QC Exclusive No 62 - 2019 - Issue 8 - The Sporting Issue

The Quintessential Charlotte Luxury Magazine

the sporting issue The celebration of a lifestyle dedicated to new experiences, wild places, and natural luxuries.

AUTUMN ADVENTURE South Carolina's Palmetto Bluff Conservancy, fly fishing with musician and guide Woody Platt, first descents with the Whitewater Center, a Sporting Gent quail hunt, and picturesque Western adventures.

ISSUE NO. 62

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OCT/NOV 2019

Charlotte’s Finest Men’s Cut Expertly Trained Stylists Masculine Refinements Internationally Recognized Award Winning Products

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dwellnova.com Sotheby’s International Realty® and the Sotheby’s International Realty logo are registered service marks used with permission. Each office is independently owned and operated. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Property information herein is derived from various sources including, but not limited to, county records and multiple listing services, and may include approximations. All information is deemed accurate.

T ECH N IQUES REF IN E D

, F L AVO RS R EG I O NA L TA ST E

T H E

S E ASON

Chef Tim Groody's sophisticated approach to farm-focused cooking brings out the best in Piedmont cuisine.

THE SHORT LIST A

right-sized

After

work.

Before

dinner.

Anytime,

really.

menu

of

cocktails

&

snacks.

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The Exclusives

THE SPORTING ISSUE —

130 A Legacy Of Conservation Palmetto Bluff is 20,000 acres of conserved Lowcountry with a crew dedicated to keeping this beautiful stretch of land thriving

138 A Covey In The Pines A quail hunt in the Carolina Piedmont with the good folk at The Sporting Gent

142 Music Of The River How stream and stage have shaped the life of Woody Platt, frontman of the Grammy-awardwinning Carolina band Steep Canyon Rangers

152 Frontier OF Firsts How a team of kayakers, a bush pilot, and two filmmakers documented three first descents in a film entitled Frontier of Firsts presented by the U.S. National Whitewater Center

160 On The Road Again From Carolina to California: A van adventure from Big Sur to Point Reyes on Highway 1

166 Red Rocks & Blue Sky A Carolina photographer leaves the Queen City for a week of adventure in the unique landscape of southern Utah

Photo of a juvenile Yellow Crowned Heron in the May River oyster beds at Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, SC featured in our Palmetto Land Conservancy story on p. 132.

Photo and cover photo by JP Grice

THE DEPA RTMEN TS

THE CULTURE ARTS, STYLE, AND WELLNESS

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Conserving Carolina Through The Canvas See the work of renowned artist Mary Erickson Studio Drift The talented design group brings their sculptures to Charlotte

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60 THE SPREAD FOOD AND DRINK

69

Shore Food With Southern Flair Plaze Midwood's NC Red

76

Bar Marcel SouthPark's European-inspired restaurant

82

Welcome to the Clubhouse Protagonist's small-batch brews

90

The Queen & Glass' Lamb Medallion A small plate that surpasses expectations

92

Noble Smoke's Beef Rib A special barbecue dish you can't miss

94

The Crunkleton's Bourbon bramble A classic cocktail from the Elizabeth staple

96

Bar Marcel's Old Fashioned A traditional drink made the right way

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The Cactus Club Meet the two women determined to cater to all of Charlotte’s plant needs Live The Lifestyle The Sporting Gent's Marc Williams brings the best of the outdoors to metropolitan Charlotte

Handel's Messiah Charlotte Symphony's popular holiday performance

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“My advice is to enjoy what the world provides to us.”

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THE DEPA RTMEN TS

THE FOLIO HOME AND DESIGN

99

Self-Made Reaching Quiet’s Eric Boyd talks about how he built his business

104

A Classic Club Room The perfect game room from the talented builders at Arthur Rutenberg Homes

106

108

South Ayrsley Dining A classic space from the New South Home team

110

Ockley Manor Kingswood Homes’ Ockley Manor combines spaciousness and coziness with the ultimate sophistication

Georgia Street Design A gorgeous space from the renowned design firm

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142

THE EXPLORED TRAVEL AND SPORTING

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King Fisher Society A world-class retreat in the southern Piedmont sets itself apart as a private nature preserve with exclusive sporting activities and luxurious overnight amenities

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120

A Lowcountry Gem A quiet South Carolina retreat surrounded by coastal marshes and vast forest

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For The Love of the Land North Corner Haven, a refuge outside of the city, offers a multitude of outdoor ventures, from farming to clay shooting

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102 “My style at the moment is a dichotomy of earthy timelessness mixed with maxi-minimalism.”

132

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THE NOTE

No. 62

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his issue is dedicated to the adventurer, the traveler, the sportsmen and women who love to get outside and experience all our city, state, and country have to offer. Last year around this time we were talking to some of our friends at the U.S. National Whitewater Center about their film series EXPLORE. We watched two of the short films and came away so inspired. The first, entitled The Al Hajar Traverse, was shot brilliantly by filmmakers Tyler Allyn and Cooper Lambla. The film documents three mountain bikers from North Carolina — Tyler, Cooper, and photographer Tim Koerber — as they attempt a first traverse of a single track through the Al Hajar Mountains of the Sultanate of Oman. It's an incredible adventure showcasing all the once-in-alifetime experiences you can have when things don't go as planned. The second, entitled Frontier of Firsts, also directed by Tyler and Cooper, is a story that follows a group of kayakers in search of first descents to Alaska. The opening minute of the film sets the tone as Charlottean Jay Mahan, now a bushpilot in Alaska, is flying his plane between snowcapped peaks, kayaks strapped to the floats, looking for a place to land. Then he drops his friends and the gear in the middle of bear country to accomplish their goal: paddle three beautiful untouched rivers. When we saw both of these, we immediately knew we had to feature one of them in our next Sporting Issue. It's been a whole year, but on page 152 you can see the amazing photos from Frontier of Firsts and read the interview with director Cooper Lambla. Go watch the film and get inspired to plan your next adventure. Along with the whitewater feature, we take a trip to the Piedmont's King Fisher Society, explore the small Lowcountry town of McClellanville, experience the farm at North Corner Haven, visit Palmetto Bluff for a lesson on conservation, hit the Carolina pines in search of quail with the Sporting Gent, fish pocket water with Steep Canyon Rangers' singer Woody Platt, chase light (and lightning) with our editor in Southern Utah, and head west for a van adventure on Highway 1. Until next issue, get outdoors and live that good life!

Sincerely, Jon-Paul Grice, Editor | Brett Barter, Publisher

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A P P A R E L | F LY G O O D S | F I E L D G E A R | A C C E S S O R I E S 2 8 4 8 S E LW Y N AV E . C LT | T H E S P O R T I N G G E N T. C O M

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OUR TEAM PUBLISHER Brett Barter ART DIRECTOR Jon-Paul Grice EDITOR Sunny Hubler SALES Ashley Carlini Kathleen Hands EDITORIAL Liza Carrasquillo Eleanor Merrell EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Riley Cohen Lauren Griffith Emma Merchant Brianna Wilmoth PHOTOGRAPHY Jamey Price

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RETRACTION: It is with regrets that we inform you that in our previous Arts Issue (Sept/Oct 2019) in the article entitled Fall Works we printed inaccurate information about the upcoming Leonce and Lena performance by Charlotte Ballet. We also credited the wrong photographer. The photo used was by Todd Rosenberg and the correct information about the event can be found in this issue on page 32.

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THE EV EN TIST

O C T/ N OV 2 0 1 9

EDITOR’S CHOICE

Through 11.2.19 Jerald Melberg Gallery Opens New Solo Exhibition Esteban Vicente Jerald Melberg Gallery is honored to present an exhibition of paintings and collage by Esteban Vicente, one of the leading members of the American Abstract Expressionist Movement.

During the course of his long and lauded career as a member of the first generation of Abstract Expressionists, Esteban Vicente closely studied shape, light and the possibilities of pigment.

In 1991, King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia awarded Vicente the Gold Medal of Honor in the Fine Arts. The artist’s work is held by major museum collections including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Museum of Modern Art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago.

— info — jeraldmelberg.com

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 31

The Eventist // Oct/Nov 2019 EDITOR’S CHOICE

Through 10.31.19 Hidell Brooks Presents Sally King Benedict Hidell Brooks presents Storyboard, an exhibit by Sally King Benedict. For this exhibition the artist said she “wanted to create a larger than life experience inspired by the imagined narratives between mother and son.”

Her mixed media works range from classic faces to pure abstraction.

— info — hidellbrooks.com

10.24.19 - 10.26.19 Leonce and Lena Christian Spuck, Artistic Director of Ballet Zürich, brings to life this 19th century satirical romantic comedy by German author Georg Büchner. A classic tale of defiant love, the ballet tells the story of Leonce, Prince of Popo, and Lena, Princess of Pipi, who have been betrothed to one another since birth but have never met. Casting aside conventions of the day, they both flee on the eve of their wedding only to meet as strangers and fall in love. This highly theatrical production has been called “the perfect ballet for ballet-doubters.” charlotteballet.org

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10.25.19 The Nightmare Before Christmas It's the wildly inventive world of Tim Burton's macabre classic shown in its entirety. Danny Elfman's rambunctious, colorful score will roar to life in the hands of your Charlotte Symphony as you follow Jack the Pumpkin King's quest to seize Christmas on a large screen above the orchestra. charlottesymphony.org 10.26.19 Queen City Oktoberfest Explore the city’s largest arts and crafts festival of the year. There will be

local food and craft vendors, along with live music and games. This is a child and pet friendly event. The festival will take place at the Carol Hoefener Center from 1:00pm-5:00pm. charlotteoktoberfest.com 10.26.19 JAZZY Benefit Gala Celebrate the 45th year of the Harvey B. Gantt Center for African American Arts and Culture. Enjoy a night of elegance and the immersive experience inspired by the African Diaspora. All proceeds will directly benefit the Harvey B. Gantt Center. ganttcenter.org

Sophisticated Design, Personal Approach.

( 7 0 4 ) 3 7 2 - 0 9 2 7 | w w w . m y r o n g r e e r. c o m

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 33

The Eventist // Oct/Nov 2019 11.2.19 Les Miserables Ovens Auditorium presents Les Miserables, the famous Broadway show.

Enjoy a night out at the theater and see an excellent show with a phenomenal cast. The show begins at 8:00pm. ovensauditorium.com 11.2.19 Geek Short Film Festival The Geek Short Film Festival features a variety of independent short films, spanning the genres of sci-fi, fantasy, and adventure. There will be film premieres, Q&A sessions, and panels all available for your entertainment. The festival begins at 10am and ends at 4pm. charlottegeeks.com

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11.2.19 Walk to End Alzheimer’s The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is an annual event in Charlotte and more than 600 other communities nationwide. Join the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support, and research. While admission to the walk is free, participants are encouraged to donate and fundraise to contribute to the cause and raise awareness. act.alz.org 11.6.19 The Movement Since 2003, The Movement has been pleasing fans of alternative reggae music with their unique music.

Enjoy their musical shapeshifting style and foundations of heavy bass and drums. The show at the Visulite Theater begins at 8:00pm with doors opening at 7:00pm. visulite.com 11.7.19 - 11.10.19 Opera Carolina: Macbeth Enjoy a night out at the theater and see Guiseppe Verdi’s rendition of one of Shakespeare’s greatest tragedies. The tragic opera beautifully portrays this cautionary tale in a

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Esteban Vicente

On view through Nov 2, 2019

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OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 35

The Eventist // Oct/Nov 2019

way that feels timeless. The opera will take place at the Blumenthal Performing Arts Center and will begin at 7:30pm. operacarolina.org

704 342 4800 delectablesbyholly.com

11.8.19 - 11.9.2019 Debussy Prelude to the afternoon of a faun Conductor Hans Graf and violinist Angelo Xiang Yu perform the famous works with the Charlotte Symphony.

Debussy's dreamy and sumptuous Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun is one of his most famous works. Based on a poem by the same name, Debussy uses the flute to give life to the faun.

Angelo Xiang Yu returns to Charlotte to perform Mozart's vivacious Violin Concerto No. 5. Distinguished Austrian conductor Hans Graf leads this program of sunny favorites. charlottesymphony.org 11.8.19 Leanna Repass The Shain Gallery presents the artwork of Leanna Repass. Her paintings feature vivid colors guaranteed to capture the eye. The gallery will be open from 6 - 8 pm for public viewing. shaingallery.com 11.09.19 - 01.04.20 Lee Hall The Jared Melberg Gallery presents the artwork of Lee Hall. The exhibit will showcase Hall’s latest works, including paintings, collages, and works on paper. jeraldmelberg.com

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11.14.19 - 11.24.19 Southern Christmas Show Enjoy some early Christmas cheer at the Southern Christmas Show, which offers shops, festive music, crafts, food, and local wines. There will be around 450 merchants with gifts for all ages. The holiday decor and various Santa appearances make it a fun and cheerful place to be. southernchristmasshow.com

The Eventist // Oct/Nov 2019

11.16.19 Charlotte Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K Test your abilities and run through one of North Carolina’s most scenic cities. The route goes past some of Charlotte’s best views such as Myers Park and Bank of America Stadium. The course features uphill elevations, downhill stretches, and a flat finish. halfmarathons.net Aesthetic and Reconstructive Facial Plastic Surgery Hair Restoration • Botox • Injectable Fillers

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11.22.19 artists Geoffrey Johnson and Kim Schuessler The Shain Gallery presents Geoffrey Johnson and Kim Schuessler. Their artwork features dynamic, colorful visions that are sure to be aesthetically pleasing. The gallery will be open from 6-8 pm for public viewing. shaingallery.com 11.22.19 Beaujolais Festival The Beaujolais Festival is a celebration settled in French tradition honoring the first grape harvest of the season. Enjoy an abundance of great wines, with a few from the Beaujolais region, alongside traditional French dishes such as Madrange ham, cheese, saucisson, pates, and other delicious items. There will also be music and vendors, with the festival beginning at 9am. afcharlotte.org/beaujolais-festival 11.28.19 Novant Health Thanksgiving Day Parade Enjoy the largest Thanksgiving parade in the southeast, right here in Charlotte. The parade will feature a performance area in front of the Duke Energy building. There will also be food vendors selling hot chocolate, coffee, and breakfast sandwiches. The parade will begin at 9:00am, route information can be found on the website. novanthealththanksgivingparade.com

BRANDON BLANE McMILLAN

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The Eventist // Oct/Nov 2019

TAME YOUR SKIN

11.30.19 Make Your Own Glass Ornament Blow your own glass ornament at STARworks and create a special holiday keepsake. Choose your own colors and shapes to create something truly unique. There are multiple sessions from 10am to 3pm and tickets start at $50. All finished pieces can be picked up the following week, just in time for December. starworksnc.org 12.4.10 Jazz Ensemble and Combos The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is proud to present its annual Jazz Ensembles and Combos performance by the members of the UNCC music department. The performance features a variety of jazz ensembles performing jazz standards. campusevents.uncc.edu 12.6.19-12.15.19 A Christmas Carol Take a trip to the Eloise MacDonald Playhouse to see a classic Christmas tradition. A Christmas Carol, adapted by Julius Leonard, tells the well known story of Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts on Christmas Eve. Enjoy this haunting and heartwarming play and get in the Christmas spirit. theatrecharlotte.org

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12.6.19-12.23.19 The Nutcracker Experience the wonder and joy of the holidays at Charlotte Ballet’s Nutcracker!

Clara’s classic tale comes to life with the treasured music of Tchaikovsky performed live by Charlotte Symphony and choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux.

Join the Sugar Plum Fairy on a fantastical journey through the Land of Sweets in this beloved family tradition! charlotteballet.org

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CONSERV I NG CA ROL I NA T H ROUGH T H E CA N VAS Renowned artist Mary Erickson conserves the natural beauty of countless landscapes in her paintings, all while inspiring other artists to do the same. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photos JAMEY PRICE photos of art courtesy MARY ERICKSON

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The Culture // Musings

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When Mary Erickson starts to paint outdoors, on location, she moves quickly. Painting the landscape in front of her means nothing is stagnant. The light source that’s present when she begins will shift in about an hour, forcing her to recall certain visuals from memory. After finishing this small painting—or field study, as she calls it—Erickson will return to her studio in High Ridge Gardens to work her reference into a larger piece.

Her paintings, dreamy but realistic, respectful renderings, are influenced by the tradition of the artists that come after the French Impressionists of the 1800's.

High Ridge Gardens, where Mary works, is a 39 acre nature preserve and artist retreat, listed on the North Carolina Birding Trail, in Marshville, NC. Running this retreat has allowed Erickson to pursue her passion of painting while promoting conservation efforts and fostering a thriving art community.

“My favorite piece of art to date,” notes Erickson of her work, “is an ongoing collection of paintings titled A Year at High Ridge. Because I plan to donate the property as an artists’ retreat and bird sanctuary, I am creating a book that documents my time here.”

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“Birds have been a love of mine since childhood. They represent all that is good, and both fragile and strong in this world.”

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The Culture // Musings

“I believe there will come a day when the only places we will be allowed a glimpse of true nature will be in the parks and preserves we set aside today.”

High Ridge Gardens has become an important safe haven for artists and animals alike in North Carolina, which is why Erickson is building an endowment that will keep the land safe when she’s gone.

“Conservation of the natural landscape is one of my major concerns,” says Erickson. “…All things in nature are connected. It is biblical that we have been given dominion over the creatures on this planet, but with that dominion comes responsibility. It requires us to protect them and assure their continued existence.”

Erickson’s love of nature and fierce drive to protect it is evident in her landscape paintings, especially those with birds.

“Birds have been a love of mine since childhood,” says Erickson. “They represent all that is good, and both fragile and strong in this world.” While birds are often seen as delicate, they are also amazingly resilient, flying thousands of miles each year to survive. “As an independent woman,” notes Erickson, “I can relate to that combination of strength and fragility.”

Much like her beloved birds, Erickson spends the year migrating from state to state. She moves from Florida to Maine, then to North Carolina. She also travels to exhibitions and excursions throughout the US and Europe.

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The Culture // Musings

“Conservation of the natural landscape is one of my major concerns.”

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While she travels, she also partakes in a variety of conservation projects, like Silent Skies. This project depicts the 678 species of birds that will go extinct within Erickson’s lifetime unless conservation efforts change.

“I believe there will come a day,” says Erickson, “when the only places we will be allowed a glimpse of true nature will be in the parks and preserves we set aside today. As it gets more difficult to find ‘natural’ areas, we must protect the untouched and undeveloped, and also support the organizations that do so.”

Those looking for Erickson’s art can find it in Charlotte at the Elder Gallery of Contemporary Art on South Tryon Street for their Summer Selects exhibit. High Ridge Gardens is free for birding groups and available for lodging. info maryericksonart.com @maryericksonart

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F I N D YO U R I N SP I R ATI O N DESIGN R EA L I ZED.WA L K ER ZA N G ER .CO M

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BOTANICALS: Decorative porcelain tiles with large floral and statement leafy patterns.

24”x24” and 6”x24” field tile in green, pink, white and black round out the collection.

The Culture // Exhibition

Dutch artists Ralph Nauta and Lonneke Gordijn of design group Studio Drift

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ST U DIO DR I FT

The talented design group based in the Netherlands brings their sculptures to Charlotte. words SUNNY HUBLER

photos courtesy THE MINT MUSEUM

The Mint Museum has organized the first non-European solo museum exhibition by Studio Drift, a design group based in the Netherlands that creates breathtaking sculptures, designed to explore the relationship between humanity, nature, and technology.

Dutch artists Ralph Nauta (b.1978) and Lonneke Gordijn (b.1980) established their studio in 2007, after graduating from the prestigious Design Academy Eindhoven. Their work emanates from their distinct, yet complementary and intertwined interests. Over the years Studio Drift has grown to 20 employees, who manage a busy schedule of commissions, gallery shows, and other projects around the world.

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In 2018, the studio had their first solo exhibition at the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam. They have won numerous international design awards and their design works and site-specific installations are included in the permanent collections of the Rijksmuseum, Indianapolis Museum of Art, SF MoMA, and others.

This exhibition at the Mint features five works by Studio Drift dating from the last decade to today, most of which have been customized for the Mint. info mintmuseum.org @themintmuseum

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The Culture // Marquee

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H A N DEL'S M ESSI A H Tickets on sale for Charlotte Symphony's popular holiday performance. words EMMA MERCHANT

photo courtesy CHARLOTTE SYMPHONY

This December, George Frideric Handel’s famous Messiah will be performed by none other than the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra. Since 1932, The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra has been thoroughly committed to unifying the Charlotte community through music. They can be found performing frequently in local schools, parks, churches, breweries, and more.

Composed of three sweeping acts, Handel’s Messiah is one of the most popular and well-known pieces of classical music. On December 6 and 7, Messiah will take place at Knight Theater on South Tryon Street in Uptown.

52 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

The performance will be conducted by Patrick Dupre Quigley and will feature the Charlotte Master Chorale including Yulia Van Doren, Doug Dodson, Steven Soph, and Dashon Burton.

Join the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra as they ring in the holidays. Performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. on both December 6 and 7. Tickets are currently only available to 2019-2020 season ticket holders, but single tickets will go on sale this fall. info charlottesymphony.org / @cltsymphony

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The Culture // Style

THE CACT US CLU B Meet the two women, Ivy Mak and Anna Thomas, determined to cater to all of Charlotte’s plant needs.

“We are constantly challenging each other as people and as business owners. We keep things fun and keep each other laughing even through the tough times.”

54 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

I

words BRIANNA WILMOTH photos JAMEY PRICE

Ivy Mak and Anna Thomas share their experience as new business owners in Charlotte, from establishing a partnership to building plans for the future. They are the owners of a unique plant business called The Cactus Club, which caters to all of Charlotte’s cacti needs.

For two years now, Ivy and Anna have traveled around selling their plants out of their classic green bus named Mason building their company one pot at a time. The adventure has been a success, but it's just the beginning, and for The Cactus Club, the future looks very bright.

55 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 55

The Culture // Style

How did the two of you meet and decide to start a business together?

Ivy: I started this plant journey while I was working at Anthropologie. We first met through mutual friends, then really got to know each other when we ended up working at the same bar. We discovered a shared interest in plants, adventures, and entrepreneurship. We would go buy plants monthly, and I just fell in love with going to the nurseries. I wanted one of my own some day, so I started hoarding plants and learning more about them by doing research and reading books from other plant lovers.

Anna: I started by hanging out at pop ups with Ivy and, of course, taking a plant home every time. Then all the research began, and I became so excited while learning about plants… I knew I had to be a part of The Cactus Club.

56 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

How does your friendship impact your business partnership?

Ivy: We work well together because we both enjoy hard work and aren’t afraid of a challenge. Owning a business together means that there will be times we disagree, however, we have learned to talk through matters in a productive and positive way. We are constantly challenging each other as people and as business owners. We keep things fun and keep each other laughing even through the tough times.

What made you choose the signature bus?

Anna: Ivy was hoarding plants and an old friend was selling the bus. We figured it would be a cool way to share a love of plants with Charlotte. We also decided to operate our business out of the old bus because it allows us to bring a large amount of plants and provides plenty of space to display our

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The Culture // Style

products. The mobility makes it more convenient for people to browse and buy plants.

Why did you choose cacti?

Ivy: We love the uniqueness of cacti and found a lack of variety available in Charlotte. Since then, we’ve been working for two years to expand Charlotte’s choice of cacti. We provide a wide array of cacti from different kinds of barrels and upright varieties. We also carry hawthorias, euphorbias, succulents, houseplants, and rare tropical plants.

Can you share your plans for the coming year?

We both bartend full time to ensure every possible dollar can be put back into The Cactus Club. Over time, we hope to have built our business to the point where we can bartend part time, then one day be able to solely focus on The Cactus Club. We are working on having our own brick and mortar by the end of this year.

We hope to sell stylish and simple potted plants to a range of customers from beginner plant people to the more experienced gardener. For now, we are at different locations every Saturday and Sunday. You can find out where we'll be on our Instagram or website. info thecactusclub.store / @cactusclubco

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58 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

The Culture // Gear

LIVE THE L I F EST Y L E The Sporting Gent's Marc Williams brings the best of the outdoors to metropolitan Charlotte.

T

words BRIANNA WILMOTH photos JAMEY PRICE

There are some simple reasons why a metropolitan area needs an “outdoors” store. Marc Williams, owner of The Sporting Gent on Selwyn Avenue, has one simple answer, and that is that anybody can enjoy nature.

With that mission in mind, The Sporting Gent has been serving the Charlotte area since 2013 as a unique place to shop for all your outdoor and menswear needs. Marc sat down with us during a busy work week to discuss the brand, his love of outdoor apparel, and why Charlotte needs brick and mortar.

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“The sporting life is more than just catching and releasing a fish.

It’s about the camaraderie, the good times before and after a day in the woods or on the river.

Those times can teach us a lot about life and how to enjoy it.”

The Culture // Gear

“We focus heavily on making every aspect of our shop and the goods inside of it all work in balance, just like the everyday life of our customers. Some days you can’t fish because you have to be a dad, so we have stuff for that too.”

Why did you choose the name “The Sporting Gent”?

Well, it’s how you’d describe our store. There’s the “sporting” part, and the “gentleman” part. Who says that great adventures can’t also include dinner at a club or an evening cocktail party?

We focus heavily on making every aspect of our shop and the goods inside of it all work in balance, just like the everyday life of our customers. Some days you can’t fish because you have to be a dad, so we have stuff for that, too.

Why is it important for the brand's home to be Charlotte?

Charlotte is a growing city and a melting pot of folks from all around the country, from big cities to small towns. Most importantly, Charlotte is our home. Everyone wants to feel at home, from day one. I think it’s our responsibility as shopkeepers to extend a warm welcome and help folks feel at home the moment they walk in the door.

62 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

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The Culture // Gear

“We seek out clothing that is a mixture of classic and modern features with an attention to detail.”

How would you describe your range of products?

We sell everything from local-as-it-gets honey to cast iron pans and dress shirts. Some come from companies and some come from a normal dude we know who has a real talent for making that specific item. It’s part of our ethos to keep an eye out for goods and gear, especially those with careful attention to detail and that represent a mixture of classic and modern. It’s become our job to find the best stuff out there, and thankfully a bunch of it comes from our backyard. We love it when folks support local businesses so we find every opportunity to return the favor.

As a hands-on-deck business owner, how do you enjoy the sporting side of life?

My advice is to enjoy what the world provides to us. The sporting life is more than just harvesting an animal for food or catching and releasing a fish. It’s about the camaraderie, the good times before and after a day in the woods or on the river. Those times can teach us a lot about life and how to enjoy it.

64 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

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The Culture // Gear

“My advice is to enjoy what the world provides to us.”

What do you see for the future of The Sporting Gent?

Our future is an even more robust offering of great products from great companies and people. We have a ton of projects in the works, from developing our own casual and sporting apparel lines to promotional events. Not everyone likes shopping, so we try to keep it easygoing fun, and be as helpful as possible. Guys can be hard to shop for, no matter the age, so we strive every day to be experts in helping folks find that perfect gift or item. info thesportinggent.com @thesportinggent

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FOOD AND DRINK

T H E S PR E A D SHOR E FOOD W IT H SOU T H ER N F L A I R

Restaurateur Bruce Moffett opens NC Red, his fourth Charlotte restaurant, to blend traditional North and new-South cuisine into one innovative menu. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photos JAMEY PRICE

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 69

The Spread // Eatery

W

When acclaimed chef and restaurateur Bruce Moffett first started thinking about the fourth restaurant he’d add to the Charlotte area, he knew he wanted to make something special. By mixing the Northern seafood flavors he’d grown up on with the Southern dishes he’d grown to love, Moffett could fuse past and present together in one cohesive experience. Enter NC Red, an eclectic fusion of Rhode Island and North Carolina cuisine.

“I grew up digging clams, picking mussels, and going to the local fish market for lobster and day boat fish,” notes Moffett. “I also have now been in the South for nineteen years.”

Moffet runs Moffett Restaurant Group featuring Stagioni, Barrington’s, Good Food on Montford, and now NC Red and Bao+Broth, which opened in August 2019.

Focusing on seasonally-driven fare, he’s racked up a slew of awards and accolades along the way. He also recently released Bruce Moffett Cooks, a cookbook showcasing some of his best dishes. Chef Drew Dodd became executive chef at Stagioni in 2015, after only a few short months of starting there. He worked in kitchens in Seattle, Spokane, and Boston before moving to

70 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

The Spread // Eatery

“The perfect storm came together when I heard the iconic Penguin Diner space was available. I made some inquiries, and NC Red was conceived.”

Charlotte in 2007 to begin school at Johnson & Wales University.

In Charlotte, Dodd gained experience at Ratcliffe on the Green and at Georges Brasserie.

To start NC Red, Moffett knew he’d need a head chef who not only had strong Southern roots but who also wasn’t afraid to experiment. Dodd, a Nashville native already working with Moffett on his other foodie pursuits, was perfect for the role.

“When Drew came on board at Stagioni, I knew that I had a chef that was ready to take on the responsibilities of running a kitchen and a restaurant,” says Moffett. “The perfect storm came together when I heard the iconic Penguin Diner space was available. I made some inquiries, and NC Red was conceived.”

The Penguin Diner, originally a burger joint that opened in 1954, was a local legendary eatery in Plaza Midwood. Moffett

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paid homage to the revered space by preserving its diner atmosphere — with a spin, of course. “I wanted the interior to be playful,” says Moffett. “My thought was to make it look like a North Carolina barn crashed into a Rhode Island diner.”

With Plaza Midwood’s city-like environment and eclectic mix of dining experiences, Moffett hoped that the area would embrace his unique casual restaurant with open arms. It has.

With Chef Dodd at the helm, NC Red has already garnered a reputation for serving fresh, enticing cuisine in a way that makes patrons feel right at home, no matter where they’re from.

The carefully conceived Northern/Southern blends featured on NC Red’s menu play a large part in that.

“I think there are a lot of dishes that represent the merging of the two cuisines,” says Chef Dodd. “For instance, where

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The Spread // Eatery Point Judith Calamari would traditionally be served with banana peppers, we are turning the peppers into a jelly.”

There are also East and West Coast oysters, Nashville hot chicken, fresh fried fish, lobster rolls, clam chowder, and more.

Chef Dodd also made sure his Nashville roots shine through alongside Moffett’s Rhode Island upbringing.

“I’ve definitely incorporated myself into the menu,” he says. “Nashville hot chicken is something I grew up eating, and it’s always a dish I crave... Being able to share this with people is awesome.”

NC Red’s menu will continue to feature locallysourced ingredients, fresh seafood, and a variety of seasonal items. Guests can stop by to share some Southern fixins or order a full spread of oysters and fresh market fish. Queen City natives and New Englanders can both find a little taste of home at NC Red — but really, this place is meant to bring palates of all types together, both embracing and bucking tradition at the same time. info ncredclt.com @ncredclt

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74 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

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Artisanal The Spread // Tastemaker

When diners settle into Bar Marcel, they feel miles away — thousands of miles away, along the Mediterranean, to be precise. Part of that transportation comes from the decor: Amy Price of Starling Studio in Atlanta designed the interior to resemble a European café. The option to dine al fresco (in true European style) is made tantalizing by colorful Spanish dining chairs, string lights, and a fountain. Italian marble bedecks the interior bar and an architectural wall inspired by the buildings along Mediterranean coastline is the focal point of Bar Marcel’s dining area. The Jennings infused their European atmosphere with airy and natural elements, incorporating walnut surfaces, leather seating, and silk textures throughout the interior.

Natural light bathes the decor in daytime, and candles softly illuminate the evenings.

78 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

JULY 2018 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 79

The Spread // Tastemaker

Bar Marcel’s European influence is evident in the menu, as well, with hints of Italy (the agnolotti and potato gnocchi), France (the bouillabaisse), and Spain (the grilled pork tenderloin). Small plates, charcuterie, seafood, and pasta dishes comprise the bulk of the menu, which Kevin Jennings designed to highlight stuzzichini (or finger food).

At the kitchen’s helm is Executive Chef Nicholas Tarnate.

Although Tarnate had been cooking since childhood, his coursework centered on philosophy until he picked up a copy of The French Laundry Cookbook. He trained with some of the best in culinary arts and held a head chef position at Aix en Provence before coming to Bar Marcel. “I’ll continue Bar Marcel’s focus on the roots of Italian cuisine, with attention paid to Umbria, Emilia Romagna, Sicily, and Piedmont,” Tarnate says, explaining how he’ll put his stamp on the menu. “I’ll also concentrate on French cuisine while introducing influences from Morocco, Tunisia, and Spain.”

With Tarnate in the kitchen and Kevin and Stacey Jennings pulling the strings, South Park gastronomists have much to look forward to at Bar Marcel. info barmarcelcharlotte.com @barmarcelclt

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80 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

“ There’s really no limit to how far our bankers will go to make a member’s experience extraordinary. Our life and work are intertwined with everyone we serve in Charlotte.”

Stephen F. Heeseman, Senior Vice President TowneBank Charlotte

6337 Morrison Blvd.

(704) 644-4001 | TowneBank.com Art by Susan Grossman / courtesy Jerald Melberg Gallery “Peeking Sun”

The Spread // Brewery

T

W ELCOM E TO T H E CLU BHOUSE Protagonist brings small-batch brews and a love of the local community to NoDa. words LIZA CARRASQUILLO /

To many, the idea of a clubhouse brings up memories of childhood hide-outs and secrets hoarded between kids just looking for a place to be… well, kids. The founders of Protagonist Clubhouse, three childhood best friends—Ryan McKillen, Ryan Owens, and Mike Salzarulo—may have outgrown the kinds of clubhouses found tucked in backyard sheds or blanket forts, but they’ve nevertheless managed to replicate the relaxation and happiness of that time in their own business.

82 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

photos JAMEY PRICE

Protagonist Clubhouse, right in the heart of NoDa, is a micro-brewery dedicated to fostering a sense of community— the same kind of community created by kids swapping stories in the safety of a hideout.

“Back when we were kids who had the world in the palm of our hands,” Ryan shares, “the clubhouse is where we would go to create the next great thing, vent about problems we were having or to simply hang and escape the real world.

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The Spread // Brewery

“We take an inordinate amount of time and energy to curate the best beer selection possible for our customers and really feel strongly that beer can stand on its own when properly procured and cared for.”

That’s what we want this place to be — a spot for friends to gather, reconnect, brainstorm, laugh, and cry.”

Protagonist, a 1,700 square-foot space detailed with stylish light wood and greenery, relies heavily on its ties to the local community, as well as on the owners’ and brewers’ penchant for experimentation. McKillen, Owens, and Salzarulo source local as much as possible, for everything from the ingredients

84 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

for beer and food to the non-food items like dishware and furniture. Advanced Cicerone Christopher Westgard is the beverage and education director, and Wicked Weed alumnus Jeremy Claeys serves as head brewer.

Their emphasis on supporting local makes it easy for visitors to feel right at home, especially in the intimate 30-seat space, while their commitment to varying the beer menu ensures intrigue.

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The Spread // Brewery

“The Clubhouse is a place where great beer is celebrated — and great beer doesn’t only come from your own tanks. We want our guests to experience and experiment with styles of beer they normally wouldn’t, all in the spirit of expanding palates, minds, and discovering new go-to beers.”

“Patrons can expect a wide variety of beer brands and beer styles,” says Mike. “And a lot of those won’t necessarily be coming from Protagonist. The Clubhouse is a place where great beer is celebrated — and great beer doesn’t only come from your own tanks. We want our guests to experience and experiment with styles of beer they normally wouldn’t, all in the spirit of expanding palates, minds, and discovering new go-to beers.”

Because of their commitment to curating a unique beer menu, guests hoping to quench their thirst with spirits will have to look elsewhere. Still, the founders don’t view this as a negative.

“Simply put, the lack of spirits is because this is a beer bar.

We take an inordinate amount of time and energy to curate the best beer selection possible for our customers and really feel strongly that beer can stand on its own when properly procured and cared for.”

86 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

87 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 87

The Spread // Brewery

“We want this place to be a spot for friends to gather, reconnect, brainstorm, laugh, and cry.”

By focusing solely on beer, Protagonist can not only create high-quality small-batch brews, but also use beer in innovative ways. Guests will find beer-based cocktails alongside seasonal beers and local favorites.

Protagonist is open in NoDa, but that’s not the only place you can expect to find the micro-brewery’s beer.

The founders plan to expand their brand to new locations, including one set to open in 2020. info protagonistbeer.com @protagonistbeer

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88 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

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OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 89

The Spread // Plated

T H E QU E E N & GL ASS'

L A M B M EDA L L IONS words LIZA CARRASQUILLO / photo JAMEY PRICE

All of the dishes we've had at Queen & Glass have been exquisite, but the restaurant truly surpasses all expectations with this small plate — the Herb Crusted Lamb Medallions — from flavor to presentation. The black slate serving as the platter provides a dark contrast to the colorful greens and reds on top. It’s lined with servings of garlic fingerling potatoes and juicy roasted tomatoes, all laying on top of whipped gorgonzola. Paired with the potatoes and tomatoes is a warm salad of micro arugula and snap beans, covered with a sweet apple cider

glaze. The sweetness of the glaze works well with the robust gorgonzola, so that neither overpowers the dish.

But the stars of the show are truly the medallions.

The specialty blend of herbs complements the tender meat by creating a crisp crust that’s satisfying from the very first bite. Pair all of the ingredients together and you get a true cohesion of flavors. Combine it with one of the delicious cocktails from Queen & Glass' world-class menu and you've really got the complete culinary package.

— info — queenandglass.com / @thequeenandglass

90 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

It’s more than a showroom.

It’s a feast for the senses.

From cooking demos to appliance test-drives, you’re invited to taste, touch, and see the potential for your kitchen in a dynamic space free of sales pressure but full of inspiration.

Charlotte • 127 West Worthington Avenue, Suite 180, Charlotte, NC 28203 • 800-935-2617 • subzero-wolf.com /charlotte

The Spread // Plated

NOBL E SMOK E'S

BEE F R I B words BRIANNA WILMOTH / photo THE PLAID PENGUIN

For the past 25 years, Jim Noble has traveled across the South chasing his dream of making barbecue. After sampling all kinds of barbecue from the Carolinas to Texas, reading various cookbooks, talking to the most knowledgable pitmasters in the country, and researching meat cooking traditions, Noble decided it was time to bring his kind of barbecue to the city. Noble Smoke is dedicated to fixing “heartfelt” Southern barbeque, with classic wood-smoked Carolina-style pork and Texas-style brisket. They are serious about barbecue there: You can tell, when you taste one of Noble Smoke’s best dishes, the beef rib, a thick, juicy, fall off the bone culinary experience you'll remember for a long time. When the rib pops up on the menu, because it is a special, you’ll want to cancel all other plans: Eat it alongside your choice of favorite sides, from Noble’s slaw to Chef Renner’s collards. Finish with a delicious hand pie.

— info — noblesmokebarbecue.com / @noble_smoke

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The Spread // Poured

T H E CRU N K L ETON'S

BOU R BON BR A M BL E words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JAMEY PRICE

The swankiest bar in Charlotte's Elizabeth neighborhood, The Crunkleton, is known for its behind-the-bar transformation of high end spirits into drinkable art. Their expert mixologists craft a wide variety of cocktails to perfection throughout lunch and dinner rushes, or guests can choose from a beautiful arrangement of wines and craft beers to pair with Crunkleton’s delicious bites, from oysters to tamales.

One of The Crunkleton’s staple cocktails is their Bourbon Bramble, a classic drink imported from across the pond. Served over ice, its base when made in London is typically gin and fresh fruit. The Crunkleton, however, took some American liberty, playing off the drink’s roots but including High Proof bourbon, orange blossom, Marasca cherry paste, and a dash of freshsqueezed lemon instead.

— info — thecrunkleton.com @thecrunkletoncharlotte

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The Spread // Poured

BA R M A R C E L'S

OL D FASH ION ED words SUNNY HUBLER / photo JP GRICE

Bar Marcel, the new, nearly 4,000-square-foot SouthPark restaurant with a courtyard patio, features a menu focused on European dishes, with the majority of the influence coming from Italian, Spanish, and French cuisine. The menu rotates seasonally, and always includes four made-in-house pastas and a collection of desserts. Whether you’re digging into the beef carpaccio, paella, or zucchini vermicelli, you’ll need a perfect boozy pairing and a classic Old Fashioned from behind the bar. True to form, Bar Marcel’s is made with a sugar cube, two dashes of Angostura bitters, two ounces of bourbon, and an orange twist, atop a large cubed piece of ice.

Bottoms up for a meal you won’t soon forget.

— info — barmarcelcharlotte.com / @barmarcelclt

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BE AU TI F U L PHOTOS. I NTER ESTI NG STOR IES. T H E B E S T G I V E AWA Y S .

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T H E F OL IO

H O M E A N D D ES I G N

SEL F-M A DE Reaching Quiet’s Eric Boyd on his own personal style, his design inspirations, how he built the business, and what's in store for the future. words SUNNY HUBLER portraits JAMEY PRICE / photos of work courtesy REACHING QUIET DESIGN

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The Folio // Profile

“The thing I admire about some of the rockstars of the design world is the ability to constantly produce something meaningful and significant which is extremely rare.”

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Reaching Quiet bridges the gap between the design of 200 years ago and the design of today. It was a business born of passion: The Charlotte based company run by creator Eric Boyd has had a lifelong passion for crafting unique environments. He’s a master in concrete, wood, and steel, combining work across the fields of architecture, interior design, and product and furniture development

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Reaching Quiet was started by Boyd along with two of his colleagues after his graduation from UNCC’s Architecture program. Since their inception in 2001, the company has garnered several awards for its trademarked type of design.

Among their many projects, the team has created designs for the likes of Embassy Suites and renowned local Uptown restaurant 5Church.

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The Folio // Profile

How did Reaching Quiet first begin, and why did you choose Charlotte?

We all wanted to stay in Charlotte since it was a growing city and allowed us to plant our feet here and be part of something. My partners and I thought we were starting a furniture company with no understanding of distribution, marketing, or basic economics. After making some amazing prototypes, we started designing and building kitchens, baths, and small scaled upfits. This led to concrete countertops and since there was no one to make them, we did. By pushing the capabilities of this material, we were able to become one of the early pioneers for this type of work.

How would you describe your personal style?

My style at the moment is a dichotomy of earthy timelessness mixed with maxi-minimalism.

What first interested you in the design field?

I have been a DIY type of person my whole life. As a child, I laminated my own skateboards and built treehouses. I have always been interested in how things worked and how things were made. I went to UNCC and associated with artists, actors, and other creative types: I was constantly frustrated by the lack of understanding from designers on how things were made and material properties. Upon graduating, a sculptor friend and architecture buddy and I started Reaching Quiet Design.

How do you see Reaching Quiet expanding in the future?

I’ve done some home design work for some builders recently and I hope to start building Reaching Quiet homes in the next year or two. They would be spec homes that fit into the Reaching Quiet aesthetic. My house will be the first experiment in that direction!

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Do you have an interior design role model? If so, who?

The thing I admire about some of the rockstars of the design world is the ability to constantly produce something meaningful and significant which is extremely rare. The ones that are able to do it should be recognized, including artisans such as Phillipe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Marteen Baas, Herzog and DeMuron, Morphosis, and SHOP, just to name a handful.

info reachingquiet.com @reachingquietdesign

2173 HAWKINS ST. UNIT G • CHARLOTTE, NC • 704.819.6972 • ALI@COUTUREKNOTS.COM @COUTUREKNOT • WWW.COUTUREKNOTS.COM • BY APPOINTMENT

The Folio // Vignette

A CL ASSIC CLU B ROOM words SUNNY HUBLER / photo ROB-HARRIS PRODUCTIONS / courtesy ARTHUR RUTENBERG HOMES

Arthur Rutenberg Homes is dedicated to elevating the art and business of custom homebuilding. They’ve taken to building custom and model houses in both North and South Carolina, and this NC-based model, completed in Northridge Country Club in June 2018, perfectly showcases their expertise in making you feel right at home.

This leisurely club room is part of a warm, modern home project that was designed with open panoramic vistas to the

golf course. This house, with the thoughtfully appointed club room included, was designed on the whole for entertaining and graceful living.

With child-free entertainment in mind, the club room houses a wet bar, media room sectional, and a dramatic cathedral ceiling with a large volume of glass looking out over the 10th fairway. The outdoors beckon, but the comforting leisure room calls just as loudly.

— info — arthurrutenberghomes / @arthurrutenberg_homes

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The Folio // Vignette

CH IC COM FORT I N COTSWOL D words SUNNY HUBLER / photo DUSTIN PECK

Meredith Beregovski, the owner of Georgia Street Design, completed and installed this design in the Providence Road/Cotswold neighborhood of Charlotte.

Her overarching goal was to create a warm, welcoming living room for a client who started Freedom Farm Rescue in Charlotte. That backstory made Meredith want to find a way to incorporate animals into the design without being cliche — which she achieved through her choices of art.

The GSD team added many details to freshen up this ten-

plus year old space, such as the coffered ceilings, grasscloth in the bookcases, and a surround on the fireplace. Today, with Meredith’s touch, the room has a transitional aesthetic and an inviting atmosphere.

This design added additional seating to the room, a brighter feel through paint, trim, and furnishings, a better layout for more accessibility, fabrics that are family friendly and an overall cohesion to every other room that it joins in the home.

— info — georgiastreetdesign.com / @georgiastreetdesign

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The Folio // Vignette

A SOU T H AY R SL EY DI N I NG ROOM words RILEY COHEN / photos courtesy LAURA SUMRAK

Built in the 1930’s, this cozy Myers Park abode was in desperate need of a little sprucing, especially as it’s now housing a new family of five, with three little ones under the age of four. The team over at New South Home relished the idea of incorporating the home’s original bones, hence the gorgeous black and white checkered marble flooring. The New South team of Melissa, Brenna, and Sandy also added exciting new patterns and a host of refined touches added.

First, the team removed the dated red wallpaper enclosing the dining room, making way for the room’s natural light to peek in. And when the client sent over a geometric-patterned chair as inspiration, New South took a chance and plastered

the walls with the same eye-catching print, incorporating creamy white dove chair railing and shadow boxes for contrast. The client’s original cherry furniture was recovered accordingly, in a white and navy houndstooth pattern paired with slate blue wool on the wing chairs.

When it came down to the final touches, New South kept to a sophisticated nature with a polished brass chandelier and silk shades complemented by an eclectic antiqued brass mirror. Years after they bought the place in 2012, this Myers Park family was thrilled to finally freshen up their traditional dining room into a brightened space that’s now truly their own.

— info — newsouthhome.com / @newsouthhome

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A Magliocca Co. FOR A HOME THAT’S UNIQUELY YOU

RICK AND KRISTEN MAGLIOCCA

1930 ABBOTT ST., UNIT 401 | CHARLOTTE, NC 28203 980-237-2670 | WWW.NEWLIFEBUILDINGSUPPLIES.COM ONE OF OUR PREMIER BUILDERS THR DESIGN BUILD GROUP

The Folio // Blueprint

W ELCOM E TO T H E M A NOR Kingswood Custom Homes’ Ockley Manor house combines spaciousness and coziness with the ultimate sophistication. words ELEANOR MERRELL / photos courtesy KINGSWOOD

The Folio // Blueprint

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In 1996, husband and wife Peter and Louise Leeke founded Kingswood Custom Homes when they moved from London, England to the Queen City. With offices in Charlotte and Kiawah, Kingswood offers exceptional building services to homeowners in the Carolinas.

Peter manages the homebuilding while Louise heads the interior design department. Their combined talents produce high caliber homes and top notch results.

The Kingswood team put these talents to use when creating Ockley Manor, a development composed of seven custom homes located near the Carmel Country Club. It’s a luxe retreat boasting beautiful golf courses, tennis courts, and a posh clubhouse; Ockley Manor had, from its outset, a tall order to fill.

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With this project, Kingswood created lodging ideal for empty nesters who find themselves ready to resize. The exterior deploys perfectly balanced architecture, inspired by British art. The drive deposits residents and visitors straight to the front door, which is set within an intriguing half-sphere frame, flanked by two large pentagonal structures. Geometric shapes take precedence in the house’s outward appearance.

With four beds, three and a half baths, and three living areas (including a theater room, living room, and outdoor lanai), this custom home within Ockley Manor combines coziness with enough spaciousness to receive guests. Louise and her colleague Kirsten Gibson collaborated on the interior, crafting a contemporary

The Folio // Blueprint

style via clean and crisp lines, a simple color palette, and a clutter-free decor concept. The inside is stylish while still managing to be warm and relaxed.

The entire home is gorgeous, but one of our favorite spaces is the outside living area. A beautiful garden nestled beneath a lanai provides an area of serenity. A tapered fireplace and outdoor grill area ensure that residents can easily host guests inside and outside, while a pool and spa beckon for recreational activity. A 60-inch fan and an outdoor bathroom allow every comfort to be supplied and need to be met no matter whether inside or outside.

Given the quality of this Kingswood home and the high caliber team that designed and built it into existence, it’s no surprise that Project Manager Jason Hughes won Builder Superintendent of the Year for overseeing the seven Ockley Manor homes.

With a plethora of both indoor and outdoor living areas, the perfect balance of coziness and spaciousness, and a stylish but timeless design, this Ockley Manor home is the epitome of versatile high quality, designed with the needs of clients in mind. info kingswoodhomes.com @kingswoodhomes

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“I’ve seen a lot of High Country communities and none compare to Blue Ridge Mountain Club.”

Hutch Johnson, Award-Winning Residential Designer Blue Ridge Mountain Club Homeowner

When you’re a celebrated residential designer like Hutch Johnson, wellknown throughout Western North Carolina, as well as the Research Triangle, you have seen a lot of master-planned communities.

“I’ve designed houses for people all over the High Country of North Carolina,” says Hutch, “and no place compares to Blue Ridge Mountain Club. It stands apart from the rest. That’s why Kate and I made it our home.”

Homes & Condominiums from $430k. Homesites from $80k. Lookout Ridge Village Homes from $575k.

To learn more or plan your visit contact Team BRMC, the Official Sales Team of Blue Ridge Mountain Club.

828-414-4261 or online at ExploreBRMC.com ALL NEW PREMIER AMENITIES - NOW OPEN AT BLUE RIDGE MOUNTAIN CLUB

A top-of-the line fitness center with unparalleled views

The heart of the community and a perfect gathering spot for families

Casual fare and cocktails with a stunning mountain backdrop

Obtain the Property Report required by Federal Law before signing anything. All information is believed to be accurate but is not warranted. This information shall not constitute a valid offer in any state where prior registration is required. This information and features and information described and depicted herein is based on proposed development plans, which are subject to change without notice. Actual development may or may not be as currently proposed. No guarantee is made that the features, amenities, or facilities depicted by an artist’s rendering or otherwise described herein will be built, or, if built will be the same type, size, or nature as depicted or described. © 2015 Blowing Rock Resort Venture, LLC.

T R AV E L A N D S P O R T I N G

T H E E X PL OR E D

K I NG F ISH ER SOCI ET Y A world-class retreat in the southern Piedmont sets itself apart as a private nature preserve with exclusive sporting activities and luxurious overnight amenities. words RILEY COHEN / photos JP GRICE

Nestled just 70 miles east of the Queen City, in rural Scotland County, NC, The King Fisher Society makes up 2,500 acres of breathtaking nature preserve that include a lake and rippling streams. Jim Morgan, whose family has owned the property since the 19th century, originally opened King Fisher in 2006.

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The Explored // Weekender

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Renowned for its state-of-the-art outdoor experiences, like private fishing and hunting, sporting clays, archery, and kayaking, King Fisher also promises all the amenities of a luxury resort. Whether you’re in search of a unique team-building experience or a corporate event space, King Fisher offers a personalized itinerary for every type of group need. With overnight lodging options, including a personal kitchen, onsite dining, and concierge services, this nature preserve-turned-resort is the ultimate retreat from the city.

Immersive outdoor experiences and a commitment to sustainability are deeply rooted in this expansive, family-owned property. When it comes to fishing, the Richmond Mill Lake Fishing Sanctuary, stretching over 125 acres, is professionally monitored and limited to a certain number of fishing trips per year, ensuring pristine water quality and fishing opportunities (there are abundant trophy bass and bluegill). With boating and all the other necessary equipment provided, including a professional guide, an all-day fishing adventure awaits.

Likewise, you can sharpen your shot at the fully equipped 5-stand sporting clays before taking on a day full of hunting.

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When in season, the property offers an immaculately-kept quail hunting terrain, with broom-straw fields surrounded by longleaf pines for a challenging yet thrilling hunt. Or, opt for an interactive falconry experience with onsite birds of prey, such as the Peregrine Falcon, Red-Tail or Harris Hawk, and learn about and observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.

After a long day of outdoor adventuring, retreat to the site’s rustic waterfront lodge for a delectable meal prepared by local chefs accompanied by live jazz music. Top off the evening with a friendly game of horseshoe or cornhole, or sit back and relax by the firepit as you enjoy the property’s exceptional sunset views.

While King Fisher often serves as a day trip or weekend destination, the property welcomes corporate events and weddings, with four beautiful waterfront venues, accommodating up to 300 guests. So, whether you’re in need of a unique team-building alternative, looking to foster client relationships, or simply want to dive into the outdoors, King Fisher has something for you. info kingfishersociety.com / @kingfishersociety

The Charlotte is designed with one purpose in mind, to help our residents enjoy their families and friends and remain independent as they age. We do this by providing Charlotte with the premier Assisted Living & Memory Care community.

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9120 Willow Ridge Rd. Charlotte, NC 28210 Charlotte-Living.com I (704) 710-6968 Senior-Living-Communities.com

The Explored // Carolina Town

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A LOWCOU NTRY GEM McClellanville is a quiet South Carolina retreat surrounded by coastal marshes and vast forest. words RILEY COHEN / photos JP GRICE

The quaint, Spanish moss-draped town of McClellanville is located just far enough from the buzzing city of Charleston to provide guests with a quiet and unique experience. Bodies of water promise bountiful fish, and being on the brim of the Francis Marion National Forest offers nearby beautiful scenery.

Quaint marinas can be found hosting dozens of white shrimp boats, all simply awaiting their next voyage. The town truly captures the essence of the Lowcountry. Locals welcome visitors and new neighbors to the tranquil simplicity of the town with open arms.

The town of McClellanville was established in 1706 as a portion of St. James-Santee Parish. A history of rice plantations, grand architectural homes and buildings, and rich culture is woven throughout the town and its outskirts. With a population

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of less than 1,000, guests are welcomed to enjoy a peaceful stroll through the fishing docks and piers, or maybe pass by a historic church such as locals’ favorite “brick church.” The town’s crisp waters and lush green backdrop attract many artists and writers who find inspiration for their work in the serenity.

Guests may experience a piece of history by visiting Hopswee Plantation — a Lowcountry rice plantation located less than ten miles outside of McClellanville in Georgetown. This plantation is one of the twelve remaining birthplaces of Declaration of Independence signers, and a popular destination for those hungry for history and culture. Breathtaking century-old architecture is displayed throughout the tour, and the River Oak Cottage Tea Room serves classic Lowcountry shrimp and grits as well as classic British Afternoon tea.

Weddings

Corporate Events

Private Events

A Southern hideaway with wonder at every turn. catherine@northcornerhaven.com ig: @northcornerhaven

Photo credit: Piper Warlick Photography, Jamey Price, Sunshower Photography, Beautiful Mess Photography, Blueberry Creative

The Explored // Carolina Town Less than a half-hour away from McClellanville, the Francis Marion National Forest offers 259,000 acres of secluded swamps, marshes, and many trails stretching far beyond the town. The two most popular trails near McClellanville are SeWee Shell Mound and I’on Swamp Interpretive trail. A hike through a forest path will prove to be both relaxing and intriguing with the possibility of multiple wildlife sightings including the rare red-cockaded woodpecker.

A short drive outside of McClellanville to the charming city of Charleston presents many fine dining selections for guests who are seeking a night out before returning to their reflective retreat. Renowned favorites like Husk, The Ordinary, SNOB, Leon’s, and McCrady’s all await, alongside some of their lesser known but equally boundary-pushing culinary neighbors.

The deep Southern roots built throughout the quiet town of McClellanville have sprouted a strong sense of community that any visitors will feel and embrace.

This quaint fishing town is not just for fishing, but serves as an unbeatably beautiful retreat from every day restless life. info townofmcclellanville-sc.net

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Overture is an equal housing opportunity. Amenities and services vary by location. Pricing & availability subject to change.

Photo depicts actual Overture residents. See a Greystar representative for details.

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The Explored // Destination

FOR T H E LOV E OF T H E L A N D

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North Corner Haven, a refuge outside of the city, offers a multitude of outdoor activities, from farming to clay shooting. words L AUREN GRIFFITH / photos JAMEY PRICE

The vast farmland that holds the grounds now known as North Corner Haven’s has been maintained by the Dooley family since 1972. Founders Nina McLean, Bob Dooley, and David Dooley continue to employ a close-knit staff that groom and operate the 625 acres with love, even as they’ve evolved the property into a modern event space. The rich history of NCH, dating back thousands of years, can still be spotted through infrastructure remains, age-old boundary markers, and ridges thought to be created in the pursuit of gold.

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North Corner Haven, about forty minutes from the Queen City, hosts events including weddings, parties, and corporate events.

The lush greenery and traditional southern hospitality provided by the farm staff enhances almost any occasion, and the modern Event Barn is complete with a swanky wooden interior and wide windows to bring the outdoor beauty in.

But where the farm really shines is in its open invitation to Charlotteans, calling them to engage in a host of naturefocused activities and providing a way to escape the city for a

The Explored // Destination

slight taste of rural life and growth. The employees have changed their approach to farming in recent years, switching to more sustainable practices that benefit the animals and those who feed off the farm.

Their method now is one of permaculture; creating smaller ecosystems within the farm to sustain it as a whole. Some specific practices include using swales to capture water from an elevated position and irrigate the crops, grazing the pigs in designated fruit and nut orchards, and respecting the nature in general.

Hundreds of species, including birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and insects, coexist on the

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farm. Seasonal farm tours are offered along with informative talks on sustainability and growth.

Along with the typical goat, cow, or chicken spotting, visitors are welcome to take a taste of fresh honey or fresh mulberries along the stroll. Educational discovery sessions are customizable for any group interested in learning about life on the farm, and where freshly sourced ingredients originate from.

Clay shooting is offered in the depths of the North Corner Haven forest, and full equipment is included in the experience. The solar powered facility contains state-of-the-art five stands and seven machines

The Explored // Destination

designed to keep the sthooters challenged At the feive stand, guests will also enjoy a breezy outdoor lounge and catered refreshments for a break from the excitement.

Two ponds occupy several acres of North Haven’s wellkept land, and visitors enjoy casting their line for a bass or bream while kicking back along the grassy bank. Fishing guides offer their services during the warm season to point out the best spots to hook your trophy fish.

The wilderness within North Corner Haven is treated with high respect and love, and the farm’s vast grounds are superb for outdoor sports and education. info northcornerhaven.com @northcornerhaven

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The Exclusives

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A LEGAC Y OF CONSERVATION Palmetto Bluff is 20,000 acres of conserved Lowcountry with a dedicated crew who keep this beautiful stretch of land thriving. words SUNNY HUBLER / photos JP GRICE

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The Exclusives

Director Jay Walea, Palmetto Bluff Conservancy

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Nestled along the May River, between Hilton Head Island and Savannah, the sprawling Palmetto Bluff is a beautiful, lush expanse of one of the most diverse plant and animal environments in the United States.

The Bluff is rich in culture and history, not to mention stunningly beautiful, which created an obvious need for care and conservation. The Palmetto Bluff Conservancy was created to ensure this amazing piece of land in the heart of the Lowcountry will be around for a long, long time. The Conservancy, under the direction of Jay Walea, is the keeper of the natural and historical world of Palmetto Bluff, and the organization responsible for educating everyone involved in the development of a new piece of property.

Spanish moss, palmettos, live oaks, lush maritime forests, and winding tidal creeks comprise the spectacular geography of the land, while dolphins, alligators, birds, turkey, and deer swim and roam the acreage. When the opportunity to create a community on this land presented itself, maintaining the ecological and environmental integrity of the lands at the confluence of the May, Cooper, and New Rivers became a priority.

Crescent Communities worked with the Conservancy to protect hundreds of acres under conservation easements and significantly reduced the number of homes to be built, cutting the number almost in half. There were also efforts to protect the surrounding wetlands, maintain food plots for local wildlife,

and educate property owners on the benefits of "green” building.

Today, Palmetto Bluff houses full and part-time residents and guests of The Montage Palmetto Bluff as well.

This land has been managed for hundreds of years, but today the goal is to continue those efforts, even in the many conservation areas, nature preserves, interpretive trails, wetlands and pre-development locations that are rarely visited. Jay and his team carefully protect and, where needed, restore the area.

Dr. Mary Socci, the on-site archaeologist, studies artifacts that reveal the fascinating details about previous occupants of the land. These artifacts are on display in the Reading Room in Moreland Village, some dating back 12,000 years. She led us through the many cemeteries on site, sharing tales of some the Bluff’s first settlers and most famous residents. In her office on the property, she and her team carefully sift through the relics of the past they have been able to unearth, piecing together the property’s full history in letters, home goods, and other remnants of the past.

Meanwhile, Conservancy Director Jay Walea took us on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Bluff’s 20,000 acres that most guests don’t see. He’s the voice of and champion for the members of Palmetto Bluff who cannot speak — the plants and animals — and he has worked on the property for over 25 years, beginning his tenure as an intern during the Union Camp era. Watching the property evolve over time has only solidified his love of this place.

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The Exclusives

Jay starts his mornings and ends his nights by hopping in his Chevy Silverado and perusing the place that’s become as familiar to him as his own backyard. He checks everything — making sure nothing has happened during the day or overnight that needs his attention. Jay is warm and welcoming, with a thick twang of a Southern accent. He manages the Conservancy and understands better than anyone the lay of this sacred land, and he has made it his life’s work to ensure every decision on Palmetto Bluff is predicated on the needs of those many inhabitants some might never even notice. He can recite the Latin name of every plant present, can predict where each animal will be and when, and feeds us naturally growing muscadine grapes.

Current projects include surveys of alligator, turtle, whitetailed deer and bird populations, monitoring bald eagle nests, a study of cavity-nest use and correlation with habitat, and the analysis of artifacts from antebellum Pettigrew Plantation. The Conservancy has also made it so residents and guests at the bluff

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can participate in research and tour the protected areas, too. Jay regularly hosts events and tours.

Today, this 20,000 acre community is flourishing: in addition to many stretches of untouched nature, it also encompasses an extensive preserve, walking trails, a vibrant village, marina, restaurants, and a Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. Guest housing options include a charming collection of rooms, suites, cottages, cottage suites, and vacation homes, all situated between dynamic waterfronts and splendid forests.

There are also an abundance of activities, from land to water sports. Visitors can test their skills at the Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club, which features 14 available shooting sites, or at the May River Golf Course, at one of the many outdoor lawns for croquet or bocce, or one of the eight Har-Tru tennis courts.

There are a plethora of hiking trails available, which can also be used for biking or horseback riding, If water sports suit your fancy, Palmetto Bluff offers many locations for fishing, swimming in

The Exclusives

the May River, or water trails for kayaking and canoeing. With recent efforts, you can now experience Palmetto Bluff’s more colorful side with live music from a variety of genres, including blues, jazz, Southern rock, Lowcountry stomp, and bluegrass concerts, too.

The balance between enjoyment and long-term preservation has been weighed with care here: Every home site and sale funds a non-profit organization that is dedicated to protecting the natural resources on the property. These efforts ensure that visitors to modern day Palmetto Bluff can still enjoy the same views of the Palmetto Bluff that visitors to this land have for centuries. Visitors can experience the wonderful benefits of these conversation efforts with a stay at Montage Palmetto Bluff, where Southern hospitality converges with fairytale decadence in Lowcountry luxury.

Let the magic of Palmetto Bluff overwhelm you, and let the careful management of the land serve as an inspiration for how we can all participate in and protect areas we love. info palmettobluff.com @palmettobluff

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A COV EY I N TH E PI N ES A simple day in the field in search of quail with the good folk from Charlotte's own The Sporting Gent. words MARC WILLIAMS / photos JAMEY PRICE

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For a growing number of Charlotteans, the sunrise—signifying a fresh start of each new day — doesn’t have the same meaning as it did even as early as a single generation ago. Our mornings have only gotten busier: Now, the light filling the morning sky is more about pouring coffee in a YETI, piling the kids in the car, and shoveling in a quick breakfast than it is about taking in nature or quietly observing our surroundings. Instead, we’re always on the run.

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But today, on this morning, we are participants in an age old adventure: We are hunting quail. The sporting life, filled with camaraderie and fellowship built and sustained by the adventures afield, reclaims the sunrise hour for something more than frantic chores.

The outdoors, as still as a well-trained bird dog, the fields covered in slowly waving broom straw and long pines, practically force you to wipe away the concerns and stress of modern life.

Of course, our success in the pursuit of the elusive bird is not even the luckiest man’s dream without our four-legged companion to assist in our endeavor. Hundreds of years of breeding, training, patience, and determination culminate: Your forty-pound companion will work the wind with its snout in the air in a methodical yet seemingly random pattern, chasing the ever-shifting target. It’s such a simple, symbiotic relationship between hunter and dog, the wind and the bird, that you cannot help but appreciate the elegance. Here are four of God’s creations working together to help bridge the gap between a time when you weren’t critiqued by the speed at which you updated your status, but by the quality of your character.

I’m one of the lucky few who get to engage in this pastime as a vocation. Not every day, but most, and especially once the mornings turn a little cooler, the trees start to paint the horizon with fall’s palette, and the almost incessant humidity of the months-without-an“R” begins to diminish. As certain as the sun will keep rising, life can be as simple as it once was. info thesportinggent.com / @thesportinggent

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FIVE SPORTING DESTINATIONS YOU HAVE TO VISIT — PRIMLAND This 12,000 acre resort located along the Blue Ridge Parkway is the ultimate in refined dining, world class golf, and endless outdoor activities: ATV and horseback riding, clay shooting, hunting, mountain biking, and kayaking just to name a few.

FORK FARM AND STABLES The Fork is a premier outdoor recreation and event facility located in Norwood, NC, where the Peedee and Rocky Rivers converge. With a strong focus on conservation, the Fork is a great place to unwind and truly appreciate nature and all the activities nature has to offer.

BLACKBERRY FARM Situated on the pastoral 4,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains of Eastern Tennessee with its own farm, restaurant and built in activities, Blackberry prides itself on service and a one-of-a-kind family experience.

NORTH CORNER HAVEN North Corner Haven is a sportsman's dream desttination.

Here, clay shooting is offered in the depths of the North Corner Haven forest, and full equipment is included in the experience. If you'd rather fish than shoot, the two ponds that occupy North Corner Haven allow you to cast your line for bass or bream while kicking back along the grassy bank.

MOREE'S SPORTSMANS PRESERVE Established in 1985, Moree's is a top hunting destination in Chesterfield County, SC. They offer a variety of outdoor sporting options with diverse terrain, and their facilities include a spacious hunting lodge and modern dog kennels for guests who want to use their own well-managed dogs.

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M USIC OF TH E RI V ER

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How stream and stage have shaped the life of Woody Platt, frontman of the Grammy-award-winning Carolina band Steep Canyon Rangers. words ELEANOR MERRELL and JP GRICE

photos JP GRICE / photos of Steep Canyon Rangers courtesy WOODY PLATT

Born in the mid-twentieth century, Bluegrass got its start when lester flatt and earl Scruggs joined Bill Monroe on stage at the Grand Ole Opry. The original bluegrass band had a new sound that couldn't be classified as folk or old-time music. They were playing something different and unique. The genre they created was intricately connected to home, bound to the love of the hills and life of Kentucky, Carolina, and other rural areas. That nostalgia remains intact in the genre today, reverberating through the unplugged sound and lyrics that often harken back to a simpler time spent living closely entwined with the land.

Woody Platt, the multi-talented guitarist and frontman of the Grammy-award-winning band Steep Canyon Rangers, embodies both the musicality and historic sentiment of bluegrass. An avid outdoorsman, experienced fly fisherman, and ardent conservationist, Platt lives today on an arcadian, 15-acre property abutting the East Fork of the French Broad River in western North Carolina.

Born and raised in the Brevard area, Woody had long nourished a dream of settling his own spot on the river. “I always knew Brevard would be my place for the long term,” he confesses. “The pace of life here and the small, close knit community full of creatives and environmentalists is inspiring.” Thanks to his years of success with the Steep Canyon Rangers, he was able to transform his vision into reality.

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Woody Platt stands knee-deep in a trout stream in Pisgah National Forest. Photo of Steep Canyon Rangers

by Maggie Rainwater. Platt guides publisher Brett Barter to the trout of a lifetime. OPPOSITE PAGE: Woody Platt, wife Shannon Whitworth, and son Rivers on the fiddle, at their homestead outside of Brevard, NC

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The Music — The Steep Canyon Rangers officially formed in the fall of 1999, when most of the band’s founding members were students and friends at UNC Chapel Hill. As musicians, Platt, Graham Sharp, and Charles Humphrey arrived at the bluegrass genre at the same moment. Sharp had sustained a soccer career-ending knee injury and traded his cleats for a banjo. Platt was getting the hang of guitar as Humphrey was exploring the upright bass.

Lifelong childhood friend, Mike Guggino, had just sold his saxophone and electric guitar to purchase a mandolin, and “fell right in as our original mandolin player,” said Platt.

The bluegrass bug was in the air, and the Rangers inhaled deeply.

Along with those four, Elizabeth Bahnson was the original fiddler. After her, and for the past 15 years, Nicky Sanders, who found the band while attending Berklee School of Music, has played fiddle. UNC alum and friend of the Rangers since the beginning, Barret Smith, is the current bass player. Finally, fellow Brevard native Mike Ashworth rounds out the band on the drums.

“At the outset, it was just a fun hobby,” recalled Platt. “We played a lot of covers, but as soon as we called ourselves a band we started writing our own songs.” In most genres, this flurry of creativity would be embraced. Not so amongst bluegrass purists who, like the hallmark of the genre itself, are at times resistant to change.

The Steep Canyon Rangers did have one thing going for them: they are all Carolina boys. “Bluegrass music is very rich in its tradition in North Carolina — possibly more than any other state in the U.S.,” explained Platt. That and they were damn good.

“We were getting hired to play these ultra-traditional bluegrass festivals. We had the matching outfits, and we really wanted to be accepted in the community. But we would roll in there and play a whole set of original songs, and that was a hard sell. Those people were like ‘Who are these outsiders and what are these songs?’ We just had to grin and bear it.”

The Rangers’ persistence paid off. They returned year after year to the same festivals and, in time, people started to regularly request their songs and buy records.

“In the beginning, we were chasing the traditional sound and style,” said Platt. The tones of Flatt and Scruggs, Doc Watson, Jimmy Martin, and The Stanley Brothers dominated the Steep Canyon Rangers’ tunes — a classic unplugged, toe-tapping confluence of strings.

Since those early years, though, the band’s style has morphed. “Because none of us really grew up on bluegrass music and had so many other influences, over time our band has branched out from our traditional roots to become more progressive and less bound by the strict definition of the music,” explains Platt. “Besides, the only way to stand out in a genre is to be original.”

Standing out is exactly what the Steep Canyon Rangers did.

And because of that they attracted the attention of actor, comedian, and talented musician Steve Martin in 2008. “Steve came with his wife Anne to vacation in Brevard (bringing his banjo) and we were invited up for a jam session. The jam was so fun and we got along so well we decided to stay in touch,” said Platt.

“Steve then joined us in Brevard at our Mountain Song Festival as a surprise guest. And boy was it a surprise! Then he sat in with us at a little club in Manhattan. It was clicking, the connection between him and SCR. We did our first show together

“The only way to stand out in a genre is to be original.”

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The Exclusives Photo by Shelly Swanger Photography

“I enjoy the tour and of course the music, but when each trip is done, a little time in the water is necessary. It’s almost like my version of meditation.” at Club Nokia in L.A. as a benefit for the L.A. Public Library.

Shortly after I received a call from his agent asking if we wanted to be Steve’s band on a world tour. Ten years later we are still working together.”

And together they have released two impressive collaborative albums. The band’s solo album Nobody Knows You also won the Grammy award for Best Bluegrass Album.

Now, the band plays around 100 shows across the globe each year. They also host their annual fundraiser, the Mountain Song Festival which raises money for underprivileged youth.

“Early on, we decided that we needed to give back. We chose to make our focus young people and to help provide education, music, and instruments. The Mountain Song Festival in Brevard was inspired by my mom who started the Boys & Girls Club of Transylvania County. It was really her idea. We started just 13 years ago and the Rangers have raised over a million dollars for the Boys & Girls Club. That's huge!,” said Platt.

Staying busy, the Rangers are also TUNES Ambassadors for the Can'd Aid Foundation, an organization that has raised more than $3.4 million to support efforts including supplying

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water to communities post disaster, bike building for low-income children, recycling, and instrument donations to public schools in need. The TUNES Ambassadors also host one-of-akind music workshops.

But as soon as the workshops and festivals are over and the touring ends, Platt returns home to the river.

The River — “Fly fishing perfectly balances out the time spent on the road in cities and hotels. I enjoy the tour and of course the music, but when each trip is done a little time in the water is necessary,” explained Platt. “It’s almost like my version of meditation.”

We met Platt at his Brevard home, where we were introduced to his wife, accomplished musician and artist Shannon Whitworth, and the couple’s son, Rivers. We talked and laughed for a bit about music, fishing, living in the country, and family. It's obvious the latter plays a major role in Platt's life.

“I waited too long to become a father. I waited till my late 30s. My son is the greatest thing. I just love the entire experience of being a father and sharing what you love.”

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“The music of the water is incredible. The whole thing, if you think about it, is overwhelming. You’re not necessarily hearing what you’re seeing, and everything is making noise, singing to you.”

Photo by David Simchock

And the lifestyle afforded by the music really gives these two quality time to spend together. “I'm so lucky. This schedule that we have, although I go multiple days without seeing my family, enables me to have five and sometimes ten consecutive days — morning, noon, and night — with them. I really believe this: If I was working a nine-to-five I wouldn't see my son the way I do now. The schedule, as grueling as it is, really lends itself to quality time with your children.”

That quality time has translated into Platt and Rivers shared love of fishing and music. “You hear about parents pushing things on their children. Well, I pushed fishing on my son, and he just loves it. It's incredible. And then the music thing, I don't know if he'll stick with it, but right now he will grab an instrument as soon as we do. So we have these family jams and it turns into his show."

Right on cue, Rivers grabbed his fiddle to show off his skills.

After that, we toured the property, and headed out to the water.

For half an hour, we followed Platt up and down a winding Appalachian road through the southern tip of Pisgah National Forest before arriving at a gate that opened to a long dirt road.

Several minutes later, we parked the cars in the grass outside a pastoral riverside farmhouse. You could immediately hear the sound of flowing water. Excitement was in the air.

As we got all of our gear together and rigged up our rods, though the chance of rain was near zero, it began to sprinkle as it often does in the misty, moody Blue Ridge. The sprinkle turned quickly to a downpour, but Platt didn’t even consider leaving the river. We were here, in his happy place, ready to cast tiny little flies made of chicken feathers to hungry (hopefully) trout, rain or shine.

He led our publisher, Brett Barter, and editor, JP Grice, to the first run we were going to fish. This stream was quintessential

Blue Ridge pocket water. Large rocks jutted above the river creating big pools that hold fish. Rhododendrons lined both banks making for difficult casts. Bright, almost neon, moss covered the stones and trees. A canopy of green dimmed the already graying daylight while fog, from the warm rain hitting the cool high country water, rose dramatically.

Barter practiced his roll cast several times and then began to fish upstream. Within minutes a trout had eaten the nymph on the end of his leader. After a brief fight with the fish, it was netted, photographed, and then returned to the river. As an authentic outdoorsman, Platt is an ardent supporter of catch and release, as well as conservation more generally, and aspires to preserve the beauty of the natural world he loves so dearly.

Just minutes later, another rainbow, this one massive, ate Barter’s fly. The professional guide in Platt, realizing the size of the fish, immediately came to his aid instructing him on what to do and how to fight the fish. The fly rod bent over like a crescent moon. After several long runs and dives into the depths of the river, the fish tired. The memorable battle between angler and trout finally came to an end. Barter, smiling ear to ear, held the fish inches above the water for a brief moment, then let the fish swim off into the darkness. He let out a howl, and Platt and he high fived.

Those are the special, fleeting moments that make the sport of fly fishing so addictive. A very animated Platt chimed in, “let’s go catch some more boys,” so we eagerly continued upriver. For the next two hours it rained, totally soaking us, and no one gave a damn. We just kept on fishing the river’s pristine riffles and pockets, talking and laughing in between casts. We caught several more gorgeous rainbow and brown trout before Platt threw out an idea: drive back to his land and fish his water for big brown trout. Twist our arms!

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The Exclusives Photo by Joshua Moore

We made it back to the Platt farm at the perfect time — the golden hour of early evening — to dry fly fish. We grabbed our gear and walked through chest high brush to the water. This was a different kind of river, more reminiscent of a western spring creek. Here, there weren’t countless waterfalls or rhododendron lining the banks. Instead this wider river creeped slowly, meandering around S-curve after S-curve.

Barter, with Platt by his side directing him the entire way, began to fish upstream towards the banks, where we hoped our quarry swam, anxiously awaiting a perfectly presented fly.

Cast after cast with no luck — then bam — a moment of fury when a rainbow trout, not a brown, snatched the fly off the surface of the water. A missed hook set, yet Barter wanted to experience more of that: The sensation of topwater “takes” is unique and incomparable.

We kept on fishing while Platt recalled the beginning of his relationship to the river. He’d been fishing since he was a kid — surf fishing on the coast and bass fishing in canoes with his dad.

In sixth grade, he learned how to cast a fly rod, and from there was obsessed. At home, he would visit a pristine Davidson River before it had gained a reputation as one of the best trout rivers in the entire country. Nestled in the cradle of Pisgah National Forest, he taught his friends the art of the sport of fly fishing.

In those years, you had the Davidson all to yourself. Glistening and untapped, the river and those who fished it passed most days unperturbed. Platt recalled one encounter vividly.

“My mom dropped me off on the Davidson when I was around 14 years old. I was wading in and this old guy was wading out. He opened his box and he just

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filled my hands with flies — all stuff he had tied himself. He told me what flies the trout were hitting and it was this moment of connection, of sharing passion and knowledge and tradition.”

Platt would experience similar communion as a young musician years later, trailing the greats at bluegrass festivals and talking his way into late night jam sessions. “Those players took us under their wings and encouraged us,” says Platt.

His two passions, music and fishing, dovetailed. A symbiotic relationship developed between the two: just as Platt carries a cleansed mental palette on tour after fishing, he also brings musicality to his time on the river. And the sounds of the river affect him deeply.

“The music of the water is incredible. You’re knee-deep in a trout stream and you’re looking upstream at a waterfall but you’re hearing the riffle behind you. It is its own music,” says Platt. “The whole thing, if you think about it, is overwhelming.

You’re not necessarily hearing what you’re seeing, and everything is making noise, singing to you.”

We turned the final bend of his stretch of the river and waded towards the last riffles we’d be able to hit before the sun completely set. “Any time y’all wanna come hang out and fish, my door’s wide open,” Platt said.

Then he told us where to cast that last fly. We all watched as the the orange sky dimmed in the distance. Barter stood shin deep in cold mountain water, still grinning ear to ear, totally content just to listen to the music of the river as his dry fly drifted into the dark.

info steepcanyon.com @steepcanyonrangers

Caption: Quisque suscipit, felis sit Woody Platt guiding at amet tempus ornare, elhisjusto home orci waters. ementum velit a convallis mci elemenOPPOSITE PAGE: tum velit a convallis magna dolor in Platt and son mass.�

Rivers ante. Phasellus achis porta enjoying their time together at home.

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F RONTI ER OF FI RSTS How a team of kayakers, a bush pilot, and two filmmakers documented three first descents in a film entitled Frontier of Firsts presented by the U.S. National Whitewater Center. words SUNNY HUBLER photos COOPER L AMBL A, T YLER ALLYN, ERIC PARKER

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This is the story of six experienced kayakers who flew to rural Alaska to attempt a challenge no one had yet: They wanted to descend three world-class unrun Alaskan rivers. While they dove into the wilderness challenge, accompanied by their bush pilot, two of them also filmed the expedition. They returned stateside with Frontier of Firsts, a self-shot and self-directed short film that captured the whole experience from start to victorious finish.

Presented by the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, Frontier of Firsts, is an epically shot, adrenaline pumping account of the trek Todd Wells, Eric Parker, Chris Korbulic, Jeff Shelton, Tyler Allyn, Cooper Lambla, and Charlotte-native turned Alaskan bush pilot Jay Mahan took to Lake Clark National Park.

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Tyler, an experienced photographer and cinematographer, and Cooper, a longtime Whitewater employee, both shot and directed the film, which follows the kayaking expedition in Southern Alaska. The two, on top of all the other gear required to execute a multi-day first descent in Alaska, also had their film equipment wedged into the kayaks. By the end, everything, including sleeping bags, dry clothes, notebooks, and cameras were soaking wet, but Cooper calls it one of the most memorable experiences of his life.

Going in, the team knew each river would require several days to complete, and while whitewater, wildlife, weather, and the greater unknown all played into the success of the expedition, everything hinged on the bush pilot's ability to get the team in and out of the three rivers the men chose. The 11-minute film isn’t just the culmination of their efforts at pulling off this particular feat, but that of their entire careers of river running and plane flying.

“Once we got up there, we started to understand how important float planes would be in accessing the rivers,” Cooper explains. “We met the pilots and quickly saw the similarities between their passion for flying in the mountains and our team's passion for kayaking remote rivers. From there, we honed in to the direction of the film and never looked back.”

Frontier of Firsts is an exploration of the two passions, intertwined in one adventure.

“Add the logistics, coordination, and preparation of a film on top of [the challenges of kayaking unrun rivers],” Cooper

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explains, “and it starts to get pretty involved. There's a daily, and moment-to-moment balance to prioritize the team's needs with the film's needs. There's constant communication and teamwork needed.”

Cooper answered all of our remaining questions about the voyage and about the film. You can see their thrilling adventure for yourself by visiting the Whitewater Center’s website.

Let's start with a little background first. how did you get into whitewater kayaking?

I was introduced to kayaking when I was 12-years-old by a neighbor's son. He and his friends would pour out of cars, trucks, and vans onto the street, having just come from the river, and they always looked so happy and excited. He gave me a VHS of them paddling called Dashboard Burrito.

Where are you from originally, and what brought you to the US National Whitewater Center?

I'm from Charlotte and heard about the concept of the Whitewater Center when I was in High School. I got my mom to drive me to a community meeting about the project out at an old Parks and Rec building on Brookshire Blvd. As the meeting began, I was shocked to hear how neighbors around the proposed site did not want it to happen due to the classic “not in my backyard” attitude. I stood up and spoke a bit about why I thought it would be a good idea; From there I became more involved in advocating for

“I never have any idea of what's next.

But that makes whatever comes more exciting, alluring, and engaging!�

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“I wouldn't say that I'm pushing the limits of the sport. More so I'm allowing rivers and the Whitewater and eventually started to work there first during construction. I then became a kayaking instructor, raft guide, bartender, banquet staff, facility maintenance, retail... and now I work within the marketing department.

What have you learned about life through kayaking?

That's a pretty deep question! The lessons the river teaches us are applicable across almost all aspects of life. So many of life's most important lessons are illustrated so clearly by experiences on the river. One that stands out is the importance of a positive attitude. If you think you can succeed, that's the first step to actually accomplishing your goals. That's a very simplified lesson, which is accompanied by many lessons on the values of experience, teamwork, overconfidence, etc. But when we're on the water (as in life), the first step in making it down the river, or towards your goal, is looking where you want to go. Staying positive is the first step of anything you engage with, no matter what.

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What are some of your favorite kayaking experiences?

Seeing and understanding the world a little more from the perspectives of its rivers has certainly been a highlight. I've now paddled on six of the seven continents — haven't quite made it to Antarctica yet! But the biggest highlight of my kayaking experiences have been the interactions and support I've had from communities around the world. From here in Charlotte, to out west in Idaho, to New Zealand, Patagonia, the Himalayas, the Russian Altai, the Zambezi, the Peruvian Andes, the list goes on and on… no matter where you end up, there are amazing, friendly, kind, and positive people and communities everywhere.

Interacting with them and getting a small glimpse of their perspective has been extraordinary.

How did you and Tyler Allyn come up with the idea for Frontier of Firsts, and what made you select Alaska as the location?

We've been filming together for a while now and have always wanted to make a film about a subject that can be viewed as a parallel or a metaphor

activity that I love to lead my friends and I to corners of the world that we never knew existed.” for something else. We'd both been to Alaska a couple of times to paddle rivers separately, and fell in love with the landscape.

So when Todd (Wells) mentioned he was putting together a trip, we knew no matter what, it would at least be gorgeous and probably get us pretty far out into the wilderness.

Tell us about the process and challenges of shooting a film like Frontier of Firsts.

We were in Alaska for about three weeks. Shooting a trip like this is tough, because first and foremost you have to succeed in the trip's goal. There's a lot of logistics, coordination, and preparation that go into getting to and down the rivers successfully.

What makes you want to push the limits of kayaking?

I wouldn't say that I'm pushing the limits of the sport. More so I'm allowing rivers and the activity that I love to lead my friends and I to corners of the world that we never knew existed.

How did you find the three rivers, and why were those the ones you selected for this project?

Jay found the rivers from flying over them on his guided fishing trips. Having his background in whitewater kayaking gives him the eye to know what rivers would be fun to check out in a kayak. You need the right mix of accessibility (in that case, a body of water to land a floatplane on), gradient, geology, and water. Those all appeared to have the perfect mix of those characteristics along with just enough question marks to make a solid adventure.

Tell us about the challenges of kayaking an unrun river.

There's a fine line between respect and curiosity. Running an unrun river requires you to balance the two concepts. The only way to do so in a responsible manner is to gain a massive amount of experience and mentorship. You have to experience success and failure and understand what leads to both.

Mentors within the community are crucial to help with that process.

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“The lessons the river teaches us are applicable across almost all aspects of life.”

Once you begin to gain experience, you must then use what you've learned in an even more diverse set of situations and landscapes. From there, you expand the environments you seek and learn from those experiences until you end up in places like Alaska!

Would you do another film in the future?

Absolutely. Last summer I went up to the Northwest Territories to explore a river with another group of my best friends. We again used float planes to access a river we don't think anyone has been down. There's something about experiencing the unknown that is alluring. There's a level of engagement required in finding the unknown that's very satisfying, especially in our current era of readily available information.

How has working at the Whitewater Center provided opportunities for you to grow?

Ironically, or perhaps more predictably, working at the Whitewater Center has allowed me to grow more professionally than grow as a kayaker. I've learned much more about how to create experiences and moments for others rather than for myself. I can take the experiences I've had on rivers and translate them into creative exploration, direction, and experimentation. I feel like I'm learning more now than ever before.

What’s next?

I never have any idea of what's next. But that makes whatever comes next that much more exciting, alluring, and engaging! info usnwc.org @usnwc

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“There's a level of engagement required in finding the unknown that's very satisfying, especially in our current era.�

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ON TH E ROA D AGA I N Two Carolinians travel across the country to explore hundreds of miles of the Golden State coast by Moterra van. What they see — the cliffs of Big Sur and Point Reyes to the inland redwoods and the unmatched views of the Golden Gate Bridge — proves this to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip. words and photos JP GRICE

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A year and a half ago, I, our photographer Jamey Price, and friend of the magazine Matt Hege, started planning a trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming in search of a great American West adventure.

We had plans to explore the area around Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone. After days of research, it became clear that the best option was to rent a van from a new company in Jackson called Moterra. Going the more traditional route of a car rental and hotel inside the National Parks seemed like a much more restrictive trip... and that’s not really how adventure works. With the van, we wouldn’t need to plan our days around a strict itinerary or sleep in a particular spot. Living out of a luxury campervan for a week seemed ideal and gave us flexibility and accessibility. We would be surrounded by an expanse

of National Forests where we could set up camp anywhere, anytime, as well as a plethora of campgrounds inside the park that are first come, first serve. This kind of freedom was something we were all seeking from the trip.

When we landed in Wyoming, we met the owners of Moterra, Gabe Aufderheide and Trevor James, at their pickup location. The two founders are adventurers themselves. Trevor has traveled all over the world developing and guiding crafted vacations for discerning clients, and Gabe also is in the travel industry customizing specialty travel across the globe. Moterra is the culmination of their combined fifteen years of travel experience. Their goal with their business is to give the guest, with their luxury campervans, everything they need to “drive their experience,” and ultimately deliver a vacation of a lifetime.

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The vans delivered exactly that during our five days exploring Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. They took us everywhere we wanted to go — down rough gravel roads deep in Bridger-Teton National Forest, into rugged campsites in the Gros Ventre Wilderness, riverside on Montana’s Madison, and to rural Idaho’s Teton River. And they did that without sacrificing any comfort because these aren’t your every day campervans. Think Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Sportsmobile luxury vehicles, full of all the creature comforts you’d need while being “adventure ready.” Moterra offer two different types of vans — the Pop-Top and the High Roof — all of which are eight feet tall inside, feature solar power, have 24 gallon freshwater tanks, back-up cameras, 24-hour roadside assistance, all the kitchen supplies you’d ever need, bedding, and camping supplies.

From Carolina to California — A year later, when we heard about Moterra’s expansion to California, Matt and I immediately started planning our next van adventure. It was a tough decision — do we explore Yosemite and Sequoia to the east, Redwood National Forest to the north, or take a classic journey to Big Sur on the world-renowned Highway 1…? Already, these vehicles were giving us too many exciting options. We ultimately decided on option #3: Highway 1. We would meet Trevor in San Francisco to pick up the van, explore the city, and then cruise south 150 miles to Big Sur.

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From there, we planned to make our way back inland through several redwood forests, cross the bay to visit Wine Country and then circle back around hitting the sights near Point Reyes National Seashore and the Golden Gate National Recreation Area.

It was a trip that sounded epic on paper, and turned out to be even better in reality. Here’s our day-by-day agenda to help you plan your own vanlife, Golden State adventure.

Day 1 - San Francisco We met Trevor at Pier 26 in San Francisco to pick up the van and start the journey. First on the docket: See the Golden Gate Bridge. We hit several locations with different views of the iconic landmark, including Battery End Vista where you can also see Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Overlook (this is where many of the photos you see of the bridge are taken). Then we headed south out of the city making one quick stop at Twin Peaks, an overlook with unmatched views of the skyline, bay, and ocean.

Day 1 (Cont.) and Day 2 - Highway 1 to Big Sur This stretch of road is probably the most famous in the world, and with good reason; there are absolutely stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, waterfalls, redwood forests, sheer cliffs, inland mountains in the distance, giant fifty foot waves. This stretch has it all. Our first stop, Half Moon Bay and Mavericks Beach, are in stark contrast to each other, one serene and peaceful, the

The Exclusives

other featuring large powerful waves and giant jutting rocks. The seals at Ano Nuevo State Park are aplenty and fun to see. South in Santa Cruz the boisterous boardwalk festivities await. Point Pinos Lighthouse along with azure colors in the waters around Monterey make it a must-see as are the rocky cliffs at Point Lobos. This is where the drive begins to get very interesting. Winding roads and steep drops define this section and are what make it famous.

Iconic landmarks like Bixby Bridge and the waterfall at Pfeiffer Beach are musts. We drove until we reached our turn-around point at Limekiln State Park and posted up in the van for the night.

Day 2 - Redwood Forests to Sunset Beach Day two started with the redwoods of Big Sur. These towering coastal giants overlooking the Pacific Ocean were absolutely aweinspiring. They were the first redwoods I had ever seen, and they absolutely blew me away. We traveled north to Henry Crowell State Park, located just east of Santa Cruz. Inland, on this 40acre old-growth forest, it was rainy and foggy, creating the perfect mood to see these even bigger trees. Here, we saw a tree 285 feet tall and 16 feet wide that was 1500 years old. We moved north to Big Basin Redwoods State Park where we saw the biggest trees south of San Francisco, the tallest clocked in at 328 feet. After being overwhelmed by the massive and imposing redwoods, we headed to our overnight spot at the peaceful Sunset State Beach.

Day 3 and 4 - Sonoma and Point Reyes We drove north past San Francisco to meet one of our friends in Petaluma and then headed to Sonoma to explore the quaint downtown. On the outskirts, the gorgeous wine country with countless wineries is characterized by beautiful rows of grapes stretching across the golden hills. In town, it’s bustling with tourists visiting shops, boutiques and restaurants. After a glass of wine and some

164 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

bites at the popular Sebastiani we made our way to Point Reyes to catch sunset. The stretch of road near Muir Beach is an incredible place to photograph golden hour. The next morning, we decided to dedicate our entire day to exploring the Seashore from the lighthouse there to the miles of coastline to the picturesque Cypress Tree Tunnel. Here, you can see seals, elk, and all kinds of birds.

Day 5 - Golden Gate Recreation Area and San Francisco Our last full day was spent back in the city where we arrived early to Golden Gate National Recreation Area to see the sunrise over the skyline. This area including Mt. Tamalpais State Park has some of the most impressive views of an urban area I’ve ever seen.

After the golden sunrise, we delivered the van back to Pier 26 and thanked Trevor for another adventure, really made possible because of Moterra and the freedom their vehicles grant. Then we hit the streets of San Fran. If you really get after it, walking is a great way to see the city and you can see a lot of the sights in one day. The views from Nob Hill are incredible, Lombard Street is the curviest road in the world, Fisherman’s Wharf is a bit tourist-y but still a must see, and Mission Dolores Park boasts impressive views of the skyline.

For those looking for a Western adventure and a little respite from the Carolinas, it doesn’t get better than Northern California and Highway 1 by Moterra van. There’s so many things to do and see — from the metropolitan experiences in San Francisco and the views of the Golden Gate Bridge to the natural beauty of the beaches and cliffs of Big Sur and the magic of the redwoods — that make it an unforgettable trip that everyone should take at least once in their life. info gomoterra.com / @gomoterra

The Exclusives

R ED ROCKS & BLU E SK Y A Carolina photographer escapes the Queen City for a week of adventure in the unique landscape of southern Utah. photos JP GRICE

clockwise from top left: Arches and Balanced Rock in the distance at sunrise.

A rainbow over the La Sal Mountains. A tourist drives past the Windows Section and one of the 2,000 arches in Arches National Park. Desert and the La Sal Mountains. A cairn is stacked near Balanced Rock. A visitor takes an iPhone picture of the South Window arch of the Windows Section.

clockwise from top left: A lightning strike and rainbow captured on Highway 313 en route to Dead Horse Point State Park. Monuments between Arches and Dead Horse Point. A hiker walks in the Devils Garden to Double O Arch. Golden hour on the Arches National Park scenic drive. Mesa Arch in Canyonlands National Park. A cresent moon above several balanced rocks at the entrance to Arches.

QCEXCLUSIVE'S

LU X U RY R E A L E STAT E GU I DE The finest real estate properties in the Carolinas from some of the most distinguished realtors.

FEATURING Pam Harrington | Brandon Lawn | Alison Smith | Bo Fuller | Tracy Davis 3424 Bohicket Road | Johns Island, SC Pam Harrington Exclusives

SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

3424 BOHICKET ROAD | JOHNS ISLAND, SC

$3,295,000

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FEATURES — • MLS # 19027221 • 5,819 Sq. Ft. • 6 Bed / 6.5 Bath • Estate Sized Residence With Guest House • In-ground Salt-water Swimming Pool • Pool Pavilion With Summer Kitchen • Deep-water Dock & Covered Pier Head

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ncient oaks draped in Spanish moss welcome you to ''Summertime," a 14.3 acre estate on the Bohicket Creek that evokes memories of a bygone era and a more peaceful time when the days are filled with family, friends, garden parties, lawn games, swimming, boating, and feasting on a local bounty from land and sea.

The Bohicket Creek and surrounding marshlands are home to an abundance of natural wildlife and bird species, where dolphins play and feed along the shoreline.

This charming, estate-sized residence exudes a picturesque Lowcountry lifestyle with its expansive screened porch offering panoramic water and marsh vistas with glorious sunrises and spectacular sunsets.

The property is located on rural Johns Island within close proximity to two airports, beaches, shopping, and dining, and just 30 minutes from historic downtown Charleston.

Real Estate Sales & Rentals Kiawah Island • Seabrook Island • Johns Island • Historic Charleston Pam Harrington

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843-768-3635

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pamharringtonexclusives.com

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4343 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Johns Island, SC 29455

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 173

SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

2350 CROYDON ROAD | CHARLOTTE, NC

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his beautiful estate exudes luxury and sophistication. Enjoy light and bright open spaces with high ceilings throughout. Desirable floor plan for effortless entertaining and every day living. Unique, custom and high-end finishes throughout. This home boasts a show-stopping chef’s kitchen open to a fireside family room and a sunny breakfast room. Spacious master suite features a beautiful bathroom and large walk-in closet with built-in shelving. The main house has 5 bedrooms and 5 full bathrooms plus a bonus room and craft room. Additionally, there is a bonus room and full bath over the detached garage. Extend entertaining outdoors on the covered porch overlooking the private fenced backyard with playground area. This stately home is a short stroll to shops and restaurants on Selwyn.

Brandon Lawn | 704-904-3820

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cottinghamchalk.com/brandon-lawn

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$2,575,000 FEATURES — • MLS # 3551810 • 5419 Sq. Ft. Plus Additional 460 Sq. Ft. Over Garage • 5 Bed / 6.1 Bath • Luxury Living In Myers Park • Spectacular 2015 Custom Home • Designed by Greg Perry and Lisa Sherry • Exquisite Design Finishes Throughout

blawn@cottinghamchalk.com

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@brandonlawnrealestate

SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION

LUXURY REAL ESTATE

2019 Craigmore Drive | Charlotte |

4 Bedroom | 5 Full, 3 Half Baths | $4,950,000 | MLS 3254980

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nparalleled privacy abounds with this masterfullydesigned estate situated in Pellyn Wood, one of Charlotte’s most desirable SouthPark enclaves. Perched amidst nearly five lush acres with formal gardens, walking trails, a pavilion with a fireplace, a tennis court and a resort

PRICE UPON REQUEST

style pool. This European-influenced gated manor features a chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a walnut-paneled library, and an owner’s retreat with a private terrace. The lower level includes a wine cellar, billiard area, and media and exercise rooms.

GRACY MANOR ESTATE | WAXHAW, NC

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FEATURES racy Manor, a quintessential equestrian estate situated on 19.6 acres, defines elegant — modern farmhouse style. The gated entry and meandering driveway casually invites • Private Listing guests to soak in the scenic pastures in anticipation of their arrival. The traditional u-shape • 6,534 square-feet ranch floorplan creates the perfect courtyard enclave ideal for outdoor entertaining.

• 6 Bed / 6.5 Bath Exquisite attention to detail is apparent in the bespoke finishes that creates a harmonious • Quintessential 19.6 acre fusion of interior and exterior amenities important to the lifestyle that is Gracy Manor.

Equestrian Estate Comfortably elegant and timeless details from the custom cabinetry, millwork and stone 18525 Peninsula Drive | Cornelius | 7 Bedroom | 7 Full, 3 Half Baths | $4,275,000 | MLS 3352109 • Custom DesignedClub Elegant accents throughout enhance the experience of true country living in one of the region’s most Modern Farmhouse desirable areas just minutes from urban conveniences, approximately 20 miles from Uptown a fireplace and bath, and sun decks that all border the waters of mpeccable style and a sense of scale are combined with the • Resort Pool & 4,400 Sq. Ft. Barn Charlotte and Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

Lake Norman. The master suite features a private outdoor retreat, finest materials and finishes to create an aesthetic conducive Desirable Location Near outfitted with a fireplace and spa. The home is a total of 9,410 to •both grand entertaining and family gatherings. This was a Urban Conveniences square feet, 576 square feet of which encompass the carriage complete new construction redesign completed in 2008. This

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estate exudes architectural sophistication across two home sites.

The outdoor amenities include a resort-style pool, a cabana with

house. Additionally featured on this estate is a covered pier, a 268-foot private waterfront beach, and a four-car garage.

Tracy Davis | 704-779-9750 | tracy@ivesterjackson.com | ivesterjackson.com | 21025 Catawba | Ave Ste Davis 101, Cornelius, NC 28031 704-779-9750 | tracy@ivesterjackson.com Tracy

704-996-6747 | alisons@ivesterjackson.com | Alison Smith OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 175

SPONSORED PARTNER SECTION Drone photography by Bo Fuller LUXURY REAL ESTATE

5609 CHALLISFORD LANE | CHARLOTTE NC RECENTLY SOLD

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ecently sold in the premiere gated community of Challis Farm, this custom estate features numerous luxurious details, making it a great find with golf cart access to Carmel Country Club.

Expertly navigating this successful sale for his client was selling agent Bo Fuller of Fuller Properties & Asset Management, who founded his turnkey real estate firm in 2018.

As a full-service and family-owned boutique real estate and general contracting firm (affiliated with Keller Williams South Park Realty), Fuller serves the greater Charlotte area, as well as South Carolina and Georgia. He is also equipped with an in-house relocation team, and is extremely knowledgeable in new development, investment properties, and both residential and commercial real estate. With Bo Fuller, you can expect a personalized experience that goes far beyond the standard, with a custom plan catered to your individual needs, making the entire process simple and seamless.

Bo

Fuller

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704-910-7994

176 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

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TheFullerProperties.com

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info@TheFullerProperties.com

FEATURES — • MLS #3509089 • 4,695 Sq. Ft. • 4 Bed / 3.5 Baths • Stunning Challis Farm Private Gated Community

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@thefullerproperties

SPONSOREDSPONSORED PARTNER SECTION PARTNER SECTION

LUXURY LUXURYREAL REALESTATE ESTATE

2019 Craigmore Drive | Charlotte |

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4 Bedroom | 5 Full, 3 Half Baths | $4,950,000 | MLS 3254980

nparalleled privacy abounds with this masterfullydesigned estate situated in Pellyn Wood, one of Charlotte’s most desirable SouthPark enclaves. Perched amidst nearly five lush acres with formal gardens, walking trails, a pavilion with a fireplace, a tennis court and a resort

$4,500,000

style pool. This European-influenced gated manor features a chef’s kitchen with a butler’s pantry, a walnut-paneled library, and an owner’s retreat with a private terrace. The lower level includes a wine cellar, billiard area, and media and exercise rooms.

2019 CRAIGMORE DRIVE | CHARLOTTE, NC

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FEATURES rom agent Tracy Davis with Ivester Jackson Christie's International Real Estate comes this — masterfully designed private estate situated in one of Charlotte's most desirable SouthPark • MLS #3254980 enclaves. The Pellyn Wood home, with four-plus bedrooms and eight baths, offers unparalleled • 10,800 Sq. Ft. privacy, perched amidst nearly five lush acres that encompass beautiful and formal gardens, •18525 4+ BedsPeninsula / 8 Baths several walking trails, a| pavilion with a| fireplace, a tennis/basketball court, and an outdoor spa Club Drive | Cornelius 7 Bedroom 7 Full, 3 Half Baths | $4,275,000 | MLS 3352109 • Private, Gated SouthPark Estate retreat with a saltwater pool, a private enclosed jacuzzi spa, and a spacious sauna. The Edwin • 4.9 Lush Acres with Formal Gardens Lutyens English-inspired gated manor also features a chef's kitchen with a butler's pantry, a a fireplace and bath, and sun decks that all border the waters of mpeccable style and a sense of scale are combined with the • Tennis & Sports Courts rich walnut paneled library, and an owner's retreat with a private terrace. The lower level of Lake Norman. The master suite features a private outdoor retreat, finest materials and finishes to create an aesthetic conducive • Resort Style Pool, Spa & Sauna the home includes a wine cellar, billiard area, and media and exercise rooms. The upper bonus outfitted with a fireplace and spa. The home is a total of 9,410 to both grand entertaining and family gatherings. This was a room can also be used as a fifth bedroom, and there is even a spacious, unfinished heated and square feet, 576 square feet of which encompass the carriage complete new construction redesign completed in 2008. This cooled area adjacent to one of the upper bedrooms. The space is able to be finished as a house. Additionally featured on this estate is a covered pier, a estate exudes architectural sophistication across two home sites. living area and a secondary full bath. The estate itself is completely fenced in with two gates: At The outdoor amenities include a resort-style pool, a cabana with 268-foot private waterfront beach, and a four-car garage.

10,800 stunning square feet, this unique home is listed at $4,500,000.

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Tracy Davis | 704-779-9750704-779-9750 | tracy@ivesterjackson.com | ivesterjackson.com | 21025 Catawba Ste 101, Cornelius, NC 28031 | tracy@ivesterjackson.com | ivesterjackson.com | TracyAve Davis

OCT / NOV 2019 • @QCEXCLUSIVE • 177

IN DEX 17 North Market Street ...........................85

Engel & Völkers Banner Elk ...................179

Novel Montford Park ..............................129

2100 Queens .................................................28

Enzo Custom ................................................41

Omni Hotels & Resorts ............................178

Amina Rubinacci ..........................................24

Fahrenheit ...................................................10

Overture .....................................................122

Arcadia Homes .............................................37

Ferguson ..................................................... 87

Pam Harrington Exclusives ..................125

Arthur Rutenberg Homes .......................79

Gerrard Builders ......................................42

Peppermint Forest ....................................105

Bedside Manor ...........................................107

Grande Custom Builders ........................30

Premier Sotheby’s ........................................6

Blackhawk Hardware ...............................68

Grandfather Homes ..................................47

Providence Plastic Surgery ...................74

Blue Ridge Mountain Club ......................116

Hilton Center City ....................................28

RK Motors Charlotte ..............................26

Blue Waters Construction ......................12

Hood Hargett ..............................................95

RugCulture ................................................101

Bruce Julian ................................................66

Hopper Communities .................................35

Saint Mary’s School................................ 127

Cadenza Granite & Marble .....................93

Insight Automation ...................................29

Shain Gallery .............................................39

Carolina Dental ........................................53

Isabella ........................................................89

Shea Custom ...............................................65

Classic Attic ...............................................58

Jaguar Charlotte ......................................21

Simonini.......................................................57

Classica Homes ...........................................61

Jerald Melberg Gallery ...........................35

Stoke ..............................................................14

Closet & Storage Concepts ...................101

Jim Phelps Collection ..............................107

The Charlotte............................................ 119

Cope & Stick .................................................83

Karen Kettler Design .............................88

The Majestic Bath ......................................98

CottinghamChalk ....................................45

Kelly Cruz Interiors .................................80

The McDevitt Agency .................................17

Couture Knots ..........................................103

King Carolina Flooring ...........................77

The Pink Hanger ..........................................36

Delectables By Holly ...............................36

Kingswood Custom Homes .......................27

The Sporting Gent ......................................23

Dermatology Laser & Vein Specialists ..40

Lake Norman Realty ...................................67

Towne Bank ...................................................81

Diamonds Direct ........................Back Cover

Lucy and Company .......................................55

Uptown Charlotte Smiles ......................34

Dilworth Facial Plastic Surgery.......... 38

Metropolis Branding ..............................123

Urban Edge ..................................................101

Donald Haack Diamonds ..........................25

Myron Greer Garden Design ..................33

Walker Zanger ............................................49

DwellNova .....................................................8

Nestlewood Realty ...................................59

Watermark Lake Norman ..........................73

E.S. Johnson Builders ...............................51

New Life Building Supplies ....................109

Windsor Jewelers ........................................2

Elder Gallery .............................................33

Noble Smoke .................................................71

Windsor Windows & Doors ......................75

Elizabeth Bruns, Inc. Jewelers ............19

North Corner Haven ...............................121

Wolf Subzero ..............................................91

Emerson Joseph ............................................4

Novel Atherton ..........................................63

Yume Ramen & Sushi ....................................38

Be our guest.

Plan your next getaway, and experience a fun-filled stay packed with amazing amenities, including complimentary access to the Charlotte Athletic Club, as well as fine dining and much more!

704-377-0400 • omnihotels.com/charlotte

178 • QCEXCLUSIVE.COM • OCT / NOV 2019

415 Summit Park Dr: Beautiful estate residence on top of the summit at Elk River Club. This home features high ceilings, breathtaking views, situated on 7.88 acres for a private mountain get away.

Tricia Holloway +1 561-202-5003

799 Farm Loop Rd: This upscale, cozy farmhouse with 4BR, 5.1BA is super private with an outdoor fireplace, patio, backyard waterfall, treehouse and a gorgeous pond. Close to town in a gated community The Farm.

Tricia Holloway +1 561-202-5003

N M ew ar T ke o t

N M ew ar T ke o t

599 Summit Park Dr: Built on the highest ridge in the Elk River Club, this incredible mountain home features a modern floorplan. This home includes a large kitchen and a screened-in porch with a stone fireplace.

Tricia Holloway +1 561-202-5003

R Pr ed ic uc e ed

N M ew ar T ke o t

Fine Homes in the Blue Ridge Mountains

167 Chestnut Tr: Beautiful 4BR, 4.1BA home located on over 3-acres in the Elk River Club. Enjoy breathtaking views of Beech Mountain from every room on the main level.

Ginger Karney +1 704-517-4944

Lot 18 Summit Park Dr: Build your dream home in the Elk River Club! This 5.16-acre lot sits at a 4,200-foot elevation and enjoys spectacular sunsets and long-range mountain views.

Ginger Karney

+1 704-517-4944

N M ew ar T ke o t

N M ew ar T ke o t

27 Cardinal Ct: This property is low on the mountain in Elk River Club and enjoys expansive Rhododendron gardens. With an open floor plan, this 4BR, 4.1BA home allows for one-level living and great entertaining spaces.

Ginger Karney +1 704-517-4944

315 Ridgeview Rd: One-of-a-kind home perched on a hill with just under 6-acres of land! This property enjoys panoramic views of Beech and Grandfather Mountains, has 6BR, 4.2BA and room for everyone.

Allison Penegar +1 704-661-4523

859 Hemlock Dr: This 4BR, 3BA round home is nestled into the landscape to feel like your very own grown-up treehouse in the Mountain Glen neighborhood. Enjoy modern conveniences and rustic living.

Allison Penegar +1 704-661-4523

101 Woodlands Dr: Located in the Linville Ridge neighborhood sits this great 3BR/3BA home. This single-level property enjoys vaulted ceilings, an open floor plan and views of Grandfather Mountain.

Allison Penegar +1 704-661-4523

Engel & Völkers Banner Elk 610 Banner Elk Hwy · Banner Elk · NC · 28604 · Phone +1 828-898-3808 bannerelk@evrealestate.com · bannerelk.evrealestate.com

©2019 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. All information provided is deemed reliable but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.

4521 Sharon Rd, Charlotte, NC 28211

(704) 532-9041

OfďŹ cial Jeweler of the Carolina Panthers

www.diamondsdirect.com