May Pinestraw 2025

Come explore the

best kept secret

right here in your backyard.

What secret will you discover next?

Cultivate a new skill.

Discover a hidden talent.

Explore a new hobby.

Delight yourself with a show. The options are limitless.

Enriching lives in the Sandhills since 1963

Athletic photo courtesy of Donna Ford

I AM OSTEOSTRONG

“I wanted to strengthen my bones the natural way, as well as improve my balance. My recent bone density test showed vast improvement in my back and hips and my balance is so much better too.”

I’m Ann Cockrell and I am OSTEOSTRONG!

Anyone

Anyone

Journey from the serene meadows of Copland’s Appalachian Spring to majestic skies of Sibelius’s Finlandia, culminating in the lyrical depths of Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto No 1, featuring the artistry of Suuvi, a Cuban-Chinese cellist whose genre-spanning music blends classical mastery with contemporary innovation.

RipplesOF SPRING BROADWAY

Owens Auditorium, SCC presents Reserve your seat today!

Saturday, May 3 | 7:30 PM

Bliss

The timeless allure of Broadway hits performed by two of its captivating stars.

Owens Auditorium, SCC RICHARD

ADAMS

Saturday, May 17 | 7:30 PM

May 2025

PINEHURST TOYOTA

COMPLIMENTARY LOANERS

2025 Toyota Land Cruiser

Thanks to your support, we have won: Best of The Pines 2024 #1 Dealership Service Department. Schedule your appointment today to experience #1 Service

5 YEARS ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE* OUR BEST PRICE DIFFERENCE**

COURTESY CAR WASH WITH EVERY SERVICE 100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION GUARANTEE**

MAGAZINE

voluMe 21, no. 5

David Woronoff, Publisher david@thepilot.com

Andie Stuart Rose, Creative Director andiesouthernpines@gmail.com

Jim Moriarty, Editor jjmpinestraw@gmail.com

Keith Borshak, Senior Designer

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, Tom Bryant, Susan Campbell, Bill Case, Tony Cross, Brianna Rolfe Cunningham, Mart Dickerson, Bill Fields, Tom Maxwell, 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

Samantha Cunningham, Advertising Director 910.693.2505

Kathy Desmond, 910.693.2515

Terry Hartsell, 910.693.2513

Erika Leap, 910.693.2514

Christy Phillips, 910.693.2498

Ginny Trigg, 910.693.2481

ADVERTISING GRAPHIC DESIGN

Mechelle Butler, Scott Yancy 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

©Copyright 2025 Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. PineStraw magazine is published by The Pilot LLC

SEVEN LAKES NORTH • $380,000

104 CALMWATER LANE

Nice 3 BR / 2 BA home located in a quiet location in a cove on Lake Echo! Main level is bright with open with lots of natural light and beautiful water views. Lower level has two additional bedrooms and full bath.

NEWCONSTRUCTION

ABERDEEN • $434,000

515 N. SYCAMORE STREET

Beautiful newly constructed 4 BR / 2.5 BA move-in ready two-story home. Layout is bright and open with nice finishes throughout. All 4 bedrooms and 2 baths on upper level.

PINEHURST •$349,000 TBD BOND STREET

0.83-acre residential lot located within the historical district of Pinehurst in the desirable Linden Clos community. Comes with transferable PCC membership!

PINEHURST • $499,900

450 SPRING LAKE DRIVE

New construction underway in Village Acres! Twostory 4 BR / 2.5 BA home with open living area on main floor and all 4 bedrooms and 2 baths on upper level.

PINEHURST • $380,000 9265 US 15-501 HWY (PINEHURST MANOR, UNIT 13-B)

Great 2 BR / 2 BA condo offering a blend of comfort and style! Layout is open with cozy wood burning fireplace, bright sunroom and primary bedroom on main level while the upper-level has a nice loft area and additional bedroom!

NEWCONSTRUCTION

ABERDEEN • $478,900 525 N. SYCAMORE STREET

Nice 3 BR / 2.5 BA NEW CONSTRUCTION close to downtown Aberdeen. Layout bright and spacious with LVP flooring in main living area and quarts countertops in kitchen.

ABERDEEN • $442,000

478 KERR LAKE ROAD

Wonderful 4 BR / 2.5 BA Craftsman-style home in Legacy Lakes offers a great design with lots of nice features. Layout is cozy with nice upper level with access to unfinished attic/storage area that could easily be bonus room. A must see!

NEWCONSTRUCTION

ABERDEEN • $479,900

519 N. SYCAMORE STREET

Beautiful newly constructed 4 BR / 2.5 BA move-in ready two-story home. Layout is bright and open with nice finishes throughout. All 4 bedrooms and 2 baths on upper level.

NEWCONSTRUCTION

PINEHURST •$459,000 70 SAWMILL ROAD E.

Wonderful 4 BR / 2.5 BA new construction in Village Acres! Home is incredibly light and open on the main level while bedrooms and laundry room are hosted on the upper level.

IN MOORE COUNTY REAL ESTATE FOR OVER 20 YEARS!

Luxury Properties

PINEHURST• $1,575,000 30 ROYAL DUBLIN DOWNS

Exquisite 4 BR / 5.5 BA WATERFONT and GOLF FRONT home in Prestigious National/ Pinehurst No.9. Pristine three-story custom home with a blend of high-end finishes throughout and breathtaking water and lush golf views!

SEVEN LAKES WEST • $870,000 120 WERTZ DRIVE

Lovely 3 BR / 3.5 BA home on private corner lot with its own back yard oasis – water view

SEVEN LAKES WEST • $1,200,000 127 ANDREWS DRIVE

Spectacular 3 BR / 5 Full BA, 2 Half BA LAKEFRONT home on beautiful Lake Auman! Exceptional custom home with open, sun-filled layout and amazing wide water views.

PINEHURST • $793,500 63 GREYABBEY DRIVE

Stunning, newly remodeled 3 BR / 3 BA home in Pinewild CC. This single-level home has an open concept layout with beautiful hardwood flooring throughout and amazing sun filled Carolina room! Home is wellmaintained and immaculate!

SOUTHERN PINES • $565,000 46 HIGHLAND VIEW DRIVE

Charming 3 BR / 2 BA brick patio home nestled among the longleaf pines on the first green at Talamore Golf Resort. Hardwood flooring in main living area, beautiful double-sided gas log fireplace and fantastic lower-level workshop! This home won’t last long!

SEVEN LAKES WEST • $595,000 117 WERTZ DRIVE

Gorgeous waterfront lot in desirable 7LW community! Lot has been perked for 3 BR home. Perfect opportunity to live in this beautiful location on Lake Auman!

SEVEN LAKES WEST • $575,000 108 TEAGUE DRIVE

Beautifully maintained 3 BR / 2 BA home in highly desirable 7LW! This split plan home offers a spacious living area with cozy fireplace and is open to the kitchen and breakfast nook while the upper level is host to a spacious bonus room!

PINEHURST • $875,000 18 ABBOTTSFORD DRIVE

Beautiful 4 BR / 3.5 BA custom golf front home situated on the #6 green of the Magnolia Course at Pinewild CC. Home has been well maintained and updated throughout. Pinewild membership attached.

SOUTHERN PINES • $880,000 1906 MIDLAND ROAD

Stately 4 BR / 3 Full BA, 2 half BA two-story home with hardwood floors in main living area, beautiful kitchen and spacious primary suite on the main level. Upper-level hosts 3 additional bedrooms and a nicely oversized bonus room. A must see!

Where Community and Active Living Meet

Introducing Penick Village’s Newest Expansion, designed to elevate your way of living.

Comfortable Living Spaces: Step into comfort with our 44 beautifully designed Independent Living residences, each thoughtfully crafted to provide you with a home that’s as comfortable as it is stylish.

Village Pavilion: In our state-of-the-art wellness building, you can engage in various activities, including Pickleball, personal training, and an overall focus on your health and wellness.

Comprehensive Healthcare: The Terrace, our health services building, enhanced and renovated, providing exceptional personalized care tailored to your needs.

Welcoming Community: Enter through our updated Welcome House, a space designed to safely welcome you, and your guests, into our community.

Penick Village invites you to join our community, where we’re not just redefining retirement living, we’re elevating it to new heights.

Learn more about our community , where you have the freedom to focus on your wellness and relationships while living life to its fullest . Contact us today. Call (910) 692-0300 , email info@penickvillage1964.org , or scan the QR code to learn more.

Gone But Not Forgotten

The legendary newspaper woman who changed my life

by JiM DoDson

According to latest government projections, a record 3.7 million high school kids and 4.11 million college students will graduate this spring. In a world turned upside down by partisan politics and unpredictable economics, worries about the future are understandable.

Once upon a time, I was there myself, waiting for the direction of my life to present itself.

In late spring 1976, America’s Bicentennial year, I was enrolled in a new M.F.A. writing program at UNCG and working part-time for my dad in advertising until I could figure out what to do with my life. America was slowly coming out of a powerful recession and job prospects were thin on the ground.

Sadly — or maybe not — I turned out to be a lousy ad salesman. I could talk up a storm with my old man’s clients but never quite close the deal.

I also had an alternative plan of caddying for a year on the PGA tour, which proved to be a bust when I was assigned a tubby, wisecracking CBS TV star for the Wednesday Celebrity Pro-Am who’d never played the game. He told vulgar jokes to young women in the crowd and roguishly passed gas loudly to amuse the gallery. After a long and humiliating afternoon fetching my client’s lost golf balls from creeks, backyards and thorny bushes, he handed me a $2 tip and advised with a wink, “Don’t spend all that in one place, Sonny.”

I hurried straight to the Sedgefield Country Club bar with just that in mind.

At that early hour of the evening, the bar was empty save for an elderly gentleman sitting around the corner of the bar, nursing a cocktail.

As I drank my beer, to my shock and delight, I realized the gentleman at the end of the bar was none other than Henry Longhurst, the celebrated Sunday Times golf writer and CBS commentator — one of my literary heroes.

“Young man,” he spoke up with his charming grumble, “you look like I feel most mornings when confronting myself in the bathroom mirror.”

When I mentioned my horrible afternoon of caddying for a farting buffoon who killed my dream of caddying on the Tour, Henry “Longthirst” simply smiled. He asked what other options I had in mind. Confessing that my heart wasn’t into my graduate studies, I boldly commented that my real goal was to someday become a golf writer.

The great man nodded and slowly rose, placing a fiver on the counter. As he headed to the door, he placed his hand on my shoulder and said quietly, “Well, young man, if you do decide to write about this ancient game, you will find no shortage of rogues, bounders and peculiar characters, but also inspiring champions and some of the finest people on Earth. Good luck to you, then!”

I was thrilled by this encounter, taking it as a sign that the universe would deliver something good down the fairway of life.

A few days later, I received a phone call from Juanita Weekley, the managing editor of the city’s beloved afternoon newspaper, where I’d interned for two summers. She invited me to drop by for an interview.

“Be here at 5:30 sharp,” she said. “But don’t get your hopes up. You have lots of competition.”

I found her alone in her office the next afternoon. “Come in and close the door,” she said in her famous no-nonsense way.

Mrs. Weekley was a newspaper pioneer, the first woman to edit a major newspaper in the state, a tough, plain-spoken redhead who reminded me of Lou Grant, the crusty editor from The Mary Tyler Moore Show.

As I sat down, she pointed to a stack of folders on her desk. “These are applications from half a dozen outstanding candidates for this job. They are all female from top journalism schools. I’ve been instructed by personnel to hire a female. My question to you is, why should I even consider a skinny white kid from the west side of Greensboro?”

I understood her point. But I also had nothing to lose. I was still buzzing from meeting one of my sports journalism heroes.

Brazenly, I replied, “Because I’ll write circles around them all.”

Madam Weekley did not appear amused. Instead, she reached over her desk, picked up the wickedest-looking letter opener I’d ever seen and tapped it slowly on her desk.

“OK,” she said after a long pause. “I’m going to take a chance on you. But listen closely. If you’re not the best damn writer in

this newspaper in a year, I’ll chase you out of the building with this thing.”

I spent the next year writing like mad to avoid being run off by her evil, sharp tongue and even sharper letter opener. At one point, however, Mrs. Weekley called me into her office and handed me the keys to a wheezing, 1970 day-glow orange AMC Pacer staff car and instructed me to drive a 75-mile circumference around the Gate City, searching for “good stories about country life” for the Sunday paper’s Tar Heel Living section.

“Think of it this way,” she said. “You’ll be our version of Charles Kuralt, writing about rural life and colorful characters you meet along the way. It’s right up your alley.”

She wasn’t wrong.

Over the next six weeks, roaming the backroads of the western Piedmont and the Blue Ridge foothill country, I found an assortment of fascinating small-town stories and colorful folks to write about, including several homegrown artists, a brilliant Yaleeducated physician running a clinic in an impoverished mountain town, an award-winning poet, a famous moonshiner, the biggest Bluegrass festival in history, and the winner of a Bear Creek talent show, whose mom invited me to marry her daughter after she graduated from high school. I politely declined.

Looking back, it was the best job any rookie reporter ever had — one that shaped my life.

My “country” tales won a major newspaper award and landed

me a staff job at the Sunday Magazine of the Atlanta JournalConstitution, where I was the youngest writer of the oldest Sunday magazine in the South.

Two decades later, I was back in my hometown on a national book tour for my bestselling memoir, Final Rounds.

I stopped off to say hello to Juanita Weekley, the pioneering woman who took a chance on me way back when, and bring her a signed copy of my book.

She was in declining health. But her face lit up when she opened the door. We hugged and sat for an hour, and I thanked her for not running me off with her letter opener.

As she walked me to the door, she took my hand. “I knew you were going to be a superb writer,” she said, holding back tears. “I just didn’t want you to know that! I couldn’t be prouder of you, dear. Hiring you was one of the best things I ever did in my career.”

I kissed her cheek and thanked her. “It would never have happened,” I said, “without you.”

Juanita Weekley passed away in 2003.

Gone but never forgotten. PS

Jim Dodson is the founding editor of O.Henry. His 17th book, The Road That Made America: A Modern Pilgrim Travels the Great Wagon Road, will be published by Avid Reader Press and is available for pre-order on Amazon. Find his weekly writings and musings at jwdauthor.substack.com.

45 CHESTERTOWN DRIVE - FOREST CREEK

Prestigious gated community. Top of the line throughout, wine cellar and much more.

$2,950,000 - GOLF FRONT

40 BECKETT RIDGE – FAIRWOODS ON 7

Located on a large pond in prestigious Fairwoods on 7! Great location with long vistas of water and fairways. Large spacious rooms and updated bathrooms.

Immediate Pinehurst CC Signature Golf membership with NO WAIT LIST

$1,400,000

32 OXTON CIRCLE – PINEWILD

Stunning, all brick custom home on desirable Oxton Circle. Exceptional Pinewild location with 180 degree golf views of the 11th, 12th and 13th holes of the Holly Course. High end appointments including quartz, marble and granite countertops, beautiful hardwood floors, whole house generator and more.

$1,195,000

535 DONALD ROSS DRIVE - PINEHURST

Custom brick home, large open sun filled rooms, hardwood floors, deck, pond, private.

$995,000 - DONALD ROSS DRIVE

84 POMEROY DRIVE - PINEWILD

Desirable Pinewild, overlooks Gary Player designed 5th green, all brick, quality custom.

$885,000 - PINEWILD

255 CHEROKEE ROAD - PINEHURST

Old Town Historic Village. Totally renovated, separate mother-in-law suite. 4 car garage.

$2,050,000 - SOLD

30 MEDLIN ROAD - OLD TOWN

New construction. High end, open floor plan, game room, first floor Master Suite. Walk to Pinehurst Elementary School, ball fields and playground.

$1,395,000 - OLD TOWN

30 SHORT ROAD – OLD TOWN

Stately, elegant, spacious. The perfect venue for formal or casual entertaining spilling over with southern charm and hospitality. Beautiful mature plantings add to the privacy and Old Town experience. An expansive Carolina room across the back of the home overlooks a large brick patio and private back yard with flowering bushes and trees.

$1,150,000

14 DUNGARVAN LANE – NATIONAL

IMMEDIATE PCC GOLF MEMBERSHIP. 14 Dungarvan Lane was the original Model home in the desirable Dungarvan Lane neighborhood in National. Perfectly situated on the 8th fairway, overlooking both the 7th and 8th fairways with amazing panoramic views. Home has been renovated from top to bottom including a new roof in 2023.

$899,000

180 IDLEWILD ROAD – PINEHURST

Tucked away on quiet Idlewild Road. Lovingly maintained with lots of upgrades.

$535,000 - NEW ON MARKET

PinePitch

Rites of Spring

The Carolina Philharmonic presents the “Ripples of Spring,” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, May 3, at BPAC’s Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. The concert features Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Jean Sibelius’ Finlandia, and Cello Concerto No. 1 by Camille Saint-Saens with cellist Sophia Bacelar. For additional information visit www.carolinaphil.org.

Great Art, Big Screen

Go in-depth with exhibitions on screen of Vincent Van Gogh and Michelangelo Buonarroti in May at the Sunrise Theater. Van Gogh: Poets & Lovers explores the artist’s years in the South of France in an effort to better understand the troubled and iconic painter. The first showing is Thursday, May 8 at 7:00 p.m. with a second screening on Monday, May 11 at 3 p.m. On Tuesday, May 20 at 2 p.m. Michelangelo: Love and Death makes a cinematic journey through the great chapels and museums of Florence, Rome and the Vatican. There will be a second showing on May 22 at 7 p.m. For more info go to www.sunrisetheater.com or call

First of the Firsts

The TGI Friday tradition like no other — First Friday — debuts for 2025 on the outdoor stage at Sunrise Square, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines, featuring the music of J & The Causeways, a New Orleans soul and R&B band with backbeats and soaring horns surrounding the sound of vocalist Jordan Anderson. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. Y’all know the rules for this free, family event — Cujo stays home. For further information go to www. sunrisetheater.com or call the Sunrise Theater at (910) 692-3611.

Calling All Authors

Make Mine a Double

The Women of Weymouth hold their annual happy hour on the grounds of the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines, on Friday, May 30, from 5 to 9 p.m. There will be appetizers and desserts by Genuine Hospitality Catering, a wine bar, vendors and music by John McDonald. For more information visit www.weymouthcenter.org.

Bye-Bye Birdie

At least the Sandhills variety. Meet the authors and illustrators of the Sandhills at the fourth annual Pages of the Pines, a festival celebrating the books of local writers and artists. The gathering begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 3, and lasts until 2 p.m. at the Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. For more information go to www.sppl.net

Susan Campbell, hummingbird bander, researcher, naturalist and PineStraw columnist, will talk about the birds of the Sandhills on Wednesday, May 7 at 1 p.m., at the Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3245 Airport Road, Pinehurst. She’ll offer identification tips and talk about our feathered friends’ preferred foods and nesting habits. The talk is free, but the audience is limited to 100. For information go to www.sandhills.edu/gardenevents.

MORTGAGES IN ALL 50 STATES

Your Best Daffy Duck

If you can say “despicable” without spitting, you can throw down a blanket or put out a chair and watch Despicable Me 4 under the stars on Friday, May 16, beginning at 8 p.m. in Downtown Park, Southern Pines. Singer and songwriter Savanna Bassett will perform from 6:30 to 8 p.m. It’s all free. For information call (910)

Fired Up

Starworks’ International Woodfiring Conference, “Sustain: Woodfire NC 2025,” takes place in Star from May 22-25. The gathering unites artists, students and ceramic enthusiasts from more than eight countries to explore every facet of woodfiring, examining its cultural, environmental, ethical and aesthetic dimensions. Registration begins at $190. For information go to www.WoodfireNC.com

Being a Dad

World-renowned bestselling author James Patterson sits down with David Woronoff, publisher of The Pilot and PineStraw, to discuss Patterson’s warm and relatable nonfiction book The #1 Dad Book. Filled with stories and advice to unlock the mysteries of fatherhood, they take the stage on Thursday, May 15, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Tickets are $30. For information go to www.ticketmesandhills.com.

Garden Party

Wear your fancy hats and spring colors when the Village Heritage Foundation hosts its Spring Garden Party at the Village Arboretum’s Timmel Pavilion, 105 Rassie Wicker Drive, Pinehurst, on Tuesday, May 6, from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be wine and grazing tables slam full of hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $30 per person and can be reserved at www. ticketmesandhills.com.

Classical Chords

Enjoy the Astralis Chamber Ensemble from 2 to 4 p.m. in the Boyd House Great Room at the Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. The ensemble is a globally acclaimed group comprised of award-winning musicians featuring unique instrument pairings. For additional information go to www. weymouthcenter.org.

AT LISI MARKET

Photograph by Matthew Gibson

Taurus

(April 20 - May 20)

Whoever said that small minds discuss people surely wasn’t calling out a Taurus. When Mercury enters your sign on May 10, however, remember that the tea won’t spill itself.

On May 12, the full moon in Scorpio will illuminate an opportunity for you to get crystal clear on what really matters. Lastly, if things are feeling a bit awkward in the romance department, you can expect that to continue until Venus glides back into your sign on June 6. In other words, hang tight.

Tea

leaf “fortunes” for the rest of you:

Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

Follow the care instructions.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

Stir until fragrant.

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Don’t be afraid of your own roar.

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Polish the mirror.

Libra (September 23 – October 22)

Dare you to take a “Me Day.”

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

Start writing things down.

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Cancel your ego trip.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

Relax your neck and jaw.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

Hint: Slow and steady.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

Try using a different soap.

Aries (March 21 – April 19)

You might want to pack a snack. 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.

When You are Not Here, I Am

•Letmesafeguardyourhome.

•Ensuringyourpropertylooksitsbest, notvacantorvulnerable.

•Customizedservicetomeetyourneeds.

•Prepareyourhomeforyourarrival.

• Iamyoureyes,earsandhelpfulhands lookingafteryourproperty.

If you are ready to:

• Get serious about multiplying your impact and scaling revenue in the next three years.

• To clarify your vision

• To develop your leaders

• To install proven systems that drive cash, profit, and time freedom Then I’m the guy for you!

You Bring the Grit. I’ll Bring the Framework! I coach high performers. I don’t do excuses or wishful thinking. Let’s build something that outlives you!

Duck and Cover

How to keep your personal information safe

By Stephen e . Smith

Whenmy mother was a teenager, she was the only all-night operator in a town of about 2,000 souls. The hours were long, so she eavesdropped on private conversations. When she got home, she shared the latest gossip with my grandmother, and within a few hours, everyone in town knew everyone else’s business.

In theory, it still works that way, except, of course, that our personal data is managed by computers — our iPhones, laptops, tablets and the clandestine eavesdropping monsters that lurk in the mystical ether — which speed up and amplify the collection process while disseminating our confidential information globally. The result, however, is the same: There are no secrets, finally or ever.

This is why Lawrence Cappello’s On Privacy: Twenty Lessons to Live By is a timely little book (151 pages) that’s surely worth the few minutes it takes to read it. It won’t be the most exciting book you’ve read, but it might be one of the most important.

Cappello is a professor of U.S. legal and constitutional history at the University of Alabama. He’s the author of None of Your Damn Business: Privacy in the United States from the Gilded Age to the Digital Age, and he’s a certified information privacy professional. He’s on top of this data collection stuff, and his advice might help you sleep a little more soundly.

We’re hammered daily by claims that the equity in our homes is being stolen, our bank accounts plundered, our reputations besmirched, and our children driven to suicide. And then there are the endless scams that pop up on our screens (I consider everything a scam until it proves itself otherwise, and then I know for sure it is a scam). And now the government — who should be protecting us — has gotten into the info-distribution game via the unsupervised plundering of heretofore confidential databases.

On Privacy is written for those who are fearful about the disclosure of their personal data but who are reluctant to toss out their electronic devices. Cappello cuts through the noise and confusion and enumerates in short, sensible steps the necessary safeguards we need to adopt to be secure in the digital age. He of-

fers practical insights into why privacy matters, how it shapes free societies, and how it rules our lives in an increasingly interconnected electronic world.

What Cappello doesn’t do is bombard his readers with terrifying stories about unfortunate fellow citizens who’ve suffered life-altering internet crimes. Horrifying examples only encourage despair. Instead, Cappello begins by addressing the requisite rationalization, “The Nothing-to-Hide Trap,” in which we maintain that if we are full-time do-gooders, we have nothing to fear from those who’d access our personal data. “Our personal information exists in snippets,” he writes. “When taken out of context, the private details of our lives . . . too often paint a picture of us that is skewed and not entirely true,” and thus we are often misrepresented. Since first impressions matter, we should focus on what computers collect and, more importantly, the distribution of our personal data.

Cappello breaks down the threats to our privacy into easy-to-read chapters that present the problems and suggest solutions. After a brief discussion of “Privacy Is Essential to Mental Health,” he appends suggestions on “How to Talk About Privacy’s Mental Health Benefits,” followed by “How to Protect Your Mental Health Through Privacy.” It’s all very straightforward.

He claims, for example, that we have the right to be forgiven our youthful transgressions. We make mistakes. “Unfortunately, the mistakes we make in life will remain instantly accessible,” he writes, “to any stranger inclined to take thirty seconds for a quick online search.”

Moreover, we are constantly under surveillance; our movements are tracked by our phones, computers and cameras on the street. If that’s not intrusive enough, outside sources can read your private electronic communications. He offers a solution: Secure your email with PGP encryption, a popular tool that scrambles your writing so that only the intended recipient can read it. The same is true for texts; encrypted text messaging apps are readily avail-

May at Weymouth Center

« May 11, 2:00 pm: Chamber Sessions Series: Astralis Chamber Ensemble

able and require only a quick download to your phone. These email and text apps also have an automatic delete option. And he recommends you buy a Faraday bag, a small pouch that blocks all signals; otherwise, you can be tracked by your phone even if you turn off your GPS.

Not only are we surveilled by private entities, but the government has, for many years, been poking into our business. Surveillance is the enemy of free expression: It discourages people from participating in political movements by instilling the fear they’ll be arrested for speaking out against the powerful, which inhibits the right of free assemblage as guaranteed by the First Amendment. Cappello reminds us that the “belief that the surveillance powers of the state must be constantly kept in check is a cornerstone of what it means to live in a free country.”

Also, this month at Weymouth Center:

May 3, 3:00 pm: Horses Benefit Kids

May 15, 5:00 pm:

The Country Bookshop welcomes Brendan Slocumb

May 19, 10:30 am:

Women of Weymouth, Strawberry Festival Garden Luncheon

May 20, 2:00 pm: James Boyd Book Club: The River Knows Your Name by Kelly Mustian

May 27, 6:00 pm: Song Circle Jam Session

May 30, 5:30 pm: Ladies Wine Out

Most of Cappello’s recommendations are simple and easily implemented: “When in doubt, log out,” delete apps you aren’t using and any accounts associated with them, tape off the camera on your computer, clear your browser history, get rid of caches and cookies, turn off and lock your computer when not in use, and purchase your own Virtual Private Networks (VPNs), which makes it difficult to track your online activity. And those are just a few of the suggestions that might save you money and safeguard your reputation.

Of course, the obvious way to protect your future information — there’s little you can do about the past — is to disappear or “go dark,” as folks are wont to say. This would necessitate the destruction of all your electronics — computers, streaming devices, tablets, phones, smartwatches, etc., and all storage systems — thumbnail drives, hard drives, data stored in the cloud (the global network of remote servers that functions as a single ecosystem), old floppy disks, credit cards, etc. Everything. All of it. Then disappear. Forever. PS

Stephen E. Smith’s most recent book, The Year We Danced: A Memoir, is the recipient of a 2025 Feathered Quill Book Award. Scan

The ones who outperform

Scarlett

Christine

Maureen

Joy

Tracy Gibson

Keith Harris

Rachel

Laurie Kornegay

Ross Laton

Christian McCarthy

Melody Bell McClelland

Meredith Morski

Lesley Dacko Pacos

Caitlin Richardson

Brenda Sharpe

Kate Shinkwin

Elizabeth Webster

FICTION

May Books

The Emperor of Gladness, by Ocean Vuong

One late summer evening in the post-industrial town of East Gladness, Connecticut, 19-year-old Hai stands on the edge of a bridge in the pelting rain, ready to jump, when he hears someone shout across the river. The voice belongs to Grazina, an elderly widow succumbing to dementia, who convinces him to take another path. Bereft and out of options, he quickly becomes her caretaker. Over the course of the year, the unlikely pair develops a life-altering bond, one built on empathy, spiritual reckoning and heartbreak. The Emperor of Gladness shows the profound ways in which love, labor and loneliness form the bedrock of American life.

The Dark Maestro, by Brendan Slocumb

Curtis Wilson is a cello prodigy, growing up in the southeast D.C. projects with a drug dealer for a father. Through determination and talent — and the loving support of his father’s girlfriend, Larissa — Curtis claws his way out of his challenging circumstances and rises to unimagined heights in the classical music world. Then, suddenly, his life disintegrates. His father, Zippy, turns state’s evidence, implicating his old bosses. Now the family — Curtis included — must enter the witness protection program if they want to survive. Curtis is forced to give up the very thing he loves the most: sharing his extraordinary music with the world. When Zippy’s bosses prove too elusive for law enforcement, Curtis, Zippy and Larissa realize that their only chance of survival is to take on the criminals themselves.

collision course with the patriarchal traditions of a bygone era. Fast-forward to 1988. Eliza, now 88, is the scion of the Rivers/ DeLancey family. She’s fought a lifetime to save her beloved Mayfield and is too independent and committed to quietly retire and leave the fate of the estate to her greedy son. She must make decisions that will assure the future of the land and her family — or watch them both be split apart. Where the Rivers Merge is a dramatic and sweeping multigenerational family story of unyielding love, lessons learned, profound sacrifices, and the indomitable spirit of a woman determined to protect her family legacy and the land she loves.

NONFICTION

Mark Twain, by Ron Chernow

Where the Rivers Merge, by Mary Alice Monroe

It’s 1908 and the Low Country of South Carolina is on the cusp of change. Mayfield, the grand estate held for generations by the Rivers family, is the treasured home of young Eliza. A free spirit, she refuses to be confined by societal norms and spends her days exploring the vast property, observing wildlife and riding horses. But the Great War, coastal storms and family turmoil bring unexpected challenges, putting Eliza on a

Before he was Mark Twain, he was Samuel Langhorne Clemens. Born in 1835, the man who would become America’s first great literary celebrity spent his childhood dreaming of piloting steamboats on the Mississippi. But when the Civil War interrupted his career on the river, the young Clemens went west to the Nevada Territory and accepted a job at a local newspaper, writing dispatches that attracted attention for their brashness and humor. It wasn’t long before the former steamboat pilot from Missouri was recognized across the country for his literary brilliance, writing under a pen name that he would immortalize. After establishing himself as a journalist, satirist and lecturer, he eventually settled in Hartford, Connecticut, with his wife and three daughters, where he went on to write The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. He threw himself into the hurly-burly of American culture and emerged as the nation’s most notable political pundit. At the same time, his business ventures eventually bankrupted him. Twain suffered the death of his wife and two daughters, and the last stage of his life was marked by heartache, political crusades, and eccentric behavior that sometimes obscured darker forces at play. Drawing on Twain’s bountiful archives, including thousands of letters and hundreds of unpublished manuscripts, Chernow captures the man whose writing continues to be read, debated and quoted.

CHILDREN’S BOOKS

Mugs and Kisses: World’s Best Mom, by Teresa Bonaddio

There are so many reasons to love our moms! Moms are magicians, our strongest supporters, our biggest fans. Moms deserve to be honored. This adorable mug-shaped board book is perfect for Mother’s Day, birthdays or any day you want to celebrate the amazing moms that make our lives great. Pair with mom’s favorite tea or coffee for the perfect gift. (All ages.)

The Big Book of Fantasy Kid Crafts, by Jennifer Buchheit

Fairy house bird feeders, suncatcher dragon wings, egg carton gnomes, firefly lanterns and more. With fabulous photos and step-bystep instructions, craft-crazy fantasy adventurers (and their grownups) will enjoy many afternoons of fun with this unique how-to book. (Ages 4-12.)

K Is in Trouble Again, by Gary Clement

Darkly comic K is back for more (slightly tragic) adventures, perfect for that tween graphic novel reader who appreciates a little gallows humor and has outgrown “Big Nate” and “Dog Man.” (Ages 10-13.)

The House at the Edge of Magic, by Amy Sparkes

Sometimes heroes come in the most unlikely form. Nine is a pickpocket without an altruistic bone in her body. When she lifts a tiny house from a lady’s purse and knocks on the door, it morphs into a giant higgledy-piggledy house complete with a troll housekeeper named Eric, a mad alchemist who is really a spoon, and a hopscotch-loving wizard all living under a terrible curse. Will Nine choose to become a hero and help? (Ages 9-12.) PS

Compiled by Kimberly Daniels Taws and Angie Tally.

Aced Out

The elusive hole-in-one

By Bill FieldS

Given that I played my first shots on patchy grass in our yard to empty soup cans sunken in the ground, I’ve gone on to have a full golf life. I’ve played thousands of rounds, chronicled hundreds of tournaments with a keyboard or a camera, and been privileged to spend time with dozens of golfers who shaped the sport.

But there is a gap in my golf history. I haven’t made a hole-in-one.

Of course, more talented folks play longer than I have without making an ace. The odds are against anyone: 12,500 to 1 for an average golfer, and even 2,500 to 1 for a tour pro. Those kinds of chances remind me of the “Greyhound Derby” contest at the Colonial grocery store when I was kid. Every Saturday night that we watched the races on television, our dog looked like a lock for the $1,000 winner’s prize . . . until fading like a cur in the homestretch.

An ace has been the mechanical rabbit that I can’t catch.

About the same time the dogs were disappointing us, I was becoming obsessed with the Guinness World Records book that I received one Christmas. It was chock-full of the biggest or tallest you name it. As a budding golfer, I was fascinated by the entry for longest hole-in-one: 444 yards by Robert Mitera, Oct. 7, 1965, on the 10th hole of the appropriately named Miracle Hill Golf Course in Omaha, Nebraska.

I’ve seen holes-in-one in the flesh. Two flew straight in, another rolled in like a Ben Crenshaw putt, and a fourth took a fluky hard-right bounce off a greenside mound. A scorecard, as the saying goes, doesn’t have pictures. That said, a good friend of mine is loath to claim one of his 1s, a skulled short iron that was an ugly shot by any measure until the ball skittered into the cup.

No doubt the most memorable that I’ve witnessed occurred nearly 40 years ago at a par-3 course in New Jersey. I was playing with my pal Michael Dann, with whom I’d enjoyed many games when we lived in the Sandhills. He usually beat me in those days, and I was motivated to change that when we convened at the short course on a busy Saturday afternoon. The first tee was bustling, and we had a de facto gallery when it was our turn on the 80-yard

opener. I went first, snuggling a wedge only a foot from the flagstick, and crowed about it to Michael. It was going to be my day.

Then he flew his shot into the cup.

I came close as a teenager. I one-hopped an 8-iron off the pin on the first hole at Knollwood. I hit a 4-wood to 6 inches on the formidable 13th at Mid Pines Inn & Golf Club. Although I’ve had a couple of hole-outs from the fairway from a hundred yards or so, since giving Michael something to shoot at that day in New Jersey, the closest I’ve come on a par-3 tee shot is about a yardstick away. Perhaps I’m thinking about aces because there have been some notable ones made starting last summer.

I was working on the TV production of the 2024 U.S. Senior Open when Frank Bensel Jr. made a hole-in-one on the par3 fourth hole at Newport (R.I.) Country Club with a 6-iron. Newport is the rare layout with back-to-back par-3s. Bensel used the same club to ace the fifth hole. It was only the second time in 1,001 USGA championships that someone made two aces in a round. The only other case of consecutive holes-in-one is thought to be by John Hudson in a 1971 tournament on the British PGA circuit.

Last fall, Bryson DeChambeau went viral by trying to make an ace hitting a wedge over his house. On his 16th day of attempts, the U.S. Open champion at Pinehurst succeeded. This February at the South African Open, Dale Whitnell became the second man to make a pair of holes-in-one in one round on the DP World Tour. Three golfers have achieved the 67 million-to-1 feat on the PGA Tour, most recently Brian Harman in 2015.

I am not greedy. One would be plenty. I checked in with my friend Mike Fields of Southern Pines, a golfer good enough in his mid-60s to have shot his age twice within a week. He didn’t make his first of three aces until he was 57. I shall keep swinging. PS Southern Pines native Bill Fields, who writes about golf and other things, moved north in 1986 but hasn’t lost his accent.

White Wine Sangria

Story and p hotograph

By tony CroSS

Spring is peaking, and patio drinking is a must. Myriad cocktails fit the criteria and, for me, they’ve got to be light and refreshing. There should be a handful of options in your arsenal: mojitos, gin and tonics, spritzes and so on. So, choose your own adventure.

A cocktail I recently rediscovered is the white wine sangria. This is a simple, classic recipe from Canon owner and bartender Jamie Boudreau. I’ve never been keen on traditional sangrias — I like my red wine without any fuss — but a white wine sangria makes perfect sense. I love French 75s and other Champagne cocktails, so adding clear spirits to a dry or crisp white wine (dry white wine on its own in the spring is lovely, too) only seems right. Boudreau’s recipe calls for a citrus-forward gin in Martin Miller, but you may sub in Tanqueray 10, Sutler’s Spirit Co. or your personal favorite. He uses elderflower liqueur from St. Germain, which adds a touch of sweetness and all the lovely floral notes of St. Germain.

The recipe below is for a small pitcher or carafe for sharing. Make sure to add the St. Germain after the sparkling wine and gin; the liqueur is rich and heavy, so it will slowly sink to the bottom. Take advantage of your local farmers markets for seasonal fruit — whatever is available works, whether its blackberries, strawberries or raspberries. Any brightly colored fruit will make the aesthetic of this cocktail pop.

Specifications

12 ounces dry sparkling white wine

2 ounces St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur

1 ounce Martin Miller Gin

Lemon and lime wheels

Seasonal fruit

Execution

In a small pitcher, add ice, sparkling wine, St. Germain, gin and and fruit. Lightly stir and top off with more sparkling wine. Serve in wine or Collins glass with ice and more fruit. 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.

French Squared Croissants jazz

up a traditional dish

Story and p hotograph By roSe Shewey

If I see French toast on a breakfast menu, I inevitably think: o ld bread . I can’t help it. Jazzed up old bread, yes, but old bread nonetheless.

For a start, it’s always been my belief that French toast is a “make at home with leftovers” food. Stale bread soaked in an eggy milk mixture? In various languages, most of Europe calls this dish “poor knights.” It sure sounds like something starving wayfarers would have appreciated. Then I came across a version of this meal that had me at the very edge of my seat: Croissant French Toast Bake.

Initial enthusiasm was quickly replaced by the sinking of my heart. Since French toast works best with dry bread, the implication was clear: You need to have day-old croissants (not just one, but several) lying about to make this dish. In our home, freshly brewed stovetop espresso and goldenbaked, just-out-of-the-oven croissants are the raison d’être, the pinnacle of a dignified life, so to speak. Fresh croissants typically don’t make it to lunchtime, let alone the next day.

So, special arrangements were made to get this meal underway. I ventured out and bought prepackaged croissants. Naturally, if you have an abundance of homemade croissants, or access to artisanal baked goods, you may not need to go this route but grocery store croissants are a fine option for this purpose. I opted to add strawberries — after all, ’tis the season — but pick your favorite fruit and make the dish your own. This version of French toast is a departure from the traditional recipe, but it makes for a celebratory upgrade of the original.

Croissant French Toast Bake with Strawberries

(Serves 6)

4 eggs

1 1/4 cups milk

2 tablespoons sweetener, such as maple syrup or honey

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Pinch of salt

6 croissants, cut in half (or torn into larger pieces)

5-6 tablespoon strawberry jam

6 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1/4 cup butter

Fresh strawberries and whipped cream for serving

Add eggs, milk, sweetener, vanilla extract, cinnamon and salt to a large bowl and whisk. Dip the bottom halves of the croissants into the egg mixture and place into a 8x10-inch greased baking dish. Spoon jam and dollops of cream cheese over top. Dip the remaining croissants into the egg mixture and lay on top of the bottom halves, pouring any remaining egg mixture over the croissants. Refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.

Preheat oven to 375°F. Slice butter and place on top of the croissants, then bake for 40-45 minutes. If needed, cover the dish with a lid or foil to prevent croissants from browning too much. PS

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

By tom m axwell

Stepping Up

Citizen Vinyl pressed into service

There’s a beautiful Art Deco building at 14 O. Henry Avenue in Asheville, located on a particularly high spot in that already elevated mountain city. Completed in 1939, it was built to house owner Charles Webb’s two newspapers (the morning’s Asheville Citizen as well as the Asheville Times afternoon edition) in addition to his newly-acquired-but-already famous radio station WWNC-AM. For the last five years, Webb’s glass brick, black granite and limestone behemoth has been home to Citizen Vinyl, a unique combination of record pressing plant, recording/mastering studio, record store, art gallery and café. But in October 2024, the place served as an altogether different kind of community hub.

“We were one of the few Asheville businesses that had both power and internet a couple of weeks after the hurricane,” Citizen Vinyl founder and CEO Garland (Gar) Ragland says, “so we immediately pivoted to becoming a community resource. We ran extension cords out of our space in the building, and got the word out that we had internet available and power for people to charge their digital devices and cellphones. We had hundreds of people coming every day to power their phones and text or call their loved ones to let them know they were safe.”

In September, Hurricane Helene wiped large swaths of Appalachia off the map. Entire towns in western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee in valleys near rivers or creeks were washed away. Marshall, a small town north of Asheville, was

destroyed. To the east, Swannanoa suffered a blow from which it has yet to recover. The recently established Arts District, nestled alongside the French Broad river in West Asheville, was suddenly under 12 feet of water. The big Art Deco building that houses Citizen Vinyl was quicker to recover than most other businesses thanks to its elevation and its proximity to NOAA’s Federal Climate Complex, which houses both the National Climatic Data Center as well as the country’s Climate Archive.

Soon, one of Citizen Vinyl’s food partners, Michelle Bailey, set up smokers and grills in their little parking lot and started preparing meals from food donated by far-flung friends and her regional farming network. “She started the weekend after the hurricane,” Ragland says, “and served about 1,500 hot meals every weekend for weeks. She had friends from Louisville, Kentucky, come over and bring hundreds of pounds of top-shelf smoked meats and barbecue. So, we pivoted — because we really didn’t have any other option than to just lean in and support our community in whatever way we could.”

Ragland is quick to point out that he and his friends weren’t the only people who met the moment. “There were many, many, noble efforts,” he says, “and what was revelatory to me was how unique and special this community of people is, how readily and instinctively people showed up to help one another. There were people on street corners with signs saying ‘Free Water Here,’ or ‘Hot Food.’ I was really impressed and inspired and proud to be a member of this community because we showed up for each other.”

Ragland, a native of Winston-Salem, started Citizen Vinyl in 2019. Inside Charles Webb’s three-story building, he established the pressing plant along with Sessions (the breezy bar and café) and Coda: Analog Art & Sound (a combination art gallery and record store). On the top floor, Ragland converted the hallowed space of WWNC into Citizen Studios, a recording and mastering facility. He can quote the building’s history chapter and verse.

GYNECOLOGY SPECIALISTS

Urogynecology

Well Care w/Contraceptive Management

Certified Robotic GYN Surgery

Infertility Treatment

Intrauterine Insemination

Continence Evaluation and Treatment

Menopause Health Management

National Certified (AIUM)

Gynecological Ultrasounds

Femilift

Hormone Replacement Therapy and more…

“Charles Webb designed and dedicated the top floor of the Citizen-Times building to be the new home for his radio station,” Ragland says. “It was state-of-theart. He modeled it after the RCA Victor Studios in New York. By the time of the station’s construction, WWNC-AM had already become one of the most popular radio stations in the country. It was previously located a couple of blocks away in the Flatiron Building, and it was there that Jimmy Rodgers made his national radio premiere in 1927.” Immediately after the station reopened in its new location bluegrass legends Bill Monroe and the Blue Grass Boys debuted on February 2, 1939. The group played the daily afternoon “Mountain Music” slot until WWNC became a CBS affiliate.

At the time, artists from all over the country were descending on Asheville because of WWNC’s reach. “It was the highest elevation radio station east of the Mississippi,” Ragland says. “That 570 kHz radio frequency could throw from downtown Asheville all the way to West Texas and up into southern Canada.”

The amazing thing is, despite eastbound I-40 being washed out between Old Fort and Black Mountain — while half of its westbound lanes crumbled down into a gorge outside of Knoxville — Citizen Vinyl never stopped pressing records. “Our shipping and receiving did slow down,” Ragland notes, “and we had a couple slow months.” Not that big a deal, considering the town wouldn’t have potable water for 11 weeks.

In the best of times, people tend to think of things like music and food as ephemera, as if they’re mere ornaments to the real work of producing wealth. But you’d be hard pressed to think of two things more deeply woven into the fabric of community than a mother singing a lullaby to her drowsy infant, or the connections made and deepened by a shared meal in a desperate moment.

“Being part of this community and serving as a cultural hub has been a really important part of our ethos and business,” Ragland says. “The hurricane, full

Stephanie McAuley, FNP-C

Tiffany Greco, FNP-C

Leah Vidal, PA-C

disclosure, put into jeopardy our ability to sustain the café and the event space. But that said, the challenges only reinforced the values and the ethos that we’ve constructed this business to be, evidenced by our name.”

The word “citizen” has been with us since the late Middle Ages, and has specific meanings in different areas of law, religion and the military. Ragland is well aware of both the promise and potential risks of using that word.

“Obviously, there’s a history that we wanted to honor by calling the business Citizen Vinyl,” he says. “But the term itself is a very provocative name to title your business because it means different things to different people. For the undocumented person, it’s a loaded word. It can be an alienating and divisive term. But on the flip side, ‘citizen’ asks the question: What does it mean to belong to a place?’ We were intrigued by the opportunity to help shape and define what it means. We’re music nerds, not music snobs. We don’t judge people’s music tastes. We want to celebrate music, art and community. We don’t pass judgment on anyone. We want to operate our business in a way that defines ‘citizen’ in the most positive of ways. The hurricane, if nothing else, created an opportunity for us to put into practice a lot of the things that we aspire to be as members of the Asheville community.”

The quote “We may achieve climate, but weather is thrust upon us” is often attributed to O.Henry, the author Citizen Vinyl’s street is named for. The catastrophic destruction caused by Hurricane Helene may have kept you away from Asheville, but it’s time to go back, to witness firsthand the climate of resilience and community achieved by its citizens. PS

Tom Maxwell is an author and musician. A member of Squirrel Nut Zippers in the late 1990s, he wrote their Top 20 hit “Hell.” His most recent book, A Really Strange and Wonderful Time: The Chapel Hill Music Scene 1989-1999, was published by Hachette Books.

HUBBARD DENTAL

Your Family Dentists, Dedicated to You

Our dental practice boasts a skilled, family-friendly team dedicated to providing exceptional care for patients of all ages. Each team member brings a wealth of experience and specialized training to ensure you receive the highest quality dental care to keep you healthy. From our warm and welcoming reception staff to our expert hygienists and dentists, we prioritize creating a comfortable and positive experience for every visit.

Dr. Jordan Hubbard and Dr. Greg Komyathy dedicated professionals with over 4 decades of combined experience in general & functional dentistry. With a passion for holistic health, they focus on enhancing overall well-being through innovative treatments.

The Hills Are Still Alive

Remembering Mom and The Sound of Music

By tom a llen

I was 6 years old when The Sound of Music opened at the Ambassador Theater in Raleigh in August 1965. The movie, loosely based on the life of Maria von Trapp and her singing family, played to sold-out audiences for 61 weeks, one of only a few films the Ambassador ever hosted that required reserved seating.

Somehow my parents snagged a ticket and took me along. I’m sure my mother arranged the outing. A church soprano, she loved Julie Andrews. The Sound of Music was my first movie, and memorable for other reasons. Our tickets were for a Sunday matinee, meaning not only did we attend on the Sabbath, but we also missed church.

For this Sunday outing, we dressed to the nines. Dad wore a suit, my mom a best dress. I remember bundling up like a British schoolboy, donning my houndstooth wool suit and dapper newsboy cap.

The Ambassador was cavernous compared to our small, county seat theater. When the movie started, the curtain rose in accordion-like folds. And who can forget that opening scene, the camera closing in on Maria — via helicopter — and Andrews making those hills come alive? If we could miss church for such a stirring opening scene, surely Mother Superior could forgive Maria’s tardiness to Mass.

Beautiful scenery, with a musical narrative featuring cool kids romping around the Alps, decked out in traditional Bavarian dress, kept my attention. An intermission, another rarity, meant time to stretch, share a box of popcorn, and wonder if Maria would follow her heart and return to the widowed captain and his children.

Happily, like a Hallmark movie’s predictable plot, the captain ditched the pushy baroness and proposed to Maria. My mom cried when they married. The majesty of the cathedral’s organ during Maria’s procession engulfed the theater and brought chills. Even my dad, never a movie fan, commented how moving the scene was. We sat on the edge of our seats, wondering if the singing von Trapps would be able to compete in the Salzburg Music Festival. We cheered when they not only won but escaped the Nazis. That final trek across the Alps to freedom, accompa-

nied by a reprise of “Climb Ev’ry Mountain” brought the movie to an end and viewers to their feet in a lengthy applause.

Until I was old enough to hang with friends, Mom was my movie companion. The films, mostly beloved Disney favorites, provided fun diversions and cherished memories. But Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s blockbuster, offering moviegoers a glimpse into the life of cloistered nuns as well as a lesson about one of history’s darkest seasons, also gave us the gift of music in sound, sight and lyrics. How many Baby Boomer kids can remember that raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens are favorite things and that a doe is a deer, a female deer?

Along with Rodgers and Hammerstein, I have my mom to thank for that gift. A music major who chose marriage and having a family over a degree, and possible singing career, she tolerated my dad’s love of country and Southern gospel music. Unlike most of her friends, she wasn’t an Elvis fan. The Beatles were “too much.” Stately hymns and stirring anthems, coupled with the crooning of Como, Crosby and Sinatra, were her preferences. On occasion, she would iron clothes on Saturday afternoons while listening to the Metropolitan Opera on Raleigh’s WPTF but, a product of her times, she liked a little beach music, the Temptations, some Frankie Valli. I can’t remember her singing in the shower, but she wore out our 33 rpm vinyl recording of The Sound of Music. And while my taste varies from Gregorian chant to Morgan Wallen, after listening to that album for hours, I, like Mom, can sing every song.

My mother, as well as my family, was far from perfect — like the real life Maria and von Trapp family. Mom would tell you she was no nun, but her good days, and our family’s good days, far outnumbered the challenging ones. Even in the last weeks of her life, she sang, faintly but clearly. The night she died, recordings of her favorite hymns sang her to heaven. Her goodness was passed down to her two granddaughters, whom she adored. They, like her, fell in love with The Sound of Music, wearing out our VHS copy during their childhood and teenage years. And though she did not live to meet them, I’m sure her granddaughters’ children — three great-grandsons — would be among her beloved favorite things. PS

Tom Allen is a retired minister living in Whispering Pines. Share your memories of The Sound of Music with him at tomallen1114@gmail.

Strangers on a Plane

To talk or not to talk, that is the question

By deBorah Salomon

From what I’ve noticed, the only remaining conundrum pertaining to air travel is whether a passenger should strike up a conversation with his or her seatmate. If yes, then when? And how? Are there age guidelines? What are the clues that the passenger wedged next to you will be receptive? Notice any body language? I’m assuming the punk rocker with tattoos and wild hair would leave a sweet old lady alone, but who knows? Odd couples happen.

I fly to see my grandsons in Canada three or four times a year. Because I’m old and have a bum knee I get to board first, then watch passengers head down the aisle. Will I get Sumo with T-shirt exposing bellybutton? Mother and fussy baby? Techie toting cellphone, tablet, Kindle, earbuds? Business guy pining for first class? Whatever — I nod, smile, then assume nap mode.

Last trip I encountered someone and something bordering surreal.

I had the window seat — hardly glanced at the woman who stopped to check her boarding pass. I smiled and fished out her safety belt buckle, which had fallen between the seats. I’m not sure how she started the conversation . . . probably, “Are you going home to Montreal?”

“No,” I explained, then shared the reason as I turned to look at her face, full-on. The woman, whose name I learned was Suzanne, was about 60 and uncommonly beautiful, the result of the very best skin, hair, nutrition, exercise and dental care. She lived in Philadelphia, was divorced, a retired RN with two grown daughters.

She asked what I (as a newspaper reporter) call smart questions. Decades ago, this woman would be labeled “wellbred.” Certainly “highly educated.’’

When the beverage cart stopped at our row, Suzanne asked for club soda, which the flight attendant didn’t have.

I asked the purpose of her trip, which proved to be an unusual relationship with a French engineer who worked in northern Quebec. They see each other for a month or two, several times a year, his place or hers.

Interesting. I saw how this arrangement could work for a mature couple, played by Cary Grant and Deborah Kerr. For a title I purloined Alfred Hitchcock’s Strangers on a Train, from the 1950s, when plot and character development mattered.

We spoke of family, travel, technology, aging, health, climate and, of course, politics. Suzanne (not her real name) brought up the subject, gingerly. I broke a self-imposed ban and took the bait.

I told her, a perfect stranger, about losing two children to bipolar disorder, something I rarely discuss. Of course I bragged about my grandsons. I don’t remember if she has any.

The flight from Philly to Montreal lasted an hour-and-a-half. We talked the whole way, connected on many points. I gave her my business card, said she was welcome to email. She offered no identification, not even her surname, which I hardly noticed at the time.

When I got home a friend chided me for revealing personal information to a perfect stranger. “Just wait,” my friend said. “And watch your financial statements. This sounds like a shakedown.”

I was appalled. Has the world become so cynical that random chit-chat becomes suspect? Must we apply “see something, say something” indiscriminately?

Sadly, yes, because these days trust has become a luxury if not a danger. These days children are gunned down at school and pedestrians run over on the sidewalk. And stealing an identity (which I’ve experienced) isn’t much harder than stealing an apple off a pushcart.

I’m beginning to sound like a Twilight Zone episode. However, if my cynical friend is right about the shakedown, then stop the world, I’m outta here. PS

Deborah Salomon is a contributing writer for PineStraw and The

By SuSan CampBell

The great blue heron is a bird that will get anyone’s attention, bird lover or not. It is the largest of all the species found in the Sandhills and Piedmont and is second in wingspan only to the bald eagle. Also, the way it ever so slowly stalks its prey in the open is unique. Great blues are colonial nesters often gathering very close together in trees in wet environments where terrestrial predators are not a threat.

Great blues can be found across North Carolina year-round foraging in a variety of wet areas. However, nesting habitat can be harder to find. Many wet areas are too shallow to preclude raccoons, opossums and other climbing animals. Sizeable beaver ponds or islands in the middle of sizeable lakes with mature trees or large snags are attractive. And if a pair or two are successful in raising a brood high above the water, it is likely that the numbers of nests will grow in subsequent years to form a “heronry.” The female will weave a cup nest from the branches and then smaller, softer material (such as twigs, grasses, moss, etc.) that her mate delivers.

The bond between a pair of great blues is very strong during the breeding season. Male and female are both involved with rearing the nest generation. The large nest can accommodate up to five eggs. Both adults incubate and then brood the young. The male spends most of the daylight hours at the nest while the

female is there overnight. Herons are very good parents, able to defend their young with not only their heavy, sharp bills but with very powerful wings.

It will take a year or more for the young to reach maturity. During the first several weeks they are fed mainly fish by their parents. As they begin to forage for themselves, they will become opportunistic, eating everything from large, aquatic invertebrates (such as crayfish) to frogs and even the eggs of other bird species. Some individuals will not breed until their third summer. Sexually mature birds will sport long plumes on their neck and back. They may be seen displaying to their mates by raising their crests and clapping bills together at or near the nest site.

The loud raspy croaking of herons is territorial and can be heard day or night at any time of the year. They will defend rich feeding areas as well as their nest from competitors. Great blues also call when in flight, perhaps to maintain contact with family members. In the air, these big birds have a very characteristic profile with slow, deep wingbeats, their necks coiled, and legs trailing out behind them.

These huge birds are amazingly unafraid of humans. Although they seldom tolerate a close approach, they are frequently found feeding from bulkheads, farm ponds and even small backyard water features. Many great blue herons have learned that people may provide an easy meal — even if it is in the form of fish remains or table scraps. So, keep an eye out; you may find one of these large birds closer than you think. PS

Susan Campbell would love to receive your wildlife sightings and photos. Her email is susan@ncaves.com.

HOURS

Breakfast Monday - Friday: 8:00am - 10:30am

8:00am - 11:30am

Lunch Monday - Friday: 10:30am - 2:30pm

11:30am - 2:30pm

- Sunday - 9:00am - 1:00pm

Treasured Memories

Old companions can be the best medicine

By tom Bryant

“The storehouse of our memories is like an unused room in which lay aside the odds and ends of many treasured things.”

— Roland Clark, Gunner’s Dawn

For the last several months a debilitating illness seemed to dominate all my thinking. It felt as if it had been an interminable time since I had roamed the woods and streams hunting and fishing. The calendar that Linda, my bride, kept of assorted obligations was filled with doctor appointments. My life was centered around pills and stethoscopes.

It was a depressing time. So what to do?

“Quit whining,” I told myself. “Head to the woods. That’ll make things better, or at least improve your outlook.”

I hollered to Linda, who was in the laundry room putting on a load of wash, “Hey, Babe, I’m gonna ride down to the farm and check things out.”

It had been several months since I had been to “the farm,” as I call the old tobacco workings to which my friend Joe Rosy lets me have access. It’s a wonderful corner of the Drowning Creek swamp area, teeming with deer, doves and turkeys. Back toward the swamp, there’s a beaver dam, and wood ducks live, nest and enjoy a habitat that is hard to find in our so-called modern world.

“You be careful,” Linda responded. “Take your phone.”

“OK,” I replied. “I’ll be back a little after dark.”

I grabbed my hunting bag, a battered old Orvis pack that I’ve had forever. I keep it stuffed with items I’ve learned over the years would, in a rush, come in handy — everything from a Swiss Army knife to shotgun loads of all gauges from 28 to 12. Depending on the gun I happen to be using, I’ll not run out of ammunition.

It’s a short ride down to the farm, and I usually take a little detour through Pinebluff, where I spent many happy years growing up. The old house where we lived is still there. After my father died, Mother sold it and moved to the farm in South Carolina that’s been in the family for years.

The Pinebluff house is a little worse for wear, but every time I drive by, memories come flooding back. Ironically, on this particular day, my first in weeks out of the house, just as I got to the corner, a black dog came bursting out of the pines and ran right in front of the truck.

“Smut,” I thought for a quick second of my old canine friend. But no, this dog was more like a pointer than a retriever, just with a black coat. Smut was my first dog, a curly-coated retriever, black as the ace of spades. Dad got him for me when I was in the third grade, and he became my constant companion until I went off to college. Smut was not a champion hunting dog by any means, but he had a natural instinct that helped him overcome his lack of obedience. Not his fault, more mine and my lack of knowledge about training a working dog. Our timing was perfect, though. We were both untamed when it came to the woods, and we spent many a day and night roaming that Pinebluff area of the Sandhills looking for adventure.

When Mother protested the little pup coming to live with us, complaining that she would be the one responsible for him, my father said, “A boy and a dog should grow up together.” In looking back, I can see how she loved the impish, tiny puppy almost as much as I did.

I continued on down Pinebluff Lake Road and decided to pull into the small gravel parking lot and maybe eat a snack from my gunning bag. It was good to have an appetite again. Food hadn’t meant a lot lately. I grabbed a pack of nabs and walked to the pier of the little lake where many years before I had learned to swim.

As a youngster before the town outlawed dogs in the lake, Smut and I would swim from the pier to the dam. He was more at home in the water than I was. As a matter of fact, he roamed Pinebluff and the lake area as if it was his domain, to be enjoyed at his leisure.

It was a quiet morning, and I watched a sheriff deputy’s car roll around the near curve and head toward town, and I decided to meander on to the farm. Remembering Smut brought to mind another furry best friend that lived with me during my early years of hunting — Paddle, a little female yellow Lab. I learned more about training a dog, or more to the point, acquiring the

knowledge of how to train a dog, from the best teacher, Paddle herself. She was amazing and accomplished more afield in unusual situations than any animal I’ve ever known.

I thought back to a cold morning at a beaver dam. Paddle and I hoped to catch wood ducks as they came off the roost. The beaver dam was located in a little bottom about a hundred yards down a small rise. We had scouted the area the evening before when we noticed ducks winging their way back into the swamp. We pretty much had the lay of the land the next morning when we silently drove the Bronco, lights off so as to not disturb roosting ducks, down a little dirt fire break and parked under a giant white oak tree.

Frost on the broom straw crunched underfoot as I eased through the outer rings of the swamp to the beaver dam where we would set up for the hunt. Paddle, walking at heel, was anxious to go.

The swamp turned gray with early dawn as we hunkered down awaiting the morning flight. We heard the ducks as they came off the roost, and that was about it. They had flown in the opposite direction from where we were hiding.

I decided to give it 30 more minutes before heading home and to work. Just as I stood up on the narrow edge of the beaver dam, a lone wood duck came whistling over at the edge of the range of my gun. I snapped off a shot anyway, and the duck hit its afterburner and sailed on out of sight. Paddle took off after the bird

and I whistled her back to heel.

“No bird, Paddle.”

She looked up at me expectantly as if I needed a good excuse for missing the duck. “It was out of range. We’ll get the next one.”

But there wasn’t another one, and after 30 more minutes, I decided to head up the hill to the truck. Just as we stepped off the beaver dam, Paddle tore off, racing toward the edge of the swamp with me shouting and whistling to get her back.

“Now where is that crazy dog going?” I thought as I hustled in the direction she had taken, concerned that we would be delayed getting home. Just as I stepped out of the tree line bordering the swamp, here came Paddle over the rise with the wood duck in her mouth, the same wood duck that I had shot at and thought I had missed. She knew somehow that I hadn’t.

It was a great morning in the woods at the farm, and my impromptu visit to Pinebluff and remembrances of the wonderful dogs that have accompanied me through life was therapeutic. I felt as if I had another lease on the days to come.

As Dick Coleman, my good friend and hunting buddy, so eloquently put it shortly after his big, rangy black Lab, Honcho, had died, “Do dogs go to heaven? Well, if they don’t, I don’t want to go either.” PS

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

Talk the Talk

And put on the headphones

By lee paCe

By April 2020, Matt Ginella had spent seven years on a dream assignment collecting and producing golf travel content for the Golf Channel. But that spring the world ground to a halt in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak. Ginella, for years a print journalist before moving to television, was at his heart a storyteller, and found himself with oodles of time and a vault of interesting tales gathered from pursuing the sport around the globe.

Prior to the pandemic, he’d been reluctant to jump on the podcast bandwagon. Here a podcast, there a podcast, everywhere a podcast — one of these newfangled instruments to deliver what was essentially a radio show. But a new venture he conceived with fellow journalist Alan Shipnuck called The Fire Pit Collective was the perfect venue for Ginella to begin generating hour-long conversations with the fascinating people he’d met in the game. The Fire Pit Podcast was born.

“One might say I had an epiphany,” Ginella says. “The world was grounded. We were quarantined. Yet people were still interested in a quality narrative. It was the perfect launchpad, an outlet for my passion for telling stories.

“Over the years, I’d had access to incredibly interesting and inspiring people. We always left some of the best stuff on the cutting room floor. We turned that upside down, put those out in podcast form. We are hyperfocused on the best story, the type of story told in a fire pit atmosphere after a full day of golf. Pour

a drink and sit by the fire. We’re letting people stretch, letting them go and giving them time to tell their best stories.”

The result five years later is a library of nearly 200 podcasts encompassing personalities, travel, equipment, the greats of the game and major championships.

One of the most entertaining shows was a two-parter from August 2022, about the “Manning Brothers Buddies Trip,” when Eli, Peyton and Cooper Manning travel to Scotland with buddies like Eric Church, Jim Nantz and Taylor Zarzour, navigating — in intricate color and hilarious detail — the golf courses, bars and cemetery walls next to the Old Course. It took 14 interviews and eight hours of tape to get the story pat.

“For this old soul, to have buddies on the ultimate buddy trip allows you to experience it vicariously, by connecting me via Facetime worlds apart, to have me there live and in person, is a very nice gift,” Nantz says. “A gift of friendship. Golf does that to you.”

Indeed, it does. Golf has always been revered for its rich literary heritage, and now the spoken word through the podcast has a significant place at the table.

The podcast format has been around for about 20 years, the “pod” coming from the Apple iPod that was introduced in the early 2000s. Podcasts are best described as on-demand radio — audio content like you would find on the radio but available in episodes that listeners can stream from the internet anytime, anywhere, on venues like Apple Podcasts or Spotify. In time, video was introduced, and now podcasts are streamed on YouTube and other social media. There are some 600 golf podcasts on Spotify.

January marked the third year of the Pinehurst area Convention and Visitors Bureau “Paradise in the Pines” podcast. The podcasts are hosted by CEO Phil Werz, run about 30 minutes in length, and are posted (in general) every other Tuesday. The theme of the

Design Market

podcast is to share conversations with the people who make the Sandhills the “Home of American Golf,” with guests having a direct tie to the Sandhills whether it be for golf, business or other interests. Guests have included Mike Hicks, the caddie for the late Payne Stewart; Angela Moser, the lead designer on Tom Doak’s staff for Pinehurst No. 10; and Jamie Ledford, president of Pinehurst-based Golf Pride Grips.

“Social media content is one of the most important things we do as a destination marketing organization,” Werz says. “The podcast was simply another way to produce content via a popular mechanism.”

Chris Finn launched a golf fitness and rehabilitation practice named Par 4 Success in Durham in 2013, and the company has grown substantially over a dozen years into ever-bigger headquarters facilities in the Research Triangle Park. He launched a podcast in July 2023 called “The Golf Fitness Bomb Squad,” installed production capabilities in a new company headquarters, and now consistently produces an average of two podcasts a week. One of them features a guest — someone from the golf equipment, instruction, fitness or other disciplines — and the second is a shorter subject addressing topics like off-season conditioning, injury rehab or improving mobility.

“No one in the fitness or rehab space was doing anything research- and sciencebased,” Finn says. “We talk to top instructors, equipment guys, fitness experts and bring it back to golf fitness. We’ve had PGA Tour and LPGA pros, and longdrive champions. Fitness is the underlying thread. We take a casual approach to introducing people to the fitness world in an unintimidating way. We meet them where they’re at instead of talking over their heads.”

The “No Laying Up Podcast” will hit its 1,000th episode in 2025 in more than a decade of production. What started as a group text among college friends in 2014 has grown into one of the most popular podcasts in the game as it strives to provide fresh, funny and

ART EXHIBITIONS ON SCREEN

Thu May 8 • 7pm:

Van Gogh: Poets & Lovers

Sat May 11 • 3pm:

Van Gogh: Poets & Lovers

Tues May 20 • 2pm:

Michelangelo: Love & Death

Thu May 22 • 7pm:

Michelangelo: Love & Death

conversation on all things golf. In early February, the No Laying Up gang was at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am — won by Rory McIlroy — just weeks after doing a deep dive on “The Lost Decade of Rory in the Majors.” It generates significant content on the pro tours but also ventures into topics such as gaining clubhead speed with Dr. Sasho McKenzie, cofounder of The Stack System. And they have had good access to top-level guests like Tommy Fleetwood, Jim Furyk and Mike Whan.

In 2015 Andy Johnson, frustrated by traditional golf media, set out to generate his own newsletter. He found an audience, and in time it evolved into The Fried Egg website, which has a decided bent toward golf architecture. Often on “The Fried Egg Podcast,” he and co-host Garrett Morrison delve into intricate detail on the design, personality and playability of the world’s top courses. You’ll learn of courses you’ve never heard of but want to immediately put on a buddies trip list.

The Golfer’s Journal was launched in 2018 as a hefty print book being released quarterly. Its motto is “Golf in its purest form,” and the magazine and accompanying podcast are not interested in the newest driver or golf ball design or swing technique. They find the most interesting people, venues and stories to write and talk about. Author Tom Coyne hosts many of the podcasts along with editor Travis Hill. Wide-ranging subjects have included a multi-podcast history of the Masters and Augusta National; interviewing Bill Coore about his golf design travels and a personal trip to Antarctica; and how Padraig Harrington is one of the most interesting people in golf.

There are podcasts for all interests and tastes — humor, travel, the mental game, swing technique and history. Like courses in the Sandhills, there are plenty of options for golf junkies to get their fix. PS

Lee Pace has written about the Pinehurst experience for more than three decades from his home in Chapel Hill. Write him at leepace7@gmail.com and follow him @ LeePaceTweet.

Saturday, May 31 • 10am - 12pm • Chapel Hall

Distinct Services Family Service with Children’s Sermon Traditional Worship 11:00am 2nd & 4th Wednesday of the month American Heritage Girls and Trail Life Troop 1898 meet at Heritage Hall Friday, May 9 • 7 p.m. Chapel Music Series 10 year celebration

Three Distinct Services 8:00am - Holy Eucharist 9:30am - Family Service with Children’s Sermon 11:00am - Traditional Worship

Erosion Control

We were losing the ridgeline to the dusk when you asked, “What if I had stayed?”

Ten years is nothing to a mountain —

unless you clear-cut and gut it for someone else to move in.

I’ve done that too many times — made my heart a gorge with a river everyone floats through.

I looked at you and said, “It wouldn’t have mattered.”

And you stared at me with eyes that looked so tired of trying to rebuild a rockslide.

— Clint Bowman

May 2025

Clint Bowman’s most recent volume of poetry is titled If Lost.

In the magazine world, where ink and paper icons get thinner by the day, it seemed appropriate to take a moment to recognize PineStraw’s 20th anniversary. Two decades is worth celebrating.

What follows are some of the voices, artists and photographers who have made your magazine what it is.

But PineStraw hasn’t existed for 20 years because it’s about us.

It has lived this long because it’s about you. So, from all of us to all of you, our heartfelt thanks.

April 2005

By glenn Dickerson

By Brent H ackney

One evening in 1962, Voit Gilmore and Felton Capel went to the movies together at the Sunrise Theater in downtown Southern Pines. They bought their tickets at the box office on North West Broad Street and walked down the aisle and seated themselves front row center.

Neither remembers what movie he saw that night.

“That was the furthest thing from my mind,” said Capel with a laugh.

Indeed it was. This was no ordinary trip to the movies by Gilmore and Capel, two of Southern Pines’ most distinguished business, civic and political leaders. This was a watershed event, a turning point in the history of their community.

cover PHotogra PH

December 2005

June 2006

By neville Beamer

I left New York and moved to Southport, North Carolina, in August of 1982. It was like going 180 miles per hour into a brick wall. I sat there on the beach, stunned and wondering what had happened, for a couple of years. I fished a lot, swam a lot, and drank a lot.

Gradually I slipped back into the real world, the big city lights becoming a glittering memory. I spent five years in Southport, and with marriage number two on the scrap pile and funds depleting rapidly, I heard about a basement bar for sale in a town that I had never visited, Southern Pines. It was 1987, I was nearly 46 years old, and it was time to go back to work. I came, I saw, I was enthralled.

December 2007

By m att moriarty

December 2006

If there is one thing my father and I agree on this holiday season, it’s that this is going to be, unquestionably, a tinsel year.

You see, my older sister, Jennifer, and I are the offspring of a mixed marriage. My father loves tinsel on our family Christmas tree. My mother absolutely loathes it.

Naturally, some years ago, Jennifer and I were forced to pick sides. I went into Dad’s camp. My traitorous sister sided with Mom. The battle lines were drawn. This type of conflict can tear any normal family apart. Luckily, ours isn’t that normal.

Photography by Tim Sayer

by

cover illustration By sHerry samkus

illustration By Pamela Powers January

PHotogra PHs By tim sayer

August 2008

By DeBora H salomon

There it hung, the last garment in the storage closet I must empty before returning to North Carolina, leaving life “way up North” as I had known it for four decades. Sunshine streaming through the window cast a greenish hue on the rumpled black linen fabric of a dress I had worn only once.

I can remember shopping with my mother and her saying, “That would make a nice summer funeral dress,” pulling a sedate dark print from a rack of raucous florals. I never understood why she didn’t shop for a “winter funeral dress,” perhaps because most ladies already own a dressy dark winter outfit. Or simply keep their coats on.

January 2009

By tom emBrey

July 2008

Never underestimate the power of prayer, love and positivity. Be the best you can be, and live life to the fullest.

Cherish your family and friendships. Someday they may need you like I needed mine.

Remember, family and true friends are folks you can count on even in the direst of situations, yet they can still crack wise with you for being half nuts. There are those who make you smile when you think of them. They are the folks who make life worth living.

February 2010

By a sHley walsHe

August 2009

The first time my beau brought her over, I wasn’t expecting the excess company. Three is a crowd, you know. Besides, the floozy repulsed me from the get-go.

I hated everything about her, but what troubled me most was the spell she seemed to have cast over him. The gentle inflection in his voice when he said her name, the ceaseless babbling about all the amazing things she could do, and the way his face got that soft glow when he looked at her. The boy was utterly enchanted, and it couldn’t have been more blatant.

At one point, while watching him ogle her like he was some sort of hungry hyena, I thought I was going to be sick. But it was watching them canoodling together, watching him grazing his fingertips tenderly across her glossy touch screen that caused the realization to smack me like a tsunami: I was jealous of my boyfriend’s new phone.

PHotogra PHs

By tim sayer

PHotogra PH By tim sayer

November 2011

The House That Peggy Built

June 2011

By Jim DoDson

It rained hard that morning, I remember, a tropical downpour, then the sun came out and everything felt like a steam bath. My mother’s peony garden was still in bloom the day I graduated from high school 40 years ago this June; she cut one and left it by my cereal bowl, a perfect pale yellow, still wet with dew, along with a note and an elegant cream box.

Inside was a French fountain pen with a gold nib. “Congratulations to our writer!” she wrote.

That afternoon, wearing just gym shorts and a pair of flip-flops beneath my silky blue graduation robe, I decided I was the soul of Bohemian wit. In truth, I couldn’t wait to collect my sheepskin and head for the horizon. Or, more to the point, France.

My sights were on the Left Bank of Paris, a place I’d never visited but knew all about. I had money saved from the guitar lessons I gave over the winter and a master plan worked out in my head. I’d fly there and stay with a friend of a friend who was attending the Sorbonne until I could find a cheap flat of my own. With a little luck, despite my appallingly bad French, I’d find a job as a stringer at the Herald-Tribune and meet fascinating people who would change my life. I’d probably take up with a dark-eyed beauty with underarm hair, who loved Gide and Gauloises.

Oh, sweet redneck youth.

September 2012

By tom Bryant

The old house stands like a lonely sentinel on a narrow two-lane road that runs from Nebraska, an ancient deserted ghost town that was once a bustling fishing and agriculture center. The road passes the Whistling Wings hunting lodge at White Plains and forks at Middletown, a sleepy little fishing village located on a canal that drains in the Pamlico. From there, the highway meanders on to Englehard, the shopping mecca of Hyde County and the place to which we venture when we run low on groceries.

PHotogra PH By tim sayer

PHotogra PHs By JoHn gessner

March 2013

By cos Barnes

December 2013

PHotogra PHs By tim sayer, l aura gingericH, JoHn gessner

Let me tell you about my Aunt Sarah.

She was what society termed “an old maid.”

She never married nor had a child, but she was my surrogate mother. How she would question that adjective and what it means.

She had an incredible memory but if she could not remember details, she made them up. When she died, I regretted I had not recorded all her tales, but my mother said they were not necessarily true.

“But they made a heck of a good story,” I replied.

Aunt Sarah was an incurable exaggerater, the inventor of hyperbole, probably. When she told a funny story she would get so tickled, she would be unable to talk; tears streamed down her cheeks and she gasped for breath. But the endings were always worth the wait.

June 2014

By lee Pace

February 2013 a rt By Jessie

In the beginning, the ideas was so audacious that Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw leaned on the side of saying, “No. Thanks, but no.”

Could you actually strip a high-profile golf course of its perfect emerald sheen and transplant it back in time half a century and beyond? Could you teach the American golf consumer that sandy and scruffy and rough-hewn did not equal cheap and low-rent? Would the United States Golf Association actually contest its U.S. Open on a course bereft of treacherous rough? Could you convince maintenance workers that weeds and organic matter and wayward pine needles are fine, that since God himself had put them there, who was a greens superintendent to quarrel?

m ackay

illustration By H arry Blair

July 2015

By serena Brown

I write this sitting at my parents’ kitchen table. It’s pouring rain outside and so green that the very light is linden. The garden is magnificent. I’m using a beloved yellow Labrador as a foot warmer. My mother is leaning on the Aga extolling its virtues. For those from warmer climes, an Aga is a Swedish cast-iron powerhouse of a stove without which the inhabitants of the English countryside would have nowhere to warm themselves, incubate orphaned lambs, dry clothes, make toast or bubble slow-cooking stews for days on end. My parents and I are clad in wool and quilted vests and cheerfully agreeing that the weather is brightening up. My father is busy lighting the fire in the sitting room. My mother will make the most of the brightened weather by reading the Sunday papers outdoors swathed in fur rugs and a tarpaulin. Welcome to an English summer.

January 2015

PHotogra PHs By JoHn gessner, timot H y H ale, l aura gingericH, tim sayer

April 2016

By cly De eDgerton

I was working on a problem regarding equal opportunity, and a friend said, “You need to speak to Judge Burnett. Gil Burnett. Here’s his phone number.”

I called the judge and we decided to meet at Starbucks. He’d told me he would be wearing an orange jacket, so when I walked into Starbucks, I looked around, saw a man in an orange jacket — getting a cup of coffee. I approached. He turned, we introduced ourselves and shook hands. I said something. He leaned forward a little, looked at me funny and said, “I forgot my hearing aids.” He touched his mouth. “And two teeth.”

We both laughed, sat down and started talking. I don’t hear well, myself, and I told the judge a story about my mother in her later years.

A neighbor, who also couldn’t hear well, occasionally stopped by my mother’s house. The two would sit side by side on the couch in the den, lean toward each other until their heads touched. Then they’d relax and start talking and laughing, their heads together, each able to hear the other — through skull-bone vibrations.

August 2017

By lee smit H

I come here to be touched, I want the lotion, the rubbing, the smoothing, the stroking, the pressing, the kneading fingers, the touch on my toes and feet and legs and hands and shoulders. Oh, and I always get the neck massage, too, in addition to the deluxe manicure and the hot stone pedicure and the warm wax treatment on both feet and hands. I especially love the moment when each hand or foot slides into its own plastic bag filled with that melted wax, you think it’s too hot and you can’t stand it, but you can. And I especially love Kim, a round sweet Filipino woman, the salon owner’s wife, who is doing me today, both for her wonderful plump firm hands and also her strength as she goes deep, deep in the tight muscles of my calves and neck. If I can’t get Kim, I ask for Rosa, thin, tense and angry, or Luis, a gentle, beautiful young man who seems wistful or sad to me though who knows if that is true or not. None of these people speak English beyond the most rudimentary and necessary terms such as “Mani-pedi too-too?” or “Hot-hot?” as I put my feet into the tub, or “You like?” as Kim asks now, massaging my calves, then “Feel so good!” with a nice big smile as she brings the hot towel to cover my knees and lower legs and feet. This is heaven. I smile, too. I love it that we can’t really communicate. I’m not here to talk, I’m here to be touched.

December 2017

By l aurel HolDen

March 2016

PHotogra PH From tHe tuF ts a rcHives

a miniature sleigh, with briskets and beer, With a little old driver, so lively and quick, I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick. More rapid than beagles his sauces they came, And he whistled, and shouted, and call’d them by name:

“Now! Salsa, now! Garlic, now! Curry, and Poblano, “On! Chili, on! Cumin, on! Mustard and Diablo; “To the top of the porch! to the top of the wall! “Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!” As pine needles before the hurricane fly, Twist in the wind and mount to the sky; So up to the house-top the sauces they flew, With the sleigh full of ribs and St. Nicholas too: And then in a twinkling, I heard up above The clatter and clang of a labor of love. As I drew in my head, and was turning around, Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound:

February 2018

By Bill FielDs

On a mild December morning at Dixie Burger in Ellerbe, North Carolina, several customers of a certain age at a corner table are remembering someone who once sat among them, shooting the breeze and drinking coffee.

“Was grand marshal at the racetrack and lifted a girl on each arm like it was nothing.”

“Used to be booths in here, but he wouldn’t fit.”

“Ate 12 chickens in one day.”

When he wasn’t wrestling, making a movie or otherwise being Andre the Giant, the man sometimes called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” lived in Ellerbe for more than a dozen years. He enjoyed his time in the Richmond County town of about 1,000 people and loved to kill part of a day at the short-order restaurant, whose tall hamburger sign is the most visible landmark on Main Street.

March 2019

By Bill case

The White Pages listing is for Richard Wayne Penniman. If you dial it the first thing you’ll hear is programmed classical music. Elevator stuff. If you’re lucky, it’s followed by Mr. Penniman himself. There was a time when talking directly with this man took more than a phone call. That was when Richard Penniman — aka Little Richard — rock and rolled the national music scene of the 1950s along with Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis and Fats Domino. His monster hits like “Tutti Frutti,” “Long Tall Sally” and “Lucille” became rock ‘n’ roll anthems.

Now 86, Little Richard no longer keeps an entourage, living quietly far from the limelight in Lynchburg, Tennessee, the home of Jack Daniel’s whiskey. My call had nothing to do with his megahit celebrity. I was interested in his hardscrabble days performing in African-American roadhouses of the South during the late ’40s and early ’50s — the far-flung network of nightclubs informally dubbed the Chitlin’ Circuit and one place in particular, the Ambassadors Club.

Penniman, once the most flamboyant and attention-seeking of all rock ‘n’ roll performers, wasn’t interest in “any of that.” He thanked me for calling and promptly hung up. Little Richard had no desire to remember a part of his life that one Pinehurst boy would never forget.

October 2019

June 2020

By Bet H m acDonalD

October

Speaking languages other than English has always been a dream of mine. It’s also always been a strong point of failure. I’ve tried. I’d love to put a language other than “Pig Latin” on my LinkedIn profile. I’m curious and love to travel. I’d also love to join the ranks of those people at parties who brag about being fluent in seven actual languages or at least one good dead one like Coptic (not something sarcastic like “Sailor Talk,” “Toddler” or “Dog Whisperer”).

In high school I took French, dreaming of the day I would visit Paris and chicly order a croissant with the perfect accent: “Un qua-san, see-voo-play.” I envisioned myself at a café table looking mysterious, without spilling any crumbs on my haute couture, looking like Brigitte Bardot. I’d elegantly smoke a cigarette with a fashionable long black opera holder. When I eventually made it to Paris I almost sent my high school teacher a postcard that said, “Thanks for nothing.” I couldn’t even order water.

January 2023

By Jenna Biter

June 2021

By Jim moriarty

Nothing last forever, which is kind of the point. When Patrick Dougherty fashions one of his monumental structures, weaving sticks together as if he were knitting a medieval battlement from scratch, his internationally renowned art manages to make a permanent impact with a temporary footprint. It never strays very far from the notion that one day the wind will blow and this will all be gone — but not before we get a chance to revel in it.

Dougherty, who spent a large part of his youth in Southern Pines, will travel down from his handcrafted Chapel Hill home for the first three weeks of June when he, his son, Sam, and a cadre of volunteers erect what will surely be one of the final sculptures of his career in a space near the Ball Visitors Center at Sandhills Community College. Dougherty is 75 now, and all the lifting, toting, gathering and climbing integral to creating these magical piles of sticks is young man’s work.

At the end of another day the Earth turns its face from the sun, and dusk stretches its long arms over the horizon, tucking half of the globe under the heavy blanket of night. In the thick of North Carolina pine country, drowsy towns go dim but not yet dark, like fires burnt to embers.

Somewhere in Seven Lakes, on a wide corner lot occupied by an agreeable yellow house, one Northerner-comeSouth seems immune to the lullabye of night.

As a neighbor’s kitchen light goes out, the yellow house stirs. Its garage door rolls up, and a man dressed in a vacation-style shirt fit for George Seurat’s La Grand Jatte steps onto his driveway under the purple fresco of Starry Night. He pushes a tripod fixed atop caster wheels into the middle of the blacktop, then steps back to eye the mechanical spider. It has one oculus instead of eight, a 21st-century Cyclops capable of probing the heavens.

April 2022

By Daniel wallace

November 2023

We were listening to Vivaldi the night I died, the bed so soft, so warm, my wife of nearly half-a-century perched beside me with a cup of ice chips, there to wet my tongue, my lips. Even though I die at the end of it, this is not a sad story, really: I was very old, comfortable, cared for, weary, and loved, loved my whole life long, ready to fade into whatever night was waiting for me. And of all the moments I might have conjured to accompany me as I was leaving, it was our very first date that I recalled.

illustration By m att myers

PHotogra PH By l arry Pizzi

illustration

By H arry Blair

January 2024

By stePHen e. smit H

Nancy Rawlinson was a first-grader at Millington Elementary School in New Jersey when she happened upon an intriguing book in the school library. She flipped through the pages and immediately fell in love with the illustrations of horses. The book may have been The Blind Colt or Stolen Pony or Wild Horses of the Red Desert — she has forgotten the title — but she knew what she liked, and that the artist was Glen Rounds. “I was in love with horses at the time,” she recalls, “and I read Glen Rounds’ books over and over again.”

In 1991 Rawlinson moved to Southern Pines and eventually opened Eye Candy Gallery & Framing on Broad Street, but she never had an opportunity to meet the writer and illustrator whose books had brought her so much pleasure in her childhood. Rounds (the appellation assigned to Glen by his many friends) lived almost half his life in Southern Pines, and he was affectionately acknowledged by acquaintances and neighbors as “the literary man about town.”

Decked out in his weathered jeans and cowboy vest, he was the craggy graybearded bohemian wandering among the business-clad locals and Yankee snowbirds — a mid-morning regular at the local post office, where he’d buttonhole friends and strangers and regale them with humorous, wisdom-laced tall tales, droll shaggy-dog stories, and the occasional off-color witticism.

February 2025

By JosePH BatH anti

March 2025

My mother swears she’s pregnant. She wants to cook. Which she never does. In our house, my father handles the cooking. As recently as yesterday she wasn’t even speaking to us, but this baby — the baby, she says — has her happy and she wants to make zeppole. Little patties of dough fried in hot olive oil, then sprinkled with sugar. She has a craving. The way her mother used to make them. I don’t remember ever eating them, but my mother assures me I have. At my grandmother’s. But we hardly see her anymore, and I’m not certain I’d recognize her if she crashed through the roof.

My mother produces a white prayer book with a tiny lock like an antique diary’s. With a key the size of an infant’s thumbnail she opens it. Should she drop to her knees, mumbling antiphonies like those insane Calabrian widows on Good Fridays at the graveyard, I will fall over dead in astonishment, and my father will join me. But she does not pray. Rather, she takes from the prayer book’s withered secret pages a slip of frayed paper and, reading from it as she puffs on a Chesterfield, assembles the grayish-yellow mound of dough.

My father sits reading the obituaries at the kitchen table. Wearing a long white terrycloth robe with a black hex sign on the back, he looks like a prizefighter. He tells my mother that Phil Decker died and is laid out at Febraro’s.

“Did somebody shoot him or did he just eat himself to death?” she asks. PS

PHotogra PH By toDD P usser

illustration By glenn rounDs

illustration By m ariano santillan

itar

ou can go almost anywhere, and there’ll be a (insert your favorite personal expletive here) with a guitar,” a curmudgeonly crony once told me.

I suspect he was talking about me. I’ve been toting around an acoustic guitar — in my car mostly — since I squandered $20 on a 6-string that beckoned to me from a pawnshop window when I was 14. The Kingston Trio strummed guitars, the girls swooned, and I had to have that Kay archtop with the bowed neck. No other instrument would do.

(When was the last time you heard a testosterone-besotted teenager quip, “I just happen to have my

tuba with me”?) At 17, I could flat pick the intro to The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun” and bang out the first few chords of The Troggs’ “Wild Thing.” What more did I need to know?

If Americans have a national instrument, it’s the guitar, be it electric or acoustic or a combination of the two. According to Statista Research Department, 3.3 million guitars were sold last year in the United States. Any way you figure it, that’s a lot of exotic tonewood, bone, plastic, steel, glue, tortoiseshell and abalone. And that doesn’t account for the necessary accouterments — picks, strings, amps, mics, pedals, wires of every possible description, cases, straps, capos, gig bags, tuners, etc. Guitars constitute an in-your-face, above-ground market that flourishes on the internet via eBay and Reverb and lives in every city and settlement with a population of more than one. It’s a miracle that every kid in America isn’t busking on the curb.

In your lifetime, you’ll probably buy a guitar, or you know someone who will. With millions of options available, making an intelligent choice can be time-consuming and expensive — and ultimately disappointing. If you buy the wrong instrument — one that’s difficult to play and sounds crappy — the novice picker may become disillusioned and never fully realize the fulfillment music can bring into his or her life.

The guitar market is inundated with defective, cheap, and poorly constructed used instruments that are available for a pittance, while at the other extreme, you can make the investment of a lifetime if you stumble upon a one-of-a-kind gem. Kurt Cobain’s Martin 1959 D-18E acoustic recently sold for $6 million, and Bob Dylan’s 1964 Fender Stratocaster — the one that antagonized the crowd at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival — is a steal at a million bucks. Mark Twain’s 1835 2 1/2-17 Martin, which cost $10 new, is valued at over $15 million.

Used, worn-out instruments flood online auctions. Many of these are catalog guitars sold from 1920 through the mid-’60s. They have the virtue of being American-made, but they were ordered through Sears (Supertone/ Silvertone), Montgomery Ward (Airline), or a myriad of more obscure distributors, and were often delivered in unplayable condition with a string height and tension that would suck blood straight out of your fingertips. Even if you lucked into a medium-grade and high-end used guitar, the truth is simple: Guitars wear out. The necks warp, the soundboards crack, the tuners fall apart,

and the bridges pull up. They can be repaired, but the services of a capable luthier don’t come cheap, and you can spend more money restoring an old guitar than you will pay for a new, more playable model.

So where do you start the quest for that 6-string soulmate? If possible, borrow a guitar. Get a feel for the instrument. Learn a couple of chords. Sing a simple song. If you decide to purchase an instrument, don’t go online and click on the first thing that strikes your fancy. There’s no telling what will arrive in the mail. How a guitar looks on a computer screen and how it sounds and feels when you’re caressing the strings are very different things.

Or you might begin by watching Daniel Putkowski’s 2023 documentary Heirloom: Guitar, snippets of which were filmed in Southern Pines and feature Greensboro luthier Bob Rigaud. The doc is a simple primer for the unschooled. Putkowski begins with an ingenious admission: “I’ve been trying for 20 years to figure out what makes the guitar so popular in American music and across the world.”

Rigaud, who has crafted boutique instruments for Graham Nash, John Hiatt and David Crosby, believes the guitar is spiritual: “The guitar is probably the easiest instrument to play — of course it’s one of the hardest to master. . . It’s spiritual, and it speaks to people in their own lives — love, loss, all subjects.” The professionally produced documentary traces the acoustic guitar’s evolution from a parlor instrument into the most popular musicmaker in the world. Segments are supplemented by clips of Bryan Sutton, David Grier, Florence Dore and others explicating their love of the instrument and include step-by-step visuals of a luthier building a custom boutique guitar from scratch. Heirloom: Guitar is available on YouTube and is a good introduction for anyone who is considering a purchase.

We’re fortunate to live at a propitious moment in the evolution of the guitar. CNC (computer numerical control) machines improved construction and playability, and if the guitar is made by a reputable American company — Martin, Gibson, Collings, Taylor, etc. — it’s likely to be a superior instrument. And there are hundreds of American luthiers — too many to mention here — who build custom guitars of the highest quality, although these models are likely to be pricy.

Among imported guitars (“offshore” is the popular euphemism) constructed in China, Indonesia, Japan, etc., deals are to be had. American players generally look down on these foreign models, but the Chinese have been producing acceptable instruments for the last 30 years, and Japan’s Takamine, Alvarez and Yamaha are welcome on any stage or in any song circle. After all, musicians in the Orient were playing stringed instruments long before the Vikings set foot in Vinland. It’s all right to be a guitar snob, but it’s unnecessary — and unbecoming.

Online guitar retailers abound. Musicians Friend, Cream City Music, Sweetwater, Chicago Music Exchange and other music companies will allow you to purchase an instrument and return it in new condition for a full refund if you don’t like what you hear.

But the best and easiest place to start your search is your local music store. (There are chain guitar stores you can frequent if you can endure the bone-jarring racket of 10 customers playing White Stripes’ “The Hardest Button to Button” with their amps maxed out.) But a quiet, comfortable atmosphere where you can handle the instrument and hear what’s played beneath your hands is the way to go. A guitar must feel right as well as sound right.

Southern Pines has had its share of cliquish musical haunts.

The Pinedene Jazz Center, which was featured on WRAL’s Tarheel Traveler many years ago, comes immediately to mind.

The hole-in-the-wall establishment on U.S. 1 South flourished as a gas station selling Black Diamond Strings until it morphed into a music store that eventually succumbed to changing times and a shift in ownership.

The more substantial Casino Guitars (www.casinoguitars.com), which now anchors, along with The Country Bookshop and The Ice Cream Parlor, downtown Southern Pines, carries an impressive array of guitars, many of them high-end instruments that proprietor Baxter Clement ships worldwide. Casino has grown into one of the premier guitar stores in the Southeast. The service

is excellent; the crew is knowledgeable. Clement, a music graduate from Vanderbilt University, thoroughly knows his stuff, and he truly loves guitars. He has a solid business plan. He knows that customers in the market for a guitar need to feel and hear the instrument. They need to hold it in their hands and sense that sudden bond: Ah, yes, this is the one!

“When a customer comes in the front door, we try to make them feel at ease,” Clement says. “They can take their time and browse and find an instrument they feel a connection to. Our job is to help the customer find a guitar that speaks to them.”

As for the price range of his stock, he’s philosophical. “Every

Baxter Clement

guitar gets you to the same place, like a car moving from A to B,” he says. “A quality guitar will just get you there faster. And, too, customers should keep in mind that many of the cheaper guitars are produced by workers who aren’t paid a fair wage. In some cases, they’re built by prison labor who work in unsafe conditions without masks or eye protection.”

How much should you pay for a new or used guitar? Is there a decisive difference between a high-end and a cheapo-cheapo model? Nothing is absolute. If you do your research, listen to a trusted expert and, as Aristotle reminds us, trust your eyes and ears — “The Eyes are the organs of temptation, and the Ears are the organs of instruction” — you have a very good chance of purchasing a quality, playable instrument that will bring you years of satisfaction.

To determine how low-end guitars have improved in recent years, I ordered the cheapest playable new guitar I could find online. Recording King is a brand name conjured up by Gibson during the Great Depression. The guitars produced under the label were more lightly constructed and cost less than the typical Gibson. The Recording King moniker was eventually sold to a Chinese outfit that produces models at varying prices and quality. For $100, I purchased a Recording King from the “Dirty-30s” series, which boasts surprisingly impressive specs — a spruce top, nickel tuning machines, Whitewood (whatever that is) back and sides, mahogany neck, bone saddle and nut — all good stuff.

I toted the Recording King and my 2012 Signature John Sebastian Martin D Slope Shoulder, which boasts the specs of

the very best of American guitars (there’s one for sale online for $15,500), to a gathering of the Weymouth Song Circle, which meets on the last Tuesday of every month, to allow the experts to weigh value and quality. And they did.

The Recording King sounds, well, good enough. It is surprisingly playable out of the box. It’s bright and responsive and holds its own with other guitars when fingerpicked or strummed.

Except for minor finishing details (the fret ends are like septic spikes), the Recording King would have held its own in the 1950s and ’60s folk era.

But when we played the Martin DSS, trained ears held sway. The Martin was by far the more desirable guitar. Everyone wanted to pick a few tunes on the DSS while the Recording King sat slumped, neglected, in the corner. It’s a viable guitar, fun to play when accompanying others, but the superior Martin demanded the attention of experienced pickers. Which begs the question: Is one Martin guitar worth 155 Recording Kings? Whatever the answer, this much is certain: The serious player should experience long-term satisfaction with his or her purchase. You don’t want to outgrow your new guitar in the first month of ownership or be discouraged by its inadequacies.

Everyone should have a little music in his or her life, if only to escape the electronic morass we’re forced to inhabit. When you hold an acoustic guitar in your hands, it’s just you and the instrument. For better or worse, it reflects what you feel and believe — and who you are. It also connects with others, and there’s a strong sense of community among guitar players, whatever their skill level. And Lord knows, genuine connection is what we need more than ever.

Even casual music lovers appreciate the sense of camaraderie that guitars convey. I recall a summer afternoon 40 years ago when I was driving into Austin, Texas, to visit my singersongwriter brother. I had my radio tuned to a local station that was broadcasting live coverage of a gathering of 500 guitarists on the grounds of the State Capitol. At precisely high noon, they all played “Wild Thing” — raucous head-pounding A, D, E, D, A, D, E chords blasting through the transistors in perfect generational unison.

Oh, how I longed to be among them! PS

The Perfect Match

Rory McIlroy and the Quail Hollow Club

By ron green Jr. • PHotogra PH By mogie a DamcHik

It has been 15 years since that electric Sunday afternoon at Quail Hollow Club when Rory McIlroy formally introduced himself to the American golf society.

McIlroy was still two days shy of his 21st birthday, and he was one hour removed from having played a round for the ages. Not only had McIlroy won the Quail Hollow Championship for his first PGA Tour victory, he had done so by shooting a closing 10-under par 62 that crackled with a Zeus-like thunder.

By finishing with six consecutive threes on his scorecard, the last one a 40-foot birdie putt that had McIlroy punching the air as his curls danced around the edges of his cap, the game’s new star had arrived trailing sparks.

In the quiet of the Quail Hollow locker room after a Champagne toast with members, McIlroy stood between two rows of lockers, talking to his parents on the phone, the impending magnitude of his performance still settling over everyone.

The Earth was moving.

Television commentator David Feherty, a native of Northern Ireland like McIlroy, had walked the finishing stretch with the winner and said as he left the 18th green, “That’s the most im-

pressive thing I’ve seen in a very, very long time.”

So it began, at least here in the United States, a golf story midway through its second decade that is painted in primary colors and piercing emotions.

This month McIlroy returns to Quail Hollow Club, where he is a member, and where he has won the annual PGA Tour event four times. This visit is different. Oh, so different. It’s the year’s second major, the PGA Championship, being played at a spot McIlroy has more than once called “one of my favorite places on Earth.” And now he’s got a green jacket hanging in his closet after winning the Masters in a sudden-death playoff over Justin Rose, ending a nearly 11 year drought since his last major championship victory and making him just the sixth player to complete the career Grand Slam, joining Gene Sarazen, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player, Ben Hogan and Tiger Woods.

Fourteen years after losing a 4-stroke lead in the final round of the Masters, McIlroy’s victory sent him to his knees sobbing in relief and resonating throughout the golf world.

“It’s the best day of my golfing life,” said McIlroy, who had too much practice explaining his near-miss losses in major champion-

ships. “I’m very proud of myself. I’m proud of never giving up. I’m proud of how I kept coming back and dusting myself off and not letting the disappointments really get to me. Talking about that eternal optimist again. Yeah, very proud.”

When asked late last year if he knew where the 2025 PGA Championship would be played, McIlroy answered, “Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, North Carolina, and I cannot wait.”

Such is the tie that binds McIlroy to Charlotte — and, by extension, North Carolina — though his last competitive start in the Tar Heel State ended with one of the most emotionally devastating losses in his career, his runner-up finish to Bryson DeChambeau in the 2024 U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2.

“It was a great day until it wasn’t,” McIlroy would say later.

McIlroy led by two strokes with five holes remaining and left brokenhearted, haunted by short misses on the 16th and 18th greens when it appeared he would end a decade-long drought in the majors. Instead, McIlroy drove away alone and silent and, while DeChambeau celebrated his victory, there was a bittersweetness in the summer air at Pinehurst that McIlroy, so beloved and so close, had been denied again.

As Tiger Woods stepped back and Phil Mickelson stepped away, McIlroy has grown into, arguably, golf’s biggest star. Part of it is the majesty of his skills, a mesmerizing blend of power and panache. Another part, the one that may define McIlroy, is the charismatic connection that has been forged in the fire of soaring successes and aching disappointments.

McIlroy has won 29 PGA Tour events, including five major championships and two Players Championships, and there are still questions about the ones that got away. He is judged against an almost impossibly high bar, one he set for himself with his own brilliance, and it comes with an emotional attachment from his fans that runs deeper than anyone else in the game.

McIlroy is charismatic, vulnerable, magnetic, thoughtful, battle scarred, curious, sharing and generous. Fans don’t just watch McIlroy play, they sign on for the ride, investing in him because he has so often returned that investment, whether with his thankyous, his outspokenness or his natural charm.

Think of McIlroy and a library of images comes forward.

There he is hugging his father, Gerry, after his 8-stroke victory in the 2011 U.S. Open at Congressional Country Club, barely two months removed from his final round collapse at the Masters.

A year later, laying his head back and letting the ocean breeze blow across him, he walked the final hole of another 8-stroke victory at the 2012 PGA Championship at Kiawah Island.

Then, in a sweet and touching moment, handing the Claret Jug to his mother, Rosie, after winning the 2014 Open Championship at Royal Liverpool.

There he is hoisting the FedEx Cup trophy in 2016 and 2019 and again in 2022.

Side by side, there’s McIlroy in tears after a gutting performance in a Ryder Cup loss at Whistling Straits in 2021, and another of him showering his European teammates in Champagne after wins in 2018 and 2023.

Walking stoically up the 18th fairway at the Old Course in 2022 after failing to make a birdie in the final round of the Open

Championship, knowing he had the Claret Jug in his grasp again until he didn’t.

Had any of us been there to see it, there was McIlroy alone in New York City after his U.S. Open loss at Pinehurst, quietly walking The High Line for what he called a reset, “finding the joy in the small things in life.”

And now, having shed the awesome burden of time, there he is finding tears and joy, kneeling on the 18th green at Augusta National.

As golf has been torn apart by the battle between the PGA Tour and LIV Golf in recent years, McIlroy has often been at the nexus of the fiery debate about what is right and wrong, good and bad, possible and unacceptable. He wanted to be part of the solution, understanding that the PGA Tour’s money-heavy response to LIV Golf’s excesses benefited him as much as anyone. McIlroy was sharply critical of LIV’s approach, and his press conferences often became touchstones for how the establishment (meaning the PGA Tour) viewed what was happening.

Gradually, McIlroy tempered his stance, and while he vowed his lifetime allegiance to the PGA Tour, he sought harmony even as his role in the behind the scenes discussions diminished. His goal, it seemed, was to find the greater good, and he said as much.

“I have always said I will answer questions honestly. I don’t want to change that about myself. I think people appreciate that about me,” McIlroy said.

The day after McIlroy won the 2010 Wachovia Championship, I walked into the Charlotte Observer office, and more than one person asked who the kid was who won the golf tournament on Sunday.

“Probably the next great one,” I told them, not because I have a particular eye for talent, but seeing McIlroy in that moment pulled back the curtain on the future. “One of these days, you will remember he won his first one at Quail Hollow.”

With the return of the PGA Championship — it was played there in 2017 — the inevitable question arises: Can Rory still win majors in bunches, as he did to close out the 2014 season? Perhaps for an answer he can look to Sarazen, the first golfer to complete the career slam before there even was such a thing — when Sarazen won the Masters in 1935 the tournament was little more than an infant. McIlroy allowed nearly 11 years to roll past between major titles. Sarazen won three majors in 1922-23 and suffered a nine-year drought until he won four more from 1932-35, the last coming in Augusta. Can the newest member of the career Grand Slam club equal the fortunes of the first?

Here we are, 15 years after McIlroy’s first triumph in America. There are flecks of gray in his hair, but the boyishness remains, tempered only slightly by the years and the demands.

After winning his second Players Championship in March, McIlroy was asked if he still connects with his inner child when he wins.

That familiar smile crossed his face.

“Ten-year old Rory would think this is really, really cool,” he said.

He’s not the only one. PS Charlotte native Ron Green Jr. covers golf for Global Golf Post.

Retiring in Style

Designing on a clean slate

By DeBora H salomon

PHs By JoHn gessner

PHotogra

The Browns’ favorite décor color does not appear on any rainbow. Instead, Frank and Becky Brown chose a sandy French vanilla with flecks of oatmeal and cocoa throughout their ubercontemporary retirement residence that answers to simply stunning. Here, the old is missing but not missed. With the exception of a grandmother’s desk furnishings, fixtures, objets and art are new, selected for this space by Becky on the advice of Pinehurst interior designer Angela Budd.

“We had traveled, moved around so much (for Frank Brown’s career in beverage distribution management) that we decided to give everything away and start fresh,” Becky says.

No way could she manage such a task from Colorado, their final post. Budd, in consultation with the Browns, created a subtle, sophisticated environment based on a color softer than white, easier to live with than primaries. Even the 4-inch oak floorboards throughout reflect this hue.

All new, soup to nuts, minimum legwork, professional advice, what a lark! Frank calls the finished product “calm,” while running his hand over a rich chocolate brown coffee table of the fashionable “stacked” genre.

“I love this table,” he says with a smile.

The then Florida-based Browns had friends from Raleigh who, after golfing in Pinehurst, decided to move here. Frank

and Becky visited, fell in love with the area and chose the Country Club of North Carolina for retirement. Downsizing wasn’t their goal. They required something one-story on a spacious lot partially fenced for their dogs — a house that didn’t need a structural overhaul or floorplan rearrangement. What they found was 3,400 square feet, built in 1986 on 1.6 acres. It was so right they purchased it from photos, boots on the ground unnecessary.

Next, Becky needed an interior designer who could translate generalities into sofas, chairs, tables and a kitchen that blends sophistication with practicality. “I had never worked with a designer before,” she says, let alone making decisions influencing what she calls their “forever-type house.”

Budd, of Angela Douglas Interiors, was recommended by a previous client. The responsibility of starting fresh was not new to her, nor was the “clean, soothing, calming” mandate. These were active, young retirees.

Angela and Becky shopped high-end High Point furniture vendors for the most comfortable, thickly upholstered pieces. A 120-inch sofa anchors the

more formal of the home’s two sitting areas, separated by a double-sided fireplace wall with framed flat screens and built-in shelves. The tables in two dining areas — one closer to the kitchen — have graceful curved tops. One expands seating by replacing chairs with a banquette, useful during visits from their two children and four grandchildren.

Charcoal and paler grays punctuate sandy neutrals in the seating areas, where Frank and Becky relax after supper. Every so often, particularly in chairs, Scandinavian modern shapes popular in the 1950s reappear. The kitchen itself, with island, concealed refrigerator with black interior, wine cooler, Zline luxury range and coffee bar has only drawers, no under-counter cabinets. In contrast, tall walnut backlit cabinets displaying the Browns’ wedding china and crystal rise from the countertop. Shiny gold ping pong ball-sized drawer pulls provide pops of color throughout.

Much thought was given to making spaces flow into one another, including two living/dining screened verandas. With entertaining in mind, Budd created a talk-of-the-town powder room. Squares on a deep brown grasscloth wallpaper are outlined by hundreds of hand-applied metallic rivets. Unusual brass sink fixtures, sconces and a narrow, towering skylight make every visit memorable.

As in the kitchen, built-in storage units dominate an entire wall of the master suite, where an upholstered rectangular headboard illustrates the softened geometrics visible throughout, including a low upholstered bench at the end of the bed, similar to Victorian slipper chairs, where

ladies sat while lacing up their tall shoes.

Bedrooms on the guest end of the longitudinal layout will be finished with bunk beds for the grandchildren. An office has been mentioned, as has a sauna. No pool required — the CCNC clubhouse is a few minutes away.

Budd also helped choose the art, from framed black and white photos to several abstract canvases. Frank, who grew up sharing an 880-square foot one-bathroom apartment in St. Louis with his parents and three siblings, smiles and shakes his head at the painting over the living room sofa.

The Browns purchased the house in March 2024 while posted in Colorado. They were able to use the bedrooms a few months later, when Becky and Angela visited showrooms, discussed colors and details. The renovation/furnishing was completed in February 2025. For The Reveal, always emotional, Budd illuminated lamps and fixtures, put flowers on the tables, food in the fridge, wine in the cooler. The coffee bar was stocked. Linens covered the beds, and towels hung in the bathrooms.

Thrilled doesn’t even come close to what Becky Brown felt during the unveiling. She still plans to buy new pots and pans, dishes, glassware and cutlery. Small adjustments are inevitable. “But I always dreamed of living in a home that reflects who I am.”

And now, thanks to serendipity, professional advice, resources and friends who blazed the trail to Pinehurst, she does. PS

Kristy Woodson Harvey

Tuesday, May 27, 2025 • 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Put on your flip-flops and kick off summer by diving into the perfect beach read.

O.Henry magazine proudly hosts the launch of the latest novel from North Carolina’s own New York Times-bestselling author of 11 books, Kristy Woodson Harvey. Enjoy two of our favorite things — lunch and literature — as Kristy discusses Beach House Rules. In this book, Charlotte Stillery and her daughter have been locked out of their home by the FBI after her husband is arrested for committing a white-collar crime. The mother-daughter duo find solace in a small coastal Carolina town community — until skeletons in the closet threaten their newfound friendships.

Enjoy a delicious sit-down meal crafted by the Grandover Resort chef and a thrilling talk, followed by a Q&A session and book signing.

Tickets include a copy of Beach House Rules as well as your meal.

Tickets: ticketmetriad.com

• Supported by:

Book your tickets today at:

ALMANAC May

By a sHley walsHe

Come with me into the woods where spring is advancing, as it does, no matter what, not being singular or particular, but one of the forever gifts, and certainly visible.

Mary Oliver, from “Bazougey” (Dog Songs, 2013)

May is the dreamer and the dream, the artist and the muse, a wish both made and granted.

Daisies are sweet, she must think to herself, giggling as she scatters them across green spaces and rolling meadows, weaving them among butterfly weed and purple coneflower; gently tucking them alongside bluebells and Indian blanket.

A dusting of iris for the pine forest. Jack-in-the-pulpit for the wet and shady woodlands. And for the garden? Peonies, poppies, sweet peas, gardenias and roses.

“Come to me,” says flower to bee.

“Only you,” bee purrs to blossom after fragrant blossom.

And so it goes with milkweed and monarch, yarrow and ladybug, foxglove and hummingbird.

“I’ve been aching for you,” murmurs snake to sun-warmed stone.

“Ditto,” stone whispers back.

Listen to the queenking of treefrog, the whistling of robin, the moonlit chanting of whippoorwill. All of life is a call and response, even if we can’t perceive it.

Magnolia flowers titter at the touch of beetle feet. Phlox swoons at the kiss of eastern swallowtail. Cottontail quivers at the nip of wild strawberry.

New leaves reach for the generous sun. Earthworms pray for rain. Dandelions wish for children.

“Pick me,” a puffball whispers on a gentle breeze. A little boy answers, lifts the downy orb to the light, closes his eyes, and sends one hundred wishes soaring — ninety-nine of them dreams for the gift of an endless spring.

Legendary Sweetness

The Cherokee legend of the first strawberries tells of a quarrel between the earliest man and woman, and the sun’s role in their reconciliation.

“I shall live with you no more,” says the woman, storming away in anger. Seeing that the man is sorry for his harsh words, the sun intervenes. Casting his golden rays upon the earth, he sends plump raspberries, glistening blueberries, then luscious blackberries. The woman blasts past all of them. Finally, when sun-warmed strawberries appear gleaming at her feet, she stops in her tracks. One bite and the sweetness washes over her. Filled with the joy she shared with her husband before their fight, she gathers the strawberries to share with him.

“To this day,” writes Joseph Bruchac in The First Strawberries, a retelling of the Cherokee story, “when Cherokee people eat strawberries, they are reminded to always be kind to each other; to remember that friendship and respect are as sweet as the taste of ripe red berries.”

Want to pick your own strawberries this month? Find PYO farms across the state at pickyourown.org.

Mama Loves You

Mother’s Day is observed on Sunday, May 11. As you celebrate all the mamas you hold dear — mother comes in many forms — don’t forget the one who holds us all. We love you, Mother Earth. Thank you for all that you give. May we learn to honor you through our choices, our actions and our grateful hearts.

MCNEILL OIL & PROPANE

McNeill Oil & Propane has been a cornerstone in the community since 1928, known for their unmatched customer service. With a team of knowledgeable employees, they provide exceptional service to residential, commercial and agricultural customers throughout Moore County, Hoke County and the surrounding areas.

The company’s roots trace back to W.H. McNeill, who, while working for Biscoe Oil Company in the early 1920s, unloaded the first tank carload of Pure gasoline delivered to North Carolina. Inspired to start his own business, he founded McNeill Oil. Frank McNeill Sr. joined the business in 1952, helping shape the company into the trusted name it is today. Over the years, McNeill Oil has adapted to the changing demands of the market, transitioning from tobacco oil and

kerosene to heating oil. Today, propane is their flagship product.

McNeill Oil is a true family business, with each generation playing a key role in its success. The current president, Frank McNeill Jr., joined full-time in 1978, followed by his cousin, Vice President Davis Clark, in 1990. Davis’ daughter, Kelly Clark, joined as a propane driver in 2024, officially making it a fourgeneration family company. Meanwhile, General Manager Robert Mashburn joined in 2005 to expand the company into the propane business, further strengthening the company’s leadership.

With 98 years of experience, McNeill Oil & Propane continues to thrive, thanks to their unwavering commitment to family values and exceptional customer care. In a world of constant change, their dedication to both customers and quality remains strong.

Pictured from left to right: Robert Mashburn, Frank McNeill Jr, Davis Clark & Kelly Clark

Current Fleet

1950’s Fleet

PENICK VILLAGE

Nestled in the heart of Southern Pines, Penick Village has been a cornerstone of senior living for more than six decades. Founded in 1964, Penick Village was established with a mission to provide a nurturing, faith-based community where residents could thrive in body, mind, and spirit. From its early days as a small retirement community to its current role as a vibrant Life Plan Community, Penick Village has remained dedicated to offering exceptional care and a fulfilling lifestyle.

Today, Penick Village is proud to offer a full range of offerings, including independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, and therapy services. The community’s approach ensures that each resident receives personalized support while enjoying a warm, engaging environment.

In 2025, Penick Village announced it is expanding once again, unveiling a new collection of independent living apartments designed with comfort, convenience, and connection in mind, along with a new state-of-the-art wellness building and welcome house.

As Penick Village continues to grow, its commitment to wellness, dignity, and community remains unwavering. It’s not just a place to live—it’s a place to enjoy life to the fullest.

CLARK CHEVROLET CADILLAC

Since 1971, Clark Chevrolet Cadillac has been a trusted local dealer of new and pre-owned vehicles in Pinehurst. The dealership is renowned for its stunning architectural design, considered one of the most beautiful structures in the area. Originally owned by the Tufts family, the building was designed by an architectural firm from Chicago to resemble a “classy” hotel. The original structure, with its iconic pillars in front of the Service Department, was built with four-brickthick walls and featured original hard pine wood dating back to 1923.

The dealership’s roots trace back to November 15, 1923, when it first opened as The Pinehurst Garage. Initially, Packard cars were sold from the location, and above the Service Department, nine rooms housed chauffeurs for guests of

The Carolina Hotel. In 1933, the dealership became a Chevrolet franchise and 15 years later, a Cadillac franchise. It remained The Pinehurst Garage until 1971 when the town was sold to Diamondhead Corporation, and Bill Clark purchased the business.

The dealership expanded with the addition of two body shop buildings in 1976 and 1985, followed by the construction of a new brick-and-glass Chevrolet showroom in 1988. In 2012, it was completely renovated to the building it is today. Clark Chevrolet Cadillac has remained in the family, with Troy Clark, Bill’s son, now leading the business. Like his father, Troy is dedicated to preserving the dealership’s historical charm, ensuring it remains one of the most beautiful automotive structures around with ongoing maintenance and updates.

GULLEY’S GARDEN CENTER

51 years serving Moore County –

Gulley’s Garden Center, a beloved family owned business in Southern Pines, celebrated its 50th anniversary in May 2024. Founded in 1974 by Oscar “Pete” Gulley III and his late wife Linda, the garden center began with a simple truckload of azaleas on the corner of Broad Street, which was still a dirt road at the time. Pete’s passion for horticulture extended beyond the store—he also planted many of the trees along the town’s Broad Street and railroad tracks, leaving a lasting legacy in Southern Pines.

The Gulley family has grown alongside Moore County, with children and grandchildren raised in the business. Today, Pete remains actively involved in the store, co-owning and operating it with two of his adult children, Graham Gulley and Megan Gulley Hunt. Together, they have transformed Gulley’s Garden Center into a thriving business, earning the “Best Garden Center” title every year

in the Best of the Pines campaign.

The family prides itself on the expertise of their staff, many of whom are graduates of the Sandhills Community College Horticulture Program, where Pete was in the second graduating class. Graham and Megan both furthered their education at UNC Asheville, with Graham earning a degree in Economics and Megan specializing in Mass Communications and Marketing. Graham also completed the Sandhills Horticulture Program, contributing to the center’s continued success. Beyond plants, gardening tools and essentials, Gulley’s offers a unique experience, with scenic landscaping, a beloved model train and Pete’s military museum. The museum showcases artifacts dating as far back as the Civil War, offering insight into Pete’s past as a Green Beret in the Vietnam War. Gulley’s Garden Center is a destination for inspiration, learning, and exploration, providing a memorable experience for all who visit.

Top: Oscar “Pete” Gulley Bottom: Graham Gulley

THE ICE CREAM PARLOR

– 49 years serving Moore County –

Located in the heart of Southern Pines, The Ice Cream Parlor Restaurant has been a place to meet and share a smile with friends and family since 1976. There are bits of the past sprinkled in with the present when you look at the menu. Old fashioned floats, sodas, malts, burgers and hot dogs mingle with the adventurous homemade ice cream flavors, delicious sandwiches, salads and vegetarian selections. Daily lunch and dinner features, vegan ice creams, fresh lemon and orangeades ensure they have something for everyone — not to mention their famous Dog of the Day specials. Since taking ownership in 2002, Moore County native Anthony Parks has run The Ice Cream Parlor alongside his wife Dixie—who crafts many of the ice cream flavors from scratch—and his son Fletcher, making it a true family tradition.

CREED & GARNER

Creed & Garner Roofing Company Inc. has been a trusted name in Moore County for decades. Started by Tony Creed, a proud local born and raised in the Sandhills, the company is now led by his son and current owner/president, Cutler Creed. From their home base in Aberdeen, this family rooted business has built its reputation one shingle at a time—combining old-school work ethic with time-tested craftsmanship. Recently honored with the Owens Corning 2025 Platinum Preferred Contractor Excellence Award, they continue to set the standard in the industry. Known for reliability and hands-on service, Creed & Garner Roofing is happy to preserve these values and carry on the family business here in Moore County.

Father and son, Tony and Cutler Creed

CENTRAL SECURITY SYSTEMS

Incorporated in December 1985, Central Security Systems, Inc. was founded by Dick, Don and Darlene Harpster to meet the growing demand for burglar and fire alarm systems in the Sandhills. At the time, the Savings and Loan crisis was affecting communities nationwide, leading to heightened concerns about crime. Central Security Systems stepped in to provide muchneeded security solutions for local businesses and residents. The office was moved to downtown Southern Pines in 1988. Bill Harpster, Dick’s brother, joined the business in 1990. 2025 represents a milestone for Central Security Systems as well - 40 years in business, with 35 years of dedicated service from Vice President Bill Harpster.

Equally remarkable, FirstHealth of the Carolinas and Pinehurst Resort & Country Club have been loyal customers for over 35 years, a testament to Central Security Systems’ unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service and lasting relationships.

Jason Harpster, Dick’s son, became General Manager in 2010 after earning his MBA and recently achieved NICET Level IV certification in fire alarm systems—the highest distinction in the profession.

Beyond security, Dick and Jason are deeply involved in the community, regularly volunteering at events where Central Security Systems provides sound systems, such as Springfest, the Southern Pines Veterans Parade, Blessing of the Hounds, the Southern Pines Christmas Tree Lighting and the Southern Pines Christmas Parade. As Central Security Systems celebrates 40 years of protecting homes and businesses, their commitment to excellence, innovation and community remains stronger than ever.

The celebration doesn’t stop here—they are also proud to recognize three dedicated team members: Jeff Adams, John Andrews and Tim Davis, who will each be reaching their 25-year work anniversaries within the next two years. They look forward to continuing to serve the Sandhills with the same dedication and integrity for many years to come.

Don Harpster cuts the ribbon at Central Security Systems on Oct 20, 1988

PINEHURST HOMES

In 2026, Pinehurst Homes, Inc. will celebrate 40 years as a driving force in Moore County’s construction industry. Founded by Wayne Haddock and now led by his son, Brandon Haddock, the company has been renowned for quality design/build custom new construction, custom remodels and historical renovations. As one of the oldest custom construction contractors in the Sandhills, Pinehurst Homes stands out for its superior craftmanship and legacy of exceptional projects.

As the company’s president, Brandon brings a deep understanding of both modern construction techniques and the delicate art of historical preservation. The team’s work has earned them over 75 local Homebuilder Home of the Year Awards, including several Best in Show, as well as more

than 30 state-level honors. Additionally, Pinehurst Homes has completed several historical renovations of homes on the National Historic Registry, showcasing their expertise in blending the old with the new.

What sets Pinehurst Homes apart is their unwavering focus on quality. Their small, dedicated team—including Brandon’s wife Ashley, who manages client communications, and longtime employee Jennifer, who handles their accounts—delivers personalized service and exceptional results.

For Brandon, Moore County isn’t just a place to do business— it’s home. Born and raised here, he values the opportunity to bring beautiful, high-quality homes to his community while spending time with his family when the workday ends. Pinehurst Homes remains a trusted name, proudly building a legacy of craftsmanship for generations to come.

SANDHILLS/MOORE COALITION FOR HUMAN CARE

– 39 years serving Moore County –

For nearly four decades, Sandhills/Moore Coalition for Human Care has been a vital force for compassion and connection in Moore County. What began in 1986 as a united effort by eleven local churches has grown into a robust nonprofit supported by dozens of congregations, civic groups, businesses and countless individuals. The Coalition’s mission is to alleviate hunger and financial strains and lead the effort to achieve self-sustaining households in Moore County. The Coalition has consistently responded to the needs of local families with dignity and care.

Fueled by its limited staff, dedicated volunteers and sustained by generous community support—including

proceeds from its thriving Resale Shops—the Coalition’s work goes far beyond charity. It creates opportunity, restores hope and strengthens the entire community. From its humble beginnings in a donated space on West Pennsylvania Avenue to its current operations across three campuses, including the Voit Gilmore Client Services Center in Southern Pines and the new Robbins Client Services office in northern Moore County, the Coalition stands as a testament to what’s possible when a community comes together. The impact can be seen in thousands of lives stabilized through emergency assistance, food and access to critical resources.

BURLEY-STROKER CHIROPRACTIC

Dr. Scott Stroker’s interest in chiropractic care began in college after he witnessed his college roommate’s recovery from a car accident. This experience sparked his desire to pursue chiropractic medicine as his profession, and he went on to earn his Doctorate of Chiropractic from the National University of Health Sciences. Dr. Stroker and his wife, Brenda Burley, herself a Doctor of Chiropractic, founded Burley-Stroker Chiropractic in 1988.

With nearly four decades of experience, Dr. Stroker has gained exceptional experience and knowledge in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. Dr. Stroker prioritizes personal care, education,and lifestyle changes, but it’s Dr. Stroker’s skill in joint and spinal manipulation that distinguishes his practice. Burley-Stroker Chiropractic consistently receives

“Excellent” ratings from the Comparative Practice Pattern Review, a North Carolina state association program that monitors specific practice habits, reflecting their commitment to high-quality, cost-effective care. Dr. Stroker’s approach to providing quality care with the best possible outcome begins with a sincere concern for his patient’s well-being.

Outside their professional life, Brenda and Scott enjoy unique excursions with their four adult children visiting our national parks and forests as a family. Their purpose in life, both professionally and personally, is strongly influenced by their faith in God. Brenda and Scott feel their passion for healing is founded in Psalm 139:14, “I praise you, O Lord, for I am wonderfully made.”

Scott & Brenda Stroker & kids- Aaron, Austin, Alyssa, and Shawn, in 2005.

BEEFEATERS

Beefeaters is a cherished Southern Pines landmark that has stood the test of time. For 35 years, this beloved establishment has been serving up mouthwatering steaks, burgers, seafood, salads and nightly specials that keep diners coming back for more.

Will Faircloth, a career restauranteur, took ownership of Beefeaters in 2022. Will is deeply committed to food quality, never compromising it for cost. He upholds rigorous standards for every cut of beef and ensures that the cooking process delivers a consistently exceptional steakhouse experience.

A renowned Sandhills staple, Beefeaters has been named Best of the Pines “Best Steak” for ten years in a row.

ARTISTS LEAGUE OF THE SANDHILLS

– 30 years serving Moore County –

For more than three decades, the Artists League of the Sandhills has enriched Moore County through its dedication to visual arts education and community engagement. Located in historic downtown Aberdeen, the League offers classes, workshops and monthly exhibits, showcasing the region’s largest selection of fine art. With 34 working studios and a welcoming gallery, it serves as a vibrant hub where artists of all levels connect, create and inspire. The Artist League’s long-standing presence reflects a deep commitment to nurturing creativity and making the arts accessible to all, fostering a lasting cultural impact across the Sandhills.

CARTHAGE FARM SUPPLY

– 30 years serving Moore County –

Carthage Farm Supply has proudly served the residents of Moore County for over 30 years. The business has provided farmers, gardeners, and homeowners with high-quality agricultural products and expert advice. Over the years, Carthage Farm Supply has built a reputation for reliability, friendly customer service, and a deep commitment to meeting the needs of its customers. Whether it’s offering feed, seed, or fertilizers, Carthage Farm Supply continues to be a trusted resource. Its legacy of service reflects not only its long-standing expertise but also its strong connection to the community it serves!

For over 30 years, the law firm of Van Camp, Meacham & Newman has been dedicated to meeting the legal need of families, individuals, and businesses – not just in the Pinehurst area –but throughout North Carolina and beyond. Their seasoned attorneys have tried cases across the country, from North Carolina to Virginia, Illinois to Oregon, and California to Florida. Their philosophy is simple: treat each client with utmost respect, provide clear answers to their questions, return calls promptly, and zealously pursue their client’s objectives. They continue to expand to meet the needs of their clients in their main office in Pinehurst, two offices in Southern Pines, and their soon to be office in Rockingham.

Their practice areas focus on:

• Car, truck and motorcycle accidents resulting in serious personal injury or wrongful death

• Family law, including divorce, child custody, equitable distribution, and adoption

• Criminal defense

• Employment law

• Wills, trusts, and estate planning matters

• Commercial and residential real estate transactions

• Workers’ Compensation

• Social Security disability

• Incorporation and business contracts

• Aggressive trial litigation in all state courts, federal courts, and appellate courts.

MORGAN MILLER

– 28 years serving Moore County –

Morgan Miller has been a style destination in charming downtown Southern Pines since 1997. They believe every woman, no matter her age, shape or size, deserves to feel confident and beautiful in her clothing. Dressing stylishly at any age isn’t about rules—it’s about confidence, self-expression, and embracing who you are today. Their clothing blends classic style with a contemporary edge, embracing trends while celebrating individuality. Whether shopping for an item, a gift or a wardrobe, customers will enjoy the warm environment, excellent service and exclusive merchandise thoughtfully curated for this region. Visit Morgan Miller and let their fabulous stylists help you discover your perfect style! (Mention you saw us in PineStraw for 10% off your entire purchase!)

4 SEASONS HEATING & AIR

Founded in 1999 by industry expert Mike Smith, 4 Seasons Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. has become a key player in the home comfort solutions sector. With over 20 years of experience, Mike oversees both sales and administration, bringing a well-rounded perspective to the business. Their growth accelerated in the second half of 2001, primarily focusing on providing services to homebuilders in new construction. Recognizing the need for ongoing service, Mike made a strategic decision in 2002 to expand their offerings to include maintenance for both their own installations and those completed by other companies. This pivotal move led to a relocation in 2003 to a new facility in West End. 4 Seasons Heating & Air has placed 1st in the Best Heating and Air Company in the annual Best of the Pines campaign since it has been added in 2017, which is a tremendous testament to their work!

COOLSWEATS

For the last 25 years, CoolSweats has been the local place to shop for women seeking timeless style. Located in the heart of Pinehurst Village and inspired by West Coast Casual, the brand offers soft cottons, luxurious cashmere, and classic linens that elevate everyday wardrobes. CoolSweats never sacrifices comfort for style, delivering chic, cozy pieces that make customers feel and look great. Exploring CoolSweats is as enjoyable as the clothes. The boutique spans an entire floor of a historic building in Pinehurst. Walking through each room is a little adventure, with a new color story around every corner, and fresh arrivals constantly updating the space. Whether a local or a visitor, CoolSweats continues to be the go-to for effortless fashion that stands the test of time.

CoolSweats featured on the first page of the first issue of PineStraw in 2005

Owner Barbara Bishop with her daughter, Brittany

MGL CUSTOM HARDSCAPES & CONCRETE

Rooted in Moore County, MGL Custom Hardscapes & Concrete LLC has been transforming outdoor spaces for more than three decades. Founded in 1994 by lifelong resident Mark Gentry, MGL has grown from a landscape curbing business into a full-service provider of hardscaping solutions. Alongside operations manager Gary Lewis, another lifelong resident, Gentry has built a reputation for quality and customer service. The business specializes in driveways, walkways, patios and outdoor living areas. Their strong community ties and commitment to excellence have earned them awards such as the Belgard Project Excellence Award for celebrating creativity and innovation in residential and commercial designs. Outside of work, the owners stay connected to the area through golf, fishing and raising families in Moore County.

ZEH CHIROPRACTIC CENTER

Zeh Chiropractic Center, founded by Dr. Todd Zeh in 1999, has become a trusted name in health and wellness in the Sandhills. Originally from Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, Dr. Zeh was inspired to pursue chiropractic care after growing up in a family of chiropractors. After earning his doctorate from Palmer Chiropractic College, he and his wife Carrie, a Pinehurst native with an MBA from UNC Pembroke, decided to make Moore County their home.

Over the past 25 years, Zeh Chiropractic has built a reputation for compassionate, personalized care. The practice treats patients of all ages—from newborns to retirees—and offers relief from sports injuries, auto accidents, and chronic pain, along with routine maintenance care. Their warm, family-style atmosphere is supported by a dedicated team that

includes longtime staff members Jessica Hawthorne and Kristin Stover.

Dr. Zeh, a founder of Southern Pines Rugby and avid player for over 25 years, believes in living an active, healthy lifestyle— something he encourages in his patients. The practice also offers custom Foot Levelers orthotics and Pillowise pillows to support overall wellness.

The Zehs are proud parents of three: Brent, a firefighter in Moncure; Myea, who lives in Hawaii with her husband Ethan, recently accepted into Special Forces, will be moving back to Moore County in July; and Hadley, a Pinecrest High track athlete.

“We’re grateful for our community, our patients, and the blessings God has given us,” says Carrie. “At Zeh Chiropractic, you’re more than a patient—you’re family.”

PREMIER PLUMBING & REPAIR

– 24 years serving Moore County –

Premier Plumbing & Repair, LLC was founded in 2001 to provide the highest quality of plumbing services. For over twenty years, owner Jeremy Lowder and his knowledgable team of certified plumbers have remained dedicated to providing the best services in a timely fashion. It’s this efficient and honest service that has made Premier the most trusted plumbers in our community.

In 2019, Jeremy, with the help of another Sandhills native Seth Campbell, saw a need in the area for a gas company that would put their customers’ best interests first…and so, Premier Plumbing became Premier Plumbing & Gasworks. Their vision was to provide quality work that they are proud to stand behind — a vision their team fulfills with every single project.

Whether needing new construction, a complete remodel, service work or repairs, there’s no job too big or small for Premier Plumbing & Gasworks.

COMFORT SERVICES

– 22 years serving Moore County –

Founded in March 2003 by Dianna Gentry, Comfort Services Inc. has become a trusted name in HVAC service and installation across Moore County and surrounding areas. After working in the HVAC industry for several years, Dianna decided to take the leap and open her own business. A longtime resident of Pinehurst since 1972, Dianna’s entrepreneurial spirit has shaped the success of Comfort Services.

The company’s mission is centered around delivering the highest level of professionalism in heating and cooling services, ensuring unmatched client experiences and creating a rewarding work environment and great benefits for employees. Comfort Services places a strong emphasis on community respect and fostering long-term relationships with customers.

Specializing in HVAC systems, gas fireplaces and attic insulation and crawlspace encapsulation, Comfort Services stands out not only for its technical expertise, but also for its family oriented company culture. Dianna’s sister, Nancy

Thomas, has worked by her side as the service manager and is a familiar face to many customers. Known for her ability to connect with clients, Nancy goes beyond just addressing HVAC needs— creating lasting relationships built on trust, and genuine care and concern for customers.

Recognized as Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers, the company is known for its leadership, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. As a testament to their commitment to quality and service, Comfort Services has been honored with the prestigious President’s Award four times, one of Carrier’s highest accolades for its dealers. This esteemed recognition underscores the company’s dedication to providing exceptional service and maintaining the highest standards of performance in the HVAC industry.

In January 2025, Comfort Services welcomed a new chapter with the merger of Sunbelt Service Pros, led by Dianna’s brother, Chuck Ferrell, further strengthening their team and expanding their expertise.

Comfort Services ribbon cutting in 2003

BLARNEY STONEWORKS

Blarney Stoneworks, Inc. is more than a custom stone fabricator—they’re a dedicated part of the community they serve. Founded in 2004 and now owned by husband-and-wife team Jeff and Michelle Rudisill, the company has remained family rooted and community-driven. Specializing in granite, marble, and quartz installations for kitchens, baths and outdoor spaces, Blarney Stoneworks handles every step of each project in-house, ensuring craftsmanship and care. With a mission of “Rock Solid Service,” they value every client relationship and see each project as a reflection of their commitment to excellence. Outside of work, Jeff and Michelle enjoy life with their three children and four grandchildren. In everything they do, putting people first is their top priority.

PINEHURST DENTISTRY

21 years serving Moore County –

Dr. Fred Ridge opened his Pinehurst Dentistry practice in 2004 after falling in love with the area during his daughter, Jordan’s, frequent junior golf tournament trips. His welcoming, family friendly practice is now celebrating over two decades, and looks a lot different these days. Dr. Fred Ridge has been joined by his daughter as she’s followed in her dad’s footsteps to become Pinehurst Dentistry’s primary dentist. A 2019 graduate of UNC Adams School of Dentistry, Dr. Jordan has a passion for Functional Dentistry and approaches treatment on a whole health level. Like her father, she strives to build lifelong relationships with her patients and make them feel at home at Pinehurst Dentistry.

Pinehurst Dentistry offers a full range of dental services for the entire family. They work with patients, one-on-one, to come up with individualized treatment plans. Their philosophy is to give patients the opportunity to keep their teeth for their entire lives in maximum comfort, function and appearance with a goal of a healthy, beautiful smile.

NIKKI BOWMAN REAL ESTATE TEAM

Nikki Bowman has called Southern Pines home since she was only two years old. She became a local realtor in 2005 with Moore County knowledge and a sense of pride in the community that only a true native can possess. As a realtor she puts this expertise to work for her clients in every real estate deal that she facilitates.

Over the last twenty years she has grown her business working with sellers, buyers, and renters along the way. She started at the bottom going door to door to build her successful career. In her first year she won Rookie of the Year for the office and now, Nikki is one of the top producing agents in the MLS. In 2012 she opened her boutique real estate firm, Realty World Properties of the Pines where several independent agents work today.

Her buyer’s agent, Jessica Rowan, has been working alongside her since 2015. Like Nikki, Jessica is a lifetime Southern Pines resident and the only thing she loves more than her hometown is helping others fall in love with it too! Together they’ve honed a unique skill set to help their clients understand and navigate the area’s diverse market to meet their individual needs as buyers or sellers.

Inset: Nikki Bowman’s first realtor headshot in 2005.

Right: Jessica Rowan and Nikki Bowman have been working together since 2015.

TERRY RINEY AGENCY

The Terry Riney Agency was founded by Terry Riney in the spring of 2005. Later that year, Terry’s son, Blaine Riney, joined the agency, making it a family owned and operated business. In 2011, Riney’s daughter Kelli Starr joined the agency as a commercial insurance supervisor, later transitioning into the CFO/HR manager position.

The agency started with humble beginnings, but it was destined for success. Over the past 20 years, the agency has experienced remarkable growth. By 2014, they had expanded to a team of seven and relocated offices twice to accommodate the increasing needs.

What started as a small, relatively unknown agency has now become a well-respected name in Moore County. The Riney name is now

synonymous with reliable insurance services, and is recognized and respected by both consumers and competitors in the area. A major driver of the growth has been word-of-mouth referrals, which speaks to the trust and confidence their clients place in the company.

The dream of building a successful agency began to take shape in 2003 when Terry and his wife, Nancy, moved to Pinehurst. The agency’s success has not only been a professional triumph but also a personal one, far exceeding their expectations. “We’ve followed God’s plan from the very beginning and He never fails,” said Terry Riney. What began as a dream has flourished into a family run business that continues to grow and serve the community with pride and dedication.

2014 Construction of the Current Trotter Hills Circle Location

To add an event, email us at

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.

THURSDAY, MAY 1

MAKE AND TAKE ART. All month long, tweens and teens can stop by the library to pick up a mini art kit and create their own artwork. If you want it to be added to our mini art display, turn it back in any time during May. Art will be displayed as it’s submitted, with the final day for submissions May 31. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

EDUCATIONAL TRAINING. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older can come for some educational training. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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

FRIDAY, MAY 2

LUNCH BUNCH. 11:30 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to dine on varied cuisines each month as we 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.

OPENING RECEPTION. 5 - 7 p.m. The exhibit “May Flowers” will be on display. Artists League of the Sandhills, 129 Exchange St., Aberdeen. Info: www.artistleague.org.

ART RECEPTION. 6 - 8 p.m. The Arts Council of Moore County presents “In This Moment.” The exhibit will be on display through May 29, free and open to the public. Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave.,

Opening Reception

Exhibit: In This Moment Friday, May 2, 6 - 8 p.m. • Arts Council of Moore County

Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787.

KARAOKE. 7 - 10 p.m. Enjoy singing? Join us for karaoke, free of charge. Starworks Cafe & Taproom, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.StarworksNC.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 3

PLANT SALE. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join the Cumberland County Extension Master Gardeners at their annual plant sale. A variety of plants, vegetables, herbs and houseplants will be featured. Extension Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer any of your gardening questions. Crown Arena, 1960 Coliseum Drive, Fayetteville.

CRAFT INVITATIONAL. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Enjoy the second annual craft invitational featuring artists in ceramic, glass, wood, metal and fiber. Tickets are $5. Starworks, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www. StarworksNC.org.

NATURE CONNECTION. 10 - 11 a.m. All ages can come connect with nature. Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 N. Fort Bragg Road, Southern

Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

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 beyond at the fourth annual Pages of the Pines, a festival of books celebrating local authors. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

EQUESTRIAN FUNDRAISER. 3 - 8 p.m. Join a Derby Day watch party to benefit the Weymouth Equestrians program, providing young people the opportunity to learn to ride and care for horses on Weymouth’s historic property. Weymouth Center, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

MUSIC. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Jamie Trout live. Free of charge. Starworks Cafe & Taproom, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.

StarworksNC.org.

CONCERT. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the “Ripples of Spring” concert with Aaron Copland’s Appalachian Spring, Jean Sibelius’ Finlandia and Camille Saint-Saens’ Cello Concerto No. 1, featuring cellist Sophia Bacelar. Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.carolinaphil.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 4

PRESENTATION. 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Nicole Torres, certified coach, will be offering a presentation about “Creative Resilience” and its benefits to emotional and mental health. After her presentation, stay for a hands-on art activity. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

CONCERT. 4 - 5 p.m. Community Congregational Concerts presents the husband and wife team of Carlos Castilla and Amanda Virelles performing solos and duets for guitar and piano. Community Congregational Church, 141 N. Bennett St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills. com.

MONDAY, MAY 5

SHOP SMALL. 7 p.m. “Shop Small This Spring” returns for a fifth year, encouraging residents and visitors to support village businesses not just this week but all year long. Anyone who shops, dines or receives services at a village business between May 5 and May 10 will be eligible for a chance to win a gift basket. Welcome Center, 90 Cherokee Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

COMEDY SERIES. 7 p.m. David Anthony performs his unique brand of comedy hypnosis. BPAC’s Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

TUESDAY, MAY 6

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.

ALCOHOL INK ART. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy this easy and beautiful alcohol ink-on-tile art class. Free of

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

BRUNCH. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a Mother’s Day brunch to enjoy Victorian games, fellowship and snacks. Cost is $2 for residents and $3 for non-residents. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

GARDEN PARTY. 4 - 6 p.m. The Village Heritage Foundation hosts its spring garden party offering refreshments, wine and hors d’oeuvres. Village Arboretum Timmel Pavilion, 105 Rassie Wicker Drive, Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 7

ACTIVE ADVENTURES. 10 - 11 a.m. Little ones ages 2 - 5 can enjoy active adventures at the Recreation Center, 160 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

HOME SCHOOL FUN ZONE. 11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m. Ages 5 - 13 can connect with other homeschooled kids. Recreation Center, 160 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BIRDS OF THE SANDHILLS. 1 p.m. Susan Campbell, licensed hummingbird bander, researcher and naturalist, talks about the birds of the Sandhills area. Identification tips will be discussed as well as preferred foods, nesting habits and basic ecology. A variety of resources will be shared. Free event. Limit 100 people. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3245 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www. sandhills.edu/gardenevents.

BAKING FOR KIDS. 5:30 - 7 p.m. Kids ages 9 - 14 can learn to bake. Whitehall, 490 Pee Dee Road, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CONCERT FILM. 7 - 9:10 p.m. Experience Björk: Cornucopia, the highly anticipated concert film. Cameo Art House Theatre, 225 Hay St., Fayetteville. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 8

MONTHLY TOUR. 10 a.m. Join garden docents for a spring walk to see what’s blooming this month and how the gardens are making their transition from spring to summer. Free event. Limit 15 people. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3245 Airport

Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.sandhills.edu/ gardenevents.

CORNHOLE. 12 - 1 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to work on their aim and have some fun with friends. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

HOT GLASS COLD BEER. 5:30 p.m. Join the glass artists at Starworks for a glassblowing demonstration alongside live music, refreshing local brews and food trucks. Tickets are $5. Starworks, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.StarworksNC.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 9

SENIOR TRIP. 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to learn more about New Bern’s Tryon Palace with a tour and visit to a special exhibit in the N.C. History Center. Lunch at Morgan’s Tavern & Grill afterward. Cost is $51 for residents and $71 for nonresidents. Info: (910) 692-7376.

MEET AND GREET. 5 - 7 p.m. Come meet Erick Erickson, the host of The Erick Erickson Show, as he discusses new topics and takes audience questions. Freedom Hall, 310 Keyser St., Aberdeen. Info: www.ticketmesandhills. com.

LIVE AFTER 5. 5:15 - 9 p.m. Enjoy a night of good food and dancing. Food trucks will be on-site. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free event. The Village Arboretum, 375 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.vopnc.org.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT. 6 - 8 p.m. Parents can drop off their kids ages 4 - 13 and then enjoy a night out. Train House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

SATURDAY, MAY 10

WORKSHOP. 9 a.m. or 1 p.m. Perfect for beginners, this hands-on blacksmithing workshop is $150 per student. Starworks, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.StarworksNC. org.

FISHING. 9 - 10:30 a.m. Kids ages 5 -16 can learn about fishing. Reservoir Park, 300 Reservoir Park Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LECTURE. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Enjoy the lecture “Stronger Together: Optimizing Orthopedic Outcomes for Seniors.” Admission is free but reserve your seat. Pinehurst Village Hall, 395 Magnolia Road, Pinehurst. Info: (301) 229-

9656 or email awalters0327@gmail.com.

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

SPACE TRIVIA. 2:30 p.m. Join NASA ambassador Jon Caruthers for space trivia. Test your knowledge and learn new facts at this special event. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

HORSE EVENT. SPEA War Horse event series, dressage, combined test and eventing. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford. Info: www.carolinahorsepark.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 11

CHAMBER MUSIC. 2 - 4 p.m. Enjoy classical music from the Astralis Chamber Ensemble. Boyd House Great Room, Weymouth

Space

Trivia With NASA Ambassador Jon Caruthers Saturday, May 10, 2:30 p.m. The Southern Pines Public Library

Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www. weymouthcenter.org.

MONDAY, MAY 12

PHOTO CLUB. 7 p.m. Sandhills Photography Club monthly meeting presents “AI in Photography and Lightroom.” The speaker is Bert Sirkin, a Connecticut native who has spent over 40 years teaching and mastering the art of photography. Guests are welcome. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens Visitors Center, 3245 Airport Road, Southern Pines. Info: www.sandhillsphotographyclub.org.

TUESDAY, MAY 13

HATHA YOGA. 10 - 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older can 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. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CANVAS ART. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Adults 55 and older can enjoy this step-by-step tutorial with canvas art. Free of charge. 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.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14

TECH HOUR. 11 a.m. Join a walk-in tech hour to get hands-on help with tech questions. Whether you’re new to computers, want to learn more about your smartphone, or want to learn how to use your e-Reader, the staff will guide you. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: msilva@sppl.net.

BOOK CHAT AND CHILL. 5:30 p.m. Wind down with a relaxed evening of bookish conversation. Bring a book to chat about, or one to swap, and enjoy great company, good vibes and plenty of literary inspiration. Southern Pines Brewing, 565 Air Tool Drive, Southern Pines. Info: mhoward@sppl.net.

Family Camp Out

THURSDAY, MAY 15

BOOK EVENT. 12 - 1:30 p.m. James Patterson returns to the Sandhills in conversation with David Woronoff, publisher of PineStraw and The Pilot, about the bestselling author’s latest nonfiction book, The #1 Dad Book. Sunrise Theater, 250 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

CIVIL WAR ROUND TABLE. 6:30 p.m. This month’s speaker will be author and historian Hampton Newsome, with a presentation on “The Plymouth Campaign.” 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.

OPEN MIC. 7 - 9 p.m. This open mic night is free to attend and to participate. Starworks Cafe & Taproom, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.StarworksNC.org.

FRIDAY, MAY 16

Friday, May 16, 7 p.m. Downtown Park, Southern Pines 23RD ANNIVERSARY SALE MAY 7-11

FAMILY CAMP OUT. 7 p.m. All ages are welcome to camp out under the stars. Enjoy games, snacks, fun and a story by the campfire. Bring your own tent. Space

Adjacent to Hyland Golf Course on US 1 910-692-0855 • www.WindridgeGardens.com Wed. - Sat. 10AM - 5PM and Sun. 1PM - 5PM

is limited to the first 20 families. Cost is $10 for residents and $14 for non-residents. Downtown Park, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

OUTDOOR MOVIE. 8 p.m. All ages are welcome to watch Despicable Me 4. Bring a blanket or a chair. Movie starts at 8 p.m. There will be a performance by Savanna Bassett from 6:30 - 8 p.m. Free of charge. Downtown Park, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

SATURDAY, MAY 17

CAR SHOW AND MARKET. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Come to a classic car show and flea market supporting Habitat for Humanity. There will be a Habitat truck on-site for donations. Parking lot between Pine Scone Cafe and Full Moon Oyster Bar, Southern Pines. Info: (772) 349-4253.

WORKSHOP. 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. This workshop, designed for individuals ages 16 and up, offers participants the unique opportunity to work one-on-one with an experienced instructor to repair, build or design their own metal projects. Cost is $250.

Book Event

Mary Alice Monroe: Where the Rivers Merge Saturday, May 17, 1 -2 p.m. The Country Bookshop

STORYTIME. 10:15 a.m. Saturday Storytime is a once-a-month program for children from birth to age 5. Enjoy stories, songs, rhymes and smiles where caregivers and young children can interact and explore the fun of language and early literacy. There are space constraints for this indoor story time. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

BOOK EVENT. 1 - 2 p.m. Mary Alice Monroe will speak about her book Where the Rivers Merge. The Country Bookshop, 140 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www. ticketmesandhills.com.

TRIVIA. 7 p.m. Compete for drink tickets and bragging rights. Free of charge. Starworks Cafe & Taproom, 100 Russell Drive, Star. Info: www.StarworksNC.org.

SPRING CONCERT. 7 p.m. The Moore Philharmonic Orchestra features a full symphonic ensemble of students and adult community members. Admission is donationbased. Lee Auditorium, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines. Info: www.mporchestra.com.

CONCERT. 7:30 p.m. Timeless hits are

performed by two Broadway stars in the annual show “Broadway Bliss.” BPAC’s Owens Auditorium, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.carolinaphil.org.

SUNDAY, MAY 18

YOGA. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Ages 16 and older can come for an introduction to stand-up paddleboard yoga. Reservoir Park, 300 Reservoir Park Drive, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

CONCERT. 2 p.m. The Moore County Concert Band will be performing “Remembering Their Sacrifices” in honor of America’s brave service personnel. Admission is free. Lee Auditorium, 250 Voit Gilmore Lane, Southern Pines.

JAZZ SERIES. 2 p.m. The Come Sunday Jazz Series features Al Strong. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

STEAM. 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. Elementary-aged children and caregivers are invited to learn about topics in science, technology, engineering, art and math and to participate in

Come Sunday Jazz Series

Featuring Al Strong Sunday, May 18, 2 p.m. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities

STEAM projects and activities. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or kbroughey@sppl.net.

TUESDAY, MAY 20

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.

TEEN BOOK CHAT AND CHILL. 5 - 6 p.m. Share your favorite books, discover new ones, and connect with other teens who love to read. Bring your favorite book to show others or just bring yourself. Enjoy a discounted coffee courtesy of Swank while we

chat. For ages 13 and older. Swank Coffee Shoppe, 232 N.W. Broad St., Southern Pines. Info: www.sppl.net.

ESSAY WORKSHOP. 6 - 7:30 p.m. Ann Petersen leads The Craft of the College Essay. Learn how to nail your anecdote, show up boldly and gain admission to college. The Pilot, 145 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.ticketmesandhills.com.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 21

ACTIVE ADVENTURES. 10 - 11 a.m. Little ones ages 2 - 5 can enjoy some active adventures. Recreation Center, 160 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

HOME SCHOOL FUN ZONE. 11:15 a.m.12:15 p.m. Ages 5 - 13 can connect with other home-schooled kids. Recreation Center, 160 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

THURSDAY, MAY 22

CONFERENCE. Starworks International Woodfiring Conference unites professional

artists, students and ceramic enthusiasts from more than eight countries. The conference goes through May 25. Registration starts at $190. Info: www.WoodfireNC.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 23

GARDENING IN DEER COUNTRY. 10 a.m. Deer are a reality in Sandhills gardens. Learn a few tactics to deter them, but more importantly, learn about plants that deer don’t like to eat. Free event. Limit 15 people. Sandhills Horticultural Gardens, 3245 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www. sandhills.edu/gardenevents.

HORSE EVENT. Sedgefield at the Park (Hunter/Jumper). The event continues through May 25. Carolina Horse Park, 2814 Montrose Road, Raeford Info: www.carolinahorsepark.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 24

CRAFT DAYS. Children and their families can come to the library for Drop-in Craft Days to 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.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS. 12 - 2 p.m. The Arts Council of Moore County is hosting a youth photography class. Space is limited to 10 participants. Campbell House, 482 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-2787 or www.ticketmesandhills. com.

THURSDAY, MAY 29

WELLNESS CLASSES. 10 - 11:30 a.m. Adults 18 and older are invited to learn different educational topics to improve the overall mind, body and spirit. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

FRIDAY, MAY 30

LADIES WINE OUT. 5 - 9 p.m. The Women of Weymouth present their annual happy hour outside on the Weymouth grounds. This event features delectable appetizers and desserts by Genuine

Hospitality Catering, a wine bar, vendors and music by John McDonald. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities, 555 E. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: www.weymouthcenter.org.

SATURDAY, MAY 31

SCIENCE CENTER TRIP. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages 13 - 17 can travel to the Greensboro Science Center and have a meal inside the center or at Habit Burger afterward. Cost is $56 for residents and $78 for non-residents. Bus departs the Recreation Center, 160 Memorial Park Court, Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUNDAY, JUNE 1

WRITING GROUP. 3 p.m. Are you interested in creating fiction, nonfiction, poetry or comics? Come to the Sunday Afternoon Writing Group. Connect with other writers and artists, chat about your craft, and get feedback about your work. All levels welcome. Southern Pines Public

Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: lholden@sppl.net.

MONDAY, JUNE 9

CONCERT SERIES. 6:30 - 8 p.m. The Sandhills Community College Jazz Band presents its summer concert series. BPAC’s McNeill-Woodward Green, 3395 Airport Road, Pinehurst. Info: www.ticketmesandhills. com.

WEEKLY EVENTS

MONDAYS

WORKSPACES. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Given Tufts Bookshop has a 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.

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.

SENIOR FITNESS. 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a TruFit gym class to improve strength, mobility and flexibility. 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. Adults 55 and older can practice gentle movements to

alleviate pain and improve circulation and general well-being. 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 play various games such as corn hole, badminton, table tennis, shuffleboard, trivia games and more. Each week enjoy a different activity to keep 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.

TAI CHI. 1 - 2 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Improve your balance mentally and physically to reduce the rate of falls in older adults while improving relaxation, vitality and posture. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

BRIDGE. 1:30 - 4:30 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Enjoy games of bridge with friends. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W.

Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

TUESDAYS

PLAYFUL LEARNING. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come to a drop-in, open educational playtime for ages birth - 3 years and interact with other children. 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 6, 13, 20 and 27. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

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. Join a chess group for novices and experienced players alike. 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 in a free program for beginners. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

WEDNESDAYS

CHAIR AEROBICS. 10 - 11 a.m. For adults 55 and older. Put on your boogie shoes and let’s jam. Get fit dancing up a sweat to great music through the ages. Stand and chair dance to this energizing, low-impact aerobic workout. 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,

Meet Aubry!

She is our new face on Social Media highlighting our grand new arrivals.

West End.

KNITTING. 10 - 11 a.m. Learn how to knit or enjoy knitting with other people. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

BABY STORYTIME. 10 - 11 a.m. Come have fun developing the foundation for your baby’s later reading with stories, songs and playtime. Open to parents and caregivers of infants from newborn to 24 months. Moore County Library, 101 W. Saunders St., Carthage. Info: (910) 947-5335.

LEARN AND PLAY. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Attend an open play date for your toddler or preschooler with developmental toys, puzzles and early literacy tips for parents and caregivers to incorporate into their daily activities. Dates this month are May 7, 14, 21 and 28. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

SENIOR FITNESS. 11 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a TruFit gym class to improve strength, mobility and flexibility. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

IMPROV ACTING CLASS. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Ready to laugh? Sign up for an improvisational acting class. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

PIANO. 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. Join Flint Long to play piano or just listen. This is a free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

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 leads a dance fitness 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.

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.

TAI CHI. 2 - 3 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Improve your balance mentally and physically to reduce the rate of falls in older adults, while improving relaxation, vitality and posture. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

IMPROVISATIONAL ACTING. 3 - 4 p.m. For adults 55 and older. Explore acting through a variety of roles to unleash creativity, embrace the unexpected and share some laughter. Free of charge. Douglass Community Center, 1185 W. Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-7376.

LIBRARY PROGRAM. 3:30 p.m. At The Library After School (ATLAS) is an afterschool program for ages K – 2nd grade offering activities, crafts, stories and a chance to meet new friends. Dates this month are May 7, 14, 21 and 28. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

TAI CHI. 6:30 p.m. 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.

SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 3 – 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 5. For more information visit: www.moorefarmfresh.com.

THURSDAYS

WORKSPACES. 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. The Given Tufts Bookshop has a 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, pastured 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 and increase the ability to recover if they 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 2 - 5 year olds. An active library card is required. Dates this month are May 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

GENTLE YOGA. 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to unwind, recharge and find peace in their week. 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. Free program. Moore County Senior Enrichment Center, 8040 U.S. 15-501, West End.

LITTLE U. 3:30 p.m. Come to Little U, Southern Pines Public Library’s preschool program for children ages 3 1/2 - 5. Join in for 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 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29. Southern Pines Public Library, 170 W. Connecticut Ave., Southern Pines. Info: (910) 692-8235 or www.sppl.net.

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

Partners Pick up a copy of

Full collection of bridal, bridesmaids, mothers, jewelry, shoes, accessories and tuxedo rentals.

Monday through Saturday from 8:00am to 5:00pm 476 Hwy 74 West, Rockingham, NC 28379 @honeybeebridalandboutique 910.387.9216

Full-service family-owned catering company with over 15 years experience

Providing you the best service, food, and price around! southernwaycateringnc.com 910.855.6328

CATERINGQ

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

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

SENIOR FITNESS. 11:30 a.m. Adults 55 and older are invited to a TruFit gym class to improve strength, mobility and flexibility. 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

movements that can help soothe achy feet, tight hips, lower back pain and ease 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.

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 the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Downtown Southern Pines, 156 S.E. Broad St., Southern Pines.

SANDHILLS FARMERS MARKET. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. The Sandhills Farmers Market

SandhillSeen

Chocolate Festival

Pinehurst United Methodist Church February 8, 2025

Photographs by Diane McKay

Chef Martin Brunner

Kathy McGougan, Melissa Boone

Diane Sanford, Mary Chapman, Cindy Agatone

Rose & Danielle Chonko, Carla Berger, Kathryn Wells

Cheyenne, Ella & Christy Thomas

Kathy Ragsdale, Kathryn & James Burr, Ann Hutton Pam Jankoski, Danielle Voss, Camie Callahan

Jykeal, Kajuana & Kasiyon Ray

DiAnne Gatts, Deb Blackwood

Jeanie Gaige

Renee Reed, Reed Harris

Opening Reception: Fri., May 2nd, 6p to 8p

Exhibition Dates: May 2nd- 29th

Weekdays / 10a to 5p • Sat., May 17th / 12 to 2p

SandhillSeen

Come Sunday Jazz Series

Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities

March 23, 2025

Photographs by Diane McKay

Caleb Pait

Al & Donna Carter

Caelan Cardello, Sarah Hanahan, Sarah Watts

Sarah Hanahan Quartet

Christy Grover, Gavin Farmer, Michelle Jordan, Mackinley Farmer

Whitney Foushee, Tom Lueche

Betty Goodman & Gracie

Meredith & Michael Martin

Women of Weymouth

Megan Warlick, Laura Sperduto, Penn, Allison & Adam Foust

Laura & Kate DeGange

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

May Flowers

Opening Reception

Friday, May 2, 5:00-7:00

The Artists League of the Sandhills May exhibit celebrates the splendor of spring. Art with a floral theme will be featured.

CURRENT CLASSES

Drawing Basics I - Laureen Kirk - May 7, 8, 10:00-3:00 $101

The Ancient Art of Weaving - Connie Genuardi - May 9, 10:30-3:30 $60

Travel Sketching with Watercolor - Ashleigh Corsino - Monday, May 12, 10:00-2:00 $52

Next Step Acrylics - Beth Ybarra - May 14, 15, 10:00-2:00 $96

Horse Anatomy (Oil or Acrylic) - Gene Fletcher - May 19, 20, 10:00-3:00 $96

Drawing Basics II - Laureen Kirk - May 21, 22, 10:00-3:00 $101

From Table to Canvas (acrylic) Liz Apodaca - Tuesday & Wednesday, May 27, 28, 10:00-3:00 $113

WORKSHOP

Painting “Painterly” from a Photo Reference - Daniel Graziano, Sept. 29, 30, & Oct. 1, 9-4, $540

Gallery Hours: Monday - Saturday 12-3pm 910-944-3979

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

Community Congregational Concerts presents

Gems for Guitar and Piano - solos and duets

May 4th at 4pm

Community Congregational Church 141 North Bennett St. • Southern Pines 910.692.8468 www.communitycongregational.org/concerts

Husband and wife team Carlos Castilla and Amanda Virelles have performed as a duo for over 20 years. They will present favorite works from their vast repertoire, from the Baroque to the 21st century.

TICKETS:

$1,200 opens doors to

SandhillSeen

Garrison Keillor Tonight

Sandhills Community College

Bradshaw Performing Arts Center

March 28, 2025

Photographs by Diane McKay

Millie Sparks, Robbie Rodgers

Ed Greenawald

Donna Richardson, David Challener

Roy & Gail Cameron

Cynthia & Ron Clark

Rebecca & Steve Hillis

Carol Stewart, Sharon Nichols, Judy McDonald

Pat Owen, Helen Schillaci

Marty Aaron, Mark Jenkins

Claudia Fahringer, Juliana West

Laura Levinson, Cindy Pittard, Suzie Matthews

Nick Kelble, Anne Mack

May PineNeedler Spring Cleaning

SPRING CLEANING

ACROSS

1. Death on the Nile cause, perhaps

4. Blonde’s secret, maybe

7. Beauty pageant wear

12. Bounce back, in a way

13. Small songbird

14. Cancel

15. Most defective

17. Fencing action

18. Giving a name to 19. Aristocracies

21. Omega

Across

58. Who “ever loved you more than I” in song

1. Death on the Nile cause, perhaps

59. Spring cleaning

61. Perfume oil

4. Blonde's secret, maybe

62. Adversaries

7. Beauty pageant wear

63. Locale

12. Bounce back, in a way

64. Highlanders, e.g.

13. Small songbird

14. Cancel

65. Charlotte-to-Raleigh dir.

66. “Star Trek” rank: Abbr.

15. Most defective

17. Fencing action

DOWN

18. Giving a name to

1. Berry in diet pills

19. Aristocracies

2. “Open and ___”...

21. Omega

22. “The ___ of Europa” (book exploring the Nazi plunder of art treasures)

23. Eat away from home (2 wds)

27. Bog

31. Flipper

32. Bad

34. Bakery offering

35. “It’s no ___!”

36. Kind of battery

38. “Baloney!”

39. Scrawny one

42. Fore-and-aft-rigged vessel

44. Make a choice

45. Heat

47. Gives to a third party

49. Male deer

51. White wine aperitif

52. Summer cooler (2 wds)

54. Postponement (2wds)

3. Spring cleaning

4. Remnant

5. “Absolutely!”

22. "The ___ of Europa" (book exploring the Nazi plunder of art treasures)

6. “Come in!”

23. Eat away from home (2 wds)

27. Bog

7. Tall palm with gigantic leaves

31. Flipper

8. Not yet born

32. Bad

9. “Green Gables” girl

34. Bakery offering

10. Spring cleaning

35. "It's no ___!"

36. Kind of battery

11. A pint, maybe 12. Lizard, old-style

38. "Baloney!"

13. Cleaning chore

39. Scrawny one

16. Skin problem

42. Fore-and-aft-rigged vessel

30. Paving block

64. Highlanders, e.g.

12. Lizard, old-style

31. Meld together

65. Charlotte-to-Raleigh dir.

20. On the ____, escaped

23. Computer storage items

44. Make a choice

13. Cleaning chore

33. Golden Triangle country

16. Skin problem

66. "Star Trek" rank: Abbr.

37. Well-known mountain chain

20. On the ____,escaped

40. Ammunition storage

24. Slow and apathetic

45. Heat

25. Roswell sightings

Down

52. Bit

41. Spring cleaning

53. Pigeon's home

43. Dress fussily

54. Oak or cedar

46. Ed.'s request, for short

55. Been in bed

41. Spring cleaning

23. Computer storage items

43. Dress fussily

24. Slow and apathetic

26. Gown fabric

47. Gives to a third party

49. Male deer

28. Cupid’s projectile

1. Berry in diet pills

46. Ed.’s request, for short

25. Roswell sightings

2. "Open and ___"...

29. Ceases

51. White wine aperitif

52. Summer cooler (2 wds)

54. Postponement (2wds)

58. Who "ever loved you more than I," in song

59. Spring cleaning

61. Perfume oil...

62. Adversaries

63. Locale

3. Spring cleaning

4. Remnant

5. "Absolutely!"

6. "Come in!"

8. Not yet born

48. End of a threat (2 wds)

26. Gown fabric

50. Blooper

28. Cupid's projectile

29. Ceases

30. Paving block

31. Meld together

7. Tall palm with gigantic leaves

Sudoku:

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

9. "Green Gables" girl

10. Spring cleaning

11. A pint, maybe

Puzzle answers on page 135

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

33. Golden Triangle country

37. Well-known mountain chain

40. Ammunition storage

56. “Hamlet” has five

48. End of a threat (2 wds)

57. “Fancy that!”

50. Blooper

58. Bother

52. Bit

60. Carbonium, e.g.

53. Pigeon's home

54. Oak or cedar

55. Been in bed

56. "Hamlet" has five

57. "Fancy that!"

58. Bother

60. Carbonium, e.g.

3 54

2 7 16 7 8 9

87 693

4 8 7 3

6 95 5 1

Ah, the PGA

A good time was had by all

By Jim moriarty

I’ve had a fondness in my heart for the PGA Championship since 1979 when I wrote what we used to call the “gamer” for Golf World magazine, the little engine that could, founded by Bob Harlow in Pinehurst in 1947. Often regarded as the least of golf’s four majors, it was my first time writing about any of them, and I remain deeply and profoundly in like with it. What I produced doesn’t belong in the journalism hall of fame but there is enough persiflage in it to suggest the troublesome wiseass I would become. Besides, anything that can be won five times each by Walter Hagen and Jack Nicklaus is good by me. The 107th running of the club pros (the PGA of America is, after all, their organization) will be conducted this month on the magnificent Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte, which makes me wish it was 1979 all over again.

That championship was played at Oakland Hills Country Club in suburban Detroit, not far from the Red Fox, an upscale restaurant on Telegraph Road where, four years earlier, Jimmy Hoffa was supposed to meet with a couple of Tonys and was never seen again. If memory serves — and these days it rarely does — the media was lodged in a Holiday Inn also not far from the Red Fox. The hotel was in the midst of renovations, which meant the rooms were cheap. The lone non-negotiable requirement of any media hotel was (and I’m guessing still is) that the bar be functional and the hours generous. In this regard it was tiptop. In others, not so much.

One day when I returned from the course, tired and sweaty, I pushed the button to get on the elevator and was greeted by half a dozen enthusiastic policemen with sidearms, bulletproof vests and a battering ram. They were headed for the same floor my room was on to make a drug bust. One of them politely offered to squeeze me in but I told them, “Naw, you all go on, I’ll catch the next one” — a minor subterfuge that, of course, required a timely visit to the hotel bar.

That year a journeyman pro named Rex Caldwell, nicknamed Sexy Rexy, held the 54-hole lead by two shots over Ben Crenshaw, four clear of David Graham, Jerry Pate and Tom Watson. Tall and thin, Caldwell was flashy in his flared trousers and made good copy. A bit too good. He was quoted guaranteeing a victory. “You can make book on it,” he supposedly

said. What Rex actually said was, “Hell, I’ll be nervous. You can make book on that.”

After dinner on Saturday night, when I got back to the hotel I ducked into the bar. There was Rex in a corner booth with a woman under each arm. For all I knew they were his cousins but I, for one, wasn't going to make book on Caldwell winning the PGA.

David Graham, the Australian, wound up beating Ben Crenshaw, the crowd darling, in sudden death but only after David choked away a two-shot lead with a double bogey on the 18th. Graham has never claimed it was anything other than the pressure of the moment. What was remarkable is that he was able to walk off that last green — “I felt like I was 6 inches tall,” he said — and gather himself enough to win a playoff. He had to make a 25-foot putt on the first extra hole and a 10-footer on the second, just to stay alive.

Graham came up hard. He quit school at 13 and left home at 16. He has described his father as “a nasty guy” and, as far as I know, from the day he left they never spoke to each other again. David had an edge to him but if you were his friend, he was the kindest, most loyal man you could ever know.

Dick Taylor, the editor of Golf World who sent me to cover the ’79 PGA, considered David a dear friend. Two years after Oakland Hills, Graham won the U.S. Open at Merion Golf Club producing what I still consider the finest exhibition of ball-striking ever in the last round of our Open. He hit 17 greens. The one he missed was on the collar of No. 17. An inveterate club tinkerer and designer — Graham fashioned the irons Crenshaw used at Oakland Hills — on the Monday after Merion, Taylor called Graham’s home to congratulate his friend privately, not in the public of a media mash up. David's wife, Maureen, answered the phone. Dick said, “For God's sake, tell him to leave those clubs alone.”

Maureen relayed the message. From his shop, Graham yelled back, “Tell him I’m regripping them right now!” PS

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