hazards. • Designate a “sweep” boat to bring up the rear and make sure you don’t lose stragglers. • Watch for down limbs and trees, which are entrapment risks. • Be extremely cautious when approaching dams. Do not be tempted to run any dam. • Always be prepared for the unexpected flip.
www.ncfbins.com
Jason C. Burgin
LUTCF Agency Manager jason.burgin@ncfbins.com
Real service. Real people.
2016
BEAR CREEK RACE SERIES
NCAUPR41979 *North Carolina Farm Bureau® Mutual Insurance Co. *Farm Bureau® Insurance of North Carolina, Inc. *Southern Farm Bureau® Life Insurance Co. *An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association
March 5 Charles E. Paddle Challenge 4-mile recreational canoe and kayak race
(date to be determined)
5K run
32 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
May 14 Chalk Banks Challenge Canoe and kayak race on the Lumber River 10 mile, 20 mile
March 19 Dam to Town Canoe and Kayak Race 1.25-mile down creek sprint through “Gunworks August 4 Rapid” Farmer’s Day 5K Spring Race
Auto • Home • Health • Life
April 23 Adventure Bearathlon and Robbins Duck Race
October 15 Bear Creek Pumpkin Run 5K, 10K trail runs
SP
Puzzles
A Pot o’ Gold
DIFFICULT
Place numbers into the grid so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains each of the digits 1 to 9. No guessing is needed. EASY
Across 1. Slender 5 Appropriate 8. Improvised bed 12. Wallaroo 13. 7 th letter of the Greek alphabet 14. Mountain range 15. Metal fastener 16. Doctrine 17. Not difficult 18. Consumers 20. Repairs 22. Become firm 23. Vase 24. Attractive 27. Fanatic 31. Diving bird 32. Legendary emperor of China 33. Device for removing weeds 37. Deprived 40. Part of verb to be 41. Metal-bearing mineral
42. D ish of raw vegetables 44. Mistaken 47. Accent 48. Resin 50. M onetary unit of Yugoslavia 52. Is not 53. N orth American nation 54. Send forth 55. Ark builder 56. Adult males 57. Hawaiian goose Down 1. M onetary unit of Japan 2. H awaiian outdoor feast 3. G reek goddess of the rainbow 4. Interfere with 5. Spirited 6. It is 7. Tenth month of the
Jewish calendar 8. Governess 9. Toward the mouth 10. D isrespectful back talk 11. Wily 19. Soak 21. Before 24. Foot of an animal 25. Regret 26. Supplement 28. Alkali 29. Idiot 30. Small child 34. 4 th letter of the Hebrew alphabet 35. Period of history 36. Eucalyptus tree 37. An archer 38. Sin 29. Start again 42. Indifferent 43. Old Indian coin 45. Title 46. Broad smile 47. Metallic element
49. Exploit 51. Consumed
Change In Your Pocket
Across 1. Commerce 3. Filament 5. Width 6. Old sailors 7. Pendent ornament
puzzle answers found on sandandpinemag.com
8. Ingenuous 9. Summit 10. Cast again 11. Small mat 12. Titled 13. Send back
14. Kingdom in N Europe 15. Goddess of tillage 16. Do a resection on 17. Place out of sight
Down 2. No clue 4. Penniless
Ladderword puzzles are like crosswords but with a twist. The words in the middle column are anagrams of the words of the first column. The words in the last column are anagrams of the middle column plus one additional letter. The anchor words, the down clues, are related by a common theme. www.SandandPineMag.com | 33
Last Word There’s No Place Like Home by Susan Bellew
M
ia’s husband passed away from cancer, leaving behind two small children. Already living on the edge, Mia was unable to keep up with the bills, lost her duplex and came to Family Promise. She found a job at a local grocery store and a home at a low income apartment complex in Aberdeen. Mia is why Family Promise exists. For 16 years, Family Promise of Moore County — a cooperative network of congregations providing shelter, meals and case management services to families in need — has been a safe haven for displaced families in Moore County. But there are many more families who need Family Promise services. Angela shared a house with her mother. When her mother was placed in a group home, Angela could not handle the rent and was evicted, sleeping in her car with her young son until she found Family Promise. Now, Angela and her son live in an affordable apartment in Southern Pines and she works at a local factory. Kiara was brought up by an alcoholic mother. She spent her teenage years in various foster homes, never having a stable role model. Bad decisions left her homeless with two children while pregnant with a third. After spending nearly three months at Family Promise, she found a job at a local fast food restaurant and is living in HUD subsidized housing. These women, and many more, found themselves in the frightening position of not knowing where they
would lay their heads from one night to the next. At Family Promise they found the help they needed to get back on their feet. Mothers work one-on-one with our case manager to outline the steps necessary to transition to permanent housing. Those steps vary from family to family, but almost always include sessions on financial literacy and identifying and applying for affordable housing. Families stay at Family Promise an average of 58 days. The day a family moves into a new apartment, trailer or rental house is always a day of celebration for our staff, volunteers and of course, the family. Family Promise of Moore County does its small part in helping families in need, but the statistics nationally are disturbing. Homeless families comprise roughly 1/3 of the total homeless population. Approximately 1.6 million children will experience homelessness over the course of a year. On any given day, researchers estimate that more than 200,000 children have no place to live. One in 45 American children will experience homelessness this year. Last year, the average age of a child that stayed at Family Promise was 7. It is sad that, in a country as wealthy as the United States, children are forced to live in a shelter. This country is in dire need of more affordable housing and parents need to be paid a living wage because every child deserves a home.
Susan Bellew is executive director of Family Promise of Moore County and has been an advocate for homeless families for nearly two decades. For more information about Family Promise, visit www.fpofmc.org or call 910-944-7149. Donations are always welcome and may be mailed to PO Box 1173, Aberdeen, NC, 28315. Family Promise is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and all gifts are tax deductible.
34 | SAND& PINE MAGAZINE February/March 2016
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Be Part of the Solution The Companion Animal Clinic Foundation makes affordable spay and neuter available for individuals without a private veterinarian and animal welfare groups at the Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic thanks to your support.
Helping first-time homebuyers, military service members, and soon-to-be residents buy and sell homes in Moore County. Mark & Karen Caulfield Brokers/Realtors Mark (585) 233-2237 Karen (910) 725-0220
More than 50,000 surgeries since 2008. Spay Neuter Veterinary Clinic 5071 US Hwy. #1, Vass, NC (910) 692-3499 (FIXX) Donate at www.companionanimalclinic.org
THE HOME TEAM – WE KNOW MOORE
www.KarenCaulfield.HomesCBA.com MarkAndKarenCaulfieldTheHomeTeam
Companion Animal Clinic Foundation PO Box 148, Southern Pines, NC 28388 www.companionanimalclinic.org • info@companionanimalclinic.org 1-855-439-3498 (FIXT) 501c3#20-2886984
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DON’T LET THEM MISS
a Moment
Life is full of special moments and what better way to celebrate those moments than with family. Quail Haven Village residents never miss a moment in their grandchildrens’ lives. Our central location within Pinehurst, wealth of activities, amenities, spacious apartment homes, access to a full continuum of care as well as close proximity to family are just a few reasons so many choose to call Quail Haven home. Life is full of moments, don’t let your parents miss out on them. Schedule a visit today to see how they can redefine the way you live. Schedule a visit of our Garden Apartment Homes
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155 Blake Boulevard, Pinehurst, NC 28374